8Bologna, Italy

Nicknamed La Grassa (“The Fat One”), Bologna is the heart of Emilia-Romagna, a region famous for some of Italy’s most treasured foods. Here you’ll find authentic tagliatelle al ragù (often wrongly called spaghetti Bolognese abroad), tortellini in brodo, and mortadella, the original inspiration for what the world knows as bologna sausage.

Bologna is also the gateway to Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar from Modena, and prosciutto di Parma. The city’s medieval streets are lined with trattorias serving hearty, authentic dishes. Eating here feels like celebrating Italy’s culinary heritage in its purest form.

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