Travel Guides to Italy

Travel Guides to Italy

Heather Dennington
My travel boards to Italy are curated with families in mind, offering a perfect blend of cultural exploration, fun activities, and kid-friendly dining options. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the picturesque canals of Venice and the artistic treasures of Florence, each board features detailed itineraries that ensure both parents and children have a memorable experience. You’ll find recommendations for interactive museums, spacious parks, and engaging attractions, as well as tips on the best family-friendly restaurants and gelaterias. Join us as we uncover the magic of Italy in a way that’s enjoyable for all ages!
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3 Days in Bruneck
@heatherdennington
Here’s a three-day itinerary for exploring Brunico, Italy. Day 1: Discovering Brunico Morning: • Brunico Castle: Start your day with a visit to Brunico Castle. Explore the South Tyrolean Folklore Museum housed within, showcasing traditional costumes and artifacts. • Old Town: Stroll through the picturesque streets of the Old Town. Visit the charming shops and cafes along Via Centrale. Afternoon: • Messner Mountain Museum: Located in the castle, this museum dedicated to mountain culture and Reinhold Messner’s climbing adventures is a must-see. • Lunch at a Local Trattoria: Enjoy traditional South Tyrolean cuisine at a local eatery. Evening: • Walk Along the Rienz River: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Rienz River, taking in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. • Dinner: Try a local restaurant for dinner, such as Restaurant Blitzburg, known for its delicious local dishes. Day 2: Nature and Outdoor Activities Morning: • Kronplatz (Plan de Corones): Head to the nearby Kronplatz mountain. Take the cable car to the top for breathtaking views. There are numerous hiking trails if you enjoy walking or you can simply enjoy the scenery. Afternoon: • Lunch on the Mountain: Many mountain huts offer delicious meals with stunning views. • Outdoor Activities: Depending on the season, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or hiking. Evening: • Relax at a Wellness Center: Unwind at one of Brunico’s wellness centers or spas. • Dinner: Enjoy a hearty meal at a local restaurant, perhaps sampling some Tyrolean dumplings or other regional specialties. Day 3: Cultural and Scenic Exploration Morning: • Church of the Holy Spirit: Visit this beautiful Gothic church with stunning frescoes. • Brunico Cemetery: Explore the cemetery known for its unique wooden crosses and rich history. Afternoon: • Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee): Take a short drive to the picturesque Lago di Braies. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake or rent a rowboat. • Lunch by the Lake: Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant. Evening: • Return to Brunico: Head back to Brunico for your final evening. • Farewell Dinner: Celebrate your last night with a special dinner at a renowned restaurant like Ristorante Tabula. Additional Tips: • Transportation: Consider renting a car for easier access to surrounding areas and attractions. • Weather: Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, especially if you plan outdoor activities. Enjoy your trip to Brunico!
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3 Days in Venice
@heatherdennington
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring San Marco Morning: • Arrival and Check-in: Arrive in Venice and check into your family-friendly hotel. Some great options are Hotel Antiche Figure or Hotel Giorgione. • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or head to Pasticceria Rosa Salva for delicious pastries and coffee. Late Morning: • Piazza San Marco: Start your exploration at St. Mark’s Square. The kids will love watching the pigeons and the grand architecture. • St. Mark’s Basilica: Visit the basilica and admire its stunning mosaics. (Consider the skip-the-line tickets to avoid long waits with children). Lunch: • Ristorante da Ivo: A cozy, family-friendly restaurant serving traditional Venetian dishes. Afternoon: • Doge’s Palace: Explore the Doge’s Palace and its beautiful courtyard. The kids will find the armory and prison particularly intriguing. • Bridge of Sighs: Cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs, offering beautiful views and a bit of history. Evening: • Gelato Stop: Enjoy some gelato at Gelateria Al Todaro near St. Mark’s Square. • Gondola Ride: Take a family-friendly gondola ride through the canals for a memorable experience. Dinner: • Trattoria Al Gazzettino: This charming restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious Venetian cuisine. Day 2: Islands and Local Culture Morning: • Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo. • Boat Trip to Murano: Take a vaporetto (water bus) to Murano, famous for its glass-making. • Murano Glass Factory Tour: Visit a glass factory to see how the famous Murano glass is made. Lunch: • Trattoria Valmarana: Enjoy a relaxing lunch with a view of the lagoon. Afternoon: • Boat Trip to Burano: Head to Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition. • Explore Burano: Stroll around the vibrant island, perfect for photos and exploring with kids. Evening: • Return to Venice: Head back to Venice. • Rialto Bridge: Visit the Rialto Bridge and enjoy some shopping at the nearby markets. Dinner: • Ristorante alla Madonna: A family-friendly restaurant close to the Rialto Bridge, offering a variety of seafood and Venetian dishes. Day 3: Parks and Playgrounds Morning: • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at Pasticceria Dal Mas. • Giardini della Biennale: Visit the Giardini della Biennale, a large park with plenty of space for the kids to run around and explore. Late Morning: • Natural History Museum: Explore the Natural History Museum (Museo di Storia Naturale di Venezia) with its interesting exhibits that are great for kids. Lunch: • Osteria Ai Osti: A cozy spot with traditional dishes that cater to both adults and children. Afternoon: • Venice Lido: Take a vaporetto to the Lido, Venice’s beach area. Let the kids play in the sand and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. • Bike Rental: Rent bikes or a family-friendly pedal cart for a fun way to explore the Lido. Evening: • Return to Venice: Head back to the main island of Venice. • Free Time: Spend some time exploring any sights you might have missed or revisit your favorite spots. Dinner: • La Zucca: A charming restaurant with a variety of vegetarian options and hearty meals that kids will enjoy. Tips: • Transportation: Consider getting a multi-day vaporetto pass for easy travel between islands and around Venice. • Snacks: Carry snacks and water, especially when traveling with young children. • Rest Breaks: Plan for regular breaks to keep the little ones rested and happy.
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3 Days in Florence
@heatherdennington
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Central Florence Morning: • Arrival and Check-in: Arrive in Florence and check into your family-friendly hotel. Some great options are Hotel David or Hotel Morandi alla Crocetta. • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or head to Ditta Artigianale for pastries and coffee. Late Morning: • Piazza del Duomo: Visit the Duomo, Baptistery, and Giotto’s Campanile. Toddlers will enjoy the open space and vibrant atmosphere. • Gelato Stop: Treat yourselves to some delicious gelato at Gelateria dei Neri. Lunch: • Trattoria ZaZa: A family-friendly restaurant with a variety of Tuscan dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. Afternoon: • Piazza della Repubblica: Enjoy the carousel in Piazza della Repubblica, perfect for toddlers. • Boboli Gardens: Head to the Boboli Gardens for a leisurely stroll and let the kids run around in the open spaces. Evening: • Ponte Vecchio: Take a walk across the Ponte Vecchio and enjoy the views of the Arno River. Dinner: • La Mangiatoia: A cozy restaurant known for its delicious pasta and welcoming environment for families. Day 2: Museums and Local Culture Morning: • Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at La Menagere. • Accademia Gallery: Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David. The museum is small, making it easier for families with toddlers. Lunch: • Mercato Centrale: Head to Mercato Centrale for a variety of food options. There are plenty of choices to satisfy all tastes. Afternoon: • Piazza della Signoria: Explore the square and see the open-air sculptures. The Loggia dei Lanzi is a great spot to rest and enjoy the art. • Palazzo Vecchio: Visit Palazzo Vecchio, which offers kid-friendly tours and activities. Evening: • Gelato Stop: Enjoy another gelato at Gelateria La Carraia. Dinner: • Trattoria Mario: This family-friendly restaurant offers traditional Tuscan dishes in a lively atmosphere. Day 3: Parks and Playgrounds Morning: • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at Caffè Gilli, one of Florence’s oldest cafes. • Bardini Garden: Visit the Bardini Garden for beautiful views of the city and a peaceful environment for toddlers to explore. Late Morning: • Museo Galileo: Discover the Museo Galileo, which has interesting exhibits that are engaging for both adults and children. Lunch: • La Bussola: A family-friendly pizzeria offering delicious wood-fired pizzas. Afternoon: • Cascine Park: Head to Cascine Park, Florence’s largest public park. It has plenty of space for toddlers to run around, playgrounds, and even a small zoo. • Picnic: Consider having a picnic in the park. There are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Evening: • Return to Hotel: Head back to your hotel to rest and freshen up. Dinner: • Ristorante Cibrèo: This restaurant offers a variety of dishes and is known for its welcoming atmosphere for families. Tips: • Transportation: Florence is a walkable city, but consider using a stroller for your toddler to make getting around easier. • Snacks: Carry snacks and water for your toddler, as exploring can make them hungry. • Rest Breaks: Plan for regular breaks to keep your toddler rested and happy.
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4 Days in Rome
@heatherdennington
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Central Rome Morning: • Arrival and Check-in: Arrive in Rome and check into your family-friendly hotel. Some great options are Hotel Artemide or Hotel Santa Maria. • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or head to Pasticceria Regoli for pastries and coffee. Late Morning: • Piazza Navona: Explore Piazza Navona with its beautiful fountains and open space for kids to run around. • Pantheon: Visit the Pantheon, which is a short walk away and offers a stunning interior. Lunch: • Cul de Sac: A family-friendly restaurant near Piazza Navona with a variety of Italian dishes. Afternoon: • Trevi Fountain: Head to the Trevi Fountain and let your child throw a coin into the fountain for good luck. • Spanish Steps: Visit the Spanish Steps and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. Evening: • Villa Borghese Gardens: Spend the evening at Villa Borghese, where you can rent bikes or a pedal cart and explore the park. Dinner: • Ristorante Pizzeria Il Corallo: A cozy restaurant offering delicious pizzas and pasta, perfect for families. Day 2: Ancient Rome and More Morning: • Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Bar del Cappuccino. • Colosseum: Visit the Colosseum. Consider booking a skip-the-line tour to avoid long waits with a child. Lunch: • La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali: A family-friendly restaurant close to the Colosseum serving traditional Roman dishes. Afternoon: • Roman Forum: Explore the Roman Forum. It’s a large area, so a stroller might be helpful. • Palatine Hill: Visit Palatine Hill, where you can enjoy great views and let your toddler run around. Evening: • Gelato Stop: Enjoy some gelato at Gelateria La Romana. Dinner: • Trattoria Da Enzo al 29: A popular spot in Trastevere with a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food. Day 3: Vatican City and Surroundings Morning: • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at Caffè Sant’Eustachio. • Vatican Museums: Visit the Vatican Museums. They have strollers available for rent, which can be helpful. Lunch: • Ristorante Arlu: A family-friendly restaurant near the Vatican offering a variety of Italian dishes. Afternoon: • St. Peter’s Basilica: Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and enjoy the stunning architecture. • Castel Sant’Angelo: Visit Castel Sant’Angelo, where kids will enjoy exploring the ancient fortress. Evening: • Piazza San Pietro: Spend some time in St. Peter’s Square, letting your child enjoy the open space. Dinner: • Ristorante La Vittoria: A cozy restaurant near the Vatican with a great selection of Italian cuisine. Day 4: Parks and Relaxation Morning: • Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria. • Bioparco di Roma: Visit the Rome Zoo (Bioparco di Roma), which is located in Villa Borghese and is great for children. Lunch: • Picnic in Villa Borghese: Consider having a picnic in the park. There are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Afternoon: • Explora Children’s Museum: Head to Explora, the Children’s Museum of Rome, which is designed for kids to learn and play. Evening: • Trastevere: Explore the charming Trastevere neighborhood. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Dinner: • Osteria Der Belli: A family-friendly restaurant in Trastevere offering a variety of seafood and traditional dishes. Tips: • Transportation: Rome’s public transport system is extensive, but consider using a stroller for your toddler to make getting around easier. • Snacks: Carry snacks and water for your toddler, as exploring can make them hungry. • Rest Breaks: Plan for regular breaks to keep your toddler rested and happy.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Heather Dennington
Hi there! My family and I are a travel-loving bunch always on the lookout for new adventures. Our journeys take us far and wide, from the ancient streets of Rome to the scenic landscapes of Iceland, with each trip becoming a cherished family memory. I believe in making travel fun and educational for our little ones, seeking out family-friendly activities, interactive museums, and kid-approved eateries wherever we go. Traveling with toddlers has its own unique joys and challenges, and we’ve become experts at balancing sightseeing with playtime, ensuring that every destination is enjoyable for both adults and children. Join us as we explore the world one city at a time, sharing tips, itineraries, and stories that inspire other families to embark on their own adventures. Let’s make traveling with kids an exciting and enriching experience for everyone!
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