My answer to the questions “Where is the first place you wanted to go when you were a kid” was always the same; Rome. Then I grew up and learned that there are other cities in Italy than the triangle of Rome, Florence, Venice.. As time went on, I did not really like touristic places, and instead of going to a crowded and popular place on my travels, I chose cities that were more local but smooth, and even less preferred cities that would offer me a boredom-free trip.. Italy, which I liken very much to Turkey with its people, food, ease of transportation and climate, is by far my favorite among all the countries I have visited; because I don’t believe that a person can see any city in this country and be told ‘why did we come here’?. If there is such a thing as risk-free travel, Italian cities definitely include it.
If you have 2 days to travel and you’re in for a calmer, more intimate experience. If you want to see a city, Bologna, the red city of Italy, famous for its gluttonous sauces, is one of the routes you can choose.. Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northeastern Italy.. With its abundant portico architecture and red silhouette, Bologna is considered one of the most developed and richest settlements in Italy and the European continent.. As a result of this, the city has an environment where you can experience the Italian local life in depth with its advanced social life opportunities.. Hosting the world’s first and oldest university, Bologna is a typical student city and reflects the dynamics of this situation in all its characters.
Bologna’s Portico Architecture Heart Biz
The terracotta streets with every shade of orange in the city dominated by medieval architecture will encourage you to walk all the time in Bologna. However, what will motivate you here is; Despite the fact that the city has advanced so economically and politically, it has not lost anything from its historical texture and has been able to preserve its unique typical features over the years.. Wide squares, delicious pasta, panoramic spots and red streets quickly draw those who come to Bologna into the local life and never leave without a smile on their face.. Moreover, Bologna is also very close to Parma and Modena, other cities worth seeing in the Emilia-Romagna region.. Therefore, people with plenty of time can also travel in the triangle of Bologna, Modena and Parma.
Panoramic Bologna View
Transportation from the Airport to the Center in Bologna
Passport after arriving at Guglielmo Marconi Airport After your transactions, you can choose two ways to go to the center.. Especially if you are more than two people, taking a taxi is the first alternative.. Because if you stay close to the center, your transportation by taxi does not exceed 20 Euros.. Since we went to Bologna with 3 people, we provided transportation to the center by taxi for the first time on an international trip, and the amount we paid was 19 Euros.. Another alternative is to use the shuttle buses called Aerobus with BLQ written on it.. You can buy tickets for these buses before leaving the airport or from the driver on the bus.. The cost per person is 6 Euros one way and it departs from the airport every 11 minutes.. It takes 20 minutes to get from the airport to the center.
Bologna, Old Town
Places to Visit in Bologna & Bologna Travel Guide
#Piazza Maggiore, Square Maggiore
As in all cities of Italy, the first stop for Bologna is the main square of the city, Piazza Maggiore. The beauty of the square also comes from the main architecture of the medieval city that surrounds it.. When you stand in the middle of Piazza Maggiore and face the Gothic basilica called San Petronio, you will also meet the main religious structure of Bologna.
San Petronio Basilica and Piazza Maggiore Square, Bologna
Palazzo dei Banchi, the former bank headquarters to the left of the basilica , to the right of the basilica is the Palazzo dei Notai and next to it is the Palazzo d’Accursio, which used to serve as the town hall but is now visited as a museum.. Just behind you, the Palazzo Re Enzo and the luxury cafes underneath, the Biblioteca Salaborsa located at the point to its left, and the Neptune Fountain between these two buildings, Bologna’
San Petronio Basilica, Bologna
#Basilica di San Petronio, Basilica of San Petronio
Obviously I’ve seen the Basilica of San Petronio before It’s hard to compare it to one of the religious architectures I’ve seen in Italy; basilica literally puts on a Gothic style show. The first thing I can say about this place; It was really huge and shimmering in all its majesty in the middle of Piazza Maggiore.. If we compare the volume of San Petronio, the tenth largest church in the world, with the Duomo di Milano, the third largest church in the world, I think I can explain a little bit what I mean..
Saint Petronio Basilica 5. It is named after the bishop Saint Petronius, who was the patron saint of Bologna in the 19th century.. In Italian cities, the church that greets us when we arrive at the main square is usually the main church of the city; but in Bologna the situation is a little different.. Although the Basilica of San Petronio embraces visitors right in the middle of Piazza Maggiore, it is not the main church of the city.
Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
Another interesting piece of information about the Basilica of San Petronio is that its construction is actually unfinished.. His work, which started in 1390, lasted for centuries and could not take its final form due to revisions made to different points of the architecture.. The basilica, which was designed to be even bigger than San Pietro in the Vatican at the first stage, took its final form as it is today after the money in the church fund ran out during its construction.. As you will see when you go, a part of the front seems to be missing in terms of embroidery.. However, the basilica is so integrated within itself that you can even convince yourself that this is the main design.
Piazza Maggiore, Bologna
Entrance to the basilica is free, but closed from 14:00 to 15:00. It has 22 chapels, you can visit one of them, Capella Bolognini, by paying 3 Euro. In this chapel is the fresco ‘Heaven and Hell’ by Giovanni da Modena inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy.. The last activity to do in the basilica is to go to the terrace and watch the panoramic view of the square.. However, since only 1 day a month can be made, the reservations fill up well in advance.. For this reason, we will have another suggestion for the terrace and the panoramic view.. You can see it in the rest of the article.
Bonus: Basilica’s L. It has another entrance from Galvani Square.. The ‘aperitivo’ event is held on the terrace, which you can access from here; However, you can go with the condition of making a reservation in advance.. We couldn’t go as our trip was a bit spontaneous.. If you would like to evaluate, you can view the event details by clicking here.
In Signorvino, in Piazza Maggiore with a view of the Basilica of San Petronio
#Piazza Nettuno, Nettuno Square & Fontana di Nettuno, Neptune Fountain
Maggiore Square When you take the basilica behind you in , you will see Nettuno Square on your left, this mini square is the neighbor of Maggiore Square and takes its name from the Neptune Fountain that it hosts.. The fountain, whose construction was completed in 1667, has left behind 4 centuries.. The best part of Bologna is that it allows you to fully feel the history of the Middle Ages while walking.. The most important feature of the Neptune Fountain is that the statue of Neptune in the fountain was made by Giambologna, the mannerist sculptor of the late Renaissance.
Sala Stock Exchange Library, Bologna
#Biblioteca Salaborsa, Salaborsa Library
Biblioteca Salaborsa, the former stock exchange building, is now the main library of the city. Located in Nettuno Square across Palazzo Re Enzo, Biblioteca Salaborsa was opened to visitors in 2001.. The venue, one of the best examples of the combination of classical Italian style with modern architecture, brought the system of big city libraries in Europe to Bologna as it was.. Those who are curious can enter it for free and even benefit from the free internet.. Open from 14:30 to 20:00 on Mondays, from 10:00 to 20:00 on weekdays, and from 10:00 to 19:00 on Saturdays.. What can i say; It’s hard not to be jealous of Bolognese even with this library alone!
San Pietro Cathedral, also known as Bologna Cathedral
#Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro, Bologna Cathedral
San Petronio Basilica As I mentioned, although the basilica is in the main square called Piazza Maggiore, it is not the ‘duo’ of the city.. Bologna’s main cathedral, the Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro on Via dell’Independenza. That’s why it’s called Bologna Cathedral for short.. Since it is known by several names, I have listed each title so that you will not have trouble finding it.. Let’s secure our business.
St. Peter’s Cathedral has a long story. In fact, there was a cathedral at its current location in 1028; However, this cathedral was destroyed by a fire in 1141.. A new cathedral was built in the same place in 1184; 14 to the new build. and 15. Some additions have been made over the centuries.. San Pietro, which was declared the main cathedral of the city after these innovations, was destroyed again in time and its present form was only 16 years old.. at the end of the century. Therefore, much of what can be seen today is actually 17.. century, a small section is from the 16th century..
Tower view of San Pietro Cathedral, also known as Bologna Cathedral
One of the reasons why St. Peter’s Cathedral is on the list; 70 meters tall bell tower. The cathedral, which has the second tallest bell tower in the city, is also the address for those who want to watch Bologna panoramically.. Climbing the tower is 5 Euros, climbing the stairs is a little difficult, but it is a little less painful as there are pauses in between and you can see outside from the mini windows next to the stairs.. The view at the top of the tower is truly impressive.. I’m sure you’ll enjoy taking lots of photos and enjoying the scenery, especially since you have the chance to see all sides of it.
San Pietro Cathedral, also known as Bologna Cathedral tower view of
#Le Due Torri, The Two Towers: Asinelli and Garisenda Towers
We came to the two towers, the symbol of Bologna! Le Due Torri, the twins of Bologna competing with the Leaning Tower of Pisa, is at the forefront of sights no matter what source you look for.. Since they are in the Centro region, they are always right next to you.. One of the towers named Garisenda, which was built by the Asinelli family in the 1100s, was shaved a few centuries ago due to the danger of collapse.. When you go, you will see that the 97-meter Asinelli tower acts as the compass in the city on the slope of his brother Garisenda.. Thanks to you, there is no getting lost; always follow Asinelli!
Especially, when you go to see this twin architecture that adorns the red-colored landscape of the city when viewed from the top of the Cathedral of San Pietro, you should go to Pizzeria Due Torri just below it. be sure to stop by. This pizza buffet is probably the address for the most delicious and cheap pizza you can eat in Italy.. A huge slice of Margherita pizza 1.5 Euros.
Le Due Torri, The Two Towers of Bologna
#Mercato delle Erbe
Marketers! If you’ve read this far, you’ve won.. Mercato delle Erbe in the old town area, Bologna’s largest food market. You can come here to buy fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, delicatessen products and drinks.. Mercato delle Erbe is located on Via Ugo Bassi and is open daily between 07:15-13:00 and 17:30-19:30.
Finestrella Window, Canale di Reno
#Canale di Reno and Finestrella, Reno Channel and Finestrella Window
Making Piella Street one of Bologna’s tourist spots, Finestrella is another must-see in Bologna. This is a tiny window overlooking the city’s famous Reno Canal.. This spot is also known as Little Venice because of the view it presents; they are not unfair. You can stop by here for a little bit of Venice with its orange buildings and canal view.. You can take your photos both from this window and from the point across the road.
Canale di Reno, Bologna – Finestrella is the mini window that appears right across
#Piazza Santa Stefano, Santa Stefano Square
Bologna’ After finishing the main tourist spots in Via Clavature, the direction is Santa Stefano Square.. The square takes its name from the Santo Stefano church; but we can actually call it a monastery with other personalized buildings next to it.. It is already known as the Square with 7 Churches in Bologna.. A huge second-hand market is held on the first Saturday and Sunday of the month in this square, which is much quieter than Maggiore.. This is what I read before I went; but when we went in the middle of the month, we were able to dive into the market and play around with the stalls.. If you’re lucky, you might come across it too.
Santa Stefano Square, Bologna
After wandering around Piazza Santo Stefano, don’t forget to eat ice cream at Cremeria Santa Stefano, which is located nearby.. Especially salted caramel will probably be one of the best flavors you will ever taste in your life.. Cremeria Santa Stefano is also famous as the best ice cream parlor in Bologna.
Second Hand Market in Santa Stefano Square, Bologna
Museums in Bologna
1 in Bologna Since we had ,5 days, we did not have the opportunity to visit the museum; Of course, it could also be the effect of sunny weather.. However, if you have a long time and you want to visit a museum, we recommend the national gallery Pinacoteca di Nazionale Bologna, the archeology museum Museo Civico Archeologico and the medieval museum Museo Civico Medievale, which are on our list.. These three museums are described everywhere as Bologna’s best museums.
Via Clavature, Bologna
Accommodation in Bologna – Where to Stay in Bologna
While we were planning our trip to Bologna, we rented a house from Airbnb to be more comfortable as we were 3 people.. We can say that we were very comfortable and very pleased with our hostess, Roberta.. The link of Ev is here.
By the way, we leave our membership link here here, which offers 130 TL discount for first time stayers with Airbnb.. We earn credits when you book at a discount, so we travel economically together.
Shopping in Bologna
We said it’s one of the richest cities in Italy, will your shopping be left behind? Those who want to get involved with fashion while I’m here; Make a note of Via dell’Indipendenza, Via Ugo Bassi and Via Rizzoli and Via D’Azeglio, referred to as Zone T, in the notebooks.. You can reach all of them in a short time by walking around Piazza Maggiore.
Shopping Streets in Bologna
Food and Drink in Bologna
Bologna, one of Italy’s gourmet cities. It is very popular especially for the traditional flavors of the Emilia-Romagna region where it is located.. We all know Bologna with its Bolognese sauce with minced meat.. For this reason, the most important thing to taste when you come here is pasta with minced meat.. In Bologna they say ‘alla Bolognese’ sosa ‘al Ragu’. In order not to be surprised when you see it on the menu, we wanted to let you know in advance.. Below is a list of the places we noted for Bologna.
Bella Vita, Bologna Old Town
Where to Eat in Bologna
Most Popular Restaurant: Trattoria Anna Maria
Most Popular Pizzeria: Pizzeria Due Torri
Pizzeria Due Torri , Bologna
Most Popular Deli: Tamburini
Most Popular Nostalgic Cafe: Caffe Tailor
Most Popular Nostalgic Patisserie: Gamberini
Tamburini, Bologna
Restaurant and Restaurant Recommendations: Al Cambio, Da Serghei, Oltre, Trattoria La Santa, Trattoria Bertozzi, Ristorante Portici (* Michelin), Ri storante Donatello, Ristorante di Cesari, Ristorante Pappagallo, Ristorante Scaccomatto
Cocktail Places, Snack Bars and Bars: Pastis, Casa Minghetti, Nu Lounge Bar, Vanilla, Il Rialto, Marsalino, Bella Vita
Bologna’s Most Famous Caffe Tailor
Cafes: Caffe Terzi, Gamberini, Caffe Zanarini
in Bologna Ice cream: Cremeria Santa Stefano, Stefino Bio (vegan and organic ice cream in Bologna), Galliera 49, Il Gelatauro
Cremeria Santa Stefano’s ice cream that we love, Bologna
You can see our venue experiences in our Bologna eating and drinking notes from the photos. You can reach our mini notes and all our photos about our trips in Bologna and other Italian cities by clicking the hashtag #journavelitalia on her Instagram profile.. Follow us so we can travel together!
Our other articles about Italy:
Click for Places to Visit in Turin.
Milan in 24 Hours: Click for Milan Travel Guide in 1 Day.
Click for 2 Cities of Love in Veneto: Places to Visit in Venice and Verona.
Click for Cinque Terre Travel Guide.
Click for Italy’s Colorful Coasts: 10 Towns in 6 Days in Liguria.
Places to Visit in Rome: 12 for 4 Days Click for Suggestions.
Click for Places to Visit in Genoa.
Bologna, Old Town
Va Tagliatelle al Ragu in Mola, Bologna
Pizzeria Due Torri, Bologna
Casa Minghetti, Bologna
Caffe Terzi’s chocolate cappuccino is one of the favourites
A little park view from the University area, Bologna
Not without a bike, of course, Bologna
