Colonne di San Lorenzo (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Colonne di San Lorenzo?
What makes it 67% Kids-Friendly: Open lawns, street artists, and gelato amuse children, but no toilets, playground gear, or barriers, and nightlife crowds require active adult supervision.
Positives:
- Free entry: No admission fee means you can explore with kids without cost.
- Safe play area: The adjacent park has fenced lawns where children can run freely.
- Nearby snacks: Several cafés and gelato shops are steps away for quick treats.
Challenges:
- Uneven ground: The stone paving can be slippery—watch for uneven surfaces.
- Limited facilities: No toilets or changing tables on site; plan breaks at nearby cafés.
- Evening crowds: The piazza fills with teenagers at night; avoid after 9 pm for a quieter visit.
What is Colonne di San Lorenzo?
- An open-air ensemble of sixteen towering Roman Corinthian columns dating from the 4th century AD
- Medieval craftsmen assembled portico remnants from a 2nd-century pagan temple before the adjacent Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore
- It exemplifies Milan’s medieval reuse of classical architecture along Corso di Porta Ticinese, standing as a tangible link between Roman antiquity and the city’s historic core
What is so special about Colonne di San Lorenzo for with kids?
- Let kids play and picnic in the park behind the columns.
- Treat the family to gelato and crepes just steps away.
- Enjoy free street performances and open-air events.
- Explore 16 medieval columns and nearby basilica.
- Use simple scavenger hunts to engage children.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This time lets your family explore the columns, play in the park, and enjoy a gelato break without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Colonne di San Lorenzo
Picnic in Parco delle Basiliche:
Spread a blanket and let kids run on the grassy lawns behind the columns.
Tip: Bring simple snacks and a ball or frisbee for extra fun.
Gelato and crepes:
Treat the family to artisanal gelato or warm crepes on Corso di Porta Ticinese.
Tip: Try fruit flavors and sit on the basilica steps facing the pillars.
Watch street performers:
Sit on the low walls to enjoy musicians, drumming circles, or pantomimes.
Tip: Carry small coins to tip performers if the kids enjoy the show.
Treasure-hunt map activity:
Turn the visit into a game with a map to find each column and nearby landmarks.
Tip: Download a free scavenger map from the tourist office or draw your own before you arrive.
Family photo challenge:
Give each child a camera or phone and ask them to capture their favorite sights.
Tip: Offer a small reward for the most creative shot and print them later as souvenirs.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Colonne di San Lorenzo
- Bring water: Carry bottles to keep kids hydrated, especially in summer.
- Visit early: Arrive before noon to find seating and fewer crowds.
- Combine with basilica: Step inside San Lorenzo Maggiore for shade and a quick rest.
Reviews of Colonne di San Lorenzo
Marco Rubertelli
I visited this tram stop with my girlfriend during a weekend in Milan. The sign hanging on the pole identifying the stop is located near the Columns of San Lorenzo, just outside the medieval Porta Ticinese, outside the city center. Only printed timetables with the routes of the passing lines are present. There is no shelter for rain. There is also no screen with real-time tram updates.
Ruggero Cristiano Guttilla
The tram stop is located on a very small sidewalk but unfortunately nothing can be done about it as it is a rather old and therefore narrow street. The area, however, is excellent for an aperitif or simply a walk, both towards the center and towards the Darsena.
S***** R*****
A beautiful, picturesque yet ancient site, it represents one of the most visible traces of Milan as the imperial capital. The area underwent extensive demolition between the two world wars to restore its original appearance, open and unenclosed by buildings between the basilica and the columns. There is also a statue of Constantine, commemorating the historical period of the Edict of Milan (313 AD...
Paulus Milano
Daniele Nerenzi
At the tram stop 3
When is the best time to visit Colonne di San Lorenzo (Milan, Italy)?
In summer, visit late afternoon to avoid heat and catch free concerts. Spring and autumn bring mild weather ideal for park play. Winters are colder—dress warmly.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Gelato and crepes | EUR 16 |
| Water bottles | EUR 0 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 16 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Colonne di San Lorenzo
Address: 20123 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy
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