Italy is synonymous with art, history, cuisine and culture, all of which make it the perfect destination for a family holiday.
The heart of the country is Rome, and for good reason. The bustling city is packed with historical landmarks waiting to take your breath away. For history lovers of all ages, Rome is a must-visit. Here are some tips to make sure you see the best landmarks that the region has to offer.
Step back in time at the Colosseum
Perhaps one of the most striking buildings in Rome, the Colosseum is often the highlight of any family holiday to Rome. The huge arches, worn steps and view across the arena will instantly transport you back in time to a world of gladiators, heroes and Roman traditions.
Make sure you book timed-entry tickets in advance. This helps to avoid queuing with restless kids, as well as helping your day run smoothly. There are options for kid-friendly tours, but you are also welcome to explore alone and go at your own pace.
Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain
Another image that is synonymous with Rome is the Trevi Fountain. This world-famous fountain was built in 1762 and remains a beautiful example of Baroque design.
A tradition that spans the years is tossing a coin into the water to ensure a return to Rome. This is a great little memory that everyone can enjoy. It is worth noting that the city has recently introduced a small fee for anyone wanting to access the steps close to the fountain. This is to both preserve the structure and for crowd control.
Once you have tossed your coins in, be sure to grab a gelato from one of the numerous shops that flank the piazza. What could be better than sunshine and ice cream on Rome holidays?
Explore art and history at the Vatican
Although a separate country, visiting the Vatican is an easy part of visiting Rome. The city within a city is packed full of exquisite art, which showcases different artistic periods as well as a vast history of the world.
The Vatican has different entrances and ticketing systems, so it is worth planning to prioritise certain attractions.
If the thought of a museum sounds a bit stuffy for kids, there is so much to see that you can really lean into their interests. There are little courtyards, some with outdoor food options, everywhere where younger visitors can blow off some steam, and nursing rooms so babies can be fed too.
Discover the Trevi and Pantheon walking route
The walk between two of the most iconic landmarks in Rome is only about 15 minutes, but if you take a slightly more scenic route, you can take in some other incredible sights.
Start at the Trevi Fountain and head toward Galleria Sciarra. On the way, look up at some of the houses and see if you (or the kids) can spot little images of the Madonna. This is ideal for a treasure hunt item!
Take a breather and admire the inside of the Galleria Sciarra before moving on to Piazza Colonna. Next comes Piazza Sant’Ingnazio, followed by Piazza di Pietra, which is the ideal spot for lunch. Finally, you will find yourself at the immense structure that is the Pantheon.
