View a map here of some points of interest, dining options, and more in Rome, Italy!

A Family Adventure in Rome: Must-Do Experiences in the Eternal City

Rome is one of those magical places that effortlessly blends ancient history with vibrant culture—and it’s surprisingly family-friendly when you plan it right. From the awe-inspiring ruins of the Colosseum to the breathtaking ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, this city offers unforgettable experiences for all ages. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or kicking off a longer European adventure, here’s how to make the most of your time in Rome with kids in tow.

When we took a 7-Night Mediterranean cruise last summer on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, we knew we would want a few days in Rome, so we chose an itinerary that departed from Civitavecchia (Rome cruise port). This allowed us to not only add a few nights in Rome before our trip, but we also visited Venice (we’ll share more about that soon)! This is a similar itinerary to what Royal Caribbean’s new ship, Legend of the Seas, will begin sailing in August 2026!

Here is what we packed into our 3-night, 2-day Rome itinerary:

1. Skip-the-Line Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tour

Standing in long lines with kids is no one’s idea of fun, that’s why a skip-the-line guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel is a must. These tours allow you to bypass the crowds and get straight to the highlights, saving time and energy for what really matters—soaking in the art and history. Here is the exact tour we booked and even our 7-year old enjoyed it!

A great family-friendly tour will keep things engaging for younger travelers with fun facts and storytelling. You’ll explore the famed Gallery of Maps, the stunning Raphael Rooms, and of course, Michelangelo’s masterpiece on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Some tours even offer early access before the museums open to the public, perfect for avoiding peak heat and crowds.

Tip: Book a morning tour to beat the heat and leave the afternoon free for gelato and people-watching in one of Rome’s many piazzas.

2. The Colosseum: A Kid-Friendly Tour Through Gladiator History

Nothing captures the imagination quite like gladiators, emperors, and ancient battles—and the Colosseum brings those stories to life. Opt for a kid-focused guided tour that’s tailored to young travelers. These tours often include interactive elements like role-playing, storytelling, and even entry to the underground levels or the arena floor where gladiators once stood.

Kids will love hearing about Roman spectacles and daily life in Ancient Rome, while adults will appreciate the deep history and architectural wonders of this iconic site. Many tours also include a walk through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where you’ll get a sweeping view of the ruins and insight into how Romans lived.

Pro Tip: Bring water and hats—there’s not much shade in the Colosseum or Forum, especially in summer!

3. Wander the Historic Streets & Piazzas

Rome is best explored on foot. Wander the charming cobblestone streets of Trastevere, enjoy an espresso or a gelato in Piazza Navona, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return. Kids love the street performers and fountains scattered throughout the city, and there’s always something to explore around every corner.

The area around the Trevi Fountain was one of our favorites at night! We wandered over there both nights we were in Rome to find a bustling, exciting street with shops and dining open late.

Be sure to stop at:

The Pantheon – A stunning temple-turned-church with a fascinating oculus in the ceiling.
Campo de' Fiori – A lively morning market perfect for picking up fruit, snacks, and souvenirs.
Trastevere - A funky, bohemian neighborhood with shops, dining and more.

4. Italian Food for All Ages

Rome is a paradise for food-loving families. Even the pickiest eater can’t resist fresh pasta, pizza, and gelato! Try:

Pasta carbonara or cacio e pepe at a family-run trattoria.
Supplì (fried rice balls) from a local takeaway spot.
Gelato is a must! Look for places that keep the metal lids on their gelato and don’t have it displayed it bright, overfilled bins. This is how you find the more traditional ones!

Consider a family cooking class or pizza-making experience for a hands-on, delicious way to immerse yourself in Roman culture.

Here are a few places we at that were our favorite (and kid-friendly!):

Taverna dei Monti (this was around the corner from our hotel so very convenient!)
Tonnarello | Paglia (located in the heart of Travastere, we loved the outdoor dining!)
Trattoria il Tettrarello (amazing, classic Italian food)

5. Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit

Stay central: Choose a hotel or vacation rental near major sights to cut down on transit time.
Use taxis or car services if traveling with younger kids, it can be easier to travel by car. We tried to walk as much as possible, but sometimes it was easiest to hop in a car across the city. We used Uber easily in Rome, but FreeNow is another popular app to use for taxis in Italy.
Book guided tours in advance, especially during peak season. Look for small group or private options for more flexibility.
Plan downtime: Whether it’s a mid-afternoon break at the hotel or a relaxing dinner at a piazza, pacing your day makes the trip more enjoyable for everyone.

Ready to Explore Rome?

Rome is a living museum that will leave your whole family wide-eyed and inspired. With the right planning and a few guided experiences, your trip will be equal parts educational, exciting, and fun. Don’t forget to take lots of photos—and maybe start dreaming about your next Italian adventure!