Historic Center Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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.
Fountain of Neptune
This intriguing work of art is one of the most well-known symbols of Bologna and an important public gathering place.
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 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.
Activities
Traditional bolognese pasta making with a meal
Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour
Bologna: Luna Farm Amusement Park Family Entry Ticket
Ferruccio Lamborghini Entry Ticket in Bologna
Our pick of the best Historic Center Hotel Deals
Starhotels Excelsior
Clean, safe, great location, excellent breakfast, well staffed, very spacious room. My only negative is don’t get fooled by the drink and appetizer deal they have posted all round, the food is just peanuts, chips, and parm cheese- it is not the yummy food they have pictured as you would assume- kind ...
Reviewed on 31 Dec 2025
Hotel Internazionale
Great location with great staff
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Royal Hotel Carlton
Cool staff and amazing restaurant
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
Hotel Palace
Really friendly staff, great breakfast, perfect location
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
Clean spacious room. Friendly staff. Convenient location near central train station.
Reviewed on 20 Dec 2025
Art Hotel Commercianti
Really nice boutique hotel in the center of the city, clean room with a lot of character, great staff; helpful and kind.
Reviewed on 5 Jan 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 University Library of Bologna and Bologna Botanical Gardens.
Bolognina
While visiting Bolognina, you might make a stop by sights like Ippodromo Arcoveggio and Teatro Testoni Ragazzi.
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 University Library of Bologna and EuropAuditorium Theater.
