Prendiparte Tower (Torre Prendiparte) Tours
More than 100 towers stood guard over Bologna in the Middle Ages, but only 20 survive today. One of the few left standing is Torre Prendiparte, the second-highest in the city, soaring almost 200 feet (60 meters) above street level. Climb the internal staircase to the panoramic rooftop for bird’s-eye views over the historic center.
The Basics
The 12-story Torre Prendiparte, also known as Torre Corona, was built in the 12th century by the Prendiparte family and is second in height only to Asinelli Tower, one of the city’s famously listing Two Towers (Due Torri). The rooms on the third, fourth, and fifth floors were once used as prison cells; you can still make out inscriptions and graffiti left by former prisoners on the walls. Your long climb up to the rooftop terrace is rewarded with one of the best scenic overlooks in Bologna, but be sure to purchase tickets in advance to avoid the line that can form at the entrance.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
Torre Prendiparte stands over Piazzetta Prendiparte in the heart of Bologna’s historic center, a short walk from Piazza Maggiore and the Bologna Centrale train station.
When to Get There
The best light for photographing Bologna’s rooftops from the top of Prendiparte Tower is in the early morning or late afternoon. The rooftop scenic overlook is not covered, so visit on a clear day.
The Two Towers
The most famous of Bologna’s historic towers are the Two Towers, a symbol of the city with their whimsical tilts. The taller Asinelli Tower also has a rooftop terrace with 360-degree views over the city and surrounding countryside.
The Basics
The 12-story Torre Prendiparte, also known as Torre Corona, was built in the 12th century by the Prendiparte family and is second in height only to Asinelli Tower, one of the city’s famously listing Two Towers (Due Torri). The rooms on the third, fourth, and fifth floors were once used as prison cells; you can still make out inscriptions and graffiti left by former prisoners on the walls. Your long climb up to the rooftop terrace is rewarded with one of the best scenic overlooks in Bologna, but be sure to purchase tickets in advance to avoid the line that can form at the entrance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kids love the thrilling perch on the top of the tower, where there is a high parapet lining the observation terrace.
- There is no covering on the rooftop platform, so dress for the weather.
- Bring your camera to capture the sweeping views over the rooftops of Bologna.
- The rooftop is only accessible via stairs, so the tower is not wheelchair-accessible.
- Torre Prendiparte now houses a B&B, but the historic prison cells and rooftop can be accessed by the public.
How to Get There
Torre Prendiparte stands over Piazzetta Prendiparte in the heart of Bologna’s historic center, a short walk from Piazza Maggiore and the Bologna Centrale train station.
When to Get There
The best light for photographing Bologna’s rooftops from the top of Prendiparte Tower is in the early morning or late afternoon. The rooftop scenic overlook is not covered, so visit on a clear day.
The Two Towers
The most famous of Bologna’s historic towers are the Two Towers, a symbol of the city with their whimsical tilts. The taller Asinelli Tower also has a rooftop terrace with 360-degree views over the city and surrounding countryside.
Address: Piazzetta Prendiparte, Bologna 40126, Italy
Admission: Varies
6 Tours and Activities to Experience Prendiparte Tower (Torre Prendiparte)
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2-Hour Bike Tour of Bologna
A historic university city, culinary capital, and hub of architectural beauty, Bologna offers no shortage of attractions—and this zippy bike tour through town gives you the perfect opportunity to explore. Get up close and personal with the sights, from the bustling Piazza Maggiore to the Basilica of San Domenico and the modern Manifattura delle Arti district. As you go, hear about the city’s long history from your guide.
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From
$46.42
From
$46.42
Private Bologna’s Wine & Bites Walking Tour with a Local
Imagine sipping delicious Italian wine in an authentic bar filled with locals. Let a local host in Bologna make this your reality! Discover Bologna’s relaxing bars and blend in with the regulars while you enjoy delicious local wine paired with Italian bites. 7 delicious tastings included.
Start your experience at an award-winning wine bar where you’ll enjoy a glass of light and fruity sparkling Italian wine paired with some tasty local cheese. Then stroll through the city and admire the historic canals!
Step inside a homely bar beloved by the locals. Sip on a glass of sparkling red wine with an Italian classic, parmesan cheese. The rich and salty flavors of the cheese paired with the citrus and floral notes of the wine are a match made in heaven.
Follow your local host through the city’s old market and then weave your way to a local osteria (Italian restaurant). This local favorite has been serving wine since 1465 making it one of the oldest in Bologna.
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From
$98.93
Price varies by group size
From
$98.93
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
BOLOGNA. THE SECRET OF THE MERCANTE - Self-guided Treasure Hunt
This adventure allows you to know, with your rhythms and your times, the ancient mercantile Bologna and its secrets. There is no maximum term to complete the adventure: take as long as you want and stop to visit the sites and attractions along the way or enjoy a rest stop in one of the many clubs in Bologna.
- This is a fun and unique way to explore Bologna
- Wear comfortable shoes to easily walk around town
- This activity works well with colleagues and friends
- You can start the treasure hunt at any time
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From
$16.39
$2.89 savings
From
$16.39
$2.89 savings
BOLOGNA, City & Food Private Tour
Enjoy Bologna's rich history and food culture in a single tour!
Experience the best of Bologna with a local guide, who let you delve into the magical atmosphere of the city center.
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From
$257.94
per group
From
$257.94
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Self-guided tour of Bologna
Get to know Bologna in 5 tours with over 30 places to visit and more than 80 works presented. Ideal for travelers who want to visit Bologna in complete autonomy and with the quality of a true professional tour guide. GUIDE OF BOLOGNA ItalGuide transforms your mobile device into a personal tourist guide: the APP knows the best routes in the city; understand where you are; locate the building, monument or artwork through the camera and describe what you are seeing.
The contents of the Bologna Guide App are constantly updated with information on the main events in the city.
BOLOGNA GUIDE ItalGuide is an app for mobile phones and tablets that takes the travel experience to a whole new level by combining the advice and information on the attractions of a city with the technological innovation of visual recognition and the advantages of GPS navigation technology. .
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From
$10.41
From
$10.41
Bologna Torri Tour
COME AND DISCOVER BOLOGNA BY BORING IN THE CHESSBOARD OF ITS MEDIEVAL TOWERS!
A tour that will let you discover the history of the famous Medieval Towers of Bologna.
Tour includes:
- Guided walk in the center of Bologna
- Certified Guide
- Small final tasting of typical products
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From
$89.98
Price varies by group size
From
$89.98
Price varies by group size
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