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.
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
It’s a very traditional hotel and very well maintained. Bed and common areas were very comfortable. The breakfast was very good especially for 11€
Reviewed on 30 Mar 2026
Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
The room is a dormitory room. The bed had no box spring, just a thin mattress on a platform. The bidet is in the shower. The walls and ceiling are covered with burlap. The staff was rude and unhelpful. You can hear the movie theatre next door in your room. We left early even thought the room was ...
Reviewed on 31 Mar 2026
Hotel Internazionale
easy walk from train, on busy street, but quiet. staff very helpful.bed was ok, bathroom well organized. housekeeping did a great job!
Reviewed on 2 Apr 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
Clean room. Staff helpful. Good location
Reviewed on 24 Mar 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
It was quick - just a stopover before traveling on. It is very close to the train station, so it suited my purposes.
Reviewed on 27 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.
