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.
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 Modena with Lamborghini and Ferrari Museums entry tickets
Lamborghini and Ferruccio Lamborghini Museums Entry Tickets
Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Audio Tour
From Bologna or Ravenna Guided tour of the Mosaics in Ravenna
Bologna: Luggage Storage close to Stazione Centrale
Audio guides to discover Bologna: food, culture, art and history
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
Very helpful staff and wonderful atmosphere
Reviewed on 10 Mar 2026
Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
Great central location but very outdated, needs a lot of TLC to get it up to modern hotel standards. It was a cheap price and convenient so can’t be too fussy
Reviewed on 10 Mar 2026
Hotel Internazionale
Good quality hotel with helpful staff. Excellent breakfast
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
Hotel is in awful condition and needs major renovation. Would not recommend staying here.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
Room was perfect, with the right accomodations. Beds were especially comfortable.
Reviewed on 12 Mar 2026
Hotel Metropolitan
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 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.
