13 Family-Friendly Activities in the Eternal City of Rome

Welcome to the Eternal City of Rome, where history, culture, and family-friendly fun collide! Rome is not just about ancient ruins and art. If you're wondering what to do with kids in Rome, know that it offers many exciting activities that kids will love.

Whether visiting the Colosseum, exploring ancient Roman sites, or tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, there is something for everyone in this captivating city. So pack your bags, gather your little adventurers, and prepare for a memorable Rome family trip!

1. Colosseum

A visit to Rome would only be complete with exploring the iconic Colosseum. Step back and let your imagination run wild as you learn about gladiators, chariot races, and ancient Rome. Kids will love the guided tour that brings history to life with fascinating stories and fun facts.

Opening hours: every day from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm

Nearest metro station: Colosseo

Price: entrance fee is around €16 for adults and free for children under 18

2. St. Peter's Basilica

A trip to Rome is incomplete without a visit to St. Peter's Basilica, located in Vatican City. The awe-inspiring architecture and magnificent artworks, including Michelangelo's famous Pieta, will leave the whole family in awe.

Take advantage of climbing to the top of the dome for breathtaking city views. The nearest metro station is Ottaviano-S. Pietro. The entrance is free, but there may be a small commission for dome access.

Opening hours: open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

Nearest metro station: Ottaviano-S. Pietro

Price: The entrance is free, but there may be a small commission for dome access

3. Trevi Fountain

Make your way to the legendary Trevi Fountain, where kids can toss a coin over their shoulder and make a wish. This stunning Baroque masterpiece is a sight, especially when illuminated at night. After making wishes, indulge in delicious gelato from nearby vendors while strolling the charming streets.

Opening hours: The Trevi Fountain is accessible 24/7

Nearest metro station: Barberini

Price: Gelato prices vary from one ice cream shop to another, but a cone typically costs around €3

4. Spanish Steps

Just a short walk from the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps await with a beautiful view at the top. Let the kids climb and run around this famous landmark, and remember to take some fun family photos while you're there. The Spanish Steps are surrounded by shops and cafes, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing break.

Opening hours: the Spanish Steps are accessible 24/7

Nearest metro station: Spagna

5. Villa Borghese

Escape the bustling city and head to Villa Borghese, Rome's most famous park. This vast green oasis offers endless opportunities for family fun, including pedal boats on the lake, a charming puppet theater, and playgrounds for the little ones to burn off some energy. You can also rent bicycles and explore the beautiful gardens together.

Opening hours: Villa Borghese is open daily, but the park's closing time varies by season.

Nearest metro station: Spagna or Flaminio

6. Sistine Chapel

A trip to Rome would only be complete with exploring the Vatican Museums, home to the world-famous Sistine Chapel. Kids will be amazed by Michelangelo's incredible frescoes on the chapel's ceiling. Engage them with a fun art hunt to spot specific figures or objects in the vast artwork.

Opening hours: open from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Nearest metro station: Ottaviano-S. Pietro

Price: €17 for adults, €8 for students aged 18-25 and children from 6-18. Free for kids under 6.

7. Ancient Rome Reconstructed

Take a guided tour through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to immerse your family in the history of ancient Rome. This archaeological wonder offers a chance to explore the ruins of temples, basilicas, and other structures from a time long past. The Roman Forum is one the best kid-friendly activities in Rome and will certainly surprise your little ones.

Opening hours: open daily from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm.

Nearest metro station: Colosseo

Price: same ticket as Colosseo.

8. Castel Sant'Angelo

Let your kids' imaginations run wild as they explore Castel Sant'Angelo, a fortress filled with history and mystery. Known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, this ancient castle has served as a papal residence, a prison, and a treasure trove. Discover its secret passages and the breathtaking view from the top.

Opening hours: open daily from 9:00 am to 7:30 pm

Nearest metro station: Lepanto

Price: €18,50

9. Bioparco di Roma

Animal-loving families will delight in a trip to the Bioparco di Roma, a beautiful zoo housing an impressive collection of animals. Kids will love the playful lemurs, majestic lions, and curious penguins. The zoo also offers educational shows and activities, making them fun and informative. Practical Information:

Opening hours: open daily. Opening hours vary by season. Check online for more info and ticket prices.

Nearest metro station: Flaminio

10. Climb the Gianicolo Hill

Climb the Gianicolo Hill to enjoy a panoramic view of Rome that will take your breath away. Pack a picnic and relax on the hillside, or visit at noon to witness the firing of the midday cannon. Kids will enjoy running around in this open space while soaking in the city's beauty below. only a few steps away from Trastevere.

Opening hours: accessible 24/7

11. Explora

For a day of interactive learning and fun, head to Explora, a children's museum designed to stimulate curiosity and creativity. With numerous hands-on exhibits, kids can explore science, art, and everyday life in an engaging and entertaining way.

Opening hours: open from Tuesday to Friday from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm and on weekends from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Nearest metro station: Flaminio or Piazza del Popolo

Price: €10 for adults and kids over 3, €7 for kids 1 and 3.

12. Catacombs of San Callisto - Mystery Underground

Older kids and teenagers will be fascinated by the eerie Catacombs of San Callisto. Explore the underground burial site and learn about early Christian history. Guided tours are available, offering an informative and spine-chilling experience.

Opening hours: The Catacombs are open daily from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Nearest metro station: Appia Antica/Domine Quo Vadis

13. Eat Some Delicious Roman Cuisine

After a day of adventures, it's time to savor some delicious Roman cuisine. Treat your family to classic dishes like pasta carbonara, pizza al taglio, and supplì (rice balls). It might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but gastronomy is one of the best family-friendly activities in Rome!

There are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in Rome where you can enjoy a hearty meal while the little ones indulge in tasty gelato for dessert.

Rome is filled with excellent restaurants to suit all budgets and tastes. Some popular family-friendly options include La Montecarlo (near Trevi Fountain), Pizzeria da Baffetto (near the Pantheon), and Ai Marmi (in Trastevere).

Once in Rome, keep heavy luggage from slowing you down while exploring Rome. Nannybag offers convenient and secure 24/7 luggage storage services so you can roam the city hands-free. Drop off your bags at a nearby partner location Practical Information: book 24/7 luggage storage services online and find the nearest partner location.