Planning a trip to Bologna and unsure where to stay? You’ve come to the right place.
Bologna is a fantastic city with medieval charm and culinary traditions that will delight any food lover.
In this guide, I’ll give you an overview of the best areas to stay, whether you’re interested in historic buildings, vibrant student life, or exclusive boutique hotels.
Best Areas in Bologna
Here’s a quick overview of the best areas to stay in Bologna:
- Piazza Maggiore – Historic centre with all the sights 🏛️
- University Quarter – Lively area with student cafés 🎓
- Santo Stefano – Elegant streets and boutique shopping 💎
- Bologna Centrale – Convenient base near the station 🚂
Click on the area’s name to see the best hotels in that location.
The guide on where to stay in Bologna continues below with more hotel recommendations.
1. Piazza Maggiore – best area for first-time visitors 🏛️
The area around Piazza Maggiore is the heart of Bologna and the perfect base for your first visit to the city. Here you’ll find the iconic medieval towers and the city’s best food markets.
Piazza Maggiore is Bologna’s main square, and the surrounding area is the very definition of historic Bologna.
You’ll be staying in a UNESCO-protected area with red buildings, porticoes (portici), and narrow streets that ooze history.
Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked bread and the sound of espresso machines from the local bars.
It’s somewhat reminiscent of the San Marco area in Venice, just without the tourist masses and with more authentic local life.
See the best hotels near Piazza Maggiore here.
Transport-wise, you’re perfectly placed. You can walk to all major attractions, and the airport buses stop nearby.

The central location also means easy access to the Quadrilatero food market, where the city’s best delicatessens line up one after another.
You’ll find countless restaurants in all price ranges, from simple trattorias to Michelin-starred establishments.
Be sure to try the historic delicatessens like Tamburini and Salumeria Simoni.
The only downside is that it can be a bit pricier to stay here, and during high season, there can be quite a few tourists in the central squares. But the charm and location clearly outweigh these minor inconveniences.
Places to stay near Piazza Maggiore
Grand Hotel Majestic “Già Baglioni” ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This 18th-century palace is Bologna’s most exclusive hotel, featuring frescoes, antique furniture, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Located on Via dell’Indipendenza, just steps from Piazza Maggiore, the hotel offers a perfect blend of history and modern luxury – for the ultimate indulgence.
Previous guests particularly highlight: “The service is exceptional, and breakfast in the historic hall is an experience in itself”
See more photos and book here.
Hotel Corona d’Oro ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Charming boutique hotel in a renovated medieval building with original architecture and modern amenities.
The central location and quiet courtyard garden make it perfect for culturally interested travellers.

A guest recently wrote: “Fantastic breakfast under the historic porticoes, and the staff make you feel like family”
See more photos and book here.
Hotel Internazionale ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Comfortable hotel with good value for money and central location. The rooms are simple but well-maintained, and the staff are known for their helpfulness with local tips and restaurant recommendations.

Guests particularly love: “Perfect location for exploring the city, and fantastic breakfast with local specialities”
See more photos and book here.
2. University Quarter – perfect for young travellers and nightlife 🎓
The University Quarter, centred around Via Zamboni, is Europe’s oldest university area and buzzes with youthful energy. Here, history meets modern student life in a perfect blend.
This area is quite similar to the Latin Quarter in Paris, just with a more relaxed Italian atmosphere.
See the best hotels in the University Quarter here.
The streets are filled with students, and there’s a constant hum of life and creative energy. The architecture is an exciting mix of medieval buildings and modern university facilities.

You’re still only a 10-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, and transport connections are good with several bus lines. There are plenty of cycle paths, and the area is ideal to explore on foot.
The best thing about staying here is the prices – both for accommodation and food. You’ll find many student-friendly cafés, bars, and restaurants.
Via del Pratello, in particular, is known for its nightlife with many small bars and live music. The area is also home to several smaller theatres and cultural venues.
The only downside might be the noise level, especially on weekends, and some side streets can appear a bit messy. But if you want to experience the authentic, young Bologna, this is the place.
Places to stay in the University Quarter
Hotel Metropolitan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Modern design hotel in a historic building, combining elegance with a central location. The rooftop terrace offers fantastic views over Bologna’s towers and red roofs.

Previous guests particularly highlight: “Stylish décor and fantastic rooftop terrace – perfect for aperitivo with views over the city”
See more photos and book here.
Hotel University ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Modern and youthful hotel with a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for those who want to be close to the city’s best bars and restaurants.

A guest recently wrote: “Super helpful staff who gave fantastic tips for local restaurants and bars”
See more photos and book here.
3. Santo Stefano – elegant area for luxury travellers 💎
The Santo Stefano area, stretching eastward from Piazza Santo Stefano, is Bologna’s most exclusive area. Here you’ll find elegant palazzos, designer shops, and some of the city’s finest restaurants.
This area is reminiscent of the elegant areas around Via Condotti in Rome, but with a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
The cobblestone streets are lined with well-maintained palazzos and exclusive boutiques.
See the best hotels in Santo Stefano here.
The area is particularly known for the Basilica di Santo Stefano, also known as “Sette Chiese” (seven churches).

The location is perfect – you’re 5-10 minutes’ walk from Piazza Maggiore, but in a quieter area. Transport connections are good, and you can easily reach all major attractions on foot.
Shopping is a highlight here with many luxury shops and local designers. The food scene is extraordinary with several Michelin restaurants and exclusive wine bars.
- Be sure to try the historic osterias along Via Santo Stefano.
The only downside is the price level, which is the highest in the city. But if you’re seeking a luxurious and authentic Bologna experience, this is where you should stay.
Places to stay in Santo Stefano
I Portici Hotel ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Exclusive design hotel in a restored villa with a Michelin-starred restaurant and exquisite wine bar. The décor combines historic details with modern Italian design.

Previous guests particularly highlight: “Fantastic Michelin restaurant and the most beautiful views over the city’s rooftops”
See more photos and book here.
Art Hotel Commercianti ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Charming hotel in a historic building with views of Basilica di San Petronio. The rooms are individually decorated with antique furniture and modern amenities.

A guest recently wrote: “Like staying in a museum, but with all modern comforts”
See more photos and book here.
Hotel Touring ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cosy family-run hotel with a fantastic rooftop terrace. Simple but elegant décor and very helpful staff.

Guests particularly love: “The personal service and the fantastic breakfast on the rooftop terrace”
See more photos and book here.
4. Near Bologna Centrale – practical base for short stays 🚂
The area around Bologna Centrale train station is ideal for travellers who prioritise easy transport or are only staying for a short visit.
This is Bologna’s transport hub, and the area is somewhat similar to the area around Milan Centrale, just on a smaller scale and with more charm.
See the best hotels near Bologna Centrale here.
You have direct connections to high-speed trains to Florence, Milan, and Rome and the airport shuttle.
- You’re about 15-20 minutes’ walk from Piazza Maggiore, or you can take one of the many buses.
The area has undergone significant renewal in recent years and now offers a good mix of hotels in all price ranges.

There are plenty of practical facilities like supermarkets, cafés, and casual dining options. Via dell’Indipendenza, the city’s main shopping street, starts here and leads you directly to the centre.
Places to stay near Bologna Centrale
UNAHOTELS Bologna Centro ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Modern business hotel with elegant design and all amenities. Perfect sound insulation ensures a quiet night’s sleep despite the central location.

Previous guests particularly highlight: “Fantastic breakfast buffet and super convenient location by the station”
See more photos and book here.
Starhotels Excelsior ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Classic hotel with good service and comfortable rooms. The location right opposite the station makes it ideal for business travellers.

A guest recently wrote: “Professional service and lovely rooms with good views over the city”
See more photos and book here.
Hotel Atlantic ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Simple but well-maintained hotel with good value for money. Ideal for travellers who prioritise easy transport and practical location.

Guests particularly love: “Clean and tidy hotel with super friendly staff and good breakfast”
See more photos and book here.
Where Not to Stay in Bologna ❌

Although Bologna is generally a safe city, there are some areas that aren’t optimal for tourists:
The area around Borgo Panigale (west of the centre) is primarily an industrial area without much charm or attractions. You’re far from the centre and the interesting areas.
The San Donato area (northeast of the centre) is mostly a residential area without special attractions for tourists. There are limited restaurants and nightlife.
Also avoid the outer parts of the Bolognina area (north of the station) in the evening. Although the area is developing, some streets can feel deserted and unsafe after dark.
Better book a hotel in the Bologna Centrale area near the station.
Overall, Bologna is a compact city where you can easily walk from one area to another.

If you’re a first-time visitor, the area around Piazza Maggiore is perfect – you’re staying right in the midst of history and have everything within walking distance.
If you prefer lively nightlife and a younger scene, choose the University Quarter. If you want to pamper yourself, Santo Stefano with its boutique hotels and gourmet restaurants is the obvious choice.
During high season (April-October), you should book well in advance, especially if you want to stay centrally. Bologna is particularly lively during the many food festivals and when the university is buzzing with life (September-June).
Regardless of your chosen area, remember that Bologna is a city best explored on foot.
Go exploring under the characteristic portici (porticoes), stop at the small wine bars for an aperitivo, and let yourself get lost in the narrow medieval streets.
Enjoy exploring la dotta, la grassa, la rossa – the learned, the fat, and the red city.
Read all my Italy travel guides here.
Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇
• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
• GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
• NordVPN is the only VPN I've ever needed for travel (it just works, everywhere)
• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers
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