The whole country, especially Southern Italy, is completely welcoming to children. Italians love kids and take theirs with them wherever they go. However, don't expect special amenities: There will be no playroom, no babysitting program, and no kiddy area with small tables and crayons. Children in Italy partake in their parents' lives. Kids sleep in the same room or suite -- though most hoteliers will add a cot to your room for your child, and most have special rooms or suites designed for families with children, but you need to book in advance. Throughout the region, private attractions offer discounts to all children, while in state-run museums, only E.U. citizens ages 17 and under are admitted free.
Campania is particularly suited for a vacation with children: The ancient sites and castles stimulate children's imagination while the many beaches and resorts are a perfect place for them to vent their energy (though you might want to avoid the rocky Sorrento peninsula and Capri, where sandy beaches are rare, and favor Ischia and the Cilento, which have the best sandy stretches in the region).
The key to a successful family vacation in Italy lies in some smart planning: Involve your children in both the research and the decision-making process; schedule your visits alternating "adult" attractions with those in which your kids will be interested; and plan to make lots of gelato (ice cream) and pizza breaks.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
