
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 hotel is the perfect choice for your Bologna trip! With executive floors and meeting rooms for business travelers, and family-friendly amenities like kids' meals, it caters to all. Its prime location offers easy taxi access and pick-up service for hassle-free arrivals. Enjoy laundry, ironing, and dry-cleaning services to stay fresh. Unwind at the bar or explore nearby diving spots. Rated 4.8, it’s a top pick for comfort and convenience!

This family-friendly spa hotel is perfect for your next getaway! With childcare services and kids' meals, parents can unwind in the natural hot springs or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment. Conveniently located just 10 minutes from the exhibition center and hospital, it offers free airport shuttle and self-parking. Rooms feature smart TVs and free WiFi, plus daily housekeeping for ultimate comfort. The complimentary breakfast is a delight, and the on-site bar and restaurant won’t disappoint. With a 24-hour front desk and business facilities, it’s ideal for both leisure and work trips!

Located in the heart of Bologna, this hotel is just a 4-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, offering a prime location. Whether for business or family trips, it has everything you need. Enjoy free WiFi, concierge services, and even babysitting services (for a fee) for a worry-free stay. The business center and meeting venues are perfect for events. The on-site restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine, and the bar is ideal for unwinding. Rooms are cozy, featuring minibars and premium bedding for a home-like experience. Plus, the 24-hour airport shuttle adds extra convenience!


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

Located just steps from the train station, this hotel offers unbeatable convenience for travelers arriving by rail. The staff was incredibly welcoming and even allowed me to check in at 12:30 PM—earlier than the official check-in time of 3:00 PM. That was a pleasant surprise! My room came with a kettle, which made morning coffee or tea super easy. The single bed was generously sized and very comfortable, perfect for a good night’s rest. Clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully equipped, this place delivers great value. I’d definitely stay here again when visiting Bologna.

The value for money here is outstanding—definitely worth booking in advance to secure a room. The overall experience was excellent: the hotel is clean, the breakfast is delicious with great variety, and the staff go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. While the immediate neighborhood isn’t the most polished, it’s super convenient for getting into the city center—just a short walk to the bus stop where Line 25 runs directly downtown. There’s also a small but functional gym on-site, perfect for a quick workout. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the positives far outweigh them. This place offers comfort, convenience, and charm at an unbeatable price. I’d definitely stay again.

Staying at Hotel Corona d'Oro 1890 was an absolutely delightful experience from start to finish. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and well-connected by public transit, making it easy to explore Bologna on foot or by train. One of the biggest perks? The hotel has its own private parking facility, which made arriving with luggage so much easier. I appreciated that I could reserve a spot in advance—no stress about finding a space. The room was clean, spacious, and beautifully designed with a classic Italian touch. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and I slept like a baby. Staff were warm, attentive, and always ready to help with recommendations for local restaurants and attractions. They even offered complimentary snacks and drinks—such a nice little surprise! With the excellent service, prime location, and great value, this hotel truly stands out. I’ll definitely be back next time I visit Bologna. Highly recommend!

Staying at Hotel Touring was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from the heart of Bologna, making it easy to explore the city on foot. What truly surprised us was the balcony in our room; we weren’t expecting it at all, and it made our stay so much more special. Waking up to morning light and sipping coffee while looking out over the rooftops was pure joy. The rooftop terrace is another highlight—unbeatable views of the city, perfect for sunset drinks or just relaxing with a book. Breakfast was fantastic: fresh, varied, and full of quality options—from pastries and fruit to hot dishes and local specialties. The staff at reception deserve a special mention—they were incredibly warm, helpful, and always smiling. They set a positive tone right from check-in and kept that great energy throughout our stay. Their professionalism and genuine hospitality made us feel welcome and well taken care of. This hotel offers excellent value and unforgettable experiences. I’d happily return and recommend it to anyone visiting Bologna.

Staying at Casa Fluò Relais was an absolute delight—seriously one of the most peaceful and beautiful escapes I’ve ever experienced. Nestled right in the heart of nature, the property feels like a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air. It’s quiet and serene, yet just a short commute from downtown Bologna if you need to explore the city. The staff were incredibly welcoming, the rooms were spotless, and the overall atmosphere felt truly special. I loved how natural and authentic everything was—perfect for anyone looking to unwind in a tranquil setting. Highly recommend this gem for a relaxing getaway!

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.

Staying at Bolognina Fair Functional Apartment was a great experience. The location is excellent—just a 13-minute walk from Bologna Centrale Station, making it super convenient for getting around the city by foot or public transit. There are more than three large supermarkets within walking distance, plus plenty of cafes and restaurants, so dining and grocery shopping are no hassle. Check-in instructions were clear and easy to follow, which made the arrival process smooth. The apartment spans two levels—while the ground floor is a bit narrow, it still offers a functional kitchen area, a dining table, and a bathroom with a shower. All facilities worked perfectly during our stay: air conditioning, water heater (for hot showers), stove, oven, washing machine, vacuum cleaner, and hairdryer—all in good working order. We didn’t test the heating system since we visited in summer, but everything else performed as expected. The overall vibe is quiet and comfortable, ideal for travelers looking for a home-like base with modern amenities. Highly recommend this place for its practical layout, smart location, and reliable service. Definitely a top choice if you're visiting Bologna.

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.
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