Travel Tips

Cheap Eats — Bologna

Although the town of Bologna is not as popular as some Italian destinations, the area where it’s located can’t be beat for spectacular food. If you find yourself in this charming spot, here are some worthy places to eat out that won’t break the bank.

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Pasta Fresca Naldi. Highly rated on both Trip Advisor and Yelp, this pasta place is located on Via de Pratello near the Quartiere Saragozza library. Good choices at this restaurant include the lasagna and the tortellini. Travelers should note that there is only limited bar seating at this establishment but there is a snack bar across the street with seating and drink options available. Since everything is made fresh in the store, customers have to wait to receive their food and the line is often out the door. Another word of caution: store hours here can be erratic and pasta supplies have been known to run out. Travelers should make their plans accordingly.

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Il Panino. This sandwich shop can be found near Montagnola Park on the Via Galliera. The spot is normally open from noon to 2 p.m. and from 7 to 9:30 pm every day of the week. Prices here average about 5.50 euros ($5.75 USD) for a large, custom made sandwich. There is a wide range of meats, cheeses, and toppings available to go on the paninis. Customers can also choose from a good selection of drinks and desserts to accompany their meal. There is even an English menu printed up for travelers. However, the friendly folks at the counter may still have trouble understanding you if you don’t speak Italian. Visitors should additionally be aware that seating here is limited to a few spots at the counter and plan on eating their sandwiches somewhere else as takeout fare.

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Pizzartist. Located on the Via Marsala near the Piazzo San Martino stop, this affordable pizza place remains popular with both locals and travelers alike. It has even received a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence for its delicious pies. While the pizzas are sold by weight, one slice usually runs about 2.50 euros ($2.65 USD) so this spot provides quick, affordable meal for travelers on the go. Like many places in Italy, seating options are limited. There are about four spots inside and a number of stools outside. However, travelers often take their pizza to the nearby park in order to scarf them down. Folks planning on stopping by this eatery should also keep in mind that it is often closed between 3 and 4 pm.

As always, happy travels!

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Sources: Trip Advisor; Yelp; Google Exchange Rates

**The food shown in the photographs above is representational of the offerings found at each place, rather than actually being from the spot in question.**