Weekend in Bologna
This weekend in Bologna is packed with diverse cultural and entertainment offerings. The ongoing 'Bologna Estate' summer program is a major highlight, bringing live music and performances to various parts of the city, including the Sun Donato Festival. Art enthusiasts can delve into captivating exhibitions, while a unique international sports event offers a chance to witness competitive action. Explore bustling local markets and experience the city's dynamic artistic scene, ensuring a memorable weekend for locals.
Friday Evening - Festival and Live Music
Friday, August 22Sun Donato Festival
Kick off the weekend at the Sun Donato Festival, a vibrant neighborhood festival part of the larger 'Bologna Estate' summer program, featuring a live performance by ENSI + BIG JOE.
This festival promises a lively atmosphere with music and entertainment.
The Sun Donato Festival is a cornerstone of Bologna's summer cultural scene, offering a fantastic opportunity to enjoy local talent and community spirit. Expect a diverse crowd and a relaxed, festive ambiance. Check the official 'Bologna Estate' website for any last-minute schedule changes or specific timings. As a neighborhood festival, it's generally open to all.
Giardino Parker Lennon is located in the San Donato neighborhood. It is accessible by several local bus lines. Check Google Maps or the TPER website for the best bus route from your location.
Blues Night
Immerse yourself in a night of blues music with live performances by Egidio "Juke" Ingala & The Jacknives and Mud Machine, another exciting event under the 'Bologna Estate' umbrella.
This performance offers a fantastic chance to enjoy quality live music in a relaxed outdoor setting, popular among locals during the summer. It's a great way to wind down the first day of the weekend. The atmosphere is likely casual and vibrant, perfect for a Friday evening.
Via della Torretta is centrally located and easily reachable by foot from many parts of the city center. Several bus lines also serve the area.
Saturday - Market, Art & Sports
Saturday, August 23La Piazzola Market
Start your Saturday by exploring La Piazzola Market, Bologna's largest and most famous general market, operating since 1251.
With over 400 stalls, you can find everything from clothing and accessories to homewares, crafts, and various food items.
This bustling open-air market is a true Bologna institution and a fantastic place to soak in local life. It's ideal for bargain hunting or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Be prepared for crowds, especially later in the morning. Many locals grab snacks from food stalls to enjoy a picnic in the nearby Parco della Montagnola.
Piazza VIII Agosto is a central location, easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. Numerous bus lines also stop nearby.
Jack Vettriano Exhibition
Delve into the art world with the extended Jack Vettriano exhibition, featuring works by the renowned Scottish artist. This is the first time his exhibition is being held in Italy.
The exhibition showcases oil paintings, limited edition works, and photographs by Francesco Guidicini. It's a significant cultural event for art lovers and a chance to see a unique collection. To avoid queues, purchasing tickets online at least 24 hours in advance via TicketOne is recommended. Otherwise, tickets can be bought at the box office.
Palazzo Pallavicini is located in the city center, a short walk from Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers. It is also well-served by local buses.
Showdown Games Finale
Attend the closing ceremony of the 1st "Showdown Sports Games AICS" 2025, an international competition for visually impaired and sighted players.
Matches are held throughout the day, culminating in the closing ceremony.
This unique sporting event offers a chance to support athletes and witness a specialized competition. The closing ceremony is a celebratory event for participants and spectators. It's a fascinating look into inclusive sports.
The Sydney Hotel is located slightly outside the immediate city center but is accessible by public transport. Check TPER bus routes to Via Michelino.
SKA-J Concert
Continue your evening with live music at the Sun Donato Festival, featuring the energetic performance of SKA-J.
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Sun Donato Festival into the evening, with SKA-J providing a lively soundtrack. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a summer night out with music and a local crowd.
Giardino Parker Lennon is accessible by several local bus lines. Check Google Maps or the TPER website for the best bus route from your location.
Sunday - Culture and Performance
Sunday, August 24Tutankhamun VR Experience
Embark on an immersive journey to ancient Egypt with 'The Time Machine: Tutankhamun' exhibition, a virtual reality experience that brings history to life.
This unique exhibition offers a modern and engaging way to experience historical artifacts and narratives. It's perfect for a Sunday morning, providing an educational yet entertaining experience for all ages. Advance booking is recommended due to the nature of the VR experience.
Located near the city center, the museum is a short walk from Piazza Maggiore. Several bus routes also serve Via Castiglione.
Opera Performance
Experience 'All'Opera!
Parte I' (To the Opera! Part I) at the Teatro del Baraccano, an intimate setting for a classical music or operatic performance.
The Teatro del Baraccano is a charming and historic venue known for its cultural events. This performance offers a refined way to enjoy an afternoon of music, perfect for those seeking a more traditional cultural experience. Check for specific program details and exact start times, as performances can vary.
Teatro del Baraccano is within walking distance of the Margherita Gardens and easily reached by public transport from the city center.
Atti Sonori Evening
Conclude your weekend with 'Atti Sonori estate 2025,' a series featuring meetings and music, held in the picturesque setting of Cortile e Teatro del Baraccano.
This event offers a relaxed and culturally enriching end to the weekend, blending discussions with musical elements. It's a great opportunity to engage with local cultural initiatives and enjoy the serene ambiance of the courtyard. The series runs through early September, so the program on this specific Sunday will be fresh and relevant.
Located at the same venue as the earlier opera performance, it's easily accessible by foot or public transport.
This weekend itinerary for Bologna can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.