San Luca Train & Food Tasting with Bologna Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves moderate walking on paved surfaces and gentle slopes.
Overview
Ride the San Luca Express from Bologna’s historic center to the Basilica of San Luca, tracing the world’s longest portico before savoring local food favorites. Discover the perfect mix of culture, scenery, and taste in this 2.5-hour tour.
Train to San Luca & Food Tasting
2.5h | Next stop: San Luca!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience a scenic journey on the San Luca Express train, connecting Bologna's historic center to the stunning Basilica of San Luca. Enjoy the world's longest portico, enriched by an audio guide, and indulge in local food tastings upon your return. This unique adventure blends culture, history, and culinary delights.
Enjoy a round-trip ticket from Bologna to San Luca with the San Luca Express train, the new tourist line created to connect the Bologna city centre to the enchanting basilica.
Duration
2.5 hours
Description
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
- San Luca Express ticket
- San Luca Express timetable
- Multilingual audioguide*
- Earphones
- 2 food tasting vouchers
- 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
Bring Comfortable Walking Shoes
You’ll do some walking around the basilica and along the portico, so sturdy shoes are a must.
Check Audio Guide Language Availability
Italian and English are guaranteed, but other languages may have limited slots. Confirm ahead if you require a specific language.
Keep Hydrated for the Portico Walk
The covered walkway is extensive; bring water especially during warmer months.
Train Service Contingencies
If the San Luca Express is unavailable, alternative transport will be arranged, but schedules may vary—plan accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- European robins frequent the campus of trees near San Luca.
- Local butterflies are abundant on hill slopes in spring and summer.
History
The San Luca portico was built between 1674 and 1793 to provide sheltered passage during religious processions from the city to the basilica.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve the portico and its surroundings limit motor traffic, maintaining the area’s tranquility and historic integrity.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bologna
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supports walking on uneven surfaces and the extensive portico path.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the portico walk, especially on warm days.
spring|summer|fall specific
Light Rain Jacket
Protects you against sudden rain during outdoor portions of the trip.
spring|fall|winter specific
Sun Hat and Sunglasses
Offers shade and protection during sunny summer days.
summer specific