Italy, long celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and historical cities, has now claimed the title of best family travel destination for 2025, according to the Virtuoso Luxe Report. The report, which surveys over 2,200 international travel advisors each year to identify the latest travel trends, has highlighted Italy’s growing appeal as a family vacation hotspot.
While Italy is often thought of as a romantic getaway or a destination for history and art enthusiasts, the country offers an abundance of experiences that make it an ideal vacation spot for families. From scenic landscapes to interactive cultural activities, there’s something for children of all ages.
Why Italy Is the Best Family Vacation Destination
Italy offers a unique blend of history, art, nature, and adventure, making it an exciting and educational experience for families. Here’s why it’s become the top pick for family holidays in 2025:
Tuscany: A Family-Friendly Haven
Tuscany, with its iconic rolling hills, medieval towns, and artistic heritage, is one of Italy’s most famous regions, but it’s also surprisingly well-suited for families. While it’s renowned for its wineries, many of Tuscany’s vineyards offer family-friendly experiences that will keep kids entertained while parents enjoy a wine tasting.
Grape Stomping & Petting Zoos: Families can join in the fun by participating in grape stomping events or visiting vineyards with petting zoos and playgrounds for children.
Treasure Hunts: Wineries in Tuscany sometimes offer treasure hunts, a fun activity that lets kids explore the grounds while learning about the region’s history and culture.
Outdoor Adventures: Tuscany isn’t just about food and wine—families can unwind in the natural hot springs at Bagni San Filippo or Cascate di Mulino, go hiking on the Elsa Trail to the Diborrato Waterfall, or cycle through the picturesque Tuscan countryside.
Tuscany also offers hands-on cooking classes where families can prepare traditional Italian dishes together. At Mama Florence or Podere II Casale in Siena, children can learn to make pizza or pasta under the guidance of experienced chefs, ensuring the entire family leaves with not only memories but also new culinary skills.
Venice: A Family-Friendly City of Art and Adventure
While Venice is often seen as a city for lovers, it also offers countless opportunities for families to explore together.
Gondola Rides & Doge’s Palace: Venice’s iconic gondola rides are a must-do experience for families. Kids will love the adventure of navigating the city’s canals while parents can enjoy the scenic beauty. Another family-friendly highlight is a tour of the Doge’s Palace, where children can learn about Venice’s history and its political significance in an engaging way.
Burano & Glassmaking: Venice is home to the colorful island of Burano, where families can enjoy leisurely walks and discover its vibrant neighborhoods. Older children might enjoy a glass-making class at Ferro Toso, one of the city’s renowned glass workshops. Here, kids can learn the ancient craft of Venetian glassblowing, a fascinating experience for creative minds.
Workshops for Kids at Peggy Guggenheim Museum: The Peggy Guggenheim Museum in Venice offers free workshops for children on Sundays, making art more accessible and engaging. Kids can experiment with different art styles, from abstract expressionism to the works of artists like Jean Dubuffet, in a way that’s both fun and educational.
Caffè Florian: No visit to Venice would be complete without a stop at Caffè Florian, the oldest coffeehouse in Italy. Established in 1720, it’s a place where families can enjoy a cup of traditional Italian coffee or a kid-friendly hot chocolate while soaking in the historic atmosphere.
The Variety of Family-Oriented Activities Across Italy
Beyond Tuscany and Venice, Italy is brimming with family-friendly attractions and activities:
Rome’s Ancient Ruins: The capital city of Rome offers a treasure trove of ancient landmarks. The Colosseum and Roman Forum can be exciting for kids, with interactive guides and educational tours that bring history to life.
Amusement Parks and Aquariums: Cities like Rimini on the Adriatic coast feature amusement parks such as Italia in Miniatura and water parks that appeal to kids of all ages. There’s also the Civico Acquario di Genova, the oldest aquarium in Italy, located in Genoa, which is perfect for families seeking a day out with marine life.
Cinque Terre: For families who enjoy outdoor activities, the five charming coastal villages of Cinque Terre offer stunning hiking trails, accessible beaches, and scenic train rides that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
Italy’s combination of historical sites, cultural richness, natural beauty, and hands-on experiences makes it an exceptional family destination. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, sampling authentic Italian food, or enjoying scenic landscapes, Italy offers a range of activities that will appeal to family members of all ages.
Conclusion
Italy’s designation as the best family travel destination for 2025 is a testament to its increasing appeal as a vacation spot for families. Its diverse offerings—from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the canals of Venice—ensure that there is something for everyone in the family. As the 2025 Virtuoso Luxe Report indicates, this European gem is quickly becoming one of the world’s top family destinations, blending cultural immersion with fun, hands-on experiences that make for an unforgettable holiday.
You Might Be Interested In:
