Travelling to Florence is one of the best things to do in Italy with children. When visiting Florence with kids, you will not only uncover the unique Renaissance spirit of its architectural marvels and museums but will also eat great food, walk in its lush parks and take delight in its child-friendly infrastructure.
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Is Florence Child-Friendly?
Have you been thinking about where to take your kids for them to feel comfortable and delight in the scenic architecture & jaw-dropping art? To munch on the world’s best food? Then we have the answer: go on a Florence city break to get all this…
Florence is one of Italy’s best cities to travel to with kids. You and your kids will see the city’s stunning architecture, unearth its treasure trove of artistic gems and taste the yummy Florentine cuisine, including the gelato ice cream your kids will love.
What is more, you will for sure appreciate how child-friendly Florence is thanks to the abundance of pedestrian-only streets and plazas, shady serene gardens & parks and scenic environs, so nice for hiking with kids.
When is the best time to visit Florence?
Travelling to Florence feels like magic throughout the year. But it is arguably in December and May that Florence has the most to offer.
City Break to Florence in December
Have you been dreaming of a magical Christmas fairytale for you and your kids? Head to Florence in December for your dreams to come true. At Christmas, Florence is brimming with Christmas charm thanks to its one-of-its-kind festive atmosphere, one of Europe’s best Christmas markets; its festooned streets and traditional fir Christmas trees.
Note that if busy over Christmas another great period to visit Florence to indulge in its festive spirit is between March 12-March 21 when its one-of-its-kind carnival takes place.
City Break to Florence in May
Since summers in Europe tend to get hotter, one of the best months for visiting Florence with kids in May. It is not just that the temperature is still mildly warm for you to contemplate the beauty of its landmarks; May is also when its beautiful purple rhododendron blooms are blossoming.
Travel to Florence, Italy with kids in May for you to contemplate its beauty, enveloped by the fragrance of its parks and gardens, without the intense summer heat.
You may also like our city break guide to Lucca, Italy
Where to Stay in Florence with Kids
Since Florence’s historical centre is pullulating with historical sites, it is worthwhile to stay there to save up on transport and things like restaurants to take some rest between hopping from one museum to another.
We found three different types of accommodation for all kinds of budgets, for you to have the best value stay in Florence.
Budget: Hotel Loggia Fiorentina
Located downtown, the Loggia Fiorentina hotel offers triple rooms for families. It is great for travelling with kids, as the hotel will check in a second child free.
It also offers free Wi-Fi, splendid city views, valet parking, car parking, free luggage storage and recreational facilities such as watersports equipment rentals and non-motorized water sports.
Mid-Range: Hotel Pendini
Also situated in the city centre, Hotel Pendini offers a huge living space for a family of four, at the bargain price of 163 euros. It features magnificent decor, great window views, a 24/7 front desk, free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, express check-in & check-out and a wealth of recreational offerings.
Splashing Out: Palazzo Vecchietti
Have you been imagining yourself as a gonfaloniere of Florence? If so you have a chance to live the role… Head to Palazzo Vechietti, the city of Florence, Italy’s most opulent hotel, with truly palatial residencies.
Placed in a 16th century mansion, mentioned by Dante Alighieri himself, a four-person apartment done out in the unique Firenze fashion comes with a scenic rooftop, Florence’s best breakfast, and charcoal-decorated common areas. Note that the hotel offers babysitting services so you can see the magnificent Florence at night!
Top 10 Things to do in Florence with Kids
Have you been asking yourself what to do in Florence with kids? The answer can extend for hundreds if not thousands of pages. Check out the top 10 ten things to do in Florence, Italy:
#1 Santa Maria del Fiore
The Duomo Cathedral is one of the best things to see in Florence, Italy. Its gargantuan dome is among the world’s biggest and is a tribute to the Renaissance architecture, which Florence is renowned for.
Located off the scenic Plaza de Duomo, one of the main Florence’s squares, it was started as early as 1296 and is a great aesthetic treat for your kids in Florence.
Note that one of the best things to do in Italy with children is to climb on top of the cathedral to enjoy gob-smacking vistas from its observation deck.
Take a look at this Skip the Line Duomo Ticket with Dome Climb
#2 Ponte Veccio
For sure one of the best things to do in Italy for families is to go to Ponte Vecchio, one of Florence’s prime architectural landmarks. Straddling the serene Arno River, the most inspiring nature in Florence Italy must see, it is not only a great piece of architecture, but is also one of the reasons to travel to the scenic Arno.
Note that visiting Florence’s Ponte Vecchio will take you kids back to the Middle Ages, for it is only then that such bridges were built. Ponte Vecchio is a walled-off bridge whose walkway is lined with shops, and is one of the best things to see in Florence. View more of the best shopping cities in Europe here >>>
Note that you don’t have to buy a ticket to visit Ponte Vecchio.
#3 Uffizi Gallery
Going to a museum is one of the main activities in Florence, and generally if travelling in Italy with kids. Go to Uffizi Gallery, arguably the city’s most famous museum to make your Florence weekend break truly worthwhile. It features one-of-its-kind Renaissance art.
It is home to the collection of one of world history’s most powerful and cunning families, the Medici. The family’s collection gave rise to one of the world’s first modern museums. Initially admitting art lovers by request only, it has been open to the public just since 1765. Head here to wheen your children on the best art the world has to offer.
#4 Palazzo Vecchio
Thinking of what to do in Florence with kids? Head to Palazzo Vechi, one of the best things to see in Florence. Originally known as Signoria of Florence, it was the seat of power of one of the modern world’s first republics, the Republic of Florence.
Currently functioning as the town hall of the city of Florence, Italy, it dominates the Piazza della Signoria, which is home to one of Michelangelo’s most famous statues, David. It also lies next to Loggia dei Lanzi, one of the world’s best galleries of statues.
#5 Basilica of Santa Croce
Situated close to the Duomo, the basilica was built on the site of a former marshland. Duomo has grown to become the main Franciscan church in Florence and a minor basilica of the Roman Catholic Church.
It is known for its stunning rose window, composed of concentric decorative fragments, within the laurel leaf garlands and circles of angels.
The church also features a one-of-its-kind interior and has truly become one of the main symbols of the city of Florence, Italy.
Note that one of the top things to do in Florence is to go on a tour of Basilica of Santa Croce.
#6 David of Michelangelo Statue
Located on a plaza, it is one of Renaissance’s main jewels and one of the best things to see in Florence, Italy. Head here to uncover the beauty of Biblical David by one of the world’s best artists and 15th century Florence legends, Michelangelo.
Keep in mind that the statue impressed the citizens of Florentine Republic so much that it came to symbolise the independence of the republic, fending off the malign influences of the Medici family.
#7 House of Dante
The house of the Divine Comedy’s author Dante Alighieri, it is a shrine to all lovers of Italian literature. The convinced Guelph, Dante was not just a poet, but also a prominent political leader, whose fate was to die in exile. Head here to develop the sense of curiosity for all things Florentian, and take delight in the marvellous interior of the place and the many Dante-related exhibits.
Bear in mind that if the first two of the three floors are specially dedicated to stages of the poet’s life (youth & exile), the third is devoted to his post-mortal renown.
#8 Parco della Cascine
Head to Parco delle Cascine, one of the top Florence landmarks. Here you will find a historic park covering 160 hectares, stretching along the River Arno until the point where it merges with the Mugnone River. It is great for family strolls and gazing at the beautiful Arno.
#9 Boboli Gardens
One of the best things to do in Florence is to go to Boboli Gardens, an idyllic green space situated above the quiet flow of the Arno. The garden is one of the first examples of the Italian garden, which used to belong to the powerful Medici family. It is decorated with exquisite well-trimmed vegetation, nonpareil sculpture, and is known for the adjacent Pitti Palace.
Keep in mind that there is an admission fee to enter the garden. Click here to book a private tour.
#10 Michelangelo Square
Whereas many not acquainted with Florence will think it is a typical city piazza, Michelangelo Square is in fact one of the best viewing points in Florence. It towers above the city and offers a splendid panorama. Head here with kids for them to look over the beautiful cityscape, and maybe even play football close to the bronze cast of David, a replica of the famous Michelengeolo statue.
Reccomended Post: Facts About Italy for Kids + Trivia Questions
Where to Eat in Florence for Families
The cuisine of Tuscany, the region where Florence is located is known for its meat dishes, such as Bistecca alla Fiorentina, sausage-based staples, such as Fagioli con Salsiccia, salads such as Panzanella, and its most popular pasta, Pappardelle.
Travel to Tuscany, Italy with kids for them to unveil the gastronomical delights of this one-of-its-kind region, and if you are a responsible parent don’t miss out on the heady Tuscany wine.
Buca Lapi
The famous restaurant Buca Lapi is specialised in Tuscany fare with its meat ambrosial dishes being among the city’s best. Go to Buca Lapi not only for delectable food but also for a truly chic atmosphere. Note that it is one of the best value locations, where food is of such quality that it is worth your every eurocent.
Panini Toscana
If you are looking for a quick snack on your way to another landmark, Panini Toscana is a god-send. Here you can not only delight in Tuscany’s famous paninis, but also do it fast without spending a fortune. Head here for a quick lunch break or even a brunch for you kids to feel energised for more of the beauty to come.
Pizzeria il Camaldoli
Head to this simple-looking locale, to treat your kiddies to the most heavenly pizza in the city of Florence, Italy. Even though the decor can look far less exquisite then in the likes of Buca Lapi it offers truly delicious homemade pizzas without which your trip to Italy with kids can’t be considered complete.
2 Days in Florence Itinerary
Head to Italy for a 2-day city break in Florence, Italy. During these 48 hours, you can visit the most prominent architectural and cultural sites the city of Florence, Italy, has to offer and further instil a sense of beauty into your kids. Whether you’re visiting Florence on a city break or on the first stop of a road trip in Tuscany, there’s plenty to see and do.
Day 1: 24 Hours in Florence with Kids
Morning: On the first of 2 days Florence, Italy, head to the scenic Duomo Cathedral and climb on top of it, one of the best things to do in Florence, Italy.
Then make your way to the nearby Basilica of Santa Croce for you to marvel at its picture-perfect facade, and go on a guided tour of its marvellous interior.
After visiting the locale, go and have a look at the statue of David by Michelangello located just across the square.
If you have time, go to the nonpareil sculpture-museum Loggia dei Lanzi. Buy tickets before you visit here.
Afternoon: During the afternoon of your 2 days in Florence, you head to the Ponte Vecchio to uncover its medievalesque magic and see what commerce used to look like back in the day.
Afterwards, head to the nearby Boboli Gardens, Italy’s first example of the Italian garden, and its neighbour, Piti’s Palace to uncover their splendour and the true grandiosity we tend to associate Florence with.
Take your time to wander along the majestic Arno’s riverside, and head for a hearty dinner at Buca Lapi, or another restaurant known for its generous portions.
Day 2: Florence in 2 Days
Morning: On the second of the 2 days in Florence, go to one of the world’s first museums, Uffizi Gallery and spend as much time there as you can there. Like this, your trip to Italy with kids will for sure leave a lasting impression on them, and they will no doubt say thank you to you when they grow up.
Afterwards, head to the Galileo Museum (free admission), sitting right next door, to introduce the man who sacrificed it all at the altar of science.
Then have a pleasant stroll to the City Hall, to show them the grandeur of the republican model of governance and make your 2 day Florence itinerary morning a tribute to Florence’s greatness.
Afternoon: Head to the vast Parco delle Cascine, to amble around and let your kids sense the arboreal fragrance of this historic locale. Don’t forget to take a ball for them to play football, or a bicycle for them to cycle.
Afterwards, head for a vespertine walk through the historical centre of Florence to hunt for souvenirs. Then plomp down at a yummy pizzeria to make your 2 days Florence itinerary truly unforgettable.
3 Days in Florence Itinerary
Morning: On the third of your 3 days in Florence itinerary, make a trip to the House of Dante, one of the best things in Florence for children. Here you can not only look at the monumental edifice that the great Italian poet called his home but also enter it and see the exhibits that tell you the life of this world-renowned Italian.
Once you’ve done Dante museum, go to Casa Buonarroti, a museum dedicated to Michelangelo, one of the 15th century Florence most famed artists.
View this private tour of Michelangelo and Santa Croce Bastilica.
Afternoon: Make your luxury short break to Florence truly paradisiac and set out for lunch at heavenly Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, a market that sells traditional Florence signature foods, and is one of the best ways to uncover the commercial vigour of Florence.
Afterwards, you can pay a visit to the Synagogue & the Jewish Museum of Florence, located nearby and emphasising the role the Jewish community played in the history of Florence.
Next, if not tired, trundle your kids to Strozzi Palace, with some choice historical exhibits, and if you have time, to Museo Salvatore Fergamo. a mediaeval palazzo museum, narrating the history of fashion and shoes. Make your 3 days in Florence truly worth it. Buy tickets for Strozzi Palace before your visit here.
4 Days in Florence Itinerary
Morning: Since you have been in Florence for a while, one of the best things to do in Florence with kids on the 4 day in Florence Italy is to go to Abbazia di San Miniato, a hilltop house of prayer with a shining Romanesque exterior & mediaeval interior. Note that the spot has some of the city’s best views.
Afterwards, return to the downtown and go to Bargello National Museum, featuring art by the likes of Michelangelo.
Afternoon: Then for your kids to relax after the strenuous site-seeing go to the Republican square with its carousel for your kids to feel like real cowboys they are. Don’t forget that Italy is home to its gelato, a great treat to your soldierly offspring who have survived all the museums and cathedrals you showed them through.
Day Trips from Florence with Kids
Florence, the capital of Tuscany is not just an exceptional art & architecture destination it is also a great hub for travelling around the region as a whole. Here are some of the best day trips from Florence.
Montepulciano
One of the top things to do in Italy is to travel to Montepulciano, a picturesque hilltop locale renowned for its clocktower, for your kids to study Italian numbers, headed by the figure of Pulcinello, a commedia dell’arte character your kids will for sure remember from the books; and the Palazzo Grande from whose tower opens up a mind-blowing view over the surrounding vineyards.
How to get to Montepulciano
Hop on the train from SMN train station to Montepulciano, which will take you about 2 hours.
San Gimignano
One of the best things to do in Italy for families is to travel to San Gimignano, idyllically set in the Tuscan mountains. The scenic mountainous town offers not only a wealth of architectural marvels like its unique towers, but also great food and plenty of space for your kids to frisk around or just take in the beauty of the surroundings, making it the perfect spot to travel to Florence with a toddler.
How to get to San Gimignano
• Board one of the Regionale trains from Firenze SMN train station to Poggibonsi, running almost every hour. The bus ride will take you about an hour
• Hop off the train at Poggibonsi train station and jump on the bus 130 or 133 to arrive in San Gimignano. The journey is about 20/25 minutes.
Pisa
Known for its leaning Pisa Tower, Pisa is one of the best places in Italy to visit with kids. It is here that you can indulge in the familial spirit of an Italian town, with its many bistros, pizzerias and cafes. It is also a university town so your kids will no doubt be impressed by the chance to study in such a scenic locale when they grow up.
How to get to Pisa
Embark on a train at SMN, and make it for Pisa. The journey will take you just an hour or so.
Getting Around Florence
Florence is fairly easy to navigate. You can use its buses, taxis, or if you need to travel out of the downtown, even trams. Keep in mind that it is on foot that your kids will absorb the most of Florence’s beauty and breath in its centuries-hallowed air. So don’t forget to buy some good boots or sandals, and a sun hat if travelling in summer. So pack up and have a nice Florence city break.
How to Get to Florence
Depending on where you’re travelling from, there are many ways to reach Florence:
Getting to the city of Florence, Italy by bus
Florence has a regular bus connection with other major Italian cities such as Venice, Bologna, Milan, Genoa, Rome, and even Naples. A bus ride is a cheap way to get to Florence for kids and you.
Getting to the city of Florence, Italy by train
Note that trains are the fastest way for visiting Florence with kids from another Italian city. What is more, if a bus ride can feel tiring at times, for example, due to traffic or bus stations unique to every bus; the train is not affected by clogged streets and is relatively hassle-free, since it pulls into the Florence Railway Station, Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) only.
Note that there are not just regular trains but also express trains that will allow you to get to Florence even faster.
Buy Train Tickets for Your Trip Here >>>
Getting to the city of Florence, Italy by plane
If you travel from another corner of Italy such as Sardinia or Sicily, flying may be your best option. Bear in mind that it is also possible to fly to Florence from outside Italy.
Getting to Florence, Italy by car
Renting a car is a good option when travelling with kids. Like this, you can not only travel when and how you want, but also stop at Italy’s many campsites and motels, and explore the hidden gems of Tuscany, the idyllic region around Florence.
View Car Hire Prices for Your Dates Here >>>
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Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.