On our upcoming trip to Italy this September we are planning to spend a night in Bologna on our way, by train, from southern Tuscany to Venice. We'll be there in the early afternoon on Saturday and leave the next day around noon. I would love some suggestions as to what to see, given our limited time, and where to eat some great, but not too expensive, food while we're there.

Tamborini (sp?) for lunch. Everyone in Bologna knows where it is.

If you like to read, read Grisham's The Broker. It will really make you excited to see Bologna. Personally, I'd like to walk up to the Basilica on the hill, under the 666 arches of the portico.

Two suggestions:
*There is an excellent Etruscan musuem in the city, well worth an hour or so of your time.
*Spend time just sitting in a cafe in Piazza Maggiore, truly one of the joyous experiences in Bologna. The piazza is one of Italy's best in making you feel that you are really in Italy!

Hi H,

See our daytrip to Bologna in my trip report:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34451044

Ever since I read "The Broker" I have been longing for a good panini!

Hi hazel, I have been trying to remember the name of a fabulous restaurants some friends (native of that area) took me to in Bologna. Finally realized it might be in my DK travel book - and it is.

Pappagallo. It is in a very old palace. However, you might want to check it out first because since I was treated to the lunch and never saw a menu as my friend discussed our food with the staff and they took care of bringing the dishes I have a feeling it is expensive. It is at Piazza Mercanzia 3c. Bologna is beautiful! Try to, late afternoon, stroll under the arcades and window shop, along with all the Italians.

Bologna is an expensive city. We enjoyed Cesare for dinner. Great food at a reasonable price. They also have their own winery.

Climb the big tower in the city center (torre dell'asinello). It's a bit strenuous, but you'll have a fantastic view of the medieval city (if a bit dizzing). Enjoy tagliatelle in a typical "trattoria".

>...I have been longing for a good panini!<

Uno panino
Due panini

If you feel you must correct people's Italian, then get it right. Un panino.