Visiting Rome with the Family

Discovering Rome with Kids: The Must-Sees

Discovering Rome with children is a wonderful and enriching experience. The city is full of fascinating historical sites, lush parks, and fun activities for young visitors.

A Day at the Colosseum: Gladiators and Ancient Stories
A symbol of the city, the Colosseum is a must-see when visiting Rome with the family. Children will love imagining gladiators and wild animals fighting here. We recommend booking tickets in advance to avoid long queues. Opt for a kid-friendly guided tour to make the experience more engaging.

The Mysteries of the Vatican: A Captivating Visit
Although more serious, the Vatican is a fascinating place where children will marvel at Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and his beautiful Pietà in Saint Peter’s Basilica, the largest religious building of the Catholic Church. If you plan to visit the famous Vatican Museums with children, choose shorter guided tours to maintain their attention, and enjoy the Vatican Gardens for a lighter outdoor visit.

The Magic of the Trevi Fountain: Make a Wish Together
Throwing a coin into this famous fountain will surely delight your children. According to legend, it will guarantee a return to Rome for them—and for you. Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.

Villa Borghese: More than a Park, an Adventure
This large park is perfect for relaxing. It offers playgrounds, bike and pedal boat rentals, and the Bioparco, Rome’s zoo. Spend a full day enjoying all the fun activities this extraordinary park has to offer.

Bioparco: Rome’s Zoo in the Heart of Villa Borghese
The Bioparco di Roma, commonly known as Rome’s zoo, is a perfect destination for families and animal lovers. Located in the beautiful Villa Borghese park, this historic zoo offers an educational and fun experience for children and adults alike.

Founded in 1911, it is one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Originally following the 19th-century tradition of minimalistic enclosures, the zoo has evolved to focus on animal welfare, conservation, and education.

The Bioparco is home to over 1,000 animals representing around 200 species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians (big cats, primates, elephants, snakes…). The zoo actively participates in various conservation and breeding programs for endangered species, helping to preserve global biodiversity. It also offers educational workshops, guided tours, and interactive presentations. Playgrounds and picnic areas are available for families wanting to enjoy a full day outdoors.

Boat or Bike Rentals: Explore the Park While Having Fun
To explore Villa Borghese park in a fun way, you can rent boats or bikes. Choose from standard, electric, or tandem bikes. Kid-friendly bikes and child seats are available. Rental points are located near Piazza del Popolo (north entrance), the Borghese Gardens near the Galleria Borghese, and throughout the park.

The lake in Villa Borghese is a charming place to rent small rowboats, near the stunning Greco-Roman Temple of Aesculapius. Expect to pay about €5 per person for a 30-minute rental, available daily from around 9 am to 6 pm (seasonal hours may vary).

Tips for a Successful Family Trip to Rome
To make the most of your trip, plan visits in advance and identify kid-friendly activities beforehand.

Best Times to Visit Rome
Each season offers unique experiences. Spring (April to June) brings mild temperatures and blooming nature—perfect for parks like Villa Borghese. Easter can be crowded but allows for unique Vatican ceremonies.

Fall (September to November) also offers pleasant weather and beautiful colors. Celebrating All Saints’ Day or the Chestnut Festival in Rome is unforgettable.

For fewer crowds, visit in winter (excluding Christmas and New Year). It’s cheaper and you can enjoy celebrations like Epiphany in January or the public holiday on December 8th.

July and August are hot and busy but festive. Ideal if you enjoy the summer vibe.

Getting Around Rome with Kids: Tips and Tricks
Rome’s metro is simple, with three lines (A, B, and C) serving most tourist sites. Stations are usually stroller-friendly. Buy tickets in advance or get daily/weekly passes. Buses and trams cover the rest of the city. Use mobile apps to plan routes or book taxis/VTCs. You can also rent bikes. Be prepared to walk a lot—wear good shoes, bring water and snacks, especially for kids. In summer, wear hats, use sunscreen, and beware of pickpockets.

Plan Your Family Trip to Rome
Plan ahead for the best experience. Here are suggested family itineraries:

Itinerary Day 1:

• Morning: Visit the Colosseum (book skip-the-line tickets, consider a child-friendly guided tour).

• Then: Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (use an audio guide app).

• Lunch: In Trastevere (kid-friendly trattorias, try pizza al taglio or fresh pasta).

• Afternoon: Trevi Fountain (coin toss), Piazza Navona (street artists, fountains), treat the kids to gelato!

Itinerary Day 2:

• Morning: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (family tour), Saint Peter’s Basilica, climb the dome if possible.

• Lunch: Picnic in the Vatican Gardens.

• Afternoon: Villa Borghese (bike or boat rental, visit Bioparco), optionally visit the Galleria Borghese (book in advance).

Itinerary Day 3:

• Morning: Visit Explora, the children’s museum.

• Then: Piazza del Popolo and Pincian Hill (great view).

• Lunch: In Villa Borghese.

• Afternoon: Castel Sant’Angelo (secret passages, ramparts view).

• Evening: Tiber River cruise for a relaxing end to the day.

Book Your Unforgettable Family Stay at 9Hotel Cesàri
Comfort and Ideal Location
The 9Hotel Cesàri is a four-star hotel offering comfort, elegance, history, and a perfect location. Just minutes from landmarks like the Pantheon, Colosseum, and Trevi Fountain, it allows easy walking access to many attractions.

A Family-Friendly Hotel
Chic and welcoming, 9Hotel Cesàri is ideal for a family stay in Rome. We are committed to making your family visit enjoyable. Our staff is trained to welcome families, and our rooms are perfectly suited for a family trip in the Eternal City.