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Compare cheap car rentals at Bologna Airport (BLQ). Free cancellation, trusted brands, and no hidden fees. Book now for the best rates today.
Best Bologna Airport Car Rental Deals for 2025
Touch down and drive away with the best-value car hire at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport. We compare real-time prices from leading brands to help you secure cheap rates with no hidden fees.
Enjoy free cancellation on most bookings, options to book now and pay later, and vehicles with unlimited mileage to explore Emilia-Romagna and beyond in 2025. Pick the perfect car in minutes and save more for your trip.
Why Book Your BLQ Car Hire With Us?
Transparent pricing: See exactly what’s included—insurance, mileage, and taxes—before you book. No surprises at the desk.
Trusted brands: Compare offers from Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Budget, Sixt, Enterprise, Locauto, Sicily by Car, Drivalia, and more—all based at or near Bologna Airport.
Flexible options: Free cancellation on most cars up to 24–48 hours before pickup, plus pay-at-pickup options on select deals.
Great for every traveler: From low-cost economy cars to family SUVs and premium models, find the right fit for city driving, road trips, or business travel.
Real-Time Price Comparison: Top Brands at the Airport
Pick up your rental right at BLQ with on-airport desks or short-shuttle providers. Compare queues, deposit amounts, and fuel policies (Full to Full) so you know what to expect.
Popular choices include compact and economy cars for Bologna’s streets, automatic transmission vehicles for stress-free cruising, and 7–9 seater vans for groups. Add child seats, GPS, or extra drivers during checkout for a smooth pickup in 2025.
Popular Vehicle Types and When to Choose Each
Economy and Compact
Perfect for budget travelers and easy parking in historic areas. Great fuel economy and ideal for pairs or small families doing short trips around Bologna and Modena.
Intermediate and Full-Size
More luggage space and comfort for drives along the A1/A13. A smart pick if you’re visiting Parma, Ferrara, or Florence with 2–4 passengers.
SUVs and Crossovers
Extra room and higher seating for countryside routes and mountain day trips. Choose an automatic SUV if you’re new to driving in Italy.
Minivans (7–9 Seaters)
Best for groups, families, or ski trips. Reserve early for 2025 peak season as vans sell out fast at BLQ.
Luxury and Premium
Upgrade to a convertible or executive sedan for the Autostrada. Enjoy premium service, higher deposit requirements, and top-tier comfort.
How to Pick Up Your Rental Car at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport
After landing, follow signs for Car Rental/Autonoleggio in the arrivals area. Most desks are inside the terminal, with cars a short walk away in the dedicated rental parking area.
Have your passport, driver’s license, credit card (in the main driver’s name), and booking voucher ready. Non-EU licenses not in Roman alphabet may require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Inspect the car carefully, note any pre-existing damage in the rental report, and take timestamped photos. Confirm fuel policy, mileage limits (most are unlimited), and return location before you drive.
Driving Tips for Bologna and Emilia-Romagna in 2025
Watch for ZTLs: Bologna’s historic center has Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL). Unauthorized entry leads to fines. Park outside and walk or use public transport.
Tolls on Autostrade: The A1, A13, and A14 are toll roads. Take a ticket on entry and pay by cash or card on exit. Avoid Telepass-only lanes unless you’re subscribed.
Speed limits: 130 km/h on autostrade (lower in rain), 110 km/h on divided roads, 90 km/h on rural roads, 50 km/h in towns. Speed cameras are common.
Winter rules: In many provinces, winter tires or snow chains may be mandatory on signed roads (often mid-November to mid-April). Check your route and add equipment if needed.
Fuel tips: Gasoline is “Senza Piombo,” diesel is “Gasolio.” Self-service is cheaper than “Servito.” Keep the receipt if you need to prove a top-up at return.
Safety basics: Seat belts are mandatory. Children up to 150 cm need an appropriate seat. The legal alcohol limit is 0.5 g/L; it’s lower for novice drivers. Emergency number: 112.
Smart Ways to Save: Insurance, Fees, and Fuel Policies
Insurance explained: Most rates include basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection with an excess. Consider Zero-Excess or Full Coverage to reduce or remove the deductible in 2025.
Fuel policy: Choose Full to Full to avoid service charges. Keep your fuel receipt near the airport before return.
Deposit and cards: Expect a hold of €300–€1,500 depending on category. A credit card in the main driver’s name is standard; some suppliers accept certain debit cards with extra requirements.
Young drivers: Drivers 19–24 may pay a surcharge. Add all additional drivers to the contract to ensure coverage.
Timing: Avoid out-of-hours pickups/returns if your flight allows; these can incur fees. Always arrive on time to dodge late return charges.
One-Way, Cross-Border, and Long-Term Rentals at BLQ
One-way rentals: Driving to Florence, Milan, Venice, or Rome? Many suppliers allow one-way returns within Italy for a fee shown at checkout. Compare drop charges before booking.
Cross-border travel: Trips to San Marino, Switzerland, Austria, or Slovenia may be permitted with prior authorization and extra insurance. Always request approval in advance to stay insured.
Monthly and long-term: For extended stays in 2025, look at 28–30 day offers with generous mileage. Monthly rentals can be cheaper than short weekly extensions.
When to Book: Prices and Peak Seasons in 2025
Bologna gets busy during spring and fall trade fairs, summer holidays, and weekend city breaks. Book 4–8 weeks ahead for the best selection and price.
For vans, automatics, and luxury cars at BLQ, reserve even earlier. Prices typically rise as the pickup date approaches, especially in 2025 peak months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which car rental companies operate at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ)?
You’ll find major brands like Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Budget, Sixt, Enterprise, Locauto, Sicily by Car, Drivalia, and more at or near the terminal. Compare on-airport vs. shuttle providers for the best price.
What documents do I need to rent a car at BLQ?
Bring your passport, driver’s license, credit card in the main driver’s name, and your voucher. Non-EU licenses not in Roman characters typically require an IDP.
Is there a young driver fee in Italy?
Usually, yes. Drivers under 25 often pay a young driver surcharge. Minimum age varies by supplier (often 21), and some categories may require 25+.
Can I rent an automatic car at Bologna Airport?
Yes. Automatics are available across categories, but supply is limited in peak dates. Book early in 2025 to guarantee one.
Do rentals include unlimited mileage?
Many deals include unlimited mileage, but some have caps. Check the mileage policy on the offer page before you confirm.
What insurance do I need?
Basic coverage (CDW and Theft Protection with excess) is standard. For peace of mind, consider Full Coverage/Zero-Excess to reduce your deductible in 2025.
Where do I return the car at BLQ?
Follow airport signs for Car Rental Return/Autonoleggio. Allow extra time for inspections and to avoid late fees, especially during busy hours.
Can I cross into San Marino or other countries?
Often permitted with prior approval and sometimes an extra fee. Always check cross-border restrictions with your chosen supplier before booking.
What about ZTL fines in Bologna?
Stay out of ZTL zones unless your accommodation has arranged a permit. Your rental company can pass on fines plus an admin fee if you enter restricted areas.
Is pay-at-pickup available?
On many offers, yes. You can reserve now and pay at the counter with a valid card. Check your deal’s payment terms during checkout.
How do I get the lowest price?
Book early, be flexible with car type, choose Full to Full fuel, and compare on-airport vs. shuttle providers. Filter for free cancellation to lock in a low rate for 2025.