HERE'S WHY ROME IS THE ULTIMATE FAMILY DESTINATION—WHAT TO DO, SEE, AND EAT

The Eternal City has something for everyone, from puppet theater to scavenger hunts.

I’ve wandered Rome countless times, and with every visit, there’s always something new to discover. As a travel advisor, I love curating multigenerational family trips that ensure everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, leaves with lasting memories and a newfound—or reinvigorated—love for the Eternal City. Here’s how I’d plan the perfect family itinerary.

What to See

The Colosseum and Roman Forum are iconic for a reason: historic and stunning, they ignite imaginations with tales of gladiators brought alive by expert guides who use storytelling and games to engage little ones. Make sure to step inside the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, which is a treasure trove of art and architecture, and even has activity booklets for kids. The ancient city of Ostia Antica is a can’t-miss site. The whole family can explore it through experiences like Family Twist’s scavenger hunt, which is privately-guided and has accessible paths.

Although Rome is a popular summer destination, it’s just as exciting in the wintertime. In December, Piazza Navona houses a Christmas market humming with carousel rides and local crafts, while St. Peter’s Square displays a festive nativity scene and tree—magic the whole family can appreciate.

What to Do

The activities in Rome are truly endless. Creative families can bond over mosaic or fresco-painting workshops, while adventurers can try gladiator training. For those seeking a slower pace, take a cooking class and learn to make pasta, tiramisu, or panettone, or stroll alongside the scenic River Tiber, pausing to picnic by ancient bridges.

The holiday season offers puppet shows, such as at Villa Borghese. For an extra dose of winter spirit, ice skate under the stars at Piazza Cavour or Piazza Re Di Roma.

Where to Stay

Choose a home base that suits your family: the historic center Centro Storico for walkable sights, cobblestoned Trastevere for cozy charm, or Prati for upscale calm near the Vatican. Make sure to seek out hotels with elevators, connecting rooms, and nearby parks like Villa Borghese for kids to play and seniors to relax.

Where to Eat

Rome is a top food destination, and its pizza, pasta, and gelatos are winners for every palate. For a true taste of the city, try supplì (fried risotto balls), authentic carbonara, or winter’s pandoro, perhaps at a neighborhood trattoria. Food tours let you sample diverse spots around town, while cooking classes offer a special bonding experience alongside valuable kitchen knowledge you can bring home with you.

How to Make It Magical

Make sure to pack comfy shoes and plan for transportation options to minimize cobblestone challenges, and keep plans loose to allow for spontaneous stops (such as for gelato!). Book private guides and skip-the-line tours to make the most of your time.

For mild weather, travel in spring or early fall. Summer is beautiful, but can be hot and crowded—plan for early starts and plenty of stops in the shade. A December trip, though cold, will be festive and absolutely unforgettable. No matter when you go, Rome is sure to enchant the whole family.

Carolyn Ryberg is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in ships and family trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Ryberg by contacting her at [email protected].

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2025-11-26T12:03:23Z