6 Best Hotels in Bologna, Emilia–Romagna

This swank place, with decor inspired by European design of the 1930s, is in a little piazza just minutes from Piazza Maggiore. Clean lines and elegant restraint are the hallmarks of the rooms, the lobby, even the elevators—and equally well-dressed people like to stay here. It's well worth paying extra to upgrade from a basic double, as other rooms are that much bigger. The ample breakfast includes eggs, and every evening the bar hosts a happy hour. Those considering a longer stay might want to avail themselves of one of two luxurious apartments in a nearby palazzo, where the effortless style of the Novecento prevails.

The location of this stylish and welcoming family-run hotel can't be beat: it's right around the corner from Piazza Maggiore on a quiet piazza. The inviting living room has Oriental rugs and comfortable couches. Rooms are mostly painted yellow, with hardwood floors, and some have antique clocks and tremendous views of 14th-century Palazzo Comunale just across the way. The ample breakfast includes fresh fruit, and the staff are uniformly friendly and professional. 

A stone's throw from Piazza Maggiore, this place that started out as a pensione in 1875 has endured into the 21st century with a winning combination of comfort, affordability, and some family-size rooms. Rooms are simply furnished, and those facing the inner courtyard (without a view) are really quiet; many are triples and quads. The bathrooms are large by Italian standards (though not all rooms have a private one). A copious buffet breakfast includes breads, pastries, yogurt, and cheese, along with local specialties like mortadella. Parking is usually available in the nearby square. Note that a major renovation will mean that no rooms will have any view of the city until the completion of work in early 2021.

Set within an historic palazzo dating back to the 12th century, with stained glass and beamed ceilings, this hotel is fitted with stylish interiors and rooms filled with interesting art and antiques. Classic doubles mix the refined with vibrant color accents; Deluxe rooms up the spaciousness and artsy individuality; while the atmospheric, frescoed Tower Suite has two rooms and closeup views of Basilica of San Petronio. 

From the marble lobby to the luxury rooftop-terrace suites, Bologna's oldest and grandest hotel, set in an 18th-century palazzo impresses with its classical aristocratic French decor and top-notch food. The Classic and Superior guest rooms have linen sheets, antiques, draped curtains, and an aristocratic air; while the top suites, including a sprawling Venetian-style apartment, beloved of celebs and royalty, have cathedral views.  

Elegance and historic charm are the keynotes of this converted medieval palazzo once belonging to the powerful Azzoguidi family, just a short stroll from Piazza Maggiore and all the main attractions. The soothing calm of the sumptuous interior is most evident in the Liberty-style lounge with glass dome, and the period touches extend to the spacious and well-soundproofed guest rooms and suites. The choicest rooms have Renaissance-era frescoes and wooden ceilings, balconies, and views of Bologna's medieval towers. Breakfasts are abundant and their swanky restaurant/cocktail bar Casa Azzoguidi is top-notch.