15 Fun Indoor Activities in Rome With Kids
These kid-friendly indoor activities in Rome are the perfect solution for escaping the heat in search of air conditioning or for taking cover from a downpour.
When visiting Rome with kids, the vibrant history and stunning architecture can sometimes be overshadowed by unpredictable rainy weather or the overwhelming heat of summer. Fortunately, Rome offers a variety of fantastic indoor activities for families with kids, making it easy to enjoy the city regardless of the weather.
From interactive museums and captivating art exhibits to unique experiences that spark creativity and curiosity, there’s no shortage of fun to be had indoors.
In this guide, we’ll lead you through some of the best indoor activities in Rome, making it easy to enjoy quality family time in the Eternal City while escaping the elements.
Quick List: Indoor Activities in Rome With Kids
- Sculpture Museums
- Centrale Montemartini
- Capitoline Museums
- Mercato Trionfale
- Zero-Gravity Roma
- Explora Museum
- Museo e Cripta dei Cappuccini
- The ‘Welcome To Rome’ Experience
- Museo delle Illusioni Roma (Museum of Illusions)
- Museo Civico di Zoologia
- VIGAMUS (The Video Game Museum of Rome)
- Churches
- Basilica di Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio
- Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola
- Leonardo Da Vinci Experience
- Castel Sant’Angelo
- Libraries
- Shopping Malls
- Galleria Alberto Sordi
- Porta di Roma
- The Vatican Museums
Essential Tips for Families Visiting Rome
👣 Prepare to walk a lot. Rome’s tram and metro system doesn’t extend into the centro storico, which is only accessible by a less-than-perfect bus system.
📸 Don’t overpack your itinerary, and be ready to see what you can without rushing. Traveling with kids in a big city like Rome naturally slows things down, so embrace the journey rather than focusing on specific destinations.
🍦 Keep your children energized with regular stops for gelato, available on nearly every corner.
🥵 If visiting in the summer, be mindful of the heat. Start your day early for outdoor activities or save them for the cooler evening hours. Many Romans retreat during the hottest part of the day, reemerging only after 5 or 6 p.m.
☔️ Rome is fortunate to have minimal rainfall, but for those occasional downpours (which often pass within an hour), there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.
👶🏻 Above all, remember that Italy is an incredibly kid-friendly destination, so don’t stress too much about your children behaving perfectly all the time.
15 Best Indoor Activities in Rome for Kids
1. Sculpture Museums
Unlike museums that primarily feature paintings, those with sculptures are more likely to capture the attention of children. Three-dimensional works of art allow them to engage with the pieces in a tangible way, encouraging curiosity and imagination as they explore depicted scenes or recognizable characters from stories and history.
The Capitoline Museums are among the most famous in Rome and one of the oldest public museums in the world. They house an extensive collection of ancient Roman statues and historical artifacts, most of which were sourced directly from ancient Rome.
Located just below the city center, Centrale Montemartini offers a unique experience by combining classical art with an industrial backdrop, displaying ancient Roman sculptures amidst early 20th-century power plant machinery.
2. Mercato Trionfale
Mercato Trionfale, established in 1889, is one of the oldest and largest markets in Rome. The covered shopping area is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and rich culinary offerings. Food is a significant part of culture and is often overlooked in big, fancy museums!
Self-proclaimed “foodie families” should make Mercato Trionfale a must-see. The market is particularly notable for showcasing traditional Roman cuisine and artisanal products, making it a popular destination for food enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors and ingredients from the region.
Located just a short walk from Vatican City, this bustling market provides a diverse selection of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. Young children will also appreciate the seafood section; our daughter, for instance, did not want to leave after watching fishmongers throw around fish.
While there are several similar markets in Rome, Mercato Trionfale and Mercato di Testaccio are among the most admired and definitely worth visiting.
3. Zero-Gravity Roma
The Zero-Gravity complex is a play gym and trampoline park featuring foam pits and various sports activities for children of all ages. With the supervision of trained staff, it provides a safe space for kids to expend their energy, stay active, and have an insane amount of fun.
Located slightly outside the city center, Zero-Gravity can still be easily reached by metro and bus in about an hour. Since the gym tends to get crowded, it’s recommended to make reservations and arrive during off-peak hours, such as right when they open.
There is an upper mezzanine area where parents of older kids can watch their children play without having to pay for entry to the gym. While Zero-Gravity isn’t the cheapest indoor activity for kids in Rome, it’s definitely one that may be worth the cost for the joy it provides!
4. Explora Museum
The Explora Museum is the best child-focused museum in Rome, particularly for children under 10. Toddlers and younger children will easily be immersed in the activities for a couple of hours. The exhibits are educational and based on self-directed play, allowing parents to be present without necessarily needing to get involved.
The exhibits are designed to encourage children to experiment and learn by doing. While it may not be a very “Rome-centric” destination, the Explora Museum is still one of the best indoor activities in Rome for young kids when you need to keep them entertained on a rainy day.
Reservations are highly recommended, as entry operates in timed slots. This is done to ensure the entire area is disinfected after each group!
5. Museo e Cripta dei Cappuccini
Located inside a 500-year-old monastery, this crypt featuring a bone display is likely more appropriate for older kids than for little ones. Teenagers will undoubtedly find this museum both spooky and interesting while also receiving a bit of a history lesson.
The bones of over 4,000 Capuchin friars have been artistically arranged to create elaborate decorations, such as chandeliers and wall motifs.
These chilling displays serve as a poignant reminder of mortality and the transient nature of life, making it a fascinating—and perhaps a tad unsettling—stop for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Rome’s rich religious heritage.
Entry to the crypt costs less than €10 per adult, and children under 7 years old can enter for free.
6. The ‘Welcome To Rome’ Experience
The Welcome to Rome Experience is presented as a “time machine” that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of Rome in an engaging and spectacular way. Essentially a movie presentation, it features video projections, 3D exhibitions, and large-scale models of Rome’s most significant landmarks.
The experience is straightforward and simple enough for children to understand, making it an excellent introduction to the city’s history before venturing out to explore.
A visit to the Welcome to Rome Experience lasts about one hour, a beautifully brief period that even younger kids can easily manage.
7. Museo delle Illusioni Roma (Museum of Illusions)
You’ll find a Museum of Illusions in nearly every popular European capital city. These museums aren’t designed to be authentic to their respective destinations and often feature the same displays as other locations.
Yet, it remains as one of the easiest indoor activities in Rome for kids due to the convenient entertainment value.
Spending an hour in the museum will guarantee plenty of laughs, funny photos, and a welcome escape from poor weather or extreme heat while trekking around Rome. The majority of the exhibits are interactive, which is another significant advantage when visiting with children.
8. Museo Civico di Zoologia
Bioparco di Roma is Rome’s beloved zoo and an excellent outdoor activity for families. Alternatively, you can also visit the zoo’s museum, Museo Civico di Zoologia, which is indoors and doesn’t require an entire afternoon to explore.
The museum features various collections that appeal to both children and adults, including a vast display of preserved stuffed animals, such as mammals, marine animals, insects, and an enormous bird collection.
Unfortunately, this is a place to avoid from June to August, as there is no air conditioning; however, it remains a solid activity during the winter months. Be sure to plan your visit on the first Sunday of the month when admission is free for all.
9. VIGAMUS (The Video Game Museum of Rome)
The Video Game Museum of Rome is Italy’s first museum dedicated to video games and interactive entertainment. It features a wide range of exhibits that showcase the history and evolution of video games, from classic arcade machines to modern consoles.
To fully appreciate this indoor attraction, it’s obviously best to visit with kids who already have some interest in video games. Visitors can explore immersive installations, learn about the cultural impact of gaming, and even participate in hands-on activities.
While the museum is particularly suitable for older children, especially teenagers, retro gaming enthusiasts will also find it equally captivating.
10. Churches
Rome’s historic center is home to approximately 900 churches. This number includes a wide variety of religious buildings, from famous basilicas to smaller chapels. Churches are an integral part of Rome’s cultural heritage and, understandably, some of the easiest places to visit since there are so many of them.
They are also the best affordable indoor activities for families in Rome, as entry is free. Religious sites in Italy almost never require an entry fee, allowing you to enjoy them while on a budget.
Iconic churches, such as Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola, have become popular tourist hotspots due to their incredible ceilings. You can be just as amazed by the artwork in a church as you would be in a Roman museum.
In the summer, churches are excellent places to cool off in Rome because they are naturally kept dark and cool.
11. Leonardo Da Vinci Experience
Many people focus on Leonardo da Vinci’s works of art, but his scientific contributions and inventions often get lost in the mix. He is best remembered for masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, while his innovative studies in anatomy, engineering, and aerodynamics are equally groundbreaking.
The Leonardo da Vinci Museum features more than 50 of the inventor’s creations along with models. This museum is surprisingly kid-friendly, as many of the displays are designed for children to manipulate and interact with.
The working inventions, good value, and quality curation make this stop both entertaining and informative for the whole family. Children under 6 years old can enjoy the Leonardo Da Vinci Experience for free!
12. Castel Sant’Angelo
Castles are always whimsical places to visit for kids, especially those who have watched classic Disney movies. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant’Angelo has transformed over the centuries into a fortress and papal residence, providing insight into Rome’s rich history.
Families can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and capture the perfect family photo from the castle’s terrace. Additionally, the museum houses intriguing exhibits that range from Renaissance art to military artifacts, appealing to history buffs, art enthusiasts, and lovers of fairy tales alike.
13. Libraries
Libraries are magnificent places to visit with kids, and Rome is no exception. Whether you stop by Biblioteca Angelica, a historic library founded in 1604, or the largest library in Rome, Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale di Roma, there’s always something of interest for both kids and parents.
As public spaces, these libraries are well-maintained and appropriately heated or cooled based on the season. They not only serve as repositories of knowledge but also as cultural centers that host events and exhibitions for the public. So, you never know what local events you might stumble upon during a spontaneous visit!
The only downside to libraries is the need for quiet, which can be challenging with young children. In this case, consider visiting the Biblioteca Centrale per Ragazzi, a library focused on children’s literature that encourages young readers and allows for a more relaxed atmosphere.
14. Shopping Malls
Shopping centers cater to every family member with a wide variety of activities. Teens can shop for clothes, toddlers can explore toy stores, and parents can relax with a coffee. Visiting a shopping mall is a tried-and-true indoor activity in Rome for kids that never disappoints.
Malls also provide a controlled and safe environment for families, which is a relief for young kids who like to run around. Additionally, shopping centers offer climate control, making them ideal for escaping scorching summer temperatures or chilly winter days.
Galleria Alberto Sordi is the most beautiful shopping mall in the historic center of Rome, conveniently located near the Trevi Fountain. Built in 1924, this traditional arcade is renowned for its elegant architecture.
For a more conventional “mall experience,” head to Shopping Mall Porta di Roma, an expansive collection of shops and activities that will entertain any family for an entire day.
15. The Vatican Museums
As a fair warning, the Vatican Museums can be a hit or miss when visiting with children. Depending on your child’s mood and the crowd size, your experience may be either fantastic or somewhat miserable. That said, it’s still worth a visit if the conditions align properly.
We visited the Vatican Museums with our daughter when she was just under three years old. Since she is independent and enjoys mimicking adults, we were able to navigate the museums alongside the crowd and felt that we experienced everything adequately.
While we had a positive experience, a few factors can make the Vatican Museums less than ideal for kids. First, the crowd size significantly affects your visit; too many people can make it difficult to navigate with a young child or a baby in a stroller.
Second, there aren’t many places to sit during the tour, so if you have a cranky, tired child, things can get challenging.
Visitor Tip: Evening slots are usually better times to visit the Vatican Museums, as most people opt for the morning. The last couple of hours before closing tends to be quieter.
Map: Kid-Friendly Indoor Activities in Rome
FAQs Visiting Rome With Kids
Are Museums in Rome Kid-Friendly?
Some of Rome’s most important galleries and museums aren’t traditionally kid-friendly. By this, we mean you won’t find designated play areas or exhibits specifically for children. The extent of their “kid-friendly” features usually includes changing tables in bathrooms and stroller-accessible ramps or elevators.
Parents planning to spend a significant amount of time in museums with kids should know that most of these spaces are better suited for older children.
Of course, no museum in Rome prohibits children—whether it’s a good fit depends on your child’s patience for exhibits that may feel dull to younger visitors.
How Do You Make Rome Fun for Kids?
In Italy, and particularly in Rome, family is central to daily life, with younger children naturally involved in nearly everything adults do. As a result, there’s little separation between activities for kids and those for adults.
In Rome, simply “do as the Romans do” by bringing your little ones along to whatever you’re exploring—they’re likely to be welcomed everywhere, as the atmosphere is notably family-friendly and relaxed.
Additionally, as most parents know, young children are especially visual learners. To keep them as engaged in Rome as you are, focus on museums and attractions that emphasize visual appearance over lengthy explanations (less talking = the better). It’s also wise to avoid activities that involve long waits, as those can be especially tough on young kids.
Should You Bring a Stroller to Rome?
We’ve visited Rome a couple of times with a stroller when our daughter was under two years old. At this age, navigating a city without a stroller or carrier is nearly impossible, so yes—you’ll want to bring one.
However, be prepared: not every route will be senza stairs, so you may need to carry the stroller or take a longer way around.
Compact strollers (we used the Bugaboo Butterfly) with small wheels also don’t perform particularly well on many of Rome’s cobblestone streets. It’s definitely doable but requires careful attention to each nook and cranny in the road.
Are Guided Tours in Rome Good for Kids?
As expected, guided tours in Rome run on a set schedule, which may be easy or challenging to follow depending on your children’s ages.
While guided tours can be fantastic for certain attractions—like the Vatican Museums (which are enormous) or the Forum (where many ruins aren’t labeled), they do tend to last longer than the attention spans of small children.
When choosing a guided tour to enjoy with kids in Rome, it’s important to consider the tour length. You might also look for child-friendly options, such as a Percy Jackson-themed tour of the Capitoline Museums.
Where to Eat in Rome With Kids?
Casual restaurants in Rome are very accommodating to families with children of all ages. They’re typically happy to adjust your order, seating, and other preferences.
You can feel confident taking your kids to nearly any osteria or trattoria in Rome. In contrast, a ristorante in Italy is usually more formal, with white tablecloths and attentive waitstaff, which might be an atmosphere to avoid with small children.
If you’d rather skip a formal sit-down meal, look for places with tavola calda, bar, friggitoria, pizza al taglio, or forno in the name. These eateries specialize in self-service and most often offer takeout options, making them convenient and economical choices for families.
Not in the mood for pizza? Try tramezzini (soft white bread sandwiches) or a panino (more rustic and traditional) as alternatives.
How to Get Around Rome With Kids
Public Transportation
Rome’s public transportation system includes the metro and tram, both of which are easy to use but don’t provide comprehensive coverage in the historic center of Rome. For tourists, this area is the city’s main attraction, meaning you’ll either need to take the bus or explore on foot.
Even after traveling through multiple European capitals, we find the bus to be the least appealing way to get around. If you feel differently, that’s great news—you might just become best friends with Rome’s bus system! Personally, we can’t say it’s easy to navigate, though we hope this improves in the future.
Public transportation passes in Rome are interchangeable, meaning one pass works on the metro, tram, and bus. Note, however, that regional trains require a separate fare. Luckily, children under 10 ride free on Rome’s metro, bus and tram.
Walking Around Rome
Getting around Rome with kids on foot naturally takes longer, but it’s also a fun adventure, with plenty of chances to stumble upon great spots for gelato and other treats.
When crossing streets in Rome, use a crosswalk whenever possible. In areas without one, follow this trick for crossing safely: look both ways, and if you see a car, make eye contact with the driver to give them time to stop. Then, step confidently into the road, maintaining eye contact.
Tour Buses (Hop-on Hop-off)
The red sightseeing buses, commonly known as Hop-on Hop-off buses, are popular and abundant in Rome. When used at the right time of year and day, they can be an efficient way for families to experience the city.
When booking and planning to ride a Hop-on Hop-off bus, try to avoid summer and rush hours, as heavy traffic is common in Rome’s city center. Tour buses don’t receive any special privileges on the roads, so you’ll end up stuck in the same traffic as everyone else.
If you only have one day in Rome with kids, you’ll likely find the Hop-on Hop-off bus a convenient option. Otherwise, we wouldn’t recommend it as your primary way of getting around Rome.
