My last trek to Italy in December 2024 I knew I had to make Bologna a destination stop. It’s why it’s on my list of stop during my upcoming Heart of Italy Tour. Bologna is a city full of rich history and unbelievable tastes.
Bologna: The Fat
A gateway to the Emilia-Rogmana region, or The Food Valley of Italy, Bologna is an incredible city where foodies can delight in sites and tastes. Visit Mercato delle Erbe and its numerous food stands, markets, shops, and eateries. Walk the Quadrilatero, the former site of the old markets of Bologna. These historic streets are filled with incredible food markets with fresh pasta, cheeses, and many delicious products from this region.
This is a perfect city to take a food walking tour or a cooking class. Try Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, slices of prosciutto di Parma, and enjoy its famous Mortadella di Bologna, tortellini, ragú Bolognese, or lasagna.
Bologna: The Red
Originally an Etruscan city, Bologna is known for its red roofs and UNESCO World Heritage porticos. These little 12th-century inventions built housing and a covered walkway throughout the city for over 38 miles. But this is just the beginning of architectural and archeological discoveries here.
Bologna has its famous leaning towers Asinelli and Garisenda, which are both in the process of being restored. Find your way to the Piazza Maggiore and start at Palazzo d’Accursio, the city’s government center. Marvel at the staircases built to allow horse-drawn carriages to climb the building and visit the Clock Tower for 360 views. Enter the Salaborsa Library and see unearthed Roman ruins under the glass floor. Outside check out the incredible Fountain of Neptune then visit the Basilica of San Petronio, one of the biggest Cathedrals with its sun-dial and famous art.
Bologna: The Learned
Bologna is home to the oldest university in Europe and the second largest in Italy. Former students include Laura Bassi, the first woman to hold a university professorship, astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, writer Umberto Eco, and revolutionary Luigi Zamboni. The botanical gardens have a unique collection. There is also a large geological collection of dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals.
Bologna is also home to Carpigiani Gelato University. Master gelato makers teach the fine artisanal methods of perfecting gelato. Complete a visit here to see the gelato museum. Bologna is truly the capital of gelato.
Bologna is a perfect place to start your discovery of this area. You can take a short trip to Parma and taste the ‘King of Cheeses’ at a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory. This is also where you’ll find a Prosciutto di Parma or ham farm and factory. Discover Modena and learn first-hand why its balsamic vinegar is incredible. Motorsport enthusiasts can explore the Ferrari, Lamborgini, and Ducati museums. Visit Bologna and you will not be disappointed.
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Jennie Olson Six 