Travel to Bologne

Explore

Bologne, Emilia-Romagna

Bologna is the capital city of the Emilia-Romagna region and is home to the oldest university in Europe, and in fact, the world (it dates from 1088!). It also has the longest system of arcades in the world (25 mi worth), an impressive number of museums, and, of course, the headquarters of the biggest Italian car and motorbike manufacturers.

In the Middle Ages, thanks to its strategic position, it was already one of the richest cities in Italy. All sorts of goods, such as marble, were transported on its ancient canals (which have since disappeared).

There are only 12 gates remaining from the ancient 19th century fortified walls that surrounded the city. However, the city has preserved its system of arcades, which stems from the overcrowded conditions in the city. Indeed, to build new lodgings, it was decided to construct porticoes propped up by pillars, which would make room for traffic while at the same time protecting pedestrians from the rain and the heat.

It has been nicknamed the red city because of the ochre shades of its buildings, but also for its long-standing allegiance to left wing politics.

Nestled in the heart of the car-producing region of Italy, it is home to the Lamborghini museum and the Ducati factory. These sites will enthral both diehard fans and visitors that are simply curious.

Both small and friendly, but also a little mysterious is how John Grisham, the famous novelist, describes Bologna, which he used as the setting for one of his books. There are actually numerous crime stories that have also been set in the capital of Emilia-Romagna.
For further information on car hire in Bologna, go to

  More

pros

•  Cultural diversity in the city centre
•  The varied landscapes of the Emilia-Romagna region

cons

•  No air links

  More

map Italy

Visit Bologne

• To see

  The Piazza Maggiore with Neptune's Fountain, the San Petronio Basilica, the city hall, and the library are all well worth a visit, as is the Piazza Santo Stefano and the entirely cobblestoned Seven Churches Square.
  The teatro anatómico is an amphitheatre completely made out of wood. It used to be one of the very few places in Italy where human dissection was performed (in 1315). It is located in the heart of the archiginnasio, which was the main building of the University of Bologna up until the 19th century. The architecture of this building is simply magnificent.
  The art gallery, one of the biggest in Italy, includes a large collection by local artists dating from the 14th to the 17th centuries.

    More

  To do

  Strolling around the city centre on foot among the Medieval alleys is a real treat. Via dell'Indipendenza, one of the city's main thoroughfares, connects the train station to the historical centre and makes it easy to get your bearings.
  We recommend climbing to the top of the Asinelli tower, a 97m high construction that was built in the 12th century and looks out over the entire city. However, there is no lift.
  We also recommend you visit the city's museums, which boast free entry.
  Motoring enthusiasts will head straight for the Ducati museum, the Ferrari of motorbikes, to discover the history of each model and the factory where all these unique parts are built. It's a journey that connects history to modern times. You will discover pell-mell that the Ducatti brothers first manufactured radios, typewriters, cameras and razors before opening their factory in 1935. And also that customers have to wait 3 or 4 months to get their Ducatti!
  Another exciting visit for car enthusiasts is the Lamborghini museum. Keep in mind, however, that you have to register 3 weeks in advance on their Internet site. But then you will have the opportunity to discover the emblematic models, from the Miura to the Murcielago and the Gallardo.

    More

  To think about

  In Bologna, it might not be a bad idea to hire a car and discover the surrounding region. Emilia-Romagna is rich with varied landscapes.
  Lamborghini offers test drives, i.e. a 15 minute spin in one of the latest models. However, you should know that you're the passenger and that it's quite an expensive ride: £248 for 15 minutes!

    More

• To avoid

  We do not recommend you come unannounced to the Ducati museum, as you have to book visits beforehand.
  The same is true for the Lamborghini museum. As for the factory, it too can only be visited upon booking, but even then it's not always possible. It's important to find out in advance.

    More

  To try

  The region of Emilia-Romagna is very well known for its culinary traditions and numerous specialities. From the Bologna-made tortellini (admittedly the origin has been the subject of some dispute) to mortadella and parmigiano, you'll find every flavour in the book. In Bologna, tortellini is served in a stew.
  You should also note that what we call Bolognese sauce is actually known here as ragu sauce!
  Crecanta are small buns stuffed with ham and pork that come from the region.

    More

  To bring back

  We recommend that you bring home some of the local culinary specialities. The choice is huge, but try the tortellini or the parmigiano reggiano, a unique delicacy from the region. It is only made in a few select areas of Emilia-Romagna. In 1981, this speciality received the Protected Designation of Origin label, which is very hard to come by as it takes into account factors like the animals' fodder, the origin of the milk, and the general quality of the products used in the process. There are only 462 cheese producers that make parmigiano reggiano.
  Of course, you can always take the opportunity to do some shopping and bring back some high quality shoes with the leather bag to match!

    More

Country guide

Italy, All you need to know!

• Practical information 
• History 
• Culture and traditions 
• Useful Addresses 
• Events 
• Climate 
• Food 
• Souvenirs 

All flights at the best rate with Easyvoyage

• Flights
• Hotels
• Cars
• Holidays

One wayRound trip

From

To

Outward journey date

Return journey date

Adults

Children

Babies

EconomyBusinessFirst

Advertisement

Share your opinion

Baroni

 

Score 2/10

Caroline Stevens 12/07/2010 : "This is without doubt the WORST place I have ever stayed at!! DO NOT STAY HERE! Wardrobe full of grandma's clothes and horrid bathroom!! "

  More...

Hotel reviews Emilia-Romagna

Have you been to this destination before? Where did you stay? We want to hear about it, so post your review on the EasyOpinions forum for us! Be the first to give your opinion