One more quick question about Bologna.........

We stayed at the Hotel Al Cappello Rosso - http://www.alcappellorosso.it. If you are more of a budget the Hotel Paradise is basic but good hotel, http://www.hotelparadisebologna.it.

try searching the website (box at top right); this has come up before

I have stayed at the Hotel Porta San Mamolo. You will find that since Bologna is not a heavily touristed city, the hotels are geared more towards the business traveler. It is on the opposite side of the city center from the train station. It is just barely outside the ZTL and somewhat difficult to find if you are driving yourself. I "drove" the streets using Google Earth to find the right turns, etc... It is within a short walking distance to the main Piazza and Cathedral. The food is wonderful and so is the shopping. There is an artisan shop in the base of one of the twin towers. Have fun exploring! The food is wonderful! Oh, I said that already! I also found that the taxi drivers are quite honest there and are not as likely to add to the meter or drive you the long way to your destination as they are in Rome and Florence.
http://www.hotel-portasanmamolo.it/

terrific B&B near the towers across from the opera house...Casa Ilaria. it's a converted apartment with full use of common rooms, living room, full kitchen, each beadroom (4) with private bath. Ilaria makes you feel at home. see her website www.casailaria.com

I couldn't recommend Hotel Porta San Mamolo Bologna enough. They were super friendly. Only a 7 Euros from train station. Easy walking distance to main square and a great brekafast and sitting area. it is a little hard to find. We took the bus and walked around in circles trying to find it. But it was a great stay.

Grazie mille for all the great suggestions!