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 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.
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.
Things to do
Bologna Small-group Walking Tour including Archiginnasio
Bologna: Audio-Guided Archiginnasio Visit with Food Tasting
Eating Bologna Food & Wine Tour
Bologna Grand Tour Italy: Pasta Makers for a Day
Tower and Power, Virtual tour in Medieval Bologna
Bologna Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
"Excellent hotel in a great location, 8 mins walk from the rail station and only 10 mins to the fabulous old town. The hotel is in a traditional style in very good condition and spotlessly clean. The room was quiet, spacious and had great air conditioning- a must in the June 35*C heat of Bologna! ..."
Reviewed on 18 Jun 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
"Otelin konumu harika. Şehrin ama alışveriş caddesi via dell'indipndenza'ya 50-100m mesafede. Bologna'yı üs olarak kullanıp Verona, Padova, Ravenna, Modena, Sirmione'ye trenle günübirlik gitmek isteyenler için de harika bir konumu var. Otelin kapısından çıktığınızda tren istasyonu tam karşıda. Yaya ..."
Reviewed on 15 Jun 2026
Hotel Internazionale
"This is the 2nd time we have stayed at Hotel Internazionale. The staff are friendly and the rooms are comfortable, very clean and quiet."
Reviewed on 16 Jun 2026
Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
"Hotel staff was great; breakfast was good but the listing did show the room had a/c. Unfortunately just a little fan and when we stayed it was 35°. A very hot room but besides that a great place and location."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Hotel Metropolitan
"The room was beautiful! The breakfast was delicious, fresh and lots of options. The staff was very friendly and helpful with routing around the area. I would stay here again."
Reviewed on 18 Jun 2026
NH Bologna de la Gare
"Great location and friendly staff."
Reviewed on 15 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Historic Center
Santo Stefano
Travellers come to Santo Stefano for its cosy coffee shops, and you can see top attractions like Basilica of San Domenico and Galleria Cavour Shopping Center while you're in town.
Bologna Fiere District
Museums, historical sites and gardens are some highlights of Bologna Fiere District. Make a stop by Parco Nord Arena or Caserme Rosse while you're exploring.
Saragozza-Porto
Saragozza-Porto is popular for its lively bars, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca or Stadio Renato Dall'Ara.
Bolognina
While visiting Bolognina, you might make a stop by sights like Museum for the Memory of Ustica and Ippodromo Arcoveggio.
San Donato-San Vitale
San Donato-San Vitale is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Centro Agroalimentare di Bologna and FICO Eataly World while in the area.
