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A globetrotter who has journeyed through nine Italian cities has declared one lesser-known destination as his favourite, attributing its charm to its less touristy appeal and "unique spirit", not to mention the outstanding Italian cuisine. Journalist Adam Miller recounted his visit to this captivating city, describing it as a world apart from the likes of Rome or Venice. The writer had already explored "Florence, Rome, Venice, Milan, Verona, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, and Bergamo", all of which he adored, but then he stumbled upon a new city that quickly became a firm favourite. On his first trip to the city of Bologna in Italy (in August 2025), Adam was captivated by the vibrant atmosphere, the terracotta buildings and "the best food " he'd "ever eaten". In his column for Metro Travel Hot Takes, Adam painted a picture of Bologna: "The real magic of Bologna is in its simplicity. "Everything feels so calm and easy. Eating, drinking , exploring – it all feels effortless compared to Florence, Venice, or Rome.", reports the Mirror . "I can't imagine staying anywhere else in Italy for a city break now, especially when the Italian train service is so cheap and efficient. Florence is close, Venice is only 70 minutes away, and tickets can be as cheap as £13, so it also makes a great detour destination." Adam described the vibrant city, but noted it felt worlds away from the typical weekend atmosphere found in UK cities. He called Bologna's energy "unique" and declared it his "favourite" Italian destination. TripAdvisor reviewers who've explored Bologna consistently highlight the Santuario di Madonna di San Luca church as essential viewing, praising it as a "unique experience" with stunning panoramic vistas. One TripAdvisor reviewer commented: "Very suggestive place on the hills of Bologna, which can be reached through a not too strenuous walk under long porches, possibly starting from the monumental cemetery of the Certosa (equally suggestive place, which I absolutely recommend to visit). "The arcades are well maintained and the same applies to the area in front of the sanctuary; the view, once arrived, is magnificent." Another visitor to the Santuario di Madonna di San Luca wrote: "It is a beautiful Baroque basilica perfectly maintained both inside and outside. It is located in the hills which allows you to enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the surrounding hills. "You can reach it by taxi, with the train that leaves from Piazza Maggiore but the most exciting experience is to do it on foot by climbing for about 4km, about 500 steps, under the longest porch in the world that starts from the city centre – not to be missed." Other highly recommended visitor experiences in Bologna, according to TripAdvisor, include the city's central square, Piazza Maggiore, and the observation deck, Le Due Torri Torre degli Asinelli, renowned for its panoramic views. The Porticoes of Bologna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also hailed as unforgettable due to its striking Bolognese architecture featuring red-stone columns and grand arches.
