Hi everyone, my name is Jeanie Colclough, owner of Riveting Trips, and welcome to my blog!

If you’re pondering where to take your family for an unforgettable vacation, look no further than Florence and the Tuscan countryside. In this post, we will explore why this region is a fantastic destination for families traveling with children, teens, and even multi-generational families. Through my discussion with Marilena Barberi of Italy with Class, we discussed some must-see spots, hands-on activities, and charming day trips—everything you need for a perfect Italian getaway.

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Florence, the jewel of Tuscany, offers much for families. The city is easy to navigate, making it friendly for little legs to explore. Unlike the busy streets of Rome or Venice, Florence is more manageable and compact. Here, you can introduce your kids to the wonders of Renaissance art, including Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery and Galileo’s fascinating contributions at the Museo Galileo.

Florence isn’t just about admiring art and architecture. It offers numerous hands-on activities that are sure to keep your kids engaged. Here are some recommendations:

• Jewelry Making Classes: Unleash your child’s creativity with jewelry making workshops tailored for them.
• Perfume Classes: Learn to create unique scents your family can take home, serving as a fragrant reminder of your trip.
• Marbleized Paper Workshops: Visit a local bottega (workshop) and try your hand at making traditional marbleized paper, a fun and creative experience for kids.

For those with an interest in science, Florence offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the cosmos. Sessions at the Museo Galileo allow kids to delve into Galileo’s groundbreaking discoveries. For a more personal experience, consider a guided stargazing tour in the Tuscan countryside, where experts bring telescopes for a mesmerizing night under the stars.

Taking a day trip from Florence offers families a chance to explore the charming towns and countryside that Tuscany is famous for. Here are some recommended destinations:

Lucca

Just a 40-minute drive from Florence, Lucca is a picturesque town encircled by intact Renaissance walls. It’s perfect for a family day out. You can rent bicycles and ride along the walls, a safe and enjoyable activity with no cars to worry about. The maze-like streets also offer a fun challenge—can your family find the center without using a map?

Pisa

A visit to Pisa is always a hit with the kids. The Leaning Tower is not only an iconic photo opportunity but a great chance to learn about physics and history. Combine your trip to Pisa with Lucca for a full day of exploration.

Siena

Another fantastic day trip is to Siena, known for its medieval buildings and the famous Palio horse race. The smaller crowds and kid-friendly activities make Siena an excellent stop for families.

Escape the city and immerse your family in the serene Tuscan countryside. Here are some engaging activities that your kids will love:

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Experience Tuscany from above with a hot air balloon ride. This thrilling adventure offers breathtaking views of the vineyards and rolling hills. Though it requires an early start, it’s an unforgettable way to see the landscape.

Family-Friendly Wineries and Farms

Many wineries in Tuscany are not just for adults. Choose a winery that offers family-friendly activities, like petting farms or spaces for kids to run and play while the adults enjoy wine tasting. Farms near Pienza offer educational tours where kids can learn about cheese-making and meet the animals.

The Magic of Pinocchio

Visit the Pinocchio Park in Collodi, the birthplace of Carlo Lorenzetti, the author of Pinocchio. This enchanting park is perfect for younger children who will enjoy exploring the life-sized storybook attractions.