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Bologna

Bologna Things to Do

Bologna is home to the world’s oldest university, which was founded in 1088 AD. The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region also boasts some of the best cuisine in Italy and is often referred to as the country’s culinary capital. Some of its must-see sights include Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna, which has been a gathering place for centuries; and its two medieval leaning towers, Garisenda and Asinelli, symbols of the city. No trip to Bologna is complete without a stroll under the city’s seemingly endless, UNESCO World Heritage Site porticoes.

Region: Italy

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Featured Bologna Hotel

Grand Hotel Majestic gia Baglioni

Grand Hotel Majestic gia Baglioni

Our 5-Star classification designates those select properties that provide exquisite service and amenities. The discriminating traveler will find the accommodations, ambiance, dining, and staff assistance of the highest caliber. These properties offer the utmost in luxury and will provide an outstanding experience.
Bologna, Italy

Set within an 18th-century palazzo, this refined retreat pairs frescoed ceilings and antiques with polished service. Dining unfolds beneath historic frescoes, complemented by a wine cellar and café, while a serene wellness area offers a tranquil escape.

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Overview

Bologna is known as La Rossa, “The Red One,” because it was Italy’s anti-fascist capital during WWII and its left-leaning tradition that is still prevalent. Italy’s culinary capital is also affectionately known as La Grassa, “The Fat One,” due to its revered cuisine, including Bolognese sauce, mortadella, tortellini, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Furthermore, Bologna is home to the oldest university in the world, hence the moniker La Dotta, “The Learned One.” In addition to its aliases, Bologna is famous for its appealing piazzas and parade of porticoes, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the city’s must-see sights include Piazza Maggiore, the beating heart of Bologna and one of the oldest squares in Italy; and the Archaeological Civic Museum, which boasts exceptional ancient Egyptian and Etruscan sections.

What to see

The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, has the distinct honor of being the oldest university in continuous operation in the world. Some of its distinguished alumni include Nicolaus Copernicus, Dante Alighieri, Guglielmo Marconi, Michelangelo Antonioni, and Umberto Eco. Although not as famous as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Bologna’s Two Towers (Due Torri) are leaning landmarks of the city. Asinelli is the taller tower, while shorter Garisenda is mentioned in Dante’s “Divine Comedy.” Motorcycle enthusiasts will not want to miss the Ducati Museum, which contains a collection of Ducati motorcycles and is designed to narrate the history of the company.