Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. Its iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain draw millions of visitors every year, making some parts of the city perpetually crowded. However, there are many hidden gems and lesser-known activities that families can enjoy without the throngs of tourists. Here are some tips and recommendations for beating the crowd in Rome and discovering kid-friendly activities off the beaten path.
Early Birds and Night Owls: Timing is Everything
Visit Major Attractions Early or Late
To experience popular sites like the Colosseum or Vatican Museums with fewer crowds, plan your visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The first hour after opening or the last hour before closing are ideal times to avoid peak tourist rush. Our family friendly tours of Rome can help you to make the visit easy and fund,
Explore Lesser-Known Historical Sites
Colonna Palace: This stunning palace houses a private art collection and offers a glimpse into the opulent lives of Roman nobility. It’s often overlooked by tourists, making it a peaceful spot to explore. Check out our article about the place or kid’s tours in Colonna Palace.
The Capitoline Museum
The Capitoline Museum in Rome is like a giant treasure chest filled with amazing stories and cool things to see! It’s on top of a hill where you can get a great view of the city. Inside, you’ll find ancient statues, beautiful paintings, and even an old wolf statue with two babies, Romulus and Remus, who are said to have founded Rome. The museum has secret tunnels and lots of space to explore, making it a fun adventure for kids who love history and art!
Are you Percy Jackson fun? Join our themed tour of Percy Jackson in Rome.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Villa Borghese Gardens
This vast park in the heart of Rome is perfect for families. You can rent bikes, rowboats, or even enjoy a puppet show at the San Carlino Theatre. The Borghese Gallery, located within the park, requires reservations, ensuring a controlled number of visitors.
Villa Doria Pamphilj
Rome’s largest public park, Villa Doria Pamphilj, offers expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and peaceful walking paths. It’s an excellent spot for picnics and outdoor activities away from the city’s hustle.
Interactive and Educational Experiences
Explora – The Children’s Museum of Rome
This hands-on museum is designed for kids to learn through play. With interactive exhibits focused on science, culture, and technology, it’s a fantastic way to engage children while avoiding crowded historical sites.
Bioparco di Roma
Rome’s zoological garden is located within Villa Borghese and is home to a variety of animals. It’s a fun and educational experience for kids, with plenty of space to roam without the overwhelming crowds.
Cooking Classes
In Rome, kids can have a blast learning to cook like real Italian chefs with fun and interactive cooking classes! At our pizza class, children get to knead the dough, choose their favorite toppings, and create their own delicious pizzas from scratch. In the pasta class, they’ll learn to make fresh pasta by mixing the dough, rolling it out, and shaping it into different kinds of noodles. These hands-on experiences are not only educational but also incredibly enjoyable, allowing kids to discover the joys of cooking while tasting their delicious creations.
Offbeat Neighborhoods and Local Markets
Trastevere
This charming neighborhood, with its narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere, offers a taste of authentic Roman life. Explore its small shops, local eateries, and the bustling Piazza di Santa Maria.
Testaccio Market
For a local experience, visit the Testaccio Market. It’s a great place to try Roman street food, fresh produce, and artisanal products. The market is less touristy compared to places like Campo de’ Fiori.
Cultural Immersion
Villa Torlonia
This historical villa and its gardens offer a serene environment to explore. The villa also hosts the Casina delle Civette (House of the Owls), a whimsical museum that kids will find fascinating.
Keats-Shelley Memorial House
Located at the Spanish Steps, this museum dedicated to the Romantic poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley is a quiet and inspiring place, often overlooked by the masses.
Practical Tips
Book Tickets in Advance
For attractions that require tickets, always book in advance online. This not only guarantees entry but also helps you avoid long lines.
Stay in Less Touristy Areas
Consider accommodations in quieter neighborhoods such as Aventine Hill or Monteverde. These areas provide a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing.
Rome is a city that offers endless opportunities for exploration beyond its famous landmarks. By planning wisely and seeking out less crowded experiences, families can enjoy a memorable and stress-free visit to the Eternal City. Read more things to do with kids in Rome 2024.
