Bologna Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Bologna
This weekend itinerary balances stimulating ticketed attractions with plenty of free, open-air activities, perfect for families living in Bologna. It's designed to be budget-conscious while still providing enriching and fun experiences for children. Expect a mix of cultural immersion, playful learning, and opportunities for kids to burn off energy. Transportation notes focus on family-friendly options like public transport and parking where available, understanding the city's walkability. Remember to check official websites for the most up-to-date pricing and booking information closer to the date, especially for workshops and shows, as details for future events can change.
Friday Evening - Creative Kids & VR Adventure
Friday, January 2MAMbo Kids Workshop
Engage your children (ages 6-11) in a creative workshop called 'Come si cambia?
' (How things change?) at the Museum of Modern Art of Bologna. This hands-on activity is part of the 'Sto al MAMbo per le feste!' special program, offering a stimulating introduction to art and transformation.
Perfect for energetic and curious children, this workshop encourages creativity and introduces them to modern art in an accessible way. The museum offers facilities like restrooms and is generally stroller-friendly. The workshop is scheduled for 14:00-18:00, allowing for participation in a significant portion of it.
The museum is centrally located and easily reachable by public transport. Limited street parking might be available, or consider nearby paid parking garages. Bologna's city center is very walkable.
Medieval VR Journey
Step into 'La Macchina del Tempo' (The Time Machine) for an immersive virtual reality experience! Explore medieval Bologna with its countless towers or delve into Tutankhamun's tomb. This 25-minute adventure offers a unique and thrilling way to learn history.
Kids will be captivated by the VR technology and the chance to 'fly' through ancient Bologna. Suitable for most children (check any height/age recommendations). Children under 8 years old enter for free. A great indoor option, especially if the weather is chilly.
Located in the university district, a short walk from the Two Towers. Public buses serve the area. Parking in this central zone is limited; consider public transport or paid parking garages nearby.
Saturday - City Exploration & Farm Fun
Saturday, January 3Fantastic Animals Treasure Hunt
Embark on an 'ArcheoAvventure' treasure hunt: 'Fantastic Animals and Where to Find Them in Bologna.
' Discover griffins, sirens, and winged horses hidden among the city's monuments, learning mythological stories along the way. This guided activity by ArcheoRoad is specifically designed for families.
An interactive and educational way to explore Bologna's history and architecture. Ideal for curious kids who love a challenge (ages 6-12). Children under 6 can participate by sharing clues for a reduced fee. The activity lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
Piazza Maggiore is the heart of Bologna's pedestrian zone. Access by public transport is recommended. If driving, use paid parking outside the central restricted traffic zone (ZTL) and walk in.
Market Lunch & Stroll
Head to Mercato di Mezzo, a vibrant indoor food market brimming with local delicacies.
It's the perfect spot for a casual and authentic Bolognese lunch, offering a variety of stalls with affordable treats like pasta, piadine, and local street food.
Kids can enjoy exploring the different food options and finding something they love. It's a lively atmosphere, great for people-watching. Restrooms are available. Provides a quick and delicious lunch before the afternoon activities.
Located just off Piazza Maggiore, it's easily walkable from the treasure hunt's end point. Limited parking in the immediate vicinity; public transport or walking is advised.
Puppet Show Magic
Experience the magic of traditional Italian puppetry at Palazzo Pepoli, with a performance suitable for children aged 4-5 and up.
Special puppet shows are scheduled as part of the holiday programming.
A delightful cultural experience that will enchant young children with engaging stories and colorful puppets. The 16:00 show time is ideal for families, but a 17:30 show is also available if you prefer later. Restrooms and stroller access should be available.
Centrally located, a short walk from Mercato di Mezzo. Public transport is a good option. Limited street parking; use paid garages.
Luna Farm Fun Park
Conclude your day at Luna Farm, an exciting indoor agricultural-themed amusement park.
With rides, interactive games, and a special Christmas theme until January 6th, it promises an evening of pure fun for all ages. There's even a new light show and Santa's House!
This indoor park is perfect for burning off energy, regardless of the weather. Many rides are suitable for children from 75cm (approx. 30 inches) tall. It's a fantastic, memorable experience for kids and parents alike. Consider an early dinner at one of the food options inside Grand Tour Italia or Luna Farm.
Luna Farm is located a few kilometers outside the city center. A dedicated shuttle bus from the city center might be available, or it's accessible by car with ample parking. Check Luna Farm's website for shuttle details and driving directions.
Sunday - Relaxed Play & Family Memories
Sunday, January 4Library Story Time & Play
Enjoy a relaxed Sunday morning at Biblioteca Salaborsa Ragazzi, the children's section of Bologna's main public library.
Browse books, enjoy the dedicated play areas for younger children, and visit the 'Quando gli adulti sono di spalle. L'infanzia di Nicole Claveloux' exhibition, which runs until January 10th.
A fantastic free indoor activity, ideal for children of all ages. Younger kids can enjoy the rugs and cushions, while older ones can find books in multiple languages. It's a calm and engaging environment, perfect for a Sunday morning. Public restrooms with changing facilities are available.
Located in the heart of Piazza Maggiore, easily accessible on foot or by public transport. Parking is available in paid garages outside the central ZTL.
MAMbo Family Memories
Return to MAMbo for a unique workshop 'Nuovi ricordi di famiglia' (New family memories) for children aged 6-11.
This session focuses on creating and sharing family memories through art, offering a meaningful way to conclude the weekend.
This activity encourages family bonding and reflection through a creative outlet. It's a perfect follow-up to Friday's workshop or a standalone engaging experience. The museum is warm and comfortable for a winter afternoon.
Centrally located, easily reachable by public transport. Limited street parking might be available, or consider nearby paid parking garages. Bologna's city center is very walkable.
Park Play & Gelato
Enjoy some free time at the spacious Giardini Margherita, Bologna's largest public park.
Let the kids run, play on the playgrounds, and visit the pond with turtles and carp. Conclude the weekend with a delicious gelato from one of the park's cafes.
This is a perfect activity for kids to release any last-minute energy before heading home for school prep. It's a beautiful, relaxing environment for families, offering plenty of space for free play, cycling, or just enjoying nature. Restrooms and cafes are available within the park.
The park is easily accessible by public bus from the city center. If driving, there is often parking available around the perimeter of the park (check for paid parking zones).
This weekend itinerary for Bologna can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.