Start your first day at Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna, surrounded by the city’s most famous landmarks. The square is dominated by the magnificent Basilica di San Petronio, one of the world's largest churches, which took almost 600 years to build. Admire the impressive Neptune Fountain, a masterpiece of Giambologna. You can also climb the tower of Palazzo Comunale to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Take a stroll down the narrow streets of Quadrilatero, the medieval market district, where you can find local shops and traditional restaurants.
Continue your day with a visit to the Portico di San Luca, a 3.5 km covered walkway that stretches from the city centre to the hilltop Basilica di San Luca. The portico has 666 arches and offers breathtaking views of the cityscape. It's a great opportunity for some family exercise while enjoying the local scenery. At the top, you can also enjoy a refreshing gelato or cappuccino while admiring the panorama.
End your first day at the Gelato Museum, where you can learn about the history of Italian gelato and taste some delicious samples. The museum is interactive, with plenty of games and activities for the kids. It's also a great way to cool down after a long day of sightseeing.
Start your second day at the Bologna Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The garden has more than 5,000 plant species from all over the world, as well as a small pond with turtles and fish. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature with the family. You can also visit the greenhouse, which has a collection of tropical plants and exotic fruits.
Continue your day with a visit to the Museo per la Memoria di Ustica, a museum dedicated to the victims of the Ustica massacre, one of Italy's most tragic aviation disasters. The museum offers an emotional journey through the events of the disaster, with personal stories and artefacts from the victims. It's a great opportunity for the family to learn about Italy's recent history and reflect on the importance of peace.
End your second day at the Osteria del Sole, a traditional tavern in the heart of the city. The tavern has been open since 1465 and still serves local wine and snacks. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere while sipping on a glass of Lambrusco. The tavern is also family-friendly, with board games and cards available for the kids.