Bologna Bliss: A Budget-Friendly Familial Escape in Italy

Discover the enchanting charm of Bologna and create everlasting family memories.

19 July 2023

Bologna, Italy offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Explore the famous medieval towers, fascinating museums, and beautiful historic sites like Piazza Maggiore and Basilica di San Petronio. Children will also enjoy the interactive science museum, MAMbo art museum, and the delicious gelato shops sprinkled throughout the city.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Bologna's Buon Appetito!

  • Check into the family-friendly Hotel Porta San Mamolo, a charming retreat nestled in the heart of the city.
  • Embark on a gastronomic adventure and savor Bologna's iconic dishes like tortellini, lasagna, and mortadella at Osteria dell'Orsa.
  • Climb the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of the city and work off some calories (and fear) while ascending the 498 steps!
  • Explore the vibrant Quadrilatero market, where you'll encounter colorful stalls bursting with fresh produce, aromatic spices, and mouthwatering cheeses.
  • Indulge your sweet tooth at Gelateria Gianni with unique flavors like zuppa inglese gelato or try the famous cremino with its heavenly layers of hazelnut and chocolate.
Day 2

Historical Hideouts and Secrets Galore

  • Immerse yourself in history at the University of Bologna, one of the oldest in the world, and admire its stunning anatomical theater.
  • Wander along Via Piella and discover its peculiar secret: the hidden Canal of Reno, inaccessible due to high water levels.
  • Stroll through the tranquil Giardini Margherita, a lush park perfect for a family picnic or a serene boat ride on the lake.
  • Visit the fascinating Museo della Storia di Bologna, where you can unravel the city's ancient past through interactive exhibits.
  • Join a free walking tour through the city's ancient narrow streets with a local guide who will unveil enchanting legends and tales of Bologna past.
Day 3

Art Attack: Bologna's Cultural Treasures

  • Marvel at the masterpieces housed within the stunning Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna, showcasing works by Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio.
  • Lose yourself in the charming labyrinth of alleyways in the Santo Stefano district, where hidden courtyards and ancient churches await.
  • Explore the enchanting Archiginnasio, once Bologna's main university, and be awestruck by its magnificent anatomical theater and intricate wooden carvings.
  • Discover contemporary art at MAMbo, Bologna's modern art museum, where cutting-edge exhibitions are sure to captivate visitors of all ages.
  • Unleash your inner artist at the ARTEX Studio, where you can participate in a traditional Bolognese art workshop and create your own masterpiece.
Day 4

Escape to the Hills: Bologna's Surrounding Beauty

  • Take a day trip to the nearby Apennine Mountains and explore the scenic landscapes of the Parco Regionale dell'Abbazia di Monteveglio.
  • Immerse yourself in nature with a hike through the picturesque valleys or rent a bike to navigate the charming villages dotted throughout the hills.
  • Enjoy a traditional lunch at Agriturismo Monte Bibele, where you can savor organic regional delicacies and admire breathtaking views.
  • Learn the secrets of authentic Italian cuisine at Il Salotto di Penelope, a family-friendly cooking school that offers hands-on classes for all skill levels.
  • End your trip on a high note with a panoramic sunset view from the San Luca Basilica, reached via the iconic Portico di San Luca – 3.8 kilometers of covered walkway.

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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