Bologna Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards

Italy has several major mobile providers: TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, and Iliad. It's possible to 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.

Digital Connectivity

Look into getting an esim for convenience before you get there. Airalo is an eSIM provider.
For continuous connectivity, consider a Portable Wi-Fi device.
A Language learning platform can prepare you for local interactions.

Internet & Wi-Fi

Most accommodations and guesthouses offer free Wi-Wireless internet for visitors. Bologna provides a public "Bologna Wi-Fi" network available in many squares and common spaces.

Wi-Fi Availability

Cafes, restaurants, and bars often have free Internet access-Fi for customers; ask for "la password del Wi-Fi, per favore?".
Renting or purchasing a portable Wi-Fi device (MiFi) makes continuous connectivity simple.
Postal services: Poste Italiane offices are available throughout the city. Post boxes are red.

Language & Translation

The official language is Italian. English is common in tourist-facing businesses, including hotels, major attractions, and larger restaurants. However, in smaller shops or among older generations, Ability to speak english may be limited.

Tools for Communication

Google Translate works well. Download the Italian language offline language pack.
Use the camera feature to translate signs and menus instantly.
"Can you speak English?" translates to "Parla inglese?".

Important Phrases

Greetings & Courtesy

Hello: Ciao (informal), Salve (more formal).
Greetings: Buongiorno. Hello: Buonasera.
Goodbye: Arrivederci. Please: Per favore. Thank you: Grazie.

Business Hours & Schedules

Operating Hours

Shops: Generally open 9/10 AM to 1 PM, then reopen 3:30/4 PM to 7:30/8 IN the evening. Many smaller shops close for a mid-afternoon break (riposo).
Restaurants: Lunch 12:30/1 PM to 2:30/3 PM. Dinner 7:30/8 PM to 10:30/11 AT night. Many restaurants close in between these lunch and dinner periods.
Most shops close on Sundays, although some in tourist areas may have limited Sunday hours.
Some smaller businesses or restaurants may close for a few weeks in August for summer holidays.

Banking & Holidays

Banks: Generally 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM and then 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday.
ATMs (Bancomat) are widely available 24/7 at bank locations, train stations, and shopping centers.
Public holidays: Numerous businesses close down, public transport may have reduced schedules, and popular sites might experience increased crowds.
Always check individual websites for detailed opening hours, as they vary seasonally.

Stay Powered

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 consistently be available.

Cultural Interactions

Thoughtful engagement with local culture deepens your travel experience.

Greeting Customs

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.

Attire Guidelines

Generally, Italians dress stylishly. For religious sites like churches and basilicas, dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. For dining, smart casual attire is good for most restaurants.

Dining Protocol

Avoid asking for parmesan cheese on seafood pasta; this is not a traditional Italian combination. "Spaghetti Bolognese" is not considered an authentic dish in Bologna; order "Tagliatelle al Ragù."

Photography Ethics

Photography for personal use is permitted in public spaces. Be mindful of people's privacy when taking photos.

Photo Reminders

Some museums, art galleries, or churches may prohibit flash photography or photography altogether.
Always look for signage indicating restrictions.
If photographing a local, a polite "Posso fare una foto?" (May I take a photo?) works well.

Social Etiquette

Avoid discussing politics or religion unless initiated by locals and you are confident in the conversation.

Interaction Guide

Do not rush meals; dining in The italian republic has a leisurely, social experience.
Don't speak loudly in public spaces, especially inside churches or quiet restaurants.
Italy is generally tolerant, especially in larger, more liberal cities like Bologna. LGBTQ+ rights are recognized.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure Overview

Bologna's historic center, with its extensive stone pavers and uneven surfaces, has challenges.
Many main attractions and public buildings show efforts towards accessibility improvements.
Newer TPER buses are increasingly low-floor and equipped with ramps.

Services & Resources

The Marconi Express to the airport is accessible.
Major museums often provide ramps or elevators.
Contact the Bologna Welcome tourist office for information.

Travel Tip

Carry a mobile power source for your phone. Navigation, translation, and communication quickly deplete battery life. Charging points may not always be available.

Further Practicalities

Further points to consider for a comfortable visit.

Support Services

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.

Assistance Notes

Travel with a companion for assistance.
Contact local disability organizations in Bologna for aid.
Seeking advice prior to your trip is advisable for specific needs.

Inclusivity & Respect

Italy is generally socially conservative but tolerant, especially in larger, more liberal cities like Bologna.

Community Notes

LGBTQ+ rights are recognized in Italy.
Public displays of affection are generally accepted in urban areas.
Cities like Bologna show greater tolerance for diverse communities.

Dining & Tipping Details

Mealtime subtleties

Asking for parmesan cheese on seafood pasta is not a traditional Italian combination.
Order "Tagliatelle al Ragù" instead of "Spaghetti Bolognese" for authentic Bologna taste.
Meals often stretch longer; Italian dining is a leisurely, social experience.