Lively, charming, and fun, Bologna’s nightlife is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant in all of Italy. The red-hued city comes alive at night, and many of the best things to do are during the evening hours. The nightlife in Bologna is as important as its cultural heritage. And, as one of the Italian university cities par excellence, its atmosphere is very youthful.
The best thing about Bologna’s nightlife is that there is something for everyone, no matter if you prefer a quiet night in a bar with live music or want to dance the night away in a pulsating dance club. Check out our recommendations for the best hotspots and events to make the most of your nightlife experience in Bologna.
Best bars and nightclubs
Celtic Druid Irish Pub
With an inviting atmosphere, Celtic Druid Irish offers an authentic Irish experience in the heart of Bologna. It is a pub with live music and a wide variety of beers and cocktails to enjoy the night. The pub is perfect to go after dinner, but they also offer some finger food and burgers if you want something with your drink.
Locomotiv Club
Locomotiv Club is one of the most popular night spots in Bologna. From indie rock concerts to hip-hop and electronic music, this concert venue has it all. In addition to a packed concert calendar, Locomotiv also functions as a recording studio and video laboratory.
To enjoy the concerts at Locomotiv, it is necessary to buy tickets in advance through their website or purchase an annual admission card. This second option is perfect if you live in Bologna or the surrounding cities.
Bizarre Cocktail Boutique
If you are looking for a relaxed evening, our recommendation is to go to Bizarre Cocktail Boutique for a delicious drink. The intimate and cozy atmosphere of this stylish bar is perfect for a romantic date or a night out with friends. From classic Italian cocktails to modern concoctions, the Bizarre Cocktail Bar has something for everyone.
Bar Senza Nome (Bar Without a Name)
Bar Senza Nome is a place where words don’t count. Located a few steps from the Mercato delle Erbe, this is one of the most unique bars in Bologna. What makes it so special? Bar Senza Nome was created and is staffed by deaf people. This is an inclusive bar where the integration and dialogue of deaf people are favored.
In addition to its bar and kitchen, this place hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and courses. In other words, Bar Senza Nome doubles as an art center!
Numa Club
If you are looking for fun with friends and live an unforgettable night in Bologna, Numa Club is the perfect place to be. Numa is a combination of music, drink, entertainment, and dance. The venue features a wide selection of live music and DJs that will make your night more fun.
The club is open every Friday and Saturday from 11:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. To purchase the ticket, you must go to their website.
Cassero LGBTI+ Center
More than just a place of entertainment, Cassero is a social center that seeks the integration and rights of LGBT+ people through cultural and artistic activities and other events.
This center includes a lively and inclusive nightclub where you can dance, enjoy the outdoor terrace and listen to a variety of music genres, such as pop, techno, and rock.
Events and festivals in Bologna
Bologna Jazz Festival
Every year Bologna hosts one of the most important jazz festivals in Italy. The festival takes place in the autumn months, between October and November, with the participation of renowned jazz artists.
Jazz lovers from all over Italy and Europe flock to this great event. If you love jazz and have plans to visit Bologna, this is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the city during a fantastic event.
For their yearly program, visit their website.
Cinema Ritrovato Festival
One of the most awaited events by the Bolognese during the summer is the Cinema Ritrovato Festival. The event is held between June and July and shows a wide variety of classic films, many of which have been restored and are presented in their original format.
For film lovers, this is a unique event not to be missed if you are in Bologna, as it also focuses on the historical and cultural contexts of the films. During the presentations of silent films, they are accompanied by live musicians to make the moment even more special.
To really enjoy Bologna’s nightlife, try to immerse yourself in the different styles of nightlife on offer. Whether a low-key bar with soft jazz music to a massively loud concert, get into the groove and be open to meeting locals.
Once you’ve had your fill of the city’s boozy bars and nightlife, another good way of immersing yourself in the local culture is to take a food tour of the city. Led by locals who are passionate about their city, our Bologna Food Tour & Market Visit will show you the secrets behind freshly handmade pasta, traditional pastries, and so much more at some of Bologna’s most popular culinary treats.