Rome with Autistic Children

Rome with autistic children is an extremely rewarding trip. Rome, the Eternal City, is a fantastic destination for families, including those with autistic children. With its rich history, captivating sites, and family-friendly activities, Rome offers an unforgettable experience.

Getting To Rome

Rome is accessible via Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport and Ciampino Airport. Direct flights are available from many international destinations. Consider the most comfortable mode of transport for your child, and plan for breaks during the journey.

Transport Options from Rome Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport to the City Centre

Rome Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the main international airport in Rome and offers several convenient options for reaching the city centre. Whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or cost-effectiveness, here are the different transport options available:

• Leonardo Express Train: The Leonardo Express train is the fastest and most direct way to reach Rome’s city centre from the airport. This train leaves every 15-30 minutes and takes just over 30 minutes to reach Rome Termini Station.
• Regional Train (FL1): The regional FL1 train is a cost-effective option that stops at several stations within Rome, but it does not go directly to Roma Termini. You can hop on it every 15 minutes on weekdays, every 30 minutes on weekends and holidays and it takes between 30-50 minutes to reach Rome.
• Taxis: Taxis are available outside the airport terminals and provide a door-to-door service, making them a convenient option especially for travellers with luggage or those traveling in groups. A taxi will take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and you can, of course, go to any location you wish in Rome.
• Private Transfers: Private transfer services can be booked in advance and provide a personalized and comfortable journey from the airport to your destination in the city. As with a taxi, it will take between 30-45 minutes. You can pre-book a taxi to Rome with GetYourGuide here.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Ride-sharing services like Uber and local alternatives operate in Rome and can be a convenient option for getting to the city centre. It will take the came as transfers and taxis: 30-45 minutes.
• Shuttle Bus: Several shuttle bus companies operate services between the airport and various locations in Rome, including major train stations and popular tourist areas. Because there are more stops, this can take up to an hour and common stops include Roma Termini, Via Crescenzio near the Vatican, and Piazza Cavour
• Public Buses: Public bus services connect the airport to various parts of the city. This option is generally more affordable but less convenient due to multiple stops and longer travel times. There are multiple routes, so each one can take a different length of time according to the route.

Where to Stay

Choose accommodations that offer quiet environments and easy access to outdoor spaces. Many hotels in Rome are family-friendly and can accommodate specific needs. Consider self-catering options for more flexibility.

I’ve stayed in Rome twice now, and both times I stayed centrally, really close to the Termini Station. The first time I went I stayed at a hotel called Hotel Ferrari, and the second time it was Amoroma.

Family-Friendly Activities To Do In Rome

Colosseum

Explore the ancient amphitheatre with guided tours that cater to children. Early morning visits are less crowded. The queuing outside can be lengthy and the weather can be unpredictable outside of summer so consider getting priority access, which you can purchase via GetYourGuide.

Vatican City

I will do a post dedicated to Vatican City itself, but for now, just consider it as an option when visit Rome. Visit during quieter hours or book a private tour. The museums offer vast, engaging exhibits. The queues outside can be HUGE, hours long. Consider fast-track or going super early. Book your skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican here.

Villa Borghese Gardens

A serene park with playgrounds, boating, and plenty of open space for children to run around. Being able to run freely is important for autistic children and you should try to encourage plenty of running stops on your travels. You can get skip-the-line entry if you book with GetYourGuide here.

Bioparco di Roma

A family-friendly zoo offering a fun and educational outing with accessible facilities. You can book your tickets ahead of your visit here.

Explora Children’s Museum

A hands-on museum designed to engage and entertain children.

Piazza Navona

Enjoy street performers and fountains in this lively square. Early mornings are quieter. Kids might enjoy throwing a coin into the fountain and there are cafes and restaurants nearby to sit and enjoy a moment of peace.

Please enjoy the middle picture, it was taken by tiny Travis with a GoPro he used to carry around like a professional vlogger.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Explore this historic site with its scenic views and engaging exhibits. This will be particularly interesting to children who have an interest in history, weapons or war. You can actually book tickets online with GetYourGuide that include a skip-the-line options.

The area outside of here is very busy with men trying to sell you things. Be wary of them, they will give things to kids and say it is free until you try to leave when they will harass you and eventually take it back. This can be distressing for kids, but especially those with autism.

Trevi Fountain

Visit early to avoid crowds, you will find a massive and noticeable different in the number of people there before breakfast compared to after and throughout the day. The sound of the water and the beautiful scenery can be calming.

Appian Way Regional Park

Explore ancient ruins and scenic landscapes with walking or biking trails.

Campo de’ Fiori Market

A bustling market with sensory-friendly times, offering local produce, crafts, and food stalls.

Our Favourite Sensory-Friendly Activity In Rome

Circus Maximus

We stopped at Circus Maximus and enjoyed a nice gelato in the warm November sun. I really liked this spot because there was just far less people around and it was a space where we could sit with our son for a few minutes without worrying too much about other people.

Getting Around Rome With Autistic Children

In Rome, we almost always walked. It was a huge amount of walking and I don’t think it is common for people to walk that much when a fantastic public transport system exists. At the time, I was suffering with a huge fear of trying to access public transport, I was ok using it but the idea of finding tickets and the correct station was too much for me. During my first visit, with school, we often used public transport and had absolutely no problems when using it – but it is notorious for pickpockets to operate on the trains in Rome so be wary.

Is Rome Autism-Friendly?

Rome is gradually becoming more autism-friendly, with increasing public awareness, specialized healthcare, and educational support available in the city. While the busy and historic nature of Rome can present challenges for individuals with autism, particularly in terms of crowds and sensory overload, the city offers a range of resources and accommodations that can help make a visit more comfortable.

Things That Make Rome Stand Out

• Rome’s public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro, is generally accessible, though not always fully equipped for individuals with autism. The metro system, while extensive, can be crowded and noisy, which might be challenging for those with sensory sensitivities. Some bus routes and tram lines are less crowded and may offer a more comfortable experience.
• Some of Rome’s major attractions are beginning to offer more inclusive services. For example, the Vatican Museums have implemented sensory-friendly initiatives, such as quiet hours and designated relaxation areas. Similarly, some museums and galleries provide special passes or accommodations for visitors with disabilities, including those with autism.
• Rome is known for its bustling streets and crowded attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons. Locations like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain can be overwhelming due to large crowds, noise, and sensory stimuli. Visiting these sites early in the morning or during off-peak times can help mitigate some of these challenges.
• Despite its busy atmosphere, Rome has several parks and gardens where visitors can find some peace and quiet. The Villa Borghese gardens, for example, offer a calm retreat within the city, and smaller churches or less frequented museums can also provide quieter environments.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Plan Ahead: Research each location and contact them to discuss any special accommodations your child might need. If you can plan to arrive after check-in time you should, or try to arrange an early check-in.
• Sensory Tools: Bring along sensory tools and comfort items that help manage sensory needs, such as noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, and a sensory toolkit.
• Clear Communication: Ensure that everyone involved in the trip understands the needs and preferences of the neurodiverse individual. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance the travel experience. Consider using PECS or an AAC. We have a free pack of travel PECS available for download. Consider using our Rome PECS to add to your experience.
• Safety: Consider getting an autism card for your child, or even better – use our emergency passport for medical information and important contacts. Our absolute must have safety item for travelling with an autistic child is a TinyTags wristband or tag that can be tapped or scanned by a mobile phone – giving the person who tapped it all of the information they need to get your child back to you. TinyTags also feature a location alert to help you find your child.

Rome offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to the needs of children with autism. From historical sites to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit and create lasting memories in this iconic city.

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