Exploring Rome with Teenagers: A Family Guide to Surviving (and Loving) the Eternal City
Trevi Fountain
Italy or Bust — Our Post-Pandemic Family Adventure
By 2022, after two years of being stuck at home (with three hormonal teenagers), we were practically vibrating with the need to leave the country. It wasn’t just wanderlust — it was survival. So, after a family brainstorming session that involved snacks, eye rolls, and a little bit of bribery, we took a vote. The result? A rare miracle: a 5–0 unanimous decision for Italy.
Callan technically would’ve been the tiebreaker since this trip was her post–high school graduation gift, but it turns out no tiebreaker was needed. Italy it was.
The country had something for everyone:
Bryan, our resident history buff, was practically giddy at the thought of walking where Roman emperors once ruled.
I couldn’t wait to stroll in the footsteps of the Medici family and finally see the Vatican in person.
Callan was ready to geek out over Renaissance art and all the classics she’d studied in Art History.
Jake was laser-focused on the Colosseum — especially the underground chambers where gladiators and wild animals once waited for battle.
And Max? He had his heart set on the sparkling blue waters of the Amalfi Coast and, of course, the mystical Blue Grotto.
And just like that, our Italian adventure began to take shape. After countless hours of online research (and more gelato debates than I’d like to admit), we mapped out our 14-day itinerary:
3 days in Venice, 4 in Florence, 4 in Rome, and 3 in Sorrento.
Instead of renting a car, we decided to travel by train — faster, eco-friendlier, and far less likely to end in tears or arguments over Italian toll booths, nonexistent parking, or the chaotic driving habits that would make even Bryan’s military helicopter days seem tame.
We booked Airbnbs within walking distance of each city’s center and train station, checked flights off the list, and then the real fun began: planning all the activities, excursions, hikes, tours, and delicious stops we could fit in.
So here we are — ready to share the highs, the laughs, the occasional teenage moods, and all the unforgettable moments from our Italian getaway.
Spoiler alert: It was absolutely amazing., even with occasionally moody teens in tow. Italy delivered big time, and we’d 100% recommend it for any family considering an adventure through Italy with their own crew of budding travelers.
Let’s Get Lost in Rome
Italy was full of unforgettable moments—Venice, Florence, Rome, and Sorrento each left its mark on our family adventure. But in this post, we’re diving into Rome, where ancient history and modern chaos collide in the most fascinating way. From standing inside the mighty Colosseum, to pedaling through cobblestone streets on a family bike tour, tossing coins into the Trevi Fountain, and even enjoying a one-of-a-kind dinner in the catacombs (yes, really!) — Rome was equal parts epic, delicious, and delightfully unpredictable. Along the way, we’ll share family-friendly tips, hidden gems, and the little surprises that made our time here so unforgettable. For the full story of our trip, check out our Italy Travel Overview (coming soon). And if you’re curious about the other stops, don’t miss our Exploring Venice with Teenagers: Tips, Sights, and Quirky History, Exploring Florence with Teenagers: Climbing Domes and Chasing Carbs, and Exploring Sorrento with Teenagers (also under construction, but will be worth the wait) posts.
Destination Snapshot: Rome
After four memorable nights in Florence, with unforgettable day trips to Tuscany and the Cinque Terre, we boarded a southbound train to Rome, ready for the next chapter of our Italian adventure. Hauling our suitcases behind us for the 15-minute walk to our Airbnb in the Lazio neighborhood, we quickly digested our first impressions: Rome is loud, busy, and bigger than life — emphasis on bigger.
The traffic was intense, scooters zipped past like they had nine lives, and the sidewalks? Let’s just say they had “character.” Compared to Florence’s charming calm, Rome felt like stepping out of a museum and straight into the middle of Times Square — vibrant, chaotic, and just a little gritty. It definitely had that “hold onto your purse and keep an eye on your phone” vibe.
Even our Airbnb host matched the city’s energy — fast-talking, efficient, and about as warm as a Roman espresso: strong, quick, and straight to the point. By the time we got our keys and caught our breath, it was clear: Rome was going to keep us on our toes.
Pro Tip: Pickpockets in Rome are like pigeons at the Colosseum - they’re everywhere. Keep your wallets and phones safely stashed in a zippered crossbody or fanny pack, and never in a back pocket or open tote.
Where We Stayed in Rome
We stayed in the Lazio neighborhood, and it turned out to be the perfect home base for our family. Our three-bedroom Airbnb sat on a charming street lined with pink and white oleander trees, just a five-minute walk from the Colosseum—basically, Rome’s most famous landmark was in our backyard.
The Lazio district felt authentic and residential, giving us a true local vibe rather than the tourist rush. We loved being close enough to walk to most major attractions while also having a metro station nearby for farther trips. Lazio’s cozy cafés, trattorias, and gelaterias offered great food at refreshingly non-touristy prices—much easier on the wallet than the fancier spots in Centro Storico near the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. For a family traveling with teens, it hit the sweet spot of convenience, character, and affordability, giving us space to spread out and unwind after full days of Roman adventure.
Pro tip: Stay just outside the main tourist hubs, like Lazio or Monti, for an authentic, quieter experience while still close to major sights. If you prefer luxury or ultimate convenience, consider Centro Storico, Piazza di Spagna/Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain area, or Prati near the Vatican.
Getting Around Rome
Rome is a city that’s best explored on foot, but there are plenty of other ways to get from ancient ruins to your accommodation without completely wearing out your sneakers. Walking was our go-to, which is why we were so intentional about the location of our Airbnb, within easy strolling distance of the Colosseum and other major sites.
For a little variety (and a dose of adrenaline), we occasionally rented Lime scooters, zipping through cobblestone streets like true Romans — minus the skill of a local, of course. One day, we went all out on a full-day biking tour, which let us cover a dozen or more major sights in just a few hours, something we never could’ve managed on foot without begging for mercy from the kids.
For destinations a bit farther out, like Vatican City, we relied on the bus. It was simple and stress-free: the schedule was easy to find online, and locating the correct bus stop was straightforward — a much easier option than walking or trying to drive in city traffic.
Rome also has the Metro rail system, taxis, and Ubers, all convenient if you want to save time or escape the summer heat. But here’s a hot tip: don’t rent a car. Traffic is chaotic, parking is expensive (if you can even find a spot), and one wrong turn into a restricted zone could earn you a ticket faster than you can say Piazza Navona.
Bottom line: a mix of walking, biking, scooters, and public transport is the perfect formula for seeing the Eternal City like a family of explorers — tired but happy, and full of gelato breaks along the way.
Scooter Goals: Trevi Edition
Jake was really impressed with the Trevi Fountain — so much so that he begged to return in the evening to see it all lit up. I agreed to walk back with him, but the rest of the family? Totally tapped out, ready to shower, collapse, and call it a night at our Airbnb.
As we strolled down the street, we spotted some Lime scooters parked along the sidewalk. “Why not?” I thought. And oh, what a jolt of adrenaline it was. Scooting through the quiet streets, dodging a few stray pedestrians, we zipped our way to the Trevi Fountain.
Once there, the fountain’s glow was magical, and the evening light made the marble sculptures look even more stunning. Even better? The crowds had thinned dramatically — we practically had it to ourselves. After snapping enough photos to satisfy Jake’s Instagram obsession, we hopped back on the scooters and zipped home, making it back way faster than if we had walked.
Moral of the Story: Lime scooters = instant fun + convenient transport + teen-approved excitement. We highly recommend.
Activities & Excursions in Rome
If Florence was our deep dive into Renaissance art, Rome was our crash course in ancient history, adrenaline, and espresso. There’s so much to do in this city that it’s impossible to see it all in one trip — but we gave it our best shot! From gladiator pits to underground catacombs, from jaw-dropping basilicas to biking through centuries of history, Rome kept us busy, sweaty, and amazed in equal measure. Here’s how our Roman adventure unfolded:
Full-Day E-Bike Tour of Rome
On our first day in Rome, we hopped on a full-day guided e-bike tour — the perfect way to get a lay of the land, see a ton of sites, and figure out what we wanted to return to later. Our expert guide from Topbike Rental and Tours got us set up with bikes, ran through a quick safety briefing, and then whisked us off on a whirlwind e-bike tour of Rome.
First we rode through the Imperial Forum, where we checked out the grand temples dedicated to the gods of Ancient Rome, pedaling past Trajan’s Market and finally stopping at the Column of Marcus Aurelius for photos and a water break.
Then we zipped through Rome’s most famous squares and fountains — Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Piazza del Popolo — pausing for photos and history lessons. Highlights included Castel Sant’Angelo, Piazza Venezia, and Villa Borghese, where we took a quick break to admire the gardens. After lunch, we explored the charming Trastevere neighborhood, peeking into the lovely Santa Maria in Trastevere cathedral, then pedaled up Capitoline Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the Roman Forum and to experience one of the legendary Seven Hills of Rome. We admired Michelangelo’s genius urban planning on the main square, then cruised toward Vatican City for jaw-dropping views of St. Peter’s Basilica and Bernini’s graceful colonnades.
By the end of the day, we’d covered dozens of attractions, logged plenty of exercise, and learned enough about Rome to pass an AP exam. Max declared this tour his favorite activity of the entire trip, and we couldn’t argue. There’s something about zipping past centuries-old fountains with the wind in your hair and a cappuccino buzz in your system that makes history a whole lot more fun.
The Colosseum
Because you can’t come to Rome and not step inside one of the most famous landmarks in the world. In fact, this was Jake’s “must-see” - the very reason he wanted to come to Italy in the first place, so he was vibrating with excitement as we walked up to it. And honestly, who could blame him? The Colosseum is absolutely epic! Standing before this 2,000-year-old giant feels like stepping straight into a scene from Gladiator (minus the lions and bloodshed, thankfully).
The Underground Tour
If you really want to see the Colosseum come alive, spring for the Underground and Arena Floor Tour, which gives you access to the holding pens and cages where gladiators and exotic animals awaited their fate. We learned how Roman engineers designed an ingenious system of pulleys and trapdoors to hoist gladiators and wild animals onto the arena floor - the ancient equivalent of special effects. Imagine the drama: lions suddenly appearing mid-battle, gladiators rising dramatically into view, all engineered for maximum suspense.
The Romans, as we learned, were hungry for blood and spectacle. The “showrunners” (aka event choreographers) had to constantly up the ante to keep the crowds entertained — each spectacle had to outdo the last. Our guide painted vivid pictures of what the games were like, from wild animal hunts to theatrical executions (yikes)! This wasn’t just history, it was ancient showbiz at its finest.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to visit Rome’s major attractions, like the Colosseum or Roman Forum, book your tickets ahead of time. Lines can get long, and no one wants to spend an hour the blistering heat standing in a slow-moving queue.
Roman Forum
Once the heartbeat of ancient Rome, the Forum was where everything happened — politics, religion, gossip, markets, even the occasional scandal (so basically, ancient social media). Walking its grounds, surrounded by towering ruins, I could almost hear the 2000 year-old echoes of chariots, philosophers, and senators debating under the Italian sun.
What made it even better were the visual reconstructions scattered throughout — digital and artistic renderings showing what the temples, basilicas, and arches would have looked like in their prime. It was fascinating to see the then-and-now contrast and to picture the Forum bustling with life during the height of the Roman Empire.
I really wish every historic landmark had these depictions. It’s not always easy to look at piles of stone and imagine what once stood there, but those visuals are like a time machine. Suddenly, you can imagine daily life at the height of the Roman Empire, with bustling streets, grand temples, and vibrant marketplaces.
Pro Tip: If you plan to visit the Roman Forum, plan to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. There’s minimal shade, and Rome’s midday sun felt like Florida’s twin brother.
The Pantheon
Step aside, modern architects — the Pantheon’s been flexing its architectural muscles for nearly 2,000 years, and it still looks better than most of our apartment ceilings. This ancient Roman temple (turned church, turned selfie hotspot) is famous for its massive dome, a perfect circle that somehow still hasn’t fallen down, even though it was built before Netflix, TikTok, or even Wi-Fi.
You don’t need much time to visit the Panthenon. It took us 20-30 minutes to take in the dome and oculus, that giant hole at the top that acts as the Pantheon’s skylight/rain feature. When it rains, it literally rains inside. The Romans were either genius engineers or chaos-loving drama kings (probably both). Teens love the Pantheon because it’s got that “main character” energy. It’s moody, it’s dramatic, and it’s a historic landmark that look great in photos.
The Spanish Steps
Ah, the Spanish Steps — 135 glorious marble stairs that make even walking uphill feel kinda fabulous. Built in the 1700s, this famous staircase connects two of Rome’s most photogenic spots, and it’s basically an outdoor runway for people-watching, TikTok dances, and pretending to be in a European rom-com (think Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday).
After trekking through the city, this is the place to plop down, unwrap your melting gelato, and recharge like the stylish world traveler you are. Teens love it because it’s where the vibe shifts from “history class” to “Instagram highlight reel.” You can relax, snack, people-watch, and soak in the city without paying a single euro, unless you accidentally drip pistachio gelato on your sneakers.
Pro Tip: Grab a cone, find a step, and enjoy your dolce vita moment on the Spanish Steps before scooting off to your next Roman adventure.
Trevi Fountain
If Rome had a “most likely to be famous” superlative, the Trevi Fountain would win it—hands down. Standing nearly 85 feet tall and 160 feet wide, it’s not just a fountain—it’s an explosion of marble drama. Designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762, this Baroque masterpiece sits against the backdrop of the Palazzo Poli, as if the building itself decided to start spewing art and water just to show off. The fountain depicts Oceanus, the god of water, riding a chariot pulled by sea horses through crashing waves and cascading pools.
Of course, no visit is complete without the coin toss. Legend has it that throwing one coin ensures a return to Rome, two coins bring romance, and three . . . well, you might be planning a Roman wedding. (Fun fact: over a million euros in coins are collected each year and donated to charity—proof that good deeds can start with spare change.)
So why do teens love it? Easy. The Trevi Fountain is pure cinematic magic. It’s been featured in everything from La Dolce Vita to The Lizzie McGuire Movie, and it’s practically made for social media. The turquoise water, marble gods, and glowing nighttime lights are an Instagram dream come true.
When Jake and I zipped there on our Lime scooters one evening, the crowds had thinned, the water glowed electric blue, and the whole place shimmered under the Roman night. Jake snapped a couple dozen photos, muttering, “Okay, this is actually insane,” and stood there for a full minute, just soaking it in. And honestly? Same.
Because no matter your age—teen, parent, or reluctant history buff—the Trevi Fountain has that rare ability to make you feel small in the best possible way, like you’ve just witnessed Rome itself breathing art into life.
Borghese Villa Gardens
If you need a breather from cobblestones, fountains, and endless Roman history, the Borghese Villa Gardens are the perfect escape. Picture sprawling greenery, manicured lawns, elegant statues tucked into shady nooks, and tree-lined paths that practically beg for a family stroll (or a few dozen selfies). The highlight? A serene scenic pond where you can rent a little rowboat and float among the lily pads — it honestly looked like a Monet painting come to life.
Pro Tip: Get your own boat separate from the kids. Nothing ruins a serene moment faster than a teenage paddle war!
The Vatican & Sistine Chapel
When it comes to must-see attractions in Rome, The Vatican tops the list, and for good reason. We booked our three-hour guided tour well in advance (a must-do!) and were assigned an 8:30 a.m. entrance time. When we arrived, our excitement quickly gave way to mild panic — the line wrapped all the way around St. Peter’s Square, and for a moment, we thought we’d be standing there until Christmas. But to our relief (and thanks to the precision of the Swiss Guard, who could easily moonlight as Disney crowd-control experts), the line moved quickly and efficiently. So, word to the wise: don’t freak out when you see that line. It moves faster than it looks!
Once inside, it hit us all at once — visual overload, in the best possible way. Every direction you turned — up, down, left, right — revealed another masterpiece. The Vatican isn’t just a place of worship; it’s a living, breathing museum of art and history that could leave even the most chatty teenager speechless.
We stood in awe before Michelangelo’s Pietà, gazed up at the magnificent dome he designed, and marveled at Bernini’s Baldacchino, that bronze canopy rising like a sculpted forest above the main altar. We admired Giotto’s La Navicella mosaic and were humbled by the sight of St. Peter’s Altar and golden throne. And in a quiet, reverent moment, we paid homage at the tomb of Pope John Paul II, a deeply moving moment for us as Catholics.
Pro Tip: Even if you’re not Catholic, visiting the tombs beneath St. Peter’s Basilica is a powerful experience. The history, the reverence, and the quiet beneath all the grandeur above make it one of the most memorable parts of the Vatican tour.
Before tackling the Vatican Museums, we took a much-needed breather in the Pinecone Courtyard — an open-air space that blends grandeur with serenity. Named for its giant bronze pinecone (dating back to ancient Rome), the courtyard also features Pomodoro’s “Sphere Within a Sphere,” a mesmerizing golden globe that rotates gently with the wind, symbolizing the fragility and complexity of the modern world. We sat there chatting, people-watching, and trying to mentally digest everything we’d just seen.
The kids were animatedly debating their favorites, but in a rare family consensus, Michelangelo won in a clean sweep. The Pietà and the Dome were crowned fan favorites (sorry, Bernini, you were a close second).
Pro Tip: Don’t rush the Pinecone Courtyard. It’s your chance to catch your breath between art overloads. Let your teens stretch their legs, take in the scenery, and then snap a few pics before heading into the Vatican Museums.
Vatican Museums
We entered the Vatican Museums through Bramante’s double-helix staircase, which instantly redefined what a staircase could be — part architecture, part art, part optical illusion. The museum itself is an endless maze of frescoed hallways, gilded ceilings, ancient statues, and enough tapestries to reupholster Rome.
We tried to take it all in, but truthfully — after two hours of craning our necks, our feet were protesting. So we picked up the pace, making a beeline for the grand finale: the one, the only, Sistine Chapel.
Pro Tip: The Vatican has a strict dress code — no bare shoulders, short skirts, or shorts above the knee. Bring a light scarf or wrap to cover up if needed. You’ll thank yourself later when you breeze past others being turned away at the entrance.
Sistine Chapel
As we stepped inside the Sistine Chapel, our collective exhaustion melted into pure giddy excitement. The air felt reverent, almost electric — and I, in my enthusiasm, made a rookie mistake. With my camera already rolling, I was quickly (and firmly) informed by a gallery attendant that photos are strictly forbidden. Oops. Total honest mistake — I’m normally a rule follower to the T. I felt guilty at the time, but now I’m secretly grateful (shh!) to have this souvenir of Michelangelo’s masterpiece.
We found a bench, sat in quiet awe, and stared up at Michelangelo’s masterpiece — the breathtaking frescoes that cover every inch of the ceiling and altar wall. The famous scenes from Genesis, including The Creation of Adam, were every bit as stunning as you’d imagine — and even more powerful in person.
What surprised us most was how small the Sistine Chapel actually is. Measuring only about 5,900 square feet (roughly the size of a high school gym), it can hold around 600 people — a fraction of the massive crowds that fill St. Peter’s Basilica, which is nearly 15 times larger. But that intimacy is part of its magic. It’s not ornate or gilded like the rest of the Vatican — it’s just pure, transcendent art.
As we left, we agreed: it was the perfect ending to a perfect morning at the Vatican. The only thing that could’ve made it better? A Papal Mass or — dare we dream — a Pope sighting. Alas, our timing wasn’t quite that divine.
Pro Tip: Book ahead and go early - it’s worth it to avoid the crush. Find a vacant bench, tilt your head back, and soak in Michelangelo’s ceiling like a true art aficionado.
Food & Dining in Rome with Teens
One of the first things we do after checking into an Airbnb? Hit the grocery store like we’re prepping for a Roman siege. Water? Check. Fresh cheese and eggs? Check. Crispy baked bread, vibrant produce, snacks, and appetizers? Check, check, check. And, of course, a bottle or two of local wine for the adults, because when in Rome . . .
Breakfast
From our Florence experience, we learned an important truth: typical Italian breakfasts of cappuccino and a pastry won’t keep growing teenage boys fueled. So our mornings started with a big, protein-packed American-style breakfast at the Airbnb — eggs, cheese, bread, maybe some yogurt and fruit — followed by a few pastries on the walk to our first activity of the day. This combo kept them happily full until lunch without constant snack begging (hallelujah!).
Lunch
For lunch, we mostly wandered into cafés and trattorias, letting convenience and views dictate our choices rather than Michelin stars. Typical Roman lunches included cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper pasta), amatriciana (pasta with guanciale, tomato, and pecorino), supplì (fried rice balls), and pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice). Simple, fast, and delicious!
Dinner
Since our trip was more about sightseeing than foodie adventures, we kept dinners casual — with one notable exception . . .
We made a reservation at Hosteria Antica Roma (“The Ancient Rome Tavern”), a hidden gem tucked away along the Appian Way, sitting under the shadow of the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, a tower-like structure dating back to the 1st century BC. The restaurant’s menu is based on ancient recipes from the Roman cook Apicius, offering uniquely intriguing dishes for anyone interested in ancient gastronomy, which we most certainly are.
Hosteria Antica Roma
Upon arrival at Hosteria, we were warmly greeted by restauranteur, Paolo Magnanimi, who showed us to our table on the charming outdoor terrace. Once everyone was seated, Paolo (left) spoke to the small group of diners, sharing the story of the restaurant, founded by his father Massimo in 1982, and the rich history of the ancient Appian Way surrounding us. The whole experience felt intimate and welcoming, more like being invited to a family gathering than dining at a restaurant.
(Side note: Sorry this photo is a little blurry - I only took a video when Paolo was speaking, so this image is actually a still frame from that clip!)
Seating at Hosteria was outdoors in a beautifully manicured garden, with strategically placed lights casting a warm glow over the tables and adding to the enchanting atmosphere. The soft classical music in the background, the historic catacombs nearby, and the gentle rustle of trees made the evening feel like stepping into another era.
The food? Pure magic. Fresh pasta, slow-cooked meats, and rich sauces brought the ancient recipes to life — a feast for both the palate and the imagination. Even the teens were captivated, intrigued by the history behind the dishes and the charm of the garden setting. For the adults, it was the perfect mix of history, ambience, and wine.
By the end of the night, we agreed: the cab fare was worth every penny and the dinner worth every extra calorie. Hosteria Antica Roma wasn’t just dinner — it was the perfect final supper in Rome, the kind of meal that lingers in your memory long after the last bite.
Pro Tip: Reserve in advance for Hosteria Antica Roma. It’s a truly one-of-a-kind experience you won’t regret!
Tips for Other Families Traveling to Rome with Teenagers
Rome might be the Eternal City, but your teenagers’ patience definitely isn’t eternal — especially when the day involves 20,000 steps, ancient ruins, and zero air conditioning. Here’s what we learned (sometimes the hard way) about exploring Rome with teens while keeping everyone hydrated, happy, and semi-interested in history.
Balance is Everything - Rome is basically one giant outdoor museum, which is awesome . . . until your kids start muttering things like “Another church? Really?” To keep the peace, balance the heavy hitters (Vatican, Colosseum, Roman Forum) with fun, low-effort breaks — tossing coins in the Trevi Fountain, grabbing gelato on the Spanish Steps, or people-watching in Piazza Navona. Those lighter moments give everyone a chance to reset before diving back into 2,000 years of history.
A Little Freedom Goes a Long Way - Depending on their maturity level, give your teens a bit of independence. We let ours explore a few blocks on their own using the buddy system and required check-ins every 30 minutes. It was surprisingly fun hearing about their “mini adventures” later — like finding a random street performer, or getting pizza again because apparently, they were “starving.” You’ll be amazed how much more they appreciate Rome when it’s discovered on their own terms.
Learn a Little Italian (Trust Us, It Helps) - Romans aren’t quite as English-friendly as their Florentine cousins — and they know it. Even a police officer we asked for directions pretended not to understand until we said Colosseo instead of “Colosseum.” Knowing a few basics like per favore (please), grazie (thank you), acqua (water), and dov’è il bagno? (where’s the bathroom?) goes a long way. It’s also worth learning words like fermata dell’autobus (bus stop) and stazione della metro (Metro station). When in doubt, Google Translate will be your best friend — assuming you have Wi-Fi.
Prepare for the Heat (It’s No Joke) - If you’re visiting in summer, brace yourself. We’re from Central Florida and thought we knew heat — but Rome said, “Hold my espresso.” Between the cobblestones, stone ruins, and minimal shade, it can feel like walking through a pizza oven. Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics and pack layers. A scarf or light shawl is perfect for entering churches where shoulders must be covered. Sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles are a must.
Hydration Hack - Luckily, Rome is dotted with ancient fountains that double as water refill stations. Our favorite was the Fontana della Barcaccia, located at the base of the Spanish Steps — yes, that fancy fountain actually provides fresh, drinkable spring water! Bring refillable bottles and top off as you go. Not only will you save money, but you’ll feel a little like a local.
Pro Tip: Download offline maps. Rome’s streets are confusing, and cell service can be spotty in dense areas. Having Google Maps offline or a simple navigation app helps avoid endless circling.
Roman Family Favorites
“ I really enjoyed the underground tour of the Colosseum. Seeing the maze of tunnels where the gladiators and animals were kept was fascinating — and hearing how they staged the shows was wild. The engineers actually camouflaged trapdoors with sand and blood so no one could tell where they were. That meant a gladiator could be fighting one minute, and the next — boom — a lion would launch out of the floor beneath him. I’m still not sure whether to be impressed by their engineering or disturbed by how twisted it all was.”
- Bryan
“ The Vatican was the most moving, the Sistine Chapel the most awe-inspiring, the e-bike tour the most thrilling, and the Colosseum the most jaw-dropping. But my happiest memory in Rome? That’s easy: our evening at Hosteria Antica Roma. We dined outdoors in the garden under a string of lights, with soft music in the background and Paolo sharing stories about his family and local traditions. It felt less like a restaurant and more like dinner with old friends. We laughed nonstop, swapped ridiculous stories from our trip, and got a little goofy by the end of the night. It was one of those perfect evenings that you never want to end.”
- Heidi
“Seeing the Vatican and Sistine Chapel was sick! The only thing that could’ve made it better would’ve been getting to attend a Papal mass.” - Callan, 17 yo
“ If you told me one of my favorite things in Rome would be a fountain, I’d probably laugh and say I was there for something a little more exciting. But Trevi totally surprised me. The Palazzo Poli behind it, the insane detail in the sculptures, the massive pool, and that bright blue water - it had all this electric kind of energy. I went back at night just to see it lit up, and it blew me away. The whole place felt alive, like you could actually feel history in the air.”
- Jake, 16 yo
“ My favorite thing we did in Rome was the bike tour. Riding the e-bike was awesome. It made going up steep hills, like Palatine Hill, super easy. That way I could actually look around and take everything in instead of feeling like my legs were on fire halfway up the hill. Everywhere we went there were ancient ruins, statues, and old buildings around every corner. It was pretty crazy that sometimes we had to ride on busy street next to cars, and Roman drivers don’t mess around! It definitely kept things interesting and made the whole experience even more exciting.”
- Max, 13 yo
Family Travel Rating for Rome:
🎉 Fun: 4/5
Fun: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Rome definitely delivered in the “wow” department. The Colosseum alone had our teens wide-eyed — learning about gladiators, wild animals, and trapdoor lifts made even our least-history-loving kid perk up. The full-day bike tour was also a massive win — zooming through piazzas, gelato in hand, and stopping at every iconic landmark kept everyone entertained (and surprisingly cooperative). That said, the ancient ruins start to blur together by day three, so mix in fun breaks — like scooter rides or pizza tastings — to keep morale high.🧘♀️ Ease: 3/5
Getting around Rome is a bit of a workout. Between cobblestones, crowds, and a maze of streets that seem designed by someone with a grudge against Google Maps, it takes a bit of patience. We were glad our Airbnb in Lazio was within walking distance of most attractions — but for farther treks (like the Vatican), we took the bus or hopped on Lime scooters. Public transit works well enough once you figure it out, but Rome definitely isn’t stroller- or heel-friendly. Wear comfy shoes and channel your inner gladiator.
💰 Cost: 3/5
Rome can chew through your euros faster than you can say “un altro gelato, per favore.” Entrance fees, especially for the Colosseum and Vatican, add up quickly, and dining out in the tourist zones can feel like feeding a small army. That said, we saved money by staying in a less touristy neighborhood and eating at local trattorias instead of the restaurants near the Trevi Fountain. Pro tip: ordering pizza by the slice is not only cheap — it’s an authentic Roman experience.
🌴 Relaxation: 2/5
Let’s be honest — Rome isn’t a “kick back with an Aperol spritz and nap by the sea” kind of destination. It’s a “run across town to make your timed Colosseum entry, then power-walk to the Pantheon before the crowds double” kind of place. Between the fast pace, noise, and endless energy, Rome keeps you buzzing rather than relaxed. Still, there were pockets of peace — sipping espresso in Piazza Navona, or watching the sunset from Gianicolo Hill made for blissful breathers before diving back into the chaos.
Final Verdict
If cities were personalities, Rome would be the charismatic history buff who tells great stories, dresses impeccably, and insists you try just one more bite of pasta before you leave. It’s grand, chaotic, layered with centuries of drama—and that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.
For families, Rome is a fantastic destination to experience and feel history. Every corner feels cinematic, from the ancient ruins that peek out between cafés to the Vespa zipping past Baroque fountains. Teens love the energy—it’s alive, loud, and unapologetically confident. There’s always something to gawk at, taste, or photograph.
👨👩👧👦 Ideal Ages: 12+. Rome is best enjoyed with kids who are old enough to appreciate its grandeur but young enough to still get excited about gladiators and gelato. Ages 12 and up is the sweet spot—teens can handle the walking, late dinners, and historical context (with minimal eye-rolling). Younger ones may tire quickly of the ruins and lines, while older teens might surprise you by becoming your in-house art critics or pizza connoisseurs.
🗓️ Ideal trip length: Give Rome at least 3 full days, but 4–5 days is ideal if you want to truly savor it. That allows time to see the major sights—Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon—without turning it into a marathon. Build in downtime for café breaks, wandering cobblestone alleys, and enjoying the simple pleasure of a long Italian lunch. Rome rewards those who linger.
⛔ Skip Rome if you prefer: Laid-back vacations, beach clubs, or modern glitz. Rome runs on espresso and is super high energy. The crowds, traffic, and sensory overload can feel intense at times. There’s no sea breeze or sandy shores on Rome - head to Amalfi Coast if that’s what you’re craving. Also, Rome is more crumbling ancient beauty than sleek chic. Head North to Florence or Milan if that’s your vibe.
