Getting Around

Bologna's city centre is compact and the narrow cobblestone streets are great fun to wander, so walking is an ideal way to see the sights. Bicycles and motorbikes are also a common sight. Visitors worried about getting lost in the labyrinthine passageways can take advantage of the excellent bus system, which runs from 6.30am until late. A City Pass is a cost-effective way of taking multiple journeys. Taxis and rental cars are also available but much of the historical centre of Bologna, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy, falls within a Limited Traffic Zone, negating a lot of the convenience.

Airports

Bologna Airport

The airport is located four miles (6km) northeast of Bologna's city centre.

Bologna Airport (BLQ)

Location

The airport is located four miles (6km) northeast of Bologna's city centre.

Getting to the city

There is a special airport bus which takes you into the centre of Bologna. It leaves every 15 minutes during the day from outside the arrivals hall. The first bus is at 5.30am and the last one is at 1.15am. The bus is called Aerobus or BLQ and is easily identified as it is grey and light blue in colour as opposed to the orange urban buses.

The BLQ's farthest point in its route takes one to Bologna Central Railway Station, four miles (6km) from the airport. It is a major transport hub, with connections to places all over Italy. The journey from the airport to the railway station takes about 25-30 minutes, depending on the traffic.

Time

GMT +1 (GMT +2 between the last Sunday in March and the Saturday before the last Sunday in October).

Car rental

There are plenty of car hire agencies at the airport, including Hertz, Avis, Budget and Thrifty.

Airport Taxis

There are fixed-fare taxis outside the terminal; however, they are in high demand during peak times, so it may be a good idea to book in advance.

Facilities

Airport facilities include bank and currency exchange services, ATMs, left luggage facilities, a business lounge, travel agents, an information desk, and many shops and restaurants.

Parking

The airport provides both short-term parking and long-term parking. For short-term parking, the Express Car Park is adjacent to the terminal building, and charges about €3.70 per hour, or €30 per day.

www.bologna-airport.it