We want to spend 2 days in Bologna in September before joining tour in Padua, which area is best to stay in, does it have a specific historic centre? We want to be able to walk in interesting areas from hotel we would like a hotel with charm, we have like the RS hotels we have used on tours to give you some idea, location is important, and a rooftop area bar or viewing place is always enjoyable, not wanting big chains that could be anywhere, hope this isnt too confusing
Posted by
Virginia, USA
6154 posts
Look for places near the Piazza Maggiore.
Posted by
OP
51 posts
Thank you will do
Posted by
NYC
25 posts
We enjoyed staying in the Art Hotel Orologio right off Plaza Maggiore.
You didn’t ask but I recommend eating at Sfoglia Rina.
Posted by
OP
51 posts
Thank you we found one nearby called the Albergo Delle Drapperie, hope it suits. Thank you so much for the restaurant recommendation, we will try it, love having other travellers input. Writing its name down now. Love the travel forum
Posted by
43 posts
Please post a report on your tour! We just signed up for Sept. 2026 and are planning on 2 days each in Venice & Bologna. Would love your input!
Thanks in advance!
Posted by
New England
12014 posts
Look at Novocento.
Posted by
Massachusetts
1406 posts
According to Google, Hotel Novocento is permanently closed.
Posted by
Shawnee, OK, USA
399 posts
I stay at Hotel San Donato at 16 via Zamboni. Close to piazza.
Posted by
Topeka, ks, usa
12 posts
Hotel Centrale; also apartment across the street.
Posted by
11 posts
Albergo Garisenda It's a family-run hotel located in the city center. It was our base for five nights as we explored Bologna and Emil-Romagna.
Its seven rooms are modest, and its lobby and halls are charmingly appointed. You can view the famous towers of Bologna from the terrace and easily walk to major sites, including Piazza Maggiore and the restaurant Sfoglia Rina, which another member recommended. (We went twice for lunch!).
The husband and wife who own Albergo Garisenda are welcoming and attentive, and their knowledge of the region and passion for the city are evident.
Posted by
California
55 posts
We stayed at Hotel Corona D'oro and enjoyed it. It's a block from the two towers. Very lively area, safe, clean.