USD
Sign up Log in
Your Guide to Fun Things to Do in Florence with Kids 

Your Guide to Fun Things to Do in Florence with Kids 

Find inspiration, guides and stories for wherever you're going

Your Guide to Fun Things to Do in Florence with Kids 

Plan Your Trip arrow_forward

Florence is a city full of exciting things to do in Florence with kids and plenty for families to see and do. In the Florence city center, there is a lively feeling with many places to explore. The area is packed with history, so both kids and adults can enjoy every moment there. Go on walking tours that take you through old stories and past beautiful buildings. There are also busy piazzas where children can run, have fun, and play. The best thing is that many of the top places are within walking distance, so you do not have to travel far. This makes any trip easier for everyone. If you want to make wonderful memories in Florence with your kids, the city center is the place for you. Are you ready to get started? Let’s go!

Best Time to Visit Florence with Kids

When you plan a trip to Florence with kids, the timing matters a lot. The best months are from April to June and from September to October. The weather during these times is nice, and you can spend full days seeing the city. It is good for eating outside in the piazzas, visiting museums, and taking a day trip to a nearby UNESCO world heritage site. March and November can have some rain, but these months are also good if you want there to be fewer people.

Summer needs extra care, mainly if you travel to Italy with kids who do not do well in the heat. July and August are very hot, so try to pick things to do in the shade or stay at an agriturismo and just take a short-day trip into the city. Winter can be cold, but the city lights and the holiday feeling are special at that time. Whichever season you pick, Florence is great for families.

How Many Days to Spend in Florence with kids

The best length of your family’s first time in Florence depends on what you want to do. If you pick a quick trip of 1-2 days, this works well in the warm summer months. It is good when you aim to see the main spots or follow a day itinerary, especially if Florence is part of a longer northern Italy with kids trip. A short visit lets children walk around and take in the distance of the city without being too tired.

But if you can, try to make your trip longer. Stay for 3-5 full days to really enjoy Florence. This gives you time for slow walks and lets you find hidden corners of the city. You can taste gelato in the city center’s best gelaterias. You also have time for day trips to places like Santa Croce or the Tuscan countryside. This longer stay adds more to your Florence trip. With a good plan, your family will be able to see and feel the magic of the city center and everything Florence has to offer.

Tips for Getting Around Florence with Kids

Navigating Florence with kids can be easier than you think. The best way to get around the city center is by walking. Most sights are within walking distance, so it is simple to see many of them in one day. In the historic parts of the city, the streets have cobblestones. It is smart to use a baby carrier for your little ones, as pushing a stroller can be tough in these areas.

If your family would like to use public transport, you will find buses and trams to be a good choice. Make sure you buy your tickets before you get on. Don’t forget to validate them once you are on board. You can also use taxis, which are easy to find in the city center. Keep in mind that many taxis do not have car seats, so pack or plan for that if you need it. Florence is compact, so you will not spend much time traveling between spots in the city. This gives you more time to take in all that is fun in Florence. If you want to go outside the city center, day trips are simple. You can get to other towns or places by train or by renting a car.

Fun Things to Do in Florence With Kids

Florence has a lot of fun things to do in Florence with kids and plenty of activities for families to enjoy. You can also explore more ideas for things to do in Italy with kids across the country. Kids really enjoy looking for new things in all corners of the city. You can see many interactive museums or treat your family to delicious gelato. Walk through busy piazzas, or let the kids run and play at Giardino di Borgo Allegri. The city does a good job mixing fun and learning at attractions like Michelangelo’s David and the Leonardo da Vinci Museum. People who love art or being outside will find Florence has many different things to do. It keeps children of all ages interested and helps them learn, too.

Marvel at Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery

Few artworks grab people’s attention like Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Gallery in the Florence city center. This statue is tall and grand. It amazes art lovers, first-time visitors, and even people who come with their families. Older kids who are learning about art or history will be drawn in by it. Younger ones might find the size and details of the statue interesting too.

Besides David, the gallery holds Michelangelo’s Slaves sculptures. These show what unfinished works can look like. If you have kids who like music, the musical instruments display is a good stop. The gallery is small, so it's easy for families to get around. It’s a good idea to buy skip-the-line tickets. These help you spend less time waiting. If you start a walking tour here or choose to see other spots, the Accademia Gallery in the city center makes your Florence trip more exciting.

Explore the Leonardo da Vinci Museum’s Interactive Exhibits

Step into the world of new ideas at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum. This place is known for its hands-on displays that let older kids get to know the ideas of Leonardo da Vinci. You can look at his inventions and sketches. The Leonardo Interactive Museum is great for children aged 7-8 years and up. It helps kids be curious and want to explore. One great thing is a room with bright, digital copies of his famous paintings. It makes people think about art and science. The younger ones will have fun playing with levers and puzzles. But keep an eye on toddlers because some displays can break.

The museum is close to the historic center of Florence. You can easily visit some other big sights while you are here. The Leonardo Interactive Museum is a great place for families who want to do fun things and find new things to learn in Florence.

Enjoy Panoramic Views from Piazzale Michelangelo

Piazzale Michelangelo gives you amazing views of Florence. You can see the famous Duomo and the banks of the Arno River from this spot. It's a great place to take family photos, primarily when the sun goes down. To get to the piazza, you have a few choices. You can walk up the hill, take a bus on route 12 or 13, or use a taxi. If your family wants to avoid the stairs, you can pick certain paths, like Viale Giuseppe Poggi, which is a bit easier.

You can bring some picnic food with you and relax on the grassy area or sit in the nearby rose garden. Enjoy the beautiful sights as you eat. Remember to visit the statue that is a copy of Michelangelo’s David. If you want to go higher and see even more, you can go up to San Miniato al Monte. You can walk there or take a bus. However you get to the top, Piazzale Michelangelo is the place to be when you visit Florence.

Ride the Carousel in Piazza della Repubblica

Little kids really love the carousel in Piazza della Repubblica. This fun ride is right in the Florence city center. The horses and carriages are made with care. Families like to come here for a quiet break as they walk through the old city. Parents do not have to pay if they ride standing up, so it helps to keep the cost low. There are bookshops close by, like RED Feltrinelli. It has books for children, which makes a visit to the piazza even better. If you have a stroller, it is a good idea to have someone watch your bags when you are enjoying the carousel. When the evening comes, the carousel looks extra nice. The old-fashioned feel, together with the bright lights, makes it incredible. The della Repubblica area is a great spot for families with little kids to have fun in the city center.

Go on a Family-Friendly Walking Tour

Exploring the streets of Florence is a great way for families to spend time together on a walking tour. As you walk in the historic center, you will find art and history in many places. You can look at the beautiful building of Santa Maria del Fiore and learn about Giotto’s Bell Tower. Walking here is good for families with older kids, as you can talk about the city's stories from medieval times and heroes from the Renaissance. If you have little ones with you, a guided tour may help keep them interested by sharing fun stories. As you go along the banks of the Arno River, all the family can learn about these things in a fun and easy way.

Sample Gelato at Florence’s Best Gelaterias

Eating gelato in Florence is always a fun thing to do. There are many gelaterias in the city. Here, people make creamy treats with fresh and local ingredients. You can try many flavors. Kids and adults love to find new tastes, from fruity sorbets to rich kinds of chocolate. Some gelato shops are close to places like Piazza della Repubblica and the old bridge, Ponte Vecchio. These sweet spots on the streets of Florence are great places to stop for a cool treat. Walking around with your gelato lets you enjoy the streets of Florence, make nice memories, and get a real taste of what Italian culture is like.

Play and Relax in Boboli Gardens

Boboli Gardens is a great place for families. There are large grassy spaces where kids can run and explore as much as they want. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can see beautiful views of Florence from here. It is a nice place to relax after a busy day. Families can look at lovely fountains and sculptures. You can also enjoy a picnic on the grass with your people. The gardens are good for older kids who want to learn about history. Younger kids can have fun as they play and look at the pretty nature all around them in Boboli Gardens.

Visit the HZERO Miniature Train Museum

Exploring the Hzero Miniature Train Museum is a fun trip for both little kids and older kids. It is a place that shows small trains with many tiny details. The displays are made to let you feel the magic of Florence’s historic center. Families get to see the little lands and scenes that show what train trips can be like. There are displays that help children learn about the history of trains and how they work. This makes it not just fun, but a good way to learn new things. Spending a few hours here is a good way to enjoy time in the city, with both fun and learning in a lively place.

Discover Armor and Swords at the Stibbert Museum

The Stibbert Museum is a great spot for young explorers. It is close to the city center, so you do not have to go far. This museum has a lot of armor and swords from different times. When you walk in, you feel like you have stepped into medieval times. Kids, both little kids and older kids, can look at the cool designs and the things people used long ago. The bright displays help the past come alive. You will get to learn new things, and the museum makes you want to know even more. It is a fun and interesting place for all the family.

Cross the Historic Ponte Vecchio Bridge

Walking on the famous Ponte Vecchio is exciting and amazing for families. This bridge has many shops that sell gold and silver jewelry. The experience is fun for both older kids and young children who are curious. As you walk on its old cobblestone, stop for a bit. Enjoy the lovely view of the Arno River and the old buildings around Florence. Visiting here gets the imagination going and is a great way to learn about ponte Vecchio and its history from medieval times.

Visit the Palazzo Vecchio

A visit to Palazzo Vecchio takes you and your family right into the heart of Florence's history. This beautiful palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has bold, eye-catching designs and rooms that take you back to medieval times. Kids, especially older kids, will enjoy looking at the grand rooms. They can also picture what life was like for rulers during the Renaissance. Fun things like scavenger hunts help older kids learn in an exciting way. The piazza outside is also a great spot to take a family photo. You can get a nice picture with the city and famous landmarks behind you.

Try a Pasta or Pizza Making Class

Culinary experiences can be a great way for families to spend time together. When you join a pasta or pizza making class, you get to learn helpful cooking skills. The class also lets you be creative and work as a team with your family. You will use fresh ingredients like flour and tomatoes, and you get to learn Italian cooking in a hands-on setting. Many classes share fun stories from culinary history, which makes learning feel like an adventure. At the end, when you eat the pasta or pizza you made, the whole family will feel proud and happy with what they have created.

Hunt for Street Art Around the City

Exploring the streets of Florence shows a mix of street art that gets the attention of both older kids and young children. Walking around turns into an exciting search for art, letting families see another side of this city. You can find big murals and eye-catching graffiti in areas like Santo Spirito and the historic center. These creative works make people feel curious and excited to look for more. Every new street or corner can bring a surprise or a spot for taking fun photos. It is a great way to make memories while visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Rub the Nose of the Fontana del Porcellino for Good Luck

A family day out feels right when you stop by the famous Fontana del Porcellino. This well-known bronze pig statue sits near the busy Piazza della Repubblica. Lots of people stop at this spot every day, because it stands out. Many like to rub the nose of the statue, thinking it brings good luck. Kids enjoy joining in this well-loved tradition. Parents often take photos to keep the memory. A visit here lets you experience some of Florence’s old folklore. It also helps you feel the lively spirit of della repubblica.

Enjoy Story Time at Biblioteca delle Oblate

Story time at Biblioteca delle Oblate is an amazing experience for kids. It mixes learning and fun in a lively place. The library is in the middle of Florence. It is a nice spot for little ones. There are exciting storytelling times to help kids dream and love to read. Older kids enjoy listening to wonderful stories. At the same time, younger children can look at books in a section made just for them. There are many bright books for them to see. The feeling here, with nice city views, is relaxing. It is a good place for families to spend time together and find new things to enjoy.

Admire Artworks at the Uffizi Gallery with a Kids’ Guide

Exploring the Uffizi Gallery with a kids’ guide can be an adventure you will not forget. These tours help make art easy to enjoy. They use simple stories that keep young minds interested. Kids get to find work by big names like Leonardo da Vinci and Giotto. They also learn new things about history, but in a way that makes it feel like fun. This family-friendly way of exploring helps spark curiosity in kids as they walk through the big collection at the Uffizi Gallery. There are fun facts and interactive parts to the tour. Kids can have a good time, learn to love art, and make memories in the heart of Florence’s historic center.

Run Around in the Parks and Playgrounds of Florence

Florence has many parks and playgrounds that are great for kids who have a lot of energy. When you are in the city center, you will find grassy spots around boboli gardens that are nice for children to run, play, and be in nature. Another good place is giardino di borgo allegri, where the children can use fun play structures and be surrounded by green trees. If you have older kids, there are big open spaces at piazza santo spirito. This area is lively and good for them to play. These outdoor spots help families relax, play together, and enjoy the views of the city's old buildings in the city center.

Visit the Italian Soccer Museum

A trip to the Italian Soccer Museum lets people see the history of this loved sport. Families can go through fun hands-on exhibits. You will find famous players, top clubs, and many big moments that have made Italy’s soccer great. Little kids and older kids will enjoy looking at the different items from teams in Serie A to the national team. When you be here, you get more than just a good time. The museum helps you see and know more about the culture of Italy.

Take a Spin in Piazza Santa Maria Novella

Piazza Santa Maria Novella is a great spot for families who want to relax and see something new. The square has a large grassy area that is nice for the kids to play and run around. You can see the beautiful Santa Maria Novella church in the background. The place is lively, but it still feels calm at the same time. Parents can look at the pretty sights, while kids enjoy some fun games or just chase each other. There are cafes all around, so you can get a gelato or drink an espresso. It is the perfect way to take a break and watch people in the area.

Browse the Children’s Section at Todo Modo Bookshop

Exploring the children’s section at Todo Modo Bookshop is a great spot for families and their kids. This shop sits in the middle of Florence. It has a nice, friendly vibe. The bookstore brings together a handpicked mix of books for all ages. You will find stories for toddlers and some for older kids too. There are storytelling times that pull you in and spaces where you can sit and read. Children can learn new stories and live in different worlds. It is a good place to rest after you have gone out to see the city. The team makes it easy for people to enjoy stories and explore their love for books and new ideas.

Experience Science at La Specola Natural History Museum

A visit to the La Specola Natural History Museum gives you and your kids a deep and hands-on experience. The museum is great for curious minds. Children will have a good time as they look at the different displays with all kinds of interesting biological specimens. They will also enjoy the fun dioramas, which help to make parts of nature come to life in a way that is easy to understand. There is also a collection of anatomical models in the museum. People get to see human anatomy the way people saw it many years ago. This part of the visit draws a lot of attention and helps make learning about the body easy and exciting.

This trip helps to build curiosity and makes science fun even for very young kids. When they walk through the museum’s halls, young explorers get to see the wonders of the natural world. For many of them, this visit creates memories that will stay with them for a long time.

Join a Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Exploring Florence with a scavenger hunt is a great way for the whole family to have fun. When kids solve clues, they get to know the city’s history and see some beautiful buildings. They can spot famous places like the Ponte Vecchio and the Palazzo Vecchio while they walk. This kind of adventure helps kids grow more curious and think in new ways. Parents can be part of it too, sharing good times and finding new corners of the city together.

Say Hello to the Horses Near Piazza della Signoria

A fun moment waits for you near Piazza della Signoria, right in the city center. There are big, beautiful horses standing by, happy to meet both kids and grown-ups. Kids, in particular, will love these calm animals, often found close to where you walk. Seeing them gives you a chance for a nice photo. It also helps you and your family talk about the story of horse-drawn carriages in the city center. While you explore, stop for a minute to say hello and make good memories with these horses in front of the old city landmarks.

Check Out the Chocolate Wall at Venchi

Venchi is a great place to visit with your family. People know this spot for its amazing chocolate wall. You will see a big display of chocolate treats that will excite both kids and adults. Venchi is in the city center, so it is easy to get there. Here, you can try sweet gelato and tasty chocolates. It is a good way to make memories with the people you care about. Young children will have fun picking out the chocolate and gelato they like best, which makes it feel like a fun party. Venchi is also close to Piazza della Repubblica, so you can walk there from the busy area. This spot in the city center is a wonderful choice to add to your trip plans.

See an Exhibition at Palazzo Strozzi

Exploring contemporary art at Palazzo Strozzi is a fun and lively activity for families. The palace is a great spot known for its bold and changing exhibits. It is a good place to spark ideas and creativity in children. You will find activities that often include interactive displays. These grab the imagination and let both older kids and younger ones connect with art in new ways. There are also helpful displays that show more about the artists and how they work, so everyone can learn something. It is a good day out for all.

Things to Skip in Florence with Kids

While Florence is full of places to see, not all of them are set up for a good family visit. The inside of Santa Maria del Fiore may look great from outside, but it might not interest little kids as much as some other churches they have seen before. Also, walking tours that talk a lot about history can feel too long or the same, mainly for young children. Taking little kids to too many museums during one trip can wear them out. Most kids like to get out and move around, so it's good to have some time outside without tight plans. It's best to mix famous places with time for fun, and try walking tours that include stops younger ones will enjoy. If you skip the places that need a lot of waiting or focus, you can make your list of things to do in Florence fit what your whole family will like. This way, you and your family can have the best time during your trip.

Where to Eat and Stay with Kids in Florence

Florence makes it easy for people to enjoy great food while staying at places that are good for families. You can find many restaurants in the city center. The places are close by. You can walk to them and enjoy pizza, pasta, and gelato. If you need a place to sleep, there are trusted hotels near the Santa Maria Novella train station. This area is also convenient for those planning a longer family trip to Italy. These give you both comfort and easy access. You are also close to the city center. If you want to pick up some picnic things for a day out in the grass or relax in a hotel after a busy day, Florence has what you need for families. There are top gelato shops, big rooms in the hotels, and friendly spots all over the city. Florence makes sure you and your kids have a good and easy trip, whatever you are looking for.

Family-Friendly Restaurants You’ll Love

Florence has several family-friendly places to eat. Mercato Centrale is a food court with many different kinds of food to try. Gelateria La Carraia offers good gelato at a fair price and is close to the Arno River. At Tamerò, you can enjoy your meal while your kids play in Piazza Santo Spirito. Hard Rock Café has plenty of seating and even offers meals for kids. Beppe Fioraia is a great choice if you want to enjoy big plates of food outside with family or friends. These places have good food, are friendly, and are easy for families to find when they are out in Florence.

Top Hotels and Areas for Families

Grand Hotel Minerva is close to the Santa Maria Novella Station. It has a rooftop pool and big rooms, which are nice when you stay with your family. Hotel Spadai is right next to the Palazzo Medici Riccardi. The rooms are quiet because they are soundproof. There is also a spa at this hotel. Palazzo Niccolini al Duomo sits by the Duomo Cathedral. They serve breakfast, and you can look at the Santa Maria del Fiore from the hotel. All of these hotels are near the top places in Florence. This makes them a good choice for families who want to see the city.

Seasonal Events and Festivals for Families

Florence has many events for families, and there are new things to do all through the year. In summer, you can go to outdoor concerts at Piazza Santo Spirito. These concerts are fun, and kids will enjoy them a lot. When spring comes, flower festivals fill places like Giardino di Borgo Allegri with color and life. In winter, the Florence city center shines with holiday lights. If you are visiting during the holidays, check out our guide to Christmas in Italy to learn about festive events across the country. These lights cover famous spots, from Piazzale Michelangelo to Ponte Vecchio. You will find cultural celebrations and seasonal markets close by, often just a walking distance from where you are.

Family-Friendly Day Trips from Florence

Make your Florence trip even better with family-friendly day trips. Take a short trip to places like Siena or San Gimignano, which both hold UNESCO World Heritage titles. These towns are also top highlights on many southern Italy itineraries for families who like to explore beyond Florence. You can reach these gems by train, car, or by walking from Santa Croce. You can also go to the Chianti area and see Tuscany’s countryside, or consider heading further to explore places to visit in southern Italy if you have extra days. There are small medieval towns like Castellina to check out. If your kids want something different, try Collodi Pinocchio Park or Pistoia Zoo. This will give you fun things to do besides checking out art and buildings. Each of these day trips helps you see fresh corners of the city and lets your family learn more about Italy.

Final Thoughts

Florence is a great place for families to visit. It gives you many fun and learning experiences, so you and your kids can make good memories here. You can see amazing art at the Uffizi Gallery, or spend time outside in the pretty Boboli Gardens. There is something in the city for everyone. As you walk around and see the history and bright culture, make sure you try the tasty local Italian food. Take part in fun things to do in Florence with kids that your kids will love and will make them happy. Enjoy the chance to find out more about Florence with your family and hold onto these moments. This city gives you the right mix of learning and fun, making your family trip even better. If you’re looking for more inspiration beyond Florence, explore our full guide to the best places to visit in Italy with kids.