5 pet-friendly places outside Bologna
Updated on 07 July 2026 From Martina Cavezza
Who said that travelling with a dog means missing out on culture or day trips? Bologna and the surrounding area are proving to be increasingly pet-friendly, with museums, parks, nature trails and unusual places to discover alongside your four-legged friend – perfect for both tourists and locals.
This guide brings together five pet-friendly ideas outside the historic centre: from the Bologna plain to the Apennines, taking in accessible museums, green spaces and places that are ideal even on rainy days.
⭢ If, on the other hand, you’re looking for tips on visiting the centre of Bologna with your dog, do also check out the general guide “Pet-friendly Bologna”.
Discover places to visit with your dog outside the city center and in the surrounding areas of Bologna:
Grand Tour Italia (Bologna)
Grand Tour Italia, the large theme park dedicated to Italy’s gastronomic biodiversity, is a vast, fully covered space where dogs of all sizes are welcome, provided they are kept on a lead. A convenient solution that saves your weekend, especially on rainy days or during the intense summer heat, allowing you to discover the best of Italy without having to leave your four-legged friend at home.
Address: Via Paolo Canali, 8 – Bologna (BO)
Ideal for: a half-day visit
Dogs: allowed throughout the covered area, strictly on a lead (it is always advisable to bring a muzzle with you, just in case)
When to go: Open all year round; ideal when it’s raining, too hot or for winter weekends.
Useful tips: As it is a very large indoor space, the venue is air-conditioned and sheltered. We recommend strict adherence to hygiene rules in the dining areas.
Villa Smeraldi and the Museum of Rural Life (Bentivoglio)
Heading towards the Bologna plain, in San Marino di Bentivoglio, you’ll come across the splendid Villa Smeraldi. The building houses the Museum of Rural Life, which tells the story of the Bologna countryside and the traditional craft of hemp processing. Here, dogs are not only welcome in the vast historic park for a walk in the countryside, but they can also access the indoor exhibition spaces free of charge.
Address: Via S. Marina, 35 – Bentivoglio (BO)
Ideal for: a half-day out in the Bologna plain
Dogs: allowed in the park and, subject to the venue’s conditions, also in the museum areas, provided they are kept strictly on a lead (it is always advisable to bring a muzzle with you, just in case)
When to go: spring, autumn, mild days
Good to know: check the website for opening hours and access rules before your visit.
Useful tips: there is often a bowl of fresh water at the entrance to refresh your four-legged friends after their journey.
The Botroidi Museum (Pianoro)
Tucked away amongst the green hills of Pianoro, Luigi Fantini’s Museum is a little geological gem dedicated to ‘botroids’ – curious, anthropomorphic stones that look like genuine natural sculptures. Luigi Fantini, a pioneer in the exploration of the Apennines, carried out his research on foot, often accompanied by his dog. In honour of this bond, the museum is explicitly pet-friendly.
Address: Via Tazzola, 5 – Pianoro (BO)
Ideal for: spending a couple of hours in the Bolognese Apennines
Dogs: are allowed both outside and inside. The museum allows up to three dogs per visitor at any one time, provided they are kept strictly on a lead (it is always advisable to bring a muzzle with you, just in case).
When to go: the museum is open every day from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm, except on Tuesdays. However, as it is run by local residents, we strongly recommend checking your booking or the opening schedule before setting off. For guided tours, it is always best to book in advance by emailing lamberto.monti1@gmail.com.
The Santerno and the Imola Circuit
In the Imola area, however, nature and riverside relaxation meet the adrenaline rush of motor racing. The dog-walking area along the River Santerno is a veritable green oasis, completely isolated from city traffic, situated in an unusual spot between the river and the famous Autodromo Enzo and Dino Ferrari International Circuit. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours in the open air in complete safety with your dog.
If you happen to be in the area during the Autodromo’s Open Days, there’s a truly unmissable experience to enjoy together: you’ll have the chance to walk your dog, on a lead, right on the tarmac of the track where Formula 1 single-seaters usually race past. This is a unique opportunity to take some truly special and memorable photos, provided, of course, that you are diligent and respectful about keeping the area clean.
Address: Via Santerno / Acque Minerali area, Imola (BO)
Ideal for: a half-day out combining nature and sport
Dogs: allowed off-lead in designated dog-walking areas; must be kept on a lead along the riverside paths and on the track during dedicated events (it’s always advisable to carry a muzzle with you, just in case)
When to go: All year round. The best time to plan a walk in this area is definitely after 6.00 pm. At that time, official track activities come to an end and the roar of the engines gives way to silence and the sounds of nature, thus avoiding unnecessary auditory stress for more sensitive and fearful dogs.
Good to know: The Autodromo’s Open Days are events open to the public, with free entry to the track, offering a unique perspective on the Autodromo. They are not held all year round, so it is advisable to always check the timetable and access details on the Autodromo’s website.
Corno alle Scale Regional Park (Lizzano in Belvedere)
For those who love fresh air and high-altitude views, the Corno alle Scale Regional Park offers breathtaking trails and ridges in the Bolognese Apennines. Here, your dog can accompany you along all the main trails, provided it is kept strictly on a lead to protect and respect the local wildlife.
To plan your trip effectively, a great practical tip is to use the AllTrails app before setting off: it will allow you to easily identify hiking trails classified as ‘dog-friendly’ and choose the route best suited to your four-legged friend’s fitness level and size.
It’s also worth noting that access for dogs on a lead is generally permitted in all parks managed by the Ente Parchi Emilia Orientale, including the picturesque Gessi Bolognesi and the historic trails of Monte Sole. However, before you pack your rucksack and set off, we suggest you always check the park authority’s official website, as certain specific areas classified as strict nature reserves may have special restrictions in place to protect the ecosystem.
Address: Lizzano in Belvedere (BO) – Corno alle Scale
Ideal for: a day immersed in the nature of the Bolognese Apennines
Dogs: Dogs are permitted on all main trails, but must be kept on a lead at all times to protect local wildlife
When to go: spring, summer and autumn to admire the colours of the foliage
Good to know: Visiting these places requires a good level of fitness for mountain walking
Useful tips: Always carry a good supply of water, including for your dog. Springs at higher altitudes can run dry during the summer months. Furthermore, shaded areas vary along the ridge.
A curious explorer with a passion for trekking and photography, I discover the world one step at a time. I have been writing for bolognawelcome.com and editor for extrabo.com since 2022.
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