If you’ve got a layover in Bologna, don’t let it go to waste sitting at BLQ. The city, in Italy, is within easy reach — roughly 35 minutes by Marconi Express. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BLQ:
First, verify that you can enter Italy — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Marconi Express takes about 35 minutes into Bologna, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — EUR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Bologna is the Marconi Express, which takes about 35 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 55 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Marconi Express is usually the smarter call.
Storing Your Luggage at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At BLQ, you’ll find bag storage at Luggage deposit service is available at the Marconi Express arrival station, on the ground floor..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Bologna might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Bologna, here are two things worth checking out:
Piazza Maggiore & Neptune Fountain is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
The Two Towers is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BLQ, you can spend time at Marconi Business Lounge or try Duty-Free & Fashion Boutiques. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near BLQ
- In the city: Trattoria del Rosso and Osteria dell’Orsa are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Bologna.
- At the airport: Ciao Ristorante and Caffè Bologna will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BLQ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Bologna or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at BLQ
Long overnight layover? Your options at BLQ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Italy also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Bologna is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Bologna.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.