Visiting Rome with Children: A Few Must-Sees

In this article, the writers of the Bonjour Rome website share tips for visiting Rome with children without stress, alternating culture and relaxation. They present a few must-sees (Colosseum, Vatican...) and fun activities (zoo, interactive museums, theme parks) suited to the youngest visitors, with practical information on opening hours and prices.

Visiting Rome with children may seem like a challenge, but rest assured... The "Eternal City" is full of experiences that appeal to parents and children alike. Between iconic landmarks, tasty snack breaks and fun activities, there's something for everyone!

Follow our tips to enjoy your stay without the stress, avoiding fatigue... And for a top-notch trip, you could also try a guided tour specially designed for families with a knowledgeable Bonjour Rome guide!

Practical tips for visiting Rome with children

Rome is a fascinating city, but it can also be tiring, especially for younger visitors.
Distances can be long, and in summer the heat can be intense. Be sure to bring water and plan regular breaks for the whole family. In spring and autumn, the climate is much milder and sightseeing generally more pleasant. In winter, Rome is still a lively city, even if the days are shorter.

In terms of budget, the Italian capital remains affordable for families. As we'll see, many sites are free for children, and it's possible to find affordable meal options (pizza, picnics…).

In any case, to keep your family visit enjoyable, alternate cultural visits with moments of relaxation! Parks, artisanal ice cream and small shaded piazzas are perfect for catching your breath between two landmarks.
Finally, favor visits in the morning or late in the day, when sites are less crowded and the temperature more pleasant in summer.

The great classics, family version

Even with children, some of Rome's treasures remain unmissable. But beware: these places are often very busy, with long queues and dense crowds, which can quickly tire out or discourage younger visitors.

2025 is a Jubilee Year (Holy Year). The influx of pilgrims makes the situation even more pronounced, especially at the Vatican. It's therefore best to prepare your visit carefully and adapt your choices according to your children's age and interests.

The Colosseum and the Roman Forum

A true symbol of Rome, the Colosseum fascinates young and old alike: children can easily picture themselves in the arena alongside the gladiators, while parents admire the majesty of the ruins!

• Open every day from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm or 7:15 pm depending on the season.
• €18 for adults. Free for under-18s, though booking is still required.
• Tip: arrive early or book a skip-the-line guided tour to avoid the crowds.

Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel

The Vatican Museums house an incredible artistic wealth, but for children, the visit is a bit long... You can keep them entertained by inviting them to spot fun details in the Sistine Chapel frescoes, or by letting them have a little walk in the gardens between two galleries.

• Open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm (last entry at 6:00 pm).
• Adult admission: €20. Reduced rate of €8 for ages 7–18. Free for under-6s.
• The Jubilee Year is drawing even more visitors in 2025, so patience and planning are more essential than ever.

Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth)

The Mouth of Truth is known as an ancient lie detector. A medieval legend says that anyone who puts their hand in and tells a lie will have it bitten off. The Bocca della Verità is without doubt one of the most fun classics for young visitors! Slipping a hand into the stone mouth to check if the legend is true always amuses children. A quick but memorable stop.

• Piazza Bocca della Verità, open every day from 9:30 am to 5:50 pm.
• €2 contribution for adults, free for children.

Castel Sant'Angelo

With its fortress-like look and secret passages, Castel Sant'Angelo appeals to young visitors looking for adventure. The panoramic view over Rome from the ramparts is the perfect finishing touch to this fascinating visit.

• Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am–7:30 pm (last entry 6:30 pm).
• Adult admission: €16. Free for children under 18.
• Tip: arrive early or book a skip-the-line tour to avoid the crowds.

Fun activities and family breaks

Between two iconic landmarks, you can always fit in activities designed especially for children.

Villa Borghese: Bioparco

The Bioparco, in the heart of Villa Borghese, is one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Here you'll find lions, giraffes and elephants in educational spaces suited to young visitors: a great way to unwind after a more "adult-oriented" museum!

• Open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm or 7:00 pm depending on the season.
• Price: €20 for adults, €16 for children over one meter tall. Free for younger children.

Still in Villa Borghese, renting bikes or rosalie tricycles turns exploring the park into a little adventure. Children can burn off energy freely while enjoying the gardens and fountains.

Explora

For a more educational experience, head to Explora, an interactive museum designed for children. Here, they can handle, test and experiment in spaces built to their scale. Themes range from science to everyday life, with workshops that change regularly.

• Open from 10:00 am to 6:45 pm
• Price: €11 per adult and child over 3 years old.

Botanical Garden

Nature lovers will enjoy the Botanical Garden and its butterfly house, the Butterfly Eden.

• Open from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm
• Price: €5 for adults and children over 6 years old

If you have more time, note that several theme parks are accessible on the outskirts of the city. Unfortunately, getting there is much easier with a car…

Roma World

Roma World immerses visitors in the ancient world with gladiator shows and numerous immersive workshops.

• Open from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• Price: €15 for children and €19 for adults.

Cinecittà World

Just next door, Cinecittà World takes families behind the scenes of cinema! There are fun attractions for all ages, all set within legendary film sets.

• Variable hours (often 11:00 am to 6:00 pm),
• Prices: from €27 for adults and €22 for children.

Zoomarine

And if your children love animals, be sure to check out Zoomarine, an impressive park combining marine shows, rides and fun pools.

• Open from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm or 10:00 pm depending on the season.
• Prices: €24 for adults, €22 for children over 1 meter, free for younger children.

Rome is a city with endless cultural attractions and historical remains. Making the right choices among the vast array of monuments and impressive sites will help you and your young children keep an unforgettable memory.

Article written in collaboration with "Bonjour Rome".
"Bonjour Rome" is a travel blog that shares good tips for Rome and practical advice.