Visiting Venice with children can turn into a real adventure. Forget the idea of a city only suitable for romantic strolls: the Serenissima offers a range of stimulating and engaging activities, perfect for entertaining the little ones and creating unforgettable memories for the whole family. Finding things to do in Venice with kids isn’t difficult—you just need to know where to look.
Between bridges, narrow streets (calli), and canals, children will enjoy exploring a truly unique city. Here is a selection of the best attractions and places not to miss during a family visit to Venice.
Munav and the Enrico Dandolo Submarine
If you are looking for a truly unusual and educational experience, the Munav – Naval History Museum of Venice is the right place. Here, sea enthusiasts of all ages can admire historical naval models, uniforms, and cannons, retracing the glorious maritime tradition of the Republic of Venice.
The main attraction, and the key reason why Munav is perfect for children, is the Toti-class submarine Enrico Dandolo. Anchored outside the museum, it offers the rare opportunity to explore the confined internal spaces of a real submarine, getting a hands-on feel for life on board. It is an experience that captures the imagination and an excellent answer to the question of what to see in Venice with kids.
Natural History Museum and the Leonardo da Vinci Museum
Another must-see stop for an educational outing is the Venice Natural History Museum, housed in the evocative Fondaco dei Turchi. Dinosaur skeletons, botanical and faunal exhibits, and a section dedicated to the lagoon’s biodiversity make the visit dynamic and interactive, suitable for piquing the curiosity of even the youngest visitors.
Completing the cultural offerings suitable for children is the Leonardo da Vinci Museum Venice, which allows visitors to discover the great master’s ingenious inventions through interactive reproductions that children can touch and operate.
Libreria Acqua Alta in Venice
The Libreria Acqua Alta in Venice is not just a simple bookstore, but a real attraction. Here, books are stored in bathtubs, canoes, and gondolas to protect them from high tides. The curious arrangement and the charming internal courtyard, with a “staircase” of stacked volumes, create a magical atmosphere that children absolutely love. It’s the ideal place for a fun break and for taking unique photos.
Gondola Ride
The gondola ride in Venice is an icon and, although it is a “touristy” experience, it is often the element that children enjoy the most. Gliding silently along the canals, seeing the city from a completely different perspective, and waving to passersby is an exciting experience that makes them feel like characters in a movie. It is a moment of relaxation after walking through the calli and campielli (squares).
The Colorful Houses of Burano
Take the vaporetto (water bus) and sail towards the island of Burano. This small fishing village is famous throughout the world for its colorful Burano houses. Children will love walking through this explosion of bright colors, turning the excursion into an open-air game. It’s a refreshing change of scenery compared to the heart of Venice.
Murano Glass Museum
On the island of Murano, renowned for the art of glassmaking, the Murano Glass Museum offers the opportunity to admire centuries-old masterpieces. Before or after the museum visit, it is advisable to attend a live demonstration in one of the furnaces, where the master glassmaker shapes the molten glass right before your eyes. It’s a fascinating experience that will leave children wide-eyed.
Fondaco dei Tedeschi in Venice
For a spectacular and free view, climb up to the panoramic terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi in Venice. After an online reservation (which is mandatory), you can admire a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the city and the Grand Canal. It is the perfect way to conclude a day of exploration.
Venice is a city that stimulates curiosity and imagination. By carefully planning your visit and including attractions like the Munav and the exploration of the Enrico Dandolo submarine, your family vacation is guaranteed to be a success.