Located in the heart of Italy, Bologna is a city that offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. With its rich history dating back to the Roman Empire, this beautiful city has been shaped by various civilizations, leaving behind a legacy of architecture, art, and cuisine that is simply unmatched. In this article, we will explore some of the top day-trip suggestions from Bologna, including medieval towns, natural parks, amusement parks, and relaxing beachside locations.
1. Dozza: A Town Turned Open-Air Museum
Located south of Bologna, Dozza is a town that has been transformed into an open-air museum. With its narrow and historic streets, visitors can walk through a gallery of art, taking in the colorful murals and works by famous international artists. Must-visit attractions include the Rocca Sforzesca, built in the 15th century, and the Enoteca Regionale, where visitors can follow a true wine tasting journey.
Distance: 35 km
How to get there: Drive on the E45 (40 minutes) or take bus 101 to Toscanella and change buses 147 to Dozza (2 hours)
Open hours: 10:00-13:00 and 14:00-18:00 / Enoteca Regionale 10:00-13:00 and 14:30-19:00
Cost of ticket: Free to town, €5.00 to Rocca Sforzesca
2. Monteveglio and Monteveglio Abbey Park: A Haven for History Buffs
Located in the Bolognese Apennine, Monteveglio is a hamlet with ancient origins dating back to the Neolithic era. The large Santa Maria Abbey, built during the Romanesque period, is a must-visit attraction, featuring three levels and an impressive crypt. For nature lovers, the nearby Monteveglio Abbey Park offers various hiking trails, adventure activities, and stunning views of the vineyards and calanchi.
Distance: 28 km
How to get there: Drive on SP 569 (30 minutes) or take bus 94 to Bazzano and then bus 656 to Monteveglio
Open hours: Abbey of Santa Maria from 6:00-12:30 and 15:00-19:30
Cost of ticket: Free to town, €3.00 to Abbey of Santa Maria
3. Brisighella: A Medieval Gem
Located an hour from Bologna, Brisighella is a medieval town with stunning architecture, nestled between mountains and forests. Unmissable attractions include the Tower of the Clock, built in 1290, and the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Monticino, featuring an image in terracotta from the 600.
Distance: 68.4 km
How to get there: Drive on E45 (1 hour) or take train for Ancora and then proceed with the train to Brisighella
Open hours: Tower of the Clock from 10:00-12:30 and 15:00-19:30 / Sanctuary of the Madonna of Monticino always open
Cost of ticket: Free to town, €3.00 to Rocca di Brisighella
4. Parco dei Gessi Bolognesi e dell’Abbadessa: A Natural Oasis
Located in the hills surrounding Bologna, Parco dei Gessi Bolognesi and Abbessa Park is a caved area of great interest. Visitors can explore various hiking trails, including walks on foot and mountain bike rides. Must-visit attractions include the Spipola cave, discovered in 1932, and the dolina of the Spipola.
Distance: 12 km
How to get there: Drive easily (25 minutes) or take bus 19 to San Lazzaro Municipio and then bus 126 to Falcone
Open hours: Park always open / Grotta della Spipola visitable only with guided tour
5. Rocchetta Mattei: An Eclectic Building
Located in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, Rocchetta Mattei is an eclectic building that showcases a convergence of Gothic, medieval, and Oriental styles. Inside, visitors can explore colorful rooms evoking distant lands, Eastern-style courtyards, and an extensive area where the Alhambra courtyard has been rebuilt.
Distance: 52 km
How to get there: Drive on SS Porettana 64 (1 hour) or take train Bologna Centrale-Porretta Terme
Open hours: Variable depending on the period / Rocca always open Saturday and Sunday from 10:00-15:00 in winter and 9:30-13:00 and 15:00-17:30 in summer
6. Marina di Ravenna: A Relaxing Beachside Destination
Located near Bologna, Marina di Ravenna is a well-known tourist destination known for its many restaurants, shops, events, and music venues, as well as its long beautiful beach. Visitors can relax on the portside, enjoy delicious fish dishes, or visit the National Museum of Submarine Activities.
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Distance: 90 km
How to get there: Drive easily (less than 1 hour) or take train to Rimini and then board the Marina Traghetto ferry
Open hours: City always accessible / National Museum of Submarine Activities visitable on prebooking
7. Parco divertimenti Mirabilandia: A Dream for Children and Adults
Located near Ravenna, Parco divertimenti Mirabilandia is a dream come true for children and adults alike. With its many water games, pools, various attractions, artificial beaches, and futuristic installations, this amusement park has something for everyone.
Distance: 88 km
How to get there: Drive easily (1 hour) or take train to Rimini and then bus 176 to Mirabilandia
Conclusion:
Emilia-Romagna is a region that offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. From medieval towns to relaxing beachside destinations, this beautiful region has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, Emilia-Romagna is the perfect destination.
Tips and Recommendations:
- Visit Dozza Park during the summer months when the town’s murals are at their most vibrant.
- Take a guided tour of Monteveglio Abbey Park to explore its hidden passages and secret rooms.
- Don’t miss the medieval market in Brisighella on Fridays and Saturdays for local crafts, food, and shopping.
- Visit Parco dei Gessi Bolognesi e dell’Abbadessa during spring when the wildflowers are in bloom.
- Explore Rocchetta Mattei’s colorful rooms and Eastern-style courtyards for a unique architectural experience.
- Relax on Marina di Ravenna’s long beach or visit the National Museum of Submarine Activities to learn about its fascinating history.
- Spend a day at Parco divertimenti Mirabilandia with family or friends, enjoying rides, shows, and attractions.
Accommodation Options:
Bologna has plenty of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Here are some top picks:
- Hotel: Hotel Il Guelfo Bianco (4-star)
- Resort: Hotel Il Girasole (5-star)
- B&B: B&B La Casa dei Nonni (3-star)
Getting Around:
The region has a well-connected transportation system, including buses and trains. Here are some options:
- Train: Trenitalia operates frequent trains from Bologna to other cities in the region.
- Bus: FlixBus and Eurolines operate bus services from Bologna to nearby towns and cities.
- Car Rental: Rent a car or scooter for flexibility and convenience.
Language:
Italian is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas. Here are some useful phrases:
- Hello: Ciao (CHOW)
- Thank you: Grazie (GRAH-zee-eh)
- Yes/No: Sì/No (SEE/noh)
Currency:
The Euro is the official currency of Italy.
Weather:
Emilia-Romagna has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Here’s what to expect:
- Summer (June-August): Hot and sunny, ideal for beach vacations.
- Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October): Mild temperatures and fewer tourists make these seasons perfect for exploring the region.
- Winter (December-February): Cooler temperatures and fewer visitors make it an excellent time for outdoor activities.
Additional Resources:
- Visit Dozza Park website
- Visit Monteveglio Abbey Park website
- Visit Brisighella website
- Visit Parco dei Gessi Bolognesi e dell’Abbadessa website
- Visit Rocchetta Mattei website
- Visit Marina di Ravenna website
- Visit Parco divertimenti Mirabilandia website
