What to do in Bologna for May Day

Do you want to spend May 1 in Bologna? In 2025, Labor Day is on a Thursday and easily forms a long bridge holiday to the weekend of May 3 and 4; it can be your chance to visit the city for the first time or return for the rich schedule of concerts, exhibitions, tours and nature itineraries.

Take part in the concert in Piazza Maggiore

Once again this year, the long-awaited May Day Concert returns to Bologna, a real celebration in the square under the banner of music and sharing. Numerous artists and surprises will take turns on the stage in Piazza Maggiore, in a rich and varied line-up: Editors (DJ Set), Rea, Liccia and many other names that will be revealed soon.

➝ Go to event details

©RestodelCarlino

Must-see exhibitions and museums

This spring, experience the excitement of a close encounter with art and culture: you can be enchanted by the visionary power of Antonio Ligabue at Palazzo Albergati, or explore the provocative world of Ai Weiwei at Palazzo Fava. Don't miss the exhibition dedicated to Che Guevara in the evocative setting of the Archiginnasio, or be intrigued by the noir charm of Jack Vettriano and by the legend of Diabolik at Palazzo Pallavicini. And below Piazza Maggiore a real treat awaits you: the brand new exhibition on George Simenon in the Modernissimo Gallery.

➝ Check out all the spring 2025 exhibitions

The most beautiful experiences in the city

There are experiences that never go out of style. Start with Discover Bologna, the classic guided tour of the historic center: two hours to discover Bologna's must-see sights. But if you don't love walking, board the City Red Bus for a scenic tour while sitting comfortably.

For those who love views from above and the beauty of art, a must is the climb to the Clock Tower with a visit to the Collezioni Comunali d'Arte (Municipal Art Collection): a journey through history and masterpieces, with a spectacular panoramic view of Piazza Maggiore.

And if you really want to know the soul of the city, enter the Museum of the History of Bologna at Palazzo Pepoli: an interactive journey between past and present, to discover how Bologna became the city we know today.

Discover the flavors of Bologna

Explore the lively Quadrilatero and Erbe markets in the heart of the historic center to immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of typical trattorias. You can join the guided tour with tastings Taste of Bologna, or discover local flavors on your own with the Bologna Food Tasting Box.

And if you want to immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Emilia-Romagna, treat yourself to a journey between taste and tradition with the Parma Cheese & Ham Experience: an adventure among the hills, where Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma tell stories of excellence and passion.

Set off on an exploration into the green

Take advantage of the return of the warm weather, to experience Bologna and its territory!

Relax with a stroll through the Bolognese Hills, or set off on an out-of-town excursion to discover enchanting villages between the Apennines, Imolese Area and the Plains. Sports lovers can get in the saddle with the Emilia Romagna Bike Trail, an adventure on two wheels among natural landscapes and villages. Or reach Budrio for Primaveranda, a celebration of nature, local flavors and activities for all ages.

Then if you stay in town until the weekend of May 4, don't miss our tours in the green:

• Ville e Castelli takes you to Medicina, to visit the Palazzo Comunale and the beautiful Chiesa del Carmine
• On the Alpe di Monghidoro, you can join the Trekking with the Train tour among forests and ancient villages
• The extraBimbi workshop will take the little ones into the world of animals hiding in the greenery

Bologna's May Day is waiting for you, ready as always...to surprise you!

Article being updated