5 Things To Do In Bologna

To Italians, Bologna is the city of the Two Towers; worldwide it’s known as the city of pasta, lasagna, and cured meats and cheese but also as the birthplace of the modern university. Here are 5 things you should do if you get a chance to tour Bologna:

Visit the Two Towers. You can spot them right in the heart of the city, between the shopping district and the beginning of the university area. Built between 1109-1119, they are called Garisenda and Asinelli (the tallest one), supposedly after the families that commissioned them. Legend has it among students of the University of Bologna that you should never go on top of the Towers, or you will never graduate! So if you aren't a Bologna student, feel free to check out the stunning view form the top of the Asinelli Tower.

Visit the Basilica of San Petronio, the fifth biggest church in the world. Be sure to take in the controversial late gothic fresco inside representing a scene from Dante's Inferno, in which Mohammed is being devoured in Hell by demons. Also check out the the longest sundial in the world, on the left aisle of the Basilica. Inlaid in 1655, it has the form of a meridian line and its measurements are astonishing for the time in which it was built.

Take a walk to the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of San Luca under the longest archway in the world. It starts at Porta Saragozza and goes all the way up to the Sanctuary. It's a 3.5 km walk, but the beauty of the archway and the Sanctuary and its history of pilgrimage are worth it.

Walk around the city center, get lost in its medieval settings and streets; you won’t regret it. Check out Galleria Cavour where you will find every famous Italian designer shop, beginning with Gucci. You shouldn’t miss a quick walk in via Zamboni, the main university street, and Piazza Santo Stefano, possibly the most beautiful square in Bologna.

Have dinner and drinks. If you are into college settings, via Zamboni is the place to go for a cheap drink and meal. Be sure to order a Spritz: white wine with Aperol or Campari. If you are looking for quieter scenery, then head to the area around Piazza Maggiore. There are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy quality local Italian cuisine and wine, then have a gelato and a taste of the nighlife in Bologna. 

© Copyright When In Rome Tours  Article Contributed by Alba Velazsco