Traveling to Rome with kids? The Eternal City isn’t just for history buffs — it’s filled with piazzas to play in, hands-on classes, and tours designed to bring ancient stories to life for children. From tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain to learning how to fight like a gladiator, there are countless kid-friendly activities in Rome that make sightseeing fun. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Rome with kids — a mix of interactive tours and can’t-miss local experiences — so you’ll know exactly where to go in Rome with children for an unforgettable trip.
Kids dress up, wield foam swords, and train like gladiators in a hands-on class that feels like stepping into history.
Why kids love it: Pretending to be gladiators with costumes and swords.
Tips for parents: Book a morning session to avoid the midday heat, and bring plenty of water. Don’t forget your camera — the kids will want photos in gladiator gear.
What are parents are saying:
“Really fun experience. There was only my group of three there but it was just as fun. I would recommend taking anyone interested in Roman history.” — Tripadvisor
“Ideal for families—this experience is suitable for children aged 6 and up; flexible experience—lots of participation.” — Tripadvisor
“It was fantastico for the whole family! The staff was wonderful. The site and program was well put together.” — Tripadvisor
Kid-focused tours make the Vatican engaging with treasure hunts, games, and interactive stories.
Why kids love it: Spotting animals in paintings and climbing St. Peter’s dome.
Tips for parents: Always book skip-the-line access. Pack small snacks and schedule breaks, as the Vatican can be long and overwhelming for little ones.
What are parents are saying:
“We had a wonderful Pinocchio tour for kids at the Vatican. Our guide was fantastic. He engaged the children and was fantastic as he made a scavenger …” Tripadvisor
“This is an awesome tour – Bruno was fun and interesting and knowledgeable. Our 10 year old daughter loved it ‒ and so did we.” Tripadvisor
“We had a fabulous tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable regarding history and …” Tripadvisor
Children learn to create pasta and tiramisu flavors and, of course, taste as much as they want.
Kids love it: Unlimited samples and hands-on fun.
Tips for parents: Book a mid-afternoon class as a sweet break between sightseeing stops. Double-check for allergy-friendly options if needed.
What are parents are saying:
“The class itself was amazing — the instructor was friendly and explained every step clearly.” Tripadvisor
“Our family of four (two adults and two teenagers) LOVED this experience! We learned, laughed, and ate amazing food.” Tripadvisor
Legend says tossing a coin guarantees you’ll return to Rome — a must-do for kids.
Why kids love it: Making wishes in a sparkling fountain.
Tips for parents: Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the biggest crowds. Keep hold of younger kids’ hands since the square gets packed.
What are parents are saying:
“The kids – ages 5 and 8 – LOVED seeing the sculptures of the horses and hearing the rush of the water.” — Travel-ing with Primary Aged Children review of Trevi Fountain. Tripadvisor
“It is an exciting landmark — absolutely beautiful and vibrant atmosphere. P.S. And don’t forget the tradition: toss a coin …” — general review. Tripadvisor
“Trevi Fountain or ‘cherry fountains’ (my kids call it) … An absolute beautiful site. Very busy. Can fill bottles with water there. Nice ice cream places nearby.” — parent’s review. Tripadvisor
Guides use games and stories to bring gladiators and emperors to life.
Why kids love it: Running through ancient ruins while hearing dramatic tales.
Tips for parents: Opt for a small-group or private tour for flexibility. Pack hats, sunscreen, and water bottles — shade is minimal.
What are parents are saying:
“Aimed at families with kids aged six and above, the experience brings the amphitheater and ancient Forum to life with gladiator stories, puzzles, and hands-on engagement.” — Review for Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour for Kids and Families. Tripadvisor
“Despite a major heat wave, Paula was excellent. She managed to keep my kids entertained with games and pictures that kept the kids engaged.” — Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour for Kids & Families. Tripadvisor
“The kids said this was the best tour they have ever been on! For four adults and three kids aged 10-15, this was definitely their favorite tour in Rome.” — Colosseum Tour Express for Kids and Families in Rome. Tripadvisor
Kids roll dough, add toppings, and bake their own pizzas.
Why kids love it: They get to eat their creation at the end.
Tips for parents: Book this for the evening to wind down the day. It’s also a great way to handle picky eaters since kids choose their own toppings.
What are parents are saying:
“Our family of four (two adults and two teenagers) LOVED this experience! We learned, laughed, and ate amazing food. We had gluten free pizza that was better than we expected.” — Rome Pizza & Pasta School Tripadvisor
“The instructors were engaging and knowledgeable. The entire staff was professional and friendly. The ambience was perfect! Everyone had a wonderful time.” — Cooking Class: Make Pizza and Pasta with Wine & Dessert Tripadvisor
“This class did not disappoint at all! Carla and Adriano were wonderful hosts and teachers. We learned not only the techniques, but much about the food culture.” — Holy Pizza Rome Class Tripadvisor
Jugglers, mimes, and musicians fill this lively piazza.
Why kids love it: Nonstop entertainment in the square.
Tips for parents: Visit after dinner when the square is buzzing. Pair with gelato from a nearby shop for an easy, low-stress night out.
What are parents are saying:
“Gorgeous fountains and beautiful buildings surround the piazza. There is a lovely church there as well to see.” Tripadivsor
“Worth an afternoon visit! Stunning architecture all around; performers and music in the evenings make it magical with kids.” Tripadvisor
“The statue and fountains make this place unforgettable. Lots of space for children to wander safely.” (paraphrasing from general reviews) Tripadvisor
Rome’s “Central Park” has open lawns, playgrounds, a zoo, and rental bikes.
Why kids love it: Room to run, plus animals at Bioparco.
Tips for parents: Rent a family bike or golf cart to cover more ground without tiring little legs. Pack a picnic for a relaxed and budget-friendly lunch.
What are parents are saying:
“Large park, very restful, a contrast with the crowds and noise of the city. Local families use it, so it is not just a tourist site. Includes a zoo with a …” Tripadvisor
“The zoo is located in a bourgeois villa, ticket price 19 euros. The space is really huge, there are lots of different animals with enough room for animals.” Tripadvisor
“The statues and museums were beautiful. There is also an amazing Zoo area for families and they have the cutest family-sized bikes for peddling around the Park …” Tripadvisor
Explore crypts, aqueducts, and tunnels beneath the city.
Why kids love it: Spooky, mysterious atmosphere.
Tips for parents: Best for ages 8+. Wear sturdy shoes and light jackets — underground areas can be damp and chilly.
What are parents are saying:
“Our guide Justin designed and conducted an excellent tour, which I can recommend one hundred percent. It was extremely fascinating to wander beneath Rome’s streets.” Tripadvisor
“Wonderful tour! Ilaria was our tour guide … very knowledgeable. English was great and she kept the kids interested with stories.” Tripadvisor
“Underground Rome: Beneath the Streets Small-Group Tour is more for history buffs than the traditional Rome tours. The guide goes very in depth and was an archaeologist by training.” Tripadvisor
A fun challenge with a view at the top — and gelato nearby.
Why kids love it: Counting steps and racing to the top.
Tips for parents: Go early in the morning or evening to avoid heat and crowds. Use this as a quick “energy break” between bigger sightseeing stops.
What are parents are saying:
“The Spanish Steps were quite interesting and, all in all, awe‐striking. The problem is, the church doesn’t look amazing and it is very crowded.” Tripadvisor
“What an amazing tour. We did this with our 2 kids and our guide, Bruno, made it so entertaining.” (from the Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain Treasure Hunt for Kids) Tripadvisor
“Martina was wonderful! She was so good with the three young children in our group who were ages 5–10. My son would have never tolerated 2.5 hr tour without her …” (from Best of Rome Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon Tour for Kids) Tripadvisor
Colorful alleys, piazzas, and authentic trattorias make Trastevere ideal for families.
Why kids love it: Lively piazzas, street music, and endless gelato shops.
Tips for parents: Visit after dinner for a relaxed evening stroll. Stop at Piazza di Santa Maria where kids can play while you enjoy the neighborhood vibe.
What are parents are saying:
“Trastevere The setting is quiet and serene, making it an ideal spot to relax for a few moments and admire its beauty. We stopped by as part of a walk through the city and …” — from Trastevere’s main attraction page. Tripadvisor
“It is an exciting, authentic, safe Roman neighborhood full of great restaurants and pubs. Lots of American students living in the neighborhood as well.” — forum discussion by a family of five talking about Trastevere. Tripadvisor
“It’s homey, charming, cozy, romantic, adventurous, my new favorite place.” — from someone’s review of Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere. Tripadvisor
12. Nighttime Golf Cart Tour of Rome
We saved the best for last. This tour was a family favorite — a breezy golf cart ride through Rome’s streets, stopping at all the major landmarks glowing under the night lights. It was the perfect way to see the city sparkle without the daytime crowds. When little legs are tired but you still want to see Rome sparkle, a golf cart tour is the perfect option. At night, the city is cooler, the monuments are beautifully lit, and kids can enjoy the ride without long walks. Guides often tailor the stops to family interests, so you’ll hit highlights like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain — all glowing under the evening lights.
Why kids love it: Riding in an open-air golf cart feels like an adventure, and seeing Rome lit up at night is magical.
Tips for parents: Book an evening slot after dinner to avoid heat and crowds. Bring a light sweater for kids since it can get breezy.
What are parents are saying:
“AWESOME in every way! Our driver was absolutely fantastic. Personable and knowledgeable, he was like an extension of our family, not just …” — Tripadvisor
“Andrea was an amazing tour guide! He was so knowledgeable about the area and monuments. He also had a wonderful personality! Would highly recommend this tour!” — Tripadvisor
“This night time golf cart tour was perfect. Our guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining. Rome was stunning at night with all of the …” — Tripadvisor
Rome can feel overwhelming, but with the right balance of tours and free time, it becomes one of the most family-friendly cities in Europe. Mix hands-on Viator experiences like gladiator school, pizza-making, and kid-focused Vatican tours with relaxed outings like tossing coins in the Trevi Fountain or wandering Trastevere. These kid-friendly activities in Rome will keep children engaged, parents stress-free, and everyone excited to come back again and again. Please let me know what tours you decide on!
For the best hotel, check out our guide to the 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Rome for an Unforgettable Stay.
