italy places to visit with family

11 of the Best Places To Visit In Italy With Family

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Italy is a country that is known for being particularly welcoming to children, making it an ideal part of the world to visit with your  family . From rural countryside towns to ancient cities and beautiful islands, there’s a huge range of things to do that will keep all kinds of children entertained for an entire trip.

There is a huge range of different options when it comes to travelling to Italy with kids, so we’ve rounded up 11 of the best places to visit with family to make  planning your next holiday  that little bit easier. 

1. LAKE GARDA

Lake Garda is one of the most popular family holiday destinations in Italy, with a wide range of attractions to suit all interests of both kids and parents alike! The largest lake in Italy, Garda is a beautiful location all year round with mountains, forests, quaint towns and villages and plenty of outdoor swimming opportunities.

If you’re travelling with younger children, the main attraction in Lake Garda is Gardaland, one of the biggest theme parks in Italy that is the perfect place for families. There is also the Caneva Acquapark in Lazise if you’re visiting in the summer and want a break from swimming in the lake, although the water everywhere is very clean and there are plenty of shallow areas that you can take children.

For those with older children, Lake Garda is full of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and watersports. There are also several attractions that will be well suited for families who like to incorporate history into their vacations, with the added excitement of travelling to each of these by boat or ferry.

If you’re looking for things to do in Italy with kids,  Rome  is your best option for a city that has enough to fill numerous itineraries. The capital of the country is ideal for children of all ages, and will particularly delight those who have an interest in history or adventure.

Many people think of sightseeing as a holiday activity that is reserved for adults, but in Rome, many monuments and sites will appeal to every member of the family. There are also a wealth of museums and galleries across Rome that have enough to keep most older children entertained for an afternoon and provide a great opportunity to incorporate a bit of learning and discovery into a holiday.

The real highlight for family trips to Italy is often the food, and  Rome  is an ideal place to find restaurants and cafes that will be suitable for a wide range of taste buds. You rarely find a kid who isn’t thrilled with the prospect of getting to eat  pizza , pasta and ice cream almost every day, and a quick stop at a gelateria is a great way to perk up any members of your group who might be flagging after a day of walking around the city.

3. CINQUE TERRE

The colourful coastal towns of Cinque Terre are perfect for an Italy family vacation with older children or teenagers, although if you’re planning on just staying in one place this is a great destination for younger kids as well. Located on the northwest  coast  of the country, Cinque Terre offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery that is ideal for travelling families looking for a more laid back trip.

Hiking between the villages of Cinque Terre is a very popular activity for those coming to the area, and if you’re a family who enjoys outdoor adventure then you’ll love exploring the winding cliffside paths. There are also trains connecting the towns if you’d rather focus on sightseeing or want an easier journey home at the end of the day.

The beautiful coastline of  Cinque Terre  has numerous lovely beaches, and spending the day beside the sea is a great thing to do during a summer vacation to Italy. Whether you’re staying in one of the five towns or nearby in Levanto or La Spezia, it’s a beautiful part of the country to bring your family and enjoy a slice of the good life away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the world. 

4. THE AMALFI COAST

Another beautiful beach destination that is well suited to Italy holidays with kids is the Amalfi Coast, found on the south coast of the country. With plenty of  beaches , small hotels and cliffside paths, this is another great spot for a vacation focusing on relaxing and spending time together as a family.

If you’re coming to Italy with a teenager then the  Amalfi Coast  is a winning destination, as there are plenty of photo-worthy locations across the whole area that will make for excellent photos to send to their friends. Whilst there are several tourist attractions amongst the towns and villages, the main appeal here is sitting back and making the most of your surroundings, which is why this location is better suited to children who can keep themselves entertained at times.

The Amalfi Coast is also a great place to base yourself for day trips to nearby areas such as Sorrento or the Isle of Capri. You can hire a car if you prefer to travel under your own steam, but there are several public transport options available that will give you the chance to see more of Italy as you travel.

The island of  Sicily , found off the ‘toe’ of Italy, has long been considered one of the country’s top family holiday destinations. No matter the age of your kids, there is something for everyone on Italy’s largest island, from archeological sites to family resorts and busy towns and cities.

For those who are travelling with toddlers or very young children, there are plenty of quiet  seaside  villages and family holiday resorts that provide a safe place for your kids to explore and enjoy the island. More outdoorsy families will love the chance to hike through the landscape or snorkel in the clear blue ocean, and there are plenty of other activities such as stand-up paddleboarding or cycling to enjoy across Sicily as well.

One of the highlights of Sicily is its brilliant collection of ancient ruins that will delight and intrigue kids of all ages coming to the island on their holiday.  The Valley of the Temples  provides enough sightseeing for an entire afternoon, whilst the chance to visit an ancient amphitheatre well certainly be a memorable experience for the entire family.

This is a great city to come to  for the day  if you’re travelling around Italy with kids, primarily so you can visit the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa with them. Trying to take a photo with this iconic landmark is a fun activity for everyone, and even young children are likely to recognise the tower and enjoy seeing it in real life.

Pisa is best visited from Florence or Lucca by train and is a lovely place to wander around with children and enjoy the food from a local restaurant. There are several other good tourist attractions near to the tower that may interest older kids, whereas little ones may just enjoy having the green space to run around whilst you admire the architecture.

One of the most popular destinations for Italy holidays with kids is the floating city of  Venice . This is a particularly good spot for older children who are happy to spend a lot of their holiday walking around and are kept entertained by trips to museums and famous monuments.

Venice  is a brilliant place for families because of the sense of adventure you get walking through its maze-like streets. You can test your kids’ map-reading abilities by giving them the chance to navigate the streets and keep them entertained with I-spy games as you walk around the city.

If the winding streets of Venice weren’t exciting enough, children will be fascinated by the canals that act as roads around the city and the boats that take the place of cars. You can enjoy seeing the city from the water by catching a  vaporetto  or water taxi, and even visit a nearby island during the day if you’ve ticked off  all the famous sights  inside the city.

The region of Puglia is found at the ‘heel’ of the boot of Italy, and is a great location for an Italian family vacation with a bit of a difference. If you want to explore the country’s rural landscape and enjoy the hospitality of quality  little towns and villages , this is a beautiful location that is renowned for its peace and quiet. 

A highlight of Puglia that kids will enjoy is the town of Alberobello, best known for its iconic white ‘trulli’ huts that look like they have come out of a fairytale. The region is more suited for families who are willing to drive themselves around on holiday and want a trip focused on sightseeing, as there are plenty of places to stop and visit churches, walled towns and other notable sites.

If you’re travelling to Italy with kids and are looking for a location with more modern attractions,  Milan  should be top of your list. This metropolitan city is known for being the European capital of fashion and design and is a brilliant place for both children and adults who have an interest in modern development and the latest trends.

If you’re looking for cultural attractions to enjoy with your children such as museums and  galleries , Milan is one of the best cities in the country to enjoy this. The art and history on offer here don’t rival Rome or  Florence , but if your kids aren’t as bothered by ancient artefacts then there is plenty to see and do.

Milan is also a great place to base your family for a holiday that involves a lot of day trips. Via public transport, you can reach more of Italy’s popular destinations such as Lake Garda, Verona,  Florence  and even Venice, which is ideal if you’re trying to fit a lot into a shorter holiday.

10. SARDINIA

A classic location for those travelling to Italy with kids is the island of Sardinia, which offers a blend of both Mediterranean and Italian culture to its visitors. If you’re after a  beach vacation  then this is a beautiful place to bring your family and enjoy a range of stunning island scenery and friendly local hospitality.

Sardinia is also an excellent option for those who are looking for the best destinations for kids who enjoy outdoor activities on their holidays, as the island is jam-packed with opportunities to get out and about. From cycling to horse riding and swimming, it’s hard to run out of things to do even during a long vacation in Sardinia.

11. THE DOLOMITES

Our list of the best places for an Italy family vacation wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the best place in the country for snowsports. The Dolomites mountain range is home to numerous ski resorts that are family-friendly and ideal for those who want to hit the slopes on their vacation, whether you’re a family of beginners or experienced skiers.

Even if you decide to visit Italy in the summer, the Dolomites are still a wonderful place to let your children enjoy unspoiled natural surroundings and feel the benefits of the fresh mountain air. Whether you’re a walker, a skier, a snowboarder, a cyclist or just a fan of luxury resorts, this part of the country has got it all.

If this article has inspired you to book your next family vacation in Italy,  get in touch  with our team and find out more about our bespoke family-friendly Italy tours that guarantee an unforgettable holiday experience.

About the Author

Rem Malloy started Italy4real back in 1995 with his mother, Deborah de Maio.

He specialises in Italian tours as well as customised tours to France, England, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Greece and Spain. He was also featured in the Travel Channel show Mysteries at The Museum in 2016.

Rem has family in Italy and his mothers home town is Cava di Terrani, near the Amalfi Coast. The family has a street named after them in Sorrento, Via Luigi de Maio; a relative who was mayor of Sorrento.

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• 20 things to do in Italy with family: the ultimate kids friendly guide
• Best Tours and Experiences

Would you like to know the best things to do in Italy with the family to enjoy a wonderful holiday? Discover the ideal destinations.

Would you like to know the best things to do in Italy with family to spend a delightful weekend or holiday relaxing with your loved ones? While you travel around the enchanting Italian peninsula, you will be mesmerised by the many wonders and alluring proposals to go on holiday with your children , ideal for all tastes.

Among the wide range of amazing things to do in Italy with family , you can visit picturesque villages nestled in fairy-tale landscapes, explore lush natural parks and marvelous archaeological sites, and take an exciting journey through time to discover ancient civilisations whose origins date back to the distant past, admire the exhibitions in prestigious museums and the splendours of magnificent art cities to learn their secrets and arcane legends.

Things to do in Italy with family: discover the most enchanting destinations

Whichever season you choose to plan an exciting tour with your children, the variety of things to do in Italy with family will offer you unique and fascinating destinations, visiting which you will see a kaleidoscope of artistic and architectural treasures and spectacular landscapes. Children are always model travelers, prompted by curiosity and desire for adventure, and choosing the best, fun, original solution within their reach is essential to have fun.

So let's embark on a magnificent journey to explore fascinating things to do in Italy with family and discover the fantastic opportunities offered by enchanting locations. You can treat yourself to a gorgeous and unforgettable family holiday by following Visit Italy's tips about the most fascinating itineraries for children .

20. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of Matterhorn

The fearless explorer's temperament, well rooted in every child, will be fully satisfied by the first stage of our excursus related to  things to do in Italy with family , which takes us to the Aosta Valley, a region characterized by majestic nature and sprinkled with ancient manors and fortresses, including that of Fénis , Issogne , Gressoney , Sarriod de la Tour and the Fortress of Bard . Your little ones will be pleasantly captivated by the Alpine views, whose valleys are embellished with turquoise lakes, foaming waterfalls, and centuries-old forests where you can observe the wildlife and charming mountain villages with an evocative atmosphere.

19. Things to do in Italy with family in elegant region of chocolate tradition

Continuing our review of the best things to do in Italy with the family , we come to aristocratic Piedmont, the cradle of biodiversity and beautiful works of art. In spring and summer, there are many inspirations to enjoy a delightful outing in the open air with your children. You could take advantage of sunny weekends to cross the threshold into the opulent world of ancient royal palaces , often rising like precious gems in lush gardens, where your children or grandchildren will have the opportunity to play. To regenerate yourself in natural environments of rare beauty, we recommend you try the slow trekking routes that wind through the lake district or visit the oasis of ducks and storks in Racconigi .

You could benefit from the exclusive advantages of the Torino + Piemonte Card to admire the marvelous cultural attractions spread in enchanting Turin and other areas of Piedmont.

18. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of Sforza dynasty

Would you like to spend a wonderful stay in Lombardy? Are you wondering what the main attractions of this enchanting region are? Among the many things to do in Italy with family , you can choose a tour through the magnificent family- family-friendly destinations , including charming cities of art, rich in history and culture, such as Lodi , Cremona , Pavia, Monza , and Brescia , which has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list for its well-preserved archaeological sites. Visiting it, you will admire its museums, such as that of Santa Giulia, and the remarkable monuments that stand in the scenic Two Cathedrals Square. Other fascinating jewels to discover with your children are the majestic castles , including the Rocca Scaligera of Sirmione , Castel Grumello , the fortress of Angera , and the lush fairytale habitats of the Sebino peat bogs and Lake Comabbio .

Visit Italy offers its readers a fantastic ticket to undertake an exciting tour to contemplate the castles and romantic landscapes of Lake Garda .

17. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of the Cetaceans sanctuary

Our bird's-eye view excursus, designed to inspire you when you draw up your preferences for things to do in Italy with family , lands in Liguria. You could try an exciting excursion among the fairy-tale settings of the natural caves of Toirano to delve into the world of speleology. Not far away is the poetic Borgio Verezzi , one of the pearls of the Riviera di Ponente. Other destinations that satisfy your children's desire for knowledge include the Cetacean Sanctuary , where you can be surprised by whale watching, the lush Merula oasis , and the lush botanical garden of Villa Hambury .

16. Things to do in Italy with children in the region of fabulous Tovel lake

Are you fantasising about the most popular family-friendly destinations and things to do in Italy with family ? By visiting Trentino Alto Adige, you can appreciate its picture-postcard views and participate with your children in enticing activities, such as hiking and trekking in fascinating places. The mountain massifs of the Alpe Cimbra and the characteristic alpine pastures of Folgaria , Luserna , and Lavarone offer enthralling itineraries for children, including the Tree Breathing and Imaginary Path. We recommend you try the loop trail to Monte Castellaz and a trip to the impressive Nardis waterfalls in Adamello Brenta Park. During the warm season, you can enjoy the magnificence of the Alpine valleys along the San Candido Lienz cycle path and visit the picturesque villages of Mezzano , Bondone , the picturesque village of charcoal burners, San Lorenzo in Banale, and the painted hamlet of Rango .

Would you like to visit a magnificent medieval castle with your children to savour the fairytale atmosphere of the epoch of knights? Take advantage of the Visit Italy ticket.

15. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of Julian and Carnic Alps

Among the things to do in Italy with family , you could plan a festive break in Friuli Venezia Giulia with your loved ones. Treating yourself to a rejuvenating outdoor holiday is an original idea for enjoying Friuli's beautiful landscapes. This region, a crossroads of peoples, languages, and contaminations from the Austro-Hungarian culture, is dotted with marvelous landscapes. Exploring the parks, protected reserves, and lagoon environments, you can have fun with your children and catch sight of the many species of fauna. For those in search of new adventures, we mention the Giant's Cave at Sgonico , where you can immerse yourself in the characters from Jules Verne's novel, and those located at Pradis , near Pordenone. You could visit the majestic Miramare Castle to know better the sumptuousness of the Habsburg Court.

14. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of Canaletto, the well-known painter

If you prefer visiting destinations that are a little off the beaten track compared to classic mainstream tourism, then Sigurtà Garden Park is perfect for you. You can have fun with your children exploring this oasis of unspoilt nature near Valeggio sul Mincio. Our excursus at the discovery of things to do in Italy with family takes us along the Grand Canal, the calli, the poetic small squares, and tourist attractions for children of the Serenissima , a treasure chest of magnificent masterpieces, and then to a fascinating place in Montegrotto Terme. The House of Butterflies is home to a full-scale reproduction of tropical forests populated by these delicate multicoloured creatures.

You could explore the lush Sigurtà Garden with the ticket offered by Visit Italy to relax and have fun with your children among ponds and water lilies in contact with nature.

13. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of Pascoli e Toscanini

Although Emilia Romagna is known and frequented by travelers during the summer months, it is a treasure trove of wonders that will captivate you. If you are looking for some intriguing suggestions for things to do in Italy with family, this welcoming region will have some pleasant surprises in store for you to enjoy with your children. Admiring the majestic manors of Gropparello , Castellarquato , and Fontanellato , which rise in the territories of the Duchy between Piacenza and Parma, you will feel as if you can go back to the time of medieval ladies and knights. Approaching Modena with your children, the lunar landscape of the Salse di Nirano will amaze them with its unique rock scenery.

12. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of Amiata

Crossing the border into neighbouring Tuscany, a region of extraordinary natural landscapes, you can appreciate the treasures of art cities such as Florence and the beauty of fantastic environments, such as the intricate network of underground paths that unravel in the Antro del Corchia . Returning to the surface, we recommend Montemerano , a picturesque fortified village near Grosseto, which will enchant you with its medieval-style architecture. Among the many things to do in Italy with family, we suggest Another itinerary your children will appreciate, the so-called Path of Seven Bridges , from Florence, the cradle of Renaissance and an engaging destination for children , to Arezzo , sprinkled with Romanesque-style abbeys, farmhouses, and lush vineyards.

Would you like to enjoy priority access to museums and attractions in Florence and benefit from significant discounts? Take advantage of the Florence Pass .

11. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of the ancient Sabina

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Would you like to know the most exciting proposals for an excursion with children ? Among the things to do in Italy with family, Lazio is an excellent idea to brighten up your holiday with unique sights. In this region with a glorious past, a visit with kids to the Eternal City is a must during a holiday in this gem of central Italy. These territories preserve pristine landscapes, where you can visit splendid villages, such as Caprarola , Santa Severa , Fara Sabina , and Santa Marinella , and crystal-clear lakes. Among the Edens worth mentioning are the spectacular waterfalls of Monte Gelato . In winter, you can have fun and enjoy the ski slopes in the Campo Felice and Terminillo areas.

Would you like to move around by public transport between Rome 's most engaging sights and admire its artworks? You could take advantage of the benefits reserved for Rome Tourist Card holders.

10. Things to do in Italy with family in the Marche region of the duchy of Federico da Montefeltro

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Do you dream of spending a relaxing holiday with your children, savouring moments of relaxation and tranquillity amidst picturesque seaside villages and enchanting hills of polychrome hues? Le Marche is a region characterised by a remarkable heterogeneity of habitats and landscapes. You will choose from a rich range of options, from art cities to coastal resorts, coveted destinations frequented in summer by many travellers. Among the destinations we have selected, we suggest a trip to the wildlife oasis of Monte Montiego , surrounded by dense woods in Casteldurante , Cacciano , and Braccano , picturesque villages adorned with murals.

9. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of Pinturicchio

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If you prefer destinations where you can enjoy the quietness of yesteryear in the small villages of Central Italy, you might consider a holiday in Umbria as a viable alternative. Among the things to do in Italy with the family, this region is a concentration of history, art, culture, and authentic traditions. The enchanting Lake Piediluco is an ideal naturalistic gem for spending summer weekends there. On the occasion of the Festa delle Acque (Water Festival), traditionally held between June and July, you can watch an exciting boat parade, which lights up the night, culminating in a dazzling fireworks display. Favouring the green heart of Italy, add to your tour an excursion to the Alviano oasis , attended by bird watchers, the archaeological area of Carsule , and the legendary Clitumno springs .

8. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of national parks

Our detailed guide, designed to provide you with valuable travel tips, accompanies us on a discovery of the historical, artistic, and scenic heritage of Abruzzo. Among the many attractions and things to do in Italy with family , this welcoming land will give you unforgettable moments. In addition to the coastline with its fine sand, you can contemplate the wild nature of these territories, dotted with streams, lakes, waterfalls, and manors , such as that of Rocca Scalegna , walking with your children and enjoying the beautiful autumn days in the national parks embellished with foliage, such as that of Gran Sasso and Majella , home to the fairytale forest of Sant'Antonio, made up of centuries-old trees, including imposing beech, oak and maple. During the summer, it is the ideal place for trekking , while you can enjoy cross-country skiing with your children in winter.

7. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of Borbone

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Our overview of the best destinations to visit with your children or grandchildren arrives at Campania, a region shaped by a stratification of history, traditions, and ancient legends. Its iconic scenery, chosen as the setting for beautiful films, will allure you. Are you wondering what to do  in Naples with your kids with your kids? You can have fun exploring cutting-edge museums with multimedia installations. You could also relax by strolling through lush botanical and zoological parks.

Do you love trekking and hiking? The suggestive caves of Pertosa Auletta are a must for naturalists and speleology enthusiasts who can delve into this fascinating world. It is great fun to plan an enthralling family hike  in the magnificent Taburno park , to the castle of Baia , the idyllic oasis of the Capelli di Venere waterfalls, the Sammaro gorges and stroll through the alleyways of picturesque villages, such as Solopaca and San Severino di Centola .

6. Things to do in Italy with children in the region of Medieval castles

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Are you looking for travel tips and exciting ideas for your next family holiday in Italy? Among the magnificent family-friendly destinations in Southern Italy, a visit to Molise will allow you to immerse in yourself in fascinating archaic landscapes. You will choose from many opportunities to organize trips, day trips, and guided tours. An engaging tour among medieval strongholds, enveloped in a magical atmosphere, is a very enthralling alternative to mesmerize your children. Among the locations not to be missed are the Lombard Pignatelli Castle , which dominates the skyline of Monteroduni, the Alessandro Castle in Pescolanciano, and the Pandone Castle in Venafro. In spring, you could take a fantastic bike ride , caressed by the breeze, and take a walk in the Montedimezzano reserve.

5. Things to do in Italy with children in the region of Vulture and Metaponto

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Do you need some inspiration for your next family holiday? You will visit picture-postcard locations with a pace of life on a human scale and without the hustle and bustle typical of more glamorous destinations by choosing to spend a holiday in Basilicata. Its landscapes, picturesque villages clinging to the mountain ranges, and priceless historical and artistic heritage will make you fall in love with these territories. Near the Vulture slopes, we recommend the lakes of Monticchio , surrounded by thick, centuries-old forests. The perfect combination of natural scenery and culturally significant sites will enchant you with hidden gems such as Bernalda , Acerenza , Irsina , Guardia Perticara , and Viggianello . You can have fun with your children skiing or snowshoeing at the Pollino , Viaggiano , Volturino , Sirino , and Sellata Arioso ski resorts in winter.

4. Things to do in Italy with children in the region of Daunia

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Are you fantasizing about traveling to Apulia with your loved ones in anticipation of the holidays? Are you still considering the best things to do in Italy with the family? Besides the dreamlike beaches of Salento, such as Peschici and Rodi Garganico , discover the extraordinary wealth of attractions of the heel of Italy, dotted with lakes and forests, including the Foresta Umbra . Take the opportunity to stay in the traditional large farm of the Itria Valley , walk ancient sheep tracks and participate in the patron saint festivals that occur during the summer, glimpse dolphins in the Gulf of Taranto , and explore the adventure parks of Daunia .

3. What to do and where to go in the region of Riace bronzes with children

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Calabria is a land with a jovial and warm character, populated since antiquity by Mediterranean civilisations. If you are pondering where to go on holiday with your children , in summer this region is a particularly popular destination for its charming coastline lapped by the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas. Are you a nature lover and prefer to enjoy sports or hiking with your kids? Nestled between the provinces of Catanzaro, Crotone, and Cosenza is the magnificent Sila National Park , with its centuries-old forest of maple and larch pines. Treat yourself to an adventurous journey aboard a marvellous steam train dating back to the dawn of the 20th century and then add to your itinerary a stop at the spectacular Arco Magno , the rocks of Scilla , and the evocative village of Pentadattilo .

2. Things to do in Italy with children in the region of Greek temples

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A holiday in Sicily is the perfect proposal to combine relaxation and the spirit of adventure and to decide the destinations of an itinerary suitable for families with children. Antique temples dating back to the classical world and the spectacular volcanic landscapes will mesmerise you. Starting our exploration in Palermo, we suggest you spend a weekend admiring the traditional puppets at the dedicated museum and indulge in a fairy-tale carriage ride through the treasures of the historic center. Even in winter, you will be in for a pleasant surprise: thanks to the mild climate, you can enjoy Etna's landscapes muffled by soft snowflakes. Other places of interest are the archaeological site of Morgantina in the province of Enna, the enchanting rock village near Calascibetta , and the lush Kolymbetra garden .

1. Things to do in Italy with family in the region of the Arzachena Park

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Sardinia, the cradle of Nuragic civilisation, is a fascinating island dotted with architectural, archaeological, and artistic gems. Moreover, it's an option appreciated by children as well. Among the things to do in Italy with the family, the karstic caves of Neptune and the Molentargius Park , a precious wetland populated by beautiful pink flamingos, are natural attractions worth a visit. Get the chance to admire its marvelous landscapes by participating in a thrilling trek to the Stiddiosa waterfalls . Your children or grandchildren will certainly also appreciate a trip to the mines of Porto Flavia and the miners' villages of Masua , as well as a walk in the shelter of the summer heat among the thick vegetation of the Aymerich park to get in touch with unspoilt nature.

Things to do in Italy with family: explore some enchanting destinations

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21 Best Things to Do in Italy with Kids – The Ultimate Family Travel Guide

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 15th March 2024

Categories Italy with Kids , Traveling with Kids , Travelling in Italy

Here is a helpful list of the very best things to do in Italy with kids.

It will come in very handy if you are planning a family holiday in this exciting country..

Universally known for its good food, millennial history, and stunning nature, Italy is also a fantastic family-friendly destination. Visiting Italy with kids is a recipe for a wonderful adventure. Here families can have lots of fun and create memories to last a lifetime.

I spent six years living in Italy with my husband and child and let me tell you. In Italy, there is something for everyone who is young at heart.

Explore child-oriented museums in the country’s largest cities and smaller towns . Spend time in close contact with nature . Play on sunny beaches . Learn to cook with fresh, seasonal products. Explore medieval castles . Take a dip in crystal-clear lakes . See craftsmen making wonderful artisan items by hand. And so much more…

The best thing is that family life is the basis of everything in Italy. From long family lunches to traditional evening walks (called passeggiata ), Italian families spend time together and the lifestyle reflects this.

So, visitors with children can easily slot into the relaxed rhythm of everyday Italian life while absorbing the local history and culture at every turn and corner.

Something else that will certainly appeal to you as a parent looking to explore Italy with kids are the inexpensive travel prices and attraction tickets for children here.

For example, babies and toddlers travel for free on Italy’s trains while older kids get heavily discounted train tickets. Hundreds of museums and other attractions in Italy usually offer half-price or free entry to kids, too.

You can easily get on the train or the bus here and enjoy exciting trips as a family to large cities and hidden gems. World-class theme parks , water parks, beaches , and cool landmarks are just around the corner.

So, if you are already thinking that travelling to Italy with kids sounds like a great idea, this blog post will come in very handy. It doesn’t matter if you are just starting to research potential family vacations in Italy or are in the final stages of planning a family trip to the bel paese .

On this page, I will share with you the very best things to do in Italy with kids – family-friendly activities, exciting events, great hikes, and some very cool places. Pick and choose the ones that appeal to you and reflect your family’s interests.

I have provided lots of details and personal recommendations for things that I have tried and tested over my many visits to Italy over the years and the long time that I spent actually living there with my family. It was a wonderful adventure for us. By sharing all this information with you now, I hope to inspire you to live your very best moments while visiting Italy with your kids.

Have a look!

21 best things to do in italy with kids – the ultimate family travel guide.

1. Explore with Your Kids Italy’s Child-Oriented Museums

There are many museums in Italy which are specifically oriented to children and aim to develop their thirst for science, history and nature. One of the most famous ones is MUSE – Science Museum in the city of Trento in the north of the country. From a dinosaur gallery to a model of a real-life glacier, there is lots to see and learn there.

If you can, try to visit MUSE on one of its thematic days. This is when stalls and booths are set up all over the many floors of the museum so that children can take part in experiments, hear talks, and freely converse with scientists. We visited MUSE on its Darwin Day and it was a really enriching experience.

Galileo Museum in Florence will appeal to older children interested in science and its evolution throughout the centuries. Then you have MAcA – an environmental museum in Turin – and the Science and Technology Museum in Milan which is the biggest of its kind in Italy.

On the other hand, a child interested in painting, drawing and crafts, will be in heaven in Italy as there is a proliferation of museums dedicated to the arts. Italy is the perfect place to introduce kids to some of the world’s greatest artists, sculptors, and painters and to lay a solid foundation for art appreciation later on in life.

Add to the mix the hundreds of smaller museums which are dedicated to a particular theme and you will have a never-ending list of options on what to see each day. Three of my favourite small thematic museums in Italy are:

• Museum of Rural Life in Grancona, Berici Hills – with an incredibly rich collection of anything and everything connected to rural life in Northern Italy . There is a huge selection of machines, a sprawling basement filled with tractors, a real-size old-style classroom, as well as meticulously recreated craftsmen’s workshops. A must-see!
• Museum of the Roman Centuriation in Borgoricco, Province of Padua – a small but interesting museum exploring the history of the Roman grid – a method of land measurement used by the ancient Romans.
• Eyewear Museum in Pieve di Cadore , Province of Belluno – who would have thought that glasses can be such a fascinating topic?! You will find this exciting and beautifully curated museum in the small town where the renowned Venetian artist Titian was born. As it happens, Pieve di Cadore is also the birthplace of modern eyewear as the town and the area around it house several historical eyewear brands.

Even if a museum in Italy is not strictly aimed at children, often effort has been made to make it as child-friendly as possible. For example, at the Oriental Art Museum in Venice kids get a tablet to help them explore the museum collections in a fun and interactive way.

Plus, many Italian museums regularly hold workshops tailored specifically to children. Particularly famous are the free art workshops that take place each Sunday at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice.

More information:

• 13 Tips for Taking a Small Child to Art and History Museums – first and second parts
• MUSE – Science Museum – Day 3 – Trentino, Italy – Castles, Hikes and Alpacas – The Perfect 4-Day Itinerary
• Video of the Museum of Rural Life in Grancona, Berici Hills

2. Take a Hike with Your Kids in Italy’s Gorgeous Nature

To fully experience everything that Italy has to offer to families with kids, don’t limit yourself to visiting just the main Italian cities (stunning as they are). Venture further afield and take your children to see and experience first-hand the beauty of Italian nature.

Blessed with a varied landscape and some of the most magnificent views this side of Europe, Italy is dotted with many mountains, hills, lakes , rivers, waterfalls, valleys, gorges and all sorts of gorgeous and unique natural features.

Hey, there are even volcanoes in Italy that you can hike to. Both extinct (for example, the Euganean Hills near Padua ) and active (for example, Mount Vesuvius near Naples which happens to be the only active volcano in mainland Europe).

For added excitement, don’t forget to also look underground. Italy has many beautiful caves, several of which are open for tourist visits. Among the most famous of them are the Frasassi Caves in the Central Italian region of the Marche . The Frasassi is one of the largest cave systems in Europe. Its first chamber – the Ancona Abyss – is so cavernous that, they say, the Duomo of Milan could fit comfortably in it.

Above all, you will find hundreds of well-maintained hiking paths all over Italy. They criss-cross pristine beauty spots, thick forests , and lush meadows. Spending even half a day breathing fresh air in the bosom of Italian nature will clear up your head and will make you appreciate Italy even more. Plus, your kids will burn lots and lots of energy for a night of great sleep.

Here are four of my favourite hikes that we have taken as a family in Northern Italy:

• Excalibur Didactic Naturalistic Path – perfect for small children, families, and people who are brand new to hiking. This circular trail in the Venetian Pre-Alps takes you through forests and meadows and it is a great introduction to the beauty of Italian nature.
• Painted Caves of Rubbio – four abandoned limestone quarries which have been turned into an open-air art installation by the artist Tony Zarpellon. The project took him almost three decades to complete.
• Molina Waterfalls   Park – a nature park with 18 waterfalls in the province of Verona. You can follow three different trails with varying degrees of difficulty and then end the day in the nearby medieval village of Molina to see its centuries-old watermills.
• Archaeological site on Mount San Martino – explore the archaeological digs on top of a high hill in the autonomous province of Trentino . The combination of beautiful views and multilayered history makes for a great day out.

Click on the links below for more information about these four hikes as well as details about hiking trails and easy walks you can do with your kids in Italy.

• Video of a small portion of the Excalibur trail
• Point 13 –  20 Family-Friendly Walks and Hikes Up to an Hour and a Half from Vicenza – Second Part
• Video of one of the painted caves of Rubbio
• The Painted Caves of Rubbio, Italy – Where Art Meets Nature
• Parco delle Cascate and Molina – A Great Day Out in the Province of Verona
• The archaeological site on Mount San Martino: Point 9 – 15 Amazing Places to Visit in Trentino, Italy
• Video of the hike around Laghi
• Laghi – 50 Shades of Green
• Italy’s Stunning Frasassi Caves – A Must-See Wonder of Nature
• 20 Family-Friendly Walks and Hikes Up to an Hour and a Half from Vicenza – First Part
• 20 Family-Friendly Walks and Hikes Up to an Hour and a Half from Vicenza – Second Part
• 3 Ideas for a Great Day Out in the Euganean Hills

3. Go Island-Hopping with Your Kids in Italy

Italy has so many islands and archipelagos that 1/6th of its territory is insular. Of course, Sicily and Sardinia are the two largest and possibly best-known Italian islands but there are hundreds more of them to see and explore here.

Italy has islands both in the seas that surround it and in the many lakes dotted all over its territory. Plus,the historic city of Venice is built on 118 islands connected by more than 400 bridges and separated by around 170 canals.

Italian islands are great destinations for their beautiful nature, local traditions, and great historical and cultural sights. A quick and easy way to explore as many islands in Italy as possible is to spend a few days in Venice with your kids.

This way, you can tick off the islands of San Giorgio Maggiore, Murano, Burano, Torcello, Pellestrina, Lido di Venezia and several other Venetian islets off your list. You can also visit nearby Chioggia – a picturesque town on a cluster of small islands at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon.

You will see how all these islands have their own unique features and customs even though they are only a short journey by boat away from each other.

Or, you can travel up to the Northern Italian lakes like Garda , Iseo, and Como . They are so big that they have their own islands, too. In fact, Monte Isola – Iseo’s own island – is the largest lake island not just in Italy but in South and Central Europe, too.

I loved visiting Monte Isola in 2016 when the artist Christo had his installation The Floating Piers there. It was a great experience to walk on the bright orange walkways across the lake all the way to the island of Monte Isola which, otherwise, is only reachable by ferry.

• Point 13 – 15 Must-See Cities and Towns in Lombardy, Italy
• Christo’s The Floating Piers – Walking on Sunshine
• Video of  Christo’s The Floating Piers at Lake Iseo
• 10 Reasons to Visit Chioggia on Italy’s Adriatic Coast
• Video of  lacemakers from Chioggia

4. When in Italy, Let Your Kids Get Close to Animals

It is important for children to have contact with animals. Experts state that cuddling and taking care of pets reduces anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. It also makes us more responsible.

Luckily, the good people of Italy are crazy about pets themselves. Everywhere you go, you will see locals accompanied by their dogs. Most of the time, they are only too happy to let your kids pet them. In fact, they may even say ‘ Vuoi accarezzarlo ?’ (Do you want to pet him?) when seeing your little one staring lovingly at their dog.

Italy is also peppered with independent farms (known as agriturismo in Italian). Many of them regularly organise open days and learning activities so that families and their kids can get close to the farm animals and learn about them. At such events, kids are encouraged to pet sheep and bunnies; feed ponies, donkeys, and horses; and may even be shown how to milk a goat or a cow.

Curiously enough, several small farms in Italy nowadays look after growing herds of llamas and alpacas. At such places, you can go for a walk in the woods in the company of a llama or an alpaca and bond with the animal along the way.

Many independent Italian farms also offer reasonably-priced B&B facilities and have excellent restaurants serving locally grown food. Staying on one such farm is a great way to immerse yourself into Italy’s zero km food culture.

If sea life is what your kids are interested in, then in Italy, you will also find several excellent aquariums. The Aquario di Genova  on Italy’s Ligurian coast is the largest exhibition of biodiversity and ecosystems in Europe. But even the smaller ones, like Gardaland Sea Life Aquarium and the Aquario di Cattolica , make for a great day out.

In Italy, there are several butterfly houses , too. These are big covered places where you and your kids can go for a walk surrounded by tropical vegetation while beautiful butterflies flutter around you.

And that’s not all! From birds of prey demonstrations to kid-friendly workshops on beekeeping, Italy offers some great opportunities for your kids to get close to both wild and domestic animals. Learning how to treat them, feed them, and take care of them is an enriching experience for both grown-ups and little ones.

I have to say that contact with animals was one of my favourite things about living in Italy. I still recall fondly the memory of walking with alpacas in the mountains above Lake Garda , the beekeeping workshop we attended on the Asiago Plateau, and just the many small independent farms where we could pet the goats, the donkeys, and the cows while our child could learn how to win their trust and take care of them.

• Hiking with llamas and alpacas – Point 14 – 15 Amazing Places to Visit in Trentino, Italy
• A visit to a butterfly house – 3 Butterfly Houses (and One Insect Museum) You Need to Visit in Italy
• Photos from a kid-friendly beekeeping workshop  we attended at an independent farm less than an hour away from Vicenza , Northern Italy

5. Encourage Your Kids to Conquer an Italian Castle or Ten (and Several Medieval Walled Towns, Too)

There are, literally, thousands of castles all over Italy. From humble ruins to fully preserved fortresses surrounded by impenetrable walls and deep moats, your kids will be spoiled for choice if they love castles and the history behind them.

Even better! Italy has hundreds of walled towns – picturesque places where you will feel like you have travelled back to the Middle Ages. Especially, if you happen to visit during one of the many medieval fairs which are regularly held here. This is when people dress in medieval garb, cook medieval food, and entertain themselves with medieval games and sword fights. It’s a lot of fun!

The Northern Italian regions of Veneto , Emilia-Romagna , Lombardy , Trentino-Alto Adige , and Piedmont are particularly good for castle visits and experiences. But you will easily find dozens of castles and walled towns anywhere you go in Italy.

Some of our favourite castles and medieval walled towns that we explored together as a family in Italy are:

• Monselice – a really pretty medieval walled town in the Province of Padua . It has one of the best castles I have had the chance to see. Its armoury is only second to the one in the Doge’s Palace in Venice.
• Cittadella – another gorgeous medieval walled town in the Province of Padua . Here you will find ‘Europe’s best medieval parapet walkway’. In other words, this means that you can circumnavigate the town’s historic centre by walking on its medieval defensive wall. Plus, each year in September, there is a town-wide medieval fair.
• Asolo – a picture-perfect medieval walled town in the foothills of the Dolomites. There is both a castle and a fort here. Known as the City of the Hundred Horizons and the Pearl of the Province of Treviso, its beauty has attracted artists, writers, and royals for centuries.
• Montagnana – a beautifully preserved walled town in the Venetian plains. Surrounded by a mighty defensive wall, it also has an imposing cathedral with priceless works of art and a yearly medieval fair. Montagnana is also famous for its locally produced prosciutto . It’s considered to be among Italy’s best.

Click on the links below for more information about these and even more castles and medieval walled towns you can explore with your kids in Italy.

• Monselice – Point 11 –  20 Family-Friendly Walks and Hikes Up to an Hour and a Half from Vicenza – Second Part
• 11 Things to Do in Cittadella, Italy – The Town with Walls to Walk On
• Asolo, Italy – The Soul Asylum of Artists and Royals
• Montagnana, Italy – Top 10 Things to See and Do in the Fortified Town of Prosciutto
• Este, Italy – Top 9 Things to Do in This 3,000-Year-Old Walled Town
• Borghetto sul Mincio – How to Visit and What to Do in Italy’s Village on Water
• 10 Beautiful Castles to Visit around Lake Garda, Italy

6. Go on an Urban Adventure with Your Kids in Italy

Italian cities are like a bottomless treasure chest. You can spend days and weeks exploring them and still there will be hundreds of riches and secrets left for you and your kids to discover and enjoy. There is so much to see and do, that it’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up missing some of the true highlights.

One of the best ways to find out all there is to know about a particular Italian city or a certain facet of it is to join a guided tour . Alternatively, you can hire independently a professional guide. Italy has stringent training programs for its tourist guides. They not only need to know several languages but they also must have an incredibly deep knowledge of the local history, art, and culture.

There are three ways to go about it:

• You can join a guided tour taking in a particular sight . Usually, these are organised by the actual sight (for example, a guided visit to a museum or a palace) and run at specific intervals throughout the day. The guided tour may be free or at a nominal charge in addition to the price paid for entry tickets.
• You can hire a professional guide . Let them know what you want to see and then they will tailor a tour to meet your and your kids’ interests and expectations. You will need to pay the guide’s hourly or daily fee, depending on how long you want to use their services. It can be a pricey option but it’s money well-spent as the guide will organise a bespoke itinerary and show you exactly what you want to see.
• You can join a guided tour organised by a tour operator . There are hundreds of tours held daily all over Italy. To see what’s available, read reviews left by people who had booked a particular tour, and make your choice, have a look at Viator and GetYourGuide .

While we as a family mostly love to explore new destinations by ourselves, on occasion we happily joined guided tours in Italy to learn about particular traditions and customs from true locals. For example, a few years ago, we did a fantastic guided tour of Venice. It was specifically tailored to children and introduced them to the secrets and stories of the Venetian Carnival . Led by Arlecchino , we walked all over the city and stopped at iconic spots to find out the Carnival stories behind them.

The children had a lot of fun and were active participants in the exploration.  The tour was in Italian and it was organised by a local company called Park View Viaggi .  Otherwise, for Venice, I can also recommend the guides Luisella Romeo from See Venice (tours offered in English and German) and Erika Cornali from When in Venice (tours offered in English and Japanese). If they are busy on the dates when you will be there, then have a look at Best Venice Guides – a directory of the best tour guides in the city of water.

• 10 Best Tours in Venice to Book for Your Visit to Italy’s City of Water

7. Let Your Kids Run Around a Historic Italian Square

The  piazza (meaning ‘square’ in English) is at the centre of life in Italy. It is traditionally surrounded by the most beautiful and important buildings in town as well as some lovely cafes, bars, gelaterias, and patisseries.

Day and night, the Italian piazza is full of life. This is where the town’s market is held and where large local events are organised. In the evening, people flock to the piazza for their traditional leisurely walk called passeggiata .

Italian kids love to run and play on these large historic squares. While their parents sit in the nearest cafe sipping a cold coffee-based drink or an aperitivo , the kids have fun running around, chasing a ball, riding their bikes, and making friends with other children.

Let your kids partake in this centuries-old ritual of kids coming together to be free under the watchful eye of their parents. It is an extraordinary experience to be able to run around and have fun surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful historic architecture.

In Vicenza – where we spent six years – don’t miss the grand Piazza dei Signori . Flanked by imposing buildings by Andrea Palladio – the originator of the Palladian architectural style – the square is a stunning sight at any time of the day but it really comes to life in the early summer evenings.

In Venice , kids play football and run around on the campi – the city’s smaller squares which often are out of the main tourist thoroughfares.

• Italian Piazzas – 20 Most Beautiful Squares in the Veneto, Italy

8. Learn About Authentic Italian Food and Then Cook Some With Your Kids

Italian food is popular all over the world. Visiting Italy is a great opportunity to taste many different Italian dishes and to learn about them in the most authentic way.

You may even be surprised to discover that there is no such thing as ‘Italian food’ in Italy! Each of the country’s 20 regions has its own cuisine that has been adapted and improved throughout the centuries to reflect the local weather conditions, seasonal produce, commercial activities, and personal tastes.

Obviously, pizza and pasta are available everywhere. However, you may soon notice that there are significant regional differences between pizza pies and pasta dishes. And while pizza is a must-taste in Naples, for example, in Venice it is not for it is not part of the original local cuisine.

So, instead of focusing on what the world considers to be Italian food, spend your time in Italy indulging together with your kids in culinary adventures.

From the North to the South of Italy focus on each region’s specialities. For example, polenta , bigolli , risi e bisi , and  baccala’ alla vicentina  in Veneto ; truffles, cremino , and gianduja in Piedmont; burrata , taralli , and focaccia in Puglia, and so on.

Pop into local fruit and veg shops and delis. Explore food markets like the 800-year-old market in front of Palazzo della Ragione in Padua . Notice that around 95% of all of the fruit and veg sold here (bananas excluded!) are home-grown and in season. Taste fresh strawberries from Matera, white asparagus from Bassano del Grappa, red radicchio from Treviso, and juicy blood oranges from Sicily.

Visit Bologna , Mantua, and Parma – three Italian cities (out of dozens) which are particularly known for their local food traditions.

Have a brioche and cakes for breakfast , freshly prepared tramezzini (triangular sandwiches made of soft crustless bread and with different fillings) for a light lunch on the go, and a lavish dinner of several courses.

Enjoy an olive oil tasting or have an extra virgin olive oil experience . You will discover that olive oil is just like wine – with dozens of different flavours and tastes depending on the region and the local olive varieties.

The beauty of Italy is that you don’t have to break the bank to have exceedingly good food. Take your children to a sagra – an event dedicated to a particular local foodstuff. Contact local farms (called agriturismo  in Italian) and ask if you can attend an olive-picking or a grape-stomping day. Book a cooking class for your kids so that they can learn how to prepare an authentic Italian dish or two. Even better, take them on a patisserie tour or to a chocolate festival and they will have sweet memories of Italy to last them a lifetime.

In Vicenza, we loved the cooking workshops for children organised by Il Mondo di Bu . There are many cooking schools all over Italy and it pays off to take a class or two so as to feel connected to Italian food in the most authentic way.

• Bologna, Italy – 10 Stories to Introduce You to the Fat Lady of the Italian Cities
• Italian Markets – 11 Types of Markets You Can Find in Italy
• Padua’s 800-Year-Old Market: blog post and video
• Italian Cheeses – 5 Must-Try Cheeses and 10 Unmissable Cheese Experiences in Veneto, Northern Italy
• 10 Rules of Breakfast in Italy or How Do Italians Eat Breakfast
• 14 Typical Italian Breakfast Foods and Drinks or What Do Italians Eat for Breakfast
• Sagra Experiences: The Best Peas in Italy ; Lumignano Truffle Festival
• Video of the display of a  traditional Italian patisserie  in Verona
• For more food stories from Italy, check my blog’s dedicated category: Italy for Foodies

9. Together with Your Kids Discover the Many Layers of Italy’s History

Italy’s history is so rich that it can easily take you a lifetime to delve into its many layers. Just walking through an Italian city gives you a chance to show your children literally how deep local history goes by pointing to them the archaeological excavations and historic buildings all around them.

In the Museum of the Venetian Age in the city of Bergamo , for example, there is a Roman archaeological area helping you see how, throughout the centuries, buildings were erected on top of the ruins of even older houses.

In modern-day Verona , you can see the layers left by the ancient Romans both underground and overground. From Arena di Verona – one of the world’s largest preserved Roman amphitheatres – to the Roman gates dotted around the city as well as the archaeological excavations just past Juliet’s House , you get a glimpse of what the city looked like two thousand years ago.

Italy’s ancient history doesn’t stop with the Roman Empire though.

All over the country, there are vestiges of dozens of even older civilisations. Etruscans, Venetics, and Illyrians lived here, too. Not to mention the many Neolithic, Copper Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age cultures which flourished here millennia ago.

Visiting the museums, recreated pre-historic villages, and archaeological parks that are peppered all over Italy will help you stoke your children’s interest in ancient history. Often these places offer exciting learning activities so that kids can see how people who lived several millennia ago hunted, worked the ground, and developed different types of tools and crafts to make their daily lives a little bit easier.

For example, we had a great experience hiking to the Pre-Historic Village on Mount Corgnon just above Lusiana in Veneto . Another great place is the Pile-Dwelling Museum on the shores of Lake Ledro in Trentino .

If you are short of time and can’t head into Italy’s lesser-known corners, then pay a visit to the nearest archaeological museum. They abound in Italy and are a wonderful introduction for both kids and grown-ups to the ancient history of this beautiful and exciting country.

10. Introduce Your Kids to Italy’s Historical Figures

The most amazing thing about Italy is that it brings you unmeasurably closer to people and events that have shaped our world.

From Petrarch to Titian , from Galileo to Leonardo , all over Italy you can visit the places where many of the giants of the world’s science and art lived and worked.

Take your kids to visit Italy’s landmarks with a significant connection to people whose names are known all over the world. From the University of Padua where Galileo Galilei taught for 18 years to Titian’s birth house in the small town of Pieve di Cadore , from Petrarch’s house and tomb in the medieval village of Arqua’ Petrarca to Canova’s birth house in the small town of Possagno , it will be like a lesson in greatness.

Now more than ever our children need authentic role models. So, learning first-hand about the achievements of Italian artists and scientists and seeing how their work influenced and changed the course of human thought can be a deeply inspiring experience for your kids.

• The Sunset That Petrarch Enjoyed
• Cornaro Loggia and Odeon in Padua – History, Architecture and Art
• Discovering Canova – Italy’s Neoclassical Sculptor
• The War on Art or the Loss and the Reconstruction of the Mantegna Frescoes
• Video of Dante’s Mausoleum in Ravenna

11. Set Life Goals for Your Kids at Italy’s Historic Universities

Now, you want to go to Italy with your kids in order to relax and have a nice time, right?!

Still (and if you have a Type A personality) finding yourself in Italy with your kids is the perfect opportunity to set some life goals for them and give them an idea of what they can achieve if they apply themselves at school.

Obviously, I don’t imply that you should tell them: ‘If you study hard enough and you get into a good University then you can have an exchange year in Italy and eat as much gelato as you like!’

Even though this is a good enough life goal (at least in my books!).

Instead, what I mean is that you can take your kids to visit one of Italy’s historic Universities. For example:

• Archiginnasio of Bologna – the historic seat of the University of Bologna which is the oldest University in continuous operation in the world; and
• Palazzo Bo – the historic seat of the University of Padua which is the second oldest University in Italy and the fifth oldest and still in operation today University in the world.

Seeing these splendid historic seats of learning and being at the places that inspired the development of the arts and sciences in Europe can have a galvanising effect on children (and parents!). You never know!

• Three Universities in Italy You Need to Put on Your Travel Wish List Now
• Video showing the Archiginnasio – the historic seat of the University of Bologna
• Video showing the Stabat Mater Hall in the Archiginnasio – the historic seat of the University of Bologna
• Video showing the historic courtyard of Palazzo Bo – the historic seat of the University of Padua

12. Spend a Day with Your Kids on Italy’s Beaches and in Italy’s Water Parks

From beautiful beaches to some of the best water parks this side of Europe, Italy is a great holiday destination if your kids love swimming and having fun in the water.

In terms of beaches, you will be spoiled for choice. From:

• huge sandy beaches with all modern amenities like large playgrounds for the kids, gelato kiosks and restaurants to
• tiny pebbly beaches so far from civilisation that you may feel like the only people in the world,

there are lots of options for beach fun in Italy.

Don’t narrow your search for great Italian beaches just to Italy’s seaside resorts though. Italians love camping on the shores of local lakes and rivers and, if the conditions permit it, they love wild swimming in them, too.

Water parks are plentiful in Italy, too. They are fun places with all sorts of water-related activities. Slides, kiddie pools, lazy rivers, large hot tubs with dozens of jets. On a hot day, you will not want to leave. Just take plenty of sun cream with you as the sun here can get burning hot.

Here are some names to put on your Italian water park bucket list: Acquatica Park in Milan, Mirabeach near Ravenna, Aquafan in Riccione, Caribe Bay in Jesolo, Cavour Water Park and Caneva Aquapark at Lake Garda, Aquafollie in Caorle near Venice, AquaSplash Franciacorta in Colombaro, and AquaSplash in Lignano.

Some Italian water parks have historic swimming pools, too. For example, in Terme di Giunone – a water park in the Province of Verona – there are two pools with thermal water which have been used since Roman times. One is perfectly round and its bottom is covered with fine sand. The other is shaped like a half-circle and its bottom is covered with large stone slabs and small pebbles. Swimming there is really cool as you imagine the ancient Romans relaxing in the water over two thousand years ago.

In and around Vicenza , where we lived during our time in Italy, there are easily a half-dozen or so water parks. We usually headed to one around 4 or 5 pm on a hot summer workday. Water parks tend to close around 7.30 pm. So, this gave us enough time to cool off in the water and have fun after a productive day.

• 47 Beaches and Beach Resorts in and near Venice, Italy and How to Get to Them
• 3 Unmissable Lake Garda Beaches to Sun Yourself on This Summer in Italy
• Lake Garda Beaches – 16 Top Tips for a Great Day at the Beach at Italy’s Largest Lake
• See point 6 in  10 Reasons to Visit Chioggia on Italy’s Adriatic Coast
• See points 7 and 8 in Summer in Italy – 16 Ways to Cool Off in Italy When It’s Baking Hot Outside

13.  Let Your Kids Have Fun in Italy’s Adventure and Amusement Parks

Talking of parks, let me tell you that in addition to water parks, Italy has some truly great adventure and amusement parks, too. Head to them with your kids for hours of fun.

One of Italy’s most unusual and original amusement parks is Parco ai Pioppi . Built over 40 years by the owner of the adjacent open-air restaurant, this park is an exciting place for both kids and parents. Plus, it is absolutely free to use provided you have lunch at the restaurant. It serves honest local food at very reasonable prices. I will never forget riding the rollercoaster at Parco ai Pioppi. It relies completely on kinetic energy and reaches over 100 km/h!

Some of the largest and most well-known amusement parks in Italy for kids are Gardaland , Mirabilandia , Leolandia , and Movieland the Hollywood Park in the north of the country. We absolutely loved our visits to Gardaland. Located at Lake Garda , this enormous amusement park was a staple for us each Christmas as it stages the most wonderful and festive large-scale Christmas event.

In Rimini on the Adriatic coast, you can visit Italia in Miniatura . This is a fun theme park where you can see Italy’s most famous sights reduced to a fraction of their original size.

You don’t have to go just to the largest and most expensive amusement parks in Italy though in order to have bags of fun with your kids.

The country is dotted with small adventure parks where you can have fun by walking on rope bridges between tall trees and ziplining from platform to platform set up high above the ground. Italian adventure parks usually offer different trails for different age groups. This way both kids and parents can have a go at being Tarzan or Jane for an hour or two.

I loved the time we spent at the Le Fiorine Adventure Park in the Euganean Hills . I have to admit that the vertical net was difficult for me to hang on to but the zip lines were an amazing experience. Full-on adrenaline!

• 19 Best Theme Parks at Lake Garda, Italy

14. Take Your Kids to See Italian Craftsmen and Artisans at Work

In a world where we are used to buying mass-produced stuff, Italy offers you the fantastic opportunity to introduce your kids to the work of real craftsmen and artisans.

Home to centuries-old craft traditions, Italy is a fertile ground to discover beautiful one-off items and to learn the intriguing history behind them. From the glassmaking island of Murano and the lacemaking island of Burano in the Venetian Lagoon to the pottery towns of the Veneto, Tuscany, Umbria, and Sicily, you can find anything and everything handmade in between.

Italy is also worldwide famous for its jewellery. Cities like Vicenza , Valenza, and Arezzo preserve jewellery-making traditions going back centuries. Volterra in Tuscany is known as heaven for lovers of hand-carved cameos. Fabriano in the Marche has centuries-old papermaking traditions. Naples is the city where the best Nativity scenes are made. Florence is notable for its leather goods and handmade paper . In Venice, you will find lavish masks allowing you to take home with you a piece of the spirit of Carnival.

Anywhere you go in Italy with your kids, make sure that you visit the shops and the workshops of the local artisans. These are people who take pride in their work and whose hands create real beauty. Some may hold open days giving you access to their studios and working areas thus allowing you to learn first-hand about their craft. Others may organise workshops for kids and parents so that you can too learn how to make something with your own hands.

One of my personal pleasures in Italy was exploring the shops of local artisans in the towns and cities we visited. During events and craft fairs, I loved browsing their stalls.

I still remember spending a couple of inspiring hours at a large craft event in one of Italy’s most beautiful small historic towns – Cison di Valmarino .

Craftsmen and artisans had set up stalls and shops all throughout the town. There was a festival atmosphere coupled with lively music. Plus lots of workshops for children to try their hand at working with clay and other materials.

Another event I always visited with my child was Abilmente in Vicenza , Northern Italy. This is a large fair where hobby craftsmen from all over Italy meet. There are lots of workshops and a chance to see some fab crafting work to inspire your own projects that you do with your kids at home.

Ask the local tourist office at the place you travel to in Italy for similar events and for directions to the best artisan and craft shops in the area. Your kids and you will have a lot of fun discovering the wonderful things they make there.

• Keeping Alive the Old Italian Crafts
• Abilmente, Vicenza – Where Crafters in Italy Meet
• Video of a lacemaker from Chioggia , Italy

15. Enjoy Sports with Your Kids in Italy

Italy is a great place to get active and to enjoy sports. From Nordic walking to cycling , from skiing to horse riding , there is something for everyone to try their hand at.

Cycling, for example, is very popular in Northern Italy. Everywhere you go you will see people on bicycles. Kids start learning to cycle really young and keep up with the sport as they grow up.

Gym and yoga classes are also very popular both for little ones and grown-ups. Often you will find a historic site, such as a Venetian villa, for example, holding a sports event on its grounds like an alfresco yoga class.

Marathons, half-marathons and other running events are held regularly in all Italian cities and larger towns. On weekends, there are walks and walks combined with non-competitive running that the whole family can take part in.

In winter skiing, tobogganing and snowboarding are the order of the day.

It’s a great environment for kids who love being active and are happy to try new sports and physical activities.

• Video from a 10K race event in Vicenza
• Video from Verona marathon

16. Have an Agricultural Experience with Your Kids in Italy

In a world where our food reaches us in packs, tins and glass jars, there is a real need for kids to learn how food grows and what stages it goes through before we can put it on the table.

In this respect, Italy is a great learning ground.

There are hundreds of independent farms (the above-mentioned agriturismi ) all over the country. Many of them can be visited during open days and specially organised events. Kids can take part in such activities as olive picking, pea shelling, and even grape stomping. They can also learn how to plant vegetables and how to take care of them. It is a fun, hands-on way to learn about food.

Often, you don’t even need to travel to a farm in order to have an agricultural experience with your kids in Italy. Local farmers’ markets and even garden centres in Italy often organise events on weekends aiming to teach kids and parents about seasonal fruits and veg, and the tasty things that can be prepared with them.

Many cities in Italy also organise children and family fairs with hundreds of exhibitors. Usually, the local farms take part, too. For example, at the Children and Family Fair in Vicenza, a farm often sets up space for kids to plant and water lettuce. Another farm at the same event sets up an area with old agricultural equipment so that kids can try their hand at corn shelling and other such activities. It is always a lot of fun!

17. Let Your Kids Experiment with Modern and Contemporary Art in Italy

Think Italy and, most probably, the first thing that will pop in your mind will be a reference to the country’s ancient or Renaissance art. Yet Italy has also an incredibly rich modern and contemporary art scene which can be a lot of fun to explore together with your kids.

Traipsing around museums stuffed with masterpieces by ancient and Renaissance masters may be your idea of heaven. In the meantime, kids can easily get bored with all those endless paintings of Biblical scenes. Instead, modern and contemporary sculptures, drawings, and paintings may speak just your child’s language with their bright colours and imaginative shapes.

Take your kids to large modern and contemporary art museums in Italy. MART with branches in Rovereto  and Trento and The Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice are just two great examples. Check online their websites for kid-friendly events and workshops. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection has a free art workshop for kids every Sunday.

Another option is to explore Italian nature parks dotted with abstract pieces of art. This way you will be combining two good things into one:

• a nice and relaxed hike with your kids so that they can run and play burning lots of energy; and
• a large dose of art appreciation as they come across different installations and works of art nestled between large trees and in sun-lit clearings.

Of the many such places in Italy, I loved visiting these three:

• Parco del Sojo  in Veneto –  a natural park with 70 pieces of contemporary art installed in a forest.
• Parco Arte Sella in Trentino – another natural park with large sculptural pieces of contemporary art.
• Cave Dipinte in Veneto – a group of abandoned quarries that have been turned into an open-air art installation by the artist Tony Zarpellon.

In order to introduce your kids to the joys of modern and contemporary art, you can also take them to see such large and worldwide famous events as the Biennale in Venice. Creative workshops for children and families are regularly organised at such happenings.

One last idea is to play a game of ‘spot the graffiti’ as you and your kids travel across Italy. There are lots of naff graffiti all over the country, yet it also hosts some of the best graffiti artists you will have a chance to see. Padua , for example, is the playing ground of a fabulous graffiti master called Kenny Random. Try to spot as many of his works when you are in the city. Sometimes, there are even guided tours introducing people to the art of graffiti in Padua.

• Video from Parco del Sojo
• Video of the Gaetano Pesce exhibition in Palazzo della Ragione in Padua
• Video of the Painted Caves just outside Rubbio

18. Visit Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages with Your Kids

Italy’s most authentic beauty and charming traditions are upheld by its historic villages. They are called borghi in Italian. They are often small in size and very much off the beaten track. Yet they offer a real opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the Italian lifestyle.

Most people plan their Italian adventures strictly around the country’s main tourist hubs like Florence , Venice , and Rome . If you put a day aside to venture further afield and visit one or two of Italy’s many villages, you will soon discover stories, legends, and inspiring views to give you a new understanding of what makes Italy a must-see destination for parents and kids.

While a busy Italian city with all that there is to see and do can at times be overwhelming for kids, visiting a small Italian village offers beautiful panoramas, curious local stories, little-known sights, delicious local food, and bags of peace and quiet.

I was an avid explorer of the Italian villages over the six years that we spent in the north of Italy. At least one weekend per month, we would pile in the car and take off to explore in detail yet another little Italian gem perched on top of a lush hill or huddled behind a medieval defensive wall.

There was something really calming about walking through the narrow cobbled streets of a place that families have called home for centuries, where a crystalline river may run nearby, where velvety mountains stand proud and tall, and where the aroma of homecooked dishes comes wafting through an open window thus giving you a brief insight into a quaint way of life.

I loved exploring the small beautiful villages of Northern Italy. Click on the links below for a wealth of information to help you plan your visit with your kids to an Italian village or two.

• Italian Villages or 6 Reasons to Visit Italy’s Picturesque and Historic Borghi
• 8 Most Beautiful Villages to Visit in the Veneto, Italy
• 5 Most Beautiful Villages to Visit in Emilia-Romagna, Italy
• 5 Most Beautiful Villages to Visit in Friuli Venezia Giulia – The Northeasternmost Corner of Italy
• Campo di Brenzone – A Great Day Trip to a Medieval Village in the Hills Above Lake Garda
• Visiting Nesso – The Prettiest Village on Lake Como, Italy

19. Marvel at Italy’s Most Beautiful Parks with Your Kids

Italy has long-standing traditions in the art of gardening.

Lavish gardens in the Italian style adorn cities and towns all over the country, curl around splendid villas and palaces, and attract droves of visitors from all over the world.

Dedicating a couple of hours or even a whole day to a large garden or park is a great way to spend time with your kids in Italy. They can run on lush lawns, hug centuries-old trees, observe the birds that come to feed on insects and seeds, sit on the edge of ponds teeming with fish and water gardens teeming with aquatic plants, smell the herbs in ancient herb gardens, and even explore a maze that was planted during the Renaissance.

I always loved visiting the majestic Giardino Giusti with the turtles living in its water fountains and the beautiful panoramic views it affords over the city of Verona . The University of Padua Botanical Garden – the oldest of its kind in the world – was another lush oasis I loved returning to time and time again. Parco Giardino Sigurtà was always such a great day trip right next door to Lake Garda .

There are hundreds of gardens and parks to explore in Italy with your kids. Many of them have historic value for they have been planted centuries ago. Many are dotted with whimsical statues and different features with captivating stories to tell. Hundreds of varieties of plants and trees grow in each one of them – carefully selected and often brought from the four corners of the world.

Click on the links below for many ideas about gorgeous parks and gardens you can explore with your kids in Italy.

• Italian Gardens – How to Visit Four of Italy’s Most Beautiful Parks in Veneto
• 9 Gorgeous Gardens and Parks in Veneto to Enjoy This Season

20. Embrace Lake Life with Your Kids in Italy

Italy is richly blessed with hundreds of pristine lakes. With shores dotted with picturesque towns and offering easy access to nature and dozens of different activities, the Italian lakes are a great destination for a family holiday with your kids.

Lake Como is, undoubtedly, Italy’s most famous lake. Easy to reach from Milan, Lake Como can be a beautiful day-long family escapade or a place where to spend your full vacation.

Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake. With Roman ruins and medieval castles dotted along its shores, with olive groves and citrus gardens offering shade during the hot summer months, and with a long list of cute little beaches and authentic local events, Lake Garda is a must-see when you visit Italy with your family.

And then you have Lake Orta, Lake Maggiore, and Lake Iseo here, too. So many choices for wonderful destinations to enjoy with your kids.

Then again, there are hundreds of smaller lakes all over Italy. The province of Trentino is particularly blessed as it has almost 300 lakes . You can literally travel for months through its valleys and mountains and keep discovering for yourself more and more beautiful lakes.

Lake Caldonazzo – Trentino’s largest lake – deserves a special mention here for its warm waters. Lake Ledro (pictured above) has been a hub of human activity since prehistoric times.

I, personally, always loved visiting Lake Garda with its lovely lakefront towns , beautiful historic sights, and many activities – from hikes in the hills above the lake to boating on the lake waters.

If you want to experience the best of Italy and its lifestyle – from beauty to peace and quiet, from history to nature, from tasty food to exciting local events – an Italian lake can be just the destination that will make the whole family happy.

Click on the links below for lots of information about beautiful lakes you can visit in Italy.

• Lake Garda Map – Where is Lake Garda and What to Do Around Italy’s Largest Lake
• 20 Best Towns to Visit around Lago di Garda – Italy’s Largest Lake
• Lake Garda with Kids or The Best 11 Things to Do at Lake Garda for Families
• Getting around Lake Garda – 8 Best Ways to Travel around Italy’s Largest Lake
• 8 Best Airports for Lake Garda or How to Reach Quickly by Plane Italy’s Largest Lake
• 5 Easy Ways to Travel from Verona to Lake Garda in Italy
• 5 Easy Ways to Travel from Venice to Lake Garda in Italy
• 5 Easy Ways to Travel from Milan to Lake Garda in Italy
• 5 Easy Ways to Travel from Bologna to Lake Garda in Italy
• Lake Como – The Beauty of Italy’s Most Famous Lake in 25 Photos
• Lake Caldonazzo, Italy – 10 Things to Do around Trentino’s Largest Lake
• Gorgeous Lakes in Veneto, Italy You Have to See for Yourself
• 8 Lakes in Trentino, Italy You Have to See for Yourself

21. Take Lots of Day Trips with Your Kids in Italy

Italy is a fertile ground for day trips and explorations. In one or two hours on the road, you can reach plenty of exciting destinations to get to know together with your kids.

Choose a place to call your base while in Italy and then check to see what else you can do in its immediate surroundings. Chances are you will be overwhelmed with choices! From small villages to large cities, from castles to mountains, there is always something else to do in Italy just around the corner.

As such, don’t limit yourself to just one Italian city! Put your adventure hat on and head out to explore with your family. Public transport is well organised and relatively inexpensive in Italy and distances vary from very short to very manageable. For example, it takes less than half an hour to reach the city of Padua from Venice and less than an hour to travel from Verona to Bologna .

Due to Italy’s history as a place where city-states flourished, each city and town in the country has its own look and feel and its own rich heritage to learn about.

Day trips were my favourite activity while living in Italy. It always felt so exciting, such a great adventure to head to a new destination. The more I travelled and the more day trips I took with my family in Italy, the more I wanted us to be out there and exploring.

Take every opportunity to travel when in Italy as even a journey of half an hour can open a whole new world in front of you and your family.

Click on the links below for lots of useful tips and a number of day trips you can enjoy with your kids in Italy.

• Day Trips from Verona – 16 Destinations to Fall in Love With (With Travel Times and Train Tips)
• Day Trips from Padua, Italy – Over 35 Unmissable Destinations in the Veneto, Lombardy, and Emilia-Romagna
• Day Trips from Vicenza, Italy – Over 90 of the Best Destinations
• 11 of the Best Day Trips from Venice (With Lots of Photos, Travel Times and Italy Train Tips)
• For more suggestions for places to explore, check my blog’s dedicated category: Day Trips in Italy

In Conclusion

Italy is a great country with much to offer to both parents and kids eager to have fun, relax, and delve into history, nature, and art. It is a fantastic place to visit if you are looking for wonderful adventures in a family-friendly environment.

There are, after all, so many exciting things for kids to do in Italy. Learn to cook authentic Italian dishes. Visit castles and artisan workshops. Splash in sprawling water parks. Enjoy fab day trips. Get active by hiking, cycling, and swimming. The list is literally endless.

So, in this blog post, I shared with you my very best suggestions and recommendations for places to visit in Italy with kids and things to do in Italy with kids.

I hope that all this first-hand tried and tested information will make planning your family trip to Italy a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Have a great time exploring italy with your kids.

Now, get ready quick for your trip to Italy with kids!

• Consult these guidebooks .
• Book train tickets .
• Research accommodation .
• Rent a car .
• Select local tours and activities .

More Helpful Italy Info for You

Best of Italy:   Best Time to Visit ,  Italian Piazzas ,  Italian Food ,  Italian Markets ,  Italian Coffee Culture ,  Types of Italian Coffees ,  Rules of Italian Breakfast ,  Italian Breakfast Foods Northern Italy:   Reasons to Visit ,  18 Best Cities ,  11 Major Airports Day Trips in Italy:  Bologna to Venice ,   Venice to Milan ,  Verona to Milan ,  Milan to Verona ,  Venice to Verona ,  Milan to Venice ,  Florence to Venice ,  Verona to Venice ,  Venice to Padua Lake Como:   Things to See ,  Nesso Lombardy:   Best Cities and Towns ,  Reasons to Visit ,  Brescia Friuli Venezia Giulia:   Venzone ,  Most Beautiful Villages Emilia Romagna:  Bologna ,  Ravenna ,  Comacchio ,  Most Beautiful Villages Marche:   Reasons to Visit ,  Gradara ,  Frasassi Caves ,  Temple of Valadier Trentino:   Best Cities and Towns ,  Beautiful Lakes ,  Lake Caldonazzo ,  Violins’ Forest Veneto:  Best Cities to Visit ,  Prettiest Small Towns ,  Most Beautiful Villages ,  Top 15 Places ,  30 Adventures ,  15 Most Colourful Places ,  Beautiful Lakes Venice:   Major Landmarks ,  Essential Tips ,  Hidden Gems ,  One Day Itinerary for Art Lovers ,  Best Beaches in Venice ,  Best Airports ,  Train Stations in Venice ,  Boats in Venice ,  Haunted Venice ,  Day Trips from Venice ,  Quotes about Venice Verona:   Things to Do in One Day ,  Verona Opera Festival ,  Day Trips from Verona ,  Romeo and Juliet Itinerary Padua:   Things to Do in One Day ,  101 Facts About Padua ,  10 Reasons to Visit Padua ,  Day Trips from Padua Vicenza:   Things to Do ,  Day Trips from Vicenza ,  Best Museums

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Mum's Little Explorers

Melbourne for Kids - Activities & Family Travel Ideas

• Italy With Kids

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

by mumslittleexplorers · January 3, 2023

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

Travel Italy with Kids: Your Italy Family Holiday Guide

Ahhh Bella Italia, I just love Italy!

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

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

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

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

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

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When to plan your family trip to Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to visit in Italy with kids

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

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

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

Best Places to visit in Northern Italy with Kids

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

Rome with kids

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

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

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

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

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

Florence with kids

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

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

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

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

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

Lucca with kids

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

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

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

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

Pisa with kids

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

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

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

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

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

Venice with kids

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

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

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

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

Cinque Terre with kids

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lago di Garda with kids

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

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

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

Best places to visit in the South of Italy with Kids

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

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

Amalfi Coast with Kids

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

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

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

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

Alberobello with Kids

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

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

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

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

Tropea with Kids

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

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

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

Taormina with Kids

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

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

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

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

Family friendly places to stay in Italy with kids

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting around Italy with Kids on your Family Holiday

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

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

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

Eating in Italy with kids

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

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

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

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

Enjoy your Italy Family Holiday!!!!

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

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

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

Tags: europe with kids italy family holiday italy with kids

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EXPLORE WITH KIDS

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

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

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Navigation Junkie

Conquering the world…one city at a time.

Family Friendly Cities in Italy: 22 of the Best Destinations

Just like France and England that we explored in previous weeks, Italy does have some main attractions that come to mind when thinking about visiting the country (The Colosseum, Vatican City, the Trevi Fountain) and while these are not to be missed, Italy is also filled with many lesser known cities that are perfect for your next family getaway! This week we will explore some of the best family friendly cities in Italy, recommended by experienced travel bloggers around the world!

Travel to the costal town of Viareggio to relax on the beach or get out on the water to enjoy some water sports, head to Cagliari for some ancient historical sites, ice cream, hiking, and beaches, stroll along the colorful houses in Cinque Terre, and, no matter which of these great family friendly cities in Italy you choose, be sure to enjoy some of Italy’s local cuisine!

Page Contents

22 of the Best Family Friendly Cities in Italy

Recommended by Sam from Sam Sees World

One of the best family friendly cities in Italy is the wonderful Positano. Positano is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe and even in the world. It is known for its pastel colored houses, beautiful beaches, and quiet local life. It isn’t as busy and overwhelming as other big cities in Italy making it the ideal place to vacation as a family.

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Positano that are well fit for families of all ages and sizes. One of the top attractions is the beach that sits at the base of Positano. There are sunbeds to rent, clear blue waters to swim in and an unmatched view of the city above. More so, there are some hikes to show you panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast and a beautiful town with local shops and boutiques. Be sure to stop at one of the many restaurants with views of the stunning city below.

The best time to visit Positano is from May – September. This is when everything is open and most lively. However, the months of July and August are very hot! Therefore, if you want to avoid super hot weather May, June and September are best. 

Recommended by PlacesofJuma

Viareggio  in Tuscany is a picturesque coastal town and on top, a fantastic choice for a family-friendly visit in Italy. This beautiful seaside resort is located on the coast of Tuscany and delights adults as well as children in many ways: Here, you will find one of the longest sandy beaches in Italy here! Children especially love this shallow-sloping beach, which also scores with many activities such as SUP, pedal boats and jet skis. Here, even the smallest ones can play and splash in the water as they please. Also beautiful are the bagnos, the so-called beach baths, which line the coast and give Viareggio a fascinating panorama.

The long promenade in Viareggio is also uniquely picturesque with countless colorful buildings and villas in Art Nouveau style. These are still in top condition and give the town a unique flair. Here you will also find a large selection of shops, boutiques and restaurants, and there are countless stands with delicious ice cream!

Right in the vicinity, you can also do a lot with the family. Take a trip to the nearby snow-white Carrar Mountains and marvel at the quarrying of Italian marble. Or take the kids over to Pisa and climb the Leaning Tower!

Another top highlight in Viareggio is the carnival, which takes place every year in February. It is the second largest (after Venice) in Italy and a real family highlight!

There is a wide range of accommodation in Viareggio. The Art Nouveau hotels are particularly beautiful, such as the luxurious Hotel Plaza e de Russie and the charming Hotel President.

Recommended by Kenny from Knycx Journeying 

Located in the north of Italy, Milan is the second-most populous city in the country and also a transportation hub, connecting Italy conveniently around the world. The rapid commercial success and development of Milan have it the only EU city that enjoys a greater GDP than its corresponding capital. Having said that, the city also has a rich history and culture, making it one of the best family friendly cities in Italy.  

Milan houses some of the most iconic landmarks and monuments in Europe.  Milan Cathedral  is the symbol of its religious root and also the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and on its right features one of the world’s most beautiful shopping galleries, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. There are numerous art institutions in the city center, but an art tour won’t be complete without viewing Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, well-preserved in the church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie. 

For something more active and interesting for kids, the city has no lack of places like the Planetarium of Milan, where children can explore and learn the knowledge of the stars and the galaxies in the biggest facility of the same sort in Italy. More, Leonardo Da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology is a unique place that combines science and art, as it explores the artworks and scales models based on the world’s greatest artist’s drawings. Finally, have a fun day trip in Leolandia Italy, a theme park that is only a short drive from the city center with fun rides, cartoon characters, and a petting zoo.  

Recommended by Cynthia and Alexander from Travel your Memories

Como is a city located in the north of Italy on the beautiful Lake Como. Like many Italian cities, the city of Como is fun to visit because it has a pleasant center. The reason that Como is so popular among travelers is because of Lake Como. This lake lies between the high mountains and is surrounded by charming small villages, making it a very romantic destination. Another benefit is that Como isn’t that touristic yet.

In terms of activities, there are many fun things to do, but the two best things to do are discovering the lake with a boat and making a road trip by car along with all the villages around the lake.

In addition to Lake Como, you can also do several fun activities in Como itself. The best part is visiting the cathedral because of the architecture of the building. Stand in front of the main entrance and take a moment to look at the details. The Museo Storico Giuseppe Garibaldi museum is also recommended because you can visit different living rooms here that show different time periods. Very nice if you want to learn more about Italian history.

You can visit Como all year round because it is not that hot compared to the south of Italy.

Tip: if you are looking for an accommodation, Ostello Bello Lake Como is recommended because of its location. It has a private garden where you can completely relax.

If you have a car at your disposal and you have a few days left, a road trip from Como to Florence is recommended. The drive there is great to finally arrive in Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. Make the most of your trip by reading a  travel guide of Florence .

Cagliari, Sardinia

Recommended by Claudia from Strictly Sardinia

Cagliari, the beautiful capital of the island of Sardinia, is an easy choice when looking for a family trip. This mid-sized city is nicely perched on the hills and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, and is blessed with mild winter and perfect summer days that (almost) never get too hot. 

Parents will love Cagliari for the incredible choice of sights. Archeological sites are located right in the heart of town, where they will find a Roman Amphitheater and a Punic Necropolis, among others. There are plenty of churches to visit – the most impressive is definitely the cathedral, in the heart of Castello historic district: make sure to pop inside and to climb the bell tower for great views. Museums abound in the Sardinian capital, too. The best is by far the Archeology Museum, which is also found in the Castello district. 

Children will love Cagliari for the fantastic choice of nature within the city. Other than the many city parks, they will find a bunch of urban beaches to hang out. The most popular one is Poetto, an incredibly long, sandy beach overlooking the Sella del Diavolo, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s the perfect place for a walk any time of year, and you’ll find a biking and running lane, plenty of water fountains and small restaurants and ice cream shops. What’s better, it’s easy to reach by bus from the center of Cagliari!

Poetto is also the best access point to Molentargius Nature Reserve, a large urban park where you can admire various bird species, including pink flamingos. It can be explored on foot or, for a more fun experience, by bike. Fancy an easy hike while in the city? You don’t have to get out of town! Just head to Calamosca, Cagliari’s second urban beach, and walk the trail to the top of Sella del Diavolo for breathtaking views.

The entire family can dine at Framento, the best pizza place in town. This gourmet pizza place is located in the heart of Stampace historic quarter and offers delicious pizzas prepared with locally sourced ingredients.  There is an abundance of places to stay, but if you are traveling in the summer opt for Nautilus hotel, one of the  best hotels in Cagliar i mere steps away from Poetto beach.

Recommended by Alicia from Travels With the Crew

Lucca, Italy is a walled town halfway between Florence and Pisa. It is also one of the best preserved towns in Tuscany. Lucca was founded by the Etruscans in the 3rd century BC. Subsequently Roman, Lombard and French people added to the original walled city. If you are visiting Italy you will want to make sure Lucca is on your list!

One of the coolest things about Lucca is walking through pathways under the walls to get into the city itself. Your kids will love the feeling of being on an adventure under the city itself! The town still maintains its medieval characteristics; narrow streets, tiny squares and aristocratic palaces all bear witness to its glorious past, when Lucca was one of the largest cities in Tuscany and one of the most fortified.

The best things to do in Lucca with kids are:

1.  Orto Botanico Comunale di Lucca- Visit this charming garden with large paths meandering all around. Your kids will love room to wiggle and you will love the beautiful gardens.

2. Hire bikes and ride around the top of the city with tons of other day trippers. There are family bikes that have enough pedals for everyone available.

3. Climb to the top of Guinigi Tower for the most fabulous views of this medieval city. The top of the tower has oak trees growing from it making it the most unusually cool tower in all of Italy! Don’t miss it!

4. Check out if there is any market on that day as there are many throughout the spring and summer.

Recommended by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

Palermo is the capital of beautiful Sicily. It is known to be the home of amazing street food, extraordinary architecture and very erratic drivers. It is a city buzzing with excitement and plenty of activities to do for both young and old.

The kids are sure to love the famous  street food of Palermo . If you want a local experience, walk over to the Antica Focacceria San Francesco and dig into an Arancina (fried rice balls with meat or aubergine filling). If you are feeling adventurous try out to focaccia Maritata: veal spleen, fresh ricotta and caciocavallo cheese otherwise known as the Sicilian antidote for a hangover.

After having eaten your belly full, it is time to explore the many churches Palermo is known for – trust me you have never seen a church until you step foot into a Sicilian church. Make time to visit the Church of the Gesu, San Giuseppe dei Teatini and the Arab Norman 12 th  century Church of San Cataldo.

Take a break to eat a Gelato with a brioche while walking to the Norman Palace, the oldest royal residence in Europe dating back to the 9 th  century. The Palace and the gardens itself are nice to wander around, but the real showstopper is the  Capella Palatina  an exquisite chapel decorated with biblical scenes created by craftsman that mastered the technique of mosaics and painting to a t.

Getting around Palermo is easy, the city is small in size with most of the monuments within easy walking distance of each other.

Recommended by Anjali from Cheerful Trails

Genoa is a beautiful port city in Liguria packed with impressive sights and a wide array of things to do for families. Lesser crowd, relaxing atmosphere, easy to explore and kids friendly attractions in Genoa make it an ideal destination for those looking for a family friendly vacation in Italy.

This city is home to the largest aquarium in Italy (second largest in Europe), Acquario di Genova which exhibits over 12000 sea animal species. Make a visit to the Palazzi dei Rolli, an architectural delight, from where you can also enjoy soaking in views of the charming city. Wander through the narrow alleys of Caruggi. It’s a fun experience seeing classically designed stores through the maze-like alleys of Caruggi.

One of the most enjoyable places in Genoa, especially for kids, is the La Citta’ dei Bambini. This museum for children offers various exciting activities such as scientific exploratory, interactive exhibitions, play areas and hands-on workshops. One of the more fascinating places in Genoa is the bubble shaped building on water, Biosfera. It exhibits tropical plants, birds and animals. Take the Bigo elevator at the Old Port of Genoa to see gorgeous views of the pot and the city.

The best time to visit Genoa is during spring and summer which falls between April – August.

Recommended by Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Turin is a brilliant city and one of the best family friendly cities in Italy to visit with kids visit with kids. There are lots of car-free streets and squares to explore with children and some fun sights to visit. Although Turin is one of the biggest cities in Italy, it can be visited in a day but there are plenty of fun activities for families staying longer.

One of the  best things to do in Turin  is the iconic Cinema Museum which features a tall spire with an elevator which whisks visitors to the top for incredible views over the city. Families will also enjoy the Egyptian Museum which houses the largest number of Egyptian artefacts outside of Egypt.

Petrol heads will be thrilled to visit the National Automobile Museum with its collection of almost 200 cars ranging from Ferrari to Rolls Royce. Older children might also like to seek out the filming locations of the famous Italian Job movie – the car chase with Michael Caine was shot throughout the city.

Football fans will enjoy a visit to the Juventus stadium which houses a museum, tours can be booked.

If you’re visiting Turin in the summer months, the city is surprisingly easy to explore in the heat thanks to the many porticoed walkways which are cool and shady. Little children will enjoy cooling off in the fountains of Piazza Castello.

There are some brilliant shopping streets in Turin – look out for the Lego store which can be found on Via Roma, ideal for bribing the kids to walk that little bit further!

Recommended by Marta from Mama Loves Rome

Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and one of the best family friendly cities in Italy. A large, busy city, it has plenty to offer to kids of all ages and it is the kind of place where you find entertainment for children and adults alike, so everyone in the family is happy! In terms of  things to do in Rome with kids , you have a vast choice. 

Not to be missed are the Colosseum and the Forum, where kids and adults can learn about ancient Rome and hear stories of gladiators, the climb up St Peter’s Dome, one of the biggest in the world, and Castel Sant’Angelo, a real castle from ancient times with bastion walk and cannons. 

If you love structured activities, you can take part in kids’ mosaic classes or cooking/pizza making classes, or you can just take it easy in the city’s beautiful piazzas and parks. Tons of gelato make any piazza easy for kids to enjoy! 

Traditional Rome food is kid-friendly and you will easily find pizza, pasta such as carbonara and simple meat dished such as ‘saltimbocca alla romana’ that are typical of Rome and usually loved by kids.

The main issue you will have in Rome is logistics. Since it is a large and busy city, it is important to minimize transport time so staying in the center is best. I recommend the area of the Pantheon for convenience and charm.

It is also important to avoid visiting in the middle of the summer, when the city gest unbearably hot. The best time to visit Rome is early autumn and late spring, when the temperature is best and you can mix sightseeing with time in the many beautiful parks of the city.  

Recommended by the Traveling Twins

Venice is one of the most visited cities and one of the best family friendly cities in Italy. It can be overwhelming with all the things to do, but we’ve narrowed down the list for you. Here’s our guide on what to see and do with kids in Venice!

Take a boat tour of Venice’s canals with a knowledgeable local guide. This is a unique experience, and the tour will showcase the best of Venice. It’s also an excellent chance to get inside information from locals about what to do with kids in Venice. There are plenty of boats from different companies that will take you on tour around the Venetian Lagoon with commentary in several languages. Most will pick you up in St. Mark’s Square, but there are others that will leave from other docks. If you want to save some money but still go on a boat ride, take the Vaporetto (boat train) on the Grand Canal. 

Visit St Mark’s Square: The famous square is where you’ll find some of Venice’s best sights, including the Basilica di San Marco, Palazzo Ducale (Ducal Palace), and Campanile (Bell Tower). The square is filled with cafes, restaurants, gelato shops and artists that will keep your children entertained as they wait for their next attraction. If kids feel bored, you can give the task of spotting winged lions symbol of Venice.

Tips for a visit with kids: Do wait with your visit until your kids can walk on their own. The first time we went to Venice with a  light twin travel stroller,  it was difficult to fit on some of the narrow pathways, not to mention carrying it through bridges.

Recommended by Monique from Trip Anthropologist

Vernazza  is the fourth of the beautiful towns of Cinque Terre. The colorful houses cling to the cliffs with the Ligurian Sea below and the Cinque Terre National Pak above.

The whole of the Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s best to come by train or by sea, and there’s lots of exploring to do.

There are old and beautiful buildings, castles and fortifications to explore and cobbled streets full of colorful and quirky homes. Walking, hiking, boating and catching trains are just some of the best reasons to think of the spectacular Cinque Terre for a family holiday.

Hiking between the villages of the Cinque Terre is extremely popular. Flowers, olive groves, orchards, ancient fortifications are just some of the things you’ll see while hiking above the town.

There are lovely beaches and coves for swimming and getting out onto the water is possible with many boat tours and watersports opportunities.

Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre (Via Guidoni 36) is a wonderful patisserie full of Sicilian sweets for breakfast. DonnaBarbara is a delightful family apartment only 6 meters from Vernazza beach with free wifi, aircon, and breakfast for four included.

Recommended by Roxanne from Faraway Worlds

On the route from Milan to Venice, Trento is the perfect place to spend a few nights and explore this stunning part of Italy, with all the conveniences of a big city. Trento is on a major train line and situated between the Dolomites and Lake Garda, with easy access to the mountains, Verona and several other charming towns.

Visit in the summer to experience the outdoors and spectacular natural scenery, while winter is the best for snow and winter sports. If you enjoy food and wine, Autumn is a lovely time to spend in the region – it’s quiet, not too cold and there are many opportunities to sample the region’s delicacies.

If you’re looking for more child-friendly activities for your stay, visit the MUSE Natural Science Museum, with fun and interactive displays, as well as the Buonconsiglio Castle, one of the most important monuments in the region. If you want to explore the outdoors, the botanical gardens and Dos Trento are both interesting and beautiful places to visit close to town, while day trips to the mountains are easily accessible from the city.

If you have older children, go underground to see the ancient Roman sites in Trento. In this city, the  Roman ruins  are completely under the modern city, so make your way beneath the Piazza Cesare Battisti or the Piazzo Lodron to walk through the streets of the old Roman town. It’s a fascinating experience, no matter how old you are!

Sestri Levante

Recommended by Em from That Travelista

With so many major attractions to see, traveling Italy as a family can be stressful! So, in between all the well-known cities and iconic landmarks, consider adding a relaxing family beach day into your  Italy itinerary . While Italy boasts several stunning beaches along it’s extensive coastline, one of the most family friendly cities in Italy is without a doubt Sestri Levante.

Sestri Levante is a colorful town along the Italian Riviera. Although it sits right in between the popular destinations of Cinque Terre and Portofino, it is not particularly well known amongst non-Italians. It boasts not one, but two sand beaches, as opposed to other pebbly or even rocky beaches in Italy, which makes Sestri Levante especially comfortable for those traveling with younger children. While the younger ones are splashing away in the shallow bays, the older teens might rather have a small adventure by hiking up to Punta Manara for views over both beaches and the greater Ligurian coastline.

The best time of year to visit Sestri Levante is summer or its shoulder months, in order to enjoy the beaches. But try to avoid August if you can! While Sestri Levante is a bit of a hidden gem for foreign visitors, it is less so for Italians, and August is the time of year that most of them vacation.

Recommended by Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best family friendly cities in Italy is Pisa. You can find Pisa in Tuscany and it is a great city where you find many sights and a relaxing atmosphere. One of the best things to do in Pisa is visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which is the most famous sight in the city. This bell tower is incredible to see and it is famous for its 4-degree lean. When you are here, don’t forget to snap a photo of you supporting the tower!

Another one of the best things to do is walking through the city, and seeing the beautiful architecture of the houses of the city. Besides that, you should visit Pisa Cathedral for sure. This is a church that has the same architectural style as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and you find it next to it.

What’s great as well about the city is that you can reach a lot of other places from Pisa. So if you are in Pisa for a longer time, you can use the city as a hub to explore more places in the region! For example, Cinque Terre is close to the city, and this place is worth visiting as there are many incredible  Instagrammable places in Cinque Terre !

The best time to visit Pisa is during spring. That’s because it is more affordable to stay in the city then, the weather is comfortable, and there are fewer tourists. One of the best places for lunch in Pisa is Gusto Giusto. You can have here amazing sandwiches!”

Recommended by Abigail from Inside the Travel Lab

Tucked on the border with Slovenia in northeast Italy, the city of Trieste offers an intriguing look at two very different cultures. On the one hand, the traditional pasta and pizza side of Italy. On the other, the legacy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire through Viennese style coffee shops, sauerkraut and swine knuckle, and architectural flourishes, all by the Adriatic Sea. 

And there’s a reason for this, of course. Until the end of the First World War, Trieste was not Italian. As part of the conditions of surrender, the port city of Trieste passed to Italy but while the border may have changed, many of the traditions remained the same. 

As well as the history, you’ll also find plenty of things to do in Trieste , especially for families. Many of the attractions are free, which is great news if you’re not sure whether your little one will want to stay for the duration of a fully paid up event. 

You can wander along the Piazza d’Unita d’Italia, a grandiose square with one side open to the Adriatic. You can take in the Canal Grande, an impressive waterway right in the heart of the city. Kids will love the Roman Theatre and the sword-swishing of the San Giusto Castle.

And everyone loves chocolate cake, right? Try some in Caffe Tommaseo and you can call it a cultural event: it’s the oldest cafe in Trieste and a favourite haunt of literary genius James Joyce. 

Recommended by Lori from Italy Foodies

The Renaissance City of Florence is one of the most beautiful cities and one of the best family friendly cities in Italy to explore. It also happens to be one of the most family friendly cities in Italy with the number of unique sites made interactive and more interesting for kids of all ages.

Two of the most unique sites in the city — the Duomo and the Campanile (Bell Tower) — are not only magnificent to see and learn about, but climbing them to the top for spectacular views is an unparalleled experience kids will love.

For kids with adventurous palates, Florence has some of the  tastiest street food in Italy , which makes strolling the cobblestone streets even more fun. A great way to get around from place to place is on a horse-drawn carriage ride!

Just south of the River Arno is the Pitti Palace, home of the ruling Medici family. A tour of the Palace is a must, but much of the fun here can be had running around the beautiful Boboli Gardens outside. Kids can explore on their own and find unique sculptures, learn about the local landscape, and take in the amazing views over Florence before sitting down to a relaxing picnic lunch on the grounds.

There are also a number of local museums with interactive virtual and augmented reality exhibits to make the learning experience one kids will never forget.

Florence gets super crowded, so plan your visit during the shoulder season (April through mid-June and September through October).

Recommended by Haley from Gathering Waves

Siena, Italy is a magical Italian city that appears to have come straight out of a fairytale storybook. It is also one of the best family friendly cities in Italy to visit, due to its plethora of parks and playgrounds. 

Siena is located in the Tuscan region of Italy, about a 4 hour train ride north from FCO, the biggest international airport located in Rome, Italy. Some of the best things to do in Siena include wandering the picturesque cobblestone streets, hanging out in the Piazza del Campo, and watching the famous horse race Il Palio. It is also quite nice to take a walk right outside of town, and explore La Fortezza. La Fortezza is a giant fortress with a large grassy park and a playground. 

Piazza Del Campo is the main square of the town, and includes a wide cobblestone communal area, adjacent to a huge, impressive belltower. This is a wonderful place to spend the evenings, whether it be people watching, playing cards, or enjoying dinner or a drink. There are many delicious restaurants located in this town square.

Il Palio is perhaps the most famous event that occurs in Siena. It happens twice a year in early July and mid August, and involves a week of festivities, ending with a breathtaking race around the piazza. To see this race, it is best to come in July or August. However, besides that, the best time to visit Siena is October, for the mild weather and lack of crowds. 

Portovenere

Recommended by Terri at FemaleSoloTrek

Located on the Liguarian Coast, Portovenere is a magnet for Italian families. On the weekends, Italian bambinos run along the beach chasing balls and jumping in the water. By lunchtime, families spread out a blanket for lunch. As the sun grows high in the sky, the children take their parents for gelato in the historic shopping center. Expect an ice cream traffic jam!

Portovenere is the gateway city to the Cinque Terre (Five Lands) in northwestern Italy. But for families staying in Portovenere—with its family-friendly restaurants, harbors and ferries—this city can be a great way to economize. Check out AirBnb listings for fantastic deals. Historic Portovenere features skinny tall homes decorated in pastels— peach, lemon, mocha, and vanilla, which are stacked on its steep granite terrain.

The city offers ferry services to the five Cinque Terre villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza , Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore—as well as Positano. Families will also want to explore Portovenere’s medieval history. Take the kids and climb to Doria Castle. Walk around the black and white-striped Church of St. Peter and the Genoese church of St. Lawrence. Portovenere also was a stopover for the Lord Byron. He swam across the Bay of Portovenere to visit his poet friend Shelley. No visit to Portovenere is complete without posing at the Grotto of Byron—nicknamed the Bay of Poets—for an Instagram selfie.

In the cool of evening, plan a family dinner at a seafood restaurant on the harbor. Expect the kids to beg you to take them to visit the shops which are tightly stacked together in a medieval alley. To reach Portovenere from the Rome airport, take the airport tram to the city center, catch the train to La Spezia, followed by a local bus.

Recommended by Samantha from The Wandering Wanderluster

Sicily  is perhaps one of the most under-rated family friendly cities in Italy. It is an island that offers quite literally something for everyone regardless of age. One city that is particularly family-friendly is Siracusa. Sat on the eastern coast, Siracusa or Syracuse is a short 45 minute drive from the airport of Catania which means no long drives or transfers for families with young children. It benefits from warm temperatures almost all year around so you never have to worry about the weather either. 

Its main drawing cards for families are its plethora of children-friendly sandy beaches, an easy and recognizable cuisine which makes eating out with children a breeze and a huge number of fascinating sights and attractions to visit to keep older children engaged and perhaps provide a fascinating history lesson or two. Spend the morning at one of its many beaches just a short drive south of the city and visit an ancient Roman or Greek ruin or a hilltop town in the afternoon. 

For those travelling with older children, you can drive and walk (or quad-bike) around Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano for a dash of adventure or head to EtnaLand theme park full of water rides and rollercoasters for a fun-filled family day out. 

Families can choose to stay in the centre of Siracusa in one of its many family-friendly guesthouses or in one of the beach resorts around Arenella or Fontane Bianche where you have easy access to the beach lidos which are great for those with younger children, offering a safe place to play in the shallow warm waters, restaurants, play makers and playgrounds. 

Recommended by Stephanie from History Fangirl

While cities like Florence and Milan might be more famous, one of the most beautiful, family friendly cities in Italy is Sorrento. Located on the Amalfi coast, Sorrento faces the Bay of Naples and has views of Mount Vesuvius. It’s a popular place to base yourself to visit Pompeii, but don’t overlook spending time in the town itself!

Sorrento, like much of Amalfi, is perched on the cliffs and so views of the town and the bay are just breathtaking, with everything splayed out in front of you. The most popular times to visit here are during the summer, but shoulder season (April, May, September, and October) are the true best times to come since you won’t have the overwhelming crowds that appear once June rolls around.

While here, make sure to enjoy the town’s main piazza, called Piazza Tasso, which positively buzzes during the evenings. No visit to Sorrento is complete until you’ve enjoyed a limoncello or other lemon-flavored beverage in a city that’s famous for producing some of the best lemons in the world. And if you’ve never seen a lemon from the Amalfi coast, prepare yourself. They are as big as softballs or grapefruits!

A few other can’t-miss sites in Sorrento include spending time at the beach, enjoying the artwork of the Cattedrale dei Santi Filippo e Giacomo, and taking in the views of the marina from the Via Marina Grande.

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Naples is one of the best family friendly cities in Italy. Firstly, Naples is extremely well connected to the rest of the world with its major international airport. It is also quick and easy to get into the city centre which is great for families wanting to minimize the hassle of travel.

Secondly, for families that want to travel further afield, Naples also makes a great base to explore historical sites like Pompeii or Mount Vesuvius. A simple train journey is all it takes, or you can also book on one of the many tours available.

If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Naples, Italy , then take a tour of Castel del’Ovo to admire Napoli’s medieval history. There are several other castles, monuments and piazzas throughout Naples that will fascinate and intrigue children. In addition, the city’s convenient location on the Bay of Naples means you can also stroll down the coast and take the kids to grab a refreshing gelato.

As Napoli is the home of famous Italian pizza, you will undoubtedly take the kids to an authentic pizzeria one night. However, consider also taking them to a cooking class where they learn the culinary skills to make Neapolitan Pizzas themselves. Think of the benefits when you’re back at home!

If you’re looking for an educational trip in a location that is both scenic and historical, then take the family to Naples.

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Published by Melissa

Hello! My name is Melissa (or Missy). I'm a nurse by day, but my true passion is travel. I'm a part time traveler, travel blogger, and photographer. Travel blogging allows me to share my experiences and knowledge with you as well as allows me to share in your experiences and learn from you. View all posts by Melissa

I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!

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The 15 best places to visit in Italy, from Venice to the Cinque Terre

Nov 19, 2023 • 11 min read

Rome should be the centerpiece of your trip if you’re going to Italy for the first time © Kathrin Ziegler / Getty Images

Home to some of the greatest artworks, historical monuments and food on the planet, and with the kind of varied landscapes that you often have to cross continents to see, Italy elates, inspires and moves its visitors like few other countries.

From its art- and architecture-stuffed cities to its astonishing diversity of natural landscapes – dramatic coastlines, serene lakes, pristine mountains, and those famous rolling hills – picking just a handful of destinations to visit in this wonderful country is no easy task.

So how do you decide where to go? It all depends on what you’re looking for in your Italian odyssey, whether that’s history, art, beaches, hiking or even food. No matter your passion, our list of 15 must-see places in Italy should be your starting point.

Best for history

Once caput mundi (capital of the world), Rome was legendarily spawned by a wolf-suckled boy, developed into a vast empire, rooted itself as the home of the Catholic church, and is now the repository of more than two millennia of art and architecture.

Rome should definitely be the centerpiece of your trip if you’re going to Italy for the first time, but there's simply too much to see in one visit, from the Pantheon and the Colosseum to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and countless works by Caravaggio. So do as countless others have done before you: toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and promise to return.

Planning tip: There’s an overwhelming amount to see here, and with limited public transport in the city center, your choice of hotel can be crucial. Map out the sights you’re most interested in before you book – if you want to be at the Vatican at opening time, for example, don't stay near the Colosseum.

Read more: Italians reveal their under-the-radar vacation spots in Italy

Best for a Renaissance fix

From Botticelli’s Venus , emerging coyly from the water in the Uffizi Gallery , to the mind-boggling dome of its cathedral, Florence is a feast for the eyes. This was, of course, the seat of the Renaissance, and there are knock-out names at every turn – Michelangelo in the Accademia, Donatello in the Bargello, Leonardo and Raphael in the Uffizi. 

Further afield in  Tuscany – Italy's most romanticized region – is an undulating landscape of sinuous cypress trees, olive groves and coveted regional treasures. Glory in the Gothic majesty of Siena and the Manhattan-esque skyline of medieval San Gimignano before exploring the vineyards of Italy's most famous wine region, Chianti , and the rolling, cypress-studded hills of the Val d’Orcia.

Planning tip: You’re best off without a car if you’re sticking to major towns and cities since Tuscany has a good rail network. But if you want to explore the countryside, you’ll definitely need a car. 

3. The Dolomites

Best for dramatic mountains

Scour the globe, and you'll find plenty of taller, bigger and more geologically volatile mountains, but few can match the romance of the pink-hued granite Dolomites .

Maybe it's their harsh, jagged summits, the vibrant skirts of spring wildflowers, or the rich cache of Ladin legends. Then again, it could just be the magnetic draw of money, style and glamor at Italy's most fabled ski resort, Cortina d'Ampezzo , or the linguistic curiosity of picture-postcard mountain village Sappada . Whatever the reason, this tiny pocket of northern Italy takes seductiveness to dizzying heights.

4. Amalfi Coast

Best for classic beauty

Italy's most celebrated coastline is a gripping strip: coastal mountains plunge into the piercing blue sea in a prime-time vertical scene of precipitous crags, sun-bleached villages and cliffs rearing up behind. Between sea and sky, mountaintop hiking trails deliver Tyrrhenian panoramas fit for a god.

While some may argue that the peninsula's most beautiful coast is Liguria's Cinque Terre or Calabria's Costa Viola, it is the Amalfi Coast that has seduced and inspired countless greats, from Tennessee Williams and DH Lawrence to Elizabeth Taylor, Virginia Woolf and Jackie Kennedy. Of course, its staggeringly romantic looks also make it one of the best places in Italy for couples.

Planning tip: Yes, driving along the Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most famous road trips, but often it feels like everyone else on the planet has the same idea as you. Traffic can be nose-to-tail, and parking is effectively nonexistent. Instead, take the ferry between towns or travel by public transport .

Best for stepping back in time

Frozen in its death throes, the time-warped ruins of Pompeii hurtle you 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets, lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theaters, and even an ancient brothel.

Then, in the eerie stillness, your eye on ominous Mt Vesuvius, ponder Pliny the Younger's terrifying account of the town's final hours: “Darkness came on again, again ashes, thick and heavy. We got up repeatedly to shake these off; otherwise, we would have been buried and crushed by the weight.”

Planning tip: If you have time, the other major city destroyed by the eruption, Herculaneum, is also worth a visit. Much smaller than Pompeii, its buildings are better preserved, and the location – surrounded by its modern descendant, Ercolano – makes the site even more piquant. Like Pompeii, it’s easily reached on the Circumvesuviana train.

6. Emilia-Romagna

Best for foodies

In a region as overwhelmingly foodie as Emilia-Romagna , it's only natural that its capital, Bologna , is dubbed “La Grassa” (the fat one). Many belt-busting Italian classics hail from here, including mortadella, tortellini and tagliatelle al ragù. Shop in the deli-packed Quadrilatero district – home to food stalls since medieval times – then hop on the train for an afternoon in Modena for world-famous aged balsamic vinegar.

Leave room for Parma , hometown of parmigiano reggiano cheese and the incomparable prosciutto di Parma. Wherever you plunge your fork, toast with a glass or three of Emilia-Romagna's renowned Lambrusco – a world away from the sickly sweet wine that was exported in the past.

7. Lago di Como

Best for a slice of luxury

If it's good enough for the Clooneys and vacationing Obamas, it's good enough for mere mortals. Nestled in the shadow of the Rhaetian Alps, dazzling Lago di Como is Lombardy's most spectacular lake. Its lavish Liberty-style villas are home to movie moguls, fashion royalty, and literal royalty, while the lake's siren calls include gardens at Villas Melzi d'Eril , Carlotta , and Balbianello that blush pink with camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons in April and May.

The city of Como itself is a hotbed of arresting architecture, from the Gothic cathedral to Palazzo Terragni – built by the Fascists as their party headquarters, it’s a classic example of Italian 1930s Rationalism and a striking reminder of the atrocities committed by the regime.  

Planning tip: Como is like the Amalfi Coast – the roads are clogged, and parking is a huge problem. Instead of driving, use public transport; there’s an excellent ferry and bus network, as well as a train line along the eastern edge of the lake.

8. Sardinia

Best for beaches and coastline

The English language cannot accurately describe the varied blue, green and – in the deepest shadows – purple colors of Sardinia’s seas. While models, ministers and perma-tanned celebrities wine, dine and sail along the glossy Costa Smeralda , much of the island – the Med’s second largest after Sicily – remains a wild, raw playground.

Explore its rugged coastal beauty, from the tumbledown boulders of Santa Teresa di Gallura and the wind-chiseled cliff face of the Golfo di Orosei to the windswept beauty of the Costa Verde's dune-backed beaches.

But spend time inland too, and you’ll find some of Europe’s finest prehistoric remains: mysterious nuraghi (megalithic buildings), burial sites so grand they’re known as “giants’ tombs,” and the mountain villages of Barbagia, where locals still practice centuries-old traditions.

Best for sheer italianità

Pompeii, pizza and a whole lot of panache – Naples is a city like no other. Layered like lasagna, each strip of history on top of the last, this is a place where (underground) you can walk along ancient Greek and Roman roads, while at street level there are sumptuous churches, baroque palaces and Maradona – Maradona everywhere .

Outside the city, Vesuvius looms over the time capsules of Pompeii and Herculaneum, while in town, living in the shadow of a volcano gives life a sense of urgency. All that makes for a place like nowhere else .

Planning tip: Naples becomes less chaotic from the water. Taking the ferry isn’t only an option if you’re going to islands like Ischia and Procida – you can also take a boat from the city to Sorrento , Positano and the Amalfi Coast.

Best for a fairytale city

“Unique” is an overused word, but in the case of Venice , there’s no better description. This really is a dreamscape of intricately carved palazzos, gilded churches and world-class museums, all floating on water and crisscrossed by quiet canals.

Avoid the temptation to do a quick drop-in visit to see the main sights – the real Venice is in the silent canals and narrow alleyways, which cast a spell on all who move through them. Tick off the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco , but then stay on to experience this most precious, and precarious, of cities.

Local tip: This is not the place to run a tight schedule. Leave time to wander the alleys , look inside the churches and artisan shops you pass, and hop on a vaporetto that’ll chug through the islands of the lagoon.

11. Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso

Best for hiking

If you're pining for a mind-clearing retreat, lace up your hiking boots and explore over 500km (310 miles) of marked trails and mule tracks traversing “Grand Paradise.”

Part of the Graian Alps and one of Italy's very first national parks, Gran Paradiso's pure, pristine spread encompasses 57 glaciers and alpine pastures awash with wild pansies, gentians and alpenroses, not to mention a healthy population of Alpine ibex, for whose protection the park was originally established. At 4061m (13,323ft), the eponymous Gran Paradiso is the park's only peak, accessed from tranquil Cogne.

12. Mount Etna

Best for thrill seekers

Known to the Greeks as the “column that holds up the sky,”  Mt Etna is not only Europe's largest volcano, it's one of the world's most active. The ancients believed the giant Tifone (Typhoon) lived in its crater and lit the sky with spectacular pyrotechnics; today they simply call it idda , or “her.”

At 3326m (10,912ft), she literally towers above Sicily's Ionian Coast . Tackle the climb on foot, on a guided 4WD tour, or stick to the lower slopes, where you’ll find some of Italy’s most exciting wines being grown in the uber-fertile volcanic soil. Sicily is one of the nicest places in Italy to visit, thanks to its extraordinary wealth of history and architecture, its jaw-dropping coastline and, of course, the ever-welcoming Sicilians.

13. Cinque Terre and the Liguria coast

Best for classic coastline

Liguria’s remote Cinque Terre area is coastal Italy at its most spectacular. Five seaside villages wedged between cliffs, encircled by a national park and connected by clifftop footpaths, this is a place where humanity has lived in symbiosis with nature for thousands of years. People have chiseled terraces into the steep cliffs and grown wine here since Roman times; until the 20th century, the locals got about by sea or footpath.

The villages themselves are gorgeous, but spare some time for a hike along the Sentiero Azzurro, the most popular of the paths connecting them. Cinque Terre may be the best known, but Liguria’s coastline is one showstopper coastal village after another – additional highlights include Portofino , Portovenere and Santa Margherita Ligure .  

Planning tip: This is another area where it’s not worth driving – there are ferry services, but our favorite option is the train, which runs along the coast and stops at each of the villages.

14. Valle d’Itria

Best for picture-perfect villages

They look like hobbit houses – small conical-roofed cottages, often stitched together to form a bigger home but always fairytale pretty, whatever the size. Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is famous for its trulli, but you won’t find them all over the region.

Head south of Bari, in from the coast and up onto the high karst plateau, and you’ll find the Valle d’Itria , where the green fields around towns like Cisternino and Locorotondo are dotted with trulli. Alberobello is the center of it all – the centro storico of the town is nothing but streets of them. This is one of the prettiest parts of Italy – truly.

Best for a real city break

Italy’s fashion capital  often gets a bad rap – too international, too organized, not chaotic enough. Don’t believe it. Where else can you go from a Gothic-style cathedral, started in the 14th century, to masterpieces by Leonardo (his Last Supper fresco in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is a showstopper, but so is the Sala delle Asse in the Castello Sforzesco , which he painted as a trompe l’oeil forest bower)?

Milan's restaurants pull together the best food from the Italian peninsula, it’s home to one of Italy’s rare cocktail scenes, and its fashion houses are transforming the city’s modern art scene with venues like Fondazione Prada , an old distillery now housing works by the likes of Jeff Koons and Damien Hirst, as well as putting on top-notch temporary exhibitions.

Planning tip: Milan doesn’t really have high and low seasons like the rest of Italy does; instead, its hotel rates rocket up and down depending on whether there’s a major event in town. Avoid Design and Fashion Weeks if you're traveling on a budget .

This article was first published June 2021 and updated November 2023

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6 Best Cities to Visit in Italy with family

Thinking of going on vacation to Italy with family? Many people think that Italy is just a destination for lovers or adults. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Italy holds a wide array of fun and interactive things to do and see for kids of all ages. You and your family can enjoy history, beautiful scenery, amazing food, fun, and adventure in Italy.

From beaches to boat rides, the cities of Italy pack a punch for the entire family. This is a country you will surely want to visit more than once because you are going to have a hard time choosing which cities to go to. “Divertiamoci!”

Read below about some of the best places to visit in Italy with family!

1. Venice, Italy with family

Sometimes, we as parents can get overwhelmed with trying to show our children every amazing attraction in a city. The wonderful thing about taking them to Venice is that Venice in and of itself is an attraction! There are many wonderful things to do in Venice with kids! And you can relax a little and just enjoy being in the city without feeling like you have to have a filled itinerary each day.

Why not try lion hunting when you are visiting Venice, Italy with family? That’s right, I said lion hunting with little kids! This is one of the most captivating and historical activities to do with your children involving a fun version of “I-Spy”. Venice is filled with architecture and statues featuring lions, often winged.

Here’s a piece of history for you: The winged lion is the city’s symbol of its patron and founder, St. Mark. In 828 AD, St. Mark’s relic was brought from Alexandria to Venice by two enthusiastic Venetians. That’s when the lion was adopted. Once the lion was adopted, the Venetians began collecting lions from their conquests and travels. Standing proudly in the Piazza San Marco, beside St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the oldest lions of Venice. It is a popular photo-op for little travelers. 

Challenge your kiddos to spot lions, with and without wings. You can also add another challenge of finding lions with a book open and closed. It is a great way to get kids to interact with their surroundings while the adults enjoy strolling in this breathtaking city. You can also tour a palace, go on a treasure hunt, tour the Grand Canal on the vaporetto, ride in a gondola, shop for the famous Venetian masks, and visit the Lido beach. There are so many adventures waiting for you and the kids in Venice!

Murano Island, Venice

When we visited Venice, we stayed at the hotel on Murano island nearby. Absolutely stunning island and the vaporettos run frequently back and forth.

Murano is the island where all Venice’s Murano glassblowers have their workshops. If you come to Venice as a family with kids, I highly recommend taking a boat to this island. Here you can show them where the famous Murano glass comes from, and how it is made.

If you are a bit into history, you may be interested to know that all glassblowers were quarantined on the island in the 13th century. When we hear the word quarantine , the first thing that pops up in our minds is Covid. However, back then, they were isolated for two reasons. First, as a precaution to prevent fires from spreading from their furnaces in closely packed Venice. The second reason is that isolated glassblowers were unable to leave Venice and reveal the secrets that made Venetial Murano glass highly treasured in royal courts in Europe. 

I recommend checking out the hotels on Murano island when planning your trip to Venice. We stayed at NH Collection Murano Villa, and everything was perfect to the tiniest detail. 

2. Naples, Italy with family

Naples is not usually on the checklist for family adventures.

Just because it doesn’t have the most famous landmarks in Italy. However, it is positioned close to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Italy. Moreover, it is just a stone’s throw away from some of the most famous ruins. Indeed, Naples offers a historic adventure for adults and their tots.

What to do with kids in Naples during your family vacation in Italy?

Pizza Time!

What kid, and let’s face it, adults too, don’t like pizza? Naples is the birthplace of the world’s favorite fast food! Naples boasts over 800 pizzerias. You can choose one of the pizzerias closest to you and you won’t be disappointed. There are also many pizza-making classes or pizza-making championships to attend. Challenge your tots to find their favorite pizza and have a debate!

An Underground City in Naples

Shhhh…there is an underground city in Naples that will have your tiny travelers “oohing” and “ahhing”. Underground Naples or Napoli Sotterranea is a complete city. It is equipped with air-raid shelters, aqueducts, catacombs, secret chambers, and vegetable gardens hidden away under the Historic Center of Naples.

Kids love to discover and walk around the hidden labyrinth of passageways and tunnels. Try an underground tour to teach them more about Naples’ history if they aren’t scared of the dark. It’s one of a kind adventure when you visit Italy with family.

The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza

It’s an interactive science museum where children learn by touching, experimenting, and putting their scientific ideas into practice. 

Exhibits are interesting for the whole family, not just the kids. How about exploring the exhibitions of a Human Body Museum, a 3D Planetarium, an Aquarium, and a Bugs Museum? 

I am sharing the link to their official website , check it out for more details of the fun things your family can enjoy.  

Hop on a funicular ride: Funicolare Centrale 

Did you know that one of the longest funiculars in the world is located in Italy? Naples, to be exact. Yes, it carries millions of passengers every year, and you can be one of them! The ride lasts around 5 minutes and ascends at an angle of 30 degrees. How’s that for a family adventure in Italy?

At the end of the ride, you will align at Piazza Vanvitelli. It’s a gelato lovers’ paradise. With plenty of gelato shops, you can get every flavor imaginable. My daughter’s favorite flavor is chocolate. Especially when she is wearing light-colored clothes. How about your kids?

Hike up Mt. Vesuvius during your family vacation in Italy!

The iconic Mount Vesuvius which destroyed the ancient city of Pompeii is located in Naples and you can hike it! Needless to say, it will be a useful lesson to share in school or pre-school. 

If you wear comfortable shoes, have no breathing issues, wear a hat and drink lots of water, hiking up is safe and not too difficult.

Tip for hiking up Mt. Vesuvius in Naples : leave early in the morning to avoid the midday sun. Don’t forget your camera!

3. Verona, Italy with family

Verona truly is the city of love. That might make your older kids roll their eyes and your little ones giggle. However, there is so much to do in and around the city, it is a perfect destination for families visiting Italy with kids.

One of the things I love about Verona is that the city offers downloadable games that can be played as a part of sightseeing. The online resources provide families with information about the main sites in Verona. 

What to do in Verona, Italy with kids?

Love Hide and Seek

Your family can play “Love Hide and Seek”. It will guide you and your littles through Citta Anticathe, or the Old City, in search of famous Romeo and Juliet sites. This also gives you a chance to see some of the other famous landmarks on the way. 

Straddling the River

The “Straddling the River” walk is a great activity to take part in. First, print out the map and the parent guide for this jaunt from Ponte di Pietra, across the river to the Cathedral, while still getting to see the main sites from the Arena and ending at St. Peter’s Castle.

You also don’t want to forget to visit Lake Garda, just a short trip outside of Verona. Lake Garda has Gardaland, Italy’s largest and most famous theme park! Inside Gardaland, your tiny tots will love the Legoland Water Park. 

Amusement Parks

Next to Gardaland is the Gardaland Sea Life Aquarium. There are also two other large amusement parks at Lake Garda, Movieland, the Hollywood Park, and Caneva the Aquapark. 

4. Minori and the Walk of Lemons on the Amalfi Coast

Minori is one of the best cities on the Amalfi Coast to visit with kids. Why? Because it is smaller and less busy but still packs all of the charms of the area. There are small beaches to play on and splash about as well as many wonderful eateries. 

The Walk of Lemons on Amalfi Coast

I highly recommend “The Walk of Lemons”. It is a scenic historical path that connects the towns of Minori and Maiori on the Amalfi Coast. This family-friendly hike takes around 1 hour and helps you discover the stunning beauty of the Amalfi coast. As the name suggests, the trail between the cliffs and the sea passes through the lemon groves that produce the famous lemons of this area. Although the path is not accessible to strollers, and wheelchairs and is not recommended to anyone with knee problems and mobility issues, it can easily be walked with kids in tow. While you might need to help your toddler with stairs, older kids will have no difficulty on this path. 

Check out these private tours that will help make the most out of your trip on Amalfi Coast with kids:

Amalfi to Capri: 6-Hour Private Boat Excursion

Amalfi: Cooking Class & Farmhouse Visit with Meal

Minori center is made of beautiful paths that run through the mountains. For the most part, it is open to pedestrians only. This makes it perfect for strollers and little legs running here and there pointing fingers at all of the wondrous things to look at.

You can rent a boat and enjoy the scenery on the shores of the coast while you bask in the sun and swim in the water. You can even visit nearby Capri via the water. There are also many cooking lessons perfect for you and your kids.

5. Rome, Italy with family

What is a trip to Italy without visiting Rome? Rome holds so many opportunities for kids of all ages.

There’s no better way to explore Rome than with your family. Here are some suggestions for things to do in Rome, Italy with kids:

The Colosseum

Without a doubt, the Colosseum is on every traveler’s to Rome a must-see list. And it is so for a reason. Visit the Colosseum , Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill with family. All three sites offer an amazing opportunity to learn about ancient Roman history. The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. It was originally built as an amphitheater but now it hosts concerts and other cultural events. The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are where many important historical events took place.

Recommended tour for families: Colosseum and Ancient Rome Family Tour for Kids

Become a gladiator!

Take a two-hour class on how to become a gladiator! The kids get to dress up and learn how to fight like a warrior in Ancient Rome! During these entertaining lessons, kids learn about Roman weapons and about life in the imperial city. They even get to take home an official diploma declaring their knowledge and experience of being a gladiator.

A puppet show

Next, experience an iconic tradition when you visit Italy with your family- a puppet show! Teatrino di Pulcinella al Gianicolo and San Carlino theater have puppet shows throughout the day and some are interactive which really get the geo-traversers giggling! These shows are generally free but they do pass around a hat and your kids will love to toss in some coins as a donation to the puppeteers.

Address: Viale dei Bambini

The Borghese Gardens

There are many activities to get out the wiggles in little bodies. There are boat rides, sightseeing, bicycle riding, segways, playgrounds, and pony rides. It is one of the local’s favorite parks so you will get to experience authentic Roman pastimes. 

You can cool off with some of Italy’s most famous gelato while you tour the famous site of the marble fountains of Piazza Navona. You can visit the catacombs, look in the Hole in the Pantheon’s Roof, or throw a coin in the famousTrevi Fountain.

6. Florence, Italy with family

Florence is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. It is a city full of history and culture, with many kid-friendly attractions. Actually, it probably is the most kid-friendly city on this list, thus making it a perfect destination when traveling in Italy with family. 

Florence is filled with activities for the kiddos all the while being compact which makes it easy to move about and get to all of the fun to be had. 

So, what can you see and do in Florence, Italy with kids?

Antique Merry Go Round in Piazza Della Repubblica

Piazza della Repubblica is my personal favorite place in Florence. I loved the festive ambiance, little shops and cozy cafes lining the square, and street musicians and performers entertaining tourists and locals. 

Thea wasn’t with us in Florence but I am sure she would have adored the gorgeous antique Merry Go Round. If your kids are sweet-toothed, I recommend Cafe Gilli. It lures visitors in with its mouth-watering traditional pastries and sweets.

Bartolucci toy shops

Make sure you watch Pinocchio with kids before your trip to Italy and visit Bartolucci toy shops that sell wooden toys. They are strictly handmade in Italy. Bartolucci toy shops are located in multiple cities throughout Italy. However, the one in Florence, very close to Piazza della Signoria is located in a gorgeous ancient building which is a must-see! Even if you don’t buy anything in their beautiful shop (not easy to resist, to be honest), show your kids versions of wooden Pinocchio. Nowadays, when kids are surrounded by tons of plastic, China-made toys, it’s nice to see and experience difference and quality. The address in Florence: Via della Condotta, 12 

Santa Maria del Fiore

The most distinctive and iconic landmark in Florence is Florence’s Duomo, Santa Maria del Fiore. Climbing its cupola to gaze over Florence is one of the most popular activities in the city. 463 steps lead to the top. This might be too much for the little tots, however, one of a kind hiking through the winding stairwell adventure for older kids. 

The children will love to visit Duomo, Santa Maria del Fiore. They can climb all the way to the top of the tower and be in awe of the multicolored marbles on the facade, baptistry, and tower.  

Did you know that Brunelleschi’s architectural marvel is still the largest brick dome ever built? In fact, during its construction, the skeptics thought it might even collapse.

Tip on visiting Santa Maria del Fiore : If you only plan to enter the cathedral and leave, the entrance is free. However, if you will be going up to the cupola, or wish to visit other monuments within the complex, you will need a ticket. By other monuments I mean the underground archaeological site of Santa Reparata, the Cathedral Museum (Museo dell’Opera del Duomo), the Baptistery, Giotto’s Bell Tower (campanile), and of course Brunelleschi’s Dome (the cupola). The lines can be pretty long, especially during peak seasons, so I recommend getting a ticket in advance. Check these options for visiting Florence’s Duomo:

Family- friendly museums in Florence, Italy

Take a break from the sun or refuge from the rain by visiting one of the many kid-friendly museums in Florence. Some of these are the Museum Stibbert which holds suits of armor that will leave kids wide-eyed and breathless. The Museo di Ragazzi al Palazzo Vecchio on Piazza della Signoria where the kids get to dress up. While the Galileo and Leonardo da Vinci Museum are perfect for science lovers and kids who love construction.

Leonardo da Vinci museum 

It is especially great for older kids, tweens, and teens. Da Vinci probably needs no introduction, but there is more to Leonardo than Mona Lisa. Interactive exhibits in the museum display reconstructions of his military, flying, and civil engineering projects. The fun part? Kids can actually play with the machines and test them out!

On displays, visitors can see reproductions of Leonardo’s most famous paintings, and have fun with the Mona Lisa reproduction. In fact, you can take a photo with your kids’ faces peeking through the hole in the Mona Lisa reproduction.  

Address and the official website: Via de Servi, 66R, 50122, Florence https://leonardointeractivemuseum.com

Stibbert Museum (Museo Stibbert)

This is the go-to place for fans of knights and armor. Even if you are not that huge of a fan, I am pretty sure that the rich collection of ancient artifacts will impress you. But first, have you heard of Frederick Stibbert?

To be completely honest, before our trip, I didn’t know who this person was. Apparently, the guy lived between 1836-1906. He inherited a huge collection of artifacts from all over the world. He kept adding to his collection, eventually transforming his 19th-century villa into a museum. What you can see in the museum are relics that include tapestries, gorgeous furniture, costumes, paintings, musical instruments, armor, and more!

The villa museum is located around a 15-20 minutes car ride from central Florence. It’s surrounded by stunning English-style gardens thus making it a perfect place for a stroll. Please note that only guided tours are permitted here. 

Address : Via Federigo Stibbert 26, Florence

Museo Galileo 

As the name suggests, this little but definitely worth visiting museum focuses on Galileo’s contributions to scientific discovery. Again, this museum is more suitable for older kids, tweens, and teens. However, there are some interactive exhibits to keep the youngest visitors entertained. 

The exhibits focus on astronomy, geometry, medicine, and meteorology.

There is a particularly interesting exhibit displaying ancient microscopes, clocks, and their parts, telescopes, and thermometers. Now one of the displays is not for the faint-hearted and definitely not for the youngest members of the family. It displays one of Galileo’s preserved fingers…

I am adding the link to the museum’s official website. There are some guides and maps in several languages for download. 

Address: Piazza dei Giudici 1, Florence

Official site :  http://www.museogalileo.it/

La Specola 

La Specola is a Natural History Museum that happens to be the oldest science museum in Europe. I guess after many palaces, paintings, and other works of art, seeing some stuffed animals, and sea creatures is a cool change for young kids. The 17th-century pet of the Medici family is also on display here. Can you guess what kind of animal that is? No, not a cat. They kept a hippopotamus for a pet! You and the kids can see this stuffed hippopotamus pet in one of the displays. Enjoy!

Foodie’s Paradise

I love how Florence is great for foodies! In addition to mouth-watering dishes in restaurants and cafes all over the city, visitors can participate in a variety of cooking classes. We all love gelato, right? In Florence, you can participate in a cooking class and learn how to make one. How about enrolling the kids in cooking classes that teach cooking traditional Florentine cuisine while you enjoy Italian wine tasting?

In addition to cultural and architectural gems, Florence is a culinary delight. Some of the best pizzas I ever had in my entire life were in Florence! 

Check out the links below and book family-friendly tours in and around Florence:

Florence: Ticket to Brunelleschi’s Dome with Panoramic Views

Florence: Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket

From Florence: Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano Day Trip with Lunch

From Florence: Tuscany Day Trip with Optional Lunch and Wine

That brings me to the end of this list. As you can see, Italy’s historic cities will provide the perfect backdrop for the vacation of a lifetime with your children. They will be having so many adventures that they won’t even realize they are learning so much about the history and culture of Italy.

Some of the cities are small and close together. This allows you to plan a few cities in the same trip. That is a big bonus when trying to pack in all of the fun that is waiting for you and your little ones. Whether it is mainstream, busy, tourist attractions or slow-paced, quaint adventures you desire, Italy and its glorious cities have you covered. 

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

Should you choose a road less traveled and experience an alternative city break in Europe, click on the link below:

11 kid-friendly alternative city breaks in europe, 1 comment . leave new.

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Best places to visit in italy.

Tourists and travel experts have long agreed that Italy is a special place, so much so that the country has become a de facto bucket list destination for just about everyone. Famous for its incredible food, rich historical sites, highly regarded art, charming small towns and picturesque cities, countrysides and coastlines, it's safe to say Italy's offerings are unmatched. U.S. News rounded up the best places to visit in Italy considering a number of factors, from affordability and seasonality to sights and crowds, to help you decide exactly where to go. Have a favorite destination in Italy? Cast your vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Amalfi Coast

Cinque terre, tuscany, italy.

A standard stop on many European vacation itineraries , Rome is not to be missed. Italy’s capital city is a globally renowned cultural and historical powerhouse, boasting everything from ancient ruins and tranquil parks to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here, you'll find the most important relic from the Roman Empire (the Colosseum), some of Michelangelo's greatest works (in the Sistine Chapel), an 18th century Baroque-style fountain (the Trevi Fountain) and, of course, the center of Catholicism (Vatican City). Other can’t-miss tourist attractions in the Eternal City include the Pantheon, the Roman Forum and St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church.

Situated in the scenic Tuscan valley, Florence woos travelers with old-world avenues leading to picturesque piazzas big and small. While you're soaking up the city's splendor, make sure to stop by the Piazza del Duomo, where the breathtaking Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is located, and the romantic Ponte Vecchio, a 14th century bridge overlooking the Arno River. Once central to the Renaissance movement, Florence also offers art aficionados the opportunity to see famous pieces by Michelangelo and other iconic artists of that period. As an added bonus, Florence is ideal for a daytrip to the Chianti wine region.

The journey to the cliff-side Amalfi Coast involves heart-stopping, hairpin turns on narrow roads, but travelers agree this is part of the fun. The region covers more than 30 miles of coastline and is home to 13 colorful seaside towns, each with its own story. Positano and Amalfi are the most popular, housing numerous hotels and sights. While here, hike, relax on the beach and eat to your heart's content (there are multiple Michelin-starred restaurants along the Amalfi Coast). For something more off-the-beaten-path, set your sights on Atrani. This humble fishing village boasts medieval whitewashed architecture, winding alleys and authentic Italian charm.

There are few destinations in the world that are quite like Venice. Its uniqueness can largely be attributed to the canals that run through this northern Italian city like roads, carrying water taxis and buses in addition to its fleet of famous gondolas. As such, there is a palpable bustle here that may surprise some first-timers. For a relaxing Venice vacation, seek out the smaller streets and canals away from the busy Grand Canal and St. Mark's Square. Just be sure to stroll across Rialto Bridge and tour the grand St. Mark’s Basilica at least once.

Cinque Terre, located on Italy's northern Ligurian coast, is made up of five picturesque towns – Manarola, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia and Riomaggiore. Manarola, the region’s oldest town, boasts scenic vineyards, olive groves and a centuries-old bell tower. Meanwhile, Vernazza, often considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, is well-known for its picture-perfect houses and grand medieval castle. The Cinque Terre offers an abundance of exciting activities, from boat tours and hiking to cooking classes and wine tastings. While here, don’t forget to save time for exploring the cliff-side Footpath Monterosso trail, a beautiful hiking path connecting Vernazza and Monterosso.

For centuries, this small island off the coast of southern Italy has attracted plenty of famous faces, from emperors to movie stars, due to its gorgeous scenery. Some of Capri's most amazing sights are best seen by boat, including the Faraglioni rock formations and the Blue Grotto, where sunlight turns the water into an unbelievably vivid shade of blue. On land, the Gardens of Augustus and Villa Jovis, an imperial palace, also provide spectacular views. Meanwhile, in the town center, visitors will find high-end shops and restaurants where they can relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Considered the land of the sirens in Greek mythology, Sorrento continues to lure people with its charm and stunning views. Here, vacationers can explore enchanting piazzas or relax near the water before watching the sun set behind the cliffs. Plus, lemons are big in Sorrento – both in size and in popularity – and the area is known as one of the best places in the world to taste authentic limoncello, a lemon-flavored liquor. It's also the perfect base for daytrips and boat tours to nearby Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and other popular Italian locales.

Italy's second-largest city is best known for its high fashion, playing host to Milan Fashion Week each winter and home to iconic fashion houses including Giorgio Armani, Prada and Versace. Visitors can peruse such high-end brands at the dazzling Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade. But Milan's architecture (including the Gothic Milan Cathedral and grand Teatro alla Scala opera house) and sites like Castello Sforzesco (which holds nearly 10 museums and exhibitions) are worth a visit on their own. What's more, the city is incredibly walkable, so feel free to explore on foot – with or without designer stilettos.   

Located about 30 miles from Verona, Lake Garda tends to be more approachable and wallet-friendly (if a bit more touristy) than Lake Como. Activities in this recreational hot spot include swimming and windsurfing, as well as hiking and taking a funicular to Mount Baldo. Lake Garda also attracts families with Gardaland Resort, which includes themed hotels as well as an amusement park, water park and aquarium. If you're looking to get away from the crowds, go beyond the main tourist sites to the quieter northern side of the lake, where you'll find the highest mountains and tucked-away towns.

If you're looking for Italy without the crowds, Tuscany is really all it's cracked up to be. Italy's famous countryside offers travelers spectacular landscapes dotted with romantic villas and castles equipped with wineries and superb restaurants. Don’t miss out on a visit to the walled city of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its medieval towers. What's more, Tuscan locales like Pisa (which offers much more than its leaning tower) and Siena are an easy drive from top destinations such as Bologna and Cinque Terre, perfect for daytrippers who don't want to stay in one place for too long.

Assisi, a medieval town with religious connections, sits on a hilltop in the lush landscapes of Umbria, just more than 100 miles north of Rome. This peaceful town's biggest draws are its sights dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, one of Italy's patron saints, including the Basilica of San Francesco, which houses his tomb as well as colorful frescos, and The Woods of San Francesco. Beyond its religious heritage, Assisi is worth a visit for its picturesque streets and sweeping views, while its location also makes it ideal for a truffle hunting excursion or wine tasting tour.

As the location of several ancient Greek legends, Sicily has an almost mythical quality. Once you visit for yourself, you'll see why so many writers were inspired by this island, which happens to be the largest in the Mediterranean. Be enchanted by Sicily's crystal-clear waters and golden beaches. Marvel at Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, or try hiking up it in summer or skiing down it in winter. Also save time for taking in the many cultures that have called this island home at its various cathedrals and archaeological sites.

This former Roman city in southern Italy is equal parts chilling and impressive. Pompeii was left almost completely intact after it was buried in ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. Its astonishingly well-preserved ruins now provide present-day visitors a glimpse into what life was like during ancient times. True history buffs might also enjoy a trip to nearby Herculaneum, another city that was preserved by the same eruption, while more adventurous explorers should consider hiking to the top of Mount Vesuvius for jaw-dropping panoramas of the Bay of Naples and the Sorrento Peninsula.

Best known for its Shakespeare ties, Verona appeals to fans of "Romeo and Juliet" with themed tours of the sights that allegedly inspired the play. But there is more to this city than its literary link. Verona, located about 15 miles east of Lake Garda, is also home to several impressive attractions and historic buildings (the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, after all). Travelers won't want to miss the Arena di Verona, a first-century Roman amphitheater that is still in use, and Giardino Giusti, a beautifully sculpted Renaissance garden.

Sardinia provides the best of both worlds. Costa Smeralda is all about luxury, with its lush beaches and coves overlooking yacht-filled waters. And away from all of the glitz and glamour of Costa Smeralda, you'll find a more laid-back side of the island, including small medieval towns where Sardinians still practice sheepherding and wear traditional clothing. What's more, Sardinia features several ancient ruins, such as UNESCO World Heritage-listed Su Nuraxi di Barumini.

If you really want to treat yourself on your next vacation, Lake Como is where you want to be. Here, opulent villas and hotels line the shores and sandy beaches beckon to sun seekers. You'll see sleek sailboats and speedboats coasting in the middle of the lake, which is the perfect place to admire the region's surrounding hills. Meanwhile, for a lesson in luxury, tour one of the region’s grand villas; top picks among travelers include Villa Melzi d’Eril, Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello. Later, check out the Como Cathedral, a magnificent structure boasting Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles.

The small, crescent-shaped village of Portofino is known as a vacation hot spot for the rich and famous. The water surrounding Portofino is often filled with yachts and is great for swimming and diving. Plus, the area's beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an excellent place to unwind. When travelers need a break from relaxing, they can venture just outside of Portofino to check out historical sites like Castello Brown, an ancient military fortress with incredible views of the Marina di Portofino, and Abbazia di San Fruttuoso, a 10th century monastery that can only be reached by foot or ferry.

Thought to have been inhabited 12,000 years ago, Matera is one of the world's oldest continually occupied towns. Located in the Basilicata region in southern Italy, just west of Puglia, Matera's distinguishing features are its sassi (cave dwellings), which were inhabited until the 1950s. While here, look out for the many viewpoints, called belvederes, for a glimpse of the breathtaking cliffside. Visit Sasso Caveoso for the Casa Grotta cave house (inhabited until 1957) and the Santa Maria de Idris, a rupestrian church carved from the rocky landscape. Meanwhile, in Sasso Barisano – the oldest part of the city – you'll find modern comforts like hotels, restaurants and shops.

There are several reasons why Bologna, the capital of northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is often called "la dotta, la grassa e la rossa" ("the learned, the fat and the red"). For one, it's home to the oldest university in Europe, the University of Bologna. The city is also a food lover's dream thanks to its world-renowned cuisine, which includes Italian staples like tortellini and lasagna Bolognese. Bologna even features a gelato university and the food-themed amusement park, FICO Eataly World. Plus, the city boasts an array of terra cotta-roofed medieval buildings, including a pair of leaning towers.

Located in the northwest corner of Italy, Turin is the perfect city break brimming with grand architecture, museums and delightful cuisine. Must-visit attractions include Mole Antonelliana (a former synagogue turned into a cinema museum), the 16th-century Royal Palace of Turin and the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum). Once you've toured the top sights, settle into local life by enjoying the city's riverside parks, street markets, football games and historic cafes. At the latter, you'll find unique coffee blends and decadent chocolate, as well as elaborate aperitif hours. On the long list of things Turin does right, you can find these three items at the top.   

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5 Best Places To Visit In Italy For Families

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Home » 5 Best Places To Visit In Italy For Families

Italy is a country that has enormous history, great architecture, beautiful art of all kinds, fantastic cuisine, and beautiful places to visit.

There are various cities you can visit in Italy, but things change a little bit if you are traveling with your family, especially with your kids.

Not as much in terms of being safe or not, but in terms of making a trip that will also provide a lot of fun for the whole family, especially for your children.

That is why here we will see the five best places you can visit in this beautiful country with your family and have a lot of fun. Let’s start.

5 BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY PLACES TO VISIT IN ITALY

Italy is one of the best places in Europe to travel with kids . You might be wondering what age is best.

We visited Italy with a 2.5-year-old, a tween, and also a teenager. And Italy was great for all those ages.

We also have a handy guide for those of you who want to visit Italy with a baby .

There you can find more specific information about what to expect if you are visiting Italy with an infant.

Italy doesn’t have to be super expensive. Here is a great post that will help you to figure out how much your trip to Italy with your family might cost.

Below we will share with you the 5 best family-friendly places to visit in Italy when traveling as a family to make sure your next vacation is fun and enjoyable for all.

Rome may be the best option for going on vacation with your kids since there are so many things you can see .

The capital of Italy is the perfect place because you can create a fascinating historical adventure, and your holiday will look like a traveling experience in a movie.

You will all enjoy it tremendously, and the kids will have the time of their lives.

Another great thing about Rome is that there are some impressive hotels in Rome where you can relax and don’t worry about anything else but enjoyment.

This city has numerous art galleries and museums that will keep everybody entertained, and they will also have a chance to learn something new.

Another significant reason why Rome is great for family trips is its food, it has some of the best cafes and restaurants in the world.

Let’s be realistic, there isn’t almost a single kid that isn’t thrilled by eating pizza, ice cream, or pasta, and Rome has it all at the highest level.

The island of Sicily is yet another perfect destination for family vacations since it has everything from archeological sites to exciting and unique towns.

In essence, there is everything for everyone, from babies to grandparents.

If you are visiting Sicily with a small baby or a kid of young age, you will for sure enjoy this island since you and your loved ones can have a lot of quiet time near the seaside villages.

Also, the family resorts can give you a safe place for your kids to enjoy this beautiful island.

If you have a group of family members who love to spend their time outside, they can go hiking through the beautiful landscapes and watch the range of blue water surrounding this place.

Kids can also be fascinated by all the ancient ruins, ancient amphitheaters, and the interesting ups and downs of the cities.

Last but not least, even if you are the adrenaline type, you can still go cycling across the island or try stand-up paddleboarding.

A list of Italian places to visit can not be written without mentioning Venice.

There is no need to explain what an extraordinary history this city has, and it is perfect for older children that can explore all the monuments and impressive museums.

It is excellent for family vacations since there is a sense of going on an adventure in a city like no other, surrounded by water everywhere.

Also, all the maze-like streets are a chance for the kids to have a lot of fun by navigating with the whole family as you walk together around Venice.

In addition, the kids will be happy to see the canals that are actually roads and the boats that play the role of cars.

Venice is a place where you can drive in a water taxi, how impressive is that?

4. Lake Garda

Our top two favorite lakes it Lake Garda and Lake Como, and if you are wondering which lake is best: Lake Garda vs Lake Como , then Lake Garda is the clear winner!

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, which is located halfway between Brescia and Verona.

It is still one of the most popular travel destinations in Italy, and it is great for family trips since there are beautiful forests, mountains, villages you can visit, and of course, some interesting swimming activities.

If you are traveling with older children, you can spend your time with a lot of fun activities like watersports or hiking.

If you like boats, you can take a trip to several attractions that can be seen around this beautiful lake.

On the other hand, if you are traveling with younger children, you can visit the amazing Gardaland, an enormous theme park, or you can also see the Caneva Aquapark.

Lake Garda is one of the best places to visit near Milan . So if you are flying into Milan Airport, you could easily add a few days at the lake to your itinerary.

Last but not least, Pisa is also one of the best places to visit with your family, mainly because of the fascinating Leaning Tower of Pisa .

Just imagine your kids seeing a tower that doesn’t look like anything else they have seen before.

It is fascinating for adults as well, and as you probably have seen online, you can create some interesting photos.

If you are traveling with younger ones, the smaller kids can enjoy running around the city that has some beautiful green space, and they can admire all the architectural beauties.

Older kids and adults will for sure enjoy Pisa as yet another city where they can try all the food in the local restaurants.

Final Words:

Italy is one of our favorite destinations to visit with our kids. Which is why we have returned on 3 different occasions.

We also spent 3 months traveling around Italy, it was an incredible experience.

We hope you enjoy your next family trip to Italy!

Andrzej Ejmont

2 thoughts on “5 best places to visit in italy for families”.

Italy is by far my favourite European country to travel to! We now have a little one so will definitely be going back with him. Lake Garda is definitely on list as is Sicily!

Thank you for your comment and sorry for the much-delayed response. Italy is simply amazing 🙂

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Planning a Trip to Italy with Family

Italy has everything you may be looking for in a multigenerational vacation destination. Gorgeous historic cities, delicious restaurants and vineyards keep adults happy; pizza, gelato, beaches and plenty of piazzas to run around are perfect for the kids. Beautiful weather and a family first attitude make it a welcoming and inviting place for everyone, from babies to grandparents! These are the tips you need for planning a visit to Italy with family.

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Table of Contents

Tips for Planning an Italy Vacation All Ages Will Love

What are the major cities in italy for tourists.

Italy is a long, boot shaped peninsula in the South of Europe. Over 1000km long, Italy has land borders with France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia in the north and it is surrounded by the Mediterranean on three sides.

Italy has several international airports serving the north, center and south of the country. The biggest airports in Italy (and most convenient for tourists are): Rome Leonardo da Vinci Airport (FCO), Milan Malpensa (MXP), Venice Marco Polo (VCE) and Catania Fontana Rossa (CTA).

The airport in Rome is the most centrally located and most convenient for visiting Rome, the Amalfi Coast and Tuscany. Milan and Venice airports serve the north of Italy and are good jump off points to visit the Dolomites, Lake Garda, Lake Como and Cinque Terre, as well as Venice and Milan themselves. Catania’s airport is the best if you want to visit Sicily. 

When is the best time to visit Italy? 

Italy can be visited year round but there are four distinct seasons. Your experience will be different depending on the time of the year you go.

For sightseeing, the best times to visit Italy are the spring and fall. During this time, the weather is mild and you will be able to explore cities and historical sights without the scorching heat of the summer or the chilly temperatures and frequent rain of the winter. May, June, September, and October are a busy time for tourists so advance booking is mandatory.

For a sea and sun vacation or for the Dolomites, Cinque Terre, and Amalfi Coast, the best time to visit is the summer (June -August). This is when trails are open and tourism services are fully open. Summer is high season in Italy as foreigners and locals both are taking their vacations. Advance booking is a must. 

For a budget vacation, the best time to visit is the winter (Nov – Feb) with the exception of the Christmas time and February in Venice. This is when the festivities and the famous Venice carnival cause a spike in visits and prices. During this time, you need to bundle up and be ready for rain. Winters in Italy are not overly cold so it is unlikely there will be temperatures that prevent you from sightseeing. 

What’s the best way to travel around Italy?

Most visitors arrive to Italy by plane and then explore by car or train. Both are good options and you will need to choose based on what you plan to visit.

Trains in Italy are excellent and provide the best way to explore cities and Cinque Terre. Small kids ride free and there are family offers that make traveling by train as a family easy. 

If your family wants to explore the best places to visit in Tuscany , the best things to do in the Dolomites , explore the Amalfi Coast and the South (including Sicily), the best way to get around is by car.

Those traveling from the US who are used to freeway driving, should know that driving in Italy will require a bit of getting used to. For long distances, you will be driving on the Italian ‘autostrade’: these are Italy’s highways. They are pretty straightforward to use.

Once you get out of autostrade and into the cities, things are different. Most towns centers are closed to non-resident cars and apply high fines to rule breakers. However, street signs are often unclear and many of the horror stories of fines from Italy come from people inadvertently driving where they shouldn’t! 

However, you don’t need to worry too much, you just need to know what to expect and we can help! These are our tips for driving in Italy .

What do you need to know before traveling to Italy?

English is widely understood in tourist areas of Italy. That being said, you will need Italian for most daily interactions (shops, small guesthouses, restaurants etc). Learning a few words of Italian goes a long way. You may find many people actually understand English, if spoken slowly, but can only answer in Italian. Do not expect fluency.

Currency in Italy

The currency in Italy is the Euro and the best way to get money while traveling is using local ATMs (Bancomat, in Italian). Credit cards are accepted for bigger purchases, but daily expenses, souvenirs and small amounts (anything under 50 Euro), cash is king and small bank notes are preferred.

It is good practice to only carry a small amount of cash on you at any given time to avoid pickpockets, who are often active in busy areas. In Italy, it is compulsory to have ID on you at all times so a body pouch you can hide under your clothes or a hidden pocket in a crossbody bag are good to have. In general Italy is not a dangerous country, but it is good practice not to flash credit cards, jewels or expensive gear and to always carry your day bag with you. 

Healthcare in Italy

Italy has a good healthcare system and emergency care is provided to everyone, regardless of nationality. 

For tourists, health services are not free, but the cost tends to be rather reasonable. Depending on where you are from, you may be able to be reimbursed at home (EU citizens). The phone number of health emergencies is 118 and there is an extensive network of hospitals and GPs in the country.

Tourist destinations and big cities tend to have English-speaking doctors for local expats and visitors. Healthcare is managed at a regional level so the facilities and booking systems for appointments will vary depending on your location.

What to Pack for Italy

Your packing list for Italy will vary quite a bit depending on the season. Aside from basic clothing items, I recommend you carry:

• Excellent walking shoes (sneakers or walking sandals) 
• A crossbody bag as your main day bag
• An Italian phrasebook
• Conservative clothing for visiting churches and the Vatican. This includes below-the-knee skirts, jeans/ long pants and tops that cover the shoulders.
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, sun hat for summer
• Warm winter clothing for November to February travel 
• Insect repellent for summer (mosquitoes are voracious in Italy)

You can find our full packing list for Italy here.

Destination specific challenges  

Despite being a great destination for a multigenerational vacation, it is good to know the following:

Pickpockets operate in busy touristy areas. Do not leave your valuables unattended and avoid putting wallets in back pockets or allowing easy access to purses.

Street signs and directions are not always clear in Italy: always plan extra time for driving and catching trains.

Some areas pose mobility challenges that can be hard on grandparents and small kids. The Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are difficult from a mobility point of view as they have steps and steep hills. 

To plan a visit to these areas, I recommend you check out specific family guides with all the practical info and tips you need. This is our family guide to the Amalfi Coast  and our guide to Cinque Terre for families .

Top things to do in Italy for families

Our recommended activities in Italy for large family groups are:

Sightseeing in Rome

Unique in the world, Rome is a beautiful city with attractions for all ages. Rome landmarks like the Colosseum, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona are easy to enjoy at all ages. There is a vast choice of accommodation in Rome which means you are sure to find a hotel that can cater to kids, parents and grandparents alike. To be near the action, consider booking one of the hotels near the Colosseum .

I recommend you plan at least 4 days in Rome and mix time exploring on your own with some family tours. Plan your tours ahead of time, especially for visiting the Vatican, which is wonderful but large and busy.

Discover Venice

Venice is unique in the world and a place that is magical at any age. The best way to visit is to stroll around its wonderful center and make the most of the ‘vaporini’ (water buses) criss-crossing the city. They are fun for kids and make getting around really easy!

Enjoy a Tuscan agriturismo

Tuscany is a wonderful Italian region with typical Italian, historical small towns (Florence, Siena), hilltop villages, and fantastic countryside. 

With kids and grandparents, I recommend spending lazy days enjoying long lunches in a local agriturismo. These are farmhouses open to guests that operate as restaurants, educational farms and guesthouses and are great for a multigenerational trip. 

CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATIONS IN TUSCANY

Relax in Lake Garda

Close to Venice and Verona, Lake Garda has beautiful towns perfect for sightseeing, as well as some of the best theme parks in Italy (Gardaland is here). There’s a plethora of family accommodation options and cycling and hiking opportunities. If you are looking for a place where kids can be active while the grandparents relax, this is the best spot in Italy! 

Take a cooking class

Italian food is world famous and Italians are very willing to teach you how to make it at home. Cooking classes are a popular activity in Italy and they are perfect for all ages. Visitors can learn to make Italian favorites and you can choose between home or restaurant settings. This is a super fun and educational way to make family memories in Italy!  

Recommended family restaurants in Italy

In Italy you have restaurants everywhere and kids are usually welcome. If you are in one of the following locations however, we recommend you try the following: 

Lola on Via Flamina (Rome) – this is a wonderful family-friendly restaurant that kids and adults will love. It has an extensive menu with traditional Italian dishes and a beautiful terrace with playground.

Dolfin (Venice) – lovely local restaurant with both traditional Venetian food and pizza. The restaurant has high chairs for small kids and good vegan and gluten-free options too, making it perfect for family groups with different needs. 

Maiano (Florence) – located immediately outside of Florence and easy to reach by taxi, Maiano is a gorgeous farm with restaurants perfect for the whole family. Sit inside or on the outdoor terrace to taste the food made with their own produce, then take a walk with the kids to see the animals.

Casale di Martignano – wonderful country restaurant on the shores of Lake Martignano, just outside of Rome. The restaurant has a beautiful outside terrace overlooking the lake for a multigenerational meal. There’s also a small café right on the lakeshore if you prefer a picnic or a snack. The property has a large lawn for kids to run around and opportunities to swim and boat on the lake.

Large group accommodations in Italy 

Private villas are a wonderful choice for family groups visiting Italy as they offer you complete privacy and large indoor and outside space to be together without being on top of each other. The areas of Tuscany and Umbria offer the largest selection of villas in Italy.

Agriturismo

Agriturismo are country homes operating as tourist accommodation. Think of it as a farm stay in Italy. The philosophy of this type of accommodation is slow tourism so expect traditional décor and local produce. Depending on the establishment, you can get a room or an apartment. Most will have self-catering facilities or a restaurant onsite. 

Hotels/Alberghi

Italy has a large selection of hotels in all shapes and sizes. If traveling with small kids or grandparents with mobility issues, inquire about accessibility. Hotels in older buildings may have no elevator or smaller rooms. Large international hotels are usually the most accessible in terms of facilities. If Rome is on your itinerary, check out these best hotels for families in Rome .

Aibnbs and vacation rentals

Airbnb is popular in Italy and can be a good option of you are staying multiple nights in one location. Accessibility may be an issue. Always ask specifically if the apartment has steps or a lift and inquire about air conditioning if visiting in summer. (And don’t miss these tips for booking a vacation rental ).

Suggested Italy itineraries 

Italy is rather compact, but it has such a concentration of places to see. Families could easily spend a month in any of its regions and not run out of things to do. So realistically, if you want to see ‘Italy’ you will need a week or more. That said, here are a couple of places that we believe can also work for a weekend in Italy.

Italy weekend itineraries

You can visit Rome and its main attractions in as little as a couple of days. I recommend you plan one day to see the Colosseum, Trevi and the Spanish steps area. Spend the second day exploring the Vatican and Piazza Navona area.

Florence and Chianti

One day in each city will allow you to get a taste for them. Traveling between the two allows you to admire the wonderful Tuscany countryside. Be sure to find a vineyard and sample a glass of the local red while kids play on the property (yes, kids are welcome).

Venice and Burano

If you only have a couple of days, you can see the main attractions of Venice and experience its charming lagoon.

7-Day Itinerary for Italy

If you have a week in Italy, there are many options. Families looking for a leisurely stay should consider spending the whole week between Florence and Tuscany or exploring two cities. Venice and Florence work well together and so do Rome and Florence. 

If you want to see as much as possible and don’t mind changing location every night, you could follow an itinerary such as this one (does not include arrival and departure day): 

Day 1 Venice

Visit Venice city center, Piazza San Marco, and Doge’s Palace.

Day 2 – Venice and Burano

Visit the area of Cannaregio and the Jewish ghetto or treat the kids to a family treasure hunt. In the afternoon take the ferry to Burano and enjoy the island and view the sunset on the lagoon.

Day 3 – Florence

Take the fast train to Florence and spend the day in its stunning city center. 

Day 4 – Florence to Siena

Spend the morning sightseeing and shopping in Florence then get a car and drive to Siena. Pick an agriturismo near the town so you can relax in the famous Tuscany countryside.

Day 5 – Siena and local area

Explore Siena, then drive towards Pienza and Val d’Orcia, the area of Tuscany famous for rolling hills and cypress trees. Take in the scenic drive and spend the night in an agriturismo in the area.

Day 6 and 7 – Rome

Make your way to Rome and find accommodation in the city center. Spend the first day in the area of the Pantheon then devote your second day to an attraction of your choice (Colosseum and Vatican will require a morning each, so prioritizing is key)  plus lazy strolling in the city center.  

As you can see, traveling to Italy with a large group can be overwhelming, but use these tips to help plan the perfect Italian vacation.

About the Author: Marta Correale is an Italian mama of 2 with a passion for travel. Born and raised in Rome, Marta shares her passion for traveling with kids on her personal blog Learning Escapes and is the editor of the online travel magazines Mama Loves Rome and Mama Loves Italy – practical guides for independent vacations in Italy. 

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Best Places in Italy for Families

I taly is the perfect country to explore on your next family trip. Rich in history, charming villages, spectacular scenery, and unforgettable food, it’s truly the perfect spot for kids of all ages. There is so much to see in do in Italy for families it can be difficult to know where to begin.

Use this list as a starting point for planning a multi-generational trip to Italy . It will help you identify where to start, what not to miss, and the main attractions you will find on your family vacation.

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This simple travel guide of the best places in Italy for families includes the best tips so that you can plan the most spectacular Italian getaway. With so many stunning cities in Italy, I narrowed it down to places where you can:

• Explore medieval castles
• Visit the best theme parks in Italy for all ages 
• Have a once-in-a-lifetime experience riding a gondola
• Take a dip in shimmering turquoise waters
• Walk around picturesque villages
• Attend a hands-on lesson and learn about Italian culture and history
• Learn how to make your own Italian ice cream 

What is the nicest part of Italy to visit with family?

Italy is, without a doubt, one of the most breathtaking countries in the world. With everything from watersports activities, stunning resorts, ancient ruins, and volcanoes, Italy offers a wealth of options for children and adults alike.

Everyone will have a favorite region to explore, but we’re partial to Rome and Florence, but love the regions of Umbria and Tuscany too. We are sure your family holiday to Italy will be amazing whether you choose to explore the big cities or the smaller towns.

Best Places to Travel in Italy with Family

Most visitors to Italy start in Rome and with good reason. Italy’s capital city is overflowing with tales of fearless gladiators, ancient ruins and catacombs, and so much more. It’s the perfect destination for travelers of all ages, and it’s a great place to travel with young children as locals can be quite welcoming.

Rome with grandparents is manageable, but there can be a lot of walking. Thankfully, the city’s public transportation is quite good and easy to use. If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Rome , there are plenty of options.

Highlights of Rome that shouldn’t be missed are Vatican City, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. The Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill can be explored together.

Book your tickets for Rome’s attractions in advance and bring plenty of water and good walking shoes. If you don’t want to attempt everything on your own, you might want to consider a private walking tour .

We recommend booking a tour of the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums to avoid the long lines. Children might enjoy climbing the dome of St Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican’s most stunning church, while grandparents explore on their own. 

Visit Villa Borghese , a majestic park that is home to a zoo and museums. Young kids will love running around and adults can marvel at the opulence of Villa Medici and take in the art collections. 

Tours in Rome

Should your family be interested in a more personal experience, we would recommend booking a tour or hands-on class. Take a pasta   or pizza-making cooking class , a gelato-making class , or even a food tour . These are a good option for some quality family time and a lot of laughs.

If your kids want to see what life was like for the ancient Romans, don’t miss the two-hour gladiator class at the Gladiator School of Rome . They use replica weapons from Ancient Rome and kids love it!

Families who don’t have much time to explore Rome should consider booking a private guide . This allows you to explore at your own pace and set the itinerary if needed.

Most of the top sites in Rome are located right in the city center, making it easy to see it all. Use your guide to show you the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Palatine Hill, and more!

2. Venice

It doesn’t get any more exciting than Venice , one of the most famous cities in Italy. The entire family will love cruising the canals of Venice in a gondola. For a more immersive experience, book a rowing lesson and learn how to row like a true gondolier. 

The main square in Venice is Saint Mark’s Square, home to St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doge’s Palace. Consider booking a tour that covers both of the buildings and save time waiting in lines.

If you would rather explore on your own, we would recommend getting an audio guide with your admission. The Doge’s Palace is extraordinary and kids and adults alike will enjoy a visit.

When you’re finished, small children will love chasing the pigeons in St Mark’s Square. There are also plenty of cafés where adults can grab a coffee and watch the kids run around. It’s a great way to burn off some of their energy!

Some of our favorite activities in Italy for families involve taking classes and Venice has some unique ones. Want to try glassblowing? Check out this tour . Mask-making is another option if you want to try your hand at a different Venetian craft.

If you have a few days in Venice, consider taking a day trip to Murano and Burano to see the famous glass and lace-making operations. Or if the family wants some adventure, head to Aquafollie , a water theme park just an hour away from Venice. 

Naples is one of the most exciting regions for the whole family. Some of my favorite places in Italy for families are the underground ruins in Naples, like the exciting Galleria Borbonica (Bourbon Tunnel) and Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground ) , two underground caves that are full of mysterious paths. 

Take a ride on the Central Funicular which takes families to Piazza Vanvitelli where kids can run around and everyone can enjoy an afternoon gelato break.

Or head to the Park of Capodimonte where kids can play at one of the largest parks in Italy while adults relax and take in the stunning views overlooking Naples.

One of our favorite day trips from Naples is visiting Pompeii . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit, and we would recommend a guided tour , although it isn’t necessary. Kids will love exploring the remnants of buildings, frescoes, and body casts of people who were discovered after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Plan on spending at least half a day here, and bring hats, water, and plenty of sunscreen.

Another not to miss day trip is to the Amalfi Coast where families can spend time exploring Sorrento and Positano and other small towns while visiting some gorgeous beaches.

Don’t leave Naples without visiting the majestic Phlegraean Fields, a caldera region with 24 volcanoes and craters. Located 30 minutes away from Naples is an active volcano known as Solfatara di Pozzuoli that is guaranteed to blow everyone’s minds. 

4. Cinque Terre 

Walking through the five villages of Cinque Terre you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into a postcard. This area is made up of the smaller villages Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, and Vernaza. Most people explore Cinque Terre on a hike, which takes six hours without stops.

If anyone in your family has mobility issues, this might be one area you want to skip. Most of the towns are not accessible by car and require visitors to reach them on foot. I would not recommend this for families with small children or strollers, but you can take the train and explore that way if you want to skip the hiking trails.

Some of the highlights of Cinque Terre include a walk along the colorful coastal trail or exploring the small villages. We recommend taking in the gorgeous sea view while you kick back with a nice cheese and meat platter and bruschetta at Nessun Dorma or grabbing gelato while the kids play in the local parks and squares.

Sicily is a natural wonderland overflowing with ancient ruins, pristine beaches, and tons of kid-friendly activities. Palermo and Taormina are good home bases for multi-generational travelers. There are plenty of vacation rentals in Sicily to choose from, and they offer opportunities to explore beyond these Italian cities.

In Palermo, there’s a puppet museum, a botanic garden, and even a zoo. The closest beach to Palermo is Mondello Beach if your family wants to spend time building sand castles and soaking up the sun. 

A great day trip is La Rocca di Cefalù. Families can choose to climb La Rocca, a majestic cliff overlooking the town of Cefalu and the ocean. It is a steep climb, so family members not hiking might prefer wandering through the streets of town and exploring the piazzas or hanging out on the beach.

If your extended family is up for an adventure, take a Jeep tour to the summit of Mount Etna volcano (in a 4 wheel vehicle ). You will be accompanied by a tour guide who will show you the moon-like landscape and the volcano’s crater.

Families that love amusement parks shouldn’t miss Etnaland at the foot of Mount Etna. It’s the largest theme park in Southern Italy and has roller coasters as well as a waterpark.

6. Sardinia

With over a thousand miles of majestic coastlines, the island of Sardinia captivates travelers from around the world. It’s the perfect place if your family is looking for an island vacation in Italy.

Go swimming in Cala Goloritzé, located in eastern Sardinia. It’s one of the most striking beaches in Italy. Of course, there are plenty of snorkeling, caving, rock climbing, and kayak opportunities here as well.

Sardinia also has some popular archaeological sites including Su Nuraxi di Barumini which features defensive stone structures dating to 1600 to 1200 BCE. Kids will love clamoring over the stones and learning more about Sardinian history.

Asinara National Park is another popular destination in Sardinia that all ages can enjoy. There are over 12,000 acres to explore, with hiking and horseback riding trails, and fabulous flora and fauna.

It is home to unique creatures like blue-eyed albino donkeys, wild boars, and even peregrine falcons. Consider booking a guided tour that includes snorkeling and time exploring the park.

Put your chef hats on and visit the Carpigiani Gelato Museum in Bologna, where both little ones and older children can learn the ins and outs of making authentic Italian gelato (ice cream). How cool is that? At the end of the tour, they’ll get a diploma that proves they know their way around the kitchen.

Older kids will love climbing the Due Torri (Two Towers) and taking in the stunning views. We would not recommend this for younger children or grandparents who might have mobility issues. While the others are climbing, let the little ones run through the piazza while adults relax at the café.

Afterwards, everyone can enjoy some delicious Italian food. Bologna is known as “la Grassa” (the fat one), so you know the cuisine is sure to be stellar.

Looking to spend time in the beautiful outdoors? Then visit Dulcamara farm , a restaurant and agriturismo that’s only 20 minutes away. The restaurant area has a playground and an animal farm, so kids might never want to leave!

Dealing with a rainy day? Then head to Burattinificio Mangiafoco , a tiny theatre where you can watch a magical puppet show. Or head to La Macchina del Tempo, a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to experience different times and places in Bologna.

8. Milan and Lake Como

One of my favorite places to visit in Italy for families is Milan. While this cosmopolitan city is known as a fashion mecca, Milan is an underrated family-friendly destination in Italy.

Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a majestic outdoor shopping mall that is pretty unforgettable. If your family loves scavenger hunts, consider entertaining the kids by asking them to find certain items in the mall, like McDonald’s, an angel, the letters SPQR (the acronym of the Roman Senate), or a coat of arms. This will help entertain them while adults shop and take in the exquisite architecture.

Afterwards, head to The Duomo , the 5 th largest cathedral in the world and see how many gargoyles the kids can count.

The Scala Opera house holds incredible children’s opera shows and they charge one euro for anyone who’s under the age of 18. If you want a magical experience, consider booking tickets for one of their nighttime performances and feel the history of the place come alive.

If your family has extended time in the area, don’t miss Lake Como. There are some wonderful villas that would be amazing for large family groups. Look at Bellagio and Varenna.

Spend the days on the water exploring towns along the lake or stroll through some of the area’s beautiful gardens like Villa Carlotta or Villa del Balbianello.

Spend a couple of days relaxing in the beautiful city of Verona. One of the best things to do is climbing Lamberti Tower for incredible views of Verona’s terracotta rooftops. Afterwards spent time soaking up the atmosphere in the adjacent Piazza del Erbe.

Make your way to Shakespeare’s iconic Romeo and Juliet balcony for a photo opportunity. You can tour Juliet’s house and even leave notes at Verona’s Love Wall. There’s also Juliet’s tomb and Romeo’s house. It’s a fun area to explore with families.

Verona has small group food tours , tortellini making classes , and even truffle hunting excursions . Adventurous traveling families shouldn’t miss river rafting outside of the city or spending time at Gardaland near Lake Garda. There are rides, an aquarium, LEGOland, and even themed hotels.

Molina Waterfall Park is another good option for outdoor adventures. It’s a national park that is home to 18 waterfalls and trails that vary in difficulty. The park is only 30 minutes outside of Verona and it’s a great opportunity for families to spend time together in nature.

Of course, one of the most exciting places to take an epic family photo together is at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of the most important landmarks in the world. Save yourself a headache and book skip-the-line tickets beforehand.

Pisa also offers city parks, open air markets, and many museums. One museum the kids might enjoy is the National Museum of the Royal Palace. Kids and adults alike will be enthralled by their armory collection.

Discover the magical Pinocchio Park , only 40 minutes away from Pisa. This unique theme park in Collodi is dedicated to Pinocchio, the beloved childhood character.

The park is nestled among luscious green gardens, sculptures of Pinocchio, magical creatures, and a mosaic square. There’s also a giant sculpture of the whale that infamously swallowed Geppetto and Pinocchio in the childhood storybook. Kids can play inside and climb all the way to the top to get a magnificent view of the park. 

Other popular day trips from Pisa include San Giuliano Terme, a spa town with thermal baths, a fortress, and cycling trails. In nearby Lucca families shouldńt miss cycling or walking along the city walls or climbing the Torre della Ore for some spectacular views of the city and the surrounding Italian countryside.

11. Florence

My favorite place in all of Italy is Florence . It has everything you want from an Italian city; amazing architecture, a phenomenal history, and of course, Italian cuisine.

All generations can enjoy a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, the Piazza del Duomo (and a climb to the top of the Duomo if desired), and the Accademia Gallery (home to Michaelangelós infamous statue of David). Kids especially will enjoy the Leonardo da Vinci museum where they can see replicas and drawings of his inventions.

Spend time strolling along the Arno river and make your way to the Boboli Gardens, a magnificent park and gardens that once belonged to the Medici family.

If your family wants to stay at an agriturismo (working farm and accommodation), we would highly recommend Fattoria Corzano e Paterno . Located a half hour from Florence in the Chianti region, this property has houses available for families to rent, a vineyard, olive grove, and cheese made from their Sardinian sheep.

From here you can explore the towns of San Gimignano, Greve in Chianti, and Volterra. All three offer something for all generations, from Etruscan ruins, to wineries and car-free cities where kids can run freely.

12. Bari 

In Puglia, families will find stunning coastal towns, charming fishing villages, beaches and National parks. Bari makes for a good homebase as the city has underground tunnels to explore, a castle, a city park, and of course the sea,

Consider booking a boat ride to The Polignano a Mare caves or sample the local cuisine on a street food tour . Be sure to make time for a trip to Alberobello to explore the white washed stone houses with cone shaped roof tops.

When traveling with multiple generations it’s a good idea to plan as much as possible ahead of time. Hopefullly this list of places to visit in Italy for families will help you get started so you can fully enjoy la dolce vita.

The post Best Places in Italy for Families appeared first on Groups Are A Trip .

10 Best Places to Visit in Italy with Family

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Piazza San Marco, Venice

Italy is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the world and our 10 best places to visit can inspire your Italy family vacation with children of any age.

Italy’s mixture of history, natural scenery, smoldering volcanoes, and preserved ancient ruins creates an undeniably captivating ambiance. Whether you want immersive cooking classes or a scavenger hunt through a celebrated museum, wish to sample every flavor of gelato or enjoy physical training like an ancient gladiator, you can discover new and exciting experiences.

The following list offers inspiration for the best places to visit in Italy with kids that will allow your family to create life-long memories.

1. Rome, Lazio

2. florence, tuscany, 3. venice, veneto, 4. siracusa, sicily, 5. cinque terre, liguria, 6. lake garda, lombardy, 7. naples, campania, 8. matera, basilicata, 9. bergamo, lombardy, 10. milan, lombardy, explore the best places to visit in italy with family.

Rome, Italy

Rome is large and fast-paced, with exceptional excursions you can enjoy during your family trip to Italy. Whether on your first or your seventh visit, Rome is a city that captures your imagination. With ancient ruins at the Roman Forum and masterpieces displayed in the Vatican Museums that bring fascinating history to life, your kids will love the adventure and you will love spending time as a family.

Everyone will enjoy becoming amateur archeologists, historians, and chefs. Immerse your family in the detailed lives of Ancient Romans on a tour of the Colosseum. Pair the experience with a visit to a Roman gladiator school, where the kids can learn how to fight like a warrior and experience the ancient training routines.

From age five to teenagers, your children can have a blast participating in a cooking class, learning to make gelato or pasta, and uncovering the culture through engaging activities.

Kid-friendly things to do: Bike the Borghese gardens • Explore the Christian catacombs • Climb Michelangelo’s dome • Scavenger hunt in the Vatican Museums • Cooking class • Art class • Become amateur archeologists • Attend gladiator school

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Rome Travel Guide

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, Italy

Florence is an irresistible city for children that feels like a feast for all your senses, with exceptional food, vibrant palaces, captivating art, and a welcoming ambiance. It is a joy to get lost among the labyrinth of winding Renaissance streets, with each new turn leading your family to views of 16th-century castles or the looming dome of the cathedral.

Walking around the city feels like a hunt for iconic history, the best gelato, or the perfect slice of pizza. Florence is an icon of Italian culture, with dozens of fascinating churches and famous artworks that can introduce the family to Michelangelo’s David or Botticelli’s Birth of Venus .

Palazzo Vecchio establishes a dramatic foundation of medieval architecture, while gelato shops offer mouthwatering varieties of typical Italian flavors. Your children, no matter their age, do not just witness Florence, but experience the city with cooking classes, learning to make gelato, or dressing like the Medici family inside the historic palace.

Kid-friendly things to do: Period costumes at Palazzo Vecchio • Cooking class • Scavenger hunt at the Uffizi Gallery • Artesian visits on the Oltrarno • Art class • Climb the Duomo • Visit the Leonardo da Vinci Museum • Gelato-making class

Learn more: Tuscany Travel Guide

The Grand Canal in Venice, Italy

Venice is a city of magic that quickly enchants the entire family. It offers the perfect blend for family activities spread across colorful houses, fanciful architecture, and canals churning with boats, with endless excitement for kids and adults.

Upon your introduction, your family will be amazed by Venice as it rises out of the water. Exploring the city at your pace is part of the joy and allows you to experience the beauty, charms, and history the way your family would like best. Venice is endlessly inspiring, draped in the elegance of the High Renaissance.

Riding a vaporetto creates adventure on the Grand Canal and viewing the smaller canals on a gondola unveils historic beauty. From chasing pigeons in St. Mark’s Square to reveling in the gilded mosaics decorating the basilica, searching for winged lions hidden around the city, or crafting a Carnivale mask, Venice has a hidden charm perfect for young and middle-school children, as well as teenagers.

Kid-friendly things to do: Grand Canal Vaporetto tour • Explore Doge’s Palace prisons • Scavenger hunt for Venetian lions • Gondola ride • Mask-making class • Glass-blowing demonstration • Cooking class • Tour an antique maze

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Learn more: Venice Travel Guide

Castello Maniace in Siracusa, Sicily

Siracusa, or Syracuse, will captivate children aged five to 18, with titles like oldest, biggest, and best-preserved popping up around the city. With foundations dating back to the Ancient Greeks, you will quickly become enchanted by the past as you discover new corners of the city.

Siracusa has a timeless beauty, where ancient ruins rest beneath citrus orchards and cafe tables spread across Baroque piazzas. The ancient architecture connects to medieval alleyways that lead to views of the dazzling Ionian Sea. The city is flat and easy to navigate, with traditional shops and enticing aromas of gelato to granitas.

Casteloos Maniace can become the focal point of knights and pirates, and the traditional puppet theater brings stories of epic sword fights and dramatic beasts to life. You can stroll through history at the Archeological Park to find one of the world’s largest Greek Theaters or enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the water on an exciting boat ride.

Kid-friendly things to do: Ancient Ortygia tour • Mount Etna visit • Cooking class • Food tour • Visit Museo del Papiro • Explore the Greek Archeological Park • Visit the local markets • Discover fishers at the harbor • Wander Castello Maniace

Learn more: Sicily Travel Guide

Monterosso in the Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is undeniably memorable for its natural beauty, particular heritage, and absence of the usual “must-see” sights. The five towns on the Ligurian coast offer your family the perfect active destination, with natural charm and indelible wonder stretching from the cliffs to the cafes, the sparkling waters to the colorful houses.

The small towns are full of old-world wonder and feel completely absorbing. Cinque Terre’s five towns were isolated from greater Italy and practically unknown to visitors until the late 19th century. Cars are still not allowed in each town, making the cobbled lanes great places to explore as a family. The most famous sight of Cinque Terre is not the towns themselves, but the trail that connects them.

Each town remains rooted in antiquity and carries a medieval ambiance significantly connected to the sea. The aromas of basil often blend with the scent of citrus chiseled into the cliffs. Instead of elaborate churches and grand art galleries, Cinque Terre represents the grandeur of Italy and the wonders of family adventure. It’s an excellent place for children of any age.

Kid-friendly things to do: Hike the famous trails • Visit Montorosso’s beach • Explore the ancient towers • Visit Castello Doria • Enjoy the scenic train between towns • Cooking class

Learn more: How To Spend 2, 5, or 7 Days in Cinque Terre

Sirmione Castle on Lake Garda, Italy

Lake Garda is the perfect destination for every kind of family with children of all ages. As Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda reaches the foot of the great alpine hills and spreads to the edge of the Po Valley. Calm beaches connect to charming towns and the natural landscape accentuates the fascinating historic castles.

Roman ruins establish a rich sense of history in the area and give way to more contemporary stories of World War II. The lakeshores offer an endless ambiance of Italy’s famous la dolce vita , with access to fantastic museums, captivating mountain-biking trails, charming lakeside promenades, and delectable cafes.

The views from Monte Baldo spread across the lakeshores and the private Isola del Garda reflects the former grandeur of the Venetian Republic. Whether your family is eager to lounge on the beach, sail on the water, visit the castles, or explore the mountainside, Lake Garda is a fabulous base for every activity.

Kid-friendly things to do: Visit Sirmione Castle • Climb a clock tower • Cooking class • Sample typical cuisine • Visit famous amusement parks • Explore a Roman villa • Take a scenic ferry across the water • Swim in the lake • Hike • Mountain bike

Ruins of Pompeii in Naples, Italy

Naples provides a perfect blend of ancient insights, a captivating ambiance, and accessibility to fascinating legends. The city looks chaotic and rushed, but it has a pace the entire family will love, finding authenticity in an exuberant lifestyle, delicious cuisine, and enchanting history.

You cannot beat taking toddlers, middle-graders, and teenagers to the uncovered cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD covered both cities in pumice and ash, preserving the villas, houses, streets, and, in some cases, the people, giving a view of daily life during the Roman Empire.

The thought of a museum may sound dull compared with the active discoveries of Italy’s first pizzeria or the nearby archeological site of Herculaneum, but the National Archeological Museum of Naples has one of the best collections of ancient western European artifacts. Whether making pizza in Naples or exploring ancient ruins around the region and beyond, you can discover our Top 15 Things to Do in Italy .

Kid-friendly things to do: Pizza-making class • Pompeii and Herculaneum tour • Climb Mount Vesuvius • National Archeological Museum of Naples scavenger hunt • Gelato tasting

Matera, Italy

The city of Matera is often overlooked, but captures the imagination of adults and children. The unique ambiance of Old Town’s scenery looming over Gravina Ravine leads to the habitable caves that residents of the city used as homes from ancient times until the 1960s.

Medieval architecture still decorates the upper levels of the city that overlook rugged cliffs and the edges of the ravine. The medieval streets crown the plateaus with a series of stairways leading down to the ancient sassi.

Your family can traverse the levels of the city and become archeologists, historians, and explorers as you focus on the ancient history and medieval life that has shaped contemporary culture. An expedition through the caves breathes life into the ancient fresco of Cripta del Peccato Originale and the churches crafted out of soft volcanic rock.

Kid-friendly things to do: Explore the cave houses • Descend into Palombaro Lungo • Discover Parco della Murgia Materana • Uncover the Museum of Contemporary Sculpture • Visit Casa Noha

Bergamo, Italy

It is hard to find cities more suited for bringing the dreams of castles and knights to life than in Italy, and Bergamo fills the imagination. The medieval walls protect the streets and its residents from foreign invaders in the shadow of more famous Milan.

Presenting the prestige of Italy’s past, the city allows you to step into the preserved ambiance of medieval life and the reign of the Venetian empire, filling the chivalric dreams of children. The Old City, referred to as Citta Alta, brings fantastic panoramas of the lower city and the bordering mountain peaks.

Trace Bergamo’s evolution on routes originally established for spices and explore the city walls to viewing platforms connecting watchtowers, four city gates, underground passages, and former noble apartments. Discover more by exploring our 7 Best Places to Visit in Northern Italy .

Kid-friendly things to Do: Explore medieval castles • Visit the Civic Museum of Natural Sciences • Wander the city walls • Ride the funicular • Sample the local food • Discover the public gardens • Climb the tower • Find secret passages • Scavenger hunt for Venetian lions • Uncover Palazzo del Podestá

Castello Sforzesco in Milan, Italy

Milan is known for its fashion and glamour, but it is also a great place to enjoy as a family. Romans settled the city as a legion outpost more than 2,000 years ago, leading to the prestigious rise of a powerful city-state during the Renaissance.

The streets provide a fantastic scavenger hunt for the whole family, with coats of arms decorating churches, castle walls, ceilings, and mosaic floors. The Duomo is an impressive structure decorated with more than 3,400 statues and 135 gargoyles.

The impressive Sforzesco Castle holds several museums, its rampart and underground cellars captivating children and adults. Milan retains its sense of majesty, allowing kids to run around and imagine knights and princesses roaming the scattered ramparts and former regal apartments.

Kid-friendly things to do: Shop in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II • Experience royalty • Explore castles • Enjoy a cooking class • Cruise the Naviglio Grande canal • Visit the Library of Children • Visit the botanical gardens • Sample chocolate • Scavenger hunt at the art museums

Learn more: Milan Vacations

Pianza village in Tuscany, Italy

Italy is a country that inspires families, with endless options that can shape your time together. Dive into ancient life, discover the traditions of favorite foods, or enjoy effortless fashion.

Find more ideas and tips on how to enjoy your customizable Italy family vacation by visiting our Italy Family Vacations . You can also uncover more ideas for your vacation in our Italy Family Travel Guide .

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9 of the best holiday destinations in Italy for 2024

From milan to sardinia, here’s where to travel for tranquil lakes, historic cities and paradise islands, article bookmarked.

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With a rich cultural heritage, fine cuisine and a Mediterranean climate, southern Europe ’s global tourist hotspot, Italy , gives dull summer holidays the boot – literally.

Famed for its romantic allure, dynamic mountain regions in the north meet idyllic islands in the south, plus there are mainland cities brimming with echoes of the past. Charming Positano fuses days spent sunbathing with sightseeing, fashion capital Milan boasts a wealth of delights for every season, and the olive groves and vineyards of the Tuscan countryside offer visitors a chance to live in the hills as the Romans did.

Whether a food lover, artist or history buff, feast your eyes (and stomach) on iconic landmarks and ancient architecture while enjoying a slice of authentic pizza on glamorous seaside shores.

From when to travel and where to stay, here are  The Independent’s  top Italian holiday destinations for city breaks, beach stays and countryside getaways where you can exprience la dolce vita .

Read more on Italy travel :

• Milan city guide: Best things to do and where to stay in Italy’s northern powerhouse
• Best hotels in Rome: See the Italian capital in style
• Italy travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

Best for: History buffs

Rome  is home to art masterpieces, ancient mythology and the  Vatican City , the smallest country in the world. The passionate Italian capital is littered with ancient ruins, Roman villas, haunting temples and 13 heritage landmarks, including the  Colosseum  and the Pantheon. Within the walls of the historic centre, a Unesco World Heritage Site, indulging on streetside carbonara, tiramisu and fried artichokes to refuel from long days of sightseeing comes highly advised, after all, when in Rome ...

When to visit Rome

A good time to visit Rome is the spring shoulder season from March to May, as temperatures are warm but mild, and crowds are far more sparse than in the height of summer. Accommodation and flight prices tend to see better rates and average daily temperatures reach highs of 24C in May – perfect for sightseeing.

Where to stay

The exuberant  Mama Shelter Roma  in Prati offers quirky decor, three restaurants and a spa in the basement. A short walk from the Vatican, loud fabrics, lush greenery and comfortable bedrooms greet guests who can enjoy a Roman pizza and homemade gelato in the colourful lobby.

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Rates provided by Booking.com

Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing, amalfi coast, best for: seaside towns.

Italy’s rugged southern shore on the Sorrentine peninsula is 50km of world-famous pastel houses, fishing villages and magical grottos. From A-list hotspot Positano to Ravello, Amalfi and Vietri sul Mare, chic boutiques, cliffside lemon groves and grand villas dot the popular holiday destination, a taste of azure paradise at the foot of Monte Cerreto mountain. Keen hikers can trek the “Path of Gods”, old-mule trails through the picturesque villages, for the most breathtaking views of the awe-inspiring Amalfi Coast .

When to visit Amalfi Coast

It’s off-peak tourism season in May, September and October, which is an ideal time to enjoy the coastline with fewer tourists. Comfortable temperatures in the low to mid-20s are still pleasant for days on the beach as well as afternoon walks in the famous lemon groves that bloom in spring.

Palazzo Avino,  a 12th-century palazzo, boasts panoramic Amalfi views, stylish rooms and romantic garden terraces in Ravello. Antique accents, infinity pools and free shuttles to a private beach club on the coast give holidaymakers a taste of luxury before even dining in Rossellinis, the hotel’s Michelin-star restaurant.

Best for: Idyllic beaches

Off the west coast of mainland Italy, Sardinia ’s serene beaches and Emerald Coast ooze glamour. The opportunity to soak up the sun on quality sands attracts VIPs to decadent villas and superyachts on the Costa Smeralda every summer. The second largest Italian island has allure in abundance, with luxury spas and beaches on the coastline of Cagliari , the capital, and speciality regional dishes such as porcheddu (suckling pig) for tourists to try in between days spent living like a rockstar in Olbia.

When to visit Sardinia

The height of the summer holidays from June to August brings scorching temperatures, warm seas and luxury boats great for a beach holiday. With daily average temperatures of 32C in the hottest month (August), the renowned Mediterranean climate is a paradise for tourists. To swerve the sun seeking crowds, visit Sardinia in March for reduced room rates, calmer beaches and highs of 17C.

A few metres from Poetto Beach  Hotel Nautilus  in Cagliari exudes nautical style and authentic Italian vibes. Buffet breakfasts are complimentary and spacious sea-view rooms feature terraces and en suite bathrooms, some with outdoor whirlpool tubs. 

Best for: Retail therapy

Northern city Milan , Italy’s fashion and design capital, is home to heritage brands such as Prada, Giorgio Armani and Dolce & Gabbana, renaissance art such Leonardo da Vinci’s mural The Last Supper , and the Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral. For those who like the finer things in life, the undeniable style of the flashy metropolis in high-end stores, decadent architecture and bustling business districts, once part of Italy’s industrial Golden Triangle, has a unique lure.

When to visit Milan

September to December may see mild highs of around 18C and rainy days but are optimum conditions for those who wish to spend days in museums and shops on a budget. Ski holidays at nearby mountain resorts are also easily accessible from Milan.

The four-star  Avani Palazzo Moscova Milan Hotel  offers a small spa, outdoor terrace and contemporary Italian cuisine from inside Milan’s historic old railway building. It’s just five minutes to the cosmopolitan fashion hubs of Corso Como and Porta Nuova business district.

Best for: Italian charm

Glistening waters, romantic gardens and glamourous villages epitomise Italy’s third-largest lake. Lake Como’s Y-shaped body at the foot of the pine-fringed Alps is best enjoyed on picturesque private boat tours, secluded beaches and enchanting walks through the villages of Bellagio, Varenna and Tremezzo. The regal shores are dotted with ochre villas, fine dining and fashionable boutiques.

When to visit Lake Como

Head to Lake Como from April to June for mild weather, quiet shores and lower humidity. Highs of 25C bless the lake in June, but sporadic rain showers are not uncommon as Como’s gardens start to bloom.

Casa Sull’Albero , on the shores of Lake Como, features a minimalist design, airy natural furnishings and monochromatic bedrooms. Exploring leafy gardens, a small pool and activities, from wine tasting to water skiing, are on the itinerary for guests. There’s even an “honesty kitchen” stocked with local farm produce.

Best for: Walking holidays

The Dolomites ’ 18 peaks are a Unesco World Heritage mountain range in northeastern Italy. Sheer cliffs, dramatic valleys and glacial lakes populate the dynamic landscape and alpine adventures (skiing, hiking) and wellness holidays are abundant. Bordered by chocolate-box villages with winter markets and mountain museums, this Italian corner including South Tyrol, Trentino , and Belluno are great for chic stays in front of a breathtaking backdrop.

When to visit the Dolomites

June to September is an ideal time to visit the Dolomites on a hiking holiday. The region rarely tops 25C, a comfortable temperature for outdoor activities, and mountain huts are open on paths free from heavy snow and regulars on the skiing scene.

If quaint wooden rooms, cosy saunas and mountain views in the centre of Vipiteno are what you desire from a Dolomites holiday, then  Steindl’s Boutique Hotel  should fit the bill. Less than 100m from cycle trails, local restaurants and cable cars to the Monte Cavallo ski area.

Best for: Foodie delights

Medieval Bologna is a haven of culinary delights in the north of Italy. Swap afternoon teas for Aperol aperitifs and idle past Renassaince fountains to fairytale piazzas and al fresco gelato spots in the historic capital of the Emilia-Romagna region. The 11th-century university town houses collection of libraries, fine art and ancient squares – go on a food pilgrimage around the terracotta-tiled streets to best savour the taste of rich culture and cuisine in the home of bolognese.

When to visit Bologna

The best time to visit Bologna is in September and October, when the weather is still in the pleasant 20Cs but humidity levels are down. With autumn usually comes food festivals of local produce and dwindling crowds so better hotel rates.

I Portici Hotel , in the heart of Bologna, boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, a bar and spacious rooms with intricately frescoed ceilings. A five-minute walk from Bologna Central Station, a lively atmosphere and park view terrace welcome guests to the historic town. 

Siena, Tuscany

Best for: country landscapes.

The scenic Tuscan countryside is made up of rolling hills, leafy olive groves and world-famous vineyards. Siena , a raised medieval city with ancient piazzas and an old-world soul, sits amid distant green and brown fields, vines and lines of Cypress trees. Be charmed by the terracotta districts, unique museums and a wealth of tradition – including hosting the thrilling Palio horse race in the cobbled central streets – all an easy bus ride from the rest of Tuscany’s mesmerising sights.

When to visit Siena

Visitors should plan a trip from May to June. Crowds are more manageable, the Tuscan landscape is at its most vibrant and weather conditions reach highs of around 25C. However, for cheaper flights and quieter piazzas, visit off-peak in autumn to watch the leaves change colour.

Hotel Palazzo di Valli  is an 18th-century villa built in traditional Tuscan style just 400m from the historic heart of Siena, with rooms featuring valley views, ornate Italian decor and authentic ceiling frescoes. 

Palermo, Sicily

Best for: cultural classics.

Sicily, a volcanic paradise island of seafront resorts and cultural treasures is best absorbed in the musical capital, Palermo . The third largest opera house in Europe, theatrical architecture and echoes of Norman royalty make Palermo’s diverse landscape a hot spot for creative travellers in a fusion of occupier's past. Awash with beaches, chapels and authentic street food markets, a week in Sicily would not be complete without days in Palermo’s ancient world.

When to visit Palermo

The shoulder seasons of autumn and spring are the best time to visit Sicily, as the sweltering temperatures of summer begin to rise and fall to 20C but balmy evenings can still be spent tasting wine with only a light jacket required. Money-saving travellers should visit in winter – between December and Feburary – for the best deals and fewer crowds.

Villa Igiea  offers world-class service on the Bay of Palermo. The pricey luxury villa has elegant suites, an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant serving Sicilian specialities – all just a stone’s throw from pristine beaches, museums and ancient catacombs.

Headed for a holiday in the Italy this year? Here’s everything you need to know before you go

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An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

Italy with kids in winter: best places to visit and fun activities the whole family will love

A mama’s guide to the best places to visit in Italy with kids in winter, best kid-friendly activities and tips to enjoy Italy with family in the cold season, based on our own family travels.

Italy is a wonderful family destination all year round, winter included.

However, there is no doubt that a winter family vacation in Italy requires different planning than one for hot weather.

Winter in Italy is cold and you won’t be able to use pools, water parks, or take boat trips, all easy ways to break up sightseeing with kids.

This leaves many parents to wonder: my kids are too small to enjoy museums, will there be anything for them to enjoy in Italy in winter? Should we just rethink the trip and go another time?

I always say that the best time to go to Italy is the time you have!

So, if you are looking at a winter Italy trip, you don’t have to postpone it for the kids!

While you need to make sure expectations are suited to the time of the year, there are many things children can enjoy: traditional museums can be made fund with the appropriate type of tour, there are many hands-on and immersive museums, cool classes for all ages and even some outdoor pursuits the kids can enjoy.

I am a Rome mama of two and know Italian winters well!

While winter is not a time for lazy outdoor dining under lemon trees as the kids splash in the pool, we always have fun during our cold season and I am sure with the right tips, you can too!

Based on our experience, these are the best places to visit in Italy with kids in the winter!

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

The best places to visit in Italy with kids in winter – overview

Why visit italy with kids in winter.

You are likely to enjoy winter in Italy if you:

• Want to ski/ spend time on the slopes (Mountain areas only)
• Plan on visiting museums, taking kid-friendly classes
• Are on a budget (this does not apply during the Christmas break, Carnival in Venice or Easter)

Why not to visit Italy with kids in winter

I do not recommend Italy in winter to families with kids who are hoping for a lot of outdoor time.

While Italian winters are relatively mild compared to other parts of Europe, Italy gets rather cold (this includes the south) and many agricultural activities stop.

So if you are hoping for farm visits, country stays etc, winter is not ideal.

I recommend you do not visit Italy in winter with kids if you know they do better in indoor playgrounds, soft play centers, indoor water parks etc.

Italy doesn’t have very many of these and especially in smaller towns, the amount of indoor play area is very limited.

If this is an important resource for you it is best to plan it ahead or you may find yourself out of luck once at your destination.

What’s open in Italy in winter

Anything that is not strictly weather-related is open in winter in Italy and most places in winter will be in full swing as local life is in its busiest time.

Of course, small coastal towns with a strong beach-vacation vocation, water/ outdoor parks, boat tours etc will be in their lowest season and this means limited offerings for overseas visitors who want a traditional tourism experience.

It is however still possible to visit towns and avail of all the services opening to cater to the daily needs of locals. Big medium and even small cities will be fully operational.

If you want to live in Italy like a local, this can be a lovely time!

You can make yourself at home in a town, hand in the playground after school hours to meet local kids and get a real taste of Italian life!

When is winter in Italy and how cold it gets

For the purpose of this guide, I am considering winter in Italy the months that go from the end of October to the end March.

While technically some of these months fall within the astronomical autumn/spring, from the point of view of families traveling these months are rather similar in terms of what kids can / cannot do.

In terms of weather, winter in Italy is cold and you will want proper coats, scarves and closed shoes.

While the thermometer might make you feel it is not that chilly, humidity and lower heating settings than elsewhere usually make Italy significantly colder than many expect so packing for it is important.

Have fun and happy planning!

The best places to visit in Italy with kids in winter: more in detail

Let’s look at them more in detail.

The Dolomites with kids in winter

The Dolomites are my favorite place to visit in Italy with kids in winter as they are a real winter wonderland out of a fairytale book.

The area above Bolzano is unique in terms of cultural background and style, and like nowhere else in Italy.

Here, history has left a very strong Austrian influence and identity which you see in the aesthetic of the beautiful houses with pointed roofs Austro-Hungarian bell towers and food.

In winter, this aesthetic creates a quintessential mountain resort feel that makes you feel safe and cozy, plus since the area is beautiful and super well-equipped for tourists, you have plenty of things to keep you and the kids entertained!

On the Dolomites in winter you can:

• Play on the snow
• Go snowshoeing
• Play at hotels’ kids’ clubs (many hotels in the area offer kids’ activities to complement time on the slopes)
• Enjoy indoor pools – this area is famous for amazing hotel spas!
• Go to Christmas markets (December only). Read here >>> the best Christmas markets in Italy

The whole area is wonderful and it’s hard to go wrong!

However, if you are looking for all inclusivefamily hotels for families, some I can recommend are:

• Cavallino Bianco, Ortisei , Val Gardena
• Biancaneve Family Hotel, Selva, Val Gardena
• Torrglerhof family hotel, Bressanone
• Naturotel Leitlhof, San Candido

What you can see nearby : depending on the time you have, you may consider adding a visit to Venice and Verona, two beautiful cities within a few hours drive from here.

Aosta Valley

The Aosta Valley is another wonderful destination for families who love to ski.

The area is blessed with beautiful mountains and has excellent ski stations such as Zermatt/​Breuil-Cervinia/​Valtournenche and more.

Val d’Aosta is very different in feel from the Dolomites and close to France and Switzerland both geographically and culturally and it is a wonderful winter wonderland for kids.

Lovely places you may want to consider are:

• Breuil – Cervinia – Valtournanche
• Aosta / Pila, a lovely destination for a snow weekend and to mix a morning on the slopes with an afternoon exploring the lovely city of Aosta

To stay, you can consider Hotel Omama in Aosta , fun and colorful, if you want to stay in a town but with easy access to the cable car to Pila and its slopes.

Or for a chalet type of atmosphere consider the family Hotel Gran Baita in Gressoney .

Torino / Turin

Torino is a beautiful, elegant, fun and kid-friendly city perfect for a winter family vacation.

The first capital of Ital sits in an area of great natural beauty at the footsteps of the Alps and it is perfect for a city break or a longer stay to mix time in the city and on the slopes!

In Turin with kids in winter you can:

• Visit Italy’s Royal Palace (the armory is incredible and very impressive for kids!)
• Explore the fabulous Egyptian Museum, one of the biggest in Europe, with kids-friendly tours and trails
• Go to the National Car Museum (fantastic for car lovers and not only), aptly hosted by the city that gave birth to Fiat!
• Enjoy the indoor play centers for younger kids: Magic Park, Parkoland, Scivoland Park.

You can read here >>> our guide to visiting Turin/ Torino with kids

Things to do nearby : ski in Bardonecchia or Pila (Aosta), day trip to Milan , day in Zoom Zoo (selected days only in November)

Rome with kids in winter

I am from Rome so you may say I am biased but Rome truly is one of the best places for kids in winter as there is just so much to do here!

Rome is huge and while many associate it with traditional sightseeing, there are plenty of things for kids to enjoy!

In Rome with kids in winter you can:

• Take a kid-friendly tour to make sightseeing fun for them (Colosseum, Vatican, Capitoline Museum, gofl cart tour – there are many options!)
• Treat the kids to kids’ museums such as Explora Children’s Museum, Ikono Roma, the Illusions Museum or the Museum of Dreams. Find here >> the best kids’ activities in Rome (no sightseeing!)
• Take a kids’ class: pasta, pizza, mosaic, gladiator class…
• Take like ones to an indoor play park such as Bimbilandia or Casina di Raffaello.
• Rome usually also have weather that is good enough to allow for playing on parks and playground (wrap up!)

You can find here >> my guide to visiting Rome with kids

Things do do nearby: Rome is very central and well connected so you can use it as a base to explore as far as Florence and Pompeii (wrap up as they both tend to get rather cold!) or Naples

Bologna/ Modena area

The area of Bologna and Modena is one of my favorite places to visit in winter in Italy with kids on o a couple of accounts. One is the food, which is so warm and soothing!

The other is the presence of some museums and attractions that are fun for kids and adults.

In particular, I love:

• The Ferrari Museum of Modena and Maranello , are wonderful for car lovers but also anyone else: they truly are impressive and fun
• Gelato Museum, an easy hit with kids!
• FICO the food theme park of Italy
• Indoor playgrounds such as il Borgo dei Piccoli, Baloon Park, Joy Park, Sala Borsa (this is a library with a wonderful kids’ area)
• Acquario di Cattolica (need a car)

Read here >>> our guide to visiting Bologna with kids

Florence is one of my favorite cities in Italy and whole it gets cold in winter, it is a place with a lot to offer to children!

As well as its famous museums (which I strongly recommend to visit with the help of a kid-friendly guide) winter ready kid ready-friendly attractions in Florence include:

• Selfie Museum
• Interactive Leonardo Museum
• Museum of Illusions
• HZero Train Museum
• Pasta class
• Gelato class
• Paper marbling demonstation
• Coverciano soccer museum

Find here >>> my guide to visiting Florence with kids

Good to know! Florence is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is a perfect base for day trips. While visiting small towns won’t be a problem in winter, farm visits and wineries may be tricker. I strongly recommend you plan keeping the season in mind to avoid disappointment, especially for little ones. You can read here >> my guide to Tuscany with kids in winter

Venice can get quite cold and humid in winter, so it may not strike as the most obvious place to visit with kids in Italy in winter; however, there are many reasons why I love it this time of the year!

In Venice with kids in winter you can:

• Enjoy the city with smaller crowds. Outside of the busy Christmas and Carnival weeks, Venice is quiet and low-key at this time
• You can take mask decorating classes and glass-blowing classes, which are a fun and local way to spend an afternoon indoors, away from the cold
• You can still take a rowing class despite the cold season 9we did it in November and loved it!)
• Venice is super atmospheric in winter and has special events such as ice skating rinks coming up for Christmas and of course the wonderful carnival!

Read here >> My guide to visiting Venice with kids with all the links to my favorite activities and tour operators and here >>> my guide to visiting Venice in winter

And the South? What about about the South?

You can definitely visit the Italian south in the winter and it can be wonderful.

However, I feel that with kids, the south is easier when the weather is a little warmer.

Places like Puglia, Calabria and Sicily, for instance, are gorgeous but they do get cold and they are more about natural beauty and town sightseeing than kids’ activities and indoor entertainment.

So, while always worth going, I believe the best places to visit with kids in Italy in winter are others!

I hope you enjoyed my selection of the best things to do with kids in Italy in winter and helped you plan your trip!

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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First time trip Oct 2024 flight plan - Please help - Italy Forum

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1) I've heard about open-jaw flying to save back-track time but would like to know your experience and advice about price difference and flight and transfer time.

a) fly in Venice, out of Rome

b) fly in Rome, then, Naples, Florence, CT, Venice, Milan , then fly home

2) I've also read about a good suggestion: fly round-trip San Francisco (or San Jose) - Rome, immediately train to Naples, then the tour, at the end, spend the time in Rome before flying home. The sequence could be, I think, Naples, Florence, Cinque Terre and then Venice, Rome.

3) Is there any other web site I should search beside Google flights ?

Really appreciate your advice.

Thanks so much

7 replies to this topic

Can try http://www.skyscanner.com I usually end up booking my flights directly with the airline . For Italy we used American Airlines. Buffalo-Philly-Venice. Rome-Charlotte-Buffalo.

Quick train schedules:

https://int.bahn.de/en

https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html

https://www.italotreno.it/en 

https://www.cinqueterre.com/

https://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Esentieri-outdoor.php

Monterosso: http://tinyurl.com/54rmsvnx

Trip report: http://tinyurl.com/vsxz4y9v

Riomaggiore: http://tinyurl.com/48rvv8ak

Trip reports: http://tinyurl.com/34uba6ks

http://tinyurl.com/menfzkcc

Manarola: http://tinyurl.com/4fwfaf4t

Trip report: https://tinyurl.com/2s4yazzy

https://cruisedig.com/ports/la-spezia-italy/arrivals

http://www.napoliunplugged.com

So, now I can plan for itinerary:

10/3: arrive in Venice 12:20pm

10/4,5,6: in Venice

10/7: train to Florence

10/8,9,10: in Florence with 1 day trip to Siena

10/11: train to Pisa , store luggage for the day's visit then go on to CT

10/12,13 : in CT, or should stay here for 3 days?

10/14: train CT to Orvieto

10/15: in Orvieto

10/16,17,18,19: Rome

10/20: train to Naples

10/21,22: in Naples with 1 day trip to Pompei

10/24/ fly home at 12:35 pm

I'm having 1 extra day, should I spend it in Orvieto to relax in the small hill town of Orvieto or in Naples?

Really appreciate your feedbacks.

Thanks so much.

By the way, all regional trains buy paper tickets, as e-tickets require internet connectivity for confirmation in advance. These trains have no discounts nor seat assignments and don’t sell out.

To see the Veiled Christ at the Capella Sanservo in Naples a reservation is required. Look it up—how this was carved from a block of marble is unbelievable, given the apparent transparency. Favorite restaurant Amici Miei. Favorite church in Italy the Chiesa Gesu Nuovo [nice walk from the Capella]. Naples is our favorite large city in Italy; visited thrice yearly.

Ideally, I'd like to stay overnight at a small hill town in the Tuscany area. Do you think this is doable?

Right now I'm setting 2 full days for CT, not counting packing/unpacking, do I need 1 more day?

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