Where To Stay In Bologna, Italy: Boutique Hotels, Quirky Guesthouses and Hip Hostels
Find the best luxury hotels, mid-range and boutique hotels, and hostels in Italy’s incredible Red City, Bologna.
Updated - 2024
Bologna is one of Italy’s most unique, beautiful, and underrated cities. Medieval terracotta buildings give the city its nickname, La Rossa, while miles of UNESCO heritage-listed porticoes paint the streets with lights, shadows, and deep architectural perspectives like moving artwork (perfect for street photography!).
Under these columns lie hidden galleries and hipster boutiques, hole-in-the-wall bars and some of the best restaurants in Italy… this is the country’s gastronomic capital after all.
Unlike many popular European destinations, choosing where to stay in Bologna can be a challenge as accommodation options in the city, especially at the higher end, aren’t overly abundant. However, part of the appeal of Bologna is the lack of tourists, so it’s a net positive in our eyes.
That being said, there still is a range of charming and unique accommodation options, and that’s where this guide comes in handy.
We’ve reviewed some of the best hotels, apartments, boutique hotels, and hostels in the city to help you find accommodation that’s right for you, based on budgets and travel styles.
We’ve also included an overview of the districts you should stay in, based on our own experiences.
In short, our curated guide on where to stay in Bologna is everything you need to book the accommodation of your dreams, in the Red City.
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BEST
BOLOGNA
HOTELS
OUR TOP PICK | Gregorini Bingham Art Luxury Suites
BEST VALUE | Casa Bertagni
BOUTIQUE BEAUTY | Villa Gotti Charming Rooms
BEST AIRBNB | The Scarlet Song
BEST HOSTEL | Dobo Hostel
THE BEST AREA TO STAY IN BOLOGNA
CENTRO STORICO | BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS
Centro Storico is the historic heart of Bologna and where the majority of Bologna's famous cultural sights, world-class osterias, and tourist attractions can be found.
Here, you'll find the vibrant Piazza Maggiore where the City Hall, Basilica and market streets come together, the Twin Towers, Neptune Fountain, and the UNESCO-protected porticoes that give Bologna its unique beauty. There's an ancient palace or cultural sight to see at every turn, and the area is also mostly pedestrianised which makes it extremely accessible.
Choosing a hotel in the Centro Storico area is a great option for pretty much every traveller looking to get amongst the best of Bologna's old town and really immerse themselves in the local culture.
That said, as one might expect from a vibrant part of town, the area is quite lively in the evenings. When choosing your Centro Storico hotel, avoid those too close to Piazza Maggiore or the Via Del Pratello, where the city's uber-cool, gritty bars spill out onto the street each night and might not make for the best night's sleep.
GHETTO EBRAICO | THE HIPSTER ENCLAVE
The maze of narrow twisting streets, tiny windows and curious corners of the Ghetto Ebraico, Bologna's former 16th-century Jewish Ghetto, has a unique vibe from the rest of the old town.
Once the enclosed ghetto of the medieval Jewish community, these days the area brims with the city's most hipster shopping, bars and restaurants.
The narrow laneways and cosy corners are home to vintage stores, street art, uber-cool cafes, and bars where groups of hipsters and students catch up over an aperitivo.
It's also home to our favourite hangout spot, Camera a Sud, where we spent many an afternoon chilling out with a Spritz!
It’s lively, and our favourite area to stay in Bologna.
CITTA UNIVERSITARIA| HISTORIC & CENTRAL
The university district is, as the name suggests, home to Bologna's university. Built in 1088, it's the oldest university in Europe and the home of Bologna's liberal, progressive vibe. We recommend taking a tour and definitely visiting the Anatomical Theatre of the Archiginnasio!
Staying here puts you within walking distance of all the highlights and a stone's throw from the market streets of Quadrilatero — although as you might imagine from a uni area, the district can be quite a vibrant and busy place of an evening.
If you're a light sleeper or looking for a slower pace, this might not quite be the right place for you.
FIERA DI BOLOGNA | PERFECT FOR FAMILIES
Bologna's business district, Fiera di Bologna, is also home to the Bologna Fairgrounds and Convention Centre, which makes it a great option for those travelling for work or to attend conferences in the city.
BolognaFiere is also home to FICO Eataly World, one of the largest food parks in the world that celebrates all that Italian gastronomy is, from field to fork. It's definitely worthy of your visit, whether you're a die-hard foodie or simply love a good Italian meal.
Plenty of comfortable business hotels and Airbnb's can be found in the area, and they generally tend to be cheaper than those found in the Centro Storico area.
What's more, the centre of old Bologna is just a 15-20 minute walk away, so you won't miss all the historic sights either!
BOLOGNA TRAIN STATION & BOLOGNANINA | AFFORDABLE & AUTHENTIC
The area around the train stations and further north into Bolognanina might not be the most attractive or historic part of town — but they do provide affordable, family-friendly accommodation in convenient locations.
Bologna Centrale station connects the city with much of Italy and Europe beyond that. Staying in the area close to the station gives you easy access to the best day trips from the city or your onward adventures.
The old town can be reached in about 10-15 minutes by foot, and Airbnb’s in this area do tend to be better value for money, plus quieter compared to other areas in town.
READ MORE | The best things to do in Bologna
WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA | THE BEST LUXURY HOTELS
GREGORINI BINGHAM ART LUXURY SUITES
Experience two centuries of history with the richness of the antique decorations mixed with contemporary elegance and fine Italian details.
Tucked away in a typical 'Bologna style' courtyard, only mere minutes from the city centre, Gregorini Bingham Art Luxury Suites is one of those hotels in Bologna that will make you feel oh-so-Italian.
A lavish feast for all the senses. A pure work of art.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via Barberia, 32, Saragozza
Amenities | Rooms, suites, meeting rooms, luggage storage
Tips | The Lampadina Café next door makes a great choice for breakfast
PANORAMA APARTMENT
The enchanting Panorama Apartment puts you right in the heart of ancient Bologna. Just steps away from the majestic Piazza Maggiore, it is an ideal base to start exploring the city.
Inside, a stylish interior with chosen details offers plenty of space for relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere after the whole day of sightseeing.
THE DETAILS
Where | 6 Via Zamboni 4 e ultimo piano, Bologna
Amenities | Fully furnished apartment, private parking, terrace, outdoor dining area
Tips | A terrace with mesmerizing views of the city makes a lovely spot for an afternoon drink
BOOK | Panorama Apartment
OBERDAN SUITE
Set within a short distance of a popular Quadrilatero Bologna, Italy's oldest market and premier foodie destination, Oberdan Suite is an elegant, spacious one-bedroom apartment that couldn't be better positioned.
Featuring fabulous views of the city's red rooftops while only a few steps from the popular Piazza Maggiore and Via dell' Indipendenza, Oberdan Suite makes a perfect place to stay for foodies and shopping enthusiasts.
THE DETAILS
Where | 5 Via Guglielmo Oberdan, Bologna
Amenities | Fully equipped apartment, city views, pet friendly
Tips | Book a visit to the nearby La Macchina del Tempo (virtual reality museum) and experience history in a fun, engaging way!
BOOK | Oberdan Suite
VILLA GOTTI CHARMING ROOMS
An architectural masterpiece created on the hill of San Mamolo offers the city on your doorstep.
Flawlessly mixing classical charm with modern comfort, this oasis of peace and quietness is one of the best hotels in Bologna if you’re looking for that ‘home away from home’ feeling.
When it's time to explore the city centre, skip using public transport and stroll down a gentle downhill while enjoying the views.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via Vittorio Putti 22, Bologna
Amenities | Suites, rooms, private parking, terrace, garden views, buffet breakfast
Tips | Ask for a room with a garden view
BOOK | Villa Gotti Charming Rooms
AEMILIA HOTEL BOLOGNA
Only 15 minutes on foot from the historical centre, Aemilia Hotel is everything you want from one of Bologna’s best luxury stays.
A rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi and winter garden overlooking the city? Check. A fitness room and a congress center? Check. A lavish interior and spacious elegant rooms? Check. A restaurant serving local cuisine? Check. A whole package, if you ask us.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via Giovanna Zaccherini Alvisi 16, Bologna
Amenities | Bar, restaurant, buffet breakfast, room service, guarded garage, facilities for disabled guests, private garage
Tips | After a hectic day of exploring hit a gym or relax in a jacuzzi on the rooftop terrace
BOOK | Aemilia Hotel
WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA | THE BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS
CASA BERTAGNI
During our third visit to the city, we stayed at the uber-quirky, yet wonderfully comfortable Casa Bertagni.
A luxury guesthouse located in the heart of Bologna’s historical centre, a short walking distance to all the major Bologna attractions.
But it’s not the location that sets Casa Bertagni apart, it’s the homely, welcoming feeling as you step inside for the first time. Frequented by a succession of artists, writers, politicians and intellectuals in the past, you can feel their presence inside the property, from the art-filled walls to the ornate furniture heirlooms, and the uber-eccentric colourful lighting,
The rooms are comfortable, too - large and with large windows facing onto the peaceful inner-city street. The breakfast is exceptional - a homemade selection of breads, cheeses, and meats, as well as fresh cereals, and eggs.
Overall, this is where you come to enjoy the eccentricities of Bologna.
THE DETAILS
Where | Giovan Battista de Rolandis 7, Bologna
Amenities |Private parking, bike rental services, garden
Tips | Enjoy a homemade selection of breads, cheeses, meats, as well as fresh cereals, and eggs
BOOK | Casa Bertagni
HOTEL PORTA SAN MAMOLA
The place we stayed on our first visit to Bologna, Hotel Porta San Manolo is superbly located close to all the major city sights, which, along with its leafy courtyard garden, makes it a favourite location among travellers.
Recently renovated and restyled, this enchanting hotel preserves the traditional ambience of beautiful and historic Bologna but with a modern, refined touch.
THE DETAILS
Where | Vicolo del Falcone 6/8, Bologna
Amenities | Rooms, apartments, facilities for disabled guests, lounge bar, courtyard, free bike rentals, room service
Tips | Head to the Mercato di Mezza to check out the wonderful array of food and experience the lively atmosphere
BOOK | Hotel Porta San Manolo
B & B GRIFFONI
With its old-school charm and cosy atmosphere, B&B Griffoni puts you at the heart of the action.
Just around the corner, two farmers' markets and plenty of restaurants are waiting for you to discover the internationally praised cuisine from the Emilia-Romagna region. Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers and Fontana del Nettuno are also all within easy reach on foot.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via de Griffoni 7 Int.11, Piano 2, Saragozza
Amenities | Fully equipped apartment, private parking, laundry service, elevator
Tips | Mingle with locals and taste the traditional cuisine in La Taverna dei Peccati
BOOK | B&B Griffoni
ASINELLI PANORAMIC ROOFTOP
Conveniently situated in the city centre, this is one of those hotels in Bologna that puts you close to interesting dining options and the city’s attractions.
In fact, so close that you'll have a feeling you're knocking shoulders with Two Towers.
A sunny mid-range hotel with a laidback vibe, brightly coloured interior and unique charm that provides a wonderful sense of welcome.
THE DETAILS
Where | 34 Via Rizzoli, Bologna
Amenities | Fully equipped apartment, terrace, balcony, elevator
Tips | Have a drink on the rooftop terrace and don’t forget to bring your camera for some fabulous city captures
BOOK | Asinelli Panoramic Rooftop
CASA CONOSCENTI
You can’t stay any closer to Piazza Maggiore than you will at this atmosphere-rich palazzo. Every corner of the hotel's splendour breathes a touch of elegance.
Sophisticated Italian design, luxurious frescoes and airy ceilings enhance the authentic character of the centuries-old residence.
Located on one of the most elegant streets, a dwelling is just a few steps away from a shopping haven in Via dell' Indipendenza.
THE DETAILS
Where | 6 Via Manzoni, Bologna
Amenities | Rooms, suites, restaurant, bar, parking
Tips | Go over to I Conoscenti cocktail e cucina for exceptional cuisine, cocktails and fine wines
BOOK | Casa Conoscenti
WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA | THE BEST BUDGET HOTELS
BIBLIO ROOMS
Have you always wondered where to stay in Bologna for that romantic, dreamy feeling?
Set in a 1940s building, with all the city sights nearby, this upscale guesthouse provides a glamorous mix of vintage furniture and design pieces, coloured ceilings, chandeliers and wood parquets.
Carefully decorated rooms with a library theme and polished vibe will make you feel like the main character of your favourite book.
THE DETAILS
Where | 15 Via Nazario Sauro, Bologna
Amenities | TV satellite channels, tea/coffee maker, elevator
Tips | MAMBo, the museum of modern and experimental art is just around the corner
BOOK | Biblio Rooms
TEMPO BIANCO SUITES
Just outside the centre of Bologna, at the entrance of the historic medieval gate of S. Felice, Tempo Bianco Suites provide an oasis of calm and comfort.
Among stylistic diversity and clean design, there’s plenty of space to make yourself at home. When it's time to delve into this city's historic streets, you won't have far to go.
All the city's must-sees are an easy stroll away.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via del Chiù 2, Bologna
Amenities | Suites, terrace, restaurant, bar, Italian breakfast
Tips | Have fun with different board games in an on-site game room
BOOK | Tempo Bianco Suites
ZANHOTEL REGINA
Tucked between the train station and the city centre, Zanhotel Regina couldn’t be better positioned - an ideal solution for those who have just a little time to explore the city but still want to stay near all the attractions.
With its clean, simple design bummed out by compelling details, this 3-star hotel manages to balance quirkiness and elegance.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via Indipendenza 51, Bologna
Amenities | Family rooms, apartments, bar, room service, pet friendly
Tips | The hotel offers free upgrade if a superior room is available at check-in
BOOK | Zanhotel Regina
ALBERGO DELLA DRAPPERIE
Where to stay in Bologna to experience authentic Italian charm? In a place where history embraces contemporary art.
Elegant curtains over French windows, art deco details, ornate ceilings, wrought iron headboards and original paintings from the mid-19th century invite you to sink in the real Bologna.
Rising in the middle of the lively Quadrilatero area, this charming hotel combines a family atmosphere with a romantic style and modern comfort.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via delle Drapperie 5, Bologna
Amenities | Rooms, suites, balcony, buffet breakfast, pet friendly
Tips | Book a cooking class through the hotel or go on a walking or cycling tour for a different experience of the city
BOOK | Albergo Della Drapperie
WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA | THE BEST AIRBNBS / APARTMENTS
THE SCARLET SONG
Surrounded by charming piazzas and splendid renaissance buildings, this Airbnb of a poetic name is a cosy, aesthetically-pleasing oasis in the heart of Bologna.
A lovely, warm interior mixed with eclectic styling and vintage details sits perfectly with its environment. Just down the street, you'll find exceptional restaurants, colourful markets and vibrant coffee shops that provide plenty of opportunity for sampling Bologna’s world-known cuisine.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via Malcontenti, Bologna
Amenities | Fully equipped apartment, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, balcony, rooftop terrace
Tips | Book a visit to Teatro Arena del Sole for a cultural night out
BOOK | The Scarlet Song
CLASSICAL ART
For a comfortable and stylish break to Bologna, look no further. Simple yet chic, this sleek apartment has everything you might need for your city break.
Kick off your shoes and relax on the comfy sofa or have a drink on the balcony overlooking the terracotta medieval facades.
As soon as you step outside, plenty of restaurants, city sights and things to do are literally waiting at your doorstep.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via Mascarella, Bologna
Amenities | Fully equipped apartment, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, daily cleaning
Tips | Relax with a book in a radiant living room
BOOK | Classical Art
INDOOR ALFRESCO
Hidden at the top of a building complex, only a few steps from the bustling centre of Bologna, this cool loft is blessed with plenty of sunshine and space.
The best thing about it? A private terrace – sip your coffee in the fresh air each morning, and enjoy an alfresco nightcap at the end of a busy day exploring.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via S. Vitale, Bologna
Amenities | Fully equipped apartment, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, rooftop terrace
Tips | A terrace makes a wonderful spot for a morning coffee or an evening drink
BOOK | Indoor Alfresco
CHARMING FLAT RIGHI BOLOGNA
This Airbnb perfectly blends classical Italian style with modern design, cloaked in sophisticated grey tones that create a soothing atmosphere.
The emphasis is distinctly on worldly comforts that include fine linens, luxurious details, and a fireplace for a complete homey touch.
Stylish and trendy, this one-bedroom apartment is an easy walk away from all the city’s attractions.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via Augusto Righi 28, piano 2, Bologna
Amenities | Fully equipped apartment, terrace, balcony, private entrance, continental or Italian breakfast
Tips | Just around the corner, you’ll find the National Art Gallery and the Museum & Library of Music
BOOK | Charming Flat Righi Bologna
WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA | THE BEST HOSTELS
DOPA HOSTEL
Dopa Hostel is one of the best hostels in town located in the city's hip University area (read: close to all the best things to do in Bologna) surrounded by bustling streets filled with nightclubs, bars, restaurants and lively pubs.
There’s a ton of character sprinkled through the interiors' wood and iron mixed with bold patterns, soft colours and traditional icons. It's all about community here so 99% of things are handmade.
THE DETAILS
Where | Via Irnerio 41, Bologna
Amenities | Private rooms, family rooms, dormitories, luggage storage, bike rentals, free lockers, free breakfast + free coffee & tea during the day
Tips | If you’re travelling in a group, don’t forget to ask for a discount!
BOOK | DOPA HOSTEL
COMBO BOLOGNA
Just a few steps away from the central station of Bologna lies an energetic venue that fully satisfies every traveller's needs.
Cosy and modern, Combo Bologna not only provides a fully equipped kitchen and different types of rooms (including study rooms!) but also a spacious outdoor garden and a bar to host events and parties.
Plus, there’s a multilingual staff ready to share with you their best tips!
THE DETAILS
Where | Via de' Carracci, 69/14, Bologna
Amenities | Private rooms, dormitories, study rooms, bar, garden, shared lounge, laundry facilities, bike rental service, pet friendly
Tips | Organic, local breakfast is served from 7 am to 10 am
BOOK | Combo Bologna
BOLOGNA HOTELS | WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
ACCOMMODATION IN BOLOGNA CAN BE PRICEY(ISH)
While general travel expenses like food and alcohol are affordable here, we found accommodation in Bologna reasonably expensive.
This might have been due to the summer months, but compared with other European cities during the same time, it was more expensive.
During our visit, most hotel rooms exceeded £100 per night, while Airbnbs tended to be somewhere between £50-100 for an apartment. Private rooms can be found for under £50 of course.
STAY IN CENTRAL BOLOGNA - BUT CHOOSE WISELY
Personally, we recommend booking your Airbnb in Bologna's historic centre to really soak up the city's medieval atmosphere and immerse yourself in the city's highlights.
Most (but not all) of Bologna's tourist spots are within the Centro Storico area which is also pedestrianised, so you can explore efficiently and without stress.
That said, a word of caution against staying right on top of places like the Piazza Maggiore or the Via Del Pratello which can get a little rowdy come evenings and weekends (Bolognesi like to live their life in the city and its beautiful streets and piazzas!).
BOLOGNA TRIP PLANNING ESSENTIALS
OUR BOLOGNA POCKET GUIDE
Our Bologna City Guide is a curated travel guide, designed to be downloaded to your phone and used as your trusty companion when exploring the city.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find our personal recommendations on the best things to see, eat and drink, places to stay,and things to know, gathered over many trips to Bologna.
BUY NOW | Bologna City Guide
WHAT TO DO IN BOLOGNA
We’ve put together a guide to everything you need to know before visiting Bologna, which you can read here.
If you’re looking for what to do while you’re in Italy’s red city, we’ve also got guides to the best things to do in Bologna, and Le Due Torri, plus a Bologna photography diary to inspire your travels there.
BOLOGNA WELCOME CARD
We recommend purchasing the Bologna Welcome card, a tourist card that helps you discover the best things to do in Bologna easily and cost-effectively.
The Bologna Welcome card can be purchased online or at tourist info points in town.
THE DETAILS
WHAT | Bologna Welcome card
COST | € 25
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN ITALY
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
Here are our recommendations, based on 8+ years of full-time travel:
FOR TRAVELLERS | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out-of-pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
FOR DIGITAL NOMADS | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
CAR INSURANCE | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
PLANNING A TRIP TO ITALY SOON?
Check out these essential posts to help you have the best trip ever:
BEST OF BOLOGNA | 12 incredibly awesome things to do in Bologna, Italy, Our guide to Bologna’s famous Asinelli Tower, Bologna Travel Tips
DOZZA | A guide to Italy’s most colourful hill town, Dozza
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WAY TO KNOW ITALY | Hiking the Via Matildica in Italy’s Emilia Romagna
DOLOMITES | Our 7-day road trip itinerary for the Dolomites, where to stay in the Dolomites, how to get to the Dolomites, 7 of the best day hikes in the Dolomites, including the famous Tre Cime De Lavaredo loop, Lago di Sorapis, our guide to Lago di Braies
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
EXPLORE THE BEST OF BOLOGNA WITH OUR GUIDES
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