Best Hotels in Bologna Italy 7 With Amazing Views

Last updated on May 22nd, 2025 at 10:36 pm

Three years ago, I made a mistake that turned into the best travel decision ever. I’d booked a cheap room in Bologna’s suburbs to save money – you know how it is when you’re backpacking through Italy on a shoestring budget. But something felt wrong about celebrating my sister’s graduation in a windowless box next to a highway. Since then, I’ve learned how to find the best hotels in Bologna Italy that combine comfort and great value.

So I did something crazy. I canceled that booking (yes, lost the deposit) and splurged on a room at Grand Hotel Majestic right in the heart of the city. When I opened those curtains the next morning, I actually teared up. The San Petronio Basilica stretched out below like something from a movie, surrounded by terracotta roofs that seemed to glow in the early light.

That’s when it hit me – sometimes the view isn’t just decoration. It becomes part of your story.

I’ve since returned to Bologna six times, staying at different hotels each visit to really understand what this city offers from above. Some disappointed me, others blew my mind. But these seven? They’re the ones that made me fall in love with waking up in Italy all over again.

Why Your Hotel View Matters Best Hotels in Bologna Italy

Look, I get it. You might think I’m being dramatic about hotel views. But here’s the thing about Bologna – it’s not just another pretty Italian city. It’s a living timeline where every rooftop tells a thousand-year story.

When you wake up looking at medieval towers that have been standing since before America was discovered, something shifts inside you. You’re not just a tourist anymore. You’re temporarily living inside history.

Here’s what good views actually give you:

• Morning motivation – Trust me, starting your day with beauty beats staring at a brick wall
• Photo opportunities that don’t require leaving your room – Your friends will think you hired a photographer
• A deeper connection to the city – You watch Bologna wake up, see how locals move through these ancient streets
• Perspective on where you are – Bologna makes sense when you see how its parts fit together
• Stories to tell for years – I still talk about specific mornings in specific rooms

The crazy part? Bologna’s old center is tiny. Everything important sits within a 20-minute walk. But not every hotel takes advantage of this. Some face parking lots, others stare at modern apartment blocks. The ones I’m sharing today? They face the stuff that matters.

The 7 Best View Hotels in Bologna (From Someone Who’s Actually Stayed in All of Them)

1. Grand Hotel Majestic “già Baglioni” – Where Cathedral Views Meet Old-World Glamour

This place ruined me for other hotels. I’m not even exaggerating.

The building dates back to 1700-something (the exact year escapes me, but it feels ancient), and sits directly across from Bologna’s main cathedral. The rooms facing San Petronio Basilica – especially those corner suites on floors 4 and 5 – offer views that belong in travel magazines.

During my three separate stays here, I learned some insider tricks. The junior suites with numbers ending in 05 and 06 have the best angles. Room 405 even has a tiny balcony where I spent way too many mornings drinking espresso and watching pigeons circle the cathedral spires.

What blew me away:

• Direct, unobstructed cathedral views that change with the light throughout the day
• Those little balconies (not all rooms have them – you need to ask specifically)
• The feeling of living in a Renaissance palace
• You can literally roll out of bed and be at Piazza Maggiore in 3 minutes

The reality check: This isn’t budget travel. A junior suite with basilica views runs €380-480 per night depending on season. But for anniversaries, birthdays, or once-in-a-lifetime trips? I’ve never regretted the splurge.

2. Hotel Corona d’Oro – Sleep Next to Bologna’s Famous Towers

If you’ve ever seen photos of Bologna, you’ve seen the Two Towers (Due Torri). This hotel literally sits next door to them in a building that’s older than most countries.

I stayed here during a rainy March weekend, and waking up to those massive medieval towers poking through fog clouds felt like living in a fantasy novel. The hotel keeps its 14th-century character – which means some quirks. The elevator fits maybe two people, and my bathroom had a window that opened onto the inner courtyard (medieval buildings, what can you say?).

But the views. Oh man, the views.

Why it’s special:

• You can practically touch the Asinelli Tower from certain windows
• Authentic medieval atmosphere without feeling like a tourist trap
• Perfect location for exploring on foot
• Each room feels unique because of the old building layout

The honest truth: Not every room delivers. I learned this the hard way on my first visit when I got stuck facing an inner wall. The second time, I specifically requested “tower views” when booking and got room 312, which had a perfect side-angle view of both towers.

Pro tip: Request rooms facing northeast on the third or fourth floor.That’s where the magic happens.

3. Art Hotel Commercianti – Front Row Seats to Bologna’s Main Square

This boutique place surprised me. It occupies a 12th-century building (Bologna’s full of these ancient structures) right on Piazza Maggiore, but the interior mixes old and new in ways that actually work.

I spent four nights here in May, and every morning felt like opening a gift. The piazza below comes alive early – vendors setting up, locals grabbing coffee, tourists gradually appearing. From room 403 (which has a small but perfect balcony), I watched a wedding party do photos, kids chase pigeons, and street musicians perform.

What makes it memorable:

• You’re literally living above Bologna’s main square
• The art-focused decor actually enhances rather than distracts from the history
• Some rooms have tiny balconies perfect for evening aperitivos
• The staff really knows their stuff about the city

The catch: Piazza-facing rooms cost more (about €70 extra per night), and weekend evenings can get noisy. Also, the building layout means room sizes vary wildly – some are spacious, others feel cramped.

Booking hack: Ask specifically for “camera con vista piazza e balcone” when booking. Yes, in Italian. It seems to work better than English requests.

4.Hotel Davide: Contemporary Perspectives on Historic Bologna

This one breaks the historic hotel pattern, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need. Hotel Davide sits about 12 minutes walk from the center, but those extra steps buy you something the center hotels can’t offer: perspective.

The breakfast room on the 7th floor became my favorite spot during a five-day stay in September. Eating cornetti while looking out over Bologna’s entire skyline, with the Apennine Mountains forming a backdrop? That’s how mornings should start.

The advantages:

• 360-degree city views that help you understand Bologna’s layout
• Modern amenities (excellent WiFi, powerful showers, quiet air conditioning)
• Best value for panoramic views
• Rooftop access for all guests, not just fancy suite holders

The trade-offs: You’ll walk 10-15 minutes to reach the main historic sites. For some people, that’s a deal-breaker. For me? I enjoyed those walks through residential Bologna, seeing how locals actually live.

Money-saving tip: Book a “superior” room on floors 6 or 7. You get nearly identical views to their suites but save €80-120 per night.

5. Savhotel – Where Bologna Meets the Mountains

Savhotel taught me that not all views have to be about ancient buildings. Sometimes natural beauty trumps human architecture.

This modern hotel focuses on the Apennine Mountains that surround Bologna – views that most tourists never see because they’re too focused on medieval towers. The rooftop bar became my evening ritual during an October visit. Watching sunset paint those mountains while sipping Negronis? Pure poetry.

What sets it apart:

• Mountain panoramas that change dramatically with weather and season
• Excellent rooftop bar open to all hotel guests
• Modern business-hotel efficiency with Italian warmth
• Perfect for understanding Bologna’s geographic setting

The consideration: You’re trading medieval atmosphere for natural beauty. If Gothic spires are your priority, look elsewhere. If you want to see Bologna in its broader context, this delivers.

Weather warning: Mountain views depend entirely on clear skies. During a foggy November visit, I saw basically nothing for three days. Check forecasts before booking view rooms.

6. Hotel Metropolitan – Best of Both Worlds Views

Hotel Metropolitan offers something interesting: views that capture both historic Bologna and its modern development. It’s like getting two cities in one frame.

The upper-floor rooms face southeast, giving you morning light on medieval buildings transitioning to contemporary neighborhoods. During my February stay, I loved watching the contrast – ancient towers in the foreground, modern life in the background.

The highlights:

• Comprehensive views showing Bologna’s evolution
• Large windows (some floor-to-ceiling) that maximize natural light
• Central location with easy access to everything
• Business amenities if you’re mixing work with pleasure

The reality: It’s a bigger hotel, so service feels less personal than boutique properties. Room quality varies significantly – corner rooms are spectacular, interior rooms disappointing.

Request strategy: Ask for corner rooms on floors 5-7 facing “centro storico.” Avoid rooms ending in numbers 10-15, which face less interesting directions.

7. Palace Hotel – Garden Views With City Surprises

Palace Hotel rounds out my list with something completely different: garden views that somehow make Bologna feel peaceful.

Located in a quieter area about 18 minutes walk from the center, this hotel offers rooms facing either manicured gardens or distant city skylines. During my April visit, the garden rooms felt like a retreat – watching flowers bloom while distant church bells marked the hours.

Why consider it:

• Peaceful garden views that offer a break from urban intensity
• City-view rooms provide panoramic perspectives without center crowds
• Family-friendly atmosphere with reasonable prices
• Good value for view rooms during shoulder seasons

The trade-off: You’ll depend more on walking or buses to reach main attractions. Not ideal if you prefer being in the thick of things.

Seasonal note: Garden views peak in spring and early summer. Winter visits focus more on distant city panoramas.

Quick Comparison: Which Bologna Hotel View Fits You?

These are my personal ratings based on multiple stays. Your preferences might rank them differently.

Understanding Bologna’s Three Types of Hotel Views

After staying in dozens of Bologna hotels over the years, I’ve noticed views fall into three categories:

Medieval Magic Views These showcase Bologna’s famous towers, Gothic churches, and Renaissance palaces. Grand Hotel Majestic and Hotel Corona d’Oro excel here. You’re paying to wake up inside a history book.

Natural Landscape Views Mountain panoramas and garden settings that show Bologna’s geographic context. Savhotel and Palace Hotel specialize in these. Perfect if you want to understand the city’s relationship with its surroundings.

Modern City Views Comprehensive urban perspectives mixing old and new Bologna. Hotel Davide and Hotel Metropolitan provide these overview shots. Great for getting oriented and seeing how the city developed.

Here’s what I learned: each view type creates a different emotional experience. Medieval views make you feel romantic and connected to history. Natural views provide peace and perspective. Modern views help you understand and navigate.

For longer stays, I actually recommend experiencing multiple view types. Two nights at Corona d’Oro for the medieval magic, then two nights at Savhotel for sunset mountain views. Different perspectives, same incredible city.

When to Book These Bologna Hotels (Based on 3 Years of Visits)

Spring (March-May) – My Personal Favorite Perfect weather for enjoying balconies, crystal-clear mountain views, and blooming gardens. Prices stay reasonable except during Easter week. April 2022 gave me some of my best Bologna photography from hotel windows.

Summer (June-August) – Peak Everything Longest days mean more time enjoying views, but also highest prices and biggest crowds. Those coveted balconies get uncomfortably hot during midday. Book 3+ months ahead for view rooms.

Fall (September-November) – The Sweet Spot Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and moderate prices. The surrounding hills turn golden, creating stunning landscape backdrops. My October visits consistently delivered the best overall experiences.

Winter (December-February) – Budget Gamble Lowest prices and smallest crowds, but weather’s unpredictable. When it’s clear, snow-capped mountains look incredible. When it’s foggy, you see nothing for days. I’ve had both experiences.

Real Booking Strategies That Actually Work

The Phone Call Trick Make your online reservation, then call the hotel directly within 24 hours. Say you’re excited about your visit and hoping for a nice view. Ask about room assignments and mention any special occasions (even small ones). This worked for upgrades at 4 out of 7 hotels.

Questions I Always Ask:

• “Which specific rooms have the best views?” (not just “do you have view rooms”)
• “Can you guarantee a view room for an extra fee?”
• “Are there rooms with balconies available for my dates?”
• “What exactly will I see from room [specific number]?”

Timing That Makes a Difference Book 60-90 days ahead for best selection, but don’t book too early – hotels often haven’t assigned room inventory yet. The sweet spot seems to be 75 days before arrival.

Loyalty Programs Actually Help Even basic hotel chain status gets you priority for better rooms. I’ve received view room upgrades at chain properties just by mentioning my membership level during online check-in.

Shoulder Season Strategy Late May and early September offer optimal weather with moderate demand. Avoid university graduation periods (July) and major trade shows – Bologna hosts many business events that drive up prices significantly.

Getting the Most From Your Bologna Hotel Views

Golden Hour Planning Sunrise hits east-facing rooms around 6:30-7:00 AM (varies by season). Sunset illuminates west-facing rooms around 7:00-8:00 PM in summer, earlier in winter. I always check sunrise/sunset times before choosing room orientation.

Weather Apps Are Essential Mountain views disappear in fog, and medieval buildings look best under specific light conditions. I use multiple weather apps to predict clear days for view photography.

What to Pack for View Enjoyment:

• Small binoculars (game-changer for detail viewing)
• Tripod for sunset/sunrise photos
• Light blanket for evening balcony time
• Thermos for morning coffee viewing sessions

Photography Tips From Personal Experience:

• Early morning provides clearest air and best light
• Avoid midday shots – too harsh and shadowy
• Evening blue hour (just after sunset) creates magical city lighting
• Shoot from different angles throughout your stay

Beyond Your Room: Hotel View Extras Worth Knowing

Rooftop Access Not all hotels advertise their rooftop areas. Ask at check-in about terrace access, bar areas, or breakfast rooms with views. Savhotel’s rooftop bar stays open until midnight during summer – perfect for evening city viewing.

Restaurant Views Grand Hotel Majestic’s I Carracci restaurant offers cathedral views during dinner. Art Hotel Commercianti’s breakfast area overlooks the piazza. Sometimes the hotel’s public areas provide views even better than standard rooms.

Concierge View Tips Better hotels provide binoculars, suggest optimal viewing times, and recommend photography spots. Don’t hesitate to ask – they’re usually proud of their views and happy to help you maximize the experience.

Other Great Bologna View Options (If These Seven Don’t Fit)

Budget Alternatives:

• Albergo Rossini (basic but well-located with some view rooms)
• B&B Casa Rossini (historic building with city-view apartments)
• Generator Bologna (hostel with rooftop terrace access)

Luxury Upgrades:

• Villa San Martino (countryside villa 25 minutes from center)
• Relais Bellaria (hilltop position with valley panoramas)

Unique Experiences:

• Historic palazzo apartments through local rental companies
• Converted monastery accommodations in surrounding hills
• Working farm stays (agriturismi) with vineyard and valley views

Frequently Asked Questions From My Own Experience

Which Bologna hotel has the absolute best cathedral views? Grand Hotel Majestic wins this hands down. Art Hotel Commercianti gets you closer to street level, but Majestic’s elevated position provides better perspective and photography angles.

How much extra should I expect to pay for view rooms? Generally 25-45% more than standard rooms. During peak season (July-August), premium view suites can cost double standard rates. Off-season (January-February), the premium shrinks to 15-25%.

Can I get view rooms at budget prices? Hotel Davide and Palace Hotel offer legitimate view experiences starting around €120-140 per night during shoulder seasons. Not medieval towers, but genuine panoramic perspectives.

Which hotels actually guarantee views when booking? Most upscale properties will guarantee views for a premium fee. I’ve had success with guaranteed view bookings at Grand Hotel Majestic, Hotel Corona d’Oro, and Art Hotel Commercianti.

Do any Bologna hotels provide photography equipment? Several higher-end properties loan binoculars or tripods. Grand Hotel Majestic and Hotel Corona d’Oro both provided binoculars during my stays. Always ask at check-in.

What’s the best time of year for clear mountain views? April-May and September-October provide optimal mountain visibility. Winter can offer spectacular snow-capped peaks, but fog is common. Summer heat creates haze that obscures distant views.

Are view room upgrades possible at check-in? Definitely possible, especially if you’re polite, mention special occasions, and check in during off-peak periods. I’ve received upgrades at 3 out of 7 properties just by asking nicely.

Which Bologna view hotels work best for families? Palace Hotel offers the most family-friendly atmosphere with garden views that kids enjoy. Hotel Davide provides good value for families wanting city panoramas without luxury hotel prices.

Making Your Bologna View Hotel Decision

After all these stays and countless mornings spent looking out over Bologna, here’s what I’ve learned: the right view can absolutely transform your travel experience.

You are not required to select the most costly option. You don’t need a balcony (though they’re nice). You don’t even need to stay in the absolute center. However, you ought to awaken to something that brings you joy.

For once-in-a-lifetime trips, splurge on Grand Hotel Majestic. For authentic medieval experiences, choose Hotel Corona d’Oro. For value-conscious travelers who still want views, Hotel Davide delivers. For mountain sunset lovers, Savhotel is unbeatable.

But honestly? Any of these seven will give you those moments that make travel worthwhile. The kind where you stop talking, point out the window, and just say “wow.” The kind you’ll remember when everything else about the trip gets fuzzy.

Bologna deserves to be seen from above. You won’t miss the spectacle thanks to these accommodations

Have you stayed at any of these Bologna hotels, or are you planning a trip? I’d love to hear about your experiences or help answer specific questions about views, rooms, or booking strategies. Drop a comment below – I read and respond to every one!