From Florence to Bologna by Train: A Day of History and Street Food

Highlights

• First-class train
• Authentic street food
• Guide throughout

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Piazza Maggiore

   30min

   An undisputed symbol of the city of Bologna, Piazza Maggiore has been the heart of the Bolognese for centuries and represents the center of city life. The square is one of the oldest in Italy: its origins date back to the 13th century, when the municipality decided to purchase land here to dedicate to the market. The square is overlooked by the beautiful Basilica of San Petronio, whose façade is a magnificent contrast of light and dark that becomes even more evocative at sunset. Stop for a coffee or an aperitif while listening to the music of the numerous street artists who enhance the magical atmosphere.

2. 2

   Basilica Di San Petronio

   30min

   The Basilica of San Petronio, dedicated to the city's patron saint, stands in Piazza Maggiore and is the largest and most important church in Bologna. Construction began in 1390 under the direction of Antonio di Vincenzo.

3. 3

   Le Due Torri Torre degli Asinell

   15min

   Built between 1109 and 1119 by the Asinelli family, to bring prestige to the family and for defense, it is the tallest medieval leaning tower in Italy.

4. 4

   Fontana del Nettuno

   15min

   One of the city's most famous monuments. Commissioned in 1563 by Pope Pius IV, it was designed by architect Tommaso Laureti, while sculptor Giambologna created the bronze statue of the god of the sea, 3.40 meters tall and hence known as "The Giant" by the Bolognese. It is located in Piazza del Nettuno, adjacent to Piazza Maggiore, in the heart of the city. It is a symmetrical work, with an overall vertical thrust, featuring various groups of figures (dolphins, mermaids, cherubs, coats of arms) surrounding the main figure of Neptune. Spring water, a precious resource immediately used by the people of Bologna for their needs, flowed from 38 nozzles in the bronze figures.

5. 5

   Quadrilatero

   2h

   The Quadrilatero del Gusto (Quadrilatero del Gusto) is located in Bologna's historic center, home to numerous shops specializing in traditional Emilian and Bolognese cuisine. Its clearly defined perimeter is marked by the intersection of four streets: Via Rizzoli, Via dell'Archiginnasio, Via Farini, and Via Castiglione.

Before you go

Location