Visiting Florence with kids is a one-of-a-kind way to explore the birthplace of the Renaissance. Though the city is typically seen as a playground for culture-loving grown-ups (which it indeed is), there are countless amazing things to do with kids in Florence.
With tons of gorgeous parks, interactive museums, and scrumptious food to discover, Florence is a fabulous destination for the whole family to enjoy together. Tag along and I’ll show you why!
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Florence for kids: Where to stay
Florence has no shortage of accommodation options with plenty of space, comfort, and impeccable service to families. Check out my top picks:
Hotel Milù is a stylish alternative in the heart of the city that features ample family rooms, a playroom for kids, and a babysitting service. Children will love the hotel’s casual and colorful decor, and parents will appreciate its central location.
Hotel Orto de’ Medici is built around a cozy garden and boasts a variety of amenities like an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving mouthwatering Italian dishes.
On top of that, the friendly and welcoming staff are always on hand to provide tips on family-friendly activities and attractions in the area.
Brunelleschi Hotel combines modern comfort with historical appeal. It’s equipped with kid-sized bathrobes, welcome gifts, and even a kid-friendly menu.
The hotel’s convenient location — midway between the Cathedral and Piazza della Signoria — will make it easy to venture out into Florence’s old town with your little ones.
Hotel David is home to a beautiful garden and terrace, a swimming pool, and a playground that will keep your kids entertained for hours. It offers child-friendly amenities such as cribs, baby cots, and high chairs, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
Best things to do with kids in Florence
1. Have a picnic at the Boboli Gardens.
Pack a picnic and head to the Palazzo Pitti’s stunning historic gardens, which are a prime setting for a relaxing afternoon with the family.
Let the kids run amok through the winding paths, lavish fountains, and hidden corners. With breathtaking views of Florence’s skyline, the Boboli Gardens are a flawless spot for a family photo or two.
And, of course, the best part of any picnic is the food! Grab a few local snacks and treats from the nearby markets and indulge in a feast on the grass.
2. Learn how to make pizza.
A pizza-making class is a marvelous chance to learn the art of cooking authentic Italian pizza from scratch, while also spending some quality time with your little ones.
Several pizza-making sessions in Florence are kid-friendly, so you can choose one that suits your family’s needs.
During the class, you’ll find out how to make the dough, choose the right toppings, and cook your pizza to perfection. Plus, your kids will love getting their hands dirty and creating their very own pizza masterpiece. It’s a delicious experience that the whole family will relish!
3. Climb to the top of Florence Cathedral.
Looking for an exciting activity to do with your family in Florence? Why not climb to the top of the city’s majestic Cathedral?
Not only will you get commanding views of the city, but the climb itself is a thrilling adventure. Though it might be a bit of a workout, the incredible vistas at the top will make it all worth it.
The climb is safe and well-organized, with plenty of rest points along the way. Other than that, your kids will be able to tell their friends that they climbed a real-life “castle”!
4. Check out the interactive exhibits of the Leonardo da Vinci Museum.
If you’re visiting Florence with kids, a stop at the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum is a must-see. The museum has a wide range of interactive exhibitions that are great for kids of all ages.
From the world’s first bike to intricate models of Da Vinci’s machines and flying devices, the museum is a treasure trove of fun and educational activities.
The best part is that you don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate it. The museum is designed with kids in mind, and the hands-on activities will keep them engaged and entertained for hours.
Let your little ones unleash their creativity by trying out the machines, testing out the flying devices, and building their own designs.
5. Ride a boat along the Arno River.
Taking your kids on a small boat ride along the picturesque Arno is a stylish way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peaceful time on the water.
As you glide across the river, you’ll get to soak up a few the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Ponte Vecchio and the colorful houses that line the waterfront.
Besides, children will love being in a small boat and watching the city go by from a unique perspective.
Also read: 20 Fun Things to Do in Florence at Night
6. Take a guided tour of the city’s underground tunnels.
If you’re after a thrilling and slightly spooky activity to do with your kids in Florence, what can be more fitting than a tour of the underground city?
This is a mesmerizing experience that carries you below the lively streets of Florence through the hidden tunnels and chambers that have been used throughout the city’s history.
Your guide will lead you through the maze-like passages, telling stories of ancient Rome, medieval Florence, and the Renaissance period.
You’ll see underground chapels, secret passageways, and even the old Roman amphitheater. The kids will feel like explorers as they reveal the secrets of underground Florence.
7. Treat yourselves to a gelato spree.
Florence boasts a delectable gelato tradition that you and your family simply have to discover together. And how else can you dive into that yummy craft other than taking them on a gelato spree?
Swing by the finest gelato shops, where you can try various flavors and savor a scoop (or two) of creamy and flavorful gelato. Three of the top-rated spots in Florence are Gelateria dei Neri, La Carraia, and Grom.
As you stroll around the city with your gelato in hand, you can soak up the sights and sounds of Florence, from the dazzling architecture to the bustling piazzas.
8. Let them take part in the hands-on activities of Palazzo Vecchio’s museums.
The Palazzo Vecchio museum in Florence is not just for grown-ups; it’s also an excellent place for kids to have fun while learning.
Your little ones will be entertained for a long time by the interactive exhibits and kid-oriented activities. One highlight is the Secret Room, where kids can see hidden frescoes and spy holes.
They can also dress up in medieval costumes and play games in the Knights’ Room. What’s more, the museum offers guided tours specifically designed for families, where a guide will engage children with stories and activities.
9. Have a spin on Piazza della Repubblica’s century-old merry-go-round.
Located in the heart of the city, the carousel on Piazza della Repubblica will have your little ones grinning from ear to ear.
When they hop on the classic merry-go-round, the colorful horses and playful music will leave them in awe. Though the ride is short and sweet, the memories will last a lifetime. Meanwhile, you can enjoy some refreshments at the nearby cafes and gelato shops.
10. Go on a scavenger hunt together.
A scavenger hunt is a magical way to keep kids entertained as you wonder at the city’s sumptuous architecture, historic monuments, and charming streets.
This unusual sort of tour will lead you and your little ones around the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria.
With clues and riddles to solve as they go, your kids will have a blast discovering the hidden gems of Florence.
Scavenger hunts are usually available in both English and Italian and can be customized to suit your family’s interests and age range.
11. Visit the Soccer Museum.
The Soccer Museum in Florence is a must-see for any sports enthusiast, and it’s also a superb attraction for families with kids.
The museum leads visitors on a riveting journey through the history of Italian soccer, showcasing the country’s most celebrated players, memorable moments, and unforgettable victories.
With state-of-the-art multimedia installations, the museum makes learning about soccer fun and engaging for children of all ages.
Kids can test their skills at the soccer wall, take a penalty kick in the virtual reality zone, and even try on a real soccer jersey.
12. Travel to the towns and villages of the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
If you guys have an extra day in Florence, head out into the Tuscan countryside and venture out into the enchanting towns and rolling hills with your family.
Don’t miss the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, the medieval city of Siena and its impressive Piazza del Campo, or the quaint hilltop town of San Gimignano with its medieval towers.
For a more immersive day trip, consider booking a family-friendly wine tour or cooking class where your little ones can get their hands on Italian food, literally.
13. Taste Italian specialties and shop for souvenirs at the San Lorenzo Market.
San Lorenzo Market, aka Mercato Centrale, is a vibrant market in downtown Florence where you can browse the stalls for a wide array of Italian delicacies and handicrafts to bring home.
It’s a fantastic spot to visit with kids who will be amazed at the sights, sounds, and smells of the market. Take them on a food tour of the market where they’ll savor fresh pasta, cured meats, cheeses, gelato, and other specialties.
You’ll also get to watch skilled artisans make leather goods and jewelry or try your hand at bargaining for souvenirs.
14. Rub the nose of the Porcellino fountain.
Rubbing the nose of Porcellino fountain is a must-do activity for kids visiting Florence. Located in the Mercato Nuovo, the bronze statue of a wild boar is a symbol of good luck, and legend has it that rubbing its nose will ensure a return trip to Florence.
Kids will have a blast taking turns rubbing the statue’s snout and making a wish. In addition to the fountain, there are numerous shops and vendors in the market selling souvenirs, handmade leather goods, and other local products.
15. Explore the Pinocchio Store with them.
The Pinocchio Store is packed with all kinds of Pinocchio memorabilia, from books and toys to figurines and costumes, so it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or gifts for the little ones.
The store also has a Pinocchio-themed room where kids can play lots of games and activities. They can even create their own wooden Pinocchio with the help of a local artisan.
Final thoughts
Florence is known for its priceless artistic heritage and for its inspiring cityscape, which couples and solo travelers alike inevitably fall in love with.
Yet often to the surprise of visitors, the Tuscan capital is also 100% family-friendly. In fact, I could’ve come up with twice as many things to do with kids in Florence — but I wanted to sum up the coolest activities only.
The ideal itinerary to Florence for kids to explore the city alongside their parents needs to include a diverse mix of exciting activities to keep your little ones entertained.
Having said that, there’ll be plenty of opportunities for you to introduce them to the city’s fascinating history and culture as well.
