Italy’s history is rich and well-preserved. Between the Etruscans and Romans, beautiful architecture and culture have been passed down for centuries. Though the landscape of old building, basilicas, and towers are awe-inspiring, a trip outside the city for some winetasting or hiking give you an old-world perspective of Italy. The city of Bologna has a famous sauce named after it (Bolognese), so do not be surprised to find this delicious dish and many other kinds of pasta in restaurants dotting the city.
Asinelli Tower
Asinelli Tower is the tallest tower in the Bologna area at over 97 meters tall. The tower was built between 1109 and 1119 by the Asinelli family for military purposes and family prestige.
Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy
Piazza Maggiore
When heading to Bologna, one of the must-see destinations is Piazza Maggiore. Piazza Maggiore is at the very center of the city of Bologna.
Saint Petronius Church
As a minor basilica, Saint Petronius Church (or Basilica di San Petronio) has stood as a centerpiece and majestic symbol in Bologna.
Neptune Fountain
Fontana del Nettuno, or the Neptune Fountain, is one piazza over from Piazza Maggiore in Piazza Nettuno. Cardinal Legate Charles Borromeo commissioned this fountain in honor of his uncle, Pope Pies IV’s, election.
Santo Stefano Church
Another impressive basilica in Bologna is Santo Stefano Church (the Italian name is Complesso di Santo Stefano).
Archaeological Museum
Museo Civico Archeologico (Archaeological Museum) is an excellent stop when touring through the city of Bologna.
I Portici Hotel
When staying in Bologna, consider booking a hotel that has a historical backdrop with modern luxury amenities. I Portici Hotel is luxury and comfort all in one.
National Gallery
For a truly artistic experience, the Pinacoteca Nazionale Bologna is the place to go. This National Gallery is just minutes from the two towers and is housed in the old Jesuit Novitiate building.
La Piazzola
Beginning in 1251, Mercato Piazzola, or simply La Piazzola, was set up on Fridays and Saturdays to sell cattle.
Archiginnasio
Recognizable by its clock tower and 30 arches, the Archiginnasio of Bologna is currently the location of the Archignnasio Municipal Library and the Anatomical Theatre.
San Luca Sanctuary
Opened in 1765, San Luca Sanctuary (or Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca) is another basilica located in Bologna.
Galleria Cavour
Italy is known for high fashion, so one stop you’ll make on your vacation should be to a high-end galleria, like Galleria Cavour.
Museum of History
When you’re interested in learning more about Bologna as a city and its history, head over to the Museum of History at Palazzo Pepoli Museo Della Storia Di Bologna.
Saint Dominic Church
Flooded with basilicas, Bologna may seem overpopulated by these tremendous architectural feats. However, these minor basilicas are so beautiful, each is worth its own visit, and this includes Basilica of San Domenico (Saint Dominic Church).
Palazzo Fava
With a grand name like Palazzo Fava Ghisilieri (Palazzo Pava. Palzaao Delle Esponsizioni), guests should expect just as much grandeur inside the museum.
MAMbo
The Modern Art Gallery in Bologna is called MAMbo for short (Museo d’Arte Moderna do Bologna). Located in the heart of the city, it houses a permanent collection of Italian art from WWII to the present day.
The Hills Around Bologna
The architecture and history in Bologna cannot be argued, but what is often overlooked by tourists is the environment surrounding the city. By taking a walk through the hills around the city of Bologna, you’ll be inspired by the Italian landscape and awed by the historical views of the city. The Hills Around Bologna area also houses many wineries for an experience you’ll only find in Bologna.
Osteria dell’Orsa
Founded in 1979, Osteria dell’Orsa is located near Piazza Maggiore in a popular tourist district.
Trattoria Leonida
Located in the historic district of Bologna near Piazza Santo Stefano, Trattoria Leonida is toted as a “typical Bolognese restaurant.” What does this mean? Besides an exceptional wine list, this restaurant has been serving tradition Bolognese cuisine since 1938.
Drogheria Della Rosa
Drogheria Della Rosa is located close to the world’s oldest university in the center of the historic district in Bologna.
