Six places carry a first visit, and they fit into two days if you do San Luca on its own. Almost all are free, so the main cost is time.
The central square, begun in the 13th century and ringed by San Petronio, Palazzo d'Accursio and Palazzo del Podestà. You do not need a plan here; sit and watch.
Tip: The city tourist information point is at number 1/E on the square, handy if you arrive without a map.
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The church of Bologna's patron saint fills one side of the square. Look for the Cassini sundial and the frescoes of the Bolognini Chapel.
Tip: Walk through the free nave first and decide about the three ticketed chapels afterwards. Current hours are on the basilica's own website.
Entry to the basilica is free; three chapels need a separate ticket.
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Neptune on a fountain, made between 1563 and 1567 by Giambologna with Tommaso Laureti. The square beside it has Sala Borsa library on one side and Palazzo Re Enzo on the other.
Tip: Come back at night: the statue stands out against the dark and the crowds thin out.
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Nearly 62 km of arcades, 40 km of them in the centre, on the UNESCO list. They began to spread around 1100, when the growing university needed more room for students and trade.
Tip: Do not hunt for a single best arcade. Pick a street and look up at the ceilings and doors as you walk; that is where the character is.
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A cluster of linked churches around a Romanesque cloister with a double loggia and the Courtyard of Pilate. It feels far from the crowds of the main square.
Tip: Visits may be limited during religious services, so look at the timetable before you come from far.
Free, donations welcome. Tuesday to Friday 9.30 am to 12.30 pm and 2.30 pm to 7 pm; closed on Monday except the Church of the Crucifix, 6 pm to 7.30 pm. Saturday closes at 7.30 pm, and Sunday reopens at 3.30 pm.
bolognawelcome.comA hilltop sanctuary above the city, joined to town by a four-kilometre portico with more than 600 arches. The terrace gives a 180-degree view.
Tip: The arcade climbs the whole way, and travellers report it feels hard in July heat even in shade. Start early and bring water.
The basilica is free. Open daily 7 am to 6 pm, until 6.30 pm from March to October. The terrace has its own hours and fee.
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