Best things to do in Rome with kids (plus essential guide)

Last Updated on 20/07/2026 by Ting Dalton

Visiting Rome with kids can be such a rewarding experience. You’ll get to admire gorgeous architecture, sip wine in pretty piazzas and enjoy copious cappuccini; they’ll gorge on gelato and pizza by the slice, and watch as history comes to life as they tour some of Europe’s most incredible monuments.

In this guide, we’ve mapped out the best things to do in Rome with kids of different ages (babies, toddlers, school-age age and teens) and suggested how to incorporate them in a 3-day itinerary. At the end, we’ve also put together our essential guide to Rome, with handy information to help you plan your trip – things like which neighbourhoods to stay in, how to get around, and tips for getting to and from the airport.

While we make suggestions for different ages, we would like to point out that all our recommendations are suitable for any family, or indeed any traveller, who is going to the Eternal City for the very first time.

Read on for your ultimate guide to visiting Rome with kids…

Rome with a baby

City breaks with babies can be easier than you might think. Rome is a great choice, as its centro storico (historic centre) is fairly compact and walkable. With a little one in a pram or carrier, you can easily wander from sight to sight, soaking up the beautiful architecture and stopping for coffee/feeding breaks at cafes in pretty piazzas.

Before we get into our suggestions for what to do, here are a few tips for visiting Rome with a baby:

• Changing facilities can be hard to find, so be sure to pack a cushioned mat for your little one
• Baby food and formula are readily available from supermarkets, and cafes and restaurants will often heat up baby food for you
• Highchairs aren’t always available, so be prepared for baby to sit on your lap or in the buggy (or pack a foldaway highchair, if your little one is old enough for one)
• Cobbled streets can be a challenge with buggies, but it’s not hard to find an alternative route if you’re finding a particular street too bumpy
• You’ll find nappies, wipes, etc in supermarkets, pharmacies and some corner shops

Soak up the atmosphere at a piazza

Simply sitting in a piazza and enjoying a coffee or glass of wine was my favourite thing to do in Rome. And when you’re travelling with a baby, it’s a brilliant way to enjoy the city without the stress of navigating a busy museum or struggling around sights with a buggy.

Some of the loveliest piazzas include Piazza Navona (babies will be mesmerised by the fountains), Piazza della Rotonda (lunch with a view of the Pantheon), and Piazza di Santa Maria ( a particular favourite of ours) across the Tiber River in Trastevere.

Colosseum

The Colosseum is a must-see in Rome, and one that children of all ages will enjoy. It’s easier to navigate with a carrier, though there are lifts and ramps if you prefer a buggy (just be aware that it’ll be slow going trying to weave through the crowds).

A nice surprise is that the Colosseum has a dedicated family space on the top level, where you’ll find changing and feeding facilities. Avoid the ticket queues by booking a time slot in advance (children are free, but do still need a ticket).

Tickets start at €18 for adults; under 18s free

Trevi Fountain

If you’ve got an early waker, make the most of it and head over to the Trevi Fountain. During the day, the crowds here can get really intense, but early on, they’re much more pleasant. Just bear in mind that there are steps down to the fountain, so ideally, bring a carrier rather than a buggy.

There are some nice cafes and bakeries in the surrounding streets too, so you can grab a coffee and a pastry after your visit. You’re also only 10 minutes or so from the Spanish Steps, another spot that’s a lot nicer before all the daytime crowds descend.

Rome with a toddler

Tackling a city with a toddler has its challenges, but luckily, Rome has plenty to keep little ones on side. The food is almost always a winner (pasta, pizza, gelato…), there are plenty of green spaces and fountain-studded piazzas to run around in, and even a few playgrounds for burning off excess energy.

Villa Borghese Gardens

Villa Borghese is a huge park in Rome that’s perfect for an afternoon of exploring. There are several entrances – Porta Pinciana and Piazza Napoleone (near Piazza del Popolo) are the best ones if you’re coming from the centro storico.

There’s a little boating lake where you can rent a rowing boat for a few euros (take cash for payment – and look out for the resident tortoises!), a handful of carousels and play areas, a puppet theatre, family bikes for hire, a water-powered clock, and a beautiful piazza (Pincio Terrace) with fantastic views over Rome.

Rome Zoo

Inside the Villa Borghese Gardens, next to the Galleria Borghese (a lovely art gallery, just not the most toddler-friendly of places), is Bioparco di Roma, or Rome Zoo.

It’s not particularly big, but there’s plenty to see here, including big cats, grizzly bears, penguins, giraffes and sea lions. Book your tickets in advance if you can – the earlier you book, the cheaper the ticket will be.

Adults from €14.50; children up to 10 from €11.50; children under 1m free

Explora Kids Museum

Undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Rome with kids, the Explora Museum is a wonderland for children of all ages (and parents). It’s handily located close to the Borghese Gardens, so you could easily combine the two for a really fun-filled day.

The museum is designed just for kids, so it’s packed with exciting games and interactive exhibits for them. There’s a soft play area for under 3s, role play areas, and tons of interactive games to get involved with. Some are better suited to older children, but there’s plenty for toddlers to enjoy.

Tickets are timed, and you’ll have an hour and 45 minutes to explore, so arrive on time to make the most of all the attractions. The time slots ensure that things don’t get too crowded and allow the areas to be tidied up before the next group.

Adults and over 3s €8; children aged 1-3 €7; under 12 months free. Closed Mondays.

Rome with school-age kids

Rome is a brilliant city for school-age children to visit, as so much can be linked back to what they’re learning – art, history, science, and religion. It’s a lot easier to do a day trip from the city as kids get older. You can see our favourite picks for day trips further down this Rome guide.

Colosseum and Roman Forum

This is where ancient Rome really comes alive – and it’s a brilliant way to get kids engaged with history. Come prepared with a kid-friendly guidebook or online info and get them involved in sharing info about what you’re seeing.

There are some family-friendly guided tours of the Colosseum and Roman Forum available, too, which include things like treasure hunts and tales of gladiators to keep kids entertained as you’re walking around. If you don’t opt for a guided tour, book tickets online in advance or purchase a combined ticket from the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill to avoid long queues at the Colosseum.

Tickets start at €18 for adults; under 18s free

St Peter’s Basilica

Seeing the famous dome of St Peter’s Basilica in person is one of those real ‘wow’ moments, for parents and kids. Admire the architecture while you’re queuing (arrive early for the shortest wait times – the basilica opens at 7am), then step inside to see the incredible artworks by the likes of Michelangelo and Bernini.

The views of Rome from the dome are amazing, so booking tickets with dome access (either by lift or stairs – there are 551 of them) is highly recommended. Note that there is a strict dress code to enter St Peter’s Basilica, so make sure adults have their shoulders and knees covered.

Entry to the Basilica is free. Dome tickets can be purchased online or at the basilica.

Castel Sant’Angelo

A visit to Castel Sant’Angelo is one of my favourite things to do in Rome – with kids, it becomes even more fun, as their imaginations can run riot while exploring secret passages and peering through arrow slits.

They’ll love running around the sloping walkways playing knights and soldiers in this fortress-castle – and you’ll love the intriguing history, the views from the Terrazza dell’Angelo (Angel’s Terrace) and the café where you can enjoy a drink and a snack. Just behind Castel Sant’Angelo there’s a small playground with swings and a climbing frame.

Adults €16; under 18s free. Closed on Mondays. Tickets available online or on the door.

Mouth of Truth

The Bocca della Verità at Santa Maria in Cosmedin is a must for family photos. Legend says the ancient marble face will bite off the hand of anyone who tells a lie – kids love testing this theory (though I promise all hands remain intact). The church features beautiful mosaics and houses relics of St Valentine, plus an ancient crypt worth exploring. Close to the Circus Maximus, you have to pay a small fee to take a photo. Don’t be alarmed by the queues, they move quickly.

Family-friendly walking tours

Walking tours designed specifically for families can transform sightseeing from ‘dragging the kids around’ to genuine engagement with Rome’s history and stories.

The best family walking tours focus on storytelling rather than dry historical facts – think tales of gladiators, legends of ancient gods, and stories about daily life in ancient Rome that bring the city to life for children. Look for established family tour operators which specialises in child-friendly experiences with activity booklets, relaxed pacing, and guides trained in engaging different age groups.

• Gladiator tours: Focused on the Colosseum and Roman Forum, with stories about gladiator battles, ancient Roman games, and what life was like for fighters in the arena
• Treasure hunt tours: These combine sightseeing with a fun scavenger hunt, giving kids something active to do while learning about the city
• Vatican tours for families: Specially designed to make the Vatican Museums manageable, focusing on highlights and using storytelling to keep kids engaged with the art and history
• Food tours: Already mentioned in our eating section, but worth repeating – food tours work brilliantly with school-age kids

Build Lego

If your kids are into building and creativity,  this Lego exhibition, just a short walk from Piazza Venezia, is pretty impressive. Explore the vast displays of LEGO® Bricks models – we’re talking 1,500 square metres, 25 million bricks, and over 100 dioramas – including Rome’s most famous monuments recreated in incredible detail, a Star Wars galaxy room, and life-size figures that make for brilliant photos. There’s also a hands-on FunPark area where kids can build freely, which is great for burning off energy mid-afternoon.
Tickets start from €11. Combine it with a walk up to the Vittoriano monument right next door – both tick off the same corner of the city nicely.

Rome with teens

If you’re thinking of taking teenagers to Rome, do it! It’s such a fun city to explore with teens – you can shop at markets, seek out the best viewpoints for sunset photos, book a cooking class, and much more.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Vatican Museums with teens? It’s possible, but you’ll want to plan carefully. The museums are vast and crowded, and it’s easy for everyone to become overwhelmed.

Pre-book your visit to ensure you skip the long queues for the ticket office, and work out which areas you’ll be most interested in. Museo Pio-Clementino is great for sculptures, and Galleria delle Carte Geografiche (Map Gallery) features intricate 16^th-century maps (see if you can pinpoint places you know). Teenagers with an interest in art history will really enjoy the Raphael Rooms, adorned with frescoes painted by Raphael himself.

End your visit to the Vatican Museums at the Sistine Chapel – without a doubt one of the best things to do in Rome. Admire the spectacular ceiling, depicting the Creation of Adam, and the Last Judgement, which covers the west wall. Just remember not to take photos, or you’ll have angry security guards on your tail!

Adults from €20 (add €5 for skip-the-queue access – only available with online booking); children 7-18 €8; under 7s free. Open Monday-Saturday and mornings of the last Sunday of the month.

Campo de’ Fiori

Campo de’ Fiori is a classically beautiful piazza on the edge of Rome’s centro storico. Once upon a time, it was a wild meadow – hence the name, which translates as ‘field of flowers’ – but nowadays it’s more famous for its lively market.

Held every day except Sunday, stalls set up around 7am and fill the square until early afternoon. There’s a real mix of vendors, hawking everything from fresh fruit & veg to slightly tacky souvenirs. It’s a brilliant place to simply wander and soak up the atmosphere, but get involved for a really fun experience – give teens an allowance and ask them to practise a little Italian as they buy picnic supplies or a present for someone back home.

Rome Catacombs

A slightly quirkier option on our list of things to do in Rome with kids is the catacombs (if you’ve read our family guide to Paris, you’ll know that the catacombs were a huge hit with Ting’s boys).

The catacombs in Rome are scattered across several locations – some of the most popular ones to visit are along the ancient Appian Way, and can be reached by taxi or on a guided tour. We think joining a guided tour is well worth it for the extra insight into the catacombs and crypts.

Garden of the Oranges

For the perfect sunset photo over Rome, there’s nowhere better than the Giardino degli Aranci or Garden of the Oranges. Also known as the Parco Savelli, this garden sits atop Aventine Hill, one of the seven hills upon which Rome was built.

As well as taking in the views, it’s lovely to just walk through the garden, which (as you might guess by the name), is filled with bitter orange trees. On your walk up the hill, don’t forget to look out for the Aventine Keyhole – peep through the keyhole on the unassuming green door at the entrance to the Villa del Priorato di Malta and you’ll see a perfectly framed view of St Peter’s Basilica.

Art appreciation

Rome is absolutely packed with glorious artworks – and they’re not all hidden inside galleries and museums.

Many of Rome’s churches are decorated with priceless pieces of art – some favourites of ours include Sant’Ignazio de Loyola (the trompe l’oeil ceiling is gorgeous), Santa Maria del Popolo for amazing Caravaggio paintings, and Santa Maria in Trastevere for its mosaics.

Pasta or pizza-making classes

Taking a pasta-making class in Rome is one of those experiences that teens will genuinely enjoy – and actually remember long after the trip. There’s something brilliantly hands-on about learning to make fresh pasta from scratch, and the best part? You get to eat what you’ve made.

Look for classes that focus on traditional Roman pasta shapes like cacio e pepe or carbonara. Many classes take place in local homes or small cooking schools, giving you an authentic insight into Italian cooking (and Italian life).

What to expect: Classes typically last 2-3 hours and include making 2-3 different pasta dishes from scratch. You’ll learn techniques like rolling dough, shaping different pasta types, and creating classic Roman sauces. Most classes end with everyone sitting down together to enjoy the meal you’ve prepared – often with wine for the adults.

Tip for booking: Choose morning or early afternoon classes if possible. Teens (and parents) are more engaged when they’re not tired from a full day of sightseeing. Plus, you’ll work up an appetite, and the pasta tastes even better when you’re hungry.

Many classes are held in residential neighbourhoods like Trastevere or near Campo de’ Fiori, giving you a chance to see a different side of Rome beyond the tourist centres.

Best family day trips from Rome

Although there’s plenty to keep you busy within Rome, if you’re itching to explore more of Italy there are some great places within daytrip distance of the Eternal City.

• Take the train to Umbria and explore the picture-perfect town of Orvieto
• Visit Ostia Antica with its ancient Roman ruins and mosaics
• Soak in the thermal springs at Saturnia
• Head to the coast and visit Naples or Pompeii (volcano-obsessed kids will love seeing Mount Etna)
• Journey to Florence for Renaissance art and steak sandwiches (it’s a long day, so better with older children/teens)

Where to eat in Rome with kids

One of the absolute highlights of visiting Rome is the food – and with kids in tow, you’ll find the city incredibly welcoming. Here are our tried-and-tested recommendations for eating out with the family.

Top tip for families: Arrive at restaurants by 7pm to avoid long waits. Many popular spots don’t take reservations, and queues form quickly from 7:30pm onwards.

Must-try pasta and pizza spot

Tonnarello

Ting’s absolute favourite spot in Rome – the pasta is served in individual pans and it’s so good I practically licked mine clean (and came back the next day for more). The atmosphere is authentically Roman, the flavours are incredible, and it’s perfect for families.

Locations: Original location: Via della Paglia, 1/2/3 (Trastevere) or near the Vatican (quieter option for families)

Tip: They don’t take reservations. Arrive by 7pm to avoid the longest waits, as queues form early and can get quite long.

Breakfast and brunch

Barnum

Famous for their avocado toast and almond croissants (which are genuinely a must-try). There’s usually a short queue, but service is quick and the relaxed atmosphere makes the wait pleasant. Kids will love the pastries, and parents will appreciate the quality coffee. Be prepared to queue.

Dinner and people watching

Mimi e Coco

Located near the Pantheon, is a wonderful spot for dinner when you want to soak up the atmosphere while people-watching. The location alone makes it special, and the food doesn’t disappoint.

Sandwiches and quick bites

All’Antico Vinaio

Their legendary sandwiches are famous throughout Italy – and for good reason. Perfect for a quick lunch when you’re on the go, and kids love choosing their fillings. Located near the Pantheon, it’s handy for a mid-sightseeing refuel.

Gelato heaven

Gelateria Della Palma

With over 150 flavours to choose from, you could visit every day of your trip and still not try them all. This is gelato heaven for kids (and adults). The quality is excellent, and the range means even the pickiest eater will find something they love.

Rooftop escape from the crowds

Terrazza delle 5 Lune

When you need a break from the bustling streets, this rooftop bar and restaurant near the Pantheon offers a quieter evening experience with stunning views. It’s perfect for an early evening drink while the kids enjoy the different perspective of the city.

Rome food tours with kids

Food tours can be a brilliant way to experience Rome’s culinary scene with children – they break up the walking, provide regular snacks (always a winner), and offer interesting stories that bring the city to life.

Look for tours specifically designed for families, which typically last 2-3 hours and include 4-6 stops. Many run in the morning, which works well with young children’s schedules. Tours often cover pizza, gelato, and traditional Roman street food – all things kids genuinely enjoy. The best family-friendly food tours focus on Trastevere or the Jewish Quarter, both offering car-free streets that are easier to navigate with little ones.

When is the best time to visit Rome with kids?

Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather for families exploring Rome. Summer brings intense heat that can exhaust younger kids, while winter sees shorter days and occasional rain (though the Christmas lights and markets are magical for kids and parents).

What are the best neighbourhoods to stay in with kids?

Prati, near the Vatican, offers a more residential atmosphere with wide streets, excellent gelaterias and easy access to Villa Borghese gardens.

Trastevere combines charm with convenience, offering car-free cobblestone streets perfect for children to explore safely and some fab restaurants (certain parts do become lively at night, so check your hotel or apartment location carefully). Ting stayed here and loved the laidback ambience and the trattorias that were full of locals eating every night.

Monti provides a village-like feel close to the Colosseum, with independent shops and family-run restaurants in its quieter sections. There are a couple of nice parks and playgrounds here, too.

Are Rome’s attractions suitable for strollers?

Rome’s cobblestone streets and historic sites can present challenges for buggies, but don’t let that put you off bringing one – you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, so it’s nice to have a break from carrying (or give little legs a break from toddling around). Try and bring a buggy that folds easily, but still has fairly robust wheels – flimsy wheels don’t do well over cobbles. Some places won’t allow you to take your buggy inside (St Peter’s Basilica, for example), but they will have facilities where you can park your buggy.

What’s it like to eat out in Rome with kids?

We have always found Italians to be so welcoming to kids, and Rome is no different.

Many will offer simple pasta dishes perfect for young palates/picky eaters, and staff typically provide high chairs without hesitation. Pizzerias are particularly great for kids, especially ones where you can watch the pizzas being prepared and slung into the wood-fired oven.

Just bear in mind that highchairs and changing facilities aren’t always available in restaurants.

Is the Vatican manageable with children?

The Vatican Museums are extensive and can overwhelm young visitors. Book skip-the-line tickets to avoid long queues in the sun or rain, and, once you’re inside, focus on highlights like the Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms rather than attempting everything. St Peter’s Basilica is free to enter and impressive enough to capture children’s imagination without requiring hours inside. It’s also lovely and cool on hot days.

What’s the best way to get around Rome with kids?

On foot! If you can, exploring Rome by walking is the best way to fully appreciate it – you’ll often stumble across hidden gems like a secret piazza or off-the-tourist-trail fountain.

If you need to travel longer distances, you can hop on a bus (these can be busy and tricky with a buggy) or the metro. Purchase Roma passes for unlimited travel, and remember to validate tickets.

Taxis are available, though child car seats aren’t – you are allowed to have children on your lap. If you’re worried, you could always bring a travel child booster seat like this Boostapak one we have used previously.

Is Rome safe for family travel?

Rome is generally safe for families, though standard precautions apply. Watch belongings carefully in crowded tourist areas and on public transport, as pickpockets target distracted parents. Keep children close in busy piazzas and metro stations. Ensure everyone stays hydrated during warm weather and takes regular breaks. Pharmacies will stock familiar international brands of children’s medications, and can help if you need assistance with medicine while you’re away.

What’s the best way to get from the airport to the city centre?

From Fiumicino Airport, the Leonardo Express train reaches Termini station in 30 minutes and accommodates luggage and buggy well. The regional train is cheaper and stops at several stations, including Trastevere.

Private transfers or taxis are worth considering with tired children and multiple bags, taking 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Book ahead if you require child car seats. From Ciampino Airport, buses connect to metro stations, or taxis provide direct routes taking around 30 minutes to the centre.

What should I pack for visiting Rome with kids?

Comfortable walking shoes! These are essential for everyone, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Bring a refillable water bottle for each family member, as there are plenty of free water fountains across the city where you can fill up (actually quite a fun activity for kids!). Sun hats and sunscreen are recommended if you’re visiting in the summer. Something to cover up with when you’re visiting churches or St Peter’s (a pashmina or lightweight scarf is ideal for draping over shoulders). And plenty of snacks!

Note: Many of the images are courtesy of Ting’s good friend and her lovely family, who recently travelled to Rome using our recommendations. They agreed to share their photos as Ting’s have been lost in the digital ether, nowhere to be found! Perhaps it’s time she made another trip back!