Emilia-Romagna · Bologna · Italy
San Lazzaro di Savena
Emilia-Romagna town offering suburban peace, quality healthcare, historical sites, and outdoor pursuits.
At a glance
About San Lazzaro di Savena
San Lazzaro di Savena, a delightful town in Emilia-Romagna, combines suburban serenity with easy access to the cultural center of Bologna, which is just a short drive away. Home to around 32,800 residents, this town is well-suited for expats and retirees, offering a robust healthcare system and excellent air quality, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize their health. Points of interest include historical landmarks like the Benedictine Monastery and scenic nature reserves that promote outdoor activities.
Although the town has a decent walkability score, some regions may necessitate car use for commuting and accessing broader amenities. The nearest beach, though a bit of a drive, boasts great water quality for sun and sea enthusiasts. The rich culinary traditions and festive culture of San Lazzaro di Savena further enhance its appeal, providing a fulfilling lifestyle for international residents without the chaos of larger cities.
✓ Pros for expats
– High-quality healthcare services available to residents.
– Excellent air quality promotes a healthier lifestyle.
– Low unemployment rate ensures economic stability.
– Good transportation links to Bologna and surrounding areas.
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore.
– Opportunities for community integration and local involvement.
– Pleasant Mediterranean climate with mild winters.
– Adequate educational facilities for all ages.
– Improving internet connectivity for remote work possibilities.
– Close proximity to Bologna’s vibrant urban life.
! Things to consider
– Limited nightlife options for evening socializing.
– Smaller town means fewer cultural events compared to Bologna.
– Infrastructure may struggle to keep up with population growth.
– Some language barriers if not fluent in Italian.
– Cost of living can be higher than in neighboring towns.
– Tourist influx may result in crowded attractions.
– Fewer shopping choices compared to larger nearby cities.
– Mild winters may still feel chilly for some residents.
– Internet connectivity is still developing, not entirely seamless yet.
– Local cuisine may not cater to every taste preference.
Where is San Lazzaro di Savena
Getting there
San Lazzaro di Savena is conveniently connected, located near major routes such as the Via Emilia and the A14 motorway, which provide access to Bologna and other areas. Guglielmo Marconi Airport is the nearest air travel option, along with local train services that connect reasonably to the regional rail network.
Housing & cost of living
Estimated cost of an 80 m² home: €288,000
Housing availability: Medium
Cost of living
San Lazzaro di Savena presents a mixed picture of affordability for expats and investors. Although the town features low unemployment and a strong median income, housing costs can be high. Prospective residents should anticipate above-average living expenses, particularly in rental markets where even basic apartments may demand premium rates. Despite these costs, the local economy’s stability and low unemployment rates indicate a robust market, making it an appealing option for those seeking a blend of lifestyle and opportunity. In general, affordability is moderate, necessitating careful financial planning for housing and everyday costs.
Climate & weather
Somewhat High (61st-70th percentile)
Above Average (51st-60th percentile)
Low (11th-20th percentile)
High (71st-80th percentile)
In San Lazzaro di Savena, Italy, expats and retirees can enjoy a climate that balances distinct seasonal changes with pleasant temperatures. Summers are moderately warm, allowing for ample sunshine, which supports various outdoor activities and lively local life. Winters bring a brief snowy period that adds to the town’s charm while not significantly disrupting everyday life. Rainfall is steady yet moderate throughout the year, ensuring the greenery of the local flora without the hassle of prolonged wet spells. Overall, San Lazzaro di Savena presents a climate that supports year-round living and cultural discovery for those captivated by Italy’s allure.
Air quality & environment
Air quality rating: ★★★★★
In San Lazzaro di Savena, the air quality generally meets reassuring standards. The town frequently enjoys clear skies, as indicated by its "Good" classifications in both particulate matter (PM10) and nitrogen dioxide levels, which signal minimal atmospheric pollutants. However, a moderate presence of PM2.5 and ozone levels has been observed, categorized as "Fair." These measurements suggest a slight variation in air purity, especially during warmer months when ozone levels tend to peak. Nonetheless, the overall ambient air quality promotes a comfortable lifestyle for both locals and relocating expats seeking a peaceful environment away from urban excess.
Healthcare & safety
Road accidents: 43.0 per 10k inhabitants.
AUSL Bologna encompasses Bologna city and its metropolitan area , excluding Imola, the surrounding Bolognese hills and plains. It holds a composite score of 61/100, placing it in the top decile nationally. Emergency response services are exceptional (73), with particularly strong heart-attack survival rates. It is a solid urban catchment that genuinely earns its reputation, although the major university hospital (Sant’Orsola) is categorized as an AOU and is not included in AULSS data.
Internet & connectivity
Transport & proximity
✈️ Airports
| Airport | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Guglielmo Marconi (Bologna) | 16 min | 7 |
| Reggio Emilia Airport (Reggio nell'Emilia) | 43 min | 1 |
| Federico Fellini (Rimini) | 54 min | 4 |
🚂 Rail stations
| Station | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| San Lazzaro di Savena | 7 min | 8 |
| Ca' dell'Orbo | 10 min | 8 |
| Bologna Roveri | 11 min | 8 |
What's nearby
Life in San Lazzaro di Savena
Neighbourhoods
– **Centro Storico**: The historic center features traditional architecture and serves as the cultural and administrative heart of San Lazzaro di Savena.
– **Borgatella**: Mainly residential with easy access to public amenities.
– **Cicogna**: Known for its blend of residential and artisanal areas, providing light industrial facilities.
– **Castel de’ Britti**: Located on the outskirts, this area showcases larger properties and rural landscapes.
– **Idice**: This zone is earmarked for future development, combining rural and modern living elements.
– **Ponticella**: Adjacent to natural park areas offering scenic vistas and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Local cuisine
San Lazzaro di Savena, located in Emilia-Romagna, showcases a vibrant culinary scene that highlights traditional Italian and Emilian dishes. The region is renowned for its high-quality handmade pasta, including tortellini and tagliatelle, as well as cured meats like Prosciutto di Parma and Mortadella di Bologna. Dining choices are diverse, ranging from local restaurants serving classic dishes to those offering international options. While there are no Michelin-starred restaurants within San Lazzaro di Savena, the culinary landscape reflects the broader gastronomic traditions of Emilia-Romagna, emphasizing artisanal quality and regional flavors.
Where to shop
The shopping scene offers a blend of shopping malls, department stores, art galleries, and specialty shops. Notable locations include an outlet center providing a variety of discount fashion options. Additionally, there are numerous individual stores that cater to specific interests such as art, gifts, and home decor. The area accommodates both daily grocery needs and niche retail, catering well to the varied shopping preferences of residents and visitors.
Green areas & parks
San Lazzaro di Savena offers a variety of outdoor activities that are perfect for expats and retirees. The area includes the Parco dei Gessi Bolognesi, celebrated for its karst landscapes and numerous hiking trails. Notable routes include the Grotta della Spipola – Buca delle candele loop, which provides a 4.11 km hiking experience, and the Trail along the Idice at 8.58 km. The Sentieri Dei Gessi Della Croara trails also offer considerable outdoor exploration options. These trails provide intermediate-level hiking experiences set in beautiful surroundings, enhancing San Lazzaro’s attractiveness as a lifestyle destination.
Education
People & tourism
Annual tourists (2023): 73,260