Bologna 🇮🇹🍝

A Pasta-Lover’s Dream with Hidden Gems Around Every Corner

Living in Faenza, I’m lucky to have Bologna right on my doorstep and I still get that little buzz every time I visit. It’s such an easy (and super cheap!) train ride away, which makes it ideal for spontaneous day trips or laid-back afternoons spent wandering and eating your way around the city.

🚆 Easy Train Trips = Endless Exploring

One of the best things about life in Italy is just how simple it is to hop on a train and be somewhere completely different within the hour. Whether it’s a coastal town, a hilltop village, or a foodie hotspot like Bologna, the train network makes it so easy to explore. And for under €10 a ticket from Faenza, it’s an absolute no-brainer.

🍝 Handmade Pasta & Classic Bologna Dishes

You can’t talk about Bologna without talking about the food, this city is an absolute haven for pasta lovers. We dined at Osteria da Fortunata, where the pasta is handmade in front of your eyes and everything tastes as good as it looks. I’d recommend trying the traditional tagliatelle al ragù (aka real Bolognese), it’s what Bologna is famous for and it doesn’t disappoint.

Even just wandering the narrow streets, you’ll find cosy trattorias and wine bars tucked away behind porticoes. Take your time, sit outside, order the house wine, and just soak it all in, this city was made for slow afternoons.

🪟 Bologna’s Secret Canal Window

Bologna might not be the first place you think of when it comes to canals, but there’s a little hidden gem you have to seek out: the Finestrella di Via Piella, the “Little Window”. It’s literally a tiny window built into a wall that opens up to reveal a picture-perfect view of Bologna’s old canals. Blink and you’ll miss it, but it’s such a fun (and photogenic) little stop!

🏛️ A City of Arches, Towers & Charm

The city is known for its porticoes, covered walkways that stretch for miles and give Bologna its distinct character. Perfect for wandering, no matter the weather. If you’re feeling energetic (and have comfy shoes!), head up the Torre degli Asinelli for panoramic views over the city’s terracotta rooftops, it’s a climb, but the view is worth every step.

You’ll also find street musicians playing under the arches, little boutiques selling handmade goods, and plenty of history to soak up in the main squares like Piazza Maggiore and Piazza Santo Stefano.

💡 Quick Tips:
• Travel light: The city is super walkable, but the cobbled streets and staircases mean comfy shoes are a must.
• Look up: The architecture here is stunning – from painted ceilings under the porticoes to ancient towers peeking above rooftops.
• Stay hungry: Trust me, you’ll want to try everything.

Bologna is a city that feeds the soul (and your stomach!) – full of flavour, charm, and surprise corners that you’ll want to revisit time and time again. Whether you’re heading there for the food, the architecture, or just a wander, it’s one of those places that always delivers.

If you’re thinking of adding Bologna to your Italian itinerary, for a short break or as part of a bigger trip – I’d love to help! 🇮🇹✨