ASTOR HOTEL, Bologna

The Astor Hotel is situated in a quiet area near the Bologna Fair Centre and the new Town House, making it practical for business visitors and fair attendees. Bologna Centrale Station is a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride away, with a bus stop located just outside the hotel providing direct connections. The airport is 7 km away, reachable by taxi in about 10 minutes (approximately €20). The historic city centre is about a 30-minute walk or a quick bus trip. Several nearby restaurants offer discounted rates, and a take-away pizzeria next door can deliver on request.

All rooms are named after precious stones and come with air conditioning, heating, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private bathroom with a shower. Flooring options are tiles or parquet. Some rooms include a balcony or minibar, but availability varies - specify preferences at booking. Rooms are described as spacious and clean, with comfortable beds and effective blackout curtains. Noise can be a concern: rooms facing the internal courtyard may offer less privacy, while road-facing rooms and hallways can be louder. The top floor tends to be warmer. Furniture may appear older and dated, but the property is gradually being renovated.

Breakfast is a generous buffet, featuring both sweet and savoury items such as croissants, yoghurt, fruit, and sandwiches. Freshly made coffee is a highlight. The property notes its menu also accommodates gluten-free requests. There is no on-site restaurant, but a range of nearby restaurants offers discounted rates. A take-away pizzeria, Pizza Export De Cicco Monica, is just 0.5 km away and can deliver to the hotel. Other dining options within a short walk include Trattoria Vecchio Mercato, El Greco, and Ristorante Senafe.

Wi-Fi is available in all rooms free of charge. The 24-hour front desk allows for late check-ins and offers express check-in/out on request. Free luggage storage is available before check-in and after check-out, making it easy to explore the city hands-free. Daily housekeeping is provided, and towels are changed regularly. A safety deposit box, vending machine for drinks, and a shared lounge/TV area are on-site. Business services include fax/photocopying. The hotel has a lift, non-smoking rooms, and security features such as CCTV and smoke alarms.