Experiencing Bologna, Italy's Gastronomic Capital

Italy is a country rife with amazing holiday destinations – so much so, in fact, that it can sometimes be difficult to know where to head for. One spot that shouldn’t be missed by any traveller, however, is Bologna. To see for yourself just why the city is so special, get online: grab a deal on flights and accommodation with last minute websites, don't forget some cheap travel insurance (try specialist online providers like Direct Travel Insurance - quick and cost effective!) - then let your browsers start planning your itinerary....

Often referred to as the gastronomic capital of Italy, the city is famous for its cuisine, but also has so much more to offer. Tellingly, Bologna is considered by many Italians to be one of their most beautiful cities, and it doesn’t disappoint on that front. For a small sample of some of its beautiful architecture, check out the Piazza Maggiore, the Tower of the Asinelli, and the Fontana di Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune).

As well as being a gastronomic hotspot, Bologna is also indisputably a university town, and benefits greatly from it. There’s a constant buzz to the city, with numerous trendy bars, cafes and nightclubs to discover in the University Quarter. And, as the University of Bologna is Europe’s oldest University, there’s plenty to be found in the way of culture and intellectually stimulating sights. Within the campus alone you can find the Naval Museum, the Museum of European Students, the Obstetric Museum and the Museum of Military Architecture. Venturing out of the University Quarter, you can also visit the National Picture Gallery, the famous Basilica di San Domenico, and the Bologna Museum of Modern Art.

Being the city where Bolognese sauce was born, it should come as no surprise to visitors that Bologna is full to the brim with food based attractions. Quite apart from the numerous incredible restaurants to be enjoyed, travellers can also try their hand at one of many traditional Italian cooking courses. Here they’ll learn to make delicious sauces and proper Italian dishes which they can then recreate when they get home. Holidaymakers can also take tours of some of Bologna’s food factories, watching the processes by which wine, cheese and pasta are made.

Compared to some of the more visited Italian destinations, Bologna feels less touristy: a slice of real Italian life. Visitors will find their needs well catered to, but can still feel that they are experiencing Italy as the Italians do, rather than an anglicised version of the country. Treat yourself and explore a city which is, after all, so much more than just Italy’s gastronomic capital.