Family Holidays in Florence

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Florence for Kids Italy's Renaissance capital is easy to explore also on holidays with children. Getting around the city center is simple, as it is pedestrianized and compact. There are plenty of street performers to entertain them as you walk around. You can stop for ice cream and not feel like you are missing out on tourism. Florentines take their gelato very seriously. Some say Vivoli sells the best ice cream in Italy! Florentines also love their chocolate and their cafes. Stopping for a cake is part of the experience. Try glamorous 18th century Gilli or the hot chocolate at Vestri. Children can even enjoy a pizza cooking class! Feel like a Florentine and shop for a picnic in the colorful Mercato Centrale Florence is hot in summer and this is not an ideal time to explore with kids. Opt for a long weekend break at half term or Easter.

The Must-See Kids love climbing up things, so in Florence take them up into the vast dome of the Duomo and climber up the cathedral's bell-tower for a bird's eye view of the city. Then stop for a drink in the hub of the city Piazza della Signoria. The bridge made out of houses, otherwise known as the Ponte Vecchio, always catches junior eyes. It's best seen at sunset and by moonlight. A late-night stroll always seems like a treat. Combining a visit to Florence with a festival can really make the trip for children. On Easter Sunday a cartload of fireworks pulled by six white oxen is set off. It's a festival that dates back to the Crusades. There are more fireworks for St John on 24 June.

Mad About Museums High art may not be every kid top choice when it comes to museums but the Uffizi is absolutely a must-see and no doubt top of any parents list. Make the visit a success and jump the long queues by reserving tickets in advance and concentrate on the galleries' most famous works. The Medicis, who ruled Florence in the 15th century were a clever bunch and encouraged scientific discovery. The Museo Galileo, named after the famous Pisan astronomer is the city's science museum. It was revamped in 2010 and is a good alternative to churches and paintings. Kids will also enjoy the children's museum in the Palazzo Vecchio, the old town hall. There are regular activities in English.

The Great Outdoors The Boboli Gardens are the green lungs of Florence. They were laid out in the 16th century. Dance around the statues, fly a kite on a windy day, follow the nature trail. The Giardino di Badini is less crowded than the Boboli but although smaller is just as charming and has a lovely café.
Forte di Belvedere near the Boboli Gardens has great views of Florence. While the Parco delle Cascine on the northern bank of the Arno is a good place to picnic and has a playground and open-air swimming pool.

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