BOLOGNA

Bologna, in the Regione Emilia Romagna, is a marvelous and fascinating city. It is well-known for its fabulous cuisine, and I am pleased to say, that on my many visits there I have had the pleasure of tasting a great deal of it. There is no question that it is one of the best "foodie" places in the world. The famous Bolognese sauce was created here and remains one of Bologna's signature dishes. The original recipe can be found in the archives of the University of Bologna. The mortadella with pistachios is also an original product of Bologna. There are many fine ristoranti and trattorie in Bologna, but one of my favorites is Trattoria Gianni, with great menu choices in all of the courses. If you don't get there, don't be concerned because it is hard to find bad food in Bologna or in the rest of Emilia Romagna. Casual dining is very popular. There are a number of "deli" style eateries throughout Bologna serving the best cold cuts, breads, wine and sides you will ever eat.  Don't miss "Eataly" a multi-level store with ongoing pasta and cooking demonstrations, restaurants, Italian products of all kinds, books, art  and much more!

There is, of course, more to Bologna than its cuisine. It is the home of the oldest university in Europe, so it is a vibrant and alive city. Any time of year you will find events and activities outdoors, everywhere. It is definitely a must see in Northern Italy. The Bolognese people are wonderful hosts and will assure you of a great experience in their City.

The sidewalks of many of the streets of Bologna are covered with porticoes, and that feature along with the city's layout, makes it an easy city to walk around and enjoy. It is also known as the City of Towers as you will see as you stroll the city.
From Bologna you can easily access the cities of Parma, Modena, Ferrara, and the coastal cities of Rimini, Ravenna, and  others, along the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a walking tour on your first day which helps to acclimate you to the layout, history and culture of the city. Then you can enjoy Bologna on your own at your own pace.

Buon Viaggio!

                                                            Piazza e Fontana de Tritone

Typical Portico

                                                                       Classic narrow street

 

                                                       Polpette (meatballs) Bologna style

The Two Towers

Rosa dei Venti-Cortona, Italy

Italian Journeys says:

When travelling to Tuscany.....

Italian Journeys is happy to announce exclusive non-hotel accommodations at Rosa dei Venti properties in Tuscany, when you book your trip with us. You can choose this luxurious apartment within walking distance to the lovely Tuscan town of Foiano Della Chiana, and close to Cortona, Arezzo and all the wine area towns. Below is a first hand review and description of "Diamante" which I did when my wife and I were the very first occupants of the apartment. We have been staying here for nearly 20 years and clients will tell you they were never disappointed in any of the property owned/managed by the Micheli Family.

Living Room

Dining Room

Wraparound Balcony

Bedroom

A "Gem" from the Rosa dei Venti Family

Diamante is a three bedroom, two bath apartment located outside the historic center of Foiano della Chiana, in Tuscany. It is six km from the farmhouse property in the countryside. My wife and I are fortunate to be the first occupants of this totally remodeled apartment. The kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances and kitchenware. There is a dishwasher, refrigerator/freezer, double sinks, and all the pans, dishes, etc., to cook and entertain.

From the apartment you can walk to town and shop and dine as local residents do. There are fresh pasta shops, butchers, delis, bakeries, and fresh fruit and vegetables every day. There are family restaurants and pizzerias and, an open air market every Monday.

You have complete access to the farmhouse activities and events such as cooking classes and and guided tours. The location is ideal for visiting the many historical hill and walled towns in Tuscany and Umbria. There is a train station nearby for trips to Arezzo and Florence or even Rome. It is a great place to stay for a long term as a base for touring the area and other parts of Italy. The apartment rental period is a minimum of one week. There is a significant savings for longer rentals, particularly for one month.

This is a great alternative to the farmhouse property for long term stays.
It can be viewed and booked by Italian Journeys. Email to Volareinitalia@gmail.com for more information and details. Remember my booking services are free. We can also escort, drive, interpret, etc.This is a five out of five rating all around.

Michael Miccichè – California

If you prefer country living in a beautiful villa/farmhouse property, you can choose from the apartments shown below. There are sizes for all. Most of the apartments are two bedrooms, two full baths, full kitchen, appliances, tableware, etc.,  and living room. There is a three bedroom with two baths, and a cottage with one bedroom.

Aerial view of Rosa Dei Venti

All these apartments are owned and operated by the Micheli Family which has owned the property since 1900 (4 Generations).

As the properties are first class, so is the family. They are friendly, helpful and very accommodating.  They can arrange delightful wine tours, cooking classes, etc. during your stay. The family produces wine, olive oil, fruit, and sunflowers. It is very much a working farm. You can buy the wine and olive oil and their cookbooks, which you will want after you participate in the cooking class and enjoy the cuisine!

View from Maestrale Apartment

Landscaped grounds

Cooking Class

The pasta maker