I had issues with the edge sharpness on the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR and it was not as good as expected for those big Italy shots. Unfortunately, the variable aperture is a liability in dim churches...

• Definitely go with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S
• Constant f/4 is way safer for tracking kids
• Its just more reliable for travel tbh Feel free to ask if you need settings advice!

Jumping in, I would suggest being careful about prioritizing zoom range over glass quality. I carried a superzoom through Rome once. Barely used the long end. I really regretted the softer corners tho. If you choose the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S, make sure to:

• Browse for refurbished units to stay under budget.
• Pair it with a small Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 for low light. That combo handles travel much better.

Just caught up on this. I lugged a massive gear bag through Florence years ago and my back still remembers it. I spent way too much time swapping lenses while my kids ran off toward the gelato stands. Quick question tho, are you doing a lot of indoor museum stuff or just outdoors? If you can swing the cost, honestly look for a used Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S Lens.

• Better resale value later
• Much sharper for those big prints

Building on the earlier suggestion, I'm going to suggest the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR as the more practical choice for this trip. While sharpness is definitely a factor, the reliability of a single-lens setup for travel with kids is hard to beat. You wont have to worry about exposing your sensor to dust in busy Italian piazzas or missing a moment because you were swapping glass. Quick tip: if you go this route, simply use the Z6II's excellent high ISO performance to compensate for the slower aperture in dim settings. The extra reach from 120mm to 200mm is often the difference between getting a unique architectural detail and just another wide shot. For a family trip where speed and convenience are key, it's a very dependable option that stays within budget.