Travelling with children in Campania is a wonderful adventure. Here history is something you can touch, the sea is often shallow and welcoming, the food pleases everyone (who says no to pizza?) and people adore little ones. Here are our ideas for a family holiday, with some practical tips.
A sea made for children
Cilento is families' favourite: wide sandy beaches, gently sloping seabeds, clean water. Agropoli, Castellabate, the plain of Paestum and Camerota offer equipped beach clubs and free beaches. Ischia also has easy sandy beaches, for example in Forio and Lacco Ameno.
History that fascinates
- Pompeii and Herculaneum: the Roman cities buried by Vesuvius captivate children. Herculaneum is smaller and easier to visit with little ones.
- Paestum: Greek temples in the middle of a meadow, with room to run.
- The Royal Palace of Caserta: the park is huge and can be explored by bike or shuttle bus.
Volcanoes, caves and nature
Climbing Vesuvius is an adventure, suitable for children used to walking. The caves of Pertosa are partly visited by boat along an underground river. Regional parks and reserves have easy family trails.
Farms and farm stays
Staying at a farm stay lets children see animals, pick fruit and vegetables and help make bread or pasta. In Irpinia, Sannio and Cilento many farms offer educational activities.
Cities with children
In Naples children love the funiculars, the seafront, the nativity workshops of San Gregorio Armeno, the underground tours and, of course, pizza. Break up visits with frequent stops and choose accommodation close to public transport.
Practical tips
- Avoid the midday hours in summer for ruins and walks: the sun is strong.
- One base: holiday homes or apartments with a kitchen are easier with little ones.
- Pushchairs: useful in cities and on seafronts, awkward at archaeological sites and in stepped villages like those on the Amalfi Coast.
- Museums: entry to state museums is generally free for under-18s, but always check the official website.
