Venice with Children: A Family Adventure
Exploring Venice with kids is not only possible—it’s highly recommended, provided the trip is well planned. Thanks to tips from the “Bonjour Venise” website, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy a stress-free and fun-filled family stay!
In this article, you’ll find:
- Practical tips for visiting Venice
- Activity ideas for children
- Museum visits suitable for families
Why visit Venice as a family?
At first glance, Venice might seem ill-suited for families: narrow alleys, countless bridges, and few green spaces. But with a bit of organization, the city becomes a giant playground. From boat rides to creative workshops and interactive museums, young visitors will have plenty to enjoy.
Practical tips for exploring Venice with kids
Getting around with little ones
Venice isn’t the easiest city to navigate with a stroller. Uneven cobblestones, stairs, and bridges can make things tricky. A baby carrier is often more practical, especially in busy areas like St. Mark’s Square.
Where to take a break
Benches and rest areas are rare in the historic center. Café terraces might seem like a good option, but prices can be steep—even for a simple ice cream. Plan short outings and choose centrally located accommodation for easy returns.
Getting around easily
The Vaporetto pass is a great investment for families. It allows quick travel between neighborhoods and saves long walks. Plus, kids love riding the boats through the canals!
Activities to do in Venice with children
Take a small gondola ride
No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. For kids, a short 20–30 minute tour on the quieter canals is ideal—more peaceful and charming than the Grand Canal.
Make your own carnival mask
Workshops like those at Ca’ Macana let children decorate their own Venetian mask. It’s a fun, creative activity that also teaches them about the history of the Venice Carnival. Suitable from age 4, sessions last about an hour.
Scavenger hunt: find the winged lion
Turn sightseeing into a game by asking kids to spot the winged lions—the city’s emblem—on facades, columns, fountains, and more. A playful way to keep them engaged during walks.
Kid-Friendly Museums and Tours
Naval history museum
Perfect for young boat and sea adventure enthusiasts. Models, ancient objects, and pirate tales spark the imagination. Entry: €7.50 for children, €10 for adults.
Doge’s Palace – family edition
Some tours of the Doge’s Palace are designed for families, with activity booklets and kid-friendly routes. Children can follow the prisoners’ path to the Bridge of Sighs or learn about the life of a doge.
Sunday workshops at the Peggy Guggenheim collection
Every Sunday, free workshops are offered for children aged 4–10. While parents explore the museum, kids dive into modern art through creative activities. Workshops are in Italian or English.
Leonardo da Vinci museum
This interactive museum lets children handle models inspired by Leonardo’s inventions. Entry: €6 for ages 3–17. Best suited for curious kids aged 5–6 and up.
Family excursions around Venice
Murano and the Glass Museum
Murano is famous for its glassmaking. The museum is impressive, but the real highlight for kids is watching live glassblowing demonstrations. Workshops are also available. Entry: €7.50 for children aged 6 and up.
Lido and its Planetarium
The Lido’s Planetarium, located in a public park, is the third largest in Italy. It offers immersive shows about the universe, suitable from age 6. Free sessions are held on Sunday afternoons from October to May.
Final Tips for a Successful Family Trip to Venice
- Choose a compact stroller or baby carrier
- Take regular breaks in gardens or shaded squares
- Avoid peak hours around St. Mark’s Square
- Travel in the off-season (spring or autumn)
- Book tickets in advance to skip the lines
Visiting Venice with children is not only doable—it can be magical with the right planning.
Between cultural discoveries, boat rides, and fun activities, the city offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Article created in collaboration with “Bonjour Venise”, a travel blog sharing tips and good deals for visiting Venice.
