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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
Excellent service, decent breakfast that was sufficient, and the hostel is spotlessly clean and well-organized. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the city center and surrounded by great dining options. It's incredibly convenient for exploring Bologna on foot, and the value for money is outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again.
Staying at B&B Selvarossa was an absolute delight! The location is incredibly convenient—just a 10-15 minute ride on the train from San Ruffillo station to Bologna Centrale, with no transfers needed. The apartment has a small kitchenette, perfect for preparing meals and storing leftovers in the fridge, which made our self-catering experience stress-free. There’s a large supermarket nearby, so grocery shopping was super easy. The area is quiet and surrounded by greenery—ideal for those who love peace, nature, and exploring Italy’s rich art, architecture, and history. The place felt clean, welcoming, and well-maintained. Our host was warm and hospitable, making us feel right at home. We even took day trips to Ravenna and Ferrara by train—both were easy and enjoyable. Huge thanks to the host for such a wonderful stay. Wishing you a joyful Easter season! (As we say in Russia: Christ is risen!) April 21, 2025. Natalia & Vladimir.
Staying at Dopa Hostel was a great experience overall. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and close to public transit, making it easy to explore Bologna on foot or by metro. Check-in before 11 PM is highly recommended; otherwise, you might face some hassle getting settled in. Breakfast is basic but functional—don’t expect anything fancy, but it’s ideal for grabbing a quick bite before heading out with friends to chat and enjoy the local vibe. Bologna itself is such a charming city—full of history, culture, and delicious food. I’d definitely recommend spending extra time wandering the cobbled streets, checking out the hidden piazzas, and soaking up the atmosphere. Great value for money, super friendly staff, and a cozy atmosphere that makes it feel like home. Definitely planning to come back.
We stayed at All' Ombra del Portico the night before hiking the Via degli Dei, and it couldn’t have been a better choice. The location is perfect—right along the iconic porticoes of San Luca, making it super convenient for exploring on foot. Even though the weather was quite warm that night, the underground rooms kept things cool and comfortable, so we slept like babies. The host was incredibly kind and helpful—always ready to assist with any request. Breakfast was generously provided and available whenever we needed it, which made our early morning departure smooth and stress-free. This little gem offers more than just a place to rest—it’s a welcoming home away from home with excellent value. I’d definitely return and recommend it to anyone visiting Bologna.
The Bohoostel in Bologna is an absolute gem—spotless, perfectly located, and the staff go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. They personally escort you to your room upon check-in, which adds a nice personal touch. The breakfast is basic but well-rounded, and honestly, I’d recommend adding it as a package since it’s so convenient and easy to grab before heading out. Everything about this stay was on point—friendly vibes, clean spaces, and great access to the city center. A fantastic experience overall, and definitely worth returning.
We stayed at Albergo Garisenda with my son for academic purposes, and we couldn’t have been happier. The hosts, Laura and her husband, were incredibly welcoming and helpful—they gave us great recommendations on where to eat, what to see in a single day, and how to get around the city efficiently. The rooftop terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Torre degli Asinelli, making it the perfect spot to enjoy sunset. Located right in the heart of Bologna, everything is within walking distance—museums, restaurants, shops, and public transport are all just steps away. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and had everything we needed. Cleanliness, comfort, and hospitality were top-notch. If you're visiting Bologna for study or leisure, this place is absolutely worth considering—truly a gem!
Staying in the green room with Patrizia was a delightful experience. The room was charming, clean, and perfectly located right in the heart of Bologna—just steps away from the stunning Palazzo Hercolani. We walked to all major tourist spots without needing transport, which made exploring so easy. Even though we had already checked out, we asked if we could leave our luggage at the B&B before our afternoon train, and Patrizia kindly agreed without hesitation. Her warm hospitality and genuine kindness made a real difference. The quiet neighborhood, private bathroom, and central location made this stay feel like a home away from home. I’d highly recommend Rooms H Ercolani for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and personal service.
Staying at Bed & Breakfast Aurelia in Bologna was an absolute delight. The room was bright, spacious, and immaculately clean—immediately made us feel at home. The bathroom was a standout: modern, well-designed, and impressively large, with a generous shower that felt luxurious. The staff went above and beyond—they were friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist with any request. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better. Just a short walk from the city center, and the main train station is literally around the corner. We arrived by train, and getting to the hotel was effortless. Whether you're exploring Bologna on foot or just need a quiet base after a long journey, this place hits all the right notes. Excellent value, warm hospitality, and unbeatable convenience. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat and highly recommend it.
This little gem is incredibly cozy and welcoming. Right outside, a bus runs every 8 minutes straight into the city center—super convenient for exploring Bologna on foot or by public transit. Everything you’d need is provided, and the host goes above and beyond to make sure guests feel at home. The price is unbeatable for the quality and location—highly recommend it! Perfect for small groups of up to about 13 people looking for a friendly, authentic stay.
I only stayed one night at Hostel Il Nosadillo, and honestly, that’s a real shame! The vibe was absolutely fantastic—warm, welcoming, and full of fellow solo travelers. The staff made me feel right at home, especially Jaouhar, who shared great tips about the city and even whipped up delicious Limoncello Spritz drinks. The atmosphere was so lively and friendly, it felt more like being part of a small community than just checking into a hostel. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-kept, and the location is perfect—just a short walk or quick metro ride to the heart of Bologna. If you're looking for an authentic, cozy, and memorable stay in Bologna, whether it's for one night or longer, this place is a must-book. Highly recommended!
Staying at Bed & Breakfast Cesarina in Bologna was a pleasant experience overall. While the property has a slightly dated feel, the beds were incredibly comfortable and the hosts were absolutely wonderful—warm, welcoming, and always ready to help. We stayed in a room with shared bathroom facilities, so it’s worth noting that if you prefer a private bathroom, it’s best to request one in advance. That said, the shared bathrooms were kept immaculately clean—our hostess was clearly dedicated to hygiene, cleaning them at least five times a day, even during peak occupancy. The breakfast was generous and delicious, offering a great variety of fresh items. The location is ideal—quiet yet just a short walk from the city center, making it easy to explore everything on foot. Public transport access is convenient too. With such a great value for money and a cozy, homely atmosphere, I’d definitely consider returning if I’m ever back in Bologna.
The location is excellent—right in the heart of Bologna and quiet enough to be peaceful. It’s a great spot for exploring the city on foot, and the property has a charming, low-key vibe. However, the experience was severely let down by poor communication and management. The host never showed up during our stay and only communicated via email, which was slow and impersonal. To make matters worse, we weren’t informed that another guest would be arriving late at night. When they unexpectedly entered the room, it startled us awake—my kids were terrified. The bathroom is also extremely small, with a tiny sink that looks like it’s meant for preschoolers. You can barely wash your hands comfortably, and there’s no bidet at all. While the location earns high marks, the lack of basic hospitality, privacy, and thoughtful planning makes this a frustrating stay. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable home away from home.
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