Bologna Must-See Guide: Italy’s Culinary & Cultural Treasure 🇮🇹🍝

Bologna blends medieval charm with rich flavors and vibrant student life—less touristy than Florence, but just as captivating.

1. Piazza Maggiore & Neptune Fountain 🏛️⛲
Start in the heart of the city. Admire the grand Basilica di San Petronio, wander the square, and snap a photo of the iconic Fountain of Neptune.

2. The Two Towers (Due Torri) 🗼🗼
Climb the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of the red rooftops and surrounding hills. The Garisenda Tower leans dramatically nearby.

3. Porticoes of Bologna 🚶♀️🧱
Walk under the endless portici—covered arcades stretching over 60 km! UNESCO-listed and perfect for shade or rain.

4. Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre 📚💀
Step into one of Europe’s oldest universities. The wooden Anatomical Theatre is beautifully bizarre.

5. Santo Stefano Complex ⛪🔍
A maze of interconnected churches known as the "Seven Churches"—peaceful and unique.

6. San Luca Sanctuary 🌄⛪
Walk (or take a mini-train) up the world’s longest portico to this hilltop church for great views and spiritual calm.

7. Food Heaven: Eat Everything 🍝🧀

Try tagliatelle al ragù (real Bolognese sauce—no spaghetti here!)

Don’t miss tortellini in brodo and fresh mortadella

Visit Mercato delle Erbe or Quadrilatero for local flavors and aperitivo

8. Hidden Canals 🌊🔍
Peek through the Little Venice window (Finestrella di Via Piella) to see a secret canal running through the city.

9. Museums & Art 🖼️🎶
Explore the Museo di Palazzo Poggi, MAMbo (modern art), or catch a concert at Teatro Comunale.

10. Nightlife & Aperitivo 🍷🎶
Thanks to its large student population, the city stays lively well into the night. Head to Via del Pratello or Piazza Verdi for a buzzing atmosphere.

Tips for Visiting 🗺️

Everything is walkable

Great year-round, but spring 🌸 and autumn 🍂 are ideal

Try to stay a night—Bologna glows in the evening

Bologna isn’t just a stop—it’s a full-bodied experience of flavor, history, and soul. ❤️
#historicallandmarks#familytrip

Post by Ana Gashtarova | Jul 30, 2025

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