Old Center Station

Old Center Station Overview

You know that feeling when you stumble across a place that just gets it right? That’s Old Center Station for you. I mean, the name alone had me curious – turns out it’s actually housed in what used to be connected to Bologna’s old railway infrastructure, which explains the subtle industrial touches you’ll notice throughout the building. The location on Via Cesare Boldrini is honestly perfect – you’re literally a five-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, but tucked away enough that you won’t hear the late-night chatter from the university crowd that tends to take over the main squares.

What really struck me about this place is how they’ve managed to nail that sweet spot between authentic Bologna character and modern comfort. The rooms have these gorgeous high ceilings (I’m talking 12 feet easily) and original architectural details, but the beds are actually comfortable and the Wi-Fi doesn’t cut out every ten minutes like some of the more “authentic” places I’ve stayed. The staff – well, they’re the kind of people who remember your name and actually know the neighborhood. When I asked about getting good tortellini that wasn’t touristy, the front desk guy sent me to this tiny place on Via del Pratello that I never would’ve found otherwise. Honestly, that recommendation alone made the stay worth it.

Here’s what you should know practically speaking: parking is tricky in this part of Bologna (like everywhere in the historic center), but they’ve got arrangements with a garage about three blocks away. The rooms facing the street can get a bit noisy during morning rush hour – nothing terrible, but if you’re a light sleeper, maybe request something facing the courtyard. Check-in was smooth, though I’d recommend calling ahead if you’re arriving after 10 PM. The breakfast spread is solid – proper Italian coffee, fresh pastries from a local bakery, and they do this ricotta thing that I’m still thinking about. You’re also right around the corner from Mercato di Mezzo if you want to grab supplies or just wander through what’s basically Bologna’s food heaven. The whole area comes alive around aperitivo time, and honestly, there’s something pretty magical about walking back to your hotel through those medieval streets with a slight wine buzz and the evening light hitting the porticos just right.

Old Center Station Accommodations

Reviews of Old Center Station

• Perfect! – Jodi from Australia – 17 June 2025 (10/10)

  Fausto was an amazing host. Check in was easy and he shared a lot of useful information. Bed was comfortable with 4 pillows available. Washing machine a great addition. Air con was great. Location was also good. Easy to walk luggage from station
  
  What could be improved: NA

• Exceptional – John from United Kingdom – 19 May 2025 (10/10)

  Clean, convenient for the train station, well equipped. Host was friendly and very helpful

• Safe, clean and homely apartment to explore from – Catherine from United Kingdom – 15 May 2025 (10/10)

  Great location for station and for old town a short walk away.
  Good communication and a warm welcome from Fausto who was kind and generous to us, allowing some flexibility in check in and out times to suit our travel.
  Apartment is incredibly clean with thoughtful touches and attention to detail.

• Very good – Winedawg76 from United States – 7 May 2025 (8/10)

  I appreciated the proximity to the train station. Public transportation was nearby though finding the correct bus was challenging. Fausto was an incredible host, though his English was halting. He always made sure you understood his instructions. The bed was extremely comfortable and sitting on the balcony catching the breeze was awesome.
  
  What could be improved: The only minus was the shower. There was so much water leaking around the shower head that there was virtually no water pressure.

• Nice apartment and great location – Susan from United States – 13 April 2025 (10/10)

  This apartment has good reasons for self traveler to choose stay here, the location is only one short block to train station, and two blocks to Bologna most beautiful porticoes, which are covered walkways, that is great for shoppers and wandering the historical area, also many cafes, restaurants, grocery store nearby. Modern elevator balcony apartment on the 7th floor, inside the apartment it’s very clean, and kitchen has all modern appliances and washing machine works great too, plenty of shelves space and toiletries for guests, shower with good water temperature. The owner Mr. Fausto is a very thoughtful person, he always responded to my requests quickly, he was waiting for us outside the building and helping us out with luggage, the welcome package included sweet cookies, waters bottles and a bottle of wine, he gave us great tips on all the major sites of Bologna, his kindness and helpfulness adds great experience to our trip in Bologna, we highly recommend this apartment to anyone looking to visit Bologna.
  
  What could be improved: None.

• Very nice stay in Bologna – Maria from Canada – 11 October 2024 (10/10)

  Close to the train station: only 5 min walk, building with an elevator and only 15 min or so walk to the center. The apartment is well equipped. Very welcoming host, who does not speak English, however. So, it helps to understand some Italian, or, perhaps, use a language app to communicate.
  
  What could be improved: The size of the shower is the rather small, even for a normal size person it is rather difficult to bend. Having paper towels would be nice.

• Exceptional – Hsiao from Taiwan – 5 October 2024 (10/10)

  It is a warm and comfortable apartment.
  The House hold is very kind and approachable.

• Amazing apartment. Amazing host. – Michelle from Australia – 29 September 2024 (10/10)

  Fausto was an excellent host. He was kind and caring. The apartment was divine. it was clean, comfortable and well equipped. Thank you Fausto.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Exceptional – Joseph from United States – 17 September 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment had everything one would need. Very comfortable bed and pillows. Full kitchen if needed.
  Washer if needed. Very close to the train station. Had a balcony. Also has a nice elevator.
  The apartment is very clean and secure.
  I highly recommend this unit. Fausto the landlord does a great job.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• A comfortable home away from home – Toni from Australia – 31 August 2024 (10/10)

  Great location close to the station and easy 15 -20 minutes walk to the old city and sights.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

Surroundings

Facilities