Bologna
The red, the fat, and the learned—Italy's great food city under 40km of medieval porticoes.
About Bologna
Bologna wears three nicknames proudly: La Rossa (the red) for its terracotta buildings and leftist politics, La Grassa (the fat) for its extraordinary food culture, and La Dotta (the learned) for hosting the world's oldest university, founded in 1088. The centro storico is a medieval marvel of leaning towers, hidden canals, and UNESCO-listed porticoes stretching 40 kilometres through the city. But Bologna's real magic is edible: tortellini in brodo, ragù bolognese (never called 'spaghetti bolognese' here), mortadella, and fresh tagliatelle. The university gives the city a youthful energy, with aperitivo bars spilling into piazzas and a live music scene that rivals cities twice its size.
Best Time to Visit
April to June or September to November. The Po Valley is foggy in winter and hot in summer. Autumn brings food festivals and the famous Cinema Ritrovato film festival in late June.
Local Tips
- Learn tortellini from a sfoglina.
A sfoglina is a pasta-making master—usually a woman who's been rolling by hand for decades. A local can arrange a lesson in a real Bolognese kitchen where you'll learn the traditional pinch that shapes each tiny parcel.
- Climb to San Luca via the portico.
The world's longest portico—almost 4km with 666 arches—climbs from the city centre to the hilltop Sanctuary of San Luca. A local will time the walk for sunset views over the terracotta rooftops.
- Find the hidden canals.
Bologna once had a canal system rivalling Venice's. Most are now underground, but a local knows the Finestrella di Via Piella—a tiny window revealing a secret canal—and the history of the city's lost waterways.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Beatrice
Venice, Treviso +4
Hey! I'm Beatrice. I come from Treviso, a little gem just outside Venice. I love trekking in the Dolomites, swimming in mountain lakes, and exploring new places. I work as a travel co-ordinator and I love exploring. Food is definitely my Achilles’ heel, I just can’t resist it! Especially Tiramisù (that was invented in my beautiful city: Treviso). I’m deeply in love with my region, Veneto, and I’m always happy to share it with others (because there’s so much more than just Venice). That said, even in Venice I know some hidden gems that are absolutely worth discovering 😉 Whether it’s uncovering hidden natural spots, planning outdoor adventures, or diving into local traditions, I love creating genuine, memorable experiences that go beyond the usual tourist paths.
Elisabeth
Bologna, Naples +2
Hi, I’m Elisabeth. I live in Italy and I’ve always been deeply connected to the rhythms of everyday life here—slow walks through historic streets, good food shared without rush, and small details that most travellers might miss. I love exploring places both like a local and like a curious outsider: from hidden cafés and traditional bakeries to quiet corners where you can really feel the atmosphere of a city. I’ve spent a lot of time discovering how to enjoy Italian life in a balanced, authentic way—whether that means finding the right spot for a relaxed meal, a scenic walk, or simply a peaceful moment away from the crowds. I’m especially drawn to culture, storytelling, and traditions, particularly from southern Italy, so I naturally bring a more emotional and immersive perspective to travel. If you’re looking to experience a place beyond the typical tourist path, I’ll help you see it with different eyes.
Edoardo
Amalfi, Sorrento +11
Born and raised in Italy's Marche region, I have explored the country from north to south during travels and study periods away from home. I have lived part of my life in amazing cities such as Venice and Bologna, and have visited Rome a lot since I have family and friends there. I am an experienced trip planner for destinations all over Italy, from the breezy Cinqueterre in Liguria down to the sun kissed Amalfi coast. If you want someone to help you with all-encompassing guidance and make the best out of your trip to Italy, I will be most happy to help you!
Francesca
Bologna, Ravenna +6
👋 Hi, nice to meet you! My name is Francesca, I'm 28 years old and I live in a small town in the province of Ravenna. I speak English and French. 🎨 I'm an art expert because of my two degrees in Cultural Heritage and Visual Arts at the University of Bologna, where I've lived during my studies. This is the main city I chose to speak about in this platform because I've lived it with a student life's eyes (so pubs, restaurants, places to have fun, listen to some music, dance...) but also because I love art through that part of me too (museums, art galleries, history, traditions, culture...). ✈️ After University I've decided to take a break and I've moved to Canada where I've lived for more than one year, then I came back to become a Travel Designer thanks to a course in Milan. 🧳 This year I've also got the certification to be a Tour Leader with the goal to go with families, groups of friends or couples during their travels to show them more than they expect!