KidTripster Teen: 7 ways for families to experience Italian history and culture
Our KidTripster teen shares his favorite picks for families and the one thing he didn’t like about Italy.
1. Rent a bike
During your stay in Italy, renting a bike is a must. It doesn’t matter what city you’re staying in, you’ll get tired of walking eventually! Not only that, but renting a bike will help you avoid traffic, as well as allow you to go places that cars can’t.
2. Take a private tour of the Roman Forum & Colosseum
One of the first things that comes to mind when thinking about Italy is Rome. There’s a multitude of reasons why it’s such a popular tourist attraction. Taking a tour of the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and Colosseum is one of the most amazing things to do. You’ll be surrounded by an incredible amount of history. Go with a guide, who’ll explain the significance of every structure, helping you take it all in and really feel the past.
3. Check out Uffizi Gallery in Florence
The Uffizi Gallery Museum has a world-class collection of Italian Renaissance art like nothing that you’ve ever seen before. You may think looking at paintings is boring, but the Uffizi Gallery is not to be passed up.
KidTripster Tip: Ok, don’t think your kids will want to walk through an art gallery? Then at the very least, do see Michelangelo’s David statue at the Accademia Gallery in Florence. Trust me, it’s worth standing in line!
4. Tour St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in Italy, due to its beautifully-crafted architecture and stunning artwork. Not only is the Basilica bewildering, but so too is the Sistine Chapel. Again, I highly recommend following a tour guide, who’ll give you all the intriguing history behind the architecture, paintings, and relics.
5. Stay in Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre, which in Italian translates to “Five Lands,” consists of five breathtaking, terraced towns on the coast of Italy: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The vibrantly-colored buildings, mouth-watering food, and jaw-dropping views all contribute to a sensational vibe. These five towns have a very different feel than the inland cities of Italy; they’re less hectic, and c’mon, they’re on the ocean!
6. Visit Cortona
Cortona is the hillside town in Tuscany that was featured in the movie Under the Tuscan Sun. This town offers great food, as well as impressive views of the rolling green hills. The town square is surrounded by fabulous restaurants and hotels, as well as the well-known town hall and clock tower. I recommend eating dinner at a restaurant with a view of the valley below, so you can watch the sunset over the beautiful Tuscan landscape.
7. Don’t go anywhere that’s overcrowded
Popular sites, like museums and famous buildings, get crowed. If you see an overwhelming line, I’d say do not enter. Going into these overcrowded spaces – the top of St. Peter’s Basilica comes to mind – ruins the experience.
Other than the crowds, I have no complaints about Italy. Go and take in your surroundings and indulge in the history, culture, and food. There’s nothing like it!
Cole Cadsawan is a junior in high school, who loves to travel to foreign countries and explore unique cultures. Cole also loves to play lacrosse, hike, workout, and hang out with friends. He enjoys spending time with his family, as well as doing charity work in his hometown of Portland, Oregon.
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