
Bologna/San Donato Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
San Donato isn’t just a district—it’s Bologna’s living rhythm. This vibrant neighborhood pulses with local life: street food stalls dishing out rich pasta, vintage markets brimming with charm, and indie boutiques hiding unique finds. The baker smiles and shouts, "Today’s special!" Grab a handmade biscuit—you’re taking home more than a snack; you’re carrying the warmth of authentic Bolognese life.

This luxury hotel in the heart of Bologna is perfect for both business and family trips! Enjoy the full-service SPA and sauna to unwind, or stay active at the fitness center. With childcare services available, parents can relax worry-free. Start your day with a delicious free buffet breakfast, and savor authentic Italian cuisine at I Carracci Restaurant. Spacious rooms feature minibars and plasma TVs, plus free WiFi. Business travelers will appreciate the business center and meeting facilities. Pets are welcome too—bring your furry friend along!

Nestled in the historic center of Bologna, this hotel is your perfect base to explore the city! Just a 5-minute drive from the University of Bologna and hospitals, it caters to both business travelers and families. Enjoy amenities like the fitness center, business facilities, and thoughtful services, including childcare for parents. The on-site restaurant serves delicious meals, and the bar is ideal for unwinding. Modern rooms come with free WiFi and satellite TV, keeping you connected. Start your day with a buffet breakfast and take advantage of express check-in for a hassle-free stay!

This art-inspired hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Bologna, just steps away from Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers. Enjoy free WiFi and a complimentary European breakfast to start your day right! Whether you want to unwind at the bar, utilize the laundry services, or need dry cleaning, this hotel has it all. Family-friendly with top-notch amenities, including 24-hour front desk service and airport shuttle. Rooms are equipped with minibars and flat-screen TVs, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay!








Everything you need to know about San Donato
Near San Donato in Bologna, Hotel Principe di Savoia stands out as a premier choice, blending Renaissance architecture with modern luxury. Located just a 5-minute walk from the San Donato Church, it offers easy access to local history and culture. The hotel features premium bedding, soundproof windows, and 24-hour concierge service, ensuring a peaceful and refined stay.
For transportation, the hotel is only 300 meters from the San Donato Metro Station, providing quick access to Bologna Centrale Train Station—just a 10-minute ride via light rail. Guests can also explore the city on foot or by renting a bike along the scenic Aniene River cycle path, enjoying the relaxed pace of northern Italy’s urban charm.
Yes, San Donato in Bologna is exceptionally well-connected. The San Donato Metro Station serves as a key hub on Bologna’s light rail network, offering direct access to Bologna Centrale Train Station in just 10 minutes. Multiple bus lines also serve the area, linking travelers to major attractions like Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the University of Bologna.
For drivers, on-site parking is available, with several hotels providing free parking. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Bologna’s Bike Sharing program allows easy access to the scenic Aniene River cycle path, ideal for exploring historic districts and art galleries at a relaxed pace.
San Donato hosts vibrant cultural events throughout the year. The annual Festival San Donato features live performances by local and international ensembles, blending classical and jazz music in the historic church courtyard, creating an immersive artistic atmosphere.
On weekends, a bustling artisan market draws over 50 independent designers and craftspeople selling handmade ceramics, leather goods, and embroidered textiles. Visitors can also join guided hidden alley tours led by local experts, uncovering off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods and learning about residents’ traditions and legends. These experiences offer authentic insights into the community spirit and creative energy of northern Italy.
Near San Donato in Bologna, Hotel Albergi San Luca is a top choice — a boutique hotel blending historic architecture with modern comfort. Just a 5-minute walk from San Donato Church, it offers authentic Italian dining experiences and private guided tours to explore local heritage.
Another excellent option is Bologna City Hotel, located a 10-minute drive away, featuring 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and convenient access to city attractions. The area is rich in independent restaurants and antique markets, perfect for travelers seeking immersive cultural encounters in Bologna's vibrant heart.
The easiest way to reach San Donato Church from central Bologna is via public transit: take Bus Line 7 or 16 and alight at the "San Donato" stop, a journey of about 15 minutes. For more flexibility, rent an electric scooter (e.g., Lime) from downtown and ride along main streets — it takes around 12 minutes to reach the site.
Alternatively, walking from the train station takes about 25 minutes, passing through Bologna’s historic district with its Renaissance architecture and street art. Use Google Maps for real-time routing to ensure a smooth trip.
Near San Donato, visitors can enjoy weekly artisan markets featuring local craftspeople, potters, and handmade clothing designers — perfect for creating traditional Italian ceramics or learning vintage weaving techniques.
The church hosts annual events like the San Donato Music Festival, where renowned ensembles perform Baroque and classical works under the cathedral’s stunning dome, offering exceptional acoustics and atmosphere.
Don’t miss hands-on Italian culinary workshops, where you’ll learn to prepare authentic Bolognese ragù and homemade focaccia in a family kitchen, immersing yourself in the region’s deep-rooted food culture.
San Donato Church is a prime example of Romanesque architecture, built in the 11th century, characterized by thick stone walls and rounded arches that convey medieval solemnity.
Inside, it blends Byzantine elements, including intricate mosaics on the floor and stained-glass windows. The most iconic feature is the golden Virgin Mary mosaic beneath the central dome, glowing brilliantly when sunlight hits it.
The adjacent bell tower, standing 35 meters tall, is climbable and offers panoramic views of historic Bologna. Hidden among nearby alleyways are dozens of unrecorded medieval frescoes, well worth exploring for art enthusiasts.
See what other travelers say about San Donato

Staying at Grand Hotel Majestic Gia' Baglioni was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—just a short walk from Bologna’s most iconic landmarks, making it super convenient for exploring the city on foot. The staff were incredibly warm and attentive, always ready to help with a smile. The room was immaculate, beautifully decorated with elegant touches that made it feel luxurious yet cozy. The bed was incredibly comfortable, perfect for a good night’s sleep after a day of sightseeing. Whether you're here for leisure or business, this hotel offers outstanding value and a memorable experience. I’ll definitely be returning.

Staying at Art Hotel Commercianti in Bologna was an absolute delight. Nestled right in the heart of the city, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring on foot—everything from museums to local cafes is just a short stroll away. The hotel itself is small but perfectly charming, with tasteful art-inspired decor that gives it a unique personality. Breakfast was exceptional—fresh, delicious, and full of local flavors. I especially loved the homemade pastries and rich coffee. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. Staff were attentive, friendly, and always ready to help without being intrusive. The room was spotless, clean, and well-maintained down to the smallest detail. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of style, comfort, and hospitality in a boutique hotel. Highly recommended for travelers who appreciate authenticity and attention to detail.

Staying at Hotel Roma in the heart of Bologna was an absolute delight. The hotel itself has a wonderful historic charm, with elegant details throughout the building that truly capture the essence of old Italy. My room was cozy and warm, perfectly equipped with everything I needed—air conditioning, mini-bar, safe, hairdryer, and even an electric kettle. The breakfast was excellent, offering a wide variety of fresh options, and the on-site restaurant served delicious meals for lunch and dinner—no need to leave the hotel. But what truly made the experience unforgettable was the staff. They were incredibly welcoming, attentive, and always going the extra mile to ensure my stay was comfortable and memorable. From check-in to checkout, every interaction felt personal and genuine. If I ever return to Bologna, Hotel Roma will be my first choice without hesitation.

Absolutely loved our stay at this gem of a hotel! The location was perfect for exploring Bologna on foot—everything we wanted was within walking distance. The rooms were clean, well-equipped, and had everything we needed, including a reliable air conditioner, which made a big difference in the summer heat. The inner courtyard is truly beautiful—lush greenery and a peaceful vibe that made it a lovely spot to relax. The staff went above and beyond with their hospitality—friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist. We didn’t even ask about parking, but they kindly arranged a 24-hour parking spot just outside the hotel for €9 using the platform’s booking option—super convenient when the garage was full. Overall, an exceptional experience from start to finish. Highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Bologna!

Staying at Boutique Hotel Casa Faccioli in Bologna was an absolute highlight of my trip. Nestled right in the heart of the city, it’s just a 2-minute walk from Piazza Nettuno and the main square, with the iconic leaning towers nearby—stepping out the front door feels like stepping into a living piece of medieval history. The location is unbeatable, yet the price is refreshingly fair for such a prime spot. Inside, the rooms are clean, well-appointed, and professionally maintained daily. Breakfast is served at a cozy café just around the corner—four different options to choose from, all hearty and satisfying, especially considering how much you’d pay elsewhere for something similar. But what truly sets this place apart is the personal touch. The staff—Filippo, Massimo, and Tatiana—go above and beyond with genuine care and attention. Any issue is resolved quickly, even if it’s outside standard services. Tatiana, being a native Russian speaker, made the experience feel extra special and welcoming in a country where Russian isn’t commonly spoken. It’s clear they genuinely want guests to relax and focus on enjoying their time, not worrying about details. This hotel isn’t just a stay—it’s a warm, thoughtful experience. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at the Design Club Collection was an absolute delight! The apartment was charming, spotlessly clean, and well-equipped with everything we needed. Its proximity to the city center made exploring so convenient—just a short metro ride away. What really stood out was the exceptional customer service. Through the app, we received all the essential details, and the chat feature remained open for any questions or requests. Every inquiry was answered promptly and professionally. While the price isn’t budget-friendly, we scored a last-minute discount that made it feel like a real value. Overall, a fantastic stay and highly recommended for travelers looking for style, comfort, and seamless support.

This place is a true gem! Right next to the train station, it’s just a short walk to Piazza Maggiore—perfect for exploring the city center. The rooms are cozy, clean, and well-maintained with daily housekeeping. Communication with the host was excellent—prompt, friendly, and helpful. Breakfast is a highlight: fresh, varied, and delicious, served from 8 a.m., which is great for early flights. In a city where accommodation prices can be sky-high, this B&B offers a welcoming, safe, and affordable alternative without compromising on comfort or quality. Highly recommend for travelers who value location, cleanliness, and a personal touch.

Stayed one night at this charming property and was thoroughly impressed. For just €70 per night, two people enjoyed a quiet, well-insulated room with excellent value for money. The bathroom is located outside the room but is private and secure—perfect for storing personal items. The mattress was comfortable, and the room was already warm upon arrival, which made a big difference in the chilly evening. The TV was modern with access to Netflix and YouTube (requires login), though I didn’t get around to using it—don’t know if there were any setup issues. In the morning, I brewed coffee and herbal tea using a high-quality kettle, and appreciated the small kitchenette with fridge—ideal for light meals or snacks. The overall atmosphere was peaceful, clean, and welcoming. The bathroom was spacious and beautifully designed, with a generous shower area. I was genuinely happy with the entire experience. Bonus: just a short walk away is a fantastic little restaurant where we had a romantic dinner—elegant dishes, reasonable prices, and great ambiance. Highly recommend both the hotel and the nearby dining spot. Would definitely stay here again.

This was the only hotel I’ve stayed at where the linens and towels actually had a fresh, pleasant scent—something I didn’t even expect to notice but absolutely appreciated. Check-in and check-out were seamless, and communication with the host was clear and friendly. No complaints whatsoever. The property is located just steps from the train station, and it’s a quick 15 to 20-minute walk to the city center—perfect for exploring on foot. The apartment itself is well-equipped with everything you need, from kitchen essentials to comfortable bedding. It’s in a quiet, safe neighborhood, making it ideal for both solo travelers and couples. If you’re looking for a clean, welcoming space with great location and attention to detail, this place delivers. Definitely a standout stay.

Staying at The Social Hub Bologna was a great experience overall. The room was clean and functional, with a particularly comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Noise insulation is average—nothing to complain about, especially considering the hotel’s central location. What really stood out was the proximity to the train station; it’s just a short walk away, which proved incredibly convenient during strikes when taxis were scarce or unavailable. Having a 24-hour front desk was a huge plus—it gave peace of mind no matter what time I arrived or needed assistance. For travelers who value location, convenience, and good value, this place hits all the right notes. I’d definitely stay here again on my next visit to Bologna.

The apartment is absolutely beautiful and in excellent condition—clearly recently renovated with thoughtful details that really stand out. It was spotlessly clean, and we felt right at home from the moment we arrived. The location is super convenient for getting to the city center, and we appreciated how close everything was without needing to travel far. The staff were incredibly helpful, always ready to assist with any request, and their friendly, professional attitude made a big difference. Everything about our stay was perfect—we’d definitely return in the future. Highly recommended!

Perfectly located in the heart of Bologna, this B&B offers easy access to everything you’d want during a short stay. The room was clean, simple, and well-equipped for a few nights—exactly what you need when you're on the move. Check-in is handled remotely via WhatsApp, which works smoothly once you get the hang of it. However, it could be a bit clearer in the booking instructions: first-time guests might not realize they need to wait by the door for someone to answer the phone before getting inside. That said, it’s a minor hiccup in an otherwise great experience. The location, cleanliness, and friendly vibe make this a solid choice if you’re looking for a quiet, convenient base in the city.
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