Venture inland to Bologna, into the very heart of Emilia Romagna. Explore this charming medieval city, often overlooked by visitors intent on seeing Venice and Florence.

Enjoy the appealing countryside as you make your way west about 76 km (47 miles) to the regional capital of Bologna. Home to the oldest university in Europe (founded in 1088), Bologna has always been known for its progressive, artistic environment. As far back as the Renaissance, women in Bologna were allowed to pursue professions restricted to men elsewhere in the country, and to attend the university. Today, Bologna is a pleasing combination of historic surroundings and contemporary ambience.

Begin with a comprehensive walking tour of the old city centre, encompassing many of the venerable monuments, squares and churches found there. Piazza Maggiore, which dates to 1200, is lined with several notable structures, including Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall), Palazzo dei Notai (Notaries Palace) and the massive Basilica di Petronoi. Walk on to Piazza del Nettuno, with its emblematic fountain of Neptune by Giambologna.

Visit Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio, original home to the university and medical school. If possible, view the famed Anatomical Theatre, where students observed autopsies and learned firsthand about human anatomy. Stroll beneath Bologna’s decorated porticoes, visit the Loggia della Mercanzia, and have a look at Bologna’s two leaning towers, Asinelli and Garisenda; dozens of these towers graced the city in the Middle Ages, status symbols of wealthy merchants.

At the conclusion of your guided walk, enjoy about two hours of free time to shop or have a snack. Bologna is acknowledged as the birthplace of tortellini, mortadella and ragú—check with your guide for directions to a nearby café or deli where you may enjoy a glass of wine and some of the famed culinary products of Emilia Romagna.

NOTE: Modest clothing is required—no shorts or bare shoulders, please. No backpacks of any kind are allowed inside Saint Petrino.

PRICE:

$ 140 25-29 participants

W2: Moderate activity. Requires intermittent effort throughout, including walking medium distances over uneven surfaces and/or on steps.