Davis Cup 2025 in Bologna: when and where it takes place and how to plan your visit

From November 18 to 23, 2025, Bologna will host the Final 8 of the Davis Cup at the Super Tennis Arena – BolognaFiere. This is a historic event, bringing the final stages of the tournament back to Italy after more than 25 years.
In this article, we’ll explore what the Davis Cup is, how it works, how the event will be organized in Bologna, and finally, practical tips and tourist suggestions for those attending. Let’s get started!

What the Davis Cup is: a bit of history

The Davis Cup is the most prestigious international team tournament in men’s tennis. It was born in 1900 from an idea by Dwight Davis, a Harvard student who wanted to organize a challenge between the United States and Great Britain, offering a silver trophy he had commissioned himself. What started as a competition between just two countries gradually became a global event, now known as the true “World Cup of Tennis.”

The format is unique: unlike individual tournaments, it is national teams that compete, playing two singles matches and one doubles match. This makes the Davis Cup a collective competition, uniting players and spectators in a team atmosphere.

In recent years, some of the world’s tennis powerhouses have dominated the tournament. Spain, led by champions such as Rafael Nadal and now Carlos Alcaraz, has won numerous titles; Russia has also triumphed several times, most recently in 2021; Croatia has frequently reached the finals; Serbia, guided by the unstoppable Novak Djokovic, left its mark in 2010. And of course, Italy, after its historic victory in 1976, has enjoyed a new golden era with wins in 2023 and 2024, arriving in Bologna as the defending champion.

For those wondering, there is also a women’s equivalent: since 1963, national teams have competed in the Billie Jean King Cup, known until 2020 as the Fed Cup. Italy has been a prominent contender in this competition as well, winning four titles between 2006 and 2013.

The Davis Cup in Bologna: Dates and Venues



From November 18 to 23, 2025, Bologna will take center stage with the Final 8, featuring the quarterfinals, semifinals, and final on indoor hard courts. Hosting the concluding phase of the tournament is a prestigious opportunity, bringing the world’s best tennis players to the city and returning this major event to Italy after more than twenty-five years.

Bologna is not new to Davis Cup events: from 2022 to 2024, it hosted one of the group stage rounds, welcoming national teams such as Italy, Croatia, Argentina, Sweden, Chile, and Canada. The city responded enthusiastically, attracting large crowds and earning the trust of the international federation, which has chosen Bologna again for the Final 8.

The heart of the competition will be the Super Tennis Arena – BolognaFiere, a modern and versatile venue that has proven its ability to host international sports events efficiently. Fans have already witnessed thrilling matches here and are now ready for the most important chapter: the race for the world title.

Practical Tips for Visitors to Bologna

Getting There

Reaching Bologna is easy: the city is served by the modern Guglielmo Marconi International Airport, connected to major European and Italian cities, and the high-speed train station, which puts Milan and Florence less than an hour away and Rome just over an hour. There is also a well-developed highway network for those traveling by car. If you arrive by car and are staying in the historic center, be aware that access is controlled by a restricted traffic zone (ZTL). A permit is required, either purchased online or provided by your hotel. If your accommodation does not have a parking space or garage, finding street parking can be difficult and expensive. A practical alternative is the Tanari Parking, located just outside the city walls; parking here is free if you then take a bus into the center.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options are varied and abundant. Those who want to immerse themselves in the city’s atmosphere can choose hotels or apartments in the historic center, while visitors preferring to stay closer to the arena will find convenient options nearby. Given the international appeal of the event, booking well in advance is highly recommended.

Getting Around

Getting around Bologna is easy, especially in the historic center, which is perfect for exploring on foot among porticoes and medieval squares. The Super Tennis Arena – BolognaFiere, where the matches will take place, is not in the city center but just a few kilometers away. Visitors can use public transport and event shuttles, or rely on NCC (private chauffeur services) for convenience and flexibility. Ask us for a quote!

Luggage Storage

Bologna has many luggage storage facilities, ideal for enjoying the city without worrying about your bags between arrival, check-in, or departure. There is also a convenient service, which transfers luggage from one point to another within the city, for example from your hotel to the train station, allowing you to travel light and stress-free. You can find all services and storage points at MovetheBag.com.

Tickets

Tickets for the matches are available through the official Davis Cup channels and authorized platforms such as TicketOne. Booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid missing the most anticipated days.

What to See in Bologna During the Davis Cup

Visitors coming for tennis should not miss the chance to explore the city. Considered one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe, Bologna is beloved for its endless porticoes – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – lively squares, and towers that define the skyline. It’s a city that blends history, culture, and gastronomy, with an authentic atmosphere that captivates everyone.

To start exploring, a small-group walking tour is ideal. With a certified guide, you can discover the main attractions – from the porticoes to Piazza Maggiore and the medieval towers – in a relaxed, personalized way, away from large crowds and with the chance to ask questions.

Families traveling with children can enjoy a tailored experience like the Bologna for Families tour, an interactive itinerary with a private guide entertaining both adults and kids. Young visitors receive a city map with puzzles and coloring activities, a souvenir gadget, and a final treat of ice cream for everyone.

For culture enthusiasts, two must-see attractions are the  Archiginnasio and the San Luca Sanctuary. The Archiginnasio, the ancient seat of the oldest university in the world, houses the famous Anatomical Theatre, a 17th-century wooden hall where anatomy lessons were once held. Walking through its halls and among the coat-of-arms decorating the walls immerses visitors in centuries of academic history. The San Luca Sanctuary, perched on the Guardia hill and connected to the city by a nearly 4 km portico, is one of the most beloved sites in Bologna, offering spectacular views over the city and surrounding plains.

Those interested in local traditions can participate in the Tortellino Experience, a guided journey through the history and curiosities of this iconic dish. The experience includes tastings, explanations from a certified guide, and a hands-on workshop where visitors can create a leather souvenir shaped like a tortellino.

Bologna is not only about culture and architecture but also a gastronomic capital. A visit here is incomplete without culinary experiences. Visitors can join home restaurant dinners to enjoy authentic Bolognese hospitality, take part in sfoglina cooking class  to learn the art of hand-rolled pasta, or indulge in guided wine tastings paired with local specialties. Curious travelers can also join private food tours or small-group food tours, perfect for sampling tortellini, tagliatelle, cured meats, and cheeses at markets and historic shops. And for a sweet ending, a gelato tour showcases the artisanal flavors that have made Bologna famous.

Davis Cup in Bologna: a chance to discover sport, culture and cuisine

The Davis Cup 2025 in Bologna is more than tennis: it’s an opportunity to experience a major sporting event while discovering a city that enchants with history, culture, and food. It’s a perfect combination for those who love sports as well as unforgettable travel experiences. For information, travel advice, and to plan your Bologna experience, contact us – we’ll be happy to help you create a tailor-made visit.