Car rental in Bologna
Pointless in the historic centre, essential for Modena, Parma and the Emilian countryside. Here's how to think about it.
Restricted traffic zone and porticoes: what to know before driving in Bologna
Central Bologna has a very extensive restricted traffic zone, active nearly all day on weekdays, with cameras that automatically fine unauthorised entries. If your goal is to see Piazza Maggiore, skip the car: the centre is compact and the porticoes cover almost the whole walk. If your goal is Emilia-Romagna — Modena, Parma, the Motor Valley — renting makes sense: pick up the car at the airport or station and don't attempt to drive it into the restricted zone.
When it makes sense
For Modena and the Motor Valley, Parma, Ravenna, or the villages of the Emilian Apennines. Pick-up is best arranged at the airport or station.
When it doesn't
For staying in Bologna: the historic centre is compact, covered in porticoes, and the restricted zone turns a car into a parking headache.
Space reserved for local operators.