Is Bologna Safe in January 2026?

Bologna Centrale is one of Italy's busiest rail hubs, and distraction-based theft targeting travelers is well-documented and extensively reported. Thieves work in pairs or small groups — one distracts with a question, a bump, or an offer to help with ticket machines or luggage, while the other lifts wallets, phones, or bags from overhead racks, trolleys, or unzipped pockets. Busy arrival and departure halls on weekends and during university term events are the highest-risk periods.

How to avoid: Keep bags between your feet or on your lap at all times. Never put luggage on an overhead rack and walk away. Be alert to anyone who bumps into you or creates a distraction near your belongings.

Some taxi drivers at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport use unofficial vehicles or fail to run the meter, quoting flat rates well above the official fixed fare to the city centre. The official fixed rate to central Bologna is set by the municipality, but visitors unaware of this are routinely overcharged.

How to avoid: Use only taxis from the official taxi rank outside arrivals with the Bologna municipality logo. The fixed fare to the city centre is posted at the rank. Confirm the rate before entering the vehicle and insist on the meter being used for non-fixed-rate zones.

Crowded city buses are the most commonly reported pickpocket environment in Bologna, with Bus 30 — which connects the city centre to Bologna Centrale station — specifically flagged by residents and travelers. Thieves board at busy stops, position themselves close to passengers during crowding at doors, and use the jostling of stops and starts to mask the theft. Backpacks worn on the back are a primary target.

How to avoid: Wear your backpack on your front when boarding Bologna buses, particularly Bus 30 and any route serving the station. Keep your phone in a front pocket rather than a back pocket or open bag compartment. Be most alert when boarding and alighting at busy stops.

Several restaurants within a block of Piazza Maggiore charge significantly inflated prices for mediocre food, targeting tourists who do not know local pricing norms. Menus posted outside may omit cover charges (coperto) and service fees. Staff may seat tourists at premium outdoor tables without disclosing the additional charge.

How to avoid: Walk two or three blocks away from the piazza before choosing a restaurant. Check that the menu shows all charges including coperto. Avoid restaurants with staff actively touting outside.

Pickpockets operate in and around Piazza Maggiore, targeting tourists distracted by the Basilica di San Petronio, fountain, and street performers. Thieves often work in pairs, with one creating a distraction while the other lifts wallets or phones. The busy pedestrian zone makes escape easy. Weekend markets and summer evenings are peak times.

How to avoid: Keep valuables in a front-facing bag or money belt. Avoid placing phones on cafe tables in the piazza. Be alert to anyone who bumps into you or asks for directions while standing in the square.