Things to Do
With kids
Umbria doesn’t market itself to families the way the coast does – which is exactly why it works. The distances are short, the “wow” moments are real, and very little of it requires queueing. Here’s how to play it by age.
Facts checked: July 2026. We think southern Umbria might be Italy’s best-kept family secret: a giant waterfall, gentle rafting from age four, a lake beach, ziplines and Roman ruins children can run around – all close together.
The family case for the area
Everything is close: waterfall, lake, adventure park and Roman sites all sit within about 25-30 minutes, so you’re never committing to a long drive with tired children. And the star attraction – the falls at release – is genuinely thrilling for kids, with a walkable trail network rather than a single viewpoint.
By age
Toddlers and under-5s: the lower falls viewpoints and short trail sections; the lake beach at Piediluco for paddling; gelato in the village squares. Keep it to the easy falls paths and the flat lakeside.
Roughly 5-11: the full falls trails and the Lovers’ Balcony; the gentle “soft” river float (family rafting is offered from around age 4 with the licensed operators – confirm the age on booking); the Umbria Activity Park rope courses (Scheggino); running loose around the open Roman site at Carsulae.
Teens: the full Grade IV rafting and canyoning (age limits apply – typically mid-teens up); climbing at Ferentillo; the Ferentillo mummies for the brave; kayaks and pedaloes on the lake.
The big five
If you do nothing else with children here: the falls at a release; a family float on the Nera; the Umbria Activity Park; the Piediluco lake beach and boats; and a Roman ruin to roam (Carsulae). Each has its own page with the verified specifics.
Rainy-day answers
The CAOS museums in Terni (art, archaeology, the Paleolab), the Ferentillo mummies, and Narni Sotterranea’s underground tour all work in the wet – each with its own opening days to check. Terni → · Narni →
Staying with children
Our house is set up for families – it sleeps 6-8, and we can arrange the practical bits (cot, high chair) on request. The village is quiet and walkable, and the falls are a ten-minute walk downhill. The villa →
Frequently asked questions
Is Marmore Falls good for kids?
Very – the falls at a scheduled release are genuinely exciting, and the trail network lets children walk rather than just look. Pair it with the lake beach, the adventure park and a family river float.
What age can children go rafting near Marmore Falls?
Licensed operators offer a gentle “soft” family float from around age 4, with the full Grade IV rafting reserved for older children and teens. Always confirm the exact age limit when you book.