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Dozza Village, Bologna, Italy

Bologna

Italy's hidden foodie gem

Bologna holidays

Introduction

Despite being the capital of Italy's Emilia-Romagna Region, Bologna often gets overshadowed by northern Italy's other cities. And, in our opinion, unfairly so. For this lively town, with its famous University of Bologna – the oldest university in Europe dating back to 1066 – is the country's gastronomy capital, where visitors will discover, among a maze of arcaded streets, such region-defining highlight as tortellini, prosciutto, Parmigiano Reggiano and, of course, bolognese.   

Medieval Town

Bologna's medieval red-brick centre is known as La Rossa (the red) and holds the red-brick squares of Piazza del Nettuno and Piazza Maggiore, around which sits the Gothic Basilica de San Petronio and the bronze sculpted Fontana del Nettuno.

Central Piazzas

A short walk from the central piazzas are the imposing 12th century towers of Due Torri and the Piazza di San Domenico. The impressive Basilica de San Domenico can be found on this square, and inside this ornate building are the remains of San Domenico, founder of the Domincan faith, housed in an elaborate sarcophagus. You can stay in the magnificent Grand Hotel Baglioni, an 18th century former palazzo just a short walk from Piazza Maggiore.

Food and Music

Bologna was declared a UNESCO city of music in 2006 due to its investment in its thriving music scene. The city still holds numerous concerts by international bands throughout the year, from rock and alternative music to classical concerts and jazz performed in the historic city piazzas. Bologna's other nickname is La Grassa (the fat one) gained from its tradition of fine food and for its host of restaurants, pizzerias and traditional trattorias, serving the regions most mouth-watering delicacies. Local specialities include hand made pasta and tortellini (stuffed pasta shells) and of course, the famous Spaghetti alla Bolognese.

 

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Bologna holiday ideas

Bologna

The Tastes of Milan & Bologna

5-day Exclusive tailor-made city-break from £2,075 pp incl. flights

This twin-centre holiday showcases Italy's finest gastronomic destinations. Enjoy a sommelier-led tour before heading to Bologna for a tour of the region's famous cuisine. Finish with an excursion to Modena and Parma where sumptuous tasting are paired alongside neoclassical and Renaissance beauties.

Top places to stay in Bologna

Sina Maria Luigia, Parma

Sina Maria Luigia, Parma

Contemporary hotel

Located in the centre of Parma's art galleries, museums and gastronomic gems, the Sina Maria Luigia is ideally situated to explore the city's myriad delights.

Palazzo di Varignana - Bentivoglio Palace

Palazzo di Varignana, Bologna

7-night luxury holiday from £650 pp incl. flights & car hire

An ancient villa dating back to 1705 in an elegant setting in the Varignana hills, immersed in the lush green landscape

When to go to Bologna

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Meet our Bologna experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7590 0796

Meet the team

Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7590 0796 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

Expert advice & support

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Let our travel specialists curate the perfect holiday:

  • Inspirational ideas based on experience
  • Established for over 50 years
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Every step of the way

Every step of the way

Our services are with you from start to finish:

  • Dedicated personal consultants
  • Free airport lounges on qualifying bookings
  • Care and guidance pre, post and during holiday
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