The Roman Forum is fun to explore with kids of any age. Our favorite hotels near Ancient Rome and the Forum are the Cosmopolita, Grifo, Villa Spalletti Trivelli, and Palazzo Manfredi.
Rome Family Hotels – My Advice
- Rome is worth visiting any time of year, so even if you can only visit in winter it can still be wonderful. My favorite times are Spring and Fall. July and August are the busiest months but great for outdoor dinners and eating gelato in a Roman piazza. Beware of the week before and after August 15th when the city goes on holiday and many local shops and restaurants are closed. (When is the best time to visit Rome?)
My boys playing during a relaxed evening in Rome. On our most recent visit we stayed at (and loved) the Internazionale Domus near the Spanish Steps.
- My favorite luxury hotel for families in Rome: Internazionale Domus (fantastic location)
- My favorite cheap hotel for families in Rome: Hotel Grifo (central location, great value)
- There are several companies that offer Hop On/Hop Off bus tours – This is an easy way to see a lot of the city, but don’t have high expectations. In high season arrive with plenty of patience as finding a seat can take a wait of up to an hour. (Buying tickets in advance won’t help to avoid the lines.)
- The best areas to stay in Rome: Trastevere (loaded with restaurants and bars) or Monti (Ancient Rome).
The 7 Best Family Hotels in Rome
- Where to Stay in Rome
- Our Rome Hotel Map
- Our Favorite Hotels in Rome
- Our Favorite Things To Do in Rome
1. Internazionale Domus – luxury
Hotel phone: +39 06 6919 0237
Two bedroom apartments are large and great for family of 5. All have kitchenettes, most have a second bathroom. Outstanding central location near sights and metro.
Nearby: Via Veneto, Spanish Steps, Piazza Barberini
Nearest Metro: Spagna2. Parco Dei Principi Grand Hotel – luxury
Hotel phone: +39 06 854421
The best outdoor swimming pool in Rome (and a nice indoor pool but you have to be 4 or older to use it). The spa and fitness center are top notch. Beautiful grounds, luxurious rooms, and air conditioning that really works.
Nearby: Villa Borghese, National Gallery of Modern Art
Nearest Metro: Free shuttle bus to Veneto street and near to subway stop3. Westin Excelsior – luxury
Hotel phone: +39 06 47081
A heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, good sized rooms, and a fantastic location in the heart of Rome are what make the Westin a good choice for families.
Nearby: Via Veneto, Spanish Steps, Piazza Barberini
Nearest Metro: Spagna4. Villa Spalletti Trivelli – luxury
Hotel phone: +39 06 4890 7934
A stately mansion with manicured gardens in the center of Rome. Grand Deluxe Suites are large enough for a family of 4.
Nearby: Quirinal Palace, Forum
Nearest Metro: Barberini5. Palazzo Manfredi – luxury
Hotel phone: +39 06 7759 1380
Classic luxury hotel with a great rooftop terrace. You can practically reach out and touch the Colosseum. Quadruple rooms good for family of 4; family rooms for family of 5.
Nearby: Colosseum, Trajan Baths, Forum
Nearest Metro: Colosseo6. Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá – luxury
Hotel phone: +39 06 925901
Great 5-star hotel with spa and outdoor pool, convenient to the Vatican sites. Suites and villas sleep 4 to 5.
Nearby: St. Peter’s Basilica, Botanical Garden of Rome
Nearest Metro: Roma San Pietro7. Cosmopolita Hotel Rome – midrange
Hotel phone: +39 06 997071
Great central location. Kid-friendly quadruples have 2 twin and 1 queen bed.
Nearby: Trevi Fountain, Forum, Colosseum
Nearest Metro: Colosseo8. Hotel Canada – midrange
Hotel phone: +39 06 4457770
Clean, comfortable, and spacious rooms. Quadruple rooms have 4 twin beds. Good buffet breakfast is included. Close to the train station and direct connections to the airport.
Nearby: Termini railway station, La Sapienza University, National Museum of Rome
Nearest Metro: Castro Pretorio9. Hotel Fontana – midrange
Hotel phone: +39 06 678 6113
Triple rooms and suites are good for family of 3. Central location.
Nearby: Trevi Fountain, Quirinal Palace
Nearest Metro: Barberini10. iQ Hotel Roma – midrange
Hotel phone: +39 06 488 0465
Modern hotel with spacious rooms and perks like complimentary water, soft drinks, and snacks – plus on-site laundry facilities and rooftop bar. Triple and quadruple rooms suit families of 3 to 4.
Nearby: Termini Station, Piazza della Repubblica, Museo Nazionale Romano, Santa Maria Maggiore
Nearest Metro: Termini11. Hotel Des Artistes – midrange
Hotel phone: +39 06 445 4365
Comfortable 3-star offering triple and quadruple rooms; quads can come with a queen and two twins, or four twin beds. Nice rooftop terrace too.
Nearby: Termini Station, Museo Nazionale Romano
Nearest Metro: Termini12. Hotel Grifo – budget
Hotel phone: +39 06 4871395
Quadruple rooms have 2 twin and 1 queen bed and are great for family of 4. Triples also.
Nearby: Forum, Colloseum, Palazzo Venezia
Nearest Metro: Cavour13. The RomeHello – budget
Hotel phone: +39 06 9686 0070
When you just need the basics, this exceptionally clean and comfortable hostel-hotel offers private, en-suite rooms that are large enough for families of 3 or 4. A fully-equipped kitchen and laundry facilities are available for shared guest use.
Nearby: Termini Station, Piazza della Repubblica, Museo Nazionale Romano, Palazzo Barberini
Nearest Metro: TerminiMore Family Hotels in Rome
There are not a lot of hotels in Rome with suites large enough for families. Book early to get the few large rooms available. If the above hotels are fully booked here are four more good places to stay for families in Rome.
- Radisson Blu GHR Rome (luxury)
Family Rooms and Junior Suites sleep families of 4 to 6. Non-touristy neighborhood.Family Apartments in Rome
The apartment with kitchen for families at Lata Luxury Apartment in Rome.
Recommended apartments for families in Rome. Most are self-service rentals with kitchens, washer/dryer, and free wifi.
- Lata Luxury Apartment
2-bedroom apartment has double bed, bunk beds, sofa bed and sleeps family of 6, also has air conditioning.- Romance al Colosseo
3-bedroom apartment has 2 double beds, 2 single beds and sleeps family of 6, steps from Colosseum.- Vanity Apartment
4-bedroom apartment (each with en-suite bath) has 2 king, 1 queen, 1 full, and 6 twin beds; sleeps 10. Air-conditioned and near Metro.
I'm Santorini Dave. I started this site in 2011 with a short article on tips for visiting Santorini with kids. We're now a small team of writers and researchers dedicated to providing the best travel content on the internet. We focus on 
Hi there, thanks for the brilliant article. So many helpful tips in here that will make our first trip to Rome less daunting! I had a question about the very first picture in the article of the kids playing foosball. Could you tell me where that is? My kids love playing foosball so this looks like it could be an ideal stop at some point of our trip between the sightseeing.
That is on the Trastevere side of the River Tiber. There’s a stretch along the river where kiosks and games set up during the evening. Lots of fun to stroll along and eat, drink, and play.
This is a great resource! My family of 4 adults (2 seniors) and 3 children (ages 17-7) are traveling to Italy mid-July. We are planning 3 nights in Milan and 5 in Rome. What are your thoughts on Airbnb vs hotels in each city?
I’ll admit upfront that I’m not a big fan of Airbnb. I just hear of too many bad experiences and lousy places (even when they have high ratings and good reviews). So for me, staying in a hotel is all part of the fun and experience. Especially in big cities like Rome and Milan. Of course, many people love Airbnb and for them I’m sure Rome and Milan have plenty of good choices – though probably most will be a little outside of the city center.
Hi Dave,
We will be in Rome in mid-March to visit our daughter studying in Rome. Any suggestions for a warm weekend getaway from Rome (preferably nonstop)? Thank you.
In March all of the Mediterranean beach destinations are still too cold to swim. You’d have to fly to Northern Africa for warm weather and that will be a flight of several hours – probably not what you’re looking for. I’d recommend a weekend trip down to Amalfi Coast or maybe a short flight to Sicily.
We will be in Rome for 3 nights during 7/8 thru 7/11 and looking for a good, clean, local (good walking location) area, hotel with breakfast, and economical. We are 3 (2 adults and child of 8 years old). Please advise on Hotel recommendations.
What are your thoughts about:
Hotel Golden
Hotel Smeraldo
Thank you
Both are very nice (and charming) hotels. I much prefer the location of Hotel Smeraldo though.
Hi Dave
Hotel Cosmipolita or Hotel Santa Maria??
Thanks!
Hotel Santa Maria for sure! Charming hotel with a great location in the lively Trastavere neighborhood. We love this hotel.
Hi David I am looking at visiting rome in August and wanted to see the Vatican, St Peter’s Bascillica, colleseum and museums and will be travelling with 2 children aged 4 and 14. I was hoping for holiday park or hotel within close proximity to the main sights but wanted a swimming pool. Do you have any recommendations?
The Rome Cavalieri has the best pool for kids in Rome but location is not great for sightseeing. I’d go with something central and no pool.
Hi David,
I am looking for a place for my family to stay in Rome next to an amusement park like RainbowMagic Land or another fun park but at the same time somewhere where us parents can relax and maybe do some inexpensive shopping… Can you recommend a place to stay for a week, please? Kids are 8 and 4 if that is any help…
There aren’t a lot of hotels out near Rainbow Magic Land but Hotel Nespolo D’Oro does have a family friendly vibe and is a short drive to the park and shopping.
Hi David,
great information on this sight. I wonder where the picture at the top of this page was taken (with all the fussball games next to the river). I’m travelling to Rome in a couple of weeks with my husband and three sons (twins of 10 and a 9-year-old). We all love football and would love to find things to do that are football related.
From what I understand you cannot visit the Stadio Olympico, unless you have more information. Do you know of any other football “things” we could do?
Thanks!
Anna Lindberg, Sweden
You’re right you can’t tour the Stadio Olimpico, but it’s still pretty impressive from outside. It’s part of a Fascist-era sports complex known as the Foro Italico which has a number of sporting venues, including an athletics track surrounded by huge marble figures. Elsewhere you can stock up on football paraphernalia at one of the shops dedicated to Rome’s two footie teams: Roma and Lazio. There’s a Roma shop on the central Piazza Colonna and a Lazio store on Via Guglielmo Calderini near the MAXXI modern art museum. All kitted up, what about a kick around? There’s plenty of room on the Circus Maximus, once ancient Rome’s largest chariot race track now a huge basin of patchy grass. Alternatively, try Villa Borghese, Rome’s most famous park. The photo above was taken on the banks of the Tiber in the Trastevere neighborhood – in summer it’s lined with shops, games, and small eateries. Good fun.
Will be in Rome June 26-26 and have 2 hotels booked. Need to decide which one you recommend. We’ll be (4) 2 adults with 2 high school girls. My priorities are rooftop dining/view, includes breakfast, hotel/rooms with Roman feel, and centralized/easy walking location to Trevi Fountain/Spanish Steps/ Pantheon/Colosseum etc – with easy access to good restaurants/nightlife. Hotels I have booked: 2 rooms at Hotel Campo de Fiori and a Jr Suite at Hotel Barberini (the better rate). Both meet all my criteria. Which would you choose? Thanks Dave!
Susan DeChristoforo
I’d go for the Hotel Campo de’ Fiori. The hotel scores right across the board: it’s stylish and full of character; staff are helpful; and the location is fabulous. It’s by Campo de’ Fiori, one of Rome’s most lively piazzas, right in the heart of the historic centre. Top sites such as the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Trevi Fountain are within easy walking distance, and the surrounding streets are a joy to explore. There are also any number of cool restaurants, bars and cafes in the vicinity. Hotel Barberini is in a quieter area that is attractive and convenient but slightly less atmospheric.
Hi, I’m looking for either a villa/apartment or hotel with separate rooms for my family of 4 – two boys of 8 and 9 for a stay of 10 days in/near Rome – there is so much choice I’m getting a bit lost in all of it. Looking at mid to budget range and want to visit child-friendly attractions and maybe get out to Florence for the day? Whereabouts is the best place to stay and is it worth getting somewhere with a pool – we’re travelling in April this year. Cheers Sara
Try the family rooms at Forum Hotel – central location great for sightseeing. I would not worry about a pool in April. Most outdoor pools are not heated (and it’s still cool in April). Not many hotels with pools in Rome, in any case.
Hi! Our family (4 adults, 3 kids) are thinking about staying 4 nights in
September on the Amalfi Coast. We’re looking at Villaggio Camping Santafortunata. Are you familiar with this location and do you recommend it?
Thank you!
Debbi Abbott
The Villaggio is located a couple of kilometers or so from Sorrento, just off the main road west of town. It’s on a lovely stretch of coast with high cliffs, typical Mediterranean vegetation, and deep blue seas. The swimming is great, although note that there are few sandy beaches and access to the water generally involves a steep descent on foot followed by some rock clambering. Sorrento itself has a charming historic center with plenty of restaurants and some stunning views – you can see over to Vesuvius from Villa Comunale park. It also makes a good base for exploring the area. Pompeii is an easy half-hour ride away on the Circumvesuviana train; regular ferries leave for Capri from Marina Piccola; and buses serve towns on the Amalfi Coast. A word of warning, though, the bus ride to Positano and Amalfi is a very windy and road sickness is a real possibility, especially for kids.
Hi,
We will have 2 nights in Rome before heading up for our week in Tuscany. (I know that is not enough but that was all we could take off work.) By the time we arrive after the overnight flight we will arrive to the hotel late afternoon. So this really leaves us with only one full day and a few hours the next morning. So we would like to stay in a hotel that is close to everything so that we did not spend too much time committing. We will be traveling with 8 and 11 year old kids. Can you recommend a place to that is well located? We will have to plan that day carefully so we see enough but are still able to enjoy it. Any advice would be so helpful. Thank you! Deanna
The Hotel Navona is a great three-star with smart family rooms for four. It’s also fantastically located near Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares, and the Pantheon. Many other sights, including the Trevi Fountain, are within walking distance, and you’ll find no end of cafes, restaurants and gelaterias in the immediate vicinity. Another well-located place is the Hotel Campo de’ Fiori, a boutique four-star with family apartments in the historic center.
As to sightseeing, you’ll have plenty to explore in the atmospheric streets around the Pantheon. Beyond that, I’d concentrate on two main areas: the Colosseum and environs, where you’ll find the city’s most famous ancient ruins, and the Vatican, centered on St Peter’s Basilica. If you want to enter the Colosseum, I’d suggest booking a ticket to avoid the long lines – see coopculture.it. You’ll also probably find queues at St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Again, if you want to visit the Vatican Museums, which are amazing but tiring with kids, consider booking tickets at museivaticani.va. Another option is to book a tour which will usually include a skip the line ticket.
Hi- We’re headed to Rome last week in March with our almost 5yo. I was thinking of staying close to Villa Borghese so we would have easy access to the park. Would also like to be walking distance to historical sites. Do you have recs for a nice, upscalish hotel with some character/charm and hopefully breakfast and wifi included? I was thinking about the Westin but if you add breakfast it’s well over $300. I would like to stay in the $200-$275 range or less.
Also, do you have recs for great tours to do with our son.
Thanks!
That is a great area but yes, a bit expensive. I would consider anything under $400 as reasonable for the neighborhood. Search Booking.com for the Villa Borghese Parioli District.
Dave – this post could not have came to be at a more appropriate time. We are planning to visit Rome, in May, and I was just searching around for hotels that could handle my crazy family of 6. Great content, as always, keep up the good work!!!!
Erwin
Great. Glad it was helpful.
Hi David thanks for this article!
I am trying to decide between 2 hotels for visiting Rome in July with our 2 children aged 12 and 10. Our options are the Boscolo Exedra or the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria. Do you know these hotels? We want a luxury hotel with an outdoor pool for lazy afternoons and to be in a good area where we can ideally walk to restaurants in the evening (or short taxi).
Also, do you know of any cycling tours of Rome?
So many thanks! Gillian Scott Brown
Of the two hotels, the Boscolo Exedra is the more central. From its location on Piazza della Repubblica you can walk to many places in the center or jump on the nearby metro. Taxis are also readily available. Its pool is spectacularly sited on the panoramic rooftop terrace but it is quite small and not ideal for kids splashing around. The Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria, set in its own lush gardens, is some way out from the city center but offers regular shuttle buses to Piazza Barberini from where you can walk to plenty of good restaurants. It also has a great outdoor pool and, if fine dining is your thing, Rome’s only Michelin three-star restaurant, La Pergola. In short, the Cavalieri wins for facilities but the Exedra is more conveniently located.
For a cycle tour that accepts kids try Rome Bike Tour: Monuments and Hidden Gems.
Hi David – We’re traveling to Rome 3 kids (6,10,11) in June/July. I’d like to splurge on one of the tours you suggested. Which one would you recommend? (e.g., Vatican, Coliseum, Catacombs) Which one would save the most time with lines? Also would you recommend the day trip to Pompeii/amalfi coast for a family with kids?
Thank you so much!
Allie
Both the Colosseum and Vatican attract big queues. In the Vatican the hotspots are St Peter’s Basilica, which is free to enter but has security checks, and the Vatican Museums, home of the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican’s artistic treasures are amazing but they can be heavy going for children. The Colosseum, with its gory history and gladiator stories, is perhaps a more kid-friendly option. Admission to the Colosseum also includes entrance to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where Romulus and Remus supposedly founded the city in 753BC. As to a day trip, I’d exclude the Amalfi Coast – too far and too much hassle getting there. Pompeii is possible but it’s a long day. The site is huge and you’ll find the heat pretty draining in June/July. That said, if you know what you’re taking on and go prepared – water, sunhats and comfy walking shoes are essentials – you’ll find it one of Italy’s most incredible sights.
Love your post!!
My mum (71), son (12) and I are visiting Rome in October and were hoping you could recommend a great place to stay please. Close to attractions and great food but in the moderate price range!!
Thanks
Kristie Ghossein
A couple of suggestions. Albergo Cesàri is a welcoming three-star overlooking a charming piazza in the historic center. One of Rome’s oldest hotels – it dates to 1787 – it has comfortable, classically-styled rooms and a panoramic rooftop terrace, ideal for an evening drink. It’s also perfectly located for exploring with big sights such as the Pantheon and Piazza Navona within walking distance and loads of great eateries in the neighborhood. Daphne Trevi offers modern rooms, helpful English-speaking staff and a convenient central location. The Trevi Fountain is a short hop away and the nearby streets are riddled with trattorias, restaurants, and gelaterias.
I came across your blog and wonder if you can help me. We are planning a trip to Rome in August for 6 nights with 2 children 13 and 15 years old. I am looking for a place to stay within walking distance to major attractions. I would prefer a moderate budget but wonder if I can find something with 2 rooms or connected rooms? Thank you!
Regina
The Hotel Santa Maria is an excellent three-star in the Trastevere neighborhood. It’s an attractive, welcoming hotel with a range of suites, some of which have adjoining bedrooms. Location-wise, Trastevere is a great place to be based. A lively, picturesque quarter, it boasts hundreds of trattorias, restaurants, pizzerias and gelaterias, and is within walking distance of the historic center and sights such as the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.
Another option is the Residenza Maritti, a lovely guesthouse with spectacular terrace views over the ancient forums. It doesn’t have any family rooms as such but you could try for two neighboring doubles. The Colosseum is close by and the nearby Monti district is full of good eateries and cafes.
I am planning a trip to Rome in mid February next year and while looking for hotel I have stumbled across your wonderful site so was looking for your advice.
I am travelling with my wife and our two sons (6 & 2) as well as my mother and father in law. I was hoping to find a mid range hotel (£600 for three nights) but was hoping for an indoor pool for boys to enjoy however I seem to struggle find many hotels with an indoor pool and realize all outdoor pools closed due to season.
Any suggestions would be welcome.
Thanks,
Jonathan kennedy
There are very few hotels in Rome with an indoor pool. The ones that do have an indoor pool are luxury hotels (and the pools are not large). The Cavalieri has a nice indoor pool but last I heard kids were not allowed (only in the outdoor pool).
Hi David
We are looking to come to Rome at the end of October with a 12 and a 10 year old. My son is interested in Roman mythology etc. (thanks to Rick Riordan, mostly!). We want either 2 separate, but interconnecting hotel rooms (we don’t want 3 beds in one room) or a suite with 2 sleeping room or self-catering appt. All recommendations on area and hotels/ appts/ tours/ activities gratefully received.
Thanks
Bev
We recently stayed at Internazionale Domus on Piazza di Spagna and loved it. Large beautiful suites with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Not cheap but worth it.
Hi David, I’m visiting Rome in late October for 4 nights with my wife and two boys (6 & 9). Both are into playing sports and we’d like to break up the site seeing with some swimming or playing football etc. Can you recommend any pools and parks near central Rome?
Thanks in advance, Gareth
Rome’s most famous park is Villa Borghese, just east of Piazza del Popolo. It’s a lovely area with plenty of space to run around in and grassy areas for footie, picnics etc. You can also hire bikes at various spots around the park. South of the city centre, and within easy walking distance of the Colosseum, the Circo Massimo is another good option. There’s nothing much left of what was once Rome’s largest racetrack but the kids can mess around on the grassy central area and you can enjoy dramatic views up to the Palatino. Swimming pools are a bit more difficult. Most pools in Rome are out-door summer-only affairs and while there are sports clubs, such as the Centro Sportivo Villa Flaminia, many require membership. Your best bet for a dip would be to head to a hotel with an indoor pool, such as the Grand Hotel Parco dei Principi.
Hi David, I am looking to visit Rome with my son next year who will be 7. He has some physical and learning difficulties with issues walking long distances etc, so I’m looking for somewhere that is safe to stay, but reasonably close to the main “attractions” and easy access to places to eat. Any suggestions? I am on a budget. How easy is it to get a train to Florence? I was hoping to do a touring holiday but most of the companies are advising against it with my son so trying to think of alternative options.
Maxine
I’d suggest staying in the historic center, Rome’s most atmospheric neighbourhood. You’ll have big sights such as the Pantheon and Piazza Navona on your doorstep and its beautiful lanes are full of restaurants, trattorias and pizzerias. For somewhere to stay, Hotel Pensione Barrett is a good bet. A friendly budget option on Largo di Torre Argentina, it’s well placed for the center and convenient to get to with bus stops and taxis on the square outside. Still in the center, but slightly further up the price scale, Albergo Cesàri offers decent three-star accommodation on a lovely, picturesque piazza. Getting to Florence by train is a breeze. The journey takes about 1.5 hours and there are services every 20 minutes or so from Termini station. Check times on trenitalia.com – note to give Roma Termini as the start point and Firenze S.M.Novella as your destination
Such useful info, thank you. We are thinking about a trip to Rome for a few days between Christmas and New Year this year to celebrate my husband’s 40th birthday – with our two children aged 5 and 7. Do you think this is a good time to go, or would we be better off finding somewhere else? Are we hoping too much for a centrally located family friendly hotel with an indoor pool? Thanks in advance!
Claire
The Christmas period is a great time to be in Rome. The center is adorned with festive lights and St Peter’s Square plays host to a giant Christmas tree and presepi (nativity scene). Until 6 January, Piazza Navona, one of the city’s most beautiful squares, stages a popular Christmas market with stalls selling sweets and toys. In recent years, a number of open air ice-skating rinks have been set up at points across town. The main sights are generally open, typically closing on 25 December and 1 January. Some, like the Vatican Museums (home of the Sistine Chapel) have more complicated hours so you’d be advised to check in advance. Similarly, shops and restaurants are mostly open and public transport is working normally.
For a hotel, try the Westin Excelsior Roma, a five-star hotel on Via Veneto, or Hotel De Russie near Piazza del Popolo. Both are well situated and both score highly for comfort and service. Note, however, that the Russie’s saltwater hydropool is only open to the over-12s.
Amazing, thank you so much!! Really helpful advice. I am definitely sold on visiting at Christmas, sounds wonderful.
Hi David,
This is going to be our very first trip (mid June) to Rome with a family of 4 with two children of age 11 and 8. We’ll be arriving in train to Rome. We plan to spend 3 nights. We have read so many stories about safety issue, thieves, pickpockets (especially in Metro and city bus) in Rome that we are worried about it. Any recommendation for hotels (moderate to mid-range) in the center for family, besides the one listed here? One we checked was Hotel Dock Suites, however, it seems not close to attractions. Any thoughts?
Thanks
HV
First up, Rome is a safe city. In fact, more than thieves or pickpockets the most pressing safety issue you’ll probably face will be crossing the road, which can be a hair-raising experience. That said, it pays to use your common sense on crowded public transport and in touristy areas – keep your hand on your bag when you’re looking up at that incredible church/fresco/fountain etc. There is absolutely no need for paranoia, though.
Regarding hotels, the Hotel Dock Roma looks fine. It is a bit out of the center but there’s a nearby metro stop and the area is quiet enough – which can be pleasant after a day’s sightseeing. Two alternatives to consider – Albergo Cesàri, a historic three-star overlooking a charming central piazza, and Hotel Modigliani, a friendly outfit near Piazza Barberini. Both have rooms to sleep four.
Hi, I’ve just booked to go to the Radisson Blu in May with my husband and 7-year old son, which we liked the look of because it had a lovely looking outdoor pool, large airy family rooms, and is close to the train station so we can easily get around the city. However now looking at other sites (TripAdvisor) it’s saying that the hotel is in a really dodgy part of the city. Is it? I am now worried that we will feel confined to the hotel at night and so I should reconsider our choice of accommodation!
Marie
On the whole, Rome is a safe city. The area around the main train station, Termini, is certainly not the most attractive and some streets west of the station, such as Via Giolitti, are not very appealing. That said, the area is is not as bad as it’s often made out to be – it’s more scruffy than dangerous. You should be fine in the district around the Radisson, although note that there aren’t many great sights or restaurants in the immediate vicinity. If you do decide to change, but still want to be near Termini, consider the area around Piazza della Repubblica. It has good transport connections and there are a number of top hotels, including the St Regis, Palazzo Montemartini, and Boscolo Exedra.
Hello! We are coming to Rome for 6 nights in early July. It’s my husband, myself, our 4 year old and our 1 year old. We are looking for a hotel in the middle of the city where we can easily walk with a stroller to most of the tourist attractions. Also, we are looking for a hotel that has a crib for our 1 year old and we all want to be in the same room. I would appreciate your thoughts and suggestions! Thanks in advance!!
Lara
Try the Hotel Campo de’ Fiori. It’s ideally located in the heart of the historic center and within walking distance of many sights – Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon. For a family of four, your best bet would be an apartment which comes with a bedroom and living room, as well as kitchen facilities. Cribs are available on prior booking. Another possibility is Hotel Ponte Sisto, a conveniently situated four-star near the Tiber. Here you’d be well placed for the historic center and, over the river, Trastevere, one of Rome’s most photogenic neighborhoods. The hotels has triple rooms with the possibility of adding a crib.
Hi again! So we ended up booking at the Westin and Hotel Artemide for July (I need to cancel one of them) Which of these 2 hotels is best to stay at with little ones (ages 4 and 1 years old)? Or which is in a better side of town/closer to kid friendly attractions? Thanks again!
Lara
Both are excellent hotels, offering cribs and babysitting on request. At the Artemide family rooms sleep up to four with two double beds, one king size and one queen size. At the Westin you can ask for adjoining double rooms. In terms of location, the Artemide is on Via Nazionale, a large shop-lined street that runs from near Stazione Termini towards the historic center. It’s a convenient spot with good public transport connections – there’s a metro station nearby and regular buses run past it. The Westin enjoys a prime location on tree-lined Via Veneto and is within walking distance of sights such as the Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese, Rome’s best-known park. Here you can let the kids off the leash and take them to the city zoo. For my money, the Westin wins the location comparison. What’s more, it also has a small indoor pool.
Hello! There are four adults (two seniors) and three children (ages 7, 10, and 12) coming to Rome the first week in August. All of us are big historians and want to stay by the colosseum, forum, and other artifact areas. I’ve been looking at the Hotel Forum and Grand Palatino hotels. I did look at the Palazzo Manfredi, but they only offer “apartments” that are not in the main hotel. We like boutique hotels and have to be at least 4-stars. Which would you suggest?
Kimmie
An easy walk from the Colosseum and Forums, the Inn at the Roman Forum is an elegant boutique hotel with stylish contemporary rooms and a quiet back street location. And for history buffs, it even has its own ancient ruins – it sits over a 1st century BC tunnel. Another option near the Colosseum is the Hotel Capo d’Africa, a stylish four-star with artistic modern décor and rooms for up to four people.
Hi, I am looking to book a long weekend in Rome with three children, 12, 12, and 15. Any recommendations for hotels that can accommodate in a family room. Also what is it like to visit Rome in November?
Thanks,
Denise Gard
The Hotel Santa Maria is a good bet. A lovely bolthole in the lively Trastevere neighborhood, it has friendly staff and a charming courtyard with orange trees. In terms of rooms, there’s a quadruple with a double bed and a sofa that transforms into a bunk bed, or a choice of suites. Two other hotel suggestions: Hotel Lancelot, a welcoming three-star near the Colosseum, and Hotel Campo de’ Fiori, a cool boutique hotel with a number of apartments in the historic center. November is off-season in Rome. That means prices are at their lowest and you won’t have to face long queues at places like the Colosseum and St Peter’s Basilica. It’s also a good time for food with many autumnal goodies on restaurant menus. On the flip side, rain is likely, so bring umbrellas and waterproofs.
Hi David!
What a great site! Looking for your recommendations for a luxury hotel to stay with a 3 year old from May 27 to June 1. Have been recommended the Parco Di Principi but concerned it’s too far to walk to restaurants, shops, etc. Is the Westin in a more accessible location?
Thanks very much,
Tara
Both are good hotels but if you want to be closer to the action, the Westin is the better bet. The Parco dei Principi is a little way out of the center, on the northeastern flank of Villa Borghese park. The surrounding area is smart but a bit sterile and there’s not a lot going on there. To get into the center from the hotel you’ll need to take a bus or taxi. The Westin is one of several top hotels on wide, tree-lined Via Vittorio Veneto. There are a number of shops and sidewalk restaurants and cafes on the street but, frankly, they’re pretty touristy and overpriced and you’d be better off heading into the center which is a simple walk away – it’s about 15 minutes to the Spanish Steps or Trevi Fountain.
Best hotel in the Vatican area with 2 kids and husband. Prefer an apart/hotel type. Many thanks and your blog is inspiring.
Julie
For character, the Hotel Bramante is hard to beat. A family-run three-star housed in a historic, wood-beamed palazzo near St Peter’s, it offers a warm welcome and has a family room for four. The four-star Hotel Alimandi Vaticano is another recommended choice. It’s conveniently located near the entrance to the Vatican Museums and has spacious, classically-decorated family rooms.
If you’re after an apartment, romeasyoufeel.com is an online booking agency with loads of furnished flats on its books (but any particular rental is hard to vouch for).
Hi David.
We will be traveling to Rome the first week of April with my parents, two adult cousins and my two children (4 and 8). The adults really want to stay near the Vatican. Where would you recommend to stay near the Vatican considering we have two kids… Is there a neighborhood close to the Vatican that’s better than the other?
Many thanks!
Tanya
I’d go for Prati, the elegant neighborhood that extends north and east of the Vatican. It’s well connected to the center, quiet at night, and has a good selection of hotels, shops and eateries. Kids in particular will love the area’s excellent takeaways – search out Pizzarium for sliced pizza and Fatamorgana for fabulous gelato.
The Hotel Bramante is a lovely three-star, tucked away in a small alleyway near the Vatican walls. It’s housed in a historic palazzo and has rooms for up to four people.
Hi David,
Thank you for this article! We’re planning a 7 night trip to Rome with 3 little ones (2, 4, & 6) this coming end of June (once school lets out).
We’re on a budget and are wondering if we would be able to take day trips to Florence and Venice from Rome? Or should we plan overnight trips there? If overnight, do you recommend renting a car (and do they have car seats?). Or should we take the train? And do you have budget hotel recommendations for Florence & Venice?
Thank you again!
You can do Florence on a day trip from Rome. If you got a fast train at 8.50am, say, you’d be in Florence by 10.20am, which would give you enough time for a whistle-stop tour of the headline sights. You could then get a return train at around 6pm. Check exact times on the Italian Rail website.
A car would more comfy for the kids but I wouldn’t recommend it. For one thing, it’ll take you much longer to get there. Then there are traffic restrictions in central Florence and parking is a headache.
To make the most of your time, I’d suggest booking tickets to the major museums (the Uffizi, Accademia) in advance. Also note that many top museums are closed on Mondays.
Venice is too far to do in a day. Even by fast train it takes almost 4 hours – by car you’d be looking at 6.5 hours minimum. Again, I’d go for the train rather than a car.
For accommodation in Venice, the Pensione Guerrato is a modest hotel with rooms in a 13th century building near the Rialto market and a selection of apartments.
If you decide to overnight in Florence, consider the Hotel Dalí, a friendly spot near the Duomo.
Hi there.
I am planning a trip to Rome at the end of May for 3 nights – we have two families. Family 1: two adults and three children. Family 2: two adults and two children. I’m struggling to find somewhere half decent in a good location to stay. I like the sound of the Trastevere area or Spanish steps. Help?!
Thanks
Maria Boyle
Trastevere and the Spanish Steps are two very different neighborhoods. Trastevere is good looking, lively, and well placed for the center. After dark it hums with life and you’ll find a wide range of places to eat with everything from cheap and cheerful pizzerias to hip fine dining restaurants. In terms of accommodation, there are plenty of hotels and B&Bs, mostly in the mid-range bracket. For two families, consider the Hotel Santa Maria, a welcoming three-star with quad rooms and suites sleeping from four to six people.
The Spanish Steps neighborhood is an upmarket area famous for its designer shops and elegant boutiques. During the day crowds swarm to Piazza di Spagna, the area’s focal square, and top shopping strips like Via dei Condotti, but the area is much quieter at night. Restaurants around here are expensive and accommodation tends to be high end. For a family stay, you could try the Hotel Scalinata di Spagna, which offers family suites and a great location at the top of the Spanish Steps.
Hi David. We are planning to come to Rome in July/August for 4 nights (travelling around Europe) and have two children (12 and 9 years) – where would you stay if you were us – on a moderate budget. With thanks.
Emma Sedgwick
I’d try the Hotel Santa Maria, an excellent three-star in the Trastevere neighbourhood. Staff are really friendly and there’s a charming courtyard with orange trees where you can have breakfast and sit out in the evening. In terms of rooms, there’s a quadruple with a double bed and a sofa that transforms into a bunk bed, or a choice of suites. Trastevere is a great place to be based. It’s one of Rome’s liveliest and most attractive areas, with hundreds of trattorias, restaurants, pizzerias and gelaterias – the gelato at Fatamorgana at Via Roma Libera 11 is amazing. The historic center is also an easy walk away, just across the river. (To get to Trastevere, I’d suggest a train from Fiumicino airport to Termini and then a taxi.) Another option is the Hotel Lancelot. It’s a bit out of the way, in a quiet street near the Colosseum, but the English-speaking people who run it are really welcoming, and it has bright, well-sized rooms for four. You might also consider an apartment. Hotel Campo de’ Fiori is a cool boutique hotel with a number of apartments in the historic center. These are ideal if you want to be in the heart of the action and come with basic kitchen facilities.
Great hotel info!! Going for 3 nights in April with 11 year old twins and a 15 year old. Any suggestions for special events/activities that will engage all? Also, where was the above picture taken with the foosball tables? Lastly, spending the end of the week (3 nights) in Venice. Any hotel choices for that city?
Thanks in advance:o)
Samantha Fruhling
There are two big events in April. First up, there’s the Rome Marathon on the 10th. This is a pretty big affair and even if you’re not into sport, the festive atmosphere is fun. Then on the 21st, Rome celebrates its birthday. This yearly bash, known as the Natale di Roma, is celebrated with costumed parades and fireworks. Also on the agenda for mid-April, although the exact date varies from year to year, is the Mostra delle Azalee when they put hundreds of vases of azaleas on the Spanish Steps.
Museum-wise, there’s an exhibition on at Palazzo della Cancelleria (near Campo de’ Fiori) called Leonardo da Vinci – Il Genio e Le Invenzioni – it’s dedicated to the machines that Leonardo da Vinci designed, and has many scale models. For something a bit different, consider a visit to the Cinecittà film studios where you can look around some amazing movie sets. The studios are some way off the beaten track in the southern suburbs, but are easy enough to get to – take metro line A to Cinecittà.
As for activities, the weather in April is generally pretty good, so you could hire bikes to explore Villa Borghese park. Or try your hand at ancient combat at the Roman Gladiator School out on the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica).
The picture above was taken on the banks of the Tiber in the Trastevere neighborhood.
Large family rooms are rare in Venice. The Palazzo Vitturi has some larger rooms and the San Marco Palace has family rooms that sleep 5.