Bologna, often overshadowed by its more famous Italian neighbors, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and culinary delights that make it perfect for family travel. With a rich history and vibrant atmosphere, this city offers an array of activities that cater to all ages, ensuring your family trip is both exciting and educational.
Reaching Bologna is straightforward, as it’s well-connected via its international airport, Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ), about 6 kilometers northeast of the city center. A taxi to the city will cost you approximately €20 (around $22) and take about 20 minutes. Alternatively, take the Aerobus for €8 ($9), which runs every 15 minutes and reaches the central train station in about 30 minutes.
Once in Bologna, navigating the city is easy and family-friendly. Public transport includes buses and a well-marked train system, with the number 32 bus being particularly handy for reaching family attractions. Tickets cost €1.50 ($1.65) for 75 minutes, and you can purchase them at tobacco shops or automated machines. For a more leisurely pace, consider renting bikes from one of the many rental shops throughout the city, which will allow your family to explore at your own speed.
For a family-friendly stay, consider the I Portici Hotel located on Via Indipendenza. This hotel offers family rooms starting at approximately €125 ($140) per night, and is conveniently situated near major attractions. Another great option is Hotel Internazionale, which has spacious rooms and a play area for children, with rates starting around €100 ($110) per night.
If you prefer a more local experience, Airbnb has several family-friendly apartment listings in the historic center. Expect to pay around €100-€150 ($110-$165) per night for a two-bedroom apartment, complete with kitchen facilities that can help with preparing meals for younger children. This can be a huge time-saver, allowing you to have breakfast at your leisure before setting out for the day.
Bologna is known as the culinary capital of Italy, and you’ll want to indulge in its local cuisine during your visit. Start your culinary journey with a classic dish like Tortellini in brodo at Trattoria di Via Serra, where a bowl will set you back about €12 ($13.20) per person. The warm, comforting broth makes it a great dish for children.
Another must-try is the ragu alla Bolognese, best enjoyed at Ristorante Da Nello, where you can savor this rich sauce with tagliatelle for about €14 ($15.50). To sweeten the experience, don’t miss out on a slice of the famed torta di riso, a rice cake often enjoyed by locals, available at Pasticceria Marchesi. A slice will cost around €2.50 ($2.75), and it's a perfect, light treat to conclude your meal.
There are plenty of engaging activities for families in Bologna. Start your exploration at the Bologna Children's Book Fair, if you visit in spring, where you can attend workshops and interactive reading sessions. For something more permanent, the Museo della Storia di Bologna offers an engaging overview of the city's history with exhibits tailored for younger audiences. Admission is around €6 ($6.60) for adults and free for kids under 12.
Another highlight is the Two Towers (Le Due Torri), which are iconic symbols of Bologna. Climbing the Torre Asinelli, the taller of the two, costs €5 ($5.50) and provides an unforgettable view of the city. If your kids have energy to spare, the 498 steps will also help burn off some of that pasta! Afterward, stroll through Piazza Maggiore, where you can people-watch and enjoy gelato from Gelateria Gianni, an award-winning spot with cones starting at around €2.50 ($2.75).
To make your Bologna trip seamless, keep these practical tips in mind:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aerobus from Airport | €8 | 30-minute ride to city center |
| Tortellini in brodo | €12 | Trattoria di Via Serra, kids love it! |
| Admission to Museo della Storia di Bologna | €6 | Free for kids under 12 |
| Gelato at Gelateria Gianni | €2.50 | Famous for its rich flavors |
| Climbing Torre Asinelli | €5 | Great view after 498 steps |
| Family room at I Portici Hotel | €125 | Located on Via Indipendenza |
| Bike rental (per day) | €12 | Great way to explore the city |
Use this rough planner to sanity-check the total trip cost before you lock flights, hotels or activities.
The best time to visit Bologna with kids is during spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, you can also enjoy various family-friendly festivals and outdoor events, enhancing the overall experience for your family.
Yes, Bologna has plenty of family-friendly activities, including visits to the Bologna Children's Book Fair and the interactive exhibits at the Museo della Storia di Bologna. Additionally, climbing the iconic Two Towers offers an adventurous challenge and a fantastic view, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
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