Best Western Hotel San Donato

We started out very frustrated trying to find this place by auto. We had GPS that directed us to the general vicinity in Bologna, but after that we were going around in circles: getting to streets that were blocked, or going the wrong way (many one way streets) or even onto a street that became pedestrian only (without signage to that effect) and then egress blocked by cement poles-all this required a very delicate backing out to avoid obstacles and uncooperative, unsympathetic, and much amused locals. Finally we managed to illegally park in a lot which turned out to be only a 5 minute walk from the hotel, once I realized where we were. Upon entering the hotel we were told to drive right over because they had a lot (24 Euros a day). The clerk (and all the staff were courteous and helpful) told me that GPS doesn't give reliable directions in the area of the old center city. She took out a map and showed me the best way to exit this old center city by car, and where then to start using the GPS, and upon our return, what destination to enter in the GPS and then upon reaching that place, she drew a reliable route to reach the hotel. It would have been helpful had the hotel sent a standard email to every person who made a reservation spelling all this out. Once they drafted the whole instruction it wouldn't have taken a lot of effort to send it electronically to every potential guest. A lot of wasted time and aggravation would have been avoided! And the inner city streets have no vehicular traffic on Saturdays-we happened to be on a Saturday tour and our driver was able to pick us up early in the morning, but had to drop us off blocks from the hotel in the afternoon. This could be a real problem for someone checking in on a Saturday! The hotel was in an old building right within the bustling area of the old center of the city. Staff was nice. Rooms were kind of motel-adequate. Shower was OK. We had a balcony with a view. There was an extra charge for breakfast. We did not utilize the breakfast for scheduling reasons. Room cost was reasonable. less

We chose the Best Western Hotel San Donato because of it's central location, which was brilliant for our overnight stay in Bologna. We chose location over "character." The room was large and clean, and the bed was very comfortable. Our room overlooked the secured parking area, so was lovely and quiet. The roof terrace is a great place to have a drink and unwind, taking in the sights and sounds of this special city. If you are looking for a centrally located hotel that is reasonably priced, this is the hotel for you. less

Housed within a traditional city-centre building, this hotel really scores on location, as it is easy to reach many of the city's principal attractions, as well as restaurants and shopping areas. The surrounding streets can be busy and noisy, but the atmosphere really adds to the experience of staying here. The hotel serves an excellent buffet breakfast (which can be enjoyed on the terrace in fine weather); the staff were consistently friendly and helpful; and the hotel's roof terrace offers outstanding views of Bologna. A good choice - one we would definitely recommend. less

Having had the please of Lufthansa cancelling my flight at 2 hours notice and not offering me any accommodation for the night I found this hotel out of desperation more than choice. A Best Western is what I call "a safe bet" in most cities and I was able to book a room on-line. Could not be more convenient to the old town. Reception was very helpful on arrival and early morning departure. Room was small and average but clean with wooden floor. Not sure why but noise from the outside coridoor and other rooms seemed particularly loud. There is a small bar/lounge area on the 2nd floor with outside terrace and Lambardo who provides the service is a true professional that represents this establishment exquisitely. Drop in here for a coffee/drink and he will provide a great "concierge" service. I will definitely return to this lovely city and this hotel will be on my short list to consider. less

Nice hotel but sadly no character. Good very clean comfy rooms but very compact bathroom and shower only. Sorry but in a 4 star I expect a bath. Our room at the front was very noisy from the students in the bars around the square. One night the loud noise including singing went on past 3 am. This to me was what let the hotel down. Otherwise very good central location. Decent but buffet breakfast. Ok bar and nice roof terrace. I would go back if I could have a quiet room at the back. less