Sanctuary of S. Luca With Train and Private Guide

Exploring the historic Sanctuary of S. Luca is a must-do experience for visitors to Bologna. Set out on a scenic train ride through the world’s longest arcade, leading to this 300-meter-high basilica perched atop a hill. A private guide brings the sanctuary’s exquisite frescoes and revered statue of the Virgin Mary to life. With flexible booking options, this 2.5-hour tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Bologna’s rich history. But there’s more to discover beyond the sanctuary’s walls…

Key Points

• Tour includes a train ride to the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca in Bologna and a private guided tour of the historic site.
• Sanctuary sits atop a hill at an elevation of 300 meters, connected to the city by the world’s longest arcade with 666 arches.
• Tour highlights include stunning frescoes, intricate altars, and a revered statue of the Virgin Mary, as well as panoramic views from the Dome.
• Train journey offers breathtaking vistas of Bologna during the 15-minute ascent along the historic arcade.
• Tour not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, but flexible booking options and cancellation policies are available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the Sanctuary of S. Luca, one of Bologna’s most iconic landmarks.

Priced from €135.00 per person, the 2.5-hour experience includes a train ride to the Sanctuary and a private guided tour.

Travelers can take advantage of the flexible booking policy, paying nothing today and cancelling up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour showcases the Sanctuary’s remarkable architecture, including the world’s longest arcade, and provides optional access to the Dome for panoramic city views.

An experienced guide is available in multiple languages to enhance the overall experience.

Location and Historical Significance

The Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca is located in Bologna, a city in northern Italy. The basilica church sits atop a hill, standing 300 meters above the city.

It’s known for its impressive architectural feature – the longest arcade in the world, stretching 3.5 km with 666 arches and 15 chapels. This arcade connects the sanctuary to the city, creating a unique visual and historical landmark.

The elevated location of the sanctuary provides panoramic views of Bologna, making it a popular destination for visitors to experience the city’s rich history and scenic beauty.

Highlights of the Sanctuary

Although the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca is renowned for its remarkable arcade, the tour highlights the sanctuary’s interior as well.

Visitors will be captivated by the stunning frescoes, intricate altars, and revered statue of the Virgin Mary. The guided tour provides insights into the history and significance of this important pilgrimage site.

Plus, those who opt for the dome visit can enjoy panoramic views of Bologna from the top of the basilica. The descent via the historic arcade and through Porta Saragozza completes the immersive experience of this unique attraction.

Train Ride to the Sanctuary

How does the train ride to the Sanctuary of S. Luca work?

The train ascends 300 meters up the hillside, carrying visitors along the longest continuous arcade in the world – 3.5 km with 666 arches. The 15-minute ride offers breathtaking vistas of Bologna below.

The train ascends 300 meters up the hillside, carrying visitors along the longest continuous arcade in the world – 3.5 km with 666 arches. The 15-minute ride offers breathtaking vistas of Bologna below.

Disembarking at the top, guests enter the Sanctuary and explore its historic interiors on a guided tour. After visiting, the train delivers passengers back down the hill, through the Porta Saragozza and the Meloncello Arch, returning to Piazza Maggiore.

The train ride is a seamless and scenic way to access this iconic Bologna landmark.

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Guided Tour of the Sanctuary

After disembarking the train, visitors embark on the guided tour of the Sanctuary of S. Luca.

An expert guide leads the group through the impressive basilica, highlighting its remarkable architectural features.

Visitors admire the elaborate interior, adorned with stunning frescoes, sculptures, and altars. The guide provides historical context, sharing the sanctuary’s significance as a pilgrimage site and the story behind its construction.

The tour covers the sanctuary’s highlights, including the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary and the Dome, which offers panoramic views over Bologna.

With the guide’s insights, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for this iconic landmark.

Optional Dome Visit for Panoramic Views

The tour also offers an optional visit to the Sanctuary’s dome, which rewards visitors with panoramic views over the city of Bologna.

Ascending the 498 steps to the top of the dome provides a unique perspective, allowing guests to gaze out over the terracotta rooftops and winding streets below.

Though the climb may be challenging for some, the breathtaking 360-degree views make it well worth the effort.

Visitors can spot key landmarks like the Two Towers and admire the city’s charming medieval architecture from this lofty vantage point.

The dome visit is an unforgettable addition to the Sanctuary of S. Luca experience.

Descent Along the Arcade and Return to Piazza Maggiore

Once visitors have taken in the breathtaking views from the Sanctuary’s dome, it’s time to start the descent back down to Piazza Maggiore.

The train ride along the arcade is a highlight, as the 3.5 km journey offers stunning vistas of Bologna’s historic city center. Passengers will travel through Porta Saragozza, marveling at the 666 arches and 15 chapels that line the passageway.

The train arrives at the Meloncello Arch, where visitors can disembark and stroll through the picturesque streets back to Piazza Maggiore, the starting point of the tour.

Accessibility and Important Information

Although the Sanctuary of S. Luca offers a unique and breathtaking experience, it’s important to be aware of a few key considerations:

• The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the ascent and descent involve using the train along the arcade.

• Pets aren’t allowed on the tour, so visitors must make arrangements for their furry companions.

• Flexible booking options are available, allowing visitors to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Sum Up

Explore the Sanctuary of S. Luca by train and with a private guide. Admire the stunning frescoes and revered statue of the Virgin Mary, and soak in the panoramic views of Bologna. With flexible booking and accessibility options, it’s an unforgettable opportunity to discover this historical and architectural gem. Don’t miss the chance to ascend the dome for an even more breathtaking perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: