It's hard not to feel at home when refined and well-travelled owner Agostino – a veteran of Bologna's one and only five-star hotel, greets you in perfect English, French or Italian and shows you into your high-ceilinged 19th-century palazzo room, complete with well-stocked fridge and welcome bottle of wine (all included in the price).
Among the five colour-themed rooms, the Camera Azzurra stands out with its delightful flowery terrace (but Rossa is the sexiest and most spacious!). Perks include powerful wi-fi and air-con, plus a perfect location for those with a car. It's just paces outside Bologna's pedestrian zone, has €10-per-day garage parking out back, and is an easy 10-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore.