Visit the Historic Center of Bologna for spectacular architecture, theaters, excellent shopping and opportunities to sample delicious Bolognese cuisine. This is the medieval core of a city that dates back some 2,500 years to the time of the Etruscans. Enjoy the romantic ambiance and discover major attractions while strolling the network of elegant streets in this central location.

Start at Piazza del Nettuno, where Giambologna’s Fountain of Neptune takes pride of place. Grand medieval palaces, such as Palazzo Comunale (aka Palazzo D’Accursio) and Palazzo Re Enzo, frame the adjoining Piazza Maggiore.

Visit Palazzo Comunale for the City Art Collections, which features works by Luca Signorelli and Vitale da Bologna. Ornate artwork decorates the interiors of the Gothic-style Basilica of San Petronio and Santa Maria della Vita Church.

Wander along Via dell’Archiginnasio, where high-end retailers are located inside the arcaded Portico del Pavaglione. Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek and Roman history comes to life at the Archaeological Museum of Bologna. Nearby Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio was once the seat of the city university and now dazzles with its frescoes and anatomical theater. See sculptures by Michelangelo and Nicola Pisano at the Basilica of San Domenico.

The vibrant Quadrilatero area of the Historic Center was once the focal point of Roman Bologna. Today boutiques stand next to market stalls, wine bars and restaurants, which serve mortadella, tortellini and other local delicacies.

Get back on the art trail at the Pinacoteca Nazionale, whose exhibitions showcase Bolognese artists from the 1500s. See a slice of Italy’s modern art movement at MAMbo - Museo d’Arte Moderna di Bologna.

Climb the 498 steps of the Tower of Asinelli for panoramic city views. It’s one of the 12th-century Two Towers, the other being the leaning Tower of Garisenda. Don’t miss the Basilica di Santo Stefano, a labyrinth of religious buildings with eclectic architectural designs. Find serenity at Montagnola Park and attend shows at the Arena del Sole Theater and Bologna Municipal Theater.

Bologna’s Historic Center is the beating heart of life in Bologna. With a wealth of things to see and do it’s worth dedicating a few days of your Italy travel plans to uncovering its riches.