Italy for Kids: Must-See Places Full of Wonder

Rome
Rome is the capital of modern Italy and one of the most historic cities in the world. Everywhere you turn, there are ancient ruins, beautiful fountains, Renaissance palaces, and impressive churches. The Pantheon, built in 27 BC, is a temple decorated with paintings and a garden. The Coliseum, once home to gladiator battles and dramatic plays, is a massive stone arena visible from miles away. The Temple of Venus and Rome is the largest ancient temple in the city. Today, Rome is lively and full of restaurants serving delicious Italian food. It’s also home to the Vatican and the grand St. Peter’s Basilica.

Venice
Venice is a magical city built on water in the middle of a lagoon. Known for its beauty and romance, Venice is one of Italy’s most visited cities. At its heart is Piazza San Marco with its stunning church. The city is filled with museums, palaces, and canals, making it fun to explore on foot or by gondola. Located in northeastern Italy, Venice once served as a key link between the East and West.

Florence
Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and one of the most important art and architecture centers in the world. The city’s Duomo and Baptistery are breathtaking and attract visitors from all over. Florence is also home to museums full of famous paintings and sculptures, as well as elegant Medici palaces and gardens.

Milan
Milan is one of Europe’s wealthiest and most stylish cities. It’s known for fashion, fast-paced life, and beautiful buildings. The marble-covered Duomo is one of its most famous sites. Milan is also home to La Scala, one of the world’s most renowned opera houses.

Naples
Naples is a colorful city on the coast south of Rome. It’s one of southern Italy’s most important cities and full of historic and artistic landmarks. Even after recent renovations, Naples still holds its old charm and local flavor.

Verona
Verona is famous as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The city also has a large Roman Arena, the third-largest in Italy, which hosts an annual opera festival. Visitors enjoy exploring Verona’s medieval old town, Roman ruins, and castle complex.

Turin
Located in the northwest near the Alps, Turin hosted the 2006 Winter Olympics and is a cultural and architectural treasure. The city features baroque buildings, elegant shops, and cozy cafes. Museums, artisan workshops, and historic palaces make Turin a great place to discover Italian heritage.

Bologna
Bologna is admired for its beauty, historic charm, and amazing food. Its streets are famous for long archways that make walking pleasant in any weather. Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, Bologna also has a well-preserved medieval center filled with squares and portico-lined buildings.

Perugia
Perugia is a vibrant hilltop city in central Italy, known for its cultural events and universities. It hosts a world-famous jazz festival in the summer. Surrounded by walls and rich in monuments, Perugia’s history goes back to the 9th century BC. It is the capital of the Umbria region.

Genoa
Genoa is Italy’s main seaport, located on the northwest coast. It was named a European Culture Capital in 2004. The city is home to a large aquarium, a historic port area where Christopher Columbus once sailed, and what’s said to be the largest medieval quarter in Europe, with many churches, palaces, and museums to explore.

If your child is curious to explore more about Italy and learn Italian in a fun way, check out Dinolingo, where they can enjoy language lessons through games, songs, and stories.