The best things to do in Bologna
Bologna is a charming and historic city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy. Known for its beautiful medieval architecture, delicious cuisine, and lively student population, Bologna is a must-see destination for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or just want to indulge in some delicious pasta, Bologna has something to offer everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Bologna, from visiting historic landmarks to sampling local delicacies.
Explore the historic center
One of the best things to do in Bologna is to explore the historic center, which is home to a number of beautiful medieval buildings, including the Basilica of San Petronio, the Palazzo del Podestà , and the Palazzo della Mercanzia. The city center is also home to a number of charming piazzas, such as Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno, where you can relax and people watch.
Visit the University of Bologna
Another must-see destination in Bologna is the University of Bologna, which is the oldest university in the world. Founded in 1088, the university is home to a number of historic buildings and libraries, including the Archiginnasio, which was the main building of the university in the 16th century.
Discover the art and history of Bologna
Bologna is also home to a number of museums and art galleries that are worth visiting. The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is a great place to start, as it houses a collection of artwork from the 13th to the 18th centuries, including works by local artists such as Guido Reni and Francesco Francia. Another must-see destination is the Museo Civico Archeologico, which houses a collection of Roman and Etruscan artifacts.
Indulge in delicious local cuisine
No trip to Bologna would be complete without indulging in some of the delicious local cuisine. The city is famous for its traditional dishes, such as pasta with ragù (meat sauce), lasagna, and tortellini. Be sure to also try some of the local wines, such as Lambrusco and Pignoletto.
Relax in the parks and gardens
Bologna is also home to a number of beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Giardini Margherita and the Parco della Montagnola, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Take a day trip to nearby towns
If you have time, be sure to take a day trip to some of the nearby towns, such as Modena, which is famous for its balsamic vinegar, and Ferrara, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In conclusion, Bologna is a charming and historic city that has something to offer everyone. From its beautiful medieval architecture and delicious cuisine to its vibrant student population and cultural attractions, there is always something to see and do in Bologna. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or just want to relax and enjoy the local scenery, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained in this beautiful city.
Experience the nightlife
Bologna is also known for its lively nightlife, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a cozy wine bar or a lively dance club, you’ll find it in Bologna. One popular spot for a night out is the Quadrilatero, an area known for its trendy bars and restaurants. Another is the Navile area, where you can find a variety of pubs and clubs.
Shop at the markets
For shoppers, Bologna is home to a variety of markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce and local cheeses to handmade crafts and vintage clothing. One popular market is the Mercato delle Erbe, a large market that sells fresh produce, meats, cheeses and more. The Mercato di Mezzo, another popular market, is known for its variety of street vendors selling a wide range of goods.
Take a Food Tour
Bologna is also known for its delicious cuisine, and taking a food tour is a great way to experience it. You’ll learn about the local ingredients, traditional dishes and the culture of food in Bologna. During the tour, you’ll sample a variety of local specialties, such as traditional pasta dishes, cured meats, cheeses, and local wines.
Visit the Two Towers
Bologna is home to two iconic towers, the Asinelli and Garisenda towers. The Asinelli tower is the taller of the two, standing at 97.2 meters tall. Visitors can climb the 498 steps to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city. The Garisenda tower, on the other hand, is shorter and leans at a noticeable angle.
Take a stroll along the Portico di San Luca
The Portico di San Luca is a covered arcade that stretches for 3.5 kilometers and connects the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca to the city center. It is a great place for a leisurely stroll and offers panoramic views of the city. The arcade is lined with small chapels and is a great way to experience the religious side of Bologna.
Visit the Basilica of San Domenico
The Basilica of San Domenico is a beautiful Gothic church that is dedicated to Saint Dominic. The church is known for its impressive architecture, beautiful frescoes, and its reliquary, which contains the remains of Saint Dominic. The church is also home to several important works of art, including a fresco by Guido Reni and a sculpture by Nicolò dell’Arca.
Bologna is a city that offers a great combination of history, culture, food and relaxation. It is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or just want to indulge in some delicious pasta, Bologna has something to offer everyone. With so many things to see and do, you’ll never run out of things to do in Bologna.
