Bologna is the main town of Emilia Romagna, known for its porticos which are 40km long.

If you’re in Milan, Florence or Rome, it’s really easy to get to Bologna thanks to high-speed trains ( Trenitalia or Italo) and the Central Station is right in the city centre, you don’t even need a bus to get to the main street!

Since this is a day trip, you will see the main places and buildings only, but I’m sure that you will love this city!

Let’s start with Via dell’Indipendenza which is really close to the station; this street is known for the numerous shops but also for the Bologna Cathedal, Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro, completed in the
18th century is built in a Baroque style and has a lot of stunning paintings and statues in the inside.
If we keep walking on this road we’ll see the most important fountain,
The Fountain of Neptune, Fontana di Nettuno, designed by the architect Tommaso Laurenti and executed by Giambologna is known for the giant bronze figure of Neptune.

Right next to the fountain, there is Piazza Maggiore, the main square of Bologna which hosts buildings including Palazzo del Podestà, an edifice built in 1200, is now a civic building.
But the masterpiece in this square is the Basilica of San Petronio, dedicated to the patron saint of the city is famous for its unfinished facade.

Near the Basilica, there’s the symbol of Bologna, the two towers, le due torri, Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda.
It’s possible to go on top of Torre degli Asinelli and have a stunning view of the city, but don’t forget to book your tickets! (Tickets).

Last but not least, there’s a tiny window in Via Piella. If you look through the window you can see a water course dating from around 20th century. This spot is called “The little Venice“.

This is where the itinerary ends, of course there’s a lot more to see in Bologna but this is a day trip that shows only the symbols of the city!

Alessia