City Red Bus: Bologna Hop-on Hop-off Tour with Food Tasting Vouchers

Red route

Soak up Bologna’s medieval beauty on a 1-day hop-on, hop-off bus tour with City Red Bus! Step back in time at Porta San Vitale, a medieval gate that once guarded Bologna’s ancient walls. Relax in the peaceful Giardini Margherita, the city’s largest park, with its picturesque lake and vibrant greenery. Wander along Via Carducci, a charming street full of historic charm and local flavor. Then, stop by the stunning Piazza Santo Stefano, home to the impressive Basilica di Santo Stefano and surrounded by centuries-old architecture.

Schedule

• First bus: 10:30am from stop #1(Piazza Maggiore Bigliettazione)
• Last bus: 5:30pm from stop #1(Piazza Maggiore Bigliettazione)
• Frequency: approx. 30-45 mins
• Popular stops: Giardini Margherita, Porta San Vitale, Via Carducci, and Piazza Santo Stefano

Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points.

You can join the tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.

City Red Bus: Bologna Hop-on Hop-off Tour with Food Tasting Vouchers

Dive into the heart of Bologna's labyrinthine streets, where medieval architecture whispers tales of yore amidst miles of red-tiled porticos that shield you from sun and rain. Embark on an odyssey through time as you explore the city’s rich tapestry of cultural heritage, educational legacy, and culinary delights. This tour is crafted for explorers of history, devotees of art, and seekers of gastronomic wonders. With a comprehensive audio guide in nine languages and free earphones at your disposal, each stop along the route unveils a new chapter of Bologna’s story. Whether it's the majestic basilicas or the red-tiled palazzos that captivate you, this hop-on hop-off adventure weaves history and culture, offering memorable encounters to forge lifelong connections while understanding that every corner of Bologna holds secrets waiting to be discovered.

Visit Giardini Margherita’s Lush Green Oasis

Access Giardini Margherita during the tour's highlight segment where sprawling gardens offer a serene retreat from the bustling city center. This lush park, a verdant sanctuary, invites you with its wide-open spaces and tranquil pathways that wind through vibrant greenery. Marvel at the meticulously manicured lawns, beautifully arranged flower beds, and grand statues that dot the landscape, telling stories of royal patronage and cultural significance. As you wander past century-old trees under the shade of their sprawling branches, imagine the historical figures who once strolled these same paths. Giardini Margherita is a true gem in Bologna’s crown, providing a perfect blend of nature and history that captivates every visitor.

Experience Porta San Vitale's Historic Gateway

Stop at Porta San Vitale showcasing the tour's architectural appeal where this ancient gate stands as a testament to medieval craftsmanship. A gateway to the past, Porta San Vitale is more than just an entry point—it’s a portal into Bologna’s rich history and its strategic importance over centuries. The imposing stone arches and intricate carvings tell stories of battles, trade routes, and the city's development through time. As you walk beneath its grand archway, feel the weight of history in every step as your eyes trace the lines etched by countless hands through generations. This historical site is a must-visit for any traveler seeking to understand Bologna’s complex heritage.

Discover Porta San Donato's Majestic Architecture

Explore Porta San Donato included in the tour package enabling you to delve into one of Bologna's most striking medieval gateways. This historic landmark, with its towering arches and intricate stone work, stands as a sentinel guarding the entrance to the city’s historical district. The grandeur of this structure is evident in every detail, from the elaborate carvings on the walls to the imposing height that commands attention. As you stand beneath the archway, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship that has endured for centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into Bologna's architectural heritage.

Uncover Basilica of San Petronio and Piazza Maggiore

Treasure the Basilica of San Petronio as part of the comprehensive itinerary featuring some of Bologna’s most iconic landmarks. This majestic basilica, with its striking red façade and intricate details, is a symbol of religious devotion and artistic splendor. As you step inside, marvel at the sheer scale and grandeur of this architectural masterpiece, where light filters through stained glass windows casting vibrant hues on marble floors. Beyond the basilica, Piazza Maggiore offers an enchanting backdrop with its bustling cafes and historic buildings that echo the city’s vibrant past.

Delight in Via Carducci’s Classic Streets

Savor Via Carducci as part of Bologna’s cultural heritage where classic streets come alive with the sounds of street vendors, lively chatter, and the aroma of local delicacies. This charming thoroughfare offers a glimpse into the city's daily life, from its historic buildings to the vibrant markets that line its path. As you stroll along Via Carducci, immerse yourself in the atmosphere, where every corner reveals another piece of Bologna’s rich tapestry. The narrow streets are filled with character and charm, making this experience one not to be missed.

Explore Piazza Santo Stefano's Elegant Square

Marvel at Piazza Santo Stefano representing the tour’s centerpiece where an elegant square adorned with ancient churches invites contemplation. This serene setting is a sanctuary of tranquility amidst the bustling city, offering visitors a chance to pause and reflect on Bologna’s spiritual heritage. The intricate details of the basilicas surrounding the piazza tell stories of devotion and architectural innovation, making this stop a highlight for history enthusiasts.

Tour Highlights

• Discover Bologna’s mix of medieval architecture and miles of porticos
• Explore 13 stops featuring historic landmarks and cultural hotspots
• Experience a delightful food-tasting tour at a local market with vouchers included
• Learn about Bologna’s rich educational heritage through an audio guide in nine languages
• Stop by Giardini Margherita for a serene retreat from the city center
• Discover Porta San Donato's majestic architecture and historical significance

Embark for explorers of history, devotees of art, and seekers of gastronomic delights, this hop-on hop-off tour weaves through Bologna’s labyrinthine streets like a delicate dance between past and present, offering memorable encounters to forge lifelong connections while understanding that every corner holds secrets waiting to be discovered.