A local’s guide to Bologna: Tips you need to know

In most restaurants throughout Italy, you’ll be required to pay a little fee called “coperto” which is basically a per-person cover charge. Its origins stem from the Middle Ages when travelers used to stop at inns but they would bring their own food to save money. The innkeepers would miss out on earnings from food sales so they decided to charge customers for the space they occupied and things they used.  

You can expect to pay between €2-€3 for the coperto charge, which will need to be paid regardless of whether you eat the supplied bread or not. While coperto may be completely foreign to you, it’s custom in Bologna so you’ll need to take it into account when dining out. It does however relieve you of the need to tip, so there’s a silver lining to this strange ancient tradition.

Try not to leave deciding where to eat to the last minute as you may end up disappointed, especially if you want to eat at a popular restaurant. Bologna runs on restaurant bookings and forward planning so try to make your reservations a few days in advance. 

Most restaurants, cafes, bars, and businesses accept card payments throughout the city but always carry some Euros for those “just in case” moments where card facilities aren’t available.

Many cities have cards like these that help you discover the city in a more cost-effective way. You can buy it online or at tourist info-points. The Bologna Welcome Cards are valid for 15 days from the activation date you can only use the Card once per service. 

With the Bologna Welcome Card you’ll have discounted or free entrances to various attractions and exhibitions as well as bus services and a guided tour. Make sure you check the opening times for the museums and attractions so you can make the most of your time in Bologna.

Italy is a country known for its cuisine and Bologna remains the gastronomic capital of the country so eating here is quite simply one of the best things to do in Bologna. Bologna is the birthplace of bolognese, or tagliatelle al ragù, the delightful flat-ribboned pasta with subtle meat sauce. 

The broader region, Emilia Romagna, has gifted the world glorious Parmigiano Reggiano, or parmesan, tortellini, tortelloni, mortadella, Parma ham, balsamic vinegar, and many other delicacies so you’ll never run out of delicious foods to try.  

You’ll be able to find all the delicious food along the streets of Quadrilatero, just off Piazza Maggiore. Be sure to try tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo, and butter and sage Tortellini if you’re looking for delicious local dishes. For some of the best gelato in Bologna (and possibly all of Italy) head to Cremeria Cavour.