Towers and pasta in Bologna Italy

For most people Bologna is famous for the spaghetti but this medieval North-Italian city has a lot more to offer. Situated in the fertile lands of Italy, Bologna boasts of the wonders of the latest Italian cuisine. The city is easily accessible by plane from the nearby Forli airport. Domestic flights land in the central airport closer to Bologna. You can also choose the train from other important cities of region such as Venice, Florence and Parma. The climate is pleasant during the summer with only a few quick showers to calm the heat. During the spring the weather can be a bit chilly or windy so it’s better to try in September if you’re not planning for the summer. Hotels are located within the historic city center and therefore prices are quite high. There are only two youth hostels far from the center. The best way to get around the city is on foot but there are numerous bus lines too

Gastronomy and history - Bologna Attractions

This region of Italy is an important agricultural area that’s why there are exceptional quality foods in every store. In the center of Bologna at the Piazza Maggiore starts several small streets with shops where you can will everything you can imagine. The most well-known specialty is the local pasta; let it be tagliatelle, spaghetti or tortellini. Tortellini is available in a number of versions such as the one filled with ricotta, ham or spinach. Don’t leave the city without tasting it! The other famous dish from Bologna is the spaghetti. It is different than those of South-Italy and the international version. The Bologna style spaghetti uses minced meat, a bit of tomato and parmesan cheese on top. The fruits and vegetables, seafood and meat are presented in a wide range too. The mortadella is an Italian sausage that can be 30 cm wide per slice best enjoyed in a fresh ciabatta. During the day local bars make fresh piadina, a sort of wrap filled with ham, ruccola and cheese. Try the best Italian coffees to accompany your supper. The wine selection is also great there are no wrong choices.

Bologna is not just the city of restaurants but also of culture. The Two Towers are the symbols of the city. Built in the 13th century the Torre Asinelli is an impressive sight with the height of 97 meters. Admire the view from the top. If you look closely you can see the numerous towers around the city. Some of them can be visited. The Piazza Maggiore is the heart of the city and it’s only a five minute walk from the towers. Here stands the Ducal Palace, the Univesity of Bologna, and the Basilica of San Petronio. The University of Bologna is the oldest in the world with a foundation of 1088. Look around in the inner hall and some parts of the building are open for the public. The nearby library is an example of old and modern at the same place. The facade of the basilica is undergoing repairs at the moment but the interior is open. Admire the beautiful altars, sacristy and sacred relics. Stop by at the Piazza Maggiore for a glass of wine and watch the world passing by.

The local churches are always open and the entrance is free. There are masses in Italian but get up to date information in the churches. Take a stroll in city and look for quality shops with local products. The city has many kilometers of arcades so you don’t have to worry about sudden showers ruining your day. Spend some extra days visiting the nearby towns like Florence, Parma, Modena or Ravenna and the seashore.