Bologna is ideally situated in the heart of northern Italy, which makes it easily accessible by car, train, bus, or plane.
For those opting for the sustainable choice of travelling by train, Bologna Centrale Railway Station is your arrival point. It's a major terminal for numerous local, intercity, and high-speed trains connecting to Italy's main cities and neighbouring regions. The station is about 1.6 km from the main venue, Complesso Belmeloro, and can be reached on foot in approximately 30 minutes.
Guglielmo Marconi Airport is about 10 km from the city centre, with numerous daily flights from both Italian and international destinations. The airport is connected to Bologna Centrale by the Marconi Express, a monorail service that takes only 7 minutes. The service operates from 5:40 AM until midnight, with up to 8 departures per hour during peak hours. The fare is €12.80 one way and €23.30 round trip. At the airport, the Marconi Express can be reached by going up to the departures level, which is connected to the Marconi Express station by a covered walkway. Once you take the Marconi Express, you should get off at the last stop, Bologna Centrale – Central Railway Station.
At Bologna Centrale railway station, the Marconi Express is located inside the atrium on Via de’ Carracci, accessible from the Piazza Medaglie d’Oro entrance through the pedestrian underpasses.
Taxis are also available for airport transfers, with a 30-minute ride to/from the centre costing between €25.00 and €35.00. The main taxi companies in Bologna are COTABO: +39 051372727 and Taxi Cat Bologna: +39 0514590.
Home to the oldest university in the western world, the city boasts a vibrant academic atmosphere alongside stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture.
Bologna, known as "La Dotta, La Grassa, e La Rossa" (The Learned, The Fat, and The Red), offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary delights. Wander through its charming streets, explore its iconic porticoes, and marvel at the Two Towers (Le Due Torri), which stand as proud symbols of Bologna's rich history.
For food enthusiasts, Bologna is a gastronomic paradise. From handmade tortellini and rich ragù alla bolognese, to delectable mortadella, the city's culinary offerings are sure to delight your taste buds. Pair your meals with local wines and end your day with a leisurely stroll through the lively Piazza Maggiore, where you can soak in the atmosphere of this enchanting city. Whether you're passionate about history, food, or simply seeking authentic Italian culture, Bologna has something to offer everyone.
Top 10 things to do in Bologna.
The Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world, has paved the way for innovation thanks to an increasingly rich programme catalogue, cutting-edge research, a convincing third mission strategy and a growing international perspective. It offers over 250 degree programmes across 31 departments and spans five campuses in Italy and a branch in Buenos Aires. With more than 95,000 students, it is one of Italy's largest universities and ranks highly in student exchange programmes.
The university is committed to sustainable development, actively pursuing the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals. It takes a multidisciplinary and cross-cultural approach to research and teaching, contributing significantly to the European academic landscape. As a founding member of the Una Europa alliance, the university is dedicated to creating an integrated university of the future.
Museums of the University of Bologna.
Public transport in Bologna is operated by TPER, which provides both urban and extra-urban connections.
Tickets are available at TPER sales points, tobacconists and vending machines, as well as via mobile apps.
To fully experience it, we recommend exploring Bologna on foot and staying in the historic centre. The city's compact, pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to visit attractions like the Two Towers, Piazza Maggiore, and the Basilica of San Petronio. Stroll through charming narrow streets, covered walkways, and vibrant markets to fully experience Bologna's rich history and culture. Walking is the most convenient and immersive way to enjoy the city's unique atmosphere.
Alternatively, Bologna can also be visited and enjoyed by bike. Here you have some Bike Rentals options that allow you to rent a bike quickly and easily.
Bologna offers a variety of accommodation options including hotels, apartments, and B&Bs.
We strongly recommend making your reservations as soon as possible, as Bologna has become a major tourist destination in Italy in recent years, and the best accommodations tend to book up quickly.
We suggest choosing a hotel within the historic city center, which still retains traces of its medieval walls. Bologna is a city where you can easily explore on foot, allowing you to discover its most beautiful corners. Staying in the city center will also save you from needing to use taxis, making your stay more enjoyable.
For your bookings, you can use the List of Hotels within the historic city center provided by the City's Convention Bureau.
Bologna's dining scene is a testament to its culinary heritage, offering a diverse array of restaurants that cater to all tastes.
From traditional trattorias serving authentic Bolognese dishes like tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini in brodo, to upscale eateries where innovative chefs put a modern twist on classic recipes, there is something for every palate.
Many of the city's restaurants are nestled in charming, historic buildings, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit local osterias and enjoy a glass of regional wine, paired perfectly with artisanal cheeses and cured meats. Whether you're seeking a quick bite or a leisurely multi-course meal, Bologna's restaurants promise an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Here you have suggestions about restaurants and other dining options.