Sun-soaked Sicilian beaches, Tuscan treasures, legendary Roman ruins… there’s so many options when it comes to Italy family holidays! The country is easily one of the best places to explore with kids in Europe. As well as it diverse range of locations and attractions for every season, you’re guaranteed to be able to feed any fussy eaters. After all, who doesn’t love pizza and gelato?!
9 Italy family holidays to add to your 2025 wish list
Iconic cities, spectacular islands, soaring mountain ranges and glittering lakes all feature on my round up of the best family holidays in Italy.
Italy family holidays: best cities to visit
Few countries have more to offer if you’re craving a family-friendly city break. Italy hosts so many unique gems, including my following favourites:
1. Rome: Italy’s historical capital
Best for: history buffs of all ages
The history and grandeur of Italy’s capital, Rome, is a must see – whether you’re travelling with children or not. Even if you’re only visiting for a short period, it’s a great base to start from with an excellent train network linking all parts of the country.
The city boasts some of the most interesting historical sights on earth. For a family holiday, you and your children will have so much to see and do – you’ll be exhausted by the end of it! From the Colosseum to the Roman Forum and the Pantheon, your kids can experience a history class first hand in Rome.
A bonus when booking family holidays to Italy is the amazing (and kid-friendly) food. You’ll spot traditional pizzas and pasta on the menu, plus plenty of gelaterias around the city to boost everyone’s energy levels after a day of sightseeing.
2. Venice: a historic city on water
Best for: little adventure seekers
The magical city of Venice holds so much appeal as a family holiday destination due to its unique network of canals, its impressive history, architecture, and stunning views. Kids will love travelling around Venice on the gondolas that are so synonymous to the city.
As well as discovering the culinary delights that the city offers, the sense of adventure that families experience walking and boating around Venice is something to behold. The city boasts a maze of streets and canals, plus pretty bridges that link each building together. Weaving in and around the city on the canals is a fantastic experience for both adults and children, as is visiting iconic places such as St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace.
3. Pisa: a symbolic Italian treasure
Best for: a mix of sightseeing and sunshine
Though smaller than most other cities across the country, Pisa is a great Italy family holidays destination. That’s mostly down to the interesting history of the city and. of course, its famous tower. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most iconic buildings in the world and your kids will love visiting and admiring its unique angle. If your children are over the age of eight, they can even climb the steps of the tower and discover amazing panoramic views of Pisa.
Pisa doesn’t just have to be a city break destination, though. You can also visit the Parco Divertimenti Piccolo Mondo water park that’s bursting with plenty of attractions. As well as a the typical pools and slides, the park has a pirate ship to keep the younger ones busy.
The best regions for family holidays in Italy
Italy is a great country for a family road trip, with so many incredible regions to choose from. Whether you head to the heel or hop across to an island, you’re in for a memorable time.
4. Sardinia: a taste of the Mediterranean
Best for: a lazy beach holiday
A trip to Sardinia is one of the top family holidays in Italy with beaches. The Mediterranean island is a favourite among Italian families, so you already have a local seal of approval. A true paradise of clear azure waters and luscious sandy beaches, your children will love every part of this island. It’s well-known for its all-inclusive family holiday appeal as well as for camping.
The island is a fairly large region, so it’s important to know which areas best fit the holiday you’re looking for. Typically, the areas of Villasimius in the south and Orosei in the east are great options for families. They offer spectacular beaches and good facilities, as well as nearby town centres and green areas. Alternatively, Stintino in the north and San Teodoro in the east are excellent options for family trips – also with lovely beaches on their doorsteps.
5. The Amalfi Coast: Italy’s coastal jewel
Best for: trips with teens
One of Italy’s many beach havens is the glorious Amalfi Coast. Located in the south of the country, it’s a perfect Italy family holiday destination for those looking to relax and spend time together among beautiful surroundings. The region is probably more suited to families with older children, as teenagers will love having vibrant photo opportunities at every turn.
Amalfi Coast holidays are also perfect for active kids who are comfortable going swimming and walking a lot of the time. There are some great child-friendly towns to visit, especially Minori, Maiori and Amalfi. It’s also a great place to use as a base if you have a car and are looking to visiting places like Sorrento, the Isle of Capri or even the city of Naples.
6. Puglia: the magical heel of Italy
Best for: an eclectic mix of activities to suit everyone
The magical region of Puglia, the ‘heel’ of Italy, is a prime location for sightseeing family holidays. Hop in your hire car and get exploring the coast, the rural landscapes and the beautiful towns and villages that make up the region. The town of Alberobello is a particular highlight of Puglia and it’ll delight children thanks to its fairy tale style ‘trulli’ houses.
Top places to visit in the region with kids include the stunning Gargano Peninsula. Part of the Gargano National Park, it’s perfect for nature-loving families and keen swimmers. While a short drive away, you can find Castel Del Monte, which is a medieval castle that will impress both adults and children alike. When sightseeing is done, adventure can begin at Parco Avventura Indiana Park which features ziplines and tree adventure paths. Or why not check out the natural caves of Grotte di Castellana with more adventurous kids?
Natural beauties: Italy family holidays in the wonders of nature
Jagged alpine peaks, dreamy lakes and lush rolling plains all make up the landscapes of beautiful Italy. It’s a great country to visit for a more outdoors-focused family trip. Here’s a little inspiration:
7. Lake Garda: Italy’s playground lake
Best for: outdoor adventure and water sports
Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is one of the most popular places in Italy for families to visit. It’s a year-round destination, with its small peaceful villages, interesting towns, mountains, forests all offering up something unique. The mix of rich blues, emerald greens, and turquoises shades that make up the lake’s water will make you feel like you’re swimming in the Mediterranean, too!
One of the main kids’ attractions in this region is Gardaland: Italy’s biggest theme park. While the Caneva Aquapark in Lazise is a fun day out, kids of an older age can also enjoy the lake’s outdoor activities such as water sports, hiking and cycling. There’s even a dedicated bike path which provides incredible views during leisurely family cycles.
8. The Dolomites: the imperious mountains of Italy
Best for: family hiking or ski trips
For a family holiday filled with stunning views and unforgettable experiences, venture to the Dolomites. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the country’s top ski resorts, it’s perfect for both experienced skiers and even first-timers. The Val Gardena valley has many different slopes just for kids, with ski schools and special courses available. There’s also plenty of other family-friendly activities on offer, such as tobogganing, plus trips to the Funparks and Funslopes.
The Dolomites is equally as impressive during the summer, with various walking trails, unspoiled natural surroundings, and fresh mountain air. The whole family can enjoy mountain biking around the green hills and valleys. If you’re travelling with younger children who can’t walk far, take advantage of the ski-lift passes so you can ride to mountain summits for unbeatable views.
9. Lake Maggiore: the Italian Swiss connection
Best for: an extended European escape
Lake Maggiore is situated in the north of Italy in the lake region. It is also unique as some of the lake is in fact part of Switzerland, so popping over the border after your Italian getaway is always an option. When travelling with children here, you’ll find many villages and towns that line the lake have great swimming spots. Meaning? They’ll be plenty of opportunities to stop and take a dip in the clear waters.
The picturesque towns of Luino and Laveno are worth a visit, with lovely views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Typically, it’s best to visit the area during spring or autumn, just to avoid crowds and the high temperatures that summer brings.
More family-friendly holiday destinations
If you’re keen to explore even more of the world with your kids, you’re in luck. There are so many fantastic family destinations! Why not plan a child-friendly escape in Dubai or treat the little ones to an island getaway in Malta?
