Historic Center Travel Guide
Bologna
Visit Historic Center
Popular places to visit
Piazza Maggiore
Not only has this been the epicenter of Bologna since the 13th century, but it is also one of the largest and oldest squares in all of Italy.
Two Towers
A magnificent view over the medieval rooftops of Bologna’s city center is just reward for the arduous climb to the top of one of these ancient towers.
Basilica of San Petronio
See one of the largest churches in the world and learn the story behind its magnificent yet unfinished marble façade.
Basilica Santo Stefano
Go for a stroll through this interconnected group of religious buildings, admiring the graceful architecture and valuable artwork in each.
Via Indipendenza
Find out about the history of Bologna when you take a trip to Via Indipendenza. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Fountain of Neptune
This intriguing work of art is one of the most well-known symbols of Bologna and an important public gathering place.
Things to do
Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Audio Tour
Bologna: Audio-Guided Archiginnasio Visit with Food Tasting
Tower and Power, Virtual tour in Medieval Bologna
Bologna: Luggage Storage close to Stazione Centrale
Lamborghini and Ferruccio Lamborghini Museums Entry Tickets
Bologna Secrets Quest: Self-Guided Hidden Gems Adventure
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
Room was very clean, serviced daily. Bathroom was clean and spacious. We had a problem with the TV not working after we checked in. Mentioned it to the receptionist on our way out for a stroll, when we came back it was all fixed! Breakfast buffet was very nice, plenty of choice. My husband who is ...
Reviewed on 23 Mar 2026
Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
Great central location but very outdated, needs a lot of TLC to get it up to modern hotel standards. It was a cheap price and convenient so can’t be too fussy
Reviewed on 10 Mar 2026
Hotel Internazionale
Wonderful staff, great location, attractive architecture inside and out, delicious breakfast buffet.
Reviewed on 20 Mar 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
Great renovated and clean room. easy check-in with friendly staff. super convenient location-- right across the street from the train station and walking distance to all of the main attractions.
Reviewed on 22 Mar 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
Politeness of staff and a quick check e
Reviewed on 23 Mar 2026
Hotel Metropolitan
Other neighbourhoods around Historic Center
L'antico Ghetto Ebraico
You'll enjoy the museums and shopping in L'antico Ghetto Ebraico. You might want to make time for a stop at Via Zamboni or Jewish Museum.
Quadrilatero
If you're spending some time in Quadrilatero, Galleria Cavour Shopping Center and Archaeological Museum are top sights worth seeing.
Cirenaica
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Cirenaica and surrounding area, you can visit Bologna Botanical Gardens and Teatro Comunale di Bologna.
Bolognina
While visiting Bolognina, you might make a stop by sights like Ippodromo Arcoveggio and Museum for the Memory of Ustica.
San Donato
If you're spending some time in San Donato, EuropAuditorium Theater and Virtus Arena are top sights worth seeing.
Scandellara
While there might not be top attractions in Scandellara, you can explore the larger area and discover places like EuropAuditorium Theater and Bologna Botanical Gardens.
