Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums hold the distinction of being the world's oldest public museums — they've been open to the public since 1734 — and they occupy two stunning Renaissance palaces on Capitoline Hill that were laid out by Michelangelo himself. With a 4.7 Google rating from tens of thousands of visitors, they represent the pinnacle of Rome's museum offerings for families with older children.

The collections span classical Roman sculpture, Egyptian antiquities, and Renaissance art, but it's the ancient Roman highlights that capture kids' imaginations most powerfully. The original bronze equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, the massive marble fragments of Constantine (the colossal head, hand, and foot that once formed a 40-foot tall statue), the iconic she-wolf (Lupa Capitolina), and countless other ancient masterpieces fill these stately galleries in remarkable density.

The Tabularium section of the museums opens directly onto a breathtaking panoramic terrace overlooking the Roman Forum below — one of the best views in all of Rome and a moment that consistently wows even jaded teenagers. Admission runs approximately USD 14-16 per adult with children often at reduced rates. Plan 2-3 hours for a satisfying visit. Open Tuesday through Sunday.