Where to Stay in Bologna (2023 Guide): 16 Best Accommodations & Areas
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Are you wondering where to stay in Bologna? I’ve got you covered!
In this guide, I will tell you all you need to know about the best area to stay in Bologna, as well as the top 16 accommodation options.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel in the heart of the old town or a cozy apartment in a quieter neighborhood, there are plenty to choose from.
Bologna is a beautiful city located in Northern Italy. It’s famous for its stunning medieval architecture, vibrant culture, and world-renowned cuisine.
The city’s historic center is filled with magnificent buildings and towers, narrow streets, and beautiful squares.
The city’s culinary scene is also great, and partygoers will be delighted by the nightlife here.
With its rich history, lively atmosphere, and delicious food, Bologna is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy.
But to enjoy these things to the fullest, you will definitely need the perfect place to stay as well.
So, let’s find you one without further ado!
The Best Luxury Hotels in Bologna
1. Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni
Located in the heart of Bologna, Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni is an ideal choice for a central stay.
It offers easy access to popular attractions and restaurants, including Palazzo Fava, Piazza Maggiore, and the Two Towers.
The spacious rooms feature classic decor and modern amenities such as private bathrooms, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs.
The hotel has three dining options, including the I Carracci restaurant for regional cuisine and Enoteca Morandi for a selection of Italian and foreign wines.
Other amenities include a fitness center, bar, and spa.
With its luxurious atmosphere and central location, the Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni is a great option for exploring Bologna.
One of the best hotels I have stayed in. From the beauty of the hotel and some of the best staff I have ever witnessed. Will definitely be back.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ David, Feb 28, 2023
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
2. Royal Hotel Carlton
Royal Hotel Carlton is a luxury hotel conveniently located close to the station.
It offers 236 elegant rooms and suites, all equipped with flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, minibars, and internet access.
The onsite spa provides wellness treatments, saunas, and Turkish baths.
Guest rooms feature marble bathrooms with hairdryers, and some have balconies and hydromassage baths.
The hotel’s restaurant serves both regional and international cuisine, while the extensive buffet breakfast includes Italian pastries and cakes, cold meats, cheese, and fruit.
Additional amenities of the hotel include a 24-hour front desk, fitness center, private parking, and a free shuttle service to the Fiera di Bologna Exhibition Centre for any big events taking place there.
The was a classy hotel with all the amenities in a very convenient location.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Guy, Oct 17, 2022
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
3. Hotel Metropolitan
I mentioned Hotel Metropolitan earlier on my list as the top choice for families, but it’s also a luxury hotel sure to please any kind of traveler!
Located a short walk from the main square, Hotel Metropolitan offers modern rooms with an oriental touch and amenities like LCD satellite TVs, Wi-Fi, and minibars.
The rooftop terrace boasts a stunning view of the city, while the breakfast buffet features sweet and savory options.
With a bar, room service, and 24-hour front desk, this hotel is perfect for families, groups, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Fabulous hotel!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ SHANNON, Oct 29, 2022
Lovely hotel! Great location, friendly staff and large rooms. Only hotel with a rooftop bar in Bologna and it was wonderful! I will definitely stay here again!
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
4. Hotel Corona D’oro
Hotel Corona D’oro is another option I mentioned earlier.
If you’re looking for a charming luxury hotel in the center of Bologna, this is an excellent choice for it.
This historic hotel offers elegant rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a bar and restaurant.
The hotel provides guests with express check-in and check-out, and it’s just a short walk from the famous Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore square.
In the mornings, guests can enjoy a free buffet breakfast in the hotel’s dining room.
You can also take advantage of the free bikes provided by the hotel to explore the city.
Nice hotel in a superb location. Very good service; super attentive personnel. Delicious breakfast in newly renovated and fresh restaurant with lovely adjacent patio. Great experience; would highly recommended.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rogelio, Feb 19, 2023
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
5. Hotel Internazionale
Hotel Internazionale is a historic building providing a luxury stay in Bologna’s city center.
It offers spacious rooms with classic furnishings and modern amenities like air conditioning and flat-screen TVs
Guests can choose from a variety of rooms, including classic, superior, and deluxe.
The hotel serves a daily breakfast buffet and has a bar.
Guests also have free access to the fitness center and spa (extra fee) at the nearby Royal Hotel Carlton.
Overall, Hotel Internazionale is a great option for a luxury vacation close to Bologna’s most popular attractions.
Great location, helpful and kind staff.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Milena, Dec 1, 2022
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
6. Aemilia Hotel Bologna
Aemilia Hotel is a luxury property located just outside the Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) and a 15-minute walk from the city center.
The modern rooms feature free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and LCD TVs.
Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and dine at the Gurmé restaurant or have drinks at the bar, which also serves light lunches.
The hotel offers family rooms, a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk.
With these amenities, Aemilia Hotel is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families looking for a memorable stay in Bologna.
Hotel is new and clean, staff is very friendly and close to downtown. I definitely will stay again.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Chiho, Feb 13, 2023
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
The Best Budget Accommodation in Bologna
7. AC Hotel Bologna by Marriott
AC Hotel Bologna by Marriott is a pocket-friendly option located near Fiera District.
It comes with easy access to public transportation and is just a short walk from the city’s historic center.
The hotel features in-room minibars, reading lamps, and a free fitness center for guests.
You can enjoy traditional Bolognese cuisine in the AC Lounge and shop at the market area near the reception.
Additionally, the hotel offers three stylish event rooms for meetings and celebrations.
With free WiFi and a 24-hour front desk, AC Hotel Bologna is a great budget choice for both business and leisure travelers.
Clean, easy and free parking.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Kathryn, Jan 13, 2023
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
8. Savoia Hotel Country House Bologna
Another excellent option for a charming and affordable stay is the Savoia Hotel, a recently renovated country house with a lovely garden.
Located just 5 km from Bologna City center, guests can enjoy stylish rooms featuring free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars.
Amenities include a 24-hour front desk, free parking, and traditional cuisine with live music in the onsite restaurant featuring regional specialties.
The hotel also offers an outdoor pool and fitness center at its sister hotel, Savoia Regency Hotel, nearby.
First class hotel. If you are looking for a sparkling clean, comfortable stay look no further. Highly recommended.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Tony, Jun 6, 2020
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
9. Zanhotel Europa
Zanhotel Europa is a budget-friendly 4-star hotel located just a few steps from Bologna Centrale Train Station.
The classically furnished rooms are equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, and private bathrooms with toiletries.
Guests can enjoy a self-service breakfast that includes eggs, cheese, ham, and pastries.
The hotel features a lobby bar and elegant interiors with marble floors and vintage furnishings.
Bologna’s historic center is only a short walk away as well, making it one of the best options for a vacation here without breaking the bank.
Professional staff. Facilities and amenities were very good.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ James, Sep 22, 2022
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
10. Savhotel
Savhotel is a great option for travelers looking for a modern, budget-friendly stay.
Located near the Fiera di Bologna exhibition center, the hotel features recently renovated, stylish rooms with LED TVs, comfortable beds, and wooden floors.
Modern meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a boardroom are also available.
Guests can enjoy traditional Bolognese and local dishes at the on-site restaurant, as well as a variety of buffet items and drinks in the bar.
A rooftop terrace is also part of the property, making for a great place to kick back and take in city views.
Very clean and modern rooms. Great place to stay, lovely and quiet yet so close to the city and train station.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Alison, Jan 16, 2023
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
Best Hostels in Bologna
11. Combo Bologna
Combo Bologna is a popular hostel located near Bologna Train Station.
It features both rooms and dormitories, with en suite facilities in the former and shared bathrooms in the latter.
The property also boasts a 24-hour front desk, bar, shared lounge, TV room, and a garden where live music events are held during the summer.
Guests can rent bicycles on-site to explore the surroundings, and bike parking is provided.
The hostel also offers a shared kitchen, laundry facilities, and free Wi-Fi.
Breakfast is included and features local products such as coffee, bread, jam, and milk.
So great. Beautiful grounds, great facilities, staff so friendly and accommodating.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trent, Nov 20, 2022
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia
12. Dopa Hostel
Dopa Hostel is a lavish hostel located in the lively University District of Bologna.
The hostel is surrounded by restaurants, bars, and nightclubs and is within a five-minute walk to Piazza Maggiore.
The hostel features modern decor, city views, and air conditioning in all dormitories and rooms. Some rooms also have a private bathroom.
Free WiFi is available throughout the hostel.
Wonderful hostel. Very comfortable bed. Excellent service all around. Great location.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Elisabeth, Mar 30, 2022
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
Best Vacation Rentals in Bologna
13. Travel Fiera
Travel Fiera is a cozy and modern one-bedroom apartment located in Bologna.
The air-conditioned apartment features a garden, a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable seating area, and a private bathroom.
The apartment is conveniently located near the Museum for the Memory of Ustica, making it a great choice for travelers looking to see all the popular attractions of Bologna from the privacy and comfort of a secluded apartment.
Clean, safe and compact apartment with very helpful host. Location close to station. Next to large hotel good for Uber pick up and wifi.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Divakaran, Jul 21, 2022
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
14. Borgonuovo Apartments
Borgonuovo Apartment is a 4-star vacation rental located in the historic center of Bologna, providing a private stay close to all the popular sites of the old town.
It offers accommodations with modern amenities, including air-conditioning and free WiFi.
The apartment also features a kitchenette, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.
The property is located near popular attractions such as Piazza Santo Stefano and Piazza Maggiore.
Additionally, it offers a garden, private parking, and luggage storage space.
Great apartment in beautiful Bologna. Comfy bed, nice bathroom and kitchen. Great location in a quiet area but close to restaurants and shops, supermarket at the top of the road.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Gillian, Feb 12, 2023
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
15. II Sitarein
Il Sitarein is another similar vacation rental apartment in the center of Bologna, featuring a garden and a hot tub for guests to enjoy.
This air-conditioned apartment offers free WiFi and a patio.
It includes one bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and a coffee machine, and a bathroom with a bidet and shower.
We had a great stay-comfortable ,clean and well-heated apartment, walking distance from city center and very responsive owner. Highly recommend!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Vesela, Jan 22, 2023
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
16. Mysuite Home Apartments
Mysuite Home Apartments is a vacation rental in Bologna that offers air-conditioned accommodation with access to a garden.
The property provides free WiFi throughout and private parking on site.
The apartments come with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private bathroom.
The apartments offered by Mysuite Home also feature a well-fitted kitchen equipped with a fridge, an oven, a dishwasher, and a coffee machine.
Guests can also rent bicycles on-site to explore the surrounding area.
Very comfortable and high-quality flat… parking space available, location is good, 20 minutes walk to downtown. In walking distance, you can find bakery, cafe, and everything you need.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Ulrich, Dec 30, 2022
👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com
Best Areas to Stay in Bologna
🏙️ Centro Storico
Centro Storico is the heart of Bologna’s historic district and is home to the city’s most famous cultural attractions, popular tourist spots, and delightful cafes and restaurants.
This is why the majority of tourists flock to this area to explore all that Bologna has to offer.
What’s more, Centro Storico is a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) and very walkable, which makes it easy to explore on foot and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Choosing a hotel in this area is an excellent option for travelers who want to be in the center of the action and experience all the charm and history that Bologna has to offer.
🏙️ Fiera District
If you’re traveling to Bologna for work or attending conferences, the Fiera District is the perfect place to stay.
This bustling business district is also home to FICO World Eataly, one of the largest food parks in the world—making it a must-visit spot for foodies.
The Fiera District offers plenty of comfortable hotels, and they tend to be more affordable than those in the Centro Storico area.
Plus, the historic center of Bologna is just a 15-20 minute walk away, so you will enjoy a relaxed and pocket-friendly stay while being close to all the attractions!
🏙️ Piazza Maggiore
Located within Centro Storico, the lively Piazza Maggiore is the hub of the area, featuring the City Hall, Basilica, and bustling market streets.
Other must-sees in this part of Bologna include the Twin Towers, Neptune Fountain, and the UNESCO-protected architectures that make the city so unique.
This area is perfect for a stay in Bologna if you want to be surrounded by the most popular attractions and also enjoy the lively nightlife scene.
Known for the trendiest bars in the city, Piazza Maggiore has tons of incredible spots where partying goes on long into the night.
🏙️ Ghetto Ebraico
The Ghetto Ebraico, Bologna’s former 16th-century Jewish Ghetto, offers a totally unique atmosphere compared to the rest of the Centro Storico.
The maze of narrow twisting streets, small windows, and curious corners provide a historic charm that will transport you to another time.
The area also offers trendy shopping, bars, and restaurants. And the streets of Ghetto Ebraico are home to vintage stores, street art, and hip cafes.
Overall, it’s a great area to stay if you’re looking for a bohemian vibe and an authentic Bologna experience.
🏙️ Bolognina
Located in the northern part of the city, Bolognina is a culturally rich and vibrant neighborhood that offers a picturesque and colorful place to stay in Bologna.
The area is known for its urban art, community spirit, and bustling atmosphere!
Bolognina is a great option if you’re looking for a unique experience that’s off the beaten path.
With graffiti-covered markets, original venues, and activities like music sessions and workshops, there’s always something interesting happening in this charming neighborhood.
Things to Do in Bologna
🏛️ Explore the historic landmarks of Centro Storico
Bologna has many stunning landmarks that are definitely worth exploring.
Some of the most famous historic landmarks that you must visit include:
📍 Piazza Maggiore – the most important square in the city
📍 The beautiful Basilica San Petronio – the world’s largest brick-built church
📍 The iconic Two Towers
Other noteworthy landmarks include:
📍 The stunning Archiginnasio Palace, the ancient seat of the University of Bologna
📍 The fascinating Palazzo Comunale
📍 The charming Santo Stefano complex
Also, don’t forget to take a stroll along the ancient porticoes of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the winding streets of the historic center as well, where you’ll find hidden gems such as the picturesque Mercato di Mezzo and the vibrant Quadrilatero district.
👣 Climb the iconic Two Towers
Exploring the ancient architecture of Bologna has its own charm, but climbing two of the highest towers among those and seeing the city from atop is a truly unique experience.
Of the two Asinelli and Garisenda towers, the former has almost 500 steps that you can take to enjoy a breathtaking view of Bologna from a height of almost 320 feet.
🍽️ Take a food tour
Bologna is famous for its delicious cuisine, and taking a food tour of the city is a must-do experience for any foodie.
There are many food tours available that offer a chance to sample traditional Bolognese dishes and learn about the city’s culinary culture and history.
One of the must-visit locations for any foodie in Bologna is the FICO World Eataly food park.
This massive food park offers a vast array of dishes, and visitors can also take part in cooking classes, and tastings, and even visit a farm.
🏟️ Visit the famous museums
Bologna is a city rich in history and culture, and visiting its museums is a great way to learn more about its past.
➡️ Pinacoteca Nazionale Bologna features historical artworks of the region, and if you are interested in contemporary art, the MAMbo-Modern Art Museum has it.
➡️ For those with an interest in archaeology, the Archaeological Museum of Bologna offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient past.
➡️ If you want to learn more about the city’s medieval history, the Medieval Museum is the perfect place to start.
➡️ And for car enthusiasts, the Museo Ferrari and Museo Lamborghini are must-see attractions that showcase some of the most iconic Italian sports cars ever made.
When is the best time to visit Bologna?
The best time to visit Bologna is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons.
Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be quite cold, so it’s best to avoid those seasons if you’re not used to extreme temperatures.
Spring and fall are when the temperatures are mild, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city on foot.
How many days do you need in Bologna?
The ideal length of stay in Bologna would depend on your personal preferences and the things you want to do.
However, to fully explore and enjoy the city’s architecture, culture, food, and museums, I recommend a stay of at least 3-4 days.
FAQs
Where can you find affordable stays in Bologna?
There are countless affordable accommodation options available in Bologna.
Hostels such as Combo Bologna and Dopa Hostel offer budget-friendly prices for dormitories and private rooms.
Budget hotels include Savhotel, AC Hotel Bologna by Marriott, and Savoia Hotel Country House Bologna.
Additionally, looking for hotels or apartments outside the city center can often offer more affordable rates.
Is it worth visiting Bologna?
Yes, absolutely!
With a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious food, the city is breathtaking and a must-visit destination in Italy.
Bologna is known for its many historic attractions, such as the Two Towers, Piazza Maggiore Plaza, and the Basilica di San Petronio, which are all must-see sights.
The city is also home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, which lends an intellectual and cultural vibe to it.
What’s more, the nightlife scene of this city is also famous all around the world.
But perhaps what Bologna is most famous for is its cuisine, which is considered to be some of the best in Italy.
And Bologna is also one of the few Italian cities that haven’t been overrun by tourists, so you can experience a more authentic side of Italy here.
Is Bologna better than Florence?
Whether Bologna is better than Florence is hard to say.
Both cities have their unique charm and appeal and offer different experiences to visitors, so the answer ultimately depends on what you’re looking for.
Florence is a world-renowned cultural hub, home to some of the world’s most famous Renaissance art, including Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus.
The city is also known for its stunning architecture, including the Florence Cathedral, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Palazzo Pitti.
On the other hand, Bologna is a vibrant yet intimate city with a rich history and culture.
It’s known for its medieval architecture, including the Two Towers, Piazza Maggiore, and the Basilica di San Petronio.
The city also has a strong culinary tradition and is famous for its delicious cuisine.
So, if you’re interested in art and history, Florence might be the better option for you.
Bologna, on one hand, is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere with excellent food and friendly locals.
Wrapping up: Where to Stay in Bologna
Well, there you have it!
A comprehensive guide to the 16 best places to stay in Bologna in 2023.
From cozy apartments to luxurious hotels, there is something for everyone.
Whether you are traveling solo or with your loved ones, on a budget or splurging, you are sure to find the perfect accommodation that suits your needs and preferences.
And now that you know where to stay in Bologna for your next trip, don’t forget to explore the city’s historic landmarks and delicious cuisine.
Bologna truly is a gem of a city, so you’re bound to have a memorable vacation!
