Things to Do in Rome With Kids [2023] Highlights and Hidden Gems

You’ve decided to go on a Roman adventure with your young explorers, but you aren’t sure what fun things to do in Rome with kids. With its rich history and grandeur, Rome may seem like a city geared toward adults. However, fear not! There are numerous ways to make your family trip to Rome a delight for children too.

In this blog post, we review the must-visit highlights like the Colosseum and Vatican City, where the stories of emperors and popes come to life. But we’ll also venture off the beaten path, uncovering hidden gems that reveal the city’s authentic charm, offer unique perspectives on Roman life, and might be a bit more exciting for younger children. We also provide tips for keeping the kids happy and entertained on the way…always a plus!

Limited time in Rome with the kids? Check out this 1-day itinerary in Rome with Kids: Easily See the Highlights.

Location of Rome, Italy

Good to Know Before You Go

Most, if not all, religious sites require your shoulders to be covered and shorts/skirts to be no shorter than the knees. If you plan to visit the inside of any church or religious site, make sure you and the rest of the family are dressed appropriately. It is typically acceptable to wrap a scarf or jacket around your shoulders to keep them covered. 

It’s always a good idea to pack plenty of snacks and water and take breaks along the way. Gelato breaks are always a hit (and can be used to help encourage continued movement from site to site)!

If you need help deciding what to take with you as you travel the city, check out What to Pack for a Day Trip: Essential Items for a Family Outing.

Rome: A Brief History

Rome is often referred to as the “Eternal City” due to its rich history and enduring influence. The nickname captures the idea that Rome has maintained its importance and cultural significance over centuries. The city’s ancient ruins, iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, and connection to classical antiquity contribute to its timeless appeal and the nickname “Eternal City.”

Legend has it that Rome was founded in 753 BC by Romulus and Remus, twin brothers raised by a she-wolf. It began as a small settlement and gradually expanded its influence across the Italian Peninsula. Rome’s republican government emerged in 509 BC, lasting until the rise of the Roman Empire.

The Roman Republic transformed into the Roman Empire in 27 BC when Augustus became the first emperor. Over the next several centuries, Rome expanded its territories, conquering lands from Europe to North Africa and the Middle East. The empire thrived under emperors like Julius Caesar, Augustus, and Trajan, seeing massive cultural, architectural, and technological advancements.

Things to do in Rome with kids: The Highlights

These are the most well-known places to visit in Rome and suggestions on how to make it more interesting for kids.

The Colosseum

Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum is an ancient Roman amphitheater located in the center of Rome. It was primarily used for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles such as animal hunts, mock naval battles, and executions. It could hold an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 spectators, who would gather to witness these events.

The Colosseum

Restoration efforts have been ongoing, and the Colosseum is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. During our visit in May 2023, you could see areas of the original facade against those that have been restored.

Colosseum Tours

Unfortunately, we were not able to secure any of the Colosseum tours geared toward children. They sounded amazing and we hope to catch one someday soon! Check out Colosseum Tour for Kids and/or the Ancient Rome Amazing Scavenger Hunt and book as far in advance as possible!

There are typically long lines to purchase tickets and get into the Colosseum. Even if you don’t get to do a tour, or you choose not, the Colosseum is simply a marvel to behold from the outside. 

Check out down below under the “Hidden Gems” section for info on Gladiator School!

Vatican City and The Vatican Museums

Vatican City is an independent city-state located within Rome. It is the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world, both in terms of area and population. The Vatican City-State is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope.

Aerial view of Vatican City
Photo courtesy of Aliona & Pasha

The Vatican Museums are a collection of art galleries and historical museums located within Vatican City. They are well-known for their vast collection of art, including masterpieces from various periods and civilizations. While the Vatican Museums primarily cater to adult visitors, there are several enjoyable activities for kids as well. Here are some highlights:

Sistine Chapel:

Engaging the kids with the stories behind the artwork and its intricate details can make the visit more exciting. You can look into different companies that offer tours especially catered to young kids. Check out this Skip-the-Ticket-Line Kids Fun Sistine Chapel & Vatican Tour.

Vatican Gardens:

Adjacent to the Vatican Museums, the Vatican Gardens offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the galleries. Children can enjoy exploring the well-manicured gardens, fountains, and sculptures while enjoying some fresh air.

Treasure Hunt Tours:

Some tour operators offer family-friendly treasure hunt tours within the Vatican Museums. These tours are designed to engage children by turning the visit into an interactive game, making the experience more enjoyable and educational. Europe 4 Kids Tours offers The Divine Race Hunt of the Vatican.

If none of this sounds appealing to you and your kids, the Piazza San Pietro (St. Peter’s Square) out front of St. Peter’s Basilica, is a great place to let the kids run around and burn off some energy while you snap some photos.

St. Peter’s Basilica 

St Peter’s Basilica is a renowned Catholic church located in Vatican City. It is one of the most significant religious and architectural landmarks in the world.

It’s worth noting that St. Peter’s Basilica is a religious site, so it’s essential to maintain respectful behavior while visiting. To enter, it is required that shoulders and knees are covered, so no tank tops or short shorts/skirts!  

The basilica was built during the Renaissance period and took several decades to complete. It is known for its grandeur, artistic masterpieces, and historical importance. The interior of St. Peter’s Basilica is adorned with beautiful sculptures, intricate mosaics, and magnificent paintings, including Michelangelo’s famous Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin.

Crawford family in front of St. Peter’s Basilica. May 2023

For kids, St. Peter’s Basilica can be an intriguing place to visit. While the religious and historical significance may be more appreciated by adults, there are still aspects that can capture children’s interest. Some of the highlights for kids include:

• The sheer size and grandeur of the basilica can be awe-inspiring for children.

• Climbing to the top of the dome offers a unique perspective of the church and a panoramic view of Rome, which can be exciting for kids. Be aware that the climb includes A LOT of stairs and is small and enclosed. Anyone who is claustrophobic should not do this experience. This is probably a better activity for older kids. I did this climb during my visit in June 2009, and if memory serves me, it was 200-some stairs to the top.

• The Vatican Grottoes, located beneath the basilica, contain the tombs of many popes throughout history. This can be a fascinating exploration for children interested in history.

• The Swiss Guard, the official guards of Vatican City, are often seen in their distinctive uniforms near the basilica. Kids might find them intriguing to watch.

Basilica Tours

Exploring the basilica with a knowledgeable guide or participating in a guided tour designed for families, such as The Divine Race Hunt of the Vatican or the Extra Early Bird Special Vatican Tour, can enhance the experience for kids, providing interesting anecdotes and age-appropriate explanations.

Trevi Fountain 

The Trevi Fountain is a famous landmark in Rome. It is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most popular tourist attractions. The fountain features a grand design with a central sculpture of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, surrounded by intricate carvings and ornate decorations.

While the Trevi Fountain itself is primarily an architectural masterpiece and a sightseeing spot, you and your kids can enjoy participating in an old tradition. The tradition is to throw a coin into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder, ensuring your wish to return to Rome. Children can enjoy participating in this tradition and making a wish of their own. Our daughter Leah informed us that she did not want to wish for her return to Rome, so she wished for something else. 🙂

Not far from the fountain, we found a very cool gelato shop. For our cone or cup, we could choose a chocolate or raspberry coating, to which could be added some nuts. There was also a wall of liquid chocolate!

The Roman Forum 

This ancient public space was the political, religious, and social center of the city during the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire. The Roman Forum served as a gathering place for various activities, including elections, speeches, legal proceedings, commercial transactions, and religious ceremonies.

Visiting the Roman Forum can be a fascinating and educational experience for children. While the site primarily consists of ruins and historical artifacts, there are still several engaging activities you can do with kids:

1. Take a guided tour: Consider joining a family-friendly guided tour of the Roman Forum. A knowledgeable guide can provide interesting facts, stories, and interactive explanations tailored to children’s understanding.
2. Use audio guides or apps: Many audio guides and mobile apps are available that offer interactive and kid-friendly information about the Roman Forum. These resources often include fun quizzes, games, and multimedia content to keep children engaged.
3. Scavenger hunt: Create a scavenger hunt by making a list of specific features or objects for your children to find within the Forum. This activity encourages observation skills and keeps kids actively exploring the site.
4. Bring a guidebook or coloring book: Give your children a guidebook or coloring book related to ancient Rome and the Roman Forum. These resources often contain illustrations, puzzles, and activities that can enhance their understanding and make the experience more enjoyable.
5. Role-play and storytelling: Encourage your kids to imagine themselves as ancient Romans. Take turns telling stories about life in ancient Rome and the events that might have taken place in the Forum. This interactive approach helps children connect with history on a personal level.
6. Sketch or photograph: Provide your children with sketchbooks or cameras to capture their favorite views, architectural details, or artifacts within the Roman Forum. This activity encourages artistic expression and a deeper appreciation of the site’s beauty.
7. Pack a picnic: Bring a packed lunch or snacks to enjoy at one of the nearby parks or green spaces, such as the Palatine Hill. This allows for a break from exploring while enjoying a scenic outdoor setting.

Know that it is possible to see many ruins of the Roman Forum from the street, Via dei Fori Imperiali. This is the street that runs northwest between the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia. So even if you decide not to go into the Forum, you can still see many of the ruins. 

The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are a famous landmark and tourist attraction. They consist of 135 steps that ascend from the Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. The term “Spanish Steps” refers to the connection between the location of the steps and the Spanish Embassy, rather than any particular Spanish influence or design in their construction.

If you’re looking for a way to help wear your kids out, challenge them to see how many times they can go up and down all the steps!! But tell them to do so slowly so they don’t trip and fall down the steps!

Piazza Navona 

Piazza Navona is a renowned public square in the city center of Rome. Piazza Navona has a fascinating history that dates back to ancient Roman times when it was a grand sports arena. Over the centuries, the area transformed into a public square and became a hub of social and cultural activities.

While Piazza Navona doesn’t have dedicated attractions specifically for children, it can be the perfect place to let kids run around. Its lively atmosphere and proximity to other famous landmarks like the Pantheon make it an interesting place to visit for families. The square itself is a vibrant and lively place with street performers, musicians, and artists that can entertain children. Additionally, there are several gelato shops and cafés around the square where everyone can enjoy delicious treats. 

During our visit, we saw the Italian Red Cross demonstrating and practicing a medical scenario in the square. The unfortunate person had to pretend as though they had cut off their entire hand!

Pantheon

The Pantheon in Rome is primarily a historical and architectural marvel known for its impressive dome and ancient Roman origins. While it does not have specific attractions or activities designed specifically for children, visiting the Pantheon can still be an educational and interesting experience for kids. 

Here are a few things that might engage children during a visit to the Pantheon:

1. Architecture: Children might find the massive dome and the grandeur of the Pantheon fascinating. You can explain to them how it was constructed and share interesting facts about its engineering marvels.
2. History: The Pantheon has a rich history, dating back to ancient Rome. Sharing stories and anecdotes about the building’s past can spark children’s curiosity and imagination.
3. Mythology: Roman mythology is filled with gods and legends. You can introduce children to the myths and stories associated with the Pantheon, such as its original dedication to all gods and its conversion into a church.
4. Exploration: Encourage children to explore the interior of the Pantheon. The open space and impressive architecture can be intriguing for kids to observe and walk around.
5. Nearby Attractions: The Pantheon is located in the heart of Rome, and there are other attractions nearby that might be more engaging for children, such as the Trevi Fountain or the Piazza Navona, which often has street performers and artists.

Remember, while the Pantheon may not have specific kid-focused activities, the experience can still be enjoyable for children, especially when you approach it with an educational and interactive mindset.

Piazza Venezia 

Piazza Venezia, or Venice Square, is a famous square in the heart of Rome. It is located at the foot of Capitoline Hill and is considered one of the city’s major traffic hubs. The square’s name derives from the nearby Palazzo Venezia, a Renaissance palace that currently serves as a museum.

Its central location provides easy access to various family-friendly activities in Rome. Here are some suggestions:

1. Capitoline Museums: Located just a short walk from Piazza Venezia, the Capitoline Museums house a vast collection of ancient Roman artifacts. Kids can explore sculptures, paintings, and archaeological exhibits while learning about Roman history.
2. Roman Forum: Adjacent to Piazza Venezia, the Roman Forum is an ancient archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans. Children can explore the ruins, imagine life in ancient times, and learn about Roman civilization.
3. Colosseum: A short walk from Piazza Venezia, the Colosseum is a must-visit attraction for families. Kids will be fascinated by this ancient amphitheater and can learn about gladiators, Roman spectacles, and the history of the building through guided tours or audio guides.
4. Villa Borghese Gardens: Located a bit further from Piazza Venezia, Villa Borghese Gardens is a large park with playgrounds, bike rentals, and even a small zoo. Families can enjoy picnicking, renting a paddleboat on the lake, or visiting the Bioparco zoo.
5. Explora Children’s Museum: While not in the immediate vicinity of Piazza Venezia, the Explora Children’s Museum is a short distance away and offers interactive exhibits and activities designed for children. It focuses on science, technology, art, and creativity.
6. Gelato and Pizza: Rome is known for its delicious gelato (like ice cream) and pizza. Treat your kids to some authentic Italian gelato or pizza from one of the many gelaterias or pizzerias in the area.

Castello St. Angelo

Castello St. Angelo was originally built as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. The structure was later converted into a fortress and castle during the Middle Ages, hence its current name. Castel Sant’Angelo has a strategic location on the right bank of the Tiber River, near the Vatican City. It was used by various popes as a refuge and a safe passage between the Vatican and the city of Rome.

Interesting info for Castello St. Angelo:

• If you are a premium member of Geocaching, there is an Earth Cache inside this castle. We had planned to participate in this cache, but when the line to enter the castle completely stopped moving for 15 minutes while it was raining, we decided to move on.

• There is a small playground on the backside of the castle. 

Gianicolo

Gianicolo, (which sounds a heck of a lot of like “Giant Eagle” when pronounced by an Italian!) also known as Janiculum Hill, is a prominent hill located in Rome, Italy. While not one of the famous seven hills of ancient Rome, Gianicolo is one of the best places to catch a stunning panoramic view of the city.

Situated just west of the Tiber River, Gianicolo rises approximately 88 meters above sea level, providing an excellent vantage point to admire Rome’s iconic landmarks. From the hill’s terrace, visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the historic center, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum.

Aside from its views and historical attractions, Gianicolo offers beautiful green spaces and charming winding paths, making it a lovely place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The area is adorned with statues, fountains, and monuments, including the imposing equestrian statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, an Italian military leader, and national hero.

Things to do in Rome with kids: Hidden Gems

One of my favorite things to do when visiting a city is to explore the off-the-beaten-path locations and activities. This can be the best way to truly experience a city! 

These are the things you don’t typically hear about when planning a visit to Rome. These hidden gems are likely to be a bit more exciting for the kids and for you too!!

Mosaic Tile Workshop

This was, hands down, the best thing we did during our brief stay in Rome! We did our mosaic workshop at Fabio Bordi’s Mosaici Artistici and Fabio and his assistant Emanuela were so very kind and welcoming. 

Fabio was able to accommodate our last-minute workshop request and we are so happy that he did! Fabio let us choose one of 7 designs for our mosaic. He gave us some guidance and instruction and left us to our work, but he and Emanuela were never far away, in case we needed help. We were the only participants in the workshop and it was so peaceful to sit there and create our masterpieces.

This event is scheduled for 2 hours and it’s important to note that the mosaics need time to dry. Therefore, we needed to return the following day to pick them up. Fabio does allow you to pick them up later the same day if needed, but he highly recommends leaving them overnight.

Gladiator School

You and your kids can learn to become gladiators! Check out the Rome Gladiator School and contact them to set up your class!!

Explora Children’s Museum

This Children’s Museum, Explora il Museo dei Bambini di Roma in Italian, is specifically geared towards children aged 0 to 12 years old and offers a wide range of exhibits and activities to engage their curiosity and creativity. The museum’s mission is to provide an educational and entertaining experience that encourages children to learn through play, experimentation, and imagination.

During our trip to Rome in May 2023, even though we didn’t get to visit this ourselves, the museum was requiring visitors to purchase tickets ahead of time. Be sure to check their website for availability and purchase tickets as far in advance as possible.

Cinecittà World 

We really wanted to visit Cinecittà World, but simply ran out of time. It is an amusement park that is dedicated to the world of cinema and offers a range of attractions and entertainment options for visitors.

Cinecittà World features various themed areas inspired by different movie genres, including Ancient Rome, Spaghetti Westerns (westerns Italian style), and futuristic sci-fi settings. Visitors can explore replica sets, enjoy live shows, and experience thrilling rides based on popular films.

The park also hosts interactive experiences where visitors can learn about the behind-the-scenes aspects of filmmaking. This includes workshops on makeup, special effects, and stunt performances. Additionally, there are dining options, shops selling movie-related merchandise, and regular events featuring film premieres and special guests.

Tiber Island

Tiber Island, or Isola Tiberina in Italian, is a small island located in the Tiber River in Rome, Italy. It is the only island in the Tiber and has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. You and your family can enjoy the unique experience of visiting an island within a city and the kids may find it fascinating to see the water flowing around the island.

​The Church of San Bartolomeo is located on Tiber Island and is known for its beautiful interior and unique architecture. Kids may find the church intriguing to explore, and they can learn about its history and significance. The riverbanks around Tiber Island provide pleasant walkways where kids can stroll, enjoy the views, and even feed the seagulls that frequent the area. It’s an opportunity to get some fresh air and stretch their legs while taking in the beautiful scenery.

​​Tiber Island has been associated with various legends and mythological stories. According to Roman mythology, the island was formed after the fall of the last Roman king, Tarquinius Superbus. It is believed that the Romans threw the harvested wheat, or taro, into the Tiber River as a symbol of their rejection of the king’s rule. Over time, sediment accumulated around the wheat, creating the island.

Conclusion

Exploring the highlights of Rome with kids can be an incredibly rewarding experience for the whole family. By incorporating interactive and educational activities, planning ahead, and pacing your itinerary, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip. From marveling at ancient wonders like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to immersing yourselves in the vibrant culture of the city, Rome offers countless opportunities for fun and learning. So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and create lasting memories as you embark on a family-friendly journey through the enchanting streets of Rome. Happy travels!

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