A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Bologna: Discover the Jewel of Italy

Bologna, located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, is a city full of charm and beauty. Known for its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich history, Bologna is a must-visit destination.

Piazza Maggiore

One of Bologna's most iconic spots is Piazza Maggiore, an impressive square surrounded by historic buildings. Here, you can admire the Basilica of San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, and the Palazzo Comunale, a medieval palace that houses the city's Town Hall.

The Towers of Bologna

Another symbol of the city is the Towers of Bologna. The Torre degli Asinelli and the Torre Garisenda are two leaning towers that offer stunning panoramic views of the city. Climbing the 498 steps of the Torre degli Asinelli is quite a challenge, but the reward is well worth it.

The University of Bologna

Bologna is famous for being home to the University of Bologna, one of the oldest in the world. Strolling through the university campus feels like stepping back in time, with its historic buildings and academic atmosphere. Don’t miss the University Library, which houses an impressive collection of ancient books.

Bolognese Cuisine

You can’t visit Bologna without trying its delicious cuisine. The city is known for dishes like lasagna, tortellini, and Bolognese ragù. Stroll through the Mercato di Mezzo, a covered market where you can sample local products and enjoy authentic Bolognese cooking.

The Surroundings of Bologna

If you have time, we recommend exploring Bologna's surroundings. Just a few kilometers from the city, you’ll find Modena, famous for its cathedral and traditional balsamic vinegar. You can also visit Ravenna, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics.

Bologna is a city filled with history, culture, and gastronomy. From its impressive squares and towers to its delicious food, Bologna will captivate you with its Italian charm. Don’t hesitate to visit this hidden jewel of Italy!

Gastronomic Products of Bologna

• Tortellini

  Tortellini are a specialty of the Emilia-Romagna region, to which Bologna belongs. These small and delicious stuffed pasta are handmade and traditionally filled with pork, ham, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg. They are served in broth or with tomato sauce and are a must-try dish in Bologna.

• Ragù alla Bolognese

  Ragù alla Bolognese, also known as Bolognese sauce, is another typical dish of Bologna. This sauce is made with minced pork and beef, onion, carrot, celery, tomato, and red wine. It is slow-cooked for several hours to achieve an intense flavor and is traditionally served with fresh pasta, such as tagliatelle.

• Torta di Riso

  Torta di Riso is a traditional dessert from Bologna. It is a sweet rice cake, similar to a pudding, made with rice, milk, sugar, eggs, butter, and lemon zest. It is a soft and creamy dessert, perfect to enjoy after a traditional Bolognese meal.

Sports Activities in Bologna, Italy

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Italy. You can attend a match at the Renato Dall'Ara Stadium, home of Bologna F.C. 1909, one of the oldest teams in Italy.

Cycling

Bologna is a cyclist-friendly city, with numerous routes and trails to explore. You can rent a bike and tour the city or venture into the surrounding hills for a more challenging experience.

Hiking

The hills surrounding Bologna offer numerous hiking opportunities. You can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape while exercising.

Swimming

If you prefer water sports, Bologna has several public swimming pools where you can swim. During the summer, you can also visit the nearby beaches on the Adriatic coast.

Corriendo

Running is another popular activity in Bologna. The city has several parks and trails where you can run, including Parco della Montagnola and Parco di San Pellegrino.

Nearby Places to Bologna (Italy)

If you are in Bologna and want to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns offering unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Ravenna, an Italian city full of history and charm, will captivate you with its stunning Byzantine mosaics and UNESCO World Heritage monuments. You can also enjoy its exquisite gastronomy, featuring dishes like piadina and fresh seafood delicacies.

Ferrara, a Renaissance gem in the heart of Italy. Its cobblestone streets transport you to another era while you enjoy its exquisite cuisine, featuring dishes like cappellacci and salama da sugo. A perfect destination for history lovers and food enthusiasts.

Rimini, the jewel of the Italian Adriatic coast, will captivate you with its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife. You can also savor the delicious local cuisine, where Mediterranean flavors blend with fresh seafood products. An unforgettable experience for sun and food lovers!