Bologna is a city that’s perfect for exploring with a variety of engaging tours. With its iconic porticoes, lively piazzas, and culinary traditions, Bologna offers more than just a walk-around. What makes its tours stand out is the opportunity to experience the city through hands-on activities, local flavors, and unique perspectives. We especially like the gelato making class for its delicious practicality and the nightlife tour for its lively, authentic feel. For those who love a good ride, the e-bike rental offers a fantastic way to see both the city and the surrounding hills. And film buffs will appreciate the cinema in the streets tour that reveals Bologna’s role as an open-air set for many movies. Each experience is designed to give you a taste of Bologna beyond the typical tourist trail.
Quick Overview
Our list covers four distinct ways to experience Bologna, each with its own appeal. You can indulge your culinary side with Gelato Making Class in Bologna City center Cooking School, explore the city’s nightlife with Bologna: Sipping Through the City After Dark Tour, rent an e-bike to discover Bologna and its hills via Bologna: City Discover by E-Bike Rental with Safety Gear, or step into Bologna’s cinematic history with Bologna, Ciak si gira! Cinema in the Streets of the City. Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Gelato Making Class in Bologna City center Cooking School
At number 1, the Gelato Making Class in Bologna City center Cooking School offers a delightful, hands-on experience that takes full advantage of Bologna’s culinary reputation. For about $61 per person, you’ll spend 1.5 hours in a cozy, central Bologna kitchen guided by a professional chef. This class is perfect for all ages, whether you’re traveling with kids or looking to sharpen your gelato skills. You learn to make authentic Italian gelato from scratch, discovering the ingredients, techniques, and traditions that make this treat so special. The class emphasizes seasonal, high-quality ingredients, ensuring your flavors are fresh and vibrant.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to get practical experience—mixing, churning, and tasting your own creations—and leave with a recipe booklet to replicate your favorites at home. The small group setting guarantees personalized attention, making it both fun and educational. Many visitors praise the chef’s friendly guidance and the delicious results. The best part? You get to enjoy your homemade gelato at the end—what’s better than eating your own creation? This experience is ideal for food lovers, families, or anyone wanting a memorable, tasty souvenir of Bologna.
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, interactive way to learn about Italy’s most iconic dessert, this gelato class is a sweet choice that offers hands-on fun and authentic flavors.
2. Bologna: Sipping Through the City After Dark Tour
Second on our list is the Bologna: Sipping Through the City After Dark Tour, which offers a lively exploration of Bologna’s nightlife. For just $34 per person, this 1.5-hour evening tour allows you to sample local wines and amari at some of the city’s most iconic spots. The tour begins at Feltrinelli Librerie and takes you through vibrant piazzas like Piazza di Porta Ravegnana and Piazza Santo Stefano, where the city truly comes alive after sunset.
What makes this tour unique is its insider focus—visiting hidden bars and favorite local hangouts that aren’t on most tourist itineraries. You’ll learn about Bologna’s social scene, the best wines and amari to try, and get tips on what to do in the city at night. Many reviewers mention how the relaxed atmosphere helps you meet fellow travelers and locals alike. During the tour, you’ll enjoy multiple wine tastings, with plenty of time to ask questions and soak in the lively atmosphere. The guide’s insights make this a great way to see Bologna from a different angle, especially if you’re interested in its social and culinary culture.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an authentic taste of Bologna’s nightlife, perfect for those wanting a casual evening of wine, conversation, and local vibe.
3. Bologna: City Discover by E-Bike Rental with Safety Gear
Third is the Bologna: City Discover by E-Bike Rental with Safety Gear, which is ideal for those who want to cover more ground without breaking a sweat. For around $XX (pricing varies by rental duration), you can explore Bologna’s highlights and scenic hills using a variety of e-bikes, including city, trekking, or tandem models. This flexible rental is available for a full day—simply check availability for your preferred start time.
The main advantage here is the ability to see both the city’s porticoes, towers, and piazzas and the surrounding rolling hills—an experience that’s hard to match with a walking tour. Many visitors rave about how safe and confident they felt, even on steep inclines, thanks to the powerful e-bikes. This self-guided tour offers freedom to tailor your day, taking breaks at key landmarks or scenic viewpoints. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way to enjoy Bologna and its countryside at your own pace.
This option is perfect for active travelers who want to mix sightseeing with a bit of adventure. It works well for families, couples, or solo explorers comfortable with bikes. Be aware that riding in traffic requires some confidence, but the safety gear and clear instructions help ensure a smooth experience.
Bottom Line: For a flexible, active way to see Bologna’s city and hills, renting an e-bike offers an exciting and sustainable approach.
4. Bologna, Ciak si gira! Cinema in the Streets of the City
Last on our list is Bologna, Ciak si gira! Cinema in the Streets of the City. This tour taps into Bologna’s cinematic past, showing how the city has served as the backdrop for countless movies. It lasts about 1.5 hours, conducted by licensed guides with over ten years of experience, and is suitable for families wanting a fun, educational experience.
What makes this tour special is its focus on film scenes shot in Bologna—ranging from noir classics to modern blockbusters. You’ll visit iconic locations that have appeared in movies, learning behind-the-scenes stories about how Bologna’s streets have played a starring role. The guide shares insights into the city’s role in cinema, making it engaging for film buffs and curious travelers alike. Although the reviews are somewhat mixed (rated 4.1/5), many visitors enjoy the lively storytelling and unique perspective on Bologna’s streets.
This tour is ideal for those interested in film or looking for a different way to see Bologna’s historic streets. It offers a relaxed pace and a chance to see the city through a different lens—literally. Keep in mind, it’s more about storytelling than physical activity.
Bottom Line: If movies and behind-the-scenes stories appeal to you, this tour offers a fun, cinematic journey through Bologna’s streets.
How to Choose the Right Bologna Tour for You
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and how active you want to be. For culinary lovers eager to create their own sweet treats, the gelato class is unbeatable. If you’re after an atmospheric evening and want to experience Bologna’s social side, the nightlife tour is perfect. For those who love to explore independently and cover a lot of ground, the e-bike rental offers flexibility and adventure. And if movies are your thing, the cinema tour reveals Bologna’s role on the big screen.
Consider your fitness level, time constraints, and whether you prefer guided or self-guided experiences. Booking early is wise during peak seasons, especially for popular activities like the gelato class or e-bike rental.
Final Thoughts
Bologna offers a selection of tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. The gelato making class stands out for its delicious hands-on approach, while the nightlife tour provides a relaxed evening of local flavors. Biking enthusiasts will love the freedom of exploring on an e-bike, and film fans will enjoy the storytelling of Bologna’s cinematic history.
No matter which tour you pick, these experiences promise an engaging way to see more of Bologna than a typical walk. For a memorable trip, consider combining a few options—just remember to book early, especially in busy months. Bologna invites you to discover its flavors, streets, and stories—so jump in and enjoy the adventure.