Looking for the best family-friendly restaurants in Bologna? I know the struggle. Finding a spot where the pasta is legendary but the vibe is relaxed enough for a toddler is the ultimate travel challenge. Most historic trattorias in the center are cramped, but I’ve done the homework for you.I’ve hand-picked these spots based on what really matters: space to move, high chairs, clean diaper-changing

The few kid-friendly spots in Bologna: how I chooseLet’s be honest: sometimes a high chair is all it takes to save a lunch. But I wanted more. When I look for a place to eat with a family in Bologna, I check for three things: space, safety, and a "no-judgment" vibe.I selected these spots because they offer room for children to move freely without bumping into waiters. I looked for available high c

Bologna Train Station is probably the first place you’ll see when you arrive. And yes, it can be confusing. Loud, busy, layered, sometimes chaotic. Even Italians get lost here.But don’t worry. If you know how it works, it’s actually a very strategic hub and one of the best-connected stations in Italy. I’ll walk you through it like a local would, step by step.

How Bologna Train Station is laid out (and why everyone gets lost)Let’s be honest: Bologna Train Station is a bit of a 3D puzzle.The signs are not always clear. The levels overlap. Platforms seem to appear suddenly. People rush in every direction, often without knowing exactly where they are going.This is Bologna Stazione Centrale, the main station. From here, you can reach Milan, Florence, Venice

Shopping in Bologna can be more interesting than visiting a museum.Family old shops from generations, vintage signs, passionate people.Hard to mention them all, but here are my best shops in Bologna. You won't find the same ones in your hometown, I promise.[This guide was updated in 2026 to reflect current shops, opening hours and local trends.]

Before diving into the shops, let’s walk through the main areas where locals actually go shopping. Each street has its own rhythm, stories, and attitude — from elegant arcades to hidden corners full of character.

Happy students, curious tourists, tired workers—everyone in Bologna loves aperitivo. But what exactly is this Italian tradition? And where can you find the best aperitivo in Bologna?If you’re visiting this vibrant city, you can’t leave without experiencing this iconic moment of the day.In this guide, you’ll learn everything about aperitivo italiano, from its origins to the best bars in town.

The word aperitivo has different meanings, and if you’re in Italy, you’ll hear it often. Let’s break it down:1. A time of the dayWhen Italians say, “Let’s meet for aperitivo,” they mean meeting before dinner, usually between 6 PM and 8 PM. It’s the perfect moment to relax, socialize, and enjoy a drink with small bites.2. A drinkIf you ask for an aperitivo, you’ll get a low-alcohol drink, usually s

In Bologna, the food speaks. It murmurs through the Quadrilatero, rises from kitchen windows, and lingers under the porticoes. These dishes aren’t just meals — they’re stories, traditions, and edible memories. Hungry? Let’s dive in.

What to eat in Bologna: 10 Must-Try dishes