All About Italy With Kids: Important Information To Know

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A family of four, atop their own bikes, poses along a stretch of road on the Appian Way, learning about things to do in Rome is an important part of knowing all about Italy with kids. — Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash
Rome

If you want to know all about Italy with kids, there’s some important information you should read first. From the local currency to health information, the official language, and even babysitting services, it’s important to do proper research on your vacation destination before booking your trip. Finding all the information in one place can be tricky, though, which is why we’ve compiled a list of things to know before visiting Italy, including important information for you to reference. Plus, stay tuned until the end, since we also include things to do in Italy with kids and the best hotels in Italy for families. Keep reading for all about Italy for families!

At a Glance

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

Before you visit Italy with kids, you should learn the basics. Keep reading for local currency, visa information, and more information all about Italy with kids. If you need more help planning your Italy vacation with kids, feel free to check out Italy’s official tourism website for more information.

Local Currency & Time

Wondering all about the Italian local currency and how families can get the best currency exchange rates? The currency in Italy is the Euro. It is widely accepted in many parts of the country. Most credit cards and traveler’s checks are accepted as well. Italy operates 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time, in GMT +2. Click here to see Italy’s current time.

Official Language & Visa Information

Italian is the official language of Italy. If you’re planning an extended trip to Italy or have a non-U.S. passport, you may also need to research obtaining a VISA before your visit. To learn all about the VISA policy in Italy for families, click here.

Power/Standard Voltage

In Italy, there are two associated plug types: type F and L. Wall outlets typically accommodate plugs with two or three round pins. Italy also follows the European standard of 220V to 230V, with a frequency of 50Hz.

Local Weather

The country of Italy has a mostly Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, rainy winters. But at nearly 1,200 kilometers (736 miles) in length north to south, Italy also has a variety of sub- and micro-climates where seasonal weather can differ greatly from national norms. Most of the year, the weather is simply perfect. Check the current forecast on Accuweather.

Don’t forget your travel insurance from InsureMyTrip or RoamRight!

Health Information

A dad holds a young baby with Ponte Vecchio in the distance, learning about things to do in Florence is an important part of knowing all about Italy with kids. — Photo Courtesy: Jessica Forse
Florence

Having the right information about health and safety is an important part of visiting Italy with kids. If your children have allergies, might need medical attention, etc., be sure to keep this important information in mind.

Vaccinations, Health Tips, & Hospitals

Visiting Italy with young ones? Remember to check if your child has all the correct shots and vaccines. For a complete list of the recommended vaccines and more health information on all about Italy with kids, including COVID-19 warnings and regulations, visit the official CDC website. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so you should also check out hospitals near your vacation destination just in case.

COVID-19 Guidelines & Vaccination Information

If you’re planning a trip to Italy soon, you’re probably wondering about Italy’s COVID-19 guidelines. As of April 15th, Italy has no travel restrictions or requirements at this time. Please check the Consulate website to keep up-to-date on Italy’s stay-at-home orders. We suggest making sure you’re fully vaccinated before traveling to Italy with kids. For vaccination information, click here.

Emergency Services

A family of four stands together with a Venetian canal and gondola behind them. — Photo Courtesy: Kelli Wein
Venice

In case of an emergency, keep these numbers handy during your trip to Italy with kids, as this is very important information when learning all about Italy with kids.

Police, Fire Department, Ambulance

For emergency services in Italy, dial 112. Alternatively, if you need police assistance in Italy, you can call 100. You can also call 102 to reach an ambulance in Italy.

Safety Issues

If you’re visiting with your kids and want to know all about your destination, you’re probably wondering: Is Italy safe for families? The answer is yes! The crime threat in Italy is generally considered to be on the lower side, and it is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in Europe. Italy is overall very safe to travel to. Even though it’s sometimes dangerous, and the number of homeless people on the street may make you feel uneasy, the criminal activities that occur only apply to dangerous parts of the city, which are rarely frequented by tourists.

You can review the current U.S. Department’s Italy Travel Advisory here.

Italy for Kids

Three small children hold hands along a colorful street in Burano, Italy. One of the girls excitedly points across the canal. — Photo Courtesy: Chelsey Knealing
Burano

Visiting Italy with kids brings its own set of challenges. Keep reading for comprehensive information on babysitting services, baby gear rentals, etc.

Learn How To Plan An Amazing Family Vacation To Rome With Kids!

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Babysitting Services & Baby Gear Rentals

Looking for a romantic evening alone in Italy? Luckily, you’ll find plenty of babysitting services throughout the city in your search to learn all about Italy with kids. We suggest Angels Association or Italia Kids. If you’ve left your baby gear at home, don’t worry! There are plenty of places to find baby gear in Italy.

Transportation

A mom holds her infant son on her shoulders, while walking around the Colosseum in Rome. — Photo Courtesy: Danielle Elizabeth Ramirez
Rome

Transportation is another thing to consider when vacationing in Italy with kids. Whether you need information about car seats or all about local airlines in Italy for families, you’ve come to the right place.

Car Seat Laws

If you plan to ride in a car during your Italy vacation with kids, keep reading for important car seat information. According to the Italian law about passenger safety, any time you sit in a vehicle fitted with seat belts, it’s compulsory to wear them. Children who are under 36 kg (97 pounds) or 150 cm (4 ft, 9 in) must use appropriate child restraints, which are of two kinds: child car seats and boosters.

Transportation Services

Trains are the most efficient and cost-effective way to travel around Italy. The rail system in Italy is extensive and most destinations can be reached by train. High-speed rail routes connect many of Italy’s major cities such as Rome, Florence, Milan, and Bologna.

For more information on transportation in Italy click here.

Other Things to Know Before Visiting Italy with Kids

Two kids smile in front of the infamous Fontana Del Porcellino, learning about things to do in Florence is an important part of knowing all about Italy with kids. — Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash
Florence

Searching for more tips all about Italy with kids? Between tipping customs, important holidays, and other safety issues, there are still a few things left you should know. Keep reading to learn all about Italy with kids!

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Tipping Customs

Knowing all about tipping in Italy can save families a lot of misunderstanding. In Italy, like many European destinations, there are no strict tipping rules and tipping is relatively uncommon. There are some guidelines, however. Tipping for tour guides (free or paid tours) is standard. At the end of your tour, a few Euros per person in cash is customary. Hotel porters and housekeepers are also tipped positions. For hotel porters, one Euro per bag, up to 5 Euros, is appropriate, while one Euro/day is recommended for housekeepers at the end of your stay. Additionally, you may receive service at a gas station for a fill-up, a few Euros is typical. Then, for spa experiences or other similar services, up to 10% is standard.

Then, tipping at restaurants can vary widely. For example, if you order counter-service food or drinks, like an espresso at the counter, tipping is not common, nor is it expected. However, at a sit-down restaurant, a Euro or two, up to 10% of the bill, is appropriate for exceptional service. Finally, it’s also important to know the difference between “coperto” and “servicio”. Coperto, is not a charge that goes to the waiter. It is a service charge applied by the restaurant and is listed on the menu (it covered bread, cutlery, etc.). ‘Servizio’, however, is a service charge (you do not leave a tip if service is included).

Important Holidays

If you’re still searching for specific dates to visit Italy, you may want to determine whether your vacation will fall on a public holiday. This can greatly diminish the number of attractions or points of interest you see, so it’s important information to know about visiting Italy. Check the Italy National Holidays for more information here.

Things to Do in Italy with Kids

A family of four stands upon stones in the road of Pompeii. — Photo Courtesy: Shadi Coe
Pompeii

Once you’ve read our Italy important information and all about Italy with kids, look up what to do. In Italy, there’s something for everyone young at heart. Get a dose of art, history, and culture in northern cities such as Milan, Florence, and Venice. Or, venture to Italy’s central region to see Rome, travel back to ancient times, and explore endless landmarks, museums, and ruins! If you’d rather spend time in close contact with nature, visit the best family-friendly beaches in Europe in Sicily, Puglia, or Sardinia. From long family lunches to traditional evening walks (called a passeggiata), Italian families spend time together and the lifestyle reflects this. So, visitors with children can easily slot into the relaxed rhythm of everyday Italian life while absorbing the local history and culture at every turn and corner.

Discover the 10 Best Places To Visit In Italy With Kids!

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Where to Stay in Italy with Kids

Blue loungers await guests at the rooftop terrace of Hotel Lungarno, with a sweeping view of Florence, including the iconic Duomo, learning where to stay is an important part of knowing all about Italy with kids. — Photo Courtesy: Hotel Lungarno
Florence

Looking for the best places to stay in Italy with kids? Once you’ve learned all about Italy with kids, it’s time to decide on a place to stay. Families often travel to larger cities in Italy and use them as a home base to explore nearby areas, whether in Rome, Florence, Venice, Naples, Sicily, etc. If you decide to stay in Italy with kids, check out websites like Hotels.com, Travelocity, Expedia, and more to help save on your trip. Or, you can book directly with your favorite chains, from Marriott to Hilton, etc. If you’re planning to stay in a smaller city or town in Italy, then we suggest renting a home using AirBnB, Vrbo, or Plum Guide. There are also various local agencies to help with your rental search.

Book your next hotel stay in Italy using Hotels.com today!

Save money on your family vacation to Italy by booking with Expedia!

Happy Travels!

A mom and her two sons stand together with Piazza San Marco behind them. — Photo Courtesy: Edith Arteaga-Medina
Venice

We hope you liked this article All About Italy With Kids: Important Information To Know! From pristine beaches to priceless art, history, and culture, it’s no wonder this friendly European country is a favorite among families. Enjoy Italy with your kids!

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed or may have reduced services. Please ensure availability before making your decision.

*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.

Families Love Travel is not liable for any injuries and/or damages to persons or property occurring as a result of your vacations influenced by the suggestions on this website. We are not responsible for any information on this website, such as recommendations for babysitting services, car rentals, or accommodations. All content provided is for informational and review purposes only. The information we provide is to make it easier for families to travel together and nothing more. Try the suggestions at your own risk.