27 Easy & Charming Day Trips from Bologna: by train or car
Even though some overlook Bologna when planning a trip to Italy, I believe that Italy’s food capital makes for the best base camp when you want to explore northern Italy. You can go on great day trips from Bologna while enjoying the cuisine for which Bologna is famous.
However, if you are planning a a shorter vacation, you can spend only two days in Bologna, and take a day trip of your choice.
Moreover, if you have time for a proper vacation, book your whole stay in Bologna and explore some of these 27 trips outside of town.
Its location in the heart of Emilia Romagna makes destinations in Veneto, Tuscany, Lombardy, and beyond easily accessible by car or train.
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Table of Contents
- Getting around for your day trip
- The complete list of the best day trips
Getting around for your day trip
Almost all of the places I’ve listed below can be reached by train and by car in up to 2 hours. Some are a bit further, and some are just 30 minutes away, but all must be considered when in Bologna.
BY TRAIN
Most of these destinations can be easily reached by the regional train. This option is usually the cheapest, and tickets can be purchased from the train station.
Don’t forget to validate your ticket before stepping on the train. The validation machines are on the platform, and if you fail to validate it, you will be fined.
If, however, you are looking into some of the further away destinations, you’ll want to look for fast trains. Tickets for these trains are usually cheaper when acquired way in advance. That’s why I recommend booking your tickets online on omio.com or ItaliaRail.com. Both are price aggregators that will show you the best route and prices.
Another great option when you plan to take more day trips by train is to book a Eurail pass. The pass is available for 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 travel days, and you can take as many trains as you want.
Read also: 30+ Italian gifts for Italy lovers
BY CAR
Renting a car in Italy is advisable when you want to visit some destinations that are hard to access by train. I always recommend booking in advance to find the best price.
A great option that can help you save up to 70% on your car rental is Discover Cars. They also have a flexible cancellation policy in case your plans change.
The complete list of the best day trips
I prepared this map to help you visualize the destinations. They are scattered throughout much of Northern Italy.
I’ve split them not by region but by size and how famous they are to the average traveler to Italy.
Day trips from Bologna in a nutshell:
- Day trips for history lovers: Venice, Florence
- Day trips for beach and nature lovers: Rimini, Po Delta
- Day trips for foodies: Parma, Modena
- Day trips for art lovers: Ravenna or Florence
Famous towns
VERONA
Distance and time to get there: around 150 km – 1h 45 by car // 50 minutes by fast train / 1 h 30 by regional train // 2 h by bus. Check out connections here!
It is famous for Romeo and Juliet but also for its imposing arena, which draws many people who attend music concerts and shows here.
Verona is another ofter-overlooked Italian destination, and it’s totally worth at least a one-day visit.
Start from Piazza Bra, where you can drink a strong coffee while admiring the arena in front of you and the colorful buildings on the other side.
Stroll through the streets and climb the Torre dei Lamberti to view the town from above. Then, wander through the many stalls filled with handmade local produce in Piazza delle Erbe. Don’t leave without seeing Juliet’s balcony!
Once you’re done with the center, walk across the Ponte Pietra and climb the hill, from which you will get another stunning view of the city. Take the funicular to Piazzale Castel San Pietro, and when you come back, visit Castelvecchio.
VENICE
Distance and time to get there: 150 km by car – 1h 45 by car // 1 h 30 minutes by fast train / 2 h 05 by regional train // 1 h 40 by bus. Check out connections here!
Venice is a destination that should be on everyone’s list. No matter how many times I’ve seen it, I will always come back and rediscover the city on the canals.
Wake up early and visit the Dodge’s Palace and visit San Marco Basilica.
Then, walk along the many canals, take a picture of the Ponte dei Sospini, and drop by Libreria Acqua Alta.
Later, if you can afford it, enjoy a gondola ride, the quintessential Venetian experience.
Don’t forget to shop for souvenirs: a painted carnival mask can be a nice gift.
Do not miss the most colorful village with its Instagram-perfect houses – Burano.
For more detailed info on the attractions in Venice, please read my 2 Days in Venice Itinerary.
MILAN
Distance and time to get there: 220 km by car – 2h 40 by car // 1 h 15 minutes by fast train / 2 h 55 by regional train // 2 h 30 by bus. Check out connections here!
I must admit I’m guilty of never having visited Milan even though I’ve passed through its train station so many times. However, only a short train ride (if you choose the fast train) makes for the perfect day trip from Bologna.
Milan is fashion’s capital, but it is also home to the impressive Milan Cathedral, which shouldn’t be skipped by anyone visiting the town. Head over to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some window shopping or just for a perfect Instagram picture in Italy.
Don’t skip the Castello Sforzesco – a 15th-century castle with extensive gardens to be discovered, especially on a spring or summer day. For art enthusiasts, the Milan Archaeology Museum and the Pinacoteca di Brera would make for a perfect day in Milan.
End your day with a meal and an ice cream along the Naviglio Grande, or go on an evening bike tour with aperitivo in Navigli, and hop on the train back to Bologna.
FLORENCE
Distance and time to get there: 108 km by car – 1 h 30 by car // 40 minutes by fast train / 2 h by regional train // 1 h 30 by bus. Check out connections here!
One of the most romantic destinations in Italy, the old town of Florence is a must-see. It has plenty of things to do and see on a day trip, and it won’t disappoint.
Learn about art at the Ufizzi Gallery (just make sure to book your ticket in advance), and wander around the Florence Duomo. Then, climb up the cupola for one of the best views over the city (go for a priority ticket here as well).
Next, admire Michelangelo’s famous David at the Accademia Gallery, and just stroll along the Ponte Vecchio.
Eat a bistecca all Fiorentina and taste some delicious Tuscan wine at one of the many osterias in town, hidden on the cobblestone narrow streets around the center area.
SAN MARINO
Distance and time to get there: 134 km by car – 1 h 40 by car
Even though this small town is practically not part of Italy, it sure is a fairytale place worth visiting from Bologna.
The Republic of San Marino is one of the smallest countries in the world, and it is totally independent of Italy. Another interesting fact worth knowing is that San Marino is one of only three countries surrounded completely by another country (Italy, in this case).
Its area is only 16 square kilometers, and although it is not part of the European Union, it uses the euro currency.
The city is located on top of a mountain and has really picturesque streets and views over the Adriatic Sea (on a clear day).
Visit the fortress perched on top of a hill, with its 2 towers open to tourists. Then, go to the Private Palace, which hosts the parliament, and stroll through the charming streets of this petite town.
FERRARA
Distance and time to get there: 49 km by car – 45 min by car // 30 minutes by fast train / 55 min by regional train. Check out connections here!
With impressive red buildings and towers, Ferrara is a must-stop while in Emilia Romagna.
The Estense Castello was once the house of the Este family, which ruled Ferrara between the 12th and 15th centuries. It stands tall today in the center of town.
Next, head over to Ferrara’s main piazza, Piazza Trento. Admire the San Giorgio Cathedral and the City Hall. Wander around this area and indulge in some delicious local sweets.
Don’t leave before seeing the city walls, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage, and learning about Ferrara’s history.
A city highlights walking tour is always a great way to get to know the city and enrich your knowledge with something new.
PARMA
Distance and time to get there: 100 km by car – 1 hour and 15 min by car // 45 minutes by fast train / 1 hour by regional train. Check out connections here!
To tell you the truth, whenever I hear Parma, I think about the delicious prosciutto they are famous for. But apart from the incredible food, Parma is a great destination for a day trip from Bologna.
Stop at the National Gallery and admire works by da Vinci, Barbieri, van Dyck, and many others. Then, walk around the 11th-century Parma Cathedral, visit the octagonal Baptistery in the center of Parma, and go on a food and wine tour.
Next, plan a visit to a ham factory or a parmesan, ham, and vinegar factory to learn about the process of making these delicious local products.
As you can see, Parma, like Bologna, is a perfect destination for foodies.
MODENA
Distance and time to get there: 48 km by car – 50 minutes by car // 17 minutes by fast train / 30 minutes by regional train Check out connections here!
Modena is perhaps known only for its famous balsamic vinegar and for sports car fans since it is the birthplace of Enzo Ferrari. However, Modena is much more than that, with its large squares, the cathedral in the Piazza Grande, and the Ghirlandina Tower listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
On a 2-hour walking tour, you can see all the gems of Modena and learn more about some of its historic buildings and piazzas.
A must-have experience in Modena is balsamic vinegar tasting at a local producer, learn how to pair it with fresh fruit or local cheese and wine.
PADOVA (PADUA)
Distance and time to get there: 119 km by car – 1 hour and 30 minutes by car // 1 hour by fast train / 1 hour 36 minutes by regional train // 2 hours by bus. Check out connections here!
For a few years, Padua was a distant place I would call daily. That was because the company I was working for had its warehouse there, and I was managing their orders.
Little did I know that this town I was contacting daily held so many beautiful gems worth visiting on a day trip from Bologna. Because of its wealth and history, Padua drew some of the greatest artists of the 14th century (Giotto, Giovanni, Donatello) that left the city a living work of art.
Visit the Basilica di Sant’Antonio, filled with memorable works of art; explore the Piazza dei Signori, in the heart of Padua, packed with lively cafes and restaurants; and admire the Pallazzo della Ragione, Europe’s largest medieval hall.
Dream about long-ago times by visiting the Villa Pisani with its 100 rooms that once belonged to Emperor Napoleon.
If you’re a spritz Aperol fan, go on a guided spritz walk and discover the city together with some of the best drinks in town. Another tour worth looking into, specially made for the foodie in you, is the 2-hour food markets tour of Padoa. Visit the fruit and vegetable markets in Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza delle Frutta, sample some of the delicious food, and enjoy a glass of Prosecco.
If you want to spend more time in Padua, I would definitely consider a boat cruise from Padua to Venice. The cruise would pass along more than 50 Venetian villas and many charming small villages on the Brenta River.
Small Italian villages worth seeing
If you’ve already been to the more famous big Italian towns or want to skip the crowds, the following villages are perfect for your trip.
There might not be many museums or classic tourist attractions, but you can enjoy real Italian life and vibe.
BRISIGHELLA
Distance and time to get there: 72 km by car – 1 hour by car // between 1 and 2 hours by train with one change
Honestly, this was one place I was planning to see on my weekend in Bologna. I was charmed by the colorful buildings and the small village vibe I got from the pictures I saw online.
Since plans don’t always turn out as we made them at home, I’m not sad I couldn’t make it because I’ve seen most of Bologna. However, I would for sure plan a trip to Brisighella on my next vacation in the area.
The town’s up the hills and has a fortified castle, a clock tower, and a sanctuary, making it appealing. Here, you’ll also find a rich, authentic food scene and a colorful, beautiful city center.
MARANELLO
This is mainly a top attraction for those into sports cars – aka Ferrari. It is a 46-minute drive from Bologna, but most people go there on an organized tour.
They usually blend together with a visit to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, the new Pagani Museum Factory, and the new Lamborghini Museum and Factory. Here is a great option with a transfer from Bologna.
If you choose to drive yourself there, you can book your ticket for the Ferrari Museum and an F1 Simulator here.
PESCHIERA DEL GARDA
Distance and time to get there: 157 km by car – 1 hour and 45 minutes by car // 1 hour and 15 min by fast train / 1 hour 50 minutes by regional train (with one change). Check out connections here!
Come to this little town by the Lake Garda for a tranquil day in nature. The natural views here are stunning, and you can always book a boat and go to Riva del Garda in the Italian Alps, or even go by car and see the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona – a monastery built on the edge of a mountain.
Moreover, you can go on a motorcycling tour on Strada della Forra, which is perfectly built into the cliffs of Lake Garda.
FAENZA
Distance and time to get there: 60 km by car – 46 minutes by car // 28 minutes by fast train / 40 minutes by regional train Check out connections here!
Even though this medieval town has a charming city center, many come here for the ceramics.
Before heading to the ceramics museum, see the Faenza Cathedral, the Portico of Lords, the clock tower, the Piazza del Popolo, Molinella Square, and via Cavour for its mix of eclectic with baroque style palaces.
PIACENZA
Distance and time to get there: 156 km by car – 1 hour and 48 minutes by car // 1 hour and 15 minutes by fast train / 2 hours by regional train. Check out connections here!
Piacenza is the northernmost town in Emilia Romagna and is a small town worth trying.
Apart from enjoying its authentic vibe, visit the Palazzo Farnese and its museum—built in the 14th century by the lords of Milan.
Finally, don’t leave without seeing the 100 churches—of course, the number is not that high today, but you will still have many options in Piacenza.
Via Francigena is the main street you should explore here—it is packed with the city’s main sights.
VICENZA
Distance and time to get there: 153 km by car – 1 hour and 48 minutes by car // 1 hour and 40 minutes by fast train. Check out connections here!
Parco Querini, the Monte Berico church, and Antonio Pigafetta’s house – Magellan’s assistant who kept a journal of its travels, are only a few of the things you can do and see in Vicenza.
In conclusion, come here for the genuine Italian atmosphere, whether you go on a wine or bike tour or just sit back with a cup of coffee in one of the piazzas.
RIMINI
Distance and time to get there: 118 km by car – 1 hour and 20 minutes by car // 53 minutes by fast train // 1 hour 30 min by regional train. Check out connections here!
Rimini is a famous seaside destination. However, a day trip from Bologna offers plenty of other things to do and see.
The Tiberius Bridge has been here for the past 2000 years, and walking over it would take you back in time. For those who are passionate about history, Rimini is the town where you will see many well-preserved Roman ruins.
Lastly, if you are here to relax, drink a coffee in Piazza Cavour and spend some time on the beach with a good book in hand.
THE PO DELTA AND REGIONAL PARK AND COMACCHIO
Distance and time to get there: 134 km by car – 1 hour and 45 minutes by car // 53 minutes by fast train // 1 hour and 30 min by regional train. Check out connections here!
This is a perfect day trip that can be transformed into a 2-day escape to nature. Start from Comacchio, also known as Little Venice, with its canals, bridges, and colorful houses. Stop by the Pickling Factory, where you will learn about how the local people have lived out of eels in the past.
Take a boat trip to the Island of Love – the last piece of land of the marsh separating the Po River from the sea. Explore Cervia and its salt production; if you’re lucky, you will even see some flamingos.
No matter what you choose to do in this natural habitat, make sure to explore the lagoons by boat.
PORRETTA TERME
Distance and time to get there: 72 km by car – 1 h 20 minutes by car // 1 h 10 min by regional train Check out connections here!
This small village is located at the crossroads of Reggio Emilia and Tuscany and is known for its healing hot springs. Moreover, the train trip from Bologna to Porretta Terme is scenic, crossing through the Apennines and offering views to remember.
Come on a Saturday for the market day and lose yourself among the many stalls on display. Then, head to the forest for a hike in nature or simply go to a hot spring resort.
RAVENNA
Distance and time to get there: 82 km by car – 1 h by car // 1 h 10 min by regional train Check out connections here!
With an important historical background, Ravenna has an abundance of historic buildings and UNESCO World Heritage sites that must be explored patiently.
The Baptistery of Neon, which sits today on the site of a Roman Bath, is an important religious site worth seeing.
Then, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Basilica of San Vitale, and the impressive bell tower of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo are just a few of the other attractions that will keep you busy on your day trip to Ravenna.
Lastly, don’t leave without visiting the Museo Nazionale Ravenna or going on a tour to see the best mosaics in town. And if you want to relax a bit and haven’t been to the beach yet, head over to Ravenna’s marina.
SAVIGNO
Distance and time to get there: 34 km by car – 40 minutes by car
Savino is known as the capital of the truffles of Italy and might not offer much more, but you can stop by on your way to the region.
BERGAMO
Distance and time to get there: 244 km by car – 2 hours and 30 minutes by car // 2 hours and 15 minutes by fast train
Another destination many pass through without giving it a chance. And I must admit I’ve been one of the many and had no idea about how beautiful Bergamo was until some of my best friends told me they were going to Milan only to see Bergamo again.
If you’re looking for a more romantic destination for a day trip from Bologna, perched on hills, this walled city filled with cobbler stone streets might be just the destination for you.
MANTUA (MANTOVA)
Distance and time to get there: 112 km by car – 1 hour and 30 minutes by car // 1 hour and 45 min by regional train (with one change). Check out connections here!
Stunning views from across the bridge of Piazza Sordello, the beautiful Basilica di Sant’Andrea with its triumphant tower overlooking the city, the Palazzo Te built almost 500 years ago, and the Ducal Palace, are only a few of the things worth seeing in Mantua.
Day trips for adventure lovers
GARDALAND
Distance and time to get there: 158 km by car – 2 hours by car // 1 h 29 minutes by fast train (with one change)
Located in Castelnuovo del Garda, Gardaland is one of Europe’s premier theme parks, drawing millions of visitors annually.
From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like Oblivion: The Black Hole and Raptor to family-friendly attractions such as Fantasy Kingdom and Prezzemolo Land, there’s something to suit every taste and level of adventure.
The park also features immersive themed areas, such as the enchanting Magic Season and the wild Wild West Valley, which transport guests to different worlds with every step.
Book your Gardaland ticket here!
MIRABILANDIA
Distance and time to get there: 87 km by car – 1 hour and 5 minutes by car // 1 hour and 12 minutes by fast train
Situated near Ravenna, Mirabilandia is one of the country’s most renowned amusement parks. Its thrilling attractions and immersive experiences capture visitors.
Spanning over 850,000 square meters, Mirabilandia offers a diverse range of rides and attractions, from heart-pounding roller coasters like Katun and iSpeed to family-friendly adventures in themed areas like Dinoland and Far West Valley.
Finally, the park also boasts captivating live shows, including high-energy performances and spectacular stunt shows that leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
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