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On a sunny day, there's no better place to be than soaking up the atmosphere at caf茅 tables in Bologna's Main Square, known as "Piazza Maggiore", or lounging on the steps under the arcades. This historic square, one of the oldest in Italy, underwent expansion in the 14th century and saw the addition of many grand buildings in the 16th century.

At its heart stands the impressive yet incomplete Basilica of San Petronio, a beloved landmark among locals. Nearby, you'll find notable structures such as the Municipal Palace, Notaries' Palace, Podesta Palace, and the Palace of the Banks. Adorning the center of the square is Giambologna's renowned statue of Neptune.

The slightly raised platform in the middle, familiarly known as the "crescentone" after the local flat bread "crescente" it resembles, holds historical significance. Damaged by Allied tanks during the liberation of Bologna in 1945, it serves as a commemoration of that historic day. In July and August, the space transforms into one of Italy's largest outdoor cinemas during the Under the Stars of Cinema ("Sotto le stelle del Cinema") film festival, with over 3,000 chairs arranged on the "crescentone", solidifying its status as the cultural heart of the city.

Tip:
For visitors seeking convenience, the excellent tourist office on the square offers the Bologna Welcome Card, providing excellent value by offering free admission to many city museums and attractions, as well as discounts for shops, restaurants, and events.

A small window on Piella Street offers a lovely and rare peek at Bologna's lost canals. Unlike Venice, where the famous canals and glamorous gondola rides are everywhere, Bologna's historic waterways are much easier to miss. This is mainly because many of them were covered over time, with roads and buildings built on top, hiding these medieval channels from view.

Back in the 12th century, canals were constructed on Bologna鈥檚 major rivers, the Savena and Reno. They had a sophisticated system of locks and pipes, stretching over 37 miles. These canals were essential for silk manufacturing and trade, making Bologna a major hub for silk, tobacco, and flour.

Many of the canals were used for transporting goods and people. However, as the economy evolved, most of the canal system was covered with roads and parking lots, especially after World War II.

Today, the best spot to see one of the few remaining sections of these historic canals is through the Small 鈥淐anal Window鈥� on Piella Street. From this unassuming street, you can look out over a part of Mill Canal. The water flows between brightly colored houses on one side and unpainted brick walls on the other. It's a quaint and picturesque sight, making the Small Window a popular spot for visitors.

Many locals didn't know this canal still existed and thought all of them had been closed. Even though you can see the canal from the bigger street, the window view is much better.

Along Via Irnerio, just north of the Poggi Palace, lies a cluster of attractions belonging to the University, including the Botanical Garden, the Museum of Physics (presently closed), and the Museum of Anatomical Wax Models. Reflecting a significant trend from the 18th and 19th centuries, wherein medical scientists began shifting their focus from human anatomy to pathology, these wax models were crafted to aid in understanding the origins and progression of various anomalies.

Visitors can explore a fascinating collection of wax models and preparations used in the study of anatomy and pathology, marveling at their scientific, historical, and artistic significance. Admission is free, making it a highly recommended destination, particularly for enthusiasts of medical history, anatomy, general health, or those with a certain penchant for the macabre.

Just a conductor's toss away from the legendary Gioachino Rossini's abode, lies the Sanguinetti Palace, housing the whimsically delightful International Museum and Library of Music, celebrating Bologna's melodious reputation. Spanning nine rooms, it takes you on a time-traveling journey through six centuries of European melodies through more than 80 rare and antique musical instruments, alongside scores, historical documents, and quirky portraits. Even if classical tunes aren't your jam, prepare to be spellbound by the trompe-l鈥櫯搃l courtyard and the frescoed interiors, offering a sneak peek into the fancy-schmancy lifestyle of Bologna's aristocracy. The salon-esque vibe, complete with mythological friezes and pastoral scenes, makes this palace the cat's meow. And let's not forget the music library, popping its shelves with over 100,000 volumes since its grand opening in 2014, including the very first music handbook printed in Venice back in 1501.

For delectable homemade pasta and bread, your search ends at Atti, nestled in the heart of Old Town. This esteemed Bolognese establishment, tracing its roots back to 1900, remains under the same family ownership. Witness the artistry as pastas are freshly crafted on-site, each one a testament to tradition and quality. Atti's beautifully packaged creations are ideal Italian souvenirs to bring back home. Additionally, indulge in their offerings of lasagna and special Italian delicacies such as the "torta di riso" (sweet rice cake) and "budini di riso" (rice pudding tart).

Tucked away from the Main Square ("Piazza Maggiore") lies the Quadrilatero, a historic maze of food shops bustling with the same lively energy it had during its medieval prime. This ancient enclave was once the domain of the city's guilds, including blacksmiths, goldsmiths, butchers, fishmongers, and furriers, whose legacies live on in the street names today.

For an authentic taste of Emilia, look no further than this vibrant culinary hub. Open-air stalls, specialty food shops, and the Middle Market鈥攏ow transformed into a chic food hall鈥攐ffer a tempting array of regional delicacies and freshly prepared tapas-style snacks. Visitors are encouraged to indulge in a bit of "gaze and graze," sampling juicy peaches, cherries, intricately crafted pastries, handmade pasta, savory delights like pink Parma ham, and freshly caught seafood.

For a quick bite, grab some fried fish from Pescheria Pavaglione or listen to the satisfying smack of pizza dough being prepared at Rossopomodoro pizzeria. And let's not forget about the Baladin microbrewery tucked away in the basement鈥攁 haven for craft beer enthusiasts and burger aficionados alike. With its quirky, vintage-chic decor and two floors of inviting space, it's a must-visit spot for those seeking a taste of the unconventional.