Family holidays in Italy

Uncover the many hidden treasures of Italy on an action-packed family adventure. From sea kayaking, mountain biking and zip wiring to learning to cook gnocchi, exploring villages dotted with lemon trees and relaxing by the pool. A family holiday in Italy truly something for all the family.

Small group family adventures to Italy

Journey through the beautiful Garfagnana valley in northern Tuscany, renowned for its exciting activities perfect for teenagers and adults. Challenge yourself with seven courses with swinging beams, suspension bridges, nets and ropes, and enjoy more relaxed evenings kayaking or Stand Up Paddleboarding on the tranquil waters of Lake Gramolazzo.

Experience an overnight stay with a difference in a tree tent nestled amidst the lush, wooded landscapes near Petralia Sottana, Sicily. Spend the day exploring the nearby zip wire courses or honing your archery skills. Alternatively, embark on a sea kayaking expedition and navigate around the majestic sea rocks in the protected marine park of Isole Ciclopi.

Our family holidays in Italy are rated as moderate, striking the perfect balance between action-packed adventures and relaxation. Make the most of your chosen destination with the guidance of our expert local tour leaders, who will show you all the must-see sights alongside a number of hidden gems off the beaten track. All our local tour guides are chosen for their knowledge, passion and experience in working with families. Our average family adventure small group size is between three and five families - large enough to meet like-minded people and similarly-aged children, but small enough to get closer to the destinations we're visiting.

Our Italy Family trips

Family Sicily Multi-Activity Adventure

Italy, Sicily Family Trip code FSI

Discounted

Child Ages: 11+

8 Days From £1620 without flights

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Best family destinations in Italy

Family Adventures in Tuscany

Dive into your Tuscany adventure with canyoning and zip wires in the picturesque Turrite Valley on our Tuscany Multi-Activity Adventure. Upon arrival at the pretty village of Fornolovasco, descend into the refreshing waters of the Rio Pinguino in the Parco Battifero, giving us the chance to try some small water jumps. After a relaxed lunch back at Fornolovasco, embark on a scenic walk up the dry canyon, descending back down with time to explore the fascinating caves. End your day with an exhilarating zip wire ride across to the café, where you can unwind at the bar with an ice cream.

Family Adventures in Sicily
Explore the dramatic slopes of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano and one of the largest in the world, on our Sicily Multi-Activity Adventure. Drive through picturesque citrus groves and beech woods to Linguaglossa Rivittello, offering the opportunity to sample a range of local dairy and salami products. Continue your ascent to Piano Provenzana, where you’ll proceed on foot towards the crater on the Northeast side, reaching an altitude of 2,300m, with scenic stops for lunch and the chance to explore a number of craters along the way. After your descent, you’ll delve into a volcanic cave before returning to your hotel.

What to expect on a family holiday in Italy

How much activity is there on a family tour in Italy?
Our family tours in Italy are graded as Moderate, designed to offer a good balance of activity with plenty of opportunities to relax too. These tours are ideal if you want a holiday that blends exciting activities and experiences with ample time to relax and unwind.
Tree tents on our Family Sicily Multi-Activity Adventure
What is the accommodation like on a family holiday in Italy?
Explore’s family holidays in Italy primarily feature stays in comfortable, locally-owned hotels, with the exception of an overnight stay in a tree tent during our Family Sicily Multi-Activity Adventure. Where possible, we prioritise accommodations that offer at least two nights in the same place, meaning you won’t have to unpack and repack too often. As swimming pools are one of the most important hotel features for families, we always try to find family-friendly accommodation with pools.

How old are the children on a family adventure in Italy?
The average age of children on an active holiday in Italy is 14 years. To maximise the enjoyment and suitability of your family tour in Italy, we have established a minimum age limit of seven years old for the Tuscany tour and 11 years for the Sicily tour.

What is the food like on a family holiday in Italy?

Italian food is extremely popular with families and you’ll find a delightful range of pastas, pizzas and salads at most venues. In Tuscany, savour fettunta with your meal - a rustic delight featuring freshly toasted Tuscan bread generously rubbed with garlic, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt. In Sicily, try caponata - a tantalisingly sweet and sour aubergine dish.

What should I pack for a multi activity adventure in Italy?
While July and August offer the warmest temperatures, it’s advisable to go prepared with suitable clothing for potential temperate drops and showers, especially during early and late seasons. This includes a warm fleece or jacket and light rainwear. Remember to pack your swimming gear and comfortable walking boots, trainers and sandals.