Food markets are the first thing I look for when I travel to a new city. Barcelona's Boqueria, Fatih Çarşamba in Istanbul, and Borough Market in London are local food markets where I can spend months. I love talking with shop owners and eating food directly from the stalls: this is my best way to find out the real food of a city. Read which are the best food markets in Bologna.

Bologna has several vibrant markets to explore. Quadrilatero, or Mercato di Mezzo, is the most popular one, just next to Piazza Maggiore. The Mercato delle Erbe is the largest food market in central Bologna, housed in an impressive early 20th-century building. Other farmers' markets like Mercato Ritrovato or Mercato del Novale are in the city center. Practical Tips Opening hours: Most food market

Have you ever heard of friggione? If you’ve visited Bologna, you probably think of fresh pasta, rich ragù, or maybe even mortadella when it comes to the city’s famous foods. Friggione is a delightful surprise—a simple yet humble dish that carries a rich history spanning centuries!

Friggione: not just bread and onion

My hopeless cholesterol won't like this post.​But Parmigiano Reggiano in Bologna is in every house, in every fridge and on the top of every serious pasta.Some people call it the king of cheese: the truth is that in one name you find very different kinds of cheese with different uses.But how long has Parmigiano Reggiano aged?

Parmigiano Reggiano: which age to choose?

Hungry for the ultimate pasta experience? Bologna's got you covered! From traditional tagliatelle al ragù to delectable tortellini here are the top 5 pasta dishes that define Bologna's culinary excellence. Wondering where to start? Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this blog post will lead you to the heart of Bologna's gastronomic treasures.

1. Tortellini

Bologna is one of the best cities in Italy for gelato, we even have a gelato Museum and we finish all our food tours in Bologna with it. The number of quality shops is impressive: here is my shortlist of the best gelato in Bologna you shouldn't miss.

Are you in the best city in Italy for gelato?