From Piazza Mercanzia, take a turn to the left and explore Via Caprarie and the adjacent Mercato nel Quadrilatero - a medieval market that still maintains its original function! Stroll the ancient streets, enjoy the ancient market stalls and tiny local shops, and have lunch at one of its numerous restaurants - most places here deserve attention, and you can find something for every budget. I personally recommend you to check out Mercato di Mezzo, a covered food court area in the heart of the market, where you can choose among numerous different options of what to eat. Otherwise, check out the food guide at the end!

Why you should visit it?

Mercato del Quadrilatero still has the air of a medieval market and, frankly, I haven’t seen a place like this anywhere else in Italy (I know, I know; I’m becoming a little bit Bolognese after all these years!). From shouting fish vendors to colourful fresh fruits and vegetables; from tiny florists to shops selling handmade miscellaneous items for ages; from a bakery selling Certosino made with an original 19th century recipe (Certosino is a typical Christmas cake in Bologna) to the ancient Drogheria Gilberto, where you can find anything, from exclusive wines and spirits to whimsical sweets, like chocolate tortellini - you can easily get lost in the abundance of sounds and smells, and then find yourself with a bunch of some exquisitely good local products.

Where?

Mercato nel Quadrilatero spans several streets, among which are Via Caprarie, Via Drapperie, Via Clavature, Via Pescherie Vecchie, and Vicolo Ranocchi.