Hi Birddog,

Bologna is a great city and will be a good base for exploring the region. Added bonus: The food is AMAZING!

I've stayed in Bologna twice, both times near the city center and Piazza Maggiore. I liked that location a lot. For hotels, I've stayed at the Albergo Drapperie (www.albergodrapperie.com/), which is very reasonably priced, on a great little shopping street, and literally steps from Piazza Maggiore. I wasn't as happy with it on my last visit as I was on my first one---it didn't seem quite as sparkling clean as it had previously---but the price and location really can't be beat, at least as far as I've found. Others may have more suggestions.

For books, try Footprint Bologna. It's small and portable and has a lot of good info. I think we just got our copy at the local Borders, but you might be able to order it at www.footprintbooks.com.

Hope this helps!

We stayed at the Hotel Porta San Mamolo this past May, which is about a 10-min. walk to Piazza Maggiore.

It is a lovely, clean hotel with a very nice buffet breakfast included in the price. Our room was huge - maybe 20' by 16" with a large, new bathroom at the rate of 120 euro per night. Check out the reviews on tripadvisor.com.

As we were strolling around Pz. Maggiore, I spotted the Hotel Drapperie down a side street. It was a Sunday and things were fairly quiet, but it looked like a market of some kind is below the Drapperie, which could cause an early-morning walkup call (even if you don't want it). Also, I didn't get the impression from the outside that it was a hotel that would suit everyone, but their room rate may be just what you want. You can check that one out on tripadvisor also.

Hotel Metropolitan was wonderful and just down a short alleyway from Via Independenza, an arcaded, pedestrian only street with lots of shops. And then a couple of blocks to the main piazza. Our good size room was bright and clean with a relatively large bathroom. The staff were very friendly and helpful, and during good weather the ample breakfast can be taken in a small courtyard. I'd happily return to the Metropolitan!

birddog,

If you want a REALLY GOOD restaurant recommendation in Bologna let me know.

Thanks for your recommendations. I will look into all of them.
Albergo Drapperie appears to be a good spot for us.

Hi i am kane,

The main reason we are going to Bologna/Emilia-Romagna is for the food, so PLEASE share your favorite restaurants!