

Bologna, a vibrant city in northern Italy’s Emilia Romagna region, is earning recognition for its combination of excellent healthcare, history, and welcoming culture. Many international patients now choose Bologna for medical care because the city offers top hospitals with both public and private medical centers, specialists trained in oncology, orthopedics, neurology, fertility, cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and critical care. Hospitals in Bologna often provide international patient services, including multilingual staff, clear cost estimates, and efficient scheduling, all within Italy’s respected healthcare tradition.
Statistics highlight Bologna’s reputation as a healthcare destination. Policlinico Sant’Orsola Malpighi, Bologna’s largest teaching hospital, has about 1,535 beds and more than 5,000 staff, including over 850 doctors. Each year, it handles around 55,000 ordinary admissions, 14,000 day hospital stays, 139,000 emergency room access cases, over 33,000 surgical operations, and more than 3 million outpatient and specialist examinations. Another well-known hospital, Ospedale Maggiore Carlo Alberto Pizzardi, operates with more than 900 beds and forty operative units, including specialized emergency, orthopedic, pediatric, obstetric, and trauma services. Bologna ranks high in national hospital rankings, and Policlinico Sant’Orsola Malpighi consistently appears in the top five in Italy. These figures show that hospitals in Bologna deliver not just volume but also advanced care for both locals and international patients.
Bologna offers a rare blend of medical excellence, cultural richness, and patient-friendly infrastructure. People from different countries increasingly travel here for treatment because of the following reasons:
➤ Internationally accredited hospitals and leading specialists. Hospitals in Bologna are linked to the University of Bologna and are known for excellence in oncology, heart surgery, orthopedics, neurology, and pediatric care.
➤ Competitive value compared to major foreign cities. Medical procedures, hospital stays, dental implants, and cosmetic surgeries in Bologna often cost less than in cities like London or Paris, while maintaining high standards of safety and outcomes.
➤ Wide range of specialization. Best hospitals in Bologna cover cancer treatment, surgical oncology, orthopedic joint replacement, neurosurgery, fertility and IVF, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, cardiology, and advanced diagnostic imaging.
➤ Strong international patient services. Multilingual coordinators, interpreters, transparent fees, visa help, insurance support, and private care options are commonly available in leading hospitals.
➤ Easy accessibility. Bologna is well connected through its international airport and high-speed trains that link to other Italian and European cities. This makes travel convenient for both patients and companions.
➤ Healing environment. Bologna combines green parks, a moderate climate, cultural heritage, and excellent food. Patients often find the lifestyle here helps recovery both physically and emotionally.
Policlinico Sant’Orsola Malpighi
This is the largest and most renowned teaching hospital in Bologna. It is central to medical education and research in Italy and is linked to the University of Bologna. International and domestic patients come here for complex cases, including oncology, transplant, and advanced surgery. With 1,535 beds, more than 5,000 staff and over 33,000 surgeries each year, it is one of the most advanced hospitals in Italy.
Key services: oncology and surgical oncology, neurosurgery, transplant surgery, cardiology and cardiovascular surgery, pediatric care, intensive care, and advanced diagnostics.
Ospedale Maggiore Carlo Alberto Pizzardi
This public hospital is the second largest general hospital in Bologna in terms of size and services. With more than 900 beds and multiple buildings, it is known for its trauma center, maternity services, infectious disease department, and emergency care. It also features a tower with a heliport for critical case transport.
Key services: emergency medicine, trauma and critical care, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, pediatric surgery, infectious diseases, and general surgery.
Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli
One of the world’s top specialty orthopedic hospitals, Rizzoli focuses on bone, joint, spine, reconstructive surgery, and rehabilitation. It attracts many patients from across Italy and abroad who require advanced orthopedic care. It is also consistently ranked among Italy’s best in orthopedics.
Key services: joint replacement, spine surgery, complex reconstructive orthopedic surgery, sports injuries, physical therapy and rehabilitation, orthopedic trauma care.
Ospedale Bellaria Hospital
Part of the Bologna local health authority, Bellaria provides strong services in pediatric care, rehabilitation, psychiatric services, neurology, and internal medicine. It is well regarded for combining general care with specialty wards and for serving both emergency cases and routine treatments.
Key services: pediatrics, neurological disorders, psychiatry, rehabilitation, internal medicine, and outpatient diagnostics.
Villa Erbosa – Gruppo San Donato
A private hospital in Bologna known for patient-centered care, modern facilities, elective and cosmetic surgery, dental work, and outpatient medicine. International patients who prefer private hospital amenities such as faster appointments, private wards, and personalized services often choose Villa Erbosa.
Key services: cosmetic surgery, dentistry and dental implants, elective orthopedic surgery, fertility and IVF, outpatient diagnostics, general surgery, and recovery stay.
Arranging medical care in Bologna can seem complex, especially if you are traveling from another country. Language, medical logistics, and cost details can all add to the challenge. Best Clinic Abroad helps you at every step to make your healthcare journey smooth and stress-free.
With us, you receive:
Best Clinic Abroad serves as your trusted partner in Bologna healthcare. By choosing us, you gain access to internationally recognized hospitals, highly experienced doctors, and full support from consultation through recovery. Take the step today toward safe, affordable, and high-quality medical care in Bologna with Best Clinic Abroad.