Nestled between Italy’s more trodden cities of Venice, Milan and Florence, Bologna is the largest city and the food capital of the northern Emilia-Romagna region. Its iconic red-tiled roofs and soaring towers serve as a picturesque backdrop to its bustling piazzas.
Famed for housing the world’s oldest university and one of the oldest churches, Bologna invites visitors to immerse themselves in the charm of elegant architecture, quaint side streets, and graceful coffee shops. The city’s medieval origins and Renaissance touches also make for stunning daytime strolls.
Bologna’s hotels promise a sensory-rich experience, and range from tranquil inner-city boutiques to luxury wellness resorts. From my many trips to beautiful Bologna, I have handpicked my favourite cool and unusual hotels in the city (in no particular order)...
1. Savhotel – a trendy, Insta-worthy and newly renovated hotel featuring a solarium, jacuzzi and fitness centre
With its trendy character, completely renovated design, and top-notch location, Savhotel is the perfect choice for travellers looking for a modern take on Bologna’s charming hospitality traditions.
The hotel is equipped with brand-new spaces which guarantee relaxation, my favourite of which was the external ‘Piazzetta’, which is surrounded by stunning greenery.
The NeroArancio Restaurant and the lounge bar both offer a colourful environment in which to tuck into a delicious meal, and evolve from a quaint day-time hub into a vibrant scene of night-time antics.
The charming rooftop terrace was the source of blissful moments of downtime during my visit, and it is accompanied by a shimmering plunge pool and comfy chill-out areas.
2. The Social Hub Bologna – a cool, hip and funky hotel with Instagrammable features perfect for partying Millennials and Gen Zs
Bringing a new generation of international explorers together in a hub of innovation, this creative property is the ideal place to combine work and leisure.
You’ll find the Social Hub just a stone’s throw from Bologna’s train station, and inside you will discover trendsetting spaces designed for fitness, work, and wellness. Besides the epic co-working spaces, my favourite facility was the courtyard pool, which brought an air of relaxation to my vibrant city break.
Guests are invited to hang out in the lobby and connect with other visionaries, or head to one of the many on-site bars and restaurants to refuel from the eventful day and carry on into the night.
3. Skyline 1/7 B&B – a cute, unique, quirky and retro-styled accommodation steps away from an array of restaurants, shops and activities
Overlooking the historic centre of Bologna, this beautiful B&Bis a place where every element is imbued with a nod to the city’s heritage.
From the floor tiles to the furniture, to the vivid decorations, the atmosphere is one of refined elegance, and the essence of nature permeates every space within the property.
I felt totally at home here, and the homemade breakfast was the ultimate fuel to kickstart my sightseeing days. There is a lavish communal space where you will find many books, and this area opens onto a stunning terrace where you can recline before spectacular city views.
4. I Portici Hotel Bologna – a chic, unique and upscale boutique hotel where guests can experience delicious cuisine from a Michelin-starred restaurant
This lavish abodeinduces a captivating journey of all the senses. The charm of the 1500 square metres of Art Nouveau frescoes pairs elegantly with the refined Italian design.
The avant-garde comforts in the guestrooms, the spectacle of haute cuisine, and the beautiful plays of light around the property combine to offer a graceful experience here.
My room was decorated in a modern style, with parquet and minimal furnishings creating an eye-catching aesthetic. The I Portici restaurant, with its innovative look at traditional cuisine, was my favourite of the four gastronomic proposals at this hotel, and it is a fan-favourite in the Bolognese culinary scene.
5. Aemilia Hotel Bologna – a newly renovated, contemporary and stylish hotel in a location perfect for partying Millennials and Gen Zs
Aemilia Hotelstrikes a good balance between vibrancy and tranquillity, owing to its strategic location on a quiet street, just a short stroll from the city centre.
As I was welcomed into the graceful lobby area, the brown and cream colour scheme was pleasing to the eye, and there was a pile of international newspapers and a large TV to keep me entertained as I awaited check-in. I would thoroughly recommend booking a room on the upper floors, where the city views set a resplendent backdrop to your stay.
The on-site Gurmè Restaurant is an excellent choice for when you don’t want to venture into town, and its menu features classic Italian dishes and Bolognese specialities.
6. Elizabeth Lifestyle Hotel – a sleek, creative and trendy accommodation where guests can hire bikes to explore the area
Modern art prints ornate the jewel-toned walls at this boutique hotel, while scattered sculptures and classical elements pay homage to Bologna’s history.
This lifestyle retreat stands out for its elegance and uniqueness, in a colourful and lively corner of the city. The rooms are enriched with refined artistic nuances, which embellished my whole experience with meaning and beauty.
I thought the La Bottega bath products and the signature Laura Tonatto scents were a graceful touch, and they added a dash of modern luxury to this traditional abode.
Throughout the property, there are many references to nature, not just in the artwork, but in the strategic positions of the windows which frame the soaring trees that line the exterior.
7. Amobo – a charming, peaceful and cosy boutique-style B&B neighbouring the tranquil park Melloni
Situated a pleasant 10-minute stroll from Piazza Maggiore, Amobo is a charming boutique hotel which encapsulates the very essence of Italian hospitality.
I felt a genuine family vibe here, which made me feel both at home and on an epic journey simultaneously. A standout feature for me was the garden, which is graced by comfy furniture and invites guests to kick back and soak up Bologna’s quintessential charm.
The guestroom opens onto the garden, which means you can combine the luxury of the in-room amenities with the peacefulness of a natural setting. During my stay I was given expert advice on tours and excursions within the local area.
8. AC Hotel Bologna by Marriott – an urban, sleek and fashionable hotel within walking distance of the city centre
I have stayed at this hotel on many of my return visits to Bologna, as it is the perfect spot to combine work and leisure. The designers have created a trailblazing hospitality experience here, where every space is thoughtfully styled to maximize space and minimize clutter.
The elegant décor and luxury furnishings exude the quintessential luxury of the Marriott brand and provide a true cocooning experience in the well-appointed guestrooms.
In the AC Lounge, you will find a curated selection of shareable plates and handcrafted beverages. Other in-house facilities include a well-equipped gym and many state-of-the-art meeting spaces.
9. PHI HOTEL BOLOGNA “Al Cappello Rosso” – one of the oldest boutique hotels in the city providing guests with a unique, intimate and vibrant stay
Designed by contemporary artists, this eclectic hotelcaptures the essence of today’s Bologna. It is an appealing combination of old and new, topped with a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Around the property you will find historic photos and posters paying homage to its storied past, and the lounge is an idyllic space to relax. This peaceful space features comfortable sofas, vintage trunk tables, and a display of festival posters.
Owing to the amiable staff presence, I was able to gain expert advice on the local area’s restaurants and events, and I even borrowed a bike to explore the city on. The quirky-themed guestrooms and restaurant are designed to add a vibrant flair to your city break.
10. Hotel Corona d’Oro – a historic and art deco-styled upscale boutique hotel surrounded by local popular attractions
An air of calm reigns superior inside this eclectic hotel, giving it the feel of a relaxing oasis away from the hustle and bustle. A two-minute walk will however lead you straight to the city’s landmark towers and the main square, Piazza Maggiore.
As I entered into the beautiful lobby lounge, I was met with graceful antiques and orchids, which created a peaceful conservatory effect. The classical columns and stucco garlands set beneath a coffered ceiling immediately drew me to the building’s historical roots, which date back to the Middle Ages.
My room was draped in a terracotta colour scheme, and the soft lighting exuded a true soul-soothing spot of respite.
11. The Sydney Hotel – a spacious, bright and family-friendly hotel where guests can relax around the pool after a day of sightseeing
The Sydney Hotel is the perfect place to combine work and leisure. Its large and bright spaces invite you to comfortably conduct your business needs, and the modern style of the guestrooms induces a sense of calmness and serenity.
I had a couple of memorable nights at the on-site Opera Restaurant, which overlooks the property’s expansive grounds. This took me on a journey of flavours which ranged from crafted regional cuisine to typical Italian dishes
. Incorporated to enhance the hotel’s wellness offerings, further on-site facilities include a gym and a shimmering outdoor pool where you can admire a beautiful sunset over Bologna.
12. Villa Gotti Charming Rooms – a chic, retro and stylish accommodation offering guests a buffet breakfast each morning and snacks in the room
A cornerstone of modern Italian architecture, this jaw-dropping property lies on the hill of Bologna, and bears witness to the city’s tremendous history.
The villa is the work of Bolognese engineer Enrico De Angeli, who through this property has provided the city with a masterpiece of architectural rationalism. The interiors are adorned with bespoke furnishings, and huge circular windows which frame the surrounding verdant landscapes.
Vivid colour schemes, comfy décor, and modern amenities combine to fuel a hospitality experience rooted in eclecticism and fascination here. A stark contrast to the building’s historic roots is expressed in the guestrooms, many of which are clad head to toe in luxury trappings, and provide guests with a functional sleeping environment.
13. Il Convento Dei Fiori Di Seta – a petite, unique and elegant accommodation housed in a former convent perfect for a couple’s romantic getaway
This elegant 4-star hotel is, in my opinion, one of the most hospitable and well-equipped in the whole of Bologna.
It is housed in a 14th-century convent, yet has been refurbished to blur the lines between tradition and modernity. A blissful combination of glass fittings, plush seating areas, and fluffy rugs gives the hotel a unique boutique feel.
The intimate guestrooms are embellished with pretty flower motifs and plenty of colours, which add a graceful touch to the original brick and stone features. The relaxation area comes with a massage centre, a Turkish bath, and a Jacuzzi, inviting you to relish a sense of wellness during your visit.
14. Gregorini Bingham Art Luxury Suites – an upscale, chic and historic accommodation located in the heart of Bologna
Situated just a few metres from Piazza Maggiore and a stone’s throw from the main cultural sites of the city, Gregorini Bingham brings guests into direct contact with Italian art.
Craftmanship is embodied through the special fabrics, as well as the artisanal elements which come from famous Italian designers. The rooms reveal many artistic features, from the stuccos and the original 19th-century crests to the traditional decorations which transpire from the walls in a quirky way.
Elegance is manifested through noble materials like wood and marble, however, the historic feel is balanced with the latest technological amenities, and contemporary colours stand out amid the classic décor.
Scott started his travelling life back in 1999, when he headed off on a solo jaunt to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia with just a backpack, a camera and a spirit for adventure. After that, the travel bug bit hard and now he is always seeking to head off somewhere new. Over the years he has lived in Italy, Qatar, Ireland, UK and the US but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting craving for culture, good food and great football. Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @scottbalaam
