Bologna

Easily accessible via its international airport or by train from Milan, Bologna is one of Italy’s most important cultural and tourist destinations. It is filled with Renaissance architecture and monuments and is renowned for its vibrant entertainment sector, the University Quarter. While Bologna offers all the conveniences and luxuries of an urban centre, it is enclosed by picturesque mountains that provide a multitude of scenic retreats within easy reach of the city.

Bologna is well known for its distinctive leaning towers, of which the most famous are the Tower of the Garisenda (Torres degli Garisenda) and Tower of the Asinelli (Torres degli Asinelli). Provided you are fairly fit and energetic, it’s well worth taking the steps to the top of the Asinelli Tower to enjoy superb views over the city.

Back on the ground, highlights include Maggiore Square (Piazza Maggiore) and the adjacent Nettuno Square (Piazza del Nettuno) in Bologna’s old quarter. At both of these squares, visitors can view several magnificent examples of Renaissance architecture. The impressive town hall (Palazzo Comunale) contains a sizeable art collection of excellent quality. Also of interest are Bologna’s beautiful churches, most notably the Basilica di San Petronio, which dates back to the end of the 14^th century. The Basilica di Santo Stefano is comprised of a cluster of chapels from various periods in history, including one dating from the 5^th century.

In addition to the countless attractions located in the city itself, there are many areas of interest within easy driving distance of Bologna. Porretta (also known as Terme) is known for its curative hot springs and is only 50kms to the south. The historic town of Modena is also located nearby. Slightly farther afield are the acclaimed cities of Florence and Venice, renowned for their superb art and architecture and their romantic ambience. Both cities are situated within a few hours’ drive of Bologna.

Guglielmo Marconi International Airport, located northwest of the city, offers regular connections to other European destinations, while most flights arriving from transatlantic destinations touch down at Milan’s Malpensa Airport.