Rome with Kids? Here’s What to Do

Rome with children does not have to mean dragging them from monument to monument. Yes, there are ruins and Renaissance masterpieces — but there is also another Rome. One of science labs, film sets, vast parks, interactive museums, and places where curiosity is encouraged rather than contained.

Here are ten engaging, genuinely family-friendly experiences that Roman parents actually recommend.

1. Train like a gladiator at the Gruppo Storico Romano

History becomes physical here. Children dress in tunics, learn basic sword techniques, and discover what life in ancient Rome looked like beyond textbooks. The sessions are structured but playful, allowing kids to move, listen, and imagine all at once.

2. Cycle along the Via Appia Antica

One of the oldest roads in the world doubles as an open-air adventure. On weekends, large sections are closed to traffic, making it ideal for family cycling. Pine trees, scattered ruins, and long quiet stretches make this feel like countryside exploration — without leaving the city.

3. Explore behind the scenes at Cinecittà Studios

Rome is also a cinema capital. At Cinecittà, children can experiment with green screens, discover how sets are built, and understand the magic behind filmmaking. It’s immersive and creative — perfect for kids who love stories and imagination.

4. Slow down in Villa Doria Pamphili

Rome’s largest park is where local families go to breathe. There are no ticket lines, no structured itineraries — just open lawns, shaded paths, and space to run. Bring a picnic and let the afternoon unfold naturally.

5. Wander through Parco dei Mostri

A short drive from Rome leads to a surreal Renaissance garden filled with giant stone monsters. The atmosphere feels mysterious but playful. Children climb, explore, and interpret the sculptures in their own way — it’s imagination without instructions.

6. Learn through play at Explora - Il Museo dei Bambini di Roma

Designed entirely for hands-on discovery, Explora allows children to experiment with water systems, shop in a mini market, build structures, and explore real-world mechanics. Timed entries keep the environment calm. It’s one of the most intelligently designed indoor spaces for families in Rome.

7. Discover biodiversity at the Museo Civico di Zoologia

Located near Villa Borghese, this science-focused museum explores ecosystems, evolution, and animal life through interactive displays and detailed exhibits. It’s engaging without being overwhelming — especially suitable for school-age children curious about nature.

8. Watch the universe unfold at the Planetario di Roma

Situated in the modern EUR district, the Planetarium offers immersive shows about stars, planets, and galaxies. Digital projections surround the audience, making astronomy feel immediate and accessible. It’s a calm, atmospheric experience — ideal for curious minds and rainy afternoons.

9. Dive into digital culture at the GAMM Game Museum

This interactive museum traces the evolution of video games and digital storytelling. Playable exhibits engage older children and teens, turning screen time into a conversation about design, technology, and creativity.

10. Experiment and build at Technotown

Located inside Villa Torlonia, Technotown offers workshops in robotics, coding, sound design, and multimedia experimentation. Activities are small-group and hands-on, making it feel more like a creative lab than a museum visit. It’s particularly popular with families who live in Rome.

Rome with kids works best when you mix movement with imagination, science with green space, structure with spontaneity. Instead of racing through a checklist of landmarks, choose experiences that invite participation. The city becomes less about posing for photos — and more about building memories through curiosity and play.

Author

Anton Levytsky is a Mediterranean travel expert and photographer based in Southern Europe. Fluent in eight languages, he has explored 50+ towns and cities.