Why you absolutely want to go to Bologna, Italy
Every now and then I have a bit of trouble with indecisiveness, or call it a luxury problem. When a weekend getaway comes up, the first sticking point is always the date. Once that has been decided after a number of endless meetings, the location comes next. And then the indecisiveness kicks in. Barcelona? Pff, I've really been there so many times, I know that city well enough, you know. Valencia? Same story. Berlin? Way too cold at this time of year. Rome? Oh, that has become so touristy. Just pretentiousness actually. But the upside is that I get to visit other nice locations that might not be so obvious. Like Bologna. A little town in Italy and therefore super fun for a city trip. Check out the best tips for Bologna here. Where to eat, sleep, and the sights you shouldn't miss. There's a good chance you'll be just as quickly convinced as I am.
Sights in Bologna
Piazza Maggiore
The central square of Bologna, always very busy and the heart of the city. Here you will find the San Petronio church, which was originally supposed to be even larger than St. Peter's Basilica. The pope wasn't entirely on board with that, and the construction was halted. You can enter for free, just like at the Palazzo d’Accursio. That's the town hall of Bologna, and you can also take a quick look inside for free. Handy: the San Petronio church is currently being restored, so if you go up, you immediately have a free beautiful viewpoint outside. Do it.
Piazza Del Nettuno
If you walk across Piazza Maggiore, you'll naturally end up at this square with the beautiful fountain as its eye-catcher. Almost impossible to miss, but absolutely worth it with all the impressive buildings around it. And of course, for an Italian espresso on the terrace.
Torre degli Asinelli
Two quite tall towers that Bologna is known for. For a small fee, you can go inside and climb the nearly five hundred steps. From there, you have an impressive view, but you do have to be willing to work out a bit for it.
Visit Quadrilatero
They also call this the culinary district, and you understand: as soon as it has to do with food, I'm in. Very nice, there's also an indoor market here which has become a bit of a food hall idea (but much less hip, nicer, cheaper, and full of locals – so top). The best osterias are also in this area, especially in Via Pescherie Vecchie and Vicolo Ranocchi. Be sure to try the Spaghetti al Ragú, the specialty of Bologna.
Visit the towns around Bologna
If the city disappoints you (although I can't really imagine that, especially in terms of culinary experiences), the surroundings are also really nice. The town of Modena or Ferrara, but also Florence is just an hour and a half drive away. Modena is on the UNESCO list, so you can imagine that it's worth a trip.
Get an ice cream at Gelateria Gianni
You definitely want to try Italian ice cream, yes, even in winter. And a very simple research pointed me to just one name: Gelateria Gianni. The best of the best in Bologna and also very affordable.
Hotspots Bologna
I wouldn't have chosen the interior myself, but this is really a staple in Bologna because of the food, and that's what it's all about in the end. Don't be surprised: you can also order Wiener schnitzel here, but the only right choice is of course the pasta.
Via Mentana 1
Counting calories or a low-carb diet is a no-go in Bologna, but you might have already thought that. Because you visit this trattoria for the pasta. So delicious, just a bit different than usual, and you'll find yourself in pasta heaven in no time.
Via Luigi Serra 9
If you're more into the interior, this spot is a good choice – although you wouldn't say that from the outside. Yes, pasta is on the menu, but it's a bit more towards fine dining here. Really a recommendation for an extensive evening of dining.
Via Augusto Majani 1
Do as the locals do, because you are surrounded by them here. Small wooden tables, bottles of wine everywhere (always a good sign), very affordable food, and traditional dishes are served.
Via Emilia Levante 142
Osteria al 15
Once again a local hotspot with dishes from Bologna (side note: that's not the pasta bolognese we make…). In terms of location, this spot is also easily accessible, close to the center but without the sky-high prices you often pay there. Oh yes: try the tiramisu if you still have room. If not, then still.
Via Mirasole 13
The dishes here are not fully based on the cuisine of Bologna for a change. Here you see many other Italian influences. Many seafood dishes as well, which you don't see much in Bologna. So if you're in the mood for that, you're in the right place.
Via Cartoleria 15
Where to sleep in Bologna
Each room here has a different style and is equipped with all comforts. The location is also very central: close to Piazza dell Agosto.
Via Agemenonne Zappoli 2
A stone's throw from the two large towers, you will find this classically chic hotel. Luxury rooms for an ultimate relaxing getaway.
Via Guglielmo Oberdan 12
Modern four-star hotel, with a nice restaurant and a good bar. Here you will find an extensive breakfast buffet, which is always a big plus for me. This is located near the university, so there's a lot of liveliness in the area.
Via Zaccherini Alvisi 16
The name says it all: it is charming. Not a word of a lie. Some rooms have the cutest little balcony.
If you don't have this, you can enjoy your espresso on the panoramic rooftop terrace. Also fine.
Via Frassinago 31
