Why

When we think of Italy as a holiday destination we usually think of villas in Tuscany or luxury top end properties not designed for families. Equally we tend to think of camping traditionally as being in France as we have tended to go to French campsites rather than those in Italy. Italian campsites can be very family friendly and close to great attractions and things to see and do with the kids. You can also have the benefit of good access to cities such as Venice and theme parks such as Gardaland and get the benefit of a great city break and a theme park break while relaxing in the evenings in your beautiful campsite.

If you are considering taking the family camping abroad for the first time then do check out our helpful tips about camping and choosing a campsite and if you are pitching your own tent our checklist on camping packing.

Kids love the freedom of campsites. There's never a dull moment with exciting facilities such as swimming pools, water chutes, and lots of other children to play with. Sports and games on offer are geared to the different age groups, so there’s no chance of the kids getting bored. It is easy for them to mingle and make new friends and in many (but not all) campsites there are great kids clubs for children of all ages. Do check the age requirements, whether they are open when you are going to be there and have a look at our guide for selecting a kids club.

When

How

For Italy given the distances you are better to choose the fly-drive option than the ferry option which is really a huge drive unless you want to take a few days to get there. Flights to the Italian lakes area include those to Milan, Bergamo and Verona and for the Venetian coast you can fly to Venice. You can check special offers and deals on flights here.

You will need to think about getting to and from the campsite and about renting a car for excursions. We would recommend that you do hire a car if you fly for excursions and also to sample some of the local cuisine and partake in all the things to see and do around your campsite.

Camping operator prices can include a return ferry crossing if you like though. The ships operating these routes are no ordinary ferries and you'll find plenty to keep the family amused during the journey and you can book ferry crossings here independently.

Family Accommodation

Suggested top family campsites in Italy

The Bella Italia in Lake Garda is a well-equipped park on the lake front which has terrific water complexes and views across the lake which gets great reviews from parents.

The beach is safe enough for children and it is close to some beautiful historic towns. In addition to a great water and pool complex there are sports facilities, children's discos and age-appropriate kids clubs for children between four and twelve. There is lots to see and do in the area and it is only four kilometres from Gardaland. Gardaland is Italy's most popular theme park and it has rides and attractions that are suitable for all of the family. You can tour vineyards or take the train to Verona which is only 30 minutes away or go to Venice just over an hour and half away. You can book Bella Italia through Eurocamp.

You will find lots of family friendly travel tips and advice in our research and advice section to help you book the right family holiday. Check out also the experiences of other parents and travellers in our parents forum and add your own experiences as we are a great believer in real parent's experiences as the best measure of whether somewhere will suit you for your family holiday. 

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