Are you looking for the best boutique hotels in Bologna, Italy? We’re sharing our top picks in this post.
One of our favorite parts about traveling throughout Europe is staying in unique hotels and accommodations. More often than not, we lean towards staying in boutique hotels that are family or individually run to have a more intimate experience.
Luckily, there are plenty of incredible options to choose from in Bologna. We spent a couple months staying in and exploring the best of Bologna. During our time here, we toured several of these boutique hotels to make sure they are up to our standard.
Whether you are looking for somewhere to stay during an extended vacation or you need a place to stay on a short weekend break, don’t miss out on staying in one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in Bologna city center.
Our top 3 picks: Boutique Hotels in Bologna
With so many options, it can be overwhelming choosing where to stay in Bologna. We’ve ranked our top three best boutique hotels in Bologna to help you easily decide where to stay in the city.
Our #1 Pick
CASA BERTAGNI
This comfortable and stylish boutique hotel features beautiful rooms, a fantastic breakfast, and is hidden away in the city center.
Our #2 Pick
HOTEL TOURING
This hotel is located in the heart of Bologna and features spacious rooms, a rooftop balcony with panoramic views, and is within walking distance to all the main sights in Bologna.
Our #3 Pick
HOTEL PORTA SAN MAMOLO
This chic boutique hotel is located in a quiet neighborhood in Bologna with well-decorated rooms and modern amenities.
Where to stay in Bologna
Wondering where to stay in Bologna? There are 2 neighborhoods that we recommend in this article: Centro Storico and Bolognina.
Centro Storico: Most hotels are located in Centro Storico, which is the historical center of Bologna. If you can, we highly recommend staying in this neighborhood. All of the main sights are within walking distance, which will save you time and effort.
Bolognina: Bolognina is located on the opposite side of the train station from the city center. This is a lovely local neighborhood with some fantastic restaurants. If you’re looking for a more local vibe, then this is a great place to stay. However, you’ll want to take the bus to all of the main attractions, as the walk is 25+ minutes each way.
11 Best Boutique Hotels in Bologna
Choosing a boutique accommodation in Bologna comes with many unique advantages. From the convenience of smaller and more intimate settings to personalized services tailored to your needs.
In this article, we look at the best boutique hotels in Bologna. Our top picks will offer an unforgettable experience that caters to every style of traveller. Expect charming decor, hospitable staff, modern amenities, and easy access to the city’s best sightseeing destinations.
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
1. Casa Bertagni
RATING: 9.4/10 | STARS: 4 | NEIGHBORDHOOD: CENTRO STORICO | CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY
There’s a good reason why we’ve ranked Casa Bertagni as the best boutique hotel in Bologna. Casa Bertagni is situated in the historical centre of Bologna, within walking distance of the city’s two towers.
This comfortable hotel features modern rooms fully equipped with air conditioning and satellite TV, as well as a private bathroom. Guests can also request private parking, bike rental or an airport shuttle service for free!
This is the perfect place to stay for those looking to discover Bologna’s charm and culture, as it is located near the National Art Gallery. The hotel also offers non-smoking rooms and free Wi-Fi, further enhancing its appeal for both business travellers and holidaymakers alike.
On top of that, there’s an on-site hot tub, and guests can savour delicious breakfast options. This truly is the best hotel in Bologna which stands out from other Bologna accommodations.
“If you are going to Bologna don’t stay anywhere else. The hotel has a great location, the rooms are excellent and to top it all the owner and staff are so friendly and helpful. Very impressed.” – Joe (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
2. Hotel Touring
Hotel Rating: 8.5/10 | Stars: 4 | Neighborhood: Centro Storico | Check rates and availability
Hotel Touring is an iconic 4 star superior boutique accommodation in Bologna that offers warm hospitality since the 1950s. This delightful hotel boasts a central location near several attractions such as the Basilica of San Domenico, Galleria Cavour, and Piazza Maggiore, making it ideal for business travellers and holidaymakers alike.
The hotel features modern rooms with parquet floors and air conditioning, plus LCD TVs and free Wi-Fi. Guests opting for top-floor rooms will have a chance to enjoy balconies with stunning views of Bologna’s rooftops and hills. The hotel also provides a hot tub located on its fifth floor (opened from June to September).
Additionally, guests can take advantage of other upscale amenities such as private parking, family rooms, non-smoking rooms for disabled guests, 24-hour front desk service and room service. Rooms also come with a bar with tea/coffee maker in all rooms.
“It was just perfect. Great location within minutes walk of main centre, bright airy room, delicious breakfast & exceptional friendly staff throughout.” – Maria (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
3. Hotel Porta San Mamolo
Hotel Rating: 8.5/10 | Stars: 4 | Neighborhood: Centro Storico | Check rates and availability
This beautiful design hotel in Bologna is located in a quiet area, 10 minutes from Bologna’s main square. This modern hotel offers an excellent free breakfast with numerous delicious options served daily in the garden or its furnished courtyard.
Each room is designed with guests’ comfort in mind, featuring Wi-Fi access, satellite TV and some terraces with city views or a private entrance from the garden. Moreover, the hotel provides a 24-hour lounge bar and friendly staff ready to attend to guests’ needs 24/7.
Hotel Porta San Mamolo offers plenty of facilities for its guests such as private parking, family rooms, and non-smoking rooms.
“Much nicer than a large International hotel with no heart, The Porta San Mamolo was warm and typical, we loved it!” – Karen (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
4. Art Hotel Commercianti
Hotel Rating: 8.9/10 | Stars: 4 | Neighborhood: Centro Storico | Check rates and availability
Hotel Commercianti is located in the historical centre of Bologna. It prides itself on offering friendly service and an elegant style. It’s located right next to San Petronio Basilica and the Fountain of Neptune.
Each room is designed with comfort in mind with interesting decor reflecting the culture of Bolognia. Rooms feature satellite TV and air conditioning. The hotel also offers luggage storage and a lift for extra convenience as well as a variety of amenities such as free Wi-Fi throughout and free bike hire for guests.
On top of all that, Hotel Commercianti provides its guests with free breakfast services as well as tea/coffee maker beverages served in all rooms creating a fabulous experience.
“Absolutely amazing location, amazing quirky individual rooms, great breakfast and really helpful staff.” –Rosemary (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
5. Aemilia Hotel Bologna
Hotel Rating: 8.9/10 | Stars: 4 | Neighborhood: Cirenaica | Check rates and availability
This is one our favourite luxury boutique hotels in Bologna, with beautiful decor and so many onsite facilities. Hotel Aemilia is just 15 minutes walk from Bologna’s city center and towers.
This hotel stands out by providing visitors with luxurious amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and high-definition LCD TV with international channels and Chromecast facility as well as a fully-equipped fitness centre.
A delicious buffet breakfast is served every morning, and the onsite Gurmé restaurant serves local specialities and Italian favourites for dinner. In addition, the bar serves drinks and light lunches.
“Staff were amazing, the location brilliant a short walk from the city centre. Nice additional facilities such as the bar, gym, and roof terrace.” -Liberty (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
6. L’8 Boutique Design Apartments
Hotel Rating: 9.1/10 | Stars: 4 | Neighborhood: Centro Storico | Check rates and availability
The outstandingly decorated L’8 Boutique Design Apartments is an excellent accommodation choice located right in the centre of Bologna, just 300 m from Via dell’ Indipendenza and less than 1 km from Quadrilatero Bologna.
These individual units provide a unique experience for those staying with private entrances, family rooms, free WiFi and river views. Apartments are fully air-conditioned and fitted with a seating area, flat-screen TV with streaming services, kitchen, dining area, safety deposit box and a private bathroom with bidet, hairdryer and free toiletries.
Each unit comes with a dishwasher, and microwave as well as a coffee machine and kettle as well as bed linen and towels included plus access to a garden & terrace.
“Great little apartment, stayed only for one night but it would easily be one to stay in for a week or so both for work or leisure. Super central location and walkable distance from all of Bologna’s main sites.” -Martastales (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
7. Albergo delle Drapperie
Hotel Rating: 8.3/10 | Stars: 3 | Neighborhood: Centro Storico | Check rates and availability
Albergo delle Drapperie is a 19th-century building located in the heart of Bologna, just a 3-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore square. It offers accommodation with free WiFi and air-conditioned rooms with either frescoed or wooden-beamed ceilings. Some rooms also feature French balconies with city views.
The hotel provides guests with a breakfast buffet each morning in the common area, including freshly brewed coffee or cappuccino, sweet pastries and also cheeses and cold cuts. Guests can also make use of other amenities such as family rooms, non-smoking rooms and airport shuttle service provided onsite.
“The location of the hotel is great, close to every major sight in Bologna and within walking distance of the train station. I love the interior too.” -Zhenya (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
8. Art Hotel Orologio
Hotel Rating: 8.6/10 | Stars: 4 | Neighborhood: Centro Storico | Check rates and availability
This boutique hotel is situated in a traffic-free area with impressive views of Piazza Maggiore and the historic centre of Bologna, Hotel Orologio offers luxurious stays for its guests.
All rooms are elegantly decorated with dark-wood furniture and marble bathrooms, air-conditioned and come with a minibar and flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The hotel provides excellent services such as free internet points, family rooms and non-smoking rooms.
The hotel also features private parking, an airport shuttle (free), a 24-hour front desk, room service, a lift, heating and tea/coffee maker in all rooms. The Towers of Bologna are just 5 minutes’ walk away while Bologna Central Station is easily accessible by bus.
“Amazing room which was actually an apartment in an adjoining block. Really nicely done out with clever use of space and excellent facilities like the jacuzzi bath and good shower. Don’t forget the massage chair! Well equipped with a laundry room.” -Matt (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
9. Hotel Il Guercino
Hotel Rating: 8.3/10 | Stars: 4 | Neighborhood: Bolognina | Check rates and availability
Located just 250 m from Bologna Centrale Train Station, in a peaceful, private courtyard.
All rooms are elegantly furnished and come with bright colours while the annexe buildings feature parquet floors, this boutique hotel offers luxurious stays. Il Guercino provides amenities such as private parking, non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, a 24-hour front desk and bar onsite alongside very good breakfast options!
Roms are equipped with free WiFi and air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV and tea/coffee makers.
One of the best things about this accommodation is the onsite spa facilities. The Il Bagno di Diana wellness centre is available at an extra cost and features a Finnish Sauna, steam room and hot tub with chromotherapy. Guests can also make use of the free gym facility.
“A very nice boutique hotel 20 min walk to the center and right next to the station. Nice and quiet neighborhood too. The staff was really friendly” -Nikos (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
10. B&B Il Viaggio Bologna
Hotel Rating: 9.5/10 | Stars: 4 | Neighborhood: Centro Storico | Check rates and availability
Located in a convenient central spot in Bologna, B&B Il Viaggio Bologna offers guests comfortable stays with air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi access.
All units come with a fully equipped kitchen, flat-screen TV, washing machine and private bathrooms. Bed linen and towels are also provided. The bed and breakfast offers an extensive breakfast selection of pastries, fruits, juice and other options. There is also a coffee shop and minimarket onsite.
Other amenities at the bed and breakfast include private parking, family rooms, non-smoking rooms, room service and heating along with tea/coffee maker in all rooms.
“Roberto was a super accommodating host. He made everything so smooth. The property was stylish, comfortable & very well stocked.” – Lisa (read more reviews)
BOLOGNA BOUTIQUE HOTELS
11. Hotel Corona d’Oro
Hotel Rating: 8.8/10 | Stars: 4 | Neighborhood: Centro Storico | Check rates and availability
Hotel Corona d’Oro is one of the most luxurious hotels in Bologna. Located just a 3-minute walk from Bologna’s two towers and right next to one of our favorite coffee shops, Caffe Terzi, you can’t get anymore central than this.
This 4-star hotel features well-decorated and spacious rooms with modern amenities. There is an in-house restaurant as well as a fabulous breakfast served to guests in the morning.
If you’re looking for a luxury boutique hotel in Bologna, then this is the one for you.
“Beautiful property and rooms. There is no better location, and the staff was absolutely wonderful!” – Chris (read more reviews)
FAQ: Bologna Boutique Hotels
What to stay in Bologna without a car?
The best place to stay in Bologna is the Centro Storico. This is the city center and most sights are within 10-15 minutes walking distance.
How many nights do you need in Bologna?
We recommend staying a minimum of 2 nights in Bologna to see the main sights. If you want to see more of the region, then we suggest 4 nights in Bologna with day trips to cities like Modena and Parma.
Are boutique hotels more expensive?
Boutique hotels are often mid-range priced hotels, with some being more expensive than others. They are often well-designed hotels and are owned by local families or individuals instead of being owned by a larger hotel chain.
More information for your trip to Bologna
Check out these additional Bologna travel guides to help plan your trip:
- 25 Best Things to do in Bologna
- Bologna Food Guide: 27 Traditional Bologna Italy Foods You Need To Try Now
- 10 Best Food Tours in Bologna
- How to get from Bologna Airport to Bologna Centrale
- The 8 Best Gelato Shops in Bologna in 2023
- 13 Life-Changing Foods of Emilia Romagna You Never Knew Existed
- 23 Best Day Trips from Bologna, Italy
- Walking the Amazing Portico di San Luca in Bologna: Everything You Need to Know