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A lively city overflowing with history, Bologna is a super cool place to visit. Picture bustling piazzas, medieval architecture, vibrant cafes, a decent student area with nightlife to match… Oh, and it’s only home to the oldest university in the WORLD – 1088 – that’s old!
It’s not a mad tourist town, it’s more about actual Italian life here. It’s pretty edgy at times with graffitied walls, a soft spot for left-wing politics, and drunk students. And don’t forget the UNREAL food on offer!
But if it ain’t got much of a tourist scene, does that also mean there’s not a lot going in terms of hostels too? Can you stay here on a budget?
Don’t worry. There are plenty of hostels. I’ve made a list of the best hostels in Bologna to make it easy for you to choose a hostel that’s right for you. Plus I’ve got a few budget hotels, too, because ya never know, ya know?
Whether you want to chill out in the Piazza Maggiore and people-watch with an espresso or live your best Italian life making friends with your hosts… There’s something for everyone.
So let’s have a look and see what Bologna has to offer!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Bologna
- Best Overall Hostel in Bologna – Dopa Hostel
- Best Hostel in Bologna for Solo Travelers – Bohoostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Bologna – Il Castello Hostel Boutique
- Best Party Hostel in Bologna – Combo Bologna
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Bologna – Il Nosadillo
The 5 Best Hostels in Bologna
1. Dopa Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Bologna
- Dorm (mixed): From $80
- Private Room: From $194
- Address: Via Irnerio,41, Bologna, Italy
We’re saying this is the best overall hostel in Bologna ’cause it’s a new and well-designed place that’s looked after with care. Plus the staff here have managed to cultivate, like, a fun hostel vibe. And it’s aaaaaall ’bout dat!
The beds themselves, as well as a lot of stuff in the hostel, have actually been handmade in cool, calm colours. I like it. In fact, I may even go as far as to say it’s the coolest hostel in Bologna. Yeah.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wifi
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
- 24 Hour Security
How about that? It’s also got an ace location: downtown, close to the university. Being in a central location in Italian cities is imperative, everything is within walking distance. Walking around a city is the best way to get to know it and it’s an easy way to stay fit on vacay.
When you take into account hostel prices in the area and the fact that everything’s just a short walk away, you’re basically making money. There are laundry facilities so you can sort your shit out, cruise on the free wifi and have a full reset. Dopa Hostel is like a home away from home and you can recharge and plan what you want to see here, maybe the Piazza Maggiore.
2. Bohoostel – Best Hostel in Bologna for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $43
- Private Room: From $109
- Address: Via Camillo Casarini 23, Bologna, Italy
Bohoostel is one of those hostels that you splurge on and get a full reset done, ready to hit the road again. You can do an overhaul of your laundry, and sleep soundly for as long as you like in the comfy beds. The rooms are spacious enough that if your full reset requires a complete backpack unpack, that can happen too!
I love this Bologna Hostel just outside of the city centre because it feels like it’s in a bit of a haven but it’s accessible. The train station is only a 20-minute walk away if you wanna hit that public transport or Piazza Maggiore is just a 25-minute walk away. I love wandering the streets when I’m travelling solo, there’s something so romantic about it, and Bohoostel is a perfect base for this.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Air Conditioning
- CCTV
- Luggage Storage
You can make the most of the common areas here, meeting your hostel mates while staying in this Bologna hostel. It’s also the perfect spot to be for a full recharge, not just a reset. You can read a book under the trees in the garden and fully relax, just decide whether you’re sitting at the tables or the hammock.
The kitchen is well stocked with everything you need to cook up a storm… Whether that’s to impress your new hostel mates or provide for your picnic lunch is up to you, chef! The atmosphere here is calm so if you’re travelling by yourself to BE by yourself (cue journal), you’re in the right spot at Bohoostel.
3. Il Castello Hostel Boutique – Best Cheap Hostel in Bologna
- Dorm (mixed): From $38
- Private Room: From $72
- Address: Via Porta di Castello 4 Bologna, Bologna, Italy
Great location in the middle of the city, but this budget hostel in Bologna is somewhat lacking in the atmosphere department. But other than that, if you’re looking for a safe and clean place to stay you can’t go wrong with Il Castello Hostel Boutique. All the hostel essentials are covered (roof, bed) and the city centre location is honestly magnificent.
Yep, it’s a solid option for those who wanna save a bit of cash. There’s a free breakfast (always a plus) and a communal kitchen where you can make your own food. The best of Bologna’s cheap hostels, it’s a good choice if you’re only looking for a short stay in the city.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central Location
- Free Wi fi
- Cheap hostels save CASH
Forget the glamour of personal power points and pod beds, Il Castello Hostel Boutique is not that chic… Or modern for that matter. An old-school hostel in the sense that it’s a cheap place to lay your head is what you get here. Epic for budget backpackers that just want that but if you’re a new-school flaskpacker, skip this one and read on amigo!
If you’re used to getting by on the bones of your ass (or feet), you’ll be accustomed to everything being “just a short walk” away. Except at Il Castello Hostel Boutique, that’s legit! The central location makes everything handy so despite not having laundry facilities and the like, you can find them nearby easily.
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View on Osprey4. Combo Bologna – Best Party Hostel in Bologna
- Dorm (mixed): From $52
- Private Room: From $119
- Address: Via de’ Carracci 69/14, Bologna, Bologna, Italy
Lol, what a funny name. But aside from the jokes of the title, it’s set near the university area which means a pretty poppin’ nightlife. But in the summer this place puts on events in their outdoor garden, think DJ sets and gigs that are open to the public.
Pretty much does sound like the best party hostel in Bologna, doesn’t it? Yep. Anyway, the vibe here is pretty nice, good for turning up, meeting new people, etc. etc… And, there’s a cinema room for when the light of day is just too harsh for your hungover eyes.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
- Free Wi fi
- Just a short walk to the city centre
Combo Bologna has free wifi and a full kitchen (cooking your own food is a great way to stick to your budget)… And when you’re done resetting, meal prepping, whatever you wanna do… There are bikes to hire! Cruise around Bologna on two wheels and see all the stunning sights of this Italian city, without racking up too many miles on the feet.
If you don’t have much time to explore, there’s plenty happening in and around Combo Bologna too. From hanging out at the on-site cafe and people-watching to the live concerts and DJ sets they hold there, there’s something for everyone. Ask the friendly staff about what’s on and enjoy the local ‘burbs of Bologna.
5. Il Nosadillo – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Bologna
- Dorm (mixed): From $29
- Address: Via Nosadella, 15C, Bologna, Italy
This is the best hostel for digital nomads in Bologna ’cause of its relaxed homely vibe and communal lounge to get work done in. Close to the Piazza Maggiore (the main square of the city), plus a load of places to eat pizza and various other extremely tasty foods. You’re just a four-minute walk away so when the workday is done, you’re on!
You can take a work break by wandering to the communal kitchen to make a snack or head out to one of the many cafes nearby. Helping to start your day in the RIGHT way, there’s a free brekkie on offer, which is always, always appreciated.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wi fi
- Free Breakfast
- Laundry Facilities
The rooms here have air conditioning and linen provided so all you need to do on your quest to see the world is turn up. The shared rooms are pretty spacious. They come with comfy bunk beds and massive lockers that fit even the biggest backpack. There’s a book exchange at this Bologna hostel which is the tried and true sign of somewhere worth staying.
If you’re looking for a chill place to get work done while also being able to meet genuine travellers, this should be your top choice. Once you’re done with getting work done, either stay in the common area and make friends or start exploring the city.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Budget Stays in Bologna
So, don’t fancy a dorm room? That’s ok – there are lots more places to stay in Bologna! I’ve been helpful and compiled a nice lil’ list of the best budget hotels in Bologna, too, so that there really is something for everyone. Check ’em out…
Albergo Panorama
- Private Room: From $94
- Address: Via Giovanni Livraghi 1, Bologna, Italy
Hotel Panorama is exactly that… Whatever that is lol. But despite the fat price tag of this Bologna hotel, it’s worth every centime. You’re smack bang in the beating heart of Bologna’s city centre and have a beautiful room to share with your lover (or whoever!).
The rooms are spacious and beautiful with parquet floors and traditional decor which I loooooove. There are rooms with ensuite bathrooms and private balconies and rooms with shared bathrooms. Some rooms have air conditioning and others have a fan to cool down that hot Italian air.
Casa Meris Fox
- Private Room: From $172
- Address: Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Annarita hosts a clean and cozy apartment, a great accommodation option in Bologna. You’re out of the city centre which comes with perks like a garden and a full kitchen. And out can still get into the city centre easily, you’re just a short walk away from public transport and the historic centre.
The apartment is fully furnished, has clean bedding provided and is on par with hostel costs throughout Bologna. This is an epic option if you’re travelling as a family or with a crew – there are two bedrooms in this homely apartment.
Bologna Center Town
- Private Room: From $75
- Address: Via Guglielmo Marconi 28, Bologna, Italy
This is basically a guesthouse but with a hostel atmosphere and let me tell you now: the rooms are HUGE, seriously massive. And they’re all parquet floors, big beds, high ceilings, full-length windows, bathrooms and romantic balconies with a very dreamy old world feel to ’em.
So whilst it does lack the atmosphere of a Bologna backpackers hostel, it makes up for that with its ace location. There are cafes close by, the historic centre is just a short walk away. Visit the Madonna di San Luca while you’re here!
Bed & Breakfast Dolce Vita
- Private Room: From $109
- Address: Via Guglielmo Marconi 29, 40122 Bologna, Italy
To live the high life (sort of) then you should come to this place. The bedrooms are all very clean, classically Italian and romantic, I’d say it’s a good budget stay for couples travelling in Bologna.
You can sit on the balconies here with a cup of coffee just surveying the local area, which is always a fun thing to do. It’s 15 mins to the railway station and just a short walk to the city centre. However: the bathrooms are shared – but if you’re used to hostels, SO WHAT?!
B&B Real Fly
- Private Room: From $99
- Address: Via dei Mille 7/2, 40121 Bologna, Italy
Real fly?! What? I don’t understand either. ‘Cause it isn’t fly, like cool. And it’s nothing to do with buzzy flies – I hope; well it’s pretty clean so I don’t think so. But apart from that utter confusion, this budget hotel in Bologna is close to the city centre which is great.
It does have shared bathrooms, so if you’re missing the hostel vibe you can reminisce as you queue for a shower in the morning… Also of note, the staff don’t really speak much English here, but you’ll get by. In fact, they send you info via WhatsApp which is funny.
Camera D’or
- Private Room: From $64
- Address: 10 Via Col di Lana, 40131 Bologna, Italy
This top bed and breakfast in Bologna is a welcome mix between hostel and boutique hotel. There’s a kitchen you can use, where you can chat with other peeps staying here and there are private rooms with balconies and great decor. Nice combo.
The location of this place is near the historic part of Bologna – great if you like a wander – you can browse the markets. There you can eat some tasty food and then go home for a coffee on the terrace watching local life go by. Sounds pretty ok to us.
Albergo Pallone
Wanna make friends in your Bologna backpackers hostel? Then you should probably check out Albergo Pallone. Not only are the staff very fun and helpful, but it is a good place to meet people.
So yeah, this is a top pick for the best hostel for solo travellers in Bologna. It’s got a great ambience, it’s super clean, and most of all you’ll feel safe staying here (the night guard is always on it). It’s also in a grand location to explore the city.
Campus & Opera
Close to both the opera AND the university district, there are epic places to eat and drink nearby since it’s a pretty vibey area. The landlord is super friendly and will make sure you have everything you need. But as this best hostel for couples in Bologna, you’ll also get the space you want.
The private rooms here are a good option, of course, if you’re with your partner and you want a bit of a hotel-ish experience. Simple, but convenient and comfortable – what more d’ya need? You’ve heard of the oldest university but have you heard of the Bologna Zoological Museum – no? Go there!
Bella Ciao
A very, very, very classic Italian place to stay – but it’s still modern and clean. It’s an authentic budget hotel in Bologna and you will literally feel the Italian character in the air. The owner is genuinely lovely and goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is well looked after.
You can choose from an apartment with its own lil’ kitchen and stuff, or a more basic room where you’ll have to share a bathroom. There’s a very hearty breakfast included, which I can’t fault. You eat this downstairs around a big table where you can chat with other guests and of course the owner, too.
Bed & Breakfast Cesarina
This budget hotel Bologna is in a pretty calm area with a park nearby. It’s also pretty close to the city centre, which is handy. The place itself is also quiet, so if you’re looking for somewhere more vibey this might not be your thing.
You can hop on the bus from here to get to more happening areas – not a problem! The rooms here, however, are pretty top-notch – I’m talkin’ clean, gleaming bathrooms and big four-poster beds. Some rooms even come complete with a balcony where you can look all whimsical and stuff and enjoy a good breakfast with tasty coffee.
Mirabilia Golden
This budget hotel in Bologna is a pretty cool place to stay. It’s not ultra cool like it’s not chic, but for a BUDGET hotel, it’s pretty good. They’ve definitely gone in hard on the grey colour scheme, that much I can say.
It’s in a quiet area, but getting to more lively parts of Bologna isn’t difficult – it’s a short walk to town. Plus for convenience fans, the nearby bus stop can take you to the airport. Very handy.
Well.B
Well.B…. We’ll… B… Nope. Don’t get it. Anyway, staying here means a lotta Italian hospitality. And the owners work hard to make sure this place is nice ‘n’ clean at all times and that you feel welcome.
Like a Bologna backpackers hostel, the owners will help you out with what you want to do in the city when you first arrive. Might be a bit much for some people, but if you love having a chat then this is a solid choice for you.
Love Pratello
Though this place is a little bit rough around the edges, it IS set in a historic building in the oldest part of town, so… not bad. The rooms are pretty old-school – think paintings of flowers and net curtains, but nothing the hearty broke backpacker can’t handle!
There’s a great lil’ terrace at this budget Bologna hotel, where you can overlook all the action on the city streets. Enjoy being in the old town with a coffee or some other beverage. The owner is charming and helpful and will make sure you enjoy your time here.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Bologna
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ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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FAQs About Hostels in Bologna
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Bologna.
What to Pack for Your Bologna Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much do hostels in Bologna cost?
The average price of hostels in Bologna starts from $35 – $50+ per night. Of course, the private stays are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What are the best hostels in Bologna for couples?
Bed & Breakfast Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life) is the ultimate stay to be sweet with your sweetheart. The private balcony with the views is so romantic to me!
What is the best hostel in Bologna near the airport?
HP Fly Hotel Bologna is just 6 minutes from Bologna Airport. It also offers airport transfer for an additional fee. Wherever you decide to stay, get in touch with your accom for the best advice on getting to and from the airport.
Final Thoughts on Bologna’s Hostels
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Bologna has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure! There are so many epic Bologna hostels, that finding the perfect one for you should be easy. Bologna hostels are definitely diverse in area and amenities so there will probably be a bit of a payoff when deciding where to stay.
That being said, you’re just a short walk away from whatever you need, whether it’s a Bologna train station to get somewhere… Or laundry facilities and a cafe to work from in the Piazza Maggiore… you’ll get the hang of this Italian city in no time.
If you’re still on the fence about which Bologna hostel is best for you, Dopa Hostel is the best overall hostel for a reason. It’s near the Piazza Maggiore in the city centre, it’s classic hostel vibes and there’s free breakfast and free wifi.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly stay though, hit Il Nosadillo, it’s the cheapest (note, not the best of the cheap hostels). It’s great for a place to rest your head and a quiet place to stay.
Wherever you stay in Bologna, I hope you have a wonderful time, enjoy mincing about the stunning Piazza Maggiore and tell me all about it!
If you think I’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit me up in the comments, I’d love to chat.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Italy for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Bologna before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Italy to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
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