Venice with Kids: Your Ultimate Guide to Family Fun

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Are you planning a trip to Venice with kids? You might be wondering if this enchanting city, known for its winding canals and historic charm, can also be a kid-friendly destination. Well, I’m here to tell you that it absolutely can be!

I’m a father of two kids, 9 and 11. 

We live an hour from Venice and travel there several times per year, so I know that Venice with kids can be a challenge. However, with some planning and insider tips, you’ll discover Venice can be just as much fun for kids as it is for adults.

In this article, I will share our family’s experiences and provide you with a helpful guide, ensuring that your trip to Venice with kids is not only doable but also enjoyable. You’ll learn how to choose the right places to eat, where to stay, find family-friendly attractions, and navigate the city like a pro.

So, let’s dive in and explore this beautiful floating city together! I’m confident that by the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make lasting memories in Venice with your kids – transforming it into the perfect family-friendly destination for everyone.

Want to know the best time to visit Venice? Read the full article!

Is Venice a Good Place to Bring Children?

I’m often asked if Venice with kids is worth it. The answer is a resounding yes! While Venice is often thought of as a romantic destination for couples, it has so much to offer families with kids as well.

Here’s why:

• Unique experiences: Venice is a city unlike any other, with its maze-like canals and rich history. Exploring the city on foot or by gondola will surely captivate your children’s imagination and spark their curiosity. The floating city presents a unique opportunity for kids to learn about culture, history, and architecture in a truly engaging environment.
• Family-friendly attractions: Venice is home to a variety of attractions that cater to children of all ages. From interactive museums and art galleries to fascinating workshops, such as mask-making and glassblowing, there’s no shortage of fun and educational experiences for the whole family.
• Outdoor activities: If your kids need to burn off some energy, Venice offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Lido Beach is a great spot for families to relax, swim, and even rent bikes to explore the island. In addition, there are numerous parks and gardens scattered throughout the city, perfect for picnics and playtime.
• Local cuisine: Venice is famous for its amazing food, which is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Treat your kids to some of the best gelato in Venice or introduce them to traditional Venetian snacks like cicchetti. There are also plenty of kid-friendly restaurants and cafes that cater to families.
• Safe environment: Venice is a safe city, and with a little vigilance, parents can feel comfortable allowing their kids to explore and experience the city’s wonders.

Visiting Venice with kids can be challenging due to its unique layout and accessibility concerns. Navigating the city’s narrow streets and numerous bridges can be difficult, especially with strollers, and water safety is crucial when near the canals. Crowds and long lines at attractions can be overwhelming, while finding restrooms may prove tricky. 

Managing expectations is essential when traveling with children. Be prepared to adjust your itinerary to accommodate rest breaks and free playtime, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for the whole family. With a little planning and flexibility, Venice can be a magical destination for families, leaving lasting memories for both parents and kids alike.

This is why I created this guide. It takes some planning, especially when you visit Venice with kids, but when you get it right it is an awesome place to visit. 

When you follow my tips, Venice can be a magical destination for families, leaving lasting memories for both parents and kids alike.

How much time to spend in Venice? Here’s my ideal itinerary for 2 days.

Preparing for the Trip

As a father who has a lot of experience with Venice with young kids, I can’t stress enough the importance of preparation and coming up with the perfect Venice itinerary. With a little planning, you’ll be ready to tackle the city and make the most of your family vacation.

Researching family-friendly accommodations

Consider staying in neighborhoods like Cannaregio, Castello, or Dorsoduro, which tend to be quieter and more family-oriented. These areas also have parks and playgrounds where your young kids can unwind after a day of sightseeing.

You can stay anywhere in Venice as long as the hotel has child-friendly amenities. Choose accommodations that have features suitable for families, such as adjoining rooms, babysitting services, and a kid-friendly menu at the hotel restaurant. Make sure to check if your hotel provides cribs or rollaway beds if needed.

Here is an article I wrote with the best family hotels in Venice to give you some help in finding the ideal accommodations.

Booking.com

Choosing the right time to visit

Traveling during the off-peak season (March and April, October to March) means fewer crowds, shorter lines, and often lower prices. Just be aware that Venice can be chilly and damp in the winter months.

Summer is very hot and very crowded but this is often the only time that you can visit due to school vacation. If you have young kids that aren’t in school yet, consider coming in the spring when the weather is warm but still not scorching hot.

Just be aware of the events that happen throughout the year that do make it crowded and necessary to book well in advance. The types of events are things like Carnevale in February, Christmas and New Year’s Eve in the winter, and the Venice marathon in October.

Packing essentials for kids

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes are a must for navigating Venice’s cobbled streets and bridges. Don’t forget rain gear, as Venice can be quite wet at times. It’s also a good idea to pack layers, as the weather can change throughout the day.

Pack any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit, including band-aids, pain relievers, and any allergy medications your kids might need. It’s also a good idea to have sunscreen, insect repellent, and travel-sized hand sanitizer on hand.

Read my packing list guide for what to wear in Venice!

Should You Bring a Stroller?

Is Venice stroller-friendly? The truth is, Venice can be a bit of a challenge for strollers due to its narrow streets, numerous bridges with steps, and the overall layout of the city. However, visiting Venice with very small kids can still be a kid-friendly experience with some planning and the right equipment.

If you’re considering bringing a stroller, opt for a lightweight and compact one that can be easily carried up and down the bridges. Be prepared to navigate around the narrow streets, and avoid bringing a bulky stroller that may be difficult to maneuver.

Alternatively, you might want to use a breathable baby carrier, especially for infants and very small kids. This option allows you to move freely through the city without the hassle of navigating a stroller. Plus, baby carriers make it easier to keep your little ones close while exploring the wonders of Venice.

Recommended ages of kids to bring to Venice

While Venice can be enjoyable for children of all ages, it may be best suited for kids aged 5 and up, as they are more likely to appreciate the city’s unique features and participate in activities like workshops and museum visits. 

Children that are not walking yet are also at a great age to visit Venice. As long as they can be carried in a baby carrier, you will have very few limitations when exploring or taking a gondola ride.

A family trip with older kids and teens can be a lot of fun since they have fewer special requirements and will understand everything going on that you plan to do. 

Family-Friendly Attractions

Venice offers an array of attractions that cater to families and keep kids entertained. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best family-friendly activities that Venice has to offer, ensuring that your trip is a memorable experience for everyone.

Exploring Venice’s canals

• Gondola rides: A trip to Venice wouldn’t be complete without a traditional gondola ride. Gondola rides are a great way to experience the city’s charm and enchantment while gliding through the Grand canal and also the smaller more quiet ones. To make it more engaging for the kids, consider a themed or story-based gondola ride that will pique their interest.
• Vaporetto tours: The vaporetto, Venice’s public water bus, offers a more affordable alternative to a gondola ride. Take a vaporetto tour along the Grand Canal to see iconic landmarks, beautiful palaces, and stunning bridges.
• Water taxis: Taking a water taxi is the most expensive way to get around Venice but is well worth it especially with small children. If you are looking to go to the islands in the lagoon or the Venice Lido, this is the ideal way to go so you can get there quickly, without any crowds, and in style. 

Visiting iconic landmarks

• Piazza San Marco: The bustling heart of Venice, Piazza San Marco is a must-visit for families. Kids will be fascinated by the feeding pigeons, while parents can appreciate the architectural marvels like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile.
• Doge’s Palace: The magnificent Doge’s Palace offers a glimpse into how the leaders of the Venetian Republic lived. Opt for a family-friendly Doge’s Palace guided tour to keep the kids engaged with interactive storytelling and hands-on activities. Older children are especially intrigued by the visit to the dungeon where they can see what the medieval justice system was like.
• Rialto Bridge: The iconic Rialto Bridge is a perfect spot for family photos and offers stunning views of the Grand Canal. Nearby, you can explore the Rialto Market, where kids can discover a variety of local foods and crafts.

When going to the major attractions such as St Mark’s Square and the various museums, it is very wise to get one of the many Venice passes available for various attractions and events. This is especially true when you visit Venice with kids. 

These passes will allow you to skip the line at the major attractions so you aren’t testing the patience of younger children. 

Here is an article I wrote that details the various passes so you can find the right one for your needs and Venice itinerary. 

Museums and galleries

There are a lot of museums in Venice, but not all of them are most family friendly museums. The ones below are sure to please younger kids and older children alike. 

• Peggy Guggenheim Collection: This modern art museum is housed in an 18th-century palace and features works by renowned artists like Picasso and Dalí. The museum offers family-focused activities, including treasure hunts, workshops, and guided tours designed for children. Workshops are held on Sundays. Another family-friendly feature is that they provide strollers for visiting the museum.
• Natural History Museum: The Natural History Museum is a fantastic choice for kids who love animals and nature. The museum’s exhibits showcase fossils, preserved animals, and an impressive collection of Venetian aquatic life.
• Leonardo da Vinci Museum: This interactive museum allows kids to explore the genius of Leonardo da Vinci through hands-on exhibits and models of his inventions. It’s an ideal attraction for young kids who are budding scientists, engineers, and artists.

Borges’ Labyrinth on San Giorgio Maggiore

Located on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, the Borges’ Labyrinth is a fascinating maze inspired by the works of Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges. This attraction offers a unique experience for families, as kids will enjoy navigating the winding paths while parents can appreciate the literary and artistic elements. 

To reach the island, simply take a vaporetto from St. Mark’s Square, and enjoy the beautiful views of the city as you approach.

The campanile of San Giorgio is also a great alternative to going up the bell tower in St Mark’s Square. It offers better views, and no crowds.

Kid-Friendly Activities

Venice offers a variety of exciting and engaging activities tailored to kids, ensuring that their visit to the city is fun and memorable. In this section, we’ll cover some fantastic kid-friendly activities that the whole family will enjoy.

Glass blowing demo in Murano

Take a trip to the island of Murano, where your kids can marvel at the intricate art of glass blowing. Skilled artisans demonstrate their craft, creating beautiful glass pieces right before your eyes.

Mask-making class

Venice is famous for its Carnival masks, and a mask-making class is an excellent opportunity for kids to learn about this local tradition. In these classes, kids can create their very own mask to take home as a unique souvenir.

Some stand out workshops are Mondo Novo in Dorsoduro on the Rio Terà canal and La Bottega dei Mascareri near the Rialto Bridge.

Shop at the Libreria Acqua Alta

This one-of-a-kind bookstore, often referred to as the most beautiful bookstore in the world, is a treasure trove of books stacked in gondolas, bathtubs, and even a full-sized boat. The whimsical setup is designed to protect the books from the city’s frequent floods, hence the name “Acqua Alta,” which translates to “High Water.”

Children will be captivated by the labyrinth of books in various languages, the friendly resident cats, and the enchanting atmosphere that encourages exploration and discovery.

Taking your kids to the Libreria Acqua Alta is not just about buying books. It’s an adventure in a quirky world that excites their senses. From the staircase made of books to catch a view of the canal behind the store, to the funny “fire escape”, to the friendly cats to pet, it is fun for kids of all ages.

Visit Lido Beach

The Lido is a long, narrow island that separates the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea, offering a perfect getaway from the bustling streets of Venice. With various beaches to choose from, a trip to the Venice Lido beaches can be an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Getting there: To reach the Lido, take a vaporetto (water bus) from several points in Venice, such as San Zaccaria, Fondamenta Nove, or Tronchetto. The most popular route is the Linea 1 vaporetto from San Zaccaria, which takes about 15 minutes to reach Lido.

Types of beaches on Lido:

Public beaches

The Lido offers several public beaches that are free to access. The most popular one is the Blue Moon Beach, located near the Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta. This beach is well-maintained and equipped with showers, changing rooms, and snack bars. Spots have to be reserved in advance so follow this link to get your spot.

Private beach clubs

For a more exclusive experience, consider visiting one of the many private beach clubs on the Lido, such as the Excelsior or the Des Bains. These clubs usually require an entrance fee or membership and offer a range of amenities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, and beachside restaurants.

• Activities for kids on Lido beaches: The sandy beaches at Lido provide a perfect playground for kids to run, play, and build sandcastles. Many of the private clubs also offer organized activities for children, such as treasure hunts, mini sports tournaments, and supervised play areas.
• Renting a bike to explore other beaches on Lido: To explore the full extent of Lido’s beaches, rent a bike from one of the many rental shops on the island. Biking along the coast allows you to discover lesser-known beaches and enjoy the scenic beauty of the island. You’ll also save money by hitting the souvenir shops here instead of in the city center.
• Dining and facilities: The Lido offers a variety of dining options, ranging from casual beachside snack bars to upscale restaurants. Many of the beach clubs have their restaurants, while the main street, Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta, boasts numerous eateries, cafes, and gelato shops. Public restrooms and changing facilities are available at most beaches, ensuring a comfortable experience for families.

Chocolate tasting at VizioVirtu’

Visit VizioVirtù chocolate shop for a delightful tasting experience. This artisanal chocolate shop offers a variety of delicious treats that will delight both kids and adults alike.

Exploring Campo Santa Margherita

Campo Santa Margherita is a vibrant square where local kids often gather to play. A visit to this square offers an opportunity for your children to make new friends and experience the real Venice.

Consider visiting other family-friendly squares like Campo San Polo and Campo Santa Maria Formosa, where you can let the kids run around and soak in the local atmosphere. With these activities, your family will create lasting memories of your Venice adventure.

Spotting the Venetian winged lion game

Turn your exploration of Venice into a fun treasure hunt by challenging your kids to spot the iconic Venetian winged lion that adorns the city’s architecture. This game will not only entertain your kids but also help them learn about Venice’s rich history and symbolism.

Fun Things to Do in Venice for Teenagers

Venice has much to offer for teenagers looking for exciting and engaging activities. In this section, we’ll cover a range of fun things to do in Venice for teenagers that cater to various interests and hobbies.

Adventure activities

Explore Venice’s fascinating history and hidden corners through adventure activities such as scavenger hunts, haunted Venice guided walking tours, or even a kayaking excursion through the canals. These activities provide an interactive and immersive way for teenagers to experience Venice’s rich culture.

Art and photography workshops

Venice’s stunning architecture, narrow streets, and colorful houses make it an ideal backdrop for art and photography enthusiasts. Teenagers can join workshops or classes to hone their skills while capturing the beauty of the city.

Local music and nightlife options

Venice offers a variety of music and nightlife options that cater to teenagers. From classical concerts in historic venues to modern live music performances in trendy bars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to check local event listings for age-appropriate and family-friendly events.

Visiting Murano and Burano

A family trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano is highly recommended when you don’t have young kids that might get bored in the quiet lagoon. Murano is famous for its glass-making tradition, and visitors can watch glass artisans at work in their studios. 

Burano, on the other hand, is known for its vibrant and colorful houses, as well as its tradition of lace-making. Both islands offer a unique experience for older kids, who can explore these charming islands, learn about their history, and even shop for souvenirs. 

To visit Murano and Burano, take a vaporetto from Fondamenta Nove or join a guided private tour that includes transportation.

Navigating Venice with Kids

Venice can be a challenging city, especially when traveling with kids. However, with some planning and a few handy tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Safety tips

Using life jackets on water transport: When using water transportation, such as gondolas or water taxis, it’s essential to prioritize your kids’ safety. Although not mandatory, consider having them wear a life jacket, particularly if they are not strong swimmers. Many water transport services offer life jackets for children upon request.

Child-friendly navigation apps: Navigating Venice’s narrow streets and numerous bridges can be tricky. To help you and your kids stay on track, consider using a child-friendly navigation app or a detailed map that highlights attractions, restrooms, and other family-friendly facilities.

It’s also helpful to have a plan in case you get separated. Make sure the child knows what to do if they lose sight of you for a moment so they don’t panic. Tell them to find a police officer or official, and where they should wait for you if they can’t find somebody to help.

Piazza San Marco and the train station area can be particularly crowded and it can be very easy to get lost there with just a couple of seconds of distraction. 

Managing transportation with strollers

Accessibility considerations: While Venice is a beautiful and historic city, its narrow streets, numerous bridges, and uneven surfaces can make using a stroller challenging. Before your trip, research the most stroller-friendly routes and attractions to ensure a smoother experience.

Alternatives to strollers: If you’re concerned about navigating Venice with a stroller, consider using a lightweight, collapsible stroller, or a breathable baby carrier for very small kids. These options are more convenient for navigating the city and can be easily stored when not in use.

Maintaining a flexible itinerary

When traveling with kids, it’s essential to maintain a flexible itinerary that allows for rest, spontaneity, and adjustments as needed. This approach ensures a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for the whole family.

Planning for rest breaks: It’s crucial to incorporate rest breaks into your daily schedule when exploring Venice with kids. This could mean taking a break at a park, having a leisurely lunch, or returning to your accommodation for a mid-day nap. By allowing time for rest, you’ll help prevent meltdowns and ensure that everyone has the energy to enjoy the city’s sights.

Allowing for spontaneity and free play: While it’s important to plan ahead and schedule visits to attractions and activities, make sure to leave some room for spontaneity and free play. Venice is full of hidden gems, and sometimes the most memorable experiences come from stumbling upon a charming square, playground, or gelato shop that wasn’t on your itinerary. 

By being open to unexpected discoveries, you’ll create a more enjoyable and authentic experience for your family.

Finding restrooms

Locating restrooms in Venice can be challenging, especially when you’re traveling with kids who might need one urgently. To avoid any discomfort or stress, plan your route with restroom stops in mind. Many attractions, such as museums and galleries, have restrooms on-site. 

There are public restrooms throughout the city, often located near major landmarks. Keep a map or app handy that lists restroom locations to ensure you’re always prepared. You should also make sure to always have some coins on you as the public restrooms cost between 1.50 to 2.00 euros to enter. 

Another idea is to pop into a coffee shop and order a coffee or bottle of water to be able to use their restroom. Although some don’t allow access to restrooms in general, most will make an exception for children. 

Here’s a handy app of a map that shows you the public restrooms in Venice, so make sure to download it before you arrive. 

Where to Eat with Children in Venice

Eating in Venice with children is easy. Eating a good meal in a spot that works for both adults and kids is more of a challenge. 

It helps to have a dining plan before you set out to be able to avoid overpriced tourist traps with lousy food. There are plenty of grab and go options as well as street food in addition to the traditional sit down restaurants, but you generally need to know where to go. 

Here is my list of some good spots to eat some great food that everybody will love:

Rosso Pomodoro

Believe it or not, it is difficult to get a decent pizza in Venice. Most pizza joints cater to tourists in a rush so the quality is not usually great. There are exceptions, however, and Rossopomodoro is one of them. 

Located just a stone’s throw away from Piazza San Marco, this spacious pizzeria is an excellent choice for families with kids. As part of a renowned chain of restaurants, they take pride in using “DOP” ingredients (protected designation of origin products) like buffalo mozzarella from Campania and basil from Liguria, ensuring that their pizzas are made with top-notch components. Although it’s often bustling with tourists, the pizzeria’s large size makes it easy to find seating. They also offer a seasonal menu that rotates frequently, providing fresh and delicious options.

This pizzeria is perfect for families or large groups, with ample wooden tables in the back room that can accommodate multiple families. The menu includes not only pizzas but also salads and pasta dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Open throughout the day and early evening, it’s perfect for kids who need an early dinner. 

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Vecia Gina

Our kids’ top choice for dining in Venice is always Vecia Gina! This charming pizzeria is nestled in the green, park-filled area of Castello, making it an ideal spot for enjoying pizza or sipping a spritz. The menu features a variety of unique pizza toppings, and in the mornings, it’s a lovely place to savor a coffee on the shaded terrace under the trees. 

Vecia Gina is popular among both locals and tourists and if outdoor seating is full, there’s usually space inside. The staff is warm and welcoming.

Vecia Gina also offers take-away options, including pizza, salads, polenta, and mouthwatering sandwiches. A tempting array of fried foods is available as well, like fried mozzarella balls, onion rings, and “olive all’ascolana” (stuffed olives with minced meat), typically enjoyed by Italians before their pizza.

The grassy area next to the tables provides a play space for kids, with plenty of shade to keep them cool. A playground is conveniently located just 100 meters from the restaurant. Inside, the walls are adorned with signs from around the world, which always catch our kids’ attention. There’s ample space for strollers, especially when dining outside. If your kids are early walkers, it is a great location to eat without worrying about them taking an unexpected swim in one of the canals.

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Osteria al Portego

This charming and cozy spot is perfect for enjoying a drink and “cicchetti” bar snacks – similar to Spanish tapas. The bar area can be tight, with standing room only and a couple of tables outside. However, if you manage to snag a seat in the dining room, you’ll be treated to affordable and delicious food, along with swift, friendly service. It’s an excellent choice for a laid-back lunch. The location is quiet, yet, conveniently close to the Rialto Bridge.

My kids love places like this because the food is displayed behind glass, allowing them to see and choose what they’d like before ordering. The quick service is perfect for hungry little ones. If you’re craving something sweet after your meal, you can pop into Vizio Virtu which is just a few steps away. You typically leave your stroller in the small square outside while you dine.

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Bagni Alberoni

Located within a Lido private beach resort, this charming spot is among our favorites. With a laid-back atmosphere and a touch of old-world charm, the restaurant is situated way off the beaten path at the end of Lido Island in the quaint village of Alberoni. 

If you’re planning a beach day for you and the kids for a nice sightseeing break, you can rent beach huts, umbrellas, and sunbeds, as well as enjoy an aperitivo at the cozy bar or dine at the restaurant on the deck near the sand. The food is fantastic, and the ambiance is always bustling and relaxed. Live music is sometimes featured during summer.

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Frito Inn

For fried fish aficionados, this is the perfect spot to dive into Venice’s street food scene. Nestled in the Cannaregio district and just a ten-minute walk from the train station, this tiny gem is easy to find, thanks to the ever-present queue outside. It’s a charming seafood nook where you can grab a delicious serving of fried calamari in a convenient paper cone. With no seating available, it’s an authentic street food experience – stroll and savor your meal on the go.

At around 6 euros for a medium-sized cone brimming with fried calamari, it’s an absolute bargain. For those who aren’t fans of fish, there’s always the crowd-pleasing mozzarella in carrozza available.

Mozzarella in carrozza is a scrumptious Italian snack consisting of gooey mozzarella cheese sandwiched between slices of bread, dipped in egg and flour, and then deep-fried to golden perfection.

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Salus Grill

Even though you are on an island, you aren’t forced to eat fish all the time. For meat lovers, there is Salus Grill. 

Nestled in the Santa Croce district, this steakhouse is conveniently located just a brief stroll from the Grand Canal. Despite being in the heart of Venice, the neighborhood maintains a more laid-back, local atmosphere compared to the bustling Piazza San Marco. If you’re keen on experiencing genuine Venetian hospitality and indulging in slow-cooked, quality meals, this is the place to be.

As a steakhouse, the focus here is on delicious, meat-centric dishes. Expect to find mouth-watering cuts such as T-bones, tomahawks, and ribeye steaks. The staff might suggest you try your steak Florentine-style, but feel free to have it your way. Their ribs are also quite popular, with groups of locals often seen enjoying them by the rack.

If you’re dining with children, there are plenty of delicious pasta options.

Gelato

There are loads of gelaterie or ice cream shops all over Venice. I have a full article about the best places to get gelato in Venice, so check that out and you’ll see that you’re never too far from a good gelato no matter where you are!

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Wrapping It Up

Venice is a truly magical destination for families looking to create lasting memories. With its enchanting canals, rich history, and vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly activities and attractions for children of all ages. From gondola rides on the Grand Canal and museum visits to beach outings and exciting workshops, every day spent in Venice offers a new adventure.

With the tips I provided in this article, you should be able to visit Venice with kids and not feel overwhelmed or disappointed in your experience. I have a lot of other articles that will help you enjoy Venice to the fullest so check out some of the links below to read more.