TRAVEL INFORMATION

About Bologna
Founded more than a thousand years ago, Bologna is widely known as one of Europe’s most dynamic academic and cultural centres.

The city is home to the University of Bologna, established in 1088 and considered the oldest university in the world. Bologna’s historic centre is renowned for its medieval architecture, extensive portico arcades (officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage) and lively student atmosphere.

Visitors can explore landmarks such as:

  • Piazza Maggiore, the heart of the city
  • the iconic Two Towers of Bologna
  • the famous Porticoes of Bologna

Beyond its scientific heritage, Bologna is internationally celebrated for its gastronomy and welcoming atmosphere, offering conference participants an inspiring setting that combines research, culture and Italian lifestyle.

Travelling to Bologna
Bologna is well connected with major European cities by air, rail and road, making it easy to reach for international participants.

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The nearest airport is Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, located about 6 km from the city centre.
The airport offers direct connections with many European destinations as well as intercontinental flights via major hubs.
More info at Bologna Airport

From the Airport to the City Centre
The fastest way to reach the city centre is the Marconi Express, an automated monorail connecting the airport with Bologna Centrale railway station.

  • Travel time: about 7 minutes
  • Frequency: every 7-15 minutes

Tickets can be purchased at the airport, at the station or online. More info at https://www.marconiexpress.it/en/
Alternatively, taxis are available outside the arrivals terminal.

Bologna Centrale railway station is one of Italy’s main railway hubs and is served by high-speed trains connecting the city with major Italian destinations such as Milan, Florence, Rome, Venice.

Travel times are approximately:

  • Milan → Bologna: ~1 hour
  • Florence → Bologna: ~35 minutes
  • Rome → Bologna: ~2 hours
  • Venice → Bologna: ~1,5 hours

Visit Trenitalia or ItaloTreno to buy tickets and check timing.  

Bologna is located at the intersection of several major Italian motorways, making it easily accessible by car:

  • A1 (Milan – Florence – Rome)
  • A13 (Padua – Bologna)
  • A14 (Adriatic motorway)

Much of the historic centre of Bologna is a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), where vehicle access is restricted and controlled by cameras. The Belmeloro University Complex, where the conference will take place, is located within this restricted area.

Participants arriving by car are therefore advised to:

  • Check ZTL access regulations in advance to avoid traffic fines.
  • Park outside the restricted area and reach the venue on foot or by public transport.
  • Use one of the public parking garages located near the historic centre.

Because the historic centre of Bologna is relatively compact, many hotels and conference venues can be easily reached on foot or by public transport once the car has been parked.

More info about parking facilities at https://www.bolognawelcome.com/en/blog/where-to-park-in-bologna-2

Public transport in Bologna is easy to use.

Options include:

  • city buses   
  • bike-sharing services

The city is also compact and many destinations can be reached on foot.
Participants staying in the historic centre will find it easy to reach most locations within a short distance.