Venice, the Floating City, enchants adults with its canals and history, but kids can quickly tire of sightseeing. But fear not! Venice is also a playground for young explorers!
From little ones chasing pigeons in Piazza San Marco to juveniles crafting Carnival masks at a local workshop, there’s plenty to spark their imagination. Kids can hunt for lions, the symbol of Venice, hidden around the city, sail down canals on a gondola, and dive into Venetian history in kid-friendly museums.
Ready for family fun? We’ve compiled a list of 25 fun things to do with Kids in Venice to make your trip unforgettable for everyone.
Now, have fun reading...
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1. Run after pigeons in Piazza San Marco
Few things delight children more than the chance to dart around and chase flocks of pigeons, and Piazza San Marco is the perfect spot for this classic, carefree activity. Surrounded by stunning architecture, your kids can burn off some energy while laughing and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Just be sure to keep an eye on them as they weave between the pigeons and the crowds! It’s a simple joy, but in a setting as grand as St. Mark’s Square, it becomes a memorable experience for little kids and parents alike.
2. Take A Gondola Ride
A gondola ride is a must-do experience in Venice, and it's perfect for kids of all ages. Younger children will be enchanted by the gentle sway of the boat and the magical feel of gliding through narrow canals, while older kids will appreciate the unique perspective of the city from the water.
As you pass under ancient bridges and alongside centuries-old buildings, your family can soak in the beauty and history of Venice in a way that’s both relaxing and unforgettable. This iconic activity is sure to be a highlight of your trip for everyone.
Best-selling gondola ride tickets:
3. Hop Aboard a Waterbus
Jump on a Waterbus, or vaporetto, for a scenic cruise along the Grand Canal; a perfect adventure for kids of all ages. Venice’s main waterway offers stunning views of historic palaces, extraordinary churches, and iconic bridges.
Younger children will love the excitement of riding on a boat, while older kids can appreciate the sights and the chance to see the city from a different angle. The waterbus is also an affordable way to experience Venice like a local, making it a win for the whole family!
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4. Explore the Vibrant Islands of Murano and Burano
Set sail to the picturesque islands of Murano and Burano, where colorful houses and charming alleyways create a storybook setting. In Murano, watch skilled artisans at work in glassblowing workshops, crafting exquisite pieces that showcase centuries-old techniques.
Then, hop over to Burano, where vibrant, candy-colored houses looking like LEGO bricks line the canals, offering fantastic photo ops and a whimsical atmosphere. Kids will be enchanted by the vivid hues and lively streets, while the whole family can enjoy a unique glimpse into Venetian island life. It’s a delightful day trip full of color and creativity!
Best-Selling Ticket Options:
- Venice: Murano and Burano Boat Tour
- Boat Trip: Glimpse of Murano, Torcello & Burano Islands (Bestseller)
- Venice: Murano and Burano Boat Tour with Glass Factory Visit
- From Venice: Murano & Burano Guided Tour by Private Boat
- Murano: Glass Museum Entry Ticket
- Vaporetto Pass: Venice Public Transport Ticket (ACTV) (Recommended)
5. Feel Like Captain Nemo Inside the Submarine Enrico Dandolo
Step aboard the Submarine Enrico Dandolo and immerse yourself in the world of underwater adventure. Kids will be thrilled to explore this real submarine, discovering its tight spaces and impressive controls while imagining life beneath the sea.
Afterward, dive into the Naval History Museum to explore fascinating maritime exhibits, including historic ship models and naval artifacts. Together, these experiences offer a unique and exciting way for the whole family to engage with Venice’s naval heritage and feel like true explorers of the deep!
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6. See Gondola Building in Action at Squero di San Trovaso
Step into a piece of Venetian history at the Squero di San Trovaso, one of Venice’s oldest boatyards. Here, kids can watch skilled boatbuilders create and repair gondolas, the city's famous boats. See how they shape the wooden hulls and carve intricate details with care.
You’ll get to see these iconic boats come to life, each one crafted with tradition and skill. Imagine how these beautifully made gondolas will soon glide through Venice’s canals, making for a memorable and exciting experience for the whole family!
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7. Join a Fun Mask-Making Workshop
Dive into a creative adventure by taking part in a hands-on mask-making workshop, perfect for kids! Discover the magic of Venetian Carnival masks as you learn traditional paper-mâché techniques from a friendly expert.
Choose a mask to decorate and bring it to life with bright colors and your own designs. Along the way, hear cool stories about the history of masks in Venice. By the end of the session, you'll have your very own colorful mask to take home as a special souvenir from your trip!
Best-Selling Ticket Options:
8. Explore Amazing Nature at the Museum of Natural History
Step into the Museum of Natural History, located in the grand 13th-century Fondaco dei Turchi right by the Grand Canal. This cool museum takes you on an exciting journey through 700 million years of natural history. Kids will be thrilled to see a giant 7-meter dinosaur and a massive whale skeleton.
With exhibits featuring animals from the Venetian lagoon, the museum makes learning about nature fun and engaging. It’s a great way for the whole family to discover the amazing creatures and natural wonders that connect to Venice!
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9. Splash Around at Venice Beach
Ready for some beach fun? Hop on Vaporetto line 1 and head to Lido di Venezia, a beautiful island with sandy shores perfect for a day of swimming and sun. Kids can dig their toes into the warm sand, splash in the gentle waves of the Adriatic Sea, and build fantastic sandcastles.
Lido di Venezia has different beaches to explore, some with amenities like changing rooms and sun loungers, while others offer a more natural setting. Spend a fun-filled afternoon swimming, playing, or just relaxing under a beach umbrella with the family!
Best-selling Ticket Options:
- Vaporetto Pass: Venice Public Transport Ticket (ACTV) (Recommended)
- Venice: Waterbus and Mainland Bus Pass
- Venice: Bike Tour on Lido Island
10. Explore the Fascinating World of Leonardo da Vinci
Step into the world of genius at Museo Leonardo da Vinci. This captivating museum features interactive exhibits that bring Leonardo’s inventions and artwork to life.
Kids can marvel at life-sized models of his designs and enjoy hands-on activities that showcase his remarkable creativity. It’s a fun and engaging way for the whole family to discover the brilliance of one of history’s greatest minds and explore his innovative ideas up close.
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11. Get Lost in Borges' Labyrinth
Take a vaporetto to discover a labyrinth inspired by Jorge Luis Borges at the historic San Giorgio Maggiore monastery on its namesake island. This fascinating garden spans 2,300 square meters (34,757 square feet) and features over three thousand meticulously arranged boxwood bushes, each about 90 cm high (3 feet), creating an intricate maze for you to explore.
Wander through this enchanting labyrinth and experience the complexity and beauty that echo Borges' love for puzzles and infinite possibilities. Afterward, climb the 80 meters (262-feet) high bell tower of the neighboring monastery, which offers a stunning panoramic view of Venice, providing a breathtaking perspective of the city.
Best-selling Ticket Options:
- San Giorgio Maggiore Island: Borges Labyrinth
- Venice: Explore San Giorgio Island with Ticket & Audio Guide
- Vaporetto Pass: Venice Public Transport Ticket (ACTV)
12. Embark on a Guided Kayaking Tour
For adventurous juveniles, a guided kayaking tour offers a thrilling way to explore Venice from a fresh perspective. Paddling through the city’s lesser-known canals, they’ll get an up-close look at hidden corners and quiet neighborhoods that most tourists miss.
This hands-on adventure is both fun and educational, as the guide shares fascinating stories about Venice’s history and architecture. It’s an active, engaging experience that’s perfect for older kids eager to swap passive sightseeing for something more interactive and memorable.
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13. Go to the Kids’ Day at Peggy Guggenheim
Every Sunday at 3 pm, the Peggy Guggenheim Museum offers free art workshops for children aged 4 to 10. These engaging sessions introduce kids to art through fun, interactive activities, starting with a tour of the museum's collection followed by hands-on art projects.
While the workshops are in Italian, translation into English or other languages can be arranged if requested in advance. Booking is required, and parents wishing to explore the museum during the workshop need to purchase a ticket separately.
Best-selling Ticket Options:
14. Dive into the Playful World of Creature di Gomma
Step inside Creature di Gomma and transport yourself back to your childhood as you explore a collection of 6,000 vintage toys. Test your knowledge of action figures through the decades and visit the Non-solo Gomma section featuring action figures, metal cars, and iconic characters.
In the main room, discover Japanese Robots, Disney cartoons, and Italian classics like Ledraplastic and Italocremona. Don’t miss favorites like Snoopy, Popeye, the Smurfs, and Asterix. The 90s section showcases Ghostbusters, Ninja Turtles, and Jurassic Park. For a special treat, check out the secret room with rare pieces, including one of only two Toby Turtle figures in existence.
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15. Catch A Free Birdseye View of Venice from T Fondaco
For a stunning, budget-friendly view of Venice, head to T Fondaco dei Tedeschi. This historic building has a rooftop terrace that offers panoramic vistas of the city’s iconic canals, bridges, and landmarks.
It’s a fantastic spot for kids and adults alike to take in the beauty of Venice from above without any entrance fee. The view will capture their imaginations as they spot famous landmarks and watch the gondolas drift below. Don’t forget your camera - this is one view you’ll want to remember.
- Please note that an online reservation is mandatory to access the terrace, as entry is not permitted without it. >> Book your time slot for free.
16. Go on a Bridge Spotting Adventure
Kids will be amazed by the countless bridges that connect Venice’s labyrinth of canals. From grand structures like the Rialto Bridge to tiny, hidden crossings, each bridge has its own unique charm and history.
Exploring the city becomes an exciting game as they count how many different bridges they can find; big and small, old and new, ornate and simple. It’s a fun way to keep them engaged while strolling through Venice’s winding streets, and it offers plenty of opportunities for spontaneous family photos along the way!
- Insider tip: Sit right by the Grand Canal at the Naranzaria and take in the Rialto Bridge and its surroundings from a truly unique perspective.
>> Find the location on Google Maps.
17. Tell Your Kids the Story of the Bridge of Sights
Captivate your kids with the fascinating tale behind the Bridge of Sighs. This beautiful, enclosed bridge once connected the Doge’s Palace to the city’s prisons. Legend has it that prisoners would sigh as they crossed, catching their last glimpse of Venice before facing their fate.
Sharing this story as you stand beneath the bridge or view it from a nearby spot turns a simple sightseeing moment into a memorable experience. Kids will love the mix of history and mystery, making the bridge more than just another landmark.
18. Stroll Along the Narrow Streets off the Beaten Path
Children are captivated by the narrow streets in Venice, where some are so slim that even their little arms can touch both sides at once while standing in the middle.
It’s a delightful novelty, especially since it’s something they likely can’t do back home! Navigating these winding alleys feels like exploring a labyrinth, making the experience all the more magical for them—and for you too!
19. Discover a Bookstore Like No Other
Libreria Acqua Alta is a bookshop like no other, and it’s absolutely instagrammable! This charming bookstore, known for its eclectic decor and whimsical design, features books stored in gondolas, bathtubs, and even a full-size boat.
The quirky arrangement of books and the picturesque setting create countless photo opportunities. Kids will marvel at the unique book displays, and you’ll get some great shots of this one-of-a-kind shop. It’s a delightful spot where literary charm meets Venetian flair, making it a must-visit for memorable snapshots.
20. Indulge in Irresistible Gelato Treats
No visit to Venice is complete without savoring its world-famous gelato. With an array of flavors ranging from classic chocolate and vanilla to inventive combinations like pistachio and tiramisu, there’s something to delight every palate.
Kids will love choosing from vibrant, mouthwatering options while adults can enjoy a creamy, refreshing break from sightseeing. Each gelato shop has its own unique creations, so be sure to sample a few different spots for the ultimate treat. It’s the perfect way to cool down and sweeten your Venetian adventure!
21. Search for Lions and Dragons
Embark on a fun scavenger hunt for Venice’s iconic symbols - lions and dragons. The winged lion, Venice’s emblem, can be spotted in various places around the city. Look for them atop the columns in St. Mark’s Square or the red marble lions at Piazzetta dei Leoncini.
Lions are also carved into canal walls and featured in statues throughout many squares. For a touch of myth, seek out dragons as well. Find a 14th-century dragon statue at Campo Santa Margherita in Dorsoduro, and don’t miss the vibrant mosaic of St. Michael vanquishing a dragon at St. Mark’s Basilica, visible up close from the church’s first floor.
22. Find Banksy’s Migrant Child
Are your kids into street art? If so, they might be familiar with Banksy, the elusive artist from London. During the 2019 Venice Biennale, Banksy created a powerful mural depicting a migrant child in a life jacket, holding a neon pink flare for help.
This artwork, located on the lower facade of an abandoned palace at the corner of Rio de Ca' Foscari and Rio di San Pantalon, has endured the wear of passing motorboats and the city's humidity for years. When we last visited, the mural was quite faded but still recognizable. In 2023, there was debate over whether the artwork should be restored. Why not take a moment to see how the "Migrant Child" is faring today? For the best view, head to the bridge over the wider of the two canals.
23. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at VizioVirtù
Indulge in some of Venice’s finest chocolate at VizioVirtù. This charming chocolate shop offers a delightful array of handcrafted treats, from rich, velvety pralines to inventive chocolate bars.
Kids and adults alike will love choosing from the beautiful selection, perfect for a sweet snack or a special souvenir. The shop’s cozy atmosphere and delicious chocolates make it a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience Venetian chocolate at its best!
24. Enter the World of Pinocchio
Experience a unique adventure at the enchanting puppet workshop, L’Isola di Pinocchio, located in Cannaregio. This magical place invites kids and adults to explore the art of marionette making.
Watch skilled puppeteers craft intricate puppets, hear the fascinating stories behind their creations, and even order your own to take home or send as a special souvenir. It’s a whimsical and immersive experience that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of puppetry in Venice.
- For more information about the puppeteer, visit his official website.
25. Max and Relax at Giardini Papadopoli
Escape the bustle of Venice at Giardini Papadopoli, a charming garden oasis near Piazzale Roma. This tranquil park is perfect for families, offering shaded paths, lush greenery, and playgrounds where kids can run, play, and unwind.
The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with vibrant flowers, towering trees, and cozy benches ideal for a relaxing break. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot for a picnic or a fun place for children to burn off energy, Giardini Papadopoli provides a refreshing retreat in the heart of Venice.
Fun Things to Do with Kids in Venice: Wrapping Up Your Family Adventure
As you can see, Venice offers more than just canals and historic landmarks; it’s a city filled with wonder and excitement for kids of all ages.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, creativity, or just a bit of fun, these 25 fun activities ensure that your family’s Venetian journey will be filled with unforgettable memories. So, get ready to explore, play, and experience the magic of Venice together!