Ever wondered what it feels like to walk through history under the world's longest covered walkway? San Luca Bologna is calling your name. Don't call it just church on a hill, please. It's a pilgrimage, a workout, and a photographer's dream all rolled into one unforgettable experience.The Sanctuary sits atop Colle della Guardia, connected to the city by the world's longest portico: nearly 4 kilome

Let's get the basics down. The portico was begun in 1674, and during Ascension week, a procession has walked along it, carrying the Byzantine Madonna with Child to the Cathedral since 1433.The basilica itself? Pure 18th-century baroque brilliance. The sanctuary church was built later in the 18th century to replace a previous 15th-century construction. Inside, you'll find the sacred icon of the Mad

How many times have you found yourself wandering through the airport terminal 30 minutes before your flight, staring desperately at a "I ❤️ Italy" plastic keychain or a questionable neon-colored t-shirt?We’ve all been there. But Bologna is the city of food and craftsmanship, and it deserves better. Your friends deserve better.Here’s our curated list of 10 original, local, and truly Bolognese souve

1. Lucio Dalla's vinylBologna is represented by several institutions, some untouchable icons that made the history of our city. Lucio Dalla is one of them and if you visit Bologna at the beginning of March (his death anniversary) you can find out how many Bolognese still love this amazing songwriter.If you love music, take home one of his most famous records, like Lucio Dalla (1978), my favorite,

Looking for the best food markets in Bologna?From the historic Quadrilatero to hidden farmers’ markets, these spots are where the city’s soul really comes alive, through smells, voices, and daily rituals.I’ve lived here for decades, and I’ve seen these markets evolve from medieval stalls to modern social hubs.Whether you want Parmigiano Reggiano, a quick aperitivo, or Slow Food treasures even some

Bologna’s best food markets are the Quadrilatero (Mercato di Mezzo), Mercato delle Erbe, Mercato Ritrovato, Mercato del Novale and Mercato Albani.They are ideal for fresh produce, street food, aperitivo and local specialties. Most are open in the morning; farmers’ markets run on specific days.Practical tipsOpening hours: Most food markets in Bologna are open on weekdays from 8 am to 7 pm, providin

There are hundreds of gelato shops in Bologna. But only a few deserve your precious calories.I’ve tried them all – creamy classics, vegan experiments, and the kind of granita that can fix a bad day.Here’s my 2026 list of the 8 best gelato and ice cream shops in Bologna: real artisan spots where locals actually queue, from the historic center to hidden backstreets.Each comes with what to order, veg

There are many reasons to visit Via Galliera, but Galliera 49 is undoubtedly one of the best. This gelato shop is a sanctuary for those who obsess over ingredients: here, the fruit flavors are strictly seasonal and organic. So don't be surprised if you won't find melon in the middle of December. Instead, you'll be greeted by great classics like their intense rum chocolate or the rich Mediterranean

If I ask my friends which are the best tagliatelle of Bologna I always get the same answer: my grandmother's.It might be true, but maybe emotions sometimes give a better taste.These are my favorite tagliatelle that you can find in Bologna's restaurants: with ragù Bolognese sauce, of course, but not only.

Trattoria Da Me needs no presentation.In just a few years, it has become one of the must-visit dining spots in Bologna.They make every day all the best pasta in Bologna in the lab a few meters from the restaurant, from lasagne to tortellini.Their tagliatelle al ragù stand out for their rich texture and the unmistakable touch of homemade pasta, with visible pieces of carrot enhancing the sauce.Book