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

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.

Hotel Perla is perfectly located just outside the ZTL zone, making it super convenient for both parking and getting into town on foot. We found street parking nearby easily, and there are also guarded parking options not far away—great for peace of mind if you're driving. The hotel itself offers excellent value for money: rooms are compact but spotless, with all the essentials you need for a comfortable stay. The staff are incredibly helpful at any time of day—offering local tips, directions, and even recommendations for hidden gems in Bologna. I did notice some street noise through the windows, especially during peak hours, but it didn’t bother me much at all. Overall, this place strikes a great balance between affordability, cleanliness, and convenience. If you’re looking for a no-frills, reliable base to explore Bologna without overspending, Hotel Perla is a solid choice.

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.

Staying at the AC Hotel Bologna was an absolute highlight of our trip! Located just steps away from a student apartment complex, the area is quiet, safe, and very welcoming. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and had a modern, clean feel—perfect for a comfortable stay. We were two guests, and the daily housekeeping service made everything so convenient; no need to worry about tidying up ourselves. What really stood out was how easy it was to get into the city center—whether by foot or public transit, everything was within reach. Great restaurants, local shops, and attractions were just a short walk away. The value for money was outstanding, and the overall experience felt premium without the high price tag. If you're visiting Bologna, this hotel should be your top pick—it's the ideal balance of comfort, convenience, and quality.

Staying at Camplus Bononia was an absolute delight! The room was spotlessly clean and well-maintained, with a peaceful atmosphere that made it perfect for relaxation. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful—always smiling and ready to assist. What stood out most was the quiet surroundings; waking up to birds chirping outside and breathing in fresh morning air felt like being in a little countryside retreat. Breakfast was simple but satisfying—classic Western options with hot water readily available. I even noticed a foreign guest trying to drink hot water just like us locals—a small but heartwarming moment! The location is ideal for exploring Bologna while still enjoying tranquility. Overall, this place offers exceptional value and comfort. I’ll definitely be back.

The hotel might be a bit dated in appearance, but it's well-maintained and surprisingly comfortable. Everything you need is available—clean rooms, good amenities, and a great location just a 5-minute walk from the train station. That means easy access to the city center and nearby attractions without needing to rely on taxis or long walks. It’s a real gem for travelers who value convenience and value. I’d definitely stay here again.
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