 |  | | location: countryside standard: simple style: contemporary
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun
The idyllic setting of this family-run wine and olive oil estate is a Tuscan dream.
Recently restored farmhouses have been converted into 6 apartments.
The decor is modern, creative, and simple – perfect for young children.
Outdoor spaces are phenomenal with ample flat grass for running around and a
sensational pool area. Although the property is set-up around guest autonomy,
the gracious proprietor is available
to answer questions and can organize private gastronomic tours of the region.
Roads in and out of this area are easy to navigate making this an ideal home-base
although beware – once you settle into Al Gelso Bianco you may never want to leave!
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|  | | location: seaside standard: simple style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, cool for teens
Located at the top of Positano with breathtaking views, this 18-room intimate property makes it easy for guests to appreciate the dramatic beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Albergo Punta Regina is tastefully decorated, fresh, and comfortable. Guest rooms are bright, breezy, and all have balconies with a view of the town or the sea. Spacious rooms and suites are comfortable for families of 4 or 5 people. Compared with other hotels of similar quality in the area, Albergo Punta Regina is a value-oriented option for families that don’t require extensive onsite amenities and want to enjoy the attractions of Positano. |
|  | | location: city standard: luxurious style: old world
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
Location is fantastic, right around the corner from Piazza San Marco. There is shopping and tourist attractions all around. We stayed in the Penthouse Suite and loved our private rooftop terrace. Our room was spacious and beautifully decorated. The church bells were loud at night - but that was part of the
Venice experience. |
|  | | location: seaside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
Fun, very family-oriented property. Kids are everywhere and there is always activity and action in and around the public areas. The pool is great. The location is not on the water but still works well - it is 2 blocks from the beach. The hotel staff is friendly and can reserve a space at one of the private beach clubs. Simple, comfortable rooms. Breakfast is plentiful and delicious. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun
The atmosphere of this boutique property feels more like staying at a private villa than a hotel. Casa Cornacchi is comprised of a cluster of historic buildings that have been meticulously restored and turned into attractive guest accommodations. Views from public areas are stunning and although the property is small, there are a number of inviting outdoor relaxation areas. The concept here is guest autonomy although there are always staff members available to answer questions and help with local activities. The value for quality is exceptional - an ideal choice for families that want self-sufficiency paired with basic hotel amenities and services. |
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CASA CRAIG
city/region: Lake Como accommodation category: apartment
| |
location: lake standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action, cool for teens
Luxurious Apartment with beautiful views. This apartment is really wonderful with all amenities to make a stay very comfortable. Local restaurants are great. The little beach just before Onno is a nice place to picnic. Kids can swim in the shallow water or fish! The Sporting Club in Bellagio offers a beautiful pool, sunbeds, tennis, and a restaurant. Enjoy!
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CASA ZORZI
city/region: Veneto accommodation category: apartment
| |
location: countryside standard: simple style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action
An old stone house made into 4 apartments in a charming medieval village just outside of Venice. Easy day trips to Venice and exploring the Veneto region. Very family friendly. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: simple style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action
Set in beautiful countryside, plenty of space for children to run around. There is great pool set a little apart from the villa we had which was good for the children as well. Garden had a BBQ and there was little to no passing traffic. This is a great area for walking. A really warm welcome from the owners who could not be more helpful. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun
The entrance to Castello di Celsa is awe-inspiring – guests are immediately transported back in time as they pass through the gates of this impressive, family-owned castle. Guests stay at Limonaia, a lemon conservatory that has been converted into a bright and airy villa. Elegant yet comfortable, the spacious living room opens up to a garden with marvelous views of the pristine countryside that surround this estate. Although Castello di Celsa is only 14km from Siena, the setting is secluded and utterly peaceful making this property an ideal option for families that want a magical villa experience. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun
Varramista is an active wine and olive oil estate midway between
Florence and the Tuscan coast. Guests live among the vineyards in spacious
apartments that are set-up for self-sufficiency. The property is vast with three distinctive
guest areas. Varramista is unusual in that guests
experience all the benefits of rural living yet the property is right
off a main highway; this convenient location means daytrips are easy
and families have immediate access to supplies and resources.
The property is only 45 minutes from the coast and 45 minutes
from Florence – an ideal choice for
families that want to split time between beach/coastal activities and inland/cultural activities. |
|  | | location: city standard: luxurious style: old world
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
Dating back to 1834, this 98-room landmark hotel in Sorrento has been run by the same family for five generations. The cliff-side setting at the Grand Hotel Excelsior is stunning and guests are immersed in old-world beauty at every turn. One feature we love is the fragrant gardens and orchards - a perfect place to appreciate the beautiful environs with children. Should families choose to leave this oasis, they can take an elevator to the beach where they can relax or catch a ferry to Naples, Capri, and Ischia. The expansive grounds, onsite services, and proximity to the beach and local sights make this property a fantastic option for families with children of all ages. |
|  | | location: lake standard: luxurious style: old world
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action
We loved the "floating" swimming pool in Lake Como and beach. This property has old-world elegance and grandeur with beautiful public areas. Our family enjoyed short walks and hikes though property grounds and paths. The property is in a good location - a short walk to the ferry stop in Tremezzo and local restaurants. This hotel is a great place for a family to relax for a few days.
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|  | | location: countryside standard: luxurious style: contemporary
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
Set in the gorgeous Val d'Orcia, in close proximity to the wonderful hilltop towns of Pienza, Montalcino, and Montepulciano, Adler-Thermae is a thermal spa resort that combines Zen sensibilities with Tuscan charm and hospitality. The therapeutic thermal spa amenities added a whole new level of relaxation to our family vacation. In addition to the beautiful regular pool, which includes a circular "rapids" area, there is a second pool with therapeutic thermal water pumped in from the local hot springs. Glorious Tuscan herbal saunas are included in the room price. Other spa treatments are extra, such as couples mud treatments, a Dead Sea grotto, massage, facials, etc. The resort offers daily Yoga, exercise classes and even mountain biking and hiking through the Tuscan hills. Excursions to wineries are offered, as well as evening "tastings" in the bar. The food is great and abundant. A brilliant concept of this property is the inclusion of a phenomenal kids program which provides children their own spa experience as well as swimming, sports. yoga, crafts, drama, hiking, baking, and field trips to the thermal hot springs and a local cheese farm. There is also a teens' club and babysitting for infants and toddlers. My 3 month old loved her own spa treatment: an infant massage and bath in milk and honey. My school aged kids loved that they got to make friends with children from all over Europe. In the evenings the children could have supervised dinner and a movie while the grown-ups had an elegant dinner. All were blissfully happy. |
|  | | location: city standard: simple style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action, cool for teens
Small, family-run hotel in the Castello area of Venice. This location is not as touristy as other areas and a 10-minute walk from the popular activities and sights. The property is quiet on a small side street - a bit hard to find the first time you look for it, but otherwise this hotel is a great value for Venice. |
|  | | location: seaside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
Convenient home-base for exploring this part of the Italian Riviera. Hotel is in the town of Camogli - a picturesque fishing village. A nice place for family strolls with a carousel that provides some entertainment. The sea-side promenade is pedestrian-only. The beach is rocky but fun to explore. The hotel has beautiful sea views and amazing sunsets. |
|  | | location: seaside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action, cool for teens
Looking across the bay with sweeping views of both Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, Hotel Continental offers classic Italian Riviera luxury in a family-friendly setting just a short walk to the main square. With two restaurants, nice gardens, and a private beach club with secluded swimming area, this hotel has something to offer families with children of a variety of ages. |
|  | | location: city standard: upscale style: boutique
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
This property has great suites that are extremely affordable with plenty of room for a toddler to run around plus a huge bathroom, even by American standards and a private outside seating area. It's also an easy walk to many of the highlights of Palermo and the waterfront. |
|  | | location: city standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
Walking distance from many of Rome’s most popular tourist sights, the Hotel Ponte Sisto is an independent hotel with friendly, personalized service. The 103 rooms and suites are well-appointed and comfortable; some units have a private terrace. Family Suites are ideal for 4-5 people and reasonably priced compared to other similar options in Rome. Our favorite feature is a large internal courtyard – the perfect place to relax before and after exploring the area. This hotel is a an excellent choice for families prioritizing value and location over an extensive list of onsite amenities. |
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HOTEL RUFOLO
city/region: Amalfi Coast accommodation category: hotel
| |
location: seaside standard: simple style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, cool for teens
Ravello is a quaint town with lots of local children. Hotel has nice views of the area. Rooms are simple, comfortable, and spacious. Good location and value for this area. |
|  | | location: seaside standard: luxurious style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, cool for teens
The view is amazing. The pool is located on the edge of the sea. The staff and service were impeccable. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun
Family owned and operated, Il Casali di Monticchio is a 7-room property nestled in the rolling hills of Umbria. Recently renovated, the comfortable, home-like atmosphere of this gem makes it easy for families to relax and enjoy the idyllic setting. There are 2 apartments that sleep 6 people and include a kitchen and private garden. The well-appointed private spaces are complimented by stylish public areas including a billiards room and a lovely pool – an excellent option for families that want apartment amenities paired with hotel services. |
|  | | location: city standard: simple style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, cool for teens
Many hotels boast about having a Spanish Steps address but Internazionale Domus is one of the few properties that is literally on the Piazza di Spagna. This cherished, atmospheric location combined with a variety of family-oriented guest room configurations make this property an exceptional resource for families. All rooms have kitchenette or kitchen facilities. The décor is simple and guest units are spotless – there is nothing for kids to get into here. This property is an ideal choice for families seeking value-oriented accommodations in one of the best home-base locations in Rome. |
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LA BANDITA
city/region: Tuscany accommodation category: hotel
| |
location: countryside standard: upscale style: boutique
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
After driving up a long and winding dirt road, just as you and your family starts to get a bit cranky, you come upon a herd of sheep, so animated and friendly, grazing on breathtakingly beautiful grounds. La Bandita is located on a verdant hillside where our twin toddlers ran around daily, completely delighted. We stayed in "The Pig Sty" a converted pig sty which is now a luxe and GORGEOUS family suite. a sliding door gives parents privacy and it is perfect for putting the children to sleep and enjoying late dinners with other guests or a private drink under the stars. The infinity swimming pool is among the most stunning I've ever seen. The meals are varied and elegant and unforgettable. There is a laid-back and friendly vibe between the owners and their guests and the owner is happy to arrange activities or special meals. We'll return year after year. |
|  | | location: lake standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, cool for teens
This picturesque villa sleeps 14 people in a dramatic lakeside setting on Lake Como. Guests enjoy marvelous lake and mountain views throughout La Corte del Lago and outdoor amenities include a lush garden and large swimming pool. Built in the 19th century, the old-world elegance of this property creates romance for adults but the cavernous public rooms make it comfortable and fun for children. Located 10 minutes outside of Bellagio, La Corte del Lago is an ideal for larger groups that want space and privacy with easy access to area activities. |
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LA FOCE
city/region: Tuscany accommodation category: resort
| |
location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action, cool for teens
La Foce is a vast family-owned estate in an idyllic rural setting. The property is comprised of restored farmhouses, a castle, and a magnificent garden that dates back to 1925. One of our favorite properties for rustic character, authenticity, and charm - guest accommodations are well equipped for self-sufficiency. Open year-round, La Foce is an ideal option for families that want the benefit of staying in an apartment or villa combined with essential resort amenities and services. |
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LA REGINA
city/region: Umbria accommodation category: villa
| |
location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun
La Regina is a newly constructed villa set on the top of a hill with expansive
views of the Umbrian countryside. The grounds are wonderfully
landscaped on a moderate grade with perfect grass areas for young
children. The interior is fresh and bright - old and new materials
are used throughout this property making it exceptionally comfortable.
This villa has an excellent set-up for both indoor and outdoor relaxation in an
ideal home-base location for exploring the beauty of Umbria. |
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LA SOVANA
city/region: Tuscany accommodation category: resort
| |
location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action
Beautifully restored working farm/vineyard with lovely rooms, pool, grounds to roam, dining room, lounge, outdoor patio. Park area with play equipment. Friendly, helpful proprietor and staff. Excellent dining room. Minutes from shopping center and Autostrada. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: luxurious style: contemporary
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun
This new luxury property 30 minutes East of Siena offers 14 spacious guest accommodations in a magical setting. They call it Tuscan Luxury Living and this is exactly what it is – an opportunity to experience Tuscany at a property with complete amenities including kitchens and spacious private living areas coupled with the services of a high-end hotel. The exceptional design inside and out at Le Case del Borgo make it an ideal choice for families prioritizing accommodation quality and services. |
|  | | location: city standard: upscale style: old world
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action, cool for teens
Beautiful courtyard. Located slightly off the beaten path but still centrally located on a quite side street. Staff was friendly and helpful. Cribs available for babies and toddlers. Our room had a beautiful canal view. Our room was spacious and clean and the bathroom had a jacuzzi tub. |
|  | | location: city standard: upscale style: old world
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action, cool for teens
Centrally located near A-1 superhighway. Sleepy little town with the hotel in a piazza. Luxurious large rooms with breakfast included. Nice home-base for area exploration including Imola, Ravenna, and Bologna. |
|  | | location: city standard: luxurious style: boutique
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
Most of the rooms are suites with kitchenette facilities and plenty of living space for families of 3 or 4 people. Rooms are modern and comfortable. Some units have fantastic views of the Arno River. Great central Florence location. Limited onsite amenities but guests have access to facilities at nearby hotels owned by the Ferragamo family. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action
Monsignor della Casa is an historic estate that has been transformed into an exceptional family-oriented resort. Guest accommodations are comprised of traditional stone farmhouses that have been transformed into villas and apartments with kitchen facilities and spacious living areas. A parent’s dream - our favorite feature is the variety of amenities for children of all ages in this spectacular setting. Located only 27km from Florence, Monsignor della Casa is an ideal choice for families that want to engage in onsite sports and activities in an authentic Tuscan setting. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action, cool for teens
We had a fabulous stay at Montestigliano. Were were there just the other day and I am already looking forward to going back. If there are enough kids onsite, they offer kids pottery and cooking classes. We made many trips to various hill towns and had a blast. Susan, the owner, is very helpful and provides wonderful local guidance and assistance.
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|  | | location: city standard: upscale style: old world
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action, cool for teens
400 year old palazzo on a small canal within a 5-minute walk of San Marco. Near vaporetto stop. Gondola can pick up right in front. Very quaint. Nicola, the manager, lives on the property and is extremely helpful with dinner reservations, map orientation, and tourist information. He booked our gondola ride. Windows opened up to the canal! |
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PODERE RIPA
city/region: Tuscany accommodation category: villa
| |
location: countryside standard: luxurious style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, cool for teens
Guests are immersed in the magic of Tuscany throughout this villa outside of the medieval village of San Casciano dei Bagni. Podere Ripa sleeps 10 people and an adjacent villa owned by the same family can accommodate an additional 7 people. Spacious public areas are refined and elegant. Well-appointed bedrooms all have air-conditioning and ensuite bathrooms. The expansive grass and pool areas have glorious views of this idyllic region - a perfect set up for families that want a high-end rental with easy access to regional sights and activities. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action
This historic 16th century villa is full of character yet includes the modern conveniences necessary to make guests comfortable. Poggio al Noce is located within a tiny “borgo” next to a second building and small church. The interior decor is traditional, warm, and casual. This villa is just 30km from Florence and 45km from Siena – an excellent location for families that want easy access to the region’s major tourist attractions. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: simple style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action
Poggio Etrusco was the highlight on our family's Tuscany vacation. The spot is beautiful, and the cottage is comfortable with great views. Johnny and Pamela our hosts clearly love children. Pamela and our son had fun exploring bugs together while my husband and I got some time on our own, a welcome rarity on a family vacation. Johnny and Pamela are great local guides for sites and great food. The best part for the kids was that their daughter, Alaia, who welcomed them into her play, and shared great Italian snacks with them. Our time with them couldn't have been better. They are interesting, knowledgeable, warm, and generous hosts. |
|  | | location: city standard: simple style: trendy
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action, cool for teens
Extremely convenient location. 5 minute walk to the Spanish Steps. 1 minute walk to the subway and bus stop. 15 minute walk to Via Corso for shopping. 30 minute walk to Forum. 1 subway stop from train station. Computer in lobby with Internet access. Very funky decor. Spacious, value-oriented rooms. |
|  | | location: city standard: simple style: contemporary
cb! age rating: baby ready, cool for teens
This 12-room boutique property has an ideal set-up for families – spacious apartments with services to make exploring Florence easy. Residence Hilda has part-time front desk staff and daily housekeepers that even do dishes – key to a true vacation versus a re-location! This option is for families that want spacious, value-oriented accommodations in a fantastic, central location. Guest units are contemporary but comfortable with all the amenities families need to set up a home-base for as many days as they need. |
|  | | location: city standard: luxurious style: old world
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action
Venice is a magical place for children and the San Clemente Palace is a wonderful option for families seeking luxury accommodations. A former monastery, this 200-room property sits on its own private island in the lagoon and is a 20-minute boat ride from San Marco and the center of Venice. Amenities include restaurants, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a spa, and our favorite part – extensive gardens and open outdoor areas where kids can run around – a rare feature in Venice. The interior is also spacious and decorated in a grand Venetian style. The perfect choice for families that want a break from the crowds in Venice in a spectacular setting with a variety of activity options. |
|  | | location: city standard: luxurious style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, cool for teens
The Inn and The View at the Spanish Steps is a boutique hotel on the prestigious Via dei Condotti. This location means that guests have fabulous shopping, dining, and sightseeing opportunities right outside the hotel. The Inn is set in a narrow building typical of that area – while there is not a large, indoor lobby area – guests are treated to a charming rooftop lounge and terrace with marvelous views of the neighborhood. Meanwhile, guests that stay at the View a few doors down have awe-inspiring views of the Spanish Steps. Décor ranges from traditional to contemporary and the atmosphere is cozy and comfortable, not stuffy – a perfect option for families that want an intimate hotel experience in this elegant Rome neighborhood. |
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VILLA CHICCA
city/region: Lake Como accommodation category: villa
| |
location: lake standard: simple style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun, school age action
This neoclassical 3-bedroom villa stands directly on the shores of Lake Como. Villa Chicca has magnificent views of the lake and the recently-renovated interiors are light, airy and casual – perfect for summer living. The surrounding lawn is flat for running around and there is a wonderful outdoor terrace overlooking the lake. Villa Chicca does not have a swimming pool although the rental includes access to a family-oriented sporting club in Bellagio. This property is an ideal option for 1-2 families looking for convenient, value-oriented accommodations that want to enjoy the views and benefits of a lakeside home. |
|  | | location: city standard: luxurious style: old world
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun
Historic property on the Arno River outside of Florence. The setting is beautiful and peaceful yet the action of Florence is an easy 15 minute drive away. High-end, very personalized service. Although the hotel is luxurious, staff goes out of their way to welcome children. A nice option for families that want resort amenities in a close proximity to Florence. |
|  | | location: countryside standard: upscale style: traditional
cb! age rating: baby ready, toddler fun
Spectacular setting and views. Le Piazzole is part of an estate that produces olive oil and wine. Warm, cozy, and inviting atmosphere. Apartment units have kitchenette facilities. Central location for regional exploration. Set in the countryside away from the crowds of Florence.
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VILLA SPADA
city/region: Tuscany accommodation category: villa
| |
location: countryside standard: upscale style: old world
cb! age rating: baby ready, school age action, cool for teens
Once a hunting lodge, Villa Spada is now an exquisite villa on the infamous Orbicciano estate. Old-world character emanates throughout this property that has been owned by the same family for hundreds of years. Perched on a hill, the views from the manicured and expansive garden are extraordinary – there are many places for adults to relax while kids run around. The setting is private yet families can drive to the beach or Lucca in under 30-minutes – a convenient base for day trips in one of our favorite parts of Tuscany. |
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