You don’t have to spend a single penny to have fun with kids in Venice! Venice is the perfect city for kids because there is always something interesting to see. You don’t even have to visit a museum to have fun in Venice. Here are free things to do with kids in Venice.
Fun and Free Things to do with Kids in Venice
Watch the Boats and Gondolas in the Grand Canal
Take a walk along the Grand Canal and watch the boats go by. There is so much to see in the Grand Canal! My son who loves boats and water gets mesmerized watching the water taxis, vaporettos (water buses), and gondolas! If it’s hot out, buy a gelato, find a spot to sit, and watch the boats in the Grand Canal.
Visit the Pigeons at Piazza San Marco
Visit Piazza San Marco or St. Mark’s Square and see the famous pigeons. We love going to the Piazza San Marco, it’s a really large square- perfect for kids to run around. My son loves to chase after the pigeons.
Saint Mark’s Basilica
Visit Saint Mark’s Basilica with the kids. It’s a beautiful church in Piazza San Marco. The entrance is free!
Visit Rialto Market
Visit the Rialto Market with the kids. I love to bring the kids to the Rialto Market, it’s a lot of fun for them to see the vendors, fresh fruits, and fresh fish! It’s something we don’t have back home!
Explore the Bridges, Canals, and Alleyways in Venice
Explore the many charming bridges and canals in the city. Venice is a maze and there are so many bridges and canals to explore. Go and take a walk, wander around with the kids. It’s a lot of fun! Just don’t do it on an empty stomach because you will most likely get lost and sometimes it’s not easy to find your way back to a restaurant or pizzeria. I suggest packing some granola bars, snacks, and water in your bag just in case anyone gets hungry while exploring!
Check out the Houses Along the Canals
Check out the colorful houses and buildings along the canals. I love wandering around Venice and looking at all the colorful houses. My kids get a kick out of seeing their garage because they are garages for their boats (not cars!) We love watching the locals get in and out of their boat garages!
Visit the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore
Take a vaporetta (not free but the fare is cheap) and go to the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore. Visit the historic San Giorgio Maggiore church and climb to the top for a great view of the city. It’s a fun way to spend the afternoon in Venice!
Street Performers in Piazza San Marco
Check out the street performers in Piazza San Marco or St. Mark’s Square. There are always street performers and musicians at the Piazza San Marco. Bring the kids to watch the street performers at Piazza San Marco!
Go Window Shopping in Venice
Explore the many shops and boutiques in Venice, and maybe your kids can buy a souvenir or two to take home.
Santa Maria della Salute Church
Visit the church of Santa Maria della Salute, and admire the stunning views of the city from the top. Entrance to the Santa Maria della Salute church is free.
These are just a few of the many fun, free things you can do with kids in Venice. Have fun exploring!
