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.
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.
Basilica Santo Stefano
Go for a stroll through this interconnected group of religious buildings, admiring the graceful architecture and valuable artwork in each.
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: Audio-Guided Archiginnasio Visit with Food Tasting
Bologna Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour
Lamborghini and Ferruccio Lamborghini Museums Entry Tickets
Bologna Grand Tour Italy: sfoglini for a day
Bologna Secrets Quest: Self-Guided Hidden Gems Adventure
Bologna: Luggage Storage close to Stazione Centrale
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
Staple breakfast, but lots of options for breads, yogurts, fruits...which were all appreciated. Room was nice and property was good.
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Hotel Internazionale
We loved our stay at the Hotel Internazionale! The staff were friendly (and so patient with my English!), always happy to help, and seemed aware that being new to a city can be confusing. They have a lovely mezzanine where our coffee arrived with a sweat treat, and the old building is a historic ...
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
À côté de la gare
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
This property was very dated and run down! Spend a little more and stay somewhere else!
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Hotel Metropolitan
The rooms were very clean and very comfortable. The staff was so helpful and breakfast delicious.
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
The location was convenient, right across from the train station. The staff were very helpful. And the breakfast buffet had a lot of items. There were fresh pastries and fruit that was ripe. And a large assortment of hot and cold dishes. The rooms were clean, but very basic. Kind of reminded me of ...
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
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 University Library of Bologna and Bologna Botanical Gardens.
Bolognina
While visiting Bolognina, you might make a stop by sights like Museum for the Memory of Ustica and Ippodromo Arcoveggio.
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 University Library of Bologna and EuropAuditorium Theater.
