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.
Fountain of Neptune
This intriguing work of art is one of the most well-known symbols of Bologna and an important public gathering place.
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.
Things to do
Bologna: Audio-Guided Archiginnasio Visit with Food Tasting
Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour
Ferruccio Lamborghini Entry Ticket in Bologna
Tower and Power, Virtual tour in Medieval Bologna
Bologna: Luna Farm Amusement Park Family Entry Ticket
From Bologna: Roundtrip San Luca Train Ticket & Food Tasting
Top hotels in Historic Center
Starhotels Excelsior
Beatiful hotel great location very clean and very pleasant staff
Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025
Hotel Palace
It was raining so desk got us a cab to Bologna Central. Breakfast had a better variety than Millenhotel
Reviewed on 30 Oct 2025
Royal Hotel Carlton
The room was beautiful, clean, well appointed. The staff was wonderful, helpful and friendly. The spa was really lovely. Parking was easy and the location was great.
Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025
Hotel Internazionale
Nice hotel in prime location
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
Room was cleaned everyday and staff was friendly
Reviewed on 1 Nov 2025
NH Bologna de la Gare
The hotel is very close to the main train station. It was perfect for coming into and leaving Bologna and our day trip too Modena. We stayed from Friday to Monday and just downstairs outside of the doors, there were a ton of food booths and live music that played at night. When I booked the hotel ...
Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025
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 Teatro Comunale di Bologna and Via Zamboni.
Bolognina
While visiting Bolognina, you might make a stop by sights like Ippodromo Arcoveggio and Teatro Testoni Ragazzi.
San Donato
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in San Donato and surrounding area, you can visit EuropAuditorium Theater and Luigi Cattaneo Anatomical Wax Museum.
Scandellara
While there might not be top attractions in Scandellara, you can explore the larger area and discover places like EuropAuditorium Theater and Teatro Comunale di Bologna.
