Are you planning a visit to Bologna with children? Here are some suggestions from Urban Nest.
Amusement and adventure parks
Luna Farm – An indoor farm-themed amusement park located inside FICO Eataly World, with rides, interactive games, creative workshops, and a free painting arena: a multisensory experience tailored to children, even when it rains.
Parco della Resistenza – In San Lazzaro di Savena: an amazing exhibition of life-size dinosaurs, ideal for young lovers of prehistory.
Balloon Park – In Villanova di Castenaso, a large inflatable area for children up to 6 years old: trampolines and inflatable games to let off steam in complete safety.
Cavaioni Adventure Park – Located in the hills of Bologna, just a few minutes from the city center, it offers suspended trails and zip lines suitable for children over 100 cm tall, allowing them to enjoy nature in a fun way.
Interactive museums and educational activities
Museum of the History of Bologna – Located in Palazzo Pepoli, it offers dynamic tours, workshops, and activities on historical themes. Children actively participate in educational games and themed tours.
Gelato Museum Carpigiani – Just a few minutes from Bologna, the gelato museum offers interactive tours, workshops, and a tasting session at the end: a delicious and educational activity for the whole family.
L. Donini Museum of Prehistory – In San Lazzaro, offering an archaeological immersion with workshops on fire-making, flint knapping, and reconstructions of prehistoric life.
Green parks, outdoor games and nature
Giardini Margherita – Bologna’s largest park, with playgrounds, a pond, go-karts, trampolines, and a Villanovan hut to explore: ideal for a day outdoors.
Botanical Garden of the University of Bologna – With greenhouses, tropical plants, carnivorous plants, and many botanical species: an educational oasis for young explorers.
City tours by bus and train
San Luca Express – A scenic train that travels through the longest portico in the world to the Sanctuary of San Luca: a comfortable and fascinating journey for the whole family. https://cityredbus.com/san-luca-express/
City Red Bus / City BO Express – Hop-on hop-off tours and city trains with audio guides and stunning views: comfortable and fun for stress-free exploration. https://cityredbus.com/citybo-express/
Little moments of magic in the city and evocative moments
Little Venice (Via Piella) – A charming little window in a wall offers a view of a hidden stream, surprising and perfect for stimulating children’s imaginations.
Medieval telephone in Piazza Maggiore – Under the Voltone del Podestà, a curious acoustic effect allows you to whisper from one side to the other: a fun and magical game.
Practical tips for families visiting Bologna
- Alternate indoor and outdoor activities to cover all types of weather.
- Plan visits to museums or workshops in advance, especially on weekends.
- Opt for the San Luca Express or tourist buses if you are traveling with strollers or small children: they are comfortable and offer great views.
- Bring snacks and water with you: some green areas such as the Giardini Margherita are perfect for a relaxing picnic.
Bologna is an amazing city for children: with theme parks, interactive museums, secret hideaways, and adventures in nature, families will always find something special to do together. Looking for accommodation for the whole family? Discover our selection of entire vacation homes and private rooms.