The Ultimate Gelato Guide to Bologna: 7 Shops You Can’t Miss (2026)
In Bologna, gelato is not just a dessert; it is a daily ritual.
While Florence claims to have invented it, Bologna has perfected it. The city is home to the Carpigiani Gelato University (yes, a real university), which draws students from all over the world to learn the science of frozen desserts.
But with a gelateria on every corner, how do you avoid the mediocre tourist traps and find the creamy, artisanal gold?
Here is your insider guide to the 7 Best Gelaterias in Bologna, plus the one “Visual Rule” you need to know to spot fake gelato instantly.
For a full breakdown of flavors, tips and delicious ways to enjoy all the food of Bologna, explore my ”Ultimate Bologna Food Guide”.
The Golden Rule: How to Spot Fake Gelato
Before you order, look at the display case.
- The Mountain Test: If the gelato is piled up high in huge, fluffy mountains that go above the metal rim of the container, DO NOT EAT IT.
- Why? Natural gelato melts. To make it stand up like a mountain, they have to pump it full of vegetable fats and stabilizers.
- The Color Test: If the Pistachio is bright neon green or the Banana is bright yellow, walk away.
- The Truth: Real pistachio is a dull, earthy brown-green. Real banana is greyish-white.
Real artisan gelato sits flat in the metal tub (often covered with a lid) and has muted, natural colors.
1. Cremeria Cavour (The Crowd Favorite)
Location: Piazza Cavour (Across from the luxury shops).
Vibe: Elegant, bustling, iconic.
If you only eat one gelato in Bologna, come here. It is widely considered the gold standard. Located in a beautiful square, it’s the perfect pause after shopping.
- Must Try: Amaro (Dark chocolate with coffee and amaretti biscuits) or La Dotta (Mascarpone cream with melted chocolate).
- Tip: There is always a line, but it moves fast. Grab a ticket from the machine by the door first!
2. Cremeria Santo Stefano (The Award Winner)
Location: Via Santo Stefano (Near the Seven Churches).
Vibe: Minimalist, serious, pure.
This place regularly wins awards for the best gelato in Italy. The flavors are sophisticated and ingredients are sourced obsessively.
- Must Try: Crema delle Zitelle (Mascarpone with toasted pine nuts) or their premium Pistachio.
- Note: The shop is tiny. Eat it while walking to the nearby Piazza Santo Stefano.
3. Galliera 49 (The Fruit Specialist)
Location: Via Galliera (Near the Train Station).
Vibe: Modern, friendly, sustainable.
If you prefer fruit sorbets (granita) over heavy creams, this is your paradise. They use only seasonal, organic fruit.
- Must Try: The Sicilian-style Granita (Almond or Coffee) served with a brioche bun. It’s a traditional breakfast!
- Vegan Friendly: Yes, their fruit options are dairy-free and incredible.
4. Sorbetteria Castiglione (The Institution)
Location: Via Castiglione.
Vibe: Huge, historic, old-school.
For decades, this was the place to go. It is larger than most shops and famous for its “ice cream cakes” and chocolate-dipped cones.
- Must Try: Dolce Contagio (Caramelized pine nuts) or Dolce Emma (Ricotta and figs).
5. Il Gelatauro (The Red Fruit King)
Location: Via San Vitale.
Vibe: Cozy, aromatic, hidden.
This shop is famous because the New York Times once called it the “Best Gelato in Europe.” While that’s a big claim, their fruit flavors are undeniable.
- Must Try: Their Fragola (Strawberry) smells like a basket of fresh fruit. Also, try the Principe (Chocolate with orange zest).
6. Stefino (The Organic & Vegan Choice)
Location: Via San Vitale.
Vibe: Eco-conscious, bright, inventive.
Stefino focuses on “Bio” (Organic) ingredients. They use rice milk for many flavors, making it the best spot in town for vegans or those who are lactose intolerant.
- Must Try: The Wasabi chocolate (if you are brave) or the Turmeric flavors.
7. La Macchina del Gelato (The Neighborhood Gem)
Location: Via San Serio.
Vibe: Local, unpretentious.
You won’t find many tourists here. It’s a neighborhood spot that rotates flavors daily based on what they felt like making.
- Must Try: Anything with seasonal fruit.
Want to Learn the Secrets?
Eating is fun, but making it is a skill for life. Since Bologna is home to the Gelato University, there are incredible workshops where you can learn to make sorbet and creamy gelato from scratch.
Recommended Experience: Book a “Gelato Making Class” in Bologna!
Why: Most classes let you eat unlimited gelato at the end. It pays for itself!
Hungry for more Bologna?
Don’t miss our specific deep-dives into the city’s best bites:
- Need a Caffeine Fix? Best Coffee & Historic Cafes in Bologna
- Dietary Restrictions? Read our guides for Gluten-Free Bologna and Vegetarian & Vegan Spots
- Drink Like a Local: The Best Aperitivo Bars & Rules
Buon Appetito!
