Are you planning a trip to Rome for the first time and don’t know what to expect? Keep scrolling to check out my top Rome travel tips for families!
This list of Rome travel tips was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Hello fellow parents!
Planning a family trip to Rome? Fantastic!
As someone who’s navigated the cobblestone streets of this ancient city with a 6 and 9-year-old in tow, I know a thing or two about turning a potentially overwhelming trip into a smooth and memorable adventure.
So, let’s jump into my top tips for making your family’s first time in Rome as magical as the city itself!
My Rome Secrets for Parents
1. Planning Your Rome Itinerary: Less Is More
Rome is brimming with history, culture, and stunning sights. It’s tempting to pack your itinerary with every recommended spot, but trust me—less is more.
Prioritize major attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon, but leave room for spontaneous gelato stops and leisurely strolls.
This will not only keep the kids from getting overwhelmed but also make for a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
2. Best Time to Visit: Timing is Everything
We spent a perfect 3-4 days exploring Rome, balancing sightseeing with relaxing downtime.
If Rome is your primary destination, this duration allows you to explore its wonders in depth without rushing from one site to another.
Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) to avoid the sweltering heat and the peak tourist crowds.
3. Where to Stay: Location, Location, Location
Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your trip. Staying centrally, perhaps near the historic center, means less travel time and easy access to major sites.
Many family-friendly hotels offer amenities that cater to younger travelers, making them worth the investment for convenience and comfort. These are our favorite Rome hotels for families.
4. Getting Around: Mastering Public Transport
Rome’s public transportation consists of a metro, buses, and trams, which can take you to most tourist spots.
While the metro has limited coverage, it’s invaluable for longer distances, like reaching the Vatican from central Rome. Just be aware of pickpockets.
Consider buying a transport pass for unlimited rides, which is cost-effective and less hassle than single tickets.
For shorter distances, embrace the walk—it’s the best way to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
5. Dining in Rome: Savor the Flavors
Italian cuisine is a delight, especially in its capital. Don’t miss out on authentic Roman dishes like carbonara or cacio e pepe. While it’s convenient to have meals at your hotel, dining out is an experience not to be skipped.
Tip: Look for eateries bustling with locals; it’s a sure sign of delicious food.
6. Avoiding Tourist Traps: Stay Smart
Popular tourist spots like the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps are must-sees, but they can get incredibly crowded.
My advice? Hit these spots early in the morning to dodge the masses and get those perfect family photos without the background crowd.
Also, be wary of restaurants and shops directly next to major tourist sites as they often come with higher prices and lower quality.
7. Embrace the Unexpected: The Beauty of Spontaneity
One of the best parts of traveling is the unexpected joys. Whether it’s a street performer in Piazza Navona or an impromptu puppet show in a park, these spontaneous moments often become the most cherished memories.
So, while having a plan is great, don’t be afraid to go off-script.
8. Packing Essentials: Prepare for Anything
Rome can be hot in the summer and chilly in the off-seasons, so packing layers is key.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must (those cobblestones are no joke!), and don’t forget a small backpack for daily essentials—water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats.
9. Safety First: Keeping the Kids Secure
While Rome is generally safe for tourists, pickpocketing in crowded places is common. Keep an eye on your belongings and educate your kids on staying close and aware of their surroundings.
It’s also a good idea to have a meeting point in case anyone gets separated. And putting an Air Tag on your kiddos is also a smart idea.
10. Making Memories: Capture Every Moment
Lastly, don’t forget to document your adventures. Whether you’re a shutterbug or prefer jotting down experiences in a journal, these memories will be priceless.
Consider booking a family photo session with a local photographer to capture your Rome experience beautifully.
Wrap-Up: Your Rome Adventure Awaits!
There you have it—my tried and tested tips for your family’s first trip to Rome. With a little preparation and a lot of enthusiasm, you’re set to have an incredible journey.
Rome wasn’t explored in a day, and neither should it be; take your time, savor the moments, and enjoy every step of the way. Your Roman holiday is just around the corner, and it promises to be one for the books!
Happy travels, and when in Rome, do as the Romans do—enjoy!
Looking for more Rome travel resources? Check out the is it worth visiting the Vatican with kids, best Rome hotels for families, how to spend 3 days in Rome with kids, how to become a gladiator for a day, Rome day trips by train, how to spend 10 days in Italy with kids, tips for visiting Italy with kids, Rome travel tips for first-timers, and the best Rome tours for kids!
