Day 1.
An all-day guided tour around the historic centre of Bologna, taking in the sights that define the capital of Emilia- Romagna, featuring Piazza Maggiore – surrounded by the Palazzo Comunale, the imposing San Petronio Church and the Fontana del Nettuno – the charming Mercato di Mezzo, and the Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio, once the main building of the University of Bologna. The famous Portici – a candidate to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site on account of their extent and uniqueness – will accompany you as you discover medieval towers and canals that take you back to the city’s captivating and little-known past. Lunch at your leisure. Dinner in a traditional restaurant included.
Day 2.
Destination the famous “Bolognese Hills”, for a day immersed in the distinctive scenery of the Tosco-Emiliano Appennines. Just a stone’s throw from the historic centre, picturesque hillside villages and parishes are to be found among the gentle rolling hills and spectacular gullies and ravines that define the area. First stop is the unmissable Santuario della Madonna di San Luca, which casts its protective eye over the city from its vantage point atop the nearby Colle della Guardia. Vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see are testament to the wine-producing tradition of the area. Next stop, the exotic Rocchetta Mattei, with its eclectic, yet elegant, blend of fairytale castle and Alhambra-inspired Moorish architecture. Wine tasting en route. Traditional lunch in the hills.