Most Italian hoteliers will let children 12 and under stay in a room with their parents for free -- with a little negotiation at the reception desk. Italians love bambini but don't offer a lot of special amenities for them. For example, a kids' menu in a restaurant is a rarity. You can, however, order a half portion (mezza porzione) for your little one. At attractions, inquire if a sconto bambino (kids' discount) is available. For European Union kids under 18, admission is free to state-run museums.
The friendliest hotels in Italy are the more than 20 Starwoods (tel. 888/625-5144; www.starwood.com).
Recommended family travel websites include Family Travel Forum (www.familytravelforum.com), a comprehensive site that offers customized trip planning; Family Travel Network (www.familytravelnetwork.com), an online magazine providing travel tips; TravelWithYourKids.com (www.travelwithyourkids.com), a comprehensive site written by parents for parents.
