BOLOGNA AND ITS HILLS: A JOURNEY BETWEEN HISTORY, ART AND NATURE
Feb. 1, 2026
AUSFLÜGE
The city of bologna, with its medieval old town, is known for the arcades, towers and ancient squares that tell centuries of history. But in addition to the artistic and architectural treasures within the walls, Bologna also offers a natural heritage of extraordinary beauty: its hills. The gentle hills surrounding the city are an oasis of peace and nature, offering breathtaking views, ancient shrines and trails ideal for walks and excursions. Staying at our Hotel in the historic center of Bologna you will have the opportunity to explore the old part of the city and start a journey towards the exploration of the hills of Bologna.
A natural and cultural treasure
The hills of Bologna extend south of the city and are part of the Apennines. The heights, which reach modest heights but offer spectacular views, are characterized by forests, vineyards, parks and historic villas. This area, once frequented by the Bolognese aristocracy who built summer residences there, is now loved by locals and tourists for the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without getting too far from the center.
One of the most iconic points is the Sanctuary of San Luca, one of the symbols of Bologna and a pilgrimage destination for centuries. The long porch leading to the church, the longest in the world with its almost 4 km and 666 arches, is an architectural masterpiece and a must-see experience for those visiting the city. Once you reach the top, the view is spectacular, especially at sunset.
San Luca, however, is just one of the wonders of the hills. Another area of great interest is Villa Ghigi, a public park that offers paths immersed in the green, among meadows, woods and fruit trees. The park is perfect for relaxing walks and to observe local wildlife such as squirrels and birds. Continuing south, you will find the Park of Monte Paderno and Monte Donato, both great for hiking and enjoying an extraordinary view over the city and the surrounding hills.
The flavors of the hills of Bologna
In addition to natural beauty, the hills of Bologna also offer a unique gastronomic experience. The culinary tradition of Bologna is famous all over the world, and the surrounding hills are the perfect place to taste the typical products in suggestive contexts.
One of the most famous products of the area is the wine from Colli Bolognesi, which includes varieties such as Pignoletto, a sparkling white with a fresh and delicate flavor, perfect to accompany local meats and cheeses. Numerous wineries in the area offer tastings and guided tours, allowing you to discover the secrets of Bolognese viticulture. But you can not talk about Bologna without mentioning its gastronomy: the hills are dotted with agriturismi and taverns where to taste typical dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo and mortadella. Many of these places offer panoramic terraces from which you can admire the view over the hills while enjoying a meal.
Walking and hiking
The hills of Bologna are the ideal place for those who love to walk or for more adventurers who decide to leave their car in our car park and take advantage of the Hotel’s bike rental for a ride. Numerous trails allow you to explore the area in an active way, through forests and ancient villages, activities suitable for four-legged friends. The Art Hotel Commercianti, as a pet friendly hotel, will be the perfect place to stay in the company of your pet even on holiday. One of the most popular trails is the Bregoli trail, which connects Casalecchio di Reno to the Sanctuary of San Luca. This route surrounded by greenery offers an alternative to the monumental portico, offering evocative glimpses of the Rhine valley.
Another fascinating walk is the one that leads to Monte Adone, one of the highest peaks in the area, located in the Regional Park of Gessi Bolognesi and Calanchi dell'Abbadessa, where the landscape becomes more wild, with rocky walls and limestone formations that make the hike particularly suggestive. For those who prefer a more relaxing experience, the San Michele in Bosco Park is a perfect choice. Located just minutes from the city centre, this park offers one of the most beautiful views over the city and is a perfect place for an afternoon stroll.
Villas and ancient villages
In addition to nature, the hills of Bologna are home to numerous historical and artistic testimonies. Among the most fascinating are the historic villas, such as Villa Aldini, built at the beginning of the 19th century on the orders of Napoleon, and Villa Spada, now home to a museum dedicated to tapestries. Finally, it is worth visiting the small villages that dot the hills, such as Sasso Marconi, linked to the famous inventor Guglielmo Marconi, and Monteveglio, with its medieval abbey surrounded by greenery.
The hills of Bologna are an essential part of the city’s identity. Among unspoilt nature, breathtaking views, historical trails and a gastronomy of excellence, offer a unique experience for those who want to discover the most authentic and suggestive side of the Emilian capital. After all, the hills of Bologna are a must-see for anyone visiting Bologna.
And after a beautiful day outdoors, there is no better place to relax than the rooms of the Art Hotel Commercianti or for those who want a little more privacy, the reception of our apartments in the center of Bologna equipped with all comforts will be the perfect choice.
Book now your stay at the Art Hotel Commercianti and discover the green heart of Bologna!
A natural and cultural treasure
The hills of Bologna extend south of the city and are part of the Apennines. The heights, which reach modest heights but offer spectacular views, are characterized by forests, vineyards, parks and historic villas. This area, once frequented by the Bolognese aristocracy who built summer residences there, is now loved by locals and tourists for the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without getting too far from the center.
One of the most iconic points is the Sanctuary of San Luca, one of the symbols of Bologna and a pilgrimage destination for centuries. The long porch leading to the church, the longest in the world with its almost 4 km and 666 arches, is an architectural masterpiece and a must-see experience for those visiting the city. Once you reach the top, the view is spectacular, especially at sunset.
San Luca, however, is just one of the wonders of the hills. Another area of great interest is Villa Ghigi, a public park that offers paths immersed in the green, among meadows, woods and fruit trees. The park is perfect for relaxing walks and to observe local wildlife such as squirrels and birds. Continuing south, you will find the Park of Monte Paderno and Monte Donato, both great for hiking and enjoying an extraordinary view over the city and the surrounding hills.
The flavors of the hills of Bologna
In addition to natural beauty, the hills of Bologna also offer a unique gastronomic experience. The culinary tradition of Bologna is famous all over the world, and the surrounding hills are the perfect place to taste the typical products in suggestive contexts.
One of the most famous products of the area is the wine from Colli Bolognesi, which includes varieties such as Pignoletto, a sparkling white with a fresh and delicate flavor, perfect to accompany local meats and cheeses. Numerous wineries in the area offer tastings and guided tours, allowing you to discover the secrets of Bolognese viticulture. But you can not talk about Bologna without mentioning its gastronomy: the hills are dotted with agriturismi and taverns where to taste typical dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo and mortadella. Many of these places offer panoramic terraces from which you can admire the view over the hills while enjoying a meal.
Walking and hiking
The hills of Bologna are the ideal place for those who love to walk or for more adventurers who decide to leave their car in our car park and take advantage of the Hotel’s bike rental for a ride. Numerous trails allow you to explore the area in an active way, through forests and ancient villages, activities suitable for four-legged friends. The Art Hotel Commercianti, as a pet friendly hotel, will be the perfect place to stay in the company of your pet even on holiday. One of the most popular trails is the Bregoli trail, which connects Casalecchio di Reno to the Sanctuary of San Luca. This route surrounded by greenery offers an alternative to the monumental portico, offering evocative glimpses of the Rhine valley.
Another fascinating walk is the one that leads to Monte Adone, one of the highest peaks in the area, located in the Regional Park of Gessi Bolognesi and Calanchi dell'Abbadessa, where the landscape becomes more wild, with rocky walls and limestone formations that make the hike particularly suggestive. For those who prefer a more relaxing experience, the San Michele in Bosco Park is a perfect choice. Located just minutes from the city centre, this park offers one of the most beautiful views over the city and is a perfect place for an afternoon stroll.
Villas and ancient villages
In addition to nature, the hills of Bologna are home to numerous historical and artistic testimonies. Among the most fascinating are the historic villas, such as Villa Aldini, built at the beginning of the 19th century on the orders of Napoleon, and Villa Spada, now home to a museum dedicated to tapestries. Finally, it is worth visiting the small villages that dot the hills, such as Sasso Marconi, linked to the famous inventor Guglielmo Marconi, and Monteveglio, with its medieval abbey surrounded by greenery.
The hills of Bologna are an essential part of the city’s identity. Among unspoilt nature, breathtaking views, historical trails and a gastronomy of excellence, offer a unique experience for those who want to discover the most authentic and suggestive side of the Emilian capital. After all, the hills of Bologna are a must-see for anyone visiting Bologna.
And after a beautiful day outdoors, there is no better place to relax than the rooms of the Art Hotel Commercianti or for those who want a little more privacy, the reception of our apartments in the center of Bologna equipped with all comforts will be the perfect choice.
Book now your stay at the Art Hotel Commercianti and discover the green heart of Bologna!