Bologna as a real local: explore the city with curious eyes and open heart
Bologna is a city that you can discover by walking, letting yourself be guided by itineraries that intertwine history, art and small secrets hidden in its streets. In this article we will guide you on a journey through the heart of the historic center, among iconic monuments, fascinating curiosities and romantic views, with tips on where to stop, what you can taste and where to stay to experience the most authentic soul of the city, living just like a local.
Where to start? From the beating heart of the center.
Staying in the old town is the key to an authentic dive. The Art Hotel Commercianti, with its rooms overlooking the Basilica di San Petronio , is a rare gem: an elegant atmosphere and history that you can breathe at every step.
Among historical icons and small secrets
Start from Piazza Maggiore, the city’s living room, surrounded by wonders such as:
- The solemn Basilica of San Petronio
- The majestic Fountain of Neptune , a timeless symbol
- The Palazzo d’Accursio , former town hall, today is a treasure chest
Under the Arc of Whispers, the Voltone del Podestà will amaze you with a curious acoustic effect: try to whisper in one corner and listen to your voice travel on the other side!
Science and wonder in the basilica
Inside the Basilica, an incredible gem is hidden: the solar sundial of Cassini, the longest and still working in the world. On sunny days, a beam passes through a small hole in the vault and marks the astronomical noon. It’s a magical encounter between faith, art and scientific precision.
Under the UNESCO porticoes, among elegant streets and panoramic walks
The arcades of Bologna - a world heritage site - are the soul of the city. They cover kilometers of paths connecting squares, historic shops and hidden corners:
- From Piazza Santo Stefano take via Farini, vibrant and fancy
- Continue on Strada Maggiore, full of noble charm
- Arrive in via Saragozza and climb under the 666 arches of the famous Portico di San Luca .
Every step is a journey through time.
Break: Bologna to savour
No walk is complete without a proper snack. And here, the culinary tradition is a religion:
- Let yourself be tempted by the flavors of the shops of the Mercato delle Erbe or the Quadrilatero .
- Enjoy a hot dish of tortellini in broth in a restaurant with checkered tablecloths
- Take a coffee break in a historic cafe or try a homemade walking ice cream
And every morning, at the Art Hotel Commercianti , you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with genuine and local delicacies.
Romanticism and hidden canals: the magic of the little window of Via Piella
If you dream of a touch of Venice among the Emilian alleys, look for the Finestrella in via Piella. A tiny overlooking the Moline Canal ,, framed by murals and colorful hearts, which gives a secret view, intimate and poetic.
Once the canal served mills, wash houses and town defenses. Today it speaks to us with the whisper of water and the echo of past stories. Walking around, you will find love locks and perfect angles for postcard photos.
How to get there: from Piazza Maggiore, follow via Rizzoli untill via Indipendenza, then turn into via Augusto Righi and finally in via Piella. Eyes open: It seems hidden, but when you see it, you won’t forget it.
Where to stay, to live all this
Choosing the Art Hotel Commercianti means embracing Bologna in its essence:
- Rooms with view on the basilica
- Private parking (very comfortable in the center)
- - Pet friendly , ideal for trips with four-legged friends
- Meeting room , to combine holiday and work
- Free bike rental , discover Bologna on two wheels
- Perfect atmosphere for romantic or family trips
Bologna is waiting for you: slow, lively, real, whether you come for a romantic weekend, to get lost under the arcades or to discover forgotten water glimpses, Bologna will surprise you. And every evening, you can return to your elegant retreat in the heart of the city, where everything begins and ends: the Art Hotel Commercianti.