Living in Bologna – Emilia Romagna

In 2015, we lived in Bologna for almost two months. It was really a dream come true because we always wanted to live in Italy and enjoyed the Italian summer. I remember I wanted to try all the traditional food there. Bologna and all the region of Emilia-Romagna are famous for its food. Of course, you’ve heard of Lasagna alla Bolognese, Tortellini, Tagliatelle or Spaghetti Bolognese. It took me by surprise some other things that I didn’t know about this lively city.

There are 3 new things I’ve learned about the Italian lifestyle while living in Bologna. I guess every city in Italy is different but there were some things I have found in common while living in the capital of Emilia-Romagna.

1. Aperitivo time

Most bars in the city offer “Aperitivo”. Usually, it cost 7 euros and included the Buffet. The food at these buffets is different in every Bar. Some Bars offer just potato chips or vegetables and others a big buffet where you can eat pizza, salads, prosciutto, cheese, …and much more. I LOVE Aperitivo.

During Aperitivo time, I would say, the most common drink among tables is “Aperol Spritz”. This is an Italian drink made of Prosecco, Aperol, and Soda. It comes with a slice of orange and plenty of ice.

2. Italian fashion

Personally, I am not into fashion but when we were living in Bologna I think we were more aware of how we dress up. Walking around the streets of Bologna is like going to a live Fashion show. I really enjoyed seeing new cool outfits every day. The most common accessories among women were little dresses and a designer’s purse. Men love the color blue. They wore shorts with light blue shirts, moccasins without socks and a small bag.

3. Italians love coffee and me too

Have you tried Italian coffee?. If you have, then you will agree with me that Italian coffee is among the best coffees in the world. In every corner, there will always be a Bar (Café). There you can enjoy a cappuccino or espresso and why not, a Brioche (Croissant) with Nutella. That is very common in Bologna. Just go to a Bar and drink an espresso, maybe read the newspaper or have a short conversation with a friend. Such an excellent way to start your day.

What to SEE in Bologna:

• Piazza Maggiore
• Towers of Bologna
• Fountain of Neptune
• Archiginnasio of Bologna (University of Bologna & Library)
• … just walk around the city

Our recommendations of the best places to eat in Bologna:

Lab16. It is open all day and is well known for its  Aperitivo and Buffet. Each drink cost 7 euros and the buffet is included in the price.

Wasabi Sushi. Ok I know, I was in Bologna and I was supposed to eat pasta every day. But sometimes, you get bored of eating the same food and you want to try something else. This all you can eat buffet cost 15 euros. Totally worth it

Osteria della Orta. Tagliatelle al Ragu 7 euros

 

Survival phrases:

• Buongiorno (Formal) Chao or Salve (informal) = Good Morning
• Buonasera = Good Afternoon
• Due Cappuccini, per favore = two cappuccinos please (Café)
• Per favor or per piacere = please
• Quanto viene? = How much is it?
• Un acqua, per piacere = a bottle of water please (Store)
• Un sacchetto, per piacere = a bag please
• Il conto, per piacere = the bill, please (restaurant)
• Grazie = Thank you
• Buona giornata = Have a good day

 

We will always remember the time we spent in Bologna. Bologna is now on my list of the best places to live. Have you been to Bologna?. Share with other travelers your tips