Side trips from bologna

Ferrara has probably what you're looking for. Two trains per hour (one taking 30 mins, the other 50 mins) at the affordable price of EUR 4,75.

Some recommendations for you: Monselice, Ferrara or Mantova (Mantua). I visited Ferrara in April and enjoyed it very much. It was not overcrowded with tourists which was a relief after having visited Verona, Florence and Siena. The historic center of the city is easily walkable. We stayed there two nights and had plenty to do and see. Mantova is on my wish list, it looks very attractive. I have researched it but have not gotten there yet. I have a good friend that lives in Italy and she highly recommends the small town of Monselice. Ferrara is the closest and an easy train ride but if you have a car all three are within reasonable distance.

Another vote for Ferrara. We went by train from Bologna, and would have liked to spend more time there--hope to do so on another trip. Another easy place by train is Ravenna, although I think that required a change--but not difficult to do.

If you’re taking the train, you might like to go to Modena, Reggio Emilia or Parma. They all have nice historic centers and great food. They are all much smaller than Bologna. If you have a car, consider the Balsamic vinegar tour at San Donnino outside if Modena. It’s free, but you need to make reservations.

Faenza if you like ceramics. Great ceramics museum and of course many shops selling ceramics.

I second Ravenna, Parma, and Ferrara, all by train.

Also, by car, Brisighella (tiny town), Portico di Romagna (even tinier and with a cool bridge), and Comacchio (canals and bridges),

Yet another vote for Modena, Parma, and Ferrara. If you don't mind a longer train ride, Ravenna is wonderful, not only for the famous mosaics, but also the town itself.

I wouldn't drive to any of these places from Bologna. Take a taxi or bus to and from the Bologna Centrale train station - much less stress than trying to drive these routes.

There are a series of smallish castles and towers in the hills west if Modena. We drove in the area several years ago, visiting several castles including Castle Montecuccolo. It was a very pleasant afternoon, and easy roads to drive.

I've just returned from a visit that included Ravenna. The train from Bologna Centrale was a 90 minute trip one way. I enjoyed seeing the agricultural side of Italy from the train. Ravenna is so charming itself, and we enjoyed strolling the streets and people watching. It is extremely easy to walk around the city center and the mosaics are amazing if you like church art.