Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Bologna (And How to Enjoy the City Like a Local)
Bologna is one of Italy’s most authentic and enjoyable cities to explore — but like many destinations, there are a few common mistakes that can affect your experience.
Here are some practical tips to help you avoid them and make the most of your time in Bologna.
1. Visiting Bologna in August without planning ahead
August can be a tricky time to visit Bologna.
The weather is often extremely hot, many local businesses close for holidays, and walking around the city during the day can be quite exhausting.
That said, if you find yourself in Bologna in August, there is a better way to enjoy it.
In the evening, temperatures are much more pleasant, and the city becomes quieter and more atmospheric.
You can join a night experience like our Bologna night walking tour, where exploring the city is far more enjoyable.
2. Only visiting the most famous places
Of course, Bologna’s main landmarks are worth seeing — but limiting yourself to the most popular spots means missing the true character of the city.
Bologna is full of hidden corners, unusual details and lesser-known places that many visitors overlook.
If you want to go beyond the typical itinerary, take a look at my guide to unusual things to see in Bologna
3. Driving into the city centre without checking the ZTL
One of the most common mistakes is entering the historic centre by car without being aware of the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone).
There are cameras controlling access, and fines are very common for visitors who enter by mistake.
The easiest way to visit Bologna is:
– by train (the city centre is very close to the station), or
– by parking outside the city walls and using public transport.
Several buses connect the outskirts with the historic centre, including lines 25, 27 and 11.
4. Not checking opening days and times
Many visitors don’t realize that some museums, churches and attractions in Bologna have limited opening hours or are closed on specific days (often Monday or Tuesday).
Before planning your day, it’s always a good idea to check opening times — especially if you’re interested in places like the Archiginnasio or specific exhibitions.
5. Eating in the first “tourist” restaurant you find
Bologna is famous for its food, but not every restaurant offers the same quality.
Restaurants located right in the main squares can sometimes be more tourist-oriented and less authentic.
To experience real Bolognese cuisine, it’s worth looking for smaller trattorias or local spots just a few streets away from the busiest areas.
If you’re unsure where to go, you can also check my guide on
where to eat in Bologna
6. Underestimating distances (and the heat)
Bologna may look small on the map, but walking for hours — especially in summer — can be tiring.
Even though the porticoes offer shade, the heat can still make long walks challenging.
Plan your itinerary with breaks, take your time, and avoid walking long distances during the hottest hours of the day.
Want to explore Bologna the right way? Join one of my walking tours and discover the city with a local guide.