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Portico di San Luca

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The Portico di San Luca is one of Bologna’s most iconic landmarks and the world’s longest continuous portico. Stretching for nearly 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles) with 666 arches, it connects the city center to the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca. This UNESCO-listed architectural masterpiece offers visitors a scenic and spiritual walk filled with history and panoramic views.

What to See & Do

  • Walk 🚶‍♀️ under the 666 arches 🏰 from Porta Saragozza 🚪 to the Sanctuary of San Luca ⛪🙏
  • Enjoy panoramic views 👀 of Bologna 🏘️ from different points 🔭 along the route 🏞️✨
  • Visit the Sanctuary ⛪ at the top ⛰️, a revered pilgrimage site ✝️👑
  • Capture stunning photos 📸 of the long winding portico 🏰 and countryside views 🌳🖼️
  • Attend the traditional procession 🎶 held each year 📅 in honor of the Madonna di San Luca 🙏🇮🇹

How to Get There

  • From Bologna Centrale Station 🚆: 15 minutes ⏱️ by taxi 🚕 to Porta Saragozza 🚪💨
  • By Bus 🚌: Take Line 20 🚍 to Meloncello Arch 🌉 (Arco del Meloncello) ✅👍
  • On Foot 👣: Start 🚶‍♂️ at Porta Saragozza 🧭 and walk through the portico 🏰 to the top ⛰️ (approx. 45–60 minutes ⏳) 💪✅
  • By Tourist Train 🚂: The San Luca Express 🚌 departs from Piazza Maggiore 🏛️ and stops at the sanctuary ⛪👍

Travel Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes 👟 – it’s a long uphill walk ⛰️🥾💪
  • Bring water 💧, especially during summer months ☀️🥵
  • Take breaks 🧘 at viewpoints 🔭 along the way 😌💚
  • Visit on weekdays 🗓️ for a quieter experience 🤫😌
  • Don’t miss 📸 the sunset 🌅 from the Sanctuary terrace 🧡✨

Suggested Itinerary

  • 8:30 AM – Start the walk 🚶‍♀️ from Porta Saragozza 🚪🧭💨
  • 9:30 AM – Reach the Sanctuary of San Luca ⛪ and explore the site 🙏👀
  • 10:30 AM – Enjoy coffee ☕ at the café 🥐 near the sanctuary 😋😌
  • 11:00 AM – Return 🚶‍♂️ by walking 👣 or take the San Luca Express 🚌 back to the city 🏘️👋

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

The portico is open 24 hours daily (public walkway)
Sanctuary of San Luca: Open 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee:

Free

Best Time to Visit:

Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy soft light for photos

Location

📌 Portico di San Luca, Bologna, Italy

👉 View on Google Maps

The portico begins at Porta Saragozza, southwest of Bologna’s city center, and ends at the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca atop Monte della Guardia.

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