Italy
Hidden gems
Now that you’ve seen the highlights of Bologna, it’s time to explore some lesser-known spots today.
Explore the San Stefano complex
Start your day at the San Stefano complex, also called Sette Chiese or Seven Churches. It’s a mix of churches, courtyards, a cloister and even a small museum, all connected into one fascinating site. Entrance is free, but it’s closed on Mondays. Give yourself one to two hours to wander around and take it all in.
Lunch at All’Antico Vinaio
Your next stop is All’Antico Vinaio, maybe the most famous sandwich shop in Italy. Their sandwiches are fresh, delicious and very filling. They’re so big that sharing one is often enough, unless you’re really hungry 😉 Check our secret tip to see what we ordered and recommend.
What to order
Reveal secret tip
Visit the Archiginnasio Palace and Anatomical Theater
The Archiginnasio Palace was once the seat of the University of Bologna and today it houses the Municipal Library. You can visit the courtyard, the Anatomical Theater and the Stabat Mater Hall. The Anatomical Theater, built in 1637, is lined with wooden statues including the famous skinless figures once used for anatomy lessons. The Stabat Mater Hall is filled with old books and has a special link to Rossini’s Stabat Mater, first performed here in 1842. Tickets for the Anatomical Theater and the Stabat Mater Hall cost € 10 with an audio guide or € 12 for a guided tour, and we think it’s well worth it.
Dinner at Pizzium
End your day with a delicious pizza at Pizzium. The menu has lots of options, including plenty for vegetarians. The interior is cozy and decorated with shelves full of jars, and even the plates your pizza comes on look great. If it’s your first visit and you make an account, you even get a free dessert, depending on availability.
