Travel
What to eat and drink in Bologna
It is not possible to speak about Bologna with out meals dominating the dialog – town (and area of Emilia-Romagna) arguably sits on the prime of an extended record of culinary nirvanas all through Italy. Emilian specialties dominate gastronomic landscapes the world over (ragù, tortellini, lasagna, balsamic vinegar, parmigiano reggiano, mortadella – it is infinite, actually). As a local Atlantan that has lived in California, New York, Brazil and Portugal, amongst others, I can confidently say that nothing in these cities has carried the cultural weight that meals does in Bologna. Consuming right here is divine and I’ve ferociously completed so since 2019.
However a phrase of warning: Don’t present up right here searching for spaghetti and meatballs (no such factor) or spaghetti Bolognese (it doesn’t exist) or spaghetti in any respect (it is from the south). In Bologna, it is all about contemporary, egg-based pastas (tagliatelle, tortelloni and so forth) and, most of the time, pork-based sauces and stuffings. Buon appetito!
Cornetto with pistachio cream at Gamberini
Being a savory form of breakfast man myself (and American, so give me a breakfast burrito, bagel sandwich or crab cake eggs Benedict any day), breakfast is my least favourite meal in Italy. Reality be instructed, it is the one meal wherein the nation is not outrageously excellent (I imply, they cannot win each culinary battle). Italian breakfast is designed to be fast and snappy. That is to not say what they do is not fantastic, although. Within the metropolis heart, the pastry case at Gamberini makes for painstaking choices. Seize a cornetto (Italian croissant) oozing with pistachio cream (or something with pistachio cream, actually, it is my kryptonite).
Find out how to get it: Stroll in, anytime. Gamberini is open from 7am till 9pm every single day (besides Fridays).
Raspberry brioches at Gino Fabbri Pasticcere
One other favourite pasticceria requires your personal wheels, however Gino Fabbri Pasticcere, 6km northeast of town heart, is a detour-worthy, internationally-awarded bakery. You may’t go mistaken with something right here, however the rosy-striped lampone (raspberry) and zucchero (sugar-iced) brioches are value touring for. If I’m in dire want of savory, which is certainly trigger for a treasure hunt right here, choices on toast at Papparè within the metropolis heart (bacon, avocado, feta and many others) assist tide me over till I can get stateside.
Find out how to get it: You may want your personal automobile for this one. It is open six days per week (closed Sunday) on the outskirts of town and requires a 20-minute drive. Alternatively, you possibly can take the 88 bus from Stazione Centrale.
The right espresso at Aroma
Certainly one of Italy’s biggest attributes is that – with only a few exceptions – a improbable espresso or cappuccino is offered anyplace and all over the place, together with regular caffeine lifeless zones resembling petrol stations and low-cost inns. Third wave coffeehouses exist in Italy, however they continue to be uncommon, because the demand for them isn’t as sturdy as different components of the world. Nonetheless, there are specialty cafes whose emphasis on information, roasting, barista coaching and execution outweigh the common. If I am searching for an ideal espresso, I head to Aroma – you may pay extra right here (€1.50-€4) but it surely’s value it. It is one of many few locations that includes specialty roasts from worldwide espresso hotbeds (Ethiopia, El Salvador, Uganda) and various strategies like V-60 and many others. One other is Caffè TerzI, which has a extra bygone vibe and glorious pastries to go together with their prolonged menu of single-origin 100% Arabica roasts from all over the world. However do not fret if these appear out of the best way, there is a good espresso close to you – belief me.
Find out how to get it: It is open seven days per week from 8am (9:30am on weekends) till 6pm.
Recent pasta at Sfoglia Rina
When you’ve got by no means been to Bologna earlier than, head straight to Sfoglia Rina and get in line (arrive early – there is not any reservations). The contemporary pasta at this suburban transplant (it started in 1963 in close by Casalecchio di Reno) is classy. It is a fantastic spot to wrap your head round all that Bologna is famed for (tagliatelle, tortellini, tortelloni) together with weekly-changing artistic takes. The tagliatelle al ragù (pasta with a meat and tomato sauce) and gramigna alla salsiccia (pasta with sausage meat) are favorites.
Find out how to get it: Sfoglia Rina is open seven days per week from 9am to 9pm. They do not take reservations and there is at all times a queue.
Veal cutlets at All’Osteria Bottega
One other prime lunch alternative – if you will get a reservation – is All’Osteria Bottega, which is splendidly positioned below the UNESCO World Heritage listed Santa Catarina portico. Their Petroniana-style veal cutlet (one other Bologna specialty often known as cotaletta, topped right here with prosciutto di Parma and parmigiano Reggiano) was my authentic introduction to the dish and has by no means been outdone. It is a quintessential Bolognese expertise – the meals is so good, there is not any want for niceties or pleasantries. You might be fortunate to have gotten a desk, full cease!
Find out how to get it: It is closed Sunday and Monday however open each different day from 12:30pm till 10:30pm. You may need to name them to e-book a desk as they do not provide on-line reservations.
Ruote alla vodka at Casa Merlò
My favourite non-traditional lunch dish on the town? The ruote alla vodka at Casa Merlò/Locanda Casa Merlò, a recipe from chef Dario Picchiotti that includes Benedetto Cavalieri pasta wheels dunked in a throwback vodka sauce with smoked Tuscan rigatino (pancetta). The brand new locanda (rural inn), positioned outdoors city in Calderara di Reno, serves up countryside lunch perfection.
Find out how to get it: Casa Merlò is positioned within the metropolis heart and open seven days per week from 12:30 to 3pm for lunch after which once more from 7:30pm till 12:30am for dinner. It accepts online reservations. To get to the locando, it is advisable drive or take the 576 bus from Bologna Central Bus Station.
Sangiovese-braised beef at Trattoria Bertozzi
The toughest factor about residing in Bologna is selecting the place to eat dinner. Spur-of-the-moment choices are out – all nice locations require reservations, no less than a couple of days prematurely (extra for some) – and there is merely an excessive amount of sensational from which to decide on. Trattoria Bertozzi is one among my prime three eating places. It does all of it: exceptionally executed custom. Their signature gramigna, with guanciale, zucchini, saffron and parmigiano Reggiano, and Sangiovese-braised beef, are my staples.
Find out how to get it: It is open six days per week (closed on Sundays) from 7:30pm till 10pm. For lunch, it opens earlier on Fridays and Saturdays from 12:30pm to 2:30pm. You may email or call ahead to order a desk.
Lasagne at Al Cambio
The lasagne at Al Cambio – no hyperbole right here – is among the biggest issues you’ll ever put in your mouth. That is all I’ve to say.
Find out how to get it: You may e-mail or name forward to safe a spot. It is open six days per week (closed Sundays) from 12 to 2:30pm for lunch and from 7:30pm to 10:30pm for dinner.
Tortellini at Oltre
And for one thing extra romantic and a tad fashionable, Oltre chef Daniele Bendanti is not afraid to tweak custom. The one tortellini in parmigiano Reggiano cream I’ve had higher than his was cooked by world-famous, three-star Michelin chef Massimo Bottura!
Find out how to get it: It is open from Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesday and Wednesday) from 7:30pm till 11pm and from 12:30pm to 2:30pm for lunch from Saturday to Monday. You may have to e-book forward.
Negronis at Agricola e Vitale
Bolognese delicacies is kind of heavy, so if I am out and about round aperitivo time, I am normally simply searching for a cocktail fairly than free meals with a drink (now in Milan the story could be completely different). It is touristy and pricy, however I am at all times down for a negroni at Agricola e Vitale, not as a result of it is superior to different variations round city (Italians do not screw up negronis!) however fairly the placement: Its outside tables occupy my favourite sq. within the metropolis, Piazza Santo Stefano, and the view (and people-watching) are improbable.
Find out how to get it: Open day by day from 11am to 1am, apart from Friday and Saturday when it stays open till 2am.
Wine, snacks and vibes at Le Serre dei Giardini Margherita
Much less touristy however equally compelling is Le Serre dei Giardini Margherita, the place town’s previous greenhouses have been changed into a splendidly atmospheric bar/restaurant/co-working dangle area for college students, artists, creatives and intellectuals. It is an excellent spot for a drawn-out bottle of wine and small plates like breaded meatballs and focaccia crammed with in-season greens.
Find out how to get it: It is a 20-minute stroll from town heart of Bologna (or hop on the 16 bus) and open weekdays from 8am to 8pm and on weekends from 9am to 9.30pm.
Craft beer at Il Punto
I am a craft beer man and Italy (Bologna particularly) has probably the greatest scenes amongst conventional European wine international locations. My go-to is Il Punto, whose location on the periphery of town heart acts as a filter that solely locals or beer nerds (“nerds della birra” because the Italians say) who do their analysis slip via. Count on eight faucets of native craft.
Find out how to get it: Stroll in, seven days per week till late.
Late-night cocktails at Ruggine
For late-night cocktails, I head for Ruggine close to the Quadrilatero. Inventive mixology and a full of life/social crowd (usually unusual at most Italian bars) make it a spot to settle in for an prolonged night of cocktail “analysis.”
Find out how to get it: Ruggine is open from 12pm to 1am every single day (besides Monday when it opens at 6pm). It serves meals every single day, together with Sunday brunch. No want to order a spot, walk-ins are accepted.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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