Family Friendly European Travel

Tips

April 22, 2025

Family friendly european travel
Me in France!

Okay, be honest: did you just binge-watch Emily in Paris and suddenly decide your family vacation needs a serious upgrade? Or maybe scrolling through Millie Bobby Brown’s wedding pics had you thinking, ‘Wait, we could totally rock those Italian villa vibes!’ Look, we get it. One minute you’re watching Netflix, the next you’re picturing your kids throwing coins in the Trevi Fountain and you’re trying to figure out if you can smuggle a baguette back from Paris. It’s totally fine to be inspired by fictional expats and celebrity nuptials! Whether you’re chasing the perfect Instagram shot at the Eiffel Tower or just want to see if the gelato in Florence lives up to the hype, Italy and France are ready to deliver. So, ditch the remote, grab your beret (or your best sundress), and let’s see if we can turn those pop culture dreams into a real-life family adventure. Just maybe, try to avoid any Emily in Paris level misunderstandings, okay?

When I was a child, my mother prioritized travel and experiencing different ways of life. We went on European trips several times from the time I was 8. Italy and France are both my personal favorite, as a child I remember feeling extremely welcome and cherished there. Once, while waiting in what I remember being a seemingly endless line for the Louvre in Paris, a group of visiting nuns behind us snuck me and my younger brother chocolates. In Italy, I remember taking a boat in Venice with an elderly italian nona, who spent the entire ride chatting with me despite my very broken Italian and her knowing not a word of English. Everyone was friendly and kind. The comments from Europeans upset about Bush was saved for my parents (sorry mom and dad) while I got showered with effusive praise and little treats throughout my entire adventure. While travel is not easy with children, it’s certainly worth it for them to learn about the worlds history, about what life can be like other places, and to be more welcoming to new ideas.

Best Family Destinations in Italy

1. Rome – Where History Comes to Life

Rome is like a giant open-air museum, where every corner tells a story. Kids will love discovering gladiators, emperors, and myths while parents soak in the grandeur of this historic city.

Must-Do Activities:

  • The Colosseum & Roman Forum: Walk in the footsteps of gladiators and imagine the roaring crowds of ancient Rome.
  • Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin over your shoulder to ensure your return to the Eternal City.
  • Villa Borghese & Borghese Gallery: A sprawling park perfect for kids, with playgrounds, bike rentals, and a zoo, plus a museum featuring works by Caravaggio and Bernini.
  • Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel and explore the vast collection of historical treasures.
  • Pantheon: An incredibly well preserved ancient roman temple.
  • Explora, the Children’s Museum of Rome: A very fun and interactive museum for children.
  • Gladiator School: Many places offer gladiator training for kids, a very interactive way to learn roman history.
  • Catacombs of Rome: A very unique experience, these ancient burial sites offer a different perspective on Roman history.
  • Cooking class: Many families enjoy taking a cooking class, especially pasta and pizza making.

Parent Tip: Book a guided tour designed for kids to make the experience engaging and interactive. Consider the Roma Pass for public transport and entry to some attractions.

2. Florence – Art, Gelato, and the Birthplace of the Renaissance

Florence is a dream for families who love art, history, and delicious food.

Must-Do Activities:

  • The Statue of David at the Accademia Gallery: See Michelangelo’s masterpiece up close.
  • The Uffizi Gallery: Introduce kids to Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and other Renaissance wonders.
  • Piazza della Repubblica & the Historic Carousel: A fun stop for little ones after a long day of sightseeing.
  • Boboli Gardens: A perfect place to let kids run free among fountains and sculptures.
  • Ponte Vecchio: Explore the shops built along this iconic bridge.
  • Climb to the top of the Duomo (Florence Cathedral): Amazing views of the city.
  • Leather Market: A great place to shop for souvenirs.
  • Galileo Museum: A science museum that is fun for all ages.

Parent Tip: Many gelato shops near Ponte Vecchio offer some of the best handmade gelato—perfect for a post-museum treat. Pre-book tickets for popular attractions to avoid long lines.

3. The Amalfi Coast – Coastal Charm & Mediterranean Magic

For breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters, the Amalfi Coast is an idyllic family destination.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Boat Tour to Capri & The Blue Grotto: A mesmerizing sea cave with glowing blue waters.
  • Lemon Farm Tour in Sorrento: Taste fresh lemonade and learn about the region’s famous citrus groves.
  • Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius: Step back in time to explore the ancient city frozen in ash.
  • Explore Positano and Amalfi: Beautiful coastal towns.
  • Path of the Gods Hike: For families that enjoy hiking, this trail offers amazing views.
  • Beach days: Enjoy the beaches of Maiori or Minori.

Parent Tip: Choose Maiori or Minori for more family-friendly beaches with shallow waters. Consider a private driver for easier travel along the winding coastal roads.

Best Family Destinations in France

1. Paris – The City of Light for All Ages

Paris is a fairytale destination for families, filled with stunning architecture, charming cafés, and world-class museums.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Eiffel Tower Picnic: Enjoy a meal beneath this iconic landmark at the Champ de Mars.
  • Musée d’Orsay: A more manageable alternative to the Louvre, featuring works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
  • Jardin du Luxembourg: A beautiful park with a playground, carousel, and pond for sailing toy boats.
  • Disneyland Paris: The perfect day trip for little Disney fans.
  • Louvre Museum: See the Mona Lisa and other masterpieces.
  • Notre Dame Cathedral area: Even though the inside is being rebuilt, the area around it is still beautiful.
  • Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Enjoy the views of Paris and the artistic atmosphere.
  • Seine River Cruise: A relaxing way to see the city.
  • Chocolate and pastry tours: A delicious way to explore french cuisine.

Parent Tip: Consider taking a Seine River Cruise at sunset for a relaxing and scenic way to see the city. The Paris Pass can be a good investment.

2. Provence – Lavender Fields & Medieval Towns

Provence is perfect for families looking for a slower pace, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of outdoor adventures.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Lavender Fields in Valensole: Visit between June and July for a magical sea of purple blooms.
  • Palace of the Popes in Avignon: Explore this grand medieval palace filled with history.
  • Canoeing in the Verdon Gorge: A stunning turquoise river surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
  • Roman ruins in Arles and Nimes: Great places to learn about roman history.
  • Local Markets: Explore the local markets for fresh produce and local products.
  • Pont du Gard: An impressive roman aqueduct.

Parent Tip: Staying in a countryside farmhouse (gîte) is a great way to experience Provence like a local. Renting a car is recommended to explore the region.

3. The French Riviera – Sun, Sand & Culture

For families who love the beach, the French Riviera offers the perfect mix of seaside fun and cultural experiences.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Promenade des Anglais in Nice: A perfect spot for a stroll along the sparkling coastline.
  • Oceanographic Museum in Monaco: Home to sea turtles, sharks, and one of the best aquariums in Europe.
  • Picasso Museum in Antibes: Introduce kids to the world of Picasso in this beautiful seaside town.
  • Explore the markets of Nice: The Cours Saleya market is a must see.
  • Boat trips to the Lérins Islands: A beautiful place to spend a day.
  • Visit the medieval village of Eze: Amazing views of the coast.
  • Train des Merveilles: A scenic train ride through the mountains.

Parent Tip: Villefranche-sur-Mer is a more relaxed, family-friendly alternative to busier resort towns. Consider taking the train to travel between the coastal towns.

Helpful Tips for Parents Traveling to Italy & France:

  • Pack Light: Especially when moving between cities, lighter luggage is easier.
  • Travel During Shoulder Seasons: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few basic Italian and French phrases can go a long way.
  • Utilize Public Transportation: Both countries have excellent public transportation systems.
  • Plan for Downtime: Kids (and parents) need breaks. Schedule time for parks, playgrounds, and relaxing meals.
  • Food Considerations:
    • Italian and French cuisine is generally kid-friendly. However, be prepared for later dinner times than in some countries.
    • Many restaurants offer “bambini” or “menu enfant” options.
    • Always carry snacks and water.
  • Accommodation:
    • Consider renting apartments or family-friendly hotels with amenities like kitchenettes or pools.
    • Book accommodations in central locations for easy access to attractions.
  • Safety:
    • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
    • Keep an eye on your belongings.
    • Teach children basic safety rules.
  • Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
  • Stay Connected: Consider purchasing a local SIM card or using a travel Wi-Fi device.
  • Embrace the Culture: Encourage your children to try new foods, learn about the history, and interact with locals.
  • Travel apps: Download helpful apps, such as google maps, translation apps, and apps for public transportation.

Travel between destinations

Navigating between the diverse destinations of Italy and France offers a variety of travel options, each with its own advantages. For longer distances, especially between countries or major cities like Paris and Rome, high-speed trains are a fantastic choice, providing comfortable and efficient travel with scenic views. You can explore options and book tickets through:

Within Italy and France, extensive regional train networks also connect smaller towns and coastal areas, making them ideal for exploring at a more relaxed pace. For those with limited time, flying between major hubs is another viable option, with numerous budget airlines offering frequent flights. When looking for flights, common search engines such as google flights, skyscanner, and others can be very helpful. However, keep in mind that airport transfers and security checks can add to the overall travel time. For families, considering a combination of train and local transport might be the most rewarding, allowing for flexibility and the chance to truly immerse yourselves in the beauty and culture of both countries.

Italy and France offer endless adventures for families, from standing in awe of David in Florence to marveling at Monet’s masterpieces in Paris. Whether your family loves history, art, nature, or simply soaking in the magic of a new place, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, your family vacation to Italy and France will create lasting memories.

Which European spot is on your family’s bucket list? Let me know in the comments!

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