The Art Hotel Commercianti occupies a 12th-century building beside the Basilica di San Petronio, so close that some rooms enjoy views of its Gothic flank. Once the seat of the city government, it now offers cosy rooms with exposed beams and frescoed touches, complimentary bicycles and a warm welcome. Its unbeatable position on a quiet lane just off Piazza Maggiore places all of Bologna’s main attractions within a short stroll.