What to do in Rome with kids: top things to see and do as a family

  • 10 min read

In this guide you will find all the information you need about visiting Rome with kids, including walks in the historic center, family-friendly tours, must-see monuments like the Colosseum and the Vatican, relaxing parks such as Villa Borghese, fun museums, and even amusement parks near the city.

Visiting Rome with kids

Visiting Rome with Kids

Planning a family trip to Rome can feel overwhelming: there are so many monuments, museums, and experiences to choose from. Parents often ask the same questions: Is Rome kid-friendly? How can I avoid long queues? Where can children have fun while learning?
This guide will walk you through the best ways to enjoy Rome with your kids — from iconic landmarks to outdoor adventures — with practical tips that make your family holiday stress-free. And since moving around the Eternal City with little ones can be tricky, we’ll also show you why exploring by e-bike is one of the easiest and most enjoyable options.

Top things to do in Rome with kids

The Colosseum and Roman Forum

No trip to the Eternal City is complete without a stop at the Colosseum. The Colosseum is a dream playground for young imaginations. Children picture gladiators, animals, and roaring crowds. Because the arena can get crowded, booking skip-the-line tickets is essential. Many family-focused tours include games and storytelling that transform history into an adventure.

After the Colosseum, the Roman Forum feels like a giant maze of temples and arches. Kids love climbing small ruins or spotting statues, while parents appreciate the guided routes that explain ancient daily life. Although strollers struggle on the uneven stones, baby carriers make the visit smoother.

St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican

For kids, the idea of stepping into another country inside Rome is already fascinating. The Vatican City holds treasures that both adults and kids can appreciate. Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica is awe-inspiring, yet kids enjoy more than just the scale. The dome climb becomes a fun challenge, because each step brings them closer to a panoramic reward. Outside, the colonnade by Bernini creates a perspective trick: when standing on a specific spot, four rows of columns suddenly appear as one — a magical optical illusion for children.

The Vatican Museums may seem intimidating for families, however they hide several kid-friendly elements. Interactive audioguides turn the visit into a treasure hunt, asking children to “find” specific animals or mythological figures in the artworks. Moreover, the Egyptian collection with mummies and hieroglyphs fascinates kids of all ages.

A unique family adventure is the Vatican Necropolis, an underground world beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. Walking through ancient tombs feels like entering a secret city. Although the visit requires booking in advance and is better for older children, it adds a sense of mystery and discovery. Eventually, every route leads to the Sistine Chapel, where kids love spotting the famous Creation of Adam on the ceiling.

Basilica of St. John Lateran and Cloister

Another family-friendly stop is the Basilica of St. John Lateran, Rome’s cathedral and one of the four major basilicas. Kids are often amazed by its size and statues. In addition, unlike the busy Vatican, the Basilica of St. John Lateran is spacious and calmer. Children can walk more freely while parents admire massive statues of the apostles.Moreover, the adjacent cloister offers a peaceful space where children can walk around safely while parents admire medieval columns. Because it is less crowded than St. Peter’s, families can explore at their own pace.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and Bernini Staircase

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is another highlight, especially because of its mosaics that sparkle like a fairy tale. Kids are usually captivated by the shining ceiling, while parents can explain the biblical tales depicted in vibrant colors. Near the church, the Bernini Staircase offers an elegant spiral design that often intrigues curious young visitors. Therefore, this stop combines culture with discovery in a way the whole family can enjoy.

Outdoor activities in Rome for families

Villa Borghese: a green oasis in the City

When visiting Rome with kids, balancing monuments with outdoor time is crucial. Villa Borghese is perfect, because it offers wide lawns, fountains, and bike rentals. Families can picnic under trees or ride together through the park. Moreover, a golf cart or rickshaw adds a fun twist.

Inside the park, children love the Bioparco Zoo, which hosts more than 1,000 animals. Educational activities and a small train keep them engaged. Although Galleria Borghese is more suitable for older kids, its masterpieces make it a cultural highlight. Tickets, however, must be booked in advance.

Janiculum Hill

The Janiculum Hill offers one of the best family viewpoints in Rome. At noon, a real cannon fires a blank shot — a tradition kids find thrilling. Afterward, parents can enjoy sweeping city views while children chase bubbles blown by local entertainers. Because the hill is next to Trastevere, it’s easy to combine the visit with an early family dinner.

Bocca della verità

The Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) is a fun stop, because children love putting their hand inside the giant marble mask. Legend says it bites liars, which always makes kids laugh. Although the visit is short, it adds a playful moment to your day.

Aventine Hill Keyhole: A secret peek at the St Peter’s Dome

Another family-friendly surprise is the keyhole of the Knights of Malta. Peeking through reveals a perfectly framed view of St. Peter’s dome. Because it feels like a secret game, kids often find it magical. Moreover, the nearby Orange Garden is ideal for a short rest.

Piazza Navona and its underground stadium of Domitian

Piazza Navona is always buzzing with performers, balloon sellers, and fountains that entertain children. However, the real surprise is underground: the Stadium of Domitian, where families can walk through ancient tunnels hidden below the square. This contrast between lively piazza and secret ruins makes the stop doubly exciting.

Appian Way Regional park

The Appian Way (Via Appia Antica or the Queen of Roads) is perfect for families, because it offers a safe, traffic-free road shaded by pines. Walking or cycling along ancient stones feels like traveling back in time. Moreover, children can spot aqueducts, tombs, and ruins at every turn. In addition, picnic areas make it perfect for a relaxed family day. Renting e-bikes here is highly recommended, since it makes the route easier for all ages.

Catacombs and underground

Along the Appian Way lie the famous catacombs, underground burial sites used by early Christians. The Catacombs are among the most fascinating family experiences in Rome. Walking through dim tunnels while hearing stories of early Christians feels like an adventure tale. Because the underground is cool, it offers relief on hot summer days. However, strollers don’t fit, so baby carriers are recommended.

Hop-on Hop-off buses

These buses let families rest their legs while still exploring the city. Moreover, child-friendly audio guides explain landmarks in simple language, which keeps kids engaged.

Family-friendly e-bike tours in Rome

E-bikes are one of the best ways to see Rome with kids. Because they reduce fatigue, families can visit more sites in less time. Seats for small children and helmets make the ride safe. Moreover, guided e-bike tours choose routes with fewer cars and plenty of stops for gelato, making the day fun for everyone.

  • E-bike tour in the historic center: Families can join guided tours through cobbled streets and piazzas, discovering landmarks such as Piazza Venezia, Campo de’ Fiori, and the Pantheon. With e-bikes, even uphill sections become easy and enjoyable.
  • Appian Way (Via Appia Antica): Known as the “Queen of Roads,” the Appian Way is perfect for a family e-bike adventure. Children will be fascinated by the ancient paving stones, aqueduct remains, and Roman tombs along the route.
  • Rome Underground on e-bike: Some tours combine cycling with visits to underground sites such as catacombs and crypts, offering a mix of outdoor activity and mysterious explorations. This unique experience helps children connect with Rome’s layered history in an engaging way.
  • Rome at sunrise by e-bike: Families can enjoy silence, and the warm glow of dawn begins to paint her domes and ruins.
  • Rome at night by e-bike: Families can enjoy a night e-bike tour through Rome’s most iconic landmarks, from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, with breathtaking views and unforgettable stops.

Altogether, e-bike tours are a sustainable, family-friendly option that allows visitors to combine sightseeing, history, and recreation.

Eating in Rome with kids

While children can be picky eaters, Rome is an easy city:

  • Pizza al taglio (by the slice) is quick and affordable.
  • Gelato is everywhere and doubles as motivation between visits.
  • Casual trattorias around Trastevere or Campo de’ Fiori welcome families.

💡 Parent hack: with e-bikes, you can easily reach family-friendly eateries without long walks or navigating busy transport.

Conclusion: making Rome fun for the whole family

Visiting Rome with kids doesn’t have to be stressful. By mixing monuments, playful stops, and green spaces, families can enjoy both culture and fun. Although traditional transport is often tiring, e-bikes make every day smoother and more entertaining. As a result, parents can relax while kids experience the Eternal City like a giant open-air museum.

FAQs About Visiting Rome with Children

1. Is Rome a child-friendly city?
Yes, although Rome is full of history and monuments, there are countless activities, parks, and interactive museums designed for children. With proper planning and regular breaks, visiting Rome with children is an enjoyable experience.

2. Are strollers convenient in Rome?
Strollers work well in modern areas and large piazzas, but they are less practical in ancient sites like the Roman Forum or catacombs due to uneven paths. In those cases, a baby carrier is more suitable.

3. What is the best way to move around the city with kids?
Walking is ideal for short distances, but families can also use Hop-on Hop-off buses, guided tours, or e-bike rentals. E-bikes, in particular, are a great solution to cover more ground with less effort.

4. Do children get free entry to museums and monuments?
In many cases, yes. For example, children and teenagers under 18 can access the Colosseum for free. Always check individual sites, as policies may vary.

5. How many days are recommended for visiting Rome with children?
At least three to four days allow families to balance cultural visits with time for relaxation. With a weekend, you can focus on highlights like the Colosseum, Vatican, and Villa Borghese, while a longer stay gives time for parks, museums, and e-bike adventures.

6. Is it worth including amusement parks in the itinerary?
Absolutely. A day at Cinecittà World, Zoomarine, or MagicLand can offer children a refreshing break from cultural sightseeing, making the trip more balanced and enjoyable.