The best months to visit Bologna are Apr – Jun, Sep – Oct. 18–28°C, pleasant and mild.
Quick facts
When to go
Italy's best-kept secret: a terracotta city of endless porticoes, medieval towers, and the richest food tradition on the peninsula.
Apr – Jun, Sep – Oct is the busiest window in Bologna, so accommodation and flights go first. Book ahead. The shoulder weeks either side are usually quieter for the same reason.
Getting Around in Bologna
- Tper buses cover the city. Single ticket: €1.50 (75 min). Day pass: €5. Buy at tabacchi or via the Tper app
- Bologna is compact and walkable. The porticoes provide shelter from rain and sun. Most sights within 15 min walk
- No metro system. Taxis via IT Taxi app or at taxi stands. Uber doesn't operate in Bologna. Bikes via Mobike app
For month-by-month detail, itineraries and costs, see the full Bologna travel guide.
Timezone: CET (UTC+1) (CEST (UTC+2) in summer)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Bologna?
The best months to visit Bologna are Apr – Jun, Sep – Oct (18–28°C, pleasant and mild), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Bologna budget breakdown.