travel to italy with toddler

An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

Italy with a baby or toddler: all you need to know to plan the perfect trip

All you need to know for a perfect family vacation in Italy with a baby or toddler. Practical travel tips for traveling with young kids to and around Italy

Italy is very baby and toddler friendly but not necessarily in the way you may expect.

In Italy, the land of la mamma and strong family ties, children are kings and people go out of their way to coo at your baby or chat with your toddlers.

This family friendly attitude however doesn’t necessarily mean you find facilities for families.

What Italians will do is accommodate you, and gladly!

Restaurants will move chairs for you, heat up milk, prepare child friendly off-the-menu dishes for your little ones, people will help you with bags and strollers.

However, usually they do not do it because they have the facilities but rather because the country doesn’t have great ones.

Strollers ramps are rare (this is improving), changing facilities scarce, guaranteed places on public transport non-existent – so people make up for it with kindness!

I have traveled extensively around Italy with a baby, a baby and a toddler and two toddlers and I can tell you Italy with small kids is a wonderful place.

If you are used to family restaurants with plastic cutlery or state-of-the-art facilities, though, you may want to read this article so you know what to expect.

Good to know! You can find more help in our articles: planning your first trip to Italy | 100+ tips for traveling to Italy | Joining my FREE Facebook group ‘Italy travel with kids’ ( join here ), where you can meet me and other like minded parents planning their Italian family vacations!

Italy with a baby: useful baby gear

Buying diapers in italy, going grocery shopping in italy for baby food, snacks and staples, using public restrooms in italy, eating out in italy with toddlers, baby and toddler sleeping arrangements in italian hotels, baby and toddler-friendly destinations in italy, more challenging destinations to visit in italy with toddlers, traveling in italy with toddlers by car or train.

This is what we found most useful when traveling around Italy with a baby:

• Baby Carrier – amazing for museums, localities with steps or very uneven terrain (see below), busy attractions
• Stroller – a must have. You can find our tips for using a stroller in Italy and best models here
• Baby Car seat – either your own or rented along with your car
• Portable high chair – not all restaurants have them
• All baby feeding equipment – cafes will gladly warm up a baby bottle but not all hotels provide kettles or fridges so bringing your own bottle warmer, portable sterilizer etc is useful

Good to know: you don’t have to bring everything from home! Find here >>> where to buy baby essentials in Italy .

Diapers in Italy are sold in two main types of shops: supermarkets and farmacie (pharmacies, see below).

Supermarkets come in all shapes and sizes and usually have a baby aisle with diapers, wipes, baby weaning foods, small baby items such as soothers and some budget baby toiletry brands.

Good to know : opening hours of supermarkets vary wildly from place to place and shop to shop. Do not assume you will have access to late shopping if you are running out of baby supplies!

You can find here >>> my guide to supermarkets in Italy .

Farmacie (Pharmacies/ chemist shops) are the great ally of families in Italy.

Usually more expensive than supermarkets, even when stocking similar brands, they are the place where you get diapers/nappies, industrial and natural baby products, high-end baby toiletry products, small baby items and of course baby and toddler medication.

Pharmacies follow specific opening hours and take turns on weekends/nights/public holidays, usually pinned outside of the shop.

You can find here >>> my full guide to Farmacie in Italy (pharmacies)

If you are staying in self-catering apartments or even if you just want to get some additional food and essentials for your baby or toddler, you can count on the many food shops and grocery stores available in Italy.

Grocery stores in Italy come in all shapes and sizes but are, usually, smaller than what you may be used to for instance, in the US.

However, they tend to stock all you need, including fresh produce, bread, crackers, toddlers’ snacks such as yogurt and rice cakes, basic weaning products (the bigger ones only), pasta, formula etc.

You can find here >>> our guide to grocery stores in Italy .

Outside of historical city centers you also have supermarkets, which tend to sell all your daily essentials.

While traveling around Italy with a baby or a toddler, you will have to stop for toilet breaks and diaper changes.

In this case, you will want to find a public bathrooms or a baby changing station and you are likely to notice they are not easy to find.

Unfortunately, public bathrooms are not common in Italy. However, there are ways to use the toilet while on the go. These range from looking for a public toilet to asking the closest cafe to use the facilities.

Read here >>> all you need to know about public bathrooms in Italy + tips for changing your baby in Italy on the go

Children of all ages are welcome in most restaurants in Italy however, not many offer high chairs or a standard children’s menu.

While some do, in many cases restaurants cater to children by offering smaller portions of whatever is on the menu or will be able to offer a simple pasta.

Staples of a children’s menu abroad are often Italian specialties so if you have a standard menu and want to make sure your toddler finds something familiar, you can order:

Pasta al sugo – pasta with simple tomato sauce (parmesan served on the site)

Pasta al Ragu’ – pasta with minced meat, what abroad is known as ‘bolognese’

Cotoletta alla milanese – fried chicken

Good to know : a request for plain pasta with absolutely nothing on top will occasionally get you odd looks and they will double check you don’t want neither butter nor oil, the default for an Italian ‘plain pasta’. If that’s what your toddler wants, stick with it: it is an unusual request for Italian kids but they will make it for you no problem.

Restaurants are getting more and more equipped with high chairs. However, they do not always have them and they are not always suitable for very small kids as they are often the type with no straps

If you planning on eating out a lot, a portable high chair that folds small can be very handy.

Plastic cutlery for kids is not usually offered however, paper cups often are.

Hotels in Italy come in all shapes and sizes and the facilities you get vary widely between individual establishments.

The one thing that is true across the board in Italy is that hotels abide by very strict occupancy rules and can only accommodate a certain number of people per room – that includes babies.

So if you are booking a double room with the plan of getting baby to sleep in its own baby bed you brought with you, make sure you tell the hotel at the time of booking so they can give you a suitable room.

You can visit anywhere in Italy with a toddler but some places are more baby and toddler-friendly than others.

Dolomites with babies or toddlers

Super baby and toddler-friendly, this is an area with excellent family hotels (the ‘KinderHotels’ are here, catering specifically to families with kids), playgrounds and child-friendly attractions (hikes, farms, pools etc). Bring an all-terrain stroller and a proper hiking carrier.

The best time to visit the Dolomites with a baby or todder is the summer for hiking/farms and the winter for skiing.

You can find our guide to visiting the Dolomites with children here .

Lake Garda with baby or toddlers

Another baby friendly area, ith plenty of flat, walkable towns and easy access to water is Lake Garda.

There are many good family campsites and resorts in the area, such as Eurocamp as well as many local hotels and accommodation options that are great especially for active toddlers.

Go in summer to avail of the pools and water access.

You can find the best places on Lake Garda for small kids here.

Lake Como with baby

Beautiful, well organized and quiet, Lake Como is one of the nicer baby small toddler friendly places in Italy especially if you are looking for a relaxing weekend with a new baby.

Mellow playgrounds, quaint towns and an upscale, grown-up feel make it perfect for a quiet weekend away from the noise.

Find here >>> our guide to Lake Como with kids

A wonderful, family friendly region with anything and everything you want for babies and toddlers.

Bring a car to explore the countryside and the many child-friendly farms and agriturismo in the area and make sure you have a carrier for the steepest hilltop villages in the area ( Montalcino and Montepulciano for instance, but don’t expect anything impossible, they are just tiring if you are pushing a stroller!)

You can find our selection of the most beautiful villages in Tuscany here and our tips for a vacation in Tuscany with kids here.

With a toddler, I am especially fond of the town of Lucca , which is flat, safe, mellow and delightful.

If you want to enjoy the beach, Viareggio and Castiglion della Pescaia are toddler-friendly.

Liguria is the coastal region in the North of Italy with Cinque Terre and Portofino and, to the surprise of many, it is one of the best places to visit in Italy with a baby or toddler if you want a local and mellow sea and sun vacation!

While Portofino and Cinque Terre are not traditionally toddler friendly (mostly due to uneven terrain and steps) many towns in Liguria are wonderful and perfectly equipped for little kids with nice hotels, playgrounds, beaches and summer entertainment.

Some we love are Chiavati, Sestri Levante, Santa Margherita Ligure, Levanto and Diano Marina.

Find here >>> our guide to visiting Liguria with kids .

Off the beaten path, Marche is a family-friendly area Italians have discovered a long time and a favorite for local families with toddlers.

The area between Senigallia and Pesaro has wonderful kid-friendly beaches and some towns such Urbino are beautiful and easy to visit with little ones.

This area has a mix of family hotels, campsites and ‘holiday villages’ that offer anything from independent vacations to all inclusive options.

Sperlonga and Gaeta

For a beach vacation in Italy with toddlers I love Sperlonga and Serapo (Gaeta), close to Rome and blessed with wonderful beaches with shallow, crystal clear waters perfect for babies and small tots.

Gorgeous beaches and many small and often car-free beautiful towns make Puglia another one of our top picks for a trip to Italy with toddlers.

I recommend you explore this area with a car: distances are not long, making it perfect for kids, and opportunities for stops abound.

My favorite area for babies and toddlers is that of Monopoli (for cute and family-friendly towns) and also Salento , where you have the toddler-friendly beaches of Porto Cesareo, Torre Lapillo etc.

You can find my recommended road trip itinerary in Puglia for families here .

Sicily is a world of wonders and depending on where you are you can find super child-friendly areas and more challenging ones.

We are fond of the area near Scopello , which has lovely sandy beaches such as the large one in Castellammare del Golfo (great for kids), and the area of Siracusa , which is a beautiful, well-served town easy to negotiate with small kids.

You can find our recommended itinerary in Sicily here and our tips for visiting Sicily with kids here.

Sometimes you hear destinations ijn Italy deemed as toddler unfriendly but in reality, there is no such thing! Some destinations in Italy are stroller unfriendly but kids of all ages are welcome and often all it takes is knowing what to expect and making plans accordingly to overcome any potential geographical ‘unfriendliess’.

Absolutely gorgeous and a must see in Italy, Rome with a toddler can be tiring like any big city, yet it can also be wonderful!

The infamous cobbles streets many fear are not half as big a problem as you may think (I am a Rome mama and all cobbles do is make the stroller ride a little bumpier. They are not everywhere either!) and Rome has many kid-friendly attractions and very beautiful parks that make strolls during baby nap time and toddler playtime a delight.

The top attractions are mostly toddler friendly and the Colosseum is even equipped for strollers!

Like all big cities, you must expect traffic and a more chaotic vibe than in a small village yet it is still exceptionally easy to enjoy Rome with little ones.

You can find all my tips for visiting Rome with a baby or Toddler here (Rome is my hometown, you can trust me!) and our essential guide to Rome with kids here .

You can also find here >>> my tips for visiting Rome with a baby.

Venice with a toddler

Venice is wonderful at all ages and Venice with toddlers is magical but the canals and the bridges do require extra attention.

If traveling to Venice with a baby who’s not walking yet, your main issue will be stroller-unfriendly bridges. To tackle them, just make sure you have a strolelr you can easily lift and make sure you have sufficient time to enjoy the city.

if tou only have a day, the annoying bridges will occupy a lot of your memory. If you stay longer, the may flat areas of Venice will make up for them big time!

if visiting with an active toddler, of course you will need to pay attention to water but you’ll be happy to hear there are many protected and completely dry areas in Venice with no access to open water, where you can let your little one tot around with no risks.

You can find here >>> all my tips for Visiting Venice with a baby and here >>> my tips for visiting Venice with kids (any age)

Cinque Terre

The vertical cliffs of Cinque Terre make this area challenging with babies and toddlers, yet not impossible!

Just make sure you have a carrier as strollers here really are a hindrance here. Of the five villages, the most toddler-friendly is Monterosso , but I am even more fond of Levanto , wich is the next time over and lovely with little ones.

Find our tips for visiting Cinque Terre with young kids here

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is not easy with strollers, with the exception of some of the towns such as Maiori , that does have flat areas and is my favorite place in the area for toddlers.

We adore this area and highly recommend to visit with kids but some tips are useful: find our guide to the Amalfi Coast with kids here

Matera is unique and one of the most impressive and beautiful places in Italy. However, not an easy one with a stroller!

Make sure you have a carrier however and you are good to go.

You can find our guide to Matera here: I am sure it will persuade you a visit is worth it, even with a baby in tow!

Children’s car seats are compulsory in private cars in Italy and are usually available from car rental agencies at a fee.

Make sure you book the seat for the right age range: often, the default is a booster seat which is unsuitable for babies. If in doubt, especially with very young children, I recommend you bring your own.

You can find here >>> our guide to using car seats in Italy , which includes how to source them and what you need to know if bringing your own

Please note: car seats are not compulsory in taxis and not provided. To avoid riding with your child on your lap, the best way is to book a private transport company with car seats. My go-to is Welcome Pickups.

Young kids travel on Italian trains for free.

Babies and very young kids usually do not get their own seat unless you pay for one and strollers must be folded and stored in the overhead rack or the luggage racks near the doors.

You can find here >>> our complete guide to train travel in Italy

I hope you found this overview and tips for visiting Italy with a baby or toddler useful. Safe travel planning!

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Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

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Ultimate Guide to Italy with a toddler

By: Author Wandermust Daddy

Are you thinking about visiting Italy with a toddler? Let us tell you that Italy with toddlers is a great idea. It is one of our favourite countries to visit in Europe with toddlers and we have been lucky enough to have traveled around it extensively. In this guide we will tell you where to go in Italy with a toddler, where to stay and the best things to do. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Travelling to Italy with toddlers tips and tricks 

What to pack for italy with toddlers.

The most important thing when packing for Italy with toddlers is to pack for the weather. That means if you are visiting in summer packing lightweight and breathable fabric while you will need more layers for other seasons. 

And we always recommend having enough supplies of things such as diapers, baby formula and other baby care essentials to last you your first couple of days while you work out where to buy all these things in Italy 

Where to Buy Baby and toddler supplies in Italy 

Baby Supplies in Rome / Traveling to Italy with a toddler

When we went to Italy with our baby the first time with a baby we were surprised about where best to buy baby supplies in Italy. 

There are two main places to buy baby and toddler supplies in Italy:

• Supermarkets
• Pharmacies (or farmacie as it is spelt in Italian).

And we actually have had better and more consistent luck in finding the products we want in the pharmacies more so than in the supermarkets. However you will normally end up paying slightly more at the pharmacies as opposed to the supermarkets but we found this a cost worth paying.

You will normally find a good range of baby formula, including ready made formula bottles which we find really handy in taking out for our toddler for long days out, baby foods such as pouches and we also found they had the best range and most sizes of diapers.

We would however recommend bringing enough diapers to last you a couple of days just to give yourself time to orientate yourself and find your nearest pharmacy or supermarket. 

Can I Use a Stroller in Italy?

Using a Stroller in Italy / Using a stroller in Rome

Is Italy stroller friendly ? The answer to that is yes and no. One of the best things about visiting Italy is how old it is. But as such the streets were not built for strollers. 

Now whenever I recommend the best stroller for cruise ships or the best stroller for Disneyland I usually recommend using a lightweight umbrella stroller. But for Italy I would say that the opposite is true. Cobbles and Italian streets can really play havoc on your stroller.

Having a stroller with better wheels, better suspension and being more robust will make for a more comfortable ride for your toddler and your stroller is more likely to last the entire vacation.

For more traveling to Europe with toddlers tips be sure to check out our dedicated post. 

Should I take a carrier to Italy?

In answer should you take a carrier to Italy with toddlers, I would say if you have one it is probably worth while taking.  One of the best things about visiting Italy is visiting all of the ancient sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to name but a few.  

While in many of these places you will be able to take strollers around at least part of the site, it can be difficult to manoeuvre a stroller so we recommend taking a stroller as well as a carrier.

Baby Change Facilities in Italy

One of the things that we found surprising when we went on our first trip to Italy was the lack of baby changing facilities outside of the big tourist attractions. My Roman friend Valeria had warned me about this and had drawn me a handy little map of the places she knew which would be easy to change a baby but they were few and far between. And I would also aside from inside the major tourist attractions the cleanliness and standards of the restrooms were questionable. 

However saying that whenever I have asked a cafe or restaurant owner about changing facilities they have always gone out of the way to make room for me to change the baby or the toddler. 

But I would also advise you to prepare for changes on the go. Have a good travel changing mat with you and get used to changing with limited spaces. With toddlers I would also advise using pull ups rather than tab nappies as these are much easy to pull on and off when you don’t have a changing table. 

How to Put Together an Italy with toddlers Itinerary

When you are looking to put together an Italy with toddlers itinerary I would say plan your time wisely. Italy is an amazing country and you could easily spend your whole time in one location. However there are lots of transport options in Italy, both public and private that make it easy to move around or do day trips from. 

Depending on where you decide to base yourself I would advise either staying in one location and taking some day trips on public transport or otherwise picking two locations and exploring those in depth. 

When traveling with a toddler for a week in Italy I would say either pick one location and do a day trip or pick two locations. I would only start to add in more destinations for an Italy with toddlers itinerary if you have a longer time to spend traveling. 

Best Way to Travel Around Italy with toddlers

The best way to get around Italy with toddlers will really depend on where you are going.

Traveling on Trains in Italy

Trains are a great way of traveling around Italy especially if you are traveling long distances between cities i.e. Rome and Naples to name but a couple. 

IF you are traveling with a toddler on a train in Italy then the good news is that they will travel for free. But the bad news is that they won’t be guaranteed their own city and on a busy train they will be expected to sit in your lap. If you needed them to have their own seat you would need to buy them a ticket. 

Also it is worth noting that on Italian trains you can not take the stroller with you to your seat. All strollers on Italian trains must be folder and put in a luggage rack so it doesn’t cause an obstruction.

Traveling in Cars in Italy

I would only advise hiring a car in Italy if you are traveling outside of the cities. Rome is a beautiful city but is an absolute nightmare to drive around. 

If you decide to hire a car in Italy when traveling with a toddler you will need to bring a car seat with you or hire one with your hire car. We prefer to bring our own with us as we know where it has been and the standard but you will be able to get one from the big hire companies at the airport.

Where to Eat in Italy with toddlers

Not all stereotypes are true but the Italian love of babies and families is one that definitely is. We found that whatever restaurant we took our little one to a restaurant in Italy we were welcomed with open arms. But what do you need to know about eating out with toddlers in Italy?

Do restaurants in Italy have High Chairs?

Now the first thing you need to know about eating out in Italy is that not many Italian restaurants will have high chairs. You may find them in some of the more tourist restaurants however these aren’t the places we advise eating at. 

If you are planning on eating out with toddlers in Italy we recommend that you either travel with a portable high chair or get your toddler used to eating on a chair before you travel. 

However it is worth noting that although there isn’t always a high chair provision in restaurants it isn’t because toddlers aren’t welcome. We have never been to a restaurant in Italy where our toddler hasn’t been immediately welcomed and warmly received. 

Do restaurants in Italy have children’s menu?

It may surprise you to know that many restaurants in Italy do not have children’s menus. However I have always found that restaurants are happy to either

• provide a small plate so your toddler can eat from your plate
• cook smaller portions for smaller appetites

And let’s face it, unlike other cuisines you don’t really need a children’s menus as what child does not enjoy pizza, pasta and gelato. 

Where to go in Italy with a toddler?

Now you know how to plan your Italy vacation with toddlers, and what to bring with you 

Rome with a toddler

Rome with a baby / Rome with a toddler

Rome was the first Italian city we visited with a toddler. It’s a place that we had visited numerous times as a couple which we felt made it easier for us to navigate with a  toddler. 

Rome is a pretty easy place to travel around with a toddler and despite what you may have heard we actually found it relatively easy to wander around Rome with a stroller. Now if you are visiting Rome with a toddler and aren’t constrained to school holidays then we recommend visiting Rome in the shoulder seasons of Autumn and Spring as your toddler will find the weather much easier to come with that Rome in summer. 

We visited many Roman attractions with our little one including the Colosseum, The Forum, Vatican City and more. But our favourite place to visit with toddlers in Rome is the Villa Borghese Park.  

For a complete guide to visiting Rome with a toddler check out our in-depth and detailed post. 

Venice with a toddler

Italy with a toddler / Venice with a toddler

You may thing that the famous and beautiful canals of Venice make the city impossible with toddlers. I wouldn’t say it is impossible but the canals do certainly add an extra challenge to your travel. 

The canals mean lots of bridges which are in many cases stepped rather than ramped which makes it challenging to get around Venice with a stroller. It isn’t impossible but it can be more difficult than in some other Italian cities. for this reason we recommend you think about bringing a combination of stroller and carriers. And a lightweight stroller is obviously a better choice for the bridges where you will either need to carry it up the stairs or to fold it up. 

On top of that there is of course the inherent water challenge. We therefore recommend anyone visiting Venice with toddlers taking a carrier and some toddler backpack reins for safety around the water. 

If you plan on spending more than a day in Venice with toddler we recommend staying in an off canal location to help mitigate the risks.

Some of the best things to do in Venice with toddlers including chasing the pigeons in St MArks Square, visiting the famous bookshop where the books are piled high into steps and of course having a ride in one of the famous Venice gondolas. 

For more information on visiting Venice with toddlers check out our detailed and dedicated post. 

Puglia with a toddler

Puglia with toddlers

Puglia is one of my favourite places in the while of Italy, not just with toddlers but full stop. Puglia for those that don’t know is in the region in the heel of Italy and is great with toddlers because it has some of the best beaches in the whole of Italy, great food and has some great car free areas such as the beautiful Alberobello .

For an in-depth guide on Puglia with a toddler check out this post. 

Italian Lakes with toddlers

The Italian Lakes with toddlers is a a great choice for toddlers. Both the Lake Garda and the Lake Como region both have toddler friendly towns that are easy to access with a stroller.

This area also has a great choice of family accommodations with several Eurocamp parks available in the region. We also love this area as the pace of life is much slower than in the cities and you can explore easily by foot or by bike with a toddler. 

For an in-depth guide on the Italian lakes with toddlers check out this post. 

• Tuscany with toddlers

We love visiting Tuscany, Tuscany is always a good idea. We love staying out in the countryside when we visit Tuscany and there are lots of family friendly accommodations with pools and some great family friendly farm stays. 

Visiting Siena and Florence with toddlers is another great idea but we prefer staying outside and heading to these cities for a day trip. Just be sure to bring a robust stroller with you as the cobbled stones streets in Florence and Siena will ruin a lightweight and cheap travel stroller. 

For more information check out the below guides:

• Florence with toddlers
• Siena with toddlers
• Amalfi Coast with Toddlers

Visiting Positano with kids, toddlers and babies

The Amalfi Coast is beautiful but not necessarily the easiest place to visit with toddlers because not many of the Amalfi towns are stroller friendly. And while the beaches are beautiful many are stony and require lifts to go down to them. 

However saying the you shouldn’t be deterred from visiting the Amalfi Coast with toddlers. Do check out our dedicated guides below:

• Positano with toddlers

Cinque Terre with Toddlers

Another place that is top of many people’s Italy bucket list is Cinque Terre. The reason Cinque Terre is beautiful because of all the cliff tops which obviously are a big hazard especially with toddlers. However if you do decide to visit Cinque Terre with toddlers be sure to take a carrier with you as stroller aren’t easy at Cinque Terre.

Both of my toddlers hated being in the carrier which always put us off visiting Cinque Terre. However if your toddlers are ok in the carrier it will be easier. 

Have you visited Italy with toddlers? Where did you go? And if you have any other tips be sure to add them in the comments below as we would love to hear how it was for you. 

The Complete Guide On Traveling To Italy With Kids

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Home » The Complete Guide On Traveling To Italy With Kids

We’re probably not alone in saying this, but a trip to Italy is what we all dream of. It’s a place that you should experience at least once in your life, no matter if you’re traveling solo or with a family.

It can be tricky to find a destination that suits the whole family. But you have absolutely nothing to worry about, this is one of the best places you can choose for a family trip.

If you are after a family-friendly European vacation , Italy is hard to beat. We find the people in Italy adore kids and kids are welcome everywhere – in fact you will even find preferential treatment (such as being able to skip the lines) when you travel with kids in this beautiful country.

We’ve done it numerous times, and there are thousands of others who choose to travel to Italy with kids!

But first, you need to get to Italy – so make sure to check out the best airline to fly to Italy to help you decide on your airline carrier!

Guide to Travel Italy with Kids

There are some incredible places in Italy for children and with such diverse Italian landscapes and cities. You’ll be sure to find a destination that’s just right for your family.

Best Places to Visit in Italy with Kids

Part of the reason we all fall in love with Italy is because of the mouth-watering food and delicious gelato. But nothing comes close to grabbing a slice of pizza under the Tuscan sun.

There’s so much to love about the landscapes, culture, and activities found here.

Below I’ve shared some of the best places in Italy for a family holiday. You’ll find destinations from both the south and north of the country, along with unique adventures and incredible accommodations in each.

Best Places to Visit in Northern Italy with Kids

Northern Italy encompasses the wealthiest parts of the country and it’s where you’ll find some of the country’s luxury resorts and cultural treasures. Explore ancient castles, roam around kid-friendly museums, and take the family to all kinds of memorable destinations.

1. Tuscany with Kids

Tuscany is one of the most wonderful places in Italy to visit with kids, purely because of how beautifully diverse the region is.

Children love a good beach day, and they’ll be kept happy for hours splashing in the warm waters and building sandcastles.

Lucca with Kids

Lucca is a charming, quaint city on the Serchio river, with plenty of things to do and see . It is most famous for its well-preserved Renaissance walls.

Things to do in Lucca with kids:

If your kids are a little bit older and up for the adventure, nothing beats a bike ride around the city walls of Luca and tree-lined paths.

For kids older than 7, take an adventure up the top Torre Guinigi, which shows off panoramic views of the Lucca rooftops. Once the fun descend down the tower is over, reward yourselves with some fresh pizza from Trattoria Gigi.

Where to stay in Lucca with kids:

For an absolute treat, we recommend staying at an Italian villa, where there’s plenty of space for the kids to enjoy.

Check out the current prices for B&B Villa La Perla here .

Florence with Kids

Florence is a much smaller city than Rome and Milan, but it’s the most populated. There’s so much to see and do in Florence, which makes it an ideal option for longer stays.

Things to do in Florence with kids:

If you’re all keen on a break from the city, a picnic or stroll around Boboli Gardens is fantastic. After all the city seeing, head to Piazza Della Repubblica and enjoy a ride on the antique carousel.

When you’re in Florence , you can’t miss out on a trip to one of their museums. Visit some kid-friendly ones like the Galileo Museum, Palazzo Strozzi, or Palazzo Vecchio.

Click here to book your tour of Florence Palazzo Vecchio .

Where to stay in Florence with kids:

Staying somewhere central is ideal when visiting Florence. Some hotels, like Hotel Orcagna, even offer bike rentals which make getting around the city super convenient! It’s also got a garden for the kids.

Check out the current prices for Hotel Orcagna here .

2. Rome with Kids

Ah, Rome , one of the most loved cities in Italy. And for good reason. It’s a city filled with local history, culture, and mouth-watering delights.

Things to do in Rome with kids:

While a visit to the Colosseum is a popular tourist attraction for adults, kids will be excited to know that it’s also where a collection of wild animals once lived.

As a family, you can row a boat at the Borghese Gardens, eat gelato at the Spanish Steps or explore the Roman Catacombs .

Click here to book your tour of the Colosseum.

Where to stay in Rome with kids:

Guesthouses are a great option when you’re traveling with the whole family. They’re quiet, relatively central, and usually very spacious. A great option for traveling to Italy with toddlers and kids is Sofia’s Suite Guesthouse.

Check out the current prices for Sofia’s Suite Guesthouse here , or find out which hotels are popular in Rome here .

3. Venice with Kids

Venice is a city that’s built on more than 100 islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. With no roads and just canals, you can spend your days exploring via the water or wandering the streets of this charming city.

Things to do in Venice with kids:

One of the most fun things to do in Italy for kids is to hop on a gondola tour that takes you along the beautiful turquoise waters.

It’s an awesome way to see the whole city, especially during the summer.

Kids will also enjoy a trip to St. Mark’s Basilica , where they can marvel at the beautiful colored glass as it hits the light.

Click here to book your tour on a gondola in Venice.

There are plenty of things to do in Venice with kids that will keep you all entertained and busy.

Where to stay in Venice with kids:

Located just 50m from St. Mark’s, Hotel Noemi is one of the top choices when it comes to staying in Venice with kids.

With a superb location, this family-run hotel has beautiful rooms with an 18th-century Venetian décor.

Check out the current prices for Hotel Noemi here.

4. Cinque Terre with Kids

Cinque Terre is made up of dreamy seaside villages that house centuries-old homes along the Italian Riviera coastline. The 5 towns are filled with colorful houses, magical fishing boats, and vineyards that grow on steep terraces.

Things to do in Cinque Terre with kids:

A trip to Cinque Terre is unimaginable without a beach adventure. Parco Nazionale Cinque Terre is a wonderful coastal park that’s ideal for beach days and outdoor hikes – an awesome opportunity for older kids.

Other than a trip to the beach, visiting Doria Castle, seafood dining, and enjoying copious amounts of ice cream is a must, too.

Where to stay in Cinque Terre with kids:

Cinque Terre offers beautiful holiday homes that are nestled right along the coastal cliffs. They’re fantastic for staying central and soaking up the outdoor sun. If you’re looking for ocean views and a stunning garden, Casa Lorenza is a perfect choice.

Check out the current prices for Casa Lorenza here .

5. Lake Garda with Kids

Lago di Garda is the largest lake, popular for its crystal clear waters, and fantastic for those traveling to Italy with toddlers or kids. We personally prefer Lake Garda vs Lake Como as a family destination as it has so much to offer for families.

Things to do in Lake Garda with kids:

Given that you’re traveling with kids, you can’t miss out on a day at Gardaland . This huge amusement park features water rides, parks, and classic carnival rides.

A lot of the activities in Lake Garda involve the water, so take a ferry tour and explore the surroundings or take a splash in the warm waters.

Click here to book a tour on Lake Garda.

Where to stay in Lake Garda with kids:

You’ll want to stay as close to Lake di Garda as possible, for easy trips to the water. Hotel Tre Punto is just a 10-minute drive away from the turquoise waters.

Check out the current prices for Hotel Tre Punto here .

Best Places to Visit in Southern Italy with Kids

All the adventure-seeking and beach-loving families will love a trip to the Southern parts of Italy. The south boasts some of the oldest parts of the country, as well as some iconic Italian sites that attract tourists from around the globe.

And of course, the beaches play a huge part in the south’s popularity. With its warm Mediterranean climate and breathtaking coastal cliffs, both you and your kids will love every minute.

Here is a list of the must-see place to visit in Southern Italy .

1. Amalfi Coast with Kids

The Amalfi Coast is a 50km stretch of coastline, showing off the gorgeous Mediterranean ocean with plenty of beautiful beaches.

It’s one of the most notorious Italian vacation spots, with a collection of seaside villages, pastel houses, and plenty of cobblestoned streets to explore.

Things to do on the Amalfi Coast with kids:

Because of the narrow, cobblestone streets, the Amalfi Coast isn’t ideal for families traveling with young children in a stroller. But older kids will love visiting all the Amalfi Coast beaches , boat rides, parks, and town squares.

Be sure to stop at the San de Riso pastry shop in Minori to pick up some tasty treats, too!

Click here to book a tour and boat ride on the Amalfi Coast.

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast with kids:

We recommend staying at Villa Maria, located in Praiano. It’s rated highly for family stays, with the biggest draw being private steps leading down to the beach and panoramic views from the hotel.

Check out the current prices for Villa Maria here .

2. Puglia with Kids

Puglia is a region found in the heel of the iconic Italian “boot”. It’s known for its ancient farmlands that sit along the coast, whitewashed towns, and endless Mediterranean coastline. There are plenty of stunning places to visit in Puglia .

Alberobello with Kids

Alberobello is a quaint town in Puglia that’s great fun for traveling with your family. Kids will love the look of all the interesting buildings and maze-like streets to play around.

What to do in Alberobello with kids:

This fairy-like town is awesome for when you’re traveling Italy with children. It’s safe, quiet, and very laid-back, and you can spend your days in the beachside towns, going on a short walking tour and taking a visit to the Castellana Caves.

Click here to book a tour through Alberobello.

Where to stay in Alberobello with kids:

Treat your kids and book a stay in a whitewashed farmhouse, with a gorgeous patio and BBQ facilities. It’s the perfect place to enjoy some quality family time!

Check out the current prices for Dimora Sumerano’s Bed and Breakfast here .

3. Matera with Kids

Once an Italian city shamed for poverty, Matera is a city made of stone that now attracts hundreds of tourists every day. It’s home to many museums and shows off an incredible rocky landscape (the perfect backdrop for a family photo).

What to do in Matera with kids:

Explore houses in old cave systems and find out what life was like living in a cave. Kids will be fascinated with this new idea of living. It’s a thrilling experience to wander deep into the caves of Palombaro Lungo, as well as to visit churches built in the caves.

Where to stay in Matera with kids:

You shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity of staying inside a cave. Book yourself a one-of-a-kind experience that’ll be fun for the entire family.

Check out the current prices for Cave Rooms Sassi here .

4. Sicily with Kids

Sicily is the largest Mediterranean island, rich in both culture and history. It also boasts insanely beautiful beaches.

You’ll have the chance to explore the island like a local, eating fresh seafood, soaking up the sun, and discovering the island’s heritage.

Taormina with Kids

Within Sicily, you’ll find Taormina. It’s a hilltop town that features an active volcano, Mount Etna . From Taormina, you can visit ancient sites and take cable car rides down to the beach.

What to do in Taormina with kids:

Visit the ancient Greek theatre, which is probably the most famous site in Taormina. Even though the history won’t be that important to the kids, they’ll be more than happy climbing the tiered seating.

Another great thing to do is to take visit Mount Etna. It not only shows off fantastic views of the surroundings, but the cable car ride is an adventure on its own.

Click here to book a tour of Mount Etna.

Where to stay in Taormina with kids:

Your family will love a stay at a gorgeous B&B that’s only 800m from the center of Taormina. With colorful rooms and sweet Italian breakfasts, you’ll feel right at home.

Check out the current prices for B&B La Terrazza Sul Mare Taormina here .

Final Thoughts on Traveling to Italy with Kids

There’s no shortage of things to do in Italy with kids. A country this diverse and exciting makes it one you can explore over and over again. Each city or town offers something uniquely different and fascinating.

Besides its beauty and history, it’s a brilliant destination to travel to as a family because of how child-friendly it is. Enjoy the warm climate, indulge in mouth-watering food, embark on numerous boat trips, and explore many historically significant sites that your kids remember forever.

As you can see we visited Italy with kids of various ages. Because our youngest was only 2.5 years old, we have whipped up a great post for families who wish to visit Italy with a baby or toddler .

Andrzej Ejmont

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Navigating Italy with Kids: 13 Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Vacation

Posted on Last updated: April 7, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » Italy » Navigating Italy with Kids: 13 Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Vacation

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Planning a trip to Italy with kids but feeling under-prepared? Keep scrolling to check out my personal tips for visiting Italy with kids!

This list of tips for visiting italy with kids was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

We just got back from visiting Italy with kids and it was quite the learning experience. The last time we visited Italy with kids, our oldest was a toddler and things have changed a bit.

So, I figured I would jot down some of my tips for how to plan and prepare for a stress-free vacation to Italy.

Keep scrolling to get all the information you need to plan the ultimate Italy family vacation .

Before You Go to Italy with Kids

Planning a family trip to Italy can seem overwhelming, but a little preparation can make all the difference.

From choosing kid-friendly destinations to timing your trip just right, here are a few tips to make your Italian vacation memorable and stress-free.

Researching and Selecting Family-Friendly Destinations

Italy is brimming with kid-friendly destinations, but it’s important to do some research and select ones that align with your family’s interests and dynamics.

Popular cities like Rome , Florence , and Venice are filled with cool museums, parks, and historical sites that are usually a hit with kids of all ages.

For families seeking outdoor adventures, consider popular tourist destinations such as the picturesque Dolomites or the beautiful beaches of Sardinia.

Timing Your Trip

Italy is lovely throughout the year, but for optimal weather and to avoid heavy tourist crowds, consider visiting in late spring or early autumn.

These periods offer mild temperatures perfect for exploring and less crowded attractions, making it more enjoyable for you and your kids.

I know that summer is the peak tourist season in Italy but it is HOT. If you do visit Italy in summer, plan on doing daily siestas in the afternoon to avoid heatstroke.

Travel Documents and Insurance

Ensure all passports are up-to-date with at least six months of validity beyond your travel dates. I have a whole post about how to apply for a passport for a child . If required, apply for visas well in advance.

Additionally, it’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Traveling with children can sometimes be unpredictable, so it’s always better to be prepared for any unforeseen situations.

Packing Essentials

When it comes to packing for Italy, think of comfort and convenience. Pack lightweight, easy-to-layer clothing to accommodate varying weather conditions.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for all the exploring you’ll do. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen , hats , and refillable water bottles .

Consider packing a lightweight stroller for younger kids, as there can be a lot of walking involved in Italy’s cities. Or use a baby carrier for babies and toddlers. Don’t pack your favorite stroller because it will endure an insane amount of wear and tear.

Lastly, pack a few familiar snacks and entertainment options to keep the little ones happy during transit times.

Getting Around Italy with Kids

Public transportation in italy.

We LOVE using the train in Italy because it’s just so convenient for day trips and for moving from one part of your Italy itinerary to the next.

If you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks, I recommend splurging for the premier class tickets because you’ll usually get Wi-Fi and more comfortable seats. But, the other classes are still okay for families.

Rome Buses and Metro

I personally want to warn you about taking the Metro in Rome. I had heard for years about how sketchy the Rome Metro can be.

But, it wasn’t until I had my phone stolen out of my pocket while riding the Metro with my kids that I really understood. Locals know who to watch out for but tourists (especially moms who are distracted) are an easy target.

The buses in big cities like Rome can also be challenging when they are packed, as you’ll probably need to hang onto your kids.

Taxis and Uber in Italy

We primarily use taxis and Uber when we visit Italy with kids. It feels safer than the Metro, it’s a more comfortable ride, and we usually save time.

For our last trip, our kids were 6 years old and 9 years old and we didn’t worry about car seats. But, we did make sure they buckled up.

Renting a Car in Italy

Another option is to rent a car in Italy. This is my suggestion if you’re staying in Tuscany or somewhere outside of Rome or Florence.

If you’re staying in a main city, it can be really intense to drive in Italy.

We’ve rented vans in Tuscany for big family trips and it still is stressful because of the narrow roads.

Visiting Italy with Babies and Toddlers

I wouldn’t consider Italy to be a very stroller-friendly country, for the most part. I mean, there are lots of cobblestone roads and it can not only be a bumpy ride, but it can also mean your stroller will get lots of wear and tear.

If you’re visiting Italy with a baby or toddler, I’d recommend using a baby carrier instead. We really liked using our Baby Tula carriers when we visited Italy with a toddler.

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Visiting Northern Italy vs Southern Italy with Kids

Italy, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, offers a multitude of experiences for traveling families.

Here’s what to expect when visiting the Northern and Southern regions of the country with kids.

Northern Italy with Kids

Northern Italy, home to bustling metropolises like Milan , historical gems like Venice , and the natural allure of the Italian Lakes , offers a variety of child-friendly attractions.

In Milan, the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology with its interactive exhibits can be fascinating for kids.

Venice’s unique water-bound environment can provide a thrilling adventure with gondola rides and explorations of islands like Murano and Burano .

For nature-loving families, the Italian Lakes, such as Lake Como and Lake Garda , offer scenic beauty and outdoor activities. The Gardaland amusement park near Lake Garda is a kid favorite.

Accommodations in Northern Italy can range from luxury hotels to family-friendly agriturismos, providing opportunities to explore the local farming culture.

Southern Italy with Kids

Southern Italy, characterized by its rugged coastline, sun-kissed beaches, and a more laid-back lifestyle, can be an ideal destination for families seeking a balance of relaxation and cultural exploration.

In Naples , children can explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum . The region’s famous pizza and gelato can be a hit with the younger ones.

The Amalfi Coast and Capri offer beautiful beaches and boating opportunities. In Puglia , unique experiences like staying in a traditional Trulli house can delight children.

Sicily , with its intriguing mythology around Mount Etna, the puppet theatres of Palermo, and the Valley of the Temples, provides a mix of education and entertainment.

Remember, the pace can be slower in the South, which can be perfect for leisurely family vacations but might require a more flexible schedule.

Where to Stay in Italy with Kids

Finding the right place to stay can significantly impact your family vacation in Italy.

Here are some Italy family travel tips to help you select the perfect kid-friendly accommodations in Italy.

Choosing Family-Friendly Accommodations

When planning your trip, prioritize accommodations that cater specifically to families.

These could be hotels with spacious family rooms, vacation rentals offering cribs and high chairs, or resorts with dedicated children’s programs and facilities.

Locations within walking distance to major attractions or close to public transportation can also make your stay much more convenient. Check out our top kid-friendly hotels in Rome , Florence , and Venice .

Exploring Accommodation Options

Italy offers a wide variety of accommodation types. Traditional hotels often provide convenient amenities such as room service, daily housekeeping, and sometimes even a concierge to assist with planning activities.

This is typically what we do when we travel to Italy with kids.

Apartments can be a great option for families seeking a home-like environment, with the convenience of a kitchen and separate living and sleeping areas.

We did this when we stayed in Rome with extended family and it was great to have a space to hang out together.

This type of accommodation can also provide a more immersive experience, especially if located in a residential neighborhood.

For a unique and charming experience, consider an ‘agriturismo,’ a farm-stay offering a taste of rural life. Here, your family can enjoy fresh food, engage with nature, and maybe even participate in farm activities.

Ensuring Child Safety

No matter where you choose to stay, child safety should be paramount. Check for potential hazards such as unprotected balconies, steep staircases, or unsecured furniture.

Don’t be shy about asking if the property provides safety gates or corner guards if needed.

Kid-Friendly Amenities and Services

Choose accommodations that offer kid-friendly amenities. Look for properties with pools or play areas, child-oriented activities, or even babysitting services for an occasional parents’ night out.

In-room conveniences like a mini-fridge for storing snacks, free Wi-Fi for entertainment, and a bathtub for easy bath times can also make your stay more comfortable.

Navigating the beautiful but sometimes busy streets of Italy with children can seem daunting.

However, the country’s varied transportation options make it easier to explore and ensure an enjoyable journey for your entire family.

Using the Train

Italy’s extensive and efficient train network makes it a popular choice for families. The Trenitalia and Italo train services connect major cities and regions, making it a breeze to get from, say, Rome to Florence.

Family compartments and discounts for children are available on some routes. Remember to bring activities to keep your kids occupied during longer journeys.

Make sure to get to the train station early so you can grab some snacks, drinks, and even books/entertainment.

Public Transportation

In cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan, the public transportation system of buses, trams, and metro lines can be a convenient way to get around.

However, they can get crowded during peak hours. It’s always wise to keep an eye on your kids and belongings.

Also, strollers may be challenging to maneuver on buses or trams during busy times.

Taxis/Ubers

Taxis can be a quick and convenient way to reach specific Italian destinations, especially when your kids are tired or the weather is uncooperative.

Uber operates in many Italian cities, offering a familiar and often efficient mode of transport.

Keep in mind that car seats are not commonly available in taxis or Ubers, so you might need to bring a portable one if your child requires it. We love using the Bubble Bum .

Renting a Car

If you’re comfortable driving in a foreign country and plan to explore more rural areas or small towns, renting a car can be a great option.

It provides the convenience of setting your own schedule and can be less stressful than navigating public transportation with kids.

However, remember that Italian cities often have restricted traffic zones (ZTLs) where non-residents can’t drive, and parking can be challenging. Be sure to request child car seats when you rent the car if necessary.

Eating in Italy with Kids

One of the greatest joys of traveling to Italy is the food. Fortunately, Italian food is generally very kid-friendly, with a ton of options for pasta, pizza, and gelato.

Here are some tips for making your family’s culinary adventure in Italy enjoyable and stress-free.

Introducing Italian Cuisine to Kids and Managing Picky Eaters

Italian cuisine goes far beyond spaghetti and pizza. Encourage your kids to try new dishes, but be mindful of their preferences.

A simple pasta with butter or olive oil is commonly available if they’re not feeling adventurous. And you can always ask for bread that they can dip in olive oil and/or balsamic vinegar.

Gelato or sorbet can be a delicious treat for after meals (or in between).

Finding Family-Friendly Restaurants and Trattorias

Most Italian restaurants and trattorias welcome children, but it’s always helpful to look for those that are especially kid-friendly.

Places with a relaxed atmosphere, outdoor seating, or even a children’s menu can be a good choice. We’ve had good luck using Yelp or asking the concierge at our hotels.

Pizzerias can be particularly great for families, offering a casual environment and a universally loved dish.

Exploring Local Markets and Food Festivals

Visiting local food markets can be an exciting family food adventure. Children can learn about different fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and other local produce.

Food festivals, which are common in Italy, offer a chance to try a variety of dishes and engage with local culture.

Tips for Dining Out with Kids

In Italy, dining is a leisurely experience. To avoid long waits, consider dining a bit earlier when restaurants are less busy.

I suggest bringing activity books, coloring books with crayons, sketch pads, or small toys/fidgets that can keep kids entertained.

It’s customary in Italy to ask for the check (il conto) when you’re ready to leave. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory – a couple of euros or up to 10% for excellent service is common.

Must-See Italy Attractions for Families

Italy is a treasure trove of attractions perfect for families. Whether it’s historic landmarks, stunning beaches, interactive museums, or charming parks, there’s something for every family to enjoy.

Family-Friendly Attractions in Major Cities

Visit the iconic Colosseum and make history come alive for your kids.

The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill offer open spaces for children to run around and explore. Get priority access here .

The Boboli Gardens , with its expansive greenery, is perfect for a family picnic. Don’t miss the Galileo Museum , filled with interactive exhibits that will intrigue kids and adults alike.

A gondola ride through the city’s waterways can be a thrilling experience for children. Also, visit the islands of Murano and Burano to see the colorful houses and glass-making demonstrations.

Italy’s Beautiful Beaches and Coastal Towns

Italy’s coastline is dotted with family-friendly beaches. The shallow waters of Sardinia’s Costa Rei are perfect for little ones. Towns like Positano on the Amalfi Coast offer stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.

Kid-Friendly Museums and Interactive Exhibits

Most of Italy’s museums cater to younger audiences with interactive exhibits. The Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Florence and Rome’s Explora , a children’s museum, are exciting and educational.

The Museo Storico della Didattica in Rome offers a unique look at the history of education, which kids might find intriguing.

Outdoor Parks and Playgrounds

Italy’s parks are perfect for a day of family fun. Rome’s Villa Borghese includes a zoo, puppet theatre, and boat rentals.

In Florence, the Torrigiani Garden is a secret green haven within the city. Look out for local playgrounds for a break during your city explorations.

How to Keep Kids Engaged and Entertained

Keeping your children entertained throughout your trip to Italy is key to ensuring everyone has a great time.

Here are some strategies to make sure the younger members of your family remain engaged and captivated during your Italian adventure.

Planning Age-Appropriate Activities and Kid-Friendly Tours

Tailor your itinerary to your children’s age and interests. Younger kids might enjoy a puppet show at the Teatro dei Burattini in Florence, while older children may appreciate exploring the ancient ruins of Rome or the spooky catacombs.

Some tour companies offer kid-friendly tours with guides skilled at making history and culture fun and engaging for kids. Get ideas with my 10-day Italy with kids itinerary .

Engaging Kids in Italian Culture Through Language and Traditions

Involve your children in the local culture. Teach them common Italian phrases or take a short language class together. Participating in local festivals or traditional events can also provide an enriching experience.

Watching a local soccer match or learning to make pizza or gelato are also fun ways to immerse in Italian culture.

Enjoying Outdoor Adventures and Nature Activities

Balance city tours with outdoor adventures. Italy’s diverse landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for activities like hiking, cycling , or even sailing .

Visit national parks and nature reserves, or take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea. These experiences can provide a refreshing break from the bustling cities.

Incorporating Educational Experiences and Workshops

Turn your vacation into a fun learning experience. Museums often provide workshops for children.

For example, the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence has a secret passages tour that makes history exciting. Participating in a cooking class is another great way to learn about Italian culture while picking up a new skill.

Health and Safety Considerations

Traveling abroad with children requires extra attention to their health and safety.

Here are some crucial considerations to ensure your family’s well-being during your trip to Italy.

Ensuring Your Child’s Well-Being During the Trip

Before your departure, ensure your children are up-to-date on routine vaccines. It may also be a good idea to have a check-up with your pediatrician and discuss any travel-specific health concerns.

Pack a first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and child-friendly medication for common ailments like fever or upset stomach.

And make sure you have enough prescribed medications to last for your entire trip (plus a few extra days in case of travel delays). It can be super hard to get prescribed medications in another country.

Handling Medical Emergencies and Finding English-Speaking Healthcare Providers

Italy has excellent healthcare facilities, but in case of a medical emergency, it’s important to know what to do.

The emergency number in Italy is 118 . Many doctors and medical staff speak English, especially in larger cities. Consider getting travel insurance that includes medical evacuation for more serious situations.

Staying Safe in Crowded Tourist Areas and Using Child Safety Measures

Italy’s popular tourist spots can get quite crowded, making it essential to keep a close eye on your children.

Consider using child safety measures like Apple Air Tags , especially for younger kids. Discuss safety rules with your children such as staying close and what to do if they get lost.

Dealing with Jet Lag and Maintaining a Routine While Traveling

Jet lag can affect children, too. Start adjusting your child’s sleep schedule a few days before departure to lessen the impact.

During your trip, try to maintain a routine similar to home, balancing sightseeing with rest and relaxation.

Regular meal times and enough sleep can help your child adjust to the new time zone and keep them in good spirits. We usually use melatonin at night to ensure that our kids fall asleep AND stay asleep so they get enough rest.

Language and Communication Tips

Communicating effectively while traveling in Italy can enhance your family’s overall experience.

Here are some helpful tips to overcome language barriers and make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Learning Basic Italian Phrases for Communication

While many Italians speak English, particularly in major cities and tourist areas, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak the local language.

Basic phrases like “Grazie” (Thank you), “Per favore” (Please), “Dove è…?” (Where is…?), and “Parla inglese?” (Do you speak English?) can go a long way.

Teach your kids these phrases too – it’s not only practical but also makes for a fun learning experience. We like to use Duolingo before our trips so that our kids are familiar with key phrases.

Utilizing Translation Apps and Pocket Dictionaries

Having a translation app on your phone, such as Google Translate , can be incredibly useful. These apps often include audio pronunciation guides, and some even have a feature to translate text from photos, which can be helpful for menus or signs.

A pocket dictionary is another useful tool, especially in areas with unreliable internet connections. We like to give them to our kids so they have a job to do when we’re navigating the city.

Encouraging Kids to Interact with Locals and Learn the Language

Encourage your children to practice their Italian with locals. This can be a fantastic learning opportunity and a chance to make new friends.

Simple interactions like ordering at gelato shops or asking for directions can be great practice. And if nothing else, they can greet people or say thank you.

Overcoming Language Barriers for a Smoother Travel Experience

Remember, communication is more than just language. Non-verbal cues, like gestures and expressions, can also convey meaning.

Don’t be afraid of making mistakes or sounding funny, as locals usually appreciate the effort and are happy to help.

Family Trip to Italy FAQs

Is italy a good place to take kids.

Yes, Italy is a wonderful place to take kids. It’s rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Additionally, Italians are known for their love of family, and children are welcomed nearly everywhere.

The country is filled with interesting museums, parks, historical sites, and kid-friendly cuisine (pizza, pasta, and gelato).

Is Rome or Venice better for kids?

Both Rome and Venice have their own unique kid-friendly attractions that can be enjoyable for families. Rome, with its historical sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and interactive museums like Explora, is full of educational opportunities.

Venice, on the other hand, offers a unique experience with its canals, gondola rides, and islands like Murano and Burano that kids usually find fascinating.

It might depend on the specific interests of your children. My kids personally enjoyed Venice more because they decided they were “boat people.”

What is the best month to travel to Italy with kids?

The best months to travel to Italy with kids are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October). The weather during these months is typically mild and pleasant.

Also, these periods avoid the summer high season when tourist sites can be extremely crowded and temperatures uncomfortably high.

What is the best way for a family to travel in Italy?

Trains are a comfortable and efficient way to travel between cities in Italy. They’re often faster than driving, and kids usually enjoy the experience.

When in cities, public transportation is widely available (just be alert), Uber is readily available, or you can explore on foot as many city centers are pedestrian-friendly.

Is there a UNESCO world heritage site in Italy?

Yes, there are several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy, in fact, Italy has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites of any country in the world, with 55 designated areas.

These include well-known sites such as the Historic Centre of Rome, the Historic Centre of Florence, Venice and its Lagoon, and the Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum, and Torre Annunziata, to name a few.

What are the top activities for families visiting Rome?

Rome captivates families with a ton of activities, from historical adventures at the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, to interactive experiences like a pizza-making class and explorations at the Villa Borghese park, making it a delight for children and adults alike.

Where can I do a boat ride in Italy?

Italy presents a multitude of picturesque boat ride options, from iconic gondola rides in Venice and ferry voyages on the serene Italian Lakes, to coastal tours along the Amalfi Coast, explorations around the islands of Capri and Sicily, and excursions in the Cinque Terre.

Does Italy have an active volcano?

Italy is home to several active volcanoes, including Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active, Stromboli off Sicily’s coast, and Vesuvius near Naples, infamous for its devastating eruption in AD 79.

What are the most popular Italian cities for families?

Popular Italian cities for families include Rome for its history and museums, Florence for its accessible art and kid-friendly science museum, Venice for its canals and glass-blowing demonstrations, and Naples for its proximity to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.

Milan also has many kid-friendly attractions like the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology.

Is it worth visiting Florence with kids?

Absolutely, visiting Florence with kids is worth it as the city offers a rich history, kid-friendly museums, and beautiful parks.

Plus, a day trip to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa , an iconic symbol of Italy, can be a memorable experience for the entire family.

Are there any theme parks in Italy?

Yes, there are several theme parks in Italy. Gardaland near Lake Garda is one of the biggest and offers a variety of rides for all ages.

There’s also Mirabilandia in Ravenna, and for movie lovers, Cinecitta World in Rome. If your kids love water parks, consider Acquafan in Riccione.

Is Cinque Terre worth visiting with kids?

Yes, Cinque Terre can be a fun place to visit with kids, but it might depend on their ages and interests. The five coastal villages offer opportunities for easy hiking, beach vacation time, and boat rides, which can be enjoyable for older kids.

However, the area can be crowded and might be challenging to navigate with a stroller or for younger children. Be sure to plan for plenty of breaks, and consider staying in one of the less crowded small villages for a more relaxed experience.

How to Explore Italy with Kids Wrap-Up

And there you have it! Our top tips for planning a stress-free family vacation in Italy with kids. I hope these tips help you embrace your Italian adventure and create lasting family memories.

Italy is one of our favorite family vacation destinations and I hope it will be for you on your next family trip!

Looking for more Italy travel resources? Check out my 10-day Italy itinerary for families , Rome travel tips , Florence travel tips , Venice travel tips , How to Visit Italy with a Toddler , 3 days in Rome with kids , day trips from Rome , 2 days in Florence with kids , kid-friendly Rome tours , day trips from Florence , day trip to Cinque Terre , Europe travel tips , and 1 day in Venice with kids !

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Melbourne for Kids - Activities & Family Travel Ideas

• Italy With Kids

Italy with Kids: What to see & do on your Italian Family Holiday

by mumslittleexplorers · January 3, 2023

Your family friendly travel guide through Italy with kids. Ideas and tips for your Italian family holiday including when to go, where to go, what to see, and things do with kids in Italy, or how I call it, Bella Italia!

Travel Italy with Kids: Your Italy Family Holiday Guide

Ahhh Bella Italia, I just love Italy!

As a former tour leader, guiding travellers around Italy and Europe, I was lucky enough to experience some of Italy’s best. Enough so that I ended up staying there over a decade, marrying an Italian, and having a couple of kids!

Travel with kids in Italy is not like travelling solo, I learned that along the way. When you visit Italy with kids, there are many things to consider in order to have the perfect Italian family holiday.

But not only is Italy a family friendly place to visit, Italians are very welcoming when it comes to children.

Here I share my best tips so that you can plan your Italian family holiday, and make it the perfect trip to Italy with your kids. In this post you can find:

• When to plan your Italian family holiday.
• Where to go in Italy with kids.
• What to see and do in each place we recommend
• Family friendly places to stay.
• Getting around in Italy with kids
• Eating out with kids in Italy.
• Some local tips and hidden gems.
• General tips for family travel in Italy.

Make sure to follow us on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM too!

*This post may contain affiliate links

When to plan your family trip to Italy

Italy is a family friendly destination which is pleasant to visit all year round. However, the period when you decide to go really depends on what you prefer to see and do while you are there.

Summers are great on the coast, and if you are planning on visiting the beautiful Italian beaches , or one of the Italian islands , then it is a great time to visit. However it can sometimes be uncomfortable for younger kids in the bigger cities as it gets very humid.

Winters can get cold. You may encounter rain, wind, or even snow, which could be a good or bad thing depending on what your plans are.

When planning your Italy family holiday note that peak season is between June – August. This is the European Summer and during this period, Italy attracts tourists from around the world.

If you travel to Italy during peak time, accommodation will be the most expensive. It is also extremely hot during these months, and in August Italians usually leave the big cities to holiday on the beach.

Because of this, you may find some attractions closed during this time. This is especially true around the 15th August, which is the mid Summer festa.

In general, unless you are spending your whole trip at the beach, I recommend if you are travelling to Italy with kids, it is best to go during the shoulder season, either April-May or September-October, which are the Italian Spring/Autumn months. Most of the time days are warm and sunny, but not scorching hot, with little rain.

If it is a family beach holiday you are after, then summer is great too because you can always cool off in the sea.

Best places to visit in Italy with kids

Although it looks small on the map, Italy is actually quite large and has so much to see and do.

From Northern Italy to the very South can take around 10-12 hours by car or train. Even on a fast train getting from Rome to Venice is around 4 hours so depending on how long you have you may need to choose to visit either the North or the South regions.

For families who have only a week, choosing a couple of places, or one region to explore is best. If you have longer, the options are endless, just keep the distances in mind when you plan your trip to Italy with kids.

Best Places to visit in Northern Italy with Kids

From the capital of Rome and all of the best places in Northern Italy

Rome with kids

Kick of your Italy family holiday in the Italian capital Roma which is in the middle of the country! Being the capital, most international flights will arrive in Rome, so it is worth stopping for a few days.

Rome is one of the must-see places in Italy for people of any age but there is so much to do in Rome with kids too.

What to see and do: Explore the famous Colosseum , test your children on the Mouth of Truth, walk the gorgeous Spanish Steps, or one of our family favourites, take a picnic and have a rickshaw ride around the beautiful Villa Borghese, it will be one of the highlights for the kids.

If you have enough time, take a day trip to Orvieto or the Monstor park in Bomarzo! There really is so much to do in Rome. See our full guide : Rome with Kids>>>

Local tip: Buy your tickets for the Colloseum early, or book a tour to skip the lines. It can be quite busy, especially if you travel to Rome during peak periods. Make sure you take a look at these Day Trips from Rome if you are have time.

Florence with kids

Firenze is an art lovers dream and a gorgeous city to visit for any traveller. Travelling around Florence with kids is quite easy as it the city is quite small when you compare to Rome or Milan and most things can be seen and done on foot.

There are many family friendly restaurants and cafes too and Florence makes a great base to visit other nearby towns and the Tuscan countryside!

What to see and do: Climb the famous Duomo, cross the “Ponte del vechio” (bridge), visit the Uffizi Museum , or just let the kids run around one of the piazzas or take a ride on the antique carousel. Take a pizza making class or for those who are up for it take a walk up to the Piazzale Michaelangelo at sunset to see a view of the entire city. Kick back and have a drink while the kids burn off their energy.

See our full guide: Things to do in Florence with kids>>>

Local Tip: Head to the big food market where you can buy some delicious Italian produce for fresh lunches. Do yourself a favour and order one of the huge paninis stuffed full of your favourite fillings.

Lucca with kids

Out of the big cities, and into the Tuscan countryside, you can soak up the Italian culture and breathe some of that fresh Italian air in the gorgeous city of Lucca . It is a great alternative to staying in Florence if you prefer a smaller town, but still close enough to visit on a day trip.

Less widely known and very underrated, the historical centre is surrounded by thick tall walls that date back to the Middle Ages. It is a beautiful spot to base yourself on your Italian family holiday because of it is easy to day trip to a lot of other places.

What to see and do:  Explore the historical centre and make sure to check out the Roman amphiteater. If you are up for it, or the kids need to burn off some energy climb one of Lucca’s tours, the largest is La Torre Guinigi. You can also hire bikes for the day and ride around the city walls or head outside, there are some gorgeous views of the Tuscan country side and is definitely one of the main highlights in Lucca. See our full guide : Lucca with Kids>>>>

Local tip: If you plan your Italy family holiday during the Summer make sure to check out the Lucca Summer Festival.

Pisa with kids

The city of Pisa is a must see when in Italy with kids even just for the cheesy photo! You can’t travel to Italy with kids and not visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa .

You don’t have to stay there, in fact I don’t recommend it. It can make an easy stopover while you are visiting Florence or Lucca as it is just a short train ride from each place, and you only need a few hours there. You can even make a stop on the train and get back on with the same ticket.

What to see and do:  The leaning tower of Pisa is the main attraction and there isn’t really much more to do in this city so a quick stopover is fine. It will be a highlight and your kids will love taking funny photos in front the tower and having that memory of their Italy family holiday forever.

This tower is truly impressive and when most people see it for the first time they can’t believe their eyes. “It really does lean” I have heard over and over again! Yes, it really does lean, and it is unbelievable to be able to see it in person.

Local Tip: If you want to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa get your tickets as soon as you arrive as only a certain amount of people can go up at the same time. While you wait you can take your funny photos of the tower.

Venice with kids

Ahhh Venice, the city where getting lost is all part of the experience of your Italian family holiday. It is one of our top places to visit in Italy with kids as it there is nowhere in Italy like it, in fact you won’t find anywhere like it in the world!

Tell your kids the city is like a giant maze and wonder through all of the tiny cobbled streets. Get yourself lost in the moments, stopping for gelato and pizza. Families with kids of all ages will enjoy this gorgeous city on water.

What to see and do: Chase the pigeons in St Marks square, watch the glass blowing in Murano and finish your day with a relaxing gondola ride exploring the gorgeous city of Venice which will be a definite hit with the whole family. See our full guide: Things to do in Venice with Kids>>>

Local Tip:  The streets are gorgeous but they exactly pram friendly so if you can, use a baby carrier for your little ones. Or at least a light easy stroller.

Cinque Terre with kids

Still one of my highlights of Italy, and I have lost count how many times I have walked the stunning coastline of the five villages which make up the Cinque Terre.

It makes a great stop on your Italy family holiday if you are an active family and you love the coast.

Set up on the North West coast of Italy, these five  beautiful little fishing villages are built up on the coast and are accessible on foot or by train. You can stay on the outskirts in either Levanto or Laspezia for easy transport, but the real experience is staying in one of the villages themselves.

What to see and do: While travellers do come to see the five villages, the village hike is the main attraction. Depending on your fitness level, there are different trails, however the coastal trail is the most popular for families.

To complete the coastal walk it takes around 5-6 hours but the best part for those with young children is that you don’t have to do it all by foot, you can take the train through to each village as well. It isn’t the easiest of hikes, but young kids can easily walk half way and the train trip is all part of the fun too!

Local Tip: Buy your pass before you arrive, you can find more information about the Cinque Terre on the Parco Nationale website.

Lago di Garda with kids

You have probably heard of Lake Como, where the famous George Cloony has a property but there are a couple of other impressive Italian lakes that are just as good, including Lago di Garda which aren’t too far from the famous city of Milan . The Italian lakes are a great place to stop in Italy with kids as you can do as much or as little as you want.

What to see and do: Gardaland on Lago di Garda is one of the biggest theme parks in Italy and kids will love this place! It’s like a mini Disney Land in Italy. You can also take a boat ride and find numerous little lake side villages to visit and the kids will love a boat ride around the lake.

Local Tip: Base yourself in one of the little villages on Lago di Garda and you can even sneak in a day trip to Verona to see the famous Romeo and Juliette balcony.

Best places to visit in the South of Italy with Kids

If you and your kids want to see the real Italy, make time to travel down the southern part of the country. We lived in the South for 3 years so got to experience quite a bit of it with our kids.

Once you have seen the main sights that everyone comes to see, come and experience the real Italian culture, the best food, and the best beaches in Italy . Southern Italy will be a highlight of your Italy family holiday and will leave a long lasting impression.

Amalfi Coast with Kids

The Almalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations. However because most of the towns are built up on cliffs it isn’t the most kid friendly place for younger ones. It is still definitely a place to visit though and there is lots to see and do for older kids.

If you visit with younger kids I recommend staying in Sorrento as the accommodation options are easier to access. If you base yourself in Sorrento rather than on the actual Amalfi coast you will be able to explore the area easier as Sorrento is well connected by public transportation.

What to see and do: Walk around Sorrento’s historical centre, then take a bus ride to Almalfi or Positano. A boat ride is a must to the Isle of Capri. If you are keen, and love a bit of history you can take a day trip to see the famous ruins of Pompei , or even head to Naples f or some of the best pizza in Italy!

Local Tip: Make sure to choose accommodation wisely. Many bnbs and hotels are perched on cliffs, and while they have an amazing view, the climb to get there isn’t the easiest with young kids. There are plenty of hotels on the main street in Sorrento with easy access to everything you need.

Alberobello with Kids

Like stepping into a fairy tale, Alberobello is a gorgeous little town in central Puglia. This historical town is lined with Unesco Heritage Listed Trulli Houses which are limestone houses with white coned roofs that date back to the 14th Century.

You can actually stay in these houses which gives the full Pugliese experience and will be a hit with the kids too!

What to see and do: Explore the historical centre, and taste some of the Pugliese cuisine. Then visit the nearby Castellana Caves and beachside towns like Polignano al Mare and gorgeous Monopoli. See our full guide : Puglia with Kids>>>

Local Tip: Check out some of the cafes with a terrace where you can see a full view of the city from the top. Simply breath-taking! Make sure to visit the Fasano Zoo not too far away where you can drive through and feed the animals from your window!

Tropea with Kids

The heart of Calabria, down on the toe of the boot of Italy, Tropea is perfect for beach lovers, nature lovers, and families travelling Italy with kids who want to experience the “real Italy”.

What to see and do: Wonder through the historical city where you can find numerous churches and ancient buildings. View the Santa Maria Della Isola from the balcony, or just spend the day on the gorgeous beach. Many boat rides leave from Tropea to visit Capo Vaticano and the Aeolian Islands too. See our full guide : Calabria with Kids>>>

Local Tip: Hire a car and visit the nearby Capo Vaticano beaches, they will take your breath away!

Taormina with Kids

You can find the little town of Tauromina perched on a hill about 250 meters above sea level on the East coast of Sicily, right down the South of Italy.

What to see and do: Explore the old town, and visit the Greek theatre, or take a cable car down to Isola Bella where you can relax on the pebble beach.

The town has the most incredibly scenic views and makes a great base if you want to visit Mt Etna, Italy’s active volcano. For older kids and teens you can climb Mt Etna, for younger kids wondering around at the bottom is just as fun!

Local Tip: Head out for breakfast with a view and taste the Sicilian specialty, the cannoli. A delicious sweet ricotta filled pastry that is to die for. See our full guide : Sicily with Kids>>>

Family friendly places to stay in Italy with kids

When you plan to travel Italy with kids, it is easier to choose a few main destinations where you can stay a few nights each, rather than bouncing around every night to new places. This will give your kids a bit of stability, and you can do day trips to the surrounding areas.

Here are a few examples of best places to stay in Italy with kids:

Rome: If you stay in Rome for a few nights you can not only see the big city, but can take a day trip to Orvieto, or even Naples on a fast train.

Lucca: This beautiful town in Tuscany and the perfect base for visiting Florence, Pisa, and the Chianti region.

Venice: You can stay in Venice and visit Mirano, or even the Dolimites if you are keen to see the mountains.

Sorrento: Sorrento is a great base to visit the Almalfi coast. Take a day trip to see the ruins of Pompei, have a pizza in Naples, or take a boat ride over to Capri.

Alberobello: A great base when visiting Puglia and such a beautiful spot. From here you can visit Polignano, Astuni and other surrounding towns.

Tropea: If you are heading to Calabria I suggest basing yourself in Tropea.

Getting around Italy with Kids on your Family Holiday

Train: If you plan to visit the big cities on your Italian family holiday, the easiest way to travel is by train. Italy has an extensive network of fast-speed inter-city trains and regional services that connect larger cities as well as smaller towns. The trains are quite comfortable and kids are able to walk around too. If you book a hotel near the train station it is quite easy to move around. You can see the train schedules and prices at Trenitalia.com

Car: If you plan on visiting a a southern region such as Puglia, Calabria, or even the Almalfi Coast, I suggest hiring a car as you will have the flexibility to move around where you want when you want as public transport isn’t as easy in these parts of Italy. You can hire a car in most major cities, a popular company is Europecar.com

Plane: If you are set on seeing the North and South of Italy and don’t  have a lot of time, there are budget flights on Blu-Express ,  Easyjet and Ryanair , which fly between the main cities. Just take care to look at the baggage fees so you don’t get caught out at the airports.

Eating in Italy with kids

One important thing to note when heading out for a meal in Italy with kids, is that Italians eat late so you may need to adjust your routine.

Don’t expect to arrive at a restaurant before 7pm. Most don’t start serving food until after 8pm. Italians eat quite late and it is common to see kids still up until midnight in a restaurant during Summer.

Most restaurants in Italy accommodate for kids, but don’t expect the average kids meals such as nuggets and chips. Italian kids eat what adults eat, just smaller portions.  You can find Pizza and Pasta almost everywhere though and you can never have enough pizza on your Italian family holiday!

If you are heading out for the day check out one of the local markets where they will make you a “panino” (sandwich or roll). You can always find fresh cheese, salami, olives and other toppings along with “Pizza al taglio” ( pizza by the slice), and “arancini” (rice balls.)

Enjoy your Italy Family Holiday!!!!

Travelling through Italy with kids is fairly easy and once you visit this beautiful country, your whole family will fall in love. So now that you have all of this information to help with your Italy family holiday, what are you waiting for?

Have you travelled to Italy with Kids? We would love to know all about your Italian family holiday! If you have a baby or toddler, make sure to check out our post on Italy with a baby for more Italy family travel tips!

Make sure you follow Mum’s Little Explorers on Facebook and Pinterest for more family travel inspiration!

Tags: europe with kids italy family holiday italy with kids

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EXPLORE WITH KIDS

At Mum’s Little Explorers, you can find family friendly events and activities for kids in and around Melbourne, as well as family travel ideas and inspiration.

We also feature lots of fun activities for kids that you can do at home and reviews of products and travel gear.

Contact us: [email protected]

Where To Go In Italy With Kids [& Important Planning Tips]

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Sharing is caring!

When you’re planning a family trip to Italy, it’s easy to feel spoiled for choice. After all, there are so many amazing things to do in Italy with kids! You can hike in the mountains, splash on the beach, eat gelato three times per day, explore ancient ruins and more – and sometimes without traveling more than an hour.

So how do you decide where to go in Italy with kids? I can tell you from personal experience, it’s not easy! In this guide you’ll read about some of the best places in Italy for families to help you narrow down your choices. I’ll also share some logistical tips to help you craft your family’s ideal Italy itinerary.

Read more Italy articles or get Europe travel inspiration

Planning A Family Trip To Italy

Here are a few important considerations for your family trip to Italy. It can be helpful to think about these even before you work on the exact destinations!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Italy:

Get an Easy Italy Itinerary

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Italy? This guide does the work for you!

Awesome hotels in Italy

• Rome :  Hotel Artemide
• Venice :  Palazzo Madonna
• Florence :  Hotel Santa Maria Novella
• Amalfi Coast:   Hotel Villa Garden
• Cinque Terre :   Il Sogno di Manarola
• Tuscany :  Agriturismo Farm Stay

Fantastic tours in Italy

• Rome Vespa Tour
• Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride
• Tuscany Tour from Florence
• Pompeii with an Archaeologist
• Cinque Terre Boat Cruise

Renting a Car in Italy?

If you want to see the Italian countryside, I recommend you drive yourself. We prefer to use  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars .  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available. Be sure to read these tips for renting a car in Italy .

Book a photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in photos since I’m always behind the camera. We use Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking at this link or using code FAMILYVOYAGE.

Be sure to buy travel insurance to protect yourself and your vacation expenses! Compare the top companies here to find the right plan for you.

How long should you stay in Italy with kids?

If you’re coming from the US and traveling with kids, I don’t usually recommend trips to Europe shorter than 5 days. You lose so much time to travel and then even a little more to jet lag. If that’s all the time you have, take a look at the map below and choose one base to stay in that will allow you to take some interesting day trips.

A more comfortable Italy itinerary for families is around 10 days. That’ll give you time to settle in and stay in two or three different places depending on how fast you like to travel. This is a great 10 day Italy itinerary to use as a guide to start planning, though with kids in tow you might want to slow it down and choose your top priorities.

There’s really no upper limit on how long you should stay in Italy with kids. I promise, you won’t get bored . The country offers a huge range of family-friendly things to do, different topographies and even different cuisines.

Remember, as recently as 200 years ago Italy was a collection of around a dozen different kingdoms and city-states. The unified country is a fairly modern idea considering that people have lived there for almost 50,000 years!

When are you traveling to Italy with kids?

Overall Italy has a lovely Mediterranean climate, but you’ll want to consider time of year to some degree when you’re planning your family trip to Italy. The mountainous north can be cold and wet (and yes, snowy) in winter, while southern regions like Sicily can be blisteringly hot in summer. Before you book your trip, do a quick weather check for the places you’re thinking of visiting. The good news is that because there are so many microclimates in Italy, you can always find a place with the perfect weather!

The other important consideration is how crowded certain places will be when you plan to visit. Christmas and Easter are special times in Rome, but prepare for epic crowds and reduced hours at some attractions. Likewise, Florence and Venice are major cruise ports and can be swamped during the peak Mediterranean cruise season from late May to early September.

Getting around on an Italy trip with kids

Once you arrive in Italy, it’s extremely easy to get around with kids. The excellent train system connects all the major cities as well as many smaller towns and even villages. You can check the extensive train routes here.

If you want to cover lots of ground quickly – say, from Venice to Sicily – you can also get inexpensive domestic flights. Just make sure you pack light, as most of those discount carriers charge hefty baggage fees! Find cheap domestic flights in Italy – many as low as $25 per person as of this writing.

So what’s better in Italy, trains or flying? Personally I vote trains. Overall taking trains is a lower-stress experience, whether you’re traveling with kids or not. And just like in most places, the train stations are in the middle of every city while airports could be an hour away! That extra time to get to and from the airport can actually make flying slower than taking the train on some routes. And unless you want to take local public transportation to the airport (extra slow), those ground transportation legs can really add to the cost of flying. As if that weren’t enough, baggage is generally free on trains (even if you have a lot!) while you might have to pay for it on a discount airline.

Driving in Italy

What about driving in Italy?

We’ve done it, and it’s a good idea in some places but not in others. Here are a few extremely important things to know about driving in Italy :

• You often can’t drive in city centers ( Zona Traffico Limitato , or ZTL ). They’ll mail you a hefty fine for every time you cross that line, even if it was an accident and you were just trying to turn around to get away from the ZTL!
• Even in cities where you can drive, it’s often crazy. Scooters flying everywhere, tons of pedestrians, people making hand gestures… It’s not for the faint of heart.
• You need to have an International Driving Permit to go along with your actual valid drivers license from home if you’re from outside the EU. The IDP is basically just a translation of your license into other languages and isn’t valid on its own. The only official places to get one in the US are AAA and AATA – other websites you’ll find online either act as middlemen or provide their own (basically fake) document that isn’t what you need.
• In the countryside, be mindful of “market days” in small villages that can essentially shut down all access and egress. We got stuck big time in one and could not figure our way through – we ended up having dinner at a crappy local hotel!
• Collision Damage Waiver is required in Italy. If you have a premium card that offers worldwide CDW (like Chase Sapphire Reserve), you should decline all coverage beyond the mandated minimum. Bring a printed proof of coverage letter from your credit card if you plan to rely on it.

Get more tips for renting a car in Italy

As you’ll see in the destination guides below, there are some places where driving is really helpful. For instance, we rented a car to explore wineries and hill towns in Tuscany and it was amazing overall! We picked it up when we were ready to leave Florence and returned it at the Rome airport before taking a taxi into the city. That helped us avoid many of the pitfalls and risks of driving in Italy.

If you do want to drive for part of your time in Italy, check RentalCars.com for the cheapest deals . We often find the best deals there because they buy days in bulk from suppliers and pass the discounts along. The cancellation policies are generally extremely liberal (unless you choose to pre-pay).

Where to stay in Italy with kids

There are many different accommodation choices for your trip to Italy with kids! You’ll see some recommendations by destination below. You may want to consider a mix of accommodation types to get a diverse taste of Italy.

• Agriturismo (farm stay)
• Traditional hotels

Before traveling to Italy with kids…

Italy books for kids.

A great way to get your kids excited about a family trip to Italy is by reading plenty of books beforehand. In this list you’ll find books about Italy for kids ranging from board books for toddlers to fascinating historical biographies for tweens.

If that selection isn’t enough, check out these additional books about Italy for kids .

What To Pack For Italy With Kids

Stroller or carrier for Italy?

Perhaps the biggest question for parents with young kids who are planning a family trip to Italy: stroller or carrier? Depending on your itinerary, you may want both .

For big cities like Rome and Florence, we found that having a stroller with robust wheels was a nice relief. We could walk all day and our toddler could nap when he was tired. This stroller saw us through many trips to Europe, including Italy.

Venice and many small towns in Italy are generally not considered “stroller friendly”. For places like Cinque Terre and the hill towns of Tuscany , you’re better off bringing a really comfortable baby (or toddler) carrier . As you read this article, most of the destinations note whether or not they’re stroller-friendly to help you in your planning!

Clean eating essentials

No, I don’t expect that your toddler is going Keto or doing Whole30. But Italian food is sure to be popular with your kids – especially all that bright red tomato sauce and drippy chocolate gelato. Since we try to pack light even with clothing, there are a few compact items that saved us from complete toddler outfit destruction and/or daily laundry: – these amazing bibs – my #1 essential for restaurant dining with babies and toddlers

Travel car seat for Italy

If you plan to drive around in Italy, I recommend bringing a lightweight car seat from home. That’s the only way to be sure you have one that fits your child when you need it! Check out this list of the best travel car seats and more tips on flying with a car seat .

If you don’t plan to rent a car but need a safe way to get from far-flung airports to the city centers, consider arranging a ride with Welcome Pickups . They operate in most Italian cities and can provide an age-appropriate car seat upon request! Just put a note in your booking and be sure to include your child’s age and what type of car seat you want (rear-facing, forward-facing or booster seat).

Europe travel essentials

There are some standbys that we always bring when we head to Europe! Click here to see them all.

The younger your child, the more stuff you’ll be tempted to bring to make your travels smoother. While you don’t have to overdo it, there are some awesome items that will make your travels with baby easier.

If you’re visiting in fall, which is my favorite season for Europe, make sure to check out this Italy fall packing list !

Map Of The Best Places In Italy For Kids

It can be so hard to narrow down which places to visit in Italy with kids. After all, there are so many great choices! Use this map to get a handle on Italy’s geography so that you can maximize your stay without overextending yourself too much.

Where To Go In Italy With A Family

What are the best family destinations in Italy? Everyone has their own favorites! In part it depends on what you’re after. If your kids are interested in classical history, a family trip to Rome might be just the ticket. Younger kids who just want to relax? Choose one of the many stunning beach towns in Italy!

We asked other traveling parents to share their top picks to help you choose what’s right for you your family. And since we don’t sugar-coat things here at The Family Voyage, you’ll hear both the good and bad of every destination.

Still planning your trip? Check out this awesome in-depth guide from the Italy experts!

Milan With Kids

What’s great about visiting Milan with kids? What are the best things to do in Milan with kids?

Milan is an urban, cosmopolitan place – making it easy to walk around with older kids, or perfect for pushing a stroller (read: sidewalks, no cobblestones and no hills). We found so much to do in Milan – a family cooking class, a visit to the Duomo, the Navigli district and a tour of the famous San Siro Soccer Stadium. We had awesome gelato in Milan (highly recommend seeking out Gelateria Paganelli) and we had no trouble finding family friendly restaurants to enjoy.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Milan?

If your kids are too old for a stroller, but not quite ready for long days of walking, that might be tough. With smaller kids, I’d avoid visiting in the colder months since we were outside a ton.

How long should you stay in Milan with kids?

3 nights was perfect.

What’s the best way to get to Milan with kids? What about getting around Milan with kids?

Milan is a great city to fly in and out of (I always get great airfares from NY to Malpensa). Milan is also connected to the rest of Europe via train (we arrived via Venice on the Italo train) and by budget airlines. There are two airports in Milan (Malpensa and Linate)

Best Place To Stay In Milan With Kids

I would have loved to have stayed in one of the 5* properties that surround the Duomo, or the Principe di Savoia (where I stayed when I was a kid) but sadly my budget did not allow. We stayed at the Four Points Sheraton located near the train station. This area, just north of the Duomo is the perfect starting point for getting around Milan. There are great hotels in Piazza della Reppublica area as well.

Where to stay in Milan with kids Unique Milan experiences

Thanks to Harmony of Momma To Go. Get more info about an awesome cooking class in Milan to do with your kids.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Milan, Italy

Venice With Kids

What’s great about visiting Venice with kids? What are the best things to do in Venice with kids?

Venice is an iconic destination that is recognizable around the world as the “city on the sea”. Visitors will delight with canals meandering through pedestrian bridges, historic churches and piazzas. St. Marks Square is a central location to explore with the 9th century St Mark’s Basilica towering over the square and Doge’s Palace nearby. Families will love the large open area for children to relax and chase the pigeons. Local eateries offering Italian specialties and seafood dot every corner and line the canals for authentic Venetian dining. If you are ready to escape the hustle and bustle, hop aboard one of the water taxis to visit the islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is famous for glass blowing and Burano is famous for its lace.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Venice?

Venice can be stressful for families due to a maze of streets, canals at every corner and a city that is NOT stroller friendly. Less is more in Venice, so grab your baby carrier and limit the luggage.

How long should you stay in Venice with kids?

Two or three nights is sufficient to enjoy the city.

What’s the best way to get to Venice with kids? What about getting around Venice with kids?

Venice is a hub of transportation, so you can fly into the International Airport, train in from one of the nearby cities or visit during a day trip on your cruise.

Best Place To Stay In Venice With Kids

If you are on a budget, you’ll have to stay outside the city and take the local ferry boats into the city. However, if your budget allows, I highly suggest staying near St. Mark’s Square.

Where to stay in Venice with kids Unique Venice experiences

Thanks to Chelsea of Pack More Into Life .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Venice, Italy here

Parma With Kids

What’s great about visiting Parma with kids? What are the best things to do in Parma with kids?

For the food lover, Parma is a must. Located in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region, Parma is home to both Parmesan cheese and Prosciutto ham. Families can tour dairy farms to learn how cheese is processed, and sample ham at any of the many restaurants in the city. Parma has several museums dedicated to the history and production of food, including tomatoes, salami, pasta, and wine. There are also historical museums and tours that families can visit to learn about Parma’s culinary heritage.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Parma?

Parma has bus lines that service many spots throughout the city. However, for dairy tours or visits to the food museums, families will need to have access to a car. As in most cities in Italy, there are portions of the city that are restricted for cars, and violators will be ticketed . Additionally, Italy is very strict about speed limits and will ticket violators, so make sure to avoid speeding.

How long should you stay in Parma with kids?

What’s the best way to get to parma with kids what about getting around parma with kids.

Families can get to Parma by train from any of the major cities in Italy. The nearest airport to Parma is in Milan, so families will need to rent a car or arrange transportation to Parma from Milan. Alternatively, families can rent a car for the duration of their stay in Parma.

Best Place To Stay In Parma With Kids

To experience the city of Parma, aim to find properties within the city center. For families wanting to experience a more rural side of Parma, book an agriturismo farm stay, located on local farms surrounding Parma.

Where to stay in Parma with kids Unique Parm experiences

Thanks to Astrid of The Wandering Daughter. Get more info about planning your own Parma itinerary .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Parma, Italy here

Bologna With Kids

What’s great about visiting Bologna with kids? What are the best things to do in Bologna with kids?

I love how Bologna still feels like a bit of an Italian secret! We visited in the peak summer holiday period and it was surprisingly quiet for a major city. The lack of tourists makes it feel much more authentic than some of its neighbors and the absence of crowds make it perfect for exploring with kids. We never queued to explore major attractions such as the Due Torri (leaning tower of Bologna) and the Carpigianno Gelato University and there’s always plenty of space at the many restaurants where you can indulge is some gorgeous Italian food.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Bologna?

Very few! The cobbled streets around the Piazza Maggiore are not the best for navigating with a stroller and it does get very hot in summer months – be sure to take plenty of water and sunscreen.

How long should you stay in Bologna with kids?

2 to 3 should be enough to cover off the main attractions but if you want to explore the surrounding countryside, you could happily spend a week.

What’s the best way to get to Bologna with kids? What about getting around Bologna with kids?

We arrived by train which was very easy. Italian trains are clean and comfortable and Bologna’s train station is very central. You could also fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport or hire a car, the roads weren’t too busy and some attractions are located on the outskirts of the city.

Best Place To Stay In Bologna With Kids

We stayed at the Zanhotel Europa which is centrally located near the train station. There were plenty of shops, restaurants and cultural activities within walking distance.

Where to stay in Bologna with kids Unique Bologna experiences

Thanks to Karen of Are We There Yet? Kids. Get more info about visiting Bologna with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Bologna, Italy here

Cinque Terre With Kids

What’s great about visiting Cinque Terre with kids? What are the best things to do in Cinque Terre with kids?

Cinque Terre, literally translated as “Five Lands,” is a group of five quaint towns along the Ligurian coast in Northern Italy. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the lands are highly protected. When you picture coastal Italy, the five iconic villages of the Cinque Terre are exactly what you think quintessential Italian seaside villages should look like. Visiting the Cinque Terre is like stepping back in time. You can watch fishermen bring in their catch and elderly ladies making focaccia bread by hand. Once an area primarily used for wineries, farming, and fishing, it is now where thousands of tourists visit each year to hike, boat, and explore this beautiful region. It’s an amazing destination for kids because it combines history, food, and culture with breathtaking nature. Families will love playing in the water at the beach, hiking between the towns with amazing views, and trying gelato in every village. It’s easy to get around Cinque Terre as the train runs between each of the towns.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre can get crowded during peak tourist season so it can be hard to navigate with small children. Strollers are not a good idea as the streets are bumpy and you’ll be doing a lot of on and off the trains. Cinque Terre is built along hills and cliffs. Many properties are accessible only by steep staircases. This can be difficult when hauling babies, small children, and luggage.

How long should you stay in Cinque Terre with kids?

Although it’s easy to see the Cinque Terre in a day, I recommend at least 2-4 days so you can really enjoy each town.

What’s the best way to get to Cinque Terre with kids? What about getting around Cinque Terre with kids?

Cinque Terre is easily accessed by train. Take the train to La Spezia and transfer to the local Cinque Terre trains, which run back and forth all day. When you arrive at La Spezia, snap a photo of the day’s train schedule. You can also take a boat between some towns or even walk if you’re feeling adventurous.

Best Place To Stay In Cinque Terre With Kids

There are not many hotels in the Cinque Terre, but plenty of Airbnbs, which are great for families. If you want to avoid stairs and have good beach access, Monterosso al Mare is a great choice. But if you want to stay in one of the towns without cars, I prefer Riomaggiore. It is not necessary to move locations in the Cinque Terre, they are each only about 5 minutes apart via train.

Where to stay in Cinque Terre with kids Unique Cinque Terre experiences for familie s

Thanks to Vanessa of Wanderlust Crew. Get more info about visiting Cinque Terre .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Cinque Terre, Italy here

Pisa With Kids

What’s great about visiting Pisa with kids? What are the best things to do in Pisa with kids?

Pisa was the one place in Italy my 11 year old really wanted to visit. If you nothing else about Italy you know about the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It is more spectacular in real life than it is in pictures, and it is hard to take it all in. Most tourists come to see the tower, take a few pictures and leave. We decided to buy tickets to walk to the top of the tower as well. Walking up the leaning tower is a really unusual experience because of the tilt, and its even cooler when you reach the top. You will need to buy the tickets in advance, so plan ahead.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Pisa?

The crowds! The Leaning Tower is a favorite among tourists and depending on the time of year, you may be hard pressed to take a picture without tons of other people in it. Make sure to hold on to little one’s hands.

How long should you stay in Pisa with kids?

What’s the best way to get to pisa with kids what about getting around pisa with kids.

Pisa is easy to access on train lines or by car. Once in the town you can take a taxi or walk.

Best Place To Stay In Pisa With Kids

I recommend staying in Tuscany and making a day trip to Pisa, or staying in the Cinque Terre and making a day trip.

Unique Pisa experiences for familie s

Thanks to Alicia of Travels With A Crew. Plan out where to find the best gelato in Italy – yum!

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Pisa, Italy here

Florence With Kids

What’s great about visiting Florence with kids? What are the best things to do in Florence with kids?

Florence is a Renaissance city filled with some of the greatest art in the world, breathtaking architecture, fascinating museums, and is a very walkable city. Many museums have activities specifically for kids. There are opportunities to get out of the hardscape of the city and wander through parks, gardens, and open areas.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Florence?

You will be on your feet a lot and cobblestone streets could be tough for compact strollers. Either bring a sturdy stroller or a baby carrier if your kids can’t walk the whole day.

How long should you stay in Florence with kids?

Most people visit for a few days, we stayed for a month, but I think you need at least 5-7 days to really get the feel for Florence.

What’s the best way to get to Florence with kids? What about getting around Florence with kids?

It’s easiest to get to Florence via air or rail. If you are coming in a car, park on the edge of town – or at a hotel, which you’ve predetermined has parking. You can’t drive through the most popular part of the city and you wouldn’t want to. Public transportation is good and walking is even better.

Best Place To Stay In Florence With Kids

We like staying as close to the middle of the city as possible, near the Duomo or Ponte Vecchio.

Where to stay in Florence with kids Unique Florence experiences for familie s

Thanks to Melynda of Traveling Mel. Get more info about visiting Florence with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Florence, Italy here

Lucca With Kids

What’s great about visiting Lucca with kids? What are the best things to do in Lucca with kids?

Lucca is the perfect place to slow down for a couple of days. The city walls that circle the old town have been converted into a pedestrian promenade and are the biggest attraction. You can either walk or cycle the 4km /2.5 mile tree lined pathway. A slow meander through the old town to enjoy the sights of this charming city is the best way to appreciate it. Make sure to go by St. Michael’s Church and stop in the popular Piazza dell’ Anfiteatro for lunch. We also highly recommend stopping for gelato and climbing one of the two towers for the best views of Lucca.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Lucca?

None, it’s easy to get there and easy to get from the train right into the old town.

How long should you stay in Lucca with kids?

What’s the best way to get to lucca with kids what about getting around lucca with kids.

Lucca can easily be visited as a day trip from Pisa or Florence. Train is the easiest way to get to Lucca.

Best Place To Stay In Lucca With Kids

We recommend staying right in the historical centre. You can walk there from the train station and get around easily by foot everywhere you want to go.

Where to stay in Lucca with kids Unique Lucca experiences for familie s

Thanks to Celine of Family Can Travel. Get more info about visiting Lucca with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Lucca, Italy here

Siena With Kids

What’s great about visiting Siena with kids? What are the best things to do in Siena with kids?

Siena is one of the most beautiful hill towns in Tuscany and for good reason. Not only is their Duomo di Siena one of the most recognizable thanks to the black and white marble pattern, but the Piazza del Campo is the central gathering place for anyone visiting, and the site of the Palio Race each summer. If you are lucky enough to witness this event that pits neighbor against neighbor, as horse and rider race through town, you are in for a treat, as well as a whole lot of crowds. On other days, there are endless narrows streets and lanes to explore, as well as enough sites to keep you busy for a full day and even a weekend. Siena is also a great spot to set up if you want a larger town to call your home base if you are exploring Tuscany during your family vacation. Best of all, don’t miss the gelato. We have found flavors in Siena that we haven’t seen anywhere else, like chocolate mousse, that is so light and fluffy you would think you are eating a little cloud, and pear that tastes as if it was picked from the orchard out back… which it probably was, knowing Italy.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Siena?

One thing to note about Siena is that you have to park at the bottom of the hill and walk into town or take the escalators up. This can be problematic for those in a rush, but the city has done its best to help anyone with mobility issues. Just know that you may have to wait for an elevator and will be pushing strollers up cobblestone hills.

How long should you stay in Siena with kids?

One to three days is best, if you are not making Siena your home base. But Siena makes a great alternative home base for those who want to visit Florence, as it’s less crowded.

What’s the best way to get to Siena with kids? What about getting around Siena with kids?

Rental car is the best way to see Tuscany, and getting to Siena is no different. You will have to park your car at the bottom of town and haul your belongings up to your hotel though. If you don’t want to deal with a car, you can also take a train to Siena from Florence, Pisa and Rome. There is a bus at the train station that will bring you to the center of town.

Best Place To Stay In Siena With Kids

Stay as close to the Piazza del Campo as possible if you want to be in the center of all the action. Siena has plenty of hotels, as well as rentals you can book.

Where to stay in Siena with kids Unique Siena experiences for familie s

Thanks to Keryn of Walking On Travels. Check out more great day trips from Florence throughout Tuscany.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Siena, Italy here

Pienza With Kids

What’s great about visiting Pienza with kids? What are the best things to do in Pienza with kids?

With only a couple of main streets and one pedestrian-only thoroughfare, Pienza is the epitome of a tiny and laid-back Tuscan town. You’ll find plenty of old-world charm encasing this little spot.

There are a couple of sites to see – some old churches and a few great hiking paths. But much of your time can – and should – be spent wandering the tiny shops and streets. While other Tuscan towns tend to be hopping with tourists, Pienza is a bit quieter, and perfect for those looking for a relaxing stay filled with meandering.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Pienza?

If you’re looking for a wide variety of kid-centered activities and museums, Pienza probably isn’t your place. There isn’t a lot that’s specifically geared toward children. If, on the other hand, you’re happy to have a place to allow your little ones to explore freely, climb walls, and traipse through gorgeous countryside, Pienza could be a perfect pick.

How long should you stay in Pienza with kids?

What’s the best way to get to pienza with kids what about getting around pienza with kids.

While you won’t need it much once there, a rental car is the easiest way to arrive.

Best Place To Stay In Pienza With Kids

There are a number of great rental home options right within the old city for prime walkability. We loved our little rental flat!

Where to stay in Pienza with kids Unique Pienza experiences for families

Thanks to Preethi of Local Passport Family. Read about how their family of 6 was able to visit Italy on a budget .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Pienza, Italy here

Elba Island With Kids

What’s great about visiting Elba Island with kids? What are the best things to do in Elba with kids?

Elba was a great place to recharge after being in Rome. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do like hiking or renting bikes to get around. The main town, Portoferraio has plenty of side streets that are fun to explore along with learning about Napoleon Bonaparte, who was exiled here. For a more relaxed vibe, Bagnaia is only 11 km away and is car free. The beaches are what really make it worth the trip to Elba! With crystal blue water and white rock beaches, they make for a stunning backdrop while watching your kids throw rocks into the water.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Elba?

Not having a car makes it more difficult to get around. We had rented bikes, which was wonderful but we weren’t able to explore as far on the island as we had originally hoped.

How long should you stay in Elba with kids?

We stayed for 6 days but 3-4 days would be a good amount of time.

What’s the best way to get to Elba with kids? What about getting around Elba with kids?

You can get to the island of Elba directly from Rome by train and ferry. You do need to switch trains at the Campiglia Marittima station, but otherwise it’s relatively easy.

Best Place To Stay In Elba With Kids

We stayed in the main port town on the island, Portoferraio. This makes it easy to get to and from the ferry. There are also plenty of restaurants in the town, plus fun areas to explore.

Where to stay on Elba Island with kids Unique Elba Island experiences for familie s

Thanks to Celine of Baby Can Travel. Get more info about visiting Rome with a baby .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Elba Island, Italy here

Rimini With Kids

What’s great about visiting Rimini with kids? What are the best things to do in Rimini with kids?

Rimini is one of Italy’s hidden gems. Founded in 268 B.C., the city has been a key player in world and Italian history, even serving as a communications link throughout Roman times. Today, you will find a walkable downtown linking you to the most historic sites such as the Arco d’Augusto, Tempio Malatestiano, and the Ponte di Tiberio which was constructed in 20 BC. The main attraction, however, is the gorgeous beaches that line the Adriatic Sea. Through and through this is a beach town. While visiting you absolutely must sit down for an Italian seafood meal; Rimini is famous for their seafood!

What are potential challenges for families visiting Rimini?

If you travel in the off season, many of the restaurants and attractions are closed, especially by the ocean.

How long should you stay in Rimini with kids?

In Winter, 3-5 Days. In Summer, 7-10 days

What’s the best way to get to Rimini with kids? What about getting around Rimini with kids?

Rimini is easy to navigate by car. We easily used GPS to find each place we wanted to go. In summer, I can imagine the traffic is pretty terrible because the roads are narrow. In that case, I recommend their public transit to hop from the beach front to the downtown area.

Best Place To Stay In Rimini With Kids

Near the beach. We stayed in this Airbnb and it was absolutely fantastic for families. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Check in was keyless and there is a spot at the entry to leave a stroller. The apartment is maybe 2-3 blocks from the ocean. It offers the largest balcony space we have ever had anywhere and a fully functional kitchen. We also love that there were many toys, books and items for kids like a baby bath and children’s cutlery.

Unique Rimini experiences for familie s

Thanks to Tavia of Big Brave Nomad. Get the inside scoop on train travel in Europe with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Rimini, Italy here

Rome With Kids

What’s great about visiting Rome with kids? What are the best things to do in Rome with kids?

Rome is a fantastic destination in Italy for kids. It packs a big bunch with art, culture, history, and food around every corner. Rome is a living classroom for children and adults of any age where history from ancient Roman to modern times comes alive. From the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, Rome will keep little hands busy and little minds learning. Due to its status as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world there are some specifically created Italy tours for kids highlighting the best of Rome, including in-depth and interactive historical tours and hands-on cooking classes. One thing that always makes cities a sure-fire win for kids is ample green space. Kids can run free, rent bikes, drive Segways, or ride the carousel in the Villa Borghese Gardens. It’s easy to find food that kids will love in Rome. From pasta, pizza, and gelato, everyone will be happy!

What are potential challenges for families visiting Rome?

While Rome is a great place for kids, it’s not without its challenges. The city is built on 7 hills, making it either an uphill or downhill walk for much of the city. And with its ancient cobblestone streets, strollers can be tricky. Rome can get very crowded and hot, especially during the summer, but it’s still worth a visit.

How long should you stay in Rome with kids?

I recommend staying in Rome at least 3-5 days.

What’s the best way to get to Rome with kids? What about getting around Rome with kids?

Rome is one of the easiest cities in Italy to travel to. Many international airports fly directly to Rome and it is accessible nearly anywhere in Italy by train.

Best Place To Stay In Rome With Kids

If you want to stay in the heart of the city, walkable to most sties, the Centro Storico is the best option, specifically near Piazza Navona. There are plenty of Airbnbs that are perfect for families in this area.

Where to stay in Rome with kids Unique Rome experiences for families

Thanks to Vanessa of I Heart Italy. Get more info about the best things to do in Rome .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Rome, Italy here

Sorrento With Kids

What’s great about visiting Sorrento with kids? What are the best things to do in Sorrento with kids?

Sorrento is one of our favorite places to visit in Italy. It is the last stop on the Circumvesuviana train line from Naples, giving it easy access to Pompeii, about an hour away. It’s also a quick 30 minute ferry to Capri, so it’s the perfect city to use as a home base for the area. The area is known for its ceramics, limoncello, and beautiful Bay of Naples views. We love Sorrento’s small town vibe, charming shops, and delicious restaurants.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Sorrento?

Families with younger children might have difficulty reaching the beach on foot. It is a long climb from town to the water, and it’s even more exhausting on the return trip. There are taxis that will drive you to the beach and anywhere in town you need to go.

How long should you stay in Sorrento with kids?

What’s the best way to get to sorrento with kids what about getting around sorrento with kids.

The drive along the Amalfi coast can be windy and tricky at times. We recommend taking the train from Naples. It’s a straight shot, and very convenient.

Best Place To Stay In Sorrento With Kids

We would recommend staying near the city center for easy access to local grocery stores, restaurants, and gelato shops. We thought the apartments at Sorrento Flats were perfect for families.

Unique Sorrento experiences for families

Thanks to Kirsten of Kids Are A Trip. Get more info about visiting Sorrento and Pompei i .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Sorrento, Italy here

Amalfi Coast With Kids

What’s great about visiting the Amalfi Coast with kids? What are the best things to do in Amalfi with kids?

Amalfi Coast is one of the most picturesque stretches of coastline in Italy. There are numerous villages to choose from, each with its own vibe. Sorrento has the most family-friendly resorts to choose from and is the shortest ride from Naples. Positano offers the most quintessential views and a posh atmosphere. Amalfi Village is touristy but more down-to-earth than Positano. It is home to the impressive Amalfi Cathedral and the Museum of Paper, where kids can learn how paper was made in centuries past. For the best beach and no stairs, head to Maiori, while Cetara is a small, off-the-beaten-track fishing village with the best seafood on the coast. The smartest thing to do is to choose a home base that suits your family’s travel style, then make day trips to the other villages by ferry.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Amalfi?

The highway running along Amalfi Coast is notoriously winding, and bus rides are practically guaranteed to make children carsick. To avoid this problem, stick to the ferries. Another potential issue is that some of the villages are incredibly vertical, which staircase upon staircase to climb in order to get anywhere. Positano, the most popular Amalfi Coast village, is one one of the worst. For visitors with young children, I would suggest staying in one of the flatter villages, such as Amalfi Village, Maiori, Minori, or Cetara.

How long should you stay in Amalfi with kids?

One week is perfect to have some full days of relaxation plus some day trips to visit other villages along the coast.

What’s the best way to get to Amalfi with kids? What about getting around Amalfi with kids?

You can take a train from Rome or Naples to Sorrento on the western end of Amalfi Coast or Salerno on the eastern side. The side you come from will depend on which village you are staying in. Ferries and buses ply the whole coast, running from Sorrento to Amalfi Village or Salerno to Amalfi Village, which means that Amalfi Village is a transportation hub in the middle of the coast. Because the roads are so winding, getting around by ferry is best. In summer high season, there are also high speed hydrofoils connecting Naples, Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi VIllage.

Best Place To Stay On The Amalfi Coast With Kids

We stayed in the small fishing village of Cetara and totally loved it. We were the only foreign tourists in town, and our apartment was right beside the beach. Cetara is world famous for its tuna and a sauce made from sardines that goes back to Roman times. The village is small with only some staircases, perfect for exploring with little ones. We enjoyed visiting the other villages as day trips, but was always relieved to return to our quiet, non-touristy village at the end of the day.

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast with kids Unique Amalfi Coast experiences for familie s

Thanks to Nick of Nick Kembel. Get more info about visiting the Amalfi Coast with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Amalfi Coast, Italy here

Matera With Kids

What’s great about visiting Matera with kids? What are the best things to do in Matera with kids?

There are endless beautiful cities to visit in Italy, but few places can rival the unique landscape and troubled cultural history of Matera. Having been established in the Paleolithic era, Matera is one of the oldest continually-inhabited places on Earth. The sassi, or ancient city, is made up of caves dug into the rock of the hillside, with facades that pile on top of each other and seem to overflow from every direction. These caves were once lived in by troglodytes, but now many have been renovated to trendy AirBnBs and hotels. The town itself is fairly small, and can be thoroughly explored in a few days. There are museums and churches, and many fabulous restaurants. The main attraction, however, is the labyrinth-like sassi itself. Just don’t bother bringing a stroller – you can’t make it down any street without encountering stairs. While your kids will undoubtedly love staying in a cave, it does have some drawbacks. They’re extremely humid, can get cold in the winter, and they all shed dust constantly from the walls – meaning you’ll wake up each morning with a light coating of dust on you. But that is the trade-off for staying in a room that’s been lived in for 9000 years! The history of Matera is just as fascinating as the architecture. In the early 20th century, the people of Matera lived in absolute poverty. They would share their small caves with livestock, and with no heat or sanitation, the conditions were dangerous. Infant mortality was a shocking 50%. The government of Italy eventually forced everyone out of Matera, and it wasn’t until the 1990s that the town began to make a comeback. Nowadays, it is a thriving tourist destination, just waiting to take off and become the next top bucket list item in Italy. Matera is a perfect stop for families that want to explore a different side of Italy.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Matera?

There are stairs everywhere, presenting a challenge for families with young children. A stroller would be impossible.

How long should you stay in Matera with kids?

3 days is enough time to see all of the sights and get a good feel for the town.

What’s the best way to get to Matera with kids? What about getting around Matera with kids?

The closest airport is Bari, and it’s a lovely drive with a rental car from there. You cannot park in the sassi itself, and so you must find parking in the modern city and walk in. This is challenging for bringing luggage, particularly with all the stairs you will encounter.

Best Place To Stay In Matera With Kids

Stay in a cave! We stayed in this AirBnB and really enjoyed it.

Unique Matera experiences for families

Thanks to Dani of Diapers in Paradise. Get more info about a family day trip to Matera .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Matera, Italy here

Sicily With Kids

What’s great about visiting Sicily with kids? What are the best things to do in Sicily with kids?

Sicily is packed with culture, history and geography which will appeal to even the most reluctant young scholar: ancient Greek ruins to clamber on, castles galore, an active volcano and plenty of earthquake-related stories to fill a child’s mind with wonder.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Sicily?

Sicily is very hot in July and August. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit.

How long should you stay in Sicily with kids?

7 days to 2 weeks will allow visitors to explore Sicily.

What’s the best way to get to Sicily with kids? What about getting around Sicily with kids?

Sicily is reached by flight into Palermo (the capital) or Catania (its second city). It can also be reached by ferry and rail from Calabria. Renting a car is the best way to explore Sicily.

Best Place To Stay In Sicily With Kids

Taormina and Cefalu are great for families with young children: both have an interesting old town to explore and a beach. For families with older children, a road trip is the best way to explore the island, staying at agriturismos (farm stays) along the way.

Where to stay in Sicily with kids Unique Sicily experiences for families

Thanks to Annabel of Smudged Postcard. Get more info about visiting Sicily with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Sicily, Italy here

Lake Como With Kids

What’s great about visiting Lake Como with kids? What are the best things to do in Lake Como with kids?

Loads to do with kids that adults will also enjoy like mini golf with an awesome view, little tourist trains, boat trips, swimming in the lake or lidos… plus it’s Italy so the food is epic for everyone! You can also check out these fun experiences in the towns along Lake Como for more ideas.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Lake Como?

Getting around – ideally you’d have a rental car but beware that the roads are narrow! If you’re visiting Lake Como with a toddler, that means you’ll need to bring a lightweight car seat with you. Also all the best activities are outdoors so not the greatest if it rains.

How long should you stay in Lake Como with kids?

We were there for a week, which was perfect. Probably no more than 2 weeks.

What’s the best way to get to Lake Como with kids? What about getting around Lake Como with kids?

Fly to Milan and drive or take the train. You’ll probably want to rent a car to get around the area.

Best Place To Stay In Lake Como With Kids

We loved Menaggio and Bellagio although we actually ended up staying Argegno which was also really nice. All the villages around the lake look like they’re straight out of a postcard! There are some compromises on properties – most of the bigger villas with pools are located a bit further away from the lake (up a hill!!!) so are less convenient. On the other hand the ones down the hill tend to be a bit smaller without outside space or pools (but there are plenty of lidos nearby to use).

Where to stay along Lake Como with kids Unique Lake Como experiences for families

Thanks to Emma of Wanderlust and Wet Wipes. Get more info about visiting Lake Como with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Lake Como, Italy here

If you’re still not sure where to head on your family trip to Italy, check out this guide to get your started planning for a “classic” Italy experience.

Don’t miss these additional resources as you plan your trip to Italy:

• 23 Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip
• Renting a Car in Italy: La Dolce Vita on Four Wheels
• How to Travel to Italy on a Budget
• Fall capsule wardrobe for travel: what to pack for Italy in October

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Family Travel

Italy with a baby or toddler: all you need to know for a first trip to italy with baby – by an italian mom.

All you need to know to plan a trip to Italy with a baby: best places to visit in Italy with baby, where to buy baby gear in Italy and practical tips for a baby friendly Italy vacation.

Italy is a wonderful destination for a young family.

The country is famous for having a family first approach and indeed, moms and babies in Italy are treated like royalty, people falling over themselves to accommodate you.

I have witness this several times myself.

I am Italian, but I live in Ireland now and visited Italy as a tourist when my first born was just 6 weeks old and then again when my second baby was 5 months old.

We have also been to Italy with the kids many other times but that first experience stayed with me: that first vacation in Italy with my baby was relaxing, easy and magical and sealed Italy as one of our favorite destinations of all.

This doesn’t mean there are no challenges: some aspects of Italy are not baby friendly (facilities, mostly!). However, all you need is to be prepared, know what to expect and be equipped with practical travel tips.

This is my best advice to plan a first trip to Italy with a baby.

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Table of Contents

The best places to visit in Italy with baby

You can visit anywhere in Italy with a baby in tow but some areas are more baby friendly than others. Some of our favorite baby friendly destinations in Italy are the following.

The Italian Dolomites – the best baby friendly destination in Italy for outdoorsy families

The Dolomites are a stretch of mountains in the easter part of the Italian Alps, in the region of Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto.

This is an area of exceptional natural beauty and natural Unesco World Heritage Site and they are wonderful for families with babies and toddlers.

The Dolomites have tall peaks but also very accessible nature, which is perfect to enjoy with little ones. Some of the elements that make the Dolomites so baby and toddler friendly are:

• Large selection of family hotels, offering accommodation ranging from self catering apartments to all inclusive formulas, perfect for all types of family vacations
• Lots of outdoor playing opportunities such as nature playgrounds, sensory paths, petting farms
• Plenty of family hikes, many toddler and stroller friendly
• Beautiful scenery for the whole family even at lower altitudes
• Clean air, perfect for keeping your baby and toddler away from busy city streets

You can find our full guide to the Dolomites with small kids here

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and a wonderful baby and toddler friendly destination in Italy.

The place is stunning and easy for families: the scenery is beautiful, the tows well equipped, access to the water is easy and you have very many family hotels that cater to kids with excellent outdoor areas and facilities.

On Lake Garda, you can be as active or as quiet as you want to be: opportunities for cycling and hiking abound however, it is also a great place to just take it easy.

We were there when my son was 1 year old and I was 3 months pregnant with my daughter so you can trust me when I say it was easy: anything less than super easy would have been impossible for me at the time!

You can find our guide to Lake Garda with kids here.

Tuscany – perfect country retreat for families with babies and toddlers who love the countryside

Tuscany is one of the most visited and famous areas of Italy and also one of the most baby friendly ones!

The region is blessed with stunning countryside, lovely small villages and a wonderful kid friendly coastline with sandy beaches and clean waters and it is also very easy to visit thanks to well served towns and a great transport system.

Tuscany is the perfect place if you are planning a family vacation in a villa, with options to day trips.

Some of the things that make Tuscany so amazing with toddlers and small kids are:

• Great selection of landscapes , all within short distances: you can decide on the day if you feel like the sea, sightseeing or the country, a sure way to keep meltdowns to a minimum!
• Cool theme parks for those days when nothing but playing can do. My children adored Cavallino Matto in Marina di Castagneto Carducci!
• Lovely coastline with baby friendly beaches , especially in the area called Etruscan Coast – you can find our guide to the Etruscan coast with kids here.
• Plenty of petting farms and agriturismo for toddlers to be in youch with nature – have a look at our review of Maiano , near Florence, to get a sense of how amazing they can be
• Plenty of accommodation options , ranging from villas to resorts. You can find a good selection of Villas in Italy here to see the extent of the choice available and you can see our review of Paradu resort here , should you want to consider an all inclusive solutions perfect for young kids.

We have traveled to Tuscany extensively and we have several travel guides just for families. You may want to check out:

• Best things to do in Tuscany with kids
• How to plan a Tuscany Itinerary
• Guide to Florence with a baby
• Guide to Florence with toddlers

Puglia – baby friendly destination in Italy for families who love the beach and sightseeing

Puglia is the heel of the Italian boot and one of the most baby friendly in Italy.

The region is stunning: the coastline here is wonderful and has many clean, sandy beaches that are perfect to splash around and toddler swimming and the area also has lovely towns that are great for sigthseeing.

If you are looking for a baby fiednly destination in Italy that gives you good weather, beaches and small town charm, Puglia is just perfect!

Puglia is best explored by car and you can explore with a kid-friendly road trip, since the distances are rather small, or you can select a place to stay and simply relax there.

Our travel resources about visiting Puglia with small kids are here:

• Best places to visit in Puglia
• Recommended Puglia itinerary for families with kids
• Guide to pretty Alberobello
• Guide to Martina Franca
• Guide to Trani , our kids favorite thanks to a great playground and park
• Guide to Locorotondo , pretty town away from the crowds

Rome – the best city break in Italy with baby

Rome is my hometown and one of the best places for a city break with kids.

Rome is huge and crowded so plannin ga visit here with a baby or toddler does require some planning however, there are so many things that make Rome kid friendly, they will compensate the challenges big times.

The main things that make Rome baby friendly are:

• Stunning parks, perfect for long days in nature and at the playground, even if in the middle of the city
• Many outdoor, free attractions you can visit in your own time, respecting baby nap time and toddler needs
• A plethora of accommodaiton options to suit all budgets and needs, from all inclusive hotels with pool to smaller apartments for city center living.
• Excellent access to shops , facilities and health professionals, even in English, should you need any help

You can find my full guide to visiting Rome with a baby or toddler here.

More challenging destinations to visit in Italy with baby and toddlers

Venice with babies and toddlers.

Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and the world and a wonderful place to visit with small kids however, it is a city on water and this does pose concerns to families with toddlers especially.

Canals in Venice are dirty and not fenced, and while they are so unappealing toddlers are not likely to want to jump in, accidents can happen so being careful and alert at all times is paramount.

On top of this, Venice is a city that requires a lot of walking and that is not always stroller friendly so again, some planning is needed to make sure your Venice trips doesn’t become an exhausting exercise.

All that said, Venice is so beautiful, I believe you should absolutely add it to your Italy itinerary and all you need are some tips to tackle it at best.

• You can find our tips for visiting Venice as a family following the links below:
• Tips for visiting Venice with toddlers
• Family friendly areas in Venice for families with small kids
• Our recommended Venice itinerary for families

Amalfi Coast with a baby

The Amalfi Coast is a very scenic, very beautiful stretch of coast in the South of Italy, famous for beautiful towns perched on cliffs and a scenic drive between them.

The area is one of the most beautiful in Italy but as the description above shows, it is not the most conducive to a relaxing Italy vacation with baby or, should I say, a toddler.

The main issues you will face here have to do with mobility: the towns are mostly steep and stroller unfriendly and driving between one and the other often a bit of a nightmare because of traffic.

The towns also tend to be busy and they don’t all have good playgrounds or areas for kids.

However, this does not mean you cannot enjoy the Amalfli Coast with little kids! All you need is to be prepared and we can help!

• You can find our tips for visiting the Amalfi Coast with toddlers here
• You can find our overview of the best towns on the Amalfi Coast to stay here , which included out top pick for baby and toddler friendly towns in the area.

Cinque Terre with babies and toddlers

Cinque Terre is an coastal area in the north of Italy famous for having colorful villages perfeched on high cliffs plunging into the Mediterranean.

The place is so beautiful and peculiar that Unesco listed as World Heritage site and indeed, it is a wonderful part of the country and one that should not be missed.

Here you can enjoy pretty, colorful towns, stunning sea views, good hiking and some sea and sun relaxation.

Steep cliffs however do not make a place toddler friendly and indeed this is not the most baby friendly area of Italy.

However, like for the Amalfi Coast, we have tips that I believe will help you enjoy Cinque Terre with small kids in town.

• You can find out guide to Cinque Terre with toddlers here
• You can find our recommended itinerary for Cinque Terre here.

Using a stroller in Italy: what you need to know

I highly recommend you bring a stroller when visiting Italy with a baby or toddler.

The country is famous for having cobbled streets and you may worry that hopping on and off trains with a stroller in Italy can be hard however, I believe that the advantages of having one with you compensate big time the challenges.

The key to successful stroller use in Italy is to know what to expect and have the right model.

• Some important things you should know:
• You are likely to have to fold the stroller when using public transport and trains
• You are likely to have to fold the stroller in restaurants
• Cobbled streets are awful for small wheels and may break them
• Some area of the country namely Cinque terre and Amalfi coast mentioned above are stroller unfriendly
• Many areas have streets that are either less than smooth or see cars parked in such as way you need to walk on and off the road to avoid them

The solution to all of this is a mix of patience and the right gear. You can find strollers that worked for us in Italy at the following links:

• Our favorites strollers for Italy (several types)
• Our recommended list of double strollers for travel , for families with more than one child
• Our selection of all terrain strollers , which we found excellent for our Italy trips.

Bring a carrier

While I believe a stroller in Italy is a great piece of gear to have, I also recommend you bring a baby carrier for all those times when a stroller is simply not an option.

If you go to the Dolomites or Cinque Terre I recommend you for for a structured hiking carriers such as this one If you are planning city trips and museum visits, I recommend a soft semi structured carrier such as this one .

You can find the full list of baby carriers for travel that worked for us here.

Where to buy diapers in Italy and other baby and toddler essentials

In Italy you buy baby diapers and essentials in grocery stores (alimentari) supermarkets and pharmacies.

Supermarkets come in all sizes and they stock diaper, baby wipes, essential baby toiletries, formula and baby food (weaning essentials).

Find here >>> our complete guide to supermarkets in Italy

Depending on the location they may have longer or shorter opening hours but please be advised that usually they do not operate 24/4.

To be on the safe side, try not to run out of supplies out of hours as this can pose difficulties.

Pharmacies are one of the best places in Italy to get baby gear. They sell diapers, baby essentials and also baby medications as well as high end products such as baby sun screen.

You can find here >>> where to buy baby products in Italy – a complete guide

Breastfeeding in Italy and feeding your baby

Breastfeeding is very common in Italy and you usually have no problems doing it in public spaces such as a café or a restaurant.

This is excellent if you feel comfortable with it but less than great if you prefer a private setting: Italy is not great in terms of breastfeeding rooms and they are the exception more than the rule.

Usually your best bet is a large department store: those usually have the best baby changing facilities and baby rooms (La Rinascente is usually a good one, you find it in many cities across Italy).

If you have a bottle, cafes are usually happy to heat it up for you. Please be advised that milk if cafes tend to be very fatty as this is the best type for foam on cappuccinos etc.

If you ask for milk for your toddler, make sure this is ok for you – if you don’t do dairy, bigger cafes now offer other types of milk however, this is not the norm yet especially in smaller centers.

Good to know : if you need to carry expressed milk, we have found some good cooler bags for traveling with breast milk here .

Eating out in Italy with a toddler

Italian food has many toddler friendly option but often you do not find them presented as such on the menu.

Italian restaurants tend to not have kids menus however, they are always happy to make a simple plate of pasta with tomato sauce for your toddler or make a toddler sized portion of anything on the menu.

This is good to know as it means you can eat with a toddler in Italy pretty much anywhere, even if the places is not marketed as ‘family friendly’.

What you do not always find in Italy however is highchairs. For easy meals out, I recommend you bring your own. You can find our favorite travel high chairs for toddlers here.

Meal times in Italy

Another issue you may find eating out with a baby or toddler in Italy is mealtimes.

Italian restaurants rarely open for dinner between 7pm (7.30 is the most common time for a first serving) and this can be a problem if you have a toddler with a different meal schedule.

My best tip is to embrace snacks.

Italy has many reasonably healthy snacks for toddlers, ranging from supermarket snacks to lovely freshly bakes bread, and you can lengthen the time between meals stocking up on those and handing them out when needed.

My other tip to deal with later mealtimes in Italy it to go for aperitivo .

Aperitivo is the tradition of going for pre dinner drinks and snacks to a local café and it is not for adults only.

While many embrace it as an opportunity for a heavier drink, it is perfectly acceptable to have a juice or non alcoholic beverage for aperitivo and toddler can tuck into the food offered, usually ranging from crackers to vegetables and crisps!

Baby friendly accommodation in Italy

In Italy you find any type of family accommodation you can dream of such as:

Hotel / Albergo : this is the standard name for a hotel, the two words being used interchangeably. Hotels come in all style and sizes and some also have apartments attached should you want a self catering option.

Need to know : hotels in Italy have strict occupancy rules and these apply to babies as well. Make sure you always inform them you have a baby with you when booking, even if planning on co-sleeping.

B&B/Pensione/Guesthouse : usually these describe smaller hotels, with or without a breakfast option onsite or, sometimes, offered in a nearby café

Villas – staying in a villa is a popular way to spent a holiday in Italy with a baby or toddler. The best areas to do so are Tuscany, Umbria, Veneto

Agristurismo – this defines country homes with, usually, large estates now turned into welcoming accommodation for guests.

Agriturismo are everywhere in Italy and depending on the specific establishment you can find a full on working farm or an elegant estate.

They usually offer wither rooms or self catering apartment and they may or may not have a restaurant on site.

Masseria – Masseria is a name given to country estates in the south of Italy especially. Masserie come in all shapes and sizes and can be as rural and as luxurious as you want.

They can be a lovely place to stay in Italy with a baby or toddler if you want a mix of resort style accommodation but don’t want to go the all inclusive way.

Good to know : if you prefer to bring your own baby bed, you can find here a list of good baby beds for travel and good toddler travel cribs.

Best time to go to Italy with a baby or toddler

You can visit Italy all year round however, some seasons are better than others.

• The best time to visit Italy with a baby are the spring and the autumn, so you can avoid the extremes of temperatures.
• The best time to visit Italy with a toddler also are the spring and the autumn as you can maximize the time outside and at the playground
• The winter can be an ok time to visit Italy with a toddler however, you need to make sure you wrap them up well as Italy can get seriously cold, especially inland and on the mountains.
• The worst time to visit Italy with a baby or toddler is the summer as the sun can pose a threat. You can find my tips for visiting Italy with Baby in summer here.

You can find our month by month guide to Italy here .

Driving in Italy with baby

By law, babies and toddlers must be secured in an approved car seat in private cars so you need to make sure you have a safe one with you if driving anywhere.

Usually you can book them with your car rental however, you can never know how they have been kept so I highly recommend you bring your own.

If you are traveling to Italy by plane, you may find this list of plane approved car seats handy (please also always double check with your airline as rules change often).

More family travel resources for visiting Italy with a baby or toddler

You can find our list of baby travel essentials here

You can find a list of our recommended toddler travel essentials here

You can find our tips for flying with a toddler here

You can find our full guide to planning a trip to Italy with kids here

You can find out tips for traveling with young kids here

Planning a trip to Italy with kids? Then consider joining my FREE Facebook group ‘Travel Italy with kids’ HERE , where we can chat all things about family travel in Italy!

I hope you found this guide to Italy with a baby or toddler handy. Safe travel planning!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

Privacy Overview

Italy Family Vacations

Spain family vacations, japan family vacations, australia family vacations, 10 tips for traveling to italy with kids.

• By Amie O’Shaughnessy
• December 22, 2018

With a name like Ciao Bambino, it’s no secret we log many hours sharing not-to-be-missed insider information on family-friendly Italy vacations . Families from around the world have been relying on our portfolio of thoroughly vetted Italy family hotels, resorts and villas for 20 years now! There are a few Italy family travel tips we share continually with those who use our vacation planning service to help families create the best trip possible.

10 Top Tips for Traveling to Italy with Kids

Saturday-to-saturday stay requirement.

The best family-friendly accommodations for a weeklong stay or more are either what we call “resorts” on Ciao Bambino (preferred for independent families with apartments/villas in a shared amenity setting) or independent villas (preferred for multigenerational travel ). Over the summer months in particular, these accommodations are available only for Saturday to Saturday stays. Book flights accordingly!

Best family-friendly Italy itinerary

In the most popular 10- to 14-day Italy itinerary with kids , families start in Rome for four nights, spend a week in Tuscany and then end the trip with two to three nights in Venice . You can reverse this itinerary as well. Book flights into Rome and out of Venice or vice versa. While there are countless options, we find that Rome and Venice are the best cities to visit in Italy with family, at least for first-time visitors (trust us, there will be return trips!)

Italy holiday favorites for Round Two

Other hotspots for family holidays in Italy include Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast , Cinque Terre and the Italian Riviera , Sardinia and Lake Como . For a second holiday in Italy after you’ve covered the must-see destinations, we love Bologna , Puglia , Umbria and the Dolomites .

We heart walking tours with kids in Italy

We absolutely recommend a kid-friendly walking tour to enrich the experience for all ages. Our Family Vacation Advisors work with a select group of tried and tested guides who understand how to engage kids of all ages, and can happily recommend them as part of our trip planning service. Guides, however, are not inexpensive. If you choose just one guide for your trip , choose one for ancient Rome, as understanding the big picture in the most meaningful way requires additional explanation. Splurging on It aly tours with children will definitely be something the whole family will remember.

Want help planning a vacation to Italy with kids?

We're ready when you are! Our Family Travel Advisors can help you book vetted accommodations, arrange private tours and excursions, and more. Click to get started!

Immersive activities abound

In addition to walking tours, other extraordinary favorites include  gladiator school in Rome , mask making in Venice and  cooking classes with kids in Tuscany . Not all experiences are created equal; book these and other vetted activities through our Family Vacation Advisor team to ensure you’re getting the best quality.

Staying in the countryside? You need a car

Although the trains in Italy are a fantastic way to get between the big cities, the transport system is not as efficient for smaller towns and villages, particularly in the rural interior. When you stay in the countryside, renting a car is, more often than not, a must. Read our top Italian car rental tips .

Baby and toddler travel in Italy is delightful

Italy is a fantastic place to travel with a baby or toddler , as Italians love children and go out of their way to ensure families are comfortable. Most family hotels and resorts provide cribs (cots) and highchairs. Not all independent Italy villa rental agencies, however, provide them. Be sure and ask if this is the case for your specific unit ahead of time!

Growing list of baby equipment rental agencies in Europe

There’s a growing list of baby equipment rental companies providing everything from car seats to strollers across Europe, much more so than when I started Ciao Bambino in 2004. Be sure and Google whether you can rent instead of carry items to lighten your travel load.

Kids’ menu not needed

We don’t publish many articles about kid-friendly dining in Italy — for good reason: there are few restaurants that are NOT kid-friendly. Note, most do not offer children’s menus but will custom-make pastas on request, and, of course, pizza is everywhere.

We can help!

One thing that makes Ciao Bambino different from other family travel blogs is that we are also a Virtuoso-affiliated travel agency , with exclusive benefits to pass along to our clients. Our Family Vacation Advisors are experts at ensuring that hotels provide the best configurations and pricing, and we have an incredible resource list from our own travels, as well as the constant feedback we get from our clients who have kids of all ages. Click here to get started!

Relevant Links:

Browse all Italy family hotels and travel tips on Ciao Bambino

Planning a Family Vacation on Italy’s Amalfi Coast

52 things to know before traveling to Italy with kids

Italy travel 101: How to create a family-friendly itinerary

Why we love traveling in Italy with children

Editor’s Note: Photo by Jeremy Peters.

Written By By Amie O’Shaughnessy

Start a Discussion

• Pingback: Essential Tips for a Farm Stay in Tuscany with Kids | Ciao Bambino!

Hi , We are planning a trip to Italy in mid July for 15 days with a 7 and a 9 year old , is it going to be too hot ? We live in Arizona , so kids are used to the heat but still I am not sure .

Hi Sarah! Depending on where in Italy you are, temperatures vary, but overall July can be very hot. One good strategy is to plan sightseeing for early and/or late in the day and enjoy some pool time or downtime during the hottest hours. Would you like help with your travel plans? I can have a Family Vacation Advisor reach out if you like!

Hi. We are flying into milan on 29th of march for 12 nights. We have 2 children who will be nearly 3 and 5 and a half. We dont mind travelling a few hours in any direction and wondered about 6 nights in one place and 6 nights in another. My sister lives in Rome and is going to meet up with us. She doesnt have children so although can suggest nice places to visit would like child friendly suggestions. Also preferably best destinations for reasonable weather. Thank you.

Hi Karen, thanks for using Ciao Bambino! We’d be happy to help with your plans. A Family Travel Advisor specializing in Italy will reach out in email to talk about next steps.

I will be travelling to Italy next week with my 2.5yrs and 11month old babies, along with my husband, mom and dad (lot of help out there). I’m going to Milan, Venice, Florence, Pisa by a van arranged by the tour company. From Pisa i’m taking a train to Rome. I will be arriving in Rome by 10AM, so hoping to do some sigh seeing the rest of the day by ourselves. Next day i’m heading off to Naples by a van pre arranged. Following day, again in Rome by the hop on hop off bus. I’m planning to bring a stroller for my 2.5 yr old as she’s quite heavy to carry and slow to walk. 11month old will be in a carrier. Will strollers be a difficult to manage in my itinerary? Also, do I need to bring any snacks from my home country for the kids or are there anything to buy outside on the streets? First day in Rome, is it ok to use public transport with kids or is it ok to go to Tivoli by train? I want to see the Collosseum, Roman Forum, Palantine hill, Pantheon, St.Peters Bascillica, Spanish Steps and Travi fountain. PS: both my kids are easily outside anywhere even out of the country and they eat what we eat.

Hi Shalani, It sounds like most of your trip is planned with your tour company (our planning service is centered around the trips that we plan); your tour provider is the best resource to answer your questions, as we don’t know the specifics of the itinerary. Big picture, we definitely recommend bringing a lightweight travel stroller for young children who can’t walk far. Italians love children and I think you will find that your reception is warm — one of the reasons we love Italy with kids of all ages. Snacks are readily available in markets and stores, but if your your kids are used to a specific brand, you might want to carry favorites with you. Happy travels! Best, -Amie

good! Fabulous post… regards from Italy!!

Hi, We are looking to spend 7 – 10 days in Italy in August with our 2 year old daughter. At this stage we are looking at flying into Rome and out of Venice – can you suggest some family friendly destinations, places to stay or ideas for a suitable itinerary to get the most out of our stay in Italy for the entire family Many Thanks

Thank you Nareeda for your message! One of our Family Travel Advisors will get back to you shortly to help. Best- Amie

Great post! My family and I are planning our vacation in Italy this summer. We are going to have tour all around the country and we are so excited! Thank you for your amazing suggestions, they were exactly what we’ve been looking for!

Hello, we are 3 couples, one 17 year old girl, 10 year old girl, and two 7 year old kids (boy and girl) and we are planning to visit Italy on 25th June for 10 days. We want a family resort that offers activities or a club for the younger ones, and activities for the whole family like water sports, rafting, sea kayaking, little trekking, horse riding, and visiting scenery, etc. I found Sicily and Sardinia interesting. Please suggest further. Thank you.

Hi Rauzat – thanks for using Ciao Bambino! One of our Family Travel Advisors specializing in Italy will reach out in email to see how we can help.

We are traveling in July with a 16 yr old, 13 year & 6 year old to Italy for 10 days and would love your help planning our trip on sightseeing, fun activities and where to stay. Thanks!

Hi Lindsey, we’d love to help! A Family Travel Advisor will reach out in email and you can go from there. Enjoy Italy!

Hi, We are looking to spend a week in Italy in July, combining beach and countryside experiences with our boys aged 4 and 2 years. We are thinking to rent a car from Rome and head to a suitable destination. We would like to go somewhere that is welcoming and properly equipped for kids, easy to walk around with strollers, family friendly beaches, etc. Can you please advise where to stay and what to do?

Hi Luna, absolutely – we love Italy for young kids and can recommend some good options that may work for you. One of our Family Travel Planners specializing in Italy will reach out in email. Happy planning!

Hi, we have a week booked in August at a villa in Tuscany. I am struggling to decide on where else to plan the second week. We are travelling from Australia and would like a seaside experience as we are already doing the countryside in Tuscany. Any help would be great.

Hi Terri – Thanks for using Ciao Bambino! A seaside experience would pair beautifully with time in the country. I’ll have one of our Family Travel Advisors specializing in Italy reach out in email to see how we can help. Happy travels!

Hi. We are planning a trip to Italy in mid October with our almost 3 year old and 8 month old and my wife’s parents. We will be there for 2 weeks (working on tickets now but may fly in and out of Rome?) we want something relaxing and while we will hit the highlights I think just being there and living the Italian life is what we are looking for. Kids are too small to just go go go all vacation. We would like to spend a few days in Rome and then a week on the beach somewhere and a week in the country or somewhere else amazing and open to suggestions. Thank you!

Hi Robert, thanks for using Ciao Bambino! We’d be glad to help with your travels. One of our Family Travel Advisors specializing in Italy will reach out in email. Happy planning!

Hi! My husband and I are travelling in Italy with our 4 year old and 1.5 year old in June. We have plans in Calabria for 4 days in the middle of our trip but otherwise nothing is set up. Could you please connect me with one of your Advisors to discuss some options? Really appreciate it!

Hi Juleigh – Absolutely! One of our planners specializing in Italy will reach out in email. Thanks for using Ciao Bambino, and happy travels!

We are planning a trip to Italy this summer. It will be a 7 day vacation. We have 3 boys ages 13 , 11, and 7. Not sure what part of Italy to visit within those 7 days. We like a little bit of everything. Travel, hike, sightsee, walking, beach and exploring. Can we see more then one town in 1 week? Any advice?

Hi Jessica – I’ll have one of our Family Vacation Advisors specializing in Italy reach out in email to see how we can help. Happy planning!

Hi! We are a family of five with three children aged 11,9 and 6. We would like to stay at a wonderful hotel with possibility to reach cinque terre for a day visit – abd also tobe able to stat and relax at the hotel in beutiful surroundings. Thinking 4-6 nights before we head home. Fly to Florence or Rome possibly? Thank you for suggesting !

Hi Yngvild – We’d be happy to help! There are quite a few properties in Tuscany that would be ideal. I’ll have one of our Family Travel Advisors reach out in email to talk about next steps. Thanks!

Hi Aditya, My family of five will be traveling to Italy next May/June of 2018. We are thinking of doing a house exchange and trying to figure out the best region to stay with the idea of doing a few 2-3 day excursions close to the house. My children will be 10, 8, 5. Can you please suggest a good region to be able to visit Rome, Naples, and possibly Sardinia? Thank you Jenn

Hi Jenn – House exchanges aren’t something we typically handle, but we are happy to help with activities. I’ll have one of our Family Travel Advisors specializing in Italy reach out to you in email. Thanks!

Hi there, We are a family of 5 with 3 kids aged 10,7, and 5 yrs. Please suggest a speliast agent that could chalk out a great holiday in Italy for us. Thank you

Hi Aditya! We can absolutely help with that. Our Family Vacation Advisor specializing in Italy with kids will reach out to you in email. Thanks and happy planning!

Hi, we are planning a trip in the end of April with a 9 yrs old boy and 2 yrs old girl. We are looking at about 10 days in Italy once we land into Rome. Can you suggest a good itinerary with activities for kids.

Hi Arvind – I’ll have one of our Advisors specializing in Rome reach out to you in email to help. Happy Planning! Best, -Amie

Hi there, could one of your family Travel Advisors please contact me. We are planning a 2-4 week trip to Italy in September 2017. With our child who will be 18 months old then. Thank you

Hi Lindsey! A Family Travel Advisor will be happy to reach out to you. Thanks for your interest!

We have 4 kids aged 11, 9, 7, and 2. We are planning 2plus weeks maximum. We thought to start in Rome for 4 days or so, Florence for 2/3 days with trips to Pisa and other local attractions. Then Venice for 3 days. We planned to rent a car for this, and to circle back from Venice to Rome via the Eastern coast. But after reading through your posts I am wary to have a rental car at all, and am tempted to try to manage with trains and taxis. Any insight (to the general plan and to transportation issues) would be appreciated. Thanks

Hi Maya – I’ll have one of our Family Travel Advisors specializing in Italy reach out to you in email. Thanks! -Amie

We are leaving next week for Italy.. Will be staying with family 1 hr from Naples and 2 hrs from Rome.. Looking for a beach island to go for a night. I have 2 toddlers (2,3). Ponza?

Hi Michele, We don’t have any direct experience with Ponza or really any of those islands in that area. Sorry! Best,-Amie

Planning a trip with my 12,8, and 6 yr olds next year. We don’t want to rent a car and plan to take trains to travel. Is this possible? We are thinking 5 nights in Rome and 5 in Florence.

Hi Gwendolyn – I’ll have one of our Advisors follow up in email. Sorry for the delay! -Amie

I think a week in an agriturismo in Tuscany would be ideal. At least that is what we did with another couple when our kids were the same ages. Rent a mini-van so you can drive around. Get a place with a pool. You won’t find one perfect spot in Tuscany to see everything in the region, but don’t worry, you can always go back.

My husband and I are planing a family holiday for the whole month of April 2014, with three children who will be 5, 3 and 11 months. My parents may join us for a fortnight. Thinking south, coastal. Suggestions?

Hi Nicole, the weather can be variable in April, even in the south on the coast. We love Puglia with kids as there is plenty to explore inland and on the coast. Did you want any city time too? I’ll have one of our Family Vacation Consultants reach out to you … -Amie

I will be taking my two sons and husband to Venice this August for a week. Could I use your services for a hotel and transportation arrangements? I am crazy interested in the Biennale, but the others…not so much! What would you suggest for an eight and ten year old’s itinerary?

Hi Karin, By saying “taking our 3-month old to Italy sometime in February 2014” you mean, baby that is going to be born in October/November? or 3-month old now, which is going to be 1 year old? Well, if baby is going to be still born in few months, then I would wait with planning anything. You never know with babies, if this is your first one (I’ve two). They might come and be very easy, but they might have colic, reflux and scream for first few months for unknown reasons; we had both cases. All in all I think traveling with infants/babies before they start crawling/walking is very nice (and free for them), since you don’t have to chase them down and can plan the trip 100% for you and your husband. Make sure only to schedule your activities in small time increments so baby can go back to nap in peace – nothing worst than tired and overstimulated baby. Yes, don’t be fooled thinking, oh my baby is full of energy/doesn’t want to sleep – it will back fire every time! happy travels! ps. as I may add, look for a vacation rental home/condo instead of hotel (as you see from my email I work with HomeAway.com and there are plenty rentals around Italy to choose from on our site). Rentals might come with a crib or other baby friendly equipment. Good luck!

This is great! I’m so glad I found this website. My husband and I are thinking about taking our 3-month old to Italy sometime in February 2014. (Are we crazy to travel with an infant or is it doable?)

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A 10-Day Itinerary For Visiting Italy With Kids

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Get ready for la dolce vita on a fabulous 10-day itinerary for visiting Italy with kids! Families adore visiting Italy with kids, as the country offers a perfect blend of enriching cultural experiences and family-friendly attractions. Plus, the country’s emphasis on family values creates a welcoming environment for your next vacation. Milan captivates with its modernity and iconic landmarks like the Duomo. Meanwhile, Venice, known for its enchanting canals and historic architecture, provides a magical atmosphere for kids to explore. Also, Florence is a treasure trove of art and history, with the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio. In Rome, the Eternal City, families can immerse themselves in ancient history by exploring the Colosseum and Roman Forum. If you need help putting together an itinerary, check out this sample 10-day itinerary for visiting Italy with kids! 

While there are plenty of flights daily from the United States to major cities across Italy, we suggest starting your itinerary for visiting Italy with kids in Milan. It offers a strategic location in northern Italy, allowing you to see the country from north to south and eventually end your itinerary in Rome or Pompeii. It’s completely possible to see some of the city’s highlights in a day, but if you need time to rest after landing, feel free to add an extra day in Milan to your Italy itinerary with kids.

Day 1: Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Navigli

Any family day in Milan should start with a visit to the Duomo di Milano. Families can explore the iconic grand interior and take an elevator to the terrace for panoramic views. You should also consider purchasing tickets in advance to skip the lines. Adjacent to the Duomo, stop at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Enjoy some window shopping and treat the family to gelato at historic cafes within this stunning shopping gallery. Look out for the famous bull mosaic on the floor near the entrance! 

Try a local eatery for an authentic Italian lunch, like Ristorante Cracco in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Then, you can head to Sforzesco Castle , a short walk from the Galleria. Here, kids can explore its various museums with engaging exhibits – there are 9 in total! Don’t miss Michelangelo’s unfinished masterpiece, the Pietà Rondanini. Nearby, you can also stop for a break in Parco Sempione . Bring a picnic or grab some snacks, and kids can enjoy the playground while you soak in the surroundings. 

Milan also has plenty of other museums you can add to your itinerary for visiting Italy with kids. The Leonardo da Vinci Science and Technology Museum will captivate young minds with hands-on exhibits about inventions and scientific principles. If your kids enjoy art, visit the Pinacoteca di Brera for a remarkable collection. The courtyard here provides a lovely spot for a short break.

Evening Activity: Navigli

If you have extra energy to spend the night exploring, conclude your day with a visit to the Navigli district, known for picturesque canals. Enjoy a leisurely walk, explore local shops, and perhaps consider a boat tour for added fun. Parents can even stop for an aperitivo – order a drink and some complimentary snacks! Or, for dinner, choose a family-friendly spot like Trattoria Madonnina for a taste of Milanese cuisine. Reservations are recommended.

Next on your 10-day itinerary for visiting Italy with kids is Venice. Around two to three hours from Milan, it’s easily accessible via Italy’s national train system. Some trains, like the Frecciarossa or Italo, are high-speed and offer quicker travel times, though they can be more expensive. Meanwhile, regional trains offer cheaper prices, but seats aren’t guaranteed and they often take longer or require more transfers. Either way, keep an eye on your belongings and watch out for pickpocketers. While you could rent a car on your Italy family vacation, we don’t recommend it, since you’ll only be visiting major cities. 

Day 2: St. Mark’s Square & Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Gondola Ride

Depending on when you arrive in Venice, start your day at the famous Piazza San Marco. Flanked by the Doge’s Palace on one side and the famed St. Mark’s Bell Tower on the other, this famous square is lined with quaint shops, cafes, and pigeons children can feed. Then, stop by St. Mark’s Cathedral . This beautiful Byzantine church has a stunning exterior complete with paintings, elaborate statues, and more cool architecture. It’s also free to tour inside, though you can expect a wait to get in unless you visit very early in the morning. 

Combine a visit here with a trip to St. Mark’s Campanile , aka the Bell Tower. (Admission is free for kids under six.) For an additional ticket, families can take a speedy elevator up to the top of the bell tower for stunning views over Venice! Next, kids can learn about the city’s history at The Doge’s Palace . While younger kids may not find every aspect of a visit here interesting, you can make it more fascinating with a family-friendly tour. Viator offers a St Mark’s Square & Doge’s Palace Guided Tour for Kids & Families . 

Then, take kids to see the famous Bridge of Sighs nearby or walk a little further to see the Rialto Bridge. You can also stop for lunch at Trattoria Antiche Carampane , known for its delicious seafood. 

Afternoon Activity: Mask-Making Workshop

One fun way for kids to experience Venice’s cultural history is by taking a mask-making workshop. Learn more about the origins of ​​Venetian masks, which are equally mysterious and amazing. Viator offers a fantastic Venice Carnival Mask-Making Class for kids, letting them learn the trade from a master artisan. Lasting around two hours, little ones can learn about the centuries-old celebration of Carnival before making their own paper-mâché mask in a production class! 

GetYourGuide also offers a Create Your Own Carnival Mask Workshop . 

Evening Activity: Gondola Ride 

What better way to see Venice than on a gondola? To avoid most of the tourists and price gouging on your Italy family vacation, we suggest taking one in the evening to get some great views. Some of the best spots to take a gondola ride are Campo San Barnaba, San Polo, and Friari. Approach any one of the local gondoliers by the canal and don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. If you want to check out the source of the boats, you can also visit a Gondola Workshop in the neighborhood of Accademia. It’s not open to the public for a tour, but you can still peer at the workmen inside! 

Day 3: Murano

Murano is a must for any families visiting Venice on their Italy itinerary! A tiny island south of Venice, it’s easily accessible via a short Vaporetto (water taxi) ride. When you arrive in the morning, you’ll be surrounded by charming houses and experts trained in the art of glassblowing, lining the Grand Canal like street performers. Families who want to learn more about the Venetian tradition of glassblowing can also visit the Venice Glass Museum to see the world’s largest collection of glass. Or, let kids get hands-on experience at the Murano Glass Factory, which offers a variety of lessons spanning from 20-minute introductions to more complicated two-hour lessons on how to make glass cups. 

Viator also offers a Glassblowing beginners class in Murano , a 2-and-a-half-hour small-group class where kids can learn about shaping molten glass from an expert. Afterward, browse the stores along the Grand Canal to buy souvenirs, grab dessert from a local cafe, and people-watch while you wait for your taxi back to Venice. If you want to eat lunch in Murano, Trattoria Busa alla Torre offers outdoor seating overlooking the canals and great seafood dishes. 

Additional Activity: Acqua Alta Bookshop

Once you return to Venice in the afternoon, take kids to the Acqua Alta Bookshop . Located just a short walk from the Rialto Bridge, Piazza San Marco, and other famous attractions, this hidden gem is packed to the brim with all kinds of books. Plus, toys, souvenirs, and more fun for kids to browse, most of which are in English. Books are stored in gondolas, wheelbarrows, bathtubs, and other whacky structures, some even coming together to form a huge wall made entirely of encyclopedias!

Evening Activity: Ghost Tour

Visiting Venice with tweens or teens? If your kids are up for it, join a family-friendly ghost tour. With companies like Avventure Bellissime, which offer Venice Ghost and Legends Walking Tours , you can watch Venice’s intriguing history come to life in the quiet canals and narrow alleys after dark. A fun addition to any Italy itinerary with kids, the tour lasts around an hour and a half, passing through famous spots like the Rialto Bridge as you learn facts about people like Biasio, a murderous butcher.

Where To Stay In Venice With Kids

Looking for the best places to stay in Venice with kids? To stay just a few minutes from St. Mark’s Square, check out Splendid Venice – Starhotels Collezione , a beautiful kid-friendly hotel right in the heart of the city. JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa offers kids’ clubs and a family pool. Another great option is Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort , one of the best family hotels in Venice for families , and plenty of others. 

Families who love art and history simply must add a stop to Florence on their Italy itinerary! Known as the “cradle of the Renaissance,” it’s filled with kid-friendly museums, and its streets almost feel like a living history museum themselves – not to mention the scenic Ponte Vecchio that separates the two sides of the city. Depending on which train you take, traveling from Venice to Florence should take between 2 to 4 hours. Here’s the best Florence, Italy itinerary for families! 

Day 4: Piazza del Duomo, Leonardo da Vinci Museum, San Lorenzo Market

One of the first things you need to see when visiting Florence with kids is the Duomo . Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi between 1420 and 1436, this architectural marvel tops the Florence Cathedral and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. When planning an Italy itinerary with kids, we suggest visiting in the morning, since the line to go inside is always long. Families with teens can even take a long climb up the dome to get a gorgeous view of the Florence skyline! 

Once you’re done visiting the Duomo, take a short walk to the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum . A testament to one of the world’s greatest inventors and painters, this kid-friendly educational institution has an extensive collection of Da Vinci’s sketches, prototypes, and even a few paintings. It’s especially fantastic for kids because it’s a sensory experience, so little ones can touch and interact with most of what’s on display!

For lunch, stop at San Lorenzo Market . Located in a historic, cast-iron building, the market, also known as Mercato Centrale, you can spend a few hours touring the market, sampling prosciutto, cheese, and anything else your family can get its hand on! If you’d prefer a full meal, however, there’s also a wonderful Sicilian restaurant on the second floor. Plus, a variety of stalls selling pasta and to-go meals like Lampredotto, a type of fish sandwich. 

Additional Activity: Walking Tour

Short on time while visiting Florence? A walking tour is another fantastic way to see all the top attractions in Florence while keeping kids entertained. You’ll get to visit places like Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Della Repubblica, San Lorenzo Market, and the Duomo. There are many free options for families as well, including Florence Free Tours, La Bussola, etc. Or, check out Tours For Kids by With Locals , The Best of Florence: A Family-Friendly Private Tour by GetYourGuide, and a hop-on, hop-off bus tour . 

Afternoon Activity: Palazzo Pitti & The Boboli Gardens

Art lovers can’t miss another one of Florence’s architectural marvels, the Palazzo Pitti. It’s home to multiple museums, including the Palatine Gallery, the Royal Apartments, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Costume Gallery. Plus, once you’re done exploring, you can check out The Boboli Gardens behind the palace. It’s perfect for an afternoon stroll, as beautiful flora wraps around statues and other priceless artworks. If you really want an amazing view, however, you’ll have to climb to the top of the observation tower. Afterward, stop for a gelato break at Gelateria Santa Trinita. 

Evening Activity: Dinner & A Sunset Stroll

Families looking for a traditional dinner will love Trattoria ZaZa , which has a variety of pasta dishes as well as larger plates. Then, you can take a sunset stroll along Ponte Vecchio. Connecting two sides of the Arno River, it is more like a road with shops on both sides, which sell everything from jewelry to leather goods. Little kids will love to spot animals from its entrance while older kids admire the funky shape and learn about its story, including when it wasn’t destroyed by bombs during World War II. 

Day 5: Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, Cooking Class

Art lovers visiting Florence can’t miss a trip to the Uffizi Gallery. As one of the oldest and most visited galleries in the world, it houses an incredible collection of paintings. In fact, the museum is home to masterpieces by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. Remember to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines. (​​Viator offers this Early Access: Guided Uffizi Gallery Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticke t !) 

Once you’re done, stop at Piazza della Signoria . It’s home to several important landmarks, including the Palazzo Vecchio and the Fountain of Neptune. There are often street performers and musicians playing, making it a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere of Florence.

From there, make your way to Palazzo Vecchio , one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence. Dating back to the 13th century, this large palace showcases a unique mixture of Gothic and Renaissance-style architecture. It’s also home to the Museum of Florence , which contains a wealth of art and artifacts. For lunch, check out Osteria All’antico Vinaio. Famous for its colossal sandwiches, this is a quick and delicious lunch option. Grab your sandwiches and head to the nearby Piazza della Repubblica to eat them. Kids will love the antique carousel here! 

Afternoon Activity: Cooking Class

Taking a cooking class in Florence is a wonderful way to bond as a family and learn more about the city’s diverse culinary traditions. With local companies such as Mama Florence, Eating Europe, and Florence Cooking Classes, families can learn how to make gelato, fresh pasta, and more delicacies in an intimate and personalized setting. Viator also offers a Florence Cooking Class: Learn How to Make Gelato and Pizza . Or, check out GetYourGuide’s Cooking with Kids 3-Hour Experience . 

Evening Activity: Boat Cruise Or Walk Along The Arno River

End your day by taking a nighttime stroll along the Arno River. Families can cross Ponte Santa Trinita for stunning night views of Florence. The city lights reflecting on the river create a magical ambiance! Or, you could even take a boat cruise. River cruises are also a great way to learn about Florence and its history. Your tour guide will point out all of the important sights and tell you about their significance. Then, for dinner, stop at Trattoria 4 Leoni. Showcasing a cozy atmosphere, this charming trattoria is located in Piazza della Passera. Try the Florentine steak! 

Day 6: Accademia Gallery, Marble Paper Class, Museo Galileo

Families can’t leave Florence without visiting the Accademia Gallery. Of course, it’s famous for a good reason, since it showcases some of the most famous art in the world! This includes Michelangelo’s famous statue of David, which you can see on display in all its glory. Aside from the statue, the gallery also has a collection of paintings by Renaissance artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. To make the experience more interesting for your family, make sure to pick up an audio tour specifically for kids. 

If you have extra time on your Italy itinerary with kids, you could also visit The Palazzo Strozzi . Though it may not be the most interesting for toddlers or younger kids, it’ll definitely be a hit with teens or older children! Upon arrival, little ones will receive a unique “children’s explorer’s bag,” which comes with torches, pens, and paper games to make the experience more enjoyable. For lunch nearby, indulge in authentic Neopolitan pizza at Il Pizzaiuolo . 

Afternoon Activity: Marble Paper Class

When visiting Florence for the first time, be sure to take a marble paper class with your kids. This is a unique opportunity to get your hands dirty and learn how to make beautiful works of art using only marble paper and a few simple tools. Ideal for families with kids who are older than six, the classes are small and intimate, typically last two or three hours, and all materials are included. Many local providers offer this class, and you can even take a class with a local artist like Giulio Giannini or Francesca Vannini.

Optional Activity: Galileo Museum

For a quick stop after your class, check out the Galileo Museum . Focusing on all things Galileo Galilei, the museum walks visitors through his various inventions, including telescopes and microscopes, all the while highlighting the story of the astronomer’s life. It’s one of few museums in Florence you’ll be able to attend without waiting in line, and you can probably tackle its tiny interior in an hour or so. 

Evening Activity: Climb To Piazzale Michelangelo

For your last evening in Florence, visit Piazzale Michelangelo on the south bank of the Arno River. Offering sweeping views of Florence, it’s a scenic place to see at sunset because of its elevated position over the city. Though the viewpoint requires some steps to reach, so it’s not stroller-friendly, it’s worth it if you’re up for the climb. After, you can stop for dinner at Il Latini, a family-style restaurant known for its warm hospitality and delicious Tuscan dishes. 

Where To Stay In Florence With Kids

Looking for the best places to stay in Florence with kids? If you are planning an upcoming family vacation to Florence, you can check out the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze , a grand palatial hotel overlooking Giardino Della Gherardesca. 

Families who want to stay in an upscale hotel near Santa Maria del Fiore and the Uffizi Gallery will love Palazzo Vecchietti , which offers rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Hotel Lungarno is set along the river overlooking Ponte Vecchio, and St. Regis Florence is only a 10-minute walk from the train station. Finally, Hotel Savoy is another great option for families to consider when staying in Florence. Check out our list of the best hotels in Florence for families for more options! 

The last stop on our Italy itinerary with kids is Rome! This ancient city was once the capital of the Roman Empire and still serves as a popular spot for tourists visiting Italy. We suggest ending your trip in Rome and then flying from Rome back to your home destination, rather than making your way back up to Milan. Keep reading to find out more things to do in Rome with kids!

Day 7: Ancient Rome

Rome’s historic city center is a must-visit during your vacation to Italy. It’s home to impressive landmarks, ancient architecture, and archaeological sites from thousands of years ago. 

Start at the Spanish Steps, a famous monument towering above Piazza di Spagna. Here, families can take in the ambiance while they appreciate the view. From there, you can head to the Trevi Fountain , one of Rome’s most recognizable landmarks. Don’t forget to toss in a coin and make a wish! Nearby, families can also stop at the Marcus Aurelius Column and enjoy a break in the town square. 

Then, make your way to the Pantheon to admire its beautiful domed ceiling. Grab a quick gelato at Gelateria Della Palma , then head to Piazza Navona to see The Fiumi Fountain, Neptune Fountain, and more! 

There are many ways to tour this area with kids. Families with teens will love touring by bike or Segway , while multigenerational groups may prefer touring by bus. Those who prefer luxury tours may do so by vintage car. This free walking tour is a great option to start with, and it can be booked in advance.

Rick Steves Audio Guide is a self-guided audio tour using an app on your phone. GPSMY CITY is also a good way to customize your walking tour and go at your own pace. Best Of Rome Walking Tour is great for families with teens.

Optional Activity: ​​Cooking Class

End your day with an evening cooking class from companies like Local Aromas , Eataly Roma , or Viator . Not only will you learn how to make delicious fettuccine, gnocchi, or pizza, but you’ll get to eat your hard work for dinner too! 

Day 8: Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s, and Castel Sant’Angelo

Start the second day of your Rome itinerary with kids at St. Peter’s Basilica. Since the lines can get long during the day, we suggest arriving before 9:00 AM and checking out the main floor, which is free to enter. (Even then, a wait is likely inevitable.) 

St. Peter’s features works by many famous Italian artists, including Michelangelo’s famous Pieta statue and art by Bernini. You can also climb to the top of the dome for a rewarding view, but we don’t recommend this with young kids. GetYourGuide offers various Tours of St. Peter’s Basicilia , as does Viator, which features a Private Tour of The Vatican & St. Peter’s. Remember that St Peter’s Basilica has a strict dress code: no shorts, sleeveless tops, or short skirts showing knees. Please read the requirements online before visiting. 

Once you’ve toured the basilica, head outside to St. Peter’s Square. This famous town square is a work of art, perfect for letting kids run around and see the elegant and colorful Swiss Guards. If you have time, we also suggest a stroll through the pristine Vatican Garden. 

Next, visit the Vatican Museums . Located right next to the basilica, it would be ideal to see this stroller-friendly destination at the beginning of your visit. However, the lines are often long, so some families prefer seeing the museums afterward. One ticket gives you access to all the galleries. Kids can explore Egyptian relics, Renaissance paintings, Greek and Roman Sculptures, and of course, the Last Judgement in Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel! Viator offers a family-friendly Vatican Museum Tour , which includes special skip-the-line access.

Optional Activity: Sunset Views From Castel Sant’Angelo

While the second day on this Rome itinerary with kids has been a long one, we highly recommend visiting Castel Sant’ Angelo. Overlooking the River Tiber near Vatican City, it was originally commissioned as a mausoleum for Roman Emperor Hadrian. Now, families can visit this gorgeous destination for a 360-degree view of Rome! We suggest taking a tour to see the inside as well, where kids can all kinds of historic weapons, former prisons, plus secret apartments. End your day enjoying the panoramic vistas of St. Peter’s Basilica at the top! You can even take a meal at the top of the castle, if you are interested.

Day 9: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

Visiting the Colosseum is a must during any Italy itinerary with kids! Families will be impressed by this historic amphitheater, offering a glimpse at life as a gladiator amid deadly battles and other forms of entertainment. 

A free Rick Steves Audio Tour is available if you want to save money on exploring. But we recommend booking a tour, especially an underground tour to see the Colosseum’s lower level. This is where gladiators used to wait their turn. It also features props, plus the elevator that lifted animals into the arena! Underground tickets can sell out, especially during peak seasons, so be sure to book in advance. We suggest companies such as CoopCulture ,   Civitatis , and Viator, which has a Semi-Private Colosseum Underground Tour .

Families who want to skip the underground tour can also combine a trip to the Colosseum with other sites in the historic city center. Viator offers a wonderful Colosseum and Roman Forum for Kids Tour , including the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. This was once the center of daily life in ancient Rome, featuring ruins, an ancient plaza, and other historic points of interest. Palatine Hill is located above the Roman Forum and is the most important of Rome’s seven hills. 

If you’re not taking a tour and want a budget-friendly way to see the Forum, download the Parco Colosseo app or Rick Steves Audio Tours Europe.

Additional Activity: Gladiator Class

Teach your kids how to fight like a real gladiator at the  Gladiator School Of Rome !   At this historical museum and educational attraction, older kids and tweens can train to be gladiators for a day and travel back in time two thousand years with an exciting two-hour class. In the process, they’ll learn more about Ancient Rome and what it took to survive back then – all with replica gladiator clothing and weapons!

Between gladiator games, fun facts about history, and more wholesome fun, it’s a wonderful way to immerse kids in an iconic period of history. Once you’re done with the class, your ticket also includes a free tour of the Gladiator Museum, featuring hands-on exhibits and cool artifacts! 

Book the Gladiator School through Viator here for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the tickets are cheaper than buying direct !

Optional: Circus Maximus, Bocca Della Verita, Dinner in Trastevere

If you have extra time, you could walk from the Colosseum to the Circus Maximus below Palatine Hill. Though most of this chariot stadium has been destroyed, kids will love walking around the oval racetrack and imagining their chariot games.

Then, learn more about an iconic legend at Bocca Della Verita in Santa Maria in Cosmedin Church. Kids will surely get a kick by sticking their hands inside the face and taking a funny photo! (Just remember there’s often a line here.) 

Once you’re done exploring, head across the bridge to Trastevere to eat dinner. Trattoria Da Enzo is a kid-friendly restaurant that’s wonderful for classic pasta dishes and other Roman delicacies, but you can expect a wait. 

Read our Rome itinerary with kids for more suggestions! 

Day 10: Villa Borghese, Bioparco di Roma, and Piazza Navona

From the convenient Parco dei Daini entrance, explore Villa Borghese , one of Rome’s biggest public parks. It features gardens, ponds, and ancient statues. Combining several scenic sites, there’s also a tourist train that travels through the park. There are many ways to explore Villa Borghese with kids, here is what we recommend for each age group on your Italy itinerary with kids.

For Toddlers and Young Kids

• Bioparco di Roma is ideal for toddlers and young kids. Families can see hundreds of animals like zebras, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys at this zoological park.
• Since there are a lot of picnic and play areas (including two playgrounds in different parts of the park), Villa Borghese is also a nice way to spend a quiet afternoon lounging and letting kids play.
• Young kids will also love the nearby Explora Children’s Museum , where they can challenge themselves with science, art, and history-related exhibits.

For Older kids + Teens

• Tweens and teens will adore renting Surrey bikes or quads. Grab a map of the enormous park and gardens and start exploring.
• Borghese Gallery is another great option for older kids and teens. This spectacular destination is home to masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, Bernini, Canova, and Titian. Viator offers wonderful Art & Mythology in the Borghese Gallery Tour for Kids to give kids more context.
• Museum Carlo Bilotti , located nearby, showcases contemporary sculpture and painting in a lovely 19th-century orangery. It’s a great place to visit on an Italy itinerary with kids!
• On a sunny day, families with kids of all ages can also rent rowboats to take out onto the lake and see the ancient Temple of Asclepius.
• Visit Terrazza del Pincio , located at the Southern end of the Pincio Promenade, if you’re looking for a great view of the city.

To end your day, exit near the Spanish Steps, then head to Piazza Navona for dinner. Saltimbocca Ristorante serves traditional pasta dishes in a cozy setting, and there are two sizes of tiramisu! 

Where To Stay In Rome With Kids

For a convenient stay in the historic city center, consider hotels such as Hotel Nazionale Roma , Crossing Condotti , Grand Hotel de la Minerve, Albergo Santa Chiara , St. Regis Rome , Hotel Artemide , and Hotel de Russie . Families who want to stay in trendy Trastevere will love the Villa Agrippina Gran Melia , located on the banks of the River Tiber. Check out our list of the best hotels in Rome for families to learn more! 

Optional: Day Trip To Pompeii

If you have an extra day to spare on your Italy itinerary with kids, we highly recommend taking a day trip from Rome to Pompeii, which is around 2 hours away if you opt for a high-speed train. 

When most people think of Pompeii, they think of the disaster that occurred there. However, this extensive archaeological site in southern Italy’s Campania region is also a fantastic place to learn about history, architecture, and culture! Firstly, start by exploring the ruins of the ancient city in Pompeii Archaeological Park and telling kids how it was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Many guides can show you around and explain the history in more detail. 

Then, head to the Pompeii Amphitheatre . Families can also visit the Pompeii Archaeological Museum , which has an extensive collection of artifacts. Art lovers may prefer seeing the glittering frescoes and mosaics of Villa dei Misteri or House of the Faun. Don’t forget to stop by the Pompeii Forum to learn even more about this ancient city!

If you’re looking for something more active on your Italy itinerary with kids, the area has several hiking trails. Families can also see Vesuvius National Park to learn about the volcano that destroyed Pompeii. Finally, take a boat ride around the Bay of Naples. 

Pompeii is also one of the best places to visit in Italy with kids!

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this 10-Day Itinerary For Visiting Italy With Kids! From Milan to Rome, this kid-friendly country is brimming with history, fantastic food, and so much more to make your next family vacation amazing. Enjoy your next trip to Italy with kids!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Visiting Rome with a toddler: all you need to know

All you need to know for visiting Rome with toddlers. In this guide, we look at strollers vs carrier, best things to do in Rome with toddlers, toddler friendly tours, where to get toddler essentials and travel tips – all from me, a local mom!

Visiting Rome with toddlers is a fun yet tiring experience. A little like everything with an active little one!

Busy traffic, stroller unfriendly pavements and cultural attractions make it a city more attractive to older families than very young ones.

Rome however is much more than museums and busy streets: it is a city with great parks, large green areas, several cute places for kids and, overall, a great place to visit at any age.

To enjoy Rome with toddlers in tow however, some tips are handy!

This is where my guide comes in: I am a Rome mama.

Based on my experience of the city with two young children (there is less than 2 years between them so yes, at one stage I had two under two…), this is all you ever wanted to know about visiting Rome with a toddler!

Good to know: going with an even younger child? Then have a look at out travel guide to Rome with a baby as well!

Please note: this post contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

Table of Contents

Rome with toddlers: best time to go

Rome is a pleasure to visit any time of the year however, if you are not yet tied to school holidays and can travel any time, there is no doubt that some seasons are better than others.

With a toddler, the best times to visit Rome are the spring and the fall.

Rome in spring and fall: the most toddler friendly time to visit Rome

Spring and fall in Rome have similar weather patterns, the main difference being that spring is a little more rainy (April in particular)

These are wonderful times to visit the city and offer great weather for toddler friendly activities such as going to the park. At this time, the temperature is mild and during the day you will find yourself taking off coats and possibly even strip your active toddler down to their lighter layer for playing.

In the evening and when on the stroller, however, spring and fall will still call for warmer layers and a light cover.

April and November are rainy in Rome so you may expect some indoor time however, overall this time will see sunny days and the option of long days out.

If you can, avoid Easter weeks as these are very high season for tourism in Rome and prices (and queues) are at their peak.

Summer: the worst time to visit Rome with toddlers

By far the worst time to visit Rome with a toddler is the summer. From mid June to the end of August included the city gets hot and sticky, the air polluted because of lack of rain and wind and mosquitoes reign supreme.

This is a bad time for any type of tourism but is a real pain if you are visiting the city with a young child.

The sun in summer in Rome is too hot for them to play safely outside and many of the city non-touristy business shut down for the summer holidays, making Rome even less efficient than usual.

If you are stuck with holiday time in summer, make sure you pick a hotel with child friendly pool and plan your days around long hours near water.

An excellent hotel with pool in Rome is the elegant Gran Melia ( check prices and info here ) which, if you can afford it, is a lovely treat.

You can also see

>>> outdoor pools in Rome to beat the heat

Need to know! Summer 2023 is record breaking in terms of heat. Usually Rome was hot yet manageable while this year the heat has reached peaked that make it positively dangerous for little ones especially. If coming to Rome with a toddler in summer, Air Conditioning in your accommodation and access to water is a must.

Rome with a toddler in winter

Winters in Rome are mild but they are also very humid which means you are likely to want to find refuge indoor often. This is a good time to visit Rome if you want to avoid the crowds and keep costs down but it is a hard one for toddler friendly entertainment.

The only real indoor fun for toddlers in Rome is offered by Explora children museum , which is great but can get pricey if visited more than once.

If visiting Rome in winter, I highly recommend getting an apartment and bring toys so you can find refuge back home when the weather turns on you.

Christmas in Rome can be fun for toddlers thanks to the many nativity scenes popping up around the city. If coming at this time, make sure you book well in advance as Christmas is high season and accommodation is scarce and pricey.

How to get around Rome with toddlers and strollers

Getting around is probably the hardest thing to do when visiting Rome with a stroller age child but with the right accommodation and equipment, it doesn’t have to be too hard either.

Rome airport to Rome city center with toddlers in tow

The easiest way to get from Rome airports to your accommodation with a toddler is by booking a private transfer.

While this is also the most expensive transfer option, I recommend it because it has a major advantage over a standard taxi: it comes with a car seat!

Taxis in Rome do not carry car seats.

Car seats in Rome are compulsory in private cars but not in taxis and you will be expected to hold your child on your lap.

While this is legal, I feel you need to know that the drive between the airport and Rome city center is on a motorway and traffic moves fast.

This makes a taxi ride with a toddler and no car seat a nerve wrecking experience so I feel it is important to know there are other options!

My go-to private transfer service company in Rome ‘Welcome Pickups’ – you can get a free quote on their website here

If you have your own car seat, then you can also opt for a standard taxi.

They station outside the airport arrival hall and you recognize the official ones by the ‘taxi’ sign on top and the Roma Taxi sticker on the side of the car.

You can read here >>>> our guide to using taxis in Rome

Good to know: if you are planning on using your own car seat, you may find helpful out guide to car seats in Italy and our guide to guide about renting a car in Italy .

A cheaper way to get to Rome city center with a toddler in tow is to get the train (from Fiumicino)

The train between Fiumicino and Rome city center is fast and well kept and kids go free.

Strollers can be brought on board and there is a reasonable amount of space to store them: no intermediate stops between the airport and the station mean keeping an eye on it easy too.

You can find here:

>>> Our guide to getting from Fiumicino airport to Rome city center

>>> Our guide to getting from Ciampino Airport to Rome City Center

Used metro and buses in Rome with a toddler: managing Rome public transport with a stroller

Unfortunately, Rome public transportation is not child friendly.

Rome buses are not stroller friendly.

Strollers need to be closed to enter the bus and the steps to get onto the but itself are often very high (it depends on the specific bus).

Some buses have an accessibility ramp but they do now lover it for families, unless you happen to find an exceptionally helpful driver. It happens but it is not something you can count on, sadly.

A similar situation awaits people trying to use the metro.

In many cases, escalators do not work and you will find yourself lugging your stroller and baby down poorly kept ramps of stairs.

If you can, avoid using public transport in Rome and opt for walking: by far, the best way to get around Rome at any age!

The best area to stay in Rome for families with toddlers

The need to avoid public transport has a corollary: if at all possible, you want to have accommodation in the city center.

The best areas to stay in Rome with toddlers are:

The Pantheon / Piazza Navona area : the very center of Rome, this location is not particularly green but it places you right in the center of everything and will allow you to have most Rome attractions on your doorstep.

Colosseum area/ Monti : the area immediately beside the Colosseum is great for families with toddlers as mixes proximity to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum with access to two cute playgrounds, one on the Oppian Hill (also a lovely park) and one in Piazza Vittorio.

Villa Borghese Area : The Borghese Gardens are a delight for toddlers so having accommodation near them is a great way to be able to add time in the park to your day without having to stray too far from Rome’s main attractions.

Trieste Salario area: Outside of the city center, this is a fantastic area if you are in Rome for a little longer and want a local feel, rather than proximity to attractions.

This is family friendly, green neighbourhood which requires the use of the bus to get into the center but works well for a local experience (think parks with local kids playing after school, lots of local shops, etc).

You can find here >>> our guide to where to stay in Rome with kids

Toddler friendly hotels in Rome

In general, Rome doesn’t do family hotels very well.

In most cases, kids are welcome; however the ‘family welcome’ offer usually only means the hotel can add a cot yo your room, but not much more!

Some hotels, however, have additional services just for little ones! In some cases, you may need to compromise on either location or budget but for the extra convenience they offer, it may be worth it.

Toddler friendly hotels in Rome we recommend are:

Best Western Rome President  –  a toddler friendly hotel in Rome city center with extra attentions for families such as cot, changing station, bottle warmer, baby bath tub, high chair, stroller rental laundry service discount for families. Option to get discounted tickets to Explora Children Museum (and amazing attraction for little ones!). 

Starhotel Metropole  – I love the Starhotel chain for families and the star hotel Metropole in Rome has all the services I have come to expect form the Starhotel name. In particular, this one hotel is great for toddlers as it offers (on request) cribs/ cots, playpens, changing table, bathtub tray, bottle warmer, highchairs, as well as stroller for easy walks

Best Western Spring House   – located in the Vatican area, this hotels has good services for families with toddlers such as cradle/ cot, bottle warmer, baby bathtub, changing using, strollers available. Baby sitting service is also available.

Hotel de Russie   – hotel de Russia one of the best five star hotels in Rome and a city institution, having been the hotel of house of illustrious guests for well over a century. 

Their exceptional facilities and services extend to the toddler in the family with rooms with toddler cribs, baby lamps, mobiles and play mats (on request), baby bath products, and baby and toddler hooded towels. Anti-slip mats as well as changing station essentials available upon request.

For easy toddler meals, they can provide baby crockery, bottle warmers, high chairs etc (on request).

Good to know! These hotels are tried and tested by myself or by the lovely members of the Facebook group I admin ‘travel Italy with kids – tips and advice: if you are not a member yet, join here , it is free and packed with tips and lovely parents happy to chat all things family travel!

Carrier or stroller to visit Rome with a toddler?

One of the biggest decisions when it comes to packing for a trip to Rome with a toddler is about the stroller: should you bring a stroller to Rome or will you be better off with a carrier?

And if you opt for wheels, what is the best stroller for Rome?

To the first question I say: bring both a stroller and a carrier.

The carrier will be invaluable in museums and is all those locations where a stroller can be a pain more than a help – the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and all museums come to mind as places that are accessible with a stroller but much easier without.

I highly recommend you also bring a st roller to Rome , no matter what you may have heard about cobbled streets!

While Rome is not particularly stroller friendly and you will have moments of frustrations pushing a toddler especially, it will nonetheless be invaluable as in Rome you will walk, a LOT!

What you need to know about using a toddler stroller in Rome:

• Part of the city has cobbles streets so big wheels or at least sturdy wheels are a must
• People park everywhere in Rome and this includes pavements, so be prepared for having to get on and off often
• There are some potholes in Rome so you won’t always have a smooth ride
• Rome has many roads and pavements that are perfectly flat and easy with strollers, it is not all cobbles!
• In Rome, you will walk very many kilometers each day so your toddler will get tired walking and you will too, if you have a bigger toddler in the carrier all the time
• Many outdoor restaurants have enough space for you to keep your toddler in the stroller as you have a meal (not all, but it is not as rare as you may think)
• The Vatican Museums are stroller friendly and they even let you in first if they see you with a stroller

The best toddler carriers for Rome

In terms of carrier models, I highly recommend you opt for a soft structured one, ideally one with several carrying positions, to limit the load on just one part of your body.

The one I personally used was the Ergo Baby carrier: it was comfortable for my daughter, it easy to pack and it has several carrying positions which allowed me to have her on my back, hip and in front.

Top tip: I recommend against using hiking carriers with Rome. Those with metal bars are often not allowed in museums as they are a security hazard and you may have to leave them at the wardrobe, making them totally useless for museum visits.

The best stroller for Rome

In terms of the best stroller for Rome, my advice is: bring one with strong wheels and as narrow a width as possible!

The perfect stroller for Rome doesn’t exist and you will always have to compromise on something: a big stroller will be a pain to carry and fold but will offer better cushioning to your child and your back on cobbles.

A smaller stroller will be best for easy transport but it may not survive the potholes and cobbles of Rome.

The one thing you cannot compromise on is the sturdiness of the wheels and overall frame as Rome will put it to quite a test!

Strollers that worked for us in Rome were Quinny Quest, Phil&Teds Sport and MacLaren quest.

Friends also has good experiences with Baby Jogger City Mini and the Uppababy Minu.

The famous GBpock-it got mixed reviews as some found it perfect, other way too flimsy.

Rome playgrounds

Rome has many playgrounds, dotting many of the city’s beautiful parks, however, they are in various states of repair.

One of the big problems the city faces is that of maintenance and this means that even very nice, newer playgrounds, get sometimes closed for problems with trash or overgrown vegetations and similar.

Sadly, Rome is also this!

That said, there are some nice addresses worth trying when looking for a quick play.

Three we particularly like in the center are:

• Borghese Gardens playground, in front of Casa del Cinema (Porta Pinciana)
• Playground in Piazza Vittorio (new!)
• Playground in front of Castel Sant’Angelo
• Playground in Piazza San Cosimato (Trastevere)

You can find here >>> our list of Rome playgrounds close to Rome’s main attractions .

Best things to do in Rome with a toddler

After this long premise, let’s get down to business: what is there to do in Rome for a toddler?

Not too much, but here are a few ideas. Further down, I share a list of attractions that are not for kids but are easy to visit when in Rome with toddlers.

Go to Explora children museum

THE place in Rome for toddler, Explora is a children museum with interactive installations and play areas for children aged 0 to about 11.

For toddlers they have a soft play area reserved for kids up to 3 years of age and this is a wonderful place for them as they can play, climb and have floor time in complete freedom. The museum has nice facilities and a restaurant on site. You can find full info on our review here (this is my kids favorite place in the whole of Rome!)

Spend an afternoon in the Borghese Gardens

The Borghese Gardens are the biggest park in central Rome and they are wonderful for small kids.

In the park, you find lots of playgrounds, merry go rounds, lots of space to run around and a pond with turtles and rowing boats you can rent!

You can read Here >>> our guide to Villa Borghese (Borghese Gardens)

Meet the animals in Rome Zoo

Rome has a small but nice zoo located in the heart of Villa Borghese, in the city center.

This is not the most amazing zoo you will ever see, it doesn’t compare with the big world zoos such as San Diego or Sydney however, it is a nice one to visit with kids as it offers them a safe space to run and some fun animal encounters.

You can buy tickets at the entrance (it is on the same side of the park as the Borghese Gallery) and inside you have a small concession with snacks.

Play in one of Rome’s wonderful parks

Rome is a very green city and many of its nicer parks are in the city center, making them an easy stop to add to any Rome itinerary.

The most famous of all is the already mentioned Villa Borghese, which has lovely playgrounds and an indoor play area called ‘Casina di Raffaello’ and one that is very popular with families is Villa Doria Pamphili, which is wonderful for picnics and offers unrivaled views over St Peter’s dome.

Find here >>> our selection of cool parks and gardens in Rome

Visit Rome’s Botanical Gardens

Rome’s Botanical Gardens are a lovely green space in Trastevere and a bit of a corner of paradise for toddlers.

While very much in the city center, the gardens are car free, green, quiet, safe and they even host a butterfly house which is usually a hit with small kids!

You can find here >>> our guide to Rome’s botanical gardens

Get splashing in Rome’s fountains

Rome has many fountains , some monumental and some small, offering drinkable, free flowing water.

Bathing in monumental fountains is strictly prohibited (even to small kids and fines are very high and frequent) but the small fountains are perfect for a bit of splashing.

I will not go as far as saying this is an activity to seek out (unless it is the height of the summer) but experience tells me this is the main thing most toddlers end up enjoying when in the city!

My best advice is to embrace it: just make sure you carry a change of clothes with you and water shoes.

Visit Rome’s Rose Garden (Roseto Comunale)

Rome’s Rose Garden is a season, public garden perched on top of the slopes of the Aventine Hill, in Rome city center.

The gardens boasts a large variety of roses and while it is not a place for kids as such, it is car free, pretty and safe. Being just in front of the famous Palatine Hill and Circus Maxims, it is also a lovely easy place for a break from sightseeing without having to leave Rome city center.

Best toddler friendly tours in Rome

Not all tour companies are able to cater to the needs of toddlers, so it is always a pleasure for me to share the name one one company that does: LivTours!

LivTours is a family company run by the lovely parents of little kids. As parents, locals and Rome lovers, they really know what families need in the Eternal City and have tours to match them!

The best toddler friendly tours we recommend are:

• Family Friendly Golf cart tour  – this is a super fun way to visit Rome and it is nice with a toddler as you can sit down and be driven around while they enjoy the fresh air!
• Early morning Vatican tour
• Express Colosseum tour with underground – I recommend this one for toddlers as it is significantly shorted than many others and is for a small group, so you know your needs will be met. Please note that this tours is not stroller friendly as it includes Colosseum areas that do not allow pushchairs
• Coopculture standard Colosseum entrance : this is not a tour for families but the standard entry ticket to the Colosseum. I recommend it for families with toddlers who may not be able to follow a guided tour and prefer to wander in their own time (it is also a budget friendly option and includes access to the Roman Forum and Platine Hill)

The best Rome attractions to visit with toddlers + tips for visiting Rome’s top sites with a toddler

As you can see, none of my toddler-friendly things to do in Rome is one of Rome’s’ main attractions and the reason is simple: there is very little in Rome’s main sites that can attract a toddler.

However, you can still see Rome’s top historical attractions with a very young child and this is my best advice on how to do so.

Visiting the Colosseum with a toddler

The Colosseum is a child-friendly attraction: kids go free and strollers are allowed (inside there is even an elevator which reaches most areas).

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when visiting the Colosseum inside with a toddler: first, tickets are only bookable online, not on the spot ( learn how here ).

Second, while strollers are allowed into most parts of the Colosseum (not all), it is a real pain to maneuver them inside such a busy attraction so I highly recommend you opt for a carrier on the day of your visit, if at all possible.

Last, there is nothing in the Colosseum to attract a toddler’s attention.

Unless you are set to see the inside, the best way to see the Colosseum is to go to the park just in front: kids can run and the views are spectacular.

Find here >>> our guide to visiting the Colosseum with kids

Visiting the Roman Forum and Palatine hill with young kids

The Roman Forum lies just beside the Colosseum and I love visiting it with my kids.

There is a good bit of hands on parenting to do here (they will want to climb on the ruins but of course they cannot) but the place is lovely, interesting and outdoors – basically a great outside space to mix sightseeing and play time!

The Palatine Hill is right above the Forum and one of the most spectacular places in Rome.

Little ones have plenty of space to run around but do keep an eye on them and stay close are there are some high areas that can pose hazard to adventurous little children.

read here >>> how to visit the Palatine Hill

Visiting the Vatican with toddlers

Visiting the Vatican with a toddler can be fun or a nightmare depending on what you decide to see and what budget you are working with.

The main St Peter square is free (so is the main floor of the basilica) and fun for toddlers to see: despite the crowds, this is a large space and they can run and chase pigeons to their heart content.

The Vatican museums on the other hand are crowded and very hard to enjoy at any age, just due to the immense volume of visitors.

The best way to visit them is to invest into an early morning private tour, the only way in which you will be able to actually see the art and not just a see of people in between you and the masterpiece!

The Vatican museums are stroller friendly so once you are in with the right tour, the visit is easy.

You can read our experience in the Vatican with small kids here . If the museums are not for you, I highly recommend you also read our ideas on what else to do at the Vatican : while amazing, the museums are hard to tackle but there are a lot other ways to enjoy the Vatican, more family friendly!

Visiting the Pantheon with a toddler

The Pantheon is one of Rome’s main attractions and a a very easy one to visit with a toddler.

Entrance is free and usually small kids get fascinated by the holes in the ground that drain the water away on rainy days. It is usually a fun thing to spot: all the adults look up to see the oculus but all the little ones crouch down to peek into the holes!

Visiting Rome’s piazzas with little kids

Many of Rome’s most famous attractions are piazzas that are free to visit and this is great for families as it means you don’t have to plan or abide to any other timeframe than your own.

Piazza Navona , the Spanish Steps and Piazza Fontana di Trevi (the Trevi Fountain) are all in the city center and stunning – just be careful of crowds and cars. While many of the big squares are car-free, this doesn’t mean the occasional vehicle doesn’t sneak in so, staying cautious is paramount.

Find here >>> our guide to Rome’s best piazzas

Caracalla’s Baths with a toddler – one of the easiest Rome attractions to visit with a little one!

The Baths of Caracalla are one of Rome’s most impressive archaeological sites.

They are a monumental bathhouse built in the III century AD and they are stunning to see but also very child friendly.

Entirely outdoor now, they are a safe and beautiful space for parents to admire and learn about Caracalla’s times and for toddlers to run around safely.

Find here >>> our guide to visiting Caracalla’s Baths in Rome

Ostia Antica (Ancient Ostia)

Ancient Ostia (Ostia Antica) is probably the most toddler friendly archaeological site in the whole of Rome!

Immediately outside of the city, Ostia Antica is the ancient port of Rome and it is now a little like Pompeii: an ancient city turned archaeological park.

The places is stunning, interesting and see for little kids who experience it like a fantastic and large park.

You can read here >>> our guide to Ostia Antica .

Where to eat in Rome with a toddler

Rome restaurants are very family-friendly. Children are welcome pretty much everywhere and most restaurants will accommodate special requests such a plate of plain pasta or pasta with a basic tomato sauce.

Rome restaurants however do not usually have children menus (those that do are often geared towards tourists) so don’t be put off if you don’t see one: children are usually welcome unless it is specified otherwise.

Restaurants in Rome often have high chair or harnesses but this is not a rule so having your own portable one is usually a good idea.

I have several family friendly restaurants in Rome I feel like recommending.You can find a selection of my favorites here .

Public toilets and baby changing facilities in Rome

Public toilets are few and far between in Rome.

You find some of them at the main sites (There is one at the Colosseum, one at the Vittoriano for instance) and they usually charge a 1 euro entry fee.

This is annoying but it does mean they are usually decently kept and, often but not always, stocked with toilet paper (this is not the case in free ones)

Your best bet when it comes to a toilet break is to ask in any bar / restaurants: the law in Italy made bar toilets open to the public so even if you don’t see a toilet sign, ask and they will have to let you in.

The state of these toilets is hit and miss and very small cafes may not have toilet paper: it is always wise, in Rome with a toddler, to carry some.

Baby changing facilities are not common in Rome but you do find them in some of the bigger restaurants, usually in the form of a folding changing table.

Where to by toddler essentials in Rome

In Rome, you can buy toddler essentials in the supermarket, in the pharmacy and in baby shops.

Supermarkets and pharmacies (farmacie) sell:

• Nappies/diapers (supermarkets; pharmacies)
• Baby formula (supermarkets; pharmacies)
• Soothers (bigger supermarkets; pharmacies)
• Baby powder (supermarkets; pharmacies)
• Baby toiletries such as shampoo etc (supermarkets; pharmacies)
• Soothers and Teethers (pharmacies)
• Weaning products and pushes (supermarkets; pharmacies)
• Baby and toddler medications (pharmacies only)

If you need bugger baby items such as car seats or strollers, most shops are outside of the center and may require a taxi ride or a hop on public transport.

Some you may find useful are:

Chicco Store (several locations): Via Gregorio VII, 226, 00165 Rome; Via Pier Vettori, 4 00151 Rome; Maximo Shopping Center, Via Laurentina, 865 00143 Rome; Centro Commerciale Porte Di Roma – Via Delle Vigne Nuove Snc 00139 Rome;   

Piu’ Bimbi – Via Luca della Robbia, 28/34 00153 Rome

Bimbostore Romanina – via Bernardino Alimena 38, 00173 Rome

Bimbin store – Via Tacito 66,68 00193 – 00193 Rome 

Finding toddler snacks in Rome

I often hear parents worrying about not being able to find toddler snacks in Rome and I have even read blog posts suggesting Italians do not snack.

If you came across these posts and they got you worried, let me just say this: do you really think Italian toddlers don’t snack?! Of course they do!

They may just have different snacks than what you have back home.

Classic toddler snacks in Rome are:

• Pizza Bianca (from the bakery / grocery store) – similar to plain focaccia
• Gallette di riso – rice cakes
• Biscuits (Plasmon and Gentilini are the most popular for little ones)
• Fruit pouches (omogeneizzati, in Italian)
• Mini cheese shapes

Of course, you will also find all your staples in main supermarkets, so you can make your own sandwiches, veggie snacks etc.

Where to buy toddler clothes in Rome

In Rome there are many baby and toddler stores, ranging from high street favourites to designer clothes.

Shops you may like are:

• Chicco stores – several locations
• Prenatal stores – several locations
• Oviesse OVS – Italian, budget chain stores perfect for everyday toddler clothing, several locations
• Zara Kids – several locations 
• H&M – several locations
• Du Pareil Au Meme – French baby and children store, several locations
• Original Marines – several locations 
• Baby boutiques: independent shops, usually in residential areas

Where to find medical help in Rome

Should you find yourself in need of medical help for your toddler while in Rome, you can consider the following:

118 – Medical emergencies only, this is the number to get an ambulance and get urgent help fast

Pharmacies – the first port of call for minor ailments or if you are unsure about the need for a doctor. They will be able to give basic medications or recommend medical help

Doctors in Italy  and  First Med  – English speaking doctors in Rome: for standard, non urgent, medical consultation

Your embassy – some embassies are able to help with names of specialists you may want to consult.

A note about Pharmacies / Farmacie in Rome

Farmacie in Rome are very useful shops! 

As the name suggests, farmacie is the Italian for pharmacy but they are not what you may be used to abroad. 

Farmacie in Italy are run by a pharmacist who can sell you medication (some with, some without prescription) but is also trained so that they can give adnice on how to treat minor ailments. 

Farmacie are also a great first port of call if you are not sure about how to tackle your baby being unwell as they will able to quickly direct you to a doctor should it be needed.

In farmacie, you can find diapers, soothers, teethers, hypoallergenic formula, baby suncream and baby medications, just to name a few of the products available.

They tend to be more expensive than supermarkets fo the same category of products. However the quality is usually higher. 

Please note that pharmacies have opening turns: should you local one be closed on a Sunday or after hours, they usually have a sing outside with name and address of after hour pharmacies in the area.

Good to know!  In Rome city center there are two large pharmacies with English speaking doctors (there are more, but these two are usually the easiest to find and reach while sightseeing in the center):

One is in Piazza Barberini, in front to the Triton’s fountain, on the corner with Via delle Quattro Fontane 

One is near Piazza Navona, just beside the Senate, on Corso Risorgimento / Piazza Madama.

What to pack for visiting Rome with a toddler

My must have list for visiting Rome with a toddler is as follow

• A good stroller with cobbles friendly tires and sun canopy
• A baby carrier
• A portable high chair
• Sun hat / baby friendly sun screen
• Insect repellent / post bite cream if visiting in summer
• Water bottle
• Water shoes

I hope you enjoyed this guide to visiting Rome as a young family and it helped answering the question: how can we visit Rome with a toddler?

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

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An ultimate guide to italy with kids.

Italy with kids is a trip to make anyone smile. Great food, a lovely climate, warm, hospitable people, beautiful sites and stunning locations. A family trip to Italy really does provide everything you could need from a holiday. We have taken numerous trips to Italy with kids, in fact our first holiday abroad as new parents was to Tuscany with our eldest when he was five months old. Since then we have returned regularly and in every season as we just adore the country so much. We’ve put together our guide based on all of our experience in Italy for kids. Here we have everything from the best of Italy family holidays to a breakdown of north Italy vs south Italy. We’ve also got what to do in Italy with toddlers to history that teenagers will love. An Italy family vacation will make the whole family happy and the best family holidays in Italy will always feature a lot of time for relaxing as the pace in the country is nicely relaxed. You can use the headings below to jump to different sections or read through the whole thing for a big, blast of Italy with kids inspiration.

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Table of Contents

Our guide to Italy with kids: Inspiration

We have written a number of features all about our trips to Italy with kids and provide them here, hopefully, as a source of inspiration.

One of our favourite trips was a winter trip to Puglia and Matera which was just full of winter colour. I would love to recreate that trip as we really enjoyed it.

We also took a spring road trip through Verona, Venice and the Italian lakes which was packed with changing scenery and beautiful sites.

As a different way to see the country we also took a cruise all around Italy . This was a fantastic way to see lots of the country without spending ages in a car, so the kids loved it.

Italy’s best sites

Italy is jam-packed with fantastic places to visit with kids and things to do. Some of our favourites are –

• Eating gelato….everywhere
• Seeing the mind-blowing streets of Pompeii
• Taking a speedboat to the islands of Venice
• Winding your way through the beehive shaped houses in Alberobello
• Exploring the Tuscan hilltop towns
• Running around the Colosseum
• Visiting the palaces of Genoa
• Eating in the world’s oldest pizzeria in Naples
• Taking a food tour through Palermo, Sicily
• Seeing the Leaning Tower of Pisa up close
• Staying in a traditional masseria in Puglia

Unique places to stay in Italy

• Staying in a former glassworks facttory in Murano, Venice
• Staying in a masseria in Puglia
• Staying on Lake Iseo, Italy
• Staying in a 14th century palace in Venice
• Staying in an historic town house in Verona
• A unique historic stay in Genoa

Read more: The best family holidays in Italy

Travelling to Italy with kids – Videos

We have made some short films about our trips to Italy with kids –

Where to go when visiting Italy with kids

Italy is such a diverse country and really changes as you travel around it. From the tranquil lakes of the north to the stunning countryside of Tuscany, the history laden cities of Rome and Venice to the laid back, rustic charm of the south. The abundance of Italy holiday destinations for families make choosing where to go a tricky one as each region gives something wonderful but very different from the others. Having this much to choose from means Italy is a destination to return to time and time again. And to always feel like you’re experiencing somewhere different.

Northern Italy including Venice, Verona and Genoa

Northern Italy is a varied region in itself with the touristy Venice being many people’s focus. But the beautiful Verona and bustling Milan are also worth more than a cursory glance.

The breathtaking Italian lakes are somewhere to come and really relax. With the fresh air and gorgeous scenery it will be hard to leave.

My favourite city in the north, perhaps my favourite anywhere, is Verona.

A trip through northern Italy with kids

The best family hotels in Venice

A spring trip to Verona

10 things to do in Verona with kids

Exploring the backstreets of Venice

The best things to do in Venice with kids

A family stay at Lake Lugano

Top things to do in Genoa with kids

Tuscany including Florence

We absolutely adore Tuscany. It’s one of the most picturesque regions of Italy with gently rolling hills and some of the world’s most beautiful cities such as Siena and Florence.

Go there for the history and a chance to relax and enjoy the hilltop towns nestled amongst the countryside.

A guide to Florence with kids

A guide to Livorno port

A recipe for Tuscan spaghetti with sun dried tomatoes

Central Italy including Rome, Pompeii and Naples

Head further south in to Italy for warmer temperatures and some world famous sights. Rome is a city that is absolutely mesmerising for kids, packed full of something to see at every turn. And Pompeii should be on everyone’s bucket list. It’s one of those places that you know will be wonderful but will surpass every expectation.

Exploring the Colosseum with kids

Stepping in to the home of a Roman Emperor

The best things to do in Naples with kids

Visiting Pompeii with kids

Pizza in the oldest Pizzeria in Naples

The best gelato in Rome? – Giolitti Rome, Italy

The south including Puglia and Sicily

Southern Italy is in a class of its own. Here, where the heat rises so does the friendly welcome (if this is at all possible, Italy is one of the friendliest countries to travel with kids). Everything becomes more rustic the further south you travel and the charm only increases with that.

A winter trip to Puglia and Matera

10 things to do in Puglia with kids

Exploring Alberobello with kids

Staying at Masseria Torre Coccaro, Puglia

A recipe for vegan Sicilian tomato focaccia

Travel to Italy with kids – key questions

We have rounded up some of the key questions people planning holidays in Italy with kids for the first time have. We hope they’re useful and do let us know if you have any others.

Where to go when visiting Italy for the first time?

I really think it’s impossible to go wrong with Italy so it probably comes down to your interests. If you’re looking for a laid back holiday with some good food and beautiful sights then a villa in Tuscany would probably be perfect for you. If you love history and culture then head for the cities of Rome or Florence . To feel like you’ve stepped back in time (albeit with hundreds of other tourists) then Venice can’t be beaten. This is a country that has so much to offer that every trip will make you wish you had longer to spend there.

North Italy vs south Italy

Again this is a very personal choice. The north offers more organised things to do in terms of museums and art galleries, especially some of the big cities. However the south has a special kind of charm where long days spent lingering over great food allow for their own kind of fun. What you’re looking for from a holiday will ultimately determine where you pick but plan more than one trip or a road trip through the country to really experience all of its different elements.

Italy with toddlers

We have visited Italy with a toddler and with a baby (as well as all the ages up to teenager) and it could not be more welcoming. While some of the sites may not be so pushchair friendly – Venice for example will be a much happier time with a carrier than buggy – you will not get a warmer welcome than in Italy. The food is as toddler friendly as it gets with pasta and pizza being top of the bill and restaurants are almost always willing to accommodate kids. Be prepared to be stopped and have your children’s hair stroked or an exclamation of delight uttered as you walk past.

What to wear when visiting Italy?

Italy is a very relaxed country and it’s best to wear whatever you’re comfortable in. Bear in mind that in summertime it can be very hot and humid. We’ve been in Rome when it was 41 degrees and stifling. Equally so it can get very cold in winter – a trip to Venice in January left us desperate for warmer clothes and even the south in winter will have chilly days.

What to buy in Italy with kids

Italy has some wonderful souvenirs from colourful pastas to Pinocchio gifts throughout Tuscany and beyond. In Puglia don’t miss the opportunity to pick up a colourful Cuccu , or whistle.

Buying a Cuccu in Matera

Italian food Recipes

As we love Italy so much we also love to cook up the food when we’re at home, to remind us of the warmth of this enchanting country. Check out some of them below (and visit our page full of world recipes here too) –

A Mozzarella Panzanella salad

Vegan orecchiette with sausage and brocolli

Tuscan spaghetti with sun dried tomatoes

Vegan pasta dough recipe – authentic recipe from southern Italy

Vegan Sicilian tomato focaccia

Italian pistachio and apricot blondies

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide and are ready to start your trip to Italy with kids.

Your Italy with kids checklist

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Traveling to Italy with a Baby or Toddler

Italians straight-up love babies and Italy is considered very kid-friendly on an individual level. Yet, when it comes to infrastructure the country isn’t the easiest for babies and kids, but it doesn’t mean that traveling to Italy with a baby isn’t possible and can’t be fun.

You can have a wonderful family vacation in Italy with a baby or toddler!

Many tourists come back from Italy and say it’s very baby-friendly, but after living in Italy and traveling the country extensively I also want to warn you about the reality of some situations when traveling with a baby.

People will stare, squeak, and smile at your baby everywhere. Some people love it, and some might find it annoying, but it’s just an Italian way of interacting with babies. 

Best Places to Visit in Italy with a Baby or Toddler

Where to go in Italy with a baby? You can pretty much go anywhere in Italy with a baby. As an expat in Italy, I’ve traveled to many spots around the country and found it all possible if you adjust your expectations.

Big cities are easily accessible by trains and smaller towns like those in Tuscany, can be reached by car. Traveling with a baby to Italy is easier than you think!

Babies and very young children don’t require tickets to museums and they ride on public transport for free.

While some cities are more baby and stroller-friendly than others, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible to visit them. There are plenty of places to stay at everywhere. I’ve done the Amalfi Coast with a baby , despite everyone telling me that it’s not going to be possible. It was a lot of fun!

I’ve also done Matera with a baby and while we encountered some difficulties, we had fun. The same goes for Rome or Venice , both often being described as challenging.

If you’re a skiing enthusiast or like hiking and nature, Dolomites might be a good spot to visit in Italy with children. There are plenty of stroller-friendly hikes and easy routes for walking kids to make everyone happy. 

One thing to take into consideration is that there aren’t really any children-oriented places. There are plenty of fun things to do with your baby or toddler (and let’s be real: babies don’t care much, but toddlers do) but it’s not a children’s place. Things like playgrounds are usually basic and there aren’t things like kids museums that you often see in the US or UK.

Booking Hotels with Babies in Italy

In the US you usually book a room and can roll in with two kids if they share your bed or you can bring your own crib. In Europe, things are slightly more complicated and it’s because hotels abide by very strict occupancy rules and can only accommodate a certain number of people per room – that includes babies.

Quite often you CANNOT book a double room meant for 2 adults only even if your baby is 3 months old and will sleep in your bed. The reservation system often doesn’t allow it and if you don’t indicate that you have a baby with you, you might be refused at check-in.

Most of the time when I cannot find a suitable room that will accommodate the baby or toddler I email the hotel and book a room over email or find out that it’s not possible. Better to be safe than sorry!

Speaking of accommodation, we’ve never brought our own travel crib anywhere in Italy. Instead, we book places that offered a free baby crib . Why?

Quite often you need to walk with your luggage to your hotel due to ZTL zones. Some places have parking lots available nowhere near the actual entrance and might need to be accessed by the stairs. Same with apartment rentals or agriturismos. You don’t want to drag any more stuff.

Left: Amalfi Coast, Right: Alberobello (Puglia). Both at 1-month-old.

Traveling to Italy with a Baby

Do babies need car seats in italy.

If you’re traveling to Italy with a baby and want to rent a car , you’ll be required to use a car seat . According to the Italian law about passenger safety, children who are under 36 kg (97 lbs) or 150 cm (4’9) must use appropriate child restraints, which are of two kinds: child car seats and boosters. That’s for rental cars.

However… it’s not against the law for newborns to ride in taxis without car seats, just like it is in France . Read more on packing for holidays with a baby .

(!) VERY IMPORTANT: If you want to bring your own car seat from the US , keep in mind that American car seats are officially illegal in the EU. Vice versa, a European car seat, certified ECE R44, can’t be used legally in the US.

While in Europe no one has ever fined anyone for American-style car seats, it technically could happen. Many parents have no idea about these laws, in fact, I didn’t know about them until I randomly stumbled upon an article and started researching it more.

You would more likely be fined for using European car seats in the US. In fact,  if you had an accident while your child was in a US seat in Europe, you can basically lose your insurance coverage. 

Now, why and what’s the difference? Both types of car seats are safe – don’t worry, but European standards are much higher and car seats are tested at higher speeds.

• US car seats have an extra piece on straps – a chest piece that’s illegal in Europe, as it only allows a 3-point harness system. Why? European standards require that seats allow a parent to release the harness in a single motion, so chest strap clips aren’t allowed.
• The way of installing the car seat without the base by using seatbelts is different . American seats can be installed with a lap belt only.

IMPORTANT: Either way, you should always have travel insurance – especially when traveling with a baby. You can add your baby (up to 3 kids actually) to your own policy when booking with Safety Wing .

Is Italy Stroller Friendly?

Short answer: not really.

But, it’s manageable and many Italians and tourists use strollers on a daily basis. I always used a stroller in Italy as well.

Many tourists recommend baby carriers, but as my baby and I are very anti-sling, we always manage with a stroller. In fact, I highly recommend it as you’ll be walking a lot and you don’t want to carry your baby all day.

Plus, changing facilities are rare in Italy, so it’s nice to have a stroller to change your baby’s diaper.

The problem with Italy is that most streets are cobblestones, which basically makes all cheap umbrella strollers useless. Don’t even dare to try – trust me, I’ve seen some tourists breaking them often in front of me which was a pretty amusing image.

However, if you have a big stroller like my Uppababy Vista or Cruz that rides smoothly on any ground, you won’t be able to enter many places with it. We used it at first, but within a month we pretty much started using Babyzen Yoyo+ exclusively (it manages cobblestones just fine!). I couldn’t even access certain stalls at the supermarket with my Vista, let alone enter a restaurant or elevators in hotels or apartments without having to fold it.

Plus, carrying a stroller through some steps or into the train or bus, is a daily occurrence. You don’t want to keep lifting a heavy stroller with bags and a child. 

On top of cobblestones, many pavements are simply not stroller-friendly at all. There will be gravel, broken cobblestones, no sidewalk, or a sidewalk with trees growing out of it in the middle. I kid you not. 

The most popular strollers in Italy used by Italians are:

• Babyzen Yoyo
• BabyJogger City Mini
• Cybex Libelle

I wrote reviews of all these strollers in a separate post . If you don’t travel to Europe often (where lightweight strollers are a must) and don’t want to buy a new stroller, you could consider renting some baby gear upon arrival.

Renting Baby Gear in Italy

Renting baby gear is a good solution for families who don’t want to pay for baggage fees, need a high chair in their self-catered apartment, travel stroller, or need a baby crib when the hotel doesn’t offer any. Rental companies deliver the gear to the airport, your hotel, or wherever you want them to deliver .

Here are a few companies that rent baby gear in Italy:

MammaMamma – Rent baby gear everywhere in Italy , including Sardinia . MamaRent  – Baby gear rental in Venice area (incl. Padova , and Treviso ).

Strollers in Italy

A lightweight stroller with durable wheels that fold easily is a must. Make sure your stroller reclines as you’ll want your baby to be able to nap in the stroller while you’re out exploring or eating.

Can You Bring a Stroller to the Colosseum in Rome?

Surprisingly it is. You CAN bring a stroller into the Colosseum. They even have an elevator installed if you want to visit the upper floors, but not many people know about it.

Can You Bring a Stroller to the Vatican?

Strollers are allowed with children, but not for pets (yep, that’s a rule). The only exceptions are the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica, but that’s understandable. You can safely leave your strollers and bags at the checking point in front.

Can You Bring a Stroller to a Museum in Italy?

You can! Strollers are allowed at the Vatican Museum, the Uffizi Gallery, and many other museums.

Is Venice Stroller Friendly?

The sad news is that while you can bring a stroller to Venice, it’s not recommended for those who can’t or don’t want to lift the pram .

You are constantly walking up and down the steps of small bridges across the canals, so unless you’re prepared to carry it through crowds (Venice is almost always crowded). But, this doesn’t mean that Venice cannot be visited with babies.

I always had a stroller in Venice, because to me it was more convenient to have it and lift it up the stairs than not having it. But, if you think you can bring a double full-size stroller to Venice, then I’ll have to break it to you: it’s not really possible.

Baby Products and Diapers in Italy

Baby formula is widely available all over Italy and in fact, it’s better than American formula . The EU does not allow European formula manufacturers to use corn syrup, glucose, fructose, rice syrup, table sugar (sucrose), or carrageenan, while American formula is indeed stuffed with sugar. 

One thing you should pay attention to is that, unlike American formula, European baby formula is divided into stages:

• Stage 1: from birth
• Stage 2: at 6 months
• Stage 3: at 12 months
• Stage 4: at 24 months

Make sure you buy the correct formula. My favorite brand is Aptamil (it has a white bear on the packaging). For babies who are displaying intolerance to formula, the brand Humana is best.

Do They Sell Pampers in Italy?

Yes, you’ll find US/International brands such as Pampers and Huggies, but they are more expensive in Italy. Especially if you decide to buy them at a pharmacy (don’t do that!).

The cheapest and actually great diapers I discovered in Italy are called Pee&Poo and can be bought at Prenatal (a popular kid’s store in Italy).

Baby Clothes in Italy

Bring enough baby clothes, or be prepared to wash them during your trip. There is no such thing as inexpensive clothes for kids in Italy. While you can easily find new baby onesies for $5 in the US, forget about it in Italy. 

On the other hand, baby clothes in Italy are of much better quality. They’re also extremely cute if you want to shop around.

But, on the other hand, if you want to buy any toys, especially wooden toys, it’s much easier and cheaper to get them in Europe. Take pikler triangles for example.

Left: Matera at 1 month, Right: Verona at 2 weeks.

What Do Babies Eat in Italy?

When to start feeding your baby solids, and what to feed them really varies per country and parents. In Poland, everyone is preaching about not giving a baby anything but milk until they’re 6 months old. To the extent that other moms will get furious at you if you feed your baby some fruit at four months. 

While Italians prefer to cook for their babies, when you’re traveling it’s normal that you would rather not be cooking and mushing things. Jars come in handy. 

Italian Baby Food

In Italy, most baby foods in jars come recommended from the 4th month. Baby biscotti (cookies) is one of the first foods for many Italian children. I even saw chocolate pudding being sold as 4 months+.

To my surprise, a lot of baby’s first foods are jarred horse meat, trout, or bunny meat – all labeled as ‘first foods’. They actually come with the cutest little animal images on the jar.

Single vegetable and fruit jars are nowhere to be seen as they almost come mixed with something else. 

Bringing Babies to Restaurants in Italy

I’ve never encountered or seen babies not being allowed at any restaurants in Italy, but this doesn’t mean that restaurants in Italy are entirely kid-friendly. 

Keep in mind that Italian families eat late. Few restaurants open their doors before 7:30 PM, so you’ll be forced to adjust yourself and your baby to a different schedule. Snacks for toddlers are essential.

No one will look at you strangely when you take your child for dinner or to a bar passed 9 PM. You’ll constantly see people drinking on the street in front of bars with kids sleeping in strollers late at night. It’s a very normal occurrence in Italy. 

I f you are making a reservation which is a must for small non-touristy places, it’s best to give the restaurant a heads up that you are booking the table and you have a baby. This doesn’t actually mean that your request for space with a stroller will always be granted (speaking from experience in Verona , Rome, Amalfi Coast , Matera ).

In places like Matera where almost all restaurants are in basements, we always had to fold a stroller and leave it outside. If the baby sits up, some restaurants provide a high chair that’s great but many do not (you can bring small foldable straps ).

Either way, big strollers simply won’t enter the restaurant, especially with a bassinet, so get yourself a small and lightweight travel stroller .

There is no such thing as a kid’s menu in Italy unless you’re going to a VERY touristy place which is most likely going to be pretty bad. Kids and babies in Italy eat what adults eat starting at around 8-12 months.

If your baby has no teeth, in the worst case you can order some steamed veggies and mush them with a fork or ask for plain pasta with cheese.

Changing Tables in Italy

Babies pee and poo a lot, but changing tables in Italy are almost always non-existing . These days if I find out it gives me a wow factor. Waiters at restaurants and people will stare and smile at a baby, but it doesn’t mean that they have baby facilities available anywhere.

Keep in mind when traveling to Italy with a baby, that many restaurants have loos downstairs or upstairs, so you can’t bring a stroller inside to change your baby. Even if you could it wouldn’t fit there, because toilets are tiny.

When traveling to Italy with a baby, always have an emergency changing mat that I’m prepared to roll out somewhere in the bathroom if the floor is clean enough. Otherwise, I find a dark street corner or park and change the diaper in a stroller. 

Public Transportation with Babies in Italy

While people claim Italy is a baby-friendly place, there are very few accessibility considerations in Italy. Be prepared to unload the stroller, grab the baby, and carry it all through flight stairs, because the elevator is broken or non-existent or it’s too crowded, or God knows what else. I’ve done it a million times in Verona alone.

Ironically, I also had to do it when visiting a pediatrician(!), because it was on the 2nd floor with no elevator. 

Buses & Trains

Babies ride for free on trains and don’t require an extra ticket. On some fast Frecciarossa trains there are certain seats marked as ‘stroller seats’, but I always find it easier to set a stroller next to me if I buy a seat on the opposite side of the aisle than the one marked as ‘stroller friendly’.

However, on most trains, you’re required to fold the stroller and put it in the luggage rack . As babies don’t have a ticket they’re not allowed to occupy an empty seat, so you need to hold a baby in your lap. 

Buses in Italy leave a lot to be desired and most have no space for strollers. While you’re technically not legally obliged to fold them before getting on if it’s too busy you might need to. Also, keep in mind that airport buses are not your typical buses, but coaches which means that all your luggage and stroller must go underneath the bus. 

I keep finding people on buses extremely unfriendly to strollers. They’ll keep pushing on you instead of asking for permission to pass. Navigating all of it can give you anxiety.

Do you have any questions about traveling to Italy with a baby?

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Donna Gilbert

Thursday 7th of March 2024

We are meeting our argentine family in Italy in June 2024 for a wedding near Perugia, Umbria. They can fly to and from Rome. We want to holiday with them, we are UK based, afterwards too. They have a 15 month old who walks & happy in his yoyo buggy. We thought amalfi after the wedding and Rome at the end of the holiday. Where's good to base ourselves or maybe 2 places. Happy to have an apartment. Hope you can help.

Sunday 31st of December 2023

Hi Anna! I absolutely love your posts and am now an official forever follower of your content! We are traveling to Italy in Feb/March (Rome, Florence, Venice, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Verona and Milan) with our daughter who will be 10 months old when we get there. We will also have our extended family with us who have a 7yo and a 3yo - so in total 8 people + 1 infant. A few questions:

- I would love to purchase formula there, as we use a European brand. Do you know if Holle Goat Milk formula (stage 2 & 3) are sold in Italy? - Do we need to make dinner and lunch reservations for that size of party everywhere? - We use the Honest brand diapers, but do you have a comparable clean European brand you recommend? - Any tips on getting to the Dolomites from Venice? Is bus best? Do we need to stay really close to a ski city center if we don't have a car?

Monday 8th of January 2024

Thank you!!! This is all so helpful! So excited to try even better diapers than what we have in the US as well :)

AnnaEverywhere

Friday 5th of January 2024

Thanks Elisabeth! - Holle is available, but only in specialized stores since it's a non-Italian brand without an Italian equivalent. Hipp is more popular, but either way you can get a goat milk formula in Italy. - For dinner reservations it truly depends on where. For Cortina I would and same goes for some restaurants in Verona since they're small. However, you might find spots in bigger restaurants. - There are many clean brands of diapers in Italy, but there's really no such thing as these American equivalent. Here why: in Italy every diaper is basically normal which means standard without chemicals (these are banned), so technically speaking they would all be like Honest. To be considered a "clean brand" in the EU, some might also be labeled as naturale (natural) or biodegradable (biodegradable) - both of which Honest are not since they have a print so they're not natural and also not biodegradable. You can find brands like Bambo Nature or Babylino in Italy which are truly biodegradable clean free of prints, but it's like a step further from Honest. Does that make sense? I'd say compatible to Honest I found a brand "Pee&poo" from Prenatal stores. They're not promoted as organic since they don't meet these two requirements, but free of perfumes and chemicals :) - In terms of transport since you're coming in the winter there's a Cortina Express. Definitely prebook as you're a bigger group, but it's a direct bus and takes 2.5 hours.

Monday 2nd of October 2023

Hello Anna, Do you know if there is a possibility to get from Treviso airport to Venice with 4-month old baby, a stroller and no car seat? Thank you very much in advance!

Sunday 8th of October 2023

There's always a possibility, but Treviso Airport is indeed pretty far from Venice itself. You need to take a bus and then train to get to Venice. Alternatively a taxi, but it's going to be costly as it's like 30 minutes away.

Maria-Fernanda

Monday 17th of July 2023

Hello Anna, Thank you for your informative and helpful blog post! My husband and I will be travelling to Northern Italy with our baby in September. She will be 11 months old by then. We are planning to visit Milan, Lake Como, Verona, Venice, Padua, Bologna, and Florence. Would you recommend us renting a car or travelling by train? I know it would be cheaper travelling city to city by train, and there are some downsides of renting a car (I.e. finding parking), but my gut is telling me that it’s more baby-friendly to travel with a car. Especially since you state in your post that babies have to be held while on a train. I think my baby could nap better while travelling by car. I would love to know your thoughts. Thank you, Fernanda

Anna Karsten

Tuesday 18th of July 2023

Another thing to consider when traveling by car is luggage. Even if you rent a standard car you will still fit only one suitcase in it, maybe two carry ons at the most - so this is something to keep in mind.

I would say that it could be convenient to have a car for Lake Como part (so Milan-Como-Verona). Then Verona to Venice is only an hour on a train and parking in Venice costs about 25-35 EUR hours a day and you still have to unload and load into a water taxi or walk so it doesn't save you any hassle. Do you have accommodation already booked? In case of Florence, Bologna and Padua unless your hotel has special parking permits you still cannot drive because of ZTL (not even to drop off the luggage and baby), so depending on where you stay you might have to drag your luggage from further away.

Personally at this age we took trains everywhere, because it was a hassle to take a car anywhere and stress about everyone honking when trying to stap the baby into the car seat, and our baby would take 2 naps a day (1.5 hour + 45min) and other times when awake was just pissed off in the car vs fine on trains or buses.

Thursday 15th of June 2023

Hi Anna, We are planning to bring a 11 months old baby and 2.5 y/0 toddler to Florence/Tuscany in September. Do you think we should bring our Baby Jogger Mini GT2 Double stroller to Tuscany? Or do you think it is too big to bring this stroller and what do you recommend to bring with 2 kids? two single strollers?

Friday 23rd of June 2023

Never bring a twin side-by-side stroller to Italy. Two small single strollers, because you won't fit anywhere otherwise.

Planning a Trip to Italy with Kids, Grandparents and Multigenerational Trips

Planning a trip to Italy with kids, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins (aka multigenerational travel ) can get complicated. And that is saying it mildly. Hotels, flights to Italy, Italian restaurants, places to visit in Italy, rental cars and travel insurance all has to be figured out. Just like planning a family wedding, spreadsheets, and massive email and text threads are sure to pile up.

Take a deep breath.

I’ve done it. Multiple times in fact, with friends and family, traveling to various locations. I have yet to use a travel agent, but sometimes it is easier to call one (we’ll talk about that later). But here is what you need to know when you want to plan a trip to Italy with kids… and the rest of your extended family.

Start thinking about Italy

My dad declared that he was finally ready to go to Italy. Did my sister’s family and my family want to join him and my mom? Oh, and did my aunt want to come too?  Not only would we have four separate family units traveling, but they would be traveling out of three different airports and flying in on two separate dates, and out on three separate dates. Confused yet? Understanding why we use a spreadsheet?

We don’t like to do things simply in our family.

It was time to start planning, and we started the process nine months ahead of time. This is not necessary, but my father was in a panic. What if everything booked up? We needed at least four rooms, or a big rental, everywhere we went. No matter how many times I reassured him, I knew it was just better to get it booked, so we could move onto the fun part. What’s the fun part? Planning our gelato tour of Italy of course!

Talk about your Italy Budget

We were all on a very specific budget. My parents, unlike many other boomer parents out there, were not footing the bill on this one. We knew we could not be extravagant, but we also knew none of us were going to be backpacking with kids or staying in hostels anymore.

Airfare would be the kicker. The sooner we could book, the better. Our kids didn’t get discounted rates any longer. No babies were going to be sitting on laps.

Hotels would be where we really would save or splurge. If we could stay around $5000 per family for the two week trip to Italy that would be ideal.

My dad and I, the chief vacation planners on this trip, dug in.

Italy with Kids

When people ask me where to go in Europe, Italy with kids is at the top of my list. The food is kid-friendly, and the people are warm and welcoming to kids of all ages.

No one wants to visit a country that looks down on their children for being there. I know that I can enjoy a leisurely meal, with multiple courses, really good wine, and my kids won’t go crazy. Why? Because they will be running around with all of the other children in the Piazza who’s parents are doing the same thing.

I remember the first time I was in Italy back in college. I was mesmerized by the little boys and girls playing football (soccer) in the square. They would run up to their mothers, take a bite of pasta and run back to their friends. The adults continued to converse, arms waving as they spoke animatedly with one another. This was a scene I knew well from my own upbringing, my father coming from a large Irish Catholic family. Holidays were never a quiet, subdued occasion.

When I had my own boys, and we headed to Europe for the first time together, I wasn’t surprised when the grandmothers walked up to me, lecturing me in Italian that my infant was too hot, too cold, needed a hat, or was just too cute that she had to hold him.

Italy is a communal culture. Even though I barely knew what each grandmother was saying, the intent was clear. Grandma knew better than me, and she was going to let me know that. I smiled, fixed my son to her liking and she moved on. I then removed the layers once she was out of site. You don’t piss off an Italian Nona!

Planning a Trip to Italy

Planning a trip to Italy with kids is just like planning a trip anywhere else in Europe. Yes, there is a different language involved, but there are still plane tickets to buy, cars to rent and hotels to book. Thanks to modern technology, you can do most of the research online. But you do need to stay organized, especially if you are planning the trip for a large group.

• Designate one to two people as the chief vacation planning officers. Everyone can have an opinion, but these people are in charge of all of the moving pieces.
• Set up a Google spreadsheet so you can easily coordinate information back and forth between the organizing parties. This is where hotel options can be placed. No one needs to get 25 text messages about different hotels someone found. House all of the options in one tab on your spreadsheet so you can go over them during a phone call together.
• One person is in charge of booking lodging. This will stop double bookings and confusion from happening. Do this together in person or over the phone if you like to make sure no mistakes are made.
• Once your lodging, flights and car rentals are booked, keep all confirmation numbers, addresses, etc. in your spreadsheet so everyone can access the numbers before your travel dates.

Places to Visit in Italy

There are a lot of gorgeous spots to visit in Italy. If this is your first trip, as I was facing with my family and sister’s family, you will want to hit the highlights. Make sure everyone has a say, and remember, Italy is a small country, but packs a powerful punch. It feels like you can see and do it all in two weeks, but you will want to linger. You can NOT do the entire country in two weeks.

Suggested Itinerary:

• 3 days in Venice
• 6 days in Tuscany
• 5 days in Rome

Grab more Florence Day trip Ideas . 

This itinerary gives you a lot of wiggle room for day trips, especially when you are in Tuscany. If you set yourself up in a central location, just outside of Florence, near Sienna or down in Cortona, you will have multiple spots you can explore. Depending on your accommodations, you can also leave some of the family back at the hotel, rental or agriturismo to relax, while you hit the road to explore the Cinque Terre, Assisi, and farther afield.

Flights to Italy

Round trip flights make the most sense to many families and can be the most cost effective, but it may not always save you time. Think about flying into one airport and out of another if you are going to be exploring the northern and the southern parts of the country. For example, fly into Venice and out of Rome so you don’t have to spend time driving between the two just to make your flight.

It may cost you $100 more, but think about the extra gas, tolls and rental car day you won’t need a book. You could end up saving money in the long run. Your sanity and time is also worth money, which many people often forget.

Accommodations in Italy

When you are traveling to Italy with kids, you can book a hotel room, or you could rent a small apartment to grab a little more space. Whenever we are in Europe, we look at rentals first. A rental generally gives us more space for our money, and a little privacy. Plus, my kids snore and it drives me nuts. If I have to spend a few dollars more for a good night sleep, I’ll do it.

If you have a larger family or extended family traveling with you, make sure you ask these questions first:

• Do you want to share rooms?
• Do you need communal space?
• Do you need a kitchen?
• Can the kids all squeeze in with parents or do you want some space?
• Do grandparents want separate space from kids and grandkids?
• Do you want to rent a large house or apartment to share?
• Do you want to all book rooms in the same hotel or rent apartments close to each other?

There are a lot of options, and many can be sorted by cost alone.

We look at Booking.com , Tripadvisor.com and KidandCoe.com whenever we start our accommodation search. It will give you a good idea of your options and what sort of configuration you may want. One thing to note, and that I had to remind my father about– if it says there is only one room left, but the property only has one room, do not panic. It’s a booking tactic. Yes, that one room could book out, but it may not. They only have one room, so they will always only have one room left!

Rental Cars in Italy

You could take the train from city to city in Italy, but I prefer to rent a car to get around. It gives you a little more flexibility, especially if you want to go to Tuscany. If you are flying into Venice and out of Rome, you simply pick up a car when you are leaving Venice and return the car when you get to Rome. You do not need a car when you are in major cities. It’s a huge headache and you can walk everywhere.

As for the size of your car, smaller is always better in Europe. Trust me. I’ve taken off a side view mirror in Sicily. It was not fun. Driving in Ireland , Scotland and Spain also taught me a thing or two about driving in Europe.

My father and I momentarily thought about getting one four passenger and then a larger van, but nixed that idea pretty quickly. After a quick search on RentalCars.com, we found that it was cheaper to get three Intermediate cars for our group.

Check Best car rental rates in Italy HERE. 

Since we also had two people flying into Florence to meet up with us later in our trip, it just made sense to have three cars too. Everyone would have the flexibility they wanted to explore without feeling dependent on anyone else or what they wanted to do.

Trip to Italy Cost

What can you expect your trip to Italy costs to be? Well, it really is dependent on you, what airline you fly and what time of year you are flying. However, for a family of four, we are looking at about $6000 for a two-week trip, which includes decent hotels in Venice and Rome, a beautiful suite in an agriturismo in Tuscany, a 7-day rental car, and all the gelato I can eat, which is a lot. Our airfare is also a bit more because my husband has to fly home early, and not on optimal days to fly, but it being summer and all, I’d say that isn’t too bad.

Travel Insurance for Your Italy Trip

Yes, you do want and need travel insurance. If you plan on traveling more than twice this year, domestic or international, you will want a multi-trip policy too. No, that travel insurance add-on with your flight won’t work. It just doesn’t cover EVERYTHING that can happen on your trip. Oh sure, it will cover your flight, but what about your hotels, rental car, accidents on the road, lost luggage, kids falling out of trees, etc.

My family of four is renewing our Allianz Travel Insurance policy for the fourth year in a row. I’m making my extended family buy an Allianz policy before our trip as well.

Sample of Allianz covers (depending on your plan):

• Emergency Medical Transportation
• Travel Accident Coverage
• Collision Damage Waiver*
• Emergency Medical
• Trip Cancellation and Interruption
• Baggage Loss/Damage
• Travel Delay and Baggage Delay
• Rental Car Damage Protector (available to residents of most states

Need another reason: My grandmother had an accident in Rome that no one in my family will ever forget. She was in the hospital for a month before she could be medevacked home. If she hadn’t had travel insurance, we would still be paying that medical flight bill. Instead, her insurance covered it all. Thank goodness!

And let me tell you, even if you travel domestically, if you break your leg, yes, your health insurance will cover that leg, but they sure won’t cover that first-class ticket home you will need. You can’t fly economy with your leg in a cast.

Get your FREE quote now.

Italian food options.

The best part of Italy with kids is the food. What kid doesn’t like pasta, pizza and gelato (better than ice cream, I swear). Actually, there is one kids—my oldest son didn’t like pizza or anything with tomato sauce for years.

Read our guide on  where to eat in Italy if you need more convincing.

Not a problem. Italian food isn’t just red-sauce pasta and pizza. They make a wild boar pasta (recipe here ) that makes me cry, roasted rosemary chicken, fried zucchini and pumpkin flowers, salads, cheeses, cured meats, grilled fish, bread soup, risotto, ossobuco, steaks, things with truffles I only once dreamed about, and more desserts than I can even list so you might as well just book that plane ticket and come over to eat with me.

Need an Italy Travel Expert to Plan it for You?

Bit overwhelmed by the idea of planning a trip for your entire family? I understand. I was too. Drop us your questions and we will try to help you as much as we can or connect you to a travel agent friend who will be happy to help you out.

This post is part of a partnership with Allianz Travel. As always, my opinions are my own. When they aren’t you will be the first to know. This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of those links I will receive a small commission.

About The Author

Keryn Means

4 thoughts on “planning a trip to italy with kids, grandparents and multigenerational trips”.

I would like to take m twenty year old granddaughter to Italy for a first trip. I have traveled a lot but am eighty three years old. I also need to keep a budget in mind. What is the best way to o it? Should I do all of the arrangements (which has me overwhelmed) for a trip the end of May or mid August or should I book a tour? We have about ten or twelve days to spend. Are there an excellent tour groups (not necessarily Tauck) or should I just try to do this myself in order to save money. The our children were young we either made all of our own plans and drove or took a train or used a group like ABC (currently out of business) which used excellent guides and accommodations with mostly school teachers as travel companions. Now, suddenly I am really overwhelmed. Do you have any suggestions? By the way I also live in the DC area . Thank you very much

Hi – Thank you for this article. I am headed to Italy the day after Christmas. We will be in Rome for 5 days and that portion is taken care of but I need help with the final six days. My parents and mother in law, all in their late 70s, will be joining us. I think Tuscany is our best bet even if it’s not ideal in January. My question: My parents do not want to drive while they are there. My husband will drive but your article said do not get a big van. I originally thought we could stay at a villa or argriturisimo but now I’m thinking we should stay in a city like Florence or Sienna and take trains. I was hoping after Rome to get out of the bigger cities. Thoughts? I appreciate any advice! And if you have travel agent recos, I normally don’t go that route but may this time. Take care, Mary

We have family in calabria, any ideas about places to stay down there that can accommodate 11 ppl? 5 rooms?

Hi Maria, I’d suggest looking at VRBO or AirBNB to see if you can find a property that would fit your needs. That’s what we do whenever I travel with my extended family. If you want more personalized help, please reach out to our preferred travel agent, Jenn Greene – [email protected] — and let her know we sent you over. Thanks! Keryn

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Is traveling to Rome with little kids a good idea?

ecstk22 | omravestudio | Shutterstock

For Catholics, Rome is a sort of homecoming, a return to a place that you may have never visited before. The Eternal City will always feel familiar because it is the heart of the Catholic Church. Years ago, I lived in Rome for several years as a student at a Pontifical University. At the time, I was a young, single adult. Sixteen years later, I returned with my husband and five children, including our infant!

There’s no doubt that bringing so many kids on any international trip can be a challenge, but it’s doable and worth it. Allow me to share a little bit of the wisdom my family and I gained from our trip.

Make Rome familiar ahead of time

You may have dreams of seeing every single major Catholic site during your time in Rome. Even for an adult this would be difficult; with kids, it’s important to recognize that goal may be impossible. What you can do, however, is familiarize your kids with the major sites and prioritize your “must-sees.”

It was important for my husband and I that our whole family spend time at St. Peter’s Basilica. My big boys (11 and 10) know all about ancient Rome and were fascinated by the catacombs. Our 7-year-old girl has had some art education, and we knew the Vatican Museums would have something for everyone, so that also made it on the schedule.

Depending on the time of year, Rome can be very crowded, so if there is a site you really want to see, try purchasing tickets online ahead of time . In the case of the Vatican Museums, pre-purchasing tickets will also allow you to skip an enormously long line! Most churches, of course, are free to enter, but if you want to visit the Pantheon (now a church) or the catacombs, buy your tickets in advance if you can.

Make your trip personal

Rome truly has something for everyone. Even my little girls who aren’t very into history were really excited when I mentioned that there is a cat sanctuary located in the Roman ruins of Largo Argentina (they spotted 12 cats). After choosing our top destinations and pre-booking, when possible, we thought of other spots that could be individually special to different members of our family or our family as a whole.

Patron saints are a great way to connect to Catholic Rome. Our Peter loved the fact that he shared a name with the Vatican. We prayed for their Grandmom at a church that shared a derivative of her name. I have a devotion to the Divine Mercy and took a special walk to the “Divine Mercy Church” (actually called Santo Spirito in Sassia) with my 5-year-old.

What saints are important to you as a family? Which saints are your kids familiar with? We have found that making these connections are a great way to make a lasting impression on kids.

Once you have a picture of the basic sites you will visit, I suggest choosing your hotel or rental location based on where you’ll be spending the majority of your time . Rome is a big place, so if you can position yourself near a metro line or bus hub that will help. I personally recommend looking for accommodations near the Vatican in the “Prati” area or in the center of the historic area of Rome, near Piazza Navona or Piazza del Popolo.

Make your trip experiential

There is so much to see in Rome that sometimes all the churches and historic sites can blur into one another. And since most activities are “hands off,” I recommend seeking out as many hands-on activities as you can .

At Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, pilgrims can write prayer intentions on slips of paper and leave them on St. Catherine of Siena’s tomb. Among them can be found my 7-year-old’s heartfelt prayer for a friend and my 5-year-old’s drawing of her buddies at home. Lighting candles (have some Euro change for an offering) and counting angels in churches have been popular with my girls. For older kids, consider climbing the Holy Steps (Scala Sancta) on your knees with other pilgrims or trying to visit all four major basilicas (St. Peter, St. Mary Major, St. John Lateran and St. Paul Outside the Walls) in a single day.

Make it to St. Peter’s

No trip to Rome is complete without going to the Vatican. To visit the interior of the church, plan on getting there early to avoid a huge line. At the time of this article, they open at 7 a.m. unless there is a major event going on. If you stay nearby, take an early morning walk (perhaps with a pitstop for cappuccinos and cornetti) to the Vatican. There is nothing like the early morning light on the piazza and inside the church.

There is so much to see at St. Peter’s, but don’t miss Michelangelo’s Pieta on the right immediately when you enter. Many popes, including St. John Paul II, are buried there, so look out for stairs leading to the crypt if that’s important to you. Older kids might enjoy taking the (500+) stairs to the cupola and soaking in the amazing view (there is a small fee to do this). Kids won’t want to miss a look at the Swiss guards and their incredible uniforms!

If you’d like to attend an event with the Holy Father, it takes a little more planning. If you are an American, I suggest visiting the website of the North American College (the Roman seminary for Americans) as soon as you know you are making the trip. You can submit requests to attend Papal audiences (usually Wednesdays, so leave room on your calendar), Papal Masses, and more. There is no cost for any of these things, but you will need tickets.

If you are attending a big liturgy, as my family did for Palm Sunday, keep in mind that there are big crowds and that people arrive hours early to get good seats. We found, however, that we were happier arriving only 20 minutes ahead of time. While we didn’t have seats, we had room to move around and -= and there was no way of predicting this — we actually ended up being at a fence where the Holy Father passed by and so we had a close-up encounter with him. On a practical note, the Vatican has clean bathrooms on the left side of the piazza and also a good post office for helping the kids write notes to friends and family at home.

Make your journey to Rome a Pilgrimage

My final advice is to think of your trip as a pilgrimage . Visit the Eternal City with your prayer intentions and soak in whatever the Lord blesses your family with. You will miss some sites and have unexpected graces in others. It may — as it did for us — rain for several days and you’ll have to bring out the ponchos and the back up plans (my kids loved the Children’s Museum).

Expect the unexpected, accept whatever comes, and grow in holiness together as a family during your pilgrimage to Rome.

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A Guide To Traveling With Toddlers

Posted: May 12, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

Traveling can be a lot of work, particularly if you're taking an airplane or a train to your destination. There are many things you need to do and prepare for in advance. Now imagine taking along a toddler while you navigate a busy airport or bus station or spend time in a hotel. This little addition can easily double the amount of work you need to do.

Toddlers have specific needs that you have to address when you're on a road trip or family vacation. Fortunately, if you plan in advance things will go much more smoothly. We have several tips for parents who are planning on traveling with children who are one, two, or three years old.

Bring Plenty Of Snacks

Everyone likes snacks, and toddlers are old enough that you no longer have to worry about baby formula and baby food. You can bring a variety of food items along with you when you travel, including fruit, veggies, snack pouches, crackers, and juice boxes. Whatever they eat at home, bring it along when you travel.

Don't forget sippy cups and tiny Tupperware containers to contain all the goodies. If your child likes milk, bring that too because it may not be available if you're flying on an airplane.

Vaccinate In Advance

Toddlers are vaccinated on a routine basis. But you don't want them to get stuck with a needle in the few days leading up to a trip. That's because it's not uncommon for them to experience side effects such as fevers, rashes, and diarrhea. Traveling with a toddler is hard enough, so you don't want to do it if they're not feeling well.

If you know your child's vaccinations are coming up, get them done at least a week before you're leaving. That way, if they have an adverse reaction it should clear up before you hit the road.

Travel At Night

If you're traveling on a plane try to book a night flight so you and your toddler can sleep a bit. Overnight flights are good because your toddler will be tired, and it will be dark enough inside the cabin for him or her to sleep.

And in case you don't have access to a blanket from the airline (or fear it may be filled with germs), wear a big scarf instead. You can wrap the scarf around your child to block out the daylight or overhead light.

Bring Your Child's Favorite Toy Or Blanket

Many children get very attached to a particular toy, stuffed animal, or blanket. If they have to have it at home, there's a good chance they have to have it when they're traveling as well. So, don't forget to pack it, and double-check that you brought it.

Make sure to keep tabs on the item, as well. Some parents recommend buying two of the same blanket (or toy) in case something happens to the original. Why have a melt down when you can avoid it?

Stretch Your Legs On A Flight

Flying can be confining for a toddler, who has lots of energy and enjoys running around. While there's not a lot of space on airplanes, you shouldn't try to keep your kid secured on your lap or in the adjacent seat the entire time. Get up and stretch!

It's a good idea to walk around a little bit down the aisle and back, even if it's just for a few minutes. This will distract your toddler and give them something different to do.

Supply Your Toddler With Entertainment Options

While (most) adults are patient enough to get through a flight or train ride by reading, sleeping, or checking their phones, toddlers need constant stimulus. They have a tough time flying and traveling in general without being occupied by some type of activity. Make sure you provide it for them.

There are plenty of toys they can use on the go. If you let them use a tablet, don't forget to bring the charger and headphones so it stays fully operational.

Don't Be Too Hard On Yourself

When you're traveling on a plane, you hope your toddler behaves and doesn't have a meltdown. But sometimes it happens. Kids freak out. Yet, if you're traveling a long distance you may not have another way of getting there other than by plane, and fellow passengers need to accept that.

Do what you can to minimize the noise and fix the problem, but don't feel bad. As long as you're doing what you can to calm down your child, that should subdue most people. Plus, it's their fault if they didn't bring noise-canceling earbuds.

Pack Multiple Outfits Per Day

Pack enough clothing so that your toddler has two outfits per day. Also, make sure some of the clothing can be mixed and matched together. This is helpful if a shirt or pair of pants gets dirty, and you don't want to change your child's entire outfit.

Check to see if the place where you will be staying has a washing machine (and whether you'll have time to use it). This can cut down on the amount of clothing you must carry. Adults may also want to take some extra outfits in case they get wrapped up in their toddlers' messes.

Don't Forget Baby Toiletries

Babies and toddlers typically have very specific toiletries that are different from adult products. This can include everything from soap and shampoo to toothpaste and diaper cream. Most hotels only provide adult toiletries, so you should make sure to bring what you need.

Store the products in a plastic bag to avoid potential leaks. Make sure you bring whatever you use in case there's an emergency in the middle of the night and you don't have access to a 24-hour pharmacy.

Don't Skimp On Diapers

If your toddler isn't toilet trained, bring a lot more diapers than you think you will need. This is particularly important if you're traveling to places that may not have the brand that you like. It's easier to be prepared than to deal with the consequences, which can be very inconvenient.

Diapers are not too difficult to pack, and it's better to be safe than to run out of them. This goes for pull-ups as well because toddlers are still learning and may have an accident while traveling.

Ask For Assistance

Some airlines have a meet and assist service for families. This is particularly beneficial if you are a parent traveling with a toddler by yourself. These programs can help you board and when you arrive at your destination.

If you have more than one child, or you don't have a lot of travel experience, this can be life-changing. It can be really hard to wrangle a couple of kids and carry luggage at the same time.

Plan Ahead When It Comes To Sleeping Arrangements

If possible, you'll want to keep your toddler on the same sleep routine whether they're at home or traveling to another location. So, you need to plan in advance when it comes to sleeping arrangements. You can either sleep together in the same bed, ask the hotel for a crib, or bring along your own travel crib or pack-and-play.

There are pros and cons to each of these scenarios, and ultimately it depends on how well your toddler sleeps while traveling and what they prefer sleeping on.

Ask Airline Staff About Empty Seats

Kids under age two usually fly for free because they sit on a parent's lap. This isn't always comfortable for either the toddler or parent. If the flight isn't full, you may have an opportunity to get a free seat. Simply talk to the gate agents and flight attendants to see if there's an empty seat available.

They may move you and your toddler to a row with an empty seat, which will give both you and your toddler more room to relax. Plus, you save by not having to book and pay for the seat in advance.

Pack A First-Aid Kit

No matter where you're traveling, you should always carry a first-aid kit that can be used by both children and adults. If you want to be super prepared during a flight, take one with you on your carry on, and pack another one in your check-in luggage.

The small one should include travel-sized items, such as Band-Aids, Tylenol, and Benadryl. The larger kit should include bigger-sized bottles of similar items as well as additional supplies, such as Neosporin.

Leave Plenty Of Time To Get Where You Need To Go

The worst thing about traveling is running late and having to rush to the airport or train station. This can be much worse when you have a toddler in tow. Make sure you plan plenty of time to get to the airport, for example. And by plenty of time, we mean hours in advance.

If you get there too early, find a play area for your toddler to use. This will tire them out and make them a little more manageable on the plane.

Rent, Borrow, Or Buy Supplies At Your Destination

Toddlers require a lot of accessories, but you may not have to take everything with you when you travel. For example, many car rental companies can provide child car safety seats for an additional fee (just make sure they're up to code). Hotels also have cribs and pack-and-plays for guests. Make sure to reserve one in advance.

Theme parks and museums often have strollers that you can rent. And at worst, you can buy an umbrella stroller for $20 or so from Walmart or another store if you need it.

Choose Accommodations With Space To Play

Sometimes a toddler just needs to run around, and many of them don't like being corralled into small spaces. Try to choose a hotel that has a courtyard or area where your kids can burn off some energy. Or look for a hotel that's close to a park or shopping mall.

At worst, you can let your toddler run around the hotel's hallways if it's raining outside. Just be sure to do it in the daytime and not at night when it can disturb other guests.

Talk To Your Toddler About The Trip

If you're taking your child on a plane for the first time, explain to them what you're doing. Talk to them about airplanes, and let them know what's going to happen on the flight. Tell them ahead of time, for example, that they will need to wear a seat belt.

Many kids enjoy the adventure, but they may not understand what's happening when it comes to things like security lines. As long as you keep them informed, they will be more comfortable and ready to get to their destination.

Traveling can be tiring, and if you have a toddler with you then it's even more exhausting. It may be easier said than done, but try to remain calm as much as you can. While this can be hard if your kid is having a tantrum, getting worked up about it won't solve anything.

Take a step back, and take a deep breath. Understand that your son or daughter is acting out for a reason, and try to come up with a way to calm them (and yourself) down.

If You're Traveling With A Partner, Rely On Them To Carry Luggage

Getting on an airplane with a toddler can be difficult to manage, especially if you have a lot of carry-on luggage in tow. Many families are allowed to enter the plane early if they have small children, so if you're traveling with your partner, take advantage and send them with the luggage. This way, they can snag the overhead storage space while you're minding your toddler.

But before you even get on the plane, make sure you let your child burn off some energy in the gate area. They will be confined for a couple of hours (if not more), so keep them active before they're forced to settle down.

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What Happened When This Italian Province Invested in Babies

The area around Bolzano has a thick network of family support provided by the government. That means a steady birthrate in a country facing a demographic plunge.

By Jason Horowitz and Gaia Pianigiani

Jason Horowitz reported from Bolzano, Italy, and Gaia Pianigiani from Siena.

In a municipal building in the heart of the alpine city of Bolzano, Stefano Baldo clocked out of work early for his breastfeeding break.

“It’s clear I don’t breastfeed,” Mr. Baldo, a 38-year-old transportation administrator, said in his office decorated with pictures of his wife and six children. But with his wife home with a newborn, one of the parents was entitled by law to take the time, and he needed to pick up the kids. “It’s very convenient.”

Full houses have increasingly become history in Italy, which has one of the lowest birthrates in Europe and where Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, as well as Pope Francis, has warned that Italians are in danger of disappearing. But the Alto Adige-South Tyrol area and its capital, Bolzano, more than any other part of the country, bucked the trend and emerged as a parallel procreation universe for Italy, with its birthrate holding steady over decades.

The reason, experts say, is that the provincial government has over time developed a thick network of family-friendly benefits, going far beyond the one-off bonuses for babies that the national government offers.

Parents enjoy discounted nursery schools, baby products, groceries, health care, energy bills, transportation, after-school activities and summer camps. The province supplements national allocations for children with hundreds of euros more per child and vaunts child-care programs, including one that certifies educators to turn their apartments into small nurseries.

All of that, experts say, helps free up women to work, which is vital for the economy. As in France and some Scandinavian countries, it also shows that a policy of offering affordable day-care services has the power to steer Italy from the impending demographic cliff as the birthrate falls.

“If we don’t invest money in families, there is no future for any of us,” said Waltraud Deeg, a former province council member and an architect of some of its family policies. “The family is a long-term project, so policies need to be long term, too.”

That approach not only distinguishes the area around Bolzano, it also stands out in Italy in other important ways that may make its example hard to replicate.

For a good chunk of its history, the Alto Adige area belonged to the assorted empires of Austria, which called it South Tyrol, until Italy annexed it in the early 1900s. It retains a measure of independence over its tax euros and financial decisions, and culturally, it can feel like another, more Austrian world than the rest of Italy. Most people still speak German and are more likely to tuck into bread dumplings than a bowl of pasta.

The area also has the highest income per resident in Italy, according to ISTAT, the country’s statistics agency.

Outside his office, Mr. Baldo walked past a blue wreath marking the arrival of a co-worker’s first grandchild and exited the building through a lobby filled with fliers advertising “Welcome Baby” backpacks loaded with tips for new parents and picture books.

He hopped on his scooter and arrived at the nursery school to pick up his 5- and 4-year-old sons. “Oh, you want both of them?” the preschool teacher joked. “But let me hide one under my apron.”

The boys strapped on their Bolzano-issued “Welcome Baby” backpacks and walked across the street with their father to pick up their little brother at another nursery for younger children. The four then crossed the street to their rent-stabilized apartment, where Mr. Baldo’s wife, Tiziana Balzamá, 39, greeted them with an infant in her arms.

Experts say the province’s sustained and reliable financial commitment to families matter more than the short-term baby bonuses that Italy’s unstable national governments have favored for decades.

“The difference is that it has a constant investment, over the years, unlike most national policies that are one-offs,” said Agnese Vitali, a demographer at the University of Trento. “Nobody plans to have children based on one-off policies.”

The Baldo family said provincial support meant everything to them. As a cake rose in the oven, Ruben, 2, played a children’s song, while his brothers Beniamino, 5, and Gioele, 4, showed off the plastic vegetables in their play kitchen. Their parents sat next to a toy cash register and explained that, like every parent in the province, they received 200 euros a month for each of their six children until they turned 3.

That was on top of the monthly check for 1,900 euros, or about $2,000, they received from the national government for their children.

Their Family + card, available to all families with three or more children, entitled them to 20 percent off many supplies around the city and was linked to the local Despar supermarket for additional discounts. Ms. Balzamá said she also made use of savings on public transportation.

When the family-friendly subsidies started in the 1980s, the province also imported the idea of the Tagesmutter, or childminder, day-care system from East Germany. Italians call it Casa Bimbo. Under the system, the province certifies, registers and supports local teachers who turn their homes into nurseries. It is especially popular in rural areas.

“They bet on a network of widespread micronurseries,” said Mariangela Franch, an economics professor at the University of Trento.

Ms. Balzamá, who worked in classrooms around the province before her first son was born, said she had looked into a yearlong course to become a Tagesmutter but concluded that for now it made more financial sense to stay home.

“It was my choice to say that I will wait to go back to work,” she said.

For mothers who do wish to return to work — like her sister, a nurse, with four children of her own — Ms. Balzamá said the province also offered inexpensive public nursery schools.

Some experts say the province’s attitude toward family benefits is rooted in the desire of a minority culture in a historically disputed area to keep alive a strong identity by encouraging people to have more children. That cultural factor becomes clearer when looking across the border to Trentino, the other — and more culturally Italian — part of the larger region.

Trentino has also invested heavily in child care — a strategy that predates and in some cases outstrips its neighbor. Its birthrate has nevertheless plunged to 1.36 children per woman, much lower than Alto Adige-South Tyrol’s and much closer to the dismal national average.

“The local culture also plays an important role,” said Alessandro Rosina, a prominent Italian demographer. “And that is hard to export.”

Mr. Baldo, who does not speak German, says he is as Italian as anyone. He said his Catholic faith and affection for the chaos of big families — his wife is one of eight children — motivated the couple to have children, a decision enabled by provincial policies.

At 4 p.m., he rushed out to pick up his other two sons from school in his white van. He said he had ordered a new one, with nine seats, and that anything bigger would require a special license.

He waved to the volunteer retirees in fluorescent green vests who made up what the province called “grandparent traffic cops.” In addition to acting as crossing guards, he explained, they also marched children to school in the morning in a program called “the walking bus.”

Mr. Baldo’s older boys — Raffaele, 10, and Elia, 8 — piled into the van, and they all rode home. Their grandmother Renata Canali, 71, had stopped by and demanded that her daughter-in-law “give me my grandson.”

“Ciao, ciao, ciao,” she said to the infant, Giona, 6 months old. “He’s as beautiful as the sun.” Some of the boys drew or danced, while the others got ready for dinner, showers or soccer practice.

“Many of our friends have one or two children because they want to live their lives. But here if they wanted, they have help,” Ms. Balzamà said. “We have a friend in Rome who has four kids. They pay a ton for help.”

Jason Horowitz is the Rome bureau chief for The Times, covering Italy, the Vatican, Greece and other parts of Southern Europe. More about Jason Horowitz

Gaia Pianigiani is a reporter based in Italy, covering breaking news across Italy and Europe. More about Gaia Pianigiani