Three Compelling Reasons to Visit Bologna, a Foodie's Dream Destination

Bologna is rich in food history and culture that we're sure the city's name sounds familiar to you. Bolognese sauce? Bologna sausage? Yes, they all originated from Italy's 7th most populous city. Its rich history comes to no surprise as the first settlements date back to at least 1000 BC. It has withstood four periods from the Etruscan period and Celtic period to the Roman period and the Middle Ages. Learn more about Bologna through the Bologna Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     All'Osteria Bottega

For foodies out there All'Osteria Bottega is the place to be while in Bologna. The owners themselves, Daniele and Valeria lavish attention on every table between trips to the kitchen. Enjoy plates of culatello di Zibello ham, tortellini in capon broth, Petroniana-style veal cutlets (breaded and fried, then topped with Parma ham and parmigiano reggiano and pan-sauteed in broth) and other Slow Food delights.

2.      Torre degli Asinelli

The leaning towers are the city's main symbol. The taller tower, the Torre degli Asinelli is 97.2m-high and is open to the public. However, be prepared to climb up and down 498 steps. It was built by the Asinelli family between 1109 and 1119. The shorter tower, the Torre Garisenda is 47m-high and leans 3.2m off vertical. If you wish to climb up the shorter twin, you'll have to purchase tickets in advance from the official website as there are no tickets sold onsite.

3.     Basilica di Santo Stefano

The Basilica di Santo Stefano is such an interesting religious site to visit. Its unique atmospheric structure is like a labyrinth filled with interlocking ecclesiastical structures. Its architecture dates back centuries of Bolognese history and incorporates Romanesque, Lombard and even ancient Roman elements.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Top 3 Things to See in Lake Garda

The serene Lake Garda is a popular holiday location in northern Italy. The saturated colors of its waters and being the largest lake in the whole of Italy, it is no wonder that it draws tourists and locals alike. Its shorelines are divided between the provinces of Verona, Brescia, and Trentino and it is nestled right on the edge of the famous Dolomites. There are hundreds of things to do, see, and experience in and around the lake itself so be sure to download the Lake Garda Travel Guide and Offline Map to guide you on your visit the majestic Lago di Garda.

1.      Sirmione and Castello Scaligeri

Reaching out into the lake from its Southern short is a picturesque little town called Sirmoine. You enter the town by crossing a moat onto a drawbridge and into the forecourt of the castle. Its fortress, Castello Sacaligeri, is completely surrounded by water and was constructed in the 12th century as a part of Verona's defensive network against Milan. Tour the restored interiors of the fortress and enjoy a scenic, panoramic view of Lake Garda and the entire town by climbing up the tower.

2.      Arco

At the northern end of Lake Garda and amidst the majestic rugged mountains and small lakes lies an old town that sits atop a cliff called Arco. Before you reach the town a dramatic waterfall that has carved a corkscrew-shaped gorge as it drops from a glacial lake above will greet you. Its mild climate is the perfect place for farms and orchards to flourish. Arboreto di Arco a promenade planted in the 1800's is filled with trees from around the world. And if you aren't too scared of heights, climb up to the Castello di Arco on a cliff high above.

3.      Vittoriale d'Italia

Known for his eccentric personality, it comes to no surprise that the poet Gabriele d'Annunzio's Art Deco villa and extensive grounds would be equally eccentric. There's much see here, and you can choose from several ticket and tour options. See his coffin-shaped bed, indigo bathroom suite, statuary, and other unusual tastes in decor. You can choose from three options from the basic house tour to an in-depth tour into his colorful private life, and one that features his military exploits.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.