West Kent Medico-Chirurgical Society Trip to Bologna
About the tour
The beautiful city of Bologna is a showcase for the historical and culinary treasures of the region. Home to the oldest university in Europe, Bologna has long been a centre for academic and scientific learning, alongside a strong political history. Its moniker of 'The Red' is as much to do with its political learnings as its colourful buildings. This tour will delve into the rich history and culture of the city, with many opportunities to enjoy the wonderful cuisine and wine of the region.
This tour has been created for the West Kent Medico-Chirugical Society.
Why not come out early to Bologna? On the morning of the start of the tour, there will be an informal group trip by train to Ferrara, another ancient Renaissance town nearby; or you could simply enjoy extra time amongst the many cafes and shops Bologna has to offer. Pre-tour available on request.
Download our brochure West Kent Medico-Chirurgical Society Trip to Bologna
Your tour leader
Self guided and local guide
Need more information?
- Tel: (Toll Free) 1-8777-398-764
- Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm
Itinerary at a glance
- Day 1: Bologna (Wed, 10 May) On arrival in Bologna check into Hotel Porta San Mamolo, located in the old town. Settle in at your leisure before a welcome dinner in a local osteria.
- Day 2: Bologna (Thurs, 11 May) Take a walking tour through the historic streets of Bologna in the expert company of an art historian, who will guide you through the city’s long history. Visit the 13th century Santuario Santa Maria della Vita, whose members were active in charitable causes and built a hospital within the church grounds. A museum attached to the church houses an exhibition that examines public health services in Bologna, including medical tools and scientific equipment. After a lunch of delicious local cheeses and charcuterie at a local osteria, visit the beautiful anatomical theatre of Teatro Anatomico of Archiginnasio and Palazzo Poggi. Evening at leisure.
- Day 3: Bologna / Ravenna / Bologna (Fri, 12 May) Depart Bologna for the historic city of Ravenna, which was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and today has one of the world’s most dazzling collections of early Christian mosaic artwork. The city has 8 monuments declared World Heritage sites by UNESCO. Meet with your local guide for a walking tour, visiting the extraordinary Basilica di San Vitale - one of the most important surviving examples of early Christian Byzantine art and architecture. Continue to Galla Placida Mausoleum and visit the Battistero Neoniano to admire the beautiful mosaics and visit the Tomb of Dante. Lunch in a local trattoria before taking a scenic drive through the countryside to Fattoria Zerbina for wine tasting. Take a guided tour of the vineyards before sampling some of their wines. Return to Bologna in the late afternoon.
- Day 4: Bologna (Sat, 13 May) Morning food tour exploring Bologna’s culinary delights. Stroll through the historic streets, visiting local food shops and stopping at food stalls around the medieval Mercato di Mezzo, a market that runs along the characteristic canals in the heart of the old town. Along the way there will be tastings of local products. Afternoon at leisure. Louise Dolan will also be leading a walk in the afternoon to Basilica san Domenico, which houses some of Michelangelo’s earliest sculpture. Farewell dinner at a typical trattoria in Bologna.
- Day 5: Bologna (Sun, 14 May) Depart for the airport after breakfast.
Tour cost
The cost of the tour is £895 per person sharing. The cost of the tour is £1,183 with a room to yourself.