Bologna

Bologna is the regional capital, famed for its medieval porticoes, world's oldest university, and rich culinary tradition. It is nicknamed 'La Dotta, La Grassa, La Rossa' for its learning, food, and red-brick architecture.

Things to do

Climb the Two Towers — Climb Torre degli Asinelli for panoramic city views.
Walk the Porticoes — Stroll the UNESCO-listed porticoes stretching 40km across the city.
Visit the University — Tour the world's oldest university, founded in 1088.
Explore Piazza Maggiore — Visit the grand central square and the Basilica di San Petronio.
Browse Quadrilatero Market — Shop fresh local produce and cured meats at this ancient market district.
Visit Basilica di San Petronio — Explore one of the world's largest churches, home to a fascinating indoor sundial and stunning Gothic interior.
Tour the Neptune Fountain — Admire Giambologna's 16th-century bronze masterpiece at the heart of the city near Piazza del Nettuno.
Explore the Archiginnasio Library — Visit the historic university library featuring an ornate anatomical theatre used for medical demonstrations in the 1600s.
Take a Food Tour — Sample authentic mortadella, tortellini, and tagliatelle al ragù at local shops and family-run trattorias in the city center.
Visit MAMbo Museum — Discover contemporary Italian art at Bologna's modern art museum, housed in a converted early 20th-century building.

Food to try

Tagliatelle al Ragù — The authentic Bolognese sauce served on fresh egg pasta, never spaghetti.
Mortadella — Soft, delicately spiced pork sausage originating from Bologna.
Tortellini in Brodo — Tiny stuffed pasta rings served in a rich capon broth.
Crescentine — Fried dough pockets served with salumi and squacquerone cheese.

Local customs & good to know

Lunch is sacred — Many shops close from 1–3pm; plan meals and errands accordingly.
Portico etiquette — Walk on the right side of the porticoes to keep the flow moving.
University city vibe — Bologna has a young, lively atmosphere — evenings are social and spirited.