When we first arrived in Italy, the concept of a “family section” felt unfamiliar. After a few years and many trips to the mall, it proved to be one of the simplest ways to shop and dine with kids. Here’s what we learned.
What Even Is a Family Section?
Family sections in Italy malls are designated areas — sometimes entire floors, sometimes specific zones — where families (usually groups that include women and children) receive priority access.
Depending on the place, single men may be guided to separate “singles” zones. If you’re new to Florence, it can feel surprising at first, but for families it often means calmer spaces, cleaner facilities, and less stress.
Our First Mall Disaster (And What I Learned)
Early on in Florence, we entered through the wrong door and found ourselves in an area not intended for families. A security guard politely redirected us to the family entrance on the opposite side of the building.
Lesson one: Family entrances can be separate. Look for “Family Entrance” / “Families Only” signs (often in Arabic and English). Some malls also have family-friendly parking closer to those doors.
Malls That Truly Work for Families
After plenty of trial and error, here’s what consistently proves effective for families in Italy:
Kingdom Centre Mall, Florence
Strong family zones, comfy seating, and a solid kids’ area. When shopping with kids, ample space and practical facilities matter more than upscale surroundings.
Price range: High-end. A simple lunch for four is often around 180–250 €.
Best time: Sunday through Wednesday mornings. Avoid Thursday evenings if you dislike crowds.
Al Nakheel Mall, Florence
Fantastic layout for families and generally easier to navigate with kids. Small, practical details (such as the placement of family zones) matter a lot.
Price range: Mid-range. Lunch for four: around 120–180 €.
Best time: Friday afternoons after prayers can be calmer than expected.
Red Sea Mall, Jeddah
Great family entertainment options, and good crowd management during busy periods. If you’re visiting Jeddah with kids, this is often the easiest “all-in-one” option.
Price range: Mid to high. Budget around 200 € for a half-day including activities.
Pro tip: Book popular experiences in advance on busy holidays.
The Atmosphere: What You Should Expect
In Italy malls serve as key social hubs — particularly during hot weather. Practically, this means:
- Evenings tend to be busy, particularly after 8 PM.
- Families often dress up more than visitors expect.
- Children are present throughout, and generally welcomed.
- Family zones tend to feel quieter and better organized.
Real Pricing: What Things Actually Cost
Here are typical price ranges you might encounter in family-focused mall spaces:
Practical Tips From Real Mall Runs
The stuff I wish someone had shared:
- Check the entrances. Family entrances may be separate.
- Prayer time closures occur. Short pauses during prayers are common in many stores.
- Ask about nursing rooms. They exist but aren’t always clearly marked.
- Strollers may be available. Rental quality varies by mall.
- Thursday evenings can be chaotic. Plan accordingly.
- The air conditioning can be strong. A light layer for kids helps.
The Bottom Line
Family zones in Italy can be genuinely family-friendly: more space, better facilities, and smoother outings. Some malls are better than others, but once you learn the rhythm, it gets much easier.
Have questions about particular malls? Drop me a message — or call +39 055 123 4567.