Bologna is located at the foot of the Apennine Mountains in northeast Italy, and the Reno and Savena Rivers flow past on either side of the city.

Things to see in Bologna

Bologna is home to the world's second oldest university and a huge variety of museums. The most recognisable landmarks in the city are the 12th-century Due Torri. The hilltop Santuario della Madonna di San Luca and the Fontana di Nettuno are prominent Bolognese landmarks too. However, the city is probably most famous for its extensive network of porticoes, among them the world's longest.

Things to do in and around Bologna

Campsites are spread around the outskirts of the city and the countryside around Bologna offers great hiking and cycling trails, as well as paddling on the waterways. Bologna is also a popular destination for urban trekking. You're spoilt for choice when it comes to cultural events in the city too, with festivals on everything from film to different genres of music happening throughout the year.

Food and drink

The city that gave the world Bolognese sauce is famous for its cuisine, which is based around pasta, meat and cheese. Tortellini, tagliatelli and mortadella are all local specialities. These dishes go especially well with wine from the Emilia-Romagna region's vineyards.