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A QUICK GUIDE BOLOGNA

Things to Know
Bologna
Bologna is the capital and largest city of the Emilia Romagna region, a dynamic and bustling metropolis that has achieved an extraordinary level of integration between its modernization efforts and the preservation of its rich historical heritage and architecture. A city of many layers that boasts being home to both the oldest university in the Western world and some of Italy’s most iconic gastronomical treasures. To this day, Bologna remains a relatively off-the-beaten-path destination whose unique character and delightful ambience are nothing short of enchanting.
Things to See
National Art Gallery of Bologna
Considered one of the most significant art galleries in Europe, the National Art Gallery of Bologna holds an impressive art collection by artists such as Giotto, Titian and Raphael.
Basilica of Santo Stefano
A spectacular complex of ecclesiastical structures that incorporates architecture from several periods of Bolognese history, making it one of the most unique religious sites in the city.
Basilica of San Petronio
The largest and most significant church in Bologna. The enormous sundial housed inside its halls played a pivotal role in revealing the inconsistencies of the Julian calendar that led to the creation of the leap year.
Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
One of the longest porticos in the world will take you up the hill to this impressive Roman Catholic monument. The black representation of the Virgin Mary housed inside is said to have been painted by St. Luke himself.
Torri di Bologna
Tower Asinelli and Tower Garisenda are the city’s most recognized landmarks. The former is the taller of the two and from its top you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the red-tiled roofs of Bologna.
Teatro Anatomico
A hall once used for anatomy lectures housed in the Palazzo dell’ Archiginnasio. Discover the intricate wooden sculptures that decorate its walls and the anatomical table made of white marble in the center of the room.
Things to Do
VISIT THE HISTORIC PIAZZA MAGGIORE
Bologna’s main square and historic center is a splendid location to enjoy some of the city’s sights over a drink in one of its many outdoor cafes. The iconic plaza is surrounded by beautiful Renaissance style palaces and the enormous gothic basilica of St. Petronius while at its northwest corner, you will find the beautiful fountain of Neptune.
EXPERIENCE BOLOGNESE CUISINE
Bologna is renowned for its egg-based pasta, rich meat sauce, and delicious gelato. The emblematic spaghetti Bolognese is a local specialty which you can savor in the city’s trattorias. Gelato, on the other hand, wasn’t invented here, yet it was Bologna that put it into the international spotlight so expect to enjoy delicious gelato at many of the city’s restaurants and cafes.
DISCOVER THE SEVEN SECRETS OF BOLOGNA
If you have time, looking for the seven secrets of Bologna can be a fun and immersive way to explore the city while learning more about its history. While the secrets vary depending on who you ask, two of the most famous include a hidden canal in the little Venice of Bologna, and a broken vase that can only be seen from the top of a particular tower.
HEAD TO BOLOGNA’S FOOD MARKETS
At the Quadrilatero you’ll find excellent Italian food and fresh produce, Mercato di Mezzo is great any time of day for a quick bite, while Mercato delle Erbe is great for a modern experience. At the Mercato della Terra you’ll find more than 40 vendors offering everything from artisanal cheeses to cooking demonstrations.
EXPERIENCE FICO EATALY WORLD
Perfect for a fun family outing, this is the largest agri-food park in the world! Taste some of the best Italian dishes, join a cooking workshop, visit the farms, or just hop on one of the park’s interactive carousels.
DISCOVER BOLOGNA’S PARKS
Find yourself a hidden park and kick back under the Italian sun! Giardini Margherita, Orto Botanico, Parco di San Pellegrino, and Parco della Montagnola are just a few of Bologna’s beautiful parks!