The perfect family trip to Rome

Rome is more than just a beautiful city, it is also a giant adventure playground for inquisitive kids (and adults!). With ancient Roman ruins, the sites of gory gladiator battles, the best pizza and pasta in the world and a wide range of museums and art galleries, it is the perfect place for families. If you are looking for a holiday that’s as educational as it is fun, don’t miss these hot spots:

The Colosseum

The iconic amphitheatre will really bring the fascinating (and gruesome) Roman history to life. You can take audio tours but reading up on a decent Roman history book for children will do the job just as well. Do get there early as there are usually queues.

The Pantheon

Take a break from the sun at this 2000 year old temple, which is one of the best preserved of all the Roman buildings. Kids will love seeing the domed roof and guessing the meaning of the inscription on the outside.

The Vatican and the Sistine Chapel

Of course, no trip to Rome would be complete without visiting the Vatican, St Peter’s Square and the amazing Sistine Chapel. Encourage them to spot as many characters on Michelangelo’s famous painted ceiling as they can, but remember no photos are allowed so best to leave the mobile phones off as you go in.

Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary

Hiding amongst the ruins of four ancient temples in this magical garden are many of Rome’s street cats. A great place for kids, especially those that love animals.

Villa Borghese

Again, this one is outside and completely free! The Villa Borghese is one of the biggest parks in Rome and is a fantastic place to let the kids run off some steam. Hire bikes to whizz around the park, or if you’re looking for something more quirky, hop on a segway tour for a fun and leisurely trip. Helmets provided.

The Trevi Fountain

There are many beautiful fountains in Rome but the Trevi is by far the most impressive. After filling up on pizza, head to the fountain in the early evening when the baroque style sculptures and water are lit up dramatically. Legend has it that if you throw a coin in, then you will be sure to return, which probably accounts for the 3,000 euros thrown in by tourists every day.

The Spanish Steps

Count the 138 steps that make up this impressive outdoor staircase, one of Rome’s most iconic meeting points and an excellent spot to people watch. There are designer shops at the bottom and an amazing view from the top, and on your way up don’t forget to look for the poet Keat’s house which overlooks the staircase.

Of course, many visitors choose to simply wander around the shops and beautiful streets, but a city break to Rome with the kids requires slightly more advance planning. Pack sun hats and sun cream as it is can get very hot, particularly in the summer months. If your family grow a little weary of all the culture, then a scoop or two of an Italians’ famous gelato will put a smile back on everyone’s faces and have you geared up for the next adventure!

Images by Diana Robinson and Rodney, used under the Creative Commons license

 Disclosure: Post contributed by Expedia