JourGuideHome › City itineraries › Italy › Roma › 3 days
Rome with Kids: Ancient History in 3 Days
By public transport
This itinerary immerses families in the grandeur of ancient Rome, exploring from the imposing Coliseo and the Foros Imperiales to majestic temples like the Panteón and the vast Termas de Caracalla. The route continues discovering the artistic magnificence of the Ciudad del Vaticano, with its museums and the Basílica de San Pedro, as well as the iconic Baroque squares and fountains that adorn the historic center, such as the Fontana di Trevi and the Plaza Navona. Each step is designed to capture the imagination of the little ones, alternating immersion in millenary history with green spaces, curious legends, and recreational activities designed for their enjoyment.
The 27 stops
Santa Maria in Cosmedin
Religious
A medieval church where the famous Mouth of Truth is located, with an interior decorated with ancient mosaics. It is a peaceful place full of religious history and legends.
Tip
The church is older than it looks; it contains elements from different historical periods.
Boca de la Verdad
History and Legend
A circular marble sculpture in the shape of a face where, according to Roman legend, whoever lies with their hand in its mouth will be bitten. It's a perfectly appropriate place to teach children about honesty.
Tip
Children will enjoy putting their hand in the sculpture's mouth and making a promise of honesty.
Museos Capitolinos
Museum
An exceptional collection of Roman art and archaeology housed in Renaissance palaces. Children can see sculptures, coins, and everyday objects that tell stories of ancient Rome.
Tip
Look for the famous sculpture of the she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus, the symbol of Rome.
Campidoglio
Ancient History
The sacred hill where the palaces of the Senate and Conservators are located, with a square designed by Michelangelo. It is one of the most important places in Roman political history.
Tip
The square is beautiful for photos. Children will enjoy running in the open space.
Basílica de Santa María en Aracoeli
Religious
A historic church located on the Campidoglio with an interior full of religious art and mosaics. It's a peaceful place perfect for resting after seeing the ancient ruins.
Tip
There are many steps to climb, but the view and the interior are worth it.
Monumento a Víctor Manuel II
History and Views
A monumental white marble structure dedicated to the unity of Italy, located in the heart of Rome. It is known as the 'Wedding Cake' due to its appearance and offers incredible views from its terraces.
Tip
Go up to the upper terraces for panoramic views that will thrill the whole family.
Columna de Trajano
Ancient History
An ancient Roman column decorated with sculpted reliefs that tell the story of Trajan's wars. It is an invaluable source of information about ancient Roman military life.
Tip
The reliefs tell a visual story: look up to see the details of soldiers and battle.
Foro Traiano
Ancient History
The ruins of the forum built by Emperor Trajan, one of ancient Rome's most ambitious architectural projects. Here you can see the remains of temples, libraries, and public spaces.
Tip
This forum was connected to other nearby ancient forums. Imagine the commercial and political life that took place here.
Foro Romano
Ancient History
The political and social heart of ancient Rome where important decisions were made. The ruins allow visualizing what daily Roman life was like nearly 2000 years ago.
Tip
Bring water and an umbrella: there are few trees. Help children recognize the ancient temples among the ruins.
Arco de Constantino
Ancient History
A Roman triumphal arch decorated with reliefs that tell stories of military victories. It's perfect for children to understand how the Romans celebrated their achievements.
Tip
Look up so children can discover the details carved into the stones.
Coliseo de Roma
Ancient History
The most iconic amphitheater in the ancient world where thousands of people attended spectacles. Children will be amazed by the magnitude of this nearly 2000-year-old Roman structure.
Tip
Visit in the morning when there are fewer crowds. Children can imagine gladiators fighting in the central arena.
Villa Borghese
Park
A huge historic park with gardens, museums, and tree-lined paths where children can play and run. It's a green oasis in the heart of Rome perfect for resting between historical visits.
Tip
Rent bicycles or stroll along the shaded paths. It's an ideal place for young children to rest and play.
Escaleras de la Plaza de España
Iconic Landmark
A famous marble staircase with 135 steps where tourists and locals gather to enjoy the views and atmosphere. It is an iconic landmark in Rome surrounded by shops and cafes.
Tip
Children will enjoy climbing the stairs. Rest on the steps and enjoy the Roman atmosphere.
Plaza de España
Historic Square
An iconic square surrounded by historic palaces and the famous staircase. It is a cultural and shopping center in the heart of Rome where luxury shops and historical tradition coexist.
Tip
The surrounding shops and cafes offer comfortable breaks. It's a perfect place to buy souvenirs or enjoy a gelato.
Fontana di Trevi
Art and Architecture
Rome's most famous fountain, a baroque masterpiece where water flows dramatically around sculptures. It's a magical place where throwing a coin is said to ensure a return to Rome.
Tip
Bring small coins: throwing them into the fountain is a tradition. Children will enjoy making a wish together.
Panteon de Roma
Ancient History
An extraordinarily well-preserved Roman temple with an architecturally revolutionary dome. Children will be amazed when they look up and see the overhead light opening (the oculus).
Tip
Go inside and look up: the round oculus in the ceiling allows light to enter directly, creating a magical effect.
Plaza Navona
Historic Square
A historic square built on the site of an ancient Roman stadium, surrounded by churches, restaurants, and street artists. It's a vibrant place where ancient history blends with modern Roman life.
Tip
Tell the children that this square follows the shape of the ancient Stadium of Domitian. There are many artists who entertain visitors.
Fuente de Los Cuatro Ríos
Art and Architecture
A spectacular baroque fountain in the heart of Rome decorated with sculptures representing the world's most important rivers. It is a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance art.
Tip
Observe the sculptures in detail: each river has unique characteristics representing its geography.
Campo de' Fiori
Historic Square
A historic square that during the day is a fruit and vegetable market, and at night fills with restaurants and nightlife. It's a lively place where children can see modern Roman daily life.
Tip
Visit in the morning to see the traditional market. Children can try fresh local fruits and vegetables.
Largo di Torre Argentina
Ancient History
A sumptuous archaeological area where the remains of four ancient Roman temples are found, one of which was built in the 6th century BC. It is a place where children can see literal layers of Roman history.
Tip
This is also the place where Julius Caesar was assassinated. It is fascinating to tell this historical story to children.
Circo Máximo
Ancient History
The ancient stadium where Roman chariot races were held, now a wide green space where children can play. It's fascinating to imagine the noise and excitement of thousands of spectators in this arena.
Tip
It's an open park perfect for children to run and play among the ruins.
Termas de Caracalla
Ancient History
The remains of a huge complex of Roman baths where thousands of people relaxed. Children can understand how Romans enjoyed leisure and hygiene almost 2000 years ago.
Tip
Walk among the ancient walls and explore the different rooms: caldarium (hot), tepidarium (warm), frigidarium (cold).
Museo Vaticano
Museum
An exceptionally important collection of art and archaeology, including masterpieces by Michelangelo. It is a fascinating museum where children can learn about the art and history of the ancient world.
Tip
The Sistine Chapel is included: look for Michelangelo's famous ceiling fresco. It's a large museum, so choose the areas that most interest the family.
Capilla Sixtina
Religious Art
The papal chapel decorated with immortal frescoes by Michelangelo, including the famous scene of the Creation of Adam. It is one of the most important artistic masterpieces in the world that will captivate the whole family.
Tip
It's inside the Vatican Museum. Silence is mandatory, but Michelangelo's frescoes are worth every minute of silent awe.
Basílica de San Pedro
Religious
The most important church in Christendom, an architectural and artistic Renaissance masterpiece. Children will be amazed by the size, light, and decoration of this sacred temple.
Tip
St. Peter's Dome is visible from many points in Rome. If the youngest child gets tired, adult arms are welcome in this sacred place.
Castillo de Sant'Angelo
History and Views
A circular fortress that was originally Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum, later converted into a defensive castle. It offers panoramic views of Rome and a unique perspective of the city from its walls.
Tip
Climb the steps to the upper terrace for beautiful views of Rome. The bridge crossing the Tiber River is especially photogenic.
Explora
Children's Museum
An interactive museum specially designed for children with hands-on exhibitions about science, art, and history. It's an educational place where little ones can learn by touching and experimenting.
Tip
Perfect for children aged 3 to 6. It allows them to explore and experiment with their hands in a safe environment.
This itinerary is in the app, with step-by-step navigation and the option to save it and check it offline.
Open in JourGuide