84 free things to do in Italy with kids
Last updated on January 9th, 2026.
How much does it cost to visit Italy as a family? is a question I commonly get asked.
While the question is a simple one the answer isn’t as straightforward.
Circumstances will differ from family to family and other factors need to be considered too. This includes the time of year you plan to visit and how much disposable income you have to spend.
But while there will be some considerable costs involved when traveling to Italy with a family there are some upsides.
In this Italy family travel guide, I’ll be sharing 80 free things to do in Italy with kids.
Packed with plenty of ideas, I’ll show you how planning family vacations in Italy doesn’t have to break the bank.
Why Italy is perfect for kids
Italy is a destination made for families.
A country with a kid-friendly culture Italy is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Europe.
As a local — and a mamma — I can confirm that many Italians adore children.
I’ve been stopped countless times in the street by adorning locals asking to see my baby.
Another occasion that springs to mind is when my friend came to visit me with her then 5-year-old son.
I was amazed by how many Italians greeted him with a warm ‘ciao!’ From friendly passersby in the street to waiting staff in cafes and restaurants we encountered many sincere smiley faces.
Services like hotels and restaurants will go out of their way to accommodate your little ones’ needs. I can’t tell you how many trattorias we’ve visited that have moved furniture around to accommodate our baby’s carriage.
Add to this plenty of wide-open spaces, historic landmarks, beaches and endless gelato flavors and Italy becomes even more appealing.
Whether you’re traveling to Italy with toddlers, kids or teens, Italy has activities perfect for all ages. And the best part is that many of these activities won’t cost you a dime.
If a family vacation to Italy is in your future use this guide to help plan your Italy trip.
80 free things to do in Italy with kids by destination
Free things to do in Rome with kids
1. Visit the Colosseum (from the outside)
While entering the Colosseum requires a ticket, kids can marvel at the massive amphitheater for free from the outside.
2. Explore Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Like the Colosseum, visitors require tickets to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. However, plan to visit on the first Sunday of the month and it’s 100% free.
It's not possible to book tickets online in advance. Instead, visitors can only collect tickets at the ticket office of the Arch of Tito (Arco di Tito, Via Sacra).
The landmarks are a fascinating place for kids to explore, and to learn about, ancient Roman ruins.
3. Discover the Pantheon
The former Roman temple turned Catholic church is another of Rome’s most popular attractions. Like above, tickets for the Pantheon are usually required but it’s free to visit every first Sunday of the month. Booking in advance is mandatory.
4. See a Roman legend
Located inside the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin is one of Rome’s most iconic statues. The Bocca della Verità (mouth of truth) is a large round ancient marble mask.
The legend behind it is that the mouth would bite anyone who didn’t tell the truth. One of many free things to do in Rome with kids, let them test it out and see what happens….
5. Stroll through Villa Borghese
A beautiful park in Rome, Villa Borghese makes the perfect setting for kids to run around in.
One of many free things to do in Italy with kids the park has trails, fountains and a secret garden. Villa Borghese is also home to several paid attractions.
Museums include Borghese Gallery (art museum), Museo Pietro Canonica (sculptures) and La Casina di Raffaello (children’s center with bookshop). Also within the park is a small zoo (bioparco di Roma) but tickets are required to enter.
6. Make a wish
Let your kids make a wish by tossing a coin into the remarkable Trevi Fountain. Give kids a small ‘wish list’ for their coins before throwing them into the fountain.
A timeless Rome tradition it’s one of the most fun free things to do in Italy with kids.
7. Walk the famous steps
No visit to Rome with kids is complete without seeing the Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti).
Situated next to another renowned Rome landmark, Piazza di Spagna, the steps are perfect for active kids.
During your visit be sure not to sit on the steps or consume any food or beverages. You might just incur a fine.
8. Step inside St. Peter’s Basilica
Take the kids to see the most beautiful church in the world. St. Peter’s Basilica is free to visit, the only catch is the long, long, lines.
During peak seasons waiting times can range from around 2 to 3 hours. A long waiting time but seeing the basilica is one of the best free things to do in Italy with kids.
9. Stroll the piazza
Piazza Navona is perfect for families visiting Rome. Packed with monuments, fountains and a Christmas market in December it offers families plenty of things to see and do.
10. Cross the bridge
See Rome’s famous River Tiber (Fiume Tivere) from one of the city’s historic bridges. Pont’Sant Angelo, built by Emperor Hadrian, leads to the landmark Castel Sant’Angelo museum.
11. Enjoy panoramic views
Visit the neoclassical marble temple of Vittorio Emanuele II (Monumento di Vittorio Emanuele II), commonly known as the ‘Vittoriano’. The Vittoriano and the Great Garden of Palazzo Venezia are free to visit. Book tickets on the website and select ‘free’. There’s a €1 ($1.02/£0.84) service fee.
Piazza Venezia, Rome
12. Visit other churches in Rome
With no price tags, many of the churches in Rome are akin to free museums. Fascinating places to take the kids make a note of the following locations:
- Church of San Francesco (Trastevere)
- Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi
- Basilica di Sant’Agostino
- Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola
- Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli
13. See the sun set over Rome
Take the kids to watch the fabulous colors of the sun setting over Rome at Gianicolo (Janiculum). The Roman hill is one of the most panoramic places in the city. It’s also up there as one of the best free things to do in Italy with kids.
The nearby Passeggiata del Gianicolo is a viewing spot that has a historic terrace. Come here to indulge in panoramic views of Rome.
14. Hear the firing of the cannon
Since 1 December 1847 a cannon is fired from Gianicolo every day at midday. Needless to say, it’s a unique experience for kids to see.
Gianicolo, Piazza di Sant'Onofrio
15. Watch a free puppet show
Rome’s famous Janiculum Hill is also known for hosting fun and free puppet shows (Teatrino dei Burattini dei Gianicolo).
Usually held on weekends from 10:30 to 17:00* it’s a unique outdoor experience and one that kids will enjoy.
While the shows are free to watch, the organizers ask visitors for a small €2 ($2.05/£1.68) contribution. Though not obligatory any funds received will help to keep the shows running.
16. Villa Doria Pamphili
Escape the crowds and the chaos of Rome’s center for the green surroundings of Villa Doria Pamphili.
The pretty park, set on an ancient Roman noble property, has plenty of outdoor space and a kids’ play area.
Within the park is Belvedere Lake (Lago del Belvedere), a lake at which you’ll spot plenty of free roaming ducks. Don’t forget to walk up to see the pretty fountain and the canal that runs into the lake.
17. Explore Trastevere
One of Rome’s prettiest, and most famous, quarters, it costs absolutely nothing to walk around Trastevere.
The area, known for its bohemian atmosphere, is home to plenty of traditional as well as contemporary trattorias. Because of this, it’s probably unlikely that your wallet will stay closed for long.
However, seeing Trastevere is still one of my favorite free things to do in Italy with kids.
Free things to do in Florence with kids
18. Start at Piazza della Signoria
Kids will have fun exploring Florence’s most iconic public square. It’s filled with historic monuments like Palazzo Vecchio, Neptune Fountain (Fontana del Nettuno) and a replica of Michelangelo's David.
19. Stop by Ponte Vecchio
Visit Florence’s famous bridge to enjoy pretty views of the Arno River. Arrive early to secure a spot to watch the sunset.
One of many free things to do in Italy with kids it’s an unmissable activity when visiting Florence.
20. See the Uffizi
Introduce kids to one of the most famous museums in the world. The Uffizi Gallery (Galleria Uffizi) is known for its collections of paintings from the 14th century and the Renaissance and ancient statues.
Kids under 18 are free to enter (valid ID required) while adults must book tickets in advance. Like many museums in Rome, entry to the Uffizi Gallery is free on the first Sunday of every month. However, it’s not possible to book beforehand.
With many masterpieces under one roof, kids will learn more about Italian artists like Botticelli, Leonardo, Raffaello, Michelangelo and Caravaggio.
See the other Uffizi museums
Kids under 18 are also free to visit other attractions included in the Uffizi Gallery group. They include Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti), Boboli Gardens (Giardino Boboli) and Vasari Corridor (Corridoio Vasariano). Parents must show a form of valid ID when requested.
As above, entry is free every first Sunday of the month. However, given the huge popularity of these attractions, it’s also not possible to book tickets beforehand.
If you’re not able to secure free adult tickets, it’s essential to book tickets in advance. Tickets sell out fast especially during busy periods.
It's also worth checking which of the many museums in Florence have free entry for minors under 18.
21. Pitti Palace
Pitti Palace was the former home of Florentine banker Luca Pitti and later Italian banker and politician Cosimo de’ Medici.
The building houses 5 museums including the Palatine Chapel (Cappella Palatina) and the Gallery of Modern Art (Galleria d’Arte Moderna).
22. Boboli Gardens
Boboli Gardens is an outdoor open-air museum located behind Pitti Palace.
An enchanting spot for kids to get outdoors, they’ll have fun discovering the Renaissance statues, fountains and caves.
23. Vasari Corridor
Vasari Corridor was built at the request of Cosimo de’ Medici. He wanted a ‘hidden’ corridor connecting the old Ducal Palace, Palazzo Vecchio, to the new residence of Pitti Palace.
24. Watch the sunset
No list of free things to do in Florence with kids would be complete without Piazza Michelangelo. The gorgeous viewing point is large and wide enough to accommodate many visitors.
Take the kids to enjoy panoramic views over Florence during the day or at sunset. Grab a gelato, bring some drinks and enjoy the best views over the city.
Map of Italy
25. Explore a Florence neighborhood
See Florence like a local by taking the kids to another part of the city.
Oltrarno is a neighborhood on the other side of the Arno River away from Florence’s famous Duomo (cathedral).
Home to many of Florence’s artisans, kids will be fascinated by the workers practicing traditional crafts like goldsmithing.
Other less touristy districts in Florence to consider visiting include Rifredi and Gavinana.
26. Wander around Florence’s streets
The simple art of wandering through Florence’s streets will hold kids’ attention.
Go window shopping, browse the unique shops, try a traditional Tuscan panino or admire the city’s beautiful architecture.
27. Visit the abbey San Miniato al Monte
Let kids burn off some energy with a short hike to see San Miniato al Monte Abbey (Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte). The 11th century hilltop church offers panoramic views over Florence and beyond. Its striking Romanesque façade and medieval interior are the icing on the cake.
San Miniato al Monte Abbey (Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte), Via delle Porte Sante, 34
Other free things to do in Tuscany with kids
28. See Italy’s leaning tower (from outside)
While tickets are required to enter the Leaning Tower of Pisa looking from the outside is completely free. Take fun photos with the kids and explore the other monuments in the surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli.
29. Walk the city walls
Visit the beautiful city of Lucca and walk around its historic walls.
30. See San Gimignano
Add a small Tuscan town to your itinerary with a visit to San Gimignano. One of the most beautiful places in Tuscany the kids will enjoy seeing the medieval town.
31. Visit a Tuscan lake
Plan a day trip to see Lake Trasimeno (Lago Trasimeno). Pack a picnic lunch, walk the lungolago (lake promenade) or relax by the serene lake.
Free things to do in Venice with kids
32. Start at St. Mark’s Square
Venice’s largest, and most famous, public square Piazza San Marco is a magnet for children. While adults will enjoy visiting its famous landmarks, kids will love running around the large open space.
33. Pause on Rialto Bridge
Climb to the top of Rialto Bridge for unbeatable views of the Grand Canal. One of the best free things to do in Italy with kids it’s an unmissable activity.
34. Browse Rialto Market
Treat the kids to a local experience and teach them about different seafood and fresh produce.
35. Explore Venice’s islands
Have fun island hopping around Venice’s Lagoon (Laguna Veneta) on board a vaporetto (water bus).
While adults need to buy tickets for the vaporetto children up to 6 years old travel for free.
Regular tickets for the vaporetto last for 75 minutes from the time they’re activated. This makes it possible to make two, or even three vaporetto rides, in the allocated time.
36. See Venice’s quirky bookstore
One of the most unique bookshops in Italy, kids will enjoy visiting Libreria Acqua Alta. With books stored in bathtubs and gondolas, cats and a climbable staircase made of books kids won’t get bored here.
Libreria Acqua Alta, C. Longa Santa Maria Formosa, 5176b
37. Watch glassblowers in Murano
Learn about the historic craft of glassblowing in Murano. The island’s famous for its colorful and delicate glass products. Look out for signs in glass shops in Murano advertising free demonstrations.
38. Get colorful on Burano
Add the colorful houses of Burano to your list of free things to do in Italy with kids. The pretty island has a labyrinth of colorful houses and canals that kids will instantly be drawn towards.
39. Go gondola watching
Let kids tally up how many gondolas they can spot during their trip in Venice. Watch the boat from the Rialto or Accademia Bridge or from smaller bridges around the city.
40. Relax on the beaches
Escape Venice’s canals for the beaches on Lido of Venice (Lido di Venezia). Swim, sunbathe or build sandcastles, they’re one of the best free things to do in Venice with kids.
41. Browse beautiful art
Introduce kids to eye-catching 20th century art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Modern art displayed in a historic canal-side 17th century palace the sculpture garden is especially fun for younger visitors.
While adults require a ticket for the art gallery kids under 10 are free to enter.
42. Experience the Venice Carnival
A once-in-a-lifetime experience, free things to do in Italy with kids get no better than seeing the Venice Carnival (carnevale).
Watch the water parade, take in the water show and have fun seeing the colorful costumes and cool masks.
Free things to do in Milan with kids
43. See Milan Cathedral (from outside)
While entering, and climbing Milan Cathedral’s (Duomo di Milano) Duomo rooftop requires a ticket, it’s 100% free to visit outside.
The public square, Piazza del Duomo, makes an ideal place for kids to run around in.
44. Browse Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The shops inside Milan’s famous shopping arcade won’t make any list of free things to do in Italy with kids.
But the same can’t be said for its magnificent glass ceiling and grand architecture that costs nothing to view.
45. Explore Sforza Castle
Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) is one of Milan’s most iconic attractions. Wander the courtyards for free or take the kids to see the museum inside (kids under 17 enter for free).
Adult tickets cost €5 ($5.14/£4.20) making for a fun and budget-friendly day trip in Milan.
46. Wander through Sempione Park
Next to Sforza Castle is the pretty Sempione Park (Parco Sempione). It's the perfect setting for kids to play, climb and run around freely.
47. See the Peace Arch
Also within Sempione Park is the impressive Peace Arch (Arco della Pace). A replica of Paris’ Arc di Triomphe, visiting is one of the best free things to do in Milan with kids.
48. Learn at Pinacoteca di Brera
Milan’s most famous art gallery, Pinacoteca di Brera, allows free entry for kids under 18. Parents must produce a valid document upon entering.
The gallery’s also part of the ‘free every first Sunday of the month’ initiative though reservations are obligatory.
Pinacoteca di Brera, Via Brera, 28
49. Visit Leonardo da Vinci’s horse
Take kids to see the grand 7m (23ft) equestrian bronze statue. Based on 15th-century sketches by Leonardo da Vinci it’s a fun stop for kids interested in animals and art.
50. Head to the canals
Explore the fascinating area of Navagli to see the canals, engage in some boat watching and browse the shops.
51. See the Vertical Forest
The eco-friendly building covered from top to toe in greenery, the Vertical Forest (Bosco Verticale) is a unique Milan attraction.
Close by is the BAM - Biblioteca degli Alberi Milano park, a botanical garden and communal modern park.
Vertical Forest (Bosco Verticale), Via Gaetano de Castillia, 11
Free things to do in Naples with kids
52. Stroll through Piazza del Plebescito
Visit one of Naples’ largest public squares at Piazza del Plebescito on your one day in Naples. It’s home to free attractions like the Basilica of San Francesco of Paola and paid ones like the Royal Palace of Naples.
53. Window shopping in the galleria
Browse the shops inside Naples Galleria Umberto I shopping arcade. Bearing a similar architectural layout to the one in Milan it’s an indoor place for kids to run around in.
54. See the Spanish Quarter
Explore the Spanish Quarter neighborhood of Naples with kids. See the colorful murals, browse the produce at Pignasecca market and get a taste of everyday life in Naples.
55. Visit Naples’ churches
Naples has some of the most beautiful, and impressive, churches in all of Italy. One of the best free things to do with kids in Italy these churches are unmissable when visiting Naples. Make a note of the following churches and their addresses:
- Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli), Via Duomo, 147
- Church of New Jesus (Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo), Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, 2
- Church of St. Gregory Armeno (Chiesa di San Gregorio Armeno, Chiesa di Santa Patrizia), Via S. Gregorio Armeno, 24
56. View Mount Vesuvius
Naples’ mighty volcano can be clearly viewed from several points around the city. Should your kids prefer to get a closer look, it might be worth booking entry tickets for Mount Vesuvius.
Including entry tickets and transportation it’s an ideal way to fully explore the volcano.
Free things to do on the Amalfi Coast with kids
57. Explore the town center in Sorrento (Piazza Tasso, Corso Italia)
58. Relax on Sorrento Beach or Marina Piccola (see ‘one day in Sorrento Italy’)
59. Walk through Positano
60. See St. Mary of the Assumption church (Chiesa Santa Maria Assunta) in Positano
61. Relax on Positano Beach (Spiaggia Positano)
62. Get lost in the pretty streets of Amalfi
63. Walk up the steps of its cathedral, St. Andrew’s Cathedral (Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea)
64. Watch the boats leave and enter the harbor from Piazzale dei Protontini in Amalfi
65. Relax, swim or bathe at the cove of Fiordo di Furore
Free things to do in Cinque Terre with kids
66. Have a beach day
Soak up the sun on Monterosso al Mare. The largest sandy beach in Cinque Terre, it’s an ideal place for kids and families to spend the day.
67. Visit Camogli
Wander through the fishing village lined with colorful houses and relax on the free pebble beach.
68. Walk the passeggiata
Stroll the passeggiata Anita Garibaldi in Genoa and take in the pretty cliffside views. One of the best free things to do in Italy with kids it’s perfect for families who love the outdoors.
69. Visit Boccadasse Beach
See one of Genoa’s many beaches at Boccadasse Beach. It’s an ideal spot for the kids, and parents, to enjoy the day.
Free things to do in Sicily with kids
Palermo
70. Visit the beautiful Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo), Via Vittorio Emanuele, 490.
71. See the renowned Quattro Canti sculptures in Piazza Vigliena.
72. Browse the fresh produce at Ballarò (market), Via Chiappara Al Carmine, 23.
Catania
73. Plan a drive through Etna Park to get a closer look at Europe’s most active volcano.
74. Try out some walking trails around Mount Etna.
75. Pass by Saint Agatha Cathedral (Cattedrale di Sant’Agata), Catania’s main church in the center.
76. Walk the length of Catania’s historic center.
Other free things to do in Sicily with kids
77. Stroll through the hilltop town of Taormina.
78. Watch the sunset from Piazza IX Aprile (Taormina).
79. Enjoy a beach day at Isola Bella (Taormina).
80. Let the kids roam around the hilltop town of Forza d’Agró.
81. Spend an hour or two exploring the small town of Castelmola.
82. Plan a family hike, or visit one of the beaches, at the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
83. See the colorful coastal town of Marzamemi.
84. Experience the second most southerly point in Italy at Isola delle Correnti.
What are your thoughts on this travel guide of free things to do in Italy with kids? Has it given you plenty of ideas to add to your Italy itinerary? Let me know in the comments below.
*information correct at the time of publishing.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
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I have loved exploring Italy but would love to return with my kids one day and show them too
I hope you do too!
Oh wow there really is a lot to do in italy with children! It's great to have such a good list of free things to do.
I agree! Every little helps 🙂
I love how you’re showing that it doesn’t have to be expensive! I especially appreciate the tips on free activities!!
It's my pleasure! I hope it's helpful for other parents
Thanks for sharing with us this big list of things to do with kids in Italy. Super interesting to read!
It is my pleasure to share!
Great shots! There are definitely a lot of things to see and do in Italy and that's why I want to go and explore it someday.
Thank you, I hope you visit us one day
This a great post, love how you have everything broken down in sections. I have not been to Italy yet but I 100% plan on going one day! I'm saving this post for later!
Thank you so much that makes me so happy to read! Hope to see you here one day 🙂
This has come at the right time as we're expecting our first baby in June and definitely want to plan some trips when she's a little older. So many amazing places to explore in Italy x
Perfect! I am also a mamma and I promise there is plenty to do here for free
This is such a good post as I am often told that Italy is an expensive country, so will be using your post as a guide when we travel as a family
There are some parts that are expensive but others that are more affordable 🙂
I gonna book mark this post for future reference. You covered all the major points. This is really a helpful guide.
Thank you so much I appreciate that!
wow they is so many free things to do in in Italy with the kids! I need to take my family here one day. Great list thanks
Thank you I hope you do too.
It's great that there are so many great activities that families can do that are free. It can help make the holiday far more affordable. My son would love to hear the firing of the cannon. That would be something new. I'd have to wear my ear plugs though.
Definitely! And keep a safe distance to protect their eardrums 🙂
That’s such a helpful guide for families! Exploring Italy without spending a fortune feels like a win
It is definitely a win win!
Italy has so much to offer without spending a fortune. Kids running around historic sites? That’s a fun way to learn history!
A budget holiday can be done here
These are such great ideas! You don't have to spend a ton of money to have a great time, and these suggestions also promote so much family togetherness.
Thank you so much! That is my intention with this guide 🙂
The Architecture and history alone are worth the trip! Thanks for sharing!
You are very welcome!
It's lovely to see that Italy provides so many great attractions and things to see and do for the kids, and free too!
There are plenty of activities here that won't break the bank!
Italy is such a beautiful country. It seems there’s plenty to do with the kiddos in mid. I particularly like the bookstore with the cats as I’m sure the kids would too.
It's an iconic bookstore in Venice and one that kids will love!