Things To Do
in San Lazzaro di Savena
San Lazzaro di Savena is a leafy town just outside Bologna known for its green spaces, residential charm, and easy access to Emilia-Romagna's famed cuisine. The town blends a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with easy connections to Bologna's historic center and the surrounding countryside. Its well-preserved streets, welcoming eateries, and parks make it a pleasant base for exploring the region.
Visitors should expect a relaxed pace with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic center of San Lazzaro di Savena. Stroll through charming streets lined with traditional Italian architecture and enjoy a coffee at a local café. Don’t miss the ancient church of San Lazzaro, which offers beautiful frescoes and a glimpse into the town's rich history.
After lunch, visit the nearby Villa Cicogna, a stunning villa with beautiful gardens. Take a leisurely walk through its expansive grounds, enjoying the serene atmosphere and views. You can also explore local boutiques and artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, dine at a quaint trattoria, savoring regional specialties made with fresh ingredients. Engage with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying a glass of Emilia-Romagna wine. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll through the town and enjoy the soothing evening ambiance.
Begin with a cooking class at a local culinary school where you can learn to make traditional Italian pasta. Interact with friendly chefs and gather tips on regional cooking techniques. After your class, enjoy the meal you’ve created with fellow participants.
Visit the Mercato di Santa Maria di Polsi, a bustling market full of fresh produce, cheeses, and olive oil. This is the perfect opportunity to sample local delicacies and purchase ingredients for a picnic. Enjoy your treats in one of the nearby parks while soaking up the local lifestyle.
Attend a wine tasting event at a local vineyard, where you can learn about different wines produced in the region. Pair the wine with artisanal cheeses and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. Cap off the evening with a sunset walk along the vineyard trails.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🧀Lunch with local specialties | $10-20 |
| 🚊Public transit fare (single ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range per night) | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Bologna with easy access to cultural sights
- Green spaces and a relaxed pace
- Solid local cuisine and markets
- Good value for money
- Quiet nightlife compared to Bologna
- Limited independent attractions within town center
- Public transport relies on buses for local trips
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in San Lazzaro di Savena
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush park with trails, viewpoints, and spring blossoms; great for landscape and nature photography.
Historic square with arcades, a fountain, and everyday life framing.
Shaded arcades, colorful storefronts, and seasonal markets for candid street photography.
Elegant grounds and classical architecture for architectural photography.
Food in San Lazzaro di Savena
San Lazzaro di Savena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Silky ribbon pasta tossed in a rich ragù made with beef, pork, and tomatoes.
Must-Try!
Small stuffed pasta served in a clear meat broth.
Soft tigelle (crescent bread) split and filled with prosciutto, crescenza cheese, and other local cold cuts.
Layered green lasagna with ragù and béchamel.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and regional specialties; best on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Buongiorno or Buonasera when entering shops or cafés; maintain a courteous tone.
Italians often chat during meals; avoid loud voices in public transport and restaurants.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in San Lazzaro di Savena
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; leaving small change or rounding up at casual spots is common.
Cash is widely accepted, cards are common, contactless payments are increasingly used; service may be included in some cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming trees, and plenty of outdoor markets; a great time for park walks.
Warm days with occasional heat waves; enjoy shade and gelato; late sunsets.
Comfortable temperatures and harvest foods; colors in parks and countryside.
Cool and sometimes foggy, with festive events around Bologna; inner-city cafés are cozy.
San Lazzaro di Savena at Night
Hiking in San Lazzaro di Savena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes with city views and forested areas.
Scenic hiking among limestone formations and farmland near Bologna.
Airports
How to reach San Lazzaro di Savena by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about 15-20 km from San Lazzaro; easiest by taxi, bus, or rail to Bologna and tram to San Lazzaro.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Substantial number of local families with children; wide schools and parks.
Proximity to Bologna brings a student presence and related services.
A comfortable town for retirees with reliable healthcare access and slower pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime with local clubs and enthusiastic fans across the region.
Road and mountain biking in the Bologna hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Lazzaro di Savena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many trattorias offer vegetarian options like grilled vegetables, risottos, and cheese plates; request 'senza carne' and 'senza burro' when needed.