The red, the fat, and the learned—Italy's great food city under 40km of medieval porticoes.
Bologna wears three nicknames proudly: La Rossa (the red) for its terracotta buildings and leftist politics, La Grassa (the fat) for its extraordinary food culture, and La Dotta (the learned) for hosting the world's oldest university, founded in 1088. The centro storico is a medieval marvel of leaning towers, hidden canals, and UNESCO-listed porticoes stretching 40 kilometres through the city. But Bologna's real magic is edible: tortellini in brodo, ragù bolognese (never called 'spaghetti bolognese' here), mortadella, and fresh tagliatelle. The university gives the city a youthful energy, with aperitivo bars spilling into piazzas and a live music scene that rivals cities twice its size.
April to June or September to November. The Po Valley is foggy in winter and hot in summer. Autumn brings food festivals and the famous Cinema Ritrovato film festival in late June.
A sfoglina is a pasta-making master—usually a woman who's been rolling by hand for decades. A local can arrange a lesson in a real Bolognese kitchen where you'll learn the traditional pinch that shapes each tiny parcel.
The world's longest portico—almost 4km with 666 arches—climbs from the city centre to the hilltop Sanctuary of San Luca. A local will time the walk for sunset views over the terracotta rooftops.
Bologna once had a canal system rivalling Venice's. Most are now underground, but a local knows the Finestrella di Via Piella—a tiny window revealing a secret canal—and the history of the city's lost waterways.
(the local lens)
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Amalfi, Sorrento +11
Born and raised in Italy's Marche region, I have explored the country from north to south during travels and study periods away from home. I have lived part of my life in amazing cities such as Venice and Bologna, and have visited Rome a lot since I have family and friends there. I am an experienced trip planner for destinations all over Italy, from the breezy Cinqueterre in Liguria down to the sun kissed Amalfi coast. If you want someone to help you with all-encompassing guidance and make the best out of your trip to Italy, I will be most happy to help you!
Bologna, Naples +2
Hi, I’m Elisabeth. I live in Italy and I’ve always been deeply connected to the rhythms of everyday life here—slow walks through historic streets, good food shared without rush, and small details that most travellers might miss. I love exploring places both like a local and like a curious outsider: from hidden cafés and traditional bakeries to quiet corners where you can really feel the atmosphere of a city. I’ve spent a lot of time discovering how to enjoy Italian life in a balanced, authentic way—whether that means finding the right spot for a relaxed meal, a scenic walk, or simply a peaceful moment away from the crowds. I’m especially drawn to culture, storytelling, and traditions, particularly from southern Italy, so I naturally bring a more emotional and immersive perspective to travel. If you’re looking to experience a place beyond the typical tourist path, I’ll help you see it with different eyes.
Ravenna, Ferrara +8
I’m an Italian travel consultant, licensed tour guide, and passionate traveler with over 20 years of experience helping visitors discover the real Italy. I was born and raised in Ravenna, the extraordinary city of mosaics, where I work as a licensed tour guide. My background in Art at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ravenna deepened my love for mosaics and history, and I enjoy sharing this passion with travelers who want to experience Italy beyond the surface. I’m also a certified environmental hiking guide and tour leader, and I love combining culture, nature, and authentic local life. When I travel, or design experiences for others, I’m always looking for inspiring museums, beautiful landscapes, great food, and memorable wines. In recent years I’ve also started hosting cooking classes in my home, where guests learn traditional Italian recipes and enjoy genuine Italian hospitality. While Ravenna and Emilia-Romagna are my home base, I also offer travel expertise for Sardinia, especially the province of Oristano, an area I know and love for its wild coastline, traditions, and authentic culture.
Milan, Como +10
Hi! I’m Emanuele, a passionate traveler and sports enthusiast with a love for discovering cities through their hidden corners and authentic experiences. While I’ve explored many places around the world, my heart is in Milan, a city I know inside out. I enjoy everything from iconic landmarks to quiet streets off the beaten path, and I love sharing those special spots that only a local can show. Whether it’s culture, food, history, or hidden gems, my goal is to create personalized experiences that make you feel truly connected to the city. I believe travel is about curiosity, discovery, and living a place fully (and I’d love to be your guide to experience Italy in a mindful, authentic way).
12 Local
Ready to show you around
Best Time to Visit
April to June or September to November
Highly Rated
Experiences with 4.8+ rating
Connect with a local who knows the city
Francesca Zaccari came to Bologna to study art history and fell in love with the city through its churches. Four sacred spaces that contain art that changes how you see the world. And a city full of life around them.
As a mother and wife in Bologna, date nights are precious. Sara Flammini takes you to the three places she actually books when she and her husband want a meal that feels like a celebration. Elegant, seasonal, and unmistakably Bolognese.
Lucrezia Incanti splits her time between Milan and Emilia Romagna. We asked her how to spend a long weekend on Italy's food and fashion spine. Where to eat, what to skip, and why visitors are getting the food wrong.