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 Sempione Park. 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 Duomo di Milano. Take the elevator to the rooftop for stunning views (the kids will love it!).
• Afternoon: Explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. 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 Lake Como

• Morning: Take a train to Lake Como (about an hour). Enjoy the scenic views.
• Afternoon: Visit the town of Bellagio. 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 Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology. There are interactive exhibits for kids!
• Afternoon: Head to the nearby “Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia” 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 Villa Borghese, where there are playgrounds and a small lake.
• Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly trattoria. Try “Trattoria Da Enzo al 29” for authentic Roman dishes.

## Day 6: Ancient Rome

• Morning: Visit the Colosseum. Book a family-friendly tour that includes skip-the-line tickets.
• Afternoon: Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Let the kids run around in the open spaces.
• Evening: Enjoy pizza at “Pizzeria Ai Marmi” in Trastevere.

## Day 7: Vatican City

• Morning: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Climb to the dome for breathtaking views (if the kids are up for it!).
• Afternoon: Explore the Vatican Museums. 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 Ostia Antica

• Morning: Take a train to Ostia Antica, 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 Bioparco di Roma (Rome Zoo) in Villa Borghese.
• 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 Vondelpark. There are playgrounds and open spaces for the kids.
• Evening: Dinner at “De Vliegende Schotel,” a family-friendly restaurant.

## Day 11: Amsterdam Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit the NEMO Science Museum. It’s super interactive and fun for toddlers!
• Afternoon: Take a canal cruise. Many boats are stroller-friendly.
• Evening: Dinner at “Pancakes Amsterdam” for delicious Dutch pancakes.

## Day 12: Art and Nature

• Morning: Visit the Van Gogh Museum (consider a family tour).
• Afternoon: Explore the Amsterdamse Bos, a large park with playgrounds and a petting zoo.
• Evening: Dinner at “Cafe de Klos” for some ribs and family-friendly options.

## Day 13: Day Trip to Zaanse Schans

• Morning: Take a train to Zaanse Schans 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 Lake Lucerne.
• Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant by the lake.

## Day 15: Lucerne Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Swiss Transport Museum. It’s interactive and great for kids!
• Afternoon: Take a boat ride on Lake Lucerne. Enjoy the stunning views.
• Evening: Dinner at “Wirtshaus Galliker,” known for its Swiss cuisine.

## Day 16: Day Trip to Mount Pilatus

• Morning: Take the cogwheel train or cable car to Mount Pilatus. 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 Aare River for a scenic walk.
• Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like “Husi Bierhaus.”

## Day 18: Adventure Day in Interlaken

• Morning: Take a family-friendly hike or visit the Harder Kulm 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! 🌍✈️