Searching for where to stay in Bologna? Albergo Garisenda is like finding the perfect espresso—small, strong, and right where you need it to be.
Bologna. A city where the towers lean, the pasta melts in your mouth, and everything seems to be dipped in warm terracotta hues.
It’s Italy’s best-kept secret that everyone seems to know about. Planning to visit? You’re going to need somewhere to stay, preferably a spot that oozes charm but doesn’t make you feel like you’re roughing it.
Here are three places that, in my opinion, absolutely nail it.
Albergo Garisenda
Albergo Garisenda is the kind of place you’d walk by and think, “I bet staying there feels like living in a movie.” It’s old-school in the best way possible, sitting opposite Bologna’s iconic Two Towers—so close you might start dreaming of climbing them (just don’t look down).
The rooms are simple, like a warm hug from a distant Italian relative you didn’t know you had. Nothing flashy, just good, honest accommodations with free WiFi and a sense of nostalgia in every corner. The location, though, is what seals the deal. You’re minutes from Piazza Maggiore and Juliet-level balcony gazing at the city’s magic.
What I like here is the no-frills authenticity. It’s not trying to be something it’s not, and honestly, that’s refreshing. View room gallery >>
Frame Bologna
Frame Bologna is what happens when a hotel decides to be effortlessly cool without even trying. It’s just a few steps from Archiginnasio di Bologna, so you can roll out of bed and straight into the heart of the city. Perfect if you hate walking but love sightseeing.
The rooms have this polished, modern look that makes you feel like you’ve checked into an Instagram post. There’s air conditioning (praise be!) and some rooms even have city views that might make you forget about sightseeing altogether. And the in-room coffee machines? Genius. Nobody should have to face Bologna’s cobblestones pre-caffeine.
What sticks out for me is how stylish everything feels without veering into “trying too hard” territory. It’s cool but not intimidating, which is exactly what you want after a day of exploring. View room gallery >>
Art Hotel Commercianti
Now this one’s a real gem. Art Hotel Commercianti sits right next to the San Petronio Basilica, which is basically Bologna’s equivalent of having the Colosseum as your neighbor. The building is medieval but somehow manages to be utterly chic—like it woke up one day and decided to reinvent itself.
Inside, the rooms are charmingly unique, with exposed wooden beams and just enough modern flair to remind you it’s the 21st century. The free breakfast? A feast. And don’t even get me started on the free bike rentals, which are perfect for exploring Bologna’s hidden corners without breaking a sweat.
What I love about this place is the blend of history and comfort. It’s fancy enough to feel special, but not so over-the-top that you’d worry about breaking something expensive. View room gallery >>
Final Words
Bologna is a city of rich flavors and richer experiences, so why not treat yourself to a stay that matches the vibe? Sure, these hotels aren’t the cheapest in town, but they’ve got style, comfort, and locations that practically scream “perfect getaway.”
Whether it’s Albergo Garisenda’s down-to-earth charm, Frame Bologna’s modern ease, or Art Hotel Commercianti’s historic elegance, you really can’t go wrong. Life’s too short for bad pasta or bad hotels—thankfully, you won’t find either here.