Aemilia Hotel Bologna

Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop

Set the scene

On arrival at the Aemilia Hotel, you can instantly soak in the elegance and sophistication that exudes from every corner of this famed Italian establishment. A perfect blend of history and modernity, the hotel's interior design strikes you with its simplistic yet luxurious charm effortlessly capturing the spirit of Bologna. High ceilings, majestic columns, and classic artworks set against a backdrop of vibrant colors provide a remarkable visual treat.

The thoughtful layout of the hotel creates a sense of space and luxury, welcoming you with open arms. Impressive lounges offer the perfect spot for a tranquil pause or an engaging conversation, while the well-lit corridors adorned with delightful art pieces subtly whisper tales of Bologna's rich heritage.

What can we expect in our room

The rooms, adorned with fine linens and elegant color palettes, capture an unmistakable air of modern luxury that makes each stay here a pampering experience. Every room is soundproof and comes with cosy comforts such as air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, a minibar, and a satellite LED TV. Not to mention the spacious bathrooms decked out in Carrara marble, fitted with high-end toiletries that are utterly indulgent.

Many of the rooms boast stunning vistas of Bologna’s captivating skyline, with some affording you the tranquility of a private terrace. Imagine waking up to the cinematic views of the city or sipping your morning coffee while the sun gradually paints the city with a new day.

How about the food and drinks

The hotel features a signature rooftop restaurant, 'Gurmé,' that serves a tantalizing mix of traditional Bolognese dishes, innovatively re-invented to satiate the taste buds of modern global foodies. Priding itself on its dedication to quality and freshness, the restaurant sources most of its ingredients locally. Here, lingering with a plate of tortellini or sampling a smorgasbord of the region's famed cold cuts and cheeses becomes an unforgettable culinary experience.

Beyond the stunning panoramic views offered by the rooftop setup, Aemilia's onsite distilled spirit - a classy cocktail lounge named 'Terrace Bar,' offers guests a moment of true relaxation. Be ready to be spoiled for choice, as the extensive menu presents a fusion of classic cocktails, Italian wines, and local craft beers.

What about the service at the Aemilia Hotel

Each member of the team is trained extensively, possessing vast knowledge about Bologna, ready to recommend the best local haunts, interesting tours, and tantalizing eateries. The communication barrier is not an issue as the staff is multilingual, ready to converse in English, Italian, and various other languages, fostering a comfortable environment for international guests.

The service at Hotel Aemilia is undeniably a highlight. From the moment you cross its threshold, you experience a seamless check-in process, facilitated by the efficient front desk team. During your stay, the housekeeping staff maintains impeccable cleanliness standards each day. Additionally, the hotel employs a concierge service, there to facilitate any reservations, provide guidance, or solve any logistical conundrums you might be facing during your stay.

What’s the neighbourhood scene like?

The moment you step out of the Aemilia Hotel, you find yourself embedded within the tapestry of Bologna's vibrant local life. Bustling open-air markets, charming side-street boutiques, and tantalizing neighborhood Bolognese restaurants extend outward in a radiant display of unadulterated Italian culture.

The cobblestoned streets in the vicinity hum with an eclectic mix of artisans, students, tourists, and locals, radiating a unique energy that you can't help but get swept away in. Historical landmarks such as the iconic 'Two Towers' and the celebrated 'Piazza Maggiore' are mere minutes away, providing a perfect mix of culture, history, and contemporary lifestyle at your fingertips.

Not far from the hotel, lush green parks offer a calm contrast to the city's upbeat rhythm. As the sun dips below the horizon, the neighborhood springs to life with nightlife options, from cosy Bologna wine bars where locals sip on Lambrusco and chat animatedly to dynamic music venues that echo with the vibrant rhythms of the city.

What’s the backstory?

Its name is a tribute to the Via Aemilia, an essential Roman road connecting Piacenza to Rimini which was built in 187 BC. The hotel stands on the ancient route, symbolizing a journey through time - from the intricate tapestry of the past to the dynamic pulse of the present.

Over the decades, the Aemilia Hotel has undergone numerous renovations and remodels, each one enhancing its blend of timeless elegance and contemporary comforts. Despite the changes, the hotel has always retained a core philosophy of genuine hospitality and retained the charm of Italian heritage. Today, the Aemilia Hotel tells a fascinating tale of Bologna's versatility, elegantly balancing tradition and innovation, much like the city itself.

Price Range

As a general guide, the price range starts from around $200 per night for a standard room, reaching up to $400 or more for the higher-end rooms, depending on the time of year and demand. Additional costs are invariably present, such as optional extras like spa treatments or dining at the in-house restaurant, but these are discretionary ant not excluded from the room price. The pricing is surprisingly affordable when compared to equally luxury-focused competitors in Bologna, demonstrating the hotel's commitment to providing value for money.

Visitors looking to experience the charm and opulence of the Aemilia Hotel should note that the rates can vary substantially. For instance, price surge takes place during peak periods such as holidays and the bustling summer season. It’s not uncommon for rates to be slightly higher during trade fairs or other large events that frequently take place in Bologna.

Amenities & Facilities

The hotel prides itself on providing a range of modern conveniences peppered with a hint of traditional charm. Fitness enthusiasts need not stray from their routine, courtesy of the state-of-the-art gym packed with the latest equipment.

The Aemilia further ensures a seamless experience with services such as free Wi-Fi, a tech-friendly environment with charging stations, and business services handy for the corporate traveler. Beyond the confines of your room, the Aemilia offers a stunning rooftop terrace commanding panoramic views of Bologna, perfect for an unhurried evening drink.

And let’s not forget the crowning glory - the skyscape terraces, an intriguing blend of green spaces and rooftop bars circling the entire building, offering snapshots of urban Bologna life. Enjoy dining under the stars, participating in yoga sessions, or merely reveling in the unique view of the city's spires and towers from this vantage point.

How to get to the Aemilia Hotel in Bologna

What Customers Have To Say

Contact:

Address: Via Zaccherini Alvisi, 16, 40138 Bologna BO, Italy

Phone: +39 051 394 0311

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.