Italy is a wonderful destination for families with toddlers, offering a diverse range of experiences and activities to suit all ages and interests. If you’re going to Italy with kids, you may wonder if they will get bored with just visiting the ancient ruins and Renaissance art. Guess what? Whether you’re looking for history, culture, food, or a relaxed and fun-filled holiday, there has plenty to do in Italy with toddlers.
Places to Visit in Italy with Toddlers
Rome
Rome is a city that appeals to all ages and offers an array of activities for families with toddlers. Visit the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Roman Forum to introduce your little ones to history and art. The city also boasts numerous parks and playgrounds where children can run around and play, including Villa Borghese, one of the largest parks in Rome, and Villa Doria Pamphili, the largest park in Rome.
Read our guide on “Rome With a Toddler“
Florence
Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and is a city rich in art and culture. Take your toddlers to visit some of the many museums and galleries in the city, including the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, where they can see masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David. There are also plenty of parks and gardens where children can play, including the beautiful Boboli Gardens.
Check out our article on “Florence With Kids“
Venice
Venice is a unique city built on water and offers a magical and enchanting experience for kids. Explore the canals, gondolas, and beautiful architecture with your little ones, and take them on a ride on the famous gondola boats. The city also offers many charming squares and parks where children can play, including the Campo San Polo and the Campo Santa Maria Formosa.
Learn more with our guide on “Venice Family Holiday“
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a stunning destination for a family beach holiday, with crystal-clear waters and charming towns. Take your toddlers for a dip in the sea and explore the charming towns and villages along the coast.
Lake Como
Lake Como is a peaceful and picturesque destination surrounded by mountains and dotted with charming towns. Take your toddlers on a boat tour of the lake, or explore the towns and villages along the shores, such as Como, Bellagio, and Varenna.
Things to Do in Italy with Toddlers
Italy is a country rich in history, culture, and beauty, and offers plenty of activities that toddlers will enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Italy with toddlers:
- Visit the Vatican Museums: The Vatican Museums are home to some of the world’s most famous art and artifacts, including the Sistine Chapel. Guided tours are available, and there are also interactive tours specifically designed for families with kids.
- Explore the Colosseum: The Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks of Rome, is a must-visit for families with toddlers. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the Colosseum and imagine what it was like to be a gladiator or witness a battle.
- Take a cooking class: Italy is famous for its cuisine, and cooking classes are a fun and interactive way for families with toddlers to learn about the local food and culture. Many classes cater specifically to families with children, offering hands-on experiences and kid-friendly recipes.
- Take a stroll in Villa Borghese: Villa Borghese is a beautiful park in the heart of Rome that offers a peaceful escape from the busy city. Take a stroll around the park and visit the museums, or enjoy a picnic with the kids.
- Visit the Bioparco: The Bioparco is a zoo in Rome that is home to a wide range of animals, including monkeys, tigers, and elephants. Kids will love seeing the animals up close and learning about their habitats and behavior.
- Play at the beach: Italy has miles of beautiful coastline and plenty of sandy beaches, making it a great destination for families with toddlers. From the bustling beaches of the Amalfi Coast to the more secluded coves of Sardinia, there’s a beach for everyone.
- Visit the Acquario di Genova: The Acquario di Genova is one of Europe’s largest aquariums and is a great place for families with toddlers to learn about the marine world. With interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and a wide range of sea creatures, the aquarium will surely be a hit with kids.
- Explore the Cinque Terre: The Cinque Terre is a string of five charming villages along the coast of Italy. Take a scenic train ride, hike along the cliffside trails, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Mediterranean.
What to Eat in Italy with Toddlers
Italy is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of options for families with toddlers to enjoy. Here are some of the best foods to try in Italy with toddlers:
- Pizza: Pizza is a staple in Italy and is a great option for families with toddlers. Choose a classic Margherita pizza or try one with toppings that your kids will love, such as ham and pineapple or cheese and tomato.
- Pasta: Pasta is another staple of Italian cuisine and is a great option for families with toddlers. From spaghetti Bolognese to fettuccine Alfredo, there are plenty of pasta dishes to choose from.
- Gelato: Gelato is a type of Italian ice cream that is creamy, smooth, and delicious. With a wide range of flavors to choose from, including fruity, chocolate, and nutty, gelato is a treat that kids will love.
- Arancini: Arancini are crispy, golden balls of risotto filled with cheese and other ingredients. They’re easy to eat and can be a fun and tasty snack for kids.
- Focaccia: Focaccia is a type of Italian bread that is soft and chewy and can be topped with various ingredients, such as olive oil, salt, and rosemary. It’s a great option for a quick and easy meal or snack on the go.
- Panini: Panini are Italian sandwiches that are made with fresh bread and a variety of fillings, such as cheese, ham, and vegetables. They’re easy to eat and can be a quick and satisfying meal for families with toddlers.
- Lasagna: Lasagna is a classic Italian dish made with layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce. It’s a hearty and filling meal that kids will love, especially if they are picky eaters.
- Risotto: Risotto is a creamy Italian rice dish that can be made with various ingredients, such as cheese, vegetables, and seafood. It’s a great option for families with toddlers who love rice or want a hearty and comforting meal.
Italy Itinerary With Toddlers
An Italy itinerary with toddlers should be carefully planned to include a mix of fun activities and downtime, as well as plenty of opportunities to rest and recharge. Here’s a sample 7-day itinerary for a family trip to Italy with toddlers:
Day 1: Arrival in Rome
- Check into your hotel
- Explore the nearby area, such as Piazza Navona or the Trevi Fountain
- Have a family-friendly dinner at a local restaurant
Day 2: Rome
- Visit the Vatican Museums
- Explore the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in Villa Borghese
- Visit the Bioparco or take a walk along the Tiber River
Day 3: Rome to Florence
- Take the train from Rome to Florence
- Check into your hotel
- Explore the city and visit landmarks such as the Piazza del Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery
Day 4: Florence
- Visit the Boboli Gardens
- Walk across the Ponte Vecchio
- Explore the Mercato Centrale
- Enjoy a family-friendly dinner in the city
Day 5: Florence to Tuscany
- Rent a car or take a bus tour to explore the rolling hills of Tuscany
- Visit charming hilltop towns such as San Gimignano and Siena
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in the countryside
Day 6: Tuscany to Cinque Terre
- Take the train from Tuscany to the Cinque Terre
- Explore the five picturesque villages along the coast
- Enjoy a seafood dinner in one of the villages
Day 7: Departure from Italy
- Take a train or drive back to your starting point
- Return your rental car or check out of your hotel
- Depart from Italy with memories to last a lifetime.
This itinerary is flexible and can be adapted to suit the needs of your family. The key is to balance activities with downtime and to choose destinations that offer a mix of fun, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
