By and large, Rome is highly child-friendly, with some lovely areas and suburbs for families to live in, and Roman children seem able to handle congested traffic, packed public transport, and busy streets like pros before their fifth birthday. On the other hand, for expats with kids and family in Rome, the Eternal City might seem a little overwhelming.
But try not to worry – Rome is a fantastically colourful and cultured place for children of all ages. With pizza and gelato on almost every corner, delicious treats are never in short supply.
Challenges for expat parents in Rome
Navigating a new culture and language can present significant challenges for expat parents in Rome. The bureaucratic processes, from obtaining residence permits to enrolling children in school, can be daunting and time consuming.
Moreover, finding suitable housing in a desirable neighbourhood that balances proximity to good schools, work, and social amenities is often a top concern. It’s a good idea to connect with local real estate experts and expat communities to share experiences and get practical advice.
Visas and Residence Permits for Italy
Expat Accommodation in Rome
Areas and Suburbs in Rome
Education in Rome
There’s no doubt that expats with children moving to Rome will have a lot to think about, especially regarding education. There are plenty of schools in Rome to choose from, including international schools, but like anywhere else in the world, quality and curricula vary. Consider what kind of education you want for your children before you start looking for a school.
If opting for a local school, look into extracurricular activities and ask around about whether any other expat families are at the school. Football and tennis are popular, and children can participate in tournaments or competitions, while art and music are also great options to keep the little ones entertained.
Education and Schooling in Rome
International Schools in Rome
Parent networks in Rome
Expat parents can connect with one another through schools, daycare centres, or the extracurricular activities their children attend. There are also social media groups for mothers and parents in Rome, which often arrange meet-ups to socialise and offer a great way to make friends and meet people in the city.
For new arrivals, joining a parent network can be a lifeline, providing support, advice, and local knowledge that is irreplaceable when settling into the city. These networks can be found through local community centres, international clubs or online platforms such as Meetup.
Find out more about joining clubs and meeting people on our Lifestyle in Rome page.
Entertainment for kids in Rome
When in Rome, do as the Roman mums do and avoid the tourist sites. These can sometimes be pricey and, for those with very young children, may turn out to be a bit of a wasted experience.
Most Roman museums are free to children under the age of six. For EU citizens aged 18 or under, tickets are either free or heavily discounted. Non-EU expat parents should keep an eye out for free admission days. These happen monthly, and dates can be found online.
Many Roman parks are lovely, especially on a summer afternoon, but parents should always research before they go. Some parks may not be in good condition and can feel a little unsafe.
The Villa Doria Pamphili in the Monteverde quarter is always a fantastic option. Its spacious gardens are great for picnics and ball games, while the 17th-century villa is the cherry on top for art-loving parents. As for playgrounds, the Villa Ada on Via Salaria has well-maintained swings, slides, and other play equipment.
For a touch of whimsy and wonder, the Bioparco di Roma offers an enchanting escape where children can marvel at a variety of wildlife in the heart of the city. It’s not only an opportunity to see animals but also a chance to learn about conservation efforts.
The Explora Museum, dedicated to children, provides interactive exhibits that blend learning with play, perfectly tailored for curious young minds. It’s a place where hands-on activities engage and educate children in a fun, immersive environment.
For those wanting to take the kids to the movies, there are many English-language cinemas. Alcazar and Baberini are the best. For something much more unusual, treat them to a children’s puppet show at Teatro Verde or Teatro San Carlino. Parents looking for outings with a more educational slant should head to the Central Children’s Library on Via San Paolo alla Regola for English games and books.