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.
Fountain of Neptune
This intriguing work of art is one of the most well-known symbols of Bologna and an important public gathering place.
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.
Things to do
Bologna: Audio-Guided Archiginnasio Visit with Food Tasting
Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour
Bologna: Luna Farm Amusement Park Family Entry Ticket
Tower and Power, Virtual tour in Medieval Bologna
From Bologna: Roundtrip San Luca Train Ticket & Food Tasting
Bologna Secrets Quest: Self-Guided Hidden Gems Adventure
Top hotels in Historic Center
Starhotels Excelsior
Very comfortable, clean, modern hotel. Also very quiet in the night. Also, the staff are very nice. Easy to walk into the hotel, simply across the train station and then it’s enjoyable to walk and explore downtown. .
Reviewed on 10 Dec 2025
Hotel Internazionale
Clean room. Great location.
Reviewed on 10 Dec 2025
Royal Hotel Carlton
Excellent staff in the bar, attentive but not overly so. Excellent cocktails
Reviewed on 16 Dec 2025
Hotel Palace
Front-Desk staff helpful and friendly. Breakfast good, plenty, service good. Location is city center, easy to get around…
Reviewed on 16 Dec 2025
Art Hotel Orologio
This is an absolutely amazing hotel, and we will absolutely be returning here (for a longer stay!) next time we are in Bologna. Pick this hotel and you will have a wonderful visit!!!
Reviewed on 6 Dec 2025
Millennhotel
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Reviewed on 3 Dec 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 University Library of Bologna 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 looking for some top things to see and do in San Donato and surrounding area, you can visit EuropAuditorium Theater and University Library of Bologna.
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.
