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Villages Near Bologna
If you're looking for a more relaxing weekend atmosphere without too many tourists, you don't need to go too far. The surroundings of Bologna are filled with small towns set in beautiful landscapes. Just a short drive from the city reveals timeless villages perfect for a little getaway. We have selected the must-see ones, let's discover them.
Dozza
Set on a hill in the Valley of the Sellustra River, Dozza is a true delight. It is the town of painted walls, with numerous murals that make it an open-air museum. Dominating the village is the Rocca Sforzesca, a perfectly preserved medieval structure that houses a small art gallery worth visiting. The quaint village is easily accessible from Bologna.
San Pietro di Ozzano
San Pietro is a small village located in a unique landscape, situated on the hills of Ozzano near the regional park of Gessi Bolognesi and the calanchi of Abbadessa. Here once stood a castle, one of the medieval structures built to defend Emilia; the castle no longer exists, but a towering remnant stands as a reminder of its ancient past.
Brisighella
Brisighella is a town frozen in time. The village clings to a cliff and is dominated by three prominent points where the Rocca, the Clock Tower, and the Monticino Sanctuary stand. Brisighella is a medieval village where you can still breathe in its atmosphere while walking through winding streets and alleys, majestic buildings, and low, nestled homes, in the shaded streets and hidden corners.
Selva Malvezzi
Among the villages worth a stop is Selva Malvezzi, a true feudal complex that retains its original appearance. The seventeenth-century manor house is worth seeing, featuring a double staircase that allowed access for both people and animals, along with the Governor's palace adorned with a beautiful façade, clock, and bell.
Monteveglio
Monteveglio is a fortified village that rises on a cliff alongside the ancient Abbey of Santa Maria Assunta on the top of a hill overlooking the valley. The village lies along the Bolognese Apennines in the valley of the Samoggia stream. Walking among the ancient houses, you'll reach the beautiful abbey, from which you can enjoy breathtaking views. DISCOVER: VIA DEI BRENTATORI.
Bologna is surrounded by equally fascinating territory offering countless possibilities for a vacation of a few days or even a simple weekend escape. Among the places we recommend are Rocchetta Mattei, the village of Brusighella, San Lorenzo in Collina, and Lake Suviana.