Introducing Bologna

With an independent spirit and a cuisine that is to die for, quite literally, Bologna (known affectionally as ‘the Fat One’) encourages its visitors to embrace the moment. But, as the proud and spirited capital of Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna has given the world a great deal more than just Bolognese. Home to Europe’s oldest university (founded in 1088), the city is an uplifting place where rich traditions, an enlightened culture, and fascinating history permeate the fabric of day to day life.
Hemmed in by ancient city walls, Bologna’s Old Town, or Centro Storico, is a medieval maze of narrow streets barely wide enough for a fat goat. Bologna’s beating heart is the handsome Piazza Maggiore, where the pivotal streets of Via Indipendenza and Via Ugo Bassi intersect at the ancient gates of the Roman city. Overlooking the city is the stunning Unesco-designated basilica of Santuario della Madonna di San Luca Bologna. With its Renaissance palaces, gothic steeples, endless arcades and archways, the city resembles an impressionist masterpiece bathed in the pink and terra-cotta hues that have earned the city nickname of ‘La Rossa.’
If eating is the city’s first passion, then shopping is certainly its second. The Mercato di Mezzo bombardes the senses with stalls devoted to all manner of delicacies, ranging from prized truffle oils to waver-thin cured meats, fragrant olives, and pungent cheeses. Via Oberdan is a delightful pocket where you will find the city’s most charming boutique shops and street vendors. For a serious wallet hemorrhage, Via Farini is the fashionista’s playground showcasing home-grown and international designer fashion labels.

Airports within a 50-mile radius of Bologna:

  • Bologna Airport (BLQ)
    • Reggio Emilia Airport (LIDE, located in the nearby city of Reggio)

Popular aircraft charters* in the Bologna region include:

  • Citation Excel (super light)
  • Learjet 45 XR (super light)
  • Citation CJ3 (light)
  • Learjet 31ER 400A (light)
  • Learjet 60 XR (midsize)
  • Citation III (midsize)
  • Gulfstream G200 (super midsize)
  • Citation Sovereign (super midsize)

*This is just a sample. Zephyr provides access to aircraft at every end of the spectrum, from luxurious VIP airliners, to ultra long range business jet, helicopters, and economical turboprops.