San Lazzaro di Savena

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with San Lazzaro di Savena's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring the Historic Center
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Culinary Delights Tour
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Nature and Hiking Adventure
morning
:

Start your adventure with an early hike in the nearby hills, where you'll be greeted by breathtaking views and serene nature. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at a scenic overlook, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and take photos of the beautiful surroundings.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the Parco Monte della Madonna for a lovely picnic lunch. Explore the various trails within the park and discover hidden gems like small waterfalls and picturesque viewpoints. The park is perfect for leisurely strolls or simply relaxing amidst nature.

evening
:

Return to town and enjoy a casual dinner at a local pizzeria, where you can taste authentic wood-fired pizzas. Share stories with locals and fellow travelers, creating a warm atmosphere. As the evening draws to a close, find a cozy bar to enjoy an espresso or an aperitivo before winding down for the night.

day 4
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Museo della Storia di Bologna, which showcases the rich cultural history of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the local customs and traditions. Art enthusiasts can spend time in the dedicated galleries to appreciate historical and contemporary pieces.

afternoon
:

After a few hours of inspiration, take a cultural walking tour of San Lazzaro, visiting artist studios and galleries. Engage with local artists and see their work up close, gaining insight into their creative processes. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling artisanal pastries and gelato.

evening
:

Experience an evening performance at a local theater, showcasing traditional Italian music or dance. The vibrant energy of the performers will leave you captivated as you'll immerse yourself in the local arts scene. Finish the night with a traditional Italian dessert at a nearby pastry shop.

day 5
Historical Pilgrimage
morning
:

Embark on a pilgrimage to the Santuario di Madonna di San Luca, an important religious site located on a hill overlooking Bologna. The walk through the long portico connecting Bologna to the sanctuary is a breathtaking experience. Along the way, enjoy the stunning views and take moments to reflect.

afternoon
:

Upon reaching the sanctuary, spend time exploring its interior and admiring the beautiful frescoes. Afterward, have lunch at a nearby café, enjoying regional dishes while taking in the scenic vistas. Engage with the local community, perhaps participating in a brief prayer or reflection.

evening
:

Return to San Lazzaro di Savena and sit down to a comforting meal at a local ristorante. Share your day's experiences over a dinner of seasonal specialties and local wines. Wind down the day with a nighttime stroll along the quiet streets, reflecting on your spiritual journey.

day 6
Gastronomy and Craft Beers
morning
:

Join a morning tour at a local brewery to explore the craft beer revolution in Emilia-Romagna. Learn about the brewing process, from selecting ingredients to the final product. Enjoy tasting sessions of various beer styles accompanied by gourmet snacks.

afternoon
:

Continue your gastronomic adventure with a visit to a nearby cheese workshop for a hands-on mozzarella-making session. After crafting your cheese, relish in pairing it with local breads and help yourself to an Italian aperitivo. Explore the charming town further, discovering artisanal shops specializing in local foods.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a beer-focused restaurant that features a pairing menu with local brews. Savor dishes crafted to complement the flavors of different beers. Engage with the chef or brewer, learning tips about local ingredients and elevating your culinary knowledge.

day 7
Adventure Sports Day
morning
:

Start your day with exhilarating outdoor activities like rock climbing or mountain biking in the nearby Apennine mountains. Experience stunning scenery while pushing your physical limits among adventure enthusiasts. Ensure to hydrate and fuel up with an energizing breakfast at a local café beforehand.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a packed meal at a designated picnic area surrounded by nature. After recharging, participate in a guided canoeing or kayaking experience on the beautiful local rivers. Appreciate the unique landscapes and keep an eye out for birds and wildlife during your journey.

evening
:

Return to San Lazzaro for a relaxing dinner at a riverside restaurant, ideally with a terrace to enjoy the evening breeze. Relish in discussing the day’s adventures over a meal of delicious local cuisine. Conclude the night with a casual walk to marvel at the starlit sky.

day 8
Relaxation and Wellness Retreat
morning
:

Begin your day at a local wellness center with a rejuvenating yoga class set against a picturesque backdrop. Focus on mindfulness and self-care as you breathe deeply and release tension. After class, enjoy a wholesome breakfast smoothie to fuel your day.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a spa treatment that includes massages and organic beauty treatments using local products. Post-treatment, wander through tranquil gardens where you can reflect and connect with nature. Consider having a light, health-focused lunch at the wellness center’s café.

evening
:

End your day with a peaceful dinner experience featuring a wellness-focused menu. Enjoy dishes that promote health and vitality while savoring the calming ambiance. Cap off your retreat with a guided meditation session or a quiet evening stroll through the serene surroundings.

day 9
Local Festivals and Events
morning
:

If your visit coincides with a local festival, start your day by immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere. Engage with vendors selling handmade crafts and delicious food items that highlight local culture. Enjoy live performances by local musicians that capture the essence of Italian festivity.

afternoon
:

Continue to explore the festival activities, participating in workshops or cooking demonstrations that delve into the region's culinary heritage. Sample a variety of traditional dishes offered by local restaurateurs, enhancing your appreciation for the unique flavors of the area. Take part in fun games or competitions for a taste of local camaraderie.

evening
:

As the festival progresses into the evening, find a spot to enjoy a special outdoor dinner event. Relish in festive dishes and local wine as the community comes together for music, dance, and entertainment under the stars. End your day with fireworks or a festive parade that leaves you with lasting memories of Italian celebrations.

Discover San Lazzaro di Savena

Read more in our San Lazzaro di Savena 2025 Travel Guide.

San Lazzaro di Savena Travel Guide