Bologna Bliss: A Family-Friendly 2-Day Adventure

Experience the magic of Bologna together, where authentic Italian charm meets family adventure.

19 July 2023

Bologna, Italy offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and delicious food, making it an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. Walk along the vibrant streets of the city's historical center, filled with beautiful medieval buildings and stunning architecture, where you can explore landmarks like the Two Towers or the Basilica di San Petronio. Indulge in the local cuisine, including mouthwatering pasta dishes and the famous Bolognaise sauce, while the kids enjoy gelato or try their hand at making pizza at a cooking class.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Bologna's Cozy Charm

  • Stay at the charming Hotel Touring, conveniently located in the city center. It offers comfortable rooms and a delightful breakfast to fuel your adventures.
  • Kickstart your day by hopping on a bicycle tour of Bologna. Pedal through the narrow streets, dodging locals and gawking at the stunning architecture.
  • Visit the enchanting Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna. Marvel at its magnificent basilicas and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Remember to make a wish at the Neptune Fountain!
  • Delight your taste buds at Mercato delle Erbe, a lively food market. Feast on delicious regional delicacies, from creamy mortadella to tantalizing Parmigiano Reggiano.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the captivating Museum of San Petronio. Uncover ancient treasures and climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city's terracotta rooftops.
  • End your day with a visit to the Quadrilatero, a maze of narrow streets bursting with food stalls, wine bars, and boutique shops. Savor a delightful dinner at a local trattoria, sipping on exquisite Lambrusco.
Day 2

Art, Tasty Discoveries, and Hidden Gems

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the eccentric Hotel Porta San Mamolo, just steps away from the iconic Two Towers. Its whimsical decor will transport you to a world of quirky charm.
  • Embark on a cultural journey at the museum complex of Santo Stefano. Explore seven stunning churches that blend seamlessly into one, and uncover hidden nooks and crannies.
  • Indulge in a heavenly lunch at Osteria del Sole, Bologna's oldest tavern. Sip traditional wine and gobble up plates of delectable local cheeses, cured meats, and crusty bread.
  • Take a stroll through the historic Jewish Ghetto. Admire the colorful facades and discover the vibrant street art that adorns the walls, telling stories of the past and present.
  • Immerse yourself in the world of Italian cinema at the Cineteca di Bologna. Catch a classic film screening or wander through the film library, a treasure trove of cinematic history.
  • Before bidding farewell to Bologna, bask in the sunset glow at Giardini Margherita. Relax by the lake, savoring the serene atmosphere and reflecting on the wonderful memories made in this enchanting city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bologna by plane is to fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, which is located approximately 6 kilometers from the city center. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Bologna from cities across Europe, including London, Paris, and Frankfurt.

Car

If you prefer to drive, Bologna is easily accessible from several major highways, including the A1, which runs from Milan to Bologna and on to Rome. You can rent a car from major providers at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, or you can drive your own car and park in one of the city's public parking lots.

Train

Traveling to Bologna by train is easy thanks to the city's central location and excellent rail connections. Bologna Centrale is the main train station in the city, and it operates high-speed trains to destinations throughout Italy, including Rome, Florence, and Venice.

Boat

While there is no direct ferry service to Bologna, it is possible to take a ferry to nearby coastal cities such as Ravenna and Ancona and then travel to Bologna by train or bus. Alternatively, you can charter a private boat to travel to one of the marinas located on nearby bodies of water such as Lake Garda or the Adriatic Sea.

Bus

There are several bus companies that provide services to Bologna from other Italian cities such as Florence, Pisa, and Milan. The main bus station in Bologna is located next to the train station, making it easy to connect to other destinations. Tickets can usually be purchased online or at the bus station.

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