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.
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.
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.
Things to do
Bologna Tortellini Cooking Class with Local Chef & Wine
Bologna: Luggage Storage close to Stazione Centrale
Ferruccio Lamborghini Entry Ticket in Bologna
Traditional bolognese pasta making with a meal
Tower and Power, Virtual tour in Medieval Bologna
Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Audio Tour
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
Nice hotel, lovely breakfast, however it was 26Deg upon arrival and the bedroom was boiling. Went to turn in the AC to discover it was activated, contacted reception who advised they don’t turn it on until May!!! Lost a nights sleep due to it being a complete sweat box. Overall a very nice hotel ...
Reviewed on 9 Apr, 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
AC not cold enough.
Reviewed on 9 Apr, 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
Clean room. Staff helpful. Good location
Reviewed on 24 Mar, 2026
Hotel Metropolitan
Great location. Room was clean and staff were friendly and helpful. We are definitely staying here again.
Reviewed on 5 Apr, 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
Kind staff and great location! Clean rooms but some were missing hand soap. Overall a great experience. Breakfast was decent!
Reviewed on 6 Apr, 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 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.
