A seasoned traveller who has explored nine Italian cities has declared a lesser-known destination as his favourite – the charm of being less crowded with tourists and its “unique spirit” make this city stand out, not to mention the exceptional Italian cuisine. Journalist Adam Miller shared his experience of visiting this remarkable city, describing it as a world apart from the usual tourist hotspots like Rome or Venice.

The writer had already visited “Florence, Rome, Venice, Milan, Verona, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, and Bergamo”, all of which he adored, but then he stumbled upon a new city that quickly became his top pick. On his first visit to the city of Bologna in Italy (in August 2025), Adam was captivated by the vibrant atmosphere, the terracotta buildings and “the best food” he’d “ever eaten”. In his column for Metro Travel Hot Takes, Adam painted a picture of Bologna: “The real magic of Bologna is in its simplicity. Everything feels so calm and easy. Eating, drinking, exploring – it all feels effortless compared to Florence, Venice, or Rome.”

“I can’t imagine staying anywhere else in Italy for a city break now, especially when the Italian train service is so cheap and efficient. Florence is close, Venice is only 70 minutes away, and tickets can be as cheap as £13, so it also makes a great detour destination.”

Adam described the vibrant city, explaining it felt worlds away from a typical weekend night out in Britain. He said Bologna’s energy was “unique” and it had become his “favourite” Italian city.

TripAdvisor reviewers who have explored Bologna highlight the Santuario di Madonna di San Luca as essential viewing, calling it a “unique experience” with spectacular views from the hilltop location.

One TripAdvisor review stated: “Very suggestive place on the hills of Bologna, which can be reached through a not too strenuous walk under long porches, possibly starting from the monumental cemetery of the Certosa (equally suggestive place, which I absolutely recommend to visit).

“The arcades are well maintained and the same applies to the area in front of the sanctuary; the view, once arrived, is magnificent.”

Another visitor commented: “It is a beautiful Baroque basilica perfectly maintained both inside and outside. It is located in the hills which allows you to enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the surrounding hills.

“You can reach it by taxi, with the train that leaves from Piazza Maggiore but the most exciting experience is to do it on foot by climbing for about 4km, about 500 steps, under the longest porch in the world that starts from the city centre – not to be missed.”

Other top-rated Bologna visitor experiences according to TripAdvisor include the city’s heart, Piazza Maggiore, and the observation deck, Le Due Torri Torre degli Asinelli, known for its panoramic views.

The Porticoes of Bologna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also hailed as unforgettable for its stunning Bolognese architecture of red-stone columns and magnificent arches.