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Kid-friendly experiences in Florence at Christmas and beyond

Make the most of the festive season in Florence when travelling with little ones.

Watching the rosy-cheeked faces of children as they gaze with delight at a magical Christmas scene brings joy to all. Make sure the winter is filled with many such moments with these suggestions on how to spend the festive season (and beyond) in Florence with little ones.  

Festive fairs
First things first, a stroll through the streets to pick up gifts and take in the atmosphere. There’s no shortage on places to purchase unique, thoughtful gifts in the many artisanal workshops that are packed with centuries of tradition. Ambling along the streets of the historic centre, enjoy the charm of the glittering lights over the streets as they illuminate your loved ones’ faces with the glow of the season.

Don’t miss a visit to the well-known Weihnachtsmarkt in piazza Santa Croce from November 20 to December 19, a true treat with its wooden huts filled with seasonal snacks, mulled wine, and plenty of gift ideas as you walk through the veritable winter wonderland. Santa Claus is even making an appearance right in front of the Basilica! 

Museum magic
Of course, Florence feels festive at any time of the year with its treasure trove of sites and historic gems. Take your children on a tour of the kid-friendly museums and galleries to allow them to get to know all of Florence’s secrets.

The Galileo Museum is particularly great at engaging young ones with the world of Galileo Galilei, the genius of astronomy, physics and engineering, with themed visits, workshops and displays that are bound to dazzle.

Equally, the Stibbert Museum with its armoured soldiers lined up in an eclectic room filled with all sorts by the collectionist Frederick Stibbert is a wonderful experience for kids who might otherwise be inclined to groan at yet another museum! The added advantage is the lush gardens and grounds that surround the museum, even featuring a lake with turtles that will delight little visitors!

We couldn’t leave out Palazzo Vecchio in a round-up of magical spots for kids. The fairytale-like palace has hidden doors and symbols that will fire imaginations and set fantasies in motion. MUS.E are superb at catering to young minds with their many educational workshops and guided tours. 


Exceptional tours
Having wandered the streets and stopped off for a treat or two (gelato is a good idea at all times of the year, or for something more seasonal, a hot chocolate hits the spot), head a little further to Fattoria di Maiano, a farm with friendly animals that your young ones will love to get to know, even enjoying the chance to feed them, before running off their sugar rush in the botanic garden and large open air in the picturesque countryside that’s just a ten minute drive from Florence.