Why Bologna Stole My Heart Over Florence
I’ve been to nine Italian cities—Florence, Rome, Venice, Milan, Verona, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, Bergamo—and yet there’s one city I keep going back to, and surprisingly, it’s not the usual tourist favorites. It all started at a wedding in Tuscany. My friends were celebrating their fairytale ceremony, and naturally, we wanted to extend the trip with a little city break. Most of our group headed straight for Florence to soak up the art, history, and charm, but two of us decided to break away and explore Bologna instead.
At first, I questioned that choice. Florence has a reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Surely, it was where we should be, wandering streets lined with Renaissance architecture and marveling at iconic museums. Yet, something kept me in Bologna, a city I’d always associated with my late sister, who had once said it was her favorite place in the world. I never learned why she felt that way, but I was about to discover it myself.
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Bologna is often overshadowed by its famous neighbors, yet there’s a simplicity here that immediately captures the heart. It’s a city that’s bustling, yet calm. Walking down its streets, lined with centuries-old terracotta buildings, you sense both history and modern life coexisting effortlessly. Bologna is called La Rossa, or “The Red,” because of these iconic buildings, and La Grassa, “The Fat,” for its incredible food culture. And let me tell you—the food is extraordinary. Tortellini in Brodo, fresh pasta, and countless other dishes can be enjoyed for half the price you’d pay in London, and the quality is unmatched. Even the gelato at Cremeria Cavour lives up to its claim as the best in the world.
It’s not just about food. The city has its share of historic sights—the Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, the Basilica di Santo Stefano—but it’s the spirit of Bologna that makes it unforgettable. Cafes buzz with locals, bars spill laughter into the streets, and the rhythm of daily life feels effortless. You can plan your days meticulously or wander aimlessly, and both experiences feel equally rewarding.
Bologna taught me that the essence of a city break isn’t found in crowded tourist hotspots. While Florence, Venice, and Rome are magnificent, they can also feel overwhelming, expensive, and tourist-heavy. Bologna, just a 40-minute train ride from Florence, offers everything a traveler could want without the stress. Two nights in Bologna felt like a true escape, leaving me refreshed and inspired, unlike any other city break I’ve taken.
I’ve already booked my next trip back, and I’ll keep going again and again. Bologna isn’t just a city; it’s a reminder that sometimes, the most magical places are the ones you discover when you step off the beaten path.
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