Running in Bologna can be a good opportunity to get off the usual routes and discover corners of the city that you did not know about before. If you like to wear running shoes in your spare time and walk the city streets at a good pace, this article may be the one for you!

We have collected 3 tips for regular runners, who are not afraid to venture out on uphill streets and paths. Running uphill can be very scenic as well, especially in the hills of Bologna, where you can enjoy a splendid view of the historic centre of Bologna.

The route we suggest will allow you to combine running on asphalt with running on dirt, with a maximum height difference of about 300 metres.

The Margherita Gardens

Starting from the centre, we suggest you take via Santo Stefano and go as far as the city gate, where you can cross the avenues to enter the Giardini Margherita, the most popular park in Bologna.

The paths in the gardens are partly unpaved, partly paved but all flat, so they are perfect even for less experienced runners.The more experienced runners can come to the park to warm up before tackling more demanding trails: the outer ring is about 1.6 kilometres long.

At the Giardini Margherita you will find the right balance between nature, sport and relaxation; and if you get thirsty after your run, you can always refresh yourself at one of the kiosks in the park.

The park of San Michele in Bosco

Not far from the Giardini Margherita is the San Michele in Bosco complex, which we have already told you about in a previous post about the hills of Bologna. After walking the length and breadth of the gardens, you can come here to take a look at the beautiful park that lies at the foot of the church.

With its 6 hectares, the Remo Scoto Garden is smaller than the Giardini Margherita, but it is nevertheless very atmospheric as well as slightly uphill.

We advise you then to enter through the gate onto Via Codivilla, which you will find on the right in the direction of San Michele, and immerse yourself in the nature of the garden by running along its dirt paths. After a short stretch you will find yourself directly on the panoramic terrace, where you can catch your breath with a panoramic view over the roofs of Bologna.

The portico of San Luca

If you want to go for a run in Bologna, there is no excuse. With its almost 40 km of arcades, you can go out even when it rains! And this is precisely the case with the porticato di San Luca.

The porticoes of San Luca appeal to locals and tourists alike because it is a place where you can engage in many different activities. Under the arches that lead from Porta Saragozza to the Meloncello some like to stroll, some stop to go shopping while others have an aperitivo at the bar.

And of course there are runners too. The characteristic of this route is that after a long flat section, parallel to via Saragozza, an equally long and quite tiring uphill section begins, with alternating slopes and steps. However, the more trained ones should have no problem tackling it.

At the end of the route, the majestic Basilica di San Luca will be waiting for you at the top of the hill. The perfect place to catch your breath and stop for a moment to contemplate the landscape.