Fun things to do in Bologna with children

Bologna has plenty to offer. Whether visiting for a weekend or just a day trip, there’s no shortage of things to see and do: from lively squares and historic monuments to churches, museums, and leafy parks. The city’s wealth of historical, artistic, and natural attractions seems almost endless. 

But what about exploring Bologna with children? Here are a few ideas.

What to do in Bologna with children

Here’s an overview of family-friendly activities to enjoy in the city of Bologna.

Climbing the towers

Known as the “turreted” city for its abundance of medieval towers, Bologna still boasts several that have survived to the present day, including the famous Torre Garisenda and Torre degli Asinelli, as well as the Torre dell’Orologio. Climbing one of these landmarks offers an unmissable panoramic view over the entire city.

Playing the whispering game

In Piazza Maggiore, at the Palazzo del Podestà, two people standing under the Voltone at opposite ends can face the wall and speak in hushed tones. Thanks to a curious acoustic effect, they will be able to hear one another clearly, as if using an old-fashioned whispering gallery.

Strolling through the Giardini Margherita

The Giardini Margherita is a city park located just a short walk from the historic centre, featuring a pond inhabited by fish, turtles and ducks, as well as play areas, mini go-karts, merry-go-rounds and a small train. Within the park there is also a reconstruction of an Etruscan hut from the Villanovan period, built from wood and straw, offering an insight into how people lived in ancient times.

Discovering dinosaurs

Just outside the city, in San Lazzaro di Savena, lies a dinosaur-themed park within the Parco della Resistenza. Here, visitors can see life-size models of prehistoric animals and learn what these now-extinct creatures looked like and how they once lived.

Read in Sala Borsa

Located in Piazza Nettuno, this free-to-enter space is a multimedia library for all ages. It features a dedicated children’s and young people’s section, offering books, e-books, magazines and DVDs.

See Medieval Bologna in 3D

At the Virtual Reality Museum, 7 Via Zamboni, visitors can experience what the city looked like in the 13th century. Using VR headsets, it is possible to wander through and immerse oneself in ancient Bologna.

Visit FICO

Just outside the city lies FICO, a theme park dedicated to agriculture, food and gastronomy. Here, visitors can learn more about farming and livestock, discover how popular foods are made and see a working farm in action.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini

Tag

Buildings and Skyscrapers

Curiosities

Parks and Nature

Share article

Subscribe to our newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date with our latest news Subscribe with your email address to receive the latest news, updates and practical tips from the real estate world directly in your inbox

Subscribe