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 Santo Stefano
Go for a stroll through this interconnected group of religious buildings, admiring the graceful architecture and valuable artwork in each.
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.
Things to do
Bologna Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour
Bologna Small-group Walking Tour including Archiginnasio
Bologna: Luggage Storage close to Stazione Centrale
Ferruccio Lamborghini Entry Ticket in Bologna
Eating Bologna Food & Wine Tour
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
"Good clean hotel close to the train station. Hotel staff was very accommodating providing a charger for are North American device charges"
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Hotel Internazionale
"Nice size room. Close to lots of restaurants"
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
"Great staff, close to train station and historic center. I will stay there again."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
"This was very convenient to all the sites."
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Hotel Metropolitan
"All was excellent. No complaints . Breakfast and service good . Location excellent. Roof top bar very nice. Enjoyed the stay. No issues"
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
"I just want everyone to know, that Nicolo the bartender is one of the best I have ever been honored to be served by. And the hotel was beautiful and very clean."
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Where to stay in Historic Center
Santo Stefano
Travellers come to Santo Stefano for its cosy coffee shops, and you can see top attractions like Basilica of San Domenico and Teatro Duse while you're in town.
Bologna Fiere District
Museums, historical sites and gardens are some highlights of Bologna Fiere District. Make a stop by Caserme Rosse or EuropAuditorium Theater while you're exploring.
Saragozza-Porto
Saragozza-Porto is popular for its lively bars, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca or Stadio Renato Dall'Ara.
Bolognina
While visiting Bolognina, you might make a stop by sights like Ippodromo Arcoveggio and Museum for the Memory of Ustica.
San Donato-San Vitale
San Donato-San Vitale is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by FICO Eataly World and EuropAuditorium Theater while in the area.
Historic Center Travel Guide
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- Visit Badolo
- Visit Bentivoglio
- Visit Bologna Fiere District
- Visit Borgo Panigale
- Visit L'antico Ghetto Ebraico
- Visit San Donato-San Vitale
- Visit Santo Stefano
- Visit Saragozza-Porto
- Visit Scandellara
- Bologna Holidays
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- Visit Borgonuovo
- Visit Calcara
- Visit Calderara di Reno
- Visit Calderino
- Visit Casalecchio di Reno
- Visit Castel Maggiore
- Visit Castenaso
- Visit Centergross
- Church of Saints Bartholomew and Gaetano
- Fountain of Neptune
- Visit Idice di San Lazzaro
- Visit Lavino Di Mezzo
- Visit Lippo
- Visit Longara
- Visit Monte San Pietro
- Visit Pianoro
- Piazza Maggiore
- Province of Bologna Holidays
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- Visit Rastignano
- Visit San Lazzaro di Savena
- Santa Cecilia Oratory
- Visit Sasso Marconi
- Teatro Comunale di Bologna
- Two Towers
- Via Indipendenza
- Via Zamboni
- Visit Volta Casaralta
- Visit Zola Predosa
