Rome, Italy, is a city that breathes history, art, and culture at every corner. But what if you’re traveling to Rome with kids? Can you still enjoy the ancient wonders and timeless beauty while keeping your young ones engaged and happy? Absolutely! Rome is a fantastic destination for families, offering a blend of educational experiences, exciting attractions, and delicious cuisine that can captivate travelers of all ages. Your family trip to Rome will be a blast! Here are plenty of ideas of the best things to do in Rome Italy with kids, ensuring your family adventure in the Eternal City is both memorable and enjoyable.
Why Rome is a Great Family Destination
Before we dive into the list of activities, let’s explore why Rome is a fantastic place to visit with kids:
1. Education Comes Alive: Rome is essentially an open-air museum. Its history, art, and architecture provide endless opportunities for kids to learn about ancient civilizations, emperors, and artists.
2. Family-Friendly Culture: Italians love children, and you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere throughout the city. Restaurants are typically accommodating, and locals are friendly to young visitors.
3. Delicious Cuisine: Italian food is a hit with kids worldwide. From pizza and pasta to gelato and cannoli, there’s a treat for everyone.
4. Outdoor Spaces: Despite being a bustling city, Rome offers plenty of parks, piazzas, and gardens where kids can run, play, and enjoy some fresh air.
5. Engaging Attractions: Rome boasts numerous attractions that can capture a child’s imagination. From the Colosseum to the Vatican Museums, there’s plenty to see and do.
Now, let’s embark on a journey through Rome with kids.
1. The Colosseum: Gladiator Adventures
Why: The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of ancient Rome, and it can spark the imagination of kids who dream of gladiator battles and ancient spectacles.
What to Do: Explore the Colosseum’s grandeur, imagining the roar of the crowds. Consider a guided tour designed for families to make the experience engaging and educational.
Cost: Entrance to the Colosseum is typically included in the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill ticket, which costs around €16 for adults. Children under 18 from the EU enter free. Non-EU children pay €2.
How Long: Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the Colosseum.
Tip: Bring water, sunscreen, and hats, especially during the summer.
2. Roman Forum: A Glimpse into Ancient Life
Why: The Roman Forum offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to connect with history.
What to Do: Wander through the ruins, exploring temples, arches, and basilicas. Consider booking a guided family tour to make history come alive.
Cost: Included in the Colosseum ticket mentioned earlier.
How Long: You can spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the Roman Forum.
Tip: Encourage kids to imagine what life was like in ancient Rome while exploring the ruins.
3. Vatican City: A World of Wonders
Why: Vatican City is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture. It’s a captivating destination for families.
What to Do: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views, explore the Vatican Museums, and marvel at the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling. Book skip-the-line tickets or guided tours to avoid queues.
Cost: Admission fees vary. St. Peter’s Basilica is free to enter. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tickets typically range from €17 to €27 for adults, while children under 6 enter free.
How Long: Plan for a full day to explore Vatican City.
Tip: The Vatican Museums offer family-oriented tours and activities, making it an excellent choice for kids.
4. The Pantheon: Marvel at Ancient Architecture
Why: The Pantheon is a marvel of ancient Roman engineering and architecture. Its massive dome and oculus (an opening in the center of the dome) are sure to capture the imaginations of young explorers.
What to Do: Visit the Pantheon and gaze up at its dome. Kids can learn about its history and engineering marvels.
Cost: Admission is now €5.
How Long: You can spend about 30 minutes to 1 hour at the Pantheon.
Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the Pantheon with fewer crowds.
5. Trevi Fountain: Make a Wish
Why: The Trevi Fountain is a captivating sight for kids and adults alike. Making a wish by tossing a coin into the fountain is a memorable experience.
What to Do: Throw a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere. Teach your kids about the fountain’s history and tradition.
Cost: No admission fee.
How Long: Plan for about 30 minutes at the Trevi Fountain.
Tip: Visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful experience.
6. Parks and Gardens: Play and Relax
Why: Rome offers several parks and gardens where kids can run, play, and enjoy the outdoors. It’s a great way to relax and let off some steam.
What to Do: Visit Villa Borghese, Villa Doria Pamphilj, and the gardens of Villa Ada. These green spaces are perfect for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or simply playing.
Cost: Entrance to most parks is free.
How Long: You can spend a couple of hours to half a day in these parks.
Tip: Pack a picnic or grab some gelato and enjoy a family meal in the park.
7. Explora Il Museo dei Bambini di Roma: Learning Through Play
Why: Explora is a children’s museum where kids can learn about science, art, and technology through interactive exhibits and workshops.
What to Do: Participate in hands-on activities that engage young minds. From building structures to conducting experiments, it’s a day of fun learning.
Cost: Admission fees vary but are typically reasonable. Family discounts are often available.
How Long: Plan for about 2 to 3 hours of exploration.
Tip: Check the museum’s schedule for workshops and special events that might coincide with your visit.
8. Capitoline Museums: Art and Antiquities
Why: The Capitoline Museums house an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. The Kids’ Corner at the Palazzo dei Conservatori offers interactive exhibits and workshops.
What to Do: Explore the museum’s art and sculptures, and be sure to visit the Kids’ Corner for interactive fun.
Cost: Admission fees typically range from €7 to €15, with reduced rates for children.
How Long: You can spend about 2 to 3 hours at the Capitoline Museums.
Tip: Look for special family-friendly tours or activities to enhance your visit.
9. Gladiator School: Step into the Arena
Why: The Gladiator School offers a unique experience for kids to learn about the life of gladiators in ancient Rome.
What to Do: Attend a gladiator training session where kids can dress up, learn combat techniques, and experience a piece of Roman history.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the package, but it’s a memorable experience.
How Long: The experience typically lasts around 2 hours.
Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
10. Bioparco di Roma: A Day at the Zoo
Why: Bioparco di Roma, Rome’s zoo, offers a day of animal encounters and outdoor adventures for kids.
What to Do: Explore the zoo’s diverse animal species, watch feeding sessions, and learn about conservation efforts.
Cost: Admission fees vary by age and season but are reasonable for a day of family fun.
How Long: Plan for a half-day or more at the zoo.
Tip: Check the zoo’s schedule for feeding times and special animal encounters.
11. Castel Sant’Angelo: A Castle Adventure
Why: Castel Sant’Angelo, a historic fortress and museum, offers a fascinating adventure for kids to explore its passageways and learn about its history.
What to Do: Climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the city and imagine life as a medieval knight.
Cost: Admission fees are reasonable, with discounts for children.
How Long: You can spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring Castel Sant’Angelo.
Tip: Check for family-oriented activities or guided tours that cater to kids.
12. Gelato Tasting: A Sweet Treat
Why: Gelato is a beloved Italian dessert, and kids will delight in trying different flavors.
What to Do: Visit local gelaterias and let your kids choose their favorite gelato flavors. It’s a delightful way to cool off on a warm day.
Cost: Gelato prices are reasonable, and a scoop or two won’t break the bank.
How Long: Enjoy your gelato in a few minutes or savor it during a leisurely stroll.
Tip: Try classic flavors like stracciatella, nocciola (hazelnut), and fragola (strawberry).
13. Pizza-Making Class: A Culinary Adventure
Why: Italy is famous for its pizza, and a pizza-making class is an interactive and delicious experience for kids.
What to Do: Join a pizza-making class where your kids can knead dough, add toppings, and bake their very own pizzas.
Cost: Prices vary, but it’s a fun and educational activity.
How Long: Pizza-making classes typically last around 2 hours.
Tip: Look for classes that offer kid-friendly options.
14. Borghese Gardens: Green Oasis
Why: Villa Borghese Gardens offer a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, with plenty of outdoor space for kids to run and play.
What to Do: Explore the gardens, rent a rowboat on the lake, or visit the nearby Bioparco di Roma, a zoo within the park.
Cost: Entrance to the gardens is typically free. There may be fees for specific activities.
How Long: You can spend a few hours to half a day in the gardens.
Tip: Pack a picnic for a delightful family meal in the park.
15. Gianicolo Hill: A View to Remember
Why: Gianicolo Hill offers panoramic views of the city, and kids can have fun spotting landmarks from above.
What to Do: Visit the hill in the evening to enjoy the view as the city lights up. You can also see the famous “Mouth of Truth” nearby.
Cost: No admission fee.
How Long: Plan for about 30 minutes to 1 hour on Gianicolo Hill.
Tip: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
16. Villa Doria Pamphilj: A Day in the Park
Why: Villa Doria Pamphilj is another beautiful park in Rome, perfect for a family picnic, a leisurely walk, or a game of frisbee.
What to Do: Enjoy the open space, relax, and have fun with your kids in this peaceful oasis.
Cost: Entrance to the park is typically free.
How Long: You can spend a couple of hours to half a day in Villa Doria Pamphilj.
Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy the tranquility of the park.
17. Circus Maximus: Run Like a Roman
Why: Circus Maximus, an ancient chariot racing stadium, offers a vast open space where kids can run, play, and learn about its history.
What to Do: Let your kids explore the field and imagine chariot races and ancient Roman spectacles.
Cost: No admission fee to enter the field.
How Long: Plan for about 30 minutes to 1 hour at Circus Maximus.
Tip: Bring a ball or frisbee for some outdoor fun.
18. Trastevere Stroll: Charming Neighborhood
Why: Trastevere is a charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets and a lively atmosphere. It’s a delightful place for a family walk.
What to Do: Wander through the streets, admire the colorful buildings, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Kids will love exploring the alleyways.
Cost: No admission fee.
How Long: You can spend a couple of hours strolling in Trastevere.
Tip: Try some gelato from the local shops while you explore.
19. Cat Sanctuary: Furry Friends
Why: Rome’s Largo di Torre Argentina is home to a cat sanctuary where kids can see and learn about the resident feline friends.
What to Do: Visit the sanctuary, and if your kids love animals, they’ll enjoy watching the cats.
Cost: No admission fee, but donations are welcome.
How Long: Plan for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Tip: Support the sanctuary by making a donation or purchasing a souvenir.
20. Tivoli Day Trip: Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa
Why: Tivoli, a short day trip from Rome, offers two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa. Kids can explore ancient ruins and stunning gardens.
What to Do: Visit Villa d’Este, known for its impressive fountains and water features, and explore Hadrian’s Villa, the former retreat of Emperor Hadrian, with its vast archaeological complex.
Cost: Entrance fees vary by site, but the experiences are worth it.
How Long: A day trip to Tivoli will take the entire day.
Tip: Pack a picnic or enjoy a meal in Tivoli.
21. Appian Way: Walk through History
Why: The Appian Way is one of the oldest and most important Roman roads. It’s an open-air history lesson for kids.
What to Do: Walk along the ancient road, explore the catacombs, and learn about the history of this significant route.
Cost: Entrance fees to catacombs or museums along the Appian Way vary.
How Long: Plan for about half a day to explore the Appian Way.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
22. Ostia Antica: Ancient Port City
Why: Ostia Antica, a well-preserved ancient Roman port city, offers a glimpse into daily life during Roman times.
What to Do: Explore the ruins, walk through ancient streets, and visit the amphitheater. Kids can appreciate history in a tangible way.
Cost: Entrance fees are reasonable, with discounts for children.
How Long: Plan for about half a day to explore Ostia Antica.
Tip: Bring sunscreen and hats, as there’s not much shade.
23. Day Trip to Pompeii: Ancient Ruins
Why: While Pompeii isn’t in Rome, it’s a fantastic day trip to explore ancient ruins frozen in time after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
What to Do: Walk through the well-preserved city, explore houses, and see the plaster casts of volcanic victims.
Cost: Entrance fees apply, but it’s an incredible historical experience.
How Long: A day trip to Pompeii is a full-day adventure.
Tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes and a hat for sun protection.
24. Pizza and Pasta Tasting: Culinary Delights
Why: Italy is renowned for its pizza and pasta. Let your kids savor the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine.
What to Do: Visit local trattorias and pizzerias and let your kids indulge in delicious pizza and pasta dishes.
Cost: Prices vary by restaurant, but it’s a tasty experience.
How Long: Enjoy your meal at your own pace.
Tip: Encourage kids to try different types of pasta dishes and toppings on their pizza.
25. Souvenir Shopping: Italian Treasures
Why: Let your kids pick out souvenirs to remember their trip to Rome.
What to Do: Visit local markets, souvenir shops, or artisan boutiques, and let your kids choose their own Italian mementos.
Cost: Prices vary depending on what you purchase.
How Long: Allow some time for shopping and exploring.
Tip: Look for unique and locally made items as souvenirs.
Why: Piazza Navona is a vibrant square known for its stunning fountains and lively atmosphere.
What to Do: Visit the fountains, watch street performers, and enjoy the lively ambiance of this historic square.
Cost: No admission fee.
How Long: You can spend about 1 to 2 hours at Piazza Navona.
Tip: Grab a gelato from one of the nearby shops.
27. Borghese Gallery: Art Appreciation
Why: Borghese Gallery houses an impressive collection of art, including sculptures and paintings by renowned artists.
What to Do: Explore the gallery’s masterpieces, and consider a family-friendly guided tour to engage kids in the art.
Cost: Admission fees vary, and it’s advisable to book tickets in advance.
How Long: Plan for about 2 to 3 hours to visit the Borghese Gallery.
Tip: Check for special family tours or workshops at the gallery.
28. Via Appia Antica Park: A Bike Ride Through History
Why: Via Appia Antica is an ancient Roman road offering a unique opportunity for a family bike ride through history.
What to Do: Rent bicycles and explore this ancient road lined with tombs and ruins. It’s a memorable and active adventure.
Cost: Bicycle rental fees are reasonable.
How Long: Plan for about half a day to explore Via Appia Antica.
Tip: Wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen for your bike ride.
29. The Mouth of Truth: Mythical Fun
Why: The Mouth of Truth, located in the portico of the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, is a famous ancient sculpture with a playful legend.
What to Do: Let your kids place their hands in the mouth and see if they can tell the truth without getting “bitten.”
Cost: No admission fee.
How Long: You can visit the Mouth of Truth in about 15 to 30 minutes.
Tip: Encourage storytelling about the legend of the Mouth of Truth.
30. The Keats-Shelley House: Literary History
Why: The Keats-Shelley House in Rome is a museum dedicated to the lives and works of English Romantic poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley.
What to Do: Explore the museum and learn about the poets’ lives and their connections to Rome.
Cost: Admission fees are reasonable, and there are often discounts for children.
How Long: You can spend about 1 to 1.5 hours at the Keats-Shelley House.
Tip: Share some of the poets’ famous poems or stories with your kids before visiting.
31. Beach Day in Ostia: Coastal Getaway
Why: Ostia, located just outside of Rome, offers a beach getaway for families seeking some seaside relaxation.
What to Do: Spend a day at the beach, build sandcastles, swim in the sea, and enjoy a leisurely coastal meal.
Cost: Costs can vary, but it’s an affordable day trip.
How Long: A beach day in Ostia can be a full-day excursion.
Tip: Pack sunscreen, towels, and swimwear for a day of fun in the sun.
32. Science and Technology Museum: Hands-On Learning
Why: Rome’s Science and Technology Museum, Museo Nazionale Scienza e Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci, offers interactive exhibits for kids to explore science and innovation.
What to Do: Engage in hands-on activities, learn about inventions, and discover the world of science.
Cost: Admission fees are reasonable, with discounts for children.
How Long: Plan for about 2 to 3 hours of exploration.
Tip: Check the museum’s schedule for special exhibitions and workshops.
33. Time Elevator Rome: A Virtual Journey
Why: The Time Elevator Rome offers a multimedia experience that takes you on a virtual journey through Rome’s history.
What to Do: Watch the show, which combines video, motion seats, and special effects to make history come alive.
Cost: Ticket prices are reasonable and may include discounts for children.
How Long: The Time Elevator experience typically lasts about 45 minutes.
Tip: The show is available in multiple languages, so choose one that suits your family.
34. Kids’ Cooking Classes: Little Chefs
Why: Italy is famous for its cuisine, and kids can learn to cook traditional dishes in a fun and interactive way.
What to Do: Enroll your kids in a cooking class where they can make their own pasta, pizza, or gelato.
Cost: Prices vary by class and location.
How Long: Cooking classes can last a few hours.
Tip: Look for classes designed for kids to ensure an enjoyable experience.
35. Shopping at Toy Stores: Italian Toys
Why: Italian toy stores offer unique and charming toys that can be wonderful souvenirs for kids.
What to Do: Visit toy stores like Bartolucci and Pinocchio for a delightful shopping experience.
Cost: Prices vary depending on what you choose.
How Long: Allow some time for shopping and exploring.
Tip: Look for traditional Italian toys and wooden crafts.
36. Pinocchio Park: A Fairy Tale
Why: Collodi, a town near Rome, is the birthplace of Pinocchio, and it offers a Pinocchio-themed park.
What to Do: Explore the park’s sculptures, play areas, and interactive exhibits that bring the story of Pinocchio to life.
Cost: Admission fees are reasonable, and kids typically get discounts.
How Long: You can spend about 2 to 3 hours at Pinocchio Park.
Tip: Share the story of Pinocchio with your kids before visiting.
37. Cinecittà World: Movie Magic
Why: Cinecittà World is a theme park dedicated to the world of cinema, offering rides and attractions for kids of all ages.
What to Do: Enjoy thrilling rides, shows, and interactive experiences related to movie-making.
Cost: Ticket prices vary, but it’s a fun day out for families.
How Long: Plan for a full day of excitement.
Tip: Check the park’s schedule for shows and events.
38. Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna: Modern Art
Why: The National Gallery of Modern Art in Rome offers a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art.
What to Do: Explore the museum’s artworks, and consider family-friendly guided tours.
Cost: Admission fees are reasonable, with discounts for children.
How Long: You can spend about 2 to 3 hours at the museum.
Tip: Look for special family-oriented exhibitions or workshops.
39. Skate Parks and Sports: Active Fun
Why: Rome has several skate parks and sports facilities where kids can stay active and have fun.
What to Do: Let your kids enjoy skateboarding, rollerblading, or playing sports in a local park.
Cost: Costs can vary, but it’s an affordable way to have fun.
How Long: Allow some time for outdoor activities and exercise.
Tip: Check the local skate parks and sports facilities for opening hours.
40. Church Tours: Art and History
Why: Rome’s churches are not only places of worship but also treasure troves of art and history.
What to Do: Visit churches like Santa Maria del Popolo, San Luigi dei Francesi, and Santa Maria Sopra Minerva to see magnificent art and architecture.
Cost: No admission fee, but consider making a donation.
How Long: You can explore each church in about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Tip: Look for famous artworks and sculptures within the churches.
41. Day Trip to Naples: Pizza and Pompeii
Why: Naples, known for its pizza, is also a gateway to the historic city of Pompeii.
What to Do: Enjoy Neapolitan pizza, explore the city’s vibrant streets, and consider a side trip to Pompeii for an unforgettable historical experience.
Cost: Costs vary depending on your activities, but it’s worth the adventure.
How Long: A day trip to Naples and Pompeii is a full-day excursion.
Tip: Try authentic Neapolitan pizza at a local pizzeria.
42. Piazza di Spagna: Spanish Steps
Why: Piazza di Spagna, with the Spanish Steps and the Barcaccia Fountain, is a picturesque square and a great spot for family photos.
What to Do: Climb the Spanish Steps, toss a coin in the Barcaccia Fountain, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Cost: No admission fee.
How Long: You can spend about 1 to 2 hours at Piazza di Spagna.
Tip: Visit in the evening for a quieter experience.
43. Bicycle Tours: City Exploration
Why: Join a family-friendly bicycle tour to explore Rome’s attractions and neighborhoods while staying active.
What to Do: Ride through the city, visit famous sites, and learn about Rome’s history from knowledgeable guides.
Cost: Tour prices vary, but it’s a fun and educational experience.
How Long: Bicycle tours can last a few hours.
Tip: Choose a tour suitable for kids, and wear helmets for safety.
44. Tiber River Cruise: Scenic Adventure
Why: A Tiber River cruise offers a different perspective of Rome, and it’s a relaxing way to see the city’s landmarks.
What to Do: Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Tiber, take in the sights, and listen to informative commentary.
Cost: Cruise prices vary, but it’s a pleasant way to spend time on the water.
How Long: A river cruise typically lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Tip: Choose a daytime or evening cruise to suit your family’s schedule.
45. Ghost and Mystery Tours: Spooky Fun
Why: Rome’s history is full of mysteries and legends, making it a great setting for ghost and mystery tours suitable for older kids.
What to Do: Join a guided tour that explores Rome’s eerie stories and haunted places.
Cost: Tour prices vary, and it’s an intriguing experience for older kids.
How Long: Ghost and mystery tours can last a few hours.
Tip: Check the tour’s age recommendations before booking.
46. Largo di Torre Argentina: Ancient Ruins and Cats
Why: Largo di Torre Argentina is an archaeological site containing the remains of four Roman temples and a cat sanctuary.
What to Do: Explore the ancient ruins and visit the cat sanctuary, where you can see and learn about the resident feline friends.
Cost: No admission fee, but donations are welcome.
How Long: Plan for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Tip: Support the cat sanctuary by making a donation.
47. Guided Vespa Tours: Roman Adventure
Why: Take a guided Vespa tour for an exciting and unique way to see the city.
What to Do: Hop on a Vespa and explore Rome’s landmarks with a local guide, making stops for photos and insights.
Cost: Tour prices vary, but it’s a thrilling adventure.
How Long: Vespa tours can last a few hours.
Tip: Choose a tour suitable for families with older kids.
48. Castel Gandolfo: Papal Palace and Gardens
Why: Castel Gandolfo, the summer residence of the Pope, offers guided tours of the palace and beautiful gardens.
What to Do: Explore the palace, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Cost: Tour prices vary, but it’s an interesting excursion.
How Long: Plan for a half-day trip to Castel Gandolfo.
Tip: Check the tour schedule and book in advance.
49. The Tiber Island: Tranquil Escape
Why: The Tiber Island, connected by two bridges, is a quiet and picturesque spot in the middle of the Tiber River.
What to Do: Walk around the island, explore its historical buildings, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city.
Cost: No admission fee.
How Long: You can spend about 1 to 2 hours on the Tiber Island.
Tip: Visit in the evening for a peaceful ambiance.
50. Day Trip to Orvieto: Hilltop Charm
Why: Orvieto, a picturesque hilltop town, is a day trip from Rome offering history, stunning views, and a captivating cathedral.
What to Do: Explore the town’s charming streets, visit the Duomo di Orvieto, and enjoy the panoramic vistas.
Cost: Costs vary depending on activities, but it’s a memorable day trip.
How Long: A day trip to Orvieto is a full-day excursion.
Tip: Try the local white wine, Orvieto Classico, and explore the town’s underground caves.
