Where to Stay in Bologna, Italy: 7 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Bologna and wondering where to stay? You’re in the right place!

While Bologna is fairly large, its historic center is surprisingly walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Within the center, there are plenty of charming neighborhoods to stay in, such as historic Piazza Maggiore and the Jewish Quarter. Or if you’re on a budget, you can save money by staying further out because Bologna’s reliable public transport makes getting around a breeze!

Whatever your needs and travel style, we’re here to help you find the best area of Bologna to stay in. We’ll also share our top hotel picks in each part of the city. Let’s dive in!

Where To Stay In Bologna Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Bologna

One of the best things about staying in Bologna is how easy it is to get around. While it’s a fairly large city, the historic center is incredibly walkable, with miles of covered porticos that make exploring on foot a pleasure in any weather. It’s pretty large, but it’s home to charming pockets with their own distinct character and vibe, like Piazza Maggiore and the Jewish Quarter. 

And if you’re staying just outside the core, Bologna’s public transport makes it simple to reach the main sights. The buses, in particular, are reliable and easy to navigate!

• Historic Center – Bologna’s bustling core is packed with medieval towers, grand basilicas, and lively piazzas, including the iconic Piazza Maggiore and the historic University District. Cosmopolitan Central Rooms offers a cozy and central base.

• Piazza Maggiore – This lively square is the heart of Bologna, and with all of its historic buildings, charming cafes, and bustling street life, it’s easily its most photogenic spot! Phi Hotel Bologna is well-priced and puts you right in the middle of it all.

• Bolognina – North of the center, Bolognina is a colorful and multicultural neighborhood with amazing food, cool street art, and a younger vibe. The Social Hub Bologna blends style and affordability with a social atmosphere and great location.

• Saragozza – This is a quieter area just outside of the historic center, offering a slow pace of life and a more affordable stay without losing that Bolognese charm. Hotel Re Enzo is a solid pick here, with comfortable rooms and easy access to the old town. Please note, this part of town covers a large area, but we are focused on the western side closer to downtown.

• Fiera di Bologna – This business-focused district isn’t the most atmospheric, but it’s perfect if you’re attending a trade show or want a well-priced stay with easy city access. MICHELINO 75 by the Sydney Hotel delivers clean, modern rooms, a sunny outdoor pool, and solid amenities just minutes from the fairgrounds.

• Bologna Centrale Station – This area may not have the charm of Bologna’s historic center, but it’s ideal if you’re planning day trips outside the city. NH Bologna De La Gare is a bright, modern hotel just across from the train station, offering clean rooms, friendly service, and great value.

• Santo Stefano – This village-like area is quieter and cheaper than the center, but just as historic and charming. Il Convento Dei Fiori Di Seta offers a peaceful stay with a boutique feel.

Where to Stay in Bologna 

Historic Center 

Bologna’s Historic Center is the heart of the city. It’s actually a pretty big area, but it’s still very walkable. In fact, centuries-old porticos line practically every street, so you can walk everywhere and still be protected from the elements! 

And not only is the Historic Center a convenient place to stay, it positively oozes charm. There are ancient towers and terracotta rooftops everywhere you look, and the city’s most significant attractions are here.

I’m talking about Piazza Maggiore, the iconic Two Towers (Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda), and a cluster of impressive basilicas, museums, and palaces. The Historic Center also encompasses Bologna’s vibrant University District, which is always bustling and full of life.

Staying here means you’re in the middle of it all, whether you’re after sightseeing, great restaurants, or nightlife. If you want to enjoy some tours while you’re here, pretty much all of them meet or offer pickup within the Historic Center, which makes exploring easy peasy!

That said, the area can get busy, especially on weekends and during university events, but the atmosphere is unmatched! If it’s your first time in Bologna and you’re craving historic charm and a lively atmosphere, this is the place to be.

Pros

• Central location with most major sights within walking distance
• Tons of cafes, restaurants, and bars nearby
• Scenic and charming area

Cons

• Can get crowded and noisy, especially during events
• Accommodations may be more expensive

Albergo Rossini 1936 – Small & Charming – $$$

Albergo Rossini 1936 is a boutique hotel tucked away in the University District, offering a peaceful stay just a short stroll from the main sights. With warm, friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere, this place feels more like a home than a hotel!

The rooms are cozy and tastefully decorated, and the larger suites are great if you’re after extra space. But what really makes this spot stand out is its excellent location. It’s in the medieval University District, so you’re close to all of the action, but it’s tucked away enough to give you a quiet and peaceful night’s rest away from the noise.

You also get a delicious breakfast each morning, and if you book a top-floor room, you’ll also have epic city views. Double rooms here cost between €190 and €350 per night, depending on the season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Cosmopolitan Central Rooms – $$

The Cosmopolitan Central Rooms offer a clean and cozy stay in the very heart of Bologna. It’s just a few blocks from the Two Towers, and it’s surrounded by great food options. It’s a no-frills stay with self-check-in and minimalist decor, but the beds are comfy, the bathrooms are spacious, and the staff are super helpful.

We think that it offers great value, and you really couldn’t ask for a better location! Prices range between €110 and €250 per night for a standard double room with a balcony, but family rooms and small doubles are available, too.

Check out all the options and book your stay here!

Zanhotel Regina – $

Zanhotel Regina is a solid budget option close to the University District and Montagnola Park. It’s ideal for travelers who want to stay central without splurging! The rooms are simple, and while the decor feels a bit early 2000s, they’re very clean and well-maintained, with everything you need for a short city break.

If you stay here, I highly recommend opting to include breakfast because the pastries are honestly some of the best in the city. The staff are also super friendly and will make you feel right at home. It’s not fancy, but if you’re after a reliable, no-frills stay in central Bologna, this one fits the bill perfectly. 

Apartments here typically cost between €120 and €175 per night, or you can snag a single room for around €85 if you’re traveling solo.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore is the beating heart of Bologna. It’s a 15th-century square surrounded by grand palaces and the Basilica of San Petronio, so if you want to be able to step outside of your door and be instantly immersed in centuries’ worth of history, this is the perfect place to stay. 

And not only is this area historic, but it’s also a major hub for Bologna’s social scene. Whether you’re looking for a morning espresso, an afternoon aperitivo, or a nightcap, you’ll find plenty of options here. We love coming here to people-watch and soak in the charming atmosphere, and for that reason, it’s one of our favorite places to stay! 

We think that this area is ideal for first-time visitors because you really could not be more central than this. It’s incredibly walkable, with top sights like the Two Towers, Archiginnasio Library, and Neptune Fountain all within a few blocks of one another.

Plus, the streets around the square are packed with porticoed walkways, boutique shops, and some of the city’s best gelato spots. 

Of course, all of this comes at a price. This is one of the most expensive parts of Bologna to stay in! But if you’ve got the budget for it, being right in the center is well worth the money.

Pros

• Gorgeous, historic surroundings
• Lively atmosphere 
• Steps from major landmarks and great restaurants
  

Cons

• One of the most expensive areas to stay
• Very touristy
• Can be crowded, especially during peak hours

Art Hotel Commercianti – $$$

Art Hotel Commercianti is a romantic hotel that’s full of character, tucked right behind the Basilica di San Petronio. The building itself dates back to the 12th century, and the interiors offer a beautiful blend of antique charm and modern comfort. Each room is individually styled, with high ceilings, wooden beams, and views of Bologna’s rooftops. Bliss!

This hotel is a perfect choice for couples or anyone looking to treat themselves to a more elegant stay in the heart of the city. Breakfast is included, and the staff are especially helpful with local recommendations. Standard double rooms usually cost between €250 and €400 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Phi Hotel Bologna – $$

Phi Hotel Bologna offers a boutique stay with local flavor and a playful twist. The rooms are either traditional or artist-designed and full of color. Meanwhile, the location couldn’t be better, as it’s tucked down a quiet side street just a stone’s throw from Piazza Maggiore. You’re also close to Mercato delle Erbe, so you’ve got Bologna’s best food just a few minutes away.

The staff are super friendly and helpful, and a top-notch buffet is included each morning. There’s also a generous rescheduling policy, which allows you to stay flexible. Rooms here cost between €185 and €350 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Albergo delle Drapperie – $

Albergo delle Drapperie is a charming little hotel located in the Quadrilatero market area, just around the corner from Piazza Maggiore. It’s got serious old-world character, with vintage furnishings, wrought-iron balconies, and tall windows that open onto lively market streets below.

Rooms are a bit quirky with old-school Italian style, but that’s part of the charm here. This is a great pick for travelers who want to stay somewhere atmospheric and affordable in the heart of it all! Rooms here typically cost between €125 and €180 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Bolognina 

Just north of Bologna’s historic center, Bolognina is one of the city’s most diverse and up-and-coming neighborhoods. Once an industrial zone, it’s now a creative and cultural hotspot packed with street art, indie galleries, live music venues, and some of the city’s best restaurants.

This is where local life thrives, and you’ll find a mix of long-time residents, young creatives, and international students all sharing the same streets.

Bolognina is great for travelers who want to experience a more modern, edgy side of Bologna without being too far from the action. You’re about a 15- to 20-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, or a quick bus or bike ride away. The area is also super convenient for those arriving or departing by train, since Bologna Centrale Station sits right on its edge!

While Bolognina doesn’t have the postcard-perfect charm of the historic center, it offers a more local, authentic vibe. And it’s usually more affordable too!

It’s not the best place for history enthusiasts to stay, but we do think that this area is perfect for younger travelers and groups of friends seeking fun nightlife and a lively vibe.

Pros

• Trendy food and nightlife scene
• Diverse area with a lively atmosphere
• Close to the train station and well-connected by public transport
  

Cons

• Less scenic and historic than central Bologna
• Can feel a bit gritty in parts

AC Hotel Bologna by Marriott – $$$

The AC Hotel Bologna by Marriott is a sleek hotel that feels shiny and new. To be honest, this property was designed with business travelers rather than tourists in mind, but we think it’s perfect if you’re after a modern stay with comfy beds and soundproofing to ensure a good night’s sleep.

So if you’re craving the edgy charm of Bolognina but want a more polished place to rest your head, this is an ideal place to stay. Expect to pay between €130 and €220 per night for a standard twin or double room here, depending on the room choice and season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Elizabeth Lifestyle Hotel – $$

Elizabeth Lifestyle Hotel is a bright, modern boutique hotel with playful design touches and excellent service. It’s located on a leafy street in Bolognina, and it offers a peaceful base with easy access to both the train station and the city center. 

Rooms are airy and cheerful, and there’s a lovely little courtyard for morning coffee or evening drinks. We think that this boutique property is a great mid-range option for couples or solo travelers looking for style on a budget. Prices usually range from €100 to €200 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

The Social Hub Bologna – $

We love The Social Hub Bologna because it’s a fun place to stay and it offers fantastic value for money. It’s a hybrid between a hotel and a co-living space because although the rooms are all private, there are tons of communal spaces, and socializing is strongly encouraged. This includes an outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace, a co-working space, and a gym! 

The decor here is bright and fun, and the property is conveniently located near the train station. There’s also a bus stop just a few steps from the property, so you can get to Piazza Maggiore in just 15 minutes. Standard rooms typically cost between €95 and €150 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Saragozza

Located just southwest of the historic center, Saragozza is a quiet and residential neighborhood that feels like a breath of fresh air after the buzz of central Bologna. It’s a lovely area for travelers who prefer a slower pace without straying too far from the city’s main attractions. Piazza Maggiore is about a 15- to 20-minute walk away, and buses run frequently if you’d rather not walk, so no worries on that front.

Saragozza is also the starting point of the Portico di San Luca, a covered walkway with over 60 arches that leads up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. This walk is a must-do, and it ends at one of Bologna’s most iconic viewpoints! 

Meanwhile, the area itself is leafy and relaxed, with a handful of local trattorias, cafés, and shops. It’s not flashy, but it’s full of local charm, so if you’re the kind of traveler who loves to experience a place’s authentic culture, then we think Saragozza is a great area to stay in.

This is a great base if you want a peaceful night’s sleep and don’t mind trading a little centrality for comfort and value. It’s popular with families, couples, and longer-term visitors who want more of a “local” feel.

Pros

• Quiet, residential vibe with fewer tourists
• Good value and walkable to the city center

Cons

• Less nightlife and dining options compared to more central areas
• Not ideal if you want to be in the thick of the action

Central Suite Bed & Breakfast – $$$

For a homey, elegant stay just outside the busy center, Central Suite Bed&Breakfast is our top pick! The rooms are beautifully decorated with a mix of antique and modern touches, and there’s a cozy, personal feel that’s hard to find in larger hotels. Breakfast is served daily, and the hosts are warm and full of helpful local tips.

The B&B is tucked into a quiet side street in Saragozza. There’s a bus stop nearby, so you can get to the Historic Center in just 15 minutes! Or if you don’t mind a longer walk, it’s only 20 minutes to Piazza Maggiore on foot. Rooms here cost between €150 and €400 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Re Enzo – $$

Hotel Re Enzo is a chic option with a bit of an Art Deco feel. It offers spacious rooms, a generous breakfast, and a relaxing terrace with great city views. 

In terms of location, the hotel actually sits on the border between Saragozza and the Historic Center. So each day, you can choose between the hustle and bustle of the center and the quieter, more relaxed Saragozza area.

We think that this is a solid pick for travelers who want convenience and comfort without overspending. Rates usually hover between €130 and €230 per night for a double room with a balcony.

Check availability and book your stay here!

La Didì Maison – $

If you’re after a charming budget stay in a quiet neighborhood, La Didì Maison delivers. This small guesthouse offers tastefully decorated rooms with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. 

There are no flashy amenities here, but you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay, and this place is family-friendly, too.

It’s located in the heart of Saragozza, a bit removed from the tourist crowds but still within walking distance of central Bologna. It’s a quiet property with friendly staff and at between €100 – €150 per night, it offers great value for money.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Fiera di Bologna

Fiera di Bologna is the city’s business district, and it really comes alive during conferences and events. It’s home to many office towers and a huge exhibition center, so it’s ideal for business travelers, but we’ve also found that it can be a great place to snag a bargain on accommodation outside of the event season! 

Business events in Fiera di Bologna tend to take place during spring and fall, so staying here outside of that time often means you can enjoy a sleek hotel for relatively little money.

It’s not the most scenic or charming part of Bologna, but it’s well-connected by public transport, so you can reach the city center in less than 15 minutes by bus or taxi. It’s also close to Parco Nord and the Unipol Arena, which is ideal if you’re in town for a concert! 

This area is not for you if you’re after cobblestone streets and cute cafés, but if you’re visiting for work or want a no-fuss, well-connected base with easy parking, Fiera does the job. Hotels here tend to be modern, spacious, and more business-oriented, so if you don’t mind staying just a little further out, this is a great choice.

Pros

• Good value, especially outside of trade show dates
• Easy access to highways and public transport
  

Cons

• Lacks atmosphere and tourist sights
• Feels more corporate and less “authentically Bologna”

UNA HOTELS Bologna Fiera – $$$

UNA HOTELS Bologna Fiera is a sleek, modern hotel that’s a favorite for business travelers. If you’re after lots of space, strong WiFi, and a well-equipped gym, then this is an ideal place to stay.

It’s less than a 10-minute walk from the main exhibition halls, and just a short bus ride to the city center, so whether you’re in town for networking or sightseeing, this is a very convenient base. 

If you’re attending an event or want a stylish, fuss-free stay, this is a solid pick. Superior double or twin rooms cost between €100 and €200 per night, which we think is a fantastic price for a hotel this nice.

Secure your stay here!

MICHELINO 75 by the Sydney Hotel – $$

MICHELINO 75 offers a fresh and modern vibe with bright interiors, friendly service, and a convenient location near BolognaFiere. The rooms are simple yet well-designed, and the property features an on-site restaurant and gym. Oh, and a lovely outdoor pool—can’t forget about that! 

There’s a bus stop right nearby, so it’s easy to get into town, and a generous breakfast buffet is included each morning. There’s also a restaurant on site for convenience and an on-site bar if you fancy a nightcap close to home. Double or twin rooms here typically cost between €80 and €160 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

The Sydney Hotel – $

The Sydney Hotel is a more budget-friendly option than its sister hotel mentioned above! Rooms are spacious and functional, and it shares an outdoor pool and bar with Michelino 75. A pool is a rare perk in Bologna, and we think families with kids will definitely appreciate it during the summer months! 

This hotel doesn’t offer a boutique experience, but it’s clean, convenient, and delivers solid value. Breakfast is included each morning, and you can easily catch a bus to the city center from here, so it’s ideal for anyone looking to explore Bologna on a budget. Rooms typically range between €90 and €150 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Bologna Centrale Station

Bologna Centrale is the city’s main train station and a major rail hub for northern Italy. If you’re planning day trips to places like Florence, Modena, or Milan, this is the most convenient area to base yourself. You can walk to the historic center in about 15–20 minutes, and buses run frequently if you’d rather not go on foot.

The area around the station is busy, and I have to be honest, it’s more functional than scenic. It certainly has its perks, though. The hotels are well-priced, it’s easy to get to and from the airport via the Marconi Express, and there are plenty of cafes and amenities around.

So while it doesn’t have the charm of Bologna’s older neighborhoods, it’s great for short stays or anyone planning lots of day trips to explore more of the region. 

If you’re after a local vibe and quaint streets, you might prefer a stay further inside the historic core. But if you want convenience and a budget-friendly stay, Bologna Centrale Station is a great fit.

Pros

• Excellent for day trips and train travel
• More budget-friendly options than the historic center

Cons

• Lacks atmosphere and local charm
• Can feel busy and less polished, especially at night

UNA HOTELS Bologna Centro – $$$

UNA HOTELS Bologna Centro offers modern comfort just steps from the main station. Rooms are spacious and soundproofed, which is ideal if you’re coming off a long train ride or catching an early one. It has a business-chic design with crisp linens and large windows that let in lots of natural light.

There’s a breakfast buffet, an on-site restaurant, and underground parking, which is handy if you’re hiring a car. It’s a 15-minute walk to Piazza Maggiore, making it a great pick if you want station-side convenience without being too far from the action. Twin and double rooms here cost between €135 and €275 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

NH Bologna De La Gare – $$

NH Bologna De La Gare is a bright and airy mid-range hotel that sits just across from the train station. It delivers clean, comfortable rooms, friendly service, and a solid breakfast spread. Some rooms have city views, and there’s an on-site bar and restaurant. 

This place is not super flashy, but it does feel modern and polished. Whether you’re in Bologna for a quick stopover or want an easy base for regional exploring, NH Bologna De La Gare is a smart, well-priced option. Rooms here usually cost between €130 and €250 per night, depending on the room type and season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

binariouno – $ 

Binariouno is a low-key guesthouse located just a few minutes from the station, offering a casual and affordable stay for travelers planning lots of day trips. It has a boutique feel with monochrome patterns and quirky modern touches. There’s also a shared kitchen and friendly hosts who can point you in the right direction!

If you’re looking for a bed and breakfast with character, then we think that this is a sleek and friendly choice that offers solid value for the location. Rooms average around €145 per night, depending on the season.

Book your stay at Binariouno here!

Related Read: If you’re planning your trip and want to explore the city’s highlights, be sure to check out our guide to the 6 best things to do in Bologna here. It’s packed with top sights, local food experiences, and insider tips!

Santo Stefano

Santo Stefano is one of Bologna’s most beautiful and historic quarters, known for its elegant palazzos, winding cobblestone streets, and quiet local atmosphere. It’s just east of the main sights, bordering the historic center, but it feels noticeably more peaceful. This is a great area if you’re looking for that authentic Bologna charm without being right in the thick of tourist traffic.

The main highlight here is the Basilica di Santo Stefano, a stunning complex of interconnected churches that dates back to Roman times. You’ll also find boutique shops, intimate bars, and family-run trattorias tucked along the medieval lanes.

It’s a perfect base for couples or anyone who wants a slower pace but still wants to be within a 10-minute drive of the main attractions. I also recommend staying here if you’ve been to Bologna before!

Santo Stefano strikes a great balance between beautiful architecture, a slightly local vibe, and proximity to Bologna’s biggest attractions. It’s our favorite neighborhood to just wander around and spend time in. There are fewer hotel options here than in the heart of the Historic Center, but they do tend to be a bit cheaper. 

Pros

• Quieter and more local feeling than the historic center
• Easy walking distance to Piazza Maggiore and main sights

Cons

• Fewer hotel options compared to central districts
• Not ideal if you want to be right in the action

Il Convento Dei Fiori Di Seta – $$$

Set in a restored 14th-century convent, Il Convento Dei Fiori Di Seta blends centuries-old charm with more contemporary interiors. There’s a subtle elegance to the space that feels both peaceful and unique, like a hidden gem tucked away from the city’s buzz. Rooms here feature exposed brick walls, neutral tones, and flower murals, as well as spacious bathrooms.

The hotel is on a quiet street, so you’ll be able to get a good night’s rest here, but at the same time, you’ll be close to plenty of local spots for dinner or an aperitivo in this charming local neighborhood. Rooms here cost between €150 and €240 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Blumen Collection by GSA Hotels – $$

Located just outside the historic center in the Santo Stefano district, Hotel Blumen offers a simple, comfortable stay at a fair price. The rooms are quite sparsely decorated with a functional feel, but they’re clean and comfortable, and many have balconies with city views.

The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from the Basilica di Santo Stefano and 15 minutes from Piazza Maggiore, so it’s a solid mid-range pick if you want peace and easy access to the sights without paying premium city-center prices. Rooms here range between €100 and €175 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Il Tiro Rooms – $

Il Tiro Rooms is a cozy and affordable guesthouse in the Santo Stefano area. We think it’s ideal for travelers who want something quiet and well-priced. The rooms are minimal but modern, with private bathrooms, comfortable beds, and all the essentials covered.

There’s no breakfast, but plenty of great cafés are nearby. It’s not a luxury stay, but it’s clean, well-located, and great value for the area, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to spend a comfortable few nights in one of Bologna’s most charming areas without breaking the bank. A double or twin here typically costs €160 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: If you’re short on time but want to make the most of your visit, don’t miss our 2-day Bologna itinerary here! It’s a detailed guide to help you hit all the highlights without feeling rushed.

Top Activities to do in Bologna, Italy

With your Bologna stay sorted, it’s time to explore everything this vibrant city and its foodie-obsessed region have to offer. From rolling through the hills on an e-bike to tasting aged Parmigiano straight from the source, these are the tours that made our time in Bologna unforgettable.

• Taste the real Parmigiano-Reggiano – Standing inside a working cheese factory at 8 a.m. while wheels of Parmigiano were pulled from copper vats? Unexpectedly magical. This full-day tour also took us to a traditional balsamic vinegar house and local winery, ending with a rustic lunch and some of the best Lambrusco we’ve ever had.

• Make fresh pasta in a local’s home – Cooking tagliatelle and tortelloni from scratch in Grazia’s kitchen felt like visiting a long-lost Italian aunt. She was warm, funny, and full of great tips—and sitting down to eat everything we made together felt like the highlight of our trip. This cooking class was cozy, hands-on, and delicious.

• Tour the land of supercars – Even if you’re not a car lover, visiting the Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Pagani museums on this full-day museum tour was such a thrill. We saw engines being built, sat in sleek models, and even got to test-drive a Ferrari (add-on, totally worth it). Bonus: Lunch was surprisingly amazing, too.

• Walk (and eat) your way through Bologna – We thought we knew good food, but then we went on this walking food tour. Our guide took us from salumerias to secret bakeries, mixing bites with local history and fun anecdotes. We ended the tour stuffed and smiling, with a new list of spots we went back to later.

• Cruise through the hills by e-bike – This bike tour was the most fun we had on two wheels. We pedaled through porticoes and winding backroads into the green hills above Bologna, with plenty of breaks for views and stories. Our guide was laid-back and knowledgeable, and the electric assist made it easy and fun the whole way.

Renting a Car in Italy

Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!

We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Italy

• Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
• Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
• Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
• Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
• Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars. 

What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

After a day spent walking under medieval porticos, sipping spritz in the piazzas, and diving into tagliatelle al ragù, having the right place to rest your head truly makes all the difference. Whether you stay in the heart of Piazza Maggiore or settle into a quiet corner like Saragozza or Santo Stefano, Bologna rewards you with beauty, flavor, and a rhythm all its own.

We hope this guide helps you choose the perfect home base for your time in the city. Still planning the rest of your Italy adventure? Be sure to check out some of our most popular Italy blogs here for detailed itineraries, must-do tours, and local tips to help you travel deeper. Or read some of our most popular guides below for even more inspiration.

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