Bologna, the vibrant capital of Emilia-Romagna in Italy, is often celebrated for its culinary heritage and medieval architecture, but it’s also a hidden gem for families traveling with children. With its blend of historical sites, interactive museums, lush parks, and hands-on experiences, the city offers endless opportunities for kids to learn, play, and explore. As of 2025, Bologna continues to prioritize family-friendly attractions, many of which are accessible, affordable, and designed with young visitors in mind. This guide compiles over two dozen activities, drawing from local recommendations and recent updates, ensuring a mix of indoor and outdoor fun suitable for toddlers to teens. Whether you’re staying in the city center or venturing to the surroundings, these suggestions will help create memorable family moments.

Indoor Delights: Libraries, Museums, and Interactive Exhibits

Start your Bologna adventure with some cozy indoor activities, perfect for rainy days or when little ones need a break from the sun. The Sala Borsa Library, located in the heart of the city center, is a haven for children aged 0-12. It features a dedicated kids’ section with age-appropriate books, soft rugs, cushions, and even a nursing corner for toddlers. Families can request a key for the internal bathroom equipped with a changing table and child-sized toilet, making it incredibly parent-friendly.

For history buffs, the Civic Archaeological Museum in Palazzo Galvani near Piazza Maggiore houses one of Italy’s premier Egyptian collections, including mummies and sarcophagi that ignite kids’ imaginations like an archaeological treasure hunt. Entry is free for children under 18, and interactive exhibits on local digs add an educational twist. Nearby, the Museo della Storia di Bologna at Palazzo Pepoli offers multimedia journeys through the city’s 2,500-year history, from Etruscan roots to medieval times. Kids can participate in workshops dressing as knights or exploring touchable artifacts, ideal for ages 4-18.

Science enthusiasts will love the Museo Geologico Cappellini, part of the University of Bologna’s museums, showcasing a massive 26-meter Diplodocus skeleton and various fossils. Children can walk beneath the bones and learn about prehistoric Earth—free entry and best for ages 3-14. The Museum of Zoology nearby displays animal skeletons and rare specimens like sunfish, with guided tours comparing anatomies for an engaging biology lesson, suitable for kids 5 and up.

Don’t miss the curious specialty museums. The Gelato Museum in Anzola dell’Emilia traces the history of Italy’s favorite treat through interactive displays and workshops where kids can become junior gelato makers or pastry chefs.

Similarly, the Ocarina and Terracotta Musical Instruments Museum in Budrio explores the traditional Bolognese flute with hands-on elements.

For modern twists, the Museum of Communication features old radios, TVs, and early computers, teaching how technology evolved—hands-on for curious minds. MAMbo, the Museum of Modern Art, hosts family tours and creative workshops inspired by artists like Giorgio Morandi, making art accessible and fun. Traditional puppet shows at venues like Burattinificio Mangiafoco or Teatro Testoni bring characters like Fagiolino to life, with antique puppets viewable at Museo Davia Bargellini—engaging storytelling for ages 0-12.

Outdoor Escapes: Parks, Farms, and Nature Trails

Bologna’s green spaces provide ample room for kids to burn energy. The Giardini Margherita, just minutes from the center, is a top spot with playgrounds, biking paths, a pond teeming with turtles and carp, and ice cream vendors. It’s ideal for picnics and free play.

Other parks include Parco Villa Ghigi outside Porta San Mamolo for scenic walks and Parco Talon in Casalecchio di Reno for relaxed outings.

Venture to Dulcamara Farm in Ozzano dell’Emilia for a petting zoo with donkeys, pigs, and horses. Children can harvest herbs, learn about organic farming, and enjoy treks—perfect for ages 2-14. The Orto Botanico, one of Europe’s oldest botanical gardens run by the University of Bologna, boasts tropical greenhouses, carnivorous plants, and a pond. Turn it into a scavenger hunt for exotic species like cocoa; free entry for all ages.

For wildlife, Oasi La Rizza near Bentivoglio is a wetland reserve with paths and observation huts to spot herons and storks—great for bird-watching families via bike or foot. Older kids might enjoy hiking in Monte Sole Historical Park in the Apennines, combining nature trails with WWII history sites, spotting flora and fauna on easy paths.

In good weather, head to Acquapark della Salute Più on the hills of Monterenzio. This outdoor water park features slides and pools tailored for little ones, set in a green oasis.

Hands-On Adventures: From Prehistory to Virtual Reality

Ignite curiosity with interactive experiences. At Parco della Resistenza in San Lazzaro di Savena, the “Dinosauri in Carne e Ossa” exhibit displays 30 life-sized dinosaur models and prehistoric animals, teaching Earth’s evolution in a fun, outdoor setting.

For a tech-savvy twist, the Virtual Reality Museum’s Time Machine on Via Zamboni (by reservation) offers seated VR sessions: “Bononia” recreates 1st-century Roman Bologna, “Tower Power” lets you fly among 13th-century towers, and “Al Canel” explores ancient canals. Guided by tutors, it’s magical for families.

Climb the Torre degli Asinelli, Bologna’s tallest medieval tower at 97 meters, with 498 steps for panoramic views of red rooftops and hills— an adventurous quest for kids 6+. Tickets cost €5-€8; book online.

Discover acoustics at Palazzo Podestà’s whispering gallery, where kids whisper secrets across corners—free and enchanting, especially at noon with the cathedral’s indoor sundial. Peek at hidden canals through the Via Piella window, like a mini Venice scavenger hunt for ages 3-12.

Food adventures abound: Join cooking classes teaching tortellini and tagliatelle, where kids handle dough and eat their creations. At Quadrilatero Market, turn shopping into a treasure hunt spotting fruits or sampling cheeses—sensory fun for ages 3+.

Grand Tour Italia (formerly FICO), a few kilometers out, is a 50,000-square-meter food theme park with regional traditions, taverns, quizzes, and workshops. Inside, Luna Farm offers indoor rides and games in a safe, farm-themed environment.

Tour the city via red tourist trains from Piazza Maggiore: CityBOExpress for the historic center or SanLucaExpress to the Basilica of San Luca. Motorcycle fans can visit the Ducati Museum in Borgo Panigale, tracing racing history with iconic bikes—thrilling for enthusiasts.

Day Trips for Extended Fun

Bologna’s central location makes day trips easy by train. Head to Modena’s Ferrari Museum for interactive car exhibits and simulators—hands-on for speed-loving kids.

In Rimini, enjoy sandy beaches, playgrounds, and parks like Fiabilandia or Italia in Miniatura. For thrills, Mirabilandia near Ravenna boasts rides, shows, and themed areas—a full-day family outing.

Bologna’s family appeal lies in its balance of education and entertainment, with many attractions free or low-cost. Check official sites for 2025 events, bookings, and seasonal hours to plan seamlessly. From whispering secrets in ancient halls to crafting gelato, these experiences foster curiosity and joy, making Bologna an unforgettable destination for families.