13+ Best Things To Do In Rome With Toddlers

A young girl sits on the edge of a pond within the Borghese Gardens, one of the best things to do Rome with toddlers.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

Our list of the best things to do in Rome with toddlers has everything you need for a wonderful family vacation! From picturesque piazzas to beautiful fountains, fascinating historical sights, and fantastic food, it’s definitely one of the most family-friendly cities in Italy. However, when taking any vacation with a toddler, planning an itinerary is a must. You need to decide where to stay, what to eat, and more. Luckily, we’ve put together this list of the 13+ Best Things To Do In Rome With Toddlers, which includes some great suggestions for your next vacation with kids. Whether you want to visit a museum, spend time in one of Rome’s many parks, or visit a historical site, we’ve included a variety of tips to get you started. Stay tuned to learn more! 

Take a Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Ride

A hop on, hop off tour bus filled with tourists, one of the best things to do Rome with toddlers.
Photo Courtesy: Mister No via Wikimedia Commons

While toddlers may not be up for a walking tour, don’t worry because you can still see all of Rome’s best attractions in one go hop-on, hop-off bus tour! It’s the perfect way for families with toddlers and younger kids to explore the city at their own pace.

With one, two, and even three-day tickets, families can see all the best landmarks in Rome. Enjoy everything from the Pantheon to the Spanish Steps, Colosseum, and more! Tours include pre-recorded commentary so you can learn more about the history behind what you’re seeing, and your ticket also includes a free digital walking tour. Not to mention, it is a great way to customize your vacation if you want to spend more or less time at a certain spot than a traditional tour would. Viator also offers a hop-on, hop-off bus tour that is great for toddlers and multigenerational groups.

Look here for more Rome tours through Getyourguide.com!

Need an itinerary? Try our Exciting 5 to 10-Day Rome Itinerary With Kids: What To Do And Where To Go.

Get Creative at Explora

One of the best things to do in Rome with toddlers or young kids is to visit Explora, the children’s museum in Rome. It’s located near Villa Borghese, so it’s a great addition to your Rome itinerary during your exploration of the area. Featuring a variety of hands-on exhibits, we suggest this hidden gem for toddlers to age ten (twelve if they have younger siblings). 

Little ones will love running around and trying all the fun experiences on the first floor, from colorful light installations and a hands-on water area to a tiny radio station, where they get to play DJ! Then, older kids will appreciate the upstairs exhibits just for them featuring a tech-savvy area where they need to code things like cars and games. One great part about visiting this museum is the lack of crowds. Reservations for a timed entry are required, which keeps the attendance low for each session (3-4 sessions offered daily). Plus, everything is reset in between sessions, so kids can dive straight in without having to worry! If you arrive before your time starts, don’t worry, there is a small play area outside the museum (including a playground zip-line). Finally, there is also a cafe and small gift shop near the entrance.

Make a Wish in the Trevi Fountain

No visit to Rome would be complete without seeing the Trevi Fountain! Towering over 85 feet high, this Baroque fountain is located in the heart of Piazza di Trevi. We highly suggest adding it to your itinerary, since it’s one of the most famous attractions in the city. It’s also near the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and other landmarks. Toddlers will certainly be impressed with all the lavish statues and intricate details. Alternatively, at night, kids will love seeing the fountain illuminated by lights. Additionally, this is a fantastic spot for a family photo. You can even toss a coin into the fountain with a wish to return to the Eternal City. Keep in mind this area of Rome is crowded most days and into the evening.

See the Pantheon

The entrance to the Pantheon in the early morning, with an empty piazza out front.
Photo Courtesy: Rabax63 via Wikimedia Commons

The Pantheon is one of the most iconic buildings in Rome and definitely worth a visit with toddlers in tow. Located in the historic city center, this former temple to pagan gods is now a church that’s free for the public to visit. You could see it from the outside with your toddlers, or go inside to appreciate the interior, including a cool dome ceiling. There’s often a line to get in depending on when you visit, so be prepared to wait for a little while. As one of the best things to do in Rome with toddlers, it’s often included in walking tours or sightseeing packages, making it easy to fit into your Rome family vacation.

Browse the Outdoor Market at Campo de Fiori

Prepared artichokes at Campo de'Fiori, one of the best things to do Rome with toddlers.
Photo Courtesy: MollySVH

Rome’s historic city center is filled with bustling town squares, but Campo de Fiori is a must-visit with toddlers. On Monday through Saturday, families can head to this vibrant destination in the morning to browse the old market. Lots of different vendors sell souvenirs, fresh flowers, fruit, vegetables, and more, plus there are plenty of places to roam and just enjoy the ambiance. In the evening, the square has a bit of a different vibe. It’s usually hopping with excitement due to the different restaurants, bars, and cafes. Nearby, you’ll also find Piazza Navona, another famous square in Rome. 

Climb the Spanish Steps

A mom and her daughter stand together on the Spanish Steps, with the Spanish embassy in the distance.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

Families can stay amid all the action in Rome when they visit the Spanish Steps. Towering above Piazza di Spagna, this famous monument provides a great view of the surrounding area. Toddlers may not be able to climb up all the steps, but they’ll surely love trying! Below, the piazza is a wonderful place to people-watch and take a break from sightseeing. There are often street performers, alongside some vendors selling trinkets or souvenirs. The Spanish Steps are conveniently located near other attractions like The Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Villa Borghese. No wonder this is one of the best things to do in Rome with toddlers! 

Explore the Colosseum

A mom and her young daughter look into the center of the Colosseum, one of the best things to do Rome with toddlers.
Photo Courtesy: Dani Ward

The Colosseum is a must when visiting Rome with kids, no matter their age! At this amphitheater in Rome’s historic city center, the whole family can get a glimpse at life as a gladiator, from the deathly battles to other forms of entertainment. Though you don’t necessarily need a tour to enter as there’s an audio guide available, we recommend booking one. There’s so much to see and learn, and tours also take you to the underground level. This is where gladiators used to wait their turn and it also features props, plus the elevator that lifted animals into the arena!

If you are interested in a tour, book this Semi-Private Colosseum Underground Tour for a new Colosseum experience! Underground tickets can sell out, especially during peak seasons, so be sure to book in advance. Or, enjoy this Colosseum and Roman Forum for Kids Tour combination tour, including the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum.

Bring a Picnic to Aqueduct Park

A young girl and her dad walk through Aqueduct Park in Rome with the famed aqueduct in the distance.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

Travel back to ancient Roman times at Aqueduct Park! Located along the Appian Way (Via Appia Antico), one of the oldest roads in Rome, it’s free to the public and easy to reach from the city center. However, since it’s off the beaten path, you won’t find many crowds or tourists here – just the occasional jogger. Families can explore the different dirt trails for walking, plus the chance to get up close and personal with aqueducts! Two of the most famous ones in the park are Acqua Claudia and Acqua Felice. Since there’s a lot of open field space, it’s a great place to bring a picnic on nice weather days. You may even see sheep grazing in the southern part of the park! 

Eat Gelato and Pizza

A young girl looks at her gelato options inside a Roman gelateria.
Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

Toddlers may not appreciate all the unique dishes Rome has to offer, but they’ll definitely love pizza and gelato! If you’re looking for somewhere to eat with toddlers in Rome, you can check out popular, family-friendly pizza spots such as Pizzeria Loffredo, Pizza Rustica, and Il Forno Degli Amici. Families visiting Rome’s historic city center will love the convenience of Naumachia Ristorante, which is right by the Colosseum. If your kids need a break from pizza, pasta in bianco (plain pasta) is another great choice for picky eaters.

Once you’re done with dinner, it’s time for dessert. Head to Sweet Life Gelateria, located near Piazza Navona to try flavors made from fresh fruit. Near the Pantheon, families can visit Cremeria Monteforte. Chains such as Pico Gelato and Gelateria La Romana have multiple locations, including one near Vatican City, for whenever you need your fix! 

Watch a Family-Friendly Performance

Need an indoor activity for toddlers when visiting Rome? Seeing a family-friendly performance is an excellent way to stay entertained on a hot or rainy day. Little ones will love seeing a puppet show at Teatro Mogiovino, a performing arts center located on the outskirts of the historic neighborhood of Garbatella. It has a lovely location inside a garden and offers family-friendly performances like The Happy Prince and The Sisters Of Cinderella. Or, visit the San Carlino Puppet Theater. Located inside Viale dei Bambini, kids can enjoy hand-painted backgrounds and props alongside clowns, musicians, puppets, and more. No wonder this is one of the best things to do in Rome with toddlers! 

Explore Villa Borghese 

Family of three in a paddleboat at Villa Borghese, one of the best things to do Rome with toddlers.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

Villa Borghese is likely already on your Rome family itinerary – and well, it should be! This wonderful green space in central Rome is a must for families, especially those with toddlers. As one of the biggest public parks in Rome, there are plenty of grassy areas for kids to play and run, as well as fun activities. Families can rent surrey bikes, take a boat ride around the lake, and also get an amazing view from observation points all over the park. Toddlers who love animals can even visit the Bioparco di Roma, a zoological park with hundreds of zebras, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys! Looking for some of the best panoramas in the city? Visit Terrazza del Pincio, located at the Southern end of the Pincio Promenade. 

Wander around Castel Sant’Angelo

The Castel Sant’ Angelo is one of Rome’s most underrated attractions and definitely a great place to visit with toddlers. Overlooking the River Tiber near Vatican City, it was originally commissioned as a mausoleum for Roman Emperor Hadrian and his family. Now, it’s open to the public, inviting visitors to explore the vestiges of Imperial Rome on five floors. You’ll get to see the prisons, more artifacts, furniture, plus secret apartments intended to house popes in times of war. Since it’s not often crowded, it’s easy for young kids to enjoy. When you’re done seeing the inside, head to the top floor for an amazing view over Rome! 

Looking for more things to do in Rome with kids? Read 35 Fun & Educational Things To Do In Rome Kids Will Love.

Take a Day Trip or an Overnight Getaway to See More of Italy

Visiting Rome with kids for an extended period? Take an overnight or day trip! Whether you want to relax on the beach or see more history and culture, we have some great suggestions. Keep reading to learn more!

READ NEXT: 10 Best Places to Travel with Kids in Europe

Tivoli

Toddlers will love a day trip to Tivoli! Located around an hour northeast of the city, this scenic town is a wonderful complement to your family vacation in Rome. Tivoli dates back to ancient Roman times and features historic architecture, lush gardens, and other sites for families to explore with young kids. Visit the Villa Adriana, created for the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Kids can see what remains of classical architecture, pottery, and mosaics.

Or, enjoy a sunny day at the Villa d’Este Palace & Gardens, where kids can roam the manicured gardens and appreciate the elaborate fountains. Families can also visit the palace for scenic views of the town. Or, hang out at the playground near the main square. For more incredible views, head to Via Delle Cascatelle, a walkway along the river in Northern Tivoli. 

Assisi

Child looking over the city of Assisi, Italy, one of the best day trips and things to do Rome with toddlers.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

If you have extra time to spare in Rome, taking a day trip or even an overnight trip to Assisi is a fantastic option. About two hours north of the city, this tranquil destination provides a relaxing escape from sightseeing. There are plenty of quiet streets to wander with your toddler. Plus, some great restaurants to stop and enjoy pizza in! In the piazza near the Basilica of Santa Clara, you’ll find a carousel that’s sure to delight little ones. Little ones will love exploring the ruins and wandering around the grounds. Since a lot of people travel to Assisi for the day, it’s not very crowded at night. 

Park of Monsters 

About an hour’s drive from Rome is a hidden gem of giant monster statues. Park of Monsters (Parco dei Mostri) is certainly one of the best things to do outside of Rome with toddlers! Located in Bomarzo, it’s an easy drive from Rome and would make a great addition to any itinerary planning a stop in Orvieto (which in and of itself is well worth a day trip/overnight). Or, families can also visit this unique destination by driving the long way to Assisi. Either way, the huge statues won’t fail to impress your toddlers, as you wander the paths to enjoy the monsters. Keep an eye out for elephants, turtles, wrestling giants, and even a monster face cave! Visiting here is a quick trip and usually, it isn’t crowded. There’s also a gift shop and a cafe. 

Go to the Sea

Child in walking into the water at a public beach in Santa Marinella, one of the best things to do near Rome with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

A day trip to the sea is definitely among the best things to do in Rome with toddlers! There are several seaside towns to choose from within an hour or so of Rome (by train or car). One favorite for toddlers is Santa Marinella, home to quaint beaches and great gelato places. There’s a huge public beach a short walk from the train station, but families can find smaller beaches a little further up. Spiaggia Libera has a great sandy beach, rocks to climb, umbrellas for rent, and restaurants close at hand.

Another easy beach to reach from Rome is Lido di Ostia, showcasing a long, sandy coastline dotted with umbrellas, beach chairs, and calm, blue waters. Other great beaches include Santa Severa, Sabaudia Beach, and Gaeta. Finally, Fregene and Civitavecchia are other towns within a quick drive or train of Rome that offer lovely beaches for families.

Looking for the best beach destinations in Italy (or other parts of Europe)? Read our list featuring the 16 Exciting European Beach Destinations For Families.

Where to Stay in Rome with Toddlers

A staff member stands outside the door to J.K Place Roma, with vines hanging on the sides of the building, at dusk.
Photo Courtesy: J.K Place Roma

Once you’ve discovered the best things to do in Rome with toddlers, look for somewhere to stay. For a convenient stay in the historic city center, consider hotels such as Hotel Nazionale Roma, Crossing Condotti, Grand Hotel de la Minerve, Albergo Santa Chiara, St. Regis Rome, Hotel Artemide, and Hotel de Russie. A few more boutique options include Bio Hotel Raphaël – Relais & Châteaux, J.K Place Roma, and The Inn At The Spanish Steps. Or, for a more secluded stay, Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel is a wonderful option. It offers panoramic views of Rome from its prime hilltop property. 

Need room to spread out or a kitchen to cook family meals while in Rome with toddlers? Reserve a home rental in Rome using Vrbo, Plum Guide, or Homes and Villas by Marriott International now.

Happy Travels!

Two boys in looking at a book about the Colosseum, while standing within its grounds.
Photo Courtesy: Laura Snoek

We hope you liked this list of the 13+ Best Things To Do In Rome With Toddlers! Between beautiful outdoor attractions, indoor fun, and fantastic food, your next epic adventure in Italy awaits. If you need more recommendations for things to do in Rome with kids, read 35 Fun & Educational Things To Do In Rome Kids Will Love. Then, make sure you learn How To Plan An Amazing Family Vacation To Rome With Kids. Enjoy Rome with your kids!  

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Antonia Grant

Antonia Grant Writer Antonia Grant is a life-long learner and avid traveler. She loves equipping families with the tools and confidence they need to travel together. That is a major reason she is part of our fantastic team at Families Love Travel! Antonia is also a strong believer in the beauty of multigenerational travel. Her main travel buddies are her husband and young daughter. They have been traveling as a family since her daughter was 7 months old, and internationally since 13 months old! She’s always seeking new adventures to write about and share.