A globetrotter who has explored nine Italian cities has declared one lesser-known destination as his favorite – its lack of tourist crowds and “unique spirit” adding to its charm, not to mention the exceptional Italian cuisine.
Journalist Adam Miller chronicled his visit to this captivating city, describing it as a world apart from stays in Rome or Venice.
The writer had already journeyed through “Florence, Rome, Venice, Milan, Verona, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, and Bergamo” all of which he adored, but then he stumbled upon a new city that quickly became a top pick.
Venturing to Bologna, Italy for the first time (in August 2025), Adam was captivated by the city’s vibrancy, the terracotta buildings, and “the best food” he’d “ever eaten”.
In his piece for Metro Travel Hot Takes, Adam portrayed Bologna: “The real magic of Bologna is in its simplicity. Everything feels so calm and easy. Eating, drinking, exploring – it all feels effortless compared to Florence, Venice, or Rome.”, reports the Mirror.
“I can’t imagine staying anywhere else in Italy for a city break now, especially when the Italian train service is so cheap and efficient. Florence is close, Venice is only 70 minutes away, and tickets can be as cheap as £13, so it also makes a great detour destination.”
Adam paints a picture of the vibrant city, but he notes that it’s a world away from the typical UK weekend night out. He describes Bologna’s energy as “unique” and confesses it’s his “favorite” Italian city.
TripAdvisor reviewers who’ve also journeyed to Bologna highly recommend visiting the Santuario di Madonna di San Luca. They describe it as a “unique experience” with breathtaking views.
One reviewer shared on TripAdvisor: “Very suggestive place on the hills of Bologna, which can be reached through a not too strenuous walk under long porches, possibly starting from the monumental cemetery of the Certosa (equally suggestive place, which I absolutely recommend to visit).
“The arcades are well maintained and the same applies to the area in front of the sanctuary; the view, once arrived, is magnificent.”
Another visitor to the Santuario di Madonna di San Luca wrote: “It is a beautiful Baroque basilica perfectly maintained both inside and outside. It is located in the hills which allows you to enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the surrounding hills.
“You can reach it by taxi, with the train that leaves from Piazza Maggiore but the most exciting experience is to do it on foot by climbing for about 4km, about 500 steps, under the longest porch in the world that starts from the city center – not to be missed.”
Other top-rated Bologna visitor experiences according to TripAdvisor include the city’s heart, Piazza Maggiore, and the observation deck, Le Due Torri Torre degli Asinelli, known for its expansive views.
The Porticoes of Bologna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also touted as unforgettable for its stunning Bolognese architecture of red-stone columns and magnificent arches.
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