Top 7 Things to Do in Bologna, Italy: Food Markets, Porticoes, and Towers

Nicknamed The Fat, The Red, and The Learned, Bologna is a historic university town celebrated as Italy's gastronomic crown. 1. UNESCO Porticoes and Two Towers Walk beneath miles of covered terracotta porticoes to Piazza Maggiore and climb 498 steps up the leaning Asinelli Tower for city views. 2. Food Markets of the Quadrilatero Wander ancient alleys lined with delis, tasting authentic tagliatelle al ragu, handmade tortellini in brodo, and fresh mortadella. Travel Tip: Bologna is a major rail hub just 35 minutes from Florence and an hour from Venice, making it an effortless stop. Indulge in authentic Italian food, youthful university energy, and preserved medieval heritage.