Bologna Marconi Airport is a manageable airport for families — compact, modern, and well-connected to the city.
Inside the terminal
BLQ is a single-terminal airport that handles things efficiently. The walk from the gate to baggage claim is reasonable, and there are elevators throughout for strollers and wheelchairs. Trolleys are available in the baggage claim area.
Restrooms are clean and there are baby-changing facilities. A few shops and cafes are in the arrivals area if you need snacks or water before heading out. The airport is not overwhelming — kids will not get lost in endless corridors.
Getting to the city with children
Marconi Express: The monorail is modern, clean, and kids usually enjoy it. There is space for luggage and strollers, though at busy times it can fill up. The 7-minute ride is short enough to keep young children engaged. The challenge is managing the transition at Centrale station — getting off the monorail with kids and bags, then navigating to a taxi, bus, or walking to your hotel.
Taxi: For families, a taxi from the airport directly to the hotel is often the simpler choice. No changes, no stairs, door-to-door. The cost (EUR 15-25) is reasonable for the convenience. However, Italian taxis are not always equipped with child seats. By law they should be available, but in practice, you may get a taxi without one.
Pre-booked transfer: The best option if you need a guaranteed child seat. Request the seat when booking and confirm the age/weight of your child so the provider brings the right type. A sedan or minivan transfer gives you space for strollers and bags without cramming.
Child seat reality in Italy
Italian law requires children under 150 cm to use appropriate child restraints. Taxi drivers are technically required to have them, but enforcement is lax and many taxis simply do not carry seats. If child seat safety is important to you (and it should be), pre-book a transfer with a specific child seat request.
Luggage logistics
Families travel heavy. A sedan handles 2-3 large bags plus carry-ons. If you have a stroller, a car seat, and multiple suitcases, request a minivan or estate car when booking. Taxis at the rank are standard sedans with limited trunk space.
Bologna with kids
The city itself is very walkable, with covered porticoes protecting you from rain and sun. Many hotels in the center are within walking distance of Centrale. If your accommodation is in the historic center, the flat terrain and porticoes make stroller use easy — more so than many Italian cities.