A Rome that Children will Love

Rome is a spectacular city that’s for sure and is as diverse as it is great. Rome offers wonders for both adults and young travelers. If you are visiting Rome with children, here is a selection of family-friendly activities that will keep young visitors entertained during their visit to the city.

The Keyhole

Who doesn’t like adventures? The keyhole is perfect to entertain those with an adventurous side. Peep through the small keyhole and you will see three countries! As the keyhole is located in the door of a property belonging to the Knights of Malta (whose sovereignty is recognized by the Italian state) it means that visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view from the keyhole that looks out over the Knights of Malta, Italy and the Vatican. Located at the top of the Aventine Hill, next to the Orange Garden, this is a perfect location to appreciate spectacular views.

Knights of Malta. Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta

Villa Borghese

Kids and parks go perfectly together. Villa Borghese, the third largest park in Rome is a great place to take children as it has many activities inside the park that will keep them entertained. Located over 80 hectares, this park is a lovely space for families to enjoy. For those looking to be active, there are places to rent boats, bicycles, segways and rollerblades. Within the grounds of Villa Borghese, is the Bioparco di Roma, a 17-hectare zoological garden, which is home to over 1000 animals and more than 200 different species.

Villa Borghese and Bioparco di Roma
Metro Popolo/Spagna
Piazza del Giardino Zoologico; open every day 9:30-18:00.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Castles enchant everyone no matter what their age and the impressive Castel Sant’Angelo is no exception. Formerly a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it was used by popes as a castle. The monument was once the tallest building in Rome and provides an amazing view of the city from the top.

Castel Sant’Angelo. Lungotevere Castello, 50.  Open every day except Mondays from, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Vigamus – The Video Game Museum of Rome

If your child is entranced by video games, this museum should definitely be on your list. Dedicated to video games, Vigamus also offers children a chance to play retro games and experience virtual reality.

Vigamus. Via Sabatino, 4; Tue – Sun 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Art and Seek

Not all museums appeal to children, so that’s where Art and Seek step in. The aim is to bring adults and children closer to art appreciation and they do this in fun and interactive ways, offering interactive group experiences, providing opportunities to learn more about art and what it means, in a truly engaging manner.

Art and Seek

Explora – The Children’s Museum

This is the perfect place for children of all ages, a place where they can enjoy an interactive experience whilst learning about science, history, the environment, communications, the economy and new technologies. The museum’s motto is  “Learning by Doing” so is a great venue for children to get involved in the variety of activities on offer, giving them a chance to roam and discover things for themselves.

Explora
Via Flaminia, 80/86
Tue – Sun 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Appian Way

If you enjoy the outdoors and history, the Appian Way should be on the top of your list. One of the longest and strategically most important roads that led to Rome is just an hour driving distance from the city. This 62km long road is best taken with bikes to experience the whole road.

The Appian Way
If using public transport, take the metro to Piramide station, from there take the 118 Bus to the Catacombs of San Callisto.

Gladiator Museum and School

A popular hit with families is The Gladiator School. The activities are geared towards showing the kids what gladiators did and also teaches them the history of this profession. They can dress up and learn the moves and is extremely entertaining for children.

Gladiator Museum and School
Via Appia Antica, 18; 15 minutes from the Coliseum
Best for children aged 8 years+

Il Vittoriano at Piazza Venezia