A beautiful European city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and culinary excellence has been named the world’s most underrated by 175 travel experts. 

Bologna, a vibrant and historic city in northern Italy has been the top choice for all the experts when it comes to the most underrated city to visit.

The analysis was conducted by travel journalist Sharael Kolberg for CNBC. Mr Kolberg asked 175 travel enthusiasts, experts, and agents about what they think is the most underrated city to visit.

Tom Marchant, founder of luxury travelling company Black Tomato said: “Bologna is very up-and-coming and poised to be the new hot Italian city to visit. And as the home of Bolognese pasta, it’s a foodie mecca.”

So, what’s the fuss about? 

Bologna is often considered the food capital of Italy. It is the birthplace of many Italian culinary traditions, including Bolognese sauce (ragù), tortellini, and mortadella. 

The city is surrounded by the fertile Emilia-Romagna region, known for its high-quality produce and wines.

It boasts a range of museums and art galleries, including the National Art Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale), the Museum of the History of Bologna (Museo della Storia di Bologna), and the Modern Art Gallery (MAMbo).

Jeff Miller, a travel blogger at Our Passion for Travel told the publication: ″[Bologna] quite possibly has the best food scene in all of Italy.”

Bologna’s historic centre is one of the best-preserved in Europe, with numerous medieval towers, churches, and Renaissance buildings.

Notable landmarks include the Two Towers (Asinelli and Garisenda), the Basilica of San Petronio, and the Archiginnasio.

The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, is the oldest university in continuous operation in the world. The university has a significant influence on the city’s culture and intellectual life.

The city is famous for its extensive network of porticoes, which stretch for over 38 kilometres throughout the city.

These covered walkways provide shelter from the weather and create a distinctive architectural feature.

Several tourists have called it a “wonderful” city as they shared their experiences on TripAdvisor travel forum. 

One person commented: “Bologna is an upscale city, Milan-esque, with wonderful shops, and yet small enough to explore. You immediately hear of the best restaurants and they are at a distance to work off the gastronomic delights by walking back to your accommodations.

“It is one of the few European cities we have visited that feels like home, whether at the Beatrice B&B, or a local restaurant, or just strolling past the shops. We are returning to Bologna this year and looking forward to it.”

A second user chimed in: “Bologna is a most delightful city. It is most lively given the fact that the oldest university is located right in the heart of the city. Museums are world-class, especially the National Art Gallery. Restaurants and shopping are wonderful. The local people are very nice and helpful. The main Piazza Maggiore is astounding.

“The Duomo is one of the finest we have experienced. The bus system is very easy to navigate. One must not miss the San Luca Sanctuary. However, if one goes there, it is a very long walk to the church.

“If you do it in the summer, make sure you bring along plenty of water!! Or better yet, take a cab to the top. Avoid the touristy places like Florence and treat yourself to a real Italian experience.”