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Bologna Attractions & Landmarks Guide
Situated in the north, this region of Italy is known especially for the regional cuisine, namely "bolognese sauce" which, contrary to many Americanized versions is not tomato based but meat based. The cuisine in Bologna is heavier than the classic Italian cuisine of the south, but it is no less delicious. There is much history here, in particular in higher education. The University of Bologna was founded in 1088 and still operates.
Despite the energetic vibes, food variety, historical architecture, and the calm atmosphere, the place is often overlooked by travelers when looking for Italy tours. But for history buffs, art buffs, and especially foodies, Bologna should absolutely be on your Italy travel list.
Bologna is especially famous for being home to the oldest university in Europe, the historic communist leanings of the region, and the terracotta hues and most importantly because of the delicious food. The seventh most populous city of Italy gives a glimpse of the real Italy - not obscured by the huge crowds experienced in Italy’s more famous cities such as Rome, Florence, and Venice.
Best Food to Try In Bologna
Bologna is famous not only for its historical architecture, lively vibe but greatly for its delicious cuisine. People from all over the world come here to try the Bologna food and get amazed by the taste that you can’t get over with even when you are gone back home.
Bologna Italy tours are considered incomplete without enjoying the delicious food. Every dish is unique and a great feast in its way. Here is a list of some of the amazing items of the Bologna food, so that you may know where to start from.
1. Lasagna
While one of the most popular dishes around the world, the Bolognese lasagna is not like what you are used to eating. This is, however, the best among all versions, with layers of fresh spinach pasta and Ragu sauce.
2. Tortellini al Borodo
The stuffed pasta is one of the iconic dishes of the region. The ring-shaped pasta is filled with meat and cheese, served in broth. There is a touch of parmesan cheese on the side if you want to add more deliciousness to the flavor.
3. Tagliatelle al Ragu
The perfect round shaped fresh egg pasta strips mixed with the deliciously amazing Ragu sauce is the heavenly version of Spaghetti Bolognese. You will instantly fall in love with this soppy noodle dish.
4. Tigelle
Also known as crescentine, this crispy little bread pocket is stuffed with meat, pesto, cheese, and vinegar. They are cooked in a cast-iron mold called tigelliera to mark it with pretty brandings. Though delicious on their own, tigelle is served with prosciutto and mortadella.
5. Piadina
This is a simple yet delicious typical sandwich of the region. The thin flatbread made of flour, olive oil, salt, and lard is filled with fresh cheese, ham, and vegetables. The inexpensive item is not only tasty but also makes a healthy meal.
6. Mortadella
The pork sausage just melts in your mouth with the incredible taste. The large sausage is made from finely chopped pork meat and 15% pork fat, spiced with black paper, nutmeg, myrtle berries, and pistachio.
7. Gramigna alla Salsiccia
This unique pasta dish combines the magic of Italian sausage-based sauce with tubes of pasta. The dish is comparatively less famous but once you eat it you are going to get addicted to the perfection of taste.
8. Lambrusco
The refreshing glass of this frizzy red wine makes a perfect combination with anything. Whether you are back from a long sightseeing trip or want to treat yourself with refreshing deliciousness, never forget Lambrusco.
9. Gelato
The perfect creamy flavor, delightful texture, and perfect quality are what describe the best gelato of the world found in Bologna. You will not get such quality and taste anywhere in the world.
Top 10 Attractions in Bologna
Many people get confused during their Bologna tours that what to see and what to leave in the magnificent city. If you have time you should visit all of the historical architecture of the city as to offer. However, the following 10 sites make the most important ones in the city.
1. Pinacoteca Nazionale
Located within the old university complex boundaries, this National Gallery is an ideal place for those having a love for art as it preserves the works by various artists that have lived and worked in this region between the 13th to the 19th century.
2. Piazza Maggiore
The central square of Bologna also has historical importance as it is paced with various important buildings like the Palazzo del Podesta, Palazzo d'Accursio, Palazzo Comunale, and the Piazza del Nettuno with the Fountain of Neptune. The amazing architecture will get you mesmerized.
3. Leaning Towers
Bologna has this pair of leaning towers to compete with the iconic Pisa tower. Their narrow shape makes them appear more alarmingly tilt which makes them unique. Climb up and have an epic view of the landscapes spread around for miles.
4. Archiginnasio
The amazing 16th-century building was once used to be the main university building but now has the status of the Anatomical Theatre. The delicate wood architecture has an excessive amount of wood paneling as well as carved statues of some famous medical practitioners.
5. Archeological Museum
Spend hours in the historical museum to have a tour of the thorough history of the city throughout the centuries. There are 9 sections of the museum and each has a fantastic display of various artifacts from different ages.
6. La Piazzola Market
The centuries-old historical market has always been very popular among locals as well as tourists. With more than 400 various stalls, the place has a colorful and captivating touch. You will find everything here from clothes to accessories, flowers to pottery, etc.
7. San Petronio
The 10th largest church of the world dates back to 1388 when it started building with a design purposed to be larger than Rome's St. Peter, but stands incomplete to the date. The massive church has an interesting interior and you can even walk on the meridian line cutting across the floor.
8. Oratory of Batuti
The small chapel is filled with various unique decorations and designs that you will not find anywhere else. Constructed in 1604, the Oratory was designed by Floriano Ambrosini. The stunning interior is filled with religious iconography.
9. The Porticoes
The extensive Portico of Bologna is something you will rarely find somewhere else. Within the city premises, you can walk through these corridors for about 40 km. The most famous portico of the city is the one towards the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca and Bonaccorsi Arch.
10. St. Stephen Basilica
The oldest church is one of the most amazing and complex buildings in Bologna. The historical spot is not just one church but a complex combination of eight buildings, all with their own unique design, art, and character. Also, visit the free museum that will enlighten you about the history of this religious complex.
Day Trips from Bologna
Bologna itself is a day trip destination with various historical and food-centered attractions. The central location and easy transport accessibility make it an ideal place to be used as a base to explore the surrounding Emilia Romagna towns. Many fantastic day trips could be arranged for beautiful and historical Italian towns surrounding Bologna.
1. Ferrara
The picturesque town has been ruled by the Este family for centuries. Their dukes made the place a center for the arts. The beautiful Renaissance town has various attractions like the 14th century Este Castle, Diamanti Palace, and the Gothic cathedral.
Rent a bike from the railway station, or better to walk around to have a relaxed and detailed trip of the charming city. When you are done exploring the historical sites, find a cafe and enjoy the region like a local.
The travel time between Bologna and Ferrara through fast regional trains is about 30 minutes. You can opt for a guided tour to Ferrara from Bologna.
2. Ravenna
Famous for its early Christian mosaics, this city was the capital of the ancient Byzantine Empire. The magnificent churches and monuments are a blend of Gothic, Roman and Byzantine styles. Plain from the outside, the buildings have a well-preserved and colorful interior.
The small city can be easily explored on foot and will not take more than a few hours to visit the major sites. You can save time for peaceful and savoring lunch between sightseeing.
If you are fond of art and history then this is the place for you. Ravenna is at a distance of just 1-hour train ride from Bologna.
3. Rimini
The Adriatic resort town makes a day trip destination with its 9 miles long sandy beach and colorful umbrellas. This beachside party town along the Mediterranean Sea also has some other attraction points like the Renaissance cathedral, historical sites, museums, and ancient Roman ruins. After having a pleasant beach day, there is a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars for you to choose from.
The train ride between Bologna and Rimini takes only 1 hour. About 32 trains run between the two places throughout the day.
4. San Marino
The self-proclaimed microstate of San Marino is one the world's smallest, oldest and most stable republic. This independent mountainous microstate is located in Italy's north-central Apennine Mountains. This unique Republic is home to magnificent views, castles, landscapes, mountains, etc.
As compared to other destinations, it is a bit long journey from Bologna and a bit hard as well. First, you take a train to Rimini and then ride a bus to San Marino. It will take you about 3 to 3.5 hours to reach your destination.
5. Parma
The origin place of the Prosciutto di Parma ham and Parmigiano Reggiano, this town is also famous for its octagonal baptistery. The historic icon has magnificent yellow and pink Romanesque architecture that is a must-see. Other famous attraction points are Piazza Duomo and Garibaldi Square.
You can reach Parma from Bologna in a 55 minutes train ride. The Parma Train Station is only a ten-minute walk from the heart of the city.
Bologna Reviews
K
Kathleen
Oct 2024
Written on
Venice to Rome by Rail
My 1st time in Europe! Our tour leader Paris Bermuda was so organized and genuinely very pleasant and sweet. The stops along the way were fascinating, picturesque an...
E
Eileen
Sep 2024
Written on
Venice to Rome by Rail
Well-planned trip, full on but plenty of spare time to rest or do extra things. Nice mix of other travellers. Our leader dealt very professionally with enforced ch...
F
Fred
Jul 2024
Written on
Venice to Rome by Rail
This was an interesting tour. Viviana, our tour leader was excellent. All the hotels were excellent, except the one in Florence, which lacked a breakfast room so t...
R
Ronald
May 2024
Written on
Venice to Rome
Very good tour. Whilst we enjoyed the pasta making lesson in Bologna we thought we would have preferred to miss Bologna and add more days to one of the other cities....
T
Trusted Customer
May 2024
Written on
Venice to Rome
Great trip, well organised. Could have done without the stay over in Bologna and had another day in Rome, but the pasta making experience in Bologna was very good. G...
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