In This Guide
Where is Sasso Marconi?
Sasso Marconi is a charming municipality in the Metropolitan City of Bologna, located at the gateway where the Po Valley meets the Apennine mountains. Named after the Nobel Prize-winning inventor Guglielmo Marconi (who conducted his famous radio experiments here), this area offers the perfect balance of accessibility and authentic Italian countryside.
Unlike the tourist crowds of central Bologna, Sasso Marconi moves at a gentler pace. Here you'll find family-run trattorias, local vineyards, scenic hiking trails, and the kind of quiet evenings where you can actually hear the birds.
Where to Eat in Sasso Marconi
The Bolognese hills are famous for their food culture, and Sasso Marconi delivers authentically. Forget tourist menus—these are the places where locals actually eat.
Vicolo Colombina Traditional
Our top recommendation for authentic Bolognese cuisine. The tagliatelle al ragù is exceptional, and the tortellini in brodo is made the traditional way. Warm atmosphere and excellent local wines. Reservations essential for dinner.
Monte Capra Casual Local
Where the locals actually go. Unpretentious, generous portions, and incredibly authentic. Try the crescentine with local cured meats or whatever the daily special is. Cash only, no reservations—just show up and enjoy.
Ristorante Bersagliere Pizza & More
A local institution known for its fantastic wood-fired pizza and traditional atmosphere. Their long leavening process makes for a light, digestible crust. Great selection of local toppings.
Antica Hostaria di Badolo Fine Dining
For a truly special evening. Refined Emilian cuisine in a historic setting with stunning views. Expertly curated dishes and an impressive wine cellar. Perfect for a memorable dinner out.
What to Order (The Essentials)
- Tagliatelle al Ragù — The real Bolognese pasta (never spaghetti!)
- Tortellini in Brodo — Pasta pillows in rich capon broth
- Crescentine — Fried bread with cured meats and squacquerone cheese
- Cotoletta alla Bolognese — Breaded veal with ham and parmesan
- Pignoletto — The local sparkling white wine, perfect for aperitivo
Things to Do Near Sasso Marconi
🥾 Hiking & Nature
The Apennine foothills offer some of the best hiking in Emilia-Romagna, with trails for all fitness levels.
- Via degli Dei — The famous "Path of the Gods" pilgrimage route from Bologna to Florence passes nearby. Day-hike sections are perfect for an afternoon adventure.
- Parco Regionale dell'Abbazia di Monteveglio — Rolling hills, medieval abbey ruins, and panoramic viewpoints. Easy to moderate trails, great for families.
- Reno River Walks — Flat, scenic paths along the river, perfect for morning jogs or evening strolls.
- Monte Adone — A moderate climb (about 2 hours round trip) with rewarding views of the Po Valley.
🍷 Wine & Food Experiences
- Local Vineyards — Several wineries in the Colli Bolognesi offer tastings of Pignoletto, Barbera, and Sangiovese. Many require advance booking.
- Modena Day Trip — 45 minutes north, visit traditional balsamic vinegar producers and the Ferrari Museum.
- Cooking Classes — Learn to make fresh pasta in Bologna's historic center (we can recommend excellent workshops).
🏛 Culture & History
- Museo Marconi — The villa where Guglielmo Marconi conducted his radio experiments. Fascinating for history and science enthusiasts.
- Bologna Centro Storico — 15 minutes away: UNESCO porticoes, the Two Towers, Piazza Maggiore, and world-class museums.
- Rocchetta Mattei — A fairytale castle in the nearby mountains, mixing Moorish and medieval architecture (about 30 min drive).
Getting Around
By Car (Recommended)
A car gives you the most flexibility to explore the hills, visit vineyards, and reach hiking trailheads. Free private parking is included with your stay at Borgo 19. Bologna's city center has a limited traffic zone (ZTL), but there are convenient park-and-ride options outside the zone.
By Train
Sasso Marconi train station is a 5-minute drive from Borgo 19 and offers direct service to Bologna Centrale in just 12 minutes. Trains run approximately every 30 minutes during the day. This is the easiest way to explore Bologna without worrying about parking.
From the Airport
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is 20 minutes by car. Taxi or pre-booked transfer is the most convenient option. We can recommend reliable drivers.
Hidden Gems
These are the places that don't show up on TripAdvisor—the local secrets we share with our guests.
The Sunset Viewpoint
A 10-minute walk from Borgo 19, there's an unmarked hilltop clearing where locals gather to watch the sun set over the Bolognese hills. On clear evenings, you can see the towers of Bologna glowing in the golden hour light. Ask us for directions—it's the perfect way to end your first day.
Bar Centrale
The village bar in Borgonuovo where locals gather for morning espresso and evening aperitivo. Nothing fancy, but wonderfully authentic. Try the house spritz and practice your Italian with the regulars.
The Secret Vineyard Path
Behind the old church, there's a narrow path that winds through private vineyards with panoramic views. It's technically a public right-of-way, but tourists never find it. We'll mark it on a map for you.
Why Stay at Borgo 19
Located in the quiet hamlet of Borgonuovo, Borgo 19 puts you at the heart of everything this guide describes—yet feels wonderfully removed from the ordinary tourist experience.
- Perfect Position — 15 minutes to Bologna's historic center, 15 minutes to Apennine hiking trails
- Space to Breathe — Two 70m² apartments with private terraces and panoramic views
- Work & Relax — 1 Gbps fiber WiFi for remote workers, absolute quiet for restoration
- Local Knowledge — As your hosts, we're here to help you discover the real Sasso Marconi
Ready to Experience the Bolognese Hills?
Book your stay at Borgo 19 and discover why Sasso Marconi is the perfect base for exploring Emilia-Romagna.
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