With its rich cultural heritage, legendary cuisine, and historic cities, Italy has long been a favourite destination among travellers — however, it’s typically not thought of as a family vacation hotspot. According to the 2025 Virtuoso Luxe Report, which annually surveys 2,200 international travel advisors for the latest travel trends, Italy topped the list of the best family travel destinations in the world.
What makes Italy the best family vacation destination
Though the Boot is typically thought of as an ideal setting for a romantic getaway, there is plenty to do in the country if you have little ones. For example, in Tuscany, families can explore Renaissance art and architecture amidst pastoral landscapes. The region has over 100 wineries and many have family-friendly offerings that keep kids occupied while parents sample vino, with activities ranging from grape stomping to petting zoos to “treasure hunts.”
There’s plenty to do beyond wineries, too: families can unwind in the natural hot springs of Bagni San Filippo or Cascate di Mulino, hike the Elsa Trail to Diborrato Waterfall, or cycle through Tuscany’s rolling hills. For something more hands-on, sign up for cooking classes at Mama Florence or Podere II Casale in Siena, where you can learn to prepare classic Italian dishes together.
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Venice, another popular Italian destination, is also an excellent option for families. Parents with kids of all ages will enjoy activities such as gondola rides through the city’s waterways, tours of the Doge’s Palace, or walks through the colourful neighbourhoods of Burano. For those with older children, consider joining a glass-making class at a workshop like Ferro Toso. On Sundays, the Peggy Guggenheim Museum hosts free workshops for kids, covering topics from abstract expressionism to artists like French painter Jean Dubuffet. And don’t miss out on visiting Caffè Florian, the oldest coffee house in Italy. Established in 1720 in St. Mark’s Square, the cafe serves a variety of robust coffees and kid-approved hot chocolates.
For other family travel inspiration, consider Virtuoso’s other top kid-friendly destinations, which include Hawaii, Costa Rica, Greece, and Japan.
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This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com
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