Obviously even Bologna itself, only 20 km away, has department stores and commercial complexes. Those looking for something more characteristic can try in the historic center of Bologna: the shops in via Indipendenza, via Ugo Bassi, via D'Azeglio and via Clavature are among the best known in the Emilian capital, while in the Galleria Cavour there are the boutiques of the great world fashion brands: from Armani to Fendi, from Bulgari to Louis Vuitton. Those who prefer to go around stalls should go to Bologna on Friday and Saturday from 6:30 to 20:00 throughout the year at the Mercato della Piazzola (Piazza VIII Agosto), and during the Christmas period also in Strada Maggiore with the Market of Santa Lucia in via Altabella with the traditional Christmas market.
In Bologna city, every evening, events of all kinds take place in the clubs and streets of the center: in summer, festivals and outdoor concerts (the Botanique or the bé bolognæstate, for example), while during the other seasons bars, bookshops and clubs of all kinds organize evenings for all tastes.