Planning a family trip to Florence might seem daunting, especially with young children, but my own experience proved it’s an incredibly rewarding adventure. Sharing the beauty of Italy’s Renaissance capital with my spouse and children opened my eyes to a new way of exploring. If you’re considering Florence for your next family getaway in 2026, here are some practical tips that helped make our visit smooth and memorable.
Getting To and Around Florence
Arriving by Air
Florence Peretola Airport (FLR) is conveniently located just a few miles from the city center. While direct flights from the United States aren’t available, connecting through other major European hubs like London, Paris, or Amsterdam is straightforward. Alternatively, you can fly into Rome (FCO) or Milan (MXP or LIN) and then take a short connecting flight. Many US airlines offer direct routes to these Italian cities, giving you plenty of options for accumulating airline miles or using rewards points.
When booking flights, consider how you can leverage airline loyalty programs. For instance, using British Airways Avios for a flight to London and then onward to Florence can be a good option. Be mindful of taxes and fees, which can sometimes be substantial. American Airlines AAdvantage miles often provide a better value for similar itineraries. For those loyal to other carriers, Delta SkyMiles can be used for bookings to Milan, and Emirates offers a luxurious option from JFK, which can be booked with American Express Membership Rewards points transferred to Emirates Skywards.
Connecting by Train
From Rome or Milan, a high-speed train is an excellent way to reach Florence. The journey from Milan’s Centrale station to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station takes about an hour and 40 minutes. From Rome, the trip is even shorter, around an hour and 20 minutes. Booking train tickets in advance is highly recommended, as fares tend to increase closer to the travel date. Using a travel rewards credit card, like one that earns bonus points on travel purchases, can help offset these costs.
Navigating Florence
Once you arrive at Florence Airport, a taxi to the city center is the most convenient option for families. The fare is regulated, and the ride typically takes about 15 minutes. While buses are available and more economical for solo travelers, for a family of three or more, a taxi often proves to be more cost-effective and certainly more comfortable. Be aware that Italian cities primarily offer “Uber Black” services, which are typically more expensive than standard taxis. Within the historic center, walking is the best way to explore, as most major attractions are quite close. For longer distances or when little legs get tired, taxis are readily available at designated stands, and useful apps like It-Taxi can help you hail one and even pay electronically, bridging any language gaps.
Family-Friendly Neighborhoods
Historic Center Charm
The north side of the Arno River, within Florence’s historic center, is ideal for families. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance of iconic sights like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Ponte Vecchio. This central location means you’re immersed in the city’s atmosphere, and evenings can be spent exploring its lively streets.
Peaceful Oltrarno
For a more tranquil experience, consider the Oltrarno district on the south side of the Arno. This area feels less crowded and offers a more residential atmosphere, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing. It’s still conveniently close to the city center and provides excellent access to the Pitti Palace and the beautiful Boboli Gardens.
Where to Stay with Family
Points-Friendly Options
Finding centrally located hotels bookable with traditional loyalty points can be a challenge in Florence. However, several hotels offer ways to use flexible points or “erase” charges with travel portals. When my family visited, we looked for accommodations that offered apartment-style options or rooms with enough space for everyone.
Relais Uffizi
During our stay, Relais Uffizi provided a comfortable base. This three-star property is just a stone’s throw from Piazza Signoria, making it incredibly convenient for sightseeing. They offer both standard rooms and apartments. We opted for a junior suite with a loft, which the kids loved. The apartments, with kitchenettes and separate living areas, felt like a cozy home away from home, perfect for longer stays. Booking through travel portals can offer good value for these spaces.
Sina Villa Medici, Autograph Collection
For those with Marriott Bonvoy points, the five-star Sina Villa Medici is a great choice. It’s situated less than a 20-minute walk from major attractions. While some rooms accommodate families well with the addition of rollaway beds, larger families might need to book adjoining rooms. The spacious rooms, amenities like Wi-Fi and a mini-fridge, and the on-site restaurant and pool add to its appeal. This hotel is a standout for families seeking a points-eligible stay in a prime location.
Four Seasons Firenze
The luxurious , also within a short walk of the Duomo, offers an exceptional experience for families. While families of four might require two rooms, the hotel excels in its child-specific offerings. They boast Florence’s largest private garden for kids to explore, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a dedicated Family Package. This package can include airport transfers, daily breakfast, museum tickets, and seasonal kids’ club access with activities like yoga and cookie decorating. Children’s menus and babysitting services are also available, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
Hotel Lungarno
Part of the network, is a wonderful option for those who can utilize World of Hyatt points. Located in the Oltrarno district, its family rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, featuring multiple beds and living areas. Many rooms offer lovely river views. Its proximity to the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens makes it an ideal base for exploring that side of the river. Flexibility with dates is key when booking award nights here.
Making Florence Fun for Kids
Embrace Italian Treats
One of the biggest draws for kids in Italy is, of course, the food! Knowing that pizza and gelato are readily available will likely make them enthusiastic travel companions. Don’t hesitate to let them enjoy these classic Italian delights.
Smart Sightseeing Strategies
Advance planning is crucial for avoiding meltdowns. Purchase tickets for popular attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo well in advance online. This not only saves you hours of waiting in line but also allows you to manage your time more effectively. The Duomo tickets are often valid for 72 hours, allowing you to spread your visits to the various parts of the complex over a few days.
Engage Young Minds
Many museums and historical sites offer resources specifically designed for children. For example, the Uffizi Gallery has a guide to “Monsters in Art” that encourages kids to find fantastical creatures in paintings. The Palazzo Vecchio offers specialized tours and activity kits for various age groups, making history interactive and engaging. Websites like VisitFlorence can also provide great ideas for attractions that appeal to younger visitors, from interactive museums like the Leonardo da Vinci Museum to the Natural History Museum. Consider a family cooking class to learn the art of making pizza and gelato together – a truly hands-on and delicious experience.
What activities are best for kids
For younger children, look for activities that are hands-on and visually stimulating. Museums with interactive exhibits, like the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, or those with unique displays, such as animal skeletons, can hold their attention. Art museums can be made fun by turning specific pieces into a treasure hunt.
Older children might appreciate a deeper dive into history with guided tours tailored to their age group or engaging with Renaissance art in a more structured way. Consider programs that allow them to participate, such as painting workshops or historical reenactments if available.
Essential Travel Gear
The Right Cards for Travel
When traveling internationally, it’s essential to have the right financial tools. Ensure you have a credit card that works with Europe’s chip-and-PIN system and, crucially, charges no foreign transaction fees. Many cards impose a 3% fee on every purchase made abroad, which adds up quickly. Being aware of this and choosing a card with no foreign transaction fees can save you a significant amount of money over your trip.
For ATM withdrawals, using a debit card from a bank that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees is key. Accounts with Charles Schwab or Capital One typically offer this benefit, allowing you to withdraw cash from any ATM worldwide without incurring extra charges. Researching these options before your departure can prevent costly surprises and make accessing local currency much simpler.
Florence is a city where history, art, and everyday life beautifully intertwine. It’s a place that truly welcomes families, offering countless moments of discovery and delight for all ages. Embracing the Italian spirit and planning thoughtfully will ensure your family’s trip is as magical as the city itself.