Car rental at Bologna : Discover all our stations

Bologna is home to the oldest university in the world, and is still very much a university town with a large student population, bringing with it a vibrant student nightlife. Combined with some of the most refined restaurants in Italy, there is something for everyone in this cosmopolitan town.

Located in the north east of Italy, Bologna is easily accessible by car from Turin and Milan. Whether you are only visiting the city itself or enjoying a longer Italian road trip, pick up a rental car from Europcar and maximize your time in and around Bologna.

Bologna has three convenient Europcar stations. Flying in? Collect your car at the main airport and waste no time getting on the road. There are also two city stations, one in the north of the city and another near the main train station.

If you are travelling to Bologna in a couple or small group, a city car will be ideal for driving around town and the Peugeot 208 and the Italian classic Fiat 500 are both great options. If you are travelling to Italy as a family or larger group, the Peugeot 3008 is a roomier choice for a comfortable trip.

Van rental is also available at Europcar Bologna. Whether moving house or carrying heavier loads, our fleet has the perfect van to suit your needs.

Europcar brings total freedom to your stay in Italy. Choose your car or van rental for long or short periods.

In order to rent a car in Italy, you need to be over 18. US driver’s licenses are valid.

On the autostrade (freeways), the maximum speed limit is 130 km/h, whereas on main and secondary roads it is 110 km/h and 90 km/h respectively. In urban areas, the speed limit is set between 50 and 70 km/h and lowered around populated areas, such as near schools.

Paid car parking is enforced Monday to Sunday, from 7am to 8pm. There are several underground parking garages downtown. Blue road signs and markings indicate paid parking zones. White road markings mean parking time is limited but free. Yellow parking spaces are reserved for special vehicles, police, disabled drivers, etc.

In the historic center of Bologna, there is a (ZTL) daily from 7am to 8pm. Only residents or permit holders can enter this zone. You can pay for a day pass (€9) which is valid for 24 hours. Be aware that this area is monitored by cameras and you will be fined if you enter without a permit. If you are staying in a hotel within the ZTL you can ask the hotel to register your license plate to provide you with entry to the zone.

Most are subject to tolls, payable in cash or by credit/debit card. 

Plan your journeys carefully, taking into account that many gas stations away from main roads close on Sundays. Those that are open on Sundays are often closed on Mondays.

There are some great day trips to be had in the area surrounding Bologna. Modena is home to Osteria Francescana, ranked among the top five restaurants in the world and a must-visit for foodies. Florence, the majestic Renaissance city, is only an hour’s drive away.

Further afield, interesting destinations include the stunning beach town of Rimini (75 miles away), the romantic haven of Venice (100 miles), and the fashion capital of Milan (135 miles). Bologna is an excellent base to explore this magnificent region of Italy.

The historic center of Bologna is one of the biggest in Europe and there are dozens of medieval, Renaissance and Baroque buildings to gaze at in wonder, including the Basilica di Santo Stefano and the Basilica di San Petronio.

The home of (bolognese sauce) has a well-deserved food reputation, with countless homely trattorias and Michelin-starred restaurants across the city. There are also lively markets and elegant boutiques for those who enjoy some serious shopping.

About two miles from the city center, the Basilica Santuario della Madonna di San Luca is an iconic attraction. This 18th-century building houses the longest portico in the world, with 666 arches; and a black depiction of the Virgin Mary, reportedly painted by St Luke. Furthermore, its hilltop location offers impressive views across the red rooftops of the town.

Choose Europcar Bologna to take you to and from the city with ease.

We are proud to be European leaders in car rental. To find out more about the Europcar car hire experience, be sure to visit our car rental page!