Italy is highly recommended for families, and a family trip to Rome is a must! Rome is a captivating family destination that offers a rich blend of history, culture, art, and culinary experiences, as well as a plethora of kid-friendly attractions, such as museums, parks, zoos, and cooking classes, making it an ideal destination for families with toddlers or young children to enjoy together. If you are traveling to Rome with a toddler, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.
Things to Do in Rome With a Toddler
There are several things to do in Rome with a toddler, including:
- Villa Borghese Gardens and Zoo Bioparco: These beautiful gardens are located in the heart of Rome and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The gardens are home to several playgrounds and a small lake where you can rent boats. The Bioparco is a fun zoo that houses a variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, and monkeys.
- Explora Museum: The Children’s Museum at the Explora Museum is designed specifically for kids aged 0-12 and offers a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities that encourage learning through play.
- Pincio Gardens: The Pincio Gardens offer a stunning panoramic view of Rome and are a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery with your toddler.
- Capitoline Museums: The Capitoline Museums are a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Rome. They house a variety of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts that provide a glimpse into Roman life and history.
- Hop-on-hop-off bus tour: A hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a great way to see the sights of Rome with ease, as it allows you to get on and off at any stop along the route.
- Pizza-making class: A pizza-making class is a fun and interactive way to introduce your toddler to Italian cuisine and culture.
- Trevi Fountain: The Trevi Fountain is a stunning masterpiece of Baroque art and one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions. Your toddler will love throwing a coin into the fountain and making a wish.
- Cooking class: A family-friendly cooking class is a great way to bond with your toddler while learning how to make delicious Italian dishes together.
- Ancient Roman Forum and Colosseum: The Ancient Roman Forum and Colosseum are both incredible historical sites that offer a glimpse into ancient Roman civilization.
- Tiber River: A walk along the Tiber River is a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy the street performers and vendors that line the riverbanks.
Where to Stay in Rome
When choosing where to stay in Rome with a toddler, it is important to consider factors such as location, amenities, and accessibility. Here are some recommended areas and accommodations to consider:
- Navona/Pantheon/Campo de’ Fiori – These neighborhoods are centrally located and offer easy access to many of Rome’s top attractions, such as the Piazza Navona and the Pantheon.
- Trastevere – This charming and picturesque neighborhood is located across the Tiber River and offers a more laid-back atmosphere with plenty of restaurants and shops.
- Vatican City – This area is home to the famous Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, making it an ideal location for families interested in exploring the Vatican.
- Hotel Barocco – This hotel is located near the Spanish Steps and offers spacious rooms and family-friendly amenities such as cribs and babysitting services.
- The Westin Excelsior Rome – This luxury hotel is located near the Villa Borghese Gardens and offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including a kids’ club and swimming pool.
- Hotel Artemide – This boutique hotel is located near the Termini train station and offers family-friendly amenities such as connecting rooms and cribs.
- Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel – This luxurious hotel is located outside the city center and offers spacious suites, a kids’ club, and an outdoor swimming pool.
Regardless of where you choose to stay, make sure to check if the accommodations offer amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and strollers and if they are located near public transportation or attractions that are suitable for toddlers.
What Your Toddler Might Like to Eat in Rome
Rome is known for its delicious and varied cuisine, and many options are suitable for toddlers. Here are some of the best foods to try with a toddler when in Rome:
- Pizza – The classic Neapolitan-style pizza is a must-try in Rome and can be found in many pizzerias throughout the city.
- Pasta – Rome is known for its delicious pasta dishes, such as spaghetti carbonara and cacio e pepe.
- Gelato – Many gelaterias throughout Rome offer a wide variety of flavors that both kids and adults will enjoy.
- Suppli – These fried rice balls are a popular snack in Rome and are often filled with cheese and tomato sauce.
- Porchetta – This succulent roasted pork dish is a Roman specialty that is often served in sandwiches or as a main dish.
- Arancini – These fried rice balls are similar to suppli but are often filled with meat, cheese, and peas.
- Focaccia – This savory flatbread is a popular snack in Rome and can be found in many bakeries throughout the city.
- Tiramisu – This classic Italian dessert is made with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a creamy mascarpone filling.
When dining with a toddler, it is important to ask for recommendations from the waitstaff, as they may have suggestions for dishes that are suitable for children. It is also a good idea to check if the restaurant has high chairs or booster seats, as well as if they offer children’s menus.
How to Get Around Rome
Getting around Rome with a toddler can be challenging, but there are several options to consider:
- Walking – Rome is a walkable city, and many of the top attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, it is important to keep in mind that the streets can be crowded and uneven, so a stroller with sturdy wheels is recommended.
- Public transportation – Rome has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and the metro. However, navigating public transportation with a stroller can be difficult, as many stations do not have elevators or escalators. It is recommended to bring a lightweight stroller or baby carrier when using public transportation.
- Taxis – Taxis are readily available throughout Rome and are a convenient option for families with toddlers. It is recommended to bring a car seat for the child, as taxis in Rome do not provide them.
- Private transfers – Private transfers are a more expensive option, but they offer the convenience of door-to-door service and can often provide car seats for young children.
When traveling with a toddler, it is important to plan ahead and allow for extra time when getting around the city. It is also recommended to bring snacks, water, and extra diapers and wipes, as these items may be difficult to find while out and about.
What to Pack to Rome With Your Toddler in Mind
When traveling to Rome with a toddler, it is important to pack carefully to ensure that you have everything you need to keep your child comfortable and happy during your trip. Here are some essential items to consider when packing for your trip:
- Stroller or baby carrier – Rome is a walkable city, so it’s important to have a stroller or baby carrier to make getting around easier for both you and your toddler.
- Lightweight blanket or swaddle – A lightweight blanket or swaddle can come in handy for keeping your toddler comfortable in the heat or for nap times on the go.
- Sunscreen and hat – The sun can be strong in Rome, so it’s important to pack sunscreen and a hat to protect your toddler’s delicate skin.
- Snacks and water – Pack plenty of snacks and water for your toddler to keep them hydrated and energized throughout the day.
- Diapers and wipes – Diapers and wipes are essential for any toddler, so be sure to pack plenty for your trip.
- Comfortable shoes – Comfortable shoes are a must for both you and your toddler, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking on uneven streets.
- Entertainment – Bring toys, books, and other forms of entertainment to keep your toddler occupied during downtime.
- Electrical adapters and converters – Don’t forget to pack electrical adapters and converters if you’re traveling from a different country to ensure that you can charge all of your electronics.
By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip to Rome with your toddler.
Is Rome a Good Destination to Travel With a Toddler?
Rome can be a great destination to travel with a toddler, as the city offers a wide range of attractions and activities that are suitable for young children. The city has many parks, playgrounds, and museums that cater to families with young children, and the food options are plentiful and varied, with many dishes that are suitable for picky eaters.
However, navigating crowded streets and public transportation with a stroller can be challenging, so it is important to plan ahead and take extra precautions when traveling with a young child. Overall, Rome can be a great destination for families with toddlers who are willing to put in the effort to plan ahead and make the necessary accommodations for their young children.
