Itineraries for Your Trip to Rome
3 Days in Rome for Families
Rome is perpetually dialed up to 11, from the around-the-clock buzz of scooters to the wow-worthy ancient ruins. This high-octane energy may not seem family friendly, but Rome offers endless options for kid-sized fun—as I’ve discovered over decades of taking kids from toddlers to teens sightseeing.
When my sons were younger, they loved Rome’s over-the-top fountains, and the city’s traffic-free squares and parks offered plenty of space to let off some steam. As they got older, they were drawn to iconic sights such as the Colosseum and Sistine Chapel that they studied in school. And the 24/7 diet of pizza and gelato is a hit for all ages. Here’s how to make lifelong memories in three days.
Wear light clothing for Rome's balmy temps, but dress modestly for St. Peter’s.
If you only have time for one thing, make it Trevi Fountain.
Start your visit with an overview of top sights without tiring out little feet. A walking (or e-bike) itinerary can work for older kids, but families with younger visitors should opt for a Vespa or Ape Calessino (similar to a tuk-tuk) adventure. Most tours stop at a scenic overlook—ideal for snapping a family photo.
In the afternoon, head to a park. Villa Borghese has playgrounds, a rowboat pond, quadricycle (pedal car) rentals, and zoo. This vast park is north of Rome’s historic center (numerous metro and bus lines stop at its nine entrances) and within walking distance of the Spanish Steps.
Next, delve into Rome’s cultural treasures. The Colosseum is usually a hit with kids, especially if you visit with a guide. Most Colosseum tours include a stroll through the adjacent Roman Forum. Both are accessible via metro.
Pairing a sightseeing tour with a hands-on workshop. This afternoon, opt for some active fun: gladiator wannabes can train at Rome’s Gladiator School; history buffs can learn the art of Roman mosaic; and budding artists can create a masterpiece on a sketching tour. (Our family has done these three activities over the years, and loved them all!)
No visit to Rome is complete without dipping your toes into Vatican City, but what you do depends on your family's ages (and stamina). Even young tots are impressed by soaring St. Peter’s Basilica and love climbing to the top of the dome for views of Rome. School-age kids can appreciate the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel—skip-the-line tickets and a family-focused guide are a must.
Round off your time by exploring Rome's culinary side. From market visits and street food tours to a gelato crawl or pizza or pasta cooking classes, there are tasty experiences for foodies of all ages.
- What are the best family-friendly attractions to visit in Rome with kids?
The Colosseum dazzles at any age, but visit with an express tour led by a family-friendly guide to keep kids engaged. Teens may enjoy the Vatican Museums with a family-focused tour, but tots are better off with a quick visit to St. Peter’s Basilica and a climb up to the top of the dome. The outdoor squares and fountains in the Historic Center of Rome are ideal for families, with no long lines and traffic-free spaces to explore safely.
- What’s the best time of year to visit Rome with kids?
Torrid temperatures and unforgiving sun make visiting Rome in summer a chore for both kids and adults, and many of its open-air ruins and other attractions are simply too uncomfortable to enjoy at midday. Take advantage of the balmy temperatures in spring or fall to tour the sights more comfortably, or plan a trip over the winter holidays when Rome is decorated with a towering tree and thousands of fairy lights.
- What are the best neighborhoods in Rome to stay in with kids?
For easy access to many of the major sights, a wide variety of dining options, and plenty of kid-pleasing souvenir shops, Rome’s historic center is ideal. The Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Spanish Steps are all clustered within walking distance, so you can avoid navigating public transportation. With convenience come tourist crowds, however, so focus on more residential areas like Prati (near Vatican City) and Monti (near the Colosseum) to avoid the hordes.
- What are the best things to do in Rome with kids on a rainy day?
Rome is home to a handful of indoor museums catering to younger visitors, including the Explora children’s museum, the Ikono immersive museum, and an interactive museum dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci and his inventions. Older kids may enjoy the chills that come with visiting the Capuchin Crypt or Catacombs of Rome, or you can dedicate a few hours to a hands-on activity like a family-friendly cooking class or craft workshop.
- What’s the safest way to get around Rome with kids?
Though Rome’s public transportation is safe, buses are often crowded and unreliable. The best option for reaching Piazza Barberini and the Spanish Steps is the metro A line (red), while you can take the metro B line (blue) directly to the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Young kids can explore the compact historic center on foot, but opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour to reach attractions further afield.