Family Trip: Italy

Often the first big international trip clients look to take with their children, not a week goes by that we don’t field a new inquiry regarding a trip to Italy.

Let’s explore the lure and give you some helpful hints with respect to Italy for families.

The trifecta of Rome, Florence, and Venice offer an abundance of history, art, and culture and are often the base from which clients look to build their itinerary.  Rome is hard to beat for wow factor to behold the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, etc. and Venice is thoroughly intoxicating for kids…the city on water and canals.   

Tuscany is an idyllic location to relax and settle in and we love it when clients have a little more time to settle in and explore this region.  For families, it is a great first stop to get over jet lag and enjoy the wide-open spaces.  There are some incredibly authentic and historic properties that artfully combine world-class accommodations with historic charm and a true sense of place.

Obviously, many of our family clients travel over the summer and when it comes to fun in the sun, one is spoiled for choice: The Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Sicily, the Tuscan Coast and the Riviera in the North.  

Don’t just think about Italy in the summer months.  The cities are equally wonderful (and, one might say preferable, in terms of heat and crowds) during the spring and fall shoulder seasons.  If you do visit Rome, Florence, and Venice in the summer – we always recommend accommodations with a pool for kids to relax and cool off after a day of touring.  Not to mention Mom and Dad enjoying a well-earned Aperol Spritz poolside. 

Do invest in a smaller group or private tour.   These can really help bring a destination to life for children – Rome by Vespa or Golf Cart, Gelato making, Gladiator school, learning how to row a Gondola… to name a few.

A little Public Service Announcement to remind you to check the expiration dates on yours and your family member’s passports! 

Those pesky child passports are only valid for five years and tend to come around for renewal more quickly than you would anticipate.  Many of you also enjoy the benefits of the Global Entry/Trusted Traveler program and these also expire after five years, so be sure to say ahead of that with online renewal.

Check your membership status on the TSA's website or call 855-347-8371