The events ecosystem in Bologna: between excellence certifications and recognitions

International standards, a strong focus on sustainability and safety and prestigious recognitions: the local suppliers working on the Bologna area represent a qualified ecosystem, able to guarantee reliability and certified expertise to those who choose the city to host their events.

Quality and sustainability certifications

Starting with the exhibition district, one of the most important in Europe: BolognaFiere obtained UNI EN ISO 14001 certification in 2019 for its Environmental Management System, with the aim of continuously improving environmental and safety performance. The Group was also the first exhibition centre in Italy to achieve UNI ISO 45001 certification for its occupational health and safety management system.

The same approach can be found in the hospitality sector. Palazzo di Varignana and Best Western Plus Tower Hotel Bologna have obtained the Green Key certification, an international recognition that attests to responsible and measurable environmental management.

The commitment to increasingly sustainable events also involves PCOs and service providers. In recent years, Planning Congressi and La Tavola della Signoria have achieved ISO 20121 certification, the international standard for sustainable event management.

MEC & Partners also stands out, having obtained ISO 9001 certification in 2025 for integrated communication and event organisation projects, ensuring efficiency, consistency and continuous improvement of business processes.

Recognised excellence: awards and accolades

Alongside certifications, many operators within the network have received awards confirming their excellence at international level.

The five-star Grand Hotel Majestic was listed among the 2025 Card Member Favorite Hotels by American Express Travel and ranked in the Top 10 in Italy in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler, confirming its position among the country’s most appreciated properties.

Excellent results were also achieved by Savhotel Aemilia, recipient of the Traveller Review Award on Booking.com, with a score of 8.9, reflecting high levels of guest satisfaction.

In the wedding segment, Palazzo di Varignana received recognition at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2024 in the category “Best for Weddings, Parties and Celebrations”.

Excellence is also expressed through gastronomy: I Portici Hotel is home to Ristorante I Portici, awarded one star by the Guida Michelin. Among service providers, Cesarine was recognised at the European Travel Awards in the Food Experiences category, highlighting the quality and authenticity of its offerings.

A certified and recognised network represents tangible value for those choosing Bologna as a congress destination: verified standards, commitment to sustainability, operational safety and a solid international reputation. It is precisely this widespread strength that makes Bologna a strategic choice for sustainable and successful events.