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 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 spend time at Via Indipendenza. Check out 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.
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: Open Bus City Tour and Local Food Tasting
Bologna: Audio-Guided Archiginnasio Visit with Food Tasting
Bologna Small-group Walking Tour including Archiginnasio
Ferruccio Lamborghini Entry Ticket in Bologna
Lamborghini and Ferruccio Lamborghini Museums Entry Tickets
Eating Bologna Food & Wine Tour
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
"The staff was very helpful."
Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
"Otelin konumu harika. Şehrin ama alışveriş caddesi via dell'indipndenza'ya 50-100m mesafede. Bologna'yı üs olarak kullanıp Verona, Padova, Ravenna, Modena, Sirmione'ye trenle günübirlik gitmek isteyenler için de harika bir konumu var. Otelin kapısından çıktığınızda tren istasyonu tam karşıda. Yaya ..."
Reviewed on Jun 15, 2026
Hotel Internazionale
"Was comfortable"
Reviewed on Jun 21, 2026
Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
"Amazing location and friendly staff. The breakfast options were good!"
Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Hotel Metropolitan
"This hotel is in a great location on a side street minutes from all major sites. The roof top bar is perfect and the service is fantastic. Golio was great. Room was small, but modern and equipped with everything."
Reviewed on Jun 21, 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
"Modern mid-range hotel in a good location for exploring the city or catching the train to other sights. It was perfect for us. Being picky, some minor maintenance is required to fix wear and tear and it seemed strange that, not just the restaurant, but also the bar was completely closed on a ..."
Reviewed on Jun 21, 2026
Where to stay in Historic Center
Santo Stefano
Santo Stefano is known for its charming coffeehouses, and you can make a stop by Basilica of San Domenico and Galleria Cavour Shopping Center while in the area.
Saragozza-Porto
Saragozza-Porto is known for its great bars, and you can make a stop by Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca and Stadio Renato Dall'Ara while in the area.
Bologna Fiere District
Museums, historic sites, and gardens are just a few things travelers enjoy about Bologna Fiere District. Check out Parco Nord Arena or Caserme Rosse while you're exploring the area.
Bolognina
If you're spending some time in Bolognina, Museum for the Memory of Ustica and Ippodromo Arcoveggio are top sights worth seeing.
San Donato-San Vitale
San Donato-San Vitale is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Centro Agroalimentare di Bologna or FICO Eataly World.
