How is to live in Bologna?

The city is full of students of all ages and various localities (mostly from Italy), so you will find a very friendly student atmosphere, with many opportunities for fun and friendly people. In addition, you will realise how easy it is to get around by bike, because the city is small and there is a lot of respect for the cyclist. As for the climate, we can describe the city as quite humid. In general the winters are cold and in summer the humidity does not go unnoticed. The good news is that with just one train you can reach the sea from Genoa or Rimini.

Where should I live in Bologna?

Since it is a small city, you will be able to reach the centre easily. In general, the places of interest and the universities are located in the centre, which is the meeting point for all those who have recently moved to the city. Our recommendation is that you let yourself be guided by the "gates" that the city has, which are very comfortable strategic points to live in. We recommend the areas around: Porta Castiglione, Porta de Santo Stefano, Porta Maggiore, San Vitale, San Donato, Mascarella, Galliera, Lame, San Felice and Zaragoza.

How much are rents in Bologna?

You have to keep in mind that there are many aspects that can vary, and depending on that the price could go up or down. One example is the time of construction of the apartment that you are going to rent , it is common that in Italy, especially in the central part of the country, the houses are very old. This does not mean that they do not have all their services in good working order or that they are well maintained, but it will certainly not be common to find modern houses. In any case, it is a good opportunity to save some money. In general, prices can vary from 300 to 500 euros, not counting the cost of utilities such as electricity and water. If you want an apartment just for you, that is a studio or ‘’monolocale’’you will find it for approximately 600 euros. Also, in Italy landlords usually ask for one or two months rent as a guarantee. There is a possibility to rent without paying the guarantee through Spotahome's premium properties, just filter the option ''no deposit'' and all the available options will appear. You could also opt for a shared room in which you have several services included such as Wifi, electricity and water. And thus avoid paying for these extra services.

What is the cost of living in Bologna?

Bologna is not among the most expensive cities in Italy when it comes to the cost of living. In fact, being a student city, in the university neighbourhoods you will find very reasonable prices. For example, a breakfast with cappuccino and brioche will cost 3€ or 4€. A lunch including a drink, on a normal day, could cost 14€. Speaking of transportation, the monthly public transportation pass costs about 36€. A cocktail or a drink in a bar, in an expensive area of the city could cost 8€.

Is it hard to find a rental in Bologna?

The most important thing when looking for a house in a new city is to plan ahead. In Bologna, students generally move in during the months of the beginning of the academic semesters, which is September and February. So you don't want to wait too long to search and coincide with these dates. We also recommend you to have an idea of what you are looking for, but be flexible so that the search does not become complicated. Play with Spotahome's filters and you will find different options that might interest you, as well as being able to search according to your budget.

How often do you pay rent in Bologna?

In Bologna rents generally work as in other parts of the world. That is, if you have not selected a property without a deposit, you will have to pay one or two months rent as a guarantee, and then pay the normal monthly rent. It may happen that the landlord prefers to receive payment every three months, but this is not very common.

What documents do I need for renting in Bologna?

In general this is a matter that depends and varies a lot from landlord to landlord. But most of them will ask you for an identity document together with your residence permit, your codice fiscale (tax code) for the contract, it is an identification number that you can manage at your arrival in Italy. If you are a student you may be asked for a letter of acceptance from the University where you are going to study.

Rentals in Bologna: apartment/flat & rooms for monthly rent 4

Bologna Rentals: 2025 Market Data

🏠 Nº of properties	597 flats, studios and rooms for rent
💵 Minimum monthly price	starting from 280 €
✔️ Verified properties	227 homes
💰 Deposit not required	191 rentals
🐶 Pets allowed	87 properties
🎓 Ideal for students	425 accommodations
💖 Ideal for couples	157 accommodations

598 flats and rooms to rent in Bologna - Short & long term properties

Property types in Bologna

Other cities in Italy

Bologna Rentals: 2025 Market Data