Rome, Italy City Guide

The Eternal City of Rome has a way of capturing hearts like no other. The vision is so clear once you start dreaming about the Renaissance wonder. Ancient ruins tower like floating castles, the smell of fresh herbs and simmering sauces waft through bustling streets, and cheerful tunes weave their way into your adventures. The city has a little something for everyone in the family, and this Rome city guide will help spark an unforgettable adventure.

Best Accommodations for Families

To truly soak in the magic of Rome, your family deserves to savor every single moment. As the artistic heart of the world, this city boasts beauty in every corner – it’s no surprise that millions of tourists visit yearly to marvel at it for themselves. Choosing the perfect family-friendly stay can be exhausting, especially with endless search results and contradicting reviews. Don’t stress! We’ve gathered our top picks for the best hotels in Rome for families. Because you deserve the best – because moms deserve to enjoy the vacation too for a change.

Villa Spaletta

Looking for an intimate and luxurious stay? Villa Spaletta is the perfect choice for families who value a personalized and exclusive experience. This boutique hotel features only 12 rooms, ensuring a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. But the beauty here goes beyond its rooms. Right outside is a mesmerizing garden that leaves open spaces for kids to play. Lush grass, colorful flowers, and other beautiful sights are just what you need to recharge for another day of Roman adventures. This gem is perfect for families, as the staff is friendly and accommodating to travelers of all ages.

Westin Excelsior – Rome

Families seeking a blend of history and comfort will love the Westin Excelsior Rome. This iconic hotel offers spacious family rooms and suites, providing plenty of room to spread out after a day of sightseeing. As for a fun, yet rare, perk, the Westin features a fun indoor pool for kids looking to dip in between adventures. This marvel also offers activities and amenities made specifically for traveling families through the Westin Family Program. These experiences will add an extra dash of fun that lets kids savor every minute of their vacation.

Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria:

Live like kings and queens at the Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria, where luxury and relaxation meet. This stunning hotel floats over Rome from its hilltop location, providing breathtaking views before you unpack. Picture this: After a long flight, you and your family have checked into your luxurious room. You feel a little travel-worn, but decide to open the window for a quick view. Suddenly, an entire world is exposed to your very eyes, capturing a special sneak peek of the journey ahead of you. Your kids giggle and point, “Can we go there, mommy?” Suddenly, that post-flight tiredness has disappeared. The hotel’s marvelous garden, lively kids’ club, and pool make this a must-do destination in itself.

Hotel Artemide

Are you traveling on a budget? No problem – that is not going to stop your family from having a quality experience. This hotel puts every detail into consideration, creating a recipe for relaxation. Spacious suites ensure maximum comfort, leaving just enough room for cuddles and fun. If you’re looking for some sightseeing, an exclusive rooftop terrace warmly welcomes you to marvelous views.

Top Things to Do With Kids

Rome has something for everyone in the family. From exciting activities that spark your kids’ creativity to moments that will warm your heart as you watch them explore the world. Rome is an open art exhibit, offering breathtaking sights that will captivate even the youngest explorers. Meanwhile, hands-on workshops and courses will keep everyone busy and feel like locals. Because as they say, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”

1. Become a Gladiator

Do your kids dream of ancient Rome and gladiator battles? Bring history to life with Family Twist’s Gladiator Training Workshop! This hands-on experience lets your family step into the shoes of epic warriors. A private instructor will provide the historical context through a private training session. Kids will feel like superheroes with wide-eyed wonder as they play with helmets, nets, tridents, and swords – it’s history with a fun and safe twist!

2. Explore the Vatican

The famous Vatican offers an authentic experience that is more than just sightseeing – it’s a chance to spark inspiration and history appreciation, especially with your little art enthusiasts. Your child’s eyes will light up as they spot the vivid Sistine Chapel ceiling. Watch them whisper, in awe, “I want to paint like that someday…” The museum’s open spaces are perfect for energetic families who are looking to get a real taste of the most renowned art in history. Sit back and watch the beauty unfold – both the mesmerizing art and your children’s joy.

3. Join a Fun-filled Cooking Workshop

Did Italy’s mouthwatering cuisine influence your choice to visit Rome? We don’t blame you! From rich pasta to heavenly pizzas to desserts that feel like a bite of pure joy, there’s a reason Italian cuisine is one of the most beloved in the world. You’ll be trying lots of delicious meals throughout your trip – but wouldn’t you love to create a dish for yourself? What if you could do so through a fun bonding experience that the entire family will never stop talking about? Family Twists offers many cooking courses hosted by an experienced private chef. Make your own pizza, pasta, or gelato through a fun and interactive workshop. The best part? You can all savor your culinary creation at the end! Be sure to check out more of our favorite hands-on workshops by Family Twist here!

5. Explore The Roman Forum

Adventure through the heart of ancient Roman civilization. The Roman Forum is like a time machine, taking travelers back to ancient times with its jaw-dropping ruins and stone structures. You and your children’s imagination will soar when walking through the historic ruins. Kids will love strolling the ancient pathways, picturing warriors and historic figures walking in their footsteps, sparking dreams of making their mark on the world. Meanwhile, parents can soak up history with breathtaking architecture. These sights serve as great photo spots for long-lasting memories, so let out your inner photographer and capture those sentimental moments! The Forum offers an experience so captivating, that you’ll be left wanting more—and luckily, Rome has more landmarks waiting for you. Don’t miss the chance to explore the iconic Colosseum next!

Tips

• Start your days early:  Make the most of your time and avoid overwhelming crowds. This also helps with starting your day slow to avoid exhaustion – you are on vacation after all!
• Be prepared for the heat: The majority of Rome’s must-do activities and sights are outside. Be sure to bring essential items such as sunscreen, hats, and water bottles for hydration.
• Consider public transportation: Rome and its surrounding communities offer endless sights and activities. Consider public transportation for easier access.

Get Excited Before You Go

Read

Picture books

• Madeline and the Cats of Rome – John Bemelmans Marciano
• This is Rome – by Miroslav Sasek
• Toto in Rome – by Biddy Strevens
• Rome Romp! – by Margie Blumberg

Chapter books

• Ranger in Time: Danger in Ancient Rome – by Kate Messner
• Romans On the Rampage – by Jeremy Strong

Watch

• The Lizzie Mcguire Movie
• Luca

Now that you’ve journeyed through our Rome city guide, let us turn your travel dreams into reality and break the busy. Endless fun and unforgettable memories start when you schedule a call!

Who is Christina?

Meet Christina Vieira, a Traveler, a Planner, and a Mom. She is also the owner of Showcase the World Travel, a modern travel agency that helps busy Moms take the vacation they deserve without adding “planning it all” to their to-do lists.  After all, Mom should get to enjoy their vacation too.

She specializes in Disney, the Caribbean, Europe, and has helped dozens of families have magical vacations that they will always remember. She loves traveling with her four-year-old daughter, Annabelle. Her favorite destinations include Walt Disney World, Wyoming, and Prague.