Let’s face it, one of the first things that come to mind when we set foot on Italian soil is trying their famed gelato. It’s no secret that this is one of the most beloved desserts for Italians and tourists. And looking for the best gelato in Bologna can be overwhelming with so many options!

Fortunately, Bologna has a soft spot for gelato. In fact, the only gelato museum in Italy is located here. The city is known for its passion for this dessert, and going for gelato is definitely one of the best things to do in Bologna. Keep reading to discover our favorite gelaterias in Bologna, as well as and characteristics to consider when choosing your flavors.

Our picks for the best gelato in Bologna

Cremeria Funivia

Rich, creamy, and incredibly indulgent, Cremeria Funivia is one of the best options if you are looking for special gelato in Bologna. Their gelato flavors are made fresh every day with high-quality ingredients. This shop offers the classic flavors of any Italian gelateria – think chocolate, strawberry, stracciatella, etc.

In addition, they also create unique offerings, which they have called their signature gelato flavors. These include cherries and cream, chocolate-swirled cremino, lemon-accented amalfi, rum with chocolate, and more.

Stefino Gelato Biologico

Stefino exemplifies the fact that healthy gelato doesn’t have to be boring. This gelateria makes gelato using only organic and zero-kilometer raw materials while keeping their products gluten-free and vegan.

Those who avoid dairy will love knowing they can choose from rice-based gelato flavors such as almond and pistacchio, dark chocolate with ginger and curry, and turmeric with cinnamon and black pepper. Vegan options also abound, ranging from sorbets to granita.

As a bonus, you can see how the gelato is made! Take a peek into their laboratory while you choose between dark chocolate, yogurt and honey, vanilla with carmelized figs, or any other of their incredible flavors.

Cremeria Santo Stefano

Considered by many as the best gelato shop in Bologna, Cremeria Santo Stefano (Via Santo Stefano, 70c) delights all its customers with original and creative flavors. Apart from the delicious taste, their gelato has a creamy texture that stands out.

Among its creative regular and seasonal flavors are matcha tea, crema di caffè e mandorle (coffee and almond), zafferano (saffron), limone e mandorla (lemon and almond), and cioccolato speciale (special chocolate). It’s the perfect gelato shop if you like to try new flavors you wouldn’t normally consider for gelato.

Cremeria Scirocco

Like all the gelaterias on this list, Cremeria Scirocco also chooses quality ingredients. Although its location is far from the historical center of Bologna, this is a perfect place to taste quality gelato beloved by locals. You’ll find classic gelato flavors, such as vanilla, as well as original creations. Some more unsusual flavors include pumpkin with black pepper, almond with Gorgonzola, parmesean with dried figs, and ricotta with mortadella.

If a savory option isn’t your cup of tea, Cremeria Scirocco also offers cakes, cookies with gelato, and little glasses that combine fruits, creams, and slices of cake to captivate everyone’s palate.

How to choose high-quality gelato in Bologna

When looking for gelato, keep in mind that although there are many good gelato shops, there are also some with sub-par quality. Therefore, just because you are in Italy doesn’t guarantee that you will find authentic Italian gelato everywhere! Use these tips to help choose a good gelateria:

• Looks for shops that say Gelato Artigianale. This usually certifies that the gelato is homemade and produced with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• Try to avoid gelato sold in bars of cafes, as many of them sell artificially flavored gelato.
• Don’t visit gelaterias with mountains of brightly colored gelato. Artisan gelato has soft colors that reflect their natural flavor.
• Try different combinations of your favorite flavors at the gelateria and choose the ones you like best.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the flavors of Bologna on our Tastes & Traditions of Bologna: Food Tour with Market Visit! Join us for a deep dive into Bologna’s cuisine.