Two Weeks in Italy Itinerary: The Perfect Family Adventure

Planning a family trip to Italy can be both exciting and daunting, especially when trying to cater to everyone’s interests. We’ve crafted a two-week Italy family itinerary that seamlessly blends historical wonders, scenic beauty, and family-friendly activities, making it perfect for all ages. Imagine wandering through the ruins of Pompeii, then cooling off with an authentic gelato while sailing the canals of Venice.

We start our journey in Naples, a city full of vibrant life and rich history. From there, we explore the stunning Amalfi Coast, taking in breathtaking views and enjoying leisurely coastal drives. By visiting diverse destinations like Rome’s majestic landmarks and Florence’s artistic treasures and wandering through the charming streets of the Tuscan countryside, this itinerary ensures every day is filled with new adventures and discoveries.

One of our fondest moments was spending a day in Capri, where the kids marveled at the Blue Grotto’s shimmering waters while we enjoyed the laid-back island atmosphere.

Our itinerary covers all the must-see spots while leaving room for spontaneous family moments, making it the ideal way to experience the magic of Italy together. Get ready to create unforgettable memories and immerse your family in the heart and soul of this beautiful country.

Milan: A Grand Introduction

Milan is the perfect place to kick off our two-week family adventure in Italy. We explore historic sites, enjoy delicious Italian food, and discover this vibrant city’s magic through planned activities and spontaneous moments.

Days 1-2

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Arriving in Milan, we started our day at the Duomo. The stunning Gothic architecture was a hit with everyone.

We leisurely strolled around Piazza del Duomo, soaking in the lively atmosphere. For lunch, we headed to a nearby pizzeria and introduced the kids to their first Italian pizza—thin, crispy, and absolutely delicious.

Afterward, we unpacked at our family-friendly hotel, taking time to relax and adjust before venturing back out to explore the bustling streets.

Day 2: Art and Leisure

On our second day, we caught a train to see The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. We’d booked tickets in advance to ensure we didn’t miss this iconic artwork. The kids marveled at the painting’s detail, and we enjoyed a leisurely conversation about its history.

We chose a quaint trattoria that offered a range of Italian dishes for lunch. We tried risotto, a Milanese specialty, and wrapped up our meal with some gelato—a treat the children loved.

In the afternoon, we visited Sforza Castle. The expansive grounds and museums kept us engaged and offered plenty of space for the kids to run and explore. We returned to our hotel, tired but happy, reflecting on the memorable start to our Italian journey.

Venice: The City of Magic

Exploring Venice with the family is an enchanting experience filled with gondola rides, stunning architecture, and vibrant local culture. Our journey through this magical city includes captivating visits to iconic landmarks and serene islands nearby.

Days 3-5

Day 3:

Our adventure in Venice began with a picturesque gondola ride along the Grand Canal. The kids were thrilled as we glided under the historic Rialto Bridge, one of the oldest and most beautiful bridges in Venice.

We also visited San Marco Square, where the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica left us all in awe. The square’s bustling atmosphere and the chance to feed the pigeons were highlights for the little ones.

Day 4:

We dedicated the day to exploring the nearby islands of Burano and Murano. Burano charmed us with its colorful houses and lace shops, making for fantastic family photos.

On Murano, we watched glassblowers create stunning art pieces, a mesmerizing experience for all ages. The kids were particularly fascinated by the glass-making process and enjoyed picking small souvenirs.

Day 5:

To get around, we decided to immerse ourselves in local life by using the Vaporetto, Venice’s public transport system. Staying at a family-friendly accommodation near the Grand Canal

We made time for leisurely strolls through lesser-known alleys and enjoyed gelato by the canal. This unhurried day gave us a chance to soak up the unique charm of Venice at our own pace.

Florence: Beauty Overwhelmed by Crowds

Florence is a city of breathtaking art and architecture, but the dense crowds can sometimes make it challenging to fully enjoy its historic charm. Planning well helps you savor its essence amidst the crowds.

Days 6-8

Day 6: Duomo and Renaissance Wonders

We started early at the Duomo to beat the crowd. The intricate facade and dome, a masterpiece by Brunelleschi, left us awestruck. Tip: Book skip-the-line tickets to save time.

Nearby, we explored the Florence Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile. The kids loved climbing to the top for a panoramic city view. The afternoon was perfect for a visit to the Uffizi Gallery.

Day 7: Gardens and Piazzale Michelangelo

On the second day, we visited the Boboli Gardens. The kids had fun running around while we admired the Renaissance sculptures. Post-lunch, we headed to Piazzale Michelangelo.

Although crowded, the view of the Florence skyline at sunset is unparalleled. A well-timed visit ensures a picture-perfect family moment.

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Day 8: Tuscan Day Trips

We took a day trip to nearby towns. With its medieval walls and serene streets, Lucca was a hit with the family. Renting bikes to ride around the town walls was a highlight.

On the way back, we toured a vineyard in Chianti. The adults enjoyed some wine tasting while the kids explored the vineyard. Siena and San Gimignano also make great stops for smaller crowds.

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Rome: The Eternal City

Exploring Rome during our family trip was one of the highlights. We immersed ourselves in historical sites, savored delicious Italian food, and enjoyed an easy-to-navigate public transport system. Here’s how we spent our days in Rome:

Days 9-12

Day 9:

Arriving in Rome, we were excited to visit the Colosseum. This iconic structure, steeped in history, immediately caught the kids’ interest. We booked a guided tour, which turned out to be very informative.

In the afternoon, we relaxed and enjoyed some gelato near the Trevi Fountain. The kids loved the tradition of tossing coins into the fountain, making a wish for our future travels.

Day 10:

Our second day in Rome was dedicated to Vatican City. We started early to avoid the crowds for St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling amazed us all.

The Vatican Museum had so much to offer that we spent the entire afternoon there. For dinner, we strolled to Trastevere, known for its charming streets and family-friendly restaurants.

Day 11:

We explored ancient Rome further by visiting the Roman Forum and the Pantheon. The kids enjoyed running around the ancient sites while we soaked in the historical atmosphere.

For lunch, we tried some authentic Roman pizza at a local pizzeria. In the evening, we went to the Spanish Steps and spent some time people-watching in Piazza Navona.

Day 12:

We visited Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast for our final day in Rome. The preserved ruins of Pompeii offered a fascinating glimpse into ancient life.

We also relaxed by the coast, enjoying the beautiful Italian beaches. Returning to Rome, we had our last meal at a cozy trattoria, savoring pasta and reflecting on our Roman adventures.

Exploring Rome was both educational and fun for our family. The kids discovered history beyond textbooks while we enjoyed the culinary delights and scenic beauty of the Eternal City.

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La Spezia/Cinque Terre: Hidden Gem

Exploring La Spezia and Cinque Terre with family offers a blend of scenic beauty and engaging activities. From hiking trails to delicious food, this area promises a memorable experience.

Days 13-14

Cinque Terre’s Villages

We started with the vibrant towns of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. Each village has its own charm and is accessible by train, making it convenient for family travel. The kids loved Riomaggiore’s colorful houses, and the fresh gelato in Vernazza was a hit with everyone.

Hiking and Trails

Cinque Terre’s hiking trails connected the villages, offering breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea. We found these paths family-friendly, though some sections were a bit steep. Packing light and wearing comfortable shoes helped us enjoy the hike without any issues.

Accommodation and Food

Staying at an agriturismo near Levanto allowed us to experience local life. Our favorite meals included homemade pasta and fresh seafood. The kids enjoyed the farm animals at our accommodation, and we all loved the relaxed atmosphere.

La Spezia Exploration

We took a quick trip into La Spezia to explore its narrow streets. The local markets offered fresh produce and souvenirs. Breakfast at a local café, La Taverna del Metallo, was delightful, with pastries that energized us for the day.

Milan: Final Day

On our final day in Milan, we balanced our time between iconic landmarks, shopping, and savoring delicious Italian cuisine.

Day 15

Our first stop was the iconic Duomo di Milano. We marveled at the Gothic architecture and climbed up to the rooftop for breathtaking city views. The kids loved spotting the statues and gargoyles from above.

After the Duomo, we strolled through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It was a perfect spot to shop for souvenirs and enjoy a mid-morning gelato. The intricate mosaic floors and glass dome left us in awe.

Lunch was at a cozy trattoria, where we enjoyed traditional Italian dishes. The kids tried Margherita pizza while we savored risotto alla Milanese.

In the afternoon, we took a leisurely walk in Sempione Park, letting the kids run around before heading to the airport. The park’s lush greenery and picturesque spots provided a relaxing end to our trip.

We took the train from Milano Centrale station to our airport. It was convenient and gave us one last glimpse of Milan’s scenery before our flight. This method of transfer was hassle-free and enjoyable for the whole family.