Valentine’s Day is coming up, so in the spirit of romance, here's a list of some of my favorite romantic places in Bologna and Emilia-Romagna...
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.
Politics and Power: Visiting Bologna’s Palazzo D’Accursio
Here's what to look out for when visiting Palazzo D'Accursio, the seat and symbol of Bologna's political power since medieval times.
Carnival in Emilia-Romagna: Where to Go (Updated for 2018)
Bologna and Emilia-Romagna do not have famous Carnivals as those of Venice or Viareggio, but we hold our own. So if you happen to be in the area during this time, here are some of the top Carnival celebrations you should check out in the region.
The Story Behind Bologna’s Fountain of Neptune
Bologna's Fountain of Neptune is a must-see. Learn about its history and why the Bolognesi love it so much.
Tortellini Recipe (And a Bit of Tortellino History)
Discover the history and get the official recipe of tortellini, a cherished dish that has become a symbol of Bolognese cuisine.
Bologna’s Christmas Market: Fiera di Santa Lucia
If you're in town for the holidays, don't miss 'la Fiera di Santa Lucia', Bologna's Christmas market.
The Christmas Lunch Menu in Bologna
Spend Christmas at the home of any Bolognese family and this is the food you'll be sure to find...
Bologna Celebrates Chocolate At Cioccoshow Festival
The Cioccoshow festival is a celebration of chocolate and the artisans who make it - the five-day event takes place November 16-20 in Bologna's historic center.
8 Things to Know about Bologna’s Basilica of San Petronio
What you need to know before you visit San Petronio Basilica, the Bolognesi's most beloved church.
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.
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!
