Known as La Grassa (“The Fat One”) for its rich food culture, Bologna is a city that satisfies all the senses.

From its deep culinary roots to its medieval porticoes and energetic university vibe, Bologna offers more than just great pasta — it’s also a fantastic place to shop for authentic, delicious, and beautifully crafted souvenirs.

Whether you’re wandering through the historic Quadrilatero or exploring quiet backstreets, you’ll find plenty of treasures to bring home.

Here’s your full guide to the best souvenirs from Bologna — along with where to shop and how to avoid the tourist traps.

Top 10 Souvenirs from Bologna

1. Traditional Bolognese Pasta

Bologna is the birthplace of tagliatelle, tortellini, and lasagne verdi, and you can often find fresh or dried versions packaged for travel at specialty pasta shops. Some even sell hand-rolled pasta in decorative boxes — great for gifting or recreating a Bolognese feast at home.

2. Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan Cheese)

While Parma is just up the road, real Parmigiano Reggiano is sold all over Bologna — often aged 24 to 36 months or more. Look for vacuum-packed wedges from reputable shops or covered markets for easy, travel-safe packaging.

3. Mortadella di Bologna

This world-famous cold cut is the original inspiration for “bologna” sausage, but don’t confuse the two — real Mortadella is smooth, aromatic, and delicately spiced. You’ll find it freshly sliced or vacuum-packed for taking home, commonly sold at local delis and markets.

4. Balsamic Vinegar (Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale)

Bologna is just west of Modena, the home of traditional balsamic vinegar. Many gourmet shops carry aged DOP-certified balsamic, often sold in elegant glass bottles — a perfect gourmet gift.

5. Books and Stationery

As the home of Europe’s oldest university, Bologna has a strong literary tradition. You’ll find art books, historic prints, and handcrafted journals in many small bookstores and artisan shops near Piazza Maggiore and Via Zamboni.

6. Tiled or Illustrated Postcards of the Porticoes

Bologna’s UNESCO-listed porticoes and red-brick rooftops make for stunning photos — but also charming artwork. Look for illustrated postcards, small prints, or ceramic tiles depicting scenes from the city.

7. Local Wine (Pignoletto or Lambrusco)

Northern Italy is wine country, and Bologna’s regional wines are no exception. Try Pignoletto (a light, fizzy white) or a bottle of dry Lambrusco — very different from the sweet versions sold abroad. Most wine shops offer travel-friendly packaging.

8. Tiled Street Name Signs (Reproductions)

You’ll see blue-and-white ceramic street signs throughout Bologna. Reproductions of these signs, complete with the old-style typeface, are often sold at souvenir shops and artisan stands — ideal for wall décor.

9. Handmade Leather Goods

Like many parts of Italy, Bologna has its share of small leather workshops selling wallets, belts, and handbags crafted with care. Look for “Made in Italy” tags and avoid mass-produced versions sold near the busiest tourist areas.

10. Traditional Ceramics from Emilia-Romagna

You’ll find colorful hand-painted bowls, mugs, and plates typical of the Emilia-Romagna region. These often feature floral or geometric designs and are sold in artisan shops around the city.

Where to Shop in Bologna

• Mercato di Mezzo (Historic Center):

Right in the heart of the Quadrilatero, this covered market is a great spot for cheese, pasta, mortadella, balsamic vinegar, and local wine — plus you can grab a snack while you browse.

• Tamburini (Via Caprarie):

A legendary gourmet deli that stocks high-end charcuterie, cheese, pasta, and sauces — often in gift-friendly packaging.

• FICO Eataly World (just outside the city):

This enormous food park features dozens of regional Italian producers in one place — ideal for tasting and buying everything from olive oil to fresh pasta.

• Librerie.Coop Zanichelli (Piazza Galvani):

A beautiful old bookstore where you can find books, prints, and journals that make thoughtful, literary souvenirs.

• Weekly Markets (like Mercato delle Erbe):

Local food markets with plenty of small-batch food products, herbs, and handmade goods, often at better prices than tourist shops.

Shopping Tips for Bologna

• Bring a cooler bag. For cheese and cured meats, this helps keep things fresh if you’re not heading home right away.
• Ask for vacuum-sealed packaging. Most delis will do this at no extra charge for products like mortadella or parmesan.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for tastings. Many food and wine shops are happy to let you sample before you buy.
• Check for DOP or IGP labels. These labels on balsamic, cheese, or wine guarantee quality and origin.
• Avoid chain souvenir shops. For more authentic finds, shop at delis, artisan markets, and local bookstores instead.

Final Thoughts

In Bologna, even souvenir shopping is delicious. Whether you’re picking up a wedge of aged Parmigiano, a bottle of golden Pignoletto, or a handmade ceramic bowl, each item is infused with the flavor and personality of Emilia-Romagna. Skip the mass-produced magnets and explore the markets, delis, and artisan shops — your suitcase (and your kitchen) will thank you.