Family holiday and travel with children to Italy

Italy is that uniquely shaped landmass that juts out into the Tyrrhenian, Adriatic and Ionian Seas, and is one of the best loved of European destinations. Famous for its vineyards and olive groves, Italy is a producer of some of the most popular wines and cuisines the world knows. It’s a great destination for a family holiday, and for British holiday makers, it has the added attraction of being only a short flight from London.

Italy is divided into regions, each of which contributes a unique flavour to the culture and atmosphere of the country. The capital city, Rome, offers a cultural visit that outshines many other capital cities, with such sights as the Colosseum, the Panthenon, the famous Trevi fountain, and of course, the Vatican City. Famous for being the home of the Pope, the world’s best known religious leader, this city is a Mecca for tourists, regardless of faith.

In the Northern provinces holiday makers have the delights of Pisa, with its iconic Leaning Tower to view, and the stunning town of Florence, home to the Ponte Vecchio and the Campanile. These towns in Tuscany offer a feel of an older, more traditional Italy, where the buildings are mostly restored, the streets are often cobbled, and people still meet to play boules and chess in the public squares.

To the north east lies the fabulous city of Venice, honeymooners paradise and city of culture. This is a perfect family destination, with the gondolas, tiny twisting streets and carnivals providing plenty of entertainment for kids.

Family holidays to Italy can be enjoyed all year round, and because of its religious culture, there is always a festival or a carnival being held somewhere within its borders. It’s also a delightful place for shopping for both adults and children alike, and as well as many of the top fashion brands making this country home, there are numerous sports retailers and toy manufacturers who have shops at the ready for a family spending spree.

But Italy isn’t just about culture, statues and wineries. It offers plenty of modern activities for children and young adults, from the Gardaland theme park and water park to a variety of outdoor activities like climbing and kayaking.

The weather in Italy is fairly consistent throughout the country, although the south does tend to get the better weather. Overall, the summer months from June to September are considered to be high season, and these are definitely the months that enjoy the best weather. Something worth noting, however, is that some parts of Italy can be fairly expensive, so visiting during peak times will mean paying a premium for flights and hotel rooms. The spring season up until June is a great alternative time to go, as you’ll still enjoy some wonderful weather, but your prices should be lower.
Popular destinations are Rome, Lake Garda, Sardinia and Tuscany.