Italy With Kids – the Complete Guide for a Family Holiday

PUBLISHED ON Jan, 20 2023

UPDATED ON Mar, 10 2024

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Italy is the land of the good life, one of the favorite destinations for family trips. With stunning cities laden with works of art, architecture, museums and impressive churches, colorful houses, food whose name has spread far and wide all over the world, picturesque towns, crystal clear lakes, rushing rivers and breathtaking mountain ranges, it is impossible not to fall in love with Italy and this is considered to be a best place to visit with kids.

Italy is a country in southern Europe that is considered, along with Greece , the birthplace of Western culture. Therefore, it is no surprise that many of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites are located there. Elite art, sculptures and monuments are found in every corner of the country, and it is a leading tourist destination for tourists from all over the world, and many families come to Italy with children for family holiday.

Planning a trip to Italy and considering renting a car? Don’t forget to checkout our guide about Car Rental Insurance for Italy

Italy is known around the world for its great cuisine, the fashion industry, its luxury sports cars and motorcycles, diverse cultures and dialects, and its beautiful beaches, alpine lakes and mountain ranges (Alps and Apennines).

Make a List of Locations You Want to See

It doesn’t make much sense for children and adults in Italy planning a vacation without children. Italy is quite family oriented. While it may be necessary to adapt a family plan to accommodate the youngest child, there is not an area to skip. Venice, Florence Rome, Tuscany, and Sicily are among the most visited destinations for children. When visiting Italy it is best to put this article in your first itinerary and then refine that itinerary with fun activities and fun activities!

Tuscany with kids

Tuscany with kids

Book Main Attractions and Kid Friendly Day Tours

Once you get your itinerary and accommodation figured out I suggest you reserve your best tourist attraction. Please book the following attractions and arrange a family tour specific to the child’s age and the budget. This is the itinerary to Rome. Florence Pisa: Leaning Towers and Cathedral.

Book Family Friendly Accommodation in Italy

When you’ve found the place to travel, I suggest that you book the accommodations. I prefer to cancel my booking online via booking.com or similar. In Italy, families and child friendly accommodations are provided in several forms including hotels/Auberga/ Pensions – generally smaller than hotels, sometimes do not have breakfast. Bed and Breakfast. More frequently they often have breakfast on site or they have vouchers for nearby accommodation.

Time Your Itinerary With Kids in Mind

When planning a trip properly you need some preparation that will help make the best trip possible. During the planning period make sure your kids know what their needs are. It generally means spending time on breaks to go somewhere and of course, snacking. Too many journey trips can often become stressful for children. Most tourists to Italy without kids do it by cramming too much in an itinerary.

Playgrounds in Italy

Playgrounds in Italy have varying sizes though I feel I need to warn. Italy does a good deal but it’s not always able to take care of public places so the playgrounds on the ma can vary from wonderful to completely empty and ruined. It’s important that you do not set expectations too high.

Pinnochio Park

Pinnochio Park

Do Not Plan to Drive in the Major Cities

There’s strict restrictions to parking and driving within metropolitan areas, and unless you do so, you can get massive penalties. You can park outside the ZTL limit zone and get an Uber to Florence and Rome. ZTL regulations differ from city to city. Take them seriously before making a plan. Parking in Italy is extremely challenging. If we want to travel we need to contact the Airbnb or hotel before we come to ensure that we can park.

Baby Changing Stations and Public Restrooms in Italy

Public bathrooms have a limited number of facilities in Italy that require a very small entrance fee for use. In addition, by law, every restaurant and hotel needs to allow customers to access the facilities of their establishments. When you have children at home it’s not necessary to place orders: ask nice people and they’re usually more than happy to help you. Most bathrooms do not have a changing station (not always).

Plan Kid-Friendly Sightseeing and Activities

Include on your itinerary the trip that will interest your kids most. No one knows their child as well and ask yourself the way his/her liking is. Would the girl want to hike Mount Vescove or go to the Positano beach? I want to see Florence’s armories and costumes? Whatever you do, make sure you spend at least an extra minute each day doing something active. Even the most secluded museums are accessible for a young child with little to no energy for the fun. You shouldn’t expect to find large playgrounds in Italian cities.

Always Stop for Gelato

We don’t want our children having to order desserts at home while in secluded places, why is this necessary? Gelato, ice cream Italians, is an easy treat for young children in Italy and is easily accessible in a gelateria. Make everybody happy by making lots of gelatto-pit stoppers. Time for slumber and refreshment is perfect. A cultural aspect too. Italy is known for its most iconic ice cream.

Gelato in Rome - 150 Flavors

Gelato in Rome – 150 Flavors

Cities and Tourist Destinations in Italy

Rome with children – recommended attractions

Rome – the capital of Italy, is a large city, with a huge amount of sites to see and experiences to experience. A family trip to Rome in Rome can also tire children with a lot of energy, and lead to whining from comfortable toddlers as well. But do not worry! A proper hiking route in Rome, which includes walking trails and sophisticated “kids’ strategies”, will turn both you and the kids into avid fans of walking trails in Rome.

Rome Colosseum with Kids

Rome Colosseum with Kids

Zomarin Water Park

How many times have you visited an underwater observation aquarium and thought to yourself, “All these details about animals are very interesting, but why is it impossible to just slide on a water slide here?” Animal shows and there are more than 14 attractions for children, including roller coasters, water slides, a swimming pool, a four-dimensional cinema and more.

Zoomarine Park, located just outside Rome, is a water park in Rome that will add a refreshing splash of water to your summer vacation in Italy. Whether it’s swimming in one of the pools, watching a dolphin show or riding in the tubing facility, Zomarin is the best place to to visit in Italy and hang out if you are coming to Rome with children and you are looking for a little thrills and lots of water!

Zomarin Water Park

To book tickets to Zomarin – Rome Water Park

Cinecittà World Cinecittà World

Lights, Camera, Action! Welcome to Italy’s first theme park dedicated to the world of cinema. A short drive south of Rome, you will see what it’s like to be on a real cinema set and enjoy ten new amusement park facilities that opened in 2017 that will make your adrenaline jump!

To order tickets to Chinchita World

Amusement Park in Rome “Rainbow MagicLand”

This enchanting amusement park is a good place to go when you come to Rome with the kids – at Rainbow Amusement Park in Chicland you can take a short break from the hustle and bustle of Rome and use one of the 38 amusement facilities or watch one of the great family shows. There is no doubt that this is one of the most prominent attractions in Rome for those families visiting there with children.

The name of the amusement park, “The Magic Land of the Rainbow,” says it all. This is a colorful and enchanting amusement park just a 20-minute drive outside of Rome. Here you will find castles of fairies, terrifying Vikings, magic fairies, powerful sorcerers and adventures that require courage. This theme park offers visitors 38 different attractions, some of which run on solar energy, including the first facility of its kind in the world and three attractions that are nowhere else in Italy.

Amusement Park in Rome - Rainbow MagicLand

To order tickets to the “Rainbow Magicalland” amusement park in Rome

Florence with children – recommended attractions

Florence (Italian: Firenze ) is the capital of the Tuscany region in Italy, with a population of about 366,500 people. Florence is considered a cultural, artistic and architectural gem, one of the most prominent tourist attractions of Italy and a best place to travel in Italy. Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance of Italy. Politically, economically and culturally, Florence was considered the most important city in Europe for about 250 years – shortly before the 14th century until the beginning of the 16th century. Naturally, many families from all over the world come to Florence with children to discover the wonders of the Italian Renaissance.

In this article you will find recommendations for attractions for children in Florence and also recommended attractions in Florence for the whole family, and quite a few recommendations for museums in Florence and cultural events that may be more suitable for the single traveler or couples without children on vacation in Florence.

Florence with children - recommended attractions

Florence Tourist Bus

Florence’s tourist bus travels in a circular route between attractions in Florence with special free – daily tickets that allow you to get off and cost unlimited. The air-conditioned bus fleet will take you between 44 specially selected stations to give you easy access to Florence’s attractions and a comprehensive acquaintance with Florence’s rich history and dizzying culture. With audio guides in eight languages, you will get a quick but comprehensive historical lesson on the Tuscan capital. This is a great and economical way to get around in Florence for families who come to Florence with children and want to see as many attractions in Florence as possible and walk as little as possible.

With the free daily style entrance ticket that can be purchased at the link tourists have access to two different routes that cover the entire city center of Florence. From Florence Cathedral to Michelangelo’s David, you’ll have plenty of time to see it all – without the exorbitant spending on taxis in Florence.

To book tickets for the Florence Tourist Bus

Leonardo da Vinci Museum: Skip the line

A holiday in Florence with children is an opportunity for an extraordinary family experience at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Florence – step into the mind of one of the greatest scientists and artists in history, in an interactive sensory experience showcasing Leonardo da Vinci’s greatest achievements. The museum contains three areas depicting Leonardo the inventor, artist and researcher of anatomy. This is one of the most interesting attractions in Florence for families with children and is replete with interactive artistic and scientific fun that will leave you more curious than you were when you started your visit.

The main hall is a salute to Da Vinci’s boundless imagination, with reliable reconstructions of some of his amazing inventions such as precise mechanisms of pulling objects, shooting machines and more.

Leonardo da Vinci Museum

To order tickets to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Florence

Duomo di Firenze Santa Maria del Fiore: Skip the queue with a guided tour

Nothing will prepare you for the Duomo of Florence when you enter it for the first time. The Duomo of Florence is one of the largest and most important churches in the city. The church is dedicated to Maria and is an impressive architectural and engineering achievement characterized by the red tile roof of Filippo Brunelski.

If you are in Florence, skip the opportunity to avoid the crowds – book the special ticket (at the link) that will allow you to skip the long queues at the entrance and join a guided walking tour in English, along with special access to the secret terraces!

The dome that adorns the church was an innovative step not only in architecture but also in language. The word dome in English comes from this rounded roof. So if you are in the segment of adventure, a visit to the top offers a great view over Florence as well as a closer look at the murals of Vasari ” Doomsday” .

To order special tickets without waiting in line for the Duomo of Florence

Genoa – In the Middle Ages the port city of Genoa was an important maritime republic; Its port attracts tourists and commerce, and is known as a hub of art and elite architecture.

Milan with Kids – Attractions in Milan

Milan (Milano) – the unofficial capital of northern Italy and one of the most popular destinations for a family holiday that combines something to suit everyone: football and shopping, food and culture, fashion and history. In this article, we have collected recommendations for you on dozens of attractions in Milan that are suitable for a family vacation – from climbing on the roof of the Duomo or a tour of the Milan tourist bus, through watching the famous painting “The Last Supper”, entrance to Leonardo da Vinci winery to trips to San Sopiro football stadium “Of the Servala Outlet, the largest mall in Europe

Milan with Kids - Attractions in Milan

Milan’s tourist bus using the Rose Rose method

Milan, the fashion capital of the world, is also home to more attractions, museums and churches than you can imagine – but you can try to see as many attractions in Milan as possible using the Rose Rose-style tourist bus. The ticket is valid for a full day across three lines operating six buses traveling on a circular route between attractions in Milan, and the audio guide will provide you with the information and details (in English) while traveling.

On the tourist bus that rotates between attractions in Milan you can see the Duomo (Cathedral of Milan), the Vittorio Emanuele II / Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Teatro alla Scala and all the charms of the city, accompanied by a guide A voice that will challenge you with trivia games. This is a good and economical method to see Milan with children if you are not interested in renting a car and driving in congested Milan.

To book tickets for the Milan tourist bus

Duomo di Milano – Attic and entrance to the museum – Duomo di Milano

The Duomo, in Duomo Square .  This is the main cathedral of Milan, a huge late Gothic church (construction began in 1386) made of white marble, with hundreds of pointed spiers and thousands of statues on the outside and a famous façade. Do not miss the opportunity to climb to the roof of the Duomo and enjoy the spectacular view of the city among the gothic pointed spiers.

The most perfect moment of a vacation in Milan is watching the city from the roof of Italy’s most magnificent church, the Duomo of Milan. From the roof of the cathedral you can overlook the whole city (and beyond it over the Alps on a clear day).

The unlimited pass to the Duomo that can be booked at the link is the best way to see Milan’s most famous attraction. The Cathedral of Milan is an amazing display of human ability: it rises to a height of 108 m and can accommodate 40 thousand people, and is decorated with Gothic head sculptures (GRAVITAS). This is a carefully designed church full of interesting details.

To order tickets for the Milan Duo

San Siro Football Stadium, Casa Milan and Milan Football Club

Football fans will die for this half-day experience – and if you come to Milan with kids fans of the Milan football team, then you will not want to miss this attraction at all. The ticket that can be booked at the link includes a bus and train ride up from the central area of ​​Milan and a behind-the-scenes tour of the San Siro football stadium. From there you continue to the shiny new football club Casa Milan, the headquarters of the AC Milan football team. A light meal at the Casa Milan restaurant is also included in the special ticket price.

The tour departs from the center of Milan in style on a state-of-the-art double-decker bus with an open roof that brings you directly to the heart of all that calcio ! At San Siro Stadium you will be taken to the locker room and the press room, you can stand on the podium and even go down to the pitch itself. This football hall can hold 85,000 people!

San Siro Football Stadium

To book tickets for an organized trip to San Siro and Casa Milan

Milan Pass

The recommended Milan ticket puts the best of Milan’s attractions at your fingertips for a full 48 hours, giving you free entry to lots of interesting destinations in Milan. With a Milan ticket you can visit the La Scala Opera House, the balconies of the Duomo and the Cathedral Museum, the world of Leonardo and more!

Tour the terrace of the Duomo (Cathedral of Milan) and the museum. Visit the Milan Opera House, La Scala, the Brera Art Gallery and the Gallerie d’Italia and finish at the La Triennale Museum, the Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum, the Museo Bagatti Valsecchi And on the museum tour of the San Siro stadium – all of which are included in the Milan ticket. If you are planning a trip to Milan with children and love days full of attractions, a Milan ticket will save you a lot of time in queues at the box office of attractions in Milan and quite a bit of money.

In addition, you will receive lots of discounts on tours and activities that take place in Milan, including bicycle and Segway tours, meals in restaurants, shopping in malls and more, by presenting your card at a variety of businesses in Milan.

In addition, when booking a Milan ticket at the link you will receive a map and a travel guide book to help you plan your trip to Milan.

To order a Milan ticket click here

Attractions in Naples with children

Naples (Napoli) – one of the oldest cities in the Western world, the unofficial capital of southern Italy, a historic town center considered a World Heritage site. According to Naples residents, this is also the birthplace of pizza.

Napoli is the capital of the Campania region. Naples is the third largest city in Italy in terms of population, but the second largest in terms of the greater region, after Milan. Naples was founded between the seventh and sixth centuries BCE by the Greeks and was given the name Neapolis, meaning ‘new city’. The historic center of Naples has been awarded the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and boasts 448 historic and monumental churches, the highest number in the world for a single city, so it is no wonder that it is touristically attractive and many families come to Naples with children for a family vacation or as a point The beginning of a family trip in the south of Italy

Of course, Naples has a bad reputation because of the Mafia, the garbage disposal crisis (the worst part of which has actually passed) and some areas of the city suffer from poverty and neglect, but if you look closely, and if you take the right precautions, you will find a vibrant city with lots to see and do. Which has not yet been fully commercialized due to the influx of tourists like Rome , Venice , Florence etc. (at least for now) and as a result Naples has managed to preserve a considerable amount of the original culture of southern Italy, attracting tourists to this hidden treasure just two hours south of Rome. The views of Naples, especially the breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples (but also Mount Vesuvius, the music, etc.) are without a doubt among the most impressive Italian experiences for the traveler

The tourist bus Aleh-Red of Naples

In addition to its status as the birthplace of one of the world’s most beloved foods, pizza, Naples is also a declared world heritage site and one of the most historic cities in the world. The most convenient way to make the most of a day trip to Naples with children is on the Naples Tourist Bus, which travels in a circular route between attractions in Naples and allows tourists to get off at any attraction that interests them, stay as long as they want and then return to the next bus.

On the bus route you will discover 3,000 years of culture and history of Naples without having to constantly plan the trip in the public transport system of Naples which is complicated for locals too, and save a lot of precious vacation time in Naples and quite a bit of money so you have more time to eat Neapolitan pizza!

To book a ticket for the tourist bus of Naples

Pisa with Kids – Attractions in Pisa

Pisa Italy with Kids

Pisa Italy with Kids

Pisa – one of the most important cities in Italy, is located in the Tuscany region, on the estuary of the Arno River to the Mediterranean Sea, and is one of the important destinations for family trips in Italy and trips in Tuscany with children. It is a relatively small city with about 90,000 inhabitants, but in the days of the eyes it was considered a large and very important city, and respectively, its streets are full of amazing buildings, churches, palaces and works of art.

Pisa Pisa is a city that children will love to visit, for two main reasons first of all – explain to them that the city’s name is actually pizza, a dish they are well acquainted with. Also, tell them about the Leaning Tower of Pisa. If you are planning a trip to Pisa with children, it is advisable to book a hotel suitable for families, where it is possible to book babysitting services, so you can also enjoy the nightlife of Pisa or just a romantic dinner at one of the excellent restaurants of Pisa. 

Leaning Tower of Pisa

It is one of the most visited sites in the world, the tower leaning at a clear angle to the side is beautiful and definitely a “must see in Italy” and worth a visit.

The square around the tower tends to be very crowded, due to the many tourists and locals who frequent the place. You can walk around the place, play in the meadows, have a picnic and relax in the shade of the tower, or climb to the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa itself. Please note, children can only climb the tower from the age of 8. It is recommended to order tickets in advance online at the link – the tickets of the “Tickets” company come as a code for your mobile phone so you do not have to carry paper and allow you to skip the very long queues at the ticket offices at the entrance to the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

To order tickets to the Pisa Tower without a queue, click here

The Cathedral (Duomo) of Pisa

The nearby cathedral (called the Duomo) or “St. Mary of the Assumption” was founded in 1064. Its architectural style is a combination of Romanesque and Muslim features, with Byzantine and Mediterranean elements. The mixing of the styles surprisingly works very well and creates a beautiful harmonious look. Although the place was destroyed in a fire that occurred in 1595, which resulted in the loss of a large number of works of art from the Renaissance, the mosaic of Christ in Majesty depicting Jesus as King sitting on the throne, from the early 14th century, survived the fire and is displayed in series.

Hike from Campo di Miracli to the Arno River

A great way to soak up the atmosphere of Old Pisa when arriving in Pisa with children is a walk through the narrow, winding streets alongside the medieval and Renaissance buildings. Make your way from the ‘Field of Miracles’ towards Piazza dei Cavalieri, from there turn to Pizza Garibaldi and from there continue towards the Arno River.

Verona with children – recommended attractions

Verona – one of the most important and beautiful cities in northern Italy, the historic home of Romeo and Juliet

Verona, is a typical “Dolce Vita” experience in Italy, a recommended destination for a family vacation on the banks of the Adige River across the picturesque city, with beautiful buildings, castles and churches, and quite a few special attractions for families with children. 

Verona verona is one of the favorite cities in northern Italy that you should seriously consider if you are planning a family trip in Italy – not only thanks to the famous terrace of Romeo and Juliet located in and close to Lake Garda, but also thanks to its architectural structures, historic sites and friendly residents. Verona is a city that is relatively easy to navigate and get around on foot, with many important sites adjacent to each other, and so many interruptions can be made when walking with the children on foot through the streets of Verona. In this article, we have collected for you Verona attractions with an emphasis on recommended attractions for families who come to Verona with children – attractions that combine culture and history with beautiful landscapes and fun.

Gardaland Amusement Park

Gardaland  is a huge amusement park, the largest amusement park (amusement park) in Italy, on the shores of Lake Garda, about a half hour drive from Verona. This is a daily pastime recommended for the whole family, a Disneyland-style theme park with the investment and enjoyment that characterizes Italians in everything. Gardenland provides an entertainment package replete with activities that will engage and captivate children of all ages, from roller coasters to canoeing on the water in an artificial river. Gardenland is amazing in its size and variety of attractions and is considered one of the best theme parks in the world. Gardenland is closed most of the winter (except for Halloween) but if you are traveling to Verona with children in the summer do not miss the experience – a combination of adventure, space and fantasy themes.

When coming to Verona with children and planning a day at Gardenland Park keep in mind that children may be frustrated that most of the day in Gardland is spent waiting in lines instead of at the playgrounds – so it is recommended to purchase tickets to Gardland before flying to Italy. Yours digitally. When you arrive at the entrance to Greenland you will display the ticket from your smartphone and you can bypass the queue, enter the park directly and board any of the seven roller coasters!

Gardaland

To purchase tickets to Greenland online

Gardaland SEA LIFE Aquarium

Seals, glowfish, lilies, starfish and sharks! You will find all of these in the Gardaland SEA LIFE aquarium – the huge observation aquarium which is without a doubt one of the recommended attractions in Verona for families with children. Walk through a transparent sea tunnel and watch the marvelous sea creatures swimming around you. 13 areas each based on a different theme, 40 natural environments and more than 5,000 marine creatures make Garda Land an aquatic paradise that is for children an interactive journey into the depths of the ocean.

At the Gardenland Aquarium you will get to know the aquatic creatures that inhabit the 13 living areas. The aquarium has 40 containers that house more than 5,000 different species, including seals, starfish, glowworms, and if you come to Verona with small children they will also be happy to see the fish Nemo on its own (i.e. a clownfish also called a lily).

Gardaland SEA LIFE Aquarium

To purchase tickets to the attraction online

Movieland – The Hollywood Park Movieland Park – the Hollywood Park

When it comes to Verona attractions for kids Mobiland should not be missed. Enter directly into the world of cinema at this attraction – Verona Amusement Park which is a tribute to Hollywood. Drive along Route 66 (from the movie Route 66) and if you are coming to Verona with big enough kids see if you have enough courage to climb the Hollywood Action Tower that drops from a height of 50m! In addition, an experience of water and fire on a spinning carousel awaits you at the “Horror House”.

The amusement park includes roller coasters, facilities and games for children, stunt shows, a magic show and even a journey into the Wild West! This is one of Verona’s most prominent attractions for families and during the summer months there are long queues, it is recommended to purchase a ticket in advance online at the link and get a digital ticket for a smartphone that will allow you to skip the queue at the box office.

To purchase tickets to the attraction online

The Colosseum of Verona

One of the favorite places for tourists in Verona is the Arena (Colosseum) in the Plaza Bra (bra), which is very reminiscent of the famous Roman amphitheater in Caesarea, and has been preserved in excellent condition. The Colosseum of Verona, which was used in ancient Rome for gladiatorial and entertainment shows, is older and smaller than the famous Colosseum of Rome. This is a recommended site for families with children, who can run and run through the ancient underground corridors below the Colosseum and imagine how the gladiators waited for their turn in the famous battles.

The balcony of Romeo and Juliet

It is actually a fictitious terrace – the famous story “Romeo and Juliet” does take place in Verona and has countless real details from the history and geography of the city, but not all tourists who come to the famous terrace in Verona – and perhaps in the whole world – understand that Romeo and Juliet’s story is an imaginary story written by Shakespeare in England, hundreds of miles away.But the city of Verona who realized the tourist potential made sure to create on one of the main streets the “official site”, the terrace of Romeo and Juliet. In one of its breasts as a virtue, and the adjoining souvenir shop sells hearts of all kinds at completely exorbitant prices.

For an additional fee you can go upstairs, stand on the porch and look at the crowd below. Adjacent to the terrace there is also a small museum with set props from various Romeo and Juliet films made throughout history. There is also a tradition that is somewhat reminiscent of the Western Wall, of writing letters to Julia that children usually like to experience.

The biscuit of Romeo and Juliet

Verona is known for its wonderful sweets and the excellent bakeries scattered throughout the city offer excellent pastries in the best tradition of Italian food. When you come to Verona with children take them to eat the Romeo and Juliet biscuit – in Verona’s bakeries, Verona only, a sweet and unique pastry is served to the city called “Romeo’s sighs and Juliet’s kisses”, a particularly delicious type of biscotti found At any local bakery, and can be bought by weight.These special biscuits are crispy and very tasty.

Venice with children –  Attractions in Venice

Venice (Venezia) – is one of the most visited destinations in the world, a city whose name has been associated for centuries with the scents of adventure and sailing to distant lands. Between the 13th and 15th centuries, it was one of the most hedonistic cities in Europe and an empire of maritime trade with the East. Today, Venice is still an unparalleled city, and during a trip to Venice with children they will greatly enjoy exploring the streets and squares, wondrous canals and endless bridges. But, children may remember the little pleasures and pleasures of this capricious city long after they have forgotten “what must be seen.” So get on a gondola, play the Venice Lions game, build masks, get lost in a growing maze – and many more special adventures for a family trip to Venice.

Venice with Kids

Children are instantly fascinated by Venice, where everything not only looks different – but really, everything is different. The buildings are candy-colored, the streets are made of water, boaters ride instead of cars and the tide floods the main square. So it only makes sense that the places you should go to in a city like Venice with children and the things that are recommended to do will be a little different than usual as well. Undoubtedly, Venice is a very central site for a family trip to Italy  or a bar mitzvah trip in Italy. In this article we have collected for you attractions in Venice that will help you get the most out of every vacation in Venice

Of course, like everyone who has ever been to Venice, it is also recommended that you start with the city’s great “living room” – Piazza San Marco. Make sure to stock up on bread and let the kids feed the cheeky pigeons and seagulls of St. Mark’s Square, who without any shame will get on their palms and prick bread crumbs directly from the hand – only this occupation alone can take hours

A classic gondola ride

Travel in picturesque Venice in the most worthwhile way: using a gondola. Hundreds of years of history will sail before your eyes as the gondolier sails you through the watery streets. This is a must-see attraction in ‘La Serenissima’ (the bride of the sea, the nickname of Venice) and should not be missed if you come to Venice with children who are not afraid of water.

The gondolier is a professional cruise that will guide you safely and is well acquainted with the peaceful waterways and small canals of the city.

Most tourists are forced to part with a few hundred dollars for a short gondola ride. At the link you can book a gondola ride in Venice in advance at a cost of only a few euros, thanks to a special arrangement of the Tickets company with the gondola cruisers in Venice. After ordering the ticket, you will receive a digital card in the form of a smartphone code, which you can present in Venice and board a gondola ride.

Venice with children - a classic gondola ride

To book a gondola ride in the canals of Venice

St. Mark’s Basilica – St Mark’s Basilica

The breathtaking St. Mark’s Square has been the tourist, social and political center of Venice for more than a thousand years. At its center stands the Basilica of San Marco, stunning in its beauty, adorned with glittering surfaces.

The Basilica of San Marco first became a church in 828 when a pair of merchants smuggled the body of Saint San Marco from Egypt in a barrel of lard (according to popular belief). This dangerous mission was carried out because according to tradition, an angel told St. Mark that Venice would be a place of his last reign and the Venetian leaders did not want to think that the angel was telling a lie.

Since those days the church has been built and destroyed and rebuilt. Today, the Basilica of San Marco is not only one of the most beautiful churches in Venice, it is one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in the world. This is one of the most beautiful buildings in Venice and an attraction you will not want to give up if you come to Venice with children big enough to be quiet during a trip to the church.

To book tickets to the Basilica of San Marco, including the benefit of a guided tour and skipping the queue

Travel by water bus of Venice – ACTV 24

Want to see Venice with kids and not just walk all day, but do not want to invest in a gondola? At the link you can order a smart card that gives you access to vaporetti (buses floating on the water) in Venice, Lido and the lagoon islands, plus water buses in the towns near Venice – Mestre, Marghera and the mainland. The options available to you are a card that is valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

There is a lot to do on holiday in Venice and it’s a shame to waste time getting around the city on your own.

Saranda in a gondola

Enjoy the traditional serenade singing that accompanies a classic gondola ride on a 30-minute cruise along the Grand Canal (the “Grand Canal”) – the most romantic thing you will do in Venice!

Sit back and enjoy the beautiful views from the Venetian boat, from the city’s ancient palaces to the beautiful bridges that adorn Venice. Enjoy the sounds of the entertainment choir singing traditional Italian songs in your honor.

To book a romantic gondola ride “Saranda in a Gondola”

Leonardo da Vinci Museum Venice Leonardo da Vinci Museum Venice

Leonardo da Vinci, the ultimate symbol of multidisciplinary genius, was not only a painter but also an engineer, architect, sculptor, designer, scenographer, anatomist, musician, planner, botanist and inventor. (Imagine the confusion that could have been caused today in job interviews). With the ticket you can buy at the link you will skip the long queues at the box office and discover the wonderful world of his ingenious inventions and his works of art at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Venice.

Leonardo da Vinci’s ideas are considered a breakthrough in his time, and in the museum he pays homage to his life, work and wondrous mind, you will learn all about his world without leaving Venice. Here you can experiment and touch on different models that represent his extensive work in a complex measuring over 500 square meters. The museum contains a collection of more than 60 active machines, covering different areas and including art and engineering projects. Next to each model you will find details of each machine. This is without a doubt one of the most educational attractions in Venice and not to be missed is the Da Vinci Museum if you are coming to Venice with children big enough to understand.

To order tickets to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum Venice

Venice Glass Museum

The museum, established in 1861, is housed in a colorful ancient Gothic castle and has magnificent Roman artefacts from the first and third centuries AD. The museum also houses the world’s largest collection of Murano glass, including masterpieces made of glass from the 15th and 20th centuries.

To order a combined ticket to the Glass Museum and the Lace Museum in Venice

Other Major Cities and Attractions

The Italian Alps – The Italian Alps include some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Europe, including Mont Blanc and Mount Rosa.

Amalfi Coast – A beautiful rocky coastline, whose popularity among tourists became so great that the authorities were forced to ban private cars from entering it during the summer months.

Bologna – one of the most famous university cities in the world, full of history, culture, technology and amazing food

Capri – The famous island in the Gulf of Naples, formerly the favorite resort of the rulers of Rome

Cinque Terre – a beautiful region consisting of five tiny picturesque towns, along the coastline full of wineries of the Liguria region

Lake Como – has a place of honor on the tourist map of Italy since Roman times due to its beauty and special atmosphere

Lake Garda – A beautiful lake in northern Italy surrounded by many villages and resort towns, home to the vast amusement park Gardland – a must-see stop on a trip to Italy for kids.

Matera – in the province of Basilicata, known for its Sassi group – prehistoric caves that are considered a World Heritage Site and one of the most important attractions of southern Italy

Pompeii and Herculaneum – two neighboring cities that were destroyed following the eruption of the volcano Vesuvius in 79 AD, and today after archeological excavations, they are a rare glimpse into Roman life at that time.

Pompeii – Skip the line

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius (Mt. Vesuvius) in 79 AD was disastrous when the population living in nearby towns perished, but this historic event also gave the world Pompeii, one of the sites containing the fullest and most extensive remains of an ancient historic city. It is one of the most visited sites in Italy, and is full of tourists. The good news: with the special ticket that can be ordered at the link you can skip all the queues and save money and valuable waiting time in queues in favor of more time to spend on a trip to Italy.

The intensity of the eruption was several thousand times greater than an atomic bomb. And not surprisingly, the population in the area was simply wiped out, but the ash combined with the lack of moisture caused much of Pompeii to remain intact. And what is seen there today is a one-of-a-kind window into the life of a city in ancient Roman times.

This is a very interesting site but is the scene of a terrible disaster and is recommended for families who come to Naples with children to exercise discretion ‘because sensitive children may be saddened or afraid of the volcano.

To order tickets to Pompeii with the “Skip the queue” benefit

Torino – A well-known historical and industrial city, the first capital of historic Italy and home of the famous car manufacturer FIAT. The city is also known for the large number of Baroque-style buildings found in it.

Vatican and San Marino – Two tiny independent states located within the borders of Italy are: San Marino and the Vatican City. Apart from different police uniforms, there seems to be no way of knowing how to distinguish the transition between these countries and the territory of Italy, and the currency is the same currency. The Italian language is the dominant language in these two countries.

Vesuvius – the famous active volcano that allows a stunning view of the Gulf of Naples

Italy has a lot to see and it’s hard to know where to start. Almost every village contains one or two places that are worth a visit and each church is a kind of museum.

Recommended ski resorts

The Sella Ronda ski resort  in Italy is considered one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the world. It is located among the Dolomites in northern Italy. The ski here is suitable for everyone, and everyone can enjoy it, both beginners and professionals, this is a round ski resort, which surrounds the mighty Sella ridge.

Sella Ronda ski resort

The Passo Tonale ski resort  in northern Italy is special due to its shape, a natural theater amphitheater that enjoys plenty of sunshine and boasts spectacular scenery. Is one of the recommended ski holidays in Italy Passo Tonale is located on the border between the provinces of Lombardy and Trentino in Italy and marks the border between Val di Sole and Vallecamonica.

Weather

Italy’s climate is very diverse, and often very different from the typical Middle Eastern climate. In most of the country the summer season is hot and dry, with the hottest month of the year being July. Winters are colder and rainier in the north and milder in the south. The weather conditions on the shores of the Italian peninsula can be very different from those in the highlands of the country and in the valleys, especially in the winter months when the higher regions tend to be cold, rainy and often snowy. In the Alps the climate is mountainous, with the summer season cool and the winter season very cold.

Tips for Family Trips in Italy

Planning to leave the city in Italy? You will need a rental car: Although Italian trains are a great way to get around the big cities, the transportation system is inefficient in the small towns and villages, especially in the rural interior of the country. When you are staying in rural areas you will usually have to rent a car.

Saturday to Saturday: The best places to stay for families in Italy for a week or more are either private resorts (preferred for several families of friends traveling together when each family has a separate apartment or villa but there are also shared areas that allow to hang out and eat together), or villas Individual (preferred for trips of large families or extended family who can live together in a villa). During the summer months in particular, the best accommodations of this type are willing to rent only for a long-term stay of at least a week – from Saturday to Saturday. You should book flights accordingly!

Recommended route planning for a family trip in Italy : The most popular route for families with children planning a comprehensive trip in Italy for a period of 10 to 14 days – starting with four nights in Rome, a week trip in Tuscany and ending with two or three nights in Venice. One can of course reverse the order, start in Venice and end in Rome. Book flights to Rome and Venice or vice versa.

Recommended Vacations   for Families in Italy  for the Second Time: If you’ve already traveled in Italy with children and you want to get to know the Duchy Vita, other favorite resorts for families in Italy include the Cinque Terre and the Italian Riviera. Sardinia and Lake Como, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.

For a third holiday in Italy, once you have covered the main tourist destinations, it is recommended to try the Dolomites, Bologna, Umbria and Puglia.

Dolmities with Kids

Italy is a great place for to travel with babies or toddlers. The Italians are dying for them and going out of their way to ensure that families have a comfortable vacation. Most hotels and resorts for families provide cots and high chairs, although not all Italian villa rental agencies provide them. Make sure in advance the conditions for baby accommodation at your place of accommodation!

All over Italy there are companies that rent baby equipment, and they provide everything – from car safety seats to strollers. Do a search on the internet search engines to see if you can rent heavy equipment instead of bringing it from home.

No need for children’s menus: there is almost no restaurant in Italy that is not suitable for children. Please note, most restaurants do not offer children’s menus, but if you ask they will be happy to tailor the pasta dishes to your taste, and pizza can be ordered anywhere.

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Geography

Italy is mostly a peninsula located in the Mediterranean. To the north it has a border with France , Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. Italy, shaped like a boot, is surrounded by the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian Seas to the west, the Mediterranean and the Ionian Sea to the south and the Adriatic Sea to the east coast. The geographical outline of Italy is very diverse, although it is mostly mountainous, and includes the mountain range of the Alps and Apennines that stretch over a large area of ​​the country.

Italy Can Be Divided into Six Geographical Regions:

Northwest Italy – (Piedmont Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy Lombardy) and the Aosta Valley

Home of the Italian Riviera, which includes Portofino and Cinque Terre.

Here are the Alps, important cities like the industrial capital of Italy Turin, the largest port city of Genoa, the main business center of the country Milan, share the visitors of the area with beautiful views like Lake Como Lake Maggiore, and no less renowned Renaissance treasures, such as Mantova.

Northeastern Italy – Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Emilia-Romagna, Bologna, Veneto

From the canals of Venice to the gastronomic capital Bologna , impressive mountains like the Dolomites and first-class ski resorts like Cortina d’Ampezzo – to the rooftops of Parma and Verona, these areas have plenty to see and do. In South Tyrol (and in the cosmopolitan city of Trieste) you will experience the elegant uniqueness of Central Europe.

Central Italy – (Lazio), Marche, Tuscany, Abruzzo and Umbria

The cities of central Italy breathe history and art. Rome boasts the marvelous remains of the Roman Empire and some of the most famous historical sites in the world, combined with the vibrant atmosphere of a large city. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is the main attraction of the Tuscany region, while the countryside is spectacular in its beauty and nearby cities like Siena, Pisa, and Lucca have a lot to offer to those looking for The rich history and heritage of the country.

Umbria is full of picturesque cities such as Perugia, Orvieto, Gubbio and Assisi.

Southern Italy – (Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, and Molise)

Vibrant Naples, the impressive remains of Pompeii, the romantic and capricious Amalfi Coast, sleepy Apollo, and the unspoilt and breathtaking beaches of Calabria, as well as the growing agricultural tourism of wineries, make southern Italy one of Italy’s least touristy destinations.

Sicily –  The beautiful island full of archeological remains, sea views and one of the most excellent cuisines that Italy has to offer.

Sardinia –  a large island about 250 km from the Italian coastline. Has charming views, a pleasant atmosphere and friendly beaches. It is a major holiday destination for high-budget tourists.

Other Tourist Attractions in Italy

The villages and towns from the medieval period. Decorating the whole countryside of Italy, these are good places to get for a day trip or as areas to spend a quiet vacation. Two notable examples (and world heritage sites) are San Gimignano, known for its abundant narrow towers, and Assisi, known for the monk Francis of Assisi and the Basilica di San Francesco dedicated to the monk and full. Breathtaking wall.

San Gimignano

Italy of the Etruscan period. If your time is limited and you do not intend to deviate from the main cities, be sure not to miss the amazing collection of the Etruscan Museum at Villa Giulia in Rome. Car rental will allow you access to the colorful ancient tombs and the Tarquinia Museum or the huge Cerveteri burial complex, and these are just some of the sites with easy access from Rome.

Greek influence. To understand the great influence that Greek culture had  on Italy it is worth visiting the well-preserved Greek temples in Agrigento in southwestern Sicily or in Paestum, a little south of the city of Naples.

Roman antiquities. From Sicily in the south to the northern provinces, Italy is full of antiquities from the Roman Empire. In Taormina, Sicily, you should check out the Roman Theater, which has great views of Mount Etna on a clear day. In Sicily you should not miss the well-preserved mosaics in Piazza Armerina. If you look in the area just south of Naples, you will find Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were covered with lava in the eruption of Volcano and Zubius, and as a result are well preserved in Rome. In all the buildings a number of Roman stones are engraved into newer buildings.Do not forget to visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Aqueduct, the Appian Way and about a dozen museums dedicated to Roman antiquities.For further north, the Roman Amphitheater in Verona is a must not be missed.

Christian Italy.  The Vatican is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church, although within Rome it is considered a country of its own. Do not miss St. Peter’s and the Vatican Museum. Rome itself has over 900 churches; A large number of them are worth a visit. The whole of Italy is full of truly marvelous Christian architecture, featuring styles from the Romanesque period (700 to 1200); Gothic (1100-1450); Renaissance (1400-1600); And magnificent baroque style.

Vatican City with Kids

Although the theft of works of art became a problem, churches and cathedrals in the central cities managed to preserve a huge amount of works of art and sculptures, and others were transferred to museums and churches within the city. Everywhere you can see stunning frescoes and mosaics in beauty. But do not just look for the churches: in rural areas there are also a number of fascinating monasteries. When planning a visit to the church, note that all but the major ones are closed between 12:30 and 3:30 p.m.

Byzantine cities. The Byzantines ruled northern Italy until the arrival of the Lombards in 751. Venice is of course one of the most famous cities in the world, and Chioggia which is also a lagoon, is a small version of it. Ravenna churches have great mosaics. A visit to Ravenna requires a detour, but it is well worth the effort.

The Renaissance. Start with a visit to Piazza Michelangelo in Florence to enjoy the famous lookout. Next, visit the many museums, both inside and outside Florence, which contain masterpieces from the Renaissance period. The Renaissance, or: Rinascimento in Italian is a period that spanned the 14th to 16th centuries, and there is general agreement that originated in Florence. The list of famous artists from this period is endless: in architecture, Ghiberti (the bronze doors of the cathedral), Brunelski (the dome), and Giotto (the bell tower). In the literature: Dante, Petrarch and Miquellie. In art and sculpture: Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Donatello, Massachio and Botticelli.

The streets and squares. One can visit the cities of Italy without entering any church, museum or Roman antiquities site, and still enjoy. All you have to do is wander the streets with your eyes open. Apart from the Po and Adige Valley in the north, most of Italy (including cities) is mountainous or hilly, allowing for good scenic views. In cities like Rome, pay attention to the combination of luxury shops and small artisan workshops. Look for interesting grocery stores and places where you can buy the famous gelato ice cream. Above all, all it takes is to simply soak up the atmosphere.

Operas:  If you are interested in seeing a famous Italian opera, you can find them in a variety of cities: Milan, Verona, Pharma, Rome , Venice, Spoleto, Florence, and Palermo.

Western Alps:  If you visit the Western Alps, you will have the opportunity to hike the green valleys of Val Pellice, Val Chisone, Val Po and others, and reach the highest peaks of the European mountains.

All the valleys are full of trails for every level of hiking, whether you are interested in an easy walk through lovely town or along the lake or to do a harder trail in the higher valley, amidst pine forests and mountainous landscapes. The villagers in the mountains are usually very friendly, as long as they are treated and where they live with dignity. These hikes can be started from the towns of Cuneo, for the southern valleys; Pinerolo, for the central ones, Susa and Lenzo Lanzo (for the northern ones, all with easy access from Turin).

Eastern Alps: The Eastern Alps include the surprisingly beautiful province of Trentino-Alto Adige although the two districts of the region are very different from each other both culturally and geographically. While Balto Adige speaks German, Trentino belongs to the Italian cultural area. Trentino is one of the most popular provinces in Italy. Its landscapes are extremely diverse and include forests, extensive valleys, streams, waterfalls and lakes. Its mountains, especially the Dolomites, are a natural monument recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

But Trentino is also a region rich in culture thanks to its palaces that soak up a legendary atmosphere, and thanks to modern and sophisticated museums such as the Museum of Contemporary Art, The Museum of Contemporary Art – Mart in Roverto and the Muse Science Museum in Trento. Both summer and winter you can spend a holiday here in nature, or enjoy sports activities, or just soak up the local culture.

The Language

Italian is the official language of Italy and is the language of most of the population; But if you travel around the country, you will find distinct Italian dialects depending on the region of the country you are visiting. French is the language spoken in the northwest of the country, and German in the northeast.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you’ve found everything you need to know about arranging a trip to Italy with children right here! We wish you a safe trip, and if you arer renting a car, don’t forget to purchase car hire excess insurance

 

One Response

  1. It is really a nice and useful piece of info. I’m glad that you just shared this useful information with us.
    Please keep us informed like this.
    Thank you for sharing.

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