Residenza Palazzo Marchesini

Carlo and his wife at B&B Residenza Palazzo Marchesini made Bologna a much better trip than I expected. His personal tips were invaluable, from a walking route to booking an authentic Bolognese dinner. They were warm and welcoming, and luggage storage was a big help. There are stairs to climb, but you’ll probably appreciate them after all the delicious food Carlo recommends. I can’t wait to return.

Carlo’s place gives you a real taste of Bologna’s medieval architecture while you stay there. Our room had a private patio and lovely city views. The location is convenient, about halfway between the station and the center, so both are walkable, and the area is quieter than the tourist spots. It felt like being welcomed into Carlo’s home. He treated us like family, shared stories about his family and the place, and gave us tips on restaurants and historic sights. We had an early train for a day trip to Ravenna, and he got up an hour and a half early to make breakfast for us. After that, breakfast was adjusted each day to our personal preferences. I can’t say enough about what a special stay it was.

The palazzo’s rooftop gave us a memorable aperitivo with Carlo and his sweet dog Blite. He made us feel at home, and was generous with advice on Bologna’s history, art, and restaurants, as well as help with dinner reservations. The location is spot on. There’s parking if you arrive by car, though it’s best suited to a subcompact like a Fiat 500. We had a really memorable stay and hope to come back next year.

Carlo is a wonderful host, always helpful with recommendations for places to eat and see, and he has a great sense of humor. Breakfast came with a homemade specialty every morning. We had a large room with a private terrace looking over the Bologna rooftops. It was quiet in the evenings and overnight, and the location puts city highlights and restaurants close by.