I’d rather be in Italy (part 5)

On this gloomy day I decided to create my own sunshine. Despite the weather, I’ve been thinking all day about the magical moments spent in Italy in April last year and finally I got the time to write about them in the blog.

Today’s final episode (from this mini series, because I have lots of Italian stories to share with you: Chianti region mixed with a little bit of Bologna and pieces of Florence.

Got up early in the morning and went straight to Bologna – the enchanting medieval medley. We were eager to visit this famous city well known for its more than 40km of arcaded porticoes which make it possible to walk for long distances sheltered and also for the two tours (Asinelli and Garisenda), whose iconic leaning forms provide a popular symbol of the town.

Things you must know about Bologna:

•  the largest city (and the capital) of the Emilia-Romagna Region in Northern Italy;
• nicknamed la rossa – the red streets are the streets where poems were written, where stories were born, where people where loved;
• Italy’s culinary capital (lasagna, prosciutto crudo and mortadella from Tamburini and many other local specialties);
• the University of Bologna was founded in 1088 and, having never been out of operation, holds the title of the oldest university in the world;
• this is the hometown of Furla !!!

Not far from the city center, the hilltop Basilica Santuario della Madonna di San Luca occupies a powerful position overlooking the great red-hued city below. This sanctuary is connected to the city walls by the world’s longest portico, held aloft by 666 arches and it’s very impressive. We went by car and admired the nice view from the top.

So, if you ever are in the region, I really recommend visiting the wonderful red city – Bologna! It is worth your time and you can easily discover its beauty while on a day trip.

Time passed very fast that day…it was right in the afternoon when we had the idea to go to Florence to watch the breathtaking sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo – my favorite place there. It offers all visitors the most stunning view over the main sights of the city and at twilight is pure magic. We also had a romantic dinner at La Loggia restaurant – designed in a classic style and with an incomparable view that my heart won’t ever be able to forget (marking also our last night on vacation). It’s always full so a prior reservation is necessary.

For that last day on vacay, he had prepared a special and relaxing journey throughout Chianti region where we stopped in Radda in Chianti, Castellina in Chianti and Greve in Chianti. The ancient vineyards in this postcard-perfect part of Tuscany produce the grapes used in the world-famous red wines sold under the Gallo Nero trademark. These cozy little towns are a delight, offering pretty streets, traditional food and wines and appealing medieval details at every corner.

I leave you with the pictures now!

Start planning your trips, because spring is the perfect time for visiting Italy and other European countries.

For any question don’t hesitate to comment in the section below and I will be more than happy to answer and help you establish a lovely itinerary.

Red wine kisses,
Arina

Bologna

Florence

Chianti

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