moflo-your online guide to Florence

Bologna is interesting partly because its not an especially tourist-oriented city. The large university plays an important role in city life. It has been one of the most prestigious universities in European history, right back to the days when Petrarch and Copernicus attended in their studies. Now its impact can be felt through the lively student population that makes its presence felt throughout the city.

Youth Culture & Music
I have found Bologna quite refreshing as it is one of the few places I’ve been to in Italy where you feel the energy of youth running through the streets. I am aware that Bologna has often been a centre of activism, political and social and the variety of the music scene is far more varied and interesting than that in Florence. In the summer there is a range of open-air raves and concerts, while indoors decent dance music is always to be found at Link. Last time I went there I saw two acts – DJs and perfromers – one from France and one from Japan, both totally unexpected, a bit random and well worth the short walk from the centre.
http://www.link.bo.it/home.asp

Food & Drink
Bologna is the city that never stops eating. Considered by some to be the food capital of Italy, the city benefits from its position at the head of the verdant Po valley and its rich culinary tradition. Most famously, the Tortelli of Bologna are unrivalled, but a short walk around the city will show you what it means to live for good food. As for drink, the locals love their traditional Osterias. Most have been in place for many years and offer a more informal and jovial atmosphere than their Florence equivalents. You’ll find one and all in these places – go for a beer and crostone and I defy you not to make a few friends in the process

I loved walking around the centre of Bologna. It was raining a little bit, but all of the covered streets meant it was no problem. Much of the city centre has arched loggias overhanging the sidewalk and it really makes it feel cosy. Honestly, we mostly went because our friend said we had to go to H&M, but I am really glad we went because its not too far and the city is really different – great food!

I have to say I wasn’t blown away by Bologna like I was the first time I entered Florence. Maybe I’ve gotten spoilt! We didn’t have enough time there to really get a feel for the city, but we certainly enjoyed it. My main recommendation is the walk up to the ‘Santuario della Madonna di San Luca’ (I love these names!). It is a really long winding path up a hill that is covered by the sidewalk porticoes like the centre of Bologna – there is a view of the city at the top and the whole experience was strange but deifnitely worth it.