No entrance to Venice is as spectacular as the Grand Canal, and a cruise down its palazzo-lined length is unforgettable for the entire family. There are endless options for boat transfers from the airport or train station, as well as cruises and boat tours, and even kayaking excursions. Stick to the magnificent Grand Canal to take in headliners such as the Rialto Bridge and Ca’ d’Oro, or explore the picturesque side canals, which are especially atmospheric when gliding on a traditional gondola.

One of the easiest Venice family vacation ideas is a leisurely stroll through the warren of tiny calli (alleys) and campi (squares) in one of the city’s six central sestieri—San Marco, San Polo, Cannaregio, Castello, Santa Croce, and Dorsoduro—to discover its hidden nooks and crannies. Before setting off on your own, however, get the lay of the land by joining a private sightseeing tour that covers the main attractions with a guide specialized in capturing the attention of young travelers.

Venice has a rich artisan culture, with ateliers turning out everything from gondolas and glass to paper mache masks crafted by hand. Break up your touring time in the city and learn more about Venetian traditions by adding an interactive craft experience to your family’s itinerary. Older kids can try their hand at glass blowing at a local studio under the watchful guidance of a master artisan, while younger kids can decorate an elaborate Carnevale mask, one of the symbols of the city.

Even the most curious and active families need an occasional day off from the cultural overload that is Venice. Luckily, the city has its own beach just a short vaporetto (water bus) ride from St. Mark’s Square: Venice Lido (Lido di Venezia). Largely overlooked by international visitors, this long, narrow island is home to the best beaches for families in Venice, with soft sand, clean water, and a full range of services from umbrella and sunbed rental to snack bars and restaurants.

Venice is beautiful from the water, but the city view from above is fascinating for visitors of all ages. There are several excellent panoramic points to take in the dozens of islands that form Venice and its web of canals, beginning with St. Mark’s Bell Tower. Book timed tickets in advance or join a tour that includes prebooked tickets to avoid a long line to board the elevator to the top. Or, marvel at other views of the Floating City from the Bovolo Staircase and St. Mark’s Clock Tower.

Traditional Venetian rowing is an art form in this city built on the water. Kids—and grownups—can discover the secrets to guiding a classic Venetian boat through the canals with a rowing lesson in the quiet Cannaregio district of Venice, far from the boat traffic on the Grand Canal. Ideal for active families who want to enjoy an outdoor activity in the center of Venice, rowing lessons are either private or with small groups, so young passengers have plenty of time to steer the boat.

Unless your family is passionate about art, many of the city’s museums may be a bit overwhelming for younger visitors. There are a few exceptions, however. The Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Dorsoduro—where there are also some of the most family-friendly accommodations in Venice—has scale models of several Leonardo inventions, some of which can be operated by little ones. Kids also enjoy the Natural History Museum, with its immense whale skeleton, dinosaur fossils, and other treasures.

The bustling Rialto Fish Market is one of the liveliest corners of the city, and kids love checking out the variety of fish and seafood plucked from the lagoon each morning. Pair a shopping excursion here with a kid-focused cooking class in Venice for a fun and engaging way to learn about Venetian cuisine. Though some classes focus on seafood dishes, others teach the basics for preparing more approachable staples such as pizza or fresh pasta and tiramisu.

The crowds surrounding the top sights in central Venice can put your tots to the test, so take a breather by cruising to the lagoon to visit the outlying Venice islands. Murano is the most popular, while Burano delights kids with its technicolor houses and waterfront park. Torcello is the quietest option, said to be the oldest inhabited island in the lagoon. Choose one island to visit or join a tour that includes stops at all three islands—the cruise through the lagoon is half the fun!