Florence, home to Renaissance art and architecture is mostly visited by couples. It is a romantic walking town, full of art, and may not be too exciting for kids at first glance. However, after spending 4 nights here, we feel Florence has a LOT to offer for travelling families.
Here are our Florence Top Things to do for Family Travel:
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Start at the heart of it all – Piazza del Duomo
Even kids will impressed by the buildings, lively cafes, interesting shops and lively streets around the Duomo. Don’t forget to check out the baptistery, crypt and museum as they are included in the pre booked ticket price.
For those wanting to climb 463 steps to Brunelleschi’s dome, timed entry must be booked online in advance. It is quite a hard climb with some narrow claustrophobic areas, so this part is best left for older kids.
Climb up Giotto’s bell tower
Just next door to the Duomo is the bell tower. This one is a much easier climb than the dome, hence can be enjoyed by all ages. Our son managed to climb and admire the views. There are “rest stops” along the way for kids (and adults) to take a breather and stretch the legs.
Ride on the carousel at Piazza della Repubblica
This antique carousel ride is popular with kids and those young at heart. It is beautifully lit up at night. Don’t forget to grab a cake and coffee from the nearby cafes (take away is a lot cheaper).
Eat Super Yummy Gelato at Grom
Did you know gelato was invented in Florence? So eating one is an absolute must do – even in the middle of winter! Grom is our favourite Italian ice cream chain, and located literally behind the Duomo. They have many different yummy flavours and very reasonably priced at just 2.60 euros for single scoop. Consider using ice cream to reward good behaviour during museum visits (for both your spouse and kids).
Check out the Bartolucci “Pinocchio” store
This shop has amazing collection of wooden toys and gifts – all locally handmade. A great shop to shop for yourself or for your loved ones back home.
Catch Sunset at Piazzale Michaelangelo
Okay another romantic couples spot, but kids will love this massive open area where they can actually run around. It is a lively spot with buskers and musicians adding to the Tuscan atmosphere. You can take a taxi from the Duomo area to reach this place and enjoy a (down hill) stroll back down.
Get lost in Dreoni Giocattoli – one of the biggest toy shop in Florence
Dreoni Giocattoli toy shop have been around since 1923, and their humongous store will have something for every kid out there. We purchased Italian police car toy for our son.
Uffizi Gallery?!
Yes, we do mean THE Uffizi Gallery. Children under 18 years old enter free of charge. This family friendly museum is stroller friendly and they also have special activities for older kids and teens with their special guided tours. Our boy was busy taking photos with his camera, and also busy with selfies the entire time we were there.
Leonardo Da Vinci museum
This small museum is great for older children. Some exhibits are designed to touch, feel and operate. It doesn’t hold actual pieces of Da Vinci’s work, but instead has reproductions of some of his inventions.
Eat more Yummy food at: Trattoria ZaZa
Located across the road from Mercato central, Trattoria ZaZa was established in 1977. This is our favourite restaurant from our Italy trip! Every single dish we ordered was cooked to perfection. Prices are reasonable and portions are generous. The truffle pasta and the Za Za style beef tartare were just to die for. They are very kids friendly. Berlin even got a sticker from the kind waitress.
Rub “Porcellino” the boar
This boar bronze sculpture is the mascot of the Mercato Nuovo market. When in the area, make a stop to rub on its snout to ensure your return to Florence.
Hop on the train and visit neighbouring cities
Day trip to Pisa
Pisa is just one hour train ride away from Florence. Be there as early as you can as this place is packed with tour groups. We did enjoy people-watching here with many tourists doing random poses with the tower.
Under 12 year olds are not allowed to climb the tower of Pisa. But – not to worry – there are other attractions nearby. The Duomo, baptistery and the Camposanto are beautiful and peaceful with almost no tourists. On your way back to the train station, enjoy the view of Arno river as you cross the Ponte di Mezzo bridge.
Day trip to Modena
One hour train ride away is Modena, famous for the Enzo Ferrari museum and the home of number 1 rated restaurant in the world, Osteria Francescana. The museum is stroller friendly and fantastic for children to appreciate these luxury cars.
Modena is home to some beautiful food and wine. We had the most amazing lambrusco wine here, accompanied by salumis (cured meats). The locals take pride of their produce and prices here are cheaper than in Florence.
Day trip to Siena
Siena is an hour and a half train ride away. Outside of the Palio season, the town is quiet..very quiet. Piazza del Campo’s huge square is the perfect spot for children to run around and chase some pigeons. Bar Il Palio is a great place for drinks with the best view of the piazza.
A must see in Siena is the cathedral, nicknamed “zebra cathedral” for the use of black and white marbles throughout the church pillars. Don’t forget to climb up the Facciatone, with just over 400steps, even our almost 4 year old managed. The views up the top is worth the sweat.
Have you experienced Florence with your kids?
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