Best time to visit Bologna without the crowds

Best match

Marginally brighter than January — Carnival brings some colour, prices still low.

#1 for without crowds

Best match

Ferragosto empties the city — tourists remain but the soul of Bologna has left for the coast.

#2 for without crowds

Best match

Excellent spring conditions — warm enough for outdoor dining, before summer heat and crowds.

#3 for without crowds

Worth considering

Cold and quiet — the porticoes keep you dry and the trattorias nearly empty.

#4 for without crowds

Best match

Spring arrives — outdoor café tables return and the city begins to breathe again.

#5 for without crowds

Best match

Truffle season — white truffles from the Apennines hit the market and the city smells extraordinary.

#6 for without crowds

Best match

Bologna at its best — warm, vibrant, full of students and food, before summer heat bites.

#7 for without crowds

Best match

The finest month — the city returns to itself, SANA organic fair, Cineteca season, 24°C.

#8 for without crowds

Best match

Hot and sunny — the city hums with students finishing exams, long evening aperitivo hours.

#9 for without crowds

Best match

Autumn in full swing — golden porticoes, porcini mushrooms in the market, and good value returning.

#10 for without crowds

Worth considering

Christmas market in Piazza Maggiore — Bologna's porticoes strung with lights, tortellini on every menu.

#11 for without crowds

Strong option

Hot and dry — many Bolognesi leave for the coast, but summer events fill Piazza Maggiore.

#12 for without crowds