| 4 mins read
Rome, Italy is one of the world’s most fascinating destinations. From the timeless ruins and stunning churches to its intricate fountains and world-renowned works of art, there is a seemingly endless list of things to do in this Italian capital. If you’re traveling on your own, as a couple, or as a group of savvy nomads, the city is your oyster. If you’re traveling to Rome as a family, you may be a bit concerned about your kids and the ultimate vacation-spoiler… boredom! Luckily, Rome should be pretty much the last place where kids will be bored, as there are a number of interesting, exciting, historic and entertaining destinations for all ages. So what are the best places to visit in Rome with your kids?
The Centro Storico
The heartland of Rome’s main attractions, this historic center includes a great number of the must-visit sites of the city. From 1st century Piazza Navona (one of Rome’s main city squares) and the 2nd century Pantheon (ancient Roman temple) to the iconic Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps- this historic center of Rome should be your first visit within the city. While parents can soak up the ancient history, rich culture and world-famous works of art, kids can gawk at the larger than life statues, grandiose fountain displays, excellent people watching (in all locations) and, if they’re interested, the natural and historic beauty of it all.
Continuing on with the ancient Rome tour, a visit to the Colosseum is another must-do. This 1st century Flavian Dynasty construction is guaranteed to hold everybody’s interest for its amazing architecture, ancient roots and macabre history. If the kids aren’t amazed by the sheer size and age of the ancient structure, your Rome tour guide’s renditions of the gladiator shows, public executions and other wild events that were once held here might.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Though the kids may need to stifle their jokes and horseplay for a while, a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica is well worth the price of admission. From the artworks, mosaics and world’s largest dome to the extreme religious, cultural and historic significance, this church just may be the most captivating in the world. If your children are intrigued by this stunning church, then perhaps they will like the Basilica di San Paolo Fuori le Mura, Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and San Giovanni in Laterano. If there’s only one church that can be fit into the itinerary, it definitely should be Saint Peter’s Basilica.
Other Top Rome Attractions
If everyone is feeling a bit worn out from ancient history and religion, Rome has some other excellent sites that both parents and kids will love. Stop by the Borghese Gardens for a walk through Rome’s largest park or pop into Giulio Giuliani’s Chocolate factory for the ultimate sweet taste in Rome. The city is also home to some more modern attractions, from excellent shopping and restaurants to modern movie theatres (some playing newly-released English speaking films) and even entertainment parks. For the younger ones, there is a fairy-tale theme park just outside of the city called The Fantastic World of the Fantastic, where every childhood superstar and princess (from Cinderella to Spiderman) comes alive. For the older kids who are looking to get a bit interactive, the Museo dei Bambini is an excellent, hands-on museum (made especially for kids.)
If the city-pace gets too exhausting for everyone, just outside of central Rome are some excellent beaches where the kids and the parents can let off some steam. Various “beach clubs” offer daily/weekly packages, which include the use of their pools, entertainment facilities, beaches, showers, restaurants, bars and more.
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