← Maratona del Mugello·2 nights

Bologna: Two Nights Under the Arcades

Two nights in Bologna give covered, level streets and a long dinner, with the airport close by for the flight home.

Duration2 nights
TransitRegional train via Florence, then a fast train to Bologna; check timetables
DepartsBorgo San Lorenzo

After the Maratona del Mugello: Bologna

The Route: Borgo San Lorenzo → Florence → Bologna Centrale → Bologna Marconi Airport (BLQ) Logistics: A regional train to Florence, then a fast train to Bologna. Check each leg. Marathon Month: September Duration: 2 nights

Borgo San Lorenzo ──(regional train)──> Florence ──(fast train)──> Bologna Centrale ──(airport link or taxi)──> BLQ

The Maratona del Mugello ends on a Sunday in Borgo San Lorenzo, and Bologna lies on the far side of the Apennines. The simplest route runs through Florence, so plan for a change and check both timetables on the day. A hire car is possible but the train suits tired legs better.

September in Bologna is warm, and the porticoes that line the central streets give shade and shelter in equal measure. Book a room early, since the city is busy in autumn.

Nights one and two: Bologna

The flat circuit is Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio, the Two Towers and the market lanes of the Quadrilatero, under two kilometres in all. The covered walk up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is about four kilometres long and steep in parts, so it is a poor plan on marathon legs. Keep it for another trip.

Where to stay

Stay near Piazza Maggiore or Bologna Centrale, both flat and with a short trip to the airport link. Book a refundable room and ask about lift access.

Food

Bologna's food is the reason for the trip. Expect tagliatelle with ragù, tortellini in broth and mortadella from the delicatessens. Restaurants fill early, so book a table, and ask the hotel for current recommendations.

Getting Home

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is connected to Bologna Centrale by a people-mover and by taxi. Check the current operating hours and fare before relying on it for an early flight.