Bologna is a city of fascinating and unexpected sights, spots that suddenly spring up from a portico or pop out from behind a tower and leave you breathless.
Strolling hand in hand with your sweetheart and getting lost in its alleys is certainly the best way to capture the romantic side of Bologna, and yet there are some special places that are able to stir emotions more than others.
Start your romantic getaway with the evocative route to the Sanctuary of San Luca: located on the Colle della Guardia, it will leave you speechless thanks to the spectacular panorama of the city that you can appreciate in sweet company as you ascend the long portico to the top.
Piazza Maggiore and Piazza Nettuno are the two main squares in the heart of Bologna, forming one large open and fascinating space.
From the Neptune Fountain to the prestigious facades of the surrounding buildings, they are a must-see for any visit to Bologna, be it cultural, historical or romantic.
Come sit with your sweetheart at one of the cafés along the piazza and listen to the street performers set the soundtrack to your special moment.
Another emotion-provoking square is Piazza Santo Stefano. An intimate and discreet place that suddenly opens onto Via Santo Stefano, backgrounded by the seven churches, porticoes, palaces and bars that make it a true open-air salon.
As you stroll under its arcades you will feel protected and even more in love.
Venice is perhaps one of the most romantic places in the world, but few know that Bologna has its own little Venice. The little window in Via Piella has now become one of the iconic images of Bologna's hidden charm: the perfect place to enjoy a magical moment together as you take a couple's selfie and share it with your friends.
Panoramic viewpoints are always a romantic way to enjoy your time together with someone special: San Michele in Bosco, one of Bologna's scenic vantage points, is no exception.
From here, the impressive view of the city becomes even more incredible due to the so-called telescope effect. Entering the long corridor on the first floor of the monastery, the image of the Asinelli Tower is enlarged or shrunk depending on the distance of the window from which it is observed. A curious 'experiment' that should not be missed.
Giardini Margherita is the city's largest and most popular park: take a walk along its avenues, stopping on a bench, or enjoy a picnic on its lawns during the summer, certainly one of the most romantic things to do in the city.
Bologna is surrounded by gentle hills, an ideal place to escape the summer heat and above all to enjoy some of the city's most beautiful views in total relaxation.
The hills of Bologna are a very romantic place to catch a sunset or enjoy a pleasant evening: among the various places, opt for the '300 scalini' (300 stairs).
As you climb to the top of the steps, you will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful and inspiring panoramic views of Bologna.
