VEFL2 - Bologna, on the way to Florence

Embark on an enriching day trip from Venice to Florence, with a fascinating stop in Bologna—a city known for its medieval charm, rich history, and culinary delights. This day trip from Venice offers a scenic and cultural experience as you make your way south through Italy, with an exploration of Bologna's vibrant atmosphere before reaching your final destination in Florence. Whether you're interested in Venice city sightseeing or seeking a unique route to explore Italy, this tour offers the perfect mix of history, food, and culture.

Your tour begins with a comfortable drive from Piazzale Roma in Venice, heading south towards Bologna. As you leave the canals of Venice behind, you'll journey through the scenic landscapes of the Veneto and Emilia-Romagna regions, offering a relaxed and beautiful transition from the floating city to the heart of Italy. If you're looking to experience a different side of Venice sightseeing, enjoy a peaceful start to your day as you travel through the Italian countryside.

After approximately 2 hours of travel, you’ll arrive in Bologna, one of Italy's most charming and historically rich cities. Often called "La Grassa" (The Fat) for its exceptional food scene and "La Dotta" (The Learned) for its prestigious university, Bologna is a city filled with medieval landmarks and an unrivalled culinary tradition. During your visit, you will have the chance to explore Bologna’s top sights:Piazza Maggiore: Start your exploration in the heart of Bologna at its main square, Piazza Maggiore. Here, you can admire the grand Palazzo del Podestà, Palazzo Comunale, and the magnificent Basilica di San Petronio, one of Europe’s largest churches. The square is also home to several charming cafes, perfect for a break.

The Two Towers (Le Due Torri): Visit Bologna’s most iconic landmarks, the Asinelli Tower and Garisenda Tower. These medieval leaning towers have stood for centuries and symbolize Bologna’s rich history. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the Asinelli Tower for stunning panoramic views of the city.

The Archways of Bologna: Walk through the city’s famous porticos (covered arcades), which stretch for miles. These medieval passageways provide an enchanting atmosphere and make Bologna one of Italy’s most unique cities. They’re perfect for a leisurely stroll or some window shopping.

Bologna’s Food Scene: Bologna is world-renowned for its cuisine. If time permits, take a brief stop at a traditional trattoria and savour local specialties like tagliatelle al ragù (known globally as Bolognese sauce), tortellini, and mortadella. The city’s food is a highlight of any visit.

The University of Bologna: Visit the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world, founded in 1088. Explore the Archiginnasio, the former main building of the university, and the Anatomical Theatre, where medical students once studied human anatomy.

For a deeper dive into Bologna’s fascinating history, we offer an optional 2-hour guided tour. An expert guide will bring the city's history, art, and architecture to life, making for a more immersive experience.

After exploring Bologna, continue your journey south towards Florence. The drive takes you through the scenic Italian countryside, passing through rolling hills and charming towns as you approach Tuscany. Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation or another central location in Florence. From here, you can continue your Florence sightseeing tour or explore more of the city’s famous landmarks at your own pace.

If you need a private boat transfer from Piazzale Roma to your Venice hotel before you begin your journey, we can arrange this for you to ensure a seamless and stylish start to your day.

This day trip from Venice offers a perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty. Whether you are indulging in Bologna’s culinary delights, exploring its medieval streets, or visiting historical landmarks like the Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore, this tour is the ideal way to experience the charm of Bologna before you continue your travels to Florence. It's a fantastic option for those looking to enrich their journey from Venice to Florence with something special, as well as those seeking a memorable detour from the traditional Venice city sightseeing.