Bologna

Often neglected in favour of Italy’s more famous hotspots. Bologna has plenty to offer. Is also known as ‘la dotta, la rossa e la grassa’. the educated’ in a nod to its university, Europe’s oldest; ‘the red’, in reference to colour of its buildings and importantly, ‘the fat’, that was give to it in reference to the delicious food. Miles of medieval UNESCO heritage painted streets with lights, shadows, and deep architectural perspectives, I think is considered a top destination. At the heart of Bologna is the imposing main square of Piazza Maggiore. Surrounding the main square are Basilica of San Petronio, Palazzo del Podestà, Palazzo Comunale, Palazzo dei Notai, and Palazzo dei Banchi. When there, try to go up Le Due Torri (Bologna’s twin towers), which provide the best panorama in town, it is a breathtaking view (if you fancy you can bring your beer up there). Bologna wakes up all of you senses, its a great city to walk around or even to cycle. On one hand it is a bit melancholic but also very inspiring on the other. Bologna’s streets have pretty arches that can imaginary transfer you back to days the merchants would set up stalls to sell their wares. I am sharing my 2 day trip to Bologna and some of Florence, so to help you see one of me favourite city in Italy. The most popular and important sites in Florence include the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Uffizi, the Bargello, and the Accademia. Wander around some of the oldest streets in the city until you cross the Ponte Vecchio, and enter the “newest” area of Florence, the Oltrarno. My visit in Bologna, maybe it will inspire you to share the same feeling! Do not forget to travel more, to smile more, enjoy life more.