Experiencing Bologna: A Blend of History, Culture, and Local Life
We stayed in Bologna for 9 nights this summer, using it as a base for our many day trips because of its convenient location. Even though Bologna wasn’t our primary focus, we managed to visit some of its most famous landmarks during our stay. During our time in the city, we visited Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica di San Petronio (where appropriate attire is required for entry), the Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro and the International Museum and Library of Music.
One of the highlights during our stay in Bologna was seeing the original scores of Mozart and Vivaldi, along with a range of historical instruments. While the museum isn’t large and doesn’t have an extensive collection of instruments, it is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for musical scores and the history of music. The intimate setting allows you to focus on these priceless manuscripts and truly appreciate their historical significance up close. Unfortunately, the library was closed during our visit so a word of advice – be sure to check their opening hours before you go!
We loved strolling past the iconic Two Towers and wandering under Bologna’s beautiful porticoes, which made us feel as though we had stepped back in time. We spent our days strolling through medieval streets, having gelato and granita, and browsing the diverse shops, from high-end designer boutiques to charming second-hand stores. Grocery shopping at local supermarkets like Pam and Coop, as well as getting a take away from a nearby pizzeria and a sandwich shop gave a taste of daily life in Bologna, making us feel like locals. There was even an outdoor cinema at Piazza Maggiore. Although we didn’t manage to watch a film, just the thought of it added to the enchanting atmosphere of the square, making our stay all the more memorable.
Day Trips to Iconic Italian Cities
One of the best advantages of staying in Bologna was its central location, making it easy for us to enjoy some day trips to Italy’s most popular destinations such as Venice and Florence. During our stay, we visited
Our first trip took us to Venice, a city of canals where we enjoyed a gondola ride and explored its narrow alleyways. Next was Florence, where we stood in awe of the architectural masterpiece of the Duomo and admired stunning artwork at the Uffizi Gallery.
Our impromptu day trip to Riccione gave us a chance to relax, and we discovered the best watermelon granita. We also spent a day in the romantic city of Verona, where we visited Juliet’s Balcony and strolled through the historic streets. Each city offered its own distinct character, and returning to the comfort of Bologna each evening added even more to our Italian adventure.
Looking Back on Our Bologna Trip: Reflections and What’s Next
Our family trip to Bologna was a perfect mixture of adventure and relaxation. After feeling that last year’s summer holiday was a bit too short, we were pleased to have more time to relax this year. However, our only regret is that we didn’t explore Bologna’s top attractions as much as we’d have liked. There are museums, restaurants, and cafés we had hoped to visit but didn’t manage to.
I’m keen to revisit Bologna and the cities we explored this year. While I thoroughly enjoyed our travels in Italy, I’ve realised I need more time to fully appreciate each city. What’s next? Hopefully, a return trip to dive deeper into Bologna’s hidden gems and to experience more of Italy’s incredible culture, history cuisine.
