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
"Great location and excellent value"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Hotel Internazionale
"The hotel is well situated near train station, bus terminal and Neptune Statue. The only problem we had was electrical. The fuse was blown when using an electric razor and the hairdryer would only work on a low speed or overheat and promptly shut off. When the electric shaver was started, all suite ..."
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
"À côté de la gare"
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
"Hotel is “tired”. Needs some fixing up. We couldn’t open our shades to see out the window. Very old rug and “dingy” feel. Scores high for good comfortable bed, good shower pressure and hot water and location."
Reviewed on 16 May 2026
Hotel Metropolitan
"The room and hotel were clean. Roof top bar was nice. The images of the rooms make the room appear larger than they are. With 2 people, 2 suitcases and 2 back packs there was minimal room to get around the bed or into bathroom. The bathroom is in a glassdoored room so if you’re not comfortable on ..."
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
"The bed was comfortable, and the shower and towels were good. The hotel was surprisingly quiet given its location. The faucets in the bathroom are worn and need to be replaced, imho."
Reviewed on 16 May 2026
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 Bologna Botanical Gardens.
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 University Library of Bologna and EuropAuditorium Theater.
