Pantheon

Address pantheon, rome, Tel 06/68300230 Call, Hours Mon-Sat 9-6:30

The Pantheon, designed around 120 AD is beautiful in its symmetry. The diameter of the dome is equal to the height of the walls. Kids will be fascinated by the open "window" hole at the top of the dome (and the holes in the marble floor designed to allow the rain that comes in through the hole to flow out).

The Pantheon gets quite crowded, so try to visit in the morning.

Babe

Address Via della Palombella, 22, Rome, Tel 06. 683 01975 Call,

This sweet little shop behind the Pantheon is crammed with adorable clothing for babies and toddlers made in Italy and France. Prices are reasonable compared to the high-fashion kids clothing stores near Via Condotti, especially when there is a sale, but still high by US standards.

Città del Sole

Address Via Della Scrofa, 65, Roma, Tel 39 06 68803805 Call,

Citta Del Sole is our favorite toy store in Rome. Featuring a nice selection of well-made European toys and books, this is the place to splurge on one or two special items to take home. We found some great books, cute puppets and costumes, and much more.

Piazza Navona

Address Piazza Navona, Rome,

This famous 17th-century piazza is always teeming with activity. Cafes and restaurants line the square. In general, they're good, but pricy. That said, this is a great place to dine with kids because the kids can get up and take in the scene while you're waiting for your food. There are street performers, live music, and lots of people. There's also a beautiful fountain that toddlers will love. There are also two reasonably good toy stores on the square.

Campo Dei Fiori

Address Piazza Campo Dei Fiori, Roma, Hours Mon-Sat 8-1

This bustling outdoor food market is best visited in the morning. Your kids will be doted on, and may even be given gifts of fruit! They'll have the opportunity to see produce we don't usually see in the States. In the afternoon, the market clears out and there is plenty of room to run or kick a ball.

Forno Campo De Fiori (Bakery & Pizza)

Address Campo De' Fiori, 22, Roma, Tel 39 06.68806662 Call,

The takeaway Pizza Bianca at the Forno Campo de Fiori is among the best in town, and all of their pasteries are excellent. This, or the sister shop next door (which sells sandwiches) is a great place to pick up breakfast or lunch on the go.

Antico Forno Roscioli

Address Via dei Giubbonari 21/22, Roma, Tel 06/6875287 Call,

Antico Forno Roscioli has one of the best cheese and meat cases in town. This is the perfect place to pick up takeaway items (or splurge on bottle of wine or one of the lovely jars of jam, truffles, olive oil or balsamic vinegar to take home. The restaurant is too fancy for kids, but if you're desparate for some upscale typical Roman dishes, the'll happily pack up a meal in to go containers for you.

Alfredo e Ada

Address Via dei Banchi Nuovi 14, Rome, Tel 06/6878842 Call, location near San Pietro

Eating dinner here is like getting to going to an Italian friend's grandmother's house. Kids are doted on, and they'll be comfortable in the homey, bustling atmosphere. Ada (the owner) will make you feel right at home in this small and often crowded restaurant.

There's no menu here -- you'll eat whatever Ada has made that night. Don't worry though, everything is delicious and as authentic as it comes. There's always some pasta, so even picky eaters can be accommodated, but with an attentive Italian grandmother encouraging them, don't be surprised if your kids try something new.

End the meal with homemade cookies dipped in sweet wine. If you have a minute to check out the kitchen in the back, do it! You'll be surprised all this delicious food is produced with just a few hot plates and simple utensils. I guess I'll have to rethink my claim that my own cooking would be better with a fancy kitchen remodel.