Top 10 Family-Friendly Summer Destinations in Italy

From gelato-filled afternoons to lazy days on stunning beaches, Italy offers some of the most unforgettable family summer holidays. With indulgent food, diverse landscapes, rich history, and incredibly welcoming locals, Italy is a country that’s made for family travel.

Planning your first trip with little ones, teens, or looking to bring the whole family? Topflight’s Italian holidays cater to a wide range of needs. With handpicked resorts in the most stunning regions, expert advice, and carefully curated accommodation, your next adventure is just a booking away.

Here’s our ultimate guide to the best family holidays in Italy, perfect for summer 2025 and 2026.

Top 10 Family Destinations in Ital | Frequently Asked Questions | Book with Topflight

Top 10 Family Destinations in Italy

1. Lake Garda

Lake Garda remains one of Italy’s most popular family destinations. Calm waters, picturesque towns, and a wide range of activities suit children of all ages.

- Why families love it: Water parks like CanevaWorld, theme parks such as Gardaland, and lakeside bike trails.

Family favourite towns: Bardolino, Desenzano, and Peschiera (for access to Bella Italia).

Topflight tip: Bella Italia in Peschiera is ideal for toddlers thanks to its pools, slides and playgrounds.

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2. Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast

For families seeking both beach time and cultural exploration, Sorrento offers a charming introduction to southern Italy with day trips to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius and Capri.

Top attractions: Pizza-making classes, lemon groves, boat trips to Capri and visits to Positano.

Best base: Sorrento itself, with access to quieter towns like Minori and Maiori for a slower pace.

Topflight tip: Stay in Maiori for shallow shores and fewer crowds.

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3. Viareggio & the Tuscan Coast

Perfectly positioned on the Tuscan coast, Viareggio combines long sandy beaches with a laid-back vibe—great for mixing beach fun with cultural day trips.

Nearby highlights: Pisa, Florence and Lucca (easy by train).

Family activities: Beach clubs with kids’ areas, seafront cycle lanes, and gelato at every turn.

Browse Tuscany holidays

4. Lido di Jesolo

One of Italy’s most iconic beach resorts, Lido di Jesolo is designed with families in mind—wide sandy beaches, safe swimming and endless attractions.

Family favourites: Aqualandia water park, Sea Life aquarium, evening markets and pedal-powered bike tours.

Why kids love it: Flat terrain, pedestrian zones and playgrounds throughout town.

See Venetian Riviera holidays

5. The Dolomites

For something different, head to Italy’s breathtaking northern mountains. The Dolomites are perfect for families who love walking, cycling and wide-open space.

Top activities: Summer tobogganing, cable cars, nature hikes and farm visits.

Topflight tip: Try a Flavours of Northern Italy style tour for a blend of relaxation, food and culture.

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6. Puglia

Often overlooked by first-time visitors, Puglia is a gem for families seeking authenticity, uncrowded beaches and charming towns.

Things to do: Visit Alberobello’s Trulli houses, go olive oil tasting, or relax on quiet sandy beaches.

Topflight tip: Choose a countryside villa with a pool for the ultimate relaxed family summer.

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7. Lake Como

Lake Como might be known for elegance, but it’s wonderfully family-friendly—excellent ferry links, charming towns and mountain backdrops.

Best towns: Menaggio is great for families with a sandy lido and pedestrian-friendly centre.

Topflight tip: Visit Villa Carlotta’s gardens for a picnic and space for kids to run.

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8. Sardinia

For family holidays in Italy with beach perfection, Sardinia is hard to beat—white-sand beaches and turquoise seas with Italian warmth and hospitality.

Top family beaches: Cannigione is quiet with calm waters ideal for young swimmers.

Topflight tip: Opt for a beachfront hotel to minimise travel time with little ones.

Book a stay with Topflight in Sardinia

9. Liguria & Cinque Terre

Older children and teens will love exploring the Ligurian coastline and its colourful cliffside villages. While not stroller-friendly, it’s rich in charm and adventure.

Top experiences: Take the local train between the five Cinque Terre villages, try fresh seafood and swim in clear coves.

Ideal base: Diano Marina offers sandy beaches and a gentler pace.

10. Florence & Tuscan Countryside

For families with older children, Florence offers an introduction to Italy’s Renaissance heart. Combine with countryside stays for a perfect blend of culture and calm.

Things to do: Family-friendly walking tours, countryside picnics, cookery classes and vineyard visits (grape juice for the kids!).

Where to stay: Montecatini offers good value and easy access to Florence, Pisa and Lucca.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Family Summer Holidays

What is the best part of Italy for a family summer holiday?

Lake Garda, Viareggio and Lido di Jesolo offer a great mix of beaches, activities and family-friendly accommodation.

Are Italian cities suitable for children?

Yes, with proper planning. Rome, Venice have child-friendly museums, public spaces and—of course—gelato! Pair city visits with countryside or coastal stays for balance.

Is Italy expensive for family holidays?

Italy offers a wide range of options. For value, consider Puglia, Lake Garda and the Dolomites.

When should I book my family summer holiday for 2025 or 2026?

Early booking is highly recommended—especially for school holidays—to secure the best family rooms and flight options.

Plan Your Summer Family Holiday to Italy with Topflight

Topflight has been helping families create unforgettable Italian holidays for decades. With expert local knowledge, flexible packages and resorts that cater to all ages, your holiday is in safe hands.

Start planning your Italy summer today