Food and wine experiences in Bologna and surroundings
3 minutes
Bologna is one of the capitals of Italian gastronomy, here some of the country’s dishes of excellence were created here: fresh pasta, ragout, mortadella... Here are the food and wine experiences that the Bologna area offers its visitors.
In the heart of Bologna’s historical center lies an artisan, trade and commerce tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. Leaving behind the elegant Piazza Maggiore, one enters the narrow and fragrant alleys of the ancient market of medieval origin and in this area there are plenty of artisan shops where, often, families have handed down the craft from generation to generation. Wander in the alleys of the ancient market or visit the more modern "food court" in the old Mercato delle Erbe.
There is nothing more Bolognese than learning how to "pull" dough and prepare fresh pasta directly from the “sfogline”, the ladies who guard this culinary tradition of the city. Tortellini, tortelloni, lasagna, tagliatelle... learning the art of fresh pasta making and being able to replicate it once back at home is priceless.
Let yourself be won over by the typical wines of the area with a tour in a winery on the famous hills of Bologna. Together with an expert you will walk along the rows of the vineyards to discover the secrets of the wineries up to the beautiful barrel room. At the end of the visit, you will discover the most representative wines of Emilia Romagna thanks to a tasting of 3 labels accompanied by savory local products!
Bologna is one of the world’s capitals for artisan-made gelato. The Bolognese have a sweet tooth but they do not accept just any product: they appreciate quality and this is why there are so many artisan gelato shops in the city. Walking under the arcades you will notice many of them, because ice cream is a product that is enjoyed all year round. Learn about the history of this tradition by visiting the Carpigiani Gelato Museum, created by the manufacturer by the same name that produces “ice cream making machines” that have become a world famous brand. And at the end of your visit, enjoy a good ice cream or even learn how to make it!
The glorious culinary tradition of Bologna is best expressed by the many trattorias and osterias in the city. The city has maintained an authentic soul and has best preserved the gastronomic quality of its dishes in its restaurants, which are still family-run for the most part. It is because of Bologna's reputation as a food city par excellence that allowed this destination to become one of the most sought after by foodies from all over the world.
It is worth dedicating a day (or half a day) to visiting the producers of traditional products of excellence near Bologna. Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, prosciutto, mortadella and balsamic vinegar. The many food tours that leave in the morning and return to the city in the afternoon are a must when visiting Bologna!
Inaugurated in 2017, FICO Eataly World is the largest agri-food park in the world. A unique experience that encompasses, throughout its sprawling 10 hectares, the wonders of Italian biodiversity with 2 hectares dedicated to open-air fields and stables with more than 200 animals, 2,000 crops and the remaining 8 hectares of covered space hosting: 40 factories more than 40 places to eat stores and market areas dedicated to sports, children, reading and services 6 classrooms, 6 large educational rides a convention center and a Foundation with 4 universities.
