Athletes from EU countries don’t need a visa. Visitors from many non‑EU nations (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia) can enter Italy visa‑free for short stays (typically up to 90 days) under Schengen rules. Always verify with your own government or consulate to confirm current entry requirements.
Picture this: you’ve conquered your final SkiErg sprint, now cooling down along UNESCO‑listed porticoes, the afternoon sun dancing off historic stone. Recovery means a table of fresh tortellini at a local osteria, your muscles melting into the cozy florentine warmth. Wander the Two Towers at sunset, a glass of local Lambrusco in hand—this is how HYROX meets Dolce Vita.
Bologna is moderately priced for Western Europe. Quality mid-range hotels near the city center average €90–€140 per night, premium options start from €180+. Local dining is exceptional value—authentic trattoria meals for €12–€25, gourmet spots from €35+. Public transport is inexpensive with single rides from €1.50, and airport transfers cost under €10 via Marconi Express. Overall, athletes can enjoy a high-quality experience without breaking the bank.
• Premium: Starhotels Excelsior – adjacent to Centrale station, ideal for fast airport transfers and race‑day logistics, with wellness amenities.
• Mid‑range: Hotel Cosmopolitan Bologna – comfortable, modern, close to transport and local bars.
• Budget: A&O Bologna Centrale – clean, hostel‑style convenience near the station; great for functional stay.
All are walkable or short tram/train ride to the Fiera, and central for recovery café runs and sightseeing.
From BLQ airport, take the Marconi Express to Bologna Centrale (≈7 min), then short taxi or bus to Fiera. Around the city, buses and trams cover most zones; buy tickets via app or at tabacchi. Single tickets cover 75 min travel and are cost-efficient. Walking is often the fastest in the compact centro storico.
• Two Towers view at sunset—iconic backdrop for victory shots.
• Porticoes along Via Zamboni—classic Bologna charm.
• Piazza Maggiore & Fountain of Neptune—grand civic drama.
• Fiera di Bologna’s Thunderdome—capture energy spikes and finish-line emotion indoors.
Expect moderate spring humidity, especially in the mornings. Air quality is generally good. Fiera is indoors, but for warm‑ups, early morning runs under the porticoes (covered walkways) are crisp and quiet. Evenings can dip chillier, so bring a light layer.
• Post‑race clean fuel: Eataly Bologna – customizable bowls, lean proteins, regional veggies.
• Authentic Bolognese: Trattoria Anna Maria – famed for tortellini in brodo, mid‑priced, atmospheric.
• Quick bites: Tamburini – sandwiches with mortadella, prosciutto, espresso on the go. Offers vegetarian‑friendly options, reasonable prices (EUR 5–15 for a hearty bite), and fast service.
CrossFit Murri – official HYROX training club in Bologna, fully functional workout space with HYROX‑style apparatus; excellent for last‑minute prep or post‑event sweat. Fully indoor, walk‑able from city center
• Parco della Montagnola – leafy, low‑impact zone for cooldown walks or stretching.
• Terme Felsinee (a short drive) – sauna, massage, thermal pools if athletes want luxurious recovery.
• Local yoga studios in the historic center offering drop‑in classes—great for loosening up post‑race.
