What you need to know before you visit San Petronio Basilica, the Bolognesi's most beloved church.
Author: Silvia Donati
I'm a professional hiking guide leading tours in Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Trentino's Val di Non and the Dolomites. I also work as a freelance journalist and travel writer. My passions are the outdoors and active travel. I try to lead people to discover authentic, curious and lesser-known aspects of the places they visit.
Hiking near Bologna: Prati di Mugnano and Monte Mario
Venture beyond Bologna's historic city center to discover the lovely natural landscapes surrounding the city.
Stamperia Marchi: Keeping Alive the Tradition of Textile Hand Printing from Romagna
True Made in Italy: discover an artisan workshop from the 17th century carrying on the tradition of hand printing on fabric from Romagna.
Meet Mauro Sarti, the Spinning Top Craftsman from Bologna
Seeing the artistry behind the tiny, handcrafted wooden spinning tops Mauro Sarti makes, it is surprising to learn it all started by chance...
Piadina from Romagna: Not Just “Street Food”
Here's to piada from Romagna, a delicious flatbread you must try (with recipe).
‘Bologna Local’ for Ryanair Thanks to Bologna Uncovered
A Local’s Guide to Bologna - my tips on the best sights/food/attractions for Ryanair magazine.
Where to Go to the Beach in Emilia-Romagna: the Riviera Romagnola
The ultimate beach destination in Emilia-Romagna is the ever-charming Riviera Romagnola.
Foodie Must-See: Inside the Historic Atti Bakery
Let's head inside the historic Atti store, an institution in Bologna when it comes to fresh pasta, bread and pastry making of the Bolognese tradition.
Three Things You Never Knew About Bologna
Dig deeper into Bologna's history with these intriguing little-known facts.
“La Turrita”: Explore Bologna through its Ancient Towers
Follow this itinerary to discover Bologna through one of its most distinctive features: "le torri" (medieval towers).
In the Duchy of Parma & Piacenza (Part Two)
My tour around the peaceful countryside of the Duchy of Parma and Piacenza continues with more jewels to discover.
In the Duchy of Parma & Piacenza (Part One)
Discovering the Duchy of Parma & Piacenza, a fascinating territory rich in history.
Yum! Parma’s Food Valley: A Foodie’s Paradise
If you love Italian food and wine, you should definitely head to the Parma area, home to some of Italy’s most famous food products, including Parmigiano-Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, Culatello di Zibello, and much more!
Spring Travel Tip: Visit These Three Beautiful Gardens in Emilia-Romagna
To admire art and nature and escape the bustle of city life, don't miss these three beautiful gardens in Emilia-Romagna.
Ten Culinary Treats from Emilia-Romagna You Must Try
A trip to Emilia-Romagna calls for the discovery of its many delicacies, so here are some of the top culinary delights you can't miss when in the area!
Convivial Bologna: A tour of the City’s Classic Osterie
The classic Bolognese osteria, often tucked away under a portico, with a simple yet charming décor oozing coziness, excellent local cuisine and affordable prices, recalls that spirit of conviviality and joviality that is so typical of Bologna.
Seduced by Bologna: Interview with Writer Mary Tolaro Noyes
“I appreciate that Bologna still allows me to imagine the world as it was then [in the Middle Ages, ed.], even if it is a somewhat romantic view. For me, this is magical and seductive”...
Pasta Fresca Emiliana: A Primer
Emilia-Romagna is fresh pasta heaven... But with all those variations on names and types, it may get a little confusing! No worries: after reading this post, you will know the region's pasta like a local!
Baroque in Bologna: The Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita is the most important example of Baroque art in Bologna, with a scultptural masterpiece inside you shouldn't miss.
A Journey through Verdi’s Homeland
For the bicentennial of Giuseppe Verdi's birth, celebrated on October 10, 2013, here's my article for BBC Travel, exploring the strong connection the legendary opera composer felt to his homeland of Emilia his entire life.
Bologna’s Sweetest Museum: The Gelato Museum
The museum for gelato lovers: Gelato Museum Carpigiani: 1,000 square meters dedicated to the history, culture, and technology of gelato. A must-visit!
San Leo: Religion and Wizardry in the Heart of Romagna
"The most beautiful town in Italy? San Leo: a fortress and two churches." (Umberto Eco) Discover this beautiful ancient borgo of Romagna, a perfect day trip from Bologna.
The Prendiparte Tower: Sleeping with History
Wouldn't it be magical to sleep in a 900-year-old tower in the heart of a medieval town in Italy... Well, you can do it in Bologna!
Meet Bologna’s Mortadella Man
Meet Bologna native Davide Simoni, who's on a mission to make mortadella from Bologna known and appreciated all over the world.
Mortadella: Pink Delight
Learn all about the history of an ancient delicacy that has become synonymous with Bologna.
Day Trips from Bologna: Modena
Located on the south side of the Po Valley in Emilia-Romagna, Modena is a small and ancient town synonymous with balsamic vinegar, Lambrusco wine and cars, easily reached in half an hour from Bologna.
Il Mulino del Dottore: Making Organic Bread at a 17th-Century Mill
Visit a 17th century mill in the hills south-west of Bologna still in use to make all-natural delicious bread and pastry.
Bologna for Food Lovers
Bologna is renowned for its cuisine, and for good reasons! Take a tour through the medieval open-air food market for a unique foodie experience!
Top 10 Things To Do On Your First-Time Visit To Bologna
If you've never been to Bologna, use this handy guide to make sure you don't miss some of its top attractions!
History, Spirituality and Romance: Monteveglio
Evocative and brimming with history, Monteveglio is a medieval village overlooking the valley of Samoggia, the Bolognese Apennines and the Po Valley - a perfect half-day trip from Bologna.
