6 Scenic bike rides in Bologna

Let’s say it loud and clear: Bologna is not Berlin, Amsterdam, or Copenhagen.

Bike lanes here are few, often narrow, uneven with cobblestones, and sometimes they simply vanish.

But here’s the truth: discovering Bologna by bike is magical.
Hidden towers, the shadows of the porticoes, and ancient canals await you at every turn.

You don’t need to be a professional cyclist to enjoy it. With these tips, you can take it slow and truly savor your bike tour of Bologna.

Have you pumped your tires? It’s time to ride!

1. Bicycle ride From Certosa to Talon Park

This is the bike path you’ve been looking for: wide, safe, away from cars, and ideal for a relaxing ride.

Itinerary

Start at Certosa Cemetery, which has a view of San Luca Basilica and Dall'Ara stadium.

Follow Reno Canal and pass through parks, watch kids playing basketball, admire old men relaxing in bowls clubs.

Sounds amazing? The best has yet to come.

The highlight?
The ride ends inside Parco Talon, one of the best parks in Bologna.

Keep cycling between farms houses and vineyards or park the bike and chill on the grass.

Why take this route?

• It’s hands down the best bike path in Bologna.
• It reveals a lesser-known side of the city that’s easy to miss.
• It’s perfect in any season, whether you’re with family or cycling solo.

2. Follow the waters of the Navile canal

Love history and nature? This route has the perfect mix of both.

Itinerary

Start at Villa Angeletti, a large park near the train station.
Then follow the Navile Canal, an old navigable canal that once connected Bologna to the sea.

Along the way, you’ll pass the Battiferro floodgate, a fascinating historical site, and soon the countryside will embrace you. You’ll feel far from Bologna’s towers and porticoes—though you’re still close.

Finish your ride at the Ponte della Bionda, a charming 17th-century brick bridge.

Route advice

This is a gravel road, so it’s better to use a mountain bike or hybrid.
Avoid city bikes or shared bikes like MoBike.

Why take this route?

• Explore Bologna’s industrial heritage at the Industrial Heritage Museum.
• Reward yourself with delicious tortellini at the restaurant Da Sandro al Navile.

3. Bike Tangenziale

Alright, this one’s not scenic—but it’s incredibly practical.

Itinerary

The Tangenziale delle Biciclette (Bike Ring Road) is a circular bike route that connects all of Bologna’s gates.

While much of it runs along the car lanes of the Viali, it’s the fastest and safest way to move around the city.

Why take this route?

• Staying in an Airbnb near Porta Saragozza and want to reach the Mercato Ritrovato food market?
• Need to go from Porta San Vitale to the Giardini Margherita?
  The Tangenziale is your best friend for quick and safe connections.

4. Giardini Margherita bike ride

The most popular park in Bologna is a dream destination for cycling.

Itinerary

Ride along the park’s perimeter or cross it and stop at the bridge with a view of the lake.

Feeling adventurous?
Exit from Porta Castiglione and head uphill to explore the rolling hills.

Prefer to take it easy?
Park your bike and sip a spritz at the Serra dei Giardini Margherita, a charming café surrounded by greenery.

Why take this route?

• It’s the perfect escape from the city’s noise and chaos while staying in the heart of Bologna.
• The park offers something for everyone—jogging, yoga, basketball, or just a peaceful break.

5. Tower-to-tower bike ride

Bologna’s city center is compact, with a gentle slope, and you can cross it in just 20-30 minutes by bike.

Itinerary

• Start at Santa Maria dei Servi and visit the hidden tower on Strada Maggiore.
• Ride to the famous Two Towers, then explore the Jewish Ghetto and spot three more towers.
• End your journey in Piazza Maggiore, and if you’re feeling hungry, treat yourself to gelato in Piazza San Francesco.

Why take this route?

• It’s a quick and fun way to explore Bologna’s iconic porticoes, towers, and historic spots.
• Plus, let’s be honest—cycling always works up an appetite (great excuse for some delicious gelato!)

6. Ciclovia del Sole

This historic and breathtaking bike route follows an old railway line, now transformed into a 46 km cycling path.

Itinerary

The Ciclovia del Sole takes you from Bologna to Mirandola, crossing metal bridges, marshlands, and fields. Along the way, you’ll discover:

• Mirandola, with its octagonal layout, once a Renaissance fortress.
• San Felice sul Panaro, a former fief of Matilda of Canossa.
• San Giovanni in Persiceto, founded by the Lombards, with a medieval civic tower and one of Italy’s oldest carnivals.

Why take this route?

• If you’re a bike tourist, this path is part of a larger route connecting the North Cape to Malta.
• It’s a fantastic way to blend history, nature, and long-distance cycling.

Photo credits: Massimo Battesini