Overview

Traveling from Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) to Siena opens the door to Tuscany’s medieval charm. The journey spans approximately 150 km (93 miles) and takes 1 hour 45 minutes by road. While there’s no direct train or shuttle service linking these two points seamlessly, multiple transfer options cater to different preferences—from budget-friendly buses to stress-free private transfer Bologna airport to Siena services like those offered by A2B.

Getting to Know Your Destination

Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its Gothic architecture, historic Palio horse race in Piazza del Campo, and winding cobblestone streets. Visitors often explore landmarks like the Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) or sample regional dishes such as pici pasta and panforte cake. The city’s compact layout makes it walkable, but arranging reliable transport from Bologna Airport ensures you start your Tuscan adventure smoothly.

Arriving at Bologna Airport

Bologna Airport is small but efficient. After collecting luggage, follow signs for ground transportation:

• Taxis/Rideshares: Located outside Terminal Arrivals (follow green signage).
• Car Rentals: Desks for Europcar, Hertz, and others are in the arrivals hall.
• Bus/Train Connections: Public transport requires a 20-minute shuttle ride to Bologna Centrale station first (see below).

Main Transfer Options

Public Transport (Bus + Train)

1. Airport Shuttle to Bologna Centrale: Take the Marconi Express (€11 one-way) or TPER Bus 944 (€6) to Bologna’s main train station.
2. Train to Siena: From Bologna Centrale, take a regional train to Florence Santa Maria Novella (1h 15m), then transfer to a bus or direct train to Siena (1h 20m). Total cost: ~€25–35; total time: ~3h 30m.

While affordable, this option involves multiple changes—less ideal for families or those with heavy luggage.

Taxi & Rideshare

A direct taxi from Bologna airport to Siena costs €180–220 one-way (fixed fare). Travel time is ~1h 45m depending on traffic. Pre-booking via apps like Uber or FreeNow ensures transparency but may lack amenities like child seats or meet-and-greet services included in professional transfers.

Car Rentals

Renting a car at Bologna Airport starts at €50/day (manual transmission). The drive follows the A1/E35 highway toward Florence before merging onto SR222 (Via Cassia) toward Siena—a scenic route through Chianti vineyards. Note: ZTL zones in central Siena restrict unauthorized vehicles; park outside historic areas (~€2–3/hour).

Private Transfer: Stress-Free Comfort

For seamless door-to-door service, book a private transfer Bologna airport to Siena with A2B. Benefits include:

• Fixed pricing (no surge fees) starting at €160 for standard sedans.
• Professional drivers tracking your flight for delays.
• Complimentary 60-minute waiting time at arrivals.
• Options for luxury vehicles, child seats, or wheelchair access.

Choosing the Best Method

Recommendations:

• Budget travelers: Public transport works if you’re not rushed.
• Families/groups: Opt for a private transfer or minivan taxi for space and comfort.
• Luxury seekers: Book a premium sedan via A2B for added amenities like Wi-Fi or bottled water.

Travel Tips & Local Insights

• Scenic Detour: If driving or using a private transfer, ask your driver to take Via Chiantigiana (SR222) for views of vineyards and olive groves between Florence and Siena.
• Booking Window: Reserve transfers 48+ hours in advance during peak seasons (June–September).
• Language Tips: Learn basic Italian phrases like “Dov’è la fermata dell’autobus?” (“Where is the bus stop?”).

Reaching Your Final Destination

Most transfers drop you directly at your Siena accommodation or Piazza Gramsci (central bus station). From there:

• Walk: Historic center hotels are within 10–15 minutes on foot.
• Local Taxis: Use ranks near Piazza del Campo for short rides (~€10–15).

Where to Get More Info

• Trenitalia: Check train schedules from Bologna/Firenze to Siena.
• Siena Tourism Office: Official guides on events and attractions.
• A2B Transfers: Book fixed-price private transfers with English-speaking drivers.

FAQ

What is the fastest way from Bologna Airport to Siena? A direct private transfer or taxi takes ~1h 45m—ideal for avoiding multiple stops (A2B offers competitive rates).

Is there a shuttle service from Bologna Airport to Siena? No direct shuttle exists; use public transport via Florence or book a private transfer Bologna airport to Siena.

How much is a taxi from Bologna Airport? Expect €180–220 for pre-booked taxis or rideshares; private transfers start lower (~€160).

Can I rent a car at Bologna Airport? Yes—Europcar, Hertz, and others operate onsite with rates from €50/day plus fuel/tolls (Compare options here).

Are private transfers safe? Reputable providers like A2B use licensed drivers with GPS-tracked vehicles for secure travel day or night.