Bologna is one of northern Italy’s best kept secrets. Stately architecture, a rich culinary heritage and a youthful spirit seduce those that visit. Discover this ancient gem for yourself and you’ll find it hard to believe that word hasn’t got out sooner about this charming city.
Food to tickle your taste buds
Nicknamed La Grassa, The Fat, due to its strong gastro roots, Bologna is Italy’s culinary heavyweight. This heritage is due to the many famed Italian favourites that originated in this city – so where better to sample them?
Seek out Ristorante Pappagallo, the most famous Bolognese institute in the city. It’s perhaps the best restaurant to sample authentic dishes in, having pleased hungry crowds for nearly 100 years. Whether you slurp down tagliatelle al ragù or tuck into a hearty slab of lasagne, this place won’t disappoint.
If it’s Bologna’s renowned tortellini - plump filled pasta - you’re yearning to try, book a table at Drogheria della Rosa. Housed in a former pharmacy, this restaurant does soulful local cooking at its best.
If your mouth isn’t watering already, it might be when you hear you about Fico Eataly World – a foodie theme park just a short drive from Bologna’s centre. Designed to showcase Italy’s best culinary treats, this agri-food park is a real feast for the senses. Hop on one of the site’s tricycles and let your nose lead you around the complex, where you can taste classic delicacies, watch top chefs create traditional dishes and learn all about the history of food in this part of Italy.
Wander the medieval streets
After you’ve sampled the best of Bologna’s food scene, amble slowly around the medieval centre to take in its historic sights.
Start your tour at Piazza Maggiore, the bustling heart of the city. Sit down at one of the cafes tucked into the square and admire the clutch of striking medieval buildings as you sip an aromatic Italian cofee. The best is the Basilica of San Petronio. Gothic and imposing, the church is the sixth largest on the continent but remains incomplete, despite building beginning more than 600 years ago.
Drive south-west of the city centre in the direction of Basilica Santuario della Madonna di San Luca. Situated on a hilltop overlooking Bologna, this 18th century church is connected to the city walls by the world’s longest portico, held up by 666 arches. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views out towards the lush green countryside.
Take a gondola through Venice
While you’re in Bologna, take a short day trip through the Italian countryside to Venice. Cross the glittering waters using the SR11 and park up to explore the magical City of Bridges.
Labyrinthine streets give way to spectacular squares – none more so than Piazza San Marco. This popular open space forms the heart of the city and it’s from here that you can catch your first glimpse of Basilica di San Marco. The Byzantine domes soaring up into the Venetian skies are just one of its breathtaking highlights. Head inside and you’ll find myriad golden mosaic ceilings, marble floors and countless religious relics, including those of Saint Mark.
The awe and magic of Venice’s architecture continues just beyond the church at Palazzo Ducale. Wander open-mouthed and admire the Gothic beauty of the palace’s trademark pink patterned stonework. Finish off your day trip aboard a gondola, the symbol of Venice. Sit back and relax while your gondolier sings as you glide peacefully along the Grand Canal, sweeping past beautiful buildings and passing beneath elegant bridges.
From mouth-watering meals in Italy’s culinary capital to gondola rides in The Floating City, car rental from Bologna is the perfect way to discover everything northern Italy has to offer.
