Family-friendly activities near Florence Train Station

For many of Florence’s millions of annual visitors, Santa Maria Novella train station is the first glimpse of this beautiful city. And for those arriving by train or by bus, it’s good to know that the train station is just a short walk from some of Florence’s top attractions like the Duomo and the Uffizzi Gallery.

And while the city may be known for its history and its art, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of things to do that the kids will love. If you’re looking for family-friendly activities, you’ll find plenty of them well within walking distance of the train station.

Florence is a very walkable city, so you’ll be able to reach just about anywhere from the train station. Drop off your unneeded bags at a Florence train station baggage storage, and the city will be yours to explore.

Duomo Tower

For an unbeatable view of Florence, head to the top of Brunelleschi’s dome. The 463-step climb is worth it for the incredible views from the top. Once you’re done that, take the kids to see the Baptistery with its famous “Gates of Paradise.”

The Duomo is such a famous Florence attraction that you can’t go to the city and not visit it yourself. However, keeping the kids quiet and respectful in this place of worship can be a challenge. The tower allows them to burn off some energy climbing the steps, so you still get to enjoy the Cathedral and its magnificent view without disturbing other people or boring the kids.

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Piazza Santa Maria Novella

Piazza Santa Maria Novella is a beautiful square in the heart of Florence, and it’s a great place to take the kids for a morning or afternoon of fun. There are plenty of things to do in this lively piazza, from people-watching to shopping to playing in the fountains.

If your kids are into shopping, there are plenty of stores in the piazza where they can find souvenirs to bring home. Or if they’re more interested in art, there are several museums in the area that they can visit. Younger kids will be able to burn off some energy chasing the pigeons around, while older kids and teenagers may appreciate the many quirky shops in the area or the selfie opportunities in front of the Duomo and its gorgeously decorated baptistery.

Venchi Chocolate and Gelato

Venchi Chocolate is a Florence institution, and it’s a great place to take the kids for a sweet treat. The store is located right in the heart of Florence, just a few minutes on foot from Santa Maria Novella train station.

Venchi is famous for its chocolate waterfall, where you can watch as chocolate is poured from high above and cascades down into a pool below. It’s definitely a sight to see, and the kids will love watching the chocolate being made.

Venchi also has a wide variety of gelato on offer, so there’s something for everyone. The store is always busy, so be prepared to wait in line, but it’s well worth it.

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Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens are one of Florence’s most popular attractions, and it’s a great place to take the kids. With over 45 hectares of green space to explore, the gardens have plenty to offer, from fountains and sculptures to a playground and a maze.

There’s also an amphitheater where you can catch a show or a concert and a restaurant where you can grab something to eat. The gardens are open every day from 8 am until sunset, so there’s plenty of time to explore.

Museo dei Ragazzi al Palazzo Vecchio

The Museo dei Ragazzi is a museum specifically designed for children, and it’s a great place to take the kids if they’re interested in learning more about Florence’s history. Located in the Palazzo Vecchio, the museum offers interactive exhibits and games that will teach kids about the city’s past. There are also several workshops available where kids can learn about different aspects of Florentine life, from art to science.

The Museo di Palazzo Vecchio is located in Florence’s town hall and offers many exhibits and programs geared toward children. You can even pick up a “family kit” at the information desk to help you have a little more fun as you tour the museum.

Leonardo Museum

The Leonardo Museum is a must-visit for any fan of the famous artist and inventor. Located just outside Florence in the San Marco neighborhood, the museum is dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci and his many inventions. It’s definitely worth the ten-minute walk from the station.

The museum is hands-on and interactive, so kids can really get involved in learning about Leonardo’s life and work. There are also several demonstrations throughout the day, where you can see some of his inventions in action. This is one museum that will keep the kids engaged and entertained so much that they won’t realize they’re learning something, and chances are you’ll learn a lot about the life of this Renaissance genius.

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Uffizi Tour for kids

The sprawling Uffizi Gallery is one of the world’s great art museums, and its massive collection is a must-visit while in Florence. However, painting after painting can often leave the kids disengaged. Luckily, the gallery offers tours specially designed to keep kids engaged and teach them a little something about art appreciation.

During the tour, kids will be able to see some of the most famous paintings in the world, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. They’ll also learn about the different styles of art and how to identify them. The tour is geared towards kids aged 6-12, but younger children are welcome if they’re accompanied by an adult. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum itself.

Piazza della Repubblica Carousel

The Piazza della Repubblica is one of Florence’s most popular squares, and it’s a fun place to take the whole family. The square is home to a beautiful carousel, which has been delighting children for years. The carousel is open every day from 10 am until 7 pm, and tickets can be purchased at the square itself.

This square is one of Florence’s many beautiful public spaces, so taking the kids to ride the carousel here means you get to do some sightseeing while they get to enjoy themselves on the ride. That makes it a great family activity in the heart of the city.

Conclusion

Florence may be known for its art and its Renaissance history, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do here except admire paintings and statues. These family-friendly activities in Florence will help keep every member of the family entertained so you can have a memorable trip together in this famous Italian city.

Rebecca

With a passion for travelling and adventure, I love to write about my experiences. My ambition is to visit as many major cities of the world as. can and discover new places off the beaten track.