Florence from Bologna: Full Day (Train + Tour + Museums)
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, with a day trip from Bologna aboard the Italo high-speed train in first class. Upon arrival, meet your guide and the rest of the group for a walking tour through elegant squares, ancient markets and iconic bridges, admiring the masterpieces that make Florence one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Be enchanted by the stories and legends that intertwine in the narrow streets and culminate in front of the majestic Duomo and Brunelleschi's Dome.
On certain days of the week, you can enrich your experience with exclusive entry to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, thanks to a skip-the-line ticket and a certified guide who will lead you on a discovery of the largest masonry dome ever built. Admire the frescoes of the Last Judgement and the polychrome marble of the façade, and continue your visit independently to the Museo della Misericordia, included in the ticket price.
Available options
Duomo tour option
Exclusive access to the Duomo: Exclusive entrance with dedicated access to Florence Cathedral with certified guide and entrance to the Museo della Misericordia
Base option
Base option: This option does NOT include admission to Florence Duomo with guided tour.
What's included
Entrance ticket and free visit to the Museum of Mercy (if included)
Skip-the-line ticket with dedicated access to Florence Cathedral (if included)
Italo high-speed return train ticket in first class from Bologna to Florence S. M. Novella
Certified tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
One of Florence's most elegant squares, it has been the heart of city life since Roman times. Today it is home to historic and refined cafés, where artists and intellectuals used to meet to discuss art and literature. Surrounded by arcades and 19th-century buildings, Piazza della Repubblica is the perfect place to start discovering modern Florence, which dialogues with its glorious past.
2
Stop 2
An undisputed symbol of Florence, the Ponte Vecchio is one of the most photographed places in the world. Having survived wars and floods, it is famous for its goldsmiths' shops, which still retain their ancient artisan charm. Walking along the bridge, you can enjoy an enchanting view of the Arno and the city skyline, while breathing in an atmosphere suspended in time.
3
Stop 3
The political and artistic heart of Florence, Piazza della Signoria is a veritable open-air museum. Here stand the majestic Palazzo Vecchio and the Loggia dei Lanzi, which houses sculptural masterpieces such as Cellini's Perseus and Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women. Every stone tells the story of Medici power and the great artistic revolutions that marked the Renaissance.
4
Stop 4
Il simbolo per eccellenza della città. La Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, con la sua straordinaria cupola progettata da Brunelleschi, rappresenta un capolavoro assoluto dell’ingegno umano. La facciata in marmi policromi e gli affreschi interni del Giudizio Universale lasciano senza fiato. Un’esperienza unica per scoprire la storia e la spiritualità che animano il cuore di Firenze.
L'ingresso a questa attrazione è incluso solo se selezioni l'opzione che prevede anche quest'esperienza aggiuntiva. In questo caso sarà previsto un tour guidato di 30 minuti con guida turistica certificata e accesso riservato al Duomo di Firenze.
What's not included
Food and beverage
Tips
Anything not expressly mentioned in the inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Customers will take the train independently. They will meet the guide and the rest of the participants directly in Piazza della Repubblica in Florence, under the archway on the left when facing the Apple Store, at 09:35.
Important notes
The journey, both outward and return, will be made individually.
You must arrive at the designated meeting point 10 minutes before departure time.
The meeting point with the guide in Florence is in Piazza della Repubblica, under the archway on the left when facing the Apple Store.
At 4:25 PM, the Italo train will depart from Florence Santa Maria Novella station and take you back to Bologna.
We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
A member of staff will contact you the day before the experience to confirm all the details.
In case of delay on the part of participants, participation is not guaranteed and no refund will be given.
We regret to inform you that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and people with severe mobility difficulties.
No refunds will be given in case of train delays. In case of a strike, we will do our best to inform you as soon as possible, notify you and evaluate an alternative together.
If you purchase the tour inside the Duomo, we recommend appropriate clothing for access to sacred places: shoulders and knees must be covered.
About Bologna
Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and exceptional cuisine. Known as 'La Dotta' for its university, 'La Grassa' for its food, and 'La Rossa' for its red-tiled roofs, Bologna offers a unique blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication.
Top Attractions
Two Towers (Due Torri)
The Two Towers, Garisenda and Asinelli, are iconic symbols of Bologna. Built in the 12th century, they offer panoramic views of the city from the top.
Architecture
1-2 hours
€5 for the Asinelli Tower, €2 for the Garisenda Tower
Piazza Maggiore
Piazza Maggiore is the heart of Bologna, surrounded by stunning medieval buildings, including the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo d'Accursio.
Historical
30 minutes to a few hours
Free
Basilica di San Petronio
This massive basilica is one of the largest churches in the world. Built in the 14th century, it features a stunning interior with beautiful art and architecture.
Religious
1 hour
Free, €3 for the museum and crypt
Piazza Santo Stefano
Known as 'Piazza dei Guai' (Square of Troubles), this charming square is surrounded by medieval buildings and features the Basilica di Santo Stefano.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Piazza del Nettuno
This square is home to the Fontana del Nettuno, a stunning fountain featuring a statue of Neptune. The square is also surrounded by beautiful Renaissance buildings.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Archiginnasio
The Archiginnasio was the main building of the University of Bologna from 1563 to 1803. Today, it houses the Anatomical Theatre and the Historical Library.
Historical
1 hour
€5
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tortellini in Brodo
Tortellini pasta filled with a mixture of meats, served in a rich broth. A classic Bolognese dish, perfect for a comforting meal.
Main Dish
Contains meat and gluten
Ragù alla Bolognese
A rich meat-based sauce served with tagliatelle pasta. This iconic dish is a must-try for any visitor to Bologna.
Main Dish
Contains meat and gluten
Lasagne alla Bolognese
Layered pasta with ragù sauce and béchamel, baked to perfection. A hearty and delicious dish that showcases Bolognese cuisine.
Main Dish
Contains meat and gluten
Mortadella
A type of large Italian sausage made from finely ground heat-cured pork, flavored with spices. Often served in thin slices as an antipasto.
Snack
Contains pork and may contain other meats
Popular Activities
Cycling tours
Hiking in the nearby Apennine Mountains
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Strolling through the city's parks and gardens
Attending concerts and performances at Teatro Comunale
Visiting museums and art galleries
Boating on the Reno River
Ice skating in Piazza Maggiore
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit Bologna is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are smaller. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Bologna is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in crowded areas
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport • 6 km from city center
By train
Bologna Centrale
By bus
Bologna Autostazione
Getting around
Public transport
Bologna's public bus network is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for reaching areas not served by the tram.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Storico
Saragozza
San Vitale
Sant'Agostino
San Donato
Day trips
Modena
45 km from Bologna • Half day to full day
Modena is a charming city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and world-famous balsamic vinegar. It's a great day trip from Bologna, offering a mix of culture, history, and gastronomy.
Parma
100 km from Bologna • Full day
Parma is a beautiful city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious food. It's a great day trip from Bologna, offering a mix of art, history, and gastronomy.
Ferrara
50 km from Bologna • Full day
Ferrara is a charming city known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a great day trip from Bologna, offering a mix of history, art, and local traditions.
Festivals
Bologna Jazz Festival • July
Bologna Children's Book Fair • March
Bologna Film Festival • June
Pro tips
- Explore the city's historic center on foot, as it's compact and pedestrian-friendly
- Try local specialties like tortellini, ragù alla Bolognese, and mortadella
- Visit the Two Towers for a panoramic view of the city
- Take a food tour to discover the city's rich culinary heritage
- Use public transportation or walk to get around, as driving in the city center can be challenging
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
