Explore Bologna and the San Luca Express: Architecture, Porticos & Food Tasting Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–5 hours spread over 2 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with minimal walking on mostly paved paths
Overview
Discover Bologna’s rich history and flavors with the Combo City Red Bus and San Luca Express. Ride the world’s longest portico and savor authentic Emilia-Romagna food tastings on this immersive 48-hour tour.
Combo City Red Bus & San Luca Express with Food Tasting
48h | Discover the hotspots of Bologna and San Luca
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience Bologna like never before with a round-trip on the San Luca Express train and a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. Discover stunning architecture, ride the world’s longest portico, and explore the Basilica of San Luca, all while enjoying insightful audio guides and delicious local food tastings.
Enjoy a round-trip ticket from Bologna to San Luca Basilica with the San Luca Express train and a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour of Bologna
Duration
48 hours
Description
Discover Bologna on board the sightseeing bus and the San Luca Express train. Admire the monuments and the stunning architecture of Bologna while the sightseeing bus audio guide reveals you all the secrets of the city. An easy way to get a perspective of Bologna with a comfortable hop-on hop-off tour covering its main attractions and history.
The San Luca Express train is the tourist line that connects the historic center of Bologna with the fascinating Basilica of San Luca, immersed in the splendor of the Bolognese hills. Ride along the longest portico in the world, that stretches from the Bonaccorsi Arch up to the basilica, and discover its exciting history thanks to the audio guides on board. You can also visit the Basilica of San Luca before returning to the city center.
At the end of the tour, enjoy some food tasting in the centre of Bologna.
Inclusions
- Bologna Tour welcome staff
- City Red Bus & San Luca Express combo ticket
- City Red Bus & San Luca Express timetable
- Food tasting voucher
- Multilingual audioguide*
- Earphones
- Map of Bologna
*The audio guide is always available in Italian and English. However, for the other 8 languages, availability is not guaranteed for all time slots. For specific requests, please contact us.
*If the train service is unavailable, it will be replaced with alternative transportation.
Not included
- Tips
Adventure Tips
Time Your Ride for Less Crowd
Start early in the day to enjoy shorter lines both on the Red Bus and San Luca Express train.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Prepare for some walking during hop-on hop-off stops and at the hilltop basilica.
Bring a Light Jacket
The weather at the Sanctuary of San Luca can be cooler due to elevation—even in summer.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a water bottle, especially if touring in warmer months to stay refreshed.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common city birds such as European starlings
- Local butterflies around the San Luca hill vineyards
History
The Portico di San Luca, built between 1674 and 1793, is the world’s longest portico, connecting the city to its hilltop basilica and a key symbol of Bologna’s architectural heritage.
Conservation
Local initiatives focus on preserving the historic porticos and promoting sustainable tourism to protect Bologna's cultural landscape.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bologna
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring city streets and hilltop paths with ease.
Light Jacket or Layer
spring specific
Sun Hat and Sunglasses
Protect yourself from sun exposure during open-top bus rides and outdoor tastings.
summer specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while touring in warm weather.
summer specific