Ask any avid family traveller, ‘Where’s the best place that you’ve visited with your children?’ and we bet the answer will be somewhere in Italy.
Italy is an incredibly popular destination for holiday-makers of all stripes. Although it can be busy, hot, and expensive, it also offers unparalleled experiences that families can treasure. The beauty of Italy lies in its diverse attractions, enabling families to escape the crowds and discover picturesque locales with pleasant temperatures and affordable prices.
When Italians say ‘child-friendly’ they really mean it
As any parent or carer knows, travelling with kids comes with challenges. In Italy, however, children are warmly welcomed everywhere. They can run around ancient sites, be greeted enthusiastically in restaurants, and are encouraged to enjoy Italy’s myriad attractions, from world-class museums to beautiful beaches.
This warm approach enhances the travel experience for adults as well, allowing you to enjoy both parenting and the thrill of exploring new places.
It’s a hands-on history lesson
From the temples of Sicily and the ruins of Pompeii to the industrial cities of the north, Italy offers a comprehensive history lesson for families. Exploring these fascinating sites presents various fun, engaging activities for children, enhancing their understanding of history.
Act as gladiators for the day in the Colosseum, take a family tour around Milan’s Castello Sforzesco, or learn about frescoes through augmented-reality glasses at San Gimignano’s Palazzo Communale. These engaging activities ensure that children appreciate the rich history that Italy has to offer.
It’s easy for kids to eat, drink, and the whole family be merry
Food is a vital part of any family trip, and feeding children in Italy is straightforward. Whether your kids relish pizza, pasta, or gelato, you’ll find abundant restaurants catering to these delights. If your children have different tastes, Italy boasts menus with diverse options, ensuring all dietary preferences are satisfied.
Visiting local markets to create your own meals is also a delightful experience. Additionally, consider participating in family cooking courses throughout Italy, which enhance family bonding and allow you to cherish culinary memories of your trip.
There are activities for all ages
Wherever you are in Italy, opportunities for family activities abound. Base yourself in the Dolomites or Alps for thrilling adventures like mountain biking, canyoning, or skiing. Meanwhile, on the coastal towns of Sicily and Sardinia, enjoy building sandcastles and savoring leisure time with toddlers.
Italy’s varied natural landscapes cater to families with diverse interests. With some research, you can easily find locations suitable for everyone, including gentle hiking options for older family members.
It’s affordable and easy to get around
While you may find high prices in popular cities and regions like the Amalfi Coast, Italy also offers numerous options at varied price points. Families can benefit from agriturismi (rural farm stays) that provide child-friendly activities while immersing you in local culture. Moreover, cities present plenty of self-catering options to help manage costs.
As long as you opt for reasonable travel plans rather than crossing the country in one go, moving between destinations is straightforward, thanks to an extensive train network and well-maintained roads.
You can keep the whole family happy
Finding a holiday destination that caters to diverse family needs can be challenging. However, Italy excels at combining unique experiences, allowing families to easily merge cultural exploration with relaxation. For instance, you can engross yourself in a culturally rich city break and later unwind in a countryside villa with a pool.
Alternatively, alternate between adventurous hikes one day and laid-back beach time the next. Regions like Tuscany, Umbria, and the Italian Lakes provide excellent options for creating a memorable family vacation.
There’s plenty of inspiration for budding creatives
If your child loves to create art, consider a trip to one of Italy’s artistic hubs like Florence, Rome, or Venice. Visiting major museums and galleries often means navigating crowds, so try planning for early visits or booking family tours to simplify the experience.
Italy’s historical landmarks reward creativity. As children sketch in stunning locations, they can be inspired by Pompeii’s ruins, Pisa’s iconic tower, Palermo’s catacombs, and the breathtaking volcanoes of Sicily, providing endless inspiration for their stories.
