Enormous, multilevel train station. Confusing signage from the lower level high speed trains to the principal exit during renovations. Snacks vending machines and small cafés scattered throughout. Modern and clean.
Typical large Italian train stop with cafes and stores. Pretty clean for a train station. Bathrooms cost 1€
A very large station over several levels, connected directly to the bus station. There are 4 subterranean platforms, with lifts and escalators down to them for the high speed trains. Unlike the London underground, these platforms are not unbearably hot even in summer. The upper station is functional and adequate, predominantly for the regional and non high speed trains. More seating is needed throughout.
The station look small, but it is really big inside. You will find large underground station for bullet train (Italo and Frecciarossa). There are a lot of ticket machine that you can use easily. But you have to keep aware of people around you, since there are many scammer and pickpocket disguise themselves.
Me and my partner finished leather exhibition and bought tickets to Milan. I requested two tickets and paid two tickets at the counter in Bologna station. The ticketing staff only gave me one ticket. My common sense told me each person should have one ticket, total two tickets. So I asked the staff, he replied and fooled me two person one ticket, no problem. I believed him because he is a staff at the train station.
After we got on the train and found only one seat, we immediately got out of the train and went back to the counter. That staff at the counter was gone and rotated by a different staff within 5 mins.
It was happened years ago. We had no choice but to pay for an additional ticket. I still have good impression about Italy but I don't trust ticketing staff in Bologna station.
Small city but noisy at night. Especially at downtown
Easy fast levels for take your train.
The location is good because you can go to center walking, by bus, by taxi, by bike. Also you have a bus all day available to the airport, but there isn't any bench inside the building and in the night is not a very good place to be.
Trains always run on time and they don't hang around , great prices , very cheap but be careful and get your ticket stamped in a machine before getting on the train , otherwise you will be fined !
Also BEWARE of the horrible , Romanian women hanging around everywhere in dirty dresses , they are easy to spot and will pick your pockets or steal your case , in a flash . Disgraceful that they let them inside the station . Shame on you Italy , in Ireland the Romanian thieve's would be dealt with very quickly . With force ..
The station is quite above the average Italian overall level.