- The train ride outside the Borghese Gallery. - Bob Lang
A brief review of travel guides will reveal that Rome is not considered an ideal location for a family vacation due to a lack of child-oriented things to do. Despite the lack of information available, Rome can be a wonderful place for parents and kids alike. A small adjustment to the mindset of a vacation suitable for children is all that is required.
Roman Adventures for Families
Although Rome does have a children's museum, an aqua park and a zoo, it is tough for parents visiting this ancient city full of history to resign themselves to run of the mill sites they could see in any city anywhere. So it is important to remember that family vacations do not have to center around amusement parks and people in costumes. Children enjoy new experiences and parents can capitalize on this aspect of their child's curiosity no matter where they vacation. In Rome, visiting historical sites and museums will top the list of every adult who is planning a visit.
Those with children should not cross these sites off their lists. If parents plan well and make each outing an adventure, everyone will enjoy the day. For example, taking a new mode of transportation can be very exciting - bus, train, or tram anyone? Visiting a museum? Plan to hit only the most important pieces and mention the possibility of seeing naked statues - even very young children will find this amusing. Finally, take time to stop and splash in the puddles, chase the pigeons and sample the gelato in the myriad of piazzas along the route to the destination for the day.
What Will Kids Want to do in Rome?
Almost anything their parents do. Children will enjoy climbing the narrow steps of the Colosseum, watching for the stray cats that inhabit the historical site and imagining the gladiators and lions in the arena. The Borghese Gallery is another perfect outing for parents with kids in tow. The tours are by reservation only so there are no long lines to stand in and they last only two hours, an easy timeframe for most children.
A park with a mini-train running through it surrounds the gallery and a small area with amusement style rides is also available. Setting out on a self-guided walking tour can also be an enjoyable way to spend the day with children. Rick Steves Rome 2010 outlines a night walk across Rome which is a short walking tour that includes a number of must-see sites that will excite both children and their parents: the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona to name a few. By adjusting the timing slightly to a late afternoon and early evening walk across Rome, everyone will have fun.
Other Tips for Traveling With Children
When planning a trip to Rome, consider traveling during the off-season. Fewer tourists will reduce waiting times for all sites and the cooler weather will make daylong adventures more tolerable for everyone. (See Suzy Guese's article Packing for Winter in Italy.) When traveling with an infant or very small child, it is worth it to pack more than one accessory for babies on the go. For example, an umbrella stroller is lightweight and easy to transport, as are front carriers and slings.
Most excursions will take most of the day, limiting trips back to a hotel or apartment, so having more than one method of hauling a child around will keep adults from getting tired and allow children different views and potential places to nap on the go. In addition, taking advantage of the various tourist passes will save money and time as many of them allow the bearer to skip the lines for tickets.
Another wonderful aspect of a trip to Rome with children is that Italians love children and will welcome these mini-travelers with big smiles and a warm Ciao! With the right mindset and a good plan, touring Rome can be an experience that both parents and their young children enjoy!
Rory Bratcher - Rory is currently a freelance writer and mother of two. Rory travels frequently and has taken her family on a variety of trips including ...
