10 Fun Things to Do in Florence With Kids 

Florence, a city renowned for its Renaissance masterpieces, is also a hidden gem for families seeking fun things to do in Florence with kids. With its blend of art, history, and adventure, the Tuscan capital offers something to spark the imagination of every child. From interactive museums that bring history to life to enchanting gardens perfect for exploration, there’s no shortage of fun-filled activities. Discover the magic of Florence through the eyes of a child as we unveil ten unforgettable experiences for families.

Fun Things to Do in Florence With Kids

Florence is more than just a canvas for artistic masterpieces; it’s a playground for curious minds. Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich history, indulging in delicious gelato, or simply soaking up the sun in a picturesque piazza, there’s an adventure waiting for every member of the family.

1. Museo Galileo (Galileo Museum)

Housing Galileo Galilei’s inventions, Museo Galileo offers inspiring educational tours for kids. It is located in Piazza dei Giudici along the Arno River. Its first floor’s nine rooms exhibit Galileo’s two early telescopes, 15th-century scientific instruments, the Medici collections, a collection of terrestrial and celestial globes, and much more. Visiting it is one of the best things to do in Florence with kids, especially for those aged 7 and above who have an interest in science and history.

On the second floor, the museum showcases experimental apparatuses collected by the Lorraine dynasty in the 18th and 19th centuries. These centuries witnessed Italy’s significant contributions to chemistry, electricity, and electromagnetism. The museum enhances the experience for children by offering interactive exhibits and workshops, such as building mini-telescopes or conducting simple experiments, making it an educational adventure.

Practical Tips: Plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours here. The museum is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus stops nearby. There are also numerous cafés and gelato shops along the Arno River where you can get a quick snack after your visit.

Seasonal Considerations: The museum is open year-round, making it a great indoor activity during the hot summer months or on rainy days.

2. Museo Stibbert (Stibbert Museum)

Museo Stibbert, named after Fredrick Stibbert, an English-Italian collector and businessman, is one of the best things to do in Florence with kids. The museum houses around 50,000 artefacts from Eastern and Western civilisations, including armour, paintings, manuscripts, costumes, tapestries, ceramics, musical instruments, and archaeological items.

Children aged 5 and up will be thrilled to see life-size armoured knights on their horses. The museum also offers interactive displays where kids can try on helmets and explore colourful costumes, making history come alive. The museum’s gardens, with their hidden corners, sculptures, and water features, provide a perfect place for kids to explore.

Practical Tips: Allocate about 2 to 3 hours for a full visit, including time in the gardens. The museum is a bit further from the city centre, so consider taking a taxi or driving if you have young children.

Seasonal Considerations: The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring and early autumn. Check for any special events or reenactments that might be taking place during your visit.

3. Museo dei Ragazzi (Children’s Museum)

Situated in Palazzo Vecchio, Museo dei Ragazzi offers a range of interactive games, theatrical workshops, family visits, and animated tours. This museum, designed for children aged 4 to 12, includes Renaissance sculptures and halls dedicated to the Medici districts and public life, such as the Sixteenth Century Hall, the Sala dei Gigli, and Sala dell’Udienza.

The museum provides an engaging way for kids to learn about Florence’s rich history and culture. With activities tailored for different age groups, Museo dei Ragazzi ensures an educational and entertaining experience for the entire family.

Practical Tips: Plan for a visit lasting about 1 to 2 hours. Palazzo Vecchio is centrally located, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions like the Uffizi Gallery or a stroll through Piazza della Signoria.

Seasonal Considerations: The museum is open year-round. Indoor activities make it an excellent option for colder or rainy days.

4. Museo Di Leonardo Da Vinci (Leonardo Da Vinci Museum)

Visiting the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum is one of the best things to do in Florence with kids. Located in a historic building within a short walking distance from the main Cathedral “Il Duomo,” the museum features recreations of over 240 models of Leonardo’s most fascinating Renaissance mechanical inventions, such as Leonardo’s mechanical lion and knight.

The museum includes hands-on activities where visitors can interact with the models or participate in building or design challenges. These exhibits, ideal for kids aged 6 and up, inspire creativity and problem-solving skills while providing insight into Leonardo’s life as a scientist, artist, and inventor.

Practical Tips: A visit typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Due to its central location, consider combining it with other nearby attractions like the Duomo or the Accademia Gallery.

Seasonal Considerations: The museum is a great year-round attraction, providing a cool respite from the summer heat and a warm shelter during winter.

5. Museo di Storia Naturale di Firenze (Florence Museum of Natural History)

If your kids have a passion for science and nature, the Museo di Storia Naturale di Firenze is an ideal destination. With six major museums spread throughout Florence, it forms part of the University of Florence.

The museum includes the Giardino dei Semplici, Europe’s third oldest botanical garden with over 9,000 plant specimens, and the Museo di Botanica, the first scientific garden established by the Medici, with about four million medicinal plant specimens. These attractions are particularly engaging for kids aged 5 and above.

Other sections include Zoologia, also known as “La Specola,” with around 1,400 wax anatomical models, and the Museo Nazionale di Antropologia ed Etnologia, which has 15,000 ethnological items and 6,100 anthropological items. The Museo di Geologia e Paleontologia features fossilised skeletons of dinosaurs and elephants, making it a thrilling experience for young explorers.

Practical Tips: Plan to spend at least half a day if you intend to visit multiple sections of the museum. Each section requires a separate admission, so check ticket prices and opening hours in advance. Public transport options are available, or you can drive if you prefer.

Seasonal Considerations: Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting the botanical garden. The indoor museums are perfect for summer or winter visits.

6. Giardino di Boboli (The Boboli Gardens)

Behind Pitti Palace lies the Boboli Gardens, an open-air historical museum with fountains, caves, centuries-old oak trees, and sculptures of various styles and ages. Exploring the maze-like pathways in the gardens is one of the most exciting things to do in Florence with kids, especially those aged 4 and up.

Specific sections of the garden, such as the maze, fountains, and statues, provide endless fun for children. Highlights include the Amphitheatre with its statue-decorated Artichoke fountain, Neptune’s fountain, the Viottolone with the Isolotto pond, and the Ocean fountain. Other notable areas include the Koffeehouse with its glamorous dome, the Garden of the Cavaliere, and the Grotta Grande with its three sections.

Practical Tips: Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the gardens fully. Bring snacks and water, as the gardens are extensive and can take a while to walk through. There are several picnic spots if you prefer to bring your own food.

Seasonal Considerations: The gardens are best visited in spring and autumn when the weather is mild. They can be quite hot in the summer and are less colourful in the winter.

7. Piscina Le Pavoniere

If your kids love swimming, Piscina Le Pavoniere in Florence is a must-visit. Located in Parco delle Cascine (Cascine Park), this large outdoor swimming pool features a separate area for kids, a pizzeria, and lounge chairs, making it a perfect spot for a family day out. This attraction is ideal for children of all ages.

The pool offers a variety of water activities, including swimming, aqua fitness, and underwater activities. With lifeguards on duty and child-friendly areas, parents can relax while their kids have fun in the water. Combining a visit to the pool with a picnic in Cascine Park or a bike ride makes for a perfect day.

Practical Tips: Plan to spend at least half a day here, especially if you intend to use the pool and explore the park. Bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. Public transport options are available, or you can drive and park nearby.

Seasonal Considerations: The pool is open during the summer months, making it a great option to cool off during hot weather. Check opening dates and times before planning your visit.

8. Museo di Palazzo Vecchio

Museo di Palazzo Vecchio, located in Piazza della Signoria, is a symbol of Renaissance Florence and an essential visit for families. Known as Palazzo della Signoria, this historic government building was the centre of the Medici grand dukes of Tuscany.

In the museum, kids aged 5 and up can enjoy dressing up in Medici clothes and acting like Renaissance nobles. The museum offers family-friendly tours and interactive elements that make history engaging for children. With free entry for kids under six, it’s a budget-friendly option for families.

Practical Tips: Allocate about 1 to 2 hours for your visit. The museum’s central location makes it easy to combine with other nearby attractions like the Uffizi Gallery or a stroll through Piazza della Signoria.

Seasonal Considerations: The museum is open year-round and provides great indoor activity, especially during the hot summer or cold winter months.

9. Piazza della Repubblica

Piazza della Repubblica, one of Florence’s main city squares, is a great place to visit with kids. The square, which remains from the ancient era, offers several fun activities, including a brightly painted antique merry-go-round that children will love. This attraction is suitable for children of all ages.

The square is also a hub for street artists and musicians, providing entertainment for the entire family. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants, it’s an excellent spot to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Practical Tips: Spend about 1 to 2 hours here. It’s centrally located, so it’s easy to include it in your day’s itinerary. There are plenty of places to sit and rest, making it a good break spot.

Seasonal Considerations: The square is lively year-round, but visiting in the evening during the summer months can be particularly enjoyable with the pleasant weather and live entertainment.

10. Il Papiro

Il Papiro, a paper store in Florence, offers a delightful experience for kids who love colouring and artwork. The store provides paper-marbling workshops where kids aged 6 and up can create beautiful patterns using different colours and tools. These workshops allow families to take home their handmade masterpieces.

Il Papiro also offers a range of unique and handmade paper products, making it a great place to purchase souvenirs. The workshops and activities at Il Papiro provide a creative and engaging experience, making it one of the best things to do in Florence with kids.

Practical Tips: Workshops typically last about 1 to 1.5 hours. The store is centrally located, so it’s easy to include it in your day’s activities. Check workshop schedules and book in advance if possible.

Seasonal Considerations: The workshops are held indoors, making Il Papiro a perfect activity for any season.

There are numerous things to do with your kids in Florence. Florence, Italy, has fun activities for both kids and adults. To know more details about Florence and its activities, read this article. You can also read our article about the free things to do in Florence.