59 Things to Do in Venice with Kids

Experience the iconic Venetian canals from a traditional gondola. It's a classic way to see the city's charming waterways and historic architecture, offering a unique perspective for the whole family.

Tip: Consider a shared gondola to save costs, or opt for a private ride for a more intimate experience.

Step back in time at the magnificent Doge's Palace, the former seat of Venetian power. Kids will be fascinated by the opulent rooms, the Bridge of Sighs, and the history of this grand building.

Tip: Book tickets in advance to skip the long queues, especially during peak season.

Discover a truly unique bookstore where books are stored in gondolas, bathtubs, and even a full-sized boat to protect them from floods. It's a whimsical and memorable spot for kids to explore.

Tip: Look for the hidden cat sitting amongst the books!

Engage in a hands-on Venetian mask-making workshop. It's a fun and creative activity where kids can design and paint their own mask to take home as a special souvenir.

Tip: Book workshops in advance, as they are popular with families.

Hop on a Vaporetto, Venice's public water bus system, for an affordable and scenic way to navigate the Grand Canal. Kids will love the experience of traveling on the water like locals.

Tip: A multi-day pass can be cost-effective if you plan to use the Vaporetto frequently.

Wander through the magnificent St. Mark's Square, a bustling hub with stunning architecture. Kids can enjoy watching the pigeons, street performers, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Tip: Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Spark your children's curiosity at the Natural History Museum, featuring dinosaur skeletons and marine life exhibits. It's an engaging way to learn about the natural world.

Tip: Check the museum's schedule for any special family-friendly events.

Treat yourselves to delicious Italian gelato. It's a perfect way to cool down and satisfy sweet cravings, with countless flavors to choose from.

Tip: Try a local specialty flavor for a unique taste of Venice.

Take a boat trip to the colorful islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is famous for its glassblowing, and Burano for its brightly painted houses, offering a visual feast for kids.

Tip: Watch a glass-blowing demonstration in Murano for an exciting show.

Wander through the historic Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest in Europe. It offers a quieter, more historical perspective of Venice, with charming streets and bakeries.

Tip: Try some traditional Jewish cookies from a local bakery.

Engage with the inventions of Leonardo da Vinci at this interactive museum. Kids can see and even operate models of his famous machines, making learning fun and hands-on.

Tip: This museum is particularly engaging for children interested in science and engineering.

Climb the stunning spiral staircase of Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo for panoramic views of Venice. It's a unique architectural marvel that kids will find exciting.

Tip: The climb is manageable for most children, offering a rewarding view.

Let the kids burn off energy at the Giardini di Biennale, a lovely park area with playgrounds. It's a great spot for a break from sightseeing and a chance for them to run around.

Tip: This park is a good option for a picnic lunch.

Enjoy a personalized boat tour of the Venetian lagoon, perfect for families. Explore hidden islands and enjoy the peace away from the crowds with a customizable itinerary.

Tip: A private tour offers flexibility to cater to your children's interests and energy levels.

Delight in a shop filled with charming Pinocchio carvings and related toys. It's a whimsical stop that brings a beloved children's story to life.

Tip: A great place to find a unique souvenir for a child.

Join a family-friendly cooking class to learn how to make traditional Italian dishes. It's an interactive and delicious way for kids to engage with local culture.

Tip: Look for classes specifically designed for children to ensure it's engaging for them.

Venture to Certosa Island for open green spaces perfect for wandering and playing. It's a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, sometimes with roaming goats.

Tip: A short vaporetto ride makes this island easily accessible.

Head to the playground near the Sant'Elena vaporetto stop for a dedicated play area. It's a good spot for younger children to enjoy some active fun.

Tip: This is a well-regarded playground for younger children.

Witness the mesmerizing art of glassblowing in Murano. Watching skilled artisans transform molten glass into beautiful objects is captivating for all ages.

Tip: Many factories offer free demonstrations, but be prepared for a sales pitch afterwards.

Discover a playground near the Ponte delle Guglie, offering a space for children to play and interact. It's a local spot that provides a break from sightseeing.

Tip: This playground is a good option for a quick play break.

Explore the Ca' Rezzonico museum, which offers a glimpse into 18th-century Venetian life. The gardens and playground area are also a hit with kids.

Tip: The park and playground are accessible without entering the museum.

Spend a relaxing day at the beach on the Lido. It's a great way for kids to enjoy some sun, sand, and sea away from the crowded city center.

Tip: Lido is easily reachable by vaporetto.

Head to the rooftop terrace of Fondaco dei Tedeschi for breathtaking, free panoramic views of Venice. It's a fantastic photo opportunity for the whole family.

Tip: Reservations are often required for the rooftop terrace, so book in advance.

Discover the 'Parco Gioche' near the Biennale gardens, a well-equipped playground perfect for children. It's a great place for them to play freely.

Tip: There's also a football field nearby where local kids often play.

Experience the thrill of zipping through the canals on a private water taxi. It's a faster and more exciting way to get around, especially for kids who love boats.

Tip: Water taxis are more expensive than vaporettos but offer a unique experience.

Cross the Giudecca Canal to the island of Giudecca, which boasts several decent playgrounds. It offers more green space and a relaxed atmosphere for families.

Tip: These playgrounds offer a good alternative to the more crowded central areas.

Explore Captain Candy for a fun selection of international sweets and treats. It's a delightful stop for kids to discover unique candies from around the world.

Tip: A great place to pick up a small, fun souvenir.

Marvel at the stunning architecture of St. Mark's Basilica. While the main attraction is the grandeur, the sheer scale and intricate details can captivate older children.

Tip: Consider visiting the upper floors for different perspectives and fewer crowds.

Bring a small soccer ball and let your kids play in a less busy piazza. It's a simple joy that allows them to feel like locals and interact with other children.

Tip: Choose a piazza that isn't overly crowded to ensure safe play.

Consider a stay at this hotel on a private island, known for its kid-friendly activities and amenities. It offers a resort-like experience with easy access to the city.

Tip: The hotel provides a free shuttle service to and from the mainland.

This hotel is praised for being family-friendly, with spacious rooms and amenities that excite children, like robes and slippers. Its central location is also a plus.

Tip: The hotel's location makes it easy to explore Venice on foot.

Experience the festive Christmas energy in Venice, with street performers, floats, and decorations. It's a magical time for families to enjoy the holiday spirit.

Tip: Check local listings for specific Christmas events and markets.

A simple, yet often thrilling activity for young children is chasing the pigeons in St. Mark's Square. It's a classic Venetian experience that brings smiles.

Tip: Be aware that feeding pigeons is now discouraged or prohibited in some areas.

Witness the unique phenomenon of Venice flooding during high tide (Acqua Alta). It's an unusual and memorable experience for children to see the city partially submerged.

Tip: Check tide forecasts and be prepared with waterproof footwear if visiting during high tide season.

Take a boat tour to explore the serene Venetian Lagoon. It offers a different perspective of Venice and its surrounding islands, away from the main tourist paths.

Tip: Boat tours can be customized to include stops at less-visited islands.

Find a playground within the Giardini della Biennale, offering a green oasis for children to play. It's a pleasant spot for a break and some outdoor fun.

Tip: This area provides a good space for kids to run around.

Experience 'cicchetti', Venice's version of tapas, for a fun and varied lunch. Kids can try small bites of different local specialties.

Tip: Many bacari offer kid-friendly options alongside traditional cicchetti.

Try 'voga veneta' lessons, a traditional Venetian rowing technique. It's an active and unique way for the whole family to experience the canals.

Tip: This activity is suitable for families looking for something truly different.

See the large Christmas tree during the holiday season, a festive centerpiece that adds to the magical atmosphere of Venice.

Tip: Often located in a main square, it's a great spot for photos.

Embrace the magic of Venice by simply wandering through its labyrinthine streets and canals. It's an adventure in itself, with hidden gems around every corner.

Tip: Don't be afraid to wander off the main paths; that's where the real charm lies.

Ascend to the rooftop terrace of Fondaco dei Tedeschi for unparalleled, free panoramic views of Venice and the Grand Canal. It's a breathtaking experience for all ages.

Tip: Book your free time slot online in advance to secure your spot.

Begin your Venetian adventure with a water taxi ride directly from Santa Lucia train station. It's a convenient and scenic way to reach your accommodation or first destination.

Tip: This offers a grand entrance into the heart of Venice.

Discover a playground located near the Sant'Elena vaporetto stop, offering a safe and fun space for children to play amidst the greenery.

Tip: A good spot for younger children to expend energy.

Immerse yourselves in the festive Christmas spirit with decorations, street performers, and a lively atmosphere. It's a magical time for families to experience Venice.

Tip: Look for local Christmas markets for unique gifts and treats.

Experience a serene gondola ride, especially during sunset, for a peaceful and romantic perspective of Venice. It's a moment of calm amidst the city's charm.

Tip: A gondola ride can be surprisingly peaceful, especially if your child naps!

Find a playground near the Ponte delle Guglie, a local spot where children can play and enjoy themselves. It's a great place for a quick break.

Tip: This playground is easily accessible and a good spot for a short play session.

Visit the gardens of Ca' Rezzonico, a lovely green space that offers a tranquil escape and a place for children to play.

Tip: The gardens are accessible even if you don't plan to visit the museum.

Travel by vaporetto to Certosa Island, a peaceful spot with open spaces perfect for kids to roam and play freely.

Tip: This island offers a refreshing change of pace from the city.

Make frequent stops for gelato throughout your visit. It's a delightful way to keep kids happy and energized while exploring the city.

Tip: Look for artisanal gelaterias for the best flavors.

Engage with the ingenious inventions of Leonardo da Vinci at this interactive museum. Kids can explore models of his machines and learn about his genius.

Tip: This museum is highly recommended for its engaging, hands-on approach.

Embrace the Venetian lifestyle by using water taxis for transportation. It's an exciting and efficient way to see the city from its waterways.

Tip: While pricier, water taxis offer a unique and memorable travel experience.

Spend a day at the beach on the Lido, offering a relaxing break with sand and sea. It's a great option for families seeking some downtime.

Tip: The Lido is easily accessible via vaporetto.

Let kids enjoy the playground located within the Giardini di Biennale, a green space perfect for active play and relaxation.

Tip: This is a good spot for children to burn off energy.

View the famous Bridge of Sighs, a historic enclosed bridge connecting the Doge's Palace to the prisons. Its intriguing name and story can capture children's imagination.

Tip: Best viewed from the outside, near the Ponte della Paglia.

Experience the magical Christmas atmosphere in Venice, with festive decorations and a lively ambiance that delights families.

Tip: Enjoy the seasonal treats and events that pop up during this time.

Participate in a mask-making workshop, a creative and hands-on activity where children can design and paint their own unique Venetian mask.

Tip: Book in advance to secure a spot in a workshop.

Enjoy a ride on the Vaporetto, Venice's public water bus. It's an affordable and scenic way to travel along the Grand Canal, offering great views for kids.

Tip: A day pass can be a good value if you plan multiple trips.

Treat yourselves to delicious Italian gelato. It's a perfect way to cool down and enjoy a sweet moment during your explorations.

Tip: Try unique local flavors for an authentic taste.

Take a boat trip to the colorful islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is known for glassblowing, and Burano for its vibrant, painted houses.

Tip: Watch a live glass-blowing demonstration in Murano.