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.
Basilica of San Petronio
See one of the largest churches in the world and learn the story behind its magnificent yet unfinished marble façade.
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.
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: Audio-Guided Archiginnasio Visit with Food Tasting
Bologna: Luggage Storage close to Stazione Centrale
Lamborghini and Ferruccio Lamborghini Museums Entry Tickets
Ferruccio Lamborghini Entry Ticket in Bologna
Top hotels in Historic Center
Royal Hotel Carlton
Beautiful, elegant hotel in a great location between Bologna Centrale station (about 10 minutes on foot) and Piazza Maggiore (around 15 minutes). Ideal for exploring the city. Staff were friendly, courteous, and helpful, with easy communication in English. We were pleasantly surprised with an early ...
Reviewed on Jan 25, 2026
Hotel Internazionale
Nice room, good breakfast buffet, room too hot, no way of turning down the heat
Reviewed on Jan 28, 2026
Hotel Palace
El hotel es un wdificio muy antiguo y el lobby esta muy bien, las habitaciones necesitan un poco de mantenimiento, por ejemplo la mia cuando caminabas el piso crujia constantemente, las alfombras esta descoloridas y manchadas, las ventanas se filtraba el aire frio de afuera, los muebles estan muy ...
Reviewed on Jan 30, 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
Great location, clean and comfortable room, excellent value
Reviewed on Feb 1, 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
Very nice new place with very helpful staff
Reviewed on Jan 28, 2026
Art Hotel Commercianti
Beautiful hotel lovely art and great location. Helpful staff
Reviewed on Jan 26, 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 Palazzo Poggi Museum and Bologna Botanical Gardens.
Bolognina
If you're spending some time in Bolognina, Ippodromo Arcoveggio and Teatro Testoni Ragazzi are top sights worth seeing.
San Donato
When in San Donato, you can plan a visit to EuropAuditorium Theater and Bologna Botanical Gardens, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Scandellara
While Scandellara isn't home to many top sights, EuropAuditorium Theater and Bologna Botanical Gardens are some notable places to visit nearby.
