Via dell'Indipendenza, 8, Bologna, Italy | (251) 219-4428
Convenient, central location in walkable downtown Bologna
Historic hotel built in the 18th century with Baroque details (and Roman ruins in the basement)
The renowned Il Carracci restaurant, a top choice in Bologna, is on-site
Elegant, sophisticated guest rooms and suites (some have fireplaces and terraces)
Wine bar serves food in a relaxed atmosphere
Fitness center with spa and Turkish bath
Free Wi-Fi
No swimming pool
Fee for parking
Some rooms have less than inspiring views of the street or interior courtyard
Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni is a luxury property in the heart of downtown Bologna. Built in the 18th century and decorated with Baroque details and priceless paintings, the hotel attracts its share of visiting celebrities. Wi-Fi is free, and a buffet breakfast is included in the rates. The fitness center, with an array of cardio machines, has a spa with a sauna and Turkish bath. Il Carracci, one of Bologna's top restaurants, gets great reviews for service and food quality. For a less-expensive but upscale option about a 15-minute walk form the Grand Hotel Majestic, check the rates at the Hotel Porta San Mamolo.
Scene
Ancient and prestigious with Baroque details and celebrity visitors
Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni was originally built in the 18th century for a cardinal (and future pope) who wanted the prime location next to St. Peter Cathedral. The building has been operating as a luxury hotel since the 1900s and includes original frescoes by Carracci, antique furniture, and priceless paintings along its walls. Remains of an ancient Roman street can be viewed in the basement. Upstairs, photos of past celebrity visitors, including the likes of Paul McCartney and Princess Diana, line the walls. The vibe is refined but friendly.
Location
On Via Indipendenza, Bolgna's main center street
Via Indipendenza is one of Bologna's busiest and most affluent streets, lined with upscale shops and gourmet restaurants. Foot traffic is heavy, but very little noise is heard from inside the hotel.The property abuts the Cathedral of Saint Peter. The entrance is slightly subdued and blends in with neighboring porticos. Guests should look for a doorman wearing full livery, and they'll know they've found the Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni.
Rooms
Rooms and suites fit for a future Pope (or at least Elton John)
Rooms and suites are decorated in a French or English style with super-lux details, such as Murano glass lamps and Carrara marble bathrooms. The Art Deco suite has a private elevator, and the furnished terrace is so close to the facade of St. Peter's Cathedral that it can be touched. All rooms have plasma flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Some guests have complained about a lack of air-conditioning or heating between seasons. And not all rooms have fabulous views: Some face the street or an interior courtyard.
Features
Fine-dining at Il Carracci, spa with Turkish bath, and wine bar
It would be easy for Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni to let guests fend for themselves in the tourist- friendly city of Bologna, but that isn't the norm at the Grand Hotel Majestic. Fancy features include a wellness center with a workout room, Turkish bath, and dry sauna. Il Caracci restaurant is widely considered one of the best in Bologna, but the hotel also has a more casual wine bar that serves food. There's a charge for parking. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and a buffet breakfast is included in the rates.