rome family trip

How to Plan the Perfect Family Trip to Rome

Any list of the most visited cities in the world always includes Rome. There's no question why. Full of temples, churches and architectural marvels, Rome is a journey through time. With a history spanning 28 centuries, Rome is one of the oldest continuously occupied cities in Europe, with its entire city center listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. But Rome is also a family-friendly destination today, with plenty of hotels ready to roll out the red carpet to those with points, cash, or a mix of both.

Get ready to hit the cobblestone streets, enjoy gelato to your heart's content and see the marvelous reminders of Rome's days of glory. Here's our guide to everything you need to know to plan your family trip to the Eternal City.

How to Get to Rome

Most flights to Rome arrive at Rome–Fiumicino International Airport (FCO), the eighth-busiest in Europe and the main hub for Alitalia.

Ciampino (CIA) is Rome's second airport, serving mostly inter-European flights and carriers such as Ryanair .

Alitalia offers a number of direct flights to Rome, plus connections via Milan, from several cities in North America. It's a SkyTeam member, so you can earn and spend Delta SkyMiles on its flights. If you are a member of its MilleMiglia mileage program, you can transfer Amex Membership Rewards and Capital One points to your MilleMiglia account.

American Airlines offers nonstop flights to Rome from Charlotte, Chicago O'Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, New York-JFK and Philadelphia. Put your AAdvantage miles to work and try to find a MileSAAver off-peak economy award for 22,500 AA miles or 57,500 in business one-way (in theory, at least, as business-class saver awards are extremely hard to find at the moment).

United also flies nonstop to Rome from Newark and Washington Dulles. If you're a member of MileagePlus , search for a saver award, which starts at 30,000 MileagePlus miles in economy or 60,000 in business each direction (at least until dynamic pricing kicks in beginning in November 2019).

Norwegian will also fly you nonstop to FCO from Oakland, Los Angeles and Newark.

Related: The Best Way to Get to Italy With Points and Miles

Getting Your Family to the City Center from Fiumicino Airport

Rome's Fiumicino Airport is about 15 miles from the city center. The best, least expensive way for a family to reach the city center is often the Leonardo Express airport train, which runs every 30 minutes between the airport and Termini Station , Rome's downtown train hub. The first train leaves the airport at 6:38am, and the last of the day at 11:38pm. Tickets cost 14 euros per person each way. You can book your tickets in advance at leonardo-express.com .

Related: Best Credit Cards for Travel Expenses

Sometimes, however, it's easier to just hop in a taxi or order an Uber, especially after a long flight with kids in tow. With a fixed taxi rate of 48 euros (about $60) from FCO to the city center, it might also cost about the same as the train, if not less, if you're traveling with two or more kids.

If you have access to Wi-Fi or international data, check the current traffic situation before opting for a taxi or Uber. While the price can be similar to the train, traffic can be a bear. Remember, tipping your driver isn't customary in Rome.

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

Rome's downtown is fairly small and easily walkable. Some streets are closed to car traffic, and most are cobblestoned.

The Tiber River divides downtown Rome in two, with Vatican City and the Trastevere (literally "Across the Tiber") neighborhood to the west and the neighborhoods to the east, commonly known as Centro Storico or "historical center," home to many major sights including Piazza Navona, the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps and the Fontana di Trevi.

To the east of the Tiber, Campo Marzio is a great, central neighborhood for a home base, as it has the highest concentration of historic sites as well as countless restaurants and cafes. To the west, Trastevere is another family-friendly neighborhood, with its winding, walkable streets and charming boutiques, cafes, bakeries and ice cream shops. Families who want to focus on visits to the Vatican Museum and St. Peter's Basilica will probably want to stay near the Vatican (which is technically its own country, the State of Vatican City.)

Bear in the mind that Rome's historic center tends to be busy and congested into the wee hours of the night, so if you're looking for a more restful, resort-style visit to Rome, stay in a hotel outside of the city center.

Getting Around Rome With Kids

The best way to explore Rome is on foot. If you're traveling with a baby in a stroller , make sure it's equipped with all-terrain wheels, as the cobblestone streets can be rough to navigate. Or just use a baby carrier, if your child is young enough to be worn. Also, make sure everyone in the family is wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes, as you'll inevitably find yourselves walking to most of the major sites.

Public transportation is more of a challenge: Metro stations are limited, but can be a quick way to get from Point A to B. City buses tend to be overcrowded, and you should watch out for pickpockets on them.

Uber is a solid option for travelers who don't speak any Italian (though do learn a few phrases if you can -- here's how). At the higher levels of car service, such as Uber Black, most drivers speak fluent English, which can be helpful when you're feeling overwhelmed. Uber and taxis are also an option for traveling to sights outside of the city center, such as Appia Antica and the catacombs.

Most of the major tourist attractions within Rome aren't terribly far from each other, with shops and restaurants in between. Walking can be a good way to experience the various neighborhoods, with the train or an Uber a good way to get you quickly to a starting point or to rest weary legs at the end of a long day of walking.

How to Avoid Long Lines in Rome

Some of the most popular attractions in Rome, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican, have some of the longest waits. For the most part, waiting in line in Rome means standing outdoors. Don't let your trip be ruined by a long line in the hot Roman sun.

There are a number of ways to avoid the lines, depending on what else is on your list:

Go Old School: Roaming around the front of the Colosseum and Vatican, you'll find folks offering guided tours. At the Colosseum, these can be especially helpful in that those tours are generally allowed to cut the line waiting for tickets, though you'll still need to clear security. These tours can cut a serious amount of time off your wait, but your experience will vary greatly depending on the quality of the tour.

Book Ahead of Time: The Colosseum sells tickets that you can purchase ahead of time to guarantee yourself access. Note that these tickets still require you to book a time slot, as the Colosseum has a restricted daily capacity. The Vatican has a similar advance ticketing option . Searching for Colosseum or Vatican tours online will turn up numerous options.

Buy a Combination Pass: Like many cities, Rome has a variety of combination passes for the various tourist attractions, including other popular options like the Forum, Senate and Palatine Hill. The OMNIA Pass is one that fellow TPG ers have positive experiences with. In some cases, such as the Colosseum, you're still required to book a time slot ahead of time, but after purchasing your pass.

Consider a VIP Tour: VIP Tours are pricier dedicated options that can help cut the lines once you get past the first set of lines. For example, St. Peter's Basilica has private tours available once you pass through the metal detectors. Some of those tours can cut the sometimes lengthy lines to visit the rooftop of St. Peter's Basilica. They're not cheap, but you'll get a guide who speaks your language and will educate you and answer questions while you avoid the long line for the elevators. To find these tours, when you pass through the metal detectors in St. Peter's Square, head toward the restrooms near the base of the steps of the Cathedral.

Finding Good Food in Rome

The easiest way to have a bad meal in Rome is to eat close to a tourist attraction, especially on a main thoroughfare. In fact, that's one of the top mistakes tourists make in Rome , so avoid that pitfall. Now, the food probably won't be horrible, but the Italian food you find near the Vatican is more likely to evoke thoughts of your Olive Garden back home than the best Italy has to offer.

Force yourself to get off the beaten path. Ask your hotel concierge where they eat when they go out, not where they send hotel guests. The more forward a restaurant is with pulling you in, the less likely it is to be a truly memorable meal. If there's a large menu board outside and a "host" cajoling you to join, you'd be well-served to consider another stop.

Venturing off the beaten path can also be rewarding in Rome. For example, Piazza Navona was made popular by the book (and movie) "Angels & Demons." Instead of lingering there with all the other Tom Hanks fans, try wandering a little to the southwest, down the tiny Piazza Pasquino square, which will lead you to a restaurant called Cul de Sac. Hiding in that corner for roughly 40 years, they specialize in cheese, meat and wine, with dozens of varieties of each.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Douglas Feinstein (@douglas_feinstein) on Jul 30, 2018 at 7:06am PDT

Best Points Hotels in Rome for Families

There are a variety of points hotels that can work for families, but remember this is a European city where hotel occupancy rules are tough on families. Many hotel rooms simply won't work for families of four. Below is sampling of our favorites, but you'll want to also look specifically for points hotels in Rome for families of four.

Rome Marriott Grand Hotel Flora

Marriott Bonvoy members can book a Double Double Family Room for four with two king beds, starting at 50,000 points plus 174 euros per night. Located on Via Veneto, the boulevard made famous in the '50s as a hangout for the stars and their pursuing paparazzi, this hotel offers rooms that are larger and more comfortable than standard European hotel rooms. The best feature of this hotel is by far its central location: It's just few minutes' walk from Villa Borghese gardens, Spanish Steps and the main shopping streets.

Comfort Hotel Bolivar

Near the Colosseum, the Comfort Hotel Bolivar is a charming boutique hotel housed in a picturesque palazzo. It's a more budget-friendly hotel for families, with award rates starting at 10,000 points for a room for four in low season and 20,000 points per night for high season (May to September). You can transfer Amex Membership Rewards points to Choice at a 1:1 ratio if you need to increase your account balance.

The hotel is smaller, but there are triple and quadruple rooms available. Another key feature: It's on a quieter street, so you can plan on uninterrupted sleep despite being in the heart of the city.

Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria Resort

Rome Cavalieri , a Waldorf Astoria Resort, is outside the city center, so you need to take advantage of the free shuttle bus (departs every hour from 8:30am to 12:30pm and 3:30pm to 8:30pm) to reach the most iconic sights. This splurge of a hotel, however, trades a city-center location for a relaxing, resort-like setting: It's on a 15-acre park on a hilltop in the Monte Mario neighborhood and boasts incredible views of Vatican City.

It's also the only hotel in Rome with a kids club . Family rooms at the Rome Cavalieri consist of two adjoining rooms for a total of 538 square feet, and all essentials for children are available upon request, including child-size bathrobes, small hangers, kettles, cribs, night lights, high chairs, strollers, baby wipes and diapers.

Points required vary per room type and season, but it costs between 65,000 and 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night. The catch is that standard rooms are only rated for three people. Check out our favorite Hilton credit cards for families so you can ramp up your Hilton Honors points balance.

Rent an Apartment With Airbnb or Rental in Rome

If you're traveling with kids and would like a larger space but don't have points available, consider renting an apartment with Airbnb or Rental in Rome . Both companies offer apartments that often cost less than a hotel. In addition to having more space to stretch your legs, you'll also have access to a kitchen, where you can save money and time by prepping a quick breakfast, sandwiches or snacks before you hit the streets.

Related: Tips for Choosing the Right Airbnb for Your Family

Best Time of Year to Visit Rome

Late spring and early fall are the best seasons for traveling in Italy with kids, as that's when you can count on milder temperatures and smaller crowds. However, the week before and after Easter can be busy, especially in and around the Vatican. The tourist season kicks into high gear in mid-June. Throughout the summer, every inch of the city seems to be crawling with visitors.

August is arguably the worst month to visit Rome. Not only do temperatures peak — the average high temperature in August in Rome is 86 degrees Fahrenheit — but many Italians take off the entire month, so some restaurants and shops are simply closed. Additionally, Aug. 15 is a public holiday known as Ferragosto when literally everyone is off.

The best month to visit Rome is October, when the crowds diminish and the weather is usually sunny and warm. Romans love this month, too, which they call " ottobrata romana ," Roman October, and you'll find many locals taking advantage of the wonderful weather with afternoon picnics and evening strolls.

Related: Here are the Best Times to Visit Italy

Bottom Line

Rome is absolutely worth a visit, but you need to be strategic. Remember to make online ticket purchases in advance when you can (or contact your hotel concierge), pack for the heat in the summer, get up early to beat the crowds and be prepared to eat your weight in gelato.

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• These Are the Best Times to Visit Italy
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20 Best Things to Do in Rome with Kids for an Epic Family Vacation

Traveling to Rome with kids?

Hey there, fellow adventurers! 🌟 Are you dreaming of whisking your kids away to the enchanting streets of Rome? 🇮🇹 Or maybe those dreams are already turning into a reality with tickets in hand? 🎟️ Well, you’re in for an incredible journey, and I’m thrilled to be your go-to guide!

Having explored Rome’s wonders with my own trio of explorers, I’ve got the insider scoop on making your family trip nothing short of magical.

In this helpful guide, we’ll dive into the 20 best things to do in Rome with kids ! 🎉 Plus, I’ll be sharing my top travel tips ✈️, packing essentials 🛄, and the coolest family-friendly spots to stay.

Let’s make your Roman holiday with the kids an unforgettable adventure! 🏛️🍕

Planning Your Italian Vacation? Use My Favorite Resources Below! 🇮🇹

🏨  Hotels –  Booking.com 🏠  Vacation Rentals –  Vrbo ✅  Tours –  Viator 🚘  Rental Car –  Discover Cars 🙋🏻‍♀️  Travel Agent –  Kim Swanson, Magical Moments Vacations

Is Rome a Good Place to Take Children?

Absolutely!! I could not recommend Rome enough for a European family travel destination.

The Eternal City has it all for a family vacation. It’s a historic city with plenty to see and do. And let’s not forget, some of the most amazing food in the world. Pizza, pasta, and gelato every day sound pretty amazing and kid-friendly, right?

20 Best Things to Do in Rome with Kids

There is no shortage of things to do in Rome with kids. Rome has it all for a family vacation: historical sites, beautiful architecture, famous art, delicious food, shopping, and more!

Here, I will give you my list of the 20 best things to do in Rome with kids .

1. Explore the Colosseum

If your kids have heard anything about Rome or Italy, most likely it’s about the Colosseum.

The Colosseum is the iconic symbol of the Eternal City. It’s also one of the most famous and known places in the entire world!

Visiting the Colosseum is a must for anyone visiting Rome. Not only is the Colosseum one of the best things to do in Rome with kids, but it is THE best thing!

Your kid’s history book will come alive here at the Colosseum. As your kids walk onto the arena floor and hear the music playing, they will feel like they stepped back into time. They will feel what it must have felt like to be a gladiator walking into fight thousands of years ago!

To be inside such a historic place and imagine the gladiator flights and see where they kept the wild animals is just surreal.

TIP: The best way to see the Colosseum is with a tour. There are many Colosseum tours geared specifically for kids ! We did the following tour, Skip the Line: Colosseum Small Group Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill . This was a great combination tour where we saw all three sites! Our tour guide was absolutely amazing and very knowledgeable!

2. Explore the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum located next to the Colosseum is another must-see in Rome with kids. This historical site was the center of Rome back in the ancient days.

Seeing the ruins here is unbelievable; it’s hard to believe all the structures have held up through all this time.

Let your kids be archaeological explorers as they wander through these ruins.

Walking through the Forum, you can imagine this area swarming with people, shops, open-air markets, government buildings, temples, and gladiator combats back in the day.

3. Take in the View from Palatine Hill

Located on the hill right above the Roman Forum, is Palatine Hill . This neighborhood was one of the most desirable neighborhoods in ancient Rome.

Because it was one of the most desirable neighborhoods, you’ll find the ruins of ancient palaces that were the home of emperors.

The views atop Palatine Hill are breathtaking. On one side, you can view the Circus Maximus. On the other side, you can view the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and Capitoline Hill.

4. Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world and the largest Baroque fountain in Rome. It’s a definite must-see when visiting Rome with kids.

Because it’s one of the most popular spots to visit in Rome, be prepared for heavy crowds.

Have your kids throw a coin into the fountain and make a wish! The myth of the Trevi Fountain says, if you throw one coin you will return to Rome. If you throw two coins, you will fall in love with an attractive Italian. If you throw three coins, you will marry the person that you met.

All coins thrown into the fountain are donated, so you know your money is going to a good cause.

5. Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are another one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions. It’s one of the sites you just have to see in Rome!

It is considered the widest and longest staircase in Europe; consisting of 135 steps. These 135 steps cover three terraces to represent the holy trinity; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Located in Piazza di Spagna, the Spanish Steps were built to connect the Bourbon Spanish embassy to the Trinita’ dei Monti church.

The Spanish Steps are such a beautiful, iconic location that luxury designer Valentino showcased its autumn-winter collection here at the Spanish Steps the day before we arrived in Rome.

6. Pantheon

The Pantheon is another one of the top sites in Rome. It’s considered one of the best-preserved monuments of ancient Rome because it’s the only structure of its age and size that is still intact!

It’s truly an architectural wonder!

TIP: The Pantheon is a church, so shoulders must be covered.

Fun Fact: Pantheon is a Greek adjective meaning “honor all Gods.” The Pantheon was originally built as a temple to honor all gods.

7. Piazza Navona

There are MANY piazzas in Rome, but Piazza Navona is the most famous piazza in Rome.

Piazza Navona is beautiful! This large square includes 3 gorgeous fountains surrounded by beautiful buildings. You’ll find street performers and local artists here.

The square is lined with many cafes and restaurants. It’s a great place to sit, relax, and take in the view.

8. Indulge in Gelato Every Day in Rome with Kids

One of the best things to do in Rome with kids is eat gelato every day . Seriously, every day!

Try different gelato shops and different flavors of gelato to see which one you like best.

TIP: For the best gelato shops in Italy: 1) Make sure the gelato isn’t pilled up high into a mountain. 2) The best gelato has no bright colors. For example, pistachio shouldn’t be bright green. The banana shouldn’t be bright yellow. Colors should be muted.

9. Enjoy Daily Pizza & Pasta

All kids like pizza and pasta right? Or at least most love pizza!

In Rome, you will find pizza and pasta restaurants everywhere! And I mean everywhere! This is basically all they have to eat here! There are pizzerias on every corner!

TIP: Picky eaters! For picky eaters, order the Margherita pizza. This is the closest Italian pizza that resembles a cheese pizza in America. My kids had at least one Margherita pizza every day while in Italy.

10. Shop the Rome Grocery Stores

When in Rome with kids, you must shop at the grocery stores . Pick up snacks, drinks, or whatever toiletries you might need.

Not only is it a fun and educational experience to see how the grocery stores here differ from back home, but you can pick up some yummy Italian snacks!

My youngest had fun strolling the little shopping cart around…much different than our shopping carts back home.

We picked out a bunch of Italian snacks. For my picky eater, we got a jar of Nutella and some American bread, so she’d have something to eat whenever she was hungry. FYI: Nutella is extremely popular in Italy!!

11. Eat at McDonald’s in Rome with Kids

You might be wondering, why I put McDonald’s on this list as one of the best things to do in Rome with kids.

We very rarely eat McDonald’s at home, but I was excited to see what McDonald’s served in Italy.

Our first time eating at McDonald’s in Italy was in Vatican City. We arrived at St. Peter’s Basicila super early at 7:00 am to avoid crowds. After that, we were hungry and had some time to kill before our Vatican Museums ticket at 9:00 am. McDonald’s was nearby, so we were excited to give it a try!

First, let me say, make sure to go to a McDonald’s with a McCafe. McCafe’s have a wide selection of pastries such as muffins filled with Nutella, plain croissants, and croissants filled with creme, cheesecake doughnuts, and much more! They even had macaroons, which my daughter is obsessed with!

And when in Rome, you have to order a cappuccino for breakfast. It even comes in a nice glass cup. Not something you’ll find back in America.

Not only does McDonald’s have these amazing pastries and cappuccinos, but they also serve hamburgers and fries for breakfast. I won’t tell you exactly how many times we stopped for breakfast at McDonald’s in Italy after this and the boys got hamburgers for breakfast. 🙈

12. Eat Tiramisu at Two Sizes

Tiramisu is one of the most popular desserts to eat in Italy. But for the best tiramisu, you must go to Two Sizes; located close to Piazza Navona.

I had tiramisu in quite a few places in Italy, but no tiramisu was as amazing as it was here! It was seriously the most delicious thing I ate the entire time I was in Italy. If they could ship it to the U.S., I would totally order it and have it shipped to my house!

It’s named Two Sizes because you can get your tiramisu either in a large or small size. They have the original flavor and a few other flavors of tiramisu. They also sell Sicilian cannoli.

13. Make Italian Food at a Cooking Class in Rome with Kids

Taking a cooking class in Rome with kids is a fun way to experience Italy’s food culture. Many places even offer classes specifically for families and those with kids!

In Rome, you’ll find pizza, pasta, and gelato cooking classes. We took a pizza and gelato cooking class while in Florence and we all had a fun time!

Experiences like this are so much fun and this is something your kids will remember forever!

🍕 Check for pizza, pasta, and gelato cooking classes in Rome here!

14. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica

Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica is a must when in Rome. This is the most beautiful building I have ever seen in my life. It tops every building and church, I have ever been to by far!

DRESS CODE: There is a dress code for St. Peter’s Basicila and the Vatican Museums. Shoulders must be covered and shorts, skirts, and dresses must be knee length.

St. Peter’s Basilica is massive! There are so many different areas of the church. The ceilings, the floors, the statues. It was like I had stepped foot into this magical place.

It literally took my breath away! There are no words to describe the beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica. Pictures do not do it justice. Definitely take your kids here while in Rome!

TIP: Arrive at St. Peter’s Basicila at opening (7:00 am) to avoid crowds. This eliminates waiting in a long line and you enjoy seeing the church with very few people inside.

15. Visit the Vatican Museums

Visiting the Vatican Museums is a must when in Rome. However, I will say it’s not the most interesting place for kids.

The Vatican Museums are huge!! You can spend a whole day in there. However, with kids, this is not realistic. I think it’s very important for kids to see the Vatican Museums and I’m sure you are interested too, so here’s what I recommend.

I recommend doing a quick walk-through and stopping at the main parts that you and your kids find interesting. The Maps Room was really beautiful!

The main reason I wanted to go to the Vatican Museums was to see the Sistine Chapel, which is at the end of the Museum.

Once we got to the Sistine Chapel, we sat there for about 30 minutes and admired its beauty. To see Michaelangelo’s work here was amazing!

We did the self-guided audio tour at the Vatican Museums, so it was interesting to learn all the facts about the Sistine Chapel.

However, if you’re interested in doing a guided tour of the Vatican, check out Do I Need to Book Vatican Tour in Advance? Plus, Featured Tours & Insider Tips . Featured here is a well-reviewed family tour!

TIP: Vatican Museums get very crowded. We had skip-the-line tickets at 9:00 am right when they opened. The line to get in was already crazy long and the crowds already inside were crazy. They do a lot of early morning tours before the official opening time. If going during summer, be prepared for heavy crowds and the heat. It gets very hot in the museums.

16. Take a Golf Cart Tour of Rome

I highly, recommend taking a golf cart tour of Rome with the kids! This is a great way to get an overview of the city in a fun way. I recommend doing this on your first day in Rome.

We did an evening golf cart tour after arriving in Rome that day. It was the perfect way to introduce us to the city. It drove us by all the major sites such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Villa Borghese, and more!

🛺 To book a golf cart tour of Rome, click here!

17. Relax & Play at Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is Rome’s version of New York City’s Central Park . This beautiful park is the perfect place to escape in Rome with kids!

Here you’ll find many families walking around, riding on electric-powered rickshaws, and boating in the lake. Kids are having fun on bicycles and scooters.

You’ll also find playgrounds, coin-operated amusement park rides, pony rides, and a zoo here at Villa Borghese!

18. Visit Trastevere Neighborhood

When in Rome, definitely visit the Trastevere Neighborhood . This was recommended by our Airbnb host and our golf cart tour guide; both of whom are locals of Rome.

This beautiful neighborhood has so much charm. It’s a perfect place to head to dinner and then walk around.

We ate at Tonnarello, which I highly recommend. It was my favorite restaurant we ate at while in Rome. The atmosphere, service, and food were all amazing!

After dinner, we walked around got some gelato, and enjoyed people-watching in one of the squares.

19. Go Shopping

Rome is a large city, so it also offers plenty of great shopping . The best place to go shopping in Rome is Via del Corso; very close to the famous Spanish Steps.

Here you’ll find famous designers such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. But you’ll also find more affordable shops such as GAP and Zara.

In this area, you’ll also find LEGO Store Roma. My kids love LEGO so this store was a must-see. Fun LEGO displays here include a LEGO Colosseum and a huge LEGO gladiator.

20. Learn to Be a Gladiator

Are you or your kid interested in learning to be a gladiator? If so, you could train to be a gladiator here in Rome! This would be a fun, memorable experience for you or your child.

In this class, you will learn about how life was back in Ancient Rome and learn to fight like a gladiator.

➡️ To book Rome Gladiator School, click here!

Tips for Traveling to Rome with Kids

Here are my best tips for traveling to Rome with kids. Save this list or bookmark this page because you will be glad you have this information later!

✔️ Taxi App

Rome is a very walkable city, but it is also large. Taxis are an easy and convenient way to get around the city when in Rome with kids.

Download the FREE NOW Taxi App. We had no trouble at all getting a taxi in Rome. After requesting a taxi on the app, we usually had a taxi come to us in a few minutes.

✔️ Drinking Water

Drinking water from the tap in Rome is safe to drink. Not only is it safe, but it is considered very clean, fresh, and high-quality water. So yes, you can safely drink from your hotel’s bathroom or kitchen tap.

There are also thousands of old-style water fountains all over Rome where you can fill up your water bottles; so make sure to carry a water bottle around to fill up.

✔️ Have Coins for Restrooms

One of the most difficult things to get used to in Italy was not being able to just use any restroom. When traveling with kids, restroom trips are going to be a more frequent occurrence. Make sure to have Euro coins on you at all times to use the restrooms.

TIP: Purchase a coffee or drink at a bar and the whole family can use the restroom.

✔️ Be Cautious of PickPocketing

We did not have any issues with pickpockets while in Rome, but from what we heard from locals there is a lot of pickpocketing here.

Be cautious in high-traffic areas such as Trevi Fountain or any tourist area with a lot of people.

If wearing a purse, I suggest a crossbody. Make sure to hold your hand over your purse in these high-traffic areas. Men, do not put your wallet in your back pocket!

I purchased this amazing Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag for our trip to Italy, which I highly recommend.

Not only does this bag protect you from pickpockets, but it will keep you super organized. It’s so easy to find everything in this bag. It even has pockets on the side for water bottles. I could go on and on about this bag. This is the best bag I have ever used for travel!

👜 Check price for Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag on Amazon here!

✔️ Dress Code for Churches

If planning on visiting Vatican City or any church in Italy, there is a strict dress code that is enforced. Shoulders must be covered and shorts, skirts, or dresses must fall to the knees.

Women and girls, if traveling in the summer, I recommend wearing a maxi dress and throwing a scarf or kimono on when you walk into churches to cover your shoulders. This is what I did. A scarf or kimono is easy to fold up into your purse and put on whenever needed.

My boys and husband’s shorts didn’t quite go to their knees, but nobody said anything. They seem to be more lenient with men.

✔️ Rome & Italy Kids Book

I recommend purchasing the following books before traveling to Rome with kids. I purchased these for my 9-year-old. They are a great way to learn facts about Rome in a fun, educational way. This way, kids are well-prepared before traveling to Rome!

Kids’ Travel Guide Italy & Rome

Mission Rome: A Scavenger Hunt Adventure

What To Pack for Rome

The following are essentials you will need when traveling to Rome. Do not forget to add these when packing!

TIP: Pack light when traveling to Rome! Especially if you plan on traveling on trains. We each only brought a carry-on and a backpack. It made it easy for train travel and strolling down the cobblestone streets.

✔️ Comfortable Shoes

Make sure to pack comfortable shoes for the whole family when in Rome. You will be walking A LOT! Having comfortable shoes is a must. If your feet are miserable, you will be miserable.

I wore Skechers Women’s On-The-go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal every day while in Rome and they were perfect. Super comfy, it was like walking on clouds!

Check price for Skechers Women’s On-The-go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal on Amazon here!

✔️ European Travel Plug Adaptor

Do not forget to pack a European travel plug adaptor!

We purchased a pack of 3 and it worked out perfectly because we were in 3 separate rooms in an Airbnb or suite during our stay in Italy.

Check prices for European Travel Plug Adaptors on Amazon here!

✔️Portable Charger

A portable charger is essential when traveling to Italy. You will spend most of your day out of your accommodations without a place to charge your phone. Your phone will drain quickly with constantly using it to take pictures, use Google Maps, and so on.

Check prices for portable chargers on Amazon here!

✔️ Packing Cubes

My daughter and I used packing cubes for the first time on this trip to Italy. I highly recommend packing cubes. They are great for keeping your clothing and toiletries organized. Packing cubes make it so easy to find what you’re looking for!

Check prices for packing cubes on Amazon here!

Where to Stay in Rome with Kids

There are plenty of accommodations to stay in Rome with kids. From luxury hotels to more budget-friendly hotels to Airbnb or VRBO.

TIP: Make sure to book early during prime travel time such as summer. Also, if traveling during summer, make sure you book accommodations with air conditioning!

Airbnb or VRBO

Staying in an Airbnb or VRBO is great for large families or for those wanting that extra space to spread out. They are also very affordable compared to hotels.

While in Rome we stayed in an Airbnb. We enjoyed the spacious apartment, with 3 separate rooms for sleeping, a kitchen, laundry, and 2 bathrooms.

Here are my recommendations for the best hotels to stay at in Rome with kids for every budget.

Internazionale Domus (Luxury)

Internazionale Domus is my recommended choice for a luxury hotel in Rome with kids.

This luxury apartment-style hotel is located in an amazing location next to the Spanish Steps. You are also within a short walking distance of Rome’s kid-friendly park Villa Borghese.

All suites and apartments are air-conditioned and elegantly furnished with a free internet connection.

🏨 To check rates and to book Internazionale Domus, click here!

Hotel Canada, BW Premier Collection (Mid-range)

Hotel Canada, BW Premier Collection is an excellent hotel choice when visiting Rome with kids.

Located in the heart of Rome close to the Termini Train Station, this hotel offers a daily continental buffet breakfast and air-conditioned rooms.

iQ Hotel Roma (Budget)

Looking for a more budget-friendly hotel, iQ Hotel Roma i s an excellent choice!

Even though this hotel is more budget-friendly, it’s still very nice, clean, and modern. It’s about a 5-minute walk to the Termini Train Station. Rooms are air-conditioned and include a mini fridge.

🏨 To check rates and to book iQ Hotel Roma, click here!

Is Rome Stroller Friendly?

Is Rome stroller-friendly? Unfortunately, Rome is not very stroller-friendly. Rome is one of the oldest cities in the world and so are its roads. Uneven streets made of cobblestone don’t exactly make for the smoothest stroller ride.

However, Rome is a very walkable city and you must walk to get around, so sometimes strollers are an absolute necessity with babies and toddlers.

I’m long past the stroller years, but I will tell you my family and I strolled our luggage for about a half mile from our Airbnb to the train station and I was scared one of the luggage wheels was going to pop off. Because of these cobblestone streets, I recommend a very sturdy stroller.

If you have a baby, it would be a good idea to bring a baby carrier to carry your baby when you are on these bumpy cobblestone streets. You could easily switch back and forth between the stroller and baby carrier.

How Many Days Do You Need in Rome?

How many days do you need in Rome? I recommend staying a minimum of 3 nights in Rome. This way you have 3 full days in the city.

We stayed 3 nights in Rome. This allowed us enough time to see all the major sites in Rome and have some downtime in the afternoon to rest.

Conclusion: Rome with Kids

I hope I have helped you fill your itinerary with the best things to do in Rome with kids! I also hope I have answered some questions that you might have had.

Enjoy your trip to one of the best cities in the world!

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Kim Swanson, founder of Traveling Swansons, is a wife, mother of three and travel lover. Her love for exploration spans from the bustling streets of cities to the serene beauty of National Parks and her favorite destination, Italy. But that's not all – Kim's heart also belongs to all things Disney. Her special love for the magic of Disney has led her to become an expert in the field. Whether you seek advice on iconic destinations or a Disney adventure, Kim Swanson's expertise turns your travel dreams into reality.

• Last Updated On
• November 2, 2023

20 Fun Things to Do in Rome with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

Take it from me, as someone who’s danced around those cobblestone streets, Rome is a city that’s designed to ignite the imagination of your little ones. 

Nestled within the heart of Italy, this timeless metropolis, often called the Eternal City, is bursting with awe-inspiring architecture, lush parks, and a dizzying array of family-friendly spots. 

It’s the city where history unfurls around every corner, promising a story to tell and a memory to make.

Whether you’re meandering through the labyrinthine streets or tucking into a trattoria meal, you’ll uncover countless hideaways for you and your crew. 

With a cornucopia of hotels, food joints, and boutiques, it’s like your own personal playground.

So, here’s a little rundown of fun things to do in Rome with kids to ensure your family trip is nothing short of legendary.

Fun Things To Do In Rome With Kids 

Looking for some amazing family fun in Rome? You won’t want to miss our top picks for kid-friendly adventures.

Editor’s Choice

Terrazza Borromini Open-Air Opera

Terrazza Borromini Open-Air Opera is a breathtaking experience in Rome. Located atop Palazzo Pamphilj, it opened in 2011 and offers stunning views and unforgettable musical performances.

• Age Compatibility: Teenagers (13-17 years)
• Educational Value: 3/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Affordability: 2/5

#2nd Best Choice

Galleria Borghese

Galleria Borghese is an artistic gem in Rome. Opened in 1903, it houses a remarkable collection of sculptures and paintings, including masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio.

• Age Compatibility: Young Children (6-9 years old)
• Educational Value: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 3/5
• Affordability: 3/5

#3rd Best Choice

Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

Palatine Hill & Roman Forum is a historical wonder in Rome. With origins dating back to 753 BC, it showcases ancient ruins, temples, and the House of the Vestal Virgins.

• Educational Value: 5/5
• Accessibility: 3/5
• Affordability: 4/5

Here are 20 fun things to do in Rome with kids.

1. Terrazza Borromini Open-Air Opera (Editor’s Choice)

Via di Santa Maria dell’Anima, 30 00186 Roma RM (391) 311-4523 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Terrazza Borromini Open-Air Opera is a breathtaking experience in Rome. 

Located atop Palazzo Pamphilj, it opened in 2011 and offers stunning views and unforgettable musical performances.

Ratings Criteria

• Breathtaking views: The open-air setting of Terrazza Borromini offers stunning panoramic views of Rome.
• Cultural enrichment: The opera performances at Terrazza Borromini expose children to the world of classical music and performing arts.
• Limited accessibility: The open-air nature of the venue may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or strollers, as there might be uneven surfaces or stairs.
• Price: Tickets for opera performances can be relatively expensive, which might deter families on a tight budget from enjoying this experience.

Why We Recommend This Activity

If there’s one thing to add to your Rome itinerary, it’s the Terrazza Borromini Open-Air Opera. 

It’s a hidden gem compared to the usual bustling attractions like the Colosseum. 

This intimate rooftop experience envelops you with breathtaking city views and the enchanting sounds of opera. 

The harmonious blend of cultural heritage and divine music creates a truly unique experience. 

As a lover of all things beautiful, I highly recommend this for families seeking to elevate their Roman holiday.

Recommended Ages

The Terrazza Borromini Open-Air Opera would best be appreciated by kids aged 12 and up. 

It’s an enriching experience perfect for teenagers seeking cultural insight and inspiration.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palazzo Ripetta

2. Galleria Borghese

Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 5 00197 Roma RM (06) 841-3979 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Galleria Borghese is an artistic gem in Rome. 

Opened in 1903, it houses a remarkable collection of sculptures and paintings, including masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio.

• Artistic masterpieces: Galleria Borghese houses an exceptional collection of sculptures and paintings.
• Educational value: The gallery offers a chance for kids to learn about different art styles, techniques, and historical periods through guided tours and educational materials.
• Reservation requirement: Due to its popularity, Galleria Borghese often requires advance reservations.
• Crowds: The gallery can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, which might diminish the experience for some families.

Galleria Borghese is a must-see in Rome. 

Unlike the teeming Vatican Museums, this smaller gallery is an intimate treasure chest of Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. 

Within its opulent halls, you’ll find Bernini, Caravaggio, and Titian, to name a few. 

Its tranquil gardens, a rare find in this bustling city, offer the perfect respite for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. 

For an authentic, enriching encounter with Roman artistry, this place is your go-to.

Galleria Borghese can delight all ages, but children aged 8 and above might truly grasp its historical and artistic significance. 

It’s an educational gem for curious young minds.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Splendide Royal – The Leading Hotels of the World

3. Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

Parco archeologico del Colosseo, Via di S. Gregorio, 30 00186 Roma RM (06) 3996-7700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Palatine Hill & Roman Forum is a historical wonder in Rome. 

With origins dating back to 753 BC, it showcases ancient ruins, temples, and the House of the Vestal Virgins.

• Historical significance: Exploring Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum offers a unique opportunity for kids to immerse themselves in ancient history, walking among ruins that date back thousands of years.
• Educational exploration: The site provides numerous learning opportunities about the Roman Empire, architecture, daily life, and mythology.
• Extensive walking: Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum cover a large area, requiring a fair amount of walking.
• Lack of shade: During hot summer months, the site’s open layout means there might be limited shade.

The Palatine Hill and Roman Forum are like whispers from the past, offering a more intimate experience than the famed Colosseum. 

As you walk through the silent ruins, you can practically feel the echoes of ancient Roman life.

Compared to the bustle of nearby Piazza Navona, this is a serene, historical haven. 

If your family relishes the idea of stepping back in time and igniting your imaginations with tales of emperors and gladiators, this spot should be high on your list.

For the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, I’d recommend them for kids aged 7 and above. 

It’s like stepping into a real-life storybook of history.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palazzo Dama – Preferred Hotels & Resorts

4. Villa Borghese

Piazzale Napoleone I 00197 Roma RM (906) 841-3979 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Villa Borghese is a beautiful garden featuring sculptures, fountains, and monuments.

Two of the garden’s iconic features are the Temple of Aesculapius and the Galleria Borghese.

One of the best free kid-friendly things to do in Rome is taking your youngsters to Villa Borghese.

This breathtaking garden landscape has no entrance fee, and you can enjoy strolling through the grounds with your youngsters as you take many photos together.

Your tykes will love exploring the Temple of Aesculapius, built in the year 1785, and the magnificent sculptures created by famous artists.

For a small fee, you can rent rollerblades and bicycles to get around the garden.

It is one of the best attractions for kids as they spend the day enjoying the playgrounds, or enjoy a serene cruise on the lake as you row a boat.

Come on over this weekend and your children will also enjoy pony rides.

Villa Borghese is a family-friendly destination that suits visitors of all ages.

If you are traveling with a baby, the smooth pavement provides the ideal pathway to push strollers easily.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baglioni Hotel Regina – The Leading Hotels of the World

Related: Best Things to Do in Rome

Also See: Things to Do in London with Kids Things to Do in Paris with Kids

5. Pantheon

Piazza della Rotonda 00186 Roma RM (066) 830-0230 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Pantheon, built between 113AD to 115AD, was once a Roman temple but is now a Roman Catholic church.

It is one of the most well-preserved buildings from Ancient Rome.

The Pantheon is another iconic landmark of Rome that is a must-visit for your loved ones.

Take your loved ones to this amazing monument as you take beautiful pictures together, learn about the history of Rome, and go on informative tour rides as you explore the temple-turned-church.

When visiting on a Sunday, you may witness or attend the masses held here.

The Pantheon happily welcomes visitors of every age, whether you’re bringing along your infant baby or your senior citizen parents or grandparents.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel, Autograph Collection

Related: Best Hotels in Rome for Families

6. Pinocchio Store

Via del Tritone, 124 00187 Roma RM (06) 488-5589 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Pinocchio Store is a delightful destination in Rome. 

Opening its doors in 2005, it offers a whimsical collection of Pinocchio-themed merchandise, from toys and books to souvenirs and memorabilia.

The Pinocchio Store in Rome is a delightful departure from the city’s classical attractions. 

Nestled amongst historical landmarks, it’s a charming nook of childhood wonder. 

Each handcrafted wooden Pinocchio carries the essence of this timeless tale. 

While the nearby Trevi Fountain or Spanish Steps offer their monumental beauty, this little store adds a dash of whimsy to your Roman adventure. 

It’s a space where kids and adults alike can connect with their inner child. 

A visit here will be a cherished memory for your family.

The Pinocchio Store caters to the young and young-at-heart, making it perfect for kiddos aged 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville

7. Campo de’ Fiori

Piazza Campo de’ Fiori 00186 Roma RM +39 06 0608 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Campo de’ Fiori was once a vast field of beautiful flowers but, Pope Callistus III had it paved, and it has since become one of Rome’s best shopping districts, with vendors selling a wide array of items.

As you’re touring around the glorious city of Rome, you may want to take a break and enjoy some time shopping with your tribe.

Campo de’ Fiori is one of the best places to shop because of the numerous choices it offers.

At Campo de’ Fiori, you can buy T-shirts, bags, fresh fruits and vegetables, beautiful flowers, hats, cheese, and a wide array of products.

Surrounding Camp de’ Flori, you will find numerous restaurants, bakeries, and other local eateries selling delicious cuisine, which makes it perfect for your food-loving family to explore the tastes of Rome.

There are no age restrictions when visiting Campo de’ Flori.

Also See: Kid Friendly Things to Do in Barcelona Things for Kids to Do in Tokyo

8. Catacombs of St. Callixtus

Via Appia Antica, 110/126 00179 Roma RM (906) 513-0151 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Back in the 3rd Century AD, the Catacombs of St. Callixtus was the official cemetery of the Church of Rome.

It houses the Crypt of the Popes, where several popes from the 2nd to 3rd centuries lay resting.

Fun family activities in Rome include exploring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus.

These historic catacombs are home to hundreds of thousands of Christians, as well as popes and martyrs.

These breathtaking catacombs are one of Rome’s largest underground cemeteries.

Here, you’ll find symbols carved onto the walls, depicting the faith of the persecuted Christians.

The Catacombs of St. Callixtus are vast and perfect for a day of exploration with your loved ones.

Although the Catacombs of St. Callixtus welcomes visitors of all ages, it is better suited for your older children rather than your baby or toddler.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palazzo Montemartini Rome, A Radisson Collection Hotel

9. Trevi Fountain

Piazza di Trevi 00187 Roma RM +39 06 0608 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Trevi Fountain is the most famous and gorgeous in all of Rome.

Created in 1762, many tourists throw coins into the fountain.

At the end of each day, authorities scoop out the coins and use them to buy food for the hungry.

One of the best family things to do in Rome includes visiting Trevi Fountain.

This stunning fountain is one of the most beautiful fountains in the world that make for great photo opportunities with your tribe.

Make sure to bring coins with you for your little ones to toss into the water.

There is a myth that says if you toss one coin, you’ll return to Rome, if you toss two coins, you’ll fall in love, and if you toss three coins, you’ll get married.

Trevi Fountain is easily accessible and nearby many restaurants that serve scrumptious local cuisine and have kid-friendly options.

Trevi Fountain is a wonderful tourist destination for your entire family, no matter what age your tykes are.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Roma Luxus Hotel

10. St. Clement Basilica

Via Labicana, 95 00184 Roma RM (906) 774-0021 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The St. Clement Basilica, known as the Basilica di San Clemente in Rome, is a basilica named for Pope Clement I.

The St. Clement Basilica is beautiful and ancient.

This basilica has a rich history that your family will love learning about as they tour this magnificent building.

Masses occur here, so if you visit on a Sunday, you will most likely witness an ongoing mass.

The basilica features a magnificent dome with gold mosaics and a lovely courtyard, where you and your family can take photos together to immortalize your trip.

To learn more about St. Clement Basilica, you can sign up for guided tours with well-seasoned and knowledgeable guides.

St. Clement Basilica is for all ages and perfect for families.

The smooth pavement makes it easy for you to move about with children comfortably.

Also See: Things to Do in Tahiti for Kids

11. Bioparco

V.le del Giardino Zoologico, 1 00197 Roma RM (906) 360-8211 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Bioparco is a zoological garden in Rome. Spanning 17 hectares, this zoo is home to over 1,000 animals of more than 200 species.

Visit Bioparco and enjoy numerous things to do in Rome with toddlers.

At this zoo, your youngsters can view hundreds of animal exhibits, such as the Valley of the Bears, the Orangutan Area, The Area of Sumatran Tigers, The Great Aviary, and so much more.

As one of the best attractions for kids, Bioparco features the Bioparco Express, a kid-friendly train ride that makes getting around the large zoo more comfortable for your little ones.

This zoo also features a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs, stuffed toys, books, games, and many other animal-inspired trinkets.

Bioparco is a family-friendly attraction that features exhibits that adults and kids of all ages will like.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel

12. Appia Antica Regional Park

Via Appia Antica, 42 00178 Roma RM (906) 513-5316 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Appia Antica Regional Park is a picturesque urban park.

It is the largest urban park in all of Europe, covering roughly 4,580 hectares of land.

Visit the Appia Antica Regional Park today and have a grand time with your loved ones as you tour this breathtaking park.

Appia Antica Regional Park features numerous churches, catacombs, tombs, monuments, museums, and ruins that your family can spend the whole day exploring.

Your kids can have a great time running around the park or cycling as they take in the fresh air.

This is also a great destination for cheap family fun because most of its on-site attractions have no entrance fee.

The Appia Antica Regional Park is great for tourists of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Harry’s Bar Trevi Hotel & Restaurant

13. Palazzo Valentini

Foro Traiano, 85 00186 Roma RM (068) 716-5343 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Also known by its full name, Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini, the Palazzo Valentini features the ancient ruins of excavated houses beneath the earth’s surface.

The Palazzo Valentini is a magnificent location for you and your tribe to explore the rich historical heritage of Rome.

This place is fun for teens and even features a multimedia museum that shows how the excavated houses would look, including its kitchens, spas, decorations, furniture, and rooms.

Special sound effects and video presentations are what bring these ruins to life.

The Palazzo Valentini is vast and has many other areas your kids can have a blast exploring.

Palazzo Valentini is open for all visitors and has no specific age limit.

However, it is better suited for adults and older children and teens.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Singer Palace Hotel

14. Al Sogno

Piazza Navona, 53 00186 Roma RM (906) 686-4198 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Al Sogno is a gift emporium selling old-world-style Italian toys, games, and dolls.

After you’ve spent time touring the city and doing fun kids activities with your children to keep them happy and well-entertained on your family vacation, consider taking them to Al Sogno.

This toy store is one-of-a-kind and magical in its own right.

Your youngsters will have a hard time picking from the wide array of toys available, such as stuffed toys, porcelain dolls, music boxes, chess boards, vintage cars, and plenty more.

Al Sogno is perfect not only for children but for the young at heart.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The First Roma Arte

15. The Mausoleum of Hadrian

Lungotevere Castello, 50 00193 Roma RM (906) 681-9111 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Mausoleum of Hadrian, otherwise known as the Castel Sant’Angelo, is a large cylindrical museum within Adrian Park.

It was meant to be Roman Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum but was eventually used by the popes as a castle and fortress.

One of the most fun things to do in Rome with kids is taking them to the Mausoleum of Hadrian.

This gorgeous museum offers a special experience as your youngsters view this castle and its exquisite architectural designs.

Enjoyable family activities in Rome include climbing to the top floor of the museum, where you can take in stunning views of the landscape.

As you tour the Mausoleum of Hadrian, you’ll learn about its rich history and view rooms like the cells where the incarceration of historical figures took place, rooms that served as a papal residence, rooms featuring a large collection of weapons, and so much more.

The Mausoleum of Hadrian warmly welcomes you and your loved ones, no matter what age they may be.

16. National Etruscan Museum of Villa Giulia

Piazzale di Villa Giulia 9 00196 Roma RM, Italy (06) 322-6571 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Valle Giulia Etruscan Museum in Rome is a treasure trove for history buffs, especially kids and teens.

Housed in an elegant palazzo, the museum showcases rare Etruscan artifacts that offer a glimpse into a civilization that remains largely enigmatic.

If you’re searching for fascinating indoor kids activities, Rome, Italy offers plenty of options to choose from.

Exploring the National Etruscan Museum of Villa Giulia is like riding a time machine that takes you back to the mysterious world of the Etruscans.

Kids will be captivated by the ancient pottery, sculptures, and jewelry.

The museum does a great job of making history accessible with interactive displays and educational programs.

Teens will appreciate the deeper historical context, while parents can enjoy the stunning architecture of the palazzo itself.

Plus, the museum often hosts special events and workshops tailored for younger audiences.

It’s a win-win for families looking for entertaining yet informative Rome kids activities.

This museum is best suited for school-age kids and teens who have a budding interest in history or archaeology.

Younger kids might find some of the interactive displays engaging as well.

17. ARTandSEEK

Via Simone de Saint Bon, 18, 00195 Roma RM, Italy (331) 522-4440 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Art and Seek in Rome offers a unique blend of art tours and hands-on drawing activities.

Conducted in English, these tours are perfect for both visiting and local families looking to explore Rome’s artistic side.

Imagine exploring Rome’s art scene with a sketchbook in hand.

Art and Seek makes this possible.

Kids get to learn about art while creating their own, guided by friendly experts.

The tours cover museums and street art, offering a balanced diet of classical and contemporary.

Parents will love that it’s educational and social, a great way for kids to meet local and expat peers.

This museum is ideal for kids aged 6 and up who have an interest in art, making it one of the top kid friendly things to do in Rome.

The tours are versatile enough to keep both younger kids and teens engaged.

18. Mr. 100 Tiramisù

Via dei Sediari, 11/12 00186 Roma RM, Italy (06) 8797-9667 Social Media Open in Google Maps

Mr 100 Tiramisu is a dessert lover’s dream come true.

This unique café offers a staggering 100 varieties of tiramisu, satisfying every possible craving.

For those searching for “fun things to do with kids near me” and a good place to eat on Via dei Sediari, a visit to Mr. 100 Tiramisù will satisfy both cravings.

Kids will be thrilled to customize their own tiramisu at this restaurant, choosing from a plethora of toppings.

It’s like a dessert adventure where you’re the hero.

Parents can indulge too, maybe even discover a new favorite.

This is about the joy of choice and the fun of trying something new together as a family.

This is a treat for all ages.

Younger kids will enjoy the simple joy of choosing toppings, while older kids and parents can explore more exotic flavors.

Via del Seminario, 111 00186 Roma RM, Italy (06) 557-1424 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ikono Roma is an interactive wonderland that offers a break from traditional sightseeing.

With rooms featuring everything from ball pits to paper snow, it’s a sensory feast for kids and adults alike.

If you’re on the hunt for fun-filled things to do with kids, Rome has this wonderful gem.

This place is like stepping into a child’s imagination.

Whether it’s diving into a pool of balls or navigating a maze of light, there’s something for every kid to love.

Parents will also love the immersive experience that is fun for all.

It’s a fantastic way to let loose and create some unforgettable family memories.

Ikono Roma is a hit with all age groups, but tweens and teens will especially enjoy the more challenging interactive exhibits.

20. Luneur Park

Via delle Tre Fontane, 100 00144 Roma RM, Italy (06) 8946-4001 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Luneur Amusement Park is Rome’s historic playground, loved by local families.

The park is especially lively during school holidays with themed events like Halloween dress-up days.

This is where classic amusement park fun meets Italian flair.

Kids can hop on rides, play games, and enjoy seasonal events like Easter afternoons or Halloween dress-ups.

Parents can relax knowing the park is a local favorite and has a variety of food stalls.

It’s a perfect spot for a family day out, making it one of the top fun things to do in Rome for kids.

Luneur Park is great for kids of all ages, but school-age children will particularly enjoy the variety of rides and themed events.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel American Palace Eur

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

Visiting the Terrazza Borromini Open-Air Opera was like stepping into a vivid Italian painting.

It was a magical evening under the stars, our hearts swelling with the harmonious music. 

Now, compare this to Galleria Borghese, a day spent in the heart of Roman artistic brilliance. 

It was like embarking on a treasure hunt with my kids, each room revealing another breathtaking masterpiece.

Switching gears, the Palatine Hill & Roman Forum provided us with a starkly beautiful encounter with Rome’s past. 

As we trod the same stones as ancient Romans, history felt alive, giving us a humbling perspective that’s difficult to find elsewhere.

Lastly, the Pinocchio Store was a charming interlude, an oasis of childhood enchantment amidst the grandeur of Rome’s historic sites. 

Seeing my kids’ eyes light up in that wonderland was a precious memory I wouldn’t trade for another visit to even the grandest monument.

Each attraction offers a distinct slice of Rome, and depending on your family’s interests, any of these could be the highlight of your trip. 

But remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, so take your time to truly savor each unique experience.

How I Picked The Activities

As an experienced traveler and someone who has explored these activities firsthand, I carefully handpicked these attractions. 

They are based on my personal experiences, extensive research, and conversations with locals and fellow travelers. 

I wanted to ensure that the activities I recommend cater to the interests of families visiting Rome with kids. 

Each activity has been assessed based on its age compatibility, educational value, fun factor, accessibility, and affordability. 

I hope these carefully curated selections will help you create unforgettable memories during your family trip to Rome.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. 
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rome suitable for kids.

Rome is suitable for kids and offers a wealth of family-friendly activities and attractions. Children can explore ancient ruins like the Colosseum and Roman Forum, visit interactive museums like the Explora Children’s Museum, and enjoy gelato while wandering through picturesque piazzas. Additionally, Rome’s parks, puppet shows, and the Villa Borghese gardens provide ample opportunities for kids to have fun and make lasting memories in the Eternal City.

What Area In Rome Is Best With Kids?

The Trastevere neighborhood in Rome is often considered the best area for families with kids. It offers a charming atmosphere, pedestrian-friendly streets, and a variety of family-oriented activities and attractions. Families can explore the narrow cobblestone streets, visit Gianicolo Hill for panoramic views of the city, and enjoy local parks and playgrounds. The neighborhood also has a range of family-friendly restaurants and gelaterias, making it an ideal base for families visiting Rome.

How Many Days Are Needed In Rome With Kids?

To make the most of a family trip to Rome, it is recommended to plan for at least 4-5 days. This allows ample time to visit iconic attractions such as the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain, as well as explore family-friendly areas like the Villa Borghese gardens and the Trastevere neighborhood. With a few extra days, families can also enjoy leisurely strolls, indulge in delicious gelato, and create lasting memories in the Eternal City.

Fun Things to Do in Rome with Kids: Reddit User Recommendations

Rome visit with child by u/Ozmarik in rome

Conclusion 

From personal experience, I can assure you that there are countless fun things to do in Rome with kids. 

Each destination we explored presented unique stories, vibrant cultures, and timeless wonder.

But if I had to single out one, it’s the Terrazza Borromini Open-Air Opera. 

It’s the hidden gem that truly elevated our Roman holiday. 

Sure, Galleria Borghese was like stepping into a grandiose art gallery, and the Roman Forum allowed us to time-travel to the glorious past. 

And the whimsy of the Pinocchio Store was heartwarming. 

But the Terrazza, with its sublime melodies blending with the city’s night sky, was truly unparalleled. 

It’s Rome in its most romantic form. 

A city of art, history, and above all, la dolce vita.

A family-friendly guide to Rome

With ancient attractions, elaborate churches, and endless museums, it might seem like Rome is an adults-only vacation destination. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Rome perfectly blends history with modernity and is a wonderland for children to explore and learn more about the world.

Tips for visiting Rome with kids

We recommend spending at least three to five days in Rome before heading off to explore the rest of Italy. With little ones, it’s best to come in late spring , early fall, or Christmas ; try to avoid summer as the heat can be too much for young kids.

You can travel around Rome by subway, bus, or tram, with a variety of tourist passes to choose from. The main public transport system in Rome, ATAC, lets children under 10 travel for free if accompanied by an adult. We recommend exploring on foot whenever possible; however, Rome’s cobbled streets and potholes are tough on strollers.

This Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour is also a good idea, allowing you to check out key landmarks with minimal walking. For a more private experience, you can even explore Rome on a golf cart .

Best areas to stay in Rome with your family

Looking for a family-friendly hotel in Rome ? To save travel time, stay within the Centro Storico (historic center), where most of Rome’s attractions are located. Celio , also known as the Colosseum area, is peacefully quiet at night. Check into Hotel Lancelot for free breakfast, friendly staff, and breathtaking views from the sixth-floor terrace. The Capo d’Africa Hotel ’s spacious triple and connecting bedrooms are well-suited for all family sizes, and you’ll get to enjoy breakfast while looking at the Colosseum.

Get away from the crowds by staying in Trieste , an upscale residential neighborhood 15 minutes away from Centro Storico by bus. There are lovely green spaces nearby to explore with the kids, like Villa Torlonia and Villa Paganini . Stay in the Mercure Roma Corso Trieste for an easy trip into town—the hotel is near a metro station. Set in a historic villa with lush palm trees, the Palm Gallery Hotel is an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Rome’s city center.

Prati is a calm and elegant neighborhood located across the Tiber River and near Vatican City . Browse Via Cola di Rienzo , a high-end shopping street without Via del Corso ’s crowds, and explore the multitude of restaurants in the area . The NH Collection Roma Giustiniano hotel is a mere five-minute walk to the Vatican. Its family rooms have a terrace, and in a pinch, the hotel offers babysitting services. Catch a glimpse of St Peter’s Basilica from your window at A Picture of Rome . This luxurious bed-and-breakfast with an affordable price tag is situated in an 18th-century palace.

Best family-friendly restaurants in Rome

One of the most kid-friendly aspects of Rome is the food. You can’t go wrong with pizza, pasta, and gelato, which you can find all over Rome. But in our opinion, the best family-friendly restaurants in Rome are those that can keep your little ones entertained so that you can enjoy your food in peace.

Grab a bite at Vivi Bistrot , located in an old barn within the scenic Villa Doria Pamphili , where your kids can roam among manicured hedges and intricate statues. If you swing by the Campo de’ Fiori market , it’s worth checking out Ai Balestrari , a traditional pizza restaurant with paper tablecloths for doodling. Tonnarello is a superb restaurant located in the heart of Trastevere that serves up quality dishes handmade from scratch and provides excellent service.

A sweet treat goes a long way with kids. After a day of walking, reward them with an ice-cold cone at Gelateria Il Dolce Sorriso or Gelateria Valentino —both offer yummy gelato at great prices.

Top things to do with kids in Rome

1. be an ancient gladiator for a day.

Thousands of years ago, Romans gathered in the Colosseum to watch thrilling hand-to-hand combats between men and animals. Enjoy an immersive experience with this special access skip-the-line tour that kicks off at the Gladiator Gate and continues into the arena itself.

Afterward, head to the nearby Gladiator School to learn how to become a gladiator . The kids will love trying on traditional gladiator outfits while learning the basics of sword fighting. This interactive experience is a sure hit for children aged six and up—the younger ones can soak in the atmosphere from a safe distance on the viewing platform.

2. Explore a children's museum

Entertain your restless kids on a rainy day by checking out Rome’s children’s museums. Designed for children of all ages, Explora - Il Museo Dei Bambini is an interactive museum that will stimulate your little ones’ curiosity about science, the environment, and society. Welcome to Rome is a family-friendly multimedia experience. Featuring holograms, projections, and interactive exhibits, your children will enjoy this immersive learning journey through Rome’s 2,700 years of history.

3. Hone your bravery at Rome’s crypts and catacombs

Families with teens or kids with nerves of steel will have a blast exploring the darker side of Rome. While the ancient road of Via Appia Antica (Appian Way) may seem peaceful on the surface, you’ll learn more about its fascinating, blood-curdling history on this walking tour . Along the way, you’ll get to explore the hallowed catacombs of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini . If that’s not creepy enough, your final stop on the tour will be the Crypt of Capuchins , also known as the “Bone Chapel.”

4. Take a cooking class

If you’re tired of ordering pizza deliveries back home, take the chance to learn how to make your own authentic Neapolitan pizza and pasta. This masterclass provides plenty of one-on-one interaction that will transform you into a pizza maestro, a priceless souvenir that will last a lifetime.

Inspire your children to become a Roman Masterchef with this cooking class that will guide you along making pasta, ravioli, and tiramisu from scratch. Best of all, you won’t even have to clean up your kids’ mess—once you’re done with cooking, head straight to the outdoor terrace to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

5. Visit an ancient ruin where stray cats live

Take the kids along to spot the furry “owners” of Largo di Torre Argentina . These extensive ruins, where Julius Caesar famously fell at the hands of Brutus, now house the Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary . You’ll find stray cats wandering around looking for a shady spot to take a nap. Once you’re done walking around the ruins, head underground to the sanctuary’s indoor shelter, where you can greet more friendly cats and learn about rescue operations.

6. Enjoy a splash of country in the city at Villa Borghese

The expansive gardens surrounding Villa Borghese are ideal for an outdoor excursion. Row a boat down the picturesque lake, or hop on a bike tour to admire statues and fountains, including the magnificent marble horses springing out of the Fontana dei Cavalli Marini . To interact with some real-life animals, visit the Bioparco di Roma , a small zoo located within the park.

7. Zoom around the city in a Vespa sidecar

A Vespa tour is an efficient and exhilarating way to check out Rome’s sights. You’ll check off landmarks like the Spanish Steps , the Trevi Fountain , St. Peter’s Square , and the Pantheon within half a day, and your kids will love waving at passers-by as you wind through the city’s alleyways. For a more cooling ride, there’s also a night tour where you can stop by for gelato along the way.

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A family guide to rome: 10 things to do with kids.

The ancient city of Rome has so much to offer for kids. Education, good food, and beautiful artwork around every corner. Taking kids to Rome can be amazing. Just follow this Guide to Rome with kids.

A Family Guide to Rome: 10 things to do in Rome with kids

Rome! One of the most visited cities in the world, full of great food, ancient sites, history and incredible works of art. There is also so much for families to see and do! We spent one week in Rome, but could have accomplished all we did in 4-5 days if we wanted to.

Where to Stay in Rome

Deciding where to stay in the Eternal City can be tough. It’s built on hills and distances can be deceiving. You want to stay close to the sites you plan on seeing so you won’t spend your whole trip walking or driving. I’ve written this detailed guide to the best places to stay in Rome that will be helpful. 

The Best Things to do in Rome with Kids

We did so much during our time in Rome and our kids honestly loved it all. The abundance of gelato didn’t hurt either. Here are our top 10 activities for your family trip in Rome:

1. Colosseum Tour with Dark Rome

I’ve never really been one for guided tours, preferring to wander at my own pace, which is also one of our travel tips whenever we go somewhere. But I’ve learned over the years that if I’m spending the time and money to take my family to these famous historical sites, then spending the extra time and money to take a tour is well worth it. We always try to book kid-friendly family tours where we can. The tour of the Colosseum with Dark Rome was fantastic.

Our guide was so great with the kids, giving them a good mix of fun and history. We all learned a lot and had lots of fun. The big bonus about booking tours is that you get to skip the lines!

I suggest doing a bit of ancient Roman studies before going to Rome so your kids can make a connection when they are there.

2. Vatican Museum and St. Peter’s   Basilica

I wish we would have done a bit more research before visiting the Vatican Museum and St. Peter’s. We had tons of tour sales people trying to get us to sign up for different tours and tickets here in Vatican City. It was so complicated and by the time we finished, I swore I would write a clear post about this so other families could be helped!

We ended up buying more expensive “skip the line” tickets, which I would never do again. We had to pick up the tickets in front of St. Peter’s, then walk a mile to the actual entrance of Vatican museums (there wasn’t even a line when we got there), then had to wait in a separate line to trade in our skip the line tickets for the “real” tickets! The whole situation was ridiculous! So I’m going to break it down for you here:

-Buying tickets to the Vatican Museum is the only way to see Michelangelo’s  Sistine Chapel. You have to walk through long halls (4 miles) of the museum, with interesting (and odd) artifacts and beautiful artwork to get there. You have to pay to enter the museum. It was 16 Euros for adults and 8 Euros for children when we went. The museum is closed on Sundays. You can find hours, prices and more here.

-You do NOT have to pay to enter St. Peter’s Basilica. There is a line, but it moves quickly and is worth it.

You can learn more about cheap Vatican tours here.

3. Campo de Fiori

This open-air farmers’ market in the heart of Rome is open every day and constantly buzzing with fresh fruits and vegetables, beautiful flowers, meats, cheeses, pastas in all sorts of shapes, and more!

It’s also a nice place to take a break in this public monument with a view of the ruins of ancient Rome. The kids loved all the sites, sounds and smells of the market! It’s also really fun to wander this piazza at night.

4. Trastevere 

Wandering the streets of Trastevere gives you a taste of what Rome without all the tourist hustle and bustle is like. Old buildings, laundry strung across tight alleyways, bikes and scooters lining the streets, locals smoking out of windows, wisteria hanging everywhere and delicious cafes!

We ate at Grazi et Graziele…delicious!

5. Fountains

Rome is full of beautiful fountains! The most famous and magnificent probably being the Trevi Fountain. When you ever visit Rome, make sure you check them out. It’s crowded and crazy, but a must!

6. Villa Borghese

Besides gelato, this was probably the biggest winner for your younger kids and older kids. Rome’s central park has so many school age kids things to do here. 

You can ride a carousel, rent a golf cart or Segways, see a Shakespearean play at a replica of the globe theater, play in a fountain, or just stroll through the beautiful, lush gardens (with gelato in hand of course)!

If you’re visiting Rome with a baby or toddler, this is a great place to go in Rome to let them run off some energy before bedtime or even a good place to escape the city sounds for a nice stroller nap!

7. Pantheon/Piazza Navona

I was surprised at how you can just stumble upon ancient ruins in Rome and the Pantheon is no exception. It’s just right there in the middle of Rome city center! And if you go around the corner, you’ll hit piazza Navona which has an amazing church. We lucked out and saw a youth choir sing there!

The best thing about piazzas is that there are usually no cars so the kids can run wild and dip in the fountain!

8. Take an UBER Tour

My very favorite thing to do in Rome with kids, besides eating of course, is an UBER Tour . We were exploring Trastavere and it started to drizzle. We were all a little worn out from a week of sightseeing and a little out of shape from a week of eating! We were just going to take an UBER back to our AirBnB, but saw “UBER Tour” pop up and we thought we’d give it a try. Our nice driver picked us up in a huge van that fit all 8 of us. He drove us around for about an hour and a half. He took us to all sorts of places that we didn’t even know existed!

Small, old churches with amazing art, huge fountains overlooking the city, a secluded orange garden, and much more. I have limited pictures, because my babies both fell asleep in the back seat on my lap. I was totally happy to enjoy the views from the window. Our driver would stop at each spot, drop us off and make a loop to pick us up 5-10 minutes later. No parking, or waiting for the next tour bus and no getting out of the car if we didn’t want to. The best part is that it is totally customizable. We just said, we’ve seen all the touristy stuff, show us something new! And he sure did. I thought it would also have been a great thing to do on your first day in Rome so you can get a feel for what you want to see and do and also to get a layout of the city, which is much more walkable than I originally thought. If you decide to do this, you can sign up for UBER and get $20 off HERE.

9. Drool Over Cars

Your kids and especially your boys would love seeing these vintage-looking cars on the road!

For reference, here’s how small these cars are! Aren’t they so adorable?!

Best Tours in Rome For Kids

Rome is an amazing city to explore! It’s filled with ancient history, stunning architecture, and beautiful culture. If you’re visiting Rome with kids, there are so many things to do and see. From visiting the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon to exploring the Trevi Fountain, there are endless activities for young ones.

To make the most out of your visit, here are some of the best Rome tours for families traveling with kids!

Ancient Rome Tour for Kids: Discovering the Colosseum and Roman Forum

As I’ve mentioned earlier, from all the tours we’ve taken during our Rome trip, having a guided tour of the Colosseum was so worth it!

Ancient Rome Tour for Kids is a family-friendly guide tour you can take to one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. This tour will take you back in time as your guide and tour leader tells stories about the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and famous archaeological sites nearby. These are what you can look forward to:

• Explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum with hands-on, interactive activities
• Led by a scholar specially trained to work with children
• Colosseum and Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

It’s a 2.5-hour tour by a licensed guide for kids and adults alike, perfect for those who are visiting Rome with kids.

Underground Rome Tour

The Underground Rome Tour is another great tour for kids, offering a unique experience. Kids will journey underground to explore the mysteries of Ancient Rome beyond what can be seen from the surface of the city.

It’s a 3-hour tour joined by an expert archaeologist where you can expect to:

• Explore the subterranean depths of Rome
• Led by an expert archaeologist
• San Lorenzo in Lucina and Vicus Caprarius

Vatican Tour for Kids

Another top-rated tour for kids is the Vatican Tour for Kids . This three-hour tour is guided by a family-friendly Ph.D. or MA-level art historian who will lead you through the famous Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

These are some activities you can look forward to:

• Discover the stunning artworks and frescoes of the Vatican Museum collections
• Accompanied by a licensed guide, specializing in Classical History
• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Rome Pasta-Making Class: Cook, Dine & Drink Wine with a Local Chef

What a great way to make your visit to Rome extra special by joining a cooking class while in Rome! The Rome Pasta-Making Class lets you experience an authentic Italian cooking session with a local chef.

Here are the highlights of what you can get from this tour:

• Learn how to make fettuccine and ravioli from scratch with a professional chef at a private cooking school in Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood.
• Get to know your chefs and fellow pasta makers over prosecco and aperitivi.
• Enjoy a live demonstration of the fine art of gelato making.
• Have a relaxed, fun experience with a small group of 14 participants maximum.
• Gain insider tips on Roman cuisine from a local chef so you can make the most of every meal during your stay.

It’s an educational yet fun-filled tour that will surely make memories with your kids.

Have you been to Rome? What are your favorite things to see, do and eat? We’d love to hear from you!

More Resources

Rome in a Day  Rome in 3 days Cinque Terre The Ultimate Guide to Italy How to Find the Best Gelato in Italy The Best Places to Visit in Italy 10 Day Italy Itinerary

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Rome Family Vacation: What to Do and Where to Stay

What’s In This Article

Rome was one of the best parts of our first Italy Family Vacation , and our top choice if you only have time to visit one city in Italy.

With its ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and delicious cuisine, this Italian city offers many activities that appeal to a whole family, from toddlers to older kids.

Rome Overview

Top Thing To Do: Exploring the Colosseum (with a kid-focused tour )

Where To Stay: A VRBO in the Centro Storico area is our top choice, putting you within walking distance of most major attractions. Be sure to look for one with air conditioning!

Best Tip: Book tours early for popular sites (we missed some of our favorites by waiting), and book early in the day! Hot weather made afternoon tours tough during our June visit.

How To Get There : The closest airport is Rome Fiumicino (FCO) , about a 40 minute drive.

A rental car is not recommended as public transportation is easy to get around on. Rome is also easily reachable from most European cities by flight or a high-speed train (our favorite option).

If you’re planning a longer Italy family vacation , a good way to save time is to start at one end of the country, such as Venice or Milan, take the train south with stops in Florence and Rome, then fly back out of Naples.

Top Things To Do In Rome For Kids

NOTE: Our guides focus on unique local attractions. We want to explore things that can’t be found at home, and we only include places that we’ve been to. If you search for “best things to do in (random city),” you’ll find many of the same things: wax statue museums and believe-it-or-not attractions. But if we’re flying around the world to visit somewhere, we want to see something new first.

#1 Visiting the Colosseum

Exploring the grandeur of the Colosseum, a reminder of Rome’s imperial past is an illuminating experience for inquiring minds intrigued by history and architecture.

The Colosseum, one of Rome’s most renowned ancient ruins, astounds kids of all ages with its immense size and absorbing past.

A family trip to this iconic landmark provides chances for an educational understanding into Ancient Rome during a guided tour of the Colosseum.

Rome Tours: Book a family-friendly tour that’s designed to be interesting and educational as they reveal tales of gladiatorial contests and public spectacles once held within these walls.

As part of a family vacation, visiting Rome’s Gladiator School offers practical activities that supplement the tour experience, making it both illuminating and entertaining for children.

#2 the Vatican

Exploring the depths of the Vatican unveils a treasure trove of ancient and religious relics, where every corner holds stories from years ago.

Situated within the boundaries of the Eternal City, the Vatican City is an essential visit for families. Exquisite works of art are scattered throughout the Vatican Museums, sure to enthrall young adults and children. A family tour brings a rewarding expedition through art, history, and religion.

Tip: Visiting in the summer? Get to the Vatican early! On our early June visit, even visiting early, the temperatures made the tour no fun for the kids before it was done.

The Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoed ceiling, offers an awe-inspiring experience for everyone.

St Peter’s Basilica is another architectural wonder within this spiritual haven. A tour around this hallowed ground further enhances the experience of discovering the marvels of the Vatican.

#3 Exploring the Pantheon in Rome City Center

A masterpiece of ancient Roman architecture, the Pantheon invites admiration for its grandeur and historical weight. Situated in the city center, this renowned landmark is certainly one of the finest places to visit while sightseeing the Italian capital with children.

The historic city of Rome provides numerous stimulating activities:

• Gaze upon the world’s largest unfortified concrete dome.
• Delve into its captivating past as a temple and later a church.
• Peruse Piazza di Spagna close by for an authentic Roman experience.
• Participate in interactive learning about Roman architecture and engineering wonders.

Such a journey is a great way to foster children’s interest in history. The optimal approach to appreciate this ancient city is by submerging oneself into its abundant cultural legacy.

#4 Fun Things To Do: Enjoying a Gelato Class Around Rome

Exploring Rome’s cultural landscape can be an exciting and rewarding experience, and participating in a gelato-making class will surely be a highlight. The activity offers a delicious mix of culinary education and sweet pleasure, making it a must-try for visiting families. Kids of all ages will be drawn to this activity’s fun and educational elements, with young children able to craft their favorite ice cream flavors and older kids learning new techniques from professionals.

An overview of what you can expect from a typical gelato-making class:

#5 Taking a Stroll in the Piazza Navona

Taking a meander through the centuries-old vista of Piazza Navona, a grand baroque showpiece, promises a captivating and visually awe-inspiring experience for families.

This public arena, once the site of Roman competitions, is now a thriving hub with street entertainers, painters, and merchants vending fresh produce.

Strolling around this iconic landmark is not only edifying but also amusing.

The Explora Children’s Museum nearby is another excellent way to boost children’s knowledge of Rome’s affluent culture.

Piazza Navona is conveniently accessible by public transportation making it a good spot for newcomers to commence their investigation.

With its spacious grounds and hospitable atmosphere, it is ideal for children to stretch their legs after a lengthy voyage while absorbing the city’s animated atmosphere.

#6 Borghese Park

Immersing oneself in the lush surroundings of Villa Borghese Park promises a delightful day of relaxation and education for youthful minds. This picturesque park, one of Rome’s most expansive public parks, offers many outdoor activities that children of all ages can enjoy.

Here is a family guide to the top things to do in Villa Borghese Gardens:

These activities guarantee captivating experiences for younger and older children.

#7 Marveling at the Sistine Chapel

Towards the end of the Vatican tour, you’ll find the Sistine Chapel. Gawping at the magnificence of the Sistine Chapel, families can take pleasure in the renowned artwork that covers its walls and ceilings. Well-known as one of the greatest museums in Rome, it presents an extraordinary encounter for kids and adults alike.

Its awe-inspiring frescoes by Michelangelo are certainly amongst the most favored items to observe in this old city.

A great advantage of visiting this site is that it could be more pleasant with a personalized tour, particularly for families, converting the tour into an exhilarating scavenger hunt for kids.

#8 A Visit to the Roman Forum

Venturing into the past, one can explore the Roman Forum, a remarkable archaeological site that once held political and social importance in ancient Rome. With over 4.5 million sightseers visiting this historical site each year, its allure remains steadfast and is one of the best things to see in Rome.

Entice children by emphasizing salient features such as:

• The fragments of Julius Caesar’s funeral pyre;
• Ancient spots, including sanctuaries and basilicas dating back to antiquity;
• A tour to the Capitoline Museums for an understanding of Emperor Hadrian’s regime;
• Climbing Palatine Hill for scenic views;
• Noting Circus Maximus from above.

To stave off mobs, buying skip-the-line tickets online is suggested. This educational yet enjoyable experience provides a prosperous perspective of Rome’s majestic past.

#9 Participating in a Gladiator School

Visiting a Gladiator School offers an enthralling opportunity to explore Roman history, allowing individuals to understand ancient warriors’ life and combat techniques. This amusement park-like facility is more than just a theme park; it’s an instructive trip back to the past.

Kids engaging in these activities will gain insight into Rome’s heritage and hone their physical abilities as they practice on the arena floor, mimicking the moves of gladiators.

The gladiator school might involve encountering representations of wild animals, adding an extra layer of excitement for kids. Even if additional fees are attached to certain activities, such as golf cart tours, the overall experience is worth the expense.

This unique form of educational entertainment makes visiting Rome with children a remarkable voyage.

#10 A Tour of the Catacombs (Older Kids)

This option is for older kids but could be a bit scary for younger children. We didn’t try this on our most recent trip with our 7 yr old.

Burrowing into the meandering catacombs beneath the bustling streets provides a once-in-a-lifetime view into antiquated funeral customs. This spookily riveting voyage is akin to stepping into an enigmatic page from history.

Positioned under Aventine Hill and Appia Antica, these catacombs are one of the must-see destinations for families in Rome. The tour furnishes an edifying yet thrilling experience for all kin as it discloses remarkable historical acumen and beguiling stories at every turn.

Near stands Santa Maria, another much-visited point during this expedition. Engaging in such ventures submerges youngsters in global history while making their trip memorable and delightful.

#11 Picnicking in the Circus Maximus

Brimming with historical relevance, the Circus Maximus provides a pleasant environment for a tranquil picnic among old monuments and extensive verdant spaces.

Situated between the Palatine and Aventine Hills in Rome, Circus Maximus is only a short stroll away from renowned attractions such as the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Venezia, Spanish Steps, and Largo di Torre, Argentina .

Picnicking here not only grants an opening to repose but also to take in the abundant annals of this antique chariot racing stadium.

The site exhibits some of the most picturesque perspectives of Rome’s skyline, which can be magnificent in the late afternoon.

#12 Visit the Palatine Hill

The allure of the Capuchin Crypt beckons a journey into the past at Palatine Hill. This venerable area of Rome is a must-visit for families, with its sweeping views of the city and plethora of archaeological marvels. It has been said that this is where Rome was born, and its ruins are a portal to an age long gone.

Interactive activities available at Palatine Hill are an ideal way to make history come alive for young visitors and ensure their visit is both educational and entertaining. It is the perfect place for families to explore ancient Rome and discover its secrets.

On the Palatine Hill, you will find remnants of grand palaces that once belonged to emperors and aristocrats. Wandering amongst these ruins is a chance to connect with the Roman civilization, making it a special experience for all.

#13 the Trevi Fountain

Sublime in its magnificence, the Trevi Fountain stands as a hallmark of Italy’s storied cultural and artistic legacy. It is a must-visit for families vacationing in Rome.

The grandiose marble edifice presents a beguiling vision with mythic figures and a deluge of water, creating an entrancing atmosphere that will enthrall adults and children alike.

Tip 1: Coin Toss Tradition Inspire your kids to partake in the ritual of throwing a coin into the fountain.

Tip 2: Night Visit Consider planning a night-time visit to the Trevi Fountain. When the fountain is radiantly illuminated, it provides a completely different scene. The play of lights and shadows adds a magical ambiance.

Tip 3: Guided Tours: Opt for guided tours that provide intriguing stories about the fountain’s history. These tours can deepen your family’s comprehension and admiration of this architectural wonder.

#14 Taking a Pizza-Making Class

Diving into the exquisite gastronomical delights of Italy, a pizza-making class offers an enthralling and edifying experience for all ages.

This activity is especially favored among those visiting Rome with children. An interactive way to learn about one of Italy’s renowned dishes brings entertainment and a full cultural experience.

Various facilities across Rome provide classes. Participants are guided by seasoned chefs who offer insight into the history and techniques of classic Italian pizza making. Children acquire practical knowledge, while adults enjoy the chance to learn traditional recipes.

Apart from being a delightful family bonding session, this class culminates in a delicious meal everyone can savor together. Without a doubt, such experiences contribute profoundly towards generating unforgettable memories during family trips to Rome.

#15 Campo de’ Fiori Market

Brimming with life and vivacity, the Campo de Fiori Market is comparable to a vivid canvas of colors and noises that exhibits an intriguing peephole into Italy’s vibrant culinary culture. Located in one of Rome’s oldest squares, this hectic marketplace provides a variety of fresh ingredients, artisanal products, and local delicacies that will captivate the young ones.

The market allows children to activate their senses through sight, scent, and taste. It acts as a platform for educating about food sources and healthy dietary habits. The interactive nature of the market allows for learning in a fun and engaging atmosphere.

The experience is not merely limited to shopping; it transcends into cultural immersion – an insight into Roman life through its gastronomy.

Secondary Things To Do

Now we’re getting into the things to do that we’d consider a backup to the main attractions. Rome is all about the amazing historical things to see, and plenty exists.

If you’ve only got a few days in Rome, we’d stick to the things above. However, other great options exist if you’ve got some extra time or are looking for something to do to escape the summer heat.

#16 A Day at the Explora Children’s Museum

With a wealth of interactive displays, the Explora Children’s Museum offers an absorbing platform for young brains to explore the wonders of science and technology. This educative center located in Central Rome provides a hands-on education with activities crafted to kindle curiosity and innovation.

The museum comprises four thematic areas: I learn, detect, and can do, and occasional exhibitions. These divisions encompass several topics, such as the environment, communication, community, and nutrition. An outdoor area is also available where children can investigate nature while having fun. Besides, classes are regularly held to promote cognitive development through experimentation.

With its exclusive mix of education and amusement, the Explora Children’s Museum offers an ideal destination for families searching for a child-friendly cultural experience in Rome.

#17 A Trip to the Rainbow MagicLand Amusement Park

For families looking for an exciting time, the Rainbow MagicLand Amusement Park offers a captivating selection of thrilling rides and attractions. Situated on the edge of Rome, this amusement park has been designed with spellbinding themes to stimulate the creative minds of small children.

The core appeal of Rainbow MagicLand is the ‘Magic River’, a wild water ride through magical and mythical scenery. The ‘Cagliostro’ is also a popular draw, providing an adrenaline-pumping rollercoaster experience in a haunted house setting. And for younger guests, there’s the ‘Believix’, where they can join their beloved Winx Club characters in an interactive journey.

These breathtaking experiences at Rainbow MagicLand generate long-lasting memories for families visiting Rome, ensuring their holiday remains unforgettable even after returning home .

#18 Visit the Zoo: Bioparco di Roma

Nestled in the heart of Villa Borghese, the Bioparco di Roma offers a captivating journey into wildlife conservation and education. Spanning 17 hectares, this zoological garden houses over 200 species of animals worldwide. Families can explore a variety of habitats, from African Savannahs to Asian forests.

The zoo has several enthralling experiences designed for children’s pleasure and learning. These include animal petting areas, nourishment sessions, educational workshops, and theatrical shows.

Here is a glimpse of what families can anticipate:

Are day trips from Rome worth it?

While we’d recommend spending a few days each in Florence and Venice, here are a few day trips worth considering:

• Pompeii – an ancient city with free entry on certain days
• Florence – a paradise for art lovers with Renaissance architecture around every corner
• Ostia Antica – an archaeological marvel located on Rome’s left shoulder
• Vatican City – guided tours are available for a small commission fee
• Tivoli – home to gorgeous villas and breathtaking scenery.

How to decide how many days you need in Rome?

Deciding how much time to spend in Rome requires carefully considering the many attractions available. Here is a guide to help you decide:

1-2 Days: Unmissable landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

3-4 Days: Visit the Vatican City and its iconic sites, including St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

5-6 Days: Discover lesser-known gems like Trastevere and Villa Borghese.

7+ Days: Day trips to places like Pompeii and Ostia Antica.

It might appear perplexing that an ancient city such as Rome, brimming with culture and antiquity, could also be an enjoyable playground for the younger generation. Yet, this iconic city offers a treasure trove of activities suitable for families. From the Colosseum and Pantheon to gastronomic courses and thrilling amusement parks, the Eternal City has something to quench the curiosity of the most transient moments of childhood.

Not only can families explore the city’s rich history, but they can also partake in various activities to gain a better understanding of the city’s culture. For example, attending a pizza class or a pasta-making course is a great way to learn about Italian cuisine. Parents can also take their children to educational museums or participate in interactive tours to discover the secrets of Rome’s past.

Another great way to enjoy Rome is to visit some of the city’s outdoor attractions, like the Villa Borghese Park or the Catacombs. Children can explore the lush greenery and breathtaking views here while learning about the city’s historic sites.

In short, Rome has a plethora of activities for families to explore. With its unique offerings and learning opportunities, this city is ideal for a memorable family vacation. It is amusingly ironic how the Eternal City can provide such transient moments of joy and curiosity for people of all ages.

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15+ Things to do in Rome With Kids (That Parents will Love too)

by mumslittleexplorers · January 6, 2023

Kick of your Italian family holiday with a visit to Rome, the Italian capital. With so many things to do in Rome with kids, this city is the perfect destination for your first stop if you are travelling to Italy with the family.

This family guide to Rome will give you all the information you need to travel to Rome with kids including: Rome family friendly attractions, Rome museums for kids, and other things to do in Rome for kids that parents will love too. This way you can get the most out of your trip.

Rome with Kids, Is it possible?

Visiting Rome with kids is different than visiting the city as a couple or with friends. I had lived in Rome many years before my kids were born, (and after) so I know from personal experience. It doesn’t mean you can’t, it just means you need to explore differently.

While it may seem like a huge city, Rome isn’t really that big when you compare it to those like New York and London so don’t be intimidated. It is actually really easy to get around. In fact, I was hopping on and off the metro and trams with my son from just a few months old.

Whether you travel to Rome with kids during the Summer or Winter, there is so much to experience that you will want a good few days to explore the highlights.

To really get the most out of the city, I recommend a week if you have the time, so that you can experience all of the main things to do in Rome, visit the Rome attractions, and even take a few day trips to see the surrounds.

If not, at a minimum 2-3 days to see the basics.

When to travel to Rome with Kids

May – September is the peak time to visit Rome where the city is swarmed with tourists from all over the world. July and August are the hottest months in Italy, and because of the humidity in Rome during those months, it’s probably not the best months to travel to Rome with kids. Many people head off to the coast during this time to one of the  best beaches in Italy .

December – February is Italy’s Winter, and the coldest months with snow falling occasionally in February. If you don’t mind the cold, around Christmas is a magical time in Italy where you can find Christmas markets and decorated Christmas trees in the main piazzas.

Spring time (March – May) or Autumn (September – November) is when you can experience nice comfortable weather. It is also during these times that accommodation prices are lower and a great time for an Italy family holiday.

Getting around Rome with Kids

The Roma Metro is super easy to use and quite cheap too compared to other capitals in Europe. You can buy tickets at the machines within the stations where you can select the English language. There are only 3 lines so not as confusing as big cities such as Paris and London.

Rome is easy to walk around though and getting lost in the city is part of the beauty of visiting this historical city. If you have a baby carrier, or small city stroller for your little ones, walking around the centre is definitely the better option. Take a map and explore! The whole family will enjoy it.

Things to do in Rome with Kids

I lived and worked in Rome on and off for almost a decade, and my first son was born here. I also worked as a tour leader around Italy and I was lucky enough to experience a lot of what this beautiful ancient city has to offer both as a solo traveller, and as a family in Rome with our kids.

Below you can find my top things to see and do if you are planning your Italy family holiday and the best things to do in Rome with kids.

1. Visit the Colosseum, Most popular Rome Attraction

The number one Rome tourist attraction, and the best thing to do in Rome with kids, is to take them to visit the Colloseum.

Teach your children some of Rome’s history and travel back to the days of the Roman Empire, by visiting the biggest amphitheater in the world . Built by the first Flavian Emeror, Vespasian, it could hold around eighty thousand spectators.

The Colosseum is a definite must see in Rome for kids of all ages, so don’t miss it. Even if you prefer not to go inside, at least go for a walk around the outside and check it out. You will all be amazed.

If you do decide to visit, you will need a good few hours. Book ahead if you can, especially during peak times as it can get busy.

Check out our full guide on Visiting the Colosseum with Kids which includes everything you need to know about visiting the Colosseum, and also lots of easy facts to learn for kids.

2. Put your hand in the La Bocca Della Verita “The Mouth of Truth”

Test your children and have them put their hand in the Mouth of Truth. Made famous by the Audry Hepburn Movie “Roman Holiday”, the legend has it that it was used during the Middle Ages as a lie detector whereby the accused would place their hand inside and the mouth would close if they were lying. See if your kids will dare take the test!

3. Take a Bike Ride around Villa Borghese

One of my favourite places in Rome with kids is the stunning Villa Borghese. You can walk around the park, but it is much more fun to hire a bike or a riscio (a family bike that holds up to 6 people) and ride around as it is quite big.

You can stop for a picnic on the beautiful grassed areas or have a bite to eat at one of the many cafes. Enjoy the view of Rome from the lookout point.

For older kids, visit the famous Galleria Borghese Museum or for the younger ones, take a ride on the Bioparco Express train which goes around the zoo which is located within Villa Borghese.

To get there, simply ride the metro to Flaminia Station, or walk up to Piazza Del Popolo which is in the North of the centre. There is a stair case leading you up to Villa Borghese where you can start at the lookout with a view of the piazza and the city. Close by on your right is where you can rent a bike.

It is such a great thing to do in Rome with kids for the afternoon after sightseeing.

4. Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain

One of the most popular things to do in Rome with kids or without is to visit the Trevi Fountain. Take your children to the most famous fountain in Rome where they can do the famous coin toss. We do this every time we are in Rome.

Throw a coin in the fountain and make a wish. You never know, it may just come true. Don’t forget the photo for memories! There are plenty of gelato and pizza shops near by to grab a snack on the go too.

5. Explore the Catacombs

One of the best things to do in Rome with kids who love spooky stories is to take an underground tour of the Catacombs where you can learn all about Rome’s dark and creepy past. It will feel like a time machine, as you step back in time through centuries and discover what lies beneath Rome.

The largest is the Catacomb of St Callixtus , which dates back to the 2 nd Century AD.  actually the burial site of many of the pope’s.

6. Run around Piazza Navona

If you’re looking for a place in Rome for kids to run around, then head to one of Rome’s famous piazzas. There are statues to awe at and fountains to drink from, not to mention lots of space. You will often find street performers and markets selling all types of goodies depending on the time of year.

The Christmas season is particularly busy when they hold the most famous Christmas Market where you can find lots of local delights.

7. Climb Spanish Steps at Piazza Spagna

This is an easy thing to do in Rome with kids as it is more of a viewing point and “people watching” place. The famous Spanish steps in the centre of Rome connect Piazza Spagna with the Trinita de Moni Church up top. Take your time climbing the 138 steps to the top with your kids and just enjoy the views.

The Spanish Steps are right in the middle of the centre and on your way to Villa Borghese if you are coming from the Trevi Fountain and Colloseum so very easy to find. A must see when visiting Italy’s capital city.

8. Look through the roof of the Pantheon

The Pantheon, is a church still in use today and one of Ancient Rome’s best preserved monuments and popular tourist attraction for any traveller. While many children may not be impressed on the outside, what is on the inside may surprise them. There is a massive hole in the roof!

This hole is the only source of light, since there are no windows and it actually acts like a ventilation system in the Summer since the hot air rises. It is quite impressive to look at!

The Pantheon is free and is not far from the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain so you should definitely pass by for a quick visit. Outside there are often horse and carriages which are always popular with the kids in Rome.

9. Explore the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill

The Roman Forum and the Palatine hill are actually just beside the Colosseum and are a wonderful place to explore with kids of all ages. When our little ones were younger we would just walk through and explore, they thought it was just like a huge park. On our most recent trip we took them on a tour with Walks of Italy. A tour is a great idea if possible for older kids so you can learn all about the history with a guide. Many of the tours also go inside the Colosseum too so you get to see both.

10. Check out Castel Sant’Angelo

Definitely one of the best things to do in Rome for kids is visit a castle! Castel Sant’Angelo is one of the best Rome attractions for kids and families and should definitely be on your bucket list.

The tomb of Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant’ Angelo is also known serving as a fortress and prison to the Papal residence. Lots to see and learn about Roman history. No need for a tour, you can go in yourself to explore. There are some great views too!

11. Walk around Trastevere

One of the most beautiful areas of Rome is Trastevere which is on the west bank of the Tiber River. It is an area you must visit and walk around with your family in Rome. It is also a great place to stay too!

Trastevere has a maze of tiny narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, lively piazzas, and numerous little cafes, restaurants and bars.

While quiet in the day time, it really comes to night in the evening, so it is a great spot to grab a pizza or gelato and get lost in the streets, or just sit on the steps in the piazza and let the kids run around.

12. Take a Ride in a Time Elevator

An exciting thing to do in Rome with children is the Time Elevator where kids can travel back in time to Rome’s early days in a three-dimensional ride. The journey involves all the senses and allows you to see how life was in ancient Rome through the medieval, Renaissance, and 20th-century Rome.

It is a great educational experience where you can learn about all of the major historical moments of the city.   Please note that this activity is currently closed.

13. Explorer Museum

While it isn’t one of Rome’s main attractions, the Explorer Museum is a great rainy day activity if you have younger kids, or somewhere to take the kids in the midst of all the sight seeing.

Located near Flaminia Metro, north of the centre is the Explorer Museum , it has everything you can think of to keep their little minds stimulated.

There are numerous science exhibits and water play. There is mini bank where children can take out fake money, a garden where they can plant and pick vegetables, and supermarket where they can grab a trolley, pick up their items and pay at the counter.

You will even find a creative crafts area where children can cut, paste, and create out of recycled items. A cow they can milk and learn how milk is produced and lots more.

Take the time out to enjoy an espresso or cappuccino at the café and let the kids explore.

14. Hop On Hop Off Bus

The Hop on Hop off Bus is a great option to explore Rome with kids if they are younger or when you don’t have much time.

You can easily walk around the centre of Rome visiting the attractions, and if you can walk around, I highly recommend it. But if you don’t have much time, or you have small children who with little legs that tire easily, this is an easy option.

Your kids will love sitting up on the top level with the roof off looking out to the city. Hop on and off as you please and visit everything quickly and calmly. You can get the bus from Termini, the main train station in Rome.

15. Eat Gelato

Who doesn’t like gelato! When in Rome… Take a pit stop every now and again at one of the many gelatarias in Rome where the kids won’t know where to start with the huge selection of flavours.

With one on almost every corner, you won’t have to walk far to find one. You cannot travel to Rome with kids without trying at least a few of the delicious flavours of the famous Italian gelato. If you are in the centre one check out Gelateria Della Palma which has over 150 flavours of gelato!

16. Take a Day Trip

There is so much to do in Rome with kids that you can easily fill your days. However once you have seen the main sites of Rome, there are also plenty of places to see on the outskirts of the city that are definitely worth a visit.

See famous ruins in Ostia Antica or Hadrians Villa in Tivoli, check out the beautiful villas and gardens, seaside villages and towns, and other nearby cities such as Viterbo, Lago Bracciano, Florence or Naples which are now quicker to get to thanks to the fast trains.

Check out our full guide on Day Trips From Rome where you have plenty to choose on depending on your timeline!

How long to stay in Rome with Kids?

You can definitely see most of our list within 2-3 days, but it would be quite rushed and you wouldn’t really get to take it all in. Also, when you travel with your little ones you do need to slow down a little and compromise.

I usually recommend at least 3-4 full days in Rome with kids (5-6 if you have the time). Break the attractions up so that you are seeing a few things each day, but then you also get some time to just chill out in one of the villas or parks too.

Rome for Kids

I may be bias because I still consider it my second home, but Rome is one of the easiest cities to travel with kids.

I guarantee though, that your trip to to Italy’s capital will take your breathe away. With plenty of things to do in Rome with kids this city is an unforgettable destination and I am sure it will be a highlight of your Italy family holiday.

Let us know how you go when you travel and about your favourite things to do in Rome with kids! And make sure you check out our full guide: Family Travel in Italy – What to see and do.

Travelling around Italy? Why not check out our other city and region guides: 

• Florence with Kids
• Venice with Kids
• Naples with Kids
• Calabria with Kids
• Puglia with Kids
• Sicily with Kids

Follow Mum’s Little Explorers on Facebook for more travel tips!

Tags: italy family holiday italy with kids Rome rome with kids Travel to rome

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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]

Rome with Kids: 5-Day Itinerary Of Highlights and Hidden Gems

I’ll never forget my first glimpse of the Colosseum. My husband and I had just landed in Rome. I was bleary-eyed and nervous with anticipation about my first trip to Europe. My first view of Rome out the taxi window looked like any other cosmopolitan city. And then it happened. I glanced down a side street and there it was — the ultimate icon of Rome, the Colosseum. When visiting Rome with kids I wanted my daughter to have that same level of excitement and awe.

Italy is an ideal country for a first family trip to Europe for many reasons. First, most kids love pizza and pasta, so the food isn’t an obstacle. Second, by the time they have reached elementary school, most kids have seen some images of Ancient Rome or modern Italy in books, shows, or movies (and if not, see my reading list below!)

Visiting Rome with kids can be a lot of fun because you will see their eyes light up as they make connections between things they have heard about or seen on screens or books to what they are experiencing and seeing in real life. Who wouldn’t love eating gelato while playing near the fountains in Piazza Navona? Or enjoy watching the sunset from the top of the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna?

Italy is a very family-friendly country and if you have a chance to get off the beaten path in Rome , your kids can join in with peers playing futball/soccer in the piazza or playing in the playground.

Of course, visiting Rome with children can also be overwhelming. There is  so much  history to absorb. The crowds can be challenging and there is just so much to see. Parents often wonder where to start. What will the kids really enjoy? How do you choose from the plethora of walking tours that are out there? Are kids old enough to appreciate what they are seeing?

If you are having those same concerns, read on. In this guide, I will attempt to show you the best age to visit Rome with kids, the best time of year to visit Rome with kids, where to stay in Rome with kids, and, most importantly, give you a family-friendly 5-day Rome itinerary that you can follow. If you are staying longer, follow one of these 10-day Italy itinerary ideas.

Best Ages to Visit Rome with Kids

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

I find the sweet spot for international travel with kids is from 8-12 or so. Younger kids can certainly have fun and enjoy making fun family memories, but you are a little more limited on how much history and touring they can handle.

Teens can also get very excited about visiting Italy, you just need to build in more unique experiences into your itinerary (such as a private e-bike tour of the Appian Way or a night tour of the catacombs .) We have also found that teens require a good amount of downtime (good luck getting them up for the early entrance to the Vatican ) or time online.

Best TIme to VIsit Rome with Kids

When you are visiting Rome with kids, you will likely need to work around a standard school schedule. Keep in mind that summers in Rome are very hot and only getting hotter. There are only a handful of hotels with pools , and touring the Ancient Forum in the summer can be like baking in the sun.

If your only option is to visit in the summer, try to visit as early in the summer as possible, hopefully before July when European schools get out for summer break. Keep in mind that many Italian families go on vacation for the month of August so some restaurants and shops will be closed in cities and the seaside destinations will be even more crowded. August 15th is also a national holiday where most things will be closed. See more tips for visiting Italy in August.

If your child has an October break or half-term, that would be an ideal time to visit. Spring break is another ideal time. Just keep in mind that if your spring break falls along with Easter, Rome is going to be extra crowded for religious observations and many shops and restaurants will be closed from Good Friday through the days after Easter.

Christmas time can be lovely, although chilly. There are a few Christmas markets around Rome that you can enjoy, including a beautiful one in Piazza Navona. Just keep in mind that many things will be closed on Christmas and St. Stephen’s Day. If visiting during religious holidays, it may be better to stay in a rental where you can stock up to prepare meals before shops close, or in full-service hotels that offer on-site dining.

Where to Stay in Rome With Kids

In Rome, you can find a number of boutique hotels that offer family suites or connecting rooms for rates that are not quite as outrageous as cities like Paris . I still find vacation rental apartments through vrbo a good option for families to give everyone extra space to spread out and a kitchen to eliminate the need to eat out for every meal. This helps with the Italy trip budget and for everyone’s patience for eating at restaurants.

Some other hotels that offer a family room or suite at an affordable price include:

• Hotel Albergo del Senato  near the Pantheon
• Hotel Santa Maria  in charming Trastevere 
• Hotel Ponte Sisto  in the historic center
• family-run  Daphne Inn in the historic center

If you are taking an overnight flight, you will likely arrive in the late morning or early afternoon. Our flight arrived in Rome via Al Italia from Boston at 12:40 pm.

For our trip, we stayed at the Traiano apartment at Via Ruggero Bonghi, 38  near the Colosseum.

Itinerary for 5 Days in Rome with Kids

We visited Rome in June, before heading to the Amalfi Coast for a few days in Positano and Capri . Our daughter was 10 at the time, so this itinerary is best if you are visiting Rome with tweens or school-age kids. I know family travel is different for each family, so use this as a guide to help shape your decisions and planning. I hope you find it helpful!

Day 1 (Saturday) : Welcome to Rome

Arriving in Rome from an overnight flight from the States, you will need time to recover from jetlag and have an easy day. The best way to get through a lack of sleep and the time change is to get fresh air. The exhilaration of getting to explore a new place is energizing. Walking around a city is a good way to see some casual sites and get your bearings.

However, when visiting Rome with kids, you don’t want to overdo it or leave things to loosey-goosey and unstructured so that everyone get a little cranky. We decided to take a “ Evening Stroll with Gelato” tour with Walks of Italy to see Rome’s most scenic highlights. However, another good option, especially for little legs that can’t handle much walking, is to take a private Rome tour by golf cart . Kids may also love the Vespa with sidecar tour of Rome .

Whether you book a tour (I like doing tours because we learn so much more and I prefer private tours that can be more easily tailored to my family and our interests and energy) or not, on your first afternoon or evening in Rome with kids I would recommend walking around the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona.

Finishing off with gelato or a great dinner of pasta or pizza is a perfect end to your first day in Rome with kids. If you end near Piazza Navona, check out Tre Scalini’s famous tartufo or have an espresso at Caffé Sant’Eustachio, in Piazza di Sant’Eustachio.

Day 2 (Sunday): Ancient Rome

If you are planning a Rome family vacation and also arriving on the weekend, keep in mind that many attractions and restaurants are closed on Sunday so plan accordingly.

We decided that Sunday would be a good day to visit the Colosseum. We learned from a previous mistake that you really need to book a tour or tickets in advance , otherwise you will be stuck waiting for hours in the hot sun to get in. The Colosseum is the most-visited site in Rome with over 30,000 people visiting the Colosseum every day, so you need to plan ahead.

I would really recommend taking a tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum. There are a lot of options that you can choose depending on the ages of your kids and their interests:

• Best for young kids: Private Colosseum Tour with Kids
• Best unique experience: Private Colosseum at Night Tour with Arena floor access
• Best for tweens and teens: Semi-private Virtual Reality Colosseum and Ancient Rome tour with arena access

TIP: Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and hats and bring along snacks and water. Strollers are not suitable for visiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Our tour started at the Colosseum, where we were able to skip the line and go through a shorter line for groups with guides. Construction on the Colosseum, which got its name from the statue of Colossus out front, began in 72 AD, taking the work of 50,000 enslaved people every day to complete it so it could open to the public in 80 AD.

The reason the Colosseum looks like it is crumbling in parts is that after it was closed in the 500s with the fall of the Roman Empire, it was looted during the dark ages for the marble and iron, which made its way into other buildings including the Vatican. To help us understand what the Colosseum used to look like in its full glory when it held 75,000 people, our guide pulled out her iPad to show us a mock-up of the original facade.

On our tour, we got a good look into the corridors under what used to be the floor of the Colosseum, both from the main level and a better vantage point up above. We learned all about the games, the life of the gladiators, and the inner workings of the Colosseum. We also got to see many of the artifacts preserved from those days and could start to imagine, both through our guide’s iPad renderings and the remaining embellishments, what the Colosseum looked like 2000 years ago.

Our heads spinning with history, we moved on to exploring Ancient Rome, in the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. As we walked in, where we learned about the legend of Romulus and Remus and the forming of Ancient Rome.

We spent a good 1.5 hours in the forum and Palatine Hill, learning about the Temple of Julius Caesar, the Vestal Virgins, the Temple of Romulus and its massive bronze doors, the Basilica of Constantine, and the Arch of Titus. Our guide also took us to a beautiful overlook and photo point with a perfect view of the Colosseum.

After the tour, you can walk over to Capitoline Hill to take a shortcut to the Victor Emanuelle II monument without climbing all the steps (find the she-wolf statue then take steps across from the statue into the building behind S. Maria d’Aracoeli Church. Enter, turn right. Follow long corridor on left to Victor Emanuelle II terrace & café.)

See our recommendations on where to eat in Rome with kids .

After lunch, inspect Trajan’s Column, then walk over to the Bocca Della Verita (Mouth of Truth) in Piazza Bocca Della Verita. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get near Circus Maximus and the Bocca Della Verita because the Rolling Stones were playing there that night and the roads were closed off.

After taking time to relax, I booked an 8 pm dinner at Taverna dei Fori Imperiale, Via Della Madonna de Monti 9. We really loved this place, especially the artichoke with white wine and lemon and the traditional Roman carbonara.

Day 3 (Monday): Exploring Trastevere

Monday is a busy day to visit the Vatican and St. Peter’s and some restaurants and attractions are closed. This is why we decided to get off the beaten path and explore one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods, Trastevere.

If you are an early riser, you can stop by the market at Campo dei Fiori and pick up pastries at Forno Campo dei Fiori, 22 in the Piazza or 5 Via dei Baullari before heading to Trastevere .

The best way to explore Trastevere is through a food tour! We took the Trastevere Daylight Food Tour (now only offered as an evening tour) with Eating Europe. This gave us the opportunity to get a “real” taste of Rome and explore the energetic neighborhood of Trastevere.

This was one of our favorite tours of Rome, especially for older children. It is also the food tour that completely sold us on food tours and has led to us trying them in so many cities including Vienna , Fes , and more. Devour Tours also offers an evening Trastevere food tour .

Since these food tours are now in the evening, you may want to take a gelato making or pizza making class, or Devour Tours’ Street Food Tour with pizza making, trattoria tasting, and gelato . I’ve recently taken a private cooking class in a local’s home through Cesarine , which was a fantastic experience.

Another option is a Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto combined tour with LivTours.

That day, we headed back to the apartment to relax, shower and change before meeting up with family friends that live in Rome for dinner. However, if you want to spend some time relaxing, you can head over to the Villa Borghese gardens, where you can rent bikes and rowboats, take a walk, or even visit a zoo.

Day 4 (Tuesday): Hidden Gems

On our fourth day, we wanted to take a day trip or get outside of the city center and explore some of the lesser-known Rome highlights.

To do this, we picked decided to do the   “Rome as a Local” tour with Walks of Italy . When we took this tour it included the Appian Way, Aqueduct Park, Baths of Caracalla, Janiculum Hill, Aurelian Walls, and the Pyramid of Cassius Cestius. It now also includes the Jewish Ghetto, which we did on our own.

I loved getting to see this very ancient part of Rome and walk in the grooves made by chariots so many centuries ago. Likewise for the Aqueduct Park, which is a fascinating example of Roman ingenuity and engineering expertise.

After the tour, we went over to the Jewish Ghetto for lunch at Trattoria Gigetto (Via del Portico d’Ottavia, 21/A) for fried artichokes and then paid a visit to the Jewish Synagogue. Keep in mind that no shorts are allowed and shoulders must be covered — no shorts at the restaurants either. Instead of Trattoria Gigetto, you can also try Piperno or Ba Ghetto.

Another option for the afternoon or evening, especially if you have teens, would be to visit the crypts and catacombs on an  Underground Tour of Rome  with Walks of Italy or take a  Night Catacombs tour with LivTours

You can also use this day to take a popular day trip from Rome including:

• Ostia Antica
• Tivoli and Villa d’Este
• Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio
• Pompeii tour with Amalfi coast drive
• Tuscany hill towns

Day 5 (Wednesday): Catholic Rome

We saved our last full day in Rome for exploring the Vatican Museum and St. Peter’s Basilica. The museum is closed on Sundays and therefore Mondays tend to be the busiest. We picked to go on Wednesday morning, while the Pope was giving his Papal Address next door in St. Peter’s Square. While thousands flock to hear this popular Pope each Wednesday, they are occupied from the time they line up to get tickets in the early morning until sometime after 11 when the Papal Address concludes.

While this means the museum and St. Peter’s will be crowded later, if you get in during the morning you might find the museum at one of its least busy times. We took advantage of the slight lull in the crowd to book a Vatican Museum / Sistine Chapel Tour.

Another way to avoid the crowds is with an Early Entry Tour that gets you into the Vatican Museum early to see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds. If you are visiting with kids, I’d highly recommend booking a private, family-friendly tour that incorporates a Vatican Treasure Hunt.

Every day over 25,000 people visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, making it the number two most-visited attraction in Rome. During my previous visit to the Vatican, we were short on time and beelined through the entire museum, not taking in a thing, to get to the main attraction…the Sistine Chapel. This time, we wanted to do it right and see more of the highlights of the Vatican Museum.

Vatican Museum Highlights

One of the first highlights you will see as you enter is an awesome view of St. Peter’s dome . What I never thought about is that you can’t see the outside of St. Peter’s dome from the square. The facade of St. Peter’s is so tall it blocks the view of the dome so you only see it from the inside unless you visit the Vatican Museum or other parts of Rome with a view. 

In the courtyard , we took in the sculptures and learned a lot about the Sistine Chapel. There is no talking inside the Sistine Chapel so we needed to learn the history before going in.

The further into the museum we went, the more crowded, noisier, and stickier it became and the weather, closeness, and lack of air conditioning began to take their toll. We learned about Greek and Roman statues of goddesses, heroes, and muses and visited the Egyptian room with its sarcophagi made of porphyry.

From there we made our way through the map gallery , tapestry gallery, and other grand hallways on our way toward the Sistine Chapel. Our last stop before the Sistine Chapel was the Raphael Rooms. These rooms were nearly as crowded as the Sistine Chapel but not as strict on talking and picture taking.

Eventually, we made it to the Sistine Chapel . Apparently, Michelangelo was disgruntled at having to paint this ceiling and he insisted on doing it his way, despite the Pope’s wishes. To get back at those who criticized him, Michelangelo painted them in hell, with a snake biting his private parts and wearing donkey ears. Pretty harsh — there was a guy with an ego.

Once we exited the Sistine Chapel, we got lucky in that the side door connecting the Vatican Museum and St. Peter’s Basilica was open since the Papal Address was finished early. This was great news as tour groups can exit this way and get directly into St. Peter’s without having to queue up outside. Eleonora secured our entrance and then told us about the door at St. Peter’s that is sealed with concrete and only opened every 25 years when the Pope breaks the concrete on the inside.

St. Peter’s Basilica

We finished our tour with a quick overview of the Basilica including Michelangelo’s Pieta, the chapel of John Paul II, and the altar. After that we were able to stay inside and explore on our own as long as we liked.

Our original plan was to climb the Dome, but after the tour we were hot, tired and in desperate need for something to eat. Our options were to leave St. Peter’s to eat and come back to climb the Dome…but that would mean having to join the very long queue outside to get back in. Despite really wanting to see that magnificent view, I knew our tired legs weren’t up to the climb and our patience was exhausted and standing in line later wasn’t going to work either so we headed out to Piazza Navona for lunch and tartufo.

Tips for Visiting the Vatican Museum with Kids

If you decide to take the kids to the Vatican Museum, here are some tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes.  Not only it is a lot of walking, but it is also a lot of standing and shuffling, which you feel more than hours of walking through the Colosseum and Forum.
• Book tickets in advance.  If you aren’t going on a tour, you can book your timed entrance online to avoid the long queue.
• Go during the off-season . Most of the museum isn’t air-conditioned and on the day we were there it was extremely humid, making it pretty unbearable at times.
• Take breaks.  You don’t need to see everything and you certainly don’t need to see everything all at once. Take advantage of the cafe, sit in the courtyard for a while, and try to find some pockets of space to decompress.
• Get something to eat before going into the Sistine Chapel.  There is a “secret” passage that connects the Vatican Museum and St. Peter’s. It is located just outside the exit of the Sistine Chapel. Generally, this is only open to tour groups and it is sometimes locked (definitely during the Papal Address.) However, if it is open and you are either in a group or can sneak through with one, it will save you a long walk back through the museum and around to St. Peter’s but it will also save you from queueing up in the long line outside waiting to get into St. Peter’s. But if you are also visiting St. Peter’s, you’ll need a snack first.
• Cover yourself.  Just like St. Peter’s, the Sistine Chapel is a chapel, and to enter you will need to cover your knees and shoulders.
• Be sure to build in time to explore St. Peter’s Basilica and climb the dome.
• To climb the dome, veer right before entering the basilica.

If you have the energy, you can also include a visit to Castel Sant’Angelo nearby, which is open daily 9 am-7 pm, except for Mondays.

And that wraps up and amazing 5 days in Rome with kids. If you are continuing on to other destinations in Italy, read on!

Books to Read Before Visiting Rome with Kids

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A great way to prepare kids for a trip to a different country (or anywhere really) is by reading about that destination before the trip. This helps them understand what to expect, learn a little about the history, and have everything soak in a little deeper on the trip. Here are some of our recommended books to read before a family trip to Rome:

• This is Rome by Miroslav Sasek   – this old favorite picture book depicts all the major attractions in Rome and even describes some of the history and symbology of Rome (like what SPQR means). Even though my daughter is way past picture books, she still got something out of it because as I was talking about our itinerary and mentioned the Bocca della Vertita, she knew exactly what it was.
• Not For Parents: Rome: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know  from Lonely Planet – this “Not for Parents” not-a-guide book tells the story of Rome that not even parents know. My daughter took it quite seriously and hid the library book from me whenever she was reading it.
• G is for Gladiator: An Ancient Rome Alphabet by Debbie Shoulders  – This A-Z picture book introduces children to the history of Ancient Rome, a great precursor to a visit to the Colosseum and Forum.
• The Coliseum Con by Geronimo Stilton  – if graphic novels are more your kid’s thing, they might enjoy the popular Geronimo Stilton and his adventures in Rome.
• Vacation Under the Volcano by Mary Pope Osborne  – a perfect intro to a side trip to Pompeii, this is part of the popular Magic Tree House series where Jack and Annie find themselves in Pompeii as Vesuvius begins to erupt.
• Magic Tree House Fact Tracker #14: Ancient Rome and Pompeii  by Mary Pope Osborne – the non-fiction companion to Vacation Under the Volcano, this goes deeper into the history of Rome and Pompeii.
• Ancient Rome (DK Eyewitness Books) by Simon James  – this popular nonfiction series offers facts in a very graphical format that is easy to digest.
• The Assassins of Rome (The Roman Mysteries)  by Caroline Lawrence – if mysteries enthrall the kids in your house, check out the series of The Roman Mysteries.
• The Orchard Book of Roman Myths  by Geraldine McCaughrean – 15 of the most popular Roman myths retold in a way that is appealing to young readers.
• Rome with Kids by J.M. Pasquesi  – this guidebook is for parents but enjoyable for kids too as each section suggests things for kids to look for and fun facts about Rome. It gives an inside view of all the highlights of Rome with suggestions on where to stay and where to eat. Better than an average guidebook, this is truly geared toward family travel and what things are interesting to kids. It is a must-read!

Visiting Rome? Read More:

• Visit Orvieto on your way from Rome to Florence
• Take a day trip to Assisi
• Day trip to Siena from Florence
• Three days in Florence with teens
• Three days in Venice
• Tips for visiting Cinque Terre
• Best towns in Tuscany
• How not to do Pompeii
• 1 Day in Bologna
• Tips for driving in Italy

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: December 12, 2022

4 thoughts on “Rome with Kids: 5-Day Itinerary Of Highlights and Hidden Gems”

You mentioned your tours were complimentary, can I ask how you did that?

Sure. Many times hotels, tour operators and others will offer complimentary or discounted services to journalists and bloggers to enable us to experience the service and write a review. Each time I receive a complimentary or discounted service, I note that in my post so that my readers have full transparency into my experience. However, this doesn’t mean that you are required to write a positive review. In fact, the expectation is that you write a full and honest review, pointing out the pros and cons where appropriate. This is what I always seek to achieve. If I have a truly poor experience, I may choose not to write about it at all, otherwise I describe our experience, what we liked, any downsides and what families should know before they go.

So glad I stumbled upon your posting! My family is going to Rome in December and we’ll be traveling with 3 kids aged 7 years, 4, years, and 10 months! So many things to see and do, I hope we can cram it all in!

Have a great time!! I hope you found some of the other posts too about where to eat and books to read before you go. At least it won’t be as crowded in December. Rome is one of my favorite cities and I hope you and your family love it just as much.

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5 day Rome Itinerary with kids

By: Author Wandermust Daddy

Are you looking for the best Rome itinerary with kids? In this guide we tell you what we think is the perfect way to spend five days in the eternal city with family.

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!

• Rome in Winter
• What to do on a rainy day in Rome
• Ultimate Rome bucket list

Table of Contents

Best Way to Get around Rome with kids 

Before we get onto specific itinerary options for families visiting Rome, we first thought it would be useful to look into some of the practicalities of visiting Rome as a family. For instance where to stay and how to get around. 

Our favorite way to get around Rome whether we are traveling with kids or not is on foot. Rome is one of the world’s best cities for walking in. For this reason we recommend walking as much as possible on this itinerary. 

Most of Rome’s attractions are pretty central which makes it easy for walking. However if you are traveling to Rome with a toddler or baby you may want to pack an umbrella or a travel stroller. There are lots of cobbled streets in Rome and you will have to fold your stroller on public transit so you need a lightweight and portable stroller. 

For more information on using a stroller in Italy or the best double stroller for Europe check out these post.

Bus tours, the hop on hop off type are very common in Rome. In fact there are several companies that offer this in Rome, although most offer very similar routes. 

There are lots of different ticket options such as one and two day passes, as well as options for adding other tourist attractions entrance fees in with your ticket i.e. vatican city entrance. 

Whether or not this is worthwhile will really depend on how much walking you are happy to do. 

It is a great way to see a city and get your bearings but also to get from a-b quickly while seeing some of the city’s better sites.

I would not recommend doing this in the peak of summer as it is likely going to be too hot for your baby to be on the top deck and it is likely to be very busy.

You can  book your tickets here! 

Public Transit

Public transit in Rome is my least favorite of getting around the city. It is often crowded and if you are traveling to Rome with a toddler or baby you will have to put the stroller down to board. 

Public transit options include bus and Metro but really I try and avoid using these for the majority of our Rome itineraries. 

Best Time to Visit Rome with kids 

Rome with kids

Rome is one of our favorite cities in the world and we have had the fortune to visit in every season. And the truth is every season has something on offer. 

We love visiting Rome because of the relatively low crowds and the beautiful Christmas trees and festive spirit.

Spring and Fall are great because of the weather, not too hot and not too cold which makes it perfect for walking around and sightseeing. 

If I had to pick my least favorite time to visit Rome with kids I would have to say summer. All of Italy can be hot in Summer, but it can be oppressively so in Rome in July and August. For this reason if you can avoid summer I would recommend it. 

Where to eat in Rome with kids

Where to Eat in Italy with toddlers

Normally I will have a list of restaurants for cities for the best places to eat for families. However this really isn’t necessary for Rome. 

Everything Rome serves is family friendly with pizza, pasta and gelato being kid staples. 

We just recommend going into places with a tourist menu as these aren’t usually of the best quality and not places local Italians or Romans would eat. 

Also if you are traveling with smaller children who need a high chair we recommend takng a travel one with you as it is not easy to find high chairs in Italy generally. 

Where to Stay in Rome with kids for this itinerary 

As this is a 5 day itinerary, we recommend staying in the city center. This will allow you access to restaurants but also the ability to see some of the great Rome tourist attractions lit up in the evening. For instance seeing the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish steps at night is an absolute must! 

This is much easier to do if you are staying somewhere central. 

This Rome itinerary with kids has been written to cover all of the major Rome tourist attractions such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, Vatican City and more. 

Now while you can try and freewheel a Rome itinerary we do recommend trying to have a relatively structured itinerary. The reason for this is because the queues at the major attractions get very long. We therefore recommend buying skip the line tickets in advance as this will reduce your waiting around time with children. 

Also this itinerary assumes that you are traveling with children of a certain age. If you are visiting Rome with a baby or toddler then this post may better organise your Rome vacation.

Note : the order of days of this itinerary are purely for organisation purposes. Feel free to move the days and organise your time to fit best with your plans. 

Day 1 – Colosseum and Gladiator School

do you need skip the line tickets for colosseum

If there is one Rome attraction your children are likely to have heard of it is the Colosseum. We recommend buying skip the line tickets as the queues here get very long. 

We also recommend aiming to get there in the morning as it is nice not to be outside in the sunshine during the worst heat of the day. 

Click here to buy Colosseum skip the line tickets.

It is worth noting that there are also lots of family friendly tours of the colosseum which will help make this amazing site more accessible to children. 

I recommend allocating a whole morning to taking in the colosseum with kids. 

After lunch we recommend trying out Gladiator School. 

There are lots of itineraries for Rome that follow a morning at the Colosseum with a trip to the Forum. However we do not recommend it. 

Though both are included in this itinerary, and although they are adjacent to each other we find that it is too much for children to take in all in one day. 

Which is why we dedicate the afternoon to the more active activity of Gladiator School. 

Gladiator school is located on Via Appia and is a great living history activity. Children and adults will dress up as gladiators and learn some fighting techniques. 

Although the activity is lots of fun, your children are sure to learn something too and is a great way to back up the learning that happened in the morning at the Colosseum.

Gladiator school is an activity that must be booked in advance. Click here for more information . 

Day 2 – Forum and Pizza

For your morning activity we recommend heading to the Roman Forum. The Forum is the ancient ruins of the market place and heart of Roman Rome. 

There are lots of great ruins to see but if you are visiting with kids we really recommend joining a family friendly tour of the Forum to make it accessible to children and bring history truly to life. 

Just be sure to check that the tour you select doesn’t also include the Colosseum otherwise you will be doubling up on visiting. Else be sure to tweak this itinerary.

We always recommend visiting the Forum in the morning as there is very little shade at the Forum. Therefore it is best to visit first thing in the morning to avoid the worst of the sun. 

After you have finished at the Forum we recommend an activity for the afternoon. One of our favorite activities with kids in Rome is a pizza making class. 

There are lots of available classes however this one comes highly rated. This is another activity that is essential to book in advance so be sure to check out the details here .

Day 3 – Vatican, Castelo Angelo and Borghese Gardens

Basilica of Saint Peter in Vatican at winter christmas night

For any visitor to Rome the Vatican City is an absolute must. However how much time you spend here will largely depend on the age of children you are traveling with. 

If you are traveling with very small children or toddlers then you may want to stick with visiting just St Peters Square and the Basilica. 

The museums and Sistine chapel while beautiful would not hold the interest of small children and are quite expensive to enter. For this reason we recommend staying to the free sites at the Vatican. 

However if you have older children and would like to visit the museum and the Chapel we recommend going on a family friendly tour to make it more accessible. 

Family at the Vatican – Visiting the Vatican with Kids and toddlers

Top tip : we recommend visiting first thing in the morning to beat the crowds and the queues. For a full post on visiting Vatican City with kids check out this post.

Family at Vatican City – Rome itinerary with family

Family friendly Vatican Tours need advance bookings – c lick here for prices and availability .

Also a fun thing to do is to climb to the dome of the basilica. However if you plan on doing this I recommend doing so earlier in the day as it is quite strenuous and you won’t fancy the climb at the end of the day.

Note : if you plan on visiting the Vatican City it is essential that you respect the Vatican city dress code which requires modest dress and keeping your knees and shoulders covered! 

Alternative: if you are traveling with littles we recommend instead of doing the Vatican Museums heading to the nearby Castelo San Angelo.

Rome with a baby / Rome with a toddler

To get to the impressive castle you cross an impressive bridge lined with statues. You may recognise it from the film Angels and Demons. 

The castle has a long and notorious history as it was used as a papal fortress. Older children will enjoy learning about teh bloody history and secret tunnels. While littles will like running around and heading to the terrace for the amazing view. 

Day 4 – Day Trip

If you have five days we think it is well worth heading out of the city and on a day trip. There are many easy day trips that are great to do with kids but our favorites include:

• beaches such as Sperlonga and ostia lido
• Ostia Antica Archeological park.
• Orvieto – a beautiful nearby hilltop town. 

We have suggested these day trips as they are all feasibly done by train from Rome. Though there are great day trips that use a car, trust me if you are new to Rome you will not wanting to be driving. 

It may be the eternal city but it is not an easy driving city so we recommend first time visitors sticking to train day trips.

To end the day we recommend heading to Borghese Gardens which is particularly great for toddlers and small children. This is a large park with boating lake and museums. However young children will enjoy the many playgrounds. 

Parents will love the view! 

Once you are finished at the park we recommend heading to the exit at the Spanish steps. It is a great place to get family photos and then head down into Piazza Navone for a lovely al fresco dinner. 

Day 5 – Hop on hop off bus tour to main site 

To make sure you get to see the rest of the big attractions in Rome we recommend jumping on board the hopp on hop off bus tour. This is a convenient way of seeing everything with littles.

Most of the bus tours have stops near to the main attractions such as:

The Pantheon – the answer to What to do in Rome when it rains

My kids love the Pantheon. This church was designed by the emperor Hadrian in 120AD. It is one of Rome’s best preserved buildings and operates today as a church so remember to dress modestly. 

The main surprise is that on the inside there is a hole in the roof or an Oculus.

It is great if you can visit when it rains as the water floods into the building. 

For more information on what to do on a rainy day in Rome check out this post.

Piazza Navona

This is a short walk from the above and is a great place for kids to stretch their legs as it is pedestrianised. 

It is a great place to grab a gelato and people watch while grown ups will love the fountains. 

Trevi Fountain

rome itinerary with kids

This is perhaps most  famous fountain. If you can visit first thing it is easier to get photographs as this is one of the busiest places in Rome to visit no matter the time of year. 

You can’t visit the fountain without throwing in a coin and making a wish which is a sure fire hit with the kids. 

Churches 

Churches are everywhere in Rome. If you are traveling with kids chances are they won’t want to visit everyone however some of our favorites are:

• Santa Maria in Trastavere and
• Santa Maria del Popolo

FAQs about this Rome itinerary with kids

Visiting Villa Borghese Gardens / Best Views in Rome

Should we buy the Roma Pass?

The Roma Pass is a card that grants you access to many of the main Rome attractions. If you plan to visit lots of places without a tour it can be a cost saving. 

However many of the family friendly tours include entrance so you need to make sure it is worthwhile for you. 

Do you have more questions about this Rome itinerary with kids? Then drop us a comment below and we will do our best to answer. 

Thursday 13th of July 2023

Hi there! We are planning a 10-day visit to Italy with 2 children (6 and 8) for the fall of 2024. I just came across your site and requested to join the FB group. I’m excited to dig in and learn all your tips and tricks. Do you happen to have a 10 day “must do” itinerary for Italy? Seems like there’s so much to do in just 10 days and hard to narrow down the best places to visit. Thanks in advance!

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How to plan a family city break in Rome

Visiting the Italian capital brings history vividly to life, and you can sightsee simply by strolling, with regular reviving pizza, pasta and ice-cream stops.

Rome, a place of mythology, gladiators and ice-cream, has an unparalleled hold on the imagination. The city centre feels like an open air museum, the gloriously intact Colosseum rising up at its ancient heart, and with millennia-old ruins and dazzling baroque at every turn.  

Central Rome is fairly walkable, so stay centrally or somewhere with easy access to the centre by metro or bus and it’s easy to explore, hopping on the occasional metro or bus for longer journeys. Rather than specifically family-friendly sights, in Rome a family trip could encompass epic Roman ruins, chances to tell a lie at the Mouth of Truth, or cycling around the bucolic Villa Borghese park. Another plus is that Italians love children, and babies, especially, will get a fuss made of them wherever they go.

What to do in Rome with kids

Toddlers:   The Palatine encompasses the imperial ruins of ancient palaces, but more importantly, lovely gardens in which toddlers can run around and play; pack a picnic to take it easy and enjoy the greenery. What’s more, the Palatine is covered in the same ticket as the Roman Forum and Colosseum, with splendid ruins, and stories of emperors, gladiators and wild animals to inspire your small companions.

The Explora Museum has a central water mechanism where toddlers can get busy moving water from one place to another and getting the machine to work. They can also play at being grown ups, with small shopping trolleys, post office counters, and grocery shopping. There’s a good playground outside (a rarity in Rome), with a zipline.

Rome’s piazzas   are ideal for young children, giving the freedom to run and roam. Piazza Navona has impressive fountains, street artists and performers such as living statues. There are also the elaborate displays of Al Sogno toyshop, and Città del Sole   toy store nearby, the latter with lots of wholesome wooden toys.

Children under 10:   The Colosseum   looms large on the landscape of any trip to Rome, and younger kids will find the evocation of gladiatorial combat, imperial power and wild beasts irresistible. Opt for a family guided tour to bring the ancient auditorium to life. Afterwards, wander up nearby Aventino hill for a view through its mysterious peephole.

Rome’s historic centre includes the chance to gaze upwards at the Pantheon’s   oculus and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain. Try some hands-on Leonardo inventions at Museum Leonardo Da Vinci Experience . Have a marble sign engraved at Via Margutta’s Il Marmoraro, and get your hand (possibly) bitten off at the Mouth of Truth.

The ancient Roman road, the   Via Appia,   has a preserved stretch running southwards through emerald countryside and lined by Roman ruins. You can bike it, with bike hire at the Visitor Information Centre . Nearby, Rome Gladiator School   runs gladiatorial training sessions, ideal for kids who love a bit of mortal combat.

Tweens and teenagers: Colosseum night tours   are a thrillingly different way to explore the amphitheatre. Take a tour that visits the building’s underground sections where the wild beasts were kept, as well as the seeing the arena by moonlight, an atmospheric way to see where the deadly entertainment took place.

Villa Borghese , Rome’s most beautiful park, has Surrey (four-person), regular, or e-bikes, so you can explore the park with its boating lake. Check out viewpoints that offer a backdrop of Roman rooftops, such as at Pincio Hill, or a short walk away, photogenic anoramas from the top of the Spanish Steps, the city’s rococo outdoor staircase.

The Vatican & St Peter’s   have days worth of riches to explore, and even the surliest teen will be (secretly) impressed by the glories of the Sistine Chapel. Take a teen-oriented tour of the highlights to avoid museum fatigue and queues. Climb the dome of St Peter’s for a soaring view down over its piazza and beyond.

Where to eat in Rome with kids

Toddlers: A wonder of Rome is that children are welcomed with benevolent smiles, while babies are treated like mini-celebrities. Mezza (half) portions are offered rather than children’s menus. If you don’t fancy a sit-down meal, pick up some of the world’s best takeaway pizza from Forno di Campo di Fiori. For a more leisurely meal, there are hundreds of options, such as lively Pizzeria alle Carrette , in Monti, convenient for the Colosseum, where there are plenty of pasta dishes available as well as pizza.

Children under 10: Local trattorias have appealing menus of pasta dishes and are lively and welcoming: look out for places such as Da Tonino , with big pasta portions on gingham tablecloths close to Piazza Navona. La Polpetta is likely to appeal as it has pasta and pizza, and serves up a cornucopia of different meatballs and other fried things (‘polpetta’ means ‘meatball’); there are several branches, most conveniently in Trastevere and Monti.

Tweens and teenagers: The best place in Rome for street food and Roman foodie culture is the covered food market in Testaccio, full of food and market stalls. Here you can get offal-rich Roman sandwiches at Mordi e Vai and pizza al taglio (by the slice) with unusual toppings (such as fennel, orange and olives) at Casa Manco. The lively streets of Trastevere are popular for an evening stroll, and there are lots of choices, including Trattoria Oste Nostro , on a cobbled backstreet, with enough insouciant cool and delicious pasta dishes to appeal to t(w)eens.

Where to stay in Rome with kids

Toddlers: With toddlers, make life easier for yourself and stay somewhere central, so you don’t have to travel far to explore. Albergo del Senato   has baroquely decorated family rooms, a roof terrace, and overlooks the heart of the action of the Pantheon square. You can’t get much more central than Navona 49 , on Piazza Navona, which offers apartments with kitchen facilities - ideal when you’re travelling with little ones.

Children under 10: For a peaceful vibe, yet still not far from the centre, check into the Aventino neighbourhood. This is a hill neighbourhood of ivy-cloaked ochre villas and peaceful streets, plus the Orange Garden, with big views over the city, You can stay at the gracious Hotel Via San Pio , which has family rooms that sleep up to four. Nearby, and not far from the Colosseum, Apartment Nido all’Aventino offers several smart apartments, with a sun terrace.

Tweens and teenagers: This age range will relish being in the heart of the action. A good area is Tridente, close to Piazza del Popolo, the Spanish Steps, and designer and mid-market shopping. Stay at the swish Babuino 181   where there’s a rooftop with a view, or opt for an apartment, such as Margutta Terrace Apartment , which is tucked away on an historic and gallery-lined cobbled street, opening onto a courtyard.

Related Topics

• FAMILY LIFE
• FAMILY TRAVEL
• ANCIENT HISTORY
• CHILDREN'S MUSEUMS

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How To Plan An Amazing Family Vacation To Rome With Kids

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Visiting Rome with kids is a fantastic opportunity to introduce your family to the wonders of the Eternal City! From the Colosseum and the Vatican to ancient ruins, bustling town squares, and delicious food and dessert, this Italian city has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting with young kids or teens, there are a few things you should know first, like the best time to visit Rome for a family vacation, the best restaurants in Rome for families, and more. On this list, we’ve included a ton of tips for families planning a Rome itinerary, plus where to stay and things to do. Keep reading to learn All About Rome With Kids: How To Plan An Amazing Family Vacation! 

How to Reach Rome with Kids

Wondering how to reach Rome with kids? Located in Italy’s Lazio region, this historic destination is accessible via two international airports: Rome-Fiumicino International Airport (FCO) and Rome-Ciampino International Airport (CIA). Though it’s a bit further from the city center than Ciampino, Fiumicino is Rome’s biggest and main airport. It’s also likely where you’ll be flying to when visiting Rome with kids, especially if you’re traveling from the United States. Once you reach Fiumicino, you can either rent a car, take a taxi, or hop on the Leonardo Express , a train that connects the airport to Roma Termini, the city’s main train station. Families can also take a shuttle bus through various companies. 

Explore Rome with Go City®. Purchase your pas s here!

Best Time to Visit Rome for a Family Vacation

There is no wrong time to visit Rome for a family vacation . Of course, the main tourist season in Italy (alongside the rest of Europe) is in June, July, or sometimes August. Hotel prices are usually higher around this time, and the weather reaches around 85-90 degrees. While it may be easier to plan a vacation in the summer when kids have more time off, Rome is also a fantastic place to visit in late winter or early spring for a week-long break, since temperatures rarely drop below freezing and it’s usually warmer than destinations in northern Italy, such as Venice or Milan. Generally, October to April is the best time to visit Rome to avoid high prices or heat. Finally, August tends to be the worst time to visit due to the heat and that many Romans are on holiday (meaning many shops may be closed or short-staffed).

Read next : 16 Exciting European Beach Destinations For Families

About the City

Famous for its classical architecture, Rome is a vibrant city with lots to see. Families often spend time in the historic city center, showcasing famous attractions like the Pantheon, Colosseum, and more. For a contemporary experience, visitors also love strolling through the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, featuring colorful buildings, local businesses, and a small-town feel. Another popular neighborhood for families to spend time in is Vatican City, home to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Though certain areas in Rome are walkable (it’s easy to see multiple attractions in the historic city center, for example), there’s also a tram system that runs between each neighborhood, as well as buses.

Wonder how to plan your week? Check out this An Exciting 5 to 10-Day Rome Itinerary With Kids: What To Do And Where To Go .

Why Visit Rome with Kids?

Rome is an extremely versatile city to visit with kids. Whether you have little ones who want to see a performance or older kids interested in art and culture, there’s something for everyone in your family. Plus, as Italy’s capital city, it offers a perfect mixture of educational and fun excursions to complement what elementary-aged children may be learning in school, like ancient Rome or Michelangelo. Parents planning a vacation with babies or toddlers will also be surprised at how kid-friendly Rome is – plus there are lots of open green spaces and playgrounds to spend time as a family and entertain little ones! Visiting Rome with kids will surely be an enriching experience for all ages! 

Planning a trip to Rome with toddlers? Check out this article on The Best of Rome with Toddlers ! 

Where to Stay in Rome with Kids

Travelers looking for family-friendly hotel options in Rome have plenty of choices. 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 . A few more boutique options include Bio Hotel Raphaël – Relais & Châteaux , J.K Place Roma , and The Inn At The Spanish Steps. Families who want to stay in trendy Trastevere will love the Villa Agrippina Gran Melia , located on the banks of the River Tiber. Or, for a more secluded stay, Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel is a wonderful option, offering panoramic views of Rome from its prime hilltop property. 

Looking for more room? Book your home stay with Plum Guide , VRBO , or Homes and Villas with Marriott International here!

Best Restaurants in Rome for Kids

When in Rome with kids, eating should be at the top of your itinerary! It’s no secret the city is home to an incredible array of restaurants, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Start your day with a cup of coffee and a pastry at La Licata , Bar Fondi , or Homebaked if you’re craving American food. For a quick lunch in the historic city center, head to Baguetteria del Fico , known for its sandwiches. Or, travel a little further for a unique experience at Romeow Cat Bistrot , where families can enjoy small plates of vegan food and play with cats! Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina is also a fantastic cafe, deli, and wine shop with a little bit of everything. 

Lunch & Dinner

Of course, whether for lunch or dinner, pizza lovers have their pick around the city, from Pizzeria Loffredo to Pizza Rustica , Il Forno Degli Amici, Naumachia Ristorante,  and La Pantera Rosa. When it comes to dinner in the historic city center, Old Bear is great for seafood, Écru specializes in raw vegan food, and RIONE XIV has fantastic pasta.

For classic Italian food near the Pantheon and Spanish Steps, visit L’Osteria al Pantheon – By Locanda del Prosciutto or Armando al Pantheon for hearty plates of Cacio e Pepe , Carbonara , and more.

In Trastevere, families can enjoy the outdoor patio at Tonnarello or visit Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 for simple Roman classics in a laidback setting. Looking for a night of family fun? Head to Pasta e Vino Osteria (also in Trastevere), where kids can watch the staff make pasta through the window, slurp on sorbetto di limone (like a lemon slushie), and dine on delicious Italian fare.

Gelato is a must when in Rome! Cool off after a long day of exploring or simply grab an afternoon pick-me-up at the city’s countless gelato shops. Fortunately, great options like Sweet Life Gelateria are located near Piazza Navona. Or, indulge in homemade flavors like chocolate, cherry, and more at Cremeria Monteforte near the Pantheon. Pico Gelato , another popular spot, has multiple locations, including one in Flaminio. We can’t forget about Il Maestro del Gelato , located just a few blocks from the Trevi Fountain. Finally, Gelateria La Romana also has multiple delicious locations across the city.

Things to Do in Rome with Kids

Once you’ve figured out information on visiting Rome with kids, it’s time to learn about the best things to do in Rome with kids. From famous monuments to cooking classes, sprawling parks, and delicious gelato, there’s so much awaiting your family in Rome. Keep reading to learn more! 

Then, read : 35 Fun & Educational Things To Do In Rome Kids Will Love

Travel Back in Time to Ancient Rome

Rome’s historic city center is where you’ll find most of the city’s famous landmarks, allowing families to travel back in time! Many families choose to visit sights like:

• The Pantheon is one of the most recognizable buildings in Rome and is located in the historic city center.
• Piazza Navona, Rome’s most famous square, is filled with a great fountain and restaurants.
• The Colosseum , where kids can learn about the days of the gladiators.
• Catacombs of St. Callixtus , one of the largest burial grounds in Rome. By booking a guided tour of the Catacombs through Viator , you can see the crypt of the nine popes and St. Cecilia while learning more about the hidden history. Kids will also love to see the largest chariot stadium in ancient Rome, the Circus Maximus!
• Palatine Hill, Bocca Della Verita, and the Roman Forum round out the other must-see sights of ancient Rome.

Search for Rome Tours here with Viator or Getyourguide.com !

Make a Wish in One of Rome’s Fountains

Rome is filled with beautiful fountains for families to visit, whether you want to take a break and enjoy the scenery or throw in a coin to make a wish and hope you’ll come back again soon! Here are three great options to get you started.

• The Trevi Fountain , located in the heart of Rome in Piazza di Trevi, is one of the most famous. This Baroque fountain is over 85-feet-high and makes for a fantastic family photo!
• Turtle Fountain is a whimsical option for curious kids in Piazza Mattei. Located in the Sant’Angelo District, which is historically Jewish, the fountain represents the intersection of Renaissance and Medieval culture.
• The Fiumi Fountain , aka the Fountain of the Four Rivers , is located in Piazza Navona.

Purchase your Hop-On Hop-Off Rome Big Bus tour here!

Get a Great View of the City

Between ancient hills, panoramic terraces, and more observation points, it won’t be difficult to find some of the best views in Rome.

• Aventine Hill, is located in a quiet, residential area away from crowds. As one of the famous seven hills, it provides some of the most unique views of St. Peter’s Basilica and a nice rose garden to walk through.
• Knights of Malta Keyhole, located at the top of Aventine Hill provides a unique view of the city.
• The Castel Sant’ Angelo, which overlooks the River Tiber near Vatican City, is another great option.

Take a Walking Tour

Booking a walking tour is a great way to simplify your vacation in Rome. Viator offers two lovely tours to consider as you start your search.

• Best Of Rome Walking Tour , featuring attractions like the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and more.
• Skip The Line Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill , all of which are often crowded.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Rome has plenty of gardens, parks, markets, and other spaces for families to wander. Kids will love taking a break from the chaos to explore these options!

• Villa Borghese is on Pincian Hill close to the Spanish Steps. This former estate is one of Rome’s biggest public parks, featuring beautifully manicured gardens, ponds, and ancient statues. There are also two small playgrounds within Villa Borghese for kids to play.
• Campo de Fiori offers a chance for families to continue their exploration outside by visiting the oldest market in Rome.
• Consider hopping on a bike or golf cart to see the city. Families can explore Rome via segway , golf cart, or e-bike with Rolling Rome Segway & Golf Cart Tours ! Then, My Best Tour also offers a family-friendly golf cart tour of Rome. Rome In Golf Cart has a variety of tours to lesser-frequented areas, like the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere. To explore Rome on a bike, book companies such as Top Bike Rentals and Tours and Free Bike Tours Rome .

Enroll in a Family-Friendly Class

Taking a class in Rome is a fantastic way to learn more about the city’s history, culture, and cuisine from an expert. Whether you want to take a cooking class in Rome with kids or a creative craft, here are our favorite classes in Rome! 

• Take a Cooking Class . To learn to make two staples, pizza and pasta, Local Aromas features a variety of classes to teach guests how to cook homemade pizza or gnocchi. Eataly Roma also offers a wonderful pizza-making class for families in La Scuola Di Cucina Eataly . Want to learn how to make delicious desserts? Take a cookie-making class from In Rome Cooking! Then, Viator also offers a great Fettucine Making Class For Lunch/Dinner , one of the best things to do in Rome with tweens and teens. 
• Embark on a Matteo Truffle Experience . Book a Matteo Truffle Experience for a unique activity the whole family can enjoy! With this special tour, families can take a train from the Rome city center to an area slightly outside of Rome.
• Book the Gladiator School through Viator here for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the tickets are cheaper than buying direct!

Learn Something New at a Kid-Friendly Museum

A kid-friendly museum is a fantastic rainy day activity in Rome.

• Explora Children’s Museum features a variety of science and history-related attractions for them to enjoy. It’s great for young kids between six and twelve, plus there is a small space also available for kids three and under.
• Galleria Borghese or Vill a Doria Pamphili is a must with older children. Wander an endless maze of rooms filled with gorgeous paintings, furniture, and statues – each more breathtaking than the last!
• MAXXI – The National Museum of the 21st Century is ideal for kids who are interested in contemporary art.
• The Vatican Museums, a collection of over 25 museums located in the Vatican Palaces, are a fantastic option too. One ticket gives you access to all the galleries, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel! GetYourGuide offers various Tours of St. Peter’s Basicilia , as does Viator, which features a Private Tour of The Vatican & St. Peter’s.  

Find many more things to do in Rome with kids, plus day trip ideas, in our article featuring 35 Fun & Educational Things To Do In Rome Kids Will Love !

Final Tips for Visiting Rome with Kids

If you’re seeking some final tips for visiting Rome with kids, here are some additional things to keep in mind as you prepare for your upcoming trip to Rome with kids!

• Rome puts you in the center of Italy, making it the perfect place to start an Italian tour with kids. You can easily take day trips to Florence, Tivoli, Santa Marinella, Civitavecchia, and more! Or, try a weekend getaway to amazing cities like Orvieto or Assisi. The opportunities are endless!
• While smoking is not allowed inside restaurants, you will notice that it is prevalent on restaurant patios and when walking along the street.

Getting Around

• Rome isn’t very stroller-friendly. While it’s doable, babywearing may be a better option for most families. Expect cobblestones and blocked sidewalks (cars park pretty much everywhere).
• Kids 10 and under are free for public transportation throughout the city. For adults, public transportation tickets for buses, metro, and trams are combined. It is important to note most metro stations are not stroller-friendly or accessible.
• Car seats are not required or provided in taxis. We recommend that you pack your own.

Eating in Rome

• Do not expect to find kids’ menus in Rome (though high chairs can often be found). Instead, many restaurants are willing to make smaller portions of regular menu items for children. “Pizza bianca” (focaccia) and “pasta in bianco” tend to be popular options for kids too. With that said, kids are welcomed in all restaurants.
• Meals tend to be later in Rome than they generally are in the United States. In fact, you may find that some restaurants do not open for dinner until 7:00 pm.
• Diapers, formula, and other baby needs are widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies. However, plan to pack a small medical kit for any OTC medicines you think you may need, as medications are different in Italy. You may not find the brand or type of medication that you typically use.
• As we mentioned above, summer in Rome is very hot. Plan to pack a hat, sunscreen, water bottles, and other items you need to protect your family from the heat.
• You will be doing A LOT of walking, make sure everyone in the family has comfortable shoes.

Find out why Italy is one of the 10 Best Places to Travel with Kids in Europe !

Check Out Our Interactive Map For More Tour Options!

Searching for fun, family-friendly tours in Rome? Whether you want to take a walking tour to see the city’s historical landmarks, visit a museum, or enroll in a family-friendly class, click through our interactive map to browse different options and save on your next adventure with kids!

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this article How To Plan An Amazing Family Vacation to Rome with Kids! With great food, iconic history, and so much culture, Rome is surely a one-of-a-kind destination for a family vacation. Enjoy Italy with your kids! 

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*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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Where to stay in Rome with kids: hotels, suites and holiday rentals you’ll love

A handpicked selection of family hotels, vacation rentals and family suites in Rome to help you decide where to stay in Rome with kids during your Rome vacation.

Picking family accommodation in Rome is one of the hardest parts of planning a trip to Rome with kids.

Rome has an infidel list of accommodation options and finding your bearing among the many possibilities is quickly overwhelming.

Rome is so large and its public transport so notoriously messy, you wan to to make sure you pick the right room / apartment but also the best area.

I am here to help!

Rome is my hometown and I am passionate about helping people explore it at best.

In this guide, I have listed tried and tested family friendly accommodaition options in Rome that I believe are perfect for visitors.

I chose them on the basis of my own experience and that of many friends and trustworthy parents who shared their finds with us and have actually stayed in these places.

For each, I have included a short description and a link for photos, prices and info.

On this page, you also find an overview of the best areas in Rome for families, to help you find the perfect one for you.

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase though them, we might make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Rome with kids: best areas

The best area to stay in Rome with kids for proximity to attractions and things to do is the city center, the so called ‘Centro storico’

Rome’s city centre is a large enough area and it can be sub-divided into several smaller parts.

The best city center areas for families in Rome are:

Pantheon and Piazza Navona – this is a super central part of Rome, the one with cobbled streets, outdoors restaurants and piazzas and churches as the eye can see.

This is a perfect area for families as it is close to everything and it puts you within walking distance to almost all Rome main attractions.

The downside of this are for kids is that it is not very green, something very common in this part of Rome.

Colosseum, Fori Imperiali, Monti – staying near the Colosseum is exciting for kids and great for the whole family thanks to the good facilities, transport option and proximity to some of Rome’s main attractions.

Not all the streets round the Colosseum are as nice as each other, but the area of Monti and pretty streets on the Caelian Hill are a delight and offer nice accommodation both in hotels and apartments.

Trevi – the area of Fontana di Trevi is very busy; however, it is also very central so, if you want to be in the very thick of it, it is a great option!

We have some nice addresses in the Trevi area on this list that manage to offer quiet rooms despite the central location. The area puts you close to many attractions including the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.

It I ,most suited to families who do not mind a lot of movement around them: the footfall here is high!

Trieste / Parioli : this area is outside the historical center and most suited to families who are looking for local feel, excellent facilities and proximity to parks.

This is a residential, beautiful and green area and perfect if you want to be away from the tourist track yet remain close to the center. This area is best suited to families who do not mind using public transport.

Trastevere – Trastevere is a popular area with families who find here a mix of local charm and tourism facilities.

Depending on the exact location, Trastevere is very touristy of very charming. To families, it offers nice perks such as the pretty and local playground on Piazza San Cosimato.

Types of Rome accommodation for families

The most common types of accommodation in Rome for families are:

Hotels – called hotel or Albergo, hotels in Rome come in all shapes and sizes. In this list, I have focussed specifically on those that have facilities or attentions for families, such as family rooms, interconnecting rooms, or kids welcome packs etc.

Suites – suites are everywhere in roe and are a good solution if you want a little ore space but do not want to renounce to the facilities of a hotel. They come in at different price points and usually include basic breakfast facilities in room but no kitchens

Holiday / Vacation rentals – vacations rental are everywhere in the city. Usually managed by private hosts, the best of them are newly refurbished apartments with extra perks such as the option to book daily cleaning or grocery delivery, laundry etc (at an extra charge).

In this guide, I selected apartments with practical things for families such as washing machines and dishwasher, as well as of course a lovely location, host and space.

How to book family accommodation in Rome

My favorite booking engine for accommodation in Rome is booking.com

I use it myself extensively on all my travel and I find their filters, info and messaging system excellent. I also love how many hotels and apartments offer free cancellation options there and that you get rewards as a loyal user.

On booking.com, you have hotels, suites and apartments.

Other platforms you may want to use are Airbnb and VRBO for rentals.

Where to stay in Rome with kids neat the Pantheon and Piazza Navona

Palazzo Nari – great family apartment close to the Pantheon for up to 9 people

A fantastic holiday apartment in Rome’s Piazza Navona area for large families or groups of family and friends is Palazzo Nari. 

Close to the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, the apartment is in a fantastic location and is generous in size, it has lovely wooden floors, a fully equipped kitchen and nice touches for children such as kids’ cutlery, high chairs and socket covers for crawlers.

Facilities include:

• 3 bathrooms 
• Fully equipped kitchen with oven and dishwasher
• Wooden floors
• 2 washing machines and dryer (a rarity in Rome!)
• Supermarket nearby
• Daily housekeeping / dry cleaning and additional service can be arranged for an extra charge.

This is my absolute favorite Rome area for visitors and this apartment is on a nice street striking the perfect balance between old Rome charge and convenience. The taxi rank of Torre Argentina and several buses are nearby.

You can find info, photos and prices here

Casa Alice – 2 Bedroom Apartment near the Pantheon

Casa Alice is a lovely 2 bedroom family friendly apartment in a perfect location close to the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, both only a few minutes walk from the house. 

The apartment is on the coveted third floor but please note there is no elevator. 

Apartment facilities include:

• 2 bedrooms (queen beds)
• Additional sofa bed
• 2 Bathrooms (of which one is en-suite)
• Kitchenette with dishwasher and kids’ high chair
• Dining area
• Washing machine 
• Daily housekeeping is available at an extra cost
• Tiles floors (no carpet) make this a good choice for families dealing with dust allergies. 

The apartment is in a fantastic location: gelato shops, restaurants and all essentials shops including grocery shops and pharmacy are nearby. 

Find info, photos and prices here. 

Pantheon Domus Apartment: large 2 bedroom apartment close to the Pantheon and Piazza Navona

The Pantheon Domus Apartment is a large and beautiful 2 bedroom aparment on Via di Torre Argentina, a lovely cobbled street in Rome city center leading you straight to the Pantheon.

The apartment is perfect if you want to be walking distance from Rome main attractions and it is has the Torre Argentina tax rank nearby as well as several trams and buses stopping nearby.

If your kids love cats, they’ll love to know the apartment is only a couple of minutes from Rome’s cat sanctuary (if you don’t like cats, don’t worry! You won’t run into them unless you want to!) 

• Large apartments with 2 bedrooms and additional futon bed
• Additional sofa bed in the living area
• 3 bathrooms (of which 2 ensuite)
• Kitchen with dishwasher
• washing machine 
• Flat screen TV
• Tiled/ parquet floors 

The apartment sleeps 9 and it is perfect for larger families and small family groups alike.

Please note that there are steps inside the house that may prove tricky for families with toddlers. I highly recommend you check the photos for suitability. 

The apartment is on the second floor and the building has an elevator. 

Find photos, prices and availability here. 

Hotel Navona, 3 star hotel

Like the name suggests, Hotel Navona is located in the heart of Rome and close to grand  Piazza Navona , the old stadium of Domitian and one of the  most beautiful piazzas in Rome .

This is a good hotel with rooms designed specifically for large families that can accommodate up to 6 guests, which is not usual in Rome in such a location and in this price range.

This area is not particularity green but it is good for families in terms of proximity to main sights and it does have some of the best gelaterie in the city nearby.

Check prices and availability for family rooms at Navona Hotel here

Navona 49 Luxury Suites and apartment

If you are looking for beautiful accommodation in Rome with view right onto the city’s most stunning piazza, then you will love Navona49.

Their suites come in several sizes (4 to 6 guests) and place you right in the very center of the city, close to attractions, restaurants, gelato shops and more.

Piazza Navona is literally outside your door and window.

Facilities in their bigger suite/ penthouse include:

• Space to up for 6 people
• Kitchenette
• Air conditioning

The suites all have different specs. Find info, prices and photos here.

Le Quattro dame luxury suites close to Piazza Venezia, Pantheon and Piazza Navona

Le Quattro dame is a residence with luxury suites located in an excellent location between Piazza Venezia and Largo di Torre Argentina, close to the Pantheon, Jewish ghetto and Piazza Navona area.

The suits can host up to 4 people (2 adults and 2 kids) and we like it for families because of the handy location and the proximity to one of our kids favorite attractions in the whole of Rome: the city’s cat sanctuary!

The suites are equipped with private kitchenettes with Nespresso coffee and cappuccino machine, electric kettle and, mini bar which is handy for families with young children especially.

Check out availability and price here

Where to stay in Rome with kids near the Colosseum

Peter’s Dream – 3 bedroom apartment in Rome Colosseum area

Peters’ Dream is a beautiful family friendly apartment close to the Colosseum, on the historical and well served Caelian Hill. The apartment has many elements that make it perfect for families with kids. 

• 3 bedrooms (Non smoking)
• 3 bathrooms
• Sitting area
• Washing machine
• Wi-fi 

The apartment is in a building with elevator and it is pet friendly. The house has a generous size and several beds (double, single and sofa bed) that make it ideal for larger families. 

Find photos, price and availability here

Hotel Kolbe, 4 star hotel near the Forum and the Palatine

Hotel Kolbe is a lovely 4 star hotel in a great location, close to the wonderful ruins and view of the forum and the palatine. This is the first family hotel we ‘tested’ in Rome and it is still one of our favorites.

The location is excellent for sightseeing and they have good family rooms for up to 4 guests. 

The hotel has an internal courtyard and it is close to the Aventino, which is one of the  7 hills of Rome  with a gorgeous garden on top (no playground but amazing view and good to run around).

The Circo Massimo and its vast expanse is also nearby and good for small kids to let off steam.

Check availability and prices of family rooms at Hotel Kolbe Rome here

Hotel Capo d’Africa, 3 star hotel beside the Colosseum

The hotel has nice, clean rooms but what stands out here is the hotel terrace which is just delightful and where you can enjoy drinks and snacks. 

Rooms in this hotel fall into several categories and include interconnecting family rooms, perfect if you are visiting Rome with kids and need a little more space. 

  Check prices, photos and info here

Hotel Mercure Centro Colosseo, 4 star hotel with pool near the Colosseum

The hotel Mercure Colosseum is a business hotel in terms of feels but comes with one thing that is a life saver if traveling with kids to Rome in summer: a pool!

The hotel is a minute walk from the Colosseum and has a pretty park with playground just beside, which is an added plus since not many places, in Rome city center, offer access to green area. 

   Check photos, availability and prices here

Hotel Lancelot, 3 star family friendly hotel beside the Colosseum

Hotel Lancelot is lovely family hotel minutes from the Colosseum: it has large family rooms with a double bed and two single beds. 

Children under 3 stay free of charge in a baby cot and the hotel has a restaurant and bar/garden patio which is fantastic for when tired kids cannot face heading out again for dinner. 

Check availability, photos and prices here

Palm Suites – elegant family suite near the Colosseum

If you are looking for high-end, stunning suites with all the comfort of a hotel, then elegant Palm Suite may be just the place for you.

Part of prestigious five star hotel Palazzo Manfredi, also known for its award winning rooftop restaurant with views over the Colosseum, Palm Suites come in different sizes, including a family suite that can host up to five guests.

The suite has exotic decor and feels a little like an oasis in the middle of Rome. Facilities include:

• Double room
• Room with 2 single beds
• 1 single sofa bed and a baby cot (available upon request)
• Roman Forum views
• Private bathroom

The suites are part of the offering of Palazzo Manfredi, one of Rome’s most prestigious five star hotels which also has a restaurant and bistrot on site, cocktail terrace, concierge and the guest services you expect from an establishment of this caliber.

Find info, prices and photos here .

Where to stay in Rome with kids near the Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain 2Bedroom apartment for families

The Trevi Fountain apartment is a bit of find: tucked away in a tranquil street near Trevi, it is just detached enough from the main tourist street to offer silence and quiet while staying very close to all attractions. 

The apartment is on the second floor (no elevator) and sleeps up to 4 adults and 1 child.

• 2 bedrooms 
• Kitchen with hobs, over and dishwasher
• Washing machine. Dry cleaning /laundry can be arranged at an extra charge
• Double glaze windows 
• Air conditioning / heating
• Daily housekeeping available at an extra cost 

The apartment is in a very central location, walking distance from most attractions and close to buses and metro. A gelato shop and pizza shop are near and supermarket/grocery shopping is available nearby. 

Grocery delivery for your first day can be arranged at an extra charge.

Find info, photos and prices here.

Trevi Apartment: 2 bedroom apartment with 24h reception

Trevi apartment is a beautiful 2 bedroom / 5 guests apartment is Via degli Avignonesi, a historic cobbled street near via Veneto and the Trevi Fountain. 

The location puts you within walking distance to attractions such as the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain but it is also served by metro stop Barberini.

Shops, cafes and restaurants are all on your doorstep. 

Families include:

• 2 bedrooms (one with queen bed, one with twin beds)
• Kids’ high chair and music/ dvds
• Washing machine (laundry and dry cleaning available at an additional charhge)
• Daily housekeeping abatable at an additional charge

The apartment has a 24h reception service and can arrange arrival transport (extra cost) and luggage storage. 

Find info, prices and photos here . 

Palazzo Scanderbeg, close to Trevi fountain.

Not a hotel as such but a residence offering gorgeous apartments with 24/7 guest services in the heart of Rome, a stone through from the Trevi fountain.

The residence is in a fantastic location and is well priced for the level of elegance and service you receive. Families are welcome and kids stay for free: the residence offer family rooms, small present for kids on arrival and residence ‘treasure hunt’. A  nice family friendly restaurant  is also nearby

Check availability in family friendly accommodation at Palazzo Scanderbeg here

Where to stay in Rome with kids near Termini station / Monti area

The area around Termini station is more suited to business travelers than families.

However, a good family hotel recently opened in a location that is both convenient to the train station and pleasant: the DoubleTree Monti Hotel by Hilton

This modern hotel has interconnecting rooms perfect for families and teens, a lovely rooftop terrace serving cocktails and non alcoholic drinks and is in a perfect location for both sightseeing and reaching the train station.

You can find rooms and prices here.

Where to stay in Rome with kids near the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are right in the center of Rome and one of the it’s most iconic sites.

Staying in this area, you are immersed in one of the most upscale parts of the city and you find yourself surrounded with beautiful designer shops and art galleries, as well as close to some of Rome’s most famous streets such as Via del Corso.

The area is not overly kid-firefly; however, there are gelato shops and the Disney store nearby and the Borghese Gardens are right above you, on the Pincio Hill.

This is, however, a great area for upscale accommodation.

Suite Gregoriana (2 bedroom apartment)

Suite Gregoriana is a spacious, beautiful family suite close to the Spanish Steps and the Borghese Gardens.The suite is a two bedroom apartment housing up to 6 guests and has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathroom, plus a kitchen and living room.

The suite has dishwasher, washing machines and all the essentials for a family stay and it is in one of teh most central and scenic parts of the city, perfect for sightseeing.

You can find price, availability and photos here.

Hotel Mozart – 3 star hotel close to the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo

Hotel Mozart is a pleasant mid range hotel in a fantastic position close to the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo.

The hotels offers accommodation in rooms and suites for up to 4 people, has a restaurant onsite and a rooftop terrace perfect for summer evenings.

The hotel also offers a 4-people self catering apartment in a nearby street.

You can find info and prices here

Portait Roma – 5 star hotel and suites

They welcome families in their family suite which comprises two bedrooms with separate bathrooms (one with its own sauna) and a separate living area. 

The most impressive element of this hotel are its gorgeous terraces: they overlook stylish Via Condotti and  Trinita’ de’ Monti  and the view is so stunning you may never want to leave.

Their family accommodation merges a  Junior Suite with a Deluxe Studio to offer a generous space, it has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchenette.

Check price and availability in Hotel Portait Rome here 

The Inn At the Spanish steps hotel and apartments

The Inn at the Spanish Steps is an upscale property offering hotel and apartment accommodation on prestigious Via Condotti and nearby streets.

Their rooms and apartment come in several sizes, including larger ones for families with kids.

Some have breathtaking views over the Spanish Steps that are worth stretching the budget for.

Check price, availablilty and photos here.

Where to stay in Rome with kids in Parioli / Trieste area

As mentioned above, the Parioli/Trieste area of Rome is a little outside the main tourist track.

It is, however, brilliant for families and a fantastic place for kids thanks to the proximity of Villa Torlonia (park), the Borghese Gardens and the fact that many families live here, so running into other kids is easy!

The downside to this area is that you can walk to the park but need public transport or a short taxi ride to reach the main attractions.However, direct buses lead you into the city center in about 15 minutes.

A fantastic hotel for families here is Villa Pirandello.

Tucked away in a quiet street, it is very close to lovely Villa Torlonia (park with playground, cafe/restaurant) and Villa Paganini, a local families’ favourite hangout and it is walking distance from the Coppede’ District, worth seeing if you love architecture.

The hotels has lovely rooms for up to 4 guests, a nice patio and a relaxed atmosphere. This is an exceptional find for people who want to experience Rome like locals in one of the most pleasant and family friendly areas of the city.

Where to stay in Rome with kids: additional resources

Best Rome hotels with a pool

Best Rome hotels near the Pantheon

Best Rome hotels near Piazza Navona

Best Rome hotels near the Colosseum

Best holiday rentals in Rome for families

Best Rome hotels in Trastevere

Where to stay in Rome with kids – pin this!

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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Want to make the past come alive for your family in a kid-friendly way? A vacation to Rome is your best option. From gladiator lessons to virtual reality tours, Rome maximizes interest in its role in world history with lots of hands-on experiences for families. Gawk at the Sistine Chapel ceiling in the morning, and then play in the shadows of St. Peter’s Basilica in the afternoon. Food tours are popular, as are stops for gelato to energize everyone before you climb the steps of the Colosseum. After all that exploring, families can recharge at kid-friendly hotels in the city’s vibrant center, or retreat to resort-style properties on the outskirts for a more relaxing atmosphere away from the frenzy.

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How to visit rome with toddlers (and still have fun), 10 amazing mother-daughter getaways around the world, 72 hours in rome with kids, 12 kid-friendly urban hotels with fabulous pools, 5 very special tours for families in and around rome, a refuge in rome at the first luxury art hotel roma, our happy travelers, "thanks again for all of your help you made the trip easier for us to navigate as we went to unknown territory. it was definitely a trip of a lifetime and one we won't soon forget.".

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Family-Friendly Hotels in Rome

Casa montani », albergo santa chiara », internazionale domus », grand hotel de la minerve », raphael hotel », the beehive », hotel de russie », gran melia rome », j.k. place roma ».

Casa Montani

Rome, italy.

Albergo Santa Chiara

Internazionale Domus

Grand Hotel De La Minerve

Raphael Hotel

The Beehive

Hotel de Russie

Gran Melia Rome

J.K. Place Roma

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Must-Do Family-Friendly Activities in Rome

R ome, the Eternal City, is a destination that offers a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders for visitors of all ages. From ancient ruins to Renaissance art, there is something to captivate every member of the family. If you’re planning a trip to Rome with your loved ones, here are some must-do family-friendly activities that will create lasting memories.

Discover the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica

The Vatican Museums house an extraordinary collection of art and historical artifacts. Admire the famous Sistine Chapel, with its breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo. Take your time exploring the vast museum complex, but don’t forget to plan a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. This magnificent Renaissance church is the largest in the world and is home to Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, the Pietà. For those seeking a bit of adventure, consider climbing to the top of St. Peter’s Dome for a panoramic view of the city. Be sure to check the st. peters basilica dome climb hours to plan your ascent accordingly.

Explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum

No visit to Rome is complete without experiencing the grandeur of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Step back in time as you wander through the ancient amphitheater, imagining the gladiators battling in the arena. Take a guided tour to learn fascinating stories and historical facts about this iconic landmark. Afterward, visit the adjacent Roman Forum, where you can explore the ruins of ancient temples, basilicas, and arches.

Wander through the enchanting streets of Trastevere

Trastevere, a picturesque neighborhood across the Tiber River, offers a charming escape from the bustling city center. Stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets lined with vibrant houses, quaint cafes, and artisan shops. Let your children indulge in delicious gelato while you explore the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere. The area comes alive in the evening, with lively piazzas and street performers adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Experience the magic of Villa Borghese Gardens

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by visiting the sprawling Villa Borghese Gardens . This lush green oasis provides ample space for family picnics, leisurely walks, and even bicycle rides. Rent a rowboat and glide across the picturesque lake in the heart of the park. For a unique experience, visit Bioparco, Rome’s zoo, which houses a diverse collection of animals and offers educational programs for children.

Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is a magnificent masterpiece and one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Encourage your children to toss a coin into the fountain, as legend has it that this ensures a return trip to the Eternal City. Admire the stunning Baroque sculptures and the impressive cascade of water, which creates a truly magical atmosphere. Remember to visit in the evening when the fountain is beautifully illuminated, adding to its allure.

Delight in the wonders of the Explora Children’s Museum

If you’re looking for a family-friendly museum experience, head to the Explora Children’s Museum . This interactive museum is designed specifically for kids, offering hands-on exhibits and workshops that stimulate creativity and learning. From the “Water Play” area to the “Build It” workshop, there are plenty of activities to keep young minds engaged and entertained.

Enjoy a day trip to Ostia Antica

For a change of scenery, consider taking a day trip to Ostia Antica, Rome’s ancient harbor city. This archaeological site provides a fascinating glimpse into Roman life, with its well-preserved ruins of houses, baths, and theaters. Wander through the ancient streets and imagine what life was like during the height of the Roman Empire. Pack a picnic and relax in the shade of the ancient trees that line the ruins.

After so many travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s nice to be able to explore the world again. Rome is a city that offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. From exploring ancient ruins to immersing yourselves in art and culture, there is no shortage of things to do and see. Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Dome for a breathtaking view, wander through the enchanting streets of Trastevere, or make a wish at the Trevi Fountain. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere, Rome is the perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.

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An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

How to see Venice Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids: the itinerary you’ll love

Learn how to plan a family trip to Italy and see Venice Florence and Rome in 10 days: a detailed itinerary with the best things to do each day, the best tours, and transport .

Rome, Venice and Florence are the most popular destinations for a first trip to Italy, and 10-day Italy itinerary recommendations for first-timers are among the most sought-after of all Italy travel plans.

So today, I put these two requests together and share a family-friendly Italy itinerary to see Venice, Florence and Rome in ten days!

The itinerary is based on my own experience of these cities as a visitor and a local, my own frequent trips around Italy with my kids and the best family activities we have tried in each of these destinations.

To make sure you have an itinerary that is tried and tested, I have followed closely what we have actually done in these cities as well as some additional recommendations.

Therefore, don’t be surprised if, in some places, we have skipped a ‘must-see’.

We have tailored our days to our kids and their interests and some choices are down to that.

When this happened, like in Venice, where we skipped Doge’s Palace, I gave alternatives on what you can slot in a main landmark instead.

Since I am from Rome, you’ll see I give even more options for that part of the trip!

I hope it helps get you started with your plans!

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

How to see Venice Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids – top 4 tips

My top tips for planning a 10-day Italy trip to the country’s most famous cities are:

Fly into Venice and out of Rome – this will allow you to maximize time on the ground and avoid backtracking. It will also allow you to start in a quieter place and get over jetlag before tackling the bustling energy of Rome.

Pack light – the temperature will be similar in the three cities and it will be easier to move around with taxis/trains if you’re not weighed down by many big bags.

Use the train – trains in Italy are fast, safe, efficient and family-friendly. On the other hand, city traffic is a nightmare, parking is a headache and, in Venice, you have no cars at all… Traveling by train is the way to go!

You can find here >>> all you need to know about train travel in Italy

How to see Venice, Florence and Rome in 10 days with kids at a glance

• Day 1-3 Venice (including arrival day)
• Day 3-6 Florence , with a day trip to the countryside / Tuscan small town
• Day 6-10 Rome (including departure day)

Tip! I know Venice is often daunting if you have young kids. If you have very little ones, I recommend you also read my tips to tackle Venice with a baby and Venice with an active toddler

Day 1 – Arrival in Venice and orientation

• Arrival and transport to your hotel
• 4 pm – Family scavenger with Lucia – a really fun and engaging way to discover Venice. We chose the tour in Dorsoduro since we were staying in the area, but you can also pick Riato and San Marco, should you want to hit Venice’s most famous sites
• 7.30pm – Dinner at San Trovaso restaurant, Calle Larga Nani, 967, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy

Resources to book this day:

• How to get from Marco Polo airport to your hotel
• Review of Lucia’s scavenger hunt tour for kids and contacts
• Family hotels in Venice
• Family-friendly rentals in Venice
• What to eat in Venice

Day 2 – Venice highlights and family activities

This is a very busy day. However, we wanted to do all these activities and couldn’t find them in any differently so this is exactly what we did!

The day was a huge success for us and while I don’t recommend having all days as structured as this one, it most definitely worked for us!

• 8.30am Early morning photoshoot in San Marco area ( wonderful to see the piazza without the crowds, we even caught the sunrise over the Accademia Bridge – magical!). Book with Marta of Flytographer (she’s wonderful!) via this link or by using code CODE1693297 for a 25$ discount on your first session!
• 10.30am Glass-making workshops in the city center with Fabio, only a few minutes from Piazza San Marco, very easy to reach. Book here >>> via Airbnb experiences
• 1.00pm Lunch in La Colonna in Cannaregio, Campiello Widmann già Biri, 53/29, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy
• 3.00pm Rowing class with RowVenice . Click >>> here <<< to book direct
• 4.00pm walk back to our hotel via Cabnnregio and wonderful Acqua Alta Bookshop. Remember: you’ll like need to head back to the glass making workshop to collect your creation after it has been cooked and has cooled down!
• 1 9.00 Dinner ar OKE Zattere, Sestiere Dorsoduro 1414, 30123 Venice Italy

• Flytographer – use this link or by using code CODE1693297 for a 25$ discount on your first session
• Glassmaking workshop from via Airbnb experiences
• RowVenice class direct with RowVenice
• If you prefer different activities, find here >>> our complete guide to visiting Venice with kids

Day 3 Venice and train to Florence

• Free morning out and about Venice. We loved to keep this morning free and wandered the area of Dorsoduro, Arsenale (CAstello) and San Giorgio Island with great pleasure. However, you can also spend this morning visiting Doge’s Palace or, train schedule permitting, visiting the Islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello.
• 12.30pm – Lunch in Osteria dei Pugni, Fondamenta Gherardini, 2836, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
• 2.00pm – Vaporetto to train station to see Rialto bridge on the way (we bought the ticket there and then. For this stay, we did not need a Vaporetto pass.
• 4.00pm – Train to Florence
• Arrival in Florence and Check into your hotel
• Dinner in Martare, Via Degli Alfani 93/r, 50121, Firenze
• Info about train travel in Italy
• High-speed train booking site (direct)
• Where to stay in Florence with kids
• If visiting the islands, look at this tour by Matteo on Airbnb Experiences

Day 4 – Florence

• Morning – Florence sketch tour . This tour + drawing class is a great way to get a walk around Florence’s city center with a local, get the kids engaged with a hands-on task and learn about the art and history that makes Florence so unique. Book here >>> Florence sketching tour: tell them the age of your kids so they can tailor it to their needs!
• 1.30pm – Lunch at NeroCarbone , Via del Parione, 43/45r, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. An informal Tuscan bistrot with few tables and small yet delicious menu. Try the book to get the table at the window for the best space/ light.
• Afternoon – Florence city center walk and Interactive Leonardo Museum. No need to book this one! We love keeping one afternoon free in Florence as the center is compact and easy to navigate. Also, has lovely shops!
• Sunset view from Piazzale Michelangelo for views: you can walk / take the bus here or come in comfort with a short taxi ride
• Dinner at Antico Noe, Volta di San Piero 6/8/R, 50122, Florence Italy

Resources to book this day

• Florence tour with drawing by LivTours
• See also >> Our family guide to Florence with kids for alternative ideas.

Day 5 – Day trip to the Tuscany Countryside

• All day trip – The Tuscany countryside is a dream but it is not easy to visit in a short amount of time or without a car, but we’ve found a way!

A short train ride from Florence lies Tenuta Chiudendone, a gorgeous hilltop villa that offers a one-day experience to have a full immersion in Tuscany in a day.

With them, you spend a day wandering around the garden, visiting their vines, cooking a delicious meal, eating and lounging at their pool, all in a family-friendly atmosphere!

Contact Isabella via their website tell her Marta from MamaLovesItaly sent you >>> Tenuta Chiudendone

Winter alternative: outside of the good season, I recommend you bring the kids to Lucca instead and get bikes to go along the walls of this pretty Tuscan town. Find here >>> our guide to Lucca with kids

• Dinner at SignorVino, for a quick platter and wine after a day with a lot of food! Via de’ Bardi, 46/R 48/R, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy Ask them if they have the tasting option available that allows you to taste three local wines with your meal!

Day 6 Florence Uffizi Museum and train to Rome

• Morning visit to the Uffizi with a kid-friendly guide: for me, a must-have in such a large and traditional museum. See price and book here >>> Uffizi Family experience
• 1.30 pm – Lunch at Mercato Centrale (upstairs)
• Early afternoon – Train to Rome and taxi to your hotel. Check-in and settle in.
• Dinner at Emma (Book in advance!) Via del Monte della Farina, 28, 00186 Roma RM, Italy Right in the center!
• Top tip! Emma is right in the city center. Depending on where you are staying, you should be able to take a lovely evening walk around the Pantheon/ Piazza Navona / Trev Fountain, wonderful at night!

• Uffizi Family Tour by LivTours
• Official train booking website
• Where to stay in Rome with kids (family hotels and apartments)
• Best of Rome with kids (on Amazon) – my family guide to the city, with tips, tours and scavenger hunt sheets for kids to he;p them explore Rome city center.

Day 7 – Rome Colosseum and city center

• 9.00 am Family tour of Rome Colosseum with arena access by LivTours . There are a million tours but this is my top pick for kid-friendliness and access to the arena floor (where the gladiators fought!)
• 12.00 Light lunch in Cafe Cafe Bistrot , Via Dei Santi Quattro 44, 00184 Rome Italy (or proper sit down one in nearby Naumachia or even in Birreria Peroni near Piazza Venezia)
• 2.00 pm Relax in Colle Oppio park , with coffee and a view over the Colosseum
• 4pm – City center treasure hunt tour with MariaClaudia Tours , a super engaging tour to discover the Trevi / Pantheon area, one of the most central and famous in Rome. Tell her Marta from MamaLovesItaly sent you!

Top tip! If you think all the walking would be too much for your kids, you can also book a golf cart tour with LivTours (they can also coordinate it with your Colosseum booking). A fun and relaxing way to explore!

• Dinner at Grappolo d’oro , P.za della Cancelleria, 80, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Day 8 – Rome city center and cooking class

• Morning – free morning wandering around Rome city center . You can use my guide on Amazon to help you find tp spots and hidden gems! Stay around the Pantheon, Piazza Navona / Piazza della Minerva area. Treat the kids to a fun stop at Ikono Roma should they need a break from sightseeing
• 1.00pm Lunch at Enoteca Corsi , Via del Gesù, 87/88, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
• 3.30 pm Castel Sant’Angelo – once tomb of the emperors, then Papa fortress and finally a museum, this is one of the best places in Rome to visit with kids and one you can easily enjoy without a guide.
• Dinner – Kid-friendly pasta class with Lucilla, a fantastic hands-on class that will teach you to make pasta and will have you have a lovely dinner in a local’s home! Contact her on Instagram and tell her I sent you!

Day 9 Rome: Vatican and Borghese Gardens

• Morning in Vatican City – if visiting the museums, I highly recommend booking a kid-friendly tour such as this one , to keep them engaged in such as vast, traditional and busy museum. You don’t need a tour of the basilica or the piazza.
• Have lunch in Il Sorpasso , Via Properzio, 31/33, 00193 Roma RM, Italy , then gelato in Cremilla nearby!
• Afternoon in Borghese Gardens : hop on a taxi and relax in the stunning Borghese Gardens, where you can rent boats and bikes. Make sure you regain the center via the Pincio terrace (view) and then the Spanish Steps.
• Dinner in cul de sac , Piazza di Pasquino, 73, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Day 10 – free morning and departure

If you have a full day before your flight, find here >> 70 things to do in Rome with kids that can help you fill the time no matter how long / little time you have (my favorite is Nero’s Domus Aurea, if open!)

I hope you enjoyed this 10 day Italy itinerary to see Venice, Florence and Rome in ten days with kids. Safe travels!

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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This Luxury Hotel in Rome Was Named One of the Best Hotels in the World by T+L Readers — and Has the Most Beautiful Courtyard I've Ever Seen

Here's what makes Hotel de Russie Travel + Leisure readers' favorite hotel in Rome.

Food and Drink

Amenities and experiences, family-friendly offerings, accessibility and sustainability, how to get the most value out of your stay.

Courtesy of Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel

Walking through Rome’s Villa Borghese gardens, my husband and I came to a lookout point with a view of Piazza del Popolo. I, however, paid little attention to the neoclassical elliptical square, even with a 79-foot obelisk in the center. I was too busy photographing the most enticing courtyard I’d ever seen. It had three rows of bright-white umbrellas abutting a pale-pink building with turquoise shutters — the kind of scene that made me crave a Spritz and castelvetrano olives because I couldn't help but picture the chic, linen-clad folk enjoying aperitivo on that patio.

About three hours later, I checked into Hotel de Russie , which I picked because it was named T+L readers’ favorite hotel in Rome in 2023 and among the best city hotels in Europe . These 2023 World’s Best Awards landed the Rocco Forte hotel — one of two in Rome — a coveted spot on this year’s T+L 500. 

Hotel de Russie, Rome

• The location: it's a minute's walk to Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps and five to 10 minutes on foot to the Villa Borghese gardens and the Trevi Fountain.
• The idyllic courtyard is one of the most iconic in Europe and the perfect place for aperitivo .
• The luxurious rooms — with turquoise-trimmed shutters on the windows — made me feel like I was staying at my own chic apartment in Rome, with all the amenities of a Rocco Forte hotel.
• The spa has a hammam, a sauna, Irene Forte facials, and a gym.

And yet somehow, even knowing the details of Hotel de Russie’s accolades, I was shocked when, after check-in, I walked across the lobby, through the open doors, to the exact venue I’d painstakingly photographed a few hours before. I didn’t even make it up to my room. I asked the concierge if he could hold our bags while we had a drink on the patio, and a few minutes later, I was seated beneath a bright-white umbrella as a server put down a Negroni for me, a gin martini with a twist for my husband, and a trio of snacks — potato chips, almonds, and olives. I couldn’t believe my luck. I was a pair of really short bangs, a striped silk scarf, and a vintage Vespa away from living out Audrey Hepburn’s "Roman Holiday" life.

Maya Kachroo-Levine/Travel + Leisure

We lingered for a few hours, leisurely succumbing to the snack menu — tissue paper–thin prosciutto on crusty bread, the perfect complement to a second Negroni. I checked my Google Map of Rome recommendations and found we were stumbling distance from my cousin's go-to Roman wine bar, Buccone Vini e Olii , and a cozy restaurant favored by one of my colleagues, Hostaria Da Pietro . Evening plans? Check. The problem? I had no interest in ever leaving this courtyard.

Here, my review of the iconic Hotel de Russie — a Rocco Forte hotel and longtime T+L reader favorite.

Once we wrapped up our prolonged patio stint, we ascended to our spacious Deluxe Room. It was nearly 450 square feet, which is impressive for a standard hotel room in a major European city (the entry-level rooms are just a touch smaller, at about 375 square feet; the junior suites start at 540 square feet; and the Superior Suites start at 650 square feet). For a true taste of Roman luxury, the special suites and Forte suites have terraces or French balconies, with heavenly views of the hotel's courtyard or the surrounding historic buildings.

When I got to our room, I twisted the gold knob on one of three dual-paned windows. I poked my head out the window — no screens, this is Europe — taking in the light yellow, beige, and bright coral facades of the apartment buildings across the street, all with bright blue and green shutters. Across the street, I could see friends gathering on a balcony for sunset and laundry swinging in the breeze on an adjacent rooftop. It felt like I had my own little Roman apartment — with a marble bathroom and Rocco Forte hotel amenities.

Hotel de Russie has two restaurants; the Stravinskij Bar is a magical, umbrella-shaded terrace with a small indoor operation as well. The main restaurant is Le Jardin de Russie, which inhabits the upper terrace (up a set of alfresco stone stairs from Stravinskij Bar) and an adjacent dining room. Le Jardin serves a fantastic breakfast buffet and elevated classics — like grilled whole branzino. For something a little less formal, Stravinskij Bar serves dinner, too, and makes a lovely pasta all'Amatriciana, which is admittedly plentiful in Rome, but can you ever really have too much crispy guanciale?

The concierge team at Hotel de Russie can help you set up tours or book tickets to museums or attractions. We visited in the summer when advance ticketing was crucial, but the concierge could easily book us same-day entry to the Colosseum. The hotel also offers tours that are exclusively available to de Russie guests; one of the newest experiences, called a Journey Through Time at the Roman Forum, visits sites such as the Basilica Ulpia with an art historian, with the option to add on an extravagant tasting menu at Rimessa Roscioli afterward.

My husband and I spent a fantastic morning in the spa, starting with a seven-mile run in the gym, an ill-conceived attempt to work off all the amatriciana. From there, we went to the hammam, slipping into the massive blue-tiled warm pool. After a long soak, he hit the sauna while I read my book on a poolside lounge chair, enjoying the calming effect of the silver- and blue-tiled walls that seemed to glow as if the room were encrusted with precious gems. The spa also offers facials using Irene Forte skin care products and massages, and the hotel is expanding the space.

Hotel de Russie can make a family room by connecting two Deluxe Rooms. While I didn't encounter a lot of children during my stay, I love to see families bring children of any age to a European city — There's so much to experience! The food and culture more than make up for the transatlantic flight! — and would definitely return to the hotel with a kid in tow. The concierge can assist parents in coordinating family-friendly activities, and there is a Rocco Forte kids program for children aged 0 to 16, where each young visitor gets a Rocco Forte passport.

Six of the hotel's 120 rooms are accessible, and wheelchairs are available upon request. The hotel's ground-floor common areas are accessible, though there are "some limitations in the upper side of the historical garden," according to a hotel spokesperson. As a brand, Rocco Forte is keen to reduce its carbon footprint, and at de Russie, there is an electric e-tuk for guest rides and charging available for electric cars. To reduce energy use, all Rocco Forte hotels (including de Russie) hosted candlelit evenings once a week during the winter months, where the restaurants and bars were illuminated only by flickering candles. The hotel also prioritizes digital check-in to eliminate paper waste and frequently donates furniture and amenities to local charities (recently, while refreshing the de Russie gym, all the old equipment was donated to the Blind Association on nearby Via Margutta).

Check the hotel website for deals because Rocco Forte offers generous ones. The occasionally offered Forte Escapes discount, for example, gets guests up to 25 percent off a stay of two nights or more. I'm a traveler who swears by her American Express Platinum card, and card members will be glad to know that Hotel de Russie is indeed part of Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts. Those booking their stay with an American Express will get a 12 p.m. check-in, 4 p.m. check-out, room upgrade if available, daily breakfast for two, and $100 credit for food and drink.