A beautiful European country has been named the ‘most family-friendly’ country for summer holidays. And it’s not France, Spain or Portugal.

While others steal the show, Italy has been named the best country to visit with children by the Telegraph.

Many hotels have specially designed rooms for guests with small children, as well as play areas and baby clubs for parents who want to relax.

And when kids are old enough to explore, there’s something to see all over the country, from the canals of Venice to the Colosseum in Rome.

Holiday booking companies such as Exodus, Intrepid and Explore have even put together itineraries for family holidays, so you can travel carefree in this gem of the Mediterranean.

There are also many agriturismos (farm holidays) in Italy, where families can experience Italian life by cooking with Nonnas in the kitchen and helping out in the olive groves.

The Telegraph recommended Sestri Levante, Lake Maggiore and Forte Village in Sardinia for children under five; Calabria, Turin, Puglia and agriturismos in Tuscany for ages five to eight; and trips along the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany and the Venosta Valley for teenagers.

According to Explore Worldwide, Italy can be slightly more expensive than Spain or Portugal, even when you include major cities like Rome and Madrid.

The country as a whole will be quietest outside the tourist season. To get the best weather, visitors are advised to go between April and June or September and October.

According to Lonely Planet, Italy is “home to many of the world’s greatest works of art, architecture and cuisine,” adding that it “enchants, inspires and moves like no other.”

The city is home to the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with attractions including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pantheon, the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Grand Canal of Venice and Lake Como.