A successful business trip to Bologna

When the words sun, culture and food come to mind, Italy quickly comes to mind. But did you know that Bologna, Italy's culinary capital, is also an excellent destination for a successful business trip?

The city is an economic center with BolognaFiere as a key location for trade fairs such as Cosmoprof and Cersaie, and the agricultural fair EIMA International. With Europe's oldest university, the Università di Bologna, the city is a hub for research and innovation, especially in biomedical sciences, nanotechnology and IT. Bologna's strategic location provides excellent connections to other major cities in Italy and Europe.

In this blog we inform you about the tips for doing business in Bologna, the accessibility of the city and where to stay, so that your business trip to Bologna will be a success.

Getting to Bologna

With about 5,000 flights a month and 79 airlines flying into Bologna, the city has one of the busiest airports in Italy. The Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is served by airlines such as Vueling, Iberia and Emirates. From Schiphol Airport there are several direct flights a day to Bologna. Once arrived, the city center can be easily reached from the airport in the following ways:

By bus: The Aerobus takes you from the airport to the heart of downtown (Bologna's central station) in half an hour all year round. The first bus leaves at 05:30 in the morning and the last one at 00:15 at night. Tickets can be purchased both online and at the ticket machines at the airport and cost only 6 euros for a one-way ticket!

By train: A faster alternative is to take the Marconi Express train. A ticket costs 11 euros for a one-way ticket and with it you can reach the center in 8 minutes.

 By private transfer: For travelers who are traveling with a lot of luggage or want to be picked up directly at the airport by a private driver, transfers are available. Transfers can be booked in advance (online) through our business travel consultants.

By rental car: There is a wide range of car rental companies at Guglielmo Marconi Airport, including National, Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Thrifty and Budget. These can also be booked (online) through Uniglobe Alliance Travel.

By cab: Finally, Bologna has reliable cabs, with most accepting credit cards .

The city also has excellent train connections to other Italian cities such as Milan, Florence and Rome, making it easy to combine business travel with visits to other major business hubs in Italy.

Staying overnight in Bologna

In Bologna there is a wide range of hotels. Depending on what you are looking for, there is always a hotel that meets your requirements. Here we list some of our favorite hotels that are ideal for business travel:

• Hotel Corona d'Oro: This 4-star hotel is located right in the center and has a beautiful classic style. The hotel is quietly located in a traffic-free zone, yet is in the heart of Bologna. For business travelers, the hotel offers good free Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, spacious rooms to work in and additional services such as room service and laundry and dry cleaning services.
• Starhotel Excelsior: This modern hotel is opposite the main train station, putting you at the airport or other Italian cities in no time. The hotel has private parking, offers a full buffet breakfast, conference rooms, free Wi-Fi and a gym.
• I Portici Hotel: This hotel combines a beautiful historic building with a spacious and modern interior. Located in the heart of downtown, it features parking facilities and friendly staff. Business travelers can take advantage of meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi and a business center.

Photos sources: Hotel Corona d'Oro, Starhotel Excelsior & I Portici Hotel

Doing business in Bologna

When doing business in Bologna, it is helpful to know some basic Italian expressions, such as "Buongiorno" (good morning) and "Grazie" (thank you). This is appreciated by local business partners. Although English is often spoken in business settings, knowledge of the Italian language can improve your interactions. When meeting for the first time, a firm handshake is common. Italian business people place a high value on appearance and presentation, so be sure to dress neatly and stylishly for business meetings.

Business lunches and dinners can be long and are important for building business relationships. Prepare for multiple courses and extended conversations. Before dinner, it is customary to have an "aperitivo," a drink accompanied by a small snack: a somewhat more informal networking opportunity.

With these insights, you can conduct business in Bologna effectively and respectfully, while taking full advantage of the rich culture and business opportunities the city has to offer.

Photos sources: Caffè Terzi, Ristorante Diana, Trattoria da Gianni & Osteria dell'Orsa

A taste of Italy

Bologna has several typical dishes. Try tagliatelle al ragù (better known as spaghetti bolognese outside Italy), lasagna and tortellini. The typical Bolognese tortellini is "Tortellini in Brodo." This dish consists of small, meat-filled pasta served in a rich, clear broth.

The crucial role of coffee

In Italy, coffee plays a crucial role in both daily life and business meetings. Coffee is more than a drink; it is a social ritual that helps build business relationships.

For business meetings, Caffè Terzi and Caffè Zamboni are ideal. Caffè Terzi is known for its high-quality coffee and elegant atmosphere, perfect for quiet consultation moments. Caffè Zamboni offers a cozy, professional setting in the heart of Bologna, ideal for business appointments.

Drinking coffee together provides an excellent opportunity to network in a relaxed atmosphere. In addition, offering coffee during meetings is seen as a sign of hospitality and respect, contributing to a positive business atmosphere.

Recommended restaurants for business dinners:

• Ristorante Diana is one of the oldest and most prestigious restaurants in Bologna. This restaurant offers refined and traditional Bolognese cuisine, ideal for business dinners. The menu includes classic dishes such as the aforementioned tortellini in brodo and tagliatelle al ragù.
• Trattoria da Gianni is known for its authentic and cozy atmosphere. A fine place for more informal business meetings. The restaurant offers traditional dishes prepared according to old family recipes, giving it the real taste of Bologna.
• Osteria dell'Orsa is perfect for a casual and lively dining experience. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the restaurant offers a dynamic atmosphere ideal for networking meetings. The menu includes affordable, homemade dishes such as lasagna and polenta, offering an authentic Bolognese experience. The casual setting makes it easy to socialize and network in a relaxed environment.

Sightseeing

Should you have the opportunity to extend your business trip or have some free time around your business appointments: be sure to visit this beautiful city! The narrow streets, churches and charming corners are everywhere and so the city has quite a few fascinating sights:

• Piazza Maggiore: Located in the center, this square is surrounded by buildings of red color, characteristic of Bologna. In the square is the Neptune Fountain, a popular meeting place.
• Quadrilatero: For culinary lovers, this neighborhood is a highlight. Here you will find narrow streets with all kinds of stalls full of vegetables, fruits, and delicacies.
• Basilica di San Petronio: This gigantic cathedral offers a beautiful view of the city.
• Basilica Santo Stefano: The cathedral with seven churches, small gardens and chapels, is a true sight where you can admire all the different architectural styles.

For further questions or assistance in planning your business trip to Bologna, please feel free to contact us!

Travel Well!

Alice Vermeulen
Online Business Travel Consultant