Historic Center
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.
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.
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: Luggage Storage close to Stazione Centrale
Tuscan-Emilian Apennines pasta class with local specialties
Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Audio Tour
Tower and Power, Virtual tour in Medieval Bologna
Bologna: Tagliatelle & Ragù Home Cooking Class with wine
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
The staff was excellent, the stay was very enjoyable, it was a perfect location-very close to the shopping and the historical centre but it also had underground parking. This is a rare find. We found the king bed much too hard for our comfort but it was otherwise a perfect stay.
Reviewed on 21 Feb, 2026
Hotel Internazionale
The room was very clean. The staff was competent and polite. The hallways are wide. The outside building walls have a dirty look and the hotel is quite dated on the inside-worn carpeting, dated decor. There are certain amenities I appreciate that were not available to me: no iron and iron board…I ...
Reviewed on 21 Feb, 2026
Hotel Palace
The heater and the TV did not work in my room, I requested help, but I was told to try again and if this time, still did not work, then they would change my room.
Reviewed on 22 Feb, 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
Starhotels Excelsior is on par with a good Hilton or Marriott. Excellent location directly across the street from Bologna Centrale, which makes arrivals and departures effortless. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout the stay. The room was very clean with a comfortable bed and good linens. ...
Reviewed on 10 Feb, 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
Very central, good breakfast
Reviewed on 10 Feb, 2026
Almarossa
Great location, close to train station and convenient for old town. Room was clean and comfortable.
Reviewed on 11 Feb, 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 Bologna Botanical Gardens and Teatro Comunale di Bologna.
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 Bologna Botanical Gardens.
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.
