Hey Lykkers! We’ve just returned from an exhilarating adventure in Bologna, Italy, and we’re thrilled to share our discoveries with you!
Nestled in the heart of this historic city, the Two Towers—Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda—are truly the crown jewels of Bologna’s skyline.
Here’s a deep dive into our experiences with these iconic structures, along with some fantastic local tips on where to stay and eat.
The Two Towers: A Historic Marvel
Our journey began with a visit to the Two Towers, a must-see for anyone visiting Bologna. These medieval towers are not just historical landmarks; they’re symbols of the city’s rich past. Torre degli Asinelli, the taller of the two, stands at an impressive 97 meters (318 feet), while Torre Garisenda, the shorter one, reaches 48 meters (157 feet).
Climbing Torre degli Asinelli was an adventure in itself. With 498 steps winding up to the top, the climb was challenging but utterly rewarding. From the summit, we were treated to panoramic views of Bologna’s red-tiled roofs and sprawling landscapes. It was the perfect spot for those Instagram-worthy shots!
Opening Hours and Ticket Prices: The towers are open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tickets are reasonably priced at €5 for adults, and €3 for students. It’s worth noting that the ticket allows you to access both towers, though only Torre degli Asinelli is open for climbing.
A Charming Stay Nearby: Hotel Corona d'Oro
After exploring the towers, we were ready to relax in comfort, and we found the perfect place at the Hotel Corona d'Oro. This 4-star hotel, located just a short stroll from the towers, offered us a blend of elegance and modern amenities. The rooms were spacious, with tastefully decorated interiors and luxurious bedding. We particularly enjoyed the hotel's serene ambiance after a day of sightseeing.
Hotel Prices: Rooms at Hotel Corona d'Oro start at around €150 per night, which includes breakfast. The hotel’s central location makes it a convenient choice for exploring Bologna, and the exceptional service made our stay memorable.
Indulging in Local Flavors: Bologna’s Culinary Delights
No trip to Bologna would be complete without savoring its renowned cuisine. We decided to dive into some local specialties at a charming trattoria called Trattoria Da Gianni, located not far from the towers.
Local Food Highlights:
Tagliatelle al Ragù – This classic Bolognese dish, also known as spaghetti Bolognese, was a delight. The tagliatelle was perfectly cooked and generously coated with a rich, savory ragù sauce. We couldn’t get enough! The dish cost us about €12.
Tortellini in Brodo – Another must-try is the tortellini in broth. These delicate pasta pockets were served in a flavorful, clear broth that was both comforting and satisfying. This dish was priced around €10.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to Bologna and its iconic Two Towers was nothing short of magical. From the breathtaking views atop Torre degli Asinelli to the warm hospitality at Hotel Corona d'Oro and the delectable local cuisine, Bologna truly charmed us.
We hope our experiences inspire you to explore this vibrant city and uncover its treasures for yourself! Stay tuned for more travel tales and tips, Lykkers. Until our next adventure, ciao!
