Ham or cheese, anything else is simply not Italian

What a bunch of Bologna

Neighbor to Florence, Bologna was a thoroughly delightful surprise and unexpected foodie haven. In many respects a college town, Bologna felt like a slice of authentic Italian life (pun intended), away from the tourist-centric stores and hoards of sightseers.

It was here that we rented a tiny Airbnb, which was located on one of the many streets restricted to foot traffic by day, but at night, transformed by cafes and shops. So surprising was the transformation, that we had difficulty finding our way back again on the first evening of our stay.

That said, this is a city that enjoys food, and was the natural place to have my first authentic cannoli, which did not disappoint.

Here’s a medium funny, “lost in translation” food story for you. One afternoon, we stopped at a random sidewalk cafe for lunch, and I ordered a ham sandwich (a staple item that I knew how to order). However, when the stated sandwich arrived (as shown below), I immediately had serious questions that I didn’t know how to ask in Italian. Turns out, we were at a vegan restaurant, and this was their version of a ham sandwich.

Friends that travel together, climb stairs together.

 At least that’s the case when you visit Bologna. Among the things which this city is known for, are the leaning towers, and no, they aren’t like another famous leaning tower in Italy.

The “Two Towers,” or Le due Torri, are but two of multiple medieval towers of their kind, the Garisenda and Asinelli towers (named by the rival families that built them) are simply the most famous.

Not for the faint of heart, a climb to the top of the Asinelli Tower, will involve 498, narrow wooden stairs, which lead you to the rooftop. The views are truly memorable, but unbeknownst to us at the time we decided to make the climb, one of our friends was extremely afraid of heights and enclosed spaces. With that in mind, this activity is NOT for everybody.

What goes up, must come down.

Much to the relief of our elevation phobic friend, with feet firmly planted on the ground, celebratory drinks were in order.

On a train headed to Venice, accompanied by none other than a ham and cheese sandwich.

Do you have questions or need advice? Comment below!

Italy - Part 3 of 4