Top 15 Places to Visit in Italy with Children: Ultimate List
I know it can be tricky for families to figure out where to go in Italy for their family vacation, so I’m writing this article to help other families like mine.
I dive deep into the best places to visit in Italy with Children.
Last summer, my husband and I took our two kids on the adventure of a lifetime, exploring the beautiful Italian peninsula.
We found lots of fun, child-friendly spots all over Italy.
If you’re not sure where to take your family in Italy, I’ve got some great ideas for you.
Let’s make planning your trip to Italy easy and fun, just like our amazing summer there.
Pros of Traveling to Italy with Kids
1. Exposure to Culture and History
Castles, ancient streets, and ruins – it’s all there, making history super cool and real for the little ones.
2. Cuisine That’s Kid-Friendly
No kid says no to pizza and pasta, right?
And let’s not forget the gelato!
We had a little game where we’d try a new flavor every day. Spoiler alert: chocolate always wins.
3. Welcoming Attitude Towards Families
Italian culture places a strong emphasis on family, so children are warmly welcomed almost everywhere, from restaurants to historical sites.
At restaurants, shopkeepers and waiters would often chat with my kids, making us feel right at home
Cons of Traveling to Italy with Kids
1. Crowded During Peak Seasons
Ever tried weaving through a sea of people with a stroller?
Popular sites like the Vatican or the Uffizi Gallery can have long lines, which can be challenging for young children.
2. Navigating Historic Areas with Cobblestone Streets
Those quaint cobblestone streets are charming until you try to push a stroller over them.
We had a few bumpy rides, and let’s just say the stroller wasn’t the same afterward.
3. Late Night Eats:
Italians typically eat later, and meals are supposed to be savored and enjoyed.
This can make for a long meal with your little ones.
Top Places to Visit in Italy with Children
1. Rome
- Best Ages: Ideal for kids aged 5 and up
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) or Fall (September to October) for milder weather and fewer crowds
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Stand where gladiators once fought at the Colosseum
- Wander through Vatican City and see some amazing art
- Play and relax in the big, leafy Villa Borghese park
- Become a mini-gladiator for a day at Gladiator School
- Take a golf cart tour around the city.
The perfect Rome Itinerary for kids combines history with fun.
The city is busy and full of life, with people everywhere, markets to explore, and places to hang out.
Every corner has a story, and there’s always something new and exciting to discover, making it a fantastic playground for both kids and adults.
I would recommend at least 4-5 days in Rome with kids to truly get a taste of the city. Any visit shorter than that may be exhausting for some families.
2. Ligurian Coast
- Best Ages: Great for kids and grown-ups of all ages
- When to Visit: May to June and September, when it’s not too hot or crowded.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Enjoy the stunning coastline with its clear blue waters and family-friendly beaches.
- Check out Portofino, a cute little place with colorful houses by the sea.
- Take a scenic hike or bike ride along the Ligurian Riviera, offering breathtaking views and hidden coves.
The Ligurian coast is part of the Italian Riviera and it looks like a postcard.
Small villages dot the coastline, and your family will love visiting this area.
The region boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, with crystal-clear waters and plenty of space for kids to play.
The famous village of Portofino looks like it’s painted with bright colors, and it’s super nice to walk around.
My family enjoyed eating lunch in Portofino after a beach day, and it felt like the perfect Italian experience.
Liguria is perfect for families who love the beach and want to have some fun together.
3. Florence
- Best Ages: Awesome for children aged 6 and above
- When to Visit: Spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) for lovely weather and smaller crowds.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Explore the city’s rich Renaissance art and architecture, offering a visual feast of historical significance.
- Have fun in the Boboli Gardens, with lots of space to run and cool sculptures.
- Check out the interactive science museum, (nazionale della scienza), where you can play and learn at the same time.
- Zip around on a Vespa tour to see the city and the Tuscan hills in a super fun way.
Florence has cool old buildings and famous artworks.
But there’s lots of fun stuff for families too, not just art and history.
The Boboli Gardens are a great place to play and explore, with lots of green space, pretty flowers, and fun statues.
At the science museum, kids love to touch and play with all sorts of neat exhibits that make learning really fun. And let’s not forget about the food in Florence!
It’s super kid-friendly. Think about all the tasty pasta, pizza, and, of course, gelato –
There are so many flavors to try! Florence is full of surprises, making it a perfect place for a family trip.
4. Tuscany
- Best Ages: Fantastic for families with children of all ages
- When to Visit: Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) for pleasant weather and the full bloom of the countryside
- Best Things to See and Do:
Tuscany is like a big, beautiful painting with its green hills and tall cypress trees.
It’s peaceful and pretty, perfect for taking it easy and spending time together.
The old towns feel quintessentially Italian.
We found that the locals really welcomed our children.
The area is accessible by train and cruise ship, but I recommend renting a car to explore the area.
Your family will love cruising from village to village.
Visiting Tuscany with kids is all about enjoying the simple things – beautiful views, good food, and happy times with the family.
4. Pisa
- Best Ages: Suitable for children and adults of all ages
- When to Visit: Ideal times are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Check out the Leaning Tower of Pisa and pretend you’re holding it up in your photos.
- Explore the old churches and learn about their stories.
- Check out Knights’ Square, a big open space perfect for running around
Pisa is famous for its leaning tower, and seeing it in real life is something your kids will never forget.
Be sure to snap some pictures.
Outside of the tower, the city is home to beautiful historic churches.
If your older kids and teenagers are into architecture and art, you will want to make sure you check them out.
Knights’ Square, known as Piazza dei Cavalieri in Italian, is a large, open space is surrounded by historic buildings and is an ideal spot to relax, have a snack, and soak in the ambiance of Pisa.
Pisa is the perfect day trip for you and your family.
6. Genoa
- Best Ages: Elementary School Age and Teenagers
- When to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the best seasons to enjoy mild weather.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Walk around the old port and see where ships come and go.
- Check out the big maritime museum to learn about sea adventures and pirates.
- Visit the Biosfera, a cool glass bubble with tropical plants and animals inside.
- Play and learn at Children’s City, a place full of fun activities just for kids.
- Try some yummy local snacks like focaccia bread and pesto, which are famous in Genoa.
Genoa is a city with a long maritime history.
Your family will love exploring this old port city.
My family loved visiting Genoa because it seems like it is still untouched by overtourism.
Many of the areas in the old town are still occupied by locals, and you get a strong feel of community and culture here.
For kids who love science, the Biosfera is a must-do. Don’t forget to try the city’s signature dish, focaccia, often served with pesto sauce.
I still have dreams of eating it.
Genoa is a must-visit place if you are looking to visit Italy without throngs of tourists for your next family vacation.
7. Dolomites
- Best Ages: Elementary School and Older: Those who will enjoy nature, hiking, and outdoor activities
- When to Visit: Summer months for hiking, or winter (December to February) for snow activities
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Be amazed by the huge mountains and beautiful views all around.
- Ride up the mountains in a cable car to see the views without all the climbing.
- Go on family-friendly hikes with paths that are easy for everyone.
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has some of the most impressive mountains you will ever see.
Located in northern Italy, the views are insane, and are the perfect destination for nature-loving families.
For those looking to explore on foot, there are many paths made just for hiking, perfect for kids and teenagers.
You can take a walk through the woods, near streams, and even see some waterfalls.
It’s a great way to spend the day outside, getting fresh air and seeing all the beautiful things in nature.
These trails range from easy walks suitable for young children to more challenging routes for older kids and adults,
The Dolomites are all about adventure and exploring the great outdoors, making it an exciting place for families to visit.
8. Cinque Terre
- Best Ages: Families who enjoy the seaside
- When to Visit: Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) are ideal for avoiding the busiest times and enjoying comfortable weather.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Explore the colorful villages along the coast. Each one has it’s own personality.
- Walk the trails that link the villages, offering picture-perfect views of the Mediterranean.
- Spend time at the beach, where kids can play in the water, and everyone can enjoy the gorgeous weather.
Cinque Terre is a series of five coastal villages, each painted in bright colors and offering beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.
It’s a peaceful place for a family getaway, with easy, kid-friendly walks between the villages that provide both exercise and stunning scenery.
Though small, the beaches in Cinque Terre are perfect for families, offering safe and inviting spaces for children to play and enjoy the water.
Just a heads up. The area is not stroller-friendly, so if you have young kids, maybe consider bringing a baby carrier.
You won’t regret spending time in this beautiful location.
9. Lake Garda
- Best Ages: Families who love lakes, mountains, and fun activities
- When to Visit: Ideal in early summer (May to June) and early fall (September to October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Check out the huge lake with awesome mountain views – it’s really pretty and great for photos.
- Have a blast at the nearby Gardaland resort amusement park with cool rides and games.
- Walk around the small towns by the lake, where you can see cute houses and maybe grab a snack.
- Try water sports on the lake if you’re up for adventure.
Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake. between beautiful mountains, making it a fantastic destination for a family holiday.
It’s a peaceful place where you can just hang out and enjoy the views. But what makes it super fun for families is the amusement park Gardaland, which is full of exciting rides.
This is one of Italy’s premier theme parks. You kids will love riding the rollercoasters, and there is fun theming (like Peppa Pig) your little ones will love.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are lots of water activities you can try out on the lake, from boating to a little bit of windsurfing.
So, Lake Garda has a bit of everything: relaxation, adventure, and entertainment.
10. Puglia
- Best Ages: All ages: Kids who love beaches, history, and exploring nature
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October are the best times for good weather and not too many people.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Spend the day at the beach, where the water is clear and great for swimming.
- See the Trulli houses in Alberobello, which are cute, round houses with pointy roofs.
- Walk through olive groves and find out how olive oil is made, which is pretty interesting.
- Discover sea caves and coastal nature reserves, great for little adventurers.
Puglia, located in the heel of Italy’s boot, is a gem for families.
It’s most known for its stunning beaches but also has fascinating historic sites and delicious food.
The beaches here are some of the best beaches in Italy for families, with crystal-clear waters that are ideal for a day of fun in the sun.
One of the coolest things about Puglia is the Trulli houses in Alberobello.
These cone-shaped stone homes are really unique and fun to explore. Kids will love wandering through the streets, and it’s a great spot for family photos.
Puglia with kids won’t disappoint. I promise you will love it.
11. Naples
- Best Ages: Kids of all ages, but especially fun for those over 6
- When to Visit: Spring when the weather’s nice and it’s not too packed.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Discover the lively streets of Naples, full of history and colorful buildings.
- Visit the famous Pompeii ruins nearby, where you can see an ancient city frozen in time.
- Try the world’s best pizza where it was invented. Even picky eaters will be happy.
- Explore the underground city for a cool adventure beneath the streets.
Naples is a bustling city with a lot of character, famous for its rich history and amazing food.
It’s got a bit of everything, from busy markets to beautiful art. A trip to Naples wouldn’t be complete without seeing Pompeii.
It’s an incredible place that was destroyed when Mount Vesuvius erupted long ago. You can walk through ancient streets and houses, giving you a glimpse into the past.
And, of course, you have to try the pizza here—it’s where pizza was born, and it’s absolutely delicious.
Naples has something for everyone, making it a cool place for families to visit.
12. Verona
- Best Ages: All kids, but those 7 and older might enjoy the history and stories more.
- Best Time to Visit: For great weather and small crowds, April and October are perfect.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Take a walk and check out the cool old buildings and the big arena where they used to have gladiator fights.
- Visit Juliet’s House to see the balcony from the story of Romeo and Juliet.
- Enjoy a gelato while walking along the river or in one of Verona’s lovely squares.
- Check out the huge Roman amphitheater and maybe catch a show or concert if you’re lucky.
Verona is a really beautiful city off the beaten path in Northern Italy with lots of neat historic places to see.
It’s famous for the story of Romeo and Juliet, and you can actually visit Juliet’s balcony.
It is a must-see, especially for kids who know the story.
The city feels like a step back in time with its ancient buildings and narrow streets.
With its mix of history, culture, and delicious food, Verona offers a fun and educational experience for families.
13. Sicily
- Best Ages: Kids of all ages, with beaches, ancient ruins, and yummy food that everyone will love.
- Best Time to Visit: September or October still has great weather and fewer tourists.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Explore ancient Greek temples and Roman ruins in cities like Agrigento and Syracuse.
- Relax on beautiful beaches in places like Cefalù and Taormina.
- Try delicious Sicilian foods like arancini (rice balls), cannoli (sweet pastry tubes), and granita (flavored shaved ice).
- Visit the bustling markets in Palermo for a taste of local life and more yummy treats.
Sicily is an island in Southern Italy full of surprises, with something for everyone in the family.
Cities like Agrigento, with its Valley of the Temples, and Syracuse, with its ancient amphitheater, are must-sees for their cool history.
And don’t forget about the food – Sicily is famous for some really tasty dishes.
Arancini is a big hit with kids, and everyone loves a good cannoli.
Palermo is the capital. Here, you will find some of the best street food in italy.
Check out all the different food stalls and markets throughout the city.
For gorgeous beaches, make sure you check out Cegalu and Taormina.
Sicily is so diverse and is a place where you can enjoy the sun, learn a bit about history, and eat some of the best food around.
14. Amalfi Coast
- Best Ages: All ages, but the required walking and steps might be more enjoyable for kids 5 and up.
- Best Time to Visit: This area gets CROWDED in the summer. Definitely visit in the shoulder season(spring and fall).
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Wander through the pretty towns like Positano and Amalfi, with their colorful houses stacked up the hills.
- Relax on small, pebbly beaches and take dips in the clear blue water.
- Try delicious local foods like fresh seafood, lemon-flavored treats, and homemade pasta.
- Take a boat ride to see the coast from the water and maybe visit the famous Blue Grotto.
The Amalfi Coast is known for its breathtaking scenery, with steep cliffs and bright, colorful towns overlooking the Mediterranean.
The hype is well warranted. The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful place with cliffs and bright towns by the sea.
The towns along the coast, like Positano and Amalfi, are fun to explore, with narrow streets and steps leading to hidden spots.
The beaches might be small, but they’re perfect for a relaxed day by the sea. Food here is a big deal, and there are lots of local delicacies to try, especially dishes made with local lemons and fresh seafood.
Drink the limoncello and thank me later.
The Amalfi Coast is a wonderful spot for families looking for a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and the perfect Italian getaway.
15. Venice
- Best Ages: Venice can be difficult with toddlers(but doable)., Aim to take the trip when your kids are 6 and older
- Best Time to Visit: April to June when it’s not too hot or crowded.
- Best Things to See and Do:
- Get lost in the maze of Venice’s streets and bridges. There is so much to see.
- Hop on a gondola for a fun boat ride through the canals. You are in Venice, after all.
- Hang out in St. Mark’s Square. It’s beautiful. Adults will love the views, and the kids will love the pigeons.
Venice is a unique city with no cars, just boats, and loads of narrow pathways and canals.
It’s fun to just wander and find all sorts of neat spots, from hidden squares to shops selling cool masks and souvenirs.
Gondola rides are a hit with kids because it’s not every day you get to ride in a boat through the middle of a city.
Due to the canals and no railings, toddler-age can be a little difficult to visit.
I would be nervous about them running or falling in.
But, if you have older kids, Venice is magical.
Travel Tips for Visiting Italy with Kids:
- 1. Plan Ahead: Italy is full of popular tourist spots, so booking your accommodations and tickets for major attractions in advance can save you from long lines and help ensure you don’t miss out on anything.
- 2. Keep a Flexible Schedule: While it’s great to have a plan, kids often need breaks and might find unexpected things that interest them. Allow for some flexibility in your day to keep things stress-free.
- 3. Embrace Local Living: Stay in a place with kitchen facilities if possible. Visiting local markets and preparing some meals can be a fun and relaxing family activity, plus it gives you a taste of everyday Italian life.
- 4. Use Public Transport: Italy’s trains and buses are a convenient way to travel between cities and regions. Kids often enjoy the journey, and it’s a great way to see the countryside.
- 5. Take Advantage of Kid Discounts: Many museums and attractions offer free or discounted admission for children. Always ask about child rates or family passes to save on entrance fees.
- 6. Stay Safe: Keep an eye on your kids at all times, especially in crowded places. Consider using a small backpack leash for very young children in busy areas.
- 7. Embrace the Siesta: Like many Italians, consider a rest or a slow-paced activity during the hottest part of the day. It’s a great time for a leisurely lunch or a nap to recharge before evening explorations.
- 8. Pack Comfortably: Bring comfortable shoes for everyone. You’ll be walking a lot on cobblestone streets and exploring ruins.
- 9. Stay Connected: Consider getting a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected and navigate easily with maps and translation apps.
- 10. Visit Playgrounds: Almost every town has a playground. It’s a great way for kids to burn off energy and for parents to relax.
- 11. Early Visits: Try to visit popular sites early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
- 12. Local Festivals: Check the local calendar for festivals and events. Many towns have colorful, child-friendly festivals that can be a highlight of your trip.
- 13. Night Tours: Consider evening or night tours, especially in the summer. Cities like Rome and Florence are beautifully lit at night, and it’s cooler.
- 14. City Passes: Many cities offer passes that include public transport and entry to several attractions. They can save you money and time.
- 15. Bathroom Breaks: Public bathrooms can be scarce and sometimes require a fee. Use facilities in restaurants or museums when you can.
- 16. Dress Appropriately: Remember, churches and religious sites require modest dress, meaning covered shoulders and knees, even for kids.
- 17. Be Prepared for Strikes: Transportation strikes can happen, so always have a backup plan for getting around.
- 18. Embrace Italian Time: Things in Italy might not always be punctual, and meal times can be later than you’re used to. Go with the flow and embrace the Italian pace of life.
Map of Italy: My Recommended Kid-Friendly Italian Cities
Final Thoughts:
And there you have it! Our incredible summer journey through Italy showed us just how many awesome places there are to explore with kids.
From the sandy beaches to the historical streets, Italy is packed with fun for families.
There are so many things for kids to do in Italy. I hope this family travel blog helps you pick the perfect spots for your family trip to Italy.
