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Italy is not just a destination for lovers of history, art, and culture; it's also an ideal choice for families seeking a sun-soaked holiday filled with unforgettable moments. With its stunning coastline, charming villages, and mouthwatering cuisine, Italy offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for families.
In this blog we'll uncover the 10 best family holidays in Italy, where you can capture the most Instagrammable moments and create memories that will last a lifetime as you explore:
- Sandy beaches of natural splendour
- Historic cities like Florence
- The fashion capital Milan
- Unesco World Heritage monuments in Rome
- And other surprises such as colourful streets, breathtaking hiking spots, and turquoise blue islands.
Italy's diverse landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and beaches, provide endless opportunities for exploration and fun for the whole family. And let's not forget about the culinary delights that await in each region, offering something to tantalise every taste bud.
Whether you're relaxing on a sandy beach, exploring ancient ruins, or indulging in gelato in a picturesque piazza, Italy is sure to enchant every member of the family. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the land of la dolce vita!
Practical Tips for Family Holidays in Italy
Is Italy good for families?
Italy is not just good for families; it's fantastic! With its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, Italy welcomes families with open arms. From toddlers to grandparents, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful country. One of the best things about Italy for families is the food. Italian food is loved by people of all ages, with delicious pizzas, pastas, and gelato that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, dining out in Italy is a relaxed affair, making it easy for families to enjoy meals together without any stress.
Italy is also home to numerous family-friendly attractions, including ancient ruins, interactive museums, and stunning natural parks. Whether you're exploring the Colosseum in Rome, marveling at the art in Florence, or sailing along the Amalfi Coast, there's never a dull moment in Italy for families. And let's not forget about the beaches! With miles of coastline stretching along the Mediterranean Sea, Italy boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Whether you're building sandcastles, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking up the sun, Italy's beaches are the perfect playground for families.
So if you're looking for a family-friendly holiday destination that offers history, culture, and plenty of fun in the sun, Italy should be at the top of your list!
When's the best time to go on a family holiday in Italy?
Italy is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique charms for families. However, the best time to go on a family holiday in Italy depends on your preferences and interests:
- For families who love warm weather and sunshine, the summer months (June to August) are ideal. During this time, you can enjoy long days at the beach, outdoor festivals, and alfresco dining under the stars. Just be prepared for large crowds and higher prices, especially in popular tourist destinations.
- If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting Italy in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and you'll have the opportunity to experience Italy's cultural attractions without the summer crowds.
- For families who enjoy winter sports, Italy's ski resorts offer plenty of opportunities for snowboarding, skiing, and sledging during the winter months (December to February). Plus, you can warm up afterwards with delicious hot chocolate and hearty Italian cuisine.
Ultimately, the best time to go on a family holiday in Italy depends on your family's interests and preferences. Whether you're seeking sun, snow, or cultural experiences, Italy has something to offer families all year round.
The 10 Best Family Holidays in Italy
1. Burano
First on our list of the best family holidays in Italy is the eye-catching Burano. This charming little island has been ranked among the 10 most colourful cities in the world. The houses on this popular Italian island are all different colours, bordered by the blue-green waters of the canals. The narrow streets lead to the main square which is a great spot for tucking into delicious Italian ice cream and people-watching. Legend has it that the houses were initially painted to help fishermen find their way home in case of fog.
If you're looking for a colourful and charming family holiday destination in Italy that will captivate the whole family, Burano is a perfect choice. Its vibrant streets, picturesque canals, and delicious gelato make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Tip: Since you're nearby anyway, we highly recommend that you visit Venice when spending your family holidays in Italy. With churches, palaces and canals, the architecture of Venice is truly remarkable and a real open-air museum. It’s easy to see why the city is listed as a World Heritage Site!
2. Lake Como
With its tranquil waters, stunning scenery, and charming lakeside villages, Lake Como offers families a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty. It's the ideal spot for relaxing family walks, boat trips, and lakeside picnics. The third largest lake in Italy, located in the Lombardy region, Lake Como is a peaceful place that allows you to take beautiful photos between mountains and lake. This lake is also known as Lake Lario, and is undisputedly one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. Many small villages border the lake and enjoy the postcard landscape views. Bellagio and Bellano are two perfect examples. They are particularly recommended for photography and will give your Instagram account a softness and harmony.
3. Rome
When going on a family holiday to Italy it would be a shame to miss out on the capital. Between its works of art, the Colosseum and the Vatican City, you're sure to broaden the whole family's cultural knowledge by spending your family holiday in Rome. Take the kids to iconic landmarks like the Trevi Fountain where you can toss a coin in the water and make a wish.
4. The Island of Procida, on the Bay of Naples
Procida is a tiny Italian island that is well worth a visit. Known for being the location of many films such as The Talented Mr. Ripley, Procida is known for its sweetness and authenticity.
You will have the opportunity to walk through the colourful streets of the island and discover yellow, pink or blue houses, decor to dream about! By taking the stairs of the city, you will arrive in the old historical centre of Terra Murata. Procida's laid-back atmosphere and stunning coastline make it an ideal holiday destination for families. Relax on sandy beaches, or take a boat trip around the bay. The island is safe for families, with shallow waters and lifeguards on duty at many beaches.
5. Florence and its romance
The city of love, if you want unbeatable family photos, you must go to Florence. It’s the capital of Tuscany, and boasts multiple riches both culturally and architecturally.
When spending your family holiday in Florence, you've got to visit the La Piazzale Michelangelo where you'll have an incredible view of the whole city, including:
- Florence Cathedral
- The basilica of Santa Croce
- The Palazzo Vecchio (Florence's town hall)
- But also the Arno river and the Ponte Vecchio which spans it.
If you go there at sunset, you won't be disappointed with the result, as the monuments are illuminated, making Florence even more magical. In the daytime, sisit family-friendly attractions like the Leonardo da Vinci Museum or the Boboli Gardens, and enjoy gelato from one of the city's many gelaterias.
6. Milan, capital of fashion
Next on our list of the best family holidays in Italy, is the fashion capital Milan. Explore the fashion capital of Milan with your family and visit its iconic landmarks, historic neighbourhoods, and world-class museums. Kids will love exploring the interactive exhibits at the Museo della Scienza e della Tecnologia, while parents can indulge in some retail therapy at the city's designer boutiques. Milan is a safe city for families, with excellent public transportation and plenty of family-friendly amenities.
7. The Dolomites
Our next destination for family holidays in Italy takes us to the Unesco World Heritage Site, the Dolomites, located in northern Italy. The crystal clear waters of the lago di Braie, the church of Santa Magdalena, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo are all landscapes more beautiful than the others. The Dolomites are a real favourite in Italy and make a stunning backdrop with dramatic rock shapes. Escape to the stunning Dolomites with your family and immerse yourselves in nature's wonderland. Go hiking or biking along scenic trails, enjoy picnics in the mountains, or try your hand at rock climbing. The Dolomites are generally safe for families, but it's important to take precautions when hiking with young children.
8. The Amalfi Coast
Discover the beauty of the Amalfi Coast with your family and explore its picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and dramatic cliffs. Take a boat trip along the coast, swim in crystal-clear waters, or explore historic towns like Amalfi and Positano. The Amalfi Coast is generally safe for families, but it's important to supervise young children near the cliffs and water.
9. The Cinque Terre
Explore the colorful villages of the Cinque Terre with your family and enjoy breathtaking coastal views, scenic hikes, and delicious seafood. Take a boat trip along the coast, go snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or explore historic landmarks like the Church of San Giovanni Battista. The Cinque Terre is generally safe for families, but it's important to watch out for steep cliffs and narrow paths. Between cliffs and turquoise waters, discover the Cinque Terre. These fishing villages in the heart of the Italian Riveria are a destination in Italy not to be missed. A 19th-century railway line crosses the villages located on the cliffs.
- Riomaggiore is the most easily accessible village. The 19th century Italian artist Telemaco Signorini often stayed here and drew attention to the village through his paintings. The houses here are pastel-coloured, perfect for soft photographs at the end of the day.
- Cornille has more colourful buildings. Narrow streets and brightly painted four-storey houses characterise the village. Ideal for early afternoon photos.
- Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five villages. It has a large beach, perfect if you want to be a mermaid.
- Vernazza is one of the cutest villages. It nestles in a cleft between rocky cliffs and colourful houses. Every 20th July Vernazza celebrates its patron saint with fireworks and a festival, a great opportunity to visit Italy this summer with your family.
- Manarola is known for its beautiful bathing areas. Many colourful rowing boats are present in the harbour area, making the place photogenic. Manarola is the main sunbathing and bathing place in the 5 Lands.
10. Tropea in the Calabria region
Last on our list of the best family holiday destinations in Italy is Tropea. Tropea's golden beach is ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Italy. An idyllic place for beautiful photos in the warm and crystal clear waters of Italy. Don't miss the famous church Santa Maria dell Isola built on a rock that overlooks the sea. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Tropea with your family and enjoy sun-soaked days, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and building sandcastles on the shore. Take the kids along to explore the historic town centre, visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola, or take a boat trip to nearby islands. Tropea is generally safe for families, with lifeguards on duty at many beaches and shallow waters that are perfect for young children
Where will you go on your family holiday in Italy?
taly boasts an array of family-friendly destinations, offering unforgettable experiences for all ages. Whether you're wandering the colorful streets of Burano, soaking up the sun on the shores of Lake Como, or exploring the ancient wonders of Rome, Italy has something to delight every family. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Italy provides the perfect backdrop for memorable family holidays.
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