Bologna Emilia Romagna And San Marino, Italy Travel Guide
Italy has several major mobile providers: TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, and Iliad. You can purchase local SIM cards at their stores in Bologna; your passport is for registration. Monthly plans with data and calls are around €20-€30. An unlocked smartphone is recommended.
Most hotels and guesthouses offer free Wi-Fi for guests. Bologna provides a public "Bologna Wi-Fi" network available in many squares and public spaces.
The official language is Italian. English is widely spoken in tourist-facing businesses, including hotels, major attractions, and larger restaurants. However, in smaller shops or among older generations, English proficiency may be limited.
Carry a power bank for your phone. Relying on your phone for navigation, translation, and communication quickly depletes battery life. Accessible charging points may not always be available.
Thoughtful engagement with local culture deepens your travel experience.
Always use "Buongiorno" (good morning/day) or "Buonasera" (good evening) when entering shops, cafes, or restaurants. Use "Ciao" (hello/goodbye) with friends or younger people; it is less formal. A handshake is common for introductions.
Generally, Italians dress stylishly. For religious sites like churches and basilicas, dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. For dining, smart casual attire is suitable for most restaurants.
Avoid asking for parmesan cheese on seafood pasta; this is not a traditional Italian combination. "Spaghetti Bolognese" is not an authentic dish in Bologna; order "Tagliatelle al Ragù."
Photography for personal use is permitted in public spaces. Be mindful of people's privacy when taking photos.
Avoid discussing politics or religion unless initiated by locals and you are confident in the conversation.
Carry a power bank for your phone. Navigation, translation, and communication quickly deplete battery life. Charging points may not always be available.
Additional considerations for a comfortable visit.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.
Italy is generally socially conservative but tolerant, especially in larger, more liberal cities like Bologna.
Observe local norms for photography, specifically in public and private spaces.
