B&B Il Viaggio Bologna

Twelve rooms fill a restored townhouse on Via San Vitale, Bologna's arcaded street running east from the Due Torri toward Porta San Vitale, a ten-minute walk from the university quarter and its student trattorias. The porticoed sidewalk outside keeps the walk dry in any weather, a detail locals rely on more than visitors realize.

Rooms keep the building's original terrazzo floors and high beamed ceilings rather than a uniform boutique look. Breakfast is served at a shared table, with pastries from a nearby forno rather than a buffet spread.

The address suits travelers who want to walk everywhere: Piazza Maggiore, the university library, and San Vitale's own antique shops all fall within fifteen minutes on foot.