Family-Friendly Bologna Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Bologna

Bologna, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Zamboni

Start your day with delicious pastries and coffee at this local café renowned for its warmth.
Located in the university district, easily accessible by foot.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Asinelli Tower

Climb the iconic leaning tower for panoramic views over the city; it’s a fun challenge for the kids.
A short 10-minute walk from the café.
EUR5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Piazza Maggiore

Stroll through the central square, admire historic architecture, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
10-minute walk from the tower.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Pietro

Indulge in local dishes like tortellini in brodo, perfect for a delightful family meal.
Just a 5-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore.
EUR60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Bologna Children's Museum

A perfect stop for interactive fun, this museum caters to kids with engaging exhibits and workshops.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR15, 2 hours

4:30PM

Gelato at Gelateria Gianni

Treat the family to some of the best gelato in Bologna, a sweet reward after a busy day.
5-minute walk from the museum.
EUR15, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Relax at Margherita Gardens

Unwind in this spacious park where the kids can run free and you can enjoy some downtime.
A 15-minute walk from the gelateria.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria Al Pappagallo

End your day with delicious pizza or pasta that the whole family will love in a charming setting.
20-minute walk or a quick drive.
EUR80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Bologna

Bologna, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Scarpato

Dig into freshly baked sweets and pastries representing Bologna’s rich culinary history.
A quick 10-minute drive from your accommodation.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the University of Bologna

Explore the world’s oldest university; the architecture and history will captivate both kids and adults.
10-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Archiginnasio of Bologna

An astonishing library with intricate frescoes and a vast collection, perfect for a short cultural trip.
5-minute walk from the university.
EUR3, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Osteria dell'Orsa

Enjoy homemade pasta dishes that children will adore in a friendly atmosphere.
10-minute walk from the Archiginnasio.
EUR50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Discover the Santo Stefano Complex

Wander through this stunning series of churches and cloisters, which can transport you back in time.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Kids' Space at MAMbo

Engage with water, sand, and other creative installations at this contemporary art museum’s family space.
15-minute drive from Santo Stefano.
EUR12, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Il Moro

Savour a family-style dinner that includes diverse dishes catering to different tastes.
20-minute drive from MAMbo.
EUR100, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Day Trip to Ferrara

Ferrara, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Bakery

Grab fresh pastries from a bakery to enjoy on your scenic drive to Ferrara.
Start your journey from Bologna via car.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Este Castle

Explore this impressive castle with its moat—a perfect backdrop for family photos.
A short walk from parking.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll Through Piazza della Repubblica

Engage with the vibrant atmosphere, and let the kids play around the open space.
10-minute walk from the castle.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Osteria Ranzani 13

Sample local cuisine in a cosy setting, perfect for refueling before more exploration.
15-minute walk from the piazza.
EUR50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Ferrara Cathedral

Visit this astounding cathedral with stunning architecture; a great way to appreciate history.
5-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

The Botanical Garden of Ferrara

Explore beautiful flora and fauna while the kids enjoy the open space and fresh air.
15-minute walk from the cathedral.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Gelato at La Gelateria

Savor a sweet treat before heading back to Bologna for dinner.
A 20-minute drive back.
EUR10, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at La Porta

Enjoy a warm family dinner with traditional dishes upon your return to Bologna.
15-minute drive from the gelateria.
EUR70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: A Journey to Ravenna

Ravenna, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Concerto

Delight in your final breakfast with excellent coffee and pastries before heading to Ravenna.
Drive from Bologna to Ravenna.
EUR20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Mosaic Art at the Basilica di San Vitale

Admire stunning mosaics at this UNESCO World Heritage site, captivating for all ages.
15-minute drive from the café.
EUR10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

This small, beautiful building with intricate mosaics is sure to be a hit with the family.
A 5-minute walk from the Basilica.
EUR5, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Al Passatore

Savour freshly made local pasta dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
10-minute walk from the mausoleum.
EUR60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Dante Museum

Discover the life and works of Dante Alighieri through interactive exhibits that engage every family member.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Basilica di San Francesco

A serene space to conclude your day, where kids can enjoy the outdoor area.
5-minute walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Gelato at La Gardena

Take a well-deserved break with some refreshing gelato before heading back to Bologna.
A 15-minute drive back.
EUR10, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Piero

Finish up your adventure with authentic Italian dishes to celebrate your family journey.
15-minute drive from the gelateria.
EUR80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability