In the city of towers, there is no shortage of panoramic viewpoints. Bologna is full of places where you can observe the skyline from above, both during the day and at night, allowing you to see the city from a different and fascinating perspective.

In this article we propose an 8-stage journey among the most beautiful belvederes in Bologna, both well-known and lesser-known, which we hope will leave you speechless.

1) The bell tower of San Pietro

Located along Via dell'Indipendenza, the Cathedral of San Pietro is best known in Bologna because of its connection with the Madonna of San Luca, who is carried in procession here every year in May from the Sanctuary of San Luca and remains there for a whole week.

Today, however, we want to tell you about its bell tower, which at 70 metres is the second highest tower in Bologna after the Asinelli. Besides housing the heaviest manually operated bell in the world (33 quintals), from the top of the tower you can admire a magnificent view of the city from above. Just check this link for opening hours and climb the (many) steps to the top.

2) The terrace of San Petronio

The Basilica of San Petronio also offers a nice opportunity to observe the centre of Bologna from above. Located at a height of 54 metres, the terrace of San Petronio was inaugurated during some restoration work on the basilica, during which a vantage point was created by exploiting the scaffolding used by the restorers.

From the access point on Piazza Galvani, behind San Petronio, you can go up either on foot or by lift, for a fee.

3) The Asinelli Tower

When talking about places to see Bologna from above, the Asinelli tower is definitely the first that comes to mind. The Asinelli tower is the tallest tower in the city, and it was used for sighting purposes even at the time of its construction in the 12th century. By climbing its 498 steps you will reach a height of 97 metres; from here your gaze will sweep over the entire city, from the hills to the plains, and you can even challenge yourself to see who can recognise the most points of interest.

4) Prendiparte Tower

A few steps away from the Due Torri stands another medieval tower, the Prendiparte, called 'crowned' because of the decoration on its top. While its rooms were once used as a prison, today the tower houses a charming B&B and offers the possibility of climbing up to the panoramic terrace on the top floor, where you can have an aperitif with a breathtaking view of Bologna.

Access to the terrace, however, is not free; you must book in advance or participate in one of the events organised by the tower's managers. Alternatively, we recommend taking part in the tower tour organised by Travelhoo, which includes a visit to the tower and, on request, an aperitif on the terrace.


 

5) Observing the sky from the Specola Museum

For those looking for a different perspective on the city, we recommend moving to Via Zamboni, in the university area of Bologna, and entering the Specola Museum. The 18th-century Specola tower houses Bologna's astronomical museum, a rich collection of ancient telescopes, globes, armillary spheres and much more, and a beautiful terrace once used for astronomical observations.

The climb is rather long (272 steps) but the view of the Two Towers and other Bologna monuments from above will repay your efforts.

6) The Matteotti bridge

The Ponte Matteotti is a less common perspective than the ones just mentioned, but just as fascinating. It is a very popular place for the Bolognese and travellers who gather daily around the neighbouring Bologna Central Station.

Crossing the Matteotti bridge, you will find yourself face to face with the railway and its endless tracks. No towers or bell towers, then, but an evocative urban landscape worth seeing, preferably at sunset.

7) San Michele in Bosco

Among the places where you can admire Bologna from above, you cannot miss the hills, much loved by the locals themselves who go there during leisure hours to walk, play sports or simply relax. Among the recommended destinations for the view is definitely the Monastery of San Michele in Bosco and its terrace, a complex just outside Porta San Mamolo from which you can observe a good part of Bologna's centre from above.

8) Villa Ghigi Park

At the end of our scenic journey we take you to Villa Ghigi Park, located at a short walk outside Porta San Mamolo.

The park is the ideal place for those who wish to combine a healthy walk in the greenery with the possibility of admiring the city from a very special vantage point. In fact, this huge green area on the outskirts of the city offers many nature trails, as well as a fascinating viewpoint.