Who said traveling abroad with children wasn't appropriate? At Le Petit Futé, we're convinced that every destination has family-friendly tours. In Rome, there are no fewer than fifteen! From must-sees to specially child-friendly discoveries, our top 15 things to do in Rome with kids is the promise of a 100% successful stay, for young and old alike. From the Colosseum to Rome's underground passages, not forgetting a treasure hunt, follow us on a fun-filled discovery of Italy's capital!
1. The gladiator school, learning history while having fun
Three kilometers from the Colosseum, theÉcole des Gladiateurs invites you to enjoy an unusual family experience that you can book right here. Young and old alike can become gladiators of yesteryear for a while: outfits, fighting techniques, training sessions, replica weapons, it's all here! Your children will be delighted to put themselves in the shoes of these ancient fighters. Although the course is given in English, it's accessible to all, as all you have to do is follow the movements. After a thrilling two hours, you can visit the adjoining museum free of charge.
2. A fun family visit to the Colosseum
The Colosseum is obviously one of the must-see sights in Rome, and it's easily adapted to families with children. Instead of visiting the arena as usual, you can book a special tour, complete with games andfun activities. We invite you to discover our practical tips for visiting the Colosseum, so that you're well prepared before the big day.
Did you know? This marvel of the ancient world can also be visited in virtual reality, as can the Roman Forum. Perfect for older children and teenagers!
3. Villa Borghese, between adult visits and children's attractions
If Rome is one of Italy's top 10 cities to visit, it's partly for treasures such as the Villa Borghese, the city's most famous historic villa. As well as housing numerous museums, it offers a wide range of activities for children. From merry-go-rounds and playgrounds to bike and rosalia rentals and boat rides on the artificial lake, it's impossible to get bored, even when you're little! Another great way to visit one of Rome's must-see places with children, and keep the whole family happy.
Discover all our tips for visiting the Villa Borghese from top to bottom! And don't forget to book your skip-the-line tickets right here to avoid waiting at the entrance.
4. Visiting the Rome Zoo with children
Stay a little longer at the Villa Borghese to discover a place adored by children, the Bioparco, a zoo full of surprises. Opened in 1911, it is Italy's oldest zoo. A true pioneer in its field, it was one of the first to swap traditional cages for more animal-friendly spaces. From birds to reptiles and mammals from all over the world, the visit is magnificent.
Book my ticket for the Bioparco in Rome
5. Fun at Roma World, the family theme park
A journey back in time awaits you at Roma World, an amusement park dedicated to the Roman world of yesteryear. Shows, costumes and meals plunge you into the Rome of 2,000 years ago, for a day full of surprises in Rome with the whole family. Although it can be visited on its own, the park is part of a huge complex that also includes a water park and a film studio-themed park, Cinecittà World, in the same spirit as Disneyland.
Tempted? Click here to book your tickets for Roma World.
6. Let your imagination run wild with Leonardo da Vinci
If Rome is a favorite family destination, it's not only for its ancient monuments, but also for its history, of which Leonardo da Vinci is of course a part. The Leonardo Da Vinci Experience is one of the must-see museums linked to this famous inventor, and is ideal when visiting Rome with children. This interactive museum features life-size replicas of Leonardo da Vinci's inventions, which visitors can handle and test. It's sure to make your children's dreams come true, and put stars in their eyes! So.., go here to book your ticket for the Leonardo Da Vinci Experience.
7. Family fun at the Cat Sanctuary
A colony of cats has set up its HQ in ancient ruins... It's a visit that's both historic and unusual , and well worth the detour! The ruins are those of Piazza Largo Argentina in Rome, where Julius Caesar himself was assassinated. Today, the site can be admired as you stroll through the city, free of charge. If adults are interested in the historical side of the site, they'll also be amazed, alongside their children, at the hundreds of cats that have found refuge here.
8. Relax in Rome's most beautiful parks with your family
Parks are perfect places to spend time with children on a trip. Your first stop is the park of the Villa Doria Pamphilidotted with sumptuous fountains. Children can enjoy pony rides here. The aforementioned Villa Borghese park is another must-see in Rome with children. Finally, the Villa Celimontana park, close to the Colosseum, boasts playgrounds and water features where turtles and fish flourish.
9. Take part in a treasure hunt in Rome with your children
There's nothing like visiting a city while having fun! This way, parents can see all the points of interest they want to, while allowing their children to have a great time. Numerous treasure hunts and treasure trails are offered by independent companies or the Tourist Office. Don't hesitate to book your place!
Tempted? We recommend this 2.5-hour family treasure hunt on the theme of the Vatican, or this treasure hunt game on Leonardo da Vinci.
Did you know? Rome's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
10. Take a boat trip on the Tiber River
Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and you'll be able to see it not only from land, but also from the Tiber. Come aboard a bateau-mouche for a leisurely cruise around the city's main sights. It's the perfect way to keep the whole family interested! The ideal way to discover Rome at your own pace is to book a multi-stop cruise right here. You'll be able to admire the most emblematic sites while enjoying the convenience of getting on and off at the nearest stops.
11. Marvel at Rome's planetarium with children
Inside the Museum of Roman Civilization is a place beloved by many children and parents alike: the Planetarium of Rome. The astronomical shows offered by the 4k resolution are simply dazzling. Comfortably seated in your reclining armchairs, let yourself and your family be lulled by the magic of the stars... Various activities and events are also offered throughout the year, to the delight of Romans and travelers alike!
12. Family immersion in Rome's underground world
During your weekend in Rome, or your week-long vacation, we invite you to discover the "underworld" of Rome. Wherever you walk in this magnificent city, you'll find an unknown underground world. This is particularly true of the Vicus Caprarius archaeological zone, located... beneath the Trevi district! In ancient times, these underground passages were, as is often the case, used as burial grounds. However (and fortunately!), there's no longer any gloomy trace of this today. Some of our guided tours are specially adapted for children. A child-friendly approach helps them to enjoy their visit. The domitille catacombs and the Crypte des Capucins are also among the unusual tours you can book right here.
13. Bambini Explora, the interactive museum to do in Rome with children
Located near the Villa Borghese, Bambini Explora is an interactive museum where children can combine fun and education. Various workshops allow children to have fun while learning. They're invited to try out playful structures that look like crazy inventions, to learn more about science and the environment, among other subjects. Visits last just under two hours, and are a great way for kids to have a great time. Even if it's nothing like Rome's must-see monuments, it's a sure bet to be one of their best vacation memories!
14. The whole family makes a wish at the Trevi Fountain!
This is obviously one of the must-do activities in Italy during your stay! Yes, but... Seeing a fountain isn't really for children. But if they get the chance to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a secret wish, that's something else! As an adult, you'll be delighted to see one of the city's landmarks, and your children will have a great time too. You kill two birds with one stone: that's what a successful family vacation is all about!
15. Watch the cannon fire in Trastevere
Strolling through the picturesque alleys and squares of the Trastevere district is a delightful experience. From cobbled alleyways to tiny medieval houses, it's a real pleasure to get lost in a district that has remained authentic right in the heart of the city. In the evening, the district takes on a whole new charm with its lights, but it's at midday that you'll find an unusual activity that will delight young and old alike. Head for the Janiculum hill, where every day, guards fire a blank cannon. The activity is short, but truly unique!
Discover also the most popular things to do in Rome:
Where to stay in Rome with your family?
We recommend that you pack your bags for at least a 3-day weekend in Rome, so you can make the most of it. With children, a full week may even be necessary. A good idea would be to leave in November, especially during the All Saints' vacation period, to avoid the crowds and summer heat. It's also a good idea to leave during the Easter vacations, to take advantage of the fine Mediterranean weather.
- The best value for money
There's nothing like the Cardinal Hotel Saint Peter 's large outdoor swimming pool for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The spacious rooms, bookable here, are also ideal for families.
- The friendliest
"Just like home" is the feeling atHotel Carmel, an unpretentious establishment ideal for families. Book your family room at this conveniently located hotel in Rome here.
- The best location
Families appreciateHotel Grifo's prime location near the Colosseum. Its central location means it's close to all points of interest, so young children won't have to travel far. Click here to book your room.
Fancy a drink before heading back to the hotel? Discover Rome's best rooftops for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. All that's left to do is find a few good restaurants to sample Italian specialities, and you're all set!
Yes, it's possible to travel to the sun without taking a plane! Let's head for Rome, one of the world's most beautiful capitals, and an ideal destination to visit in Europe with children. Travelling with older children or teenagers? We recommend including a visit to the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel in your itinerary. This is a must-see, but unfortunately it won't appeal to the little ones (understandably so!). On the other hand, if you visit Rome during the Christmas holidays, the magic will be complete!
Our last smart tip: for a little peace and quiet after your stay in Rome, discover the best places to escape the crowds in Italy!
