Curves and a Carry On

Bologna, known as La Grassa (The Fat One), La Dotta (The Learned One), and La Rossa (The Red One), is Italy’s best-kept secret, combining rich food, culture, and history. It’s a dream destination for solo female travelers who want to wander through porticoed streets, feast on Italy’s finest cuisine, and dive into its vibrant history without the overwhelming crowds of Rome or Florence. Plus, Bologna’s friendly vibe makes it a perfect place to explore on your own—whether you’re a woman of color, plus-sized, LGBTQ, or have accessibility needs.

Why Visit Bologna Solo?

Bologna is like the laid-back, artsy cousin of Italy’s more famous cities. It’s a foodie haven, a university town brimming with life, and a cultural gem where you’ll find history around every corner. What’s more, Bolognese people are incredibly warm, welcoming solo travelers with open arms and delicious plates of tortellini.

Tourist Favorites You Can’t Miss

• Piazza Maggiore: The heart of Bologna, this grand square is surrounded by historic buildings like Basilica di San Petronio. Sip a spritz at a café while you people-watch.
• The Two Towers (Le Due Torri): Climb the Torre degli Asinelli for panoramic views of the red-roofed city. Fair warning: it’s a 498-step workout, but the view is worth it!
• Archiginnasio of Bologna: Once the seat of the University of Bologna, this incredible building houses an ancient anatomical theater that will transport you back to medieval medical studies.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Bologna

• La Piccola Venezia: Did you know Bologna has canals? Head to Via Piella for a glimpse of the city’s hidden waterway, often referred to as “Little Venice.” Peek through the finestra (window) for a surprise view.
• Certosa di Bologna: Explore this atmospheric cemetery filled with grand tombs, statues, and mausoleums. It’s a peaceful and eerie escape from the bustling city center.
• Parco di Villa Ghigi: If you need a break from the city, this park offers walking trails with breathtaking views of Bologna’s rolling hills.
• Quadrilatero District: Wander through this historic market area for a sensory overload of fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. It’s also home to some amazing street food—grab a piadina (Italian flatbread sandwich) from a local vendor!

Classic Bolognese Cuisine and Restaurant Recommendations

Food is at the heart of Bologna, and its traditional dishes will have you falling in love with Italy all over again. Here are a few must-try classics:

• Tagliatelle al Ragù: Forget spaghetti Bolognese—the real deal is tagliatelle al ragù, where the sauce clings perfectly to the flat, egg-based pasta. Try it at Osteria dell’Orsa, a local favorite with a cozy, no-fuss vibe.
• Tortellini in Brodo: These tiny, hand-folded pasta parcels are filled with meat and served in a flavorful broth. Trattoria Anna Maria does a killer version of this iconic dish.
• Lasagna alla Bolognese: This is the home of lasagna, but forget about heavy layers of cheese—this version uses delicate sheets of pasta and a rich meat sauce. Head to Ristorante Teresina for a traditional take.
• Mortadella: Bologna’s famous cured meat! Grab a mortadella panino from Tamburini, a deli packed with delicious local products, or pair it with fresh cheese at Salumeria Simoni.

For a deep dive into Bolognese cuisine, join a local food tour with companies like Taste Bologna, where you’ll eat your way through the city’s best markets, delis, and bakeries.

Considerations for Women of Color, Plus-Sized Travelers, LGBTQ Travelers, and Travelers with Disabilities

• Women of Color: Bologna is a diverse and welcoming city, especially thanks to its large student population from around the world. You’ll find many people of color in everyday life, particularly in the multicultural Bolognina neighborhood.
• Plus-Sized Travelers: Don’t worry about fitting into Bologna’s fashion scene—comfort is key! The city is welcoming to all body types, and you’ll feel perfectly at home in its casual, laid-back atmosphere. Just be prepared for a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must.
• LGBTQ Travelers: Bologna has a vibrant LGBTQ scene, especially around Cassero LGBT Center, one of the oldest LGBTQ organizations in Italy. The city is LGBTQ-friendly, with welcoming bars, clubs, and cultural events throughout the year.
• Travelers with Disabilities: Bologna’s historic city center has many cobblestone streets, which can make getting around a bit challenging. However, most major sites are working on improving accessibility, and public transport is well-equipped for travelers with disabilities. Disabled Accessible Travel offers resources and tours specifically for those with mobility concerns.

Shopping in Bologna

• Galleria Cavour: For luxury shopping, head to this mall where you’ll find high-end stores like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.
• Via dell’Indipendenza: One of Bologna’s main shopping streets, lined with a mix of international brands and local boutiques.
• Mercato delle Erbe: This indoor market is not just for foodies—it’s also a great spot to pick up artisan products and local wines. Perfect for souvenirs!
• Vintage Shopping: For quirky, one-of-a-kind finds, check out Humana Vintage or Friperie, where you can score retro clothing and accessories.

Historical Landmarks You Can’t Miss

• Basilica di San Petronio: One of the largest churches in the world, this Gothic gem dominates Piazza Maggiore. Inside, you’ll find stunning frescoes and even a meridian line used to measure the sun’s position.
• Basilica di Santo Stefano: Also known as the Seven Churches, this labyrinthine complex is steeped in history and filled with religious art and architecture dating back centuries.
• University of Bologna: The oldest university in the Western world! Wander through its courtyards, visit the Museo di Palazzo Poggi, and explore the Teatro Anatomico.

Italian Pharmacy Favorites

No trip to Italy is complete without raiding a local pharmacy! Stock up on cult favorites like:

• BioNike Defence Hydra5: A soothing moisturizer for sensitive skin.
• Collistar Scrub Talasso: A heavenly body scrub that leaves your skin feeling like silk.
• Lierac Anti-Aging Serums: French skincare with an Italian twist—perfect for staying youthful after all that pasta.

Where to Stay: Hotels vs. Airbnb

• Hotel Corona d’Oro: For a luxurious stay in the heart of Bologna, this hotel offers old-world charm with modern comforts. It’s located just a short walk from the main square, so you’re never far from the action.
• Hotel Metropolitan: If you’re looking for something more contemporary, this boutique hotel offers sleek design and a rooftop terrace with views over the city.
• Airbnb: If you prefer a more local experience, Bologna has plenty of charming apartments to choose from. Look for spots near Santo Stefano or Via Zamboni for easy access to the city’s main attractions while still feeling like a local.

Getting Around: Transportation Options

• Walking: Bologna is a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking is the best way to explore its narrow streets and hidden corners. The porticoes (covered walkways) are perfect for rainy days.
• Buses: Bologna’s bus system is reliable, and a city pass will get you unlimited rides for a day. It’s a great option for reaching more distant parts of the city like San Luca.
• Bicycles: Bologna is also a bike-friendly city, and you can rent a bicycle from places like Dynamo. It’s a fun way to zip around the city’s wide streets.
• Taxis and Ride-Share: Taxis are widely available, and Uber is a convenient option if you’re carrying heavy bags of wine and cheese (which you should definitely buy).

Essentials You Won’t Want to Forget to Pack

• Comfortable shoes: Bologna’s cobblestones and endless walking will require shoes that can handle long days. Bonus points if they’re stylish and Italian-made!
• Portable phone charger: Between navigating with Google Maps and taking a million photos of pasta, you’ll want a reliable battery backup.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated as you wander through markets and piazzas.
• A small umbrella: Bologna’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for the occasional downpour.

Final Thoughts: Why Bologna Will Steal Your Heart

Bologna is the perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary excellence—all with fewer tourists than you’ll find in Italy’s more famous cities. Whether you’re savoring a plate of tagliatelle, shopping in the Quadrilatero, or getting lost in the narrow streets of Santo Stefano, Bologna is a city that will embrace you with warmth and charm.

So, pack your bags, solo traveler. Bologna is calling!