18 day itinerary
Milan, Rome, Amsterdam, Switzerland
Itinerary
Planning an 18-day adventure through Milan, Rome, Amsterdam, and Switzerland with two toddlers sounds like a fantastic family journey! I’ll make sure to include plenty of family-friendly activities, parks, and downtime to keep everyone happy. Let’s dive into your itinerary!
Day 1-4: Milan, Italy
Day 1: Arrival in Milan
- Morning: Arrive in Milan. Check into a family-friendly hotel (look for ones with cribs and kitchenettes).
- Afternoon: Stroll through . Let the kids run around and enjoy the playground.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly pizzeria. Try “Pizzeria Spontini” for delicious slices!
Day 2: Milan Sightseeing
- Morning: Visit the iconic . Take the elevator to the rooftop for stunning views (the kids will love it!).
- Afternoon: Explore . Grab gelato at “Gelateria della Musica” nearby.
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood.
Day 3: Day Trip to
- Morning: Take a train to (about an hour). Enjoy the scenic views.
- Afternoon: Visit the town of . Stroll the charming streets and let the kids play by the lake.
- Evening: Return to Milan and have a cozy dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.
Day 4: Museums and Playtime
- Morning: Visit the . There are interactive exhibits for kids!
- Afternoon: Head to the nearby “” for more fun.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Consider “Trattoria Milanese” for local cuisine.
Day 5-9: Rome, Italy
Day 5: Travel to Rome
- Morning: Take a train from Milan to Rome (about 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax. Visit , where there are playgrounds and a small lake.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly trattoria. Try “” for authentic Roman dishes.
Day 6: Ancient Rome
- Morning: Visit the . Book a family-friendly tour that includes skip-the-line tickets.
- Afternoon: Explore the and . Let the kids run around in the open spaces.
- Evening: Enjoy pizza at “Pizzeria Ai Marmi” in Trastevere.
Day 7: Vatican City
- Morning: Visit . Climb to the dome for breathtaking views (if the kids are up for it!).
- Afternoon: Explore the . Consider a family-friendly guided tour to keep the little ones engaged.
- Evening: Dinner in the Vatican area. “Ristorante Pizzeria Il Pomodorino” is a good choice.
Day 8: Day Trip to
- Morning: Take a train to , an ancient Roman port city. It’s less crowded and very stroller-friendly.
- Afternoon: Explore the ruins and let the kids roam around.
- Evening: Return to Rome and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel.
Day 9: Leisure Day
- Morning: Visit the in .
- Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic in the park or visit the nearby playgrounds.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try “Ristorante Pizzeria Da Baffetto.”
Day 10-13: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Day 10: Travel to Amsterdam
- Morning: Fly or take a train from Rome to Amsterdam.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore . There are playgrounds and open spaces for the kids.
- Evening: Dinner at “,” a family-friendly restaurant.
Day 11: Amsterdam Sightseeing
- Morning: Visit the . It’s super interactive and fun for toddlers!
- Afternoon: Take a canal cruise. Many boats are stroller-friendly.
- Evening: Dinner at “” for delicious Dutch pancakes.
Day 12: Art and Nature
- Morning: Visit the (consider a family tour).
- Afternoon: Explore the , a large park with playgrounds and a petting zoo.
- Evening: Dinner at “” for some ribs and family-friendly options.
Day 13: Day Trip to
- Morning: Take a train to to see traditional windmills and Dutch houses.
- Afternoon: Explore the area and let the kids enjoy the open spaces.
- Evening: Return to Amsterdam and have dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.
Day 14-18: Switzerland
Day 14: Travel to Switzerland (Lucerne)
- Morning: Take a train from Amsterdam to Lucerne (about 8 hours, consider breaking it up with a stop).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the beautiful .
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant by the lake.
Day 15: Lucerne Exploration
- Morning: Visit the . It’s interactive and great for kids!
- Afternoon: Take a boat ride on . Enjoy the stunning views.
- Evening: Dinner at “,” known for its Swiss cuisine.
Day 16: Day Trip to
- Morning: Take the cogwheel train or cable car to . The views are breathtaking!
- Afternoon: Enjoy some time at the top, with playgrounds and walking paths.
- Evening: Return to Lucerne and have a relaxed dinner.
Day 17: Travel to Interlaken
- Morning: Take a train to Interlaken (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the town. Visit the for a scenic walk.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like “.”
Day 18: Adventure Day in Interlaken
- Morning: Take a family-friendly hike or visit the for panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Enjoy some leisure time at the playgrounds or parks in Interlaken.
- Evening: Have a farewell dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.
Final Thoughts
This itinerary balances sightseeing with plenty of downtime, ensuring that your toddlers have fun while you soak in the culture and beauty of each destination. Don’t forget to pack snacks, a stroller, and some toys to keep the little ones entertained during travel times. Enjoy your amazing family adventure! 🌍✈️
