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Step into Bologna’s soul at the Tower District, where medieval echoes still whisper through crumbling stone. Once home to over 100 towering spires, only a few remain—yet each one stands as a defiant monument to history. Climb to the top, and let the city unfold beneath you: red rooftops, winding alleys, and a panorama that feels like stepping into a centuries-old story. Snap a photo—you’re now part of the legend.
Everything you need to know about Two Towers
Hotel Morandi is a top choice, located steps from Bologna’s historic towers and nestled in the city’s pedestrian zone. Its elegant heritage design blends 19th-century charm with modern comforts, while some rooms offer views of the Church of San Domenico tower. The hotel provides free bicycles for exploring nearby landmarks like Piazza Maggiore.
Another excellent option is Hotel de'Freschi, renowned for its authentic Italian decor and central location. Both properties are ideal for travelers seeking convenience, history, and comfort within walking distance of the towers and cultural hotspots.
Yes, the area around Bologna’s Towers is highly accessible by public transport. All major towers, including Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda, are located within Piazza Maggiore, a pedestrian-only zone. Local buses (Lines 1 and 2) connect directly to key stops like "Bologna Centrale" and "San Vitale".
The City Bike system is ideal—rentals are available near the square and allow quick access to nearby attractions such as the Church of San Domenico and the University of Bologna’s historic campus. From the airport, the Airport Express Bus takes about 30 minutes to reach the city center, with a short transfer to reach the tower district in under 15 minutes—perfect for day-trippers.
Beyond climbing the towers for panoramic views, consider joining a night tour—the towers, especially Torre degli Asinelli, glow dramatically under illuminated lighting, creating a striking visual experience. Guides share fascinating stories on medieval power struggles and engineering techniques.
Visit Piazza Maggiore’s outdoor cafés to savor local specialties like Mortadella and Tortellini, paired with regional red wine. For a deeper immersion, book a walking tour along the old city walls, passing through Porta Santo Stefano and hidden alleys, uncovering Bologna’s lesser-known historical layers. These experiences transform sightseeing into a rich cultural journey.
Yes, Hotel Cavour is an excellent choice for families, just a 5-minute walk from the towers. It features a kids’ playroom, family suites, and complimentary cribs and children’s bathrobes. The hotel offers special programs like "Medieval Adventure for Kids," engaging young visitors with interactive history tours.
Another great option is Hotel Savoia, with a private courtyard and small pool, providing a peaceful retreat. Its family-friendly restaurant serves healthy child meals, and nearby Parco di San Michele offers ample green space for kids to play. Both hotels are close to transit hubs, making travel easy and stress-free for families.
Torre degli Asinelli is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (until 7:00 PM in summer), with last entry at 5:30 PM. Admission costs €14 for adults, €8 for ages 12–18, and is free for children under 12.
Torre Garisenda is free to enter, though climbing is not permitted. Tickets can be booked in advance via the official website to avoid queues. The site is open year-round, except during temporary closures due to events or maintenance. Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and optimal lighting for photos.
Hotel Accademia is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Bologna's Towers. This boutique hotel blends Renaissance architecture with modern elegance, featuring original wooden furnishings, fireplaces, and historic frescoes in its guest rooms. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the Piazza Maggiore and the iconic tower skyline directly from their windows.
Another excellent option is Hotel Dei Cavalieri, housed in a former knight’s residence dating back to the 13th century. Located near San Domenico Church and Piazza dell’Archiginnasio, it offers a rich historical ambiance with authentic architectural details. Both hotels provide wheelchair access, 24-hour concierge service, and complimentary bicycles for exploring the medieval streets and local markets around the towers.
Perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and convenience, these accommodations offer seamless access to Bologna’s cultural heart.
Starting at Bologna's Towers, head south along Piazza Maggiore—just a 5-minute walk—to reach San Domenico Church, home to relics of Saint Dominic and masterpieces by Antonio da Salerno. Continue toward Piazza dell'Archiginnasio, where you’ll find the University of Bologna Library, one of Europe’s oldest academic institutions, boasting rare manuscripts and Renaissance-era frescoes.
For an authentic local experience, wander into Borgo San Paolo, a charming alleyway district filled with traditional trattorias and artisanal pasta shops like Giolitti and Osteria del Sole, serving classic Tagliatelle al Ragu and Salsa Parma. The entire route takes about 15 minutes on foot, passing through Gothic archways, stone-walled alleys, and century-old bell towers, offering a vivid immersion into Bologna’s layered history and vibrant daily life.
While there is no direct metro line near Bologna's Towers, several public bus routes serve the area. Buses Line 1, 3, 5, 9, T1, and T2 stop at Piazza Maggiore and Piazza dell'Archiginnasio, providing quick access to Bologna Centrale Station, the University campus, and major tourist sites.
We recommend using the Bologna Bus & Metro App or purchasing an ATC Pass for single-day or multi-day unlimited travel. Additionally, the City Bike bike-sharing system has multiple stations within a 2-minute walk from the towers, ideal for exploring narrow medieval alleys and nearby green spaces.
For airport transfers, take Bus 60 or the Airport Shuttle, which runs every 30 minutes and reaches the airport in about 30 minutes. Overall, combining walking, buses, and cycling creates an efficient, eco-friendly transit network perfect for deep-dive travelers.
Notably, Bologna Central Station is just 1.5 km away—reachable by foot in 15 minutes or by electric taxi (e-taxi) in under 3 minutes—ideal for guests with heavy luggage.
Near Bologna's Towers, visitors can enjoy several unique cultural experiences. First, join a medieval walking tour led by local historians, exploring Piazza Maggiore, Piazza dell'Archiginnasio, and San Domenico Church, uncovering tales of feudal power struggles and the city’s autonomous movement.
Second, book a Renaissance calligraphy workshop at the University of Bologna’s historic lecture hall, where participants learn to write Latin manuscripts on parchment using quill pens, immersing themselves in Europe’s oldest academic tradition.
Additionally, Borgo San Paolo hosts regular handmade pasta classes with local chefs, offering hands-on lessons in crafting Tagliatelle al Ragu and truffle risotto, followed by a tasting session with recipes to take home.
One highlight is the annual "Notte delle Torri" (Night of the Towers), held each summer, when the towers are illuminated with dynamic projections, soundscapes, and live music, narrating Bologna’s rich history in a magical, cinematic atmosphere. These immersive activities deepen travelers’ connection to the city’s heritage and create lasting memories.
See what other travelers say about Two Towers
This hotel is truly elegant and perfectly located—just a short walk from the train station and only 15 minutes on foot to the city center. The ambiance is refined, yet the convenience of the location makes it ideal for travelers who want both comfort and accessibility. It’s a standout choice for a memorable stay in Bologna.
This hotel exceeded my expectations in every way. The rooms were spotlessly clean, cozy, and quiet—perfect for a peaceful stay. The staff was warm and welcoming, making check-in a breeze. The room was wonderfully heated, and even the bathroom felt like a cozy sauna on a cold day—just what I needed after arriving from the chilly weather outside. Breakfast was excellent, with a great variety of fresh options and high quality. Location-wise, it's unbeatable: just a short walk to the city center and right next to the train station. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place offers incredible value and comfort. I’ll definitely be back.
Staying at Il Canale Hotel was an absolute delight. The location couldn't be better—right on the canal with stunning views from almost every room, and perfectly central for exploring all of Bologna's top attractions. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service—always ready to help with recommendations or local tips. Rooms were impeccably clean, and the bathrooms felt like they’d just been renovated. We visited in January when it was freezing outside, yet our room stayed pleasantly warm even without turning on the air conditioning—proof of excellent insulation and comfort. This hotel offers incredible value for such a prime location and high-quality experience. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Bologna. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s part of the city’s charm.
Staying at Hotel University was an excellent experience. The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Bologna, surrounded by great restaurants, cafes, and convenient amenities just steps away. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful—going above and beyond to assist with my needs. I was even allowed to store my luggage after check-out time, which made my travel day much smoother. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and came with a thoughtful selection of toiletries. Breakfast was delicious and varied, offering a good mix of sweet and savory options. From start to finish, everything felt professional yet warm and welcoming. If I ever return to Bologna, this will be my first choice for accommodation.
The Hotel Atlantic truly exceeded our expectations—great value for money and a fantastic stay overall. Located just steps from the city center, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring Bologna on foot or via public transit. The room was spotless, with excellent hot water in the shower, making every morning feel refreshing. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh pastries, local jams, and strong coffee that made starting the day perfect. We didn’t mind the lack of a minibar since our stay was short, and the elevator made moving between floors easy. What really stood out were the staff—they were kind, professional, and always smiling, going the extra mile to make us feel welcome. This hotel is a hidden gem in Bologna, and I’d absolutely book here again without hesitation.
Staying at Il Mughetto was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is perfect—just a short walk or a quick metro ride away from the heart of Bologna, making it easy to explore the city’s charming streets and historic sites. The hotel itself feels peaceful and well-maintained, with a warm, inviting atmosphere in the lobby and thoughtful touches throughout. Staff were friendly and helpful, ensuring a smooth check-in and check-out process. My room was clean, spacious, and beautifully decorated with a cozy bed that made for a restful night's sleep—plus, excellent soundproofing meant no disturbances from other guests. Breakfast was a highlight: fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including delicious Italian pastries that truly captured the spirit of the region. It’s rare to find such comfort, convenience, and charm at this price point. I’d happily return and highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Bologna.
We had a wonderful weekend stay at AB Suite Bohèmien B&B, warmly managed by the incredibly kind and attentive Cristina. The moment we arrived, we were greeted with genuine hospitality that made us feel right at home. The rooms are beautifully designed with a unique Bohemian flair—elegant, stylish, and spotlessly clean. Located just a short walk from Bologna’s vibrant city center, it's perfect for exploring on foot. Everything about this place feels thoughtfully curated: from the cozy ambiance to the thoughtful touches in each room. It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s an experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking for charm, comfort, and convenience in the heart of Bologna.
Staying at Il Moscondoro di MZ in Bologna was a pleasant surprise. Located on the ground floor of a large building on Via Mazzini, it’s just steps away from a bus stop heading straight into the city center—perfect for getting around without hassle. The rooms are simple but well-equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. I especially appreciated the good breakfast, which included fresh pastries, local bread, and hot coffee—great way to start the day. The owner is warm and welcoming, offering helpful tips about nearby spots and transportation. The location is quiet yet convenient, making it ideal for travelers who want both comfort and access. It’s not flashy, but it delivers exactly what matters: cleanliness, hospitality, and value. I’d definitely recommend this place for a relaxed, authentic Bologna experience.
Staying at BLQ 01 Boutique B&B in the heart of Bologna was an absolute delight. The vintage-inspired decor truly sets the tone—every corner feels like a story waiting to be told. What made it extra special was finding a 1927 copy of Annie Vivanti’s book on the nightstand. Though the author is largely forgotten today, her words offered a glimpse into a lost era, while her modern spirit shone through. I wish I’d had more time to read it—our one-night stay just wasn’t enough! Check-in was smooth via phone call with the host, cleanliness was impeccable, and breakfast was generous and freshly prepared. As someone who loves upcycled pieces and old-world charm, the thoughtful details throughout the space were a real treat. It’s rare to find such character, warmth, and attention to detail in a city-center stay—this place easily earns every bit of its top rating.
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.
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