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Climbing Pisa’s wonky tower (Tuscany): Are we walking up or down? Pleasantly disoriented kids are bound to ask as you spiral your way to the rooftop-viewing balcony atop one of the world’s most famous pieces of botched engineering. It’s an easy day trip from Florence; 8 is the minimum age for climbing to the tilting top.
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Acquario di Genova (Liguria): Genoa's star attraction may not be as large as some North American super-aquariums, but it is beautifully designed (by architect Renzo Piano) and houses sharks, seals, and much weird and wonderful sea life, on a harborfront full of family-friendly attractions.
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Exploring underground Naples: There’s more to Naples than you can see at eye level. Head below its maze of streets to walk the remains of ancient Greek and Roman cities—not just your typical agora and forum, but creepy catacombs used for centuries to bury the Christian dead and tunnels that sheltered refugees from an 1884 cholera epidemic and the bombs of World War II.
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A trip to an artisan gelateria: When it comes to Italian ice cream, choose carefully—Smurf-blue or bubble-gum-pink flavors are a sure sign of color enhancers, and beware of ice crystals and fluffy heaps that betray additives and pumped-in air. Authentic gelaterie produce good stuff from scratch daily, with fresh seasonal produce; look for a short, all-natural ingredient list posted proudly for all to see. Rome and Florence have several genuine gelato artisans. Believe us when we say: You will taste the difference.
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.
