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.
Fountain of Neptune
This intriguing work of art is one of the most well-known symbols of Bologna and an important public gathering place.
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 take a trip to Via Indipendenza. Visit 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.
Things to do
Bologna: Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine
Bologna: Luggage Storage close to Stazione Centrale
Bologna: Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu Cooking Class with Wine
Bologna: Traditional Recipes Cooking Class with Local Wines
Bologna Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide
Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour
Top hotels in Historic Center
Starhotels Excelsior
Food was great, bar was nice. Cleaners were very proffessional and cleaned my room well.
Reviewed on 15 Nov 2025
Royal Hotel Carlton
Carpet a little worn. However room was clean and comfortable. Excellent location. Staff were friendly.
Reviewed on 12 Nov 2025
Hotel Internazionale
Some parts were under renovation at the time of stay but the staff was very nice and accommodating and the breakfast was delicious. The location is also great as it’s midway between the train station and city center.
Reviewed on 9 Nov 2025
Hotel Palace
Room was good, spacious and clean.
Reviewed on 10 Nov 2025
UNA Hotels Bologna Centro
The hotel was in a great location, easy walking to the centre of the city, a lot of nearby eateries and shops. The staff were all friendly and all spoke English, and even though it was opposite the railway station and Via Emilia, it was very quiet both during the day and the evening. The Marconi ...
Reviewed on 14 Nov 2025
Hotel Metropolitan
Great
Reviewed on 5 Nov 2025
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 Bologna Botanical Gardens and Teatro Comunale di Bologna.
Bolognina
While visiting Bolognina, you might make a stop by sights like Teatro Testoni Ragazzi and Ippodromo Arcoveggio.
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 EuropAuditorium Theater and Bologna Botanical Gardens.
