a stop-over in Bologna;
Here are the must see spots in La Rossa, the red city of northern Italy, for a day-trip or short-stay.
Admittedly this guide could have more points of interest, but due to our last minute plans, these are the only spots I can recommend from experience, but they are useful for a first-time visitor. I will also say that Bologna was the warmest (in terms of friendliness) Italian city I have come across. The people and food are definitely worth a longer stay than what we were able to do previously:
LOGISTICS
GETTING THERE:
Bologna does have an airport, but we found ourselves in the home of bolognese because we rerouted and extended our train trip from Milan to Venice, stopping in Bologna for a night (we opted to stay close to the metro).
GETTING AROUND:
The main city is quite compact and easy to explore on foot, but many locals opt for bicycles, and there is public transport available.
EAT
Admittedly, we stayed in accommodation that had a kitchen, so opted for a grocery store for select meals and snacks – an option I actually prefer, because it allows you to try the local produce and flavours of a place, fresh. However, here are two recommendations I would give for a must-try meal in Bologna, as well as a spot for your picnic or snacking desires:
Osteria dell’Orsa, bolognese pasta restaurant
Founded in 1979, this spot has become one of the most famous taverns in Bologna – and rightfully so. The quaint hole-in-the-wall is based in the university town, and boasts an old-school demeanour, but some incredibly flavourful food. The menu, while diverse, offers some of the best rage alla bolognese I have ever had – and would strongly recommend. For the gluten-free, there is no suitable pasta (to my knowledge), but they were able to accommodate the allergy by serving a bowl of the ‘salsa’ (which was literally a dream come true for me). Such friendly and accommodating staff – they even gave me a free espresso.
La Salumeria di Bruno e Franco, meat deli
Close to Osteria dell’Orsa, you’ll see the iconic salumeria. Consider getting a variety of the meat and cheese cuts for a picnic in the piazza, or for a savoury breakfast (which is hard to come across in Italy).
EXPLORE
Majority of the ‘tick-box’ monuments are within walking distance of one another, but here’s a bit more info on each place and some of my favourite way to enjoy them:
Piazza Maggiore, main square
The heart of the city is the result of centuries of transformations, surrounded by the Basilica and Palazzos.
Fountain of Neptune, sculpture fountain
Commissioned by the church, the Fountain of Neptune was (on surface level) an attempt to bring the town’s people together again – unite them around a communal watering hole. However, the statue is a lot more politically charged – read more about the Pope’s requests and sculptor’s acts of protest here – like if you take a closer look, you’ll see 4 river nymphs on each corner, each spraying water out of their nipples. Irrespective, my favourite way to experience the fountain was to grab a take-away aperol spritz (a whopping €3), some crisps and my mini tavli board. An unmatched experience.
San Petronio Basilica, church
Dedicated to the patron saint of the city, Saint Petronius (a bishop of Bologna), the basilica is an iconic feature of Bologna. Originally constructed to compete with Rome’s St. Peter’s Basilica, the construction project lost its funding and had to adapt – leading to its dual-tone facade. While the exterior appears to be a ‘normal-sized’ basilica, the interior was one of the most vast spaces I have been in – the same feeling of looking up at a sky full of stars and suddenly feeling small. It’s a must-visit monument.
(Remember to dress respectfully, as with any religious space).
Torre degli Asinelli, leaning towers
Originally built with a military function for signalling and defence, as well as signalling the social prestige of the family that had the towers, they have become a symbol of the city. The Asinelli Tower, the taller of the two, has 498 internal steps that reach the 97.02m height, offering spectacular views of the city. The second tower, Torre Garisenda, is only 47m tallied has a steep overhang (due to the foundations).
Via Rizzoli, shopping street
Another great place to view the Torre, this street is full of stores and cafes also worth a visit. Be sure to check when the seasonal sales start, or simply enjoy the buzz of the town.
NEIGHBOURING TOWNS
Explore other beautiful towns of Northern Italy:
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