Bologna

The late film director Pier Paolo Pasolini described Bologna as Italy's most beautiful city after Venice. But there are no superstar monuments or galactico museums here.

With its pleasing warren of medieval and Renaissance streets, the city – halfway between Rome and the northern hubs of Milan and Turin – is more of a team effort. As the church of San Petronio might put it, 'full credit to the rest of the piazza'. Rather than sightseeing, visitors soak up the vibes and make the most of Italy's food capital. The perfect day in Bologna often follows the same pattern: wander around a bit. Eat. Wander around a bit more. Eat.

Then eat a bit more. After dark, the streets to seek out are the Via del Pratello (wine bars and trattorias) and Via Mascarella, home to the famous cellar jazz club Cantina Bentivoglio, in the buzzing university district – Bologna is home to the world's oldest university, founded in 1088.

The city's football team, Bologna FC 1909, had more than its share of success in the past with seven league titles, but none since the 60s. The main aim of the last 30 years has been to avoid relegation from Serie A, which they haven't always managed, but in 2008 they clawed their way back up and are still in the top flight as of 2010/11.

CITY GUIDE: ARRIVAL
BA, Ryanair and EasyJet all fly to Marconi Airport (tel: 051 647 9615), north west of town but linked to the centre and the train station by the Aerobus (every 20 minutes, tickets on board for 4.50).

TOURIST OFFICE
Piazza Maggiore 1/e - 40124 Bologna - tel +39 051 239660 www.welcomebologna.it

SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT
The Via Clavature has a variety of market stalls and shops and is one of the city's most endearing and enticing sights.

Explore Bologna with our interactive map, below. Click the club badge for a club guide.

For regular updates on the crazy world of Italian football, see our blog Serie Aaaaargh!
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