Left Luggage

Posted by louiseandreily on 01/20/15 02:18 PM

Is it relatively easy or is it a hassle to utilize "Left Luggage" at Bologna Centrale and Padova Centrale railway stations?

I have been told at some train stations the time it takes to check in bags and later retrieve them is prohibitive--that some are always crowded, chaotic, with long lines and long wait times. Other people have said that they have had security concerns about leaving their luggage in some stations. How is it in Bologna and Padua? What has been your experience storing your luggage at the main Bologna and Padua stations?

Thank you for your help.

Posted by Chani

Tel Aviv

01/20/15 03:06 PM

15799 posts

I used Padua once, about 6 years ago. On that trip I also stored luggage in Pisa and Verona. In each instance the facility was a dedicated room with one attendant. If there's no one in line ahead of you, it will go quickly. Be sure to have photo id ready (driver's license worked for me). In Pisa I had to wait a few minutes to collect my bag because the attendant was on a break.

Posted by Zoe

Toledo, Ohio, US

01/20/15 04:00 PM

11613 posts

I have left luggage at Roma Termini, Napoli Centrale, and a number of other stations. Never had a problem, but it is true there may be a line, so give yourself time, and a single attendant on a break can add 5-20 minutes to the wait.

Posted by Larry

Carmel, CA, USA

01/20/15 04:32 PM

2456 posts

Hi again Louise and Reily, there is Left Luggage in Bologna, 7 days a week, 7:00 am to 9:00 pm. Rate is 6 euros per bag for the first 5 hours, then 0.9 euros per hour. I have not used the Left Luggage there, and while it is a major and large station, I wouldn't think there should be long lines, as it is not a major hub for tourists who tend to leave luggage. I have used the Left Luggage in Padua, and it was a breeze, no lines, relatively small station, and I remember that in May 2014 the rate was a traditionally low one, something strange like 3.84 euros for several hours. I imagine that may go up at some point. When you drop off bags, make sure you check the schedule, including if they close for a meal break, etc.

Posted by Laura

Rick Steves' Europe

01/21/15 12:03 AM

16895 posts

I have experienced that some offices (Roma Termini) require your bag to be locked, so they can't be accused of stealing from it. I always lock mine, to avoid any opportunistic exploration. This service should be adequately safe for your clothes and souvenirs. I believe that real valuables should either stay with you or not make the trip to Europe.