Top Things to do in Province of Bologna
Things to do in Province of Bologna, Emilia-Romagna: The Best Sights & Landmarks
Discover the best top things to do in Province of Bologna, Italy including Basilica - Santuario di Santo Stefano, Compianto sul Cristo Morto, Borgo di Tresana, Basilica di San Domenico, Basilica di San Petronio, Le Due Torri Torre degli Asinell, Piazza Maggiore, Santuario di Madonna di San Luca, Teatro Anatomico, Fontana del Nettuno.
Restaurants in Province of Bologna
1. Basilica - Santuario di Santo Stefano
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5,097 reviews
Reviewed By Marla7 - Naas, Ireland
The Santo Stefano complex includes 7 interconnected churches, each with its own style and history, with parts dating back to the early Middle Ages. I definitely recommend to take your time to visit the whole complex, the museum and even the gift shop. Great way to escape the heat too, if visiting in the summer!
2. Compianto sul Cristo Morto
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 173 reviews
Reviewed By Cartagena2019 - Cartagena, Colombia
Once you enter the church Santa Maria della Vita, you have to go to the box office and purchase the tickets to view this set of remarkable statues: quite rightly so, as Niccolò dell’Arca, allegedly form Dalmatia, created one of the most beautiful sets of sculptures, expressing unbearable pain, almost naturalistic, of those around Christ upon his death, especially Mary magdalene and Madonna. Perhaps the greatest artistic treasures in Bologna an absolute must.
3. Borgo di Tresana
4. Basilica di San Domenico
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 873 reviews
Reviewed By Jo_and_Tom - Anna, United States
This church is very close to Hotel Touring. Looking at it you wouldn't think much of it until you get inside and have a guide who tells the story of the Church. The Tomb of Saint Dominic (Dominican founder) is located here. One of his relics is his skull entombed in a gold reliquary which is at the back of the altar. Michaelangelo was several years in Bologna as a student. One of his contribution to the tomb was a small "Clothed David" and his student also contributed a statue to same tomb. Outside were some unusual tombs which are elevated versus on the ground. They are two of the Bologna University founders - Doctors of Law. The one interesting point our guide explained that Beethoven played in this church when his father was Music Master. Beethoven in order to play had to pass a test and couldn't because he didn't know music theory on how to compose, even though he was composing at that age. Finally the choir master stated this boy was a genius and his compositions were far superior than other organ players so he was allowed to play.
5. Basilica di San Petronio
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,125 reviews
Reviewed By adaniels83 - Leeds, United Kingdom
This is a beautiful elegant and rather large church, entry is free, if you would like to take photos inside then there is a €2 charge with the proceeds going towards restoration of the many elements of the church. I read many times about people not being allowed in wearing shorts... that is a lie there were plenty of people wearing shorts and with legs on show and there was not one bit of animosity towards them!! The workmanship of the church is quite stunning and in my opinion a must see, the torri degli Asinelli was closed for renovations on our trip so as an alternative way of obtaining Ariel views of the city go to the rear of the church where for €3 you can get to the top and a viewing platform where the views are great.
6. Le Due Torri Torre degli Asinell
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 8,823 reviews
The colossal towers were built by Bologna's important families in the 12th century.
Reviewed By minkerryc
It is not often you get to climb a medieval tower nearly 1000 years old. There are 500 steps and those with claustrophobia or fear of heights may struggle. The view at the top is worth it though.
7. Piazza Maggiore
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9,773 reviews
Reviewed By nwaf247 - London, United Kingdom
The Centre of Bologna to meet or stroll or sit with drink or visit many of the historic sites surrounding The Piazza. Should be first stop when you arrive for first time.
8. Santuario di Madonna di San Luca
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,770 reviews
Reviewed By chrisiber - London, United Kingdom
The church itself is worth seeing but I feel that some of the works (particularly the Guido Reni) need restoration as it is very dark and you cannot see much detail. There is a 5 Euro charge to visit the terrace which is up on the cupola. 110 narrow steps I believe and the occasional passing place. The view at the top is well worth it. On a clear day apparently you can see all the way to Modena. Take the train from Piazza Maggiore unless you feel like a fairly strenuous walk under the 3.7km colonnade that leads all the way to the top from the Porta Saragozza. There is a commentary in several languages on the train.
9. Teatro Anatomico
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,401 reviews
Reviewed By ColinNY
A beautiful room, and the portraits and statues look down and watch. Galen, Hippocrates and others. There is a peace and solemness, as you sit where students watched and learned, centuries ago.
10. Fontana del Nettuno
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,605 reviews
Reviewed By Sylvain54321 - Lugrin, France
This is a lovely and monumental statue, well located on the main square of the historical center. It has an Italian flavor with the kinky mermaids at the bottom. It is a great start to visit the center, or as a meeting point.
