Bologna is once again proving itself to be a leading city for innovation and sustainable culture, as it prepares to welcome the third edition of Planetaria Festival. On Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27, 2026, the city will become the stage for an engaging conversation about the future of human communities, under the evocative title “Cities That Refuse to Stand Still.” Conceived, curated and produced by Superhumans, the festival will have its beating heart at the historic Teatro Arena del Sole before spreading throughout the city.

Leading this important event is an exceptional duo: actor Stefano Accorsi, serving as artistic director, and scientist and science communicator Giulio Boccaletti, who will oversee the scientific direction. Together, they have created a platform for narrative intelligence designed to make the major transformations shaping our time accessible to everyone, breaking down the barriers between scientific rigor and artistic creativity.

Three ways to imagine the cities of tomorrow

The festival programme unfolds along three main strands, designed to engage audiences of all ages and interests. Children and families will find their own dedicated space in Planetaria Junior, featuring theatre performances, immersive installations and creative workshops focused on ecology and environmental awareness.

For those looking to explore the major issues shaping our contemporary world, Planetaria Talk will offer a rich programme of talks and conversations, bringing together scientists, artists, researchers and leading figures from the cultural scene to discuss the future of urban spaces.
The festival’s most spectacular expression will come with Planetaria Show, an original performance written especially for the occasion by Filippo Gentili and Giulio Boccaletti. Two actors and a scientist will engage in a lively debate sparked by a major scientific question inspired by the city of Bologna itself.
Supported by the City of Bologna as part of Bologna Estate 2026, the festival also benefits from the patronage of the European Commission and the Italian Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security (MASE).

The perfect stay: relaxation, culture and great food

Taking part in a festival devoted entirely to sustainability also means choosing a more mindful and restorative way of travelling. The ideal base for making the most of this cultural weekend is Relais Bellaria Hotel, a peaceful retreat surrounded by the greenery of the first hills outside Bologna. Just a short distance from the city centre, the hotel combines a contemporary atmosphere with a strong focus on environmental impact, making it the perfect place to switch off and unwind after a day spent attending talks and performances at the Arena del Sole.

No visit to Bologna would be complete without experiencing its outstanding food culture. Before heading out for an afternoon of activities or after returning from an evening of events, take some time to enjoy an unforgettable lunch or dinner at Ristorante Corbezzoli, located inside Relais Bellaria. The restaurant showcases carefully selected, high-quality seasonal ingredients in dishes that celebrate the region’s culinary tradition.

An itinerary through the heart of Bologna: from the theatre to the city’s hidden gems

Taking advantage of the Arena del Sole’s central location on Via Indipendenza, it is easy to plan a walking itinerary that reveals a more unconventional and hidden side of Bologna.
As soon as you leave the theatre, rather than heading straight towards Piazza Maggiore, walk just a few steps and venture beneath the porticoes of Via Galliera, one of the city’s most elegant streets, lined with historic aristocratic residences.
Continuing towards the city centre, make time for a stop at the fourteenth-century Basilica of San Martino, home to a beautiful fresco by Guercino and an atmospheric cloister, tucked away from the main tourist routes.
From here, continue your exploration towards the mysterious Santo Stefano Complex, also known as the “Seven Churches”: a fascinating maze of interconnected basilicas, courtyards and Romanesque architecture.

Have you already booked your next stay in Bologna?