Getting around Bologna

Public transport

Bologna's efficient bus system, run by the public transport network (tel: +39 051 290 290; www.tper.it), runs daily from 0630 to between 1900 and 2300, depending on the route. Bus maps are available from tourist office. Tickets allow you to change buses or make a return journey within 75 minutes. You must validate your ticket by punching it in the machine on the bus. Tickets can also be purchased on-board at an additional cost.

Better value is the Citypass, which permits eight journeys (each punch covers the holder for 75 minutes), or the Day Ticket, which is valid for 24 hours from the time of validation. Tickets and passes can be purchased at tabacchi, bars, newspaper kiosks, tickets can also be obtained from self-service ticket machines installed at the airport and railway station.

Taxis

Taxis can be hailed on the street but rarely stop. It is better to hire them from the taxi ranks at Piazza Maggiore and the train station. Alternatively, phone the city's taxi cooperative, CoTaBo (tel: +39 051 372 727; www.cotabo.it) or CAT (tel: +39 051 4590; www.taxibologna.it). Expect supplements for luggage, Sundays and late night travel (2200-0700).

Driving

There is no real need for a car in Bologna's compact centrostorico (city centre) and parking can be tricky. The area is closed to private cars every day between 0700-2000. If you’re staying in the city centre, make sure your hotel submits your registration number to avoid a fine. Combined parking and bus tickets are available from hotels and include a day ticket to all city-centre parking or the car parks on the outskirts, plus a day bus ticket valid for one person. The pass can be used 24 hours.

Full details of the city's park and ride scheme, which operates at the major car parks outside the restricted area, are available from TPER (www.tper.it).

Car hire

Most major car hire companies have offices in the city, including Avis, Via Marco Polo 91 (tel: +39 051 634 1632; www.avis.com), and Europcar, Via Boldrini (tel: +39 051 353 665; www.europcar.it), as well at the airport. Drivers must be 21 (but there is a young drivers surcharge for drivers aged under 25) and carry either a valid EU licence or an International Driving Permit.

Bicycle hire

Bicycles are available for hire from Tomi Bici, Via Azzurra, 36b (tel: +39 051 341 218).

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Book Accommodation

Featured Hotels

Hotel Ideale

This good value hotel close to the railway station has small but clean en-suite rooms, and pleasant staff. It has tea and coffee making facilities but doesn't offer breakfast. It also has the option of a room in a nearby apartment.

Hotel Porta San Mamolo

Excellent value, this comfortable, quiet and central hotel is close to Piazza Maggiore. Rooms are light and prettily decorated with period fabrics, elegant furnishings, floral oil paintings and candy-stripe wallpaper. The bright breakfast room is set between two courtyards. There is free Wi-Fi, satellite TV and complimentary bike hire.

Hotel Paradise

Within walking distance of the tourist centre, the 3-star Hotel Paradise offers 18 rooms, including mini apartments with small kitchens. Most of the rooms have elegant modern decor and offer fantastic views of the city's red rooftops. Its free internet and Wi-Fi access is a bonus. 

Hotel Albergo Atlantic

A cosy and charming budget hotel within walking distance of the city centre, Hotel Albergo Atlantic is also close to the train station. The rooms have been renovated recently and are light and bright. Expect friendly, welcoming staff, spotlessly clean rooms and a continental buffet breakfast. Complimentary Wi-Fi is included too.

Il Convento dei Fiori di Seta

In a 14th-century convent, this chic boutique combines the building's original features and traditional style (exposed brickwork, beams, oriental rugs and religious frescoes) with elements of contemporary design, such as Perspex and chrome chairs and blown-up modernist floral photographs. A spa area offers a Jacuzzi and Turkish bath.

Grand Hotel Majestic Già Baglioni

This 109-room hotel, on one of Bologna's main shopping streets, is the city's most luxurious. It was designed during the 18th century and built on orders of a pope. Murano glass chandeliers sprinkle the ceilings, while expansive corridors lead guests to beautifully decorated rooms containing antique furniture and modern amenities.

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