Best hotels in Bologna – 16 fabulous Bologna hotels for an unforgettable city escape

Bologna is an exceptional city known for its rich history, striking architecture, and, let’s be honest, some of the most incredible food you’ll ever taste.

And no adventure is complete without that pefect hotel to call your home, right? So, I’ve rounded up the best hotels in Bologna to ensure you have an unforgettable stay.

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If you’re looking for a city escape, Bologna is perfect—just be warned: once you visit, you might find yourself returning for more.

To fully soak up what Bologna, or “La Grassa, La Rossa & La Dotta” (The Fat, The Red & The Learned), has to offer, you should plan to spend at least two to three days here.

Luxury hotels in Bologna

Bologna has a wealth of luxury hotels offering 4 and 5-star accommodation in the city center, many with incredible views of the Bologna’s red roofs and surrounding hills.

f you’re planning a weekend in Bologna and seeking a touch of luxury, these exceptional hotels combine indulgence, elegance, and impeccable service for a memorable stay.

The Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni is located within an 18th Century former palace and is one of the oldest Bologna hotels. It’s located in the heart of the city just 250 meters from Piazza Maggiore.

You can choose from a wide selection of rooms and suites from the beautifully decorated classic and superior rooms to presidential suites and the gorgeous Art Deco Terrace Suite that comes with its own private lift.

Dining at I Carracci Restaurant is a must. It’s renowned for its Emilia-Romagna cuisine, all set against a backdrop of ornate frescoes that give you a real taste of the region’s rich culture. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in local delicacies, but trust me—save room for dessert!

This is one of the top luxury hotels in Bologna (it’s the only 5-star hotel in the city) and is the perfect place for a romantic retreat, surrounded by gorgeous antique furnishings.

The I Portici Hotel Bologna offers an upscale stay just a five-minute stroll from the central train station, making it incredibly convenient for train travelers.

If you’re a food lover, you’ll be in for a treat at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, led by the talented Chef Nicola Annunziata. Dining here is a delightful experience, so make sure to indulge!

The hotel showcases a variety of beautiful rooms and suites, many adorned in 19th-century Art Nouveau style. It boast views over Montagnola Park and the picturesque Via Indipendenza and you’ll find both charm and comfort in this stylish hotel.

For an extra touch of luxury, consider the Imperial Wellness suite, featuring a private steam room and sauna—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Bologna.

Whether you’re looking to relax or enjoy high-end dining, I Portici Hotel is one of the top choices in Bologna.

The stylish Aemilia is one of the best hotels in Bologna, Italy if you need to stay connected during your trip as all rooms come with free, ultra-fast 1,000 Mbps Wi-Fi. The onsite Gurme Restaurant specializes in Bolognese cuisine using the freshest, local ingredients.

The entire hotel was renovated in 2021 and some of the rooms come with rooftop views of the city and Bolognese Hills in the distance. Choose the Superior Room With City view for the best views.

There is a lounge bar you can relax in after a long day sightseeing, and in summer you can make use of the solarium and jacuzzi on the 7th floor with breathtaking views of San Luca Hill and the city rooftops.

The gorgeous Savoia Hotel Regency is set within 10,000 square meters of parkland 5km from Bologna

The hotel boasts an outdoor pool with sun loungers alongside the Savoia Beach Cafe, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

There is an onsite restaurant serving traditional Emilia-Romagna and Italian cuisine, plus a fitness center to burn off those calories.

Rooms range from standard comforts to luxurious suites, including a penthouse suite complete with an outdoor terrace jacuzzi and views over the garden.

The Savoia makes an excellent escape from the bustling city center but is still within easy reach of all the main sights.

The recently renovated Hotel Internazionale offers deluxe accommodation in Bologna, on Via Indipendenza close to the station.

All rooms are decorated in a classical, Italian style and come with views of the city streets. You can take advantage of the onsite American bar and bistro which has views of Bologna’s UNESCO-listed porticoes.

A sumptuous buffet breakfast including fresh fruits, locally made pastries and of course excellent coffee is available in the dining room each morning. There is also a pleasant courtyard garden where you can enjoy your morning coffee in beautiful surroundings.

This hotel offers exceptional value for money given the level of service, location and stylish contemporary design with classical Italian elements.

Boutique hotels in Bologna city center

Bologna has an excellent selection of boutique hotels offering a combination of classical Italian styles, comfort and a personalized service. If you’re looking for a more intimate hotel experience in Bologna, then choose one of these fantastic boutique hotels for your stay.

The Phi Hotel Bologna is the oldest hospitality venue in the city dating back to 1375. This is one of the best boutique hotels Bologna as it combines over 600 years of hospitality with modern furnishings and facilities to ensure an unforgettable stay in the city.

The hotel offers a range of rooms and suites, each individually decorated by renowned international artists and set designers.

Given its central location next to Piazza Maggiore, the Phi Hotel is the perfect place for exploring Bologna’s attractions from the Two Towers to the Basilica of San Petronio and the Palazzo d’Accursio

You’ll want to take advantage of the excellent L’Osteria del Cappello Restaurant offering fine dining with the tastes and flavors unique to Bologna.

This small and charming boutique hotel sits in the shadow of the Two Towers and is just a minute’s walk from Piazza Maggiore. The lobby is adorned with 20th-century works of art and includes a lounge with an open fireplace creating a cozy atmosphere that’s like a home from home.

Choose the Gioacchino Rossini Deluxe Suite for the ultimate level of comfort which includes stunning city views and a bathroom tiled with Carrara marble and a hydromassage king shower.

A delicious buffet or a la carte breakfast is included in the price. This is definitely the best hotel in Bologna, Italy if you want to be based right in the center of the city.

The Hotel Touring is run by the Stegani family who have been welcoming guests into their boutique hotel for decades.

The Touring has a central location close to the Basilica San Domenico and is just a short walk from Piazza Maggiore, the Galleria Cavour, and other top sights in the city.

There is a range of upscale rooms and suites available, and those on the upper floors offer panoramic views of the city and nearby hills. The Junior Suite Classic comes with its own corner garden.

In summer you can relax in the hot tub on the 5th floor, and in winter the lounge features a roaring open fire, making it one of the most homely hotels in Bologna, Italy.

If you’re interested in history you’ll adore the incredible Art Hotel Commercianti which is situated inside a medieval building dating from the 11th Century (it’s even older than the next-door San Petronio church).

Inside you’ll find works of art and antiques from suits of armor to sculptures and old instruments. The building retains many of its original features such as the vaulted ceilings and giant wooden beams. All rooms are individually decorated with themes detailing Bologna’s long history. 

Choose from a range of rooms and suites, some of which come with a balcony or terrace and views of the Basilica San Petronio and city streets. Breakfast is included in the price, and the hotel offers a range of bespoke services including free bicycle rental.

The Hotel San Donato is located within the elegant Palazzo Malvasia in Bologna’s University District, just a few short steps from the Asinelli Towers, Fountain of Neptune and Piazza Maggiore.

The hotel has a classical Italian design with wooden furniture and tiled floors, but with all the modern conveniences and comforts that make a stay at the San Donato truly relaxing. There is a top-floor bar with a terrace and magnificent views over the red rooftops to the towers.

In summer you can dine al-fresco on the second-floor terrace or enjoy an aperitif on the top-floor terrace which has its own small solarium. This is one of the best hotels Bologna has to offer if you’re looking for somewhere central.

Bologna hotels near the train station

If you want to take advantage of Bologna’s location and explore some of the nearby places of interest or take some day trips then choosing a hotel close to Centrale Station is an excellent idea. As well as being close to the station, these hotels are still within a 20-minute walk or 5-minute bus ride from the city center.

This hotel in Bologna, Italy is strategically located just 300 meters from the central station. It’s also ideally situated for Bologna’s shopping district with a wide range of boutique shops selling everything from clothing to books and musical instruments.

The Amarcord Restaurant specializes in Emilia Romagna cuisine and also includes vegetarian options. Choose one of the top-floor suites for sweeping views of the city.

Pets are welcome at the hotel so you don’t need to leave your furry friend behind. Other small details that make this an excellent choice are the special NH mattresses designed for the perfect night’s sleep and your choice of pillows.

The Royal Carlton is the best hotel in Bologna if you’re looking for the ultimate in relaxation. The wellness center at the Monrif Spa features Finnish saunas, Turkish baths, heated water beds, and a range of manual treatments and therapies.

There is also a gym and outdoor pool for you to enjoy.

The hotel has a selection of beautifully decorated rooms and a range of upscale suites. The Presidential Suite includes a fully-furnished living area complete with a private meeting room, a walk-in wardrobe, two marble bathrooms, and a jacuzzi.

A buffet breakfast of fresh Italian pastries, cheeses, meats, and fruits is served daily, and you can enjoy a selection of meals and drinks from the Spoon Restaurant and Planetario Bar.

Cheap hotels in Bologna

Although there are plenty of upscale hotels across the city, if you’re looking for budget options in Bologna you’ll not be disappointed as there are some excellent hotels offering a high level of service and comfort that won’t break the bank.

If you’re looking for cheap hotels in Bologna you really can’t go wrong with the Social Hub. This fantastic hotel is a haven for travelers, students, and locals as it doubles as a creative hub for digital nomads and other entrepreneurs.

The hotel is less than 1km from the station and the city center is walkable in around 20 minutes. Rooms are beautifully decorated with comfy beds, a desk for working, air conditioning, and a private, en-suite bathroom.

This is an absolutely fantastic hotel for remote workers and those that are looking for a balance between the ability to work, comfort and fun. The restaurant is a great place to hang out and has an excellent menu including breakfast, brunch, snacks and more.

The Albergo delle Drapperie is located in the heart of the old town three minutes walk from Piazza Maggiore. The hotel is housed within a beautiful 19th Century building and has 20 rooms featuring frescoed ceilings or wooden beams.

Choose one of the rooms with a French balcony which comes with gorgeous city views of the rooftops, two towers and surrounding hills.

Rooms are tastefully decorated mixing classic Italian styles with contemporary comfort, making this one of the best Bologna Italy hotels for those looking for a reasonably priced stay in the city center.

A buffet breakfast of fresh coffee (the cappuccino is a must-try), sweet Italian pastries, cheeses and cold meats is served daily in the dining room.

Best airport hotels in Bologna

If you’ve got an early flight to catch then choosing one of the hotels close to Bologna’s Marconi Airport is a good idea. You’ll find some excellent hotels here with reasonable rates and all the conveniences you’d expect from a modern hotel.

This is one of the best Bologna Airport hotels as it offers newly refurbished rooms that are spacious and bright and airy with all the conveniences expected of a 4-star hotel.

The hotel is located in Caldera di Reno just 4 km from Bologna’s Marconi Airport and a 20-minute bus ride from the city center.

There is a breakfast buffet in the ground floor dining room with Italian specialties both sweet and savory, and you can also relax here in the evening with an aperitif, or choose something from the bistro.

This is an excellent option for business travelers who can take advantage of the hotel’s facilities, families and those who need to be close to the airport for an early or late flight.

The Hotel Del Borgo is a Bologna Airport hotel located in the Borgo Panigale district just half a kilometer from Guglielmo Marconi Airport. You can make use of the free, onsite car park, which is a rarity for Bologna as many charge a daily fee.

The hotel has a bar where you can enjoy an evening aperitif or cocktail, and a common TV room to relax in.

There is a daily buffet breakfast served in the breakfast room, you can also benefit from discounts at nearby restaurants. If you’re traveling as a family, you’ll find the large, quadruple rooms perfect as they sleep up to four people.

How many days in Bologna

Spending 2 to 3 days in Bologna is ideal to fully experience this vibrant city. In this time, you can explore all the main sights, indulge in a food tour, visit museums and galleries, or even walk up to the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca for breathtaking views.

If you’re short on time, you can cover Bologna’s highlights in just 1 busy day in Bologna, but staying overnight allows you to soak in the city’s enchanting evening vibe.

With 3 or more days, you can dive deeper into the city’s incredible cuisine, explore beyond the historic center, and even take day trips to nearby gems like Modena or Parma.

Optimal advice? Give yourself at least 2 days—you won’t regret it!

Getting to Bologna

Getting to Bologna is convenient, thanks to its well-connected transportation options. Whether you’re arriving by air, train, or car, you’ll find multiple ways to reach the city center efficiently.

• By Car: You can reach Bologna by rental car, as it is connected to nearby cities via motorways (A1 for Florence and Milan, A13 for Venice). However, be aware that central Bologna is a traffic-restricted area and parking options are limited.
• By Air: Bologna is serviced by Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, located just 5.8 miles (9.3 km) from the city center.
  • The fastest way to travel from the airport to the city is via the Marconi Express, which takes just 7 minutes and accepts contactless payment.
  • Taxis at the airport can be expensive, so book a private transfer, with a drive time of 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • For budget travelers, the 944 bus runs every 15 minutes into the city from 5 AM.
• By Train: Italy boasts an excellent railway network, with high-speed services (Frecciarossa) connecting Bologna to other major cities. The train station is a short walk from the city center.

Getting around Bologna

Getting around Bologna is both easy and enjoyable, with its pedestrian-friendly streets with porticoes and excellent transport networks.

• San Luca Express: This tourist train departs from Piazza Maggiore and takes you past various sights on the way to the Basilica of San Luca.
• Walking: The old town is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with beautiful porticoes that shield you from rain and sun, making strolls enjoyable.
• Cycling: A popular option, cycling in Bologna is ideal due to slow traffic. Many locals and tourists traverse the city on bicycles, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
• Segways: For a unique experience, consider renting a Segway to tour the city.
• Public Transport: Bologna has an excellent bus system covering all major points of interest. The hop-on, hop-off bus provides convenient access to famous landmarks, complete with historical commentary.

Where to eat and drink in Bologna

When it comes to food and drink in Bologna, you’re in for a true treat—because you can really eat anywhere and everywhere! I did stumble upon one lackluster coffee, but everything else? Absolutely incredible! So, let’s dive into some must-visit spots that will have your taste buds dancing.

• Quick Bites & Street Food: For satisfying snacks that capture the essence of Bologna, head to Murtadela and Tigellino. These places serve up quick bites that will keep you fueled for your adventures. Just imagine sinking your teeth into a freshly made tigella—pure bliss!
• Lunch or Dinner: If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, don’t miss Sfoglia Rina and La Montanara. The pasta at Sfoglia Rina is a warm hug on a plate, and La Montanara’s pizza is simply divine. I still dream about that perfectly baked crust!
• Aperitivo and Late Bites: As the sun sets, it’s time to unwind with some aperitivo. Pop into Camera a Sud, La Prosciutteria Bologna, or Le Vie Dei Briganti for the best late bites. Picture this: a platter overflowing with cured meats, cheeses, and a glass of local wine in hand. What’s not to love?
• Breakfast and Coffee: Rise and shine with a delightful breakfast at Impero, Forno Brisa, or Uno Cafe Olistico. Personally, starting my day with a strong espresso and a pastry from Forno Brisa is how I show Bologna I love it. Trust me; you won’t regret it!

Is Bologna worth visiting?

Absolutely! Bologna is a paradise for food lovers—and if you’re just a bit curious about food, you’re still in for a treat. The city boasts an array of regional delicacies you won’t find anywhere else. It’s called “La Grassa” (the Fat One) for a reason!

Beyond the food, you will appreciate the charm of La Rossa (the Red One) and La Dotta (the Learned One); the architecture and culture are just as rich as the cuisine.

Best time to visit Bologna, Italy

Bologna is a year-round destination. Those endless porticoes are a fantastic feature—they’ll keep you dry when the rain surprises you and provide shade during those hot summer days.

However, keep the summer heat in mind—July and August can get pretty toasty. Winter days might be shorter, but I’m a secret admirer of Italy in winter. There’s something magical about strolling through Bologna in winter while it’s crisp outside, and the cozy restaurants invite you in for a hearty meal.