Rome & Lazio is often the starting point for a family trip to Italy. Rome is chaotic, magnificent, and surprisingly fun for children if you pace yourself. The headline act is the Colosseum. To make it engaging, book a tour that accesses the underground hypogeum where the animals were kept—it brings the history to life. Nearby, the Roman Forum is a good place for kids to scramble over rocks and ruins away from traffic. A unique experience for active kids is the "Gladiator School" on the Appian Way, a two-hour session involving tunics and wooden swords.
The Vatican City can be challenging due to crowds, but climbing the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica is a thrilling adventure (part lift, part narrow stairs). To escape the stone and heat, head to Villa Borghese. This massive public park is shaped like a heart and features boat rentals on a small lake, a replica of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and the Bioparco (Rome's zoo). You can rent family-sized quadracycles to pedal around the grounds.
Food is a highlight: Roman pizza is thin and crispy (pizza tonda) or served by the slice (pizza al taglio), perfect for a quick lunch. The city is also famous for supplì (fried rice balls with mozzarella), a cheap and filling snack.
Day trips into the Lazio region offer a break from the urban intensity. Tivoli is famous for Villa d'Este, a renaissance garden with hundreds of gravity-defying fountains that fascinate children. Ostia Antica offers a complete ancient Roman harbor city that is similar to Pompeii but much closer to Rome, less crowded, and shaded by umbrella pines. Rome involves a lot of walking on uneven cobblestones (sampietrini), so sturdy shoes are mandatory and lightweight strollers are better than heavy ones.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
As a global epicenter of history and art, Rome offers unmatched cultural depth from the Colosseum to the Vatican Museums. Peak months provide the ideal 15-26°C range for exploring ruins; shoulder months face higher heat (July/August) or rainfall (April/October), while winter is notably damp.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
The region serves as an open-air classroom with world-class archaeological sites like Ostia Antica and the Etruscan necropolises. The best learning experiences occur during the dry, temperate spring and autumn; winter months are unsuitable due to heavy rainfall (up to 147mm) affecting outdoor site access.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
Major religious celebrations at the Vatican (Easter) and world-class summer arts festivals like the Rome Opera at Caracalla offer unique, high-end cultural experiences. Peak months align with these globally significant events, while the off-season lacks major international festivals and experiences more frequent rain.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
The region features world-class thermal heritage, particularly the historical baths of Viterbo and Fiuggi, catering to discerning wellness seekers. These outdoor thermal parks are best enjoyed in mild temperatures (17-24°C); summer peak heat can make hot springs uncomfortable, and winter rain limits the appeal of outdoor retreats.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
Scenic routes through the Castelli Romani and the Tuscia countryside offer sophisticated families an authentic alternative to more commercialized regions. Peak summer months (Jun-Aug) provide the driest conditions and best visibility for rural exploration, while the high precipitation of late autumn (Nov: 147mm) creates poor driving conditions.
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
The volcanic lakes of Bracciano and Bolsena, along with the Circeo National Park, offer high-quality hiking and boating for active families. Late spring (May-Jun) is peak for lush scenery and mild 17-22°C temps; the shoulder season includes the hot, dry summer and the wetter transition months.
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
The Pontine Islands and the Sperlonga coast offer sophisticated, crystal-clear swimming spots with an authentic Italian atmosphere. Peak summer (Jun-Aug) ensures sea temperatures above 22°C and minimal rainfall; winter months are entirely unsuitable for coastal activities due to cold air and rough seas.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
World-class golf facilities (Ryder Cup host sites) and sailing in the Pontine archipelago appeal to high-end active travelers. Peak conditions occur when rainfall is low and temps are moderate (17-25°C); winter rainfall levels (over 120mm/month) significantly degrade the quality of outdoor sporting infrastructure.
Attractions (88 total)
National Park / Nature Reserve
Appian Way Regional Park
Rome
A historic green corridor featuring ancient Roman ruins and catacombs along the original Appian Way, perfect for family cycling.
Visit website →Circeo National Park
Sabaudia
Explore a diverse coastal landscape featuring sandy dunes, Mediterranean forests, and the striking limestone silhouette of Mount Circeo.
Visit website →Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise
San Donato Val di Comino
Discover the wild heart of the Apennines in this sprawling park known for its rugged hiking trails and rare wildlife like the Marsican brown bear.
Visit website →Monterano Nature Reserve
Canale Monterano
Hike through a scenic landscape to find sulfur springs, waterfalls, and the atmospheric ruins of a deserted hilltop village used in many films.
Visit website →Bracciano-Martignano Regional Park
Bracciano
Enjoy the serene beauty of two volcanic lakes and protected woodlands perfect for family picnics, sailing, and birdwatching.
Visit website →Castelli Romani Regional Park
Rocca di Papa
Visit the volcanic hills south of Rome to find scenic crater lakes, chestnut forests, and sweeping views of the Lazio coastline.
Visit website →Garden of Ninfa
Cisterna di Latina
Experience one of the world's most romantic gardens, where lush flora and crystal streams wind through the ruins of a medieval village.
Visit website →Zoo / Wildlife Park / Safari Park
Bioparco di Roma
Rome
Located within the historic Villa Borghese, this century-old zoo features over 1,000 animals across naturalistic habitats and botanical gardens.
Visit website →Oasi WWF Macchiagrande
Fiumicino
This protected WWF reserve features coastal Mediterranean scrubland and forests, providing a habitat for terrestrial tortoises, porcupines, and diverse bird species.
Visit website →Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Bioparco di Roma (Children's Farm)
Rome
A major city zoo featuring a dedicated children's farm for interacting with goats, sheep, and other domestic animals in an educational setting.
Visit website →Valle della Caffarella
Rome
A sprawling rural park within Rome’s city limits where families can see working sheep farms and ancient ruins along nature trails.
Visit website →Il Casale di Martignano
Campagnano di Roma
A picturesque lakeside farm offering organic dining and a tranquil rural environment perfect for families to experience the Italian countryside.
Visit website →Oasi di Porto
Fiumicino
A peaceful historic estate and lake where families can spot deer and migratory birds from a traditional horse-drawn carriage.
Visit website →La Fattoria degli Animali
Rome
An interactive petting zoo located in a coastal pine forest, offering kids close encounters with domestic and exotic farm animals.
Visit website →Art Gallery / Fine Art Museum
Borghese Gallery
Rome
An exquisite collection of Bernini sculptures and Caravaggio paintings housed in a stunning 17th-century villa.
Visit website →Capitoline Museums
Rome
The world's oldest public museum, featuring iconic Roman bronze statues and classical art on a square designed by Michelangelo.
Visit website →Vatican Museums
Vatican City
One of the world's greatest art collections featuring the Sistine Chapel and immense galleries of Renaissance masterpieces.
Visit website →Centrale Montemartini
Rome
A unique museum where ancient Roman sculptures are displayed against the backdrop of a decommissioned industrial power plant.
Visit website →Palazzo Chigi
Ariccia
A rare example of a Baroque residence preserved with its original furnishings and an important portrait gallery.
Visit website →Galleria Doria Pamphilj
Rome
A private palace museum showcasing a massive collection of Old Masters in opulent, mirror-lined galleries.
Visit website →MAXXI - National Museum of 21st Century Art
Rome
A striking contemporary art and architecture museum designed by Zaha Hadid, perfect for modern art lovers.
Visit website →National Etruscan Museum of Villa Giulia
Rome
A former papal villa containing the world's preeminent collection of Etruscan art and artifacts.
Visit website →National Roman Museum - Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
Rome
Home to one of the world's most important collections of classical art, including rare Roman frescoes and mosaics.
Visit website →Palazzo Barberini - National Gallery of Ancient Art
Rome
A grand Baroque palace housing essential works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Holbein.
Visit website →Palazzo Farnese
Caprarola
A massive pentagonal Renaissance palace featuring incredible Mannerist frescoes and a unique spiral staircase.
Visit website →Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Castel Sant'Angelo
Rome
A fortress and castle originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, featuring papal apartments and panoramic city views.
Visit website →Hadrian's Villa (Villa Adriana)
Tivoli
An expansive archaeological site of the Roman Emperor Hadrian's palatial retreat, featuring reflecting pools and diverse architectural styles.
Visit website →Ostia Antica Archaeological Park
Ostia Antica
A large ancient Roman harbor town where visitors can walk through well-preserved streets, theaters, and apartment blocks.
Visit website →Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Rome
The center of ancient Roman public life, offering a sprawling landscape of temple ruins, arches, and imperial palaces for exploration.
Visit website →The Colosseum
Rome
An iconic ancient amphitheater where families can explore the history of gladiators and Roman engineering through its massive stone tiers.
Visit website →The Pantheon
Rome
A remarkably preserved ancient temple featuring the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome and a famous open oculus.
Visit website →Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Vatican City
A vast complex of papal palaces housing world-renowned Renaissance art and the famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
Visit website →Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo
Castel Gandolfo
The former summer residence of the Pope, now open to visitors to view private apartments and sprawling botanical gardens.
Visit website →Baths of Caracalla
Rome
The towering ruins of one of the Roman Empire's largest public bath complexes, impressive for their scale and mosaic remains.
Visit website →Castello Orsini-Odescalchi
Bracciano
A massive, well-preserved 15th-century lakeside castle offering tours of armor-filled halls and views over Lake Bracciano.
Visit website →Theme Park / Amusement Park
Cinecittà World
Castel Romano
A cinema and television-themed park offering immersive rides, virtual reality experiences, and professional stunt shows.
Visit website →MagicLand
Valmontone
A large fairytale-themed amusement park featuring high-thrill roller coasters, water rides, and themed zones for families.
Visit website →Roma World
Castel Romano
An immersive historical theme park where visitors experience ancient Roman life in a reconstructed legionary camp with gladiator training.
Visit website →Hydromania
Rome
One of Italy's largest water parks, featuring high-speed slides, wave pools, and extensive sunbathing areas.
Visit website →Luneur Park
Rome
Italy's oldest amusement park, recently renovated with colorful rides and gardens specifically designed for children aged 0-12.
Visit website →Zoomarine
Torvaianica
A popular marine life park combining animal educational demonstrations with water slides and traditional mechanical rides.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Civita di Bagnoregio
Bagnoregio
Walk across a high pedestrian bridge to a car-free medieval village perched on a dramatic, crumbling volcanic cliff.
Visit website →Trastevere Historic District
Rome
Wander through charming cobblestone streets filled with traditional ivy-draped houses and family-run trattorias in Rome's most atmospheric neighborhood.
Vatican City
Vatican City
Discover the world's smallest state featuring stunning Renaissance art, St. Peter's Basilica, and the iconic grand square.
Visit website →Calcata Vecchia
Calcata
Explore a unique bohemian village built on a volcanic outcrop, known for its vibrant artist community and ancient stone alleys.
Monastery of Saint Benedict (Sacro Speco)
Subiaco
Visit an extraordinary cultural area with a monastery built directly into a vertical cliff, housing sacred caves and medieval frescoes.
Visit website →San Pellegrino Medieval Quarter
Viterbo
Step into one of Europe's best-preserved medieval districts, famous for its unique stone architecture and external staircases.
Visit website →Sermoneta Borgo
Sermoneta
Discover a perfectly preserved medieval hilltop town featuring narrow winding streets and a massive 13th-century fortress.
Visit website →Castel Gandolfo Historic Center
Castel Gandolfo
Stroll through the scenic lakeside village that serves as the Pope's summer residence, offering spectacular views over Lake Albano.
Visit website →Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Colosseum
Rome
An iconic ancient amphitheater that hosted gladiator battles, offering families a fascinating glimpse into Roman history.
Visit website →Pantheon
Rome
The best-preserved ancient Roman temple featuring a massive dome with a central oculus that creates a magical light effect.
Visit website →Roman Forum
Rome
The heart of ancient Roman public life, filled with ruins of temples and basilicas that bring history books to life.
Visit website →St. Peter's Basilica
Vatican City
One of the world's largest churches, showcasing breathtaking Renaissance art and architecture that leaves every visitor in awe.
Visit website →Trevi Fountain
Rome
A stunning Baroque masterpiece where children and adults alike can toss a coin to ensure their return to the Eternal City.
Monument to Victor Emmanuel II (Altare della Patria)
Rome
A massive white marble monument dedicated to the first king of unified Italy, offering great views from its rooftop.
Visit website →Ostia Antica
Rome
The remarkably well-preserved remains of Rome's ancient port city, offering an immersive walk through daily Roman life.
Visit website →Piazza Navona
Rome
A lively square built on an ancient stadium, featuring Bernini's famous Fountain of the Four Rivers and street performers.
Spanish Steps
Rome
A famous monumental stairway that connects the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.
Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Flying in the Sky
Rocca Massima
One of the world's longest and fastest ziplines, providing a thrilling flight over the scenic Lepini Mountains.
Visit website →Eurpark Energy & Adventure
Rome
An urban outdoor activity center in the EUR district offering tree-top trails, climbing walls, and skate parks for all ages.
Visit website →Indiana Park Ostia Antica
Rome
A large-scale adventure park located in a coastal pine forest, offering diverse acrobatic trails near the famous Ostia Antica ruins.
Visit website →Parco Avventura Riva dei Tarquinii
Tarquinia
A massive adventure park located within a vast seaside pine forest, featuring numerous high-altitude trails and sea views.
Visit website →Treja Adventure
Mazzano Romano
Italy's first adventure park, featuring extensive tree-top rope circuits and zip wires in a lush forest near the Monte Gelato waterfalls.
Visit website →Botanical Garden / Formal Gardens
Giardino di Ninfa
Cisterna di Latina
Often called the most romantic garden in the world, these lush English-style gardens are built over the ruins of a medieval town.
Visit website →Sacro Bosco (Park of the Monsters)
Bomarzo
A surreal and unique 16th-century garden filled with giant grotesque stone sculptures and architectural fantasies carved from bedrock.
Visit website →Vatican Gardens
Vatican City
Spanning over half the territory of the Vatican, these exclusive gardens feature monuments, medieval fortifications, and Renaissance sculptures.
Visit website →Villa d'Este
Tivoli
A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its magnificent Renaissance terraced gardens and spectacular concentration of fountains.
Visit website →Barberini Gardens (Pontifical Villas)
Castel Gandolfo
The private gardens of the Papal summer residence, now open to visitors, featuring Roman ruins of Domitian's Villa and impeccable Italian gardening.
Visit website →Roseto Comunale
Rome
A world-class rose garden located on the Aventine Hill, offering a massive collection of rose varieties with a backdrop of the Palatine ruins.
Visit website →Orto Botanico di Roma
Rome
Set on the slopes of the Janiculum Hill, this university-run garden features over 3,000 species including a Japanese garden and monumental greenhouses.
Visit website →Villa Lante
Bagnaia
An exceptional example of a Mannerist garden featuring perfectly symmetrical parterres and the famous Fountain of the Giants.
Visit website →Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Sperlonga Beach
Sperlonga
A stunning Blue Flag beach featuring golden sands and turquoise waters set beneath a white-washed medieval hilltop village.
Visit website →Grotte di Nerone
Anzio
A unique coastal area where the archaeological ruins of Emperor Nero’s seaside villa meet a popular public swimming beach.
Visit website →Santa Marinella Beach
Santa Marinella
The most popular sandy bay for day-trippers from Rome, offering calm, shallow waters and easy train access for families.
Visit website →Sabaudia Beach
Sabaudia
Located within the Circeo National Park, this expansive beach is famous for its towering sand dunes and wild Mediterranean landscape.
Visit website →Serapo Beach
Gaeta
The main beach of Gaeta, known for its fine sand and proximity to the scenic regional park of Monte Orlando.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Villa Borghese Gardens
Rome
A vast landscape garden containing a lake with rowing boats, multiple museums, and a scenic panoramic terrace.
Visit website →Grotte di Pastena
Pastena
One of Italy's most impressive karst cave systems, featuring dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers.
Visit website →Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo)
Rome
A high ridge offering the most spectacular panoramic views of the entire city of Rome and its monuments.
Lake Albano
Castel Gandolfo
A picturesque volcanic crater lake surrounded by forests, offering swimming, kayaking, and views of the Papal Palace.
Lake Bracciano
Bracciano
A large, clean volcanic lake perfect for water sports and swimming, overlooked by a massive medieval castle.
Villa Gregoriana
Tivoli
A romantic wooded park in a steep gorge featuring spectacular waterfalls, ancient grottoes, and Roman temple ruins.
Visit website →Aquarium / Sea Life Centre
Zoomarine Italia
Pomezia
A premier marine theme park featuring educational dolphin and sea lion demonstrations alongside interactive aquatic exhibits for families.
Visit website →Acquario di Bolsena
Bolsena
A specialized freshwater aquarium located inside a medieval fortress, showcasing the diverse aquatic species of Europe's largest volcanic lake.
Visit website →Water Park / Splash Park / Aquatic Centre
Hawai Park
Cassino
A popular regional water park offering a variety of swimming pools, waterfalls, and fun slides in a tropical-themed setting.
Visit website →Miami Beach Water Park
Latina
A spacious water park in southern Lazio featuring numerous pools, sports areas, and slides suitable for families and thrill-seekers.
Visit website →Aquafelix
Civitavecchia
One of the most famous water parks in central Italy, known for its scenic location on a hillside and diverse range of slides.
Visit website →Aqua World at Cinecittà World
Rome
A cinema-themed aquatic area located within the Cinecittà World theme park, featuring a large wave pool and high-tech water attractions.
Visit website →