Venice with Kids

Venice, Italy is famous for its winding canals and historic architecture, making it an ideal destination for families traveling with kids. With its enchanting museums, delightful parks, and unique attractions, Venice offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun activities suitable for all ages. This expert guide will provide you with insights into the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and practical tips to ensure a memorable family vacation.

Top Attractions for Kids

Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs

Doge’s Palace, a symbol of Venice’s rich history, will captivate older kids with its grandeur and intriguing stories. The nearby Bridge of Sighs captures imaginations with tales of prisoners’ fates.

Libreria dell’Acqua Alta

This unique bookstore stores books in gondolas and bathtubs to protect them from high tides. It’s a whimsical place that both kids and adults will adore.

Peggy Guggenheim Museum

A family-friendly museum that offers free art workshops for kids on Sundays. It’s a great opportunity for kids to explore modern art in an engaging way.

Rowing Lessons with Row Venice

Kids can learn to row Venetian-style in traditional boats, providing them with an educational and enjoyable hands-on experience.

Treasure Hunt with Macaco Tours

Embark on a private treasure hunt through Venice’s charming streets, engaging kids in exploration and discovery.

Glassblowing in Murano

Visit Murano to witness skilled glass artisans at work and even create your own glass murrina. It’s a memorable activity for creative youngsters.

Colorful Houses of Burano

Take a boat trip to Burano and admire its vibrant houses. Treat your kids to local delicacies like buranelli biscuits.

Museums and Cultural Sites

Museo Leonardo da Vinci

This museum features interactive exhibits showcasing Leonardo’s machines, making it perfect for hands-on learning and exploration for kids.

Borges’ Labyrinth on San Giorgio Maggiore

A newly opened labyrinth that provides an intriguing and fun experience for kids and adults alike. It also offers stunning views from atop San Giorgio.

Where to Stay in Venice with Kids

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

• Cannaregio: This neighborhood is close to the train station and offers excellent amenities. It has a local feel and is ideal for families seeking a central yet relaxed atmosphere.
• Dorsoduro: Located centrally and near attractions like the Peggy Guggenheim Museum and Accademia, Dorsoduro offers a quieter ambiance compared to San Marco.
• Castello: This neighborhood offers a glimpse into authentic Venetian life away from tourist crowds. It has family-friendly parks and local gardens.

Family-Friendly Hotels

• Hotel Nani Mocenigo Palace (Dorsoduro): This charming hotel offers family suites and is located close to cultural attractions and parks.
• Ca’ Due Leoni (Cannaregio): A family-run hotel with clean accommodations, a welcoming atmosphere, and convenient access to local transportation.
• Hotel dell’Orologio (San Polo):Located near attractions like Rialto Bridge, this location offers comfortable family rooms and easy access to dining options in Venice.

Dining with Kids in Venice

• Osteria ai Pugni (Dorsoduro): Enjoy cicchetti (small bites) in a casual setting, perfect for a light meal with kids.
• La Colonna (Cannaregio): This family-friendly restaurant offers local Venetian cuisine, including options that are suitable for kids.
• Gelati Nico (Dorsoduro): Indulge in authentic gelato at this shop, where kids can enjoy traditional Italian ice cream flavors.

Getting Around Venice

• Vaporetto: Venice’s water buses provide a scenic and practical way to navigate the city’s canals, with routes that cover major attractions.
• Traghetti: These gondola ferries cross the Grand Canal and offer a budget-friendly alternative to a full gondola ride.

3-Day Itinerary for Families

Day 1: Exploring Historic Venice

• Morning: Visit Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs.
• Afternoon: Explore Libreria dell’Acqua Alta and enjoy a gondola ride or take a ride on a traghetto.
• Evening: Have dinner in Cannaregio and sample local cuisine.

Day 2: Art and Creativity

• Morning: Attend art workshops at the Peggy Guggenheim Museum.
• Afternoon: Explore Murano to see glassblowing demonstrations and visit Burano to admire its colorful houses and try buranelli biscuits.
• Evening: Take a sunset boat ride back to the Venice city center.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Museo Leonardo da Vinci for interactive exhibits.
• Afternoon: Explore the Borges’ Labyrinth on San Giorgio Maggiore.
• Evening: Have dinner in San Polo and take a stroll near Rialto Bridge.

Tips for Tourists

• Book in Advance: Many attractions offer online tickets, which can help reduce wait times.
• Pack Light: Strollers can be challenging to navigate on Venice’s narrow streets and bridges, so consider using a baby carrier instead.
• Stay Hydrated: It’s important to carry water bottles with you, especially during warmer months.
• Respect Local Customs: Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so please be mindful of local regulations and traditions.