Here’s where to stay, explore, and, perhaps most importantly, eat in Bologna, Italy.

Food vendors tempted shoppers with crystalline slices of parmesan and crates adorned with tiny tortellini shells.

Nearby, large groups sat around communal tables enjoying anaperitivoof sparkling spritzes.

View of Piazza Maggiore

Credit:Wildlab/Bologna Welcome

The cultural tradition of Bologna is conviviality," she said.

“Sharing meals with friends and acquaintances is a much-awaited moment of the day.

Read on for how to experience the best of Bologna.

A man biking by Portico San Luca during spring

Wildlab/Bologna Welcome

Public spaces to commune and experience all three abound here.

Bolognas intricate porticoes are an integral part of the citys architectural heritage and identity.

Past attendees include Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, Jane Campion, and John Landis.

A crowd at Netuno Statue

Wildlab/Bologna Welcome

Bolognas location in Emilia-Romagna also makes it a great home base for day trips.

Modena is also well-known as one of the greatest producers ofbalsamic vinegarin the world.

Stop by anysalumeriafor a cut of Bolognas very own peppery mortadella so prized it has a protected geographical indication.

A man sprinkling cheese on top of tortellini

P. Sorgetti/Bologna Welcome

The geographical position of the Emilia-Romagna region has favored a crossroads of people and cultures over the centuries.

Design touches include centuries-old frescoes and gilded antique furniture, giving the space an air of nobility.

Some of the 106 rooms have windows adorned with silk drapes, Murano chandeliers, and terraces.

Guest suite in Grand Hotel Majestic

Courtesy of Grand Hotel Majestic

The propertys restaurant, I Carracci, serves traditional Bolognese food in a room adorned with frescoes.

Enjoy the quiet lounge areas and take advantage of the bikes available for guests to ride around the city.