In and around Ostia for children

In and around Ostia for children

Are wondering how you can drag the children and teens away from the HU Fabulous Village and its numerous attractions and activities for at least half a day, to visit something of this fascinating costal area? Here are some fun and appetising ideas tailor-made for them (and that you’re sure to enjoy as well).

A treasure hunt among the ruins of Ostia Antica

A visit to the extensive site rich in wonderful architecture from Roman times at the archaeological area of Ostia Antica can be something of a challenge for children. But for them, in addition to the educational activities organised for schools, there are several guided tour options offered by authorised external guides (tour payment is in addition to the entrance fee or sometimes free when organised as part of the as free access days to the site) who are dedicated specifically to children (aged 5 and over) and teens, to make the exploration of the ancient temples, baths, mansions and workshops more enthralling. There are some operators that also organise birthdays and small get-togethers with picnics and cakes, or treasure hunts with clues and games scattered around the magnificent remains of the ancient port city, to combine fun and learning. Check out the calendar dates on the websites of Arte per bambini or contact I Viaggi di Adriano for tailor-made visits.

Zoomarine: meet the Animals

To combine play, adrenalin and water activities with contact with nature and animals, take your children to Zoomarine for a day out that that is extra special. The large amusement park in Torvaianica is first and foremost a zoo. It houses a large number and variety of animals, recreating their habitats and offering shows and demonstrations: there’s a Tortoise Oasis, Parrot Forest and Penguin Beach, and experiences not to be missed like the Dolphinarium and a close encounter with lemurs. The extensive outdoor areas also include numerous swimming pools and Aquapark attractions, as well as rides for children and teens suitable for all ages, and interactive experiences that often combine fun and learning. In addition, the Zoomarine Foundation is involved in research and conservation and hosts a first aid centre for turtles in addition to implementing various social initiatives.

Adventure, history and nature in Maccarese

Take a trip to Maccarese, an agricultural and seaside resort in the municipality of Fiumicino, for a day out dedicated to nature and more. This site has several natural areas of great importance and beauty to offer  visitors that are well worth a visit. In particular, the Macchiagrande WWF Oasis

is an ideal destination for families with children, offering well-planned guided tours and various workshops, including the Palaeozoic workshop where participants discover the secrets of fossils from the Mesozoic era, and the nature workshop, which invites them to learn about the flora and fauna and their importance. Additional activities include the Sauronotti (Dinosaur nights): exciting night-time explorations on the trail of dinosaurs (check the dates and book in good time for all activities). The Oasis, with its pristine and primordial landscape, is home to several life-size replicas of prehistoric animals, from the tyrannosaurus to the mammoth. On Sundays, a special 'dinotour' is available in two time slots. Not far away, try to take in the Parco Avventura Fregene: a large recreational-sports area surrounded by nature, with over 20 suspended routes among the tall trees for all different levels of ability, where adults and children can have fun in safety. The park also offers many other attractions and activities for all ages: from pedal go-karts to miniature golf, from saddle rides on ponies to activities with donkeys or star-gazing evenings with an expert guide.