This guide offers some of the best things to do in Rome with kids, and you are sure to find quite a few that will interest your own kids.
From exploring ancient ruins and training at Gladiator School to hands-on cooking classes and kid-friendly activities, there are endless options to keep the whole family entertained.
If you’re planning an ideal family vacation destination, this guide is packed with the best places, experiences, and tips to help you make the most of your precious time in the capital of Italy.
Why Travel to Rome with Kids
Rome, the Eternal City, is a destination like no other—a perfect blend of ancient history, art, food, and culture.
While it’s often seen as a haven for history buffs and adults, it’s also one of the best places for families to explore.
With its winding cobblestone streets, iconic landmarks, and countless kid-friendly activities, Rome offers endless opportunities for families to create unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re visiting with small children or older kids, this city has something to keep every member of the whole family entertained.
From walking in the footsteps of gladiators to indulging in gelato after a cooking class, you’ll find fun things to do that balance learning, play, and relaxation.
The beauty of Rome is that there’s always something new to discover around every corner—whether it’s a hidden piazza, an ancient ruin, or a great spot for ice cream near the Trevi Fountain.
This guide highlights the best things to do in Rome with kids, combining educational experiences, interactive workshops, and engaging tours to ensure your family trip to the capital of Italy is unforgettable.
Things to Do in Rome with Kids
We included 14 amazing things to do in Rome with kids, along with a few bonus, can’t miss options.
Here’s a quick list of all the amazing activities we’ve covered in this guide:
- Explore the Vatican Museums with the kids
- Train like a gladiator at Gladiator School
- Visit the Colosseum and explore some history
- Take a family cooking class
- Discover the immersive fun at IKONO Roma
- Solve puzzles with the Secret Mission Rome activity book
- Visit the Da Vinci Museum
- Create art in a mosaic workshop
- Go on a Capitoline Hill scavenger hunt
- Join a scavenger hunt or treasure hunt across Rome
- Spend a day at Cinecittà World amusement park
- Enjoy the Welcome to Rome 3D experience
- Explore the Explora Museum—Rome’s children’s museum
- Take professional family photos at iconic landmarks
Whether you have a little bit of time or a week to spare, these activities offer the perfect place to experience the very best of Rome with your family.
Explore the Vatican Museums
A visit to Vatican City is essential for any family trip to Rome, and exploring the Vatican Museums is the best way to introduce children to art, history, and culture in a fun, interactive way.
We opted for the VIP Vatican Key Master’s Tour, which allowed us to enter before the crowds. Watching the Key Master unlock the doors to the world-renowned galleries added a sense of adventure for the kids. They even had the chance to hold a giant key and assist in opening smaller doors, which made them feel like real explorers.
Once inside, we explored highlights like the Gallery of Maps and the Gallery of Tapestries, where the kids enjoyed spotting animals, historical landmarks, and hidden details in the artwork.
Our guide turned it into a game, asking the kids to find mythical creatures and patterns. These little details made the vast museum much more digestible and entertaining for younger kids.
The real magic happened in the Sistine Chapel. Experiencing Michelangelo’s masterpieces without crowds was awe-inspiring.
Our guide pointed out fascinating details, like the story behind Michelangelo’s inclusion of his face in the flayed skin of St. Bartholomew on the left shoulder of the painting. This fun fact caught the attention of the older kids, sparking their curiosity about the artist’s life.
After the museums, we made our way to St. Peter’s Basilica, a short walk away. The grandeur of the church, Bernini’s iconic sculptures, and the enormous dome left everyone amazed.
For older kids, climbing to the dome offered a rewarding experience with sweeping panoramic views of Vatican City and the Eternal City beyond. It was the perfect way to end an immersive morning of art and history.
Pro Tip: Book a guided tour or early entry tickets to avoid the notoriously long lines. Bring a water bottle and some snacks for the kids, as the museums are large, and it’s easy to spend hours exploring. To make the experience more interactive, combine the visit with a scavenger hunt-style game like the Secret Mission Rome activity book.
Explore all there is to know about the Vatican Museums in my guide to Vatican Museums in Rome with Kids!
Train Like a Gladiator at Gladiator School
If you’re looking for an activity that combines history, physical activity, and excitement, the Gladiator School on Appia Antica is the perfect option for families. This fantastic way to explore Ancient Rome lets kids—and adults—learn about gladiators while burning off energy in an interactive, outdoor setting.
The experience began with a fascinating introduction to the world of ancient Romans and gladiatorial combat. The small on-site museum displayed impressive replicas of gladiator armor, swords, shields, and helmets.
Our guide explained how gladiators trained, what they ate, and even the role of wild animals like lions and tigers in the deadly games held at the Colosseum.
The kids were wide-eyed when they heard about the complex underground tunnels and trap doors that allowed animals to appear in the arena.
Once the history lesson ended, the fun began! The kids suited up in traditional Roman tunics and helmets and were handed wooden swords and shields.
Under the supervision of instructors dressed as gladiators, they learned combat moves, blocking techniques, and basic Roman formations.
For younger kids, the training included a playful obstacle course with challenges that mimicked the physical demands of gladiator life.
By the end, everyone participated in a mock battle, cheering and laughing as they showcased their skills.
Afterward, we took a short walk to the nearby Appian Way, where the kids ran around and imagined the ancient Romans walking those very roads.
Later, we visited the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, where the kids could apply their newfound knowledge to a real Roman arena. Seeing the actual gladiator pits and hearing stories of the battles brought everything full circle.
Pro Tip: Book a morning session, as this outdoor activity can get hot in the afternoon sun. Pack a water bottle and snacks for the kids, and plan to combine this experience with a guided tour of the Colosseum for a full day of Roman history.
Read all about the gladiator school in my guide to the Gladiator School of Rome.
Discover the Colosseum and Roman Forum
The Colosseum is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Rome and an exciting experience for families. Booking a guided tour tailored for children made our visit far more engaging and enjoyable.
Our guide did an excellent job of breaking down the history of this massive amphitheater, focusing on the most entertaining stories and interactive visuals.
Inside the Colosseum, we learned about how gladiators fought for their lives in front of massive crowds and how wild animals were used to create thrilling spectacles. The kids were fully immersed into the experience as our guide described the trap doors, secret tunnels, and elaborate pulley systems that made animals appear suddenly in the arena.
For added excitement, the kids played a game of “spot the details,” searching for Roman symbols and carvings hidden in the stonework.
From there, we moved on to the Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of Ancient Rome. The kids loved hearing about the markets, temples, and historical figures who once walked these streets.
Our guide cleverly turned it into a scavenger hunt, challenging the kids to find ancient ruins, like the remains of Julius Caesar’s temple and other notable Roman landmarks. This activity made history feel more like a treasure hunt, which kept the kids excited.
We ended the day on Palatine Hill, where the kids had plenty of space to run while we admired sweeping views of the city center and the Tiber River.
This quieter part of the tour allowed the kids to explore ruins from the palaces of emperors, climb stairs to hidden alcoves, and soak in the historical atmosphere. Our youngest loved pretending to be Roman royalty, ruling over the hills.
Pro Tip: Skip the long lines by booking line tickets in advance or opting for a skip-the-line family tour. Bring a water bottle and light snacks to keep the kids fueled during this long day of walking. For families with older children, pair this tour with a quick visit to nearby Capitoline Hill for even more spectacular views.
Read all about our family experience at the Colosseum in my post about the Best Rome Colosseum Tour with Kids.
Take a Family Cooking Class
Taking a family cooking class is one of the best things to do in Rome if you want a hands-on cultural experience that includes the whole family. We signed up for a private class through “Cook With Us in Rome,” and it turned out to be an unforgettable part of our trip.
Our adventure started with a food tour at a bustling market near Campo de’ Fiori, where we picked up fresh ingredients like tomatoes, basil, ricotta cheese, and eggs.
The kids loved choosing bright produce and chatting with vendors, who greeted them warmly. It was a wonderful introduction to Italian market culture, and even our pickiest eater got excited about tasting fresh fruit and bread.
Back in the kitchen, the chef created a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Each step of the cooking process was interactive, from kneading the pasta dough to rolling it out and cutting it into shapes.
The kids especially loved shaping the dough into ravioli and decorating it with fork patterns. We also learned to make cacio e pepe, a Roman specialty, and the kids took pride in whipping up the creamy sauce perfectly.
For dessert, we made a classic tiramisu, layering espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream. The kids couldn’t stop sneaking tastes as they built their masterpieces.
By the end, we all sat down together to enjoy our hard work, and it was genuinely one of the best meals we had in Rome.
Pro Tip: Choose a cooking class that includes a market visit for a full experience. This is an excellent kid-friendly activity for families with small children or older kids. Bring your appetite, and don’t be afraid to ask for gluten-free options if needed.
Read all about our experience with the cooking class in my guide to the Best Rome Cooking Class with Kids.
Secret Mission Rome Activity Book
The Secret Mission: Rome activity book is one of the best things to bring on your family trip to the Eternal City.
Designed for kids of all ages, this interactive guidebook turns sightseeing into an educational experience that keeps kids entertained while exploring major tourist attractions like the Vatican Museums, Piazza Navona, and the Spanish Steps.
It’s small and lightweight, making it a great way to engage the whole family during long days of walking around the city center.
Whether you’re solving riddles near the Trevi Fountain or spotting landmarks in the ancient Roman forum, the book offers a fun way for both younger children and older kids to interact with the city.
Combining it with a guided tour or family tour allows kids to feel like they’re on a treasure hunt, turning historical sites into kid-friendly activities. It’s the perfect place to spark their imaginations and make the most of your precious time in Rome.
IKONO Roma
IKONO Roma is a modern, immersive experience located steps away from the Pantheon in the city center. It’s one of the best places to let kids burn off energy after visiting nearby historical landmarks.
Perfect for older kids and younger children alike, IKONO offers interactive exhibits that blend art, play, and photography.
Our kids’ favorite rooms included the giant ball pit and the vibrant confetti-blowing room, which made for some hilarious and memorable moments.
IKONO Roma is a great spot to take a break from sightseeing, especially during long days in the summer heat. After the visit, reward the kids with some ice cream from one of the nearby gelaterias—it’s a great way to pair fun with a cultural stop.
With its proximity to the Pantheon and other main attractions, this is a perfect place to balance exploration and play.
Da Vinci Museum
The Da Vinci Museum is a fascinating stop for families, especially those interested in the genius of historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci.
There are two locations in Rome, each offering displays of replicas of Leonardo’s inventions, drawings, and interactive displays. It’s a fantastic stop for older kids who enjoy learning about early Christians, ancient Romans, and the innovative minds of Roman times.
Although we ultimately decided not to visit with our kids, the museums provide an educational experience and a great way to combine history, science, and art. For families with older children looking for something unique in the city center, this museum is a great place to break up the day while still diving into culture.
Mosaic Workshop
For families who enjoy art and hands-on activities, a mosaic workshop is an incredible kid-friendly activity in Rome.
These workshops, offered by local ateliers, allow you to create your own mosaic masterpiece while learning about the history of mosaics in Ancient Rome. This experience is a fun thing for kids of all ages, from small children to older kids.
The classes usually run for a minimum of two hours and provide an interactive experience that’s creative and educational.
These workshops are the best way to combine creativity with history. The kids will love crafting their own pieces to take home as a souvenir, making it a perfect place to spend quality time as a family.
Pro Tip: You can also book directly through the atelier to avoid any unnecessary additional charges.
Capitoline Hill Scavenger Hunt
The Capitoline Hill scavenger hunt offers a mix of history, exploration, and interactive fun.
Designed with families in mind, this activity leads you through one of Rome’s most historic areas, allowing kids to discover its connection to Ancient Rome.
Along the way, children solve riddles, complete challenges, and explore sites like the Capitoline Museums and ancient Roman temples.
While this scavenger hunt includes a creative art project at the end, we decided not to complete it with our kids, as it seemed better suited for older children.
That said, it’s still a great way for families with a little more time to explore this quieter corner of the Eternal City.
Combine this activity with visits to Piazza del Popolo and Palatine Hill for a full day of fun for the kids.
Scavenger and Treasure Hunt
If you’re looking for an engaging way to explore Rome, a scavenger hunt or treasure hunt is a great way to keep kids entertained while sightseeing.
Several companies, like Maria Claudia Tours, offer customizable options that turn major tourist attractions into interactive adventures. These hunts often include landmarks like the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, and the ancient Roman Forum.
This activity works especially well for families with small children or older kids who enjoy problem-solving. It’s an ideal way to explore the city center at a comfortable pace while making history fun and approachable.
Cinecittà World
If you’re willing to venture outside the city center, Cinecittà World is a fantastic amusement park for families looking to mix culture with entertainment. This highly rated park, themed around movies and television, is a perfect place for families to take a break from sightseeing.
Kids can enjoy rides, shows, and activities that cater to kids of all ages, while parents appreciate the park’s connection to Italian cinema.
With attractions for younger children and fun options for older kids, it’s a great spot to spend a fun-filled day. Bring plenty of snacks and water to keep energy levels up, and enjoy a family trip that’s all about play.
Welcome to Rome Experience
The Welcome to Rome Experience is a fantastic way to kick off your family’s visit to the Eternal City. This 30-minute immersive 3D movie introduces the history of Rome in a way that’s entertaining for both adults and kids of all ages.
The movie uses interactive displays to explain how Rome grew over time, highlighting ancient ruins, historical figures, and the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a perfect introduction to the city, helping kids connect with places like the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Palatine Hill.
Explora Museum – Rome’s Children’s Museum
For families with small kids, the Explora Museum is a must-visit stop. Designed specifically for children, this museum offers interactive exhibits that encourage creativity, learning, and play. It’s located in the city center, making it a convenient stop for families exploring the main attractions
Younger children will enjoy hands-on activities like water play stations and construction areas, while older kids can explore science and art-themed sections. It’s the perfect place to take a break during a busy day of sightseeing.
Take Family Photos
Booking a professional family photoshoot is the best way to capture your family’s memories in Rome. Local photographers often offer short, flexible sessions at iconic spots like the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona.
We booked a session with a local photographer, and while we had to cancel due to scheduling changes, it remains one of the best things to do in Rome for kids and families. It’s a great way to commemorate your family trip and enjoy the heart of Rome in a meaningful, personalized way.
Other Things to Do in Rome with Kids
- Villa Borghese Gardens – A great place for outdoor exploration, bike rides, and puppet theater performances.
- Castel Sant’Angelo – Explore this fortress near the Tiber River for sweeping views of Vatican City.
- Ostia Antica – Discover this well-preserved Roman town, a quieter alternative to central ancient ruins.
- The Baths of Caracalla – Explore the massive ancient Roman baths, perfect for older kids and history enthusiasts.
- Cacio e Pepe Food Tour – Sample Rome’s famous dishes with a food tour that caters to the whole family.
- Capitoline Museums – Discover art, sculptures, and interactive displays of Rome’s rich history.
Rome is truly an ideal family vacation destination, offering a unique mix of history, culture, and modern-day fun that appeals to kids of all ages. Whether you’re wandering through the ruins of Ancient Rome, exploring the artistic wonders of Vatican City, or learning to make fresh pasta in a hands-on cooking class, there’s no shortage of fun things to do that will engage the whole family.
From toddlers enjoying interactive museums to older kids mastering combat moves at Gladiator School, Rome makes sure that every moment is filled with excitement and discovery.
The beauty of Rome lies in its ability to mix education with adventure.
Visiting the Vatican Museums, climbing the Palatine Hill, or hunting for treasures in a Capitoline Hill scavenger hunt can transform the city’s history into a series of memorable family adventures. Interactive experiences like creating mosaics or snapping family photos by the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain allow you to cherish your time in the Eternal City for years to come.
Even with the bustling crowds and long days of exploring, you’ll find that Rome rewards families who embrace its charm, providing the perfect balance of kid-friendly activities and moments of relaxation.
Don’t forget to slow down and savor the simpler joys—whether it’s a creamy ice cream stop at a local gelateria, a peaceful stroll through Villa Borghese Gardens, or watching the kids light up while solving a puzzle with the Secret Mission Rome activity book.
From ancient ruins to modern immersive experiences, Rome has a way of capturing the hearts of families.
No matter how much or how little time you have in this great place, one thing is certain: your family trip to the capital of Italy will be filled with priceless memories, laughter, and the kind of magic only Rome can deliver.