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.
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.
Basilica Santo Stefano
Go for a stroll through this interconnected group of religious buildings, admiring the graceful architecture and valuable artwork in each.
Top hotels in Historic Center
Starhotels Excelsior
Very clean great hotel Excellent location
Reviewed on 1 Dec 2025
Royal Hotel Carlton
I had a very nice room, close to the railway station but it was easy to walk into the centre. Breakfast here is excellent.
Reviewed on 28 Nov 2025
Hotel Internazionale
Centrally located- great breakfast. It is even near a laundromat called Lava Lava. The
Reviewed on 4 Dec 2025
Hotel Palace
Room was good, spacious and clean.
Reviewed on 10 Nov 2025
Art Hotel Orologio
The room was really gorgeous and felt special—not some cookie-cutter place—and the location smack-dab in the center of Maggiore square couldn’t be beat! Also, their morning breakfast was outstanding. I highly recommend this hotel!
Reviewed on 22 Nov 2025
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
The staff are really lovely and it's located just across the road from the train station and within an easy walk of Bologna's historical centre.
Reviewed on 5 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 Teatro Comunale di Bologna and Via Zamboni.
Bolognina
While visiting Bolognina, you might make a stop by sights like Teatro Testoni Ragazzi and Ippodromo Arcoveggio.
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 Teatro Testoni Ragazzi.
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.
