GENERAL

Bologna is the colourful and cultured capital of Emilia-Romagna. The city is touted as Italy's leading gourmet city and is the birthplace of spaghetti alla Bolognese.

Among a sea of terracotta roofs, Bologna's skyline dips into beautiful piazzas and over ancient cathedrals. A young, lively population makes the most of the rich culture, evening entertainment and fashionable shopping. For Italy-explorers looking to explore one of the nation's great cities, a holiday in Bologna is a wonderful choice.

The historic heart...

At the heart of Bologna is the Piazza Maggiore square, a beautiful pedestrian centre of shopping, café-hopping and sightseeing. In the square is Bologna's finest and largest church, the Basilica di San Petronio. Adjacent to Maggiore is the Piazza del Nettuno, home to the city's symbol, the striking Neptune Fountain.

Wander between the charming red arcades and narrow passageways to soak up Bologna's unique atmosphere. Visit the superb Archaeological Museum to learn more about the city, or see its artwork in the impressive Pinacoteca Nazionale gallery. For a little respite on hot days, wander out and relax in one of the many parks, such as the lush green Giardini Margherita.

Shopping...

Holidays in Bologna are fantastic for shopping, with many local stores and boutiques spread through the narrow streets and pedestrianised areas. Visit the Galleria Cavour for upmarket designers, and look out for unique jewellery, antiques and of course, the food. Try some handmade pasta, local cheese, and cured meats.

Rustic culinary delights...

Bologna is a great place to sample staple Italian specialties, from Parmesan to balsamic vinegar. You can enjoy exquisite food wherever you are in the city, and it certainly won't cost you the earth. Being a university city, Bologna is full of cheap eateries where the standard of food is as high as anywhere else.

Students and visitors on a budget enjoy the local cafés and trattorias, where you must try the popular Emilia sandwich, piadina, with prosciutto ham and cheese. Afterwards, head to a gelateria for fresh ice cream.

After dark...

In the evenings, the squares come alive revellers meeting in cafés and bars for drinks or late meals. There is a thriving bar and club scene, from live music and jazz bars to late night dance clubs. In summer, the parks host open-air events and turn into large, communal beer gardens.

Find more Italian city breaks from MyTravel.com...

For inspiration, take a look at city breaks in Venice here and holidays to Milan here.