'I visited 9 Italian cities and 1 is my favourite - it's far better than Rome or Venice'

With European cities on our doorstep, Brits searching for a last holiday before the winter period, and those who prefer to plan ahead, are now looking to Italy following the overtourism backlash in Spain. One traveller, who has visited nine of the country's cities announced his favourite, particularly because of it remaining 'under radar'.

The originality of this less visited city only elevates the delightful cuisine and scenery visitors have come to love. The usual hotspots for Brits are: Rome; Florence; Venice; Milan; Pisa; Verona; Siena; Lucca; and Bergamo, however many Italy-enthusiasts claim that none other - despite each's rich history and ancient architecture - could compare to the city of Bologna.

A landscape of terracotta homes, cheap travel prices and wonderous food, Bologna is famous for its global bolognese ragu, guaranteed in every household worldwide. Known as the country's food capital, the cultural city is also home to mortadella - an emulsified sausage that appears almost festive. Brits who prefer a break full of authenticity, soaking up the local culture should add Bologna to their list for a relaxed and magical trip full of drinking, eating and sight-seeing.

Reviewer Adam shared that he could not imagine staying in any other Italian city, "especially when the Italian train service is so cheap and efficient," he shared. With Florence nearby; Venice just an hour and 10 minutes away; and tickets from £13, what's not to love.

With a selection of quality hotes. Trip Advisor several stays rated a 4.6/5 stars, with the cheapest deal currently £73 with Agada. The Savhotel Fiera Bologna has recieved over 3,200 reviews, one of which was published as recently as October 27, 2025, and states: "The check in was amazing and Elissa wa brilliant and super friendly. She facilitated our check in and gave us amazing recommendations in Bologna. The location is brilliant and the internet connection is super. Breakfast was very good".

Visitors highlighted the city's Santuario di Madonna di San Luca church for providing beautiful views all around, making it a site to definitley check off.

One tourist shared that the church, whilst on the hills of Bologna, can actually reached quite easily, explaining that the journey was a "not too strenuous walk," painting a peaceful scene of "the monumental cemetery of the Certosa (equally suggestive place, which I absolutely recommend to visit)," they wrote.

Another commentor wrote: "It is a beautiful Baroque basilica perfectly maintained both inside and outside". Located in the hills, they explained: "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".