Area code for Bologna: 051 (don't drop the zero when calling from
abroad)
Emergency Numbers
Police (Carabinieri): 112
Ambulance: 118
Fire: 115
Tipping
In restaurants it is customary to tip 10% in addition to any cover charge. Tipping in
bars is not expected.
VAT & Taxes
Posted prices in stores include the standard 20% VAT (or IVA). Non-EU members can
apply for a VAT refund by contacting the Italian Tax Refund S.R.L.
Getting Around
Taxis
Taxis can be found at the airport and train station or booked by phone through
Bologna's radio taxi service (+39 051 372 727).
Buses
Tobacconists sell single bus tickets, booklets of ten tickets and one-day passes.
You must buy your ticket in advance and validate it as soon as you board. A
single ticket is good for one hour. Most bus routes start at the centrally
located Piazza Nettuno and Piazza Maggiore. Free maps are available from the ATC
(transit authority) office on Piazza XX Settembre.
