Florence is renowned for its artistic heritage and timeless beauty. It’s not only a treasure trove for art enthusiasts but also a delightful destination for families traveling with kids. From exploring iconic landmarks like the Duomo and the impressive Uffizi Gallery, to strolling along the charming streets lined with gelateries and bustling markets, Florence promises to be a memorable place for families seeking both cultural enrichment and FUN this summer.
What to See
- The Ponte Vecchio by boat – you can take a boat ride down the Arno in the evenings. It’s the best way to see the Ponte Vecchio and have a chance to go under it.
- Piazzale Michelangelo – take the kids for the climb up to Piazzale Michelangelo. The best time is in the late evening when it cools down and you can watch the sunset.
- The Boboli and Bardini Gardens – kids will have plenty of space to run and explore in the Boboli Gardens; they’ll feel like royals at play! Also check out the Bardini Gardens. These gardens are much less known so often less of a crowd, they have more shade and incredible views.
What to Do
- Visit the Accademia Museum – museums aren’t always easy with kids but you can’t miss an opportunity to see the world famous statue of David by Michelangelo. Kids will be in awe of how giant the statue is. Then be sure to check out the room of unfinished sculptures because kids will think these are pretty neat too!
- Casa Buonarroti – your kids will hear Michelangelo’s name a lot while in Florence. Take them to see his family home in the city: Casa Buonarroti. This is a small museum, that not many people know exists, so even on the most crowded summer day in Florence you may be the only ones there. Bonus: it’s free for kids!
- Take A Cooking Class at Mama Florence – learn to cook in Italy with the super fun, family friendly crew at Mama Florence. They have both group and private lessons.
Where to Eat
Florence has pizza, pasta and gelato everywhere…. a kids dream palate! For Pizza try: Gustapizza. For Pasta try: Il Gatto e la Volpe. For Gelato try: Gelato dei Neri.
Where to Stay
The Via Baccio Bandinelli Residence is the perfect spot to stay in Florence, especially in the summertime. Florence can be very hot and very crowded in the summer, and typically to get a place with a pool and some green space to enjoy, you have to head out into Tuscany. That’s why I was so excited to find this Kid & Coe rental IN Florence. The rental has plenty of space to spread out as a family. The pool area is absolutely lovely. They also serve breakfast daily and it’s amazing.
Insider Tip:
Having too much fun at the pool to leave for gelato? We had GROM gelato delivered and the kids enjoyed it poolside!
See more from Courtney over on her Instagram @travelwewill. Browse all our family-friendly vacation rentals in Florence or explore our worldwide destinations for inspiration for your next trip.