The Perfect Venice Adventure for Families with Kids

While nearly everyone visiting Venice enjoys a gondola ride, few have the chance to discover the fascinating process of crafting these iconic boats. Lo squero di San Trovaso provides English-language tours of their working shop, showcasing the custom creation of gondolas. Despite adhering to the same exterior dimensions of 11 meters/36 feet for canal navigation, learn how owners can personalize them with distinct ornamentation and fabrics.

Another lesser-known but exceptional tour option with panoramic views of St. Mark's Square is the Torre dell'Orologio, the famous clock tower. Prearranged tours, available in multiple languages, offer an up-close look at the intricate mechanisms and weights that a timekeeper operated for over five centuries, including the world's first "digital clock." Ascending the tower, you'll enjoy breathtaking views and an opportunity to get close to the renowned "The Moors" statues, which strike the bell hourly.

Consider enrolling in Italian lessons as a rewarding family activity to learn key phrases and foster a deeper appreciation for your surroundings. Our experience with Michael at Italian School Venice was delightful, as he served as a local "friend" to seek recommendations from in addition to advancing our Italian language.

The Doge's Palace may not initially seem captivating for kids, but a guided tour with someone like Lucia from Venice Walks and Tours unlocks unique insights and hidden gems. Lucia engages children with captivating storytelling and a fun scavenger hunt, even revealing the little-known markings made by imprisoned individuals after you cross over the historic Bridge of Sighs.

If you happen to visit Venice with kids during Carnival, you'll be spoiled for choice with extra events and activities. Witness boat parades (pro tip: go early and watch the initial participants boat by from the top of Rialto Bridge before they close it off), encounter costumed participants around town, experience confetti cannons, and savor specialty treats like fritelle, Italian fritters with various fillings. My children also enjoyed a complimentary fairy tale face painting workshop at Ca’ Giustinian.

Even outside Carnival season, crafting masks is a must-do activity with kids in Venice. We opted for Alberto Sarria Masks, a second-generation handmade mask maker. Each of us selected a style, painted it, and added feathers, gems, or other embellishments. It offered a serene artistic escape away from the city's crowds, allowing us to spend quality time together.

Venice has a rich connection to Marco Polo, and the best way to learn about him is through a walking tour with Venice Kids Tours. Federica guided us along the canals, sharing Marco Polo's background and insights about the city, such as the distinction between the only piazza and campos. Her engaging scavenger hunt and a visit to the remnants of Marco Polo's former home were highlights for my children.

For breathtaking views of Venice's canals and stunning family photos at sunset, be sure to make advanced (and free!) reservations for the Fondaco dei Tedeschi Venezia rooftop terrace. Arrive early to explore the remarkable historical building and peruse the multi-level department store offering Italian designer goods.

While playgrounds are not abundant in Venice, there are plenty of kid-friendly spaces in campos to run around in. Our preferred playground was Parco Giochi in Cannaregio, a serene, tree-lined oasis within the city. A more central option for a child-friendly break is Biblioteca Bettini Junior, a children's library with a selection of English books and a small area for stretching and play.

Birraria La Corte:

While finding seating for larger families can be challenging elsewhere, it's a breeze here. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the rustic pizzas and Italian cuisine served with draft beer.

Tavernetta San Maurizio:

Tucked away on a quiet city street, this family-run gem offers a concise menu of exceptionally fresh dishes, including the finest scallops we had in Italy.

Osteria Non Risorto:

This neighborhood trattoria provides a delightful courtyard setting where you can savor a variety of dishes, including pizza and pasta.

Torrefazione Cannaregio:

A local favorite, this neighborhood spot serves artisanal coffee and delectable pastries, quickly becoming our family's preferred morning destination.

AMO:

Situated in the well-lit atrium of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi Venezia department store, this Michelin chef outpost offers kid-friendly light fare like fried pizza and cicchetti, including vegetable rice balls.

Farini:

Despite having multiple pop-ups across Venice, don't dismiss this pizza place as fast food. Their fresh pizzas and salads are scrumptious and pair wonderfully with the abundant selection of Italian wines.

Caffè La Serra:

If you venture to the "fishtail" of Venice for its picturesque gardens, don't forget to visit this cafe for exceptional coffee and delectable treats.

Despar or Coop:

Grocery stores in Venice provide another option for a quick meal. These stores offer a wide range of high-quality, ready-to-go options, making it easy to enjoy a charcuterie board for dinner or other convenient meals.