We spent an enjoyable week at Mario's apartment. It is very well located and handy to all the main sights. Lots of nice restaurants nearby as well as shopping. Make sure to see the old canal that runs behind the building. Bologna is quiet in August when the university students are out of town, which we appreciated. I'm guessing the neighborhood gets a bit noisier when they are back.
We were able to walk to the train station for day trips to Florence and Venice, although be careful to note which train station your train will be leaving from. The smaller station is a bit of a hike.
Beds were comfortable and the apartment was very clean. We appreciated the washing machine and clothing dried very quickly in the hot weather. Just be ready for hot weather in August! Mario provides fans, but with the temperature close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, it was warm in the apartment. There was a good breeze and I'm sure the fall and spring are very lovely.