Planning a family trip to Italy? At Italia with Kids, we share our personal travel experiences and insider knowledge to help you explore the best family-friendly destinations in Italy. From fun activities and parks with playgrounds to top-rated kid-friendly hotels and local restaurants, we guide you to the most enjoyable and stress-free spots for families. We’re proud to call Italy our home, and with years of exploring its beauty, you can trust us to provide you with the best tips and advice, ensuring your family creates lasting memories on your Italian adventure.

Traveling to Italy with kids can be a fantastic adventure, offering rich cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food. However, to make your family trip smooth and enjoyable, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are some essential tips for visiting Italy with kids, ensuring that both parents and children have a memorable time!

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1. Choose a Destination that Fits Your Family

Instead of trying to tick off every famous place, focus on choosing a destination that suits your family's unique interests and needs. Whether you prefer history, nature, or relaxation, selecting a location that aligns with what your family enjoys will make the trip more meaningful and enjoyable. By focusing on a few key places, you can create a more relaxed and memorable experience without the pressure of rushing through every tourist hotspot.

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2. Engage Kids with Italy’s Rich History and Culture

Italy offers a variety of museums and attractions that cater to different age groups. Some museums may be better suited for older kids, while others are perfect for younger children. To make the experience more enjoyable, consider family-friendly guided tours that are designed to be engaging for kids. Scavenger hunts and interactive activities can keep them entertained while learning.

 

Our tip: When we visited Turin, we discovered that our daughter loved taking photos. By giving her a phone to capture the experience, we were able to explore the museums without any tantrums. It was a great compromise for everyone—even though we had to delete half of the photos afterward!

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3. Take Advantage of Free Museum Days

Italy offers several free days throughout the year to visit its world-class museums and archaeological sites. On the first Sunday of each month, many state-run museums and landmarks across the country offer free entry. This is a great opportunity for families to explore Italy’s rich cultural heritage without breaking the budget. Be sure to check the official websites of museums or the tourist office to see when these free days are available during your visit.

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4. Book Tickets in Advance

Whether it’s a guided tour or museum tickets, it’s always a good idea to book in advance to avoid missing out. For example, in Turin, you can usually get tickets for the Cinema Museum a few days ahead, but the panoramic lift in the same building often requires booking at least a month in advance. Additionally, online tickets can often be cheaper—such as for Gardaland Theme Park, where tickets online cost €49, while at the gate they’re €56. You can also find better family packages online, which will save you money and time. Booking ahead means less stress when you arrive at your destination, with no need to queue or worry about availability.

 

5. Make Your Research – Check the Official Tourist Office Websites

Before you travel, make sure to do some research and check the official website of the tourist office for your destination. You’ll be surprised to find that many offices offer free guided tours or convenient day passes for popular attractions, making it easier for families to explore without spending extra money. These passes can also offer skip-the-line access, helping you make the most of your time.

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6. Embrace Italian Food 

Italian food is a major highlight of any trip, and every region — sometimes even each town — has its own special dish you must try during your visit. While it’s a food lover’s paradise, picky eaters might feel overwhelmed by the variety of new dishes. Luckily, Italian cuisine offers a range of kid-friendly options. Pizza, pasta, and gelato are universally loved by children, and many restaurants offer special kids’ menus. Waiters are typically patient and accommodating, making it easier for families to enjoy their meals. If you're visiting with younger children, don’t forget to bring snacks and drinks to keep them satisfied between meals.

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7. Be Prepared for the Weather

The weather in Italy can vary greatly depending on the season and region. Summer can be quite hot, especially in southern Italy, so make sure to stay hydrated and avoid the midday sun. Pack hats, sunscreen, and light clothing for the whole family. If you’re visiting in the winter, consider exploring the Italian Alps for a family ski trip or enjoy the cozy winter ambiance in cities like Milan or Turin.

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8. Always Have a Plan B

It’s essential to have a backup plan. For example, if you’re visiting Cinque Terre in Liguria, it’s known for its breathtaking outdoor adventures, but it’s not ideal when it rains. Having a Plan B is crucial, so you can still enjoy your trip, even if the weather changes. If you’re in a city near the mountains and it’s pouring down rain, don’t be disappointed! Head to the mountains instead—it will likely be snowing there, and your kids will love playing in the snow more than wandering through wet, gray city streets. Planning ahead can keep your holiday fun and stress-free, no matter the weather.

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9. Keep in Mind Italy’s Laid-Back Pace

Italians tend to follow a more relaxed daily schedule, especially in smaller towns. Meals are often served later in the day, and many businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon for a “siesta.” Many restaurants also close after 3 pm and reopen around 7 pm for dinner. Therefore, it’s important to plan your lunch breaks accordingly and have plenty of snacks on hand for hungry little ones. This is a great opportunity for families to take a break, relax, and enjoy some downtime at the hotel or in a local park before heading to dinner.

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10. Stay in Family-Friendly Accommodations

When traveling with kids, it’s essential to stay somewhere that is both comfortable and convenient. Many hotels and guesthouses in Italy cater to families, offering services such as family rooms, child-friendly pools, and kids’ clubs. Airbnb is also a great option for families, as it offers spacious apartments where you can cook your meals and feel more at home during your stay.

 

11. Pace Yourself and Plan for Downtime

Italy is full of exciting things to see and do, but it’s important to pace yourself when traveling with children. Long sightseeing days can be tiring, so plan some downtime in between. Whether it’s taking a leisurely walk in a local park, enjoying a gelato by the fountain, or relaxing at the beach, allow your kids to recharge so everyone can enjoy the next adventure.

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12. Be Ready for Kid-Friendly Festivals

Italy is known for its festivals, many of which are perfect for families. From the colorful Venice Carnival to Siena’s exciting Palio horse race, there’s always something happening throughout the year. If your travel dates align with a local festival, be sure to check it out—it’s an unforgettable way to experience the culture and traditions of Italy with your kids.

 

By keeping these tips in mind, your family trip to Italy will be full of memorable experiences and joy. From historical sites to delicious food and family-friendly activities, Italy is an incredible destination for families with kids. Buon viaggio!