Top Family-Friendly Activities in Italy
Looking for a glorious country to explore with kids? Italy might be just what you need. The welcoming atmosphere, combined with countless attractions, makes it an ideal destination for family trips. From treasure-hunting in ancient ruins to building castles on sandy beaches, there are many things to do. Add the delicious Italian food to the mix, and you have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable family getaway.
What Makes Italy Good for Kids?
Italy offers a variety of fun experiences for children, even though child-specific sights are limited. Many museums and attractions provide free or discounted admission for kids. They often feature interactive smartphones apps, touchscreen gadgets, audio guides, and dedicated tours to cater to young minds.
Moreover, eating out is a breeze. Children are welcome in most restaurants, and with pizza, pasta, and gelato on the menu, good times are guaranteed. Although kids’ menus might be rare, simply asking for a mezza porzione (half portion) works just fine.
Where is Best in Italy for Kids?
Italy’s historic cities are filled with exciting attractions suitable for families. You can explore epic ruins in Rome, ride gondolas in Venice, and marvel at the majestic climbs in Florence. Beyond the cities, outdoor adventures like cruising around Alpine lakes or visiting splendid beaches in Puglia, Calabria, and Sardinia await the family. Additionally, Sicily offers a unique thrill with its volcanic beaches.
Best Things to Do in Italy with Babies and Toddlers
Hang Out in Parks, Piazzas, and Playgrounds
In Italy’s famous art cities, you’ll find many parks, piazzas, and playgrounds. Public areas like Villa Borghese in Rome, Piazza della Repubblica in Florence, and Piazza San Marco in Venice are prime spots for letting your little ones explore.
Visit the Beach
Follow the locals’ lead and hit the beach during summer (avoiding August for the worst crowds). Bathing clubs provide umbrellas, sun-loungers, toilets, and bar facilities. Stunning beaches are plentiful throughout Italy, especially in Sardinia and the southern regions of Calabria and Puglia.
Best Things to Do in Italy with Young Children
Poke Around Ancient Relics
Even the most challenging children can be impressed by iconic sites like Rome’s Colosseum and the remnants of Pompeii. These historical locations can become very crowded, so consider visiting during quieter times in the afternoon for a more enjoyable experience.
Go Wildlife Watching
Italy offers ample opportunities for wildlife encounters. From dolphins in Taranto to Marsican brown bears in Abruzzo’s national parks, nature enthusiasts will find plenty to marvel at, even if glimpses are rare.
Get Hands-On in Family-Friendly Museums
Museums serve as great options for rainy days. There are colorful play-museums, like Explora in Rome, catering to children under 12. In addition, the Gelato Museum Carpigiani near Bologna makes for a sweet educational experience.
Best Things to Do in Italy with Tweens and Teenagers
Venture Up a Volcano
Italy’s unique landscape provides the opportunity to explore active volcanoes, such as Mt. Vesuvius on the mainland and Mt. Etna and Stromboli in Sicily, which offer guided tours for adventurous teens.
Explore Underground
For those seeking subterranean adventures, the catacombs of Rome and Naples await exploration, as well as stunning cave networks like Grotte di Frasassi in Le Marche and Grotta del Vento in Tuscany.
Become a Football Fan
Thrilling experiences can be found at live football matches across Italy. Fans can cheer for teams like Juventus in Turin or AC Milan and Inter in Milan. If match tickets are unavailable, stadium tours can also provide a glimpse into this beloved national sport.
Planning Tips
Italy is packed with family-friendly accommodations, ranging from self-catering apartments to welcoming farm stays (agrigiturismi), which often include animal interaction to delight younger visitors. Furthermore, seaside resort hotels frequently offer babysitting services and private beach access, ensuring top-notch family comfort.
Traveling between cities is seamless thanks to an efficient train network, paving the way for easy exploration. Connections to popular seaside resorts are excellent, whether by train or bus. However, accessing remote rural areas may require a car for added convenience.
