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 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.
Basilica Santo Stefano
Go for a stroll through this interconnected group of religious buildings, admiring the graceful architecture and valuable artwork in each.
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 Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Audio Tour
Bologna Tortellini Cooking Class with Local Chef & Wine
7 days Self Guided AI Audio Tours to Bologna and all Italy
Ferruccio Lamborghini Entry Ticket in Bologna
Bologna: Luggage Storage close to Stazione Centrale
Tower and Power, Virtual tour in Medieval Bologna
Historic Center Hotel Deals
Royal Hotel Carlton
Good hotel big room walkable distance from all restaurants
Reviewed on Apr 3, 2026
Hotel Palace Bologna Centro
The room is a dormitory room. The bed had no box spring, just a thin mattress on a platform. The bidet is in the shower. The walls and ceiling are covered with burlap. The staff was rude and unhelpful. You can hear the movie theatre next door in your room. We left early even thought the room was ...
Reviewed on Mar 31, 2026
Hotel Internazionale
easy walk from train, on busy street, but quiet. staff very helpful.bed was ok, bathroom well organized. housekeeping did a great job!
Reviewed on Apr 2, 2026
Starhotels Excelsior
Clean room. Staff helpful. Good location
Reviewed on Mar 24, 2026
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
It was quick - just a stopover before traveling on. It is very close to the train station, so it suited my purposes.
Reviewed on Mar 27, 2026
Hotel Metropolitan
Other neighborhoods 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
If you're spending some time in Bolognina, Ippodromo Arcoveggio and Museum for the Memory of Ustica are top sights worth seeing.
San Donato
While visiting San Donato, you might make a stop by sights like EuropAuditorium Theater and Virtus Arena.
Scandellara
While Scandellara isn't home to many top sights, EuropAuditorium Theater and Bologna Botanical Gardens are some notable places to visit nearby.
