Bologna is one of those cities that you can visit during any season, throughout the year, and still have an amazing time and an endless list of things to do and see. During fall temperatures start to cool, with temperatures ranging between 10-20C, although colder temperatures are not uncommon so make sure you pack some warm clothes.
Fall takes place during the months of September, October, and November and there are a series of food and wine festivals to add to your list of best things to do in Bologna. Some of the top produce products are in season too, including mushrooms.
September
If you’re planning to visit Bologna in September be sure to time your visit with the Festival for Prosciutto di Parma. In 2022 the festival starts on the 4th of September and runs for 9 days. Top chefs come to celebrate Parma Ham and thousands of visitors take advantage of the occasion to learn more about the places of origin of the king of hams.
Although this is technically not in Bologna, Parma is only a short day trip away so once you’ve explored all the best things to do in Bologna, head out and explore even more on a day trip. If you don’t have time for day trips and only have three days in Bologna, try to check out Mortadella Please for mortadella tastings and cooking classes.
October
During October one of the largest fall festivals and one of the best things to do in fall in Bologna takes place in the surrounding Bologna Hills. The famous truffle festival, TartuFesta is held during the weekends and it includes events in Savigno, the Citta del Tartufo, and Sasso Marconi, which also sees displays of Italian food products.
From mid-October through to November there are various wine events in nearby Parma that celebrates the best independent, artisanal and natural wine in Italy with many iconic favorites featured alongside some incredible new winemakers from all over Italy. October 4 is also Bologna’s Saint’s Day, which is a good time to visit to witness the celebrations.
November
November is usually the rainiest month but luckily there are lots of things to do in Bologna that are indoors and the famous porticoes help you get around out of the rain. In Italy, the 1st of November is a holiday, All Saints Day, which means many family-run shops and restaurants will be closed so keep that in mind when you’re planning your visit.
In the surrounding towns throughout November, you’ll also be able to enjoy various wine events that showcase natural wine from independent wineries so head out of Bologna on a day trip and sample your way through some of Italy’s best wines.
Hey curious traveler, visiting Bologna soon? Hey curious traveler, visiting Bologna soon? At City Unscripted, we create personalized city experiences led by passionate locals who share Bologna’s stories in a way no guidebook can. Whether you’re seeking hidden gems or exploring iconic landmarks, your experience is flexible and designed just for you — without the rigid structure of a tour. Discover the culture, history, and character of Bologna with a host who adapts the journey to your interests, making every moment feel unique and unscripted.
Top private experiences in Bologna
We’ll pair you with the perfect host
There is no better way to see a city than with a friend who lives there. This is why we carefully match guests with their perfect host based on interested, personality and type of experience so they can discover a city beyond the tourist trail.
