If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination to live abroad, look no further than Italy, because Italians love children and value family-life more than anything else. This beautiful European country has plenty to offer families of all sizes, from mountains to blue seas, from beautiful small towns to bustling big cities. And with so many kid-friendly attractions and activities available in across the country, we went on a hunt to discover the very best places to live in Italy for families right now.
If you’re planning to move to Italy with your family, larger cities are the best choice, because they offer the most options for international families, particularly for their children’s education and after school activities, but also more job opportunities for working parents. Access to an international school, with curricula taught in English, is very important when selecting a city to live in as an expat family. Most large cities in Italy have at least one international school, which automatically makes them the best places to live in Italy for expat families.
Additionally, cities like Rome and Florence offer a wealth of historical landmarks and cultural attractions that the whole family can enjoy. From the Colosseum and Vatican City in Rome to Michelangelo’s David statue in Florence, there’s no shortage of arts education for your kids. And if you want to take a break from sightseeing, you can always relax at one of the many parks or playgrounds found throughout Italy’s urban areas.
Additionally, big Italian cities boast an impressive selection of restaurants serving up all types of cuisine that’s perfect for picky eaters. Whether you want traditional pizzas and pasta or something more adventurous, you’ll be able to find it all within reach. Plus, with so many gelato shops scattered around town, kids will feel like they live in ice-cream heaven.
Finally, large metropolitan areas generally offer better transportation options than smaller towns do; making getting around much easier and less stressful for families with young children. With trains running regularly between most major cities across Italy, getting from point A to point B has never been simpler, thus leaving you more time to sit back and soak up everything this wonderful country has to offer.
Here are 15 of the best cities to live in Italy for families:
Milan
Milan is one of the best places to live in Italy for expat families. With its numerous international schools, such as the American School of Milan, gardens full of activities for kids, and proximity to natural attractions like Lake Como, Milan will be interesting for everyone in the family.
One of the great things about living in Milan is that there are so many different kinds of activities to keep your kids entertained, such as the Civic Aquarium and Leolandia Amusement Park. If you’re looking for a more active lifestyle, there are plenty of sports clubs and playgrounds around town. And if your children are interested in culture and history, they’ll be able to find plenty here too, from world-renowned museums such as the Santa Maria Delle Grazie, which provide amazing artworks such as The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, to great ancient ruins. No matter your interests as a family, you’re sure to find something fun and educational to do together in Milan.
Rome
Rome is one of the best places to live in Italy with a family. The city has an excellent public transportation system, and there are plenty of things to do with kids. There are also several good international schools in Rome, such as the Rome International School, which makes it a great place for families who want their children to receive a high-quality education.
There are also many wonderful attractions in Rome, such as the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and St. Peter’s Basilica. In addition, there are numerous parks and playgrounds where kids can enjoy themselves. Families can also take advantage of all that Rome has to offer by visiting its many museums, including Explora Children’s Museum.
Palermo
Palermo is one of Italy’s largest cities and among the best places to raise a family in Italy. There are plenty of things to do with your kids in this city, and an international school by the name of Gonzaga Institute provides top education for your children.
Here are a few examples of activities you can do with your kids in Palermo. You can visit the Cathedral of Monreale. This magnificent cathedral is located just outside of Palermo and is worth a visit. Your kids will be amazed by its beautiful mosaics and stunning architecture. You can explore La Cuba, a historic district in central Palermo which was once home to many aristocratic families. Today, it’s full of charming streets lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to explore on foot with your family while enjoying some gelato or coffee along the way.
Bologna
Bologna is one of the best cities for families in Italy. The city is world renowned for being a top academic center and it has a great international school by the name of the International School of Bologna. A few examples of activities you can do with your kids in this city are going to natural attractions such as Cavazza Sonia, visiting historical sights, or enjoying a day at one of the many family-friendly parks.
Florence
Florence is one of the best cities in Italy for expat families. It’s home to several excellent international schools, and there are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy. The city has some beautiful natural attractions, too.
Here are just a few reasons why Florence is such a great place for families: The schools in Florence are top-notch, and your children will get an excellent education here. One particular school that stands out is the International School of Florence, which offers an outstanding curriculum. There’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Florence as well, from museums and art galleries to parks and playgrounds. Families can also take advantage of the many green spaces throughout the city, such as Cascine Park, one of Europe’s largest urban parks. Florence is also surrounded by stunning countryside that makes for great day trips outside the city limits.
Turin
Turin is one of the best places to live in Italy for families, especially if you want your kids to get a top-quality education. The city has several great international schools in English, including the International School of Turin.
There are also plenty of things to do with your kids in Turin. You can visit the world-famous Egyptian Museum, take them on a tour of Juventus Stadium, or explore one of the many beautiful parks and gardens in the city. And if you’re looking for some natural beauty, Turin is surrounded by mountains and rivers.
Genoa
One of the best places in Italy for families is Genoa, in Northern Italy. The city has an international school called Deledda International School, which makes it a great place to raise school-aged children in Italy. There are also plenty of activities to do with kids in Genoa, from visiting the Aquarium to exploring the Old Port area. And there are plenty of natural attractions nearby, such as Cinque Terre and Portofino.
Padua
If you’re searching for the best place to live in Italy with a family, Padua should be on your shortlist. This beautiful city is home to an international school called The English International School of Padua, making it a great choice for families with children who don’t yet speak Italian. There are also plenty of things to do in Padua with your kids, from exploring the city’s many historical and cultural landmarks to enjoying its natural beauty at one of the nearby parks or beaches. And if you’re looking for some fun activities outside of the city, Padua is just a short drive away from Venice and Verona – two cities that offer plenty of kid-friendly attractions.
Naples
Naples is a beautiful, vibrant city and an excellent place to raise a family. The city has many great international schools, like St. Anthony’s International School, so your children can get a top-notch education.
And there are plenty of activities for families to enjoy together in this cheerful Mediterranean metropolis, such as exploring ancient ruins and stunning art galleries and strolling through picturesque parks, or enjoying some of the best pizzas in the world. Families will also love spending time outdoors here, taking advantage of all the incredible natural attractions on offer, from Mt Vesuvius National Park to Capri Island.
Venice
If you’re looking for an amazing city in Italy that is great for families, then Venice should be at the top of your list. This historic city is full of charm and there are plenty of fun activities to keep everyone entertained. From exploring the canals by boat to learning about the local history, there are tons of things to enjoy in Venice. And if you’re looking for a great international school, the International School of Venice is one of the best in the city.
Here are just a few reasons why we think Venice is one of the best cities for families in Italy. There are endless things to do. If your kids are into art and culture, they’ll love visiting some of the architecturally stunning churches or taking a gondola ride through canals. For more active kids, take them on a hike up San Giorgio Maggiore mountain or explore one of many outdoor markets throughout the neighborhoods like the Rialto Fish Market. Additionally, there are several wonderful beaches within a short distance from Venice.
Vicenza
Vicenza is often overlooked as a tourist destination in Italy, but it’s one of the best cities for expat families. The city has an international school called H-FARM International School Vicenza. There are plenty of activities for kids to do, from exploring the local museums to visiting the nearby parks and natural attractions. Prices in Vicenza are also very reasonable, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.
Brescia
Brescia, one of the best places to live in Italy for families, has a lot to offer. It is home to an international school called International School Brescia and there are plenty of activities you can do with your kids in this city.
From exploring natural attractions such as Lake Garda or the nearby mountains to visiting museums or going on fun day trips, there is plenty to do here. Families will also appreciate the affordable cost of living and good quality of life that this city offers.
Lucca
One of the best places in Italy for families is Lucca. This city has an international school called Scuola Media Internazionale, so your kids can get a great education while you enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.
Lucca is located in Tuscany, one of the most sought-after regions to live in Italy. There are plenty of activities to keep your family busy in Lucca, from exploring the ancient walls that surround the city to visiting one of the many museums or art galleries. If you’re looking for some natural beauty, Lucca is also home to several parks and gardens where you can take a stroll with your family or picnic on a sunny day.
Trieste
Trieste in Northeast Italy is one of the best places to live in Italy for families. It’s a beautiful, historic city with plenty of cultural attractions and activities for kids of all ages. Plus, it’s home to some of the best international schools in the country, such as The International School of Trieste. Your kids will be able to get a top-notch education while you enjoy all that this amazing city has to offer.
Here are just a few reasons why Trieste is such a great place for families: There are tons of things to do with your kids in Trieste. From exploring ancient castles and museums to playing at the beach or hiking and skiing in the mountains, there’s something for everyone in the family within a short driving distance.
Siena
One of the best places to live in Italy for families is Siena. The city has an international school called the International School of Siena, making it a great place for families with children of all ages. There are plenty of activities for kids to do in this historic city.
Families can explore the Duomo di Siena, take a horse and carriage ride around town, or visit one of the many museums. Nature lovers will enjoy spending time in nearby Monteriggioni where they can hike through vineyards and olive groves. For these very reasons, Siena is becoming a popular destination for foreign families to settle in.
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