Upon entering Ostia Antica, the impressive Decumanus Maximus instantly draws you in. This broad, cobbled avenue once pulsed with the activity of Roman daily life, serving as the city’s main thoroughfare. As families stroll along its timeworn stones, kids can picture lively market scenes, merchants shouting, and carts rattling past with goods. Lined with the remains of ancient shops and grand buildings, the street acts as a perfect introduction to the city’s structure. Its straight layout and stone markers showcase the Romans’ incredible city-planning skills. For young explorers, it sets the scene with scale and wonder, inviting them to uncover the secrets of the ruins ahead.

At the center of Ostia Antica, the Forum stands as a powerful reminder of Roman civic life, where politics, religion, and community came together. This once-bustling square is now a fascinating site filled with the remains of ancient columns and the impressive Temple of Rome and Augustus, built in honor of the imperial cult. For young adventurers, it’s an exciting window into how Romans worshipped their gods and honored their emperors. Surrounded by these grand ruins, children can vividly imagine the ceremonies and gatherings that once took place here. With engaging stories about Roman deities and rulers, the Forum becomes a lively stage for learning—and a perfect spot for families to reflect on the lasting legacy of the Roman Empire.

The Baths of Neptune are among the most remarkable highlights of Ostia Antica, offering a vivid glimpse into the everyday leisure of ancient Romans. Known for their striking black-and-white mosaics of Neptune, god of the sea, these public baths come alive with mythology and artistic detail that captivates both kids and adults. Young visitors will enjoy spotting the mosaic sea creatures and hearing the myths behind them, while the layout of the frigidarium (cold bath), tepidarium (warm bath), and caldarium (hot bath) provides an exciting way to learn about Roman routines. The tour also reveals the brilliance of Roman engineering through the hypocaust system, an underground heating method that kept the baths warm. With its mix of art, technology, and storytelling, this site makes Roman history feel wonderfully real and engaging for families.

The ancient amphitheater at Ostia Antica, once capable of holding thousands of spectators, is a thrilling highlight for kids. This impressive arena hosted gladiator battles, animal hunts, and theatrical performances, giving young visitors a vivid look into the world of Roman entertainment. Sitting on the original stone seats, children can imagine the roar of the crowd and the excitement of ancient spectacles. With the help of a guide, stories of heroic gladiators and dramatic plays come to life, offering fun and educational insight into Roman culture. It’s also a fantastic moment to explore Roman architectural ingenuity, as the amphitheater's design—with its arched structures and tiered seating—ensured excellent views for every spectator. This stop blends imagination, history, and learning in a way the whole family will enjoy.

This part of the tour dives into Roman daily life and social contrasts. The House of Diana, a remarkably preserved residence, showcases how affluent Romans once lived—complete with vibrant mosaics and frescoes still decorating its walls. It’s a great opportunity for kids to visualize Roman family life and the comforts of an ancient home. Just a short walk away, the Insula of the Lupanar presents a very different perspective. This multi-story building, with modest apartments above shops, reflects the lives of Ostia’s working-class citizens. The stark difference between these two structures offers families an engaging way to understand social class, urban living, and the diversity of ancient Roman society.