Exploring Venice with Kids: A Family Adventure

Not many destinations astonish like Venice – the city’s staggering beauty and unique setting knows few rivals on the continent (or anywhere, for that matter).

Sauntering about Venice’s distinctive web of waterways, canals, and bridges as a family evokes Walt Disney World-level marvel and awe around every turn, each nook and cranny wowing kids and adults alike. So grab the little ones – the magic here is real!

Is Venice Good with Kids?

One of the world’s most spectacular destinations, Venice dazzles all ages – nobody is immune from that instantaneous and unparalleled love-at-first-sight moment when uninitiated eyes spy the city for the first time. The city’s radical deviation from the typical urban landscape is, in and of itself, an attraction for kids. The endless maze of footbridges and staircases, traversing a web of intertwined waterways, is one giant playground for the little ones.

Children love getting around the city. The fleet of water taxis, vaporetti (public waterbuses), gondolas, and private boats ensure constant fascination. Although Venice does present its own set of unique challenges: parents don’t need to worry about their kids crossing the street without looking both ways, but the constant concern of falling into a canal isn’t exactly a welcome trade-off.

However, Venice is not stroller-friendly either, with numerous staircases throughout the city making for an exhaustive workout for parents. Family-friendly public facilities are also limited, though parks and playgrounds can be found in a few neighborhoods, such as Canereggio’s Parco Savorgnan and Castello’s Parco delle Rimembranze.

The best news for families traveling in Venice is that kids are genuinely welcomed in most cases. Expect a cheeky wink or a joke with your kids from a restaurant waiter or a knowing smile from a local nonna (grandmother) when you’re carrying everyone’s luggage and wondering if you’ll make it to your accommodation before you collapse. You won’t encounter intolerant glares like you can in some less family-oriented cultures.

Where is Best in Venice for Kids?

A vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal is fun for the whole family – line 1 runs the complete length from Piazza Roma to Piazza San Marco, passing the ornate facades of Venice’s most regal palaces along the way. Furthermore, head out on a winged “Lion of Venice” hunt – the symbol of Venice since 828 CE is everywhere, including Piazza San Marco. Alternatively, consider a trip to the beach. Venice’s Lido was Europe’s first beach resort.

Best Things to Do in Venice with Babies and Toddlers

Pre-mobility, you can enjoy the city just like you could “before kids.” However, it is advisable to bring a baby carrier as strollers can be a real drag in the city. Once they’re up and at ’em, it should be noted that in lots of places, there are no railings. Thus, Venice is probably best avoided by families toting toddlers in the early walking stage.

A gondola ride is likely to be a guaranteed hit if you do bring them at this age, though the lack of life vests may turn off some parents!

Best Things to Do in Venice with Younger Children

Once kids get the walking thing down, are more aware and curious about the world around them, and more inclined to follow instructions (let’s call it 4 and up), options abound. Child-friendly museums like the Leonardo da Vinci Museum and the Natural History Museum all feature fun, interactive exhibits geared towards younger children.

Heading straight to the top of Venice’s towers for astounding views – St Mark’s Campanile and San Giorgio Tower – are both guaranteed to be a good time. Additionally, consider a picnic in the green spaces such as the Giardini Pubblici, perfect for an al fresco meal.

Lastly, your kids will love the chance to make their own Venetian disguise. Various venues offer family-oriented workshops for creating the city’s famed Carnevale masks.

Best Things to Do in Venice with Tweens and Teenagers

Venice is a culinary delight that older kids will appreciate through its chicchetti – the Venetian answer to tapas. Bar-hopping from bàcaro to bàcaro sampling the creative wares of each is an unforgettable experience. Moreover, older kids will be awed by Venice’s extravagant palaces and top art museums.

For the active and sportier teens, activities like kayaking can engage the whole family. Learning to voga (Venice’s signature stand-up rowing technique) is another fantastic option, with opportunities available for kids to pilot their own boats.

Planning Tips

• Arm yourself with a changing mat and plenty of wipes for on-the-go diaper changes (changing facilities aren’t prevalent).

• Ditch the stroller – baby carriers, slings, and backpacks are the way to go in Venice.

• If you must use a stroller, consider lighter, umbrella strollers for optimal foldability on public transport.

• Vaporetti, water taxis, gondolas, and boats are your new best friends.

• In times of doubt or desperation, don’t forget the universal remedy: gelato!