With a vibrant culture, stunning old-world architecture, and mouthwatering food scene, Bologna is a worthy spot to add to your northern Italy itinerary! Here's everything I plan to do, see, visit, and eat when I visit one day 🤞
Steller
Bologna
The Metropolitan's location manages to be both in the middle of things and mellow & quiet. It's got a convenient spot in the city center that's just a short stroll from the train station and very near Piazza Maggiore. Plus the reviews for their rooms and service are excellent!
Offering a menu full of pastries and classic espresso drinks, this looks like the perfect spot to fuel up in the morning.
When I'm visiting a new city I always want to make sure I sample all the best flavors in town, and sometimes that can be tough to determine as a first time visitor. Sometimes it's best to leave it to the pros!
Dating back to the 15th century, this piazza is one of the most iconic locations in the city. It seems like it's just as beautiful by night, with all the lights illuminating the intricate design details.
All the reviews I've read RAVE about the cappuccino from this coffee shop, which feels like a very Italian way to start the day ☕
The incredibly ornate interior of this Gothic basilica looks like it needs to be seen to be believed. The property is also home to 22 art-filled side chapels, so I think the majority of an afternoon could easily be spent exploring here.
Meaning "The National Art Gallery of Bologna," this vast exhibition of historic artwork is one of the most important museums in the region. It looks like there's an entrance fee, but with this collection of works it certainly seems worth it.
This spot is more of a splurge, I mean they have a Michelin star after all, but when in Rom-err...Bologna!
This full day tour shows you a little bit of everything that makes this region the enduring and storied destination that it is – from Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, to the traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, on to Lambrusco sparkling wine, and even the roaring engines of Ferrari.
After a day spent sampling the flavors of the area, it seems likely you'd work up quite an appetite. The ricotta-stuffed tortellini in a brown butter sage sauce at Trattoria Gianni looks absolutely heavenly!
This is evidently one of the longest-running cafes in the city, they're known for their pastries, cakes, and artisanal coffees.
This market is held in the oldest part of the city 7 days a week. From 8 am-8 pm you'll find stalls selling fresh pasta, fish, meat, fruits & vegetables, plus there are historic workshops and local craft shops! Sounds like a must-visit.
Awesome bustling market with food options ranging from a full meal to a snack. As the name suggests, this one is right in the middle of town, which seems convenient.
Gotta get in some culture and education when you're visiting such a historic city! The Museo di Palazzo Poggi houses the vast collection belonging to the Institute of Sciences.