Last updated on July 3rd, 2023
When it comes to Rome, you may initially think of it as a city more suited for adults – with its ancient ruins and abundance of museums and art. But seeing Rome with kids can be a wonderfully rewarding experience, if you know how to plan it.
As a travel expert specializing in designing custom itineraries in Rome, Paris, and London for independent travelers — I know the excitement and delight that Rome can hold for young families. After years of experience, I’ve developed a sixth sense for keeping the kids engaged, well-fed, well-rested, and amazed — while parents still get to see the iconic sights, enjoy delicious Italian coffee, take enjoyable evening strolls, and sample the best foods in Rome.
Here’s a look at some of my top recommended things to do in Rome with kids:
Disclosure: There are some tour affiliate links below and I may receive compensation if you book through them (at no additional cost to you). This did not influence inclusion – these are tours and tour operators I’ve vetted and truly recommend.
First Things First: Basic Tips For Traveling In Rome With Kids
Include your kids in the planning. One of the best ways to get children excited is to make them feel like they’re a part of the planning process. When they know that there’s a place for them on your upcoming trip, they’ll be more invested in participating.
Get them reading books or watching shows about Rome. Find age-appropriate resources about the history, myths, food, and stories of this ancient city. Have them learn a few phrases in Italian so they can order their favorite flavor of gelato. If they show a particular interest in a subject, make a point of finding that thing — a type of architecture, a historical monument, a famous piece of art — on your trip.
If you’re seeing Rome with kids who are older, consider getting a hotel with a restaurant. This way, you can send them up to the room after dinner and still have the space to enjoy some quiet time together.
Don’t overbook, and make the most out of being outside. Stick to one or maybe two sightseeing things a day. Slow way down. Take picnics and enjoy time in the many gorgeous piazzas. Encourage fun physical activities interspersed with time for rest, hydration, and the occasional treat.
Cassie’s Tip: Be open to the possibility that kids will be just as amazed by the beauty around them as you are. Take in a passeggiata during the golden hour. Sit on one of the Seven Hills of Rome and enjoy the view at sunset. The very fact that it isn’t going to be anything like home is the perfect opening for wonder and adventure.
Family-Friendly City Sightseeing Tours and Activities
You likely already have a sense of this, but: the standard way of shuffling through museums probably isn’t going to cut it with children, especially those younger than 12.
The good news is that seeing Rome with kids means that you also get an opportunity to explore this magical city in new ways.
Take advantage of tours that have been designed by experts specifically for families. Private or small-group tours are available to see places like the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and the Forum with kids in mind.
If your child is a fan of the Percy Jackson novels or movies, you can all learn more about Roman gods and mythology on this Percy-inspired tour of the Capitoline Museums.
Jump at the chance to keep them moving. Along with the fact that Rome is very walkable, there are lots of opportunities to keep fidgety little bodies active (and tire them out for a good night’s sleep!). Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica. Let them burn off some steam over lunch in the gorgeous Piazza Navona. Or try this fun family-friendly e-bike tour that explores the Appian Way, both above and below ground.
Do the unexpected. A great way to engage kids in Rome’s sights and history is to give them a challenge, like these mystery-solving self-guided tours that turn learning into a game. How about a private tour of Rome at night with pizza and gelato included? (Pizza and gelato should also be included in all adult tours, in my opinion.) If your kids have a taste for a bit of spooky, they’ll likely love a chance to see the Capuchin Crypt with a guide.
Food Tours: Indulge In the Tastes of Rome with Kids
Italians know: food brings families together. And because Rome has such kid-friendly eating options, it’s also a wonderful way to explore the city together.
This Mamma Mia family food tour is sure to please everyone in your group: it’s geared towards kids, with games, trivia, treasure hunts and (of course) pizza and gelato. But it’s also a gorgeous sunset walk through the ancient streets of the Eternal City that catches some of the best-loved sights like the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Pantheon. It’s definitely a win-win.
You can also put on your chef’s hat and try your hand at preparing Italian cuisine with cooking classes, where you can learn how to make pizza or gelato – or even combine a food tour with a pasta-making class!
Related Posts: Where to Find the Best Gelato in Rome and Best Food Tours in Rome: Tasty Treats for Every Traveler
My #1 Tip For Exploring Rome With Kids
If I can share one piece of advice that I hope all adults will take to heart, it’s this: when traveling with kids, do everything in your power to avoid lines.
This one thing will make a huge difference in everyone’s fun factor. Especially during peak season, the lines in Rome can be brutal. There’s almost nothing that frays everyone’s nerves like standing 250 people deep on a roasting summer afternoon.
This is the irreplaceable value of a custom-designed itinerary. You get the tickets in advance, the tour reservations are taken care of, and the transportation is planned. You can explore places during less crowded hours. You sail through the doors with everything you need. Your table awaits you before your littles are in meltdown mode.
If you’re ready to start planning your Roman holiday and make unforgettable memories with your kids, now’s the perfect time!
Cassie Tetro
Itinerary Designer
& Certified Travel Expert
(Paris, London & Rome)
WHO AM I?
I’m Cassie Tetro, an Itinerary Designer and Certified Travel Expert for Paris, London, and Rome — my three favorite cities!
I help independent travelers like you save time and eliminate confusion with customized point-to-point itineraries crafted to your interests, preferences, travel pace, and style.
I take care of every aspect of your trip before you walk out your front door — tickets, reservations, tours, maps, transportation — so you can relax, soak in the magic, and enjoy a frustration-free vacation with a travel plan that’s as unique as you are.
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