When faced with so many choices of places to visit while in a far-off destination like Rome, one must be cautious not to get overwhelmed.  Meticulous research and detailed planning is good, but maintaining  a  laid-back attitude is also key.  After all, it is a vacation, and the primary goal should be to relax and enjoy.   A schedule of daily activities/events should be considered more as a guideline rather than a strict to-do list.  With that philosophy in mind, here is the rest of our family’s adventure in Rome!      

What to See & Do   

Museo Explora   

Located at Via Flaminia Rome, this is Italy’s first museum especially designed for kids and families. Therefore, it makes the perfect stop on any Roman holiday when travelling with the family. The museum is creatively laid out like a small town with four areas. Each area was devoted to a topic of interest, including environment, communication, society, and the esoteric “I.” The displays were very “hands-on,” which makes it great for kids as it becomes a truly personal experience. There were almost surreal displays like a giant mouth, a supermarket, and a petrol station—all child-size, of course.      

Bioparco (Zoological Gardens)      

The Bioparco Zoological Gardens on your Roman family holiday (located at Viale del Giardino Zoologico, 1) can be a whole day indulgence.  There are over 1,000 animals from over 200 species available to captivate kids and adults alike.  There are all kinds of fascinating creatures including birds, mammals, and reptiles.   We are a family of travelers who are very fond of animals, making this the perfect treat.  For more info visit their website at http://www.bioparco.it/forma/bioparco_eng/bioparco_eng_ID737.php      

Roman Colosseum      

Colosseum Rome

The Roman Colosseum (located at Piazza del Colosseo) is of course at the top of the list when visiting Rome.   It is the most impressive remnant of the once great Roman Empire and the largest building of its era. During our visit, we learned that the elliptical building could seat 55,000 people and has 80 entrances. This marvel served the Romans for 450 years as the city’s all-around entertainment center with gladiatorial games (my boys’ main reason for being here) and circuses.    

It has been pillaged, burned, toppled by earthquakes, and even renovated over 2,000 years since it was built, but the Collosseum still stands proudly today and is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable buildings worldwide. At night, it is lit from inside and is absolutely mesmerizing.    

Speaking of Rome at night, the kids loved the Piazza Navona (Piazza Navona, Rome), one of the world’s most well-known addresses. This is a city square in Rome that comes alive especially at night with sketch artists and street performers. There are even brilliant fountains (including a recognizable one dedicated to the sea god Neptune) and interesting sculptures. We “people-watched” at one of its busy sidewalk cafes.    

Ancient Rome Walking Tour This tour starts at the Colosseum/Piazza Navona and takes you by foot through key places in Roman history, including the Collosseum, the ancient Roman Forum, Capitoline Hill, Palatine Hill, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon,  and Constantine’s Arch. On foot is the only way to experience the city so make sure the kids (and you) wear comfy shoes for this three hour romp led by knowledgeable guides.We learned about the Forum’s role in ancient Rome and how its influence can still be seen today in our daily life. We got the scoop on Rome from its early origins to its glory days (and sad decline) as an Empire.  Each group was limited to 25 people. Therefore, the kids had the green light to ask lots of questions.   

Roman Bones, Ghosts, and Ghouls at the Capuchin Crypt   

Located in Santa Maria della Concezione Church, Via Vaneto 27, this was another hit with my kids. My little ghouls didn’t break into a sweat like I did as we descended down the ancient Capuchin Crypt below the Santa Maria della Concezione Church to view the skulls and bones of the Capuchin monks scattered throughout this crypt. They formed all sorts of artistic designs as the actual human skulls and bones were used as decoration. There were thousands of them in the five vaulted chapels (the guide said 4,000 monks were counted). There were even lampshades made from human skin. All my kids could utter was “Kewl.” All I could do was shiver in my boots!   

Planetarium & Museo Civilta Romana    

A museum about Roman civilization, the Museo Civilta Romana and the Planetarium (located at Piazza G. Agnelli, 10) are adjacent to each other.  This means you can journey through space, learning about things like our Solar System and the Moon Landing, and then switch gears instantly.  Once back on earth, you can travel back in time and absorb Rome’s rich history through a detailed scale model of the ancient city as it once stood.     

The Caffarella    

Located in the middle of the busy city of Rome is the sprawling park, the Caffarella, located at Largo Tacchi Venturi  (Via Appia Antica).  This is a charming place for the family to spend a relaxing day away from all the “touristy” activities.  Don’t be surprised if you see passing flocks of sheep, and fresh cheese and eggs for sale at local farmyards.  There are plenty of things to explore including bubbling grottoes, streams, and even ancient tombs nearby which will surely fascinate the kids.    

The Janiculum Hill    

The Janiculum Hill in Piazza Garibaldi will require a bit of a climbing.  The climb and the view will take your breath away.  Once you reach the top, you will find a setting right out of a storybook, with a gorgeous merry-go-round, an Italian puppet show, and a view of Rome you can’t get anywhere else.  As for me, I enjoyed sipping cappuccino and eating some Italian cookies at the coffee bar above.      

Sistine Chapel      

Built by the Vatican between 1477 and 1481, this historic structure (located at the Vatican Palace, Viale del Vaticano) is an unintentional museum of Renaissance art with walls by the great masters such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, Perugino, and Ghirlandaio, among many others.  Here you can see Michelangelo’s ceiling masterpiece, “The Last Judgment,” awe-inspiring for all ages indeed!  Website: http://www.vatican.va      

St. Peter’s Basilica      

Along with the Collosseum and the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City was on our list of “must see”.  It is considered one of the holiest sites in Christian history where St. Peter died and is buried.  The elliptical-shaped St. Peter’s Square features the world-famous fountains of Bernini and Carlo Maderno.       

Tecnolandia      

Tecnolandia is located at Viale della Pittura.  It reminded me quite a bit of Rome’s version of “Tomorrow Land” (a Disneyland attraction).   The kids had a hard time deciding which of the displays or gadgets to try first.  This interactive museum is made for curious kids and adults who never outgrew the need to push buttons.  You can play around with various experiments and gadgets with the expert guidance of the Tecnolandia staff.  See how it all works!      

Time Elevator Rome

Time Elevator    

Make sure to fasten your seatbelts.  The Time Elevator (located at Vai dei SS, Apostoli, 20) would give the chariot races a run for their money.  Well, not really, but it would astonish even the worldly Romans as you literally take a ride through Roman history beginning way back in the prehistoric era.   You get to witness some of the city’s most defining events like Julius Caesar’s assassination (allegedly by Nero), the Collosseum’s glory days, the sweeping Renaissance, and much more. Not only do you see it in full 3D (IMAX-like) cinematic action but you also feel it thanks to in-seat special effects, including a motion base platform guaranteed to shake things up. What’s more, we left the 45-minute ride actually learning something. The kids even pointed to sites they saw on the Time Elevator during the rest of our trip!  Check out their website at http://www.timeelevator.it      

Museo dei Bambini di Roma (Children’s Museum)      

While the main narration during the Children’s Museum of Rome (located at Via Flaminia, 82) tour is in Italian (a great experience nonetheless for the kids even if they can’t understand it), a convenient English translation is provided by an English-speaking staff member.  The numerous exhibits cover everything from how babies are made to how the ecosystem works.  All in all, the displays are all fascinating.  Website:  http://www.mdbr.it      

Museo Civico di Zoologia      

The Museuo Civico Zoologia in Rome (located at Via Aldrovandi, 18) features more than 5,000 specimens you can observe, including insects, birds, and sea life.  They are spread out over 18 zones each with their own themed-collections. What’s more, new exhibits are added constantly, making each visit a different experience. Website:  http://www.museodizoologia.it/index.htm      

Castel Saint Angelo Rome

Castel Sant’Angelo   

(located at Lungotevere Castello 50, Rome) is the well-known name for the Mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian, a cylindrical building (like the Collosseum) on the right bank of the Tiber River. Its long history includes being used as part of the city wall, a fortress, a papal residence, a military prison, a barracks, and of course, as a mausoleum. Today, however, it is a proud national museum.     

It gets its current nickname thanks to the bronze statue of an angel sitting on top. It was made in the 18^thcentury by Flemish sculptor Pieter Verschaffet. According to our tour guide, the angel (St. Michael) had supposedly appeared on the rooftop in 590 A.D. His arrival signalled the end of a plague that ravaged Rome. It inspired the former mausoleum to be more popularly called “Castel Sant’ Angelo.”     

It is indeed one of the city’s most famous landmarks, and unfortunately, Emperor Hadrian’s ashes, once contained in an urn here, are long gone.     

Roman Gladiator School     

(located at via Morsasco 9, Rome) was undoubtedly a hit with my boys! What’s more, the classes were all held within clear view of the Colosseum for added excitement. Now before you shake your head at what a bad parent I am, this one day class is made for adults and kids to learn more about this part of Roman history.     

Your expert instructors are the “Gruppo Storico Romano,” women and men who are passionate about keeping history alive by teaching it.     

We began with a history lesson giving us all a background about who the gladiators were in Rome. The instructors used museum exhibits to show daily life through the eyes of a gladiator and highlight their unique and varied fighting styles. Furthermore, we got to choose ancient gladiator names that we used throughout the day.     

Next, our core training started as we took an active part in how the real gladiators prepared themselves (don’t worry, not really as exhausting as the real gladiators had it). We even wore togas over our clothes, learning to accessorize with sandals, belts, and wooden training swords or a “rudis.”     

Finally, we learned some basic offensive and defensive techniques, armed with our rudis. We even got some hands-on experience with the “retiarius” or trident and net. A tournament was optional but adults could show off their moves safely and under strict supervision.     

All in all, history came alive for my boys on what could otherwise have been another bland history tour.     

We even earned certificates of completion as souvenirs!     

Aquafelix      

If you need a kid-friendly break from all the historic sites and culture in Rome, take a quick stop at Aquafelix (located at Autostrada Roma-Civitavecchia, Uscita Civitavecchia Nord).  This water park features water slides, wave machines, and even a huge Jacuzzi.  In addition, you will find a relaxing lagoon and waterfalls.  There are nearby shops and restaurants for a welcome break within your break.      

Luna Park      

Luna Park is one of Italy’s oldest and largest amusement parks (located at Via delle Tre Fontane).  It has over 130 rides for both older and younger kids.  There are even roller coasters and an old-fashioned House of Horrors that are sure to amuse you as well.      

Zoo Marine      

Marine mammals and aquatic birds are the main attraction at Zoo Marine (located at Torvaianca, Pomezia in Rome).  Hourly shows let you watch many of them like at Dolphins’ island (with its friendly cast of dolphins), Pinniped’s Bay (with seal, otter, and sea lion superstars), and the colorful Tropical Bird’s Forest.  Their website is: http://www.zoomarine.it/indexuk.php      

Villa Borghese      

North of central Rome, this beautiful park (located at Piazzale Flamini) lets the family enjoy a leisurely walk to burn off all that yummy Italian food you are sure to eat on your trip.  Dropping by on a Sunday will surely make you feel like a local since this spot is a popular destination for locals who enjoy reading on the grass, picnicking, bicycle riding, and more. Website: http://www.villaborghese.it      

With all the sights to see in Rome, our family did not have a minute to spare.  But despite our long list of places to visit and things to do, we were relaxed and content with the fact that we could not do everything.  After all, this list was there as a guideline only and not as a work schedule!   We were there to enjoy ourselves and I am glad to say we never lost sight of that fact.  We were flexible and took things as they came during our jam-packed four days.  If we wanted to spend more time at one spot, we did.  If we missed something on our itinerary, we would either reschedule or skip it depending on its importance.  Missed attractions are just one more reason to return to Rome for an encore visit!

Last January, while packing away the Christmas decorations, I brought up the topic, “Where would you guys want to go for vacation this summer?”  This inquiry quickly turned into a full-fledged brainstorming session. 

One of the things I asked to keep the ideas coming was, “what city have you seen in movies that really interested you?”  With two boys, Jason 12, and Eric, 8, both fans of the classic movie “Ben Hur” which they play and replay on the classics movie channel, I got a united shout of “Rome!” 

Of course, don’t agree immediately with your kids even if you’ve been dying to go there yourself; even their ideas need to fit both your budget and time constraints.  Therefore, spare them the disappointment if such a vacation isn’t possible. Thankfully, Santa was generous that past holiday season and I got a sizeable bonus from my company. 

Next, we did a lot of research for the trip (which we will share with you later on). This is where the kids really shined.  They scoured the Internet (with supervision, of course) and collected information about Rome.  Their research project included places to stay, things to do and see, where to eat, and even where to shop for souvenirs.  If your kids are older, you can even ask them to email the local tourism authority for more pointers to make the family adventure really stand out. 

Before your departure, divide up responsibilities during the trip such as bringing snacks, entertainment, and other things you need to look for on your journey especially when flying.  Now let the Williams family adventure in Rome begin! 

Suggestions on places to stay 

Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie (Via del Babuino 9, Rome) certainly exudes a distinct Old World hospitality with its eager-to-please staff, spacious rooms (large by European standards), and convenient location at the heart of the city right between the Piazza del Popolo and the famous Spanish Steps. If your family is fortunate enough to enjoy five star luxuries on your Roman holiday, this is the place to stay. However, if your budget puts it a bit out of reach, enjoy a sumptuous meal and enjoy the remarkable view at the La Jardin Hotel or the de Russie Hotel instead. The specially designed “secret” garden of ancient trees and antique roses is highly recommended during the summer season. Special kids’ programs are offered as well. 

Bettoja Hotel Mediterraneo 

Bettoja Hotel Mediterraneo

Stuffed with all sorts of luxurious trappings, the Bettoja Hotel Mediterraneo (Located at Via Cavour 15) looked very at home in the Old World with its romantic art-deco architecture complete with mosaics, inlaid paneling, and marble columns. They have a complimentary breakfast buffet and newspaper, convenient when you don’t have a partner looking after the kids while you grab a leisurely meal outside.  What’s more, all the rooms feature comfy upholstered furnishings, parquet floors, 1940s-style beds, and even Oriental carpets. 

Grand Hotel Palazzo Della Fonte (Via dei Villini 7, Fluggi Phone)  is for families looking for a kid-friendly hotel near Rome but not necessarily in Rome.  Instead this hotel is 60-minutes from the sometimes hot, always busy city at the heart of a world-renowned Italian spa town (maybe the most well-known, in fact) called Fluggi. Instead of being surrounded by tourist hotspots, you will have to settle for a lush, mountain setting. Don’t worry, if you are looking for a bit of history, the town has its own medieval castle, an ancient bell tower, and a sprawling villa. Babysitting service is among its many amenities. Even small pets are allowed if our Pomeranian Riley was indeed coming along (he stayed with a neighbor). 

Rome's Hotel Gambrinus

 Hotel Gambrinus 

(Via Piave 35, Rome) This hotel was more within our family’s budget. Therefore, we checked-in.  It is even conveniently and centrally located in the city’s historic district near the Via Veneto thoroughfare and close to tourist sites like the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Spanish Steps. The boys were immediately drawn to the cast of a Roman gladiator’s armour in the Hotel Gambrinus’ lobby. For single parents like me and families with younger kids, the in-room babysitting service comes at a reasonable surcharge. 

Hotel Homs 

The Hotel Homs (located at Via Della Vite 71-72) is indeed a family-friendly abode.  They offer childcare service in case you’d like to go out alone or want to visit a location not suitable for kids. This 5-level boutique hotel is at the center of Rome as well, making it convenient.  Wireless internet, a complimentary selection of  magazines, on-site dry cleaning service, and a hotel limo just sweeten the package. 

Aleph A Boscolo Luxury Hotel (Via di San Basilio 15, Rome) is a designer hotel that seems more fashionista-friendly than family-friendly.  In fact, it was inspired by a vision of heaven and hell radiating in the sprawling black marble floors and red leather everywhere (what a vision that must have been). The boys liked the fact there were samurai warrior models guarding the location. It also has a rooftop garden. Even fashionistas must travel with their kids because the hotel offers complete childcare and babysitting services. 

Suggestions on places to eat 

‘Gusto (located at Piazza Augusto, Imperatore 7, Rome) is more trendy than touristy. Located near the Spanish Steps and Via del Corso, this restaurant also features a bookstore, wine bar, and pizzeria.  An outdoor dining area is made especially for soaking up the “hard-to-believe I’m here” atmosphere. You can even see the Mausoleum of Augustus across while dining on pizza or the buffets of six small Italian dishes to give you and the kids a sampler of the menu. 

Ristorante Babette 

The art film “Babette’s Feast” inspired the likewise named Ristorante Babette (located at via Margutta 1D/3). World-renowned chef Silvia Sallorenzo creates culinary magic with an exceptional pistachio, zucchini, and saffron pesto sauce followed by grilled beef fillet in a mouthwatering basil sauce.  Their website can be found at  http://www.babetteristorante.it 

Panattonni (located at Viale Trastevere 53-57, Rome) is a morbid dining experience in the way boys seem to like it. For one thing, this restaurant is proudly nicknamed “The Mortuary” due to its dining tables, which resemble marble burial slabs. However, things aren’t so dead here with plenty of locals buzzing and visitors coming for its wood-oven-baked, crispy, thin-crust pizzas. Orders are even filled at bullet-train speeds. 

Crazy Bull Café 

Looking for a piece of home in Rome? Try the Crazy Bull Café (located at 90 Via Francesco Crispi) for good old-fashioned American cuisine that you can write home about.  This includes hotdogs, Texas-style beans, and stuffed potatoes.  Make sure to save some space for All-American desserts like Apple Pie with a scoop of Vanilla ice cream (not gelato).  There are also 1950s-style Art Deco chairs to rest your weary tourist’s Gluteus maximus on (not to be confused with Circus Maximus).   Check out their website at http://www.crazybull.it 

Il Fornaio Bakery (located at Via Santorre di Santarosa 21, Rome) is a commuter’s lunch haven for the locals who seem to stop here for a quick bite, but we could have spent the whole day at this bakery with its tantalizing selection of baked goods, pizzas (of course), and desserts. We sampled the fried rice balls with a tomato sauce and mozzarella filling, called suppli di riso. For a heavier meal, there is a large selection of Panini (Italian sandwiches) and pizzas.  End your meal with a Scillian cannoli for dessert. Heaven. 

Suggestions on places to shop

Bartolucci Florence

Bartolucci (located at Via dei Pastini 98) features Old World-style wooden toys made for three generations (60 plus years) by the Bartolucci family. Everything from clocks to cars to planes are all expertly carved in pine. The kids encountered an army of small Pinocchios led by a life-sized Pinocchio carving.  He was riding on a full-sized bike and everything including the bike was carved out of wood! The boys even brought home wooden signs personalized with their names engraved. 

Bonpoint Paris (25 Piazza di San Lorenzo) features classic French children’s wear with a modern twist you’d expect in Italy where this store is located. The clothes are very expensive, but I could not resist purchasing little Eric an outfit even if it meant splurge a bit. After all, it may be a long time before we have another chance to return. 

Citta del Sole 

If your family needs more amusement, Citta del Sole (located at Via della Scrofa, 65-66-66a) is your best shopping prospect.  It offers a wide selection of hard-to-find toys and games.  In fact, you can spend your whole vacation browsing here (and I get the feeling the kids would not mind that one bit).  Many of the products are in Italian, but there are also many in English.  Family board games, role-playing games, and games for younger kids stuff the shelves. 

I Granai 

The over 150 shops at I Granai (located at Via Tazio Nuvolari, Ardeatino ) have made it a popular shopping hotspot in all of the Eternal City.  Clothes and accessories might tempt you to pull out your credit card and splurge a bit, but don’t worry, everything is actually affordably priced.  This also includes some furnishings and other household items and appliances.  You can end your shopping adventure feeling very chic and European (in your new outfit) by sipping a cappuccino at one of the numerous cafes in the area. 

Mel Giannino Stoppani Children’s Bookstore (Piazza Apostoli 59/65) is the only place you need to go for children’s books in Rome. While they only carry a small selection of books in English, there were plenty of picture books with little-to-no words for browsing through. Some of our favorite personal souvenirs are books for kids from other countries in their native languages. 

My son Jason put together a checklist of things we needed to cover for our trip to be “complete.”  He and his younger brother found A LOT of useful information online as you can see.  This not only made my job of planning the trip easier, but it also made me realize single parents can manage and enjoy family vacations all on their own if need be. 

- A place for the family to stay – Check
- Places we can enjoy a nice lunch or dinner at (breakfast we’d take at the hotel especially if it was free!) – Check
- Where can we could buy nice gifts for family and friends to share our trip even if just in souvenir form. – Check
- Things to see and do, including attractions, theme parks, parks,  museums, historical sites, and whatever sound interesting that we come across
– Stay tuned for the next installment of “Roaming in Rome Part II.” There are too many to squeeze in here, which means your family will not get bored!