Top reasons to visit Bologna
- Historic Centre: Bologna's medieval towers and charming piazzas invite leisurely exploration, showcasing its rich history.
- Culinary Delights: Indulge in authentic local cuisine at bustling markets and traditional eateries across the city.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit historic churches, palaces, and museums that offer a glimpse into Bologna's vibrant heritage.
- Adventurous Day Trips: Venture to nearby vineyards and scenic towns for a taste of the Emilia-Romagna countryside.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, catering to all traveller needs.
Find great hotels in Bologna
Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, where you can find charming bed and breakfasts alongside modern hotels. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options, facilities for business travel, or a family-friendly atmosphere, Bologna offers an array of choices to suit every traveller's needs. Discover the perfect base for your Italian adventure in this vibrant city, rich in history and culture.
- Hotel Internazionale: This charming 4-star hotel, rated 9.0 out of 10 by guests, is ideally located in the heart of Bologna. With a distinctive golf-themed experience, the Hotel Internazionale welcomes both golf enthusiasts and pet owners, providing amenities tailored to an active and family-friendly holiday. Guests can enjoy various golf-related activities while pets are permitted on the premises, with specific policies in place to ensure a comfortable stay for both humans and their furry companions. The hotel's central location allows easy access to Bologna's rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
- Starhotels Excelsior: Rated 9.2 out of 10, this elegant 4.5-star hotel is an excellent choice for families seeking a memorable stay in Bologna. Starhotels Excelsior offers a range of child-friendly amenities, including strollers, baby bathtubs, and babysitting services, ensuring that families have all they need for a comfortable experience. The hotel combines luxury with practicality, making it a preferred option for those travelling with children. Located conveniently in the city, it allows guests to explore the rich cultural offerings of Bologna with ease.
- Savhotel Fiera Bologna: With an impressive rating of 9.4 out of 10, Savhotel Fiera Bologna is a 4-star property catering to families, business travellers, and pet owners alike. The hotel provides essential amenities for children, including complimentary cribs and first aid kits, ensuring peace of mind for parents. Pets are also welcomed at this property, with provisions made for their comfort. Positioned near Bologna's exhibition centre, it offers both a convenient base for business and leisure, allowing guests to balance work commitments with exploration of the city.
Where to stay in and around Bologna
Bologna, the vibrant heart of Emilia-Romagna, offers a rich tapestry of history and culture for the discerning traveller. Explore the historic centre, where medieval towers and charming piazzas invite leisurely strolls. Experience the authentic atmosphere of real Bologna in its bustling markets and local eateries. Just a short journey away, delightful neighbouring towns await, each showcasing friendly locals and a unique blend of relaxation and tradition, making your visit truly unforgettable.
- Historic Center: The Historic Center of Bologna is the heart of the city, brimming with rich history and vibrant culture. Its narrow streets are lined with medieval buildings, charming piazzas, and stunning churches, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle by enjoying bustling markets and attending events at iconic venues. With its peak tourist seasons in May and from September to October, the area remains lively year-round, offering a wealth of educational and cultural experiences that appeal to both leisure and business travellers.
- Santo Stefano: Located adjacent to the Historic Center, Santo Stefano is renowned for its captivating architecture and serene atmosphere. This neighbourhood offers a perfect blend of cultural pursuits and local markets, making it an inviting spot for those seeking an authentic Italian experience. The area is particularly vibrant during spring and autumn, attracting numerous visitors eager to explore its historic sites, including the beautiful Basilica di Santo Stefano. With a variety of public markets and event venues, Santo Stefano provides a unique glimpse into Bologna's rich heritage and community spirit.
- Casalecchio di Reno: Just 5km from Bologna, Casalecchio di Reno is a charming city that offers a different pace, ideal for families and sports enthusiasts. It's known for its vibrant theatre scene and shopping centre, as well as its proximity to sports facilities that host various events. The city is less frequented than Bologna, making it a peaceful retreat while still offering plenty of cultural experiences. Peak visitor times coincide with spring and autumn, providing a lovely backdrop for outdoor activities and family-friendly fun in a relaxed environment.
Things to do near Bologna
Shopping
Bologna offers a delightful shopping experience with its historic markets like Mercato di Mezzo, where you can find local delicacies and unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit Centro Commerciale Granreno, located 16km away, featuring various shops and eateries for a more extensive selection.
Recreation
Villa Aldini offers a tranquil setting with lush gardens and wellness treatments, allowing you to unwind with holistic therapies. For outdoor enthusiasts, Giardini Margherita provides scenic walking paths and serene picnic spots, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of Bologna.
Adventure
At the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, 34km from Bologna, you can immerse yourself in the thrill of motor racing, experiencing high-speed excitement and the roar of engines. Enzo Ferrari Park, located 39km away, offers additional opportunities for adrenaline-fuelled adventures in a vibrant atmosphere.
Nightlife
Bologna's nightlife buzzes with energy, from sipping cocktails at the stylish Caffè Zamboni to enjoying live music at Locomotiv Club. For a more relaxed vibe, the charming Osteria del Sole offers a cosy atmosphere to unwind with local wines and delicious bites.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bologna
Bologna offers numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Embrace free attractions like Piazza Maggiore, the Fountain of Neptune, and Basilica Santo Stefano. To save on transport, opt for walking or cycling. Consider visiting during off-peak months, such as January, February, or August, for lower accommodation prices. Booking a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can yield significant savings. Mondays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are the priciest. Don't forget to explore package deals that combine flights and hotels for added discounts.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Bologna are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, May and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Bologna is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Bologna is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Bologna is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and various other preferences. You can easily arrange the results to display hotels from the lowest to highest price, ensuring you find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Bologna with your flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Bologna
Bologna is an ideal destination for culture, city, and business-themed vacations. Visitors can explore a wealth of attractions, including historic churches, palaces, and museums that provide rich cultural experiences. Whether you're travelling with family or seeking urban adventures, Bologna offers a myriad of points of interest that will make your visit memorable. Don't miss out on the city's captivating attractions to fully immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.
- Piazza Maggiore: This vibrant square is the heart of Bologna, where locals and tourists alike gather to soak in the lively atmosphere. Surrounded by stunning historical architecture, it serves as a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls, cultural events, and people-watching.
- Two Towers: An iconic symbol of Bologna, the Two Towers offer a glimpse into the city’s medieval past. Climbing the Asinelli Tower rewards visitors with sweeping views of the city, while the Garisenda Tower adds to the picturesque skyline.
- Basilica of San Petronio: This grand church, one of the largest in the world, showcases exquisite Gothic architecture and a rich array of artworks. Visitors can explore its vast interior, which reflects Bologna’s deep religious heritage and artistic legacy.
Best time to go to Bologna
The best time to visit Bologna is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Bologna
Flying into Bologna is convenient with three major airports nearby. Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) is located merely 5km from the city centre, with excellent hotel options such as the Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni and Starhotels Excelsior, both offering transfers to the airport. Florence Peretola Airport (FLR) is situated 77km away, with luxurious hotels like Bernini Palace providing shuttle services. Lastly, Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is approximately 137km from Bologna, with nearby hotels like Ausonia Hungaria offering various transportation options to the airport. Each airport presents unique choices for a seamless travel experience to Bologna.