Bologna Bliss: A 3-Day Romantic Getaway

Fall in love again in the heart of Italy.

22 April 2023

A romantic trip to Bologna, Italy promises to be a treat for the senses. Renowned for its food, architecture, and vibrant street life, Bologna offers couples the perfect combination of romance and adventure. From wandering through historic arcades to indulging in a plate of authentic tagliatelle al ragù, Bologna is sure to leave lasting memories for any couple.

Travel plan

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Day 1

A Taste of Bologna

  • Check into the romantic boutique hotel, Al Cappello Rosso, nestled in the heart of Bologna's historic center.
  • Start your culinary adventure with a visit to the famous Mercato di Mezzo, an indoor market with artisan food stalls.
  • Savor some of the region's specialties like mortadella, ragù alla bolognese, and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese during a food tour.
  • Stroll through the Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers, Bologna's most recognized landmarks.
  • End the day with a romantic dinner at the Michelin-starred Trattoria Battibecco, known for its creative cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
Day 2

Art and History

  • Fuel up with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore Bologna's rich art and history.
  • Visit the impressive collections of the National Art Gallery of Bologna, featuring masterpieces by Renaissance artists like Raffaello and Guido Reni.
  • Step into the majestic Basilica di San Petronio, one of the largest churches in Europe, and admire the celestial vaults and the mesmerizing sundial.
  • Take a stroll along Bologna's longest continuous portico, the 2.5-kilometer-long Portico di San Luca.
  • For lunch, try Osteria dell'Orsa, a warm and friendly eatery that serves traditional Emilian cuisine.
  • As sunset approaches, climb up to the panoramic terrace of the Asinelli Tower for a breathtaking view of the skyline.
Day 3

Off the Beaten Path

  • On your last day, venture off the beaten path to discover the hidden gems of Bologna.
  • Begin with a visit to the Museo di Palazzo Poggi, a splendid palace turned museum of scientific instruments and curiosities.
  • Wander through the charming streets of the Quadrilatero, a lively neighborhood filled with artisan shops and boutiques.
  • Taste some unusual flavors at La Sorbetteria Castiglione, a renowned gelateria known for its innovative gelato creations.
  • Take a scenic drive to the nearby hills and catch a glimpse of the picturesque Bologna countryside.
  • End your trip with a romantic dinner at the cozy Trattoria Meloncello, where you can savor homemade pasta and local wines.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bologna by plane is to fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, which is located approximately 6 kilometers from the city center. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Bologna from cities across Europe, including London, Paris, and Frankfurt.

Car

If you prefer to drive, Bologna is easily accessible from several major highways, including the A1, which runs from Milan to Bologna and on to Rome. You can rent a car from major providers at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, or you can drive your own car and park in one of the city's public parking lots.

Train

Traveling to Bologna by train is easy thanks to the city's central location and excellent rail connections. Bologna Centrale is the main train station in the city, and it operates high-speed trains to destinations throughout Italy, including Rome, Florence, and Venice.

Boat

While there is no direct ferry service to Bologna, it is possible to take a ferry to nearby coastal cities such as Ravenna and Ancona and then travel to Bologna by train or bus. Alternatively, you can charter a private boat to travel to one of the marinas located on nearby bodies of water such as Lake Garda or the Adriatic Sea.

Bus

There are several bus companies that provide services to Bologna from other Italian cities such as Florence, Pisa, and Milan. The main bus station in Bologna is located next to the train station, making it easy to connect to other destinations. Tickets can usually be purchased online or at the bus station.

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