17-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Italy
Italy is a dream destination for families, offering a blend of ancient history, world-class art, and the world's most kid-approved cuisine. This 17-day journey is designed for those traveling with little ones, prioritizing accessible paths, interactive museums, and plenty of stops for gelato.
We have carefully spaced out the travel days using Italy's efficient high-speed rail network to ensure you spend less time in transit and more time making memories. From the gladiatorial stories of Rome to the whimsical canals of Venice and the shores of Lake Garda, this is the ultimate Italian family odyssey.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Rome, Italy - Arrival & Piazza Life
Arrival at Fiumicino Airport
Clear customs and head to your family-friendly accommodation in the city center via private transfer.
Piazza Navona Exploration
Marvel at Bernini's fountains and enjoy the lively atmosphere of street performers and artists in this car-free square.
The Pantheon
Step inside this architectural marvel; the short queues and flat flooring make it very easy for strollers.
First Gelato at Giolitti
Start your sweet Italian journey at one of Rome's oldest and most famous gelaterias near the Parliament.
Day 2: Rome, Italy - Ancient Gladiators
Colosseum Junior Tour
Explore the iconic arena with a guide specializing in storytelling for children. Use the elevator for stroller access.
Roman Forum Views
Instead of the bumpy ruins, view the Forum from the accessible terrace on the Capitoline Hill for great photos.
Parco del Colle Oppio
Let the kids run free at this local park and playground that directly overlooks the Colosseum.
Dinner in Rione Monti
Enjoy a relaxed meal in this charming neighborhood full of family-run trattorias and boutique shops.
Day 3: Rome, Italy - Vatican Wonders
St. Peter’s Square
The vast, open space is perfect for kids to move around while you admire the massive colonnades.
Vatican Museums (Pinacoteca)
Focus on the Pinacoteca wing; it is less crowded and has wider halls, making it easier for families to navigate.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Explore the fortress and walk the pedestrian bridge for some of the best river views in the city.
Trastevere Stroll
Cross the river for a walk through this bohemian district, famous for its pizza and cozy atmosphere.
Day 4: Rome to Florence, Italy - Transition Day
Villa Borghese Gardens
Rent a four-person bike or a rowboat on the lake for some morning outdoor family fun.
High-Speed Train to Florence
Board the Frecciarossa at Termini Station. The 1.5-hour journey is smooth and features family restrooms.
Florence Arrival & Carousel
Check into your hotel and head to Piazza della Repubblica to ride the historic antique carousel.
Bistecca Dinner
Indulge in a Florentine steak dinner at a local osteria that welcomes families with open arms.
Day 5: Florence, Italy - Renaissance for Kids
Accademia Gallery
See Michelangelo's David. The museum is small enough that children won't get 'museum fatigue' too quickly.
Mercato Centrale
Visit the upstairs food hall where every family member can choose a different type of authentic Italian dish.
Boboli Gardens
Explore the massive Medici gardens. The wide gravel paths are manageable and lead to beautiful sculptures.
Ponte Vecchio
Walk across the world-famous bridge and admire the glittering jewelry shops before sunset.
Day 6: Florence, Italy - Interactive Discovery
Leonardo da Vinci Museum
A hands-on museum where kids can interact with machines built from Da Vinci's original drawings.
Duomo Complex
Admire the terracotta tiles of Brunelleschi's Dome from the square; the interior has flat, stroller-friendly aisles.
Piazzale Michelangelo
Take a bus or taxi to this viewpoint for a panoramic sunset over Florence—the perfect family photo op.
Pizza Workshop
Join a family-friendly pizza making class to learn the secrets of the perfect Tuscan dough.
Day 7: Florence, Italy - Pisa & Lucca Day Trip
Leaning Tower of Pisa
Take a short train ride to see the tower. The Field of Miracles is grassy and perfect for a picnic.
Lunch in Lucca
A short train ride from Pisa, this walled city is entirely pedestrian-friendly and very safe for children.
Cycling Lucca's Walls
Rent a 'family bike' (surrey) and cycle the 4km loop on top of the ancient city walls.
Return to Florence
Relax on the regional train back to Florence and enjoy a quiet evening at your hotel.
Day 8: Florence to Venice, Italy - The Water City
Train to Venice Santa Lucia
Arrive directly at the edge of the Grand Canal. The view exiting the station is unforgettable.
Vaporetto Ride
Take the Line 1 water bus down the Grand Canal to your hotel; it's the best and cheapest 'tour' of the city.
St. Mark’s Square
Feed the pigeons and watch the clock tower strike the hour in Venice's most famous drawing room.
Cicchetti Crawl
Enjoy Venetian tapas at a standing bar—kids usually love the meatballs (polpette) and small sandwiches.
Day 9: Venice, Italy - Islands & Glass
Burano’s Colorful Houses
The bright houses of Burano are a visual feast for kids and much quieter than central Venice.
Murano Glass Blowing
Watch a master artisan turn molten glass into a horse or a vase in just minutes.
Venice Natural History Museum
Located in a stunning palace, this museum features a massive dinosaur skeleton that kids will love.
Gondola Ride
Experience the ultimate Venice tradition. Gondolas can comfortably fit a family of four plus a stroller.
Day 10: Venice to Verona, Italy - Fairytale City
Train to Verona
A short 1 hour and 15 minute journey brings you to the city of Romeo and Juliet.
Verona Arena
Visit the Roman amphitheater. It is incredibly well-preserved and has plenty of space for kids to explore.
Juliet’s House Courtyard
See the famous balcony; the courtyard is free to enter and usually bustling with energy.
Castel San Pietro Funicular
Ride the cable car up the hill for a stunning view of Verona's red-roofed skyline.
Day 11: Lake Garda, Italy - Theme Park Fun
Peschiera del Garda
Check into your lakeside resort. This town is a UNESCO site with very flat, walkable paths.
Gardaland Park
Spend the afternoon at Italy's premier theme park, featuring Peppa Pig Land for the younger kids.
SEA LIFE Aquarium
Located right next to the park, it's a great way to cool off and see Mediterranean marine life.
Lakeside Pizza Dinner
Dine at a restaurant along the water's edge while the kids enjoy the local playground.
Day 12: Lake Garda, Italy - Castle & Boats
Sirmione Peninsula
Visit the 'Pearl of the Lake.' The Scaligero Castle at the entrance looks like it's straight out of a Disney movie.
Lake Garda Boat Tour
Rent a small private boat or join a tour to see the Roman ruins from the water.
Grotte di Catullo
Explore the ruins of a massive Roman villa at the tip of Sirmione with plenty of olive groves for shade.
Aquaria Thermal SPA
Many local thermal parks have specific pools designed for children and families to relax together.
Day 13: Lake Garda to Milan, Italy - Modern Style
Train to Milan
A fast connection takes you to Italy's fashion and design capital.
Duomo di Milano Roof
Take the elevator to the roof of the Cathedral. Walking among the spires is a highlight for older children.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Find the mosaic bull on the floor and perform the traditional spin for good luck—a hit with kids!
Parco Sempione
Walk through the park behind the Sforzesco Castle and see the 'Bridge of Little Mermaids'.
Day 14: Milan, Italy - Science & Submarines
Da Vinci Science Museum
Don't miss the Enrico Toti submarine and the hall of steam trains—perfect for little transport enthusiasts.
Lunch in Brera
Eat in this artistic district, which is mostly pedestrianized and full of colorful flower shops.
Sforzesco Castle Courtyards
Run around the massive open courtyards of the castle; entry to the main grounds is free.
Navigli District
Walk along the canals of Milan. It's a great spot for an 'Aperitivo' (parents get a drink, kids get snacks).
Day 15: Milan, Italy - Lake Como Escape
Train to Varenna
A 1-hour scenic train ride takes you to one of the most beautiful villages on Lake Como.
Ferry to Bellagio
The ferry ride is the highlight for kids; it's breezy, scenic, and provides a great view of the villas.
Villa Melzi Gardens
The gardens are spacious and stroller-friendly, featuring a Japanese pond and exotic plants.
Return to Milan
Head back to the city for a quiet dinner near your accommodation.
Day 16: Milan, Italy - Relaxed Family Day
MUBA Children’s Museum
A museum specifically designed for children's play and creative development in an old church complex.
Panzerotti at Luini
Grab these famous fried tomato and mozzarella pastries for a quick and delicious street-food lunch.
Indro Montanelli Public Gardens
Visit the Planetarium or simply enjoy the large playgrounds and duck ponds in this central green space.
Farewell Italian Feast
Celebrate your final night with a traditional Milanese risotto and a final round of gelato.
Day 17: Milan, Italy - Departure
Last-minute Souvenirs
Pick up some Italian chocolates or leather goods at the shops near the Duomo before leaving.
Malpensa Express
Take the dedicated airport train from Milano Cadorna or Centrale for a stress-free transit.
Milan Malpensa Airport
Arrive with plenty of time to navigate the airport and enjoy the family-friendly play areas in the terminal.
Departure
Board your flight home, bringing back memories of a lifetime from your Italian family odyssey.
Best Time to Visit Italy
For families, the best time to visit Italy is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, making it ideal for walking with strollers. You will also avoid the heavy crowds of July and August, meaning shorter wait times for attractions and restaurants.
Currency & Money
Italy uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, shops, and restaurants, but it is always helpful to carry some cash for small purchases like gelato or bus tickets. Tipping is not mandatory in Italy as a service charge (coperto) is often included in your restaurant bill, though rounding up the bill for exceptional service is always appreciated.
Getting Around Italy
The most comfortable and efficient way for families to travel between Italian cities is via the high-speed rail network operated by Trenitalia and Italo. Trains are punctual, air-conditioned, and offer plenty of space for luggage and strollers. For exploring the countryside or lakes, renting a car provides the most flexibility, while major cities are best explored on foot or via accessible public transport systems like the vaporetto in Venice.
