No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon, but once you’ve toured the ancient sites there are plenty of other Fun Things To Do In Rome With Kids.
From exploring the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel to riding on a merry-go-round in one of the city’s many parks, here are 49 fun things to do in Rome with kids.
Fun Things To Do In Rome With Kids
1. Explore The Colosseum
While there are a lot of things to see in Rome, the Colosseum is generally one of the first places people think to visit with kids. Luckily, visiting this ancient amphitheater doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it can actually be fun!
2. See A Puppet Show At Teatro Argentina
Another great family-friendly attraction is Teatro Argentina, which also happens to be located inside the Piazza Navona. This open-air theater features free puppet shows on Saturdays and Sundays at 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, and 7 pm.
3. Take A Ride On A Gondola At The Fontana Di Trevi
While it may be one of the most famous fountains in the world, there’s still something magical about watching water pour from the hands and mouths of sculptures representing Neptune, Abundance, and the Nile. Make sure to bring along some small change for a trip around the fountain on a gondola – it’s almost as much fun as riding one in Venice!
4. Explore The Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel
While many people are familiar with the Vatican Museums, very few actually know what’s inside. A few highlights include Michelangelo’s frescoes, Raphael Rooms, and the incredible Sistine Chapel. Another bonus of visiting this museum with kids? It’s nearly impossible to get lost thanks to the guided tours available in multiple languages.
5. Go Shopping At Piazza Di Spagna
Located at the foot of the Spanish Steps, Piazza Di Spagna is a great place to while away an afternoon. There’s plenty of shopping, dining, and people watching – but this famous square is most notable for its Egyptian obelisk.
6. Visit A Barber Shop In The Old City
Here’s something you can do by yourself or in a group – have a professional barber give you a haircut. While they may just look like chairs, these shoeshine stands are actually barbershops in disguise!
7. Go On A Guided Walking Tour Of Ancient Rome
There’s nothing quite like seeing the ancient ruins of Rome with your own eyes, but it’s even better when you have someone to explain what you’re looking at. Fortunately, there are several walking tours available that will take your family on a guided tour of the city’s most popular landmarks.
8. Visit Castel Sant’Angelo And See The Pope
Located just across the Tiber River from Vatican City, Castel Sant’Angelo is an imposing medieval castle that was originally built to protect Rome. Kids will enjoy the guided tour of the underground passageways and climb to the top of the 14th-century palazzo for a great view of Vatican City.
9. Take A Trip To The Zoo
Another one for families on a budget, the Rome Zoo is conveniently located just outside the city so you can come and go as you please. The best part? Most of your money will support conservation efforts around the world, not just in Italy.
10. Eat An Ice Cream At Il Gelato Near The Spanish Steps
While there’s no shortage of gelaterias in Rome, the best one is located just steps away from the free Trevi Fountain show. Some of the most popular flavors include pistachio, blackberry, and panna cotta.
11. Savor A Spritz And People Watch On Via Del Corso
Via del Corso is a busy shopping street with lots of great shops and people to watch. You can grab a spritz and sit outside one of the many cafes, or just wander along looking at all the great stores.
12. Find A Kids Club In Rome
If you’re visiting during the summer months, Europe’s best kids club is in Rome! Located on Italy’s west coast, the Parco Natura Viva offers a range of activities from hiking and biking to fishing and cooking.
13. Visit A Cat Sanctuary In Rome
There are lots of ways to volunteer with animals in Italy – but one great way is at a cat sanctuary. There are several throughout the country, including ones near Venice and Florence, that are animal-friendly and great for kids.
14. Visit One Of Rome’s Oldest Churches
The Basilica di San Clemente is one of the best examples of early Christian churches in Rome. There are three separate levels, including a 4th-century basilica, home to some of the earliest known Christian rituals.
15. Take A Day Trip To The Tuscan Countryside
With its rolling hills and quaint country houses, Tuscany is a great place to go on a day trip with the kids. There are several towns within easy driving distance of Rome, including Siena, Florence, and Orvieto.
16. Discover Trastevere
Once a predominantly Jewish neighborhood, Trastevere is a great place to go if you’re looking for something a little different. You can visit some of the oldest churches in Rome or hang out at one of the many outdoor bars and cafes.
17. Take A Cooking Class In Rome
Cooking classes are becoming increasingly popular with those on more of a budget – and many are even free! If your family is planning on visiting Rome in the summer, take advantage of one of Europe’s best kids clubs.
18. Check Out Piazza Navona
Located just across the river from Vatican City, Piazza Navona is an open-air plaza that was originally built in the 16th century. It’s known for its obelisk and two fountains. There are also several small cafes on the edge of the plaza, where you can grab some coffee or a quick bite to eat while you people watch.
19. Visit Vatican City
Vatican City is one of Rome’s most popular attractions, thanks to all of the world-famous historical landmarks. A visit is a great way to get more out of your trip to Rome – especially for families with small children.
20. Walk Along The Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are located in the heart of Rome’s vibrant shopping district and provide easy access to several museums and historical landmarks.
21. Take A Day Trip To Ostia Antica
Ostia Antica is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can spend several hours there exploring this ancient city, learning about its history and even getting some exercise by hiking to some of its ruins. It’s also only a short train ride outside of Rome!
22. Watch A Free Concert At The Auditorium Parco Della Musica
The Italian government hosts free concerts in the summer months, many of which are family-friendly and open to the public. They take place at Villa Ada, an artificial lake in Rome, which also includes an open-air theater, soccer fields, and even a golf course!
23. Visit The Museum Of Roman Civilization
Located near the Colosseum, this museum is housed inside the 1st century Park of the Caffarella. It’s considered one of Rome’s best museums for children thanks to its hands-on exhibits and special programs for student groups.
24. Take A Photo At The Mouth Of Truth
Located in front of the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, this is perhaps one of Rome’s most bizarre statues – a large marble sphere with a human face topped by an open mouth. It’s said that if you place your hand inside, god will ensure that your words are true!
25. Attend The Vatican’s White Nights
Every summer, the Vatican opens its doors at night for several events and activities designed especially for kids. They include live music, sports events, and even scavenger hunts! See the Vatican website for more information.
26. Have A Picnic At The Villa Borghese Gardens
Located just across the street from Piazza del Popolo, these 16th-century gardens are home to several museums and galleries. Bring your own lunch or buy something at one of the cafes to enjoy during your visit!
27. Visit The Catacombs
Located south of Trastevere, these ancient Roman catacombs are another reason why Rome is such a fascinating and historical city.
28. See A Movie
If you’re visiting in the summer months, consider checking out one of Italy’s outdoor movie theaters. These open-air cinemas offer discounted tickets and can be found all over Italy – including in cities like Florence and Venice where you can watch a movie from the canal. Check out the Cinema estivo website for more information.
29. Sample Gelato In The Jewish Ghetto Area
There are several gelaterias located in the Jewish Ghetto area, including Il Gelato, which has been voted as having Rome’s best ice cream! It’s a great place to stop for a break on your morning or afternoon stroll.
30. Make A Wish At The Trevi Fountain
Each day, thousands of tourists flock to the Trevi Fountain with one thing in mind: throwing three coins into its waters. They’re said to ensure that you return to Rome someday if you do so – although the fountain is also a great place to get some exercise if you want to challenge that!
31. Have Pizza For Breakfast At The Pizzarium
This small pizzeria has one of Rome’s most original pizzas – one that even kids will love! Try their fresh mozzarella and tomato-topped pizza (or calzone ) in a cone shape for a fun twist on Italy’s favorite food.
33. Hop On A Boat Tour Of The Tiber River
For a different perspective of Rome that kids are sure to love, consider taking one of several boat tours around the Tiber River. Tours depart from Ponte Sant’Angelo and offer a chance to see the city from a different perspective.
34. Go On A Magical Carriage Ride
Rome would not be the same without its romantic horse-drawn carriage rides. The best time to ride in one is at night when all of Rome’s monuments and piazzas are beautifully lit.
35. Sniff Out Some Spices At The Porta Portese Market
Visit the Porta Portese Flea Market to explore Rome’s unique and colorful neighborhoods through its numerous antique shops, jewelers, and bookstores. Don’t miss the market’s spice section if you want a whiff of Italian history!
36. Play At The San Lorenzo District Playground
The playground in this popular shopping district is one of the best in the city. The surrounding area also has tons of great food options for families with one-of-a-kind restaurants, cafes, and fast-food joints around every corner.
37. Explore Ancient Rome At The Roman Forum
One of the most popular attractions in all of Italy, the Roman Forum is where many of ancient Rome’s most important buildings, triumphal arches, and monumental temples once stood. You can walk through the ancient city with a tour guide for a private experience or explore it on your own at your own pace.
38. Take In A Game At The Circus Maximus Arena
For a bird’s-eye view of Rome that is one-of-a-kind, consider taking in a game at the Circus Maximus. Dating all the way back to 135 A.D., this is where gladiators once fought and were long considered one of Rome’s most popular attractions. Today, it’s still an active arena that hosts summer concerts and events.
39. Shop At A Local Market
Shop at one of Rome’s popular street markets for fun food, clothing, and trinkets. The city has several colorful markets with different themes almost every day of the week – so be sure to do your research before you visit!
40. Watch A Game At The Palazzo Doria Pamphili
If you want to take in a game of soccer – or sport, generally speaking – consider catching one at this historic arena. Builtin the 17th century, it has an almost regal feel with marble staircases and floor-to-ceiling windows.
41. Explore The Amphitheater At Ostia Antica
This archaeological site is one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. While there is a fee to visit, it’s definitely worth the cost as you will be able to see everything from the arena itself and its underground tunnels.
42. Get Lost In The Alleys Of Trastevere
This colorful neighborhood is one of Rome’s most popular and well-known. Get lost in its winding alleys and picturesque piazzas while stopping off to take in some of the city’s culture along the way.
43. Go For A Swim At The Vatican’s Olympic Pool
You might not think that it’s possible to go for a swim on a trip to Italy, but you’d be wrong! Next to Vatican City, there is a luxurious outdoor pool built for Pope Pius XI. It has since been renovated and now welcomes visitors from across the world.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Rome with kids. Whether you are interested in exploring the ruins, staying active, or taking it easy, there is something for everyone! Be sure to take advantage of these unique experiences next time you’re looking for some family-fun ideas. Enjoy!
