Exploring Ostia Antica with Kids: A Perfect Family Day Trip from Rome

Just 30 minutes from Rome, the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica is one of the best day trips for families who love history and outdoor adventures. Often called the Pompeii of Lazio, this archaeological site is full of crumbling temples, colourful mosaics, mysterious tombs, and even a Roman theatre where kids can climb the steps and pretend to be ancient actors.

Ostia Antica isn’t just about ruins – it’s about stepping into a real Roman town, walking the same streets where merchants, sailors, and families lived nearly 2,000 years ago. It’s an exciting way to bring history to life while letting children explore in the open air.

Ostia Antica by @paolaeverywhere

Why Ostia Antica is different from Pompeii

Although Ostia Antica is sometimes compared to Pompeii, the two sites are quite different. Pompeii was buried suddenly in AD 79 after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, while Ostia was gradually abandoned after the fall of the Roman Empire.

This means you’ll find different types of ruins here – not only temples and villas, but also apartment blocks (Insulae), warehouses, shops, and even ancient public toilets. Kids often find these small details fascinating, as they show how Romans really lived day to day.

What to see at Ostia Antica: a journey through an ancient Roman city

The Archaeological Area of Ostia Antica is part of the larger Ostia Antica Archaeological Par. It includes all the excavations of the ancient cities of Ostia and Portus, located in today’s towns of Ostia and Fiumicino. What we commonly call Ostia Antica was Rome’s first colony built to give the city access to the sea. Today, the coastline has moved, so it’s hard to imagine how close Ostia once was to the water. The site lies right at the ancient mouth of the Tiber.

Archaeological evidence shows that Ostia, whose name literally means “Gate”, was founded in the 4th century BC as a military outpost (castrum). Over time, it expanded into a bustling city, surrounded by walls, full of shops, houses, and public buildings. Ancient literature and mythology suggest an even older origin, adding to the mystery and magic of the site.

Visiting Ostia Antica is like stepping into a living history book. The paved entrance road and many buildings are exceptionally well preserved, giving visitors a real sense of what daily life in a Roman city was like.

Mosaics at Ostia Antica by @Paolaeverywhere

Top things to see with children at Ostia Antica

There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained at Ostia Antica. Highlights include:

• The Roman Theatre – imagine the plays, concerts, and performances of ancient times.

• The Forum of Ostia – the centre of political and social life in the city.

• The Baths of Neptune – decorated with gorgeous mosaics and a favourite spot for kids to explore.

• The Necropolis – an intriguing glimpse into Roman funerary traditions.

• Mosaics and frescoes – beautifully preserved art that tells stories of everyday Roman life.

Children love imagining the city alive again, wandering along the streets, discovering hidden corners, and spotting the colourful mosaics that decorated homes and public buildings.

Beyond Ostia Antica:
Roman ships and harbours

The Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica also includes other fascinating sites around Fiumicino, near Rome’s airport:

• Museum of Roman Ships – full of huge wooden boats discovered during airport excavations, a must-see for young adventurers who love ships

• Imperial Harbours of Claudius and Trajan – once the main ports of ancient Rome.

  Necropolis of Porto – another impressive collection of ancient tombs.

If you’re flying in or out of Fiumicino Airport, the ship museum is a great quick stop. However, driving is the easiest way to explore these additional sites.

Museum of Roman Ships by @paolaeverywhere

Practical information for families

Visiting Ostia Antica is a fun and educational experience, but a little preparation will make your day much more enjoyable, especially with children.

• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water - The archaeological site covers a large area, with uneven streets, alleys, and paved roads. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and take a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated.

• How much time to allow - Ostia Antica is a vast Roman city with many streets and corners to explore. To see the main highlights and enjoy a relaxed pace, plan at least half a day. Paths can be tricky for pushchairs, so a baby carrier or sling is easier for younger children.

• Best seasons to visit - The archaeological area is open all year round, but spring and summer are the ideal seasons. Keep in mind that summers in Lazio can be very hot. In autumn and winter , the most beautiful mosaics are often covered with protective fabric, which means you may see less detail. Always check the opening hours, as they can vary depending on the season and day of the week.

• Getting there - From Rome, take the Roma–Lido di Ostia train and get off at Ostia Antica ; the ruins are a short walk from the station. To explore Fiumicino’s museums and harbours, a car is recommended, with a journey of about 30 minutes from Rome.

A visit to Ostia Antica is more than just sightseeing – it’s a full day of adventure, imagination, and discovery, where children can walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans and families can create memories that last a lifetime.