Top Activities for Kids in Rome, from Toddlers to Teens

With its impressive landmarks, intriguing catacombs, and delicious cuisine, Rome is truly enchanting for children. Romans, like all Italians, adore kids, and with a dash of creativity, you’ll discover countless ways to keep your little ones engaged amid the city’s ancient ruins and winding streets.

Is Rome family-friendly?

Your kids will delight in exploring Rome. While dedicated attractions for children may be limited, tales of gladiators and legendary heroes can turn historical sites into thrilling adventures. Plus, technology enhances the experience, with many locations offering smartphone apps and interactive exhibits, including VR options.

Beyond the main sights, there are parks to wander and hidden gems to uncover. And let’s not forget the food! Gelato and pizza slices make ideal snacks, while restaurants tend to be quite accommodating to young diners. Though kids' menus are rare, most will gladly serve a mezza porzione (child-sized portion).

However, navigating the city can be challenging. Cobblestone streets and non-functional metro lifts can complicate travel with a stroller. Additionally, changing facilities for infants are scarce, and public restrooms are few and far between.

Where are the best spots in Rome for children?

The centro storico and the ancient core of the city feature numerous attractions, along with a plethora of gelaterie and pizza takeout options. Villa Borghese is another must-visit, boasting the city zoo, a quaint boating lake, and ample picnic areas. In the Vatican, you can ascend St. Peter’s dome, while Via Appia Antica offers great biking opportunities and spooky catacombs.

Top Activities in Rome for Babies and Toddlers

Family Fun at Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese, the central park of Rome, is perfect for little ones, featuring multiple outdoor playgrounds and a charming miniature train. Older children can enjoy rowing on the Giardino del Lago and cycling around the park (bike rentals are available). The Bioparco, Rome’s zoo, is also located here, boasting around 1,200 animals—always a hit with kids.

An Urban Animal Adventure

For more animal encounters, keep an eye out for the colony of cats residing among the Roman ruins at Largo di Torre Argentina. Additionally, you can find a delightful collection of animal sculptures, including an elephant near the Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, lions on the Cordonata staircase, and a wolf at the Capitoline Museums.

A Museum for Rainy Days

Rome’s sole dedicated children’s museum, Explora – Museo dei Bambini di Roma, caters to kids under 12. It’s a vibrant, interactive space with themed sections, hands-on exhibits, a fire engine, and a free play area that your little ones will adore.

Top Activities for Kids in Rome

Experience the Glory of the Colosseum

The Colosseum is a must-see, and it certainly lives up to the hype, especially when accompanied by thrilling stories of gladiatorial battles and fierce lions. To explore where the lions were kept, consider a tour of the hypogeum, the intricate network of underground passages beneath the main arena.

Throw a Coin into the Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is the one place where you’ll want your kids to 'waste' their money. Legend has it that tossing a coin into the fountain ensures your return to the Eternal City. To guarantee your revisit, join the crowds—thinner after dark—and toss in your pennies.

Climb to the Top of St. Peter’s in the Vatican

You’ll likely pass through the Vatican at some point, and while it’s not specifically designed for kids, it can still be enjoyable. Toddlers can run around St. Peter’s Square chasing pigeons and admiring the colorful uniforms of the Swiss Guards. Older siblings may enjoy climbing the dome of St. Peter’s and taking in the breathtaking rooftop views. Equally impressive vistas await at the nearby Castel Sant’Angelo.

Test Your Honesty at the Bocca della Verità

Legend has it that if you tell a lie while placing your hand in the Bocca della Verità—an ancient marble disc with a carved face—the mouth will snap shut and bite your hand off. Give it a try, then head over to the nearby Circo Massimo for some running around and a picnic.

Tech Fun at the Terme di Caracalla

If your kids are into technology, let them explore the augmented-reality headsets at the Terme di Caracalla. These VR guides recreate the grand baths complex as it appeared in the 3rd century. Multimedia displays are also engaging at Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini, bringing several underground Roman villas to life.

Top Activities in Rome for Teenagers and Tweens

Panoramic Views from the Vittoriano

Teens can be tough to impress, but even they will find the Vittoriano awe-inspiring. This massive white monument offers some of the best views in the capital, including a stunning panorama from the 80m-high Terrazza delle Quadrighe. To reach it, use the lift located on the western side of the structure.

Catacombs Along the Appian Way

The Via Appia Antica is home to Rome’s most famous catacombs. These eerie underground passages were the final resting place for early Christians, and exploring their hidden depths offers a wonderfully spooky experience. After your subterranean adventure, refresh your mind with a bike ride along Via Appia.

Enroll in Gladiator School

Unleash your inner Spartacus at Rome’s gladiator school. Here, you and your young warriors can don traditional costumes and learn the art of gladiatorial combat under the guidance of instructors from the Gruppo Storico Romano.

Football at the Stadio Olimpico

For an unforgettable sporting event, take your teens to a match at the Stadio Olimpico. Passionate fans crowd the Curva Nord (Lazio) or Curva Sud (Roma), but for a more family-friendly atmosphere, opt for the central tribune sections. If you can’t catch a game, consider taking a stadium tour instead.

Travel Tips

Roman hotels often feature small rooms, but many have at least one suitable for families. It's wise to book early to ensure your preferred option.

Public transport is free for children under 10, but be prepared for plenty of walking. A baby carrier is handy when traveling with an infant, while a sturdy stroller is essential for toddlers. For long outings, a reusable water bottle is great for refilling at drinking fountains, locally known as nasoni or ‘big noses’.