Take two weeks to explore Rome and some of Italy's most popular coastal cities with this itinerary designed to make traveling with babies and toddlers simple. Private tours to Roman highlights like the Vatican, Colosseum, and Palatine Hill will make sure you can move at your own pace before you head to the coast. In Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, plentiful free time allows for maximum flexibility and time to lounge on the famous beaches. Finish your trip in Naples, where everyone can enjoy making pizza and exploring the ruins of Pompeii.
Highlights
- Enjoy private tours of highlights such as the Vatican and Colosseum
- Lounge on the beaches of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
- Cruise out to Capri, Ischia, and Positano on private boat tours
- Learn to make pizza in its birthplace of Naples
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Rome & Family-Friendly Rome By Golf Cart | Rome |
| Day 2 | Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour | Rome |
| Day 3 | Parks of Rome & Private Vatican Guided Tour | Rome |
| Day 4 | Rome to Sorrento | Sorrento |
| Day 5 | Beach Day in Sorrento | Sorrento |
| Day 6 | Free Day in Sorrento | Sorrento |
| Day 7 | Day Trip to Capri | Sorrento |
| Day 8 | Sorrento to Amalfi Coast | Amalfi Coast |
| Day 9 | Free Day on the Amalfi Coast | Amalfi Coast |
| Day 10 | Private Amalfi Coast Boat Tour | Amalfi Coast |
| Day 11 | Amalfi Coast to Naples With Guided Pompeii Tour | Naples |
| Day 12 | Pizza-Cooking Class in Napoli & Explore Naples | Naples |
| Day 13 | Ischia and Procida by Ferry | Naples |
| Day 14 | Depart Naples |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Rome & Family-Friendly Rome By Golf Cart
Welcome to Italy! Upon arrival at the airport, your driver will meet you and take you to your accommodation in Rome. On the way, you'll enjoy a short, 30-minute driving orientation to the Eternal City.
Hop onboard a comfortable golf cart for a family-friendly and private driving tour of Rome that lets you zip through the city without having to push a stroller. Allow yourself to soak in the city’s incredible landmarks and hidden gems as you relax and enjoy the ride.
The tour starts at the centrally located Piazza della Repubblica, although if you’re staying in the city center, you can begin at your hotel. On your tour, you’ll visit Santa Maria Maggiore with its gorgeous portico and ride down charming cobblestone streets to the amazing daily flower market at Campo de Fiori. Your guide will share the history of Rome with you while visiting the big sites, like the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Circus Maximus, to name a few.
You’ll also explore beyond the main highlights and zip off the beaten path. Zig-zag through the beautiful residential streets of Palatine Hill to reach one of the city’s secret spots, the keyhole! Stop at Largo Argentina, the spot where Julius Caesar was famously assassinated, before winding your way down to the Piramide Cestia. Pass through the Testaccio neighborhood and stop at the Mouth of Truth. Watch as visitors slip their hand into the statue’s mouth and learn the curious story behind this unique Roman legend.
Day 2: Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Explore historic and mesmerizing Rome with a private expert guide leading the way. A private guide allows you to stop the tour whenever you need to attend to the little ones. You’ll visit the city’s most ancient landmarks, including the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and of course, the Colosseum. At the end of the second century, these three sites were the main hubs of politics, commerce, and social activity in Rome.
Your private Ancient Rome Tour begins with the Colosseum, the world's largest amphitheater. Walking through the ancient arena is like stepping back in time to the days of the Roman Empire. At its prime, the Colosseum held 50,000 spectators and was the central venue for gladiator fights. View the Arch of Constantine, admire the Temple of Venus, and learn about Ancient Rome's most famous and illustrious citizens, such as Julius Caesar, Emperors Augustus and Nero, and the Flavian Emperors who built the Colosseum.
Continue with a tour of Palatine Hill, the centermost of Rome's seven hills. Your private guide will divulge intriguing stories of the neighborhood’s famous residents, including political leaders and emperors. You’ll admire the Domus Augustana, the Domus Flavia, and the Domitian’s Palace and Stadium. Enjoy views of the Circus Maximus, plus the Aula Regia, the Temple of Apollo, Livia’s House, the Temple of the Victory, Romulus and Remo’s ancient village, and more.
Next, dig deeper into this important archaeological zone by visiting the extensive excavation of the Roman Forum. Your private guide will describe what Roman life was like 2,000 years ago. Admire the ruins of ancient temples, theaters, and government buildings, and venture down the streets of ancient Rome, covered in original stones. You’ll pass through the Forum along Via Sacra, where you'll view landmarks such as the Arch of Titus, the Temple of Divo Romolo, the Maxentius’ Basilica, the Temple and Grave of Julius Caesar, the Curia (Roman Senate), the Temple of Saturn, and much more. End the tour along Via dei Fori Imperiali to admire the Imperial Fora and Trajan’s Market.
Your private Ancient Rome Tour begins with the Colosseum, the world's largest amphitheater. Walking through the ancient arena is like stepping back in time to the days of the Roman Empire. At its prime, the Colosseum held 50,000 spectators and was the central venue for gladiator fights. View the Arch of Constantine, admire the Temple of Venus, and learn about Ancient Rome's most famous and illustrious citizens, such as Julius Caesar, Emperors Augustus and Nero, and the Flavian Emperors who built the Colosseum.
Continue with a tour of Palatine Hill, the centermost of Rome's seven hills. Your private guide will divulge intriguing stories of the neighborhood’s famous residents, including political leaders and emperors. You’ll admire the Domus Augustana, the Domus Flavia, and the Domitian’s Palace and Stadium. Enjoy views of the Circus Maximus, plus the Aula Regia, the Temple of Apollo, Livia’s House, the Temple of the Victory, Romulus and Remo’s ancient village, and more.
Next, dig deeper into this important archaeological zone by visiting the extensive excavation of the Roman Forum. Your private guide will describe what Roman life was like 2,000 years ago. Admire the ruins of ancient temples, theaters, and government buildings, and venture down the streets of ancient Rome, covered in original stones. You’ll pass through the Forum along Via Sacra, where you'll view landmarks such as the Arch of Titus, the Temple of Divo Romolo, the Maxentius’ Basilica, the Temple and Grave of Julius Caesar, the Curia (Roman Senate), the Temple of Saturn, and much more. End the tour along Via dei Fori Imperiali to admire the Imperial Fora and Trajan’s Market.
Day 3: Parks of Rome & Private Vatican Guided Tour
Spend a leisurely morning amid the beautiful parks of Rome and the gardens of Roman villas. Depending on where you are, choose among Villa Borghese, Villa Pamphili, Villa Torlonia, or Gianicolo Hill and discover the green spots of the city. Mingle with the locals while you give your children some free space to play as you relax and admire the architectural details of the villas and enjoy a coffee or aperitivo. We recommend buying delicious fruits and snacks from one of the markets of Rome before you head to the gardens so you can pause for a picnic.
In the afternoon, you'll explore one of the most beautiful and popular sites in Italy, the Vatican, with the help of a private expert guide. You’ll discover the highlights of the Vatican Museums, climb the Dome, and visit St. Peter’s Basilica, as well as enjoy a walking tour of Saint Peter’s Square. With VIP passes, you can start early and skip the lines at the Vatican Museums, entering before it’s open to the general public. If you’d like to start later in the morning, you’ll still be able to skip the lines.
The highlight of the Vatican Museums certainly is the famous Sistine Chapel. You’ll first pass through the 16th-century Raphael Rooms, which feature paintings by Renaissance artists who adorned the walls of Pope Julius II’s apartment. As you enter the glorious Sistine Chapel, you’ll feast your eyes on Michelangelo’s incomparable frescoes. Look up and see the divine hand of God reaching out to Adam in the ever-famous depiction of the "Creation of Adam". Look ahead and see Michelangelo’s "Last Judgement", as Christ decides the fate of both the damned and blessed. Enjoy a few moments of silent reflection as you stand surrounded by masterpieces.
Next up is the Papal Palace collections. Explore the great Roman and Greek statues and marvel at the architecture of the buildings. You'll admire the heavily decorated Gallery of the Candelabras, enjoy the trompe l’oeil in the Gallery of the Tapestries, and learn about the history behind the impressive Gallery of the Maps. With your private guide, you can tailor your visit to include any highlights that interest you! You’ll learn about the fantastic history of the powerful popes and other little-known stories about life in Vatican City.
Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica and climb the Dome. From the top, you can admire a vast, panoramic view of Rome. Make your way directly into the Basilica and follow your private guide as you view the magnificent and ornate decor. Visit Michelangelo’s "Pietà" and walk Saint Peter’s square to admire the open-air gallery of the Vatican.
Suppose you’d like to extend your tour. In that case, you can learn about the spectacular mosaics covering the internal surface of the calotta of Saint Peter Basilica’s dome and visit the Internal Fabbrica dei Mosaici di San Pietro, where you can see the super-selected artists designing and manufacturing the famous Saint Peter’s mosaics. With these additional activities, the tour extends to 5-7 hours.
In the afternoon, you'll explore one of the most beautiful and popular sites in Italy, the Vatican, with the help of a private expert guide. You’ll discover the highlights of the Vatican Museums, climb the Dome, and visit St. Peter’s Basilica, as well as enjoy a walking tour of Saint Peter’s Square. With VIP passes, you can start early and skip the lines at the Vatican Museums, entering before it’s open to the general public. If you’d like to start later in the morning, you’ll still be able to skip the lines.
The highlight of the Vatican Museums certainly is the famous Sistine Chapel. You’ll first pass through the 16th-century Raphael Rooms, which feature paintings by Renaissance artists who adorned the walls of Pope Julius II’s apartment. As you enter the glorious Sistine Chapel, you’ll feast your eyes on Michelangelo’s incomparable frescoes. Look up and see the divine hand of God reaching out to Adam in the ever-famous depiction of the "Creation of Adam". Look ahead and see Michelangelo’s "Last Judgement", as Christ decides the fate of both the damned and blessed. Enjoy a few moments of silent reflection as you stand surrounded by masterpieces.
Next up is the Papal Palace collections. Explore the great Roman and Greek statues and marvel at the architecture of the buildings. You'll admire the heavily decorated Gallery of the Candelabras, enjoy the trompe l’oeil in the Gallery of the Tapestries, and learn about the history behind the impressive Gallery of the Maps. With your private guide, you can tailor your visit to include any highlights that interest you! You’ll learn about the fantastic history of the powerful popes and other little-known stories about life in Vatican City.
Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica and climb the Dome. From the top, you can admire a vast, panoramic view of Rome. Make your way directly into the Basilica and follow your private guide as you view the magnificent and ornate decor. Visit Michelangelo’s "Pietà" and walk Saint Peter’s square to admire the open-air gallery of the Vatican.
Suppose you’d like to extend your tour. In that case, you can learn about the spectacular mosaics covering the internal surface of the calotta of Saint Peter Basilica’s dome and visit the Internal Fabbrica dei Mosaici di San Pietro, where you can see the super-selected artists designing and manufacturing the famous Saint Peter’s mosaics. With these additional activities, the tour extends to 5-7 hours.
Day 4: Rome to Sorrento
Sorrento is a long-time favorite with Italian and international vacationers for its beautiful views, tranquil atmosphere, and terraced lemon groves. You'll have the rest of the day to explore on your own, deciding where to go and how much time to spend on the beach. Whatever your interests, we suggest starting with a walking tour of the historic town center.
The city's focal point is the Piazza Tasso, a central square built over a gorge that splits the city. Other notable sights in and around Sorrento include the nearby bay of Marina Piccola, the ruins of Villa Pollio in Capo di Sorrento, the church monastery San Francesco d'Assisi, the 11th-century Duomo, and the Basilica di Sant'Antonino. The latter houses the remains of Saint Anthony, Sorrento's patron saint, who died in the 7th century.
Day 5: Beach Day in Sorrento
The beaches along the southern coast are some of the most beautiful in Italy. As a result of this, many people choose to spend all or part of their trip on this small stretch of coastline in the summertime, and the beaches can be extremely busy and crowded.
In contrast to the small sandy bays around the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento’s beaches are rockier but the added advantage is there are fewer people surrounding you. The main beaches in the city are around the Marina Grande and Marina Piccola ports. A short drive away are some lesser-known beaches definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing day involving sunbathing and swimming in crystal clear waters.
Day 6: Free Day in Sorrento
Plan your trip to Italy
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Today is a full day to explore on your own, deciding where to go and how much time to spend on the beach. Whatever your interests we suggest starting with a walking tour of the historic town center.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the main street of Corso Italia, and indulge in people watching and shopping, or head down to the water to find peace and tranquility looking out over the Mediterranean Sea. Another option is to go shopping at the colorful Via San Renato street market, a weekly open-air market selling everything from clothes to household items to fresh produce and delicious cheeses.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the main street of Corso Italia, and indulge in people watching and shopping, or head down to the water to find peace and tranquility looking out over the Mediterranean Sea. Another option is to go shopping at the colorful Via San Renato street market, a weekly open-air market selling everything from clothes to household items to fresh produce and delicious cheeses.
Day 7: Day Trip to Capri
Capri island is very accessible by a local ferry service departing from Naples or Sorrento, which allows you to see Capri and the Amalfi Coast from the open water. You’ll arrive on Capri at the Marina Grande port and from here have the freedom to explore at your own leisure.
To get the best views of the island and orientate yourself a bit, start your visit up at the highest point, in the village of Anacapri. This breathtaking view makes an impression that lasts a lifetime. Capture amazing pictures of the rest of the island, its beautiful surrounding waters and rocks, and the Gulf of Naples with the impressive Mt. Vesuvius in the background.
Once back down in the main town, walk around and visit the astonishing Gardens of Augustus. They are a real highlight on the island. Enjoy lunch overlooking the coastline and spend the remainder of your day wandering around the glamorous and historic town center. This island is a popular destination for the rich and famous so you’ll notice designer shops and beautiful hotels line the streets.
Once back down in the main town, walk around and visit the astonishing Gardens of Augustus. They are a real highlight on the island. Enjoy lunch overlooking the coastline and spend the remainder of your day wandering around the glamorous and historic town center. This island is a popular destination for the rich and famous so you’ll notice designer shops and beautiful hotels line the streets.
Day 8: Sorrento to Amalfi Coast
Stretching down the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula, the famed Amalfi Coast boasts all the winding stairs, narrow streets, and postcard-perfect views you’d imagine—and the crowds to go with them. The many medieval cliffside fishing villages turned holiday destinations include big names like Positano, Amalfi, Praiano, Maiori, Ravello, and Minori, but if you stay in a smaller town, you can almost make it feel like you’re the only visitor around.
Your transfer from Sorrento to the Amalfi Coast takes roughly 40 minutes. Enjoy the scenery as you twist through hills passing small towns and vineyards. The stretch between San Pietro and Amalfi is particularly scenic as you hug the dramatic coastline. Along the way, your driver will happily provide you with regional information to make your trip even more interesting.
Day 9: Free Day on the Amalfi Coast
Take a full day to admire one of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in the world. In the morning, head out for a self-guided exploration of the Amalfi Coast villages. Positano has a mild climate and lovely beaches, therefore it has been a popular tourist destination since the period of the Roman Empire.
Amalfi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a highlight is visiting the marvelous Cathedral of Sant’Andrea which stands prominently at the top of a great flight of steps leading up from the main square. Head uphill to the village of Ravello, perched nearly 1,200 feet (365 m) above the Amalfi Coast. Villa Rufolo is a favorite destination of musicians, artists, and poets. The villa's setting and magic panoramic terrace offer stunning views. From the gardens, you will also see the roof of the village's Duomo as well as the Chiesa dell’Annunziata with its two iconic towers.
Day 10: Private Amalfi Coast Boat Tour
Enjoy a private boat cruise along one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines. You’ll depart from either Positano, Amalfi, or Praiano and pass the Amalfi Coast, known for its colorful seaside hill towns, rocky cliffs, and pristine water.
While enjoying your cruise, you’ll pass coastal highlights such as Praiano's Grotta dell'Africana, the Furore Fjord, and Conca dei Marini's Arco degli Innamorati. You can also buy tickets to see the famous Emerald Grotto. At some point, your captain will drop anchor for a swimming break. You can relax onboard and take in the scenery or soak up the sun. You’ll also make a few stops in the picturesque coastal towns and explore them on foot at your own pace.
If you’d like to extend your tour, you can opt for more time in the coastal villages and add a lunch break at a waterfront restaurant. There’s also the option to swim at the Cascatelle della Marmorata waterfalls in the Bay of Ravello.
While enjoying your cruise, you’ll pass coastal highlights such as Praiano's Grotta dell'Africana, the Furore Fjord, and Conca dei Marini's Arco degli Innamorati. You can also buy tickets to see the famous Emerald Grotto. At some point, your captain will drop anchor for a swimming break. You can relax onboard and take in the scenery or soak up the sun. You’ll also make a few stops in the picturesque coastal towns and explore them on foot at your own pace.
If you’d like to extend your tour, you can opt for more time in the coastal villages and add a lunch break at a waterfront restaurant. There’s also the option to swim at the Cascatelle della Marmorata waterfalls in the Bay of Ravello.
Day 11: Amalfi Coast to Naples With Guided Pompeii Tour
Enjoy a comfortable private transfer from your hotel in Amalfi Coast to your accommodation in Naples, which takes about one hour. Along the way, you'll stop for a two-hour visit to Pompeii. An expert tour guide will lead you through these impressive ruins on an exciting excursion designed specifically for kids and families, so it won't be a problem to take any breaks you may need. Your tickets also allow you to skip the line to make the most of your time.
This family-friendly tour is an interactive, workshop-like experience. During the tour, you’ll have time to eat lunch at a local restaurant, and afterward, your driver will continue to your accommodation in Naples.
This family-friendly tour is an interactive, workshop-like experience. During the tour, you’ll have time to eat lunch at a local restaurant, and afterward, your driver will continue to your accommodation in Naples.
Day 12: Pizza-Cooking Class in Napoli & Explore Naples
Learn what makes authentic Neapolitan pizza the best pizza in the world with a family-friendly cooking class. Uncover all the secrets of this great Italian wonder in the exclusive company of a private chef. To start, your guide will lead you to the restaurant of one of the oldest families of Neapolitan pizza makers. Your pizzaiolo and his staff will greet you and introduce you to the art of pizza making, guiding you through every step of the process. Even toddlers can get in on the kneading process.
In a cozy and friendly atmosphere, you'll enjoy eating your delicious handmade lunch. This pizza class will enhance your experience of Naples and give you the chance to take the recipes back home. You can make these dishes whenever you want, impressing your family and friends with your newfound cooking skills.
Spend the rest of the day exploring at your own pace. Explore from Piazza Cavour and walk into the city center towards the magnificent Duomo di Napoli. The cathedral is dedicated to the Santa Maria Assunta, the assumption of the Virgin Mary. The San Lorenzo neighborhood has many churches to explore, but one of the most interesting is the Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore which hides the remains of an underground Greco-Roman market.
Further into the city, the main street Via Toledo leads to the waterfront. In this area are many grand buildings, including the Royal Palace, San Carlo Theatre, and the Castle Nuovo. Take your time to visit these three sites, including the two museums inside the castle. Along the Lungomare is a spectacular fountain, the Fontana dell Immacolatella, a great place to end your day before taking the metro back to the top of the city.
Day 13: Ischia and Procida by Ferry
Leave the bustle of Naples behind and explore the charming islands of Ischia and Procida by ferry. Although less famous than their popular neighbor Capri, they’re just as beautiful. Your first stop is Ischia, where you can enjoy its Negombo and Poseidon hot springs. Explore Ischia Porto and Ponte, and then visit the imposing Castello Aragonese. This historic castle sits on an islet connected to Ischia by a narrow strip of land. After visiting the castle, relax over lunch at one of the nearby restaurants or head to the fishing village of Sant’Angelo, one of the most picturesque corners of Ischia.
Board your ferry and head to Procida, one of the most photographed islands in all of Italy. You may not recognize its name, but the endearingly iconic shot of Procida’s Corricella Marina appears on several Italian guidebook covers. The marina’s pastel bungalows have glistened over the Tyrrhenian Sea for generations, welcoming back tired mariners after months at sea. The distinctly bright hues allowed anglers to spot their homes, even from a great distance and in hazy weather.
For the past 3,000 years, Procida has been home to a strategic port, a bustling maritime academy, a fascist prison, and a filming location in more recent years. You may recognize Corricella Marina from Il Postino and The Talented Mr. Ripley. Spend the rest of the day exploring Terra Murata, the historic center of Procida perched on the cliffs above the port of Corricella, and enjoy the sandy Chiaiolella Beach.
Board your ferry and head to Procida, one of the most photographed islands in all of Italy. You may not recognize its name, but the endearingly iconic shot of Procida’s Corricella Marina appears on several Italian guidebook covers. The marina’s pastel bungalows have glistened over the Tyrrhenian Sea for generations, welcoming back tired mariners after months at sea. The distinctly bright hues allowed anglers to spot their homes, even from a great distance and in hazy weather.
For the past 3,000 years, Procida has been home to a strategic port, a bustling maritime academy, a fascist prison, and a filming location in more recent years. You may recognize Corricella Marina from Il Postino and The Talented Mr. Ripley. Spend the rest of the day exploring Terra Murata, the historic center of Procida perched on the cliffs above the port of Corricella, and enjoy the sandy Chiaiolella Beach.
Day 14: Depart Naples
Enjoy a comfortable private transfer to Naples Airport. Have a pleasant journey home or onto your next destination!
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