Bologna's Ancient and Recent History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Non-refundable - Your booking can not be cancelled, modified or refunded.
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Highlights
- Explore the ancient and rich history of Bologna
- Experience the world's largest sundial at San Petronio Basilica
- See the famous Two Towers mentioned in Dante's Inferno
- Stroll beneath the UNESCO World Heritage porticos
- Discover the fascinating stories of Bologna's historical sites
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Duration: 1-1.5 hours
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Audio guide in English & Italian
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Unlimited access before/after booking
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Offline access to maps & audio
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Private self-guided experience
Explore the captivating city of Bologna at your own pace with this self-guided audio tour. Immerse yourself in the ancient and recent history of Bologna, a hidden gem overflowing with art, beauty, and rich Italian culture. Award-winning author Frank Bures will be your guide, taking you through the city's historical sites and sharing fascinating stories that most travelers miss. From the Neptune Fountain to the world's largest sundial at San Petronio Basilica, and from the Two Towers mentioned in Dante's Inferno to the UNESCO World Heritage porticos, this tour will reveal the hidden charms of Bologna. Along the way, discover the famous Roxy Bar from Vasco Rossi's song and the "Seven Churches" of Santo Stefano. Don't miss the chance to learn about the world's oldest university and the electrifying scientific experiments in Piazza Galvani. Download the VoiceMap app, enter your code, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the streets of Bologna.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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1 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English, Italian
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover Bologna's rich history at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour, featuring expert narration and offline access.
Included
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Lifetime access to this tour in english or italian
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Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
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Voicemap app for android and ios
Excluded
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Smartphone and headphones
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Transportation
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Food and drink
Meeting Point
Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Piazza del Nettuno, 40124 Bologna BO , Italy
End Point
Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Piazza del Nettuno, 40124 Bologna BO , Italy
What to expect
Bologna
Bologna is home to some of the best food, the most sublime beauty, and the richest history in all of Italy. Yet it’s rarely on the tourist radar. On this walking tour, award-winning author Frank Bures will give you a taste of authentic Italian culture, show you the city’s many historical sites, and tell you the stories most travelers don’t hear.
Neptune's Fountain
Starting at the Neptune Fountain, you’ll walk through Piazza Maggiore to San Petronio Basilica where you’ll see the world’s largest sundial.
Piazza Maggiore
Starting at the Neptune Fountain, you’ll walk through Piazza Maggiore to San Petronio Basilica where you’ll see the world’s largest sundial.
Basilica di San Petronio
Starting at the Neptune Fountain, you’ll walk through Piazza Maggiore to San Petronio Basilica where you’ll see the world’s largest sundial.
Roxy Bar
Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to see the Roxy Bar, which was featured in the Italian superstar Vasco Rossi’s song Vita Spericolata (The Reckless Life).
The Two Towers
You’ll then make your way to the Two Towers, one of which garnered a mention in Dante’s Inferno, and stroll beneath the famous porticos that became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021.
Le Due Torri Torre degli Asinell
You’ll then make your way to the Two Towers, one of which garnered a mention in Dante’s Inferno, and stroll beneath the famous porticos that became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021.
Garisenda Tower
You’ll then make your way to the Two Towers, one of which garnered a mention in Dante’s Inferno, and stroll beneath the famous porticos that became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021.
Basilica Santuario Santo Stefano - Complesso delle Sette Chiese
Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to take in the “Seven Churches” of Santo Stefano.
Santuario di Santa Maria della Vita
On this tour, you'll stroll pass Santa Maria della Vita.
Portici di Bologna
On this tour, you'll see and learn about the Portici di Bologna.
University Library of Bologna
Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to discover how the world’s oldest university got its start.
Piazza Galvani
Finally, you’ll loop past Piazza Galvani to hear about scientific experiments that electrified frogs before heading back where you started.
Via Guido d'Arezzo
The tour ends back at Via d'Azeglio.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Please note: You won't be guided through any museums or other attractions mentioned en route. If you choose to enter and visit such places, you'll need to pay for it independently of this tour.
What our experts say
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Start early to enjoy fewer crowds.
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Visit Piazza Maggiore nearby for photos.
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Bring your own headphones for comfort.
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Explore local gelato shops after the tour.
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Check out the Archiginnasio di Bologna.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Discover the hidden gems of Bologna with "Bologna's Ancient and Recent History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour." This unique and affordable walking tour allows you to explore the fascinating past of this vibrant city at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the art, culture, and history of Bologna, as award-winning author Frank Bures takes you on a journey through its ancient and more recent landmarks. With complete control over when you start and finish, you can choose to stroll through the city in just an hour or take your time and linger at stops along the way.What to expect?
Embark on a 60 to 90-minute adventure that will captivate your senses and leave you with a newfound appreciation for Bologna. Starting at the Neptune Fountain, you'll walk through the beautiful Piazza Maggiore to San Petronio Basilica, where you'll witness the world's largest sundial. Along the way, you'll also have the chance to see iconic landmarks like the Two Towers and the famous porticos that became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you pass by the Roxy Bar, which was featured in a famous Italian song. Learn about the city's rich history, including its renowned university and intriguing scientific experiments.Who is this for?
This self-guided audio tour is perfect for travelers who crave flexibility and want to explore Bologna's history on their own terms. Whether you're a history enthusiast, culture lover, or simply curious about this remarkable city, this tour will provide a unique and immersive experience. It's suitable for individuals, couples, families, and groups of friends.Why book this?
By booking this self-guided audio tour, you'll have the freedom to discover Bologna's ancient and recent history at your own pace. Unlike traditional guided tours, you won't be confined to a strict itinerary or dependent on others. The VoiceMap app will guide you seamlessly through the city, providing turn-by-turn directions and interesting commentary along the way. With unlimited use before and after your booking date, you can revisit your favorite spots and delve deeper into Bologna's captivating stories. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this tour offers a unique and personal way to explore the city.Good to know
To enjoy this self-guided audio tour, simply install the VoiceMap mobile app and enter the code provided on your confirmation ticket. The app works offline and provides automatic GPS playback, ensuring a hassle-free and immersive experience. Before your visit, make sure to download detailed starting point instructions. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring your headphones to fully immerse yourself in the tour's engaging narration.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this self-guided audio tour have raved about the informative and engaging experience it offers. They praise the flexibility, allowing them to explore at their own pace and replay sections of interest. Many appreciate the in-depth historical knowledge shared by the narrator, Frank Bures, and the captivating stories behind Bologna's landmarks. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds have enjoyed this tour, with some describing it as the highlight of their trip to Bologna. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious to uncover the secrets of this "improbable city," this self-guided tour is not to be missed.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is