Italy's food capital and home to the world's oldest university, Bologna is one of Italy's most underrated cities. With its perfectly preserved medieval center of brick arcaded streets, outstanding food markets (Quadrilatero), and the ragu that inspired spaghetti bolognese (here served with tagliatelle), it makes a perfect half-day or full-day excursion from Florence.
| Distance | 100 km |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 35-40 minutes by high-speed Frecciarossa |
| Cost | €15-30 train fare |
Weather through the year in Italy
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Italy.
Highlights
- Mercato di Mezzo food market in the Quadrilatero
- Tagliatelle al ragu bolognese (NOT spaghetti bolognese)
- Torre degli Asinelli (climb for city views)
- Basilica di San Petronio
- Mortadella and Parmigiano-Reggiano tastings
Tips for visiting
- The high-speed train is so quick it barely feels like a day trip
- Head to the Quadrilatero for lunch - all the local food specialties are concentrated here
- Walk the beautiful medieval arcaded streets - Bologna has 40 km of arcades