Bologna-2025
I’m writing this from the Frankfurt airport, en route to Bologna for a few nights before continuing on to my family’s beloved Lerici, where we’ll spend two and a half weeks soaking up the Ligurian coast. In Bologna I will be meeting my mom and dad, my sister Erica, and her two daughters, Charlotte and Alexandra. My Mom and I were in Bologna in 2011, it was our first trip to Italy together and she had just started her journey in learning Italian.
My travels so far has been smooth: Aspen to Denver, then Denver to Frankfurt. I had seat 30F on the long flight, the bulkhead. Highly worth the upgrade cost for the extra legroom and a bit of breathing space on the long haul.
It’s been a while since I’ve updated this travel blog, but revisiting it now reminds me why I started it in the first place. It is a personal guide, a digital journal, and a way to record the places I’ve been and the moments worth remembering.
Stay
Our AIRBNB couldn't be more perfect. It is located right in the heart of Bologna’s historic center. We can walk to everything, while still feeling like a little oasis above the buzz of the city.
We’ve rented both apartments that make up the listing. They’re are two apartments that are attached but can function separately. We rented both
The blue apartment feels more like a spacious studio with a small separate kitchen and dining area. While it doesn’t have a lounging space, it’s perfect for a quiet night's rest or a morning coffee before heading out. It has a spectacular bathroom.
The red apartment is more spacious, with two bedrooms (2. 5 baths) divided by a movable wall. It also has a large, open-plan living space with a comfy couch, a dining table, and a fully equipped kitchen, making it feel like home.
Our host, Veronica, has been absolutely wonderful. She met us at the apartment to show us around and has been incredibly helpful with taxi arrangements and local tips.
I’m writing this from the balcony, which looks out over a lively wine bar below Velluto perfect for people-watching in the evenings with a glass of something local in hand.
Eat
Castiglione Pizza e Cucina
On our first night in Bologna, tired from long travels, we walked just 40 meters from our apartment to Castiglione Pizza e Cucina. We sat in the charming back outside area. The pizza from the wood-burning pizza oven is fabulous. It was exactly what we needed: casual, satisfying, and open all afternoon (a rarity in Italy, where many places close between lunch and dinner).
Via Castiglione, 7f, 40124 Bologna BO
Trattoria Serghei
We went here 14 years ago for my birthday and loved it. Its one block of the main drag, Our previous hotel had recommended it. It is more of an old school feel on the inside. It has the traditional Bolognese menu. I reccomend the homepage tortolini with a side of one of the veggie dishes,
Via Piella 12/A, Bologna, Italy
Tamburini
A classic spot in the heart of Bologna, Tamburini is a historic wine bar and deli that’s been around since 1932. They have a small outdoor seating area right on the street. The aperol spritz is great! We ordered a charcuterie board, which arrived piled high with a generous selection of cured meats and just a few slices of cheese. That is Bologna for you.
Via Caprarie, 1, 40124 Bologna BO