Exploring Rome with kids can be an unforgettable adventure, blending history, culture, and excitement. From iconic landmarks to delicious gelato shops, the Eternal City offers a plethora of activities suitable for the whole family. Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins or indulging in authentic Italian cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Rome. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your family vacation in this enchanting city.
Top Family-Friendly Activities
- Visit the Colosseum: Step back in time as you explore the iconic Colosseum, where gladiators once battled in ancient Rome. Marvel at the impressive architecture and learn about the history of this legendary amphitheater through interactive exhibits.
- Explore Vatican City: Discover the smallest independent state in the world and explore its treasures, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. Admire breathtaking artwork and learn about the history of the Catholic Church.
- Roam Through Villa Borghese: Spend a day in Rome’s largest public park, Villa Borghese, where families can enjoy playgrounds, paddle boats on the lake, and even a small zoo. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.
- Bike Along the Appian Way: Rent bicycles and pedal down the ancient Appian Way, one of the earliest and most important Roman roads. Explore ancient ruins, tombs, and catacombs while enjoying the scenic countryside.
- Picnic at Gianicolo Hill: Take in panoramic views of Rome from Gianicolo Hill while enjoying a picnic with your family. Watch street performers entertain crowds, fly kites, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.
- Explore the Catacombs: Delve into the mysterious underground tunnels and burial chambers beneath Rome on a guided tour of the catacombs. Learn about ancient burial practices and Christian history as you explore this fascinating underground world.
- Visit Explora Children’s Museum: Let your kids unleash their creativity at Explora, Rome’s interactive children’s museum. With hands-on exhibits on science, art, and technology, there’s plenty to keep young minds engaged and entertained.
- Escape to Time Elevator Rome: Experience a multimedia journey through Rome’s history at Time Elevator Rome, an immersive cinema experience that takes you from the city’s legendary foundation to the present day.
- Indulge in Gelato Tasting: Beat the heat with a delicious gelato tasting tour, sampling various flavors from traditional to exotic. It’s a sweet treat for kids and adults alike, providing a refreshing break from sightseeing.
- Wander through the Roman Forum: Explore the ancient heart of Rome at the Roman Forum, where you can wander among the ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings dating back to antiquity.
- Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica: Take the elevator or climb the stairs to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica for panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome. Marvel at the intricate architecture and enjoy breathtaking vistas.
- Discover the Pantheon: Visit the best-preserved ancient Roman building in the world, the Pantheon, with its massive dome and impressive interior. Learn about its fascinating history and marvel at its architectural brilliance.
- Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain: Make a wish and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. According to legend, this ensures your return to the Eternal City.
- Take a Segway Tour of Rome: Explore Rome’s historic streets and landmarks on a fun and exciting Segway tour. Glide past iconic sights while enjoying commentary from your knowledgeable guide.
- Enjoy a Pizza Making Class: Learn the art of pizza making from a local chef and enjoy crafting your own delicious pizza with your family. It’s a hands-on experience that’s both educational and delicious.
- Attend a Gladiator School: Step into the shoes of a Roman gladiator and learn the techniques of sword fighting and combat at a gladiator school. Kids will love dressing up in armor and practicing their skills in a safe environment.
- Ride a Horse-Drawn Carriage through Rome: Experience the romance of Rome from a horse-drawn carriage as you clip-clop through the city’s historic streets. It’s a magical way to see the sights and create lasting memories with your family.
- Marvel at the Mouth of Truth: Visit the Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth), an ancient marble mask located in the portico of the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. According to legend, it bites off the hand of liars.
- Take a Cooking Class for Families: Learn to cook authentic Italian dishes with a hands-on cooking class designed for families. From pasta-making to gelato-churning, it’s a delicious way to experience Italian culture together.
- Hop On and Off a Sightseeing Bus: Discover Rome’s top attractions at your own pace with a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus tour. With multiple stops around the city, it’s a convenient way to see the sights with kids in tow.
- Visit the Bioparco di Roma (Rome Zoo): Spend a day at Rome’s zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. Enjoy animal encounters, educational exhibits, and fun-filled activities for the whole family.
- Explore the Capitoline Museums: Discover ancient artifacts, sculptures, and artworks at the Capitoline Museums, located atop Capitoline Hill. With its impressive collection and stunning views of the Roman Forum, it’s a must-visit for families.
- Take a Boat Tour on the Tiber River: See Rome from a different perspective with a boat tour on the Tiber River. Glide past historic landmarks and enjoy the cityscape from the water.
- Wander through the Piazza Navona: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. Admire the fountains, street performers, and colorful buildings that line its cobblestone streets.
- Explore the Castel Sant’Angelo: Climb to the top of this ancient fortress for panoramic views of Rome and the Tiber River. Explore its fascinating history as a mausoleum, fortress, and papal residence.
Outdoor Adventures for Families
- Bike Along the Appian Way: Rent bicycles and pedal down this ancient Roman road, lined with tombs and ruins. It’s a thrilling way for families to explore history while enjoying the scenic countryside.
- Picnic at Gianicolo Hill: Take in panoramic views of Rome while enjoying a picnic at this picturesque spot. Kids can run around the park, fly kites, or watch street performers entertain crowds.
- Explore the Catacombs: Delve into the mysterious underground tunnels and burial chambers beneath Rome. Guided tours offer fascinating insights into ancient burial practices and Christian history.
Beat the Heat Indoor Attractions for Kids
- Visit Explora Children’s Museum: Let kids unleash their creativity at this interactive museum, featuring hands-on exhibits on science, art, and technology. From building structures to conducting experiments, there’s plenty to keep young minds engaged.
- Escape to Time Elevator Rome: Experience a multimedia journey through Rome’s history, from its legendary foundation to the present day. This immersive cinema experience is both educational and entertaining for the whole family.
- Indulge in Gelato Tasting: Beat the heat with a delicious gelato tasting tour, sampling various flavors from traditional to exotic. It’s a sweet treat for kids and adults alike, providing a refreshing break from sightseeing.
Day Trips from Rome Italy for Fun Family Adventures
- Explore Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius: Embark on a day trip to the ancient city of Pompeii, where families can wander through remarkably preserved ruins frozen in time. Then, hike to the summit of Mount Vesuvius for breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples.
- Discover Tivoli Gardens: Visit Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli, renowned for their stunning gardens and ancient architecture. Kids will love exploring the fountains, grottoes, and lush landscapes of these UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Splash at Rainbow MagicLand: Enjoy a day of thrills and excitement at this theme park located just outside Rome. With rides, shows, and attractions suitable for all ages, it’s the perfect destination for a fun-filled family adventure.
Best Restaurants for Kids
- Mimi e Coco: This family-friendly restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring classic Italian dishes alongside kid-friendly options like pizza and pasta. The relaxed ambiance and welcoming staff make it a hit with families.
- Pompi: Indulge in Rome’s famous tiramisu at Pompi, where children can enjoy this delectable dessert in various flavors while parents savor authentic Italian cuisine. With its casual vibe and delicious treats, it’s a favorite among families.
- La Prosciutteria: Dive into a platter of Italian cold cuts and cheeses at this casual eatery, perfect for families looking to experience the flavors of Rome together. The relaxed setting and tasty bites make it a great option for kids and parents alike.
- Trattoria da Teo: This charming trattoria offers a warm welcome to families and serves up delicious Roman dishes in a cozy setting. Kids will love the pasta dishes, while parents can enjoy traditional Roman fare.
- Giolitti: Treat the family to gelato at Giolitti, one of Rome’s most famous ice cream parlors. With a wide variety of flavors to choose from, it’s sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.
- Fratelli la Bufala: Enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza at Fratelli la Bufala, where kids can customize their toppings and watch as their pizza is baked in a wood-fired oven. The lively atmosphere and delicious pizza make it a hit with families.
- Da Enzo al 29: This family-run trattoria serves up traditional Roman cuisine in a cozy setting. Kids will love the pasta dishes, while parents can enjoy classic Roman specialties like cacio e pepe.
- Babington’s Tea Rooms: Treat the family to afternoon tea at Babington’s Tea Rooms, located near the Spanish Steps. With a selection of teas, sandwiches, and pastries, it’s a delightful experience for kids and adults alike.
- Cantina e Cucina: This family-friendly restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Kids can enjoy pizza, pasta, and other favorites while parents unwind with a glass of wine.
- La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali: Situated near the Roman Forum, this trattoria offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious Roman cuisine. Kids will love the pasta dishes, while parents can enjoy traditional Roman specialties like amatriciana.
These restaurants cater to families with kid-friendly menus, welcoming atmospheres, and delicious food, making them ideal choices for dining out with children in Rome.
Best Hotels for Families in Rome
- Hotel Artemide: Located near the Termini Station, this family-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, as well as amenities like a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
- Hotel Dei Mellini: Situated in the heart of Rome, this elegant hotel provides family rooms and suites with modern comforts, along with a buffet breakfast to start your day off right.
- Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel: Experience luxury and comfort at this upscale hotel, featuring spacious accommodations, a children’s club, and a stunning outdoor pool with views of the city skyline.
Conclusion
Rome is not only a city steeped in history and culture but also a vibrant destination for families seeking adventure and fun. From exploring ancient landmarks to indulging in gelato tastings, there’s no shortage of activities to delight visitors of all ages. With its wealth of family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and delicious cuisine, Rome promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the Eternal City. Buon viaggio!
