Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Italy Family Itinerary: 21 Sep–12 Oct 2026 — Catania, Oppido, Sorrento, Celano & Rome

Viewed by 59 travelers
Day 1 · Mon, Sep 21
Catania

Depart Melbourne — Arrive Rome; transfer to Catania

Morning:

After an overnight flight and your arrival in Rome, board your connecting flight to Catania and arrange a private transfer to your accommodation; once settled, stretch your legs with a family-friendly stroll through Piazza del Duomo to admire the cathedral façade and the playful Fontana dell'Elefante. Finish the morning with a casual lunch at a local trattoria sampling arancini and granita while children explore the nearby pedestrian streets and lively markets.

Afternoon:

Continue your arrival day with a relaxed family exploration of Via Etnea, stopping for gelato and people-watching while the kids run along the broad sidewalks; pop into the atmospheric Mercato della Pescheria to sample fresh Sicilian bites and watch local vendors. Later, enjoy panoramic views from Giardino Bellini where children can play in the gardens and you can unwind before an early dinner at a nearby osteria serving classic Sicilian pasta and seafood.

Evening:

Settle in at your accommodation, then head for a relaxed family dinner in the lively Piazza Stesicoro, where children can spot the ruins of the Anfiteatro Romano while you enjoy Sicilian pizza at a nearby family-friendly trattoria. Afterward, take a gentle post-dinner stroll along Lungomare di Catania to breathe in the sea air and watch the sunset over the Ionian - perfect for calming travel jitters before bedtime.

Day 2 · Tue, Sep 22
Catania

Settle in Catania — Relax and local exploration

Morning:

Start your morning with a leisurely family breakfast at Caffè del Duomo before wandering through the shaded alleys to discover the colourful street art of the Ursino Castle quarter; kids will love exploring the castle's moat and small garden. Continue to the nearby Villa Bellini playground for some free play while parents sip espresso on a bench, then visit the historic Piazza Università to admire baroque facades and pop into a pasticceria for sweet cannoli to enjoy on the way back to your accommodation.

Afternoon:

Take a slow stroll through the historic Piano delle Cose area, stopping at a family-friendly café near Piazza Carlo Alberto for espresso and Sicilian pastries while the kids watch the street life. Continue to the seaside Porto di Catania promenade for a gentle walk and shell-collecting, then let the children burn off energy at the waterfront playground by Lungomare Vittorio Emanuele III before an early evening aperitivo at a nearby trattoria sampling fresh granita and seaside snacks.

Evening:

As the sun softens, take the family to wander the atmospheric lanes of Via Crociferi, pausing to admire the baroque churches and the quiet courtyards where children can scamper safely; finish with an early dinner at a family-friendly osteria on Piazza Vincenzo Bellini that serves generous plates of pasta and Sicilian desserts. After dinner, enjoy a slow riverside stroll along Fiume Amenano and stop for gelato at a nearby gelateria while watching the lantern-lit façades - a calm, local way to wind down and prepare for tomorrow's outing to Mount Etna or deeper city sights.

Day 3 · Wed, Sep 23
Catania

Catania — Sightseeing: Mount Etna or city highlights

Morning:

Head out early for a family-friendly excursion to Parco dell'Etna where a guided gentle hike or short funicular ride gives dramatic views of lava fields and craters-kids will enjoy spotting hardy wildflowers and volcanic rock formations. After the mountains, stop at Alcantara Gorges for a refreshing riverside walk and shallow pools where children can paddle, then refuel with picnic sandwiches and granita at the scenic riverside picnic area before returning to Catania for an easy afternoon.

Afternoon:

After your mountain morning, ease back into the city with a family visit to Castello Ursino to explore its medieval halls and kid-friendly exhibits, then stroll to Piazza della Pescheria for a lively seafood market experience where children can watch vendors and try a local snack. Finish with a relaxed art break at Monastero dei Benedettini gardens and rooftop terraces-perfect for panoramic photos and a quiet gelato while parents soak up the baroque skyline before dinner.

Evening:

After a big day, enjoy a relaxed family evening at Piazza Teatro Massimo, where children can run in the open square while you admire the theatre's lights; stay for an early performance or simply soak up the atmosphere with a coffee or spritz at a nearby café. Finish with a seaside sunset walk along Bastione degli Infetti followed by a casual dinner at a family-friendly trattoria in Via Pardo, sampling seafood specialties and Sicilian desserts before returning to your accommodation for a restful night.

Day 4 · Thu, Sep 24
Oppido Mamertina (Oppido)

Transfer Catania to Oppido Mamertina — Arrival and orientation

Morning:

After your transfer from Catania, settle into your accommodation and take a gentle orientation walk through Oppido's historic centre, stopping to admire the stonework around Piazza del Popolo and the hilltop views toward the Aspromonte foothills. Let the children stretch their legs at Parco Comunale, then visit a local café for an easy family lunch of homemade pasta and sweet sfogliatelle while chatting with friendly locals about nearby sights to explore over the next days.

Afternoon:

After lunch, take a short drive to the nearby hilltop Belvedere di Oppido for sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian coast and Aspromonte slopes, a great spot for family photos and letting the children run safely on the grassy terraces. Continue with a relaxed visit to Chiesa Madre San Nicola, where the kids can admire carved stone details while you learn about local history, then finish the afternoon at Cantina Locale (a family-friendly agriturismo) for a tasting of regional olive oils and homemade pastries while the children explore the courtyard.

Evening:

As dusk falls, wander together to Piazza Garibaldi where children can watch local life and you can enjoy an aperitivo at a nearby bar while the square fills with golden light. Continue with a gentle family-friendly stroll along the old town's stone ramparts to Belvedere San Giorgio for sweeping twilight views of the Tyrrhenian coast, then sit down for a warm, home-cooked dinner at Trattoria da Nonna Rosa, where kids can try Calabrian pasta specialties and homemade desserts in a welcoming, family-run setting.

Day 5 · Fri, Sep 25
Oppido Mamertina (Oppido)

Oppido — Explore local towns and coast

Morning:

Drive the family east to the coastal village of Gioia Tauro for a relaxed harbour-side stroll and a visit to the small but engaging Museo Civico, where children can see local maritime finds and historical models; grab fresh focaccia at a seaside bakery and let the kids watch fishing boats come and go. Continue along the coast to Palmi to ride the panoramic elevator down to Torretta di Palmi and explore the pebble beaches and shallow rock pools, perfect for shell-hunting and safe paddling before returning inland for lunch back in Oppido.

Afternoon:

Drive the family west to the seaside village of Bagnara Calabra for a relaxed lunch on the waterfront and a chance for the kids to play on the pebbled beach; after eating, stroll the palm-lined promenade and visit the small but charming Museo del Mare to learn about local fishing traditions. Later, continue along the coast to Scilla to explore the picturesque Chianalea fishing quarter-wander its narrow lanes, watch fishermen mend nets from the water's edge, and pause at a gelateria for sunset views over the Strait of Messina before returning to Oppido.

Evening:

As twilight falls, wander into the nearby village of Mammola for an evening passeggiata through its quaint main street and stop at Piazza del Popolo where children can play while you enjoy an espresso. Follow this with a family-friendly dinner at Osteria Il Borgo to sample Calabrian 'nduja-infused dishes and homemade desserts, then finish with a short drive to Lido di Palmi for a moonlit shoreline stroll and star-gazing across the Tyrrhenian-calm, close-by, and perfect after a day exploring the coast.

Day 6 · Sat, Sep 26
Oppido Mamertina (Oppido)

Oppido — Day trip and relaxation

Morning:

Set off after breakfast for a short family drive to Serra San Bruno to wander the peaceful grounds of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno, where kids can explore cloistered gardens while you enjoy mountain air and local chestnut pastries; linger at a nearby café for cappuccino and hazelnut biscuits. Afterward, continue to the scenic hamlet of Fossato Jonico for an easy riverside walk along the Fiumara di Amendolea with shallow pools perfect for paddling and a picnic of local cheeses and cured meats before returning to Oppido for a restful afternoon.

Afternoon:

After returning from the morning's mountain calm, take a leisurely drive to Badolato Marina for a relaxed seafood lunch by the sea and a dip in the shallow, family-friendly waters; children can build sandcastles while you sip a chilled local white wine. Later, explore the hilltop charm of Badolato Superiore-wander its cobbled lanes, visit a tiny artisan workshop selling hand-painted ceramics, and pause at a panoramic terrace for sunset views over the Ionian before heading back to Oppido for a quiet evening.

Evening:

As dusk settles, drive the family to the clifftop hamlet of Scigliano for a gentle paseo through its lantern-lit lanes and pause at Belvedere San Pietro to watch the valley glow while children chase the last light. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed family dinner at Ristorante Il Caminetto-a cosy spot serving grilled fish and kid-friendly pasta-then finish with a short stop at Piazza Europa for gelato and a slow stroll back to your accommodation under the stars.

Day 7 · Sun, Sep 27
Sorrento

Transfer Oppido to Sorrento — Arrival and sunset stroll

Morning:

After your transfer from Oppido, settle into your Sorrento base then wander to Piazza Tasso to feel the town's lively pulse and let the children enjoy an espresso and pastry at a nearby café. From there, follow a shaded promenade down to Villa Comunale (Public Gardens) for panoramic views over the Bay of Naples, a playground for the kids, and a relaxed picnic of fresh local mozzarella and citrus fruit before an easy return to your hotel to rest ahead of the afternoon's coastal exploration.

Afternoon:

After settling in, head to Marina Piccola for a relaxed lunch by the water where the children can watch fishing boats while you sample fresh calamari and limoncello sweets; follow this with a short walk to Corso Italia for some light shopping of local ceramics and citrus products. Late afternoon, take the family on the scenic cliffside path to Bagni della Regina Giovanna-a natural sea pool perfect for paddling and safe rock-hopping-then finish with gelato at a seaside café as you watch the sunset over the Bay of Naples.

Evening:

After checking into your Sorrento accommodation, wander down to Punta del Capo for a family-friendly clifftop promenade with dramatic views of the Amalfi coastline; children will love watching boats drift below while you savour the golden light. Finish with a relaxed dinner at Ristorante O'Parrucchiano La Favorita, where the historic lemon garden and generous seafood and pasta dishes make for a memorable, kid-friendly first night in Sorrento.

Day 8 · Mon, Sep 28
Sorrento

Sorrento — Explore Amalfi Coast or Capri

Morning:

Catch an early hydrofoil from Marina Piccola to Capri and take the children on a glass-bottom boat tour around the island to spy the famed sea caves and dramatic cliffs; disembark for a family-friendly chairlift ride up to Anacapri and wander the quiet lanes to Villa San Michele for its gardens and sweeping views. Finish with a relaxed lunch of freshly made gnocchi at a trattoria near Piazza Vittoria before returning to Sorrento for an afternoon nap or gentle seaside playtime, keeping energy for later Amalfi Coast adventures.

Afternoon:

After your Capri morning, take a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast to Positano where you can wander the steep, colourful streets, browse artisan shops for hand-painted ceramics, and let the kids play on the small pebbled beach at Spiaggia Grande. Continue to Praiano for a late-afternoon visit to the family-friendly Fjorde di Furore (the hidden fjord and its tiny bridge) and finish with a sunset aperitif at Conca dei Marini beside the dramatic coastal cliffs before returning to Sorrento.

Evening:

As evening falls, take the family to Marina Grande for a seaside stroll and watch local fishermen mend nets while children play on the small pebbled shore; linger at a waterfront café for fritto misto and limoncello granita. Afterwards, climb the short steps to Piazza San Francesco to enjoy a relaxed passeggiata among bougainvillea and artisan shops, then finish with a laid-back dinner at Ristorante La Tavernetta where kids can try homemade pasta and you can savour regional seafood specialties under the stars.

Day 9 · Tue, Sep 29
Sorrento

Sorrento — Leisure day and local experiences

Morning:

Begin with a slow family breakfast at Bar Fauno in Piazza Tasso, then stroll down the quiet lanes to browse the colourful stalls of Villa Comunale's craft market, where children can pick citrus-scented souvenirs and you can sample local limoncello sweets. Afterward, take a short funicular ride to Meta di Sorrento for a gentle beach morning at Spiaggia di Meta-perfect for paddling and building sandcastles-followed by a relaxed seafood lunch at a family-friendly trattoria on the waterfront.

Afternoon:

Spend a relaxed family afternoon exploring Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area with a short guided boat trip that includes gentle snorkeling stops in sheltered coves and a chance for kids to spot colourful fish. Afterwards, visit the hillside Museo Correale di Terranova for its tranquil gardens and kid-friendly decorative collections, then descend to Marina di Puolo for an early evening swim and fresh seafood at a family-run trattoria on the pebbled shore.

Evening:

As the day winds down, take a relaxed family walk through the fragrant terraces of I Giardini di Vigliano, where children can stretch their legs among citrus trees while you enjoy panoramic views of the bay. Follow this with a sunset aperitivo at Belvedere di Termini, then dine seaside at Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria for a menu of regional small plates and kid-friendly pasta before a gentle moonlit stroll along the harbour to end the evening.

Day 10 · Wed, Sep 30
Celano

Transfer Sorrento to Celano — Arrival and unwind

Morning:

After your transfer from Sorrento, settle into your Celano accommodation then take a gentle family orientation walk to Castello Piccolomini, where children can explore towers and ramparts while you enjoy sweeping views of the Peligna plain. Continue to the nearby Parco delle Rimembranze for a relaxed picnic beneath umbrella pines and let the kids play on the lawns; finish the morning with a visit to Fontana del Bacucco and a stop at a local caffè to sample Abruzzese pastries before an easy midday rest.

Afternoon:

After checking in and a short rest, take the family for a gentle stroll through Piazza Municipio to feel Celano's local rhythm, then wander down to Largo San Giovanni where children can enjoy the open square and you can stop at a tiny bar for espresso and local biscotti. Continue with a calm visit to the nearby Museo Civico Rocca Colonna to explore family-friendly exhibits on local history and climb to its terrace for wide views over the Peligna plain before returning to your accommodation for a quiet evening meal.

Evening:

As twilight settles, take the family to the peaceful Piazza San Giovanni Battista for a relaxed passeggiata where children can run around the church square while you enjoy views of the castle-lit skyline. Follow this with a cozy dinner at Trattoria Il Borgo Vecchio, sampling Abruzzese specialties like maccheroni alla chitarra and rustic lamb, then finish the night with a short drive to Belvedere di Celano to watch the valley lights and share a gelato under the stars.

Day 11 · Thu, Oct 1
Celano

Celano — Explore regional attractions

Morning:

Begin with a family visit to the atmospheric ruins of Rocca Piccolomini's outer baileys, where children can roam battlements while you enjoy sweeping views of the Peligna plain and learn about medieval life; follow this with a hands-on pottery workshop at Ceramiche Artigiane di Celano so kids can shape a keepsake using traditional Abruzzese techniques. Finish the morning with a short drive to Lago di San Domenico for an easy lakeside walk and birdwatching picnic-perfect continuity from castle views into the region's wild, watery landscapes.

Afternoon:

After a castle-and-lake morning, take a scenic family drive to Riserva Naturale Monte Salviano for gentle woodland trails where kids can spot native wildlife and scramble over ancient rocks; pause at the panoramic clearing for a picnic of local cheeses and pane fatto in casa. Later, visit the nearby Antiquarium di Celano for hands-on archaeological displays that bring Roman and medieval finds to life for children, then finish with a calming riverbank walk along the Fiume Tirino before returning to town for dinner.

Evening:

As dusk falls, stroll to the atmospheric Piazza del Mercato where children can join locals in the evening passeggiata while you sample street-style arrosticini from a nearby vendor; the square's lively cafés are perfect for a relaxed aperitivo. Afterward, take a short drive to Santuario della Madonna di Pietraquaria for a twilight visit - the hilltop setting offers peaceful views over the Peligna plain and a calm spot for family photos before finishing with gelato at Gelateria La Torre near the castle.

Day 12 · Fri, Oct 2
Celano

Celano — Local sightseeing and relaxation

Morning:

Begin with a slow family breakfast at Pasticceria De Angelis, sampling local sfogliatelle and cappuccino before a gentle stroll to the peaceful Orto Botanico di Celano, where shaded paths and aromatic herb beds make an easy nature wander for children. Continue with a hands-on visit to Laboratorio Lepre - Arte e Tradizione, where the family can join a short workshop painting traditional Abruzzese ceramics, then finish the morning with a riverside picnic by the calm banks of Fiume Cavaliere, letting the kids paddle and hunt for smooth stones while parents relax.

Afternoon:

Wander the family-friendly paths of Parco dei Caduti where children can play on open lawns and you can follow a short interpretive trail to learn about local flora, then pause for artisanal gelato at Gelateria San Marco nearby. Later, take a gentle drive to Villa Comunale di Ortona dei Marsi for panoramic views over the Peligna plain and a quiet picnic by the old stone fountains, finishing with a mellow visit to Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista to admire its frescoes and let the kids explore the peaceful churchyard.

Evening:

As dusk settles, take the family for a gentle walk through Via Roma toward the lively Piazza Umberto I, where children can mingle with local families during the passeggiata and you can sample evening street-food specials from a nearby stall. Continue to Belvedere della Verruca for panoramic twilight views of the Peligna plain, then enjoy a warm, home-style dinner at Osteria La Torretta, where kids can try regional pasta while parents relax with a glass of local Montepulciano.

Day 13 · Sat, Oct 3
Rome

Transfer Celano to Rome — Arrival and evening in the city

Morning:

After your transfer into Rome and checking in, enjoy a relaxed family breakfast at Panificio Bonci near your hotel, then stretch legs with a gentle walk through the nearby leafy Villa Borghese where kids can rent bikes or a family pedal car and feed pigeons by the lake. Continue to the hands-on [Explora - Il Museo dei Bambini di Roma](https://www.mdbr.it) for interactive exhibits perfect for your children, giving everyone a playful, low-key introduction to Rome before a midday rest.

Afternoon:

After arriving and settling in, take the family for a gentle orientation around Piazza Navona, letting the children marvel at the fountains and street performers while you enjoy a light lunch of supplì and pizza al taglio at a nearby trattoria. Continue with a slow stroll to Campo de' Fiori to browse the lively market stalls for fresh fruit and souvenirs, then head to Isola Tiberina for a riverside play-and-photo stop before returning to your hotel to rest and prepare for the evening.

Evening:

After check-in and a short rest, take the family for a relaxed early-evening wander through Trastevere's cobbled lanes, popping into a lively neighborhood gelateria for a taste of artisanal flavours while the kids watch street musicians. Continue to Gianicolo Terrace (Terrazza del Gianicolo) for sweeping sunset views over Rome's domes and spires, then descend to Piazza di Santa Maria for a family-friendly dinner at a trattoria where children can try classic Roman pasta dishes while you soak up the warm, local atmosphere.

Day 14 · Sun, Oct 4
Rome

Rome — Ancient Rome highlights (Colosseum, Forum)

Morning:

Begin early with a private guided tour of the Colosseum that includes the underground passage and arena edge for dramatic, family-friendly storytelling about gladiators; follow this with a stroller- or scooter-friendly walk through the layered ruins of the Roman Forum, pausing at the Arch of Titus and the shady Via Sacra where kids can imagine ancient processions. Finish the morning with an interactive archaeology stop at the kid-oriented exhibits in the Palatine Hill museum and a relaxed picnic on the hilltop lawns overlooking the imperial palaces before a midday rest.

Afternoon:

After a morning among ruins, wander through Via dei Fori Imperiali toward Piazza Venezia, pausing at the family-friendly Museo Centrale del Risorgimento for hands-on displays that bring Rome's modern history to life for kids. Continue with a relaxed climb to Campidoglio (Capitoline Hill) to visit the Musei Capitolini - its Roman sculpture collections and wide terraces offer great photo spots and a shaded courtyard where children can stretch their legs before an early evening gelato at a nearby gelateria.

Evening:

As the light softens, head toward Piazza del Campidoglio to enjoy the sweeping terraces and evening civic atmosphere before descending to explore the nearby [Museo Nazionale Romano - Palazzo Massimo](https://museonazionaleromano.beniculturali.it) for its engaging family-friendly classical art and well-lit galleries. Follow this with a relaxed riverside stroll along Lungotevere dei Vallati, pausing at a waterside trattoria for simple Roman dishes the kids will love, then finish with a night-time gelato stop at Giolitti near the Pantheon area for a sweet end to a big day of ancient wonders.

Day 15 · Mon, Oct 5
Rome

Rome — Vatican City and museums

Morning:

Begin with a relaxed early visit to St. Peter's Square to watch the piazza come alive, then head up to the dome of Basilica di San Pietro for panoramic city views that kids will love spotting famous rooftops from above; finish inside with a quick look at La Pietà before the crowds peak. Afterward, stroll to the nearby family-friendly Vatican Gardens (pre-booking recommended) for a shaded tram tour that mixes art, history and playground stops, giving everyone a calm, green introduction to Vatican life before lunch.

Afternoon:

After a morning inside Basilica di San Pietro and the gardens, linger nearby with a family-friendly visit to Museo Storico della Custodia for a gentle introduction to Vatican art and papal history suited to curious children, then walk the short distance to Via della Conciliazione for a relaxed riverside lunch at Hosteria dell'Angelo where the kids can try Roman-style supplì. Later, cross the Tiber to explore the interactive displays at Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant'Angelo, climb to the terrace for sweeping views of the Vatican dome, and finish with a sunset stroll along Ponte Sant'Angelo watching the statues glow as the city shifts into evening.

Evening:

As twilight falls, wander the family-friendly lanes of Borgo Pio for a relaxed passeggiata, stopping at a cosy enoteca for non-alcoholic spritzes for the kids and antipasti to share. Continue to Via dei Coronari to browse artisan shops and pick up a small keepsake, then finish the night with a riverside dinner at Ristorante Tiberina on Isola Tiberina, where children can enjoy simple pasta dishes while you soak up views of softly lit bridges and historic façades.

Day 16 · Tue, Oct 6
Rome

Rome — Neighborhoods, markets, and family activities

Morning:

Begin with a lively visit to Mercato Testaccio, where the family can taste fresh porchetta sandwiches, sample seasonal fruit, and watch local vendors while children explore the colourful stalls; afterwards stroll up to the nearby Parco della Resistenza playground for some free play in leafy surroundings. Continue by wandering through the food-focused Eataly Roma short workshop area for a kid-friendly pasta-making demo, then reward everyone with gelato at the family-favourite Gelateria del Viale before a gentle return to your hotel for a midday rest.

Afternoon:

Wander the bohemian lanes of Monti, stopping at independent toy shops and artisan ateliers before settling at Piazza della Madonna dei Monti where children can play while you enjoy a coffee at a terrace café. Continue with a family-friendly visit to Mercato Monti Urban Market to browse vintage finds and handmade treats, then head to Parco del Colle Oppio for a picnic under the pines with views of the Colosseum and a shady playground where the kids can burn off energy before an early evening aperitivo.

Evening:

As dusk falls, take the family to the lively Pigneto district for an informal aperitivo at Necci dal 1924, where kids can nibble on focaccia while you enjoy a relaxed local vibe; wander its mural-lined streets and pop into the quirky Libreria Enoteca for a quick browse of children's books and illustrated maps of Rome. Finish with a gentle riverside tram ride toward Ponte Sublicio and an early dinner at Hostaria Romana-a warm, family-friendly trattoria serving classic Roman dishes while children soak up the neighbourhood atmosphere.

Day 17 · Wed, Oct 7
Rome

Rome — Leisure day or additional day trips

Morning:

Start with a relaxed family breakfast at Caffè Greco before heading to the expansive green of Villa Ada for a nature-filled morning: rent bikes or a small electric boat on the lake, let the children play at the park's playgrounds, and enjoy a picnic of fresh focaccia and seasonal fruit. Afterward, take a short drive to Quartiere Coppedè to marvel at its fairytale architecture and mosaics-an easy, photogenic stroll that continues the gentle, discovery-focused rhythm from your recent Roman highlights.

Afternoon:

Take a relaxed, family-friendly exploration of Quartiere Cadorna, beginning with a visit to the interactive Museo delle Mura for a hands-on look at Rome's ancient walls, then stroll to the nearby Parco di Villa Pamphilj where kids can rent bikes and enjoy shady playgrounds while you sip coffee at a park kiosk. Finish the afternoon with a peaceful boat hire on the small lake at Laghetto di Villa Ada (a calm alternative to busier spots) and a casual picnic of panini and local cheeses on the lawns before an easy return to your hotel for evening plans.

Evening:

As the city slows, enjoy a relaxed aperitivo in the charming square of Piazza Trilussa, where children can watch local musicians while you sip non-alcoholic spritzes and sample small plates. Afterwards, head to Villa Sciarra for a gentle twilight stroll through its shaded paths and peacocks, then finish the night with a family-friendly dinner at Osteria del Sostegno, known for hearty Roman stews and a warm atmosphere ideal for kids.

Day 18 · Thu, Oct 8
Rome

Rome — More sightseeing or relaxation

Morning:

Begin with a relaxed stroll and cappuccino at Piazza Barberini, then wander into the peaceful, art-filled rooms of Galleria Borghese (book timed-entry) where children will enjoy the sculpture garden and mythic statuary while you savour masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio. After the gallery, head to nearby Passeggiata del Pincio for panoramic views over Piazza del Popolo and a shady picnic on the terrace-an easy, restorative morning that builds on your earlier Roman discoveries while keeping the pace gentle for the family.

Afternoon:

After a gentle morning, head to Villa Celimontana for a relaxed family picnic under pine trees and let the children enjoy the playground while you admire the Roman ruins scattered through the park. From there, take a short walk to Basilica di San Clemente to explore its layered archaeological levels-kids love the underground frescoed chambers and ancient mosaics-then finish with an easy gelato break at Gelateria del Teatro before returning to your hotel for a mellow evening.

Evening:

As twilight falls, take the family for a relaxed wander through Quartiere Regola, stopping at Piazza Mattei to admire the Fountain of the Turtles while children run safely in the square; linger for a simple aperitivo of supplì and non-alcoholic spritz at a nearby enoteca. Continue with a short, scenic walk to Largo di Torre Argentina to spot the sleepy cats among ancient ruins, then enjoy a cosy dinner at a family-friendly trattoria on Via dei Coronari where kids can try classic cacio e pepe as you soak up the timeless Roman atmosphere.

Day 19 · Fri, Oct 9
Rome

Rome — Final visits and preparations for departure

Morning:

Enjoy a gentle final-morning wander through Quartiere Cavour, starting with a family-friendly visit to the interactive exhibits at [Museo Nazionale Romano - Terme di Diocleziano](https://museonazionaleromano.beniculturali.it) where children can explore ancient baths and tactile displays, then stroll to the nearby Via Nazionale for last-minute souvenir shopping at artisan boutiques. Finish with a relaxed brunch at Antica Caffetteria delle Terme, sampling decadent cornetti and fresh fruit while planning luggage and transport logistics for your transfer to the airport later in the week.

Afternoon:

Spend a relaxed afternoon visiting the bright, family-friendly galleries of Galleria d'Arte Moderna where children can enjoy colourful modern works and the sculpture garden, then wander across to Villa Torlonia to explore its whimsical Casa delle Bambole and shady park paths-perfect for one last picnic and play. Finish with a calm stop at Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina for people-watching and a final scoop from a nearby gelateria, followed by a gentle return to your hotel to finish packing and confirm airport transfers.

Evening:

Spend a calm family evening at Piazza del Popolo, where the children can run around the twin churches and you can climb the short steps to Terrazza del Pincio for wide, golden-hour views of the city as you review packing lists together. Afterwards, wander down to Via dei Coronari to browse a few last-minute antique stalls and finish with a relaxed dinner at Osteria dell'Anima, a welcoming spot serving simple Roman fare that the kids will enjoy while you savour a final taste of the city.

Day 20 · Sat, Oct 10
Rome

Rome — Buffer day (optional activities)

Morning:

Ease into your buffer day with a slow visit to Villa Ada's lakefront, where the family can rent a small pedal boat and enjoy birdwatching along shady paths before a picnic of focaccia and local cheeses; children will love the open lawns and playgrounds. Afterwards, wander to nearby [Museo Civico di Zoologia](http://www.museodizoologia.it) for a hands-on natural history experience that keeps younger travellers engaged with interactive exhibits and a lively insectarium, offering a gentle, educational contrast to your recent historical sights.

Afternoon:

Spend a relaxed family afternoon exploring Parco degli Acquedotti, where kids can run beneath ancient arches and you can enjoy a picnic among Roman aqueduct ruins; follow this with a hands-on ceramics workshop at Scuola d'Arte Ceramica Roma so each child can craft a small keepsake. Finish with a gentle riverside bike ride along Lungotevere Ripa toward Gianicolo Gardens, stopping at a neighbourhood osteria for early evening snacks and to reflect on favourite moments from the trip.

Evening:

As twilight falls, enjoy a convivial family aperitivo in Piazza del Fico, where children can watch street performers while you sample cicchetti and non-alcoholic spritzes at a terrace bar; then stroll toward Via dei Giubbonari to browse artisanal food shops and pick up last-minute edible souvenirs. Finish the night with a relaxed riverside walk along Lungotevere Tor di Nona, pausing at a cosy trattoria on Isola Tiberina for simple pasta dishes the kids will love and a final soak in Rome's evening atmosphere.

Day 21 · Sun, Oct 11
Rome

Rome — Pack and last evening in the city

Morning:

Spend a relaxed morning finishing packing and practicalities, then take a short outing to Mercato Centrale Roma for last-minute edible souvenirs and a family-friendly tasting of artisanal cheeses and cured meats; children can pick a final sweet at the market stalls. Continue with a calm stroll through Giardino degli Aranci (Parco Savello) for one last panoramic view of the city-perfect for family photos-and stop at a nearby café for cappuccini and pastries before returning to the hotel to finalise luggage and confirm airport transfers.

Afternoon:

After a morning of final packing, enjoy a relaxed late-afternoon visit to Villa Celimontana where the children can play under pine trees and you can picnic on the lawns with last bites of regional cheese and bread from the market. Follow this with a short stroll to Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano to admire its grand interior and let the family climb the nearby steps for views over the historic rooftops before returning to the hotel to finish luggage and freshen up for the evening.

Evening:

After finishing suitcases and checking airport transfers, enjoy a relaxed early-evening outing to Villa Borghese Pincio Terrace for golden-hour family photos and a calm walk among pine trees; let the children rent a small rowboat on the pond while you soak up the views. Later, head to Via del Governo Vecchio for a gentle passeggiata among artisan shops before sitting down to a final family dinner at Trattoria Monti where everyone can savour one last plate of Roman pasta and a simple tiramisù to close the trip.

Day 22 · Mon, Oct 12
Rome / In transit

Depart Rome — Flights back to Melbourne

Morning:

Enjoy a calm final morning with a leisurely breakfast at Roscioli Caffè near the hotel, then take a short, luggage-friendly stroll through the peaceful arcades of Via dei Coronari to pick up any last-minute souvenirs from independent shops. Finish by returning to your accommodation to collect bags and meet your pre-booked private transfer at Piazza Venezia for a stress-free drive to Fiumicino Airport, allowing extra time for family check-in and a relaxed meal at one of the airport's family-friendly dining options before your long-haul flight.

Afternoon:

Spend a relaxed final afternoon collecting last-minute edible souvenirs at Mercato di Campagna Amica (Via San Teodoro stall area) and enjoy a light family lunch of focaccia and seasonal fruit at a nearby café. Afterward, take a short, luggage-friendly taxi ride to Parco degli Scipioni for a gentle walk beneath shady pines and one last playground stop so the children can burn off energy before your private transfer to Fiumicino; finish with a slow espresso and pastry at Pasticceria Regoli en route to the airport to ease into your departure.

Evening:

After checking in and clearing security, enjoy a relaxed family dinner at Eataly Rome (Fiumicino Airport location) where everyone can pick favourite Italian small plates and kids can try fresh pasta or a mini pizza; the market-style setting lets the children choose treats while you finalise travel details. Finish with a calm pre-flight stroll through the airport's art-filled departures hall to spot contemporary installations at Museo Leonardo da Vinci Experience (airport exhibition area) before boarding, giving a gentle, culturally rich end to your Italian journey.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version