Dramatically Expatic in Italy: 5 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Bologna

Must-try foods in Bologna

• Tagliatelle al Ragù
  Tagliatelle al RagùUnlike the international 'spaghetti bolognese,' the authentic version uses fresh egg tagliatelle precisely 8mm wide to perfectly capture the slow-simmered meat sauce. As of September 2026, Osteria Bottega remains the premier destination for this dish.
• Lasagna Verde alla Bolognese
  Lasagna Verde alla BologneseA vibrant green masterpiece layered with spinach-infused pasta sheets, silky béchamel, and traditional ragù. Unlike Southern Italian versions, it uses no ricotta. This dish is a staple at high-end Sunday lunches, and the version at Ristorante I Carracci, served under 16th-century frescoes.
• Mortadella di Bologna IGP with Spuma di Mortadella
  Mortadella di Bologna IGP with Spuma di MortadellaBologna's most famous export is best enjoyed in its home city as 'Spuma'—a light, whipped mousse served on toasted crostini. For a hidden gem experience, visit the historic Salumeria Simoni in the Quadrilatero, which in 2026 continues to be the preferred local spot for the highest quality IGP-certified cuts sliced paper-thin.
• Friggione
  FriggioneA slow-cooked, soulful dip made of white onions and peeled tomatoes macerated for hours. Once a peasant side dish, it has seen a gourmet revival in 2026 as an upscale accompaniment to boiled meats. It is a 'hidden gem' flavor that locals use to test the authenticity of a trattoria’s kitchen.
• Gramigna alla Salsiccia
  Gramigna alla SalsicciaA playful, squiggly pasta shape typical of the region, usually served with a rich sauce of crumbled local sausage and cream (or tomato). It’s a favorite 'interesting' pasta choice at contemporary trattorias like Trattoria di Via Serra, which requires booking weeks in advance as of September 2026.
• Crescentine Fritte with Squacquerone
  Crescentine Fritte with SquacqueroneHot, puffed pillows of fried dough served with various cured meats and Squacquerone, a soft, tangy local cheese. While often considered street food, the 'gourmet evolution' at newly popular spots like Indegno has elevated this to a refined appetizer that is essential to any 2026 food tour.

Trip guide

• About Bologna
  About BolognaBologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, is a city with a documented history extending back to its origins as the Etruscan settlement of Felsina and later the Roman colony of Bononia. It is characterized by its medieval urban structure and a series of historical developments that have shaped its current form.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Bologna is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant for walking. Summers can be oppressively hot and humid, while winters are often damp and chilly, though they offer the best opportunity to enjoy the city’s hearty cuisine. Peak tourist season coincides with major trade fairs and university sessions.
• Getting around
  Getting around Bologna

  • High-Speed Train (Getting There) Bologna Centrale is a major Italian rail hub with frequent high-speed Trenitalia and Italo connections from Rome (2h 15m), Milan (1h), and Florence (35m).
  • Marconi Express (Airport Transfer) This automated monorail links Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) to the central train station in approximately 7 minutes, with tickets costing about €12.80 one way.
  • Walking and TPER Bus (Local Transport) The historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly; for longer distances, the TPER bus network offers extensive coverage with tickets valid for 75 minutes of travel.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always order 'Tagliatelle al Ragù' instead of spaghetti bolognese, as the latter is considered a non-existent foreign invention by locals.
  • Utilize the 40 kilometers of UNESCO-listed porticoes to stay dry during rain or shaded from the sun while walking across the city.
  • Validate your bus ticket immediately upon boarding or tap your contactless card to avoid heavy fines from frequent ticket inspectors.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Bologna

  • Frida Kahlo: The Gaze as Identity – A major photography exhibition at Palazzo Pepoli analyzing the artist's self-representation, running through September 27, 2026.
  • Banksy Archive 01 – A retrospective at Palazzo Fava focusing on the Bristol school (1983–2005), open until October 18, 2026.
• Bologna Welcome↗
  Bologna WelcomeThe official tourism website for Bologna and its metropolitan area, providing information on attractions, events, and travel services.