best european countries to visit for families

• Last Updated On
• October 16, 2023

18 Best Family Vacations in Europe – That All Ages Love!

Ever been to a place where every corner feels like a part of a beautiful painting? 

Let me give you a hint – it sees a buzzing influx of nearly 500 million vacationers annually. 

Yep, that’s Europe for you. It’s not just a scenic wonderland, it’s a kaleidoscope of history and

culture. 

And let’s not forget, it’s a gastronomical paradise that’s simply out of this world.

From the romance under the Parisian moonlight to the thrilling escapades in Barcelona, I’ve been there, and it’s all real in Europe. 

And you know what? 

I’ve found the top countries that guarantee the best family vacations in Europe.

Intrigued? 

Well, keep reading because the good stuff is just getting started.

Best Family Vacations In Europe Compared

I’ve handpicked our top European family vacations just for you. Get ready to explore magical destinations like Paris, Rome, and London.

Editor’s Choice

Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane

The Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane is an exquisite haven that surpasses all expectations.

• Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
• Family Accommodations: 4/5
• Dining Options: 5/5
• Safety and Security: 5/5
• Value for Money: 3/5
• Location and Accessibility: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Bulgari Hotel Paris

When it comes to family vacations in Europe, Bulgari Hotel Paris truly stands out as an exceptional choice.

• Kid-friendly Activities: 3/5
• Dining Options: 4/5
• Location and Accessibility: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Hotel Eden – Dorchester Collection

Compared to other family vacations in Europe, Hotel Eden stands out with its exceptional service, exquisite cuisine, and spacious accommodations that cater to families of all sizes.

• Safety and Security: 4/5

Here are the top 18 family vacations in Europe.

1. Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane (Editor’s Choice)

Hamilton Pl London W1J 7DR, UK (207) 499-0888 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Luxurious accommodation: The rooms and suites are elegantly designed and equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay for families.
• Central location: The hotel’s prime location in London’s prestigious Park Lane neighborhood allows easy access to many popular tourist attractions.
• High price: The hotel is known for its expensive rates, which may be a drawback for families on a tight budget.
• Limited on-site facilities for children: On-site kid-friendly facilities are limited, which could be a downside for families traveling with young ones.

The Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane is an exquisite haven that surpasses all expectations. 

Its prime location in the heart of London provides unparalleled access to renowned attractions like Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. 

Your family will delight in exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, with the hotel as your elegant base.

Their spacious and elegantly appointed family suites offer a seamless blend of comfort and sophistication. 

Whether you have little ones who need cribs or teenagers who appreciate extra space, the hotel ensures that every family member feels at home.

Your kids can also dive into the sparkling indoor pool or indulge in a delightful afternoon tea specially curated for young ones. 

Meanwhile, you can recharge in the luxurious spa, knowing that your little ones are entertained and cared for by the hotel’s expertly trained staff.

Related: Restaurants: London, England

Related: Best Hotels for Families in London

2. Bulgari Hotel Paris

30 Av. George V 75008 Paris, France (318) 172-1000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Exquisite design and ambiance: The stylish interiors, attention to detail, and high-quality furnishings enhance the overall experience of a family vacation.
• Gourmet dining options: The hotel boasts exceptional dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant.
• Relatively small room sizes: One potential drawback of the Bulgari Hotel Paris is that some of its rooms might be smaller compared to other luxury hotels. 
• Limited recreational facilities: There might be a lack of extensive recreational facilities for families, such as dedicated children’s areas or playgrounds.

When it comes to family vacations in Europe, Bulgari Hotel Paris truly stands out as an exceptional choice. 

The hotel’s impeccable service, spacious accommodations, and thoughtful amenities make it a dream destination for both parents and children.

The hotel’s stunning design, inspired by the Parisian art scene, creates an ambiance that is both contemporary and inviting. 

The staff also goes above and beyond to cater to your needs, providing personalized services and recommendations to make your stay truly exceptional. 

Their family-friendly amenities are thoughtfully designed to keep children entertained while allowing adults to unwind. 

From a dedicated kids’ club to a state-of-the-art spa for parents, everyone can indulge in their own version of relaxation.

Related: Restaurants in Paris, France

Related: Best Family Hotels in Paris

3. Hotel Eden – Dorchester Collection

Via Ludovisi, 49 00187 Roma RM, Italy (390) 647-8121 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning views and location: Its central location allows families to easily explore Rome’s attractions, historical sites, and charming streets.
• Outstanding service: The attentive and professional staff strives to provide personalized experiences and ensure that guests have a memorable stay.
• High price: As with many luxury hotels, it’s quite expensive, making it less accessible for families on a limited budget.
• Limited on-site recreational facilities: There might be a lack of extensive recreational facilities for families, such as dedicated children’s areas or playrooms.

Imagine a family vacation where every detail is meticulously crafted to create an enchanting experience for both parents and children. 

That’s precisely what you’ll find at Hotel Eden – Dorchester Collection. 

From the moment you step into this haven in the heart of Rome, you’re transported into a world of luxury and warmth. 

The attention to detail is unparalleled, ensuring that every member of your family feels like royalty. 

Compared to other family vacations in Europe, Hotel Eden stands out with its exceptional service, exquisite cuisine, and spacious accommodations that cater to families of all sizes. 

Hotel Eden surpasses expectations, creating memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Related: Places to Eat in Rome, Italy

Related: Best Hotels in Rome for Families

Related: Places to Eat in Italy

4. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, Belgium (202) 513-8940 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

From hotels to youth hostels, Belgium is a great choice for a relaxing family holiday irrespective of your budget.

It has quirky tourist spots like the Manneken Pis statue.

The tots will have a ball at the mini-Europe theme park while mom and dad can soak in ancient architecture in the Brussels Old Town. 

Get some waffles and smoutebollen at the local food trucks before you go to admire the Saint-Michel Cathedral, a 15th-century gothic church.

When overwhelmed with the glass art, you can take the kids to the Comic Strip Center.

Top it off with a photoshoot at the Place Royale (Koningsplein). 

Recommended Hotel: Stanhope Hotel by Thon Hotels

Related: Best Restaurants in Europe

5. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Spain (493) 302-2020 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Barcelona is arguably one of the top family holiday destinations in Europe.

The Spanish city is a great place to introduce your toddlers to Catalan architecture, made famous by Antoni Gaudí.

Take them to Sagrada Familia or Park Güell. 

When you take a break, catch a soccer match at FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium or head to the Tibidabo amusement park.

In between the adventures, get a taste of the Spanish omelet or a bomba (similar to croquettes) at any restaurant lining the city’s streets .

Ask for their famous Manchego Cheese and keep an eye out for the calamari and squid.

Seafood is pretty great here.

Meanwhile, plan a raid on Las Ramblas for some stunning street performances.

Recommended Hotel: Almanac Barcelona

Related: Best Family Hotels in Barcelona

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherlands Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It’s an excellent choice for a relaxing family holiday not just because Amsterdam is the weed capital of the world.

There’s the Van Gogh Museum for art lovers and Anne Frank’s house for history buffs.

Take the little ones to Vondelpark or Zandvoort beach.

You can take a stroll along the Begijnhof or bike towards the Artis Royal Zoo.

And when you’re tired, grab some of that underrated Dutch food.

Whether it’s a sweet stroopwafel or a deep-fried salt cod, you won’t be disappointed.

Taste some authentic herring and satay.

If you’re avoiding sugar, get an Ontbijtkoek (ginger cake) and mint tea.     

Recommended Hotel: Luxury Suites Amsterdam – Member of Warwick Hotels

Related: Best Beaches in Europe

7. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, Czech Republic Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This is a fairy-tale setting.

The little ones will love exploring the Prague Castle and you can follow it up with a fun trip to the Dancing House.

Meanwhile, mom and dad should try out the beer.

Walk around the Old Town Square, the oldest in this historic center and go on a boat cruise.

You can also check out Prague’s Walking Night Tour and learn about ghosts.

But in between, get some of them Prague pancakes called Palačinky or their warm, rolled pastries called Trdelník.

If you’re craving something savory, go for Vepřo-knedlo-zelo, made of roast pork, bread dumplings, and stewed cabbage.

(If you’re looking for cheese, get smažený sýr.)

Recommended Hotel: La Ballerina Hotel

8. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm, Sweden (685) 082-8508 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Swedish meatballs and open-faced sandwiches are not the only things that make Stockholm one of the great family-friendly vacation ideas.

In the Swedish capital, you will find museums focussed on ABBA and photography.

The aquarium and children’s zoo at Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum, are like nothing you’ve ever seen.

And don’t want to miss the Vasa museum, the most-visited tourist spot of the city.

You can walk around or take public transport here since the local attractions are all close to each other.

Recommended Hotel: Sheraton Stockholm Hotel

9. Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy (905) 521-2245 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Florence is a visual treat for you and your children, and affordable vacation packages to this region abound.

Stroll along Ponte Vecchio, a medieval segmental arch bridge over the Arno River, for a view or go museum hopping at the Uffizi Gallery.

Check out the antique carousel in Piazza della Repubblica and stop to grab a bite.

Whether it’s a Florentine Steak or a Lampredotto (sandwich with thinly sliced intestines and boiled in broth) or just gelato, take your time with the Tuscan food.

By the way, they are big fans of eco-friendly stay and sustainable travel.

So enjoy the sights without feeling guilty about your carbon footprint.  

Recommended Hotel: J.K. Place Firenze

10. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich, Switzerland (144) 215-4000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

When you think of Zurich, you think chocolate.

That’s enough to convince the kiddies but there’s a lot more that makes Zurich a dream.

Art lovers can get a taste of Giacometti’s work in the Chagall Windows while shoppers can lose themselves in Bahnhofstrasse.

Go to Lake Zurich for a glimpse of the Swiss Alps or Linderhof, the park with Zurich’s origin story.

Take a break with some local gourmet food.

Whether you’re craving a burger or their cheese fondue, you’ll find a place.

Zurich is home to one of the oldest vegetarian restaurants in the world and it’s a great place to visit with toddlers because a lot of restaurants here have play spaces and a special menu for them.

There is also a rich collection of vegan restaurants.

No man left behind.

Recommended Hotel: Widder Hotel – Zurichs luxury hideaway

11. Montenegro, Balkans

Montenegro, Balkans (828) 000-1300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This little-known Balkan country is a delightful destination for a relaxing holiday.

It offers a mix of history, culture and exquisite beaches.

With a coastline of over 180 miles, there are some very scenic beaches along the Adriatic Sea.

Learn their history in the narrow lanes of Kotor and Budva and remember it by a little something you can pick up from their souvenir shops.

It has over a hundred beaches from the sporty Jaz Beach to the swimmer-friendly Lucice Beach.

Recommended Hotel: Splendid Conference & Spa Resort

12. Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria +4 312-1114 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

High quality of life is the first thing you need to know about Vienna.

Staying here for a few days is very likely to spoil your hometown for you.

The House of Music with its endless musical entertainment is what makes Vienna the capital of music.

Interactive exhibits on artists like Mozart and Schubert will dazzle the children.

The city also lines up an impressive number of bookstores if you want to bury your nose in a book at night.

Then there’s the Wiener Prater, an amusement park with rides for people of all ages. 

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Vienna Plaza

13. Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck, Austria (+43) 512-5356 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If your family is into skiing and snowboarding adventures then Innsbruck, Austria is the place for you.

Glide down the mountains in the Austrian Alps while staying at one of the hotels at the base.

If you pick the right ski resort, they can take care of your accommodation, transportation and lift tickets. 

While in Austria, head to the Alpenzoo Innsbruck, one of the highest elevation zoos in the continent.

Check out Hofburg, a 16th-century palace for an exciting history lesson. 

Recommended Hotel: BEST WESTERN Plus Hotel Goldener Adler Innsbruck

14. Madrid, Spain

Madrid, Spain Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Madrid is the place to be if you are looking for a relaxing and child-friendly destination in Europe.

It has a lot of places like Casa de Campo, the Madrid Zoo Aquarium and Parque de Atracciones amusement park where the whole family can hang out.

The Retiro Park with its playgrounds and formal garden is also a lovely place to stretch out and take in the scenery.

You can also catch a soccer match at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

But don’t skip the Royal Palace.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Único Madrid

15. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, Ireland Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you like to walk, you’ll love Dublin. It has some great parks like St. Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park, which is home to the Dublin Zoo.

If the idea of a part-land, part-water excursion intrigues you, sign up for one with Viking Splash Tours. 

While in Ireland, you must get yourself a pint of Guinness beer or some Irish coffee.

But do make time for the Irish cuisine.

Check out their boxty pancakes made of potato or coddle which is available at most pubs.

Fill up with black and white pudding, a breakfast specialty or the soda bread.

I’ll leave you to discover what it is.  

Recommended Hotel: InterContinental Dublin

16. Munich, Bavaria

Munich, Bavaria, Germany Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The country Munich, like the 2005 action-drama by Stephen Spielberg, is a big hit for its handcrafted toys and beers.

The Bavarian capital caters to people of all ages.

Take your kids to the Toy Museum in the Old Town Hall or to the Obletter Spielwarne in Karlsplatz square, the biggest toy store in the country.

With over 1,000 kid-friendly activities, Deutsches Museum, one of the oldest science and tech museums in the world, is a world of pleasure for the entire family.

Don’t forget to try out some Bavarian sausages, salads and pretzels.

Recommended Hotel: Rocco Forte The Charles Hotel

17. Halkidiki, Greece

Halkidiki, Greece Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you want to get some sun and chill, the Greek city of Halkidiki is the answer to your prayers.

Enjoy the birthplace of Aristotle while bathing in the Aegean Sea.

Enjoy a hike in Kassandra, the first and most popular of the three peninsulas.

Second and secluded but not without some excellent resorts is Sithonia.

Here you can enjoy a view of the landscape meeting the Aegean sea.

Explore the fish tavernas and check out the fishermen at work in Vourvourou.

And the third, closed to the crowds, is Mount Athos.

You can take a boat from Anthonia.

Tourists are not allowed but you can catch a glimpse of the 20 monasteries along the coast.

There are some great seafood and wines to be tasted in Halkidiki.

Recommended Hotel: Ammon Zeus

Related: Best Hotels in Europe

18. Brittany, France

Brittany, France Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Last on the list, in the top country to visit in Europe for families with kids, is the French region of Brittany.

Its fresh air is perfect for a walk on the beach in the summer.

While you’re relaxing, chew on some of them French macaroons.

You can also dabble in the seawater in Quiberon and if you’re up for it, pay a visit to Brest for some shopping.

Kids will love the charming parts of Benodet and Saint-Malo.

It’s a great getaway within a European adventure.

Recommended Hotel: Château D’Apigné Rennes

Related: Places to Eat in France

Vacationer’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Planning your family vacation in Europe? 

There’s a myriad of incredible options, so take time to weigh up your choices before finalizing anything.

Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane is my top pick for a city break with a dash of luxury. 

Last summer, my family relished the hotel’s kid-friendly amenities and the ease of access to iconic landmarks.

Then there’s the Bulgari Hotel Paris, exuding elegance in every corner. 

The spacious rooms are perfect for larger families and its prime location makes it an excellent choice for culture lovers.

Finally, for an Italian escapade, we loved the Hotel Eden – Dorchester Collection in Rome. 

The children were thrilled with the Vespa tours arranged by the hotel, and we cherished the exquisite rooftop dinners with vistas of Rome’s skyline.

Finding the best family vacation in Europe depends on what you value most – be it opulence, location, or unique experiences.

How I Picked The Destinations 

I have had the pleasure of exploring numerous destinations and handpicking the best options for families. 

To ensure the utmost reliability and authenticity in my recommendations, I did extensive online research, where I delved into various travel platforms, review websites, and family travel blogs. 

Additionally, I made an effort to connect with locals, whether it was through social media groups, online forums, or even striking up conversations during my travels. 

Our Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to evaluate the availability and variety of family-friendly amenities at every property. Does it feature playgrounds and kids’ clubs? Does it organize events designed specifically for kids? I ask myself these questions whenever I rate this property’s kid-friendly activities. 
• Family Accommodations: This is used to assess the family accommodations of the property. Are the rooms spacious? Does it offer family suites with connecting rooms? Can it accommodate families of different sizes? Is there a crib or baby-proofing in every room? These questions are essential whenever I rate the property’s family accommodations. 
• Dining Options: This evaluates the dining options at the property. Are there kid-friendly options at the property? Is there an on-site restaurant that caters to everyone’s dietary preferences and needs? I use these questions to assess the dining options of every property. 
• Safety and Security: I use this criterion to assess the safety and security of every property. Are the premises secured? Is the staff trained to handle any emergency? I consider these factors when rating the property’s safety and security. 
• Value for Money: This is used to evaluate the value for money of every property. Are the room rates reasonable? Are the services, activities, and amenities suitable for the price? I ask myself these questions to rate the value for money provided by the property. 
• Location and Accessibility: This measures how accessible the property is for families. How far is it from the popular family attractions? Is it easily accessible via public transportation? I use these questions to evaluate the property’s location and accessibility. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the best time to visit europe for a family vacation.

The best time to visit Europe for a family vacation is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is generally pleasant, and many attractions and activities are available for families.

Which European Destinations Are Known For Their Family-Friendly Attractions?

Destinations such as Paris, Rome, London, Barcelona, and Amsterdam are known for their family-friendly attractions, including iconic landmarks, museums, parks, and interactive experiences suitable for all ages.

Can We Find Guided Tours Or Family-Friendly Itineraries In Europe?

Yes, there are numerous tour operators and travel agencies that offer guided tours and family-friendly itineraries in Europe, ensuring convenient and engaging experiences for families, often with a mix of educational and fun activities.

Conclusion 

When it comes to the best family vacations in Europe, our top choice is the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane. 

With its blend of luxury, comfort, and accessibility to iconic landmarks, it proves a superlative family haven. 

This hotel outshines others in terms of its unique blend of sophistication, family-centric facilities, and location that lets you dive deep into the city’s vibrant culture. 

Its magic lies in how it caters to every family member’s needs, truly giving you a home away from home. 

For a perfect European family getaway, this opulent yet welcoming hotel is a stellar choice.

Europe With Kids: 35 Best European Cities For Family Travel

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 29, 2024

Categories Europe , Family Travel

Are you planning a trip to Europe with family and wondering which are the best European cities to visit with kids? This post is for you!

Since becoming parents in 2018, we've taken our kids on several Europe family-friendly vacations, city trips, and road trips by campervan.

Traveling as a family is different than traveling as a couple , but we love it just as much! Sure, you need to plan more, slow down your travel pace, and pack properly for your (first) trip with kids .

But traveling with your children and sharing adventures together is a wonderful and enriching experience!

Best European cities to visit with kids

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

The best cities in Europe for kids

To provide you with plenty of travel inspiration, I've asked family bloggers for their personal recommendations for the best European cities for families.

The result is this list which includes 35 of the best places to visit in Europe with kids, but it's by no means exhaustive.

Nevertheless, I hope it will give you lots of ideas when planning your (next) family trip to Europe!

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Cities in Europe with kids: map

You can find all the European cities for families included in this post in the map and list below.

Click here for the interactive map

35 amazing family city trips in Europe

• Amsterdam, the Netherlands
• Athens, Greece
• Barcelona, Spain
• Belgrade, Serbia
• Bern, Switzerland
• Bruges, Belgium
• Budapest, Hungary
• Cagliari, Italy
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Cordoba, Spain
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Edinburgh, Scotland
• Florence, Italy
• Istanbul, Turkey
• Kotor, Montenegro
• Lisbon, Portugal
• London, United Kingdom
• Madrid, Spain
• Munich, Germany
• Nantes, France
• Nice, France
• Paris, France
• Porto, Portugal
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Rome, Italy
• Salzburg, Austria
• Seville, Spain
• Sibiu, Romania
• Tallinn, Estonia
• Tbilisi, Georgia
• Valencia, Spain
• Venice, Italy
• Vienna, Austria
• Warsaw, Poland
• Wroclaw, Poland

Also read about the most kid-friendly cities in Scandinavia  and  the U.K.

The most stunning European cities with kids

1. amsterdam, the netherlands.

Tracy from Amsterdam Wonderland : if you're looking for the best city in Europe for kids it's hard to top Amsterdam. This small family-friendly capital is packed with treats to delight the little ones.

With hands-on museums, transport wonders to amaze (think bikes, trams, and child-friendly canal boat tours), and over 400 playgrounds, yes you read that right, you'll be spoiled for choice.

Amsterdam's best hidden hot spots

• The extraordinary  Mouse Mansion (a little workshop with floor-to-ceiling mice frolicking in tiny dioramas).
• Tony's Chocolonely shop with its amazing chocolate vending machine.
• NEMO, the city's world-famous science museum with its “touch everything” philosophy ( click here to buy a skip-the-line ticket online ). 

Sample some typical Dutch cuisine

What's more, Amsterdam food is perfect for little ones too. Why not taste kibbeling from a street-side food truck (crispy fried pieces of fish served with mayonnaise).

Or try ‘ een wit broodje met hagelslag ‘ (chocolate sprinkles on white bread), a very Dutch breakfast. And of course, you can't miss the ultimate Dutch specialty: pancakes or poffertjes !

=> Join this food tour and pamper your taste buds with some of the best treats Amsterdam has to offer.

Keukenhof Garden

If you want to venture a bit further afield and visit the world's largest spring garden, check out this excellent Keukenhof Garden tour that includes transport from Amsterdam city center and a skip-the-line ticket.

So whatever the age of your youngsters, Amsterdam is sure to become their very favorite Euro destination!

Best hotels for families in Amsterdam : • Mercure Hotel : spacious rooms and great value for money. Click to book . • GH Amsterdam : a lovely apartment with an excellent location. Click to book . • Monet Garden : canal views in the city center. Click to book .

2. Athens, Greece

Dawn from 5 Lost Together: I loved our family trip to Athens! I had heard mixed reviews about Athens before we visited, so I wasn’t sure what to expect.

It ended up being a city we loved visiting with kids, full of rich history and culture!

You don’t have to work hard to experience the history of Athens; ruins thousands of years old rise up against modern city streets.

For most visitors, the Acropolis is the main attraction of Athens. Book a skip the line (small-group) tour to the Acropolis online or visit independently.

For our Percy Jackson obsessed daughter, she was in heaven checking out the ancient ruins and hearing about the different buildings and the connection to Greek mythology. 

Another highlight of our Athens family trip was this food tour , where we tasted our way through the city. Greek food is world-renowned, but it was amazing to visit hidden gems with the expertise of a local.

We loved wandering the compact neighborhoods of central Athens, eating al fresco in the streets on the warm summer nights and enjoying the views from the top of Lycabettus Hill.

Athens has a distinct feel from other European cities and is, in my opinion, one of the best places to travel in Europe with kids.

If you've got more time to spend in Greece, Athens is also a great jump-off point for a visit to one of the many beautiful Greek Islands.

Click here for the best family hotels in Athens

3. Barcelona, Spain

Keri from Little City Trips: one of the best places to visit with kids in Europe is beautiful Barcelona.

Located on the Spanish coast and full of cultural attractions,  Barcelona is a great city for families since it offers both opportunities for outside play as well as traditional sightseeing.

Families are spoilt for choice when it comes to child-friendly activities in Barcelona! In terms of green areas, the famous Parc Guell is a beautiful park where kids can play while parents admire the whimsical creations of architect Gaudi.

Parc de la Ciutadella is lovely to visit and hosts the Barcelona Zoo ( click here to purchase Zoo tickets ). 

The beach is always a hit with kids and Barceloneta is surprisingly family-friendly, with many cafes equipped with high chairs, juices, and often even kids' menus.

If you are looking for attractions that are just for kids but adults can enjoy too, head over to Montjuic. Here you can visit the Poble Espanyol , a village built to replicate the different parts of Spain.

Kids can also play at the Magical Fountain, which has a light show on summer nights that your kids will adore (and so will you!).

Last but not least, don’t forget to plan a trip to the Barcelona Aquarium where you can walk in an underwater, see-through tunnel! Book your tickets online and skip the queue .

Click here for the best family hotels in Barcelona

4. Belgrade, Serbia

Stephanie from Sofia Adventures : Belgrade is one of my favorite cities in Europe and it has great options for families traveling with kids.

Some of my favorite things to do in Belgrade include having cake at Hotel Moskva , exploring the city’s unique communist architecture, and enjoying the city’s great food culture.

Families traveling to East Europe with kids should make sure to visit the Nichola Tesla Museum, which offers tours that include electricity experiments.

The children on our tour were absolutely delighted when the Tesla coils lit up the light bulbs they were holding like light-sabers.

The city also offers opportunities to explore World War II history by visiting the monument dedicated to the Concentration Camp that was located in Novi Beograd during the war.

There is also a Nazi ship that’s been restored and turned into a restaurant and cultural center.

Belgrade is also a great family destination because it’s easy on your budget. With services and amenities comparable to Western Europe cities, but at Eastern European prices, families can stretch their travel budgets much further here!

The city also has tons of free things to do. As it sits at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, there are plenty of beaches, river islands, and other fantastic green spaces to explore.

A lovely evening activity is taking a sunset sightseeing cruise to admire the beautiful monuments of the magical capital of Serbia lit up. Check availability here .

A perfect way for your kids to blow off some steam after a morning spent in museums and other cultural sites.

Altogether, Belgrade is one of the best family holiday destinations in Europe!

Click here for the best family hotels in Belgrade

5. Bern, Switzerland

Claudia from The Travelling Mom : the stately capital city of Bern, Switzerland, is a surprisingly kid-friendly destination that offers lots and lots for visiting families.

Bern has a highly walkable, pedestrian-friendly downtown core with a UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Check out this 90-minute walking tour to learn about the city’s 800 years of history from a local guide.

Some of the best family-friendly attractions are easily accessed by wandering through Bern’s historic limestone arcades.

These include the 16th-century Zytglogge astronomical clock that chimes every 15 minutes, the waterpark in front of the Federal Parliament Buildings, and the famous Bear Park, home to the brown bears that are the city’s namesake.

The Park is situated next to the Aare River and offers landscaped green space for the bears to roam.

Upriver is the popular MarziliBad swimming pool area, where swimmers can also access the fast-flowing Aare for an exhilarating swim in the glacial meltwater. 

A short tram ride from the Old Town leads to Gurten Park, a mountain-top playground for children, with cafes, restaurants, and a 360-degree view of the city and Alpine countryside. It’s a wonderful place for kids to run off energy and have fun! 

Bern is also home to various museums, including the Alpine Museum ,  Bern Historical Museum , and Einstein House .

For budding fine art lovers, Museum Paul Klee has a wonderful children’s program called Creaviva, which offers hands-on creative fun inspired by one of Switzerland’s most famous modern artists.

Altogether, Bern is also definitely one of the best places in Europe to visit with kids!

Click here for the best family hotels in Bern

6. Bruges, Belgium

Sierra from Free to Travel Mama : Bruges is a picturesque little canal city and is another one of the best cities in Europe to visit with kids.

Upon arrival for your weekend getaway, you can’t help but sigh at its fairy-tale appearance. Bruges is very walkable for families, be sure to visit Markt Square and meander its quaint streets. 

The most popular activity is to take a canal cruise to get an overview of the city’s history and see areas that would go unseen when exploring on foot.

A canal tour is a perfect activity for families with small children as it's inexpensive and not too lengthy.

The Belfry tower is located in Markt square, climbing tours are available for those willing to brave the steps. You can also rent a bike from several shops near Markt Square.

Explore Bruges like a local on a guided bike tour or go for a bike ride along the canal to the nearby town of Damme (less than an hour's ride) for windmills views and a place for children to run freely in the countryside. 

Once you have worked up an appetite, Bruges’ famous chocolate shops, waffles with toppings, French fries, moules e frites, and breweries are sure to provide you with options that everyone in the family will love!

Chocolate is very popular in Bruges and there is even the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum , a place your kids are bound to love.

The entrance ticket ( get your online tickets here ) includes free chocolate tastings and you get to watch a chocolate-making demonstration

Click here for the best family hotels in Bruges

7. Budapest, Hungary

Gabor from Surfing the Planet: Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in East Europe and a perfect destination for all kinds of public.

Many of the best things to do in Budapest are perfect to visit with kids. There are amazing views you can enjoy from either Gellért Hill or Buda Castle ( book a Buda Castle walking tour here ).

Furthermore, Budapest is famous for its thermal baths which you can enjoy both in summer and winter (when the outdoor pools are often surrounded by snow!).

There are also many other great places your kids will enjoy, such as:

• The Budapest Zoo
• The Theme Park (near the City Park)
• The Budapest Eye (a large Ferris wheel that also offers fascinating views of the city center)

Budapest is a great culinary destination with lots of local dishes your kids will enjoy. Be sure to try some goulash or stuffed cabbage in the (cheap) local restaurants.

? When visiting Budapest with kids, a smart thing to do is purchasing a Budapest Card , the official city pass.

With this card, you can benefit from a range of discounts, free entries to attractions, and unlimited public transportation. Click here to get your Budapest Card.

Alternatively, you can get a Hop-On-Hop-Off bus ticket (24, 48, or 72 hours) to discover the many sights of Budapest.

Click here for the best family hotels in Budapest

8. Cagliari, Italy

Claudia from My Adventures Across the World: often overlooked for other more famous destinations in Italy is Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia.

However, Cagliari is actually a fantastic destination for a city break, as well as a great starting point to explore the island.

Cagliari is one of the best cities for kids in Europe and an ideal place to travel to for families . The city is packed with history and culture, plus the old city center is easy to explore.

The four main areas are all connected to each other and each of them has its own style and interesting spots.

• Castello is where the Cathedral is located and, as it's on a hill, it's the perfect place to get incredible views of the city.
• La Marina is right by the harbor.
• Stampace is home to several beautiful churches.
• Villanova is a maze of small alleys with beautiful colorful buildings and lovely squares where children play in the summer months. 

To learn more about Cagliari's Old Town, book this guided walking tour with a local guide .

One of the  best things to do in Sardinia  is hiking and Cagliari has several trails that, although located at a mere 10 minutes' drive from the city center, will transport you to a completely different world!

The trail that takes to La Sella del Diavolo (one of the city's landmarks) starts at the lovely Calamosca beach. In just 30 minutes you can hike to a viewpoint from where you can see the entire gulf. 

Poetto, Cagliari's main beach, is a fabulous place to run, bike, or skate and a favorite of local families. From Poetto beach you can easily access Molentargius, a natural park perfect to admire wildlife. 

With its city charm and its easy access to nature and beaches, Cagliari is one of the best places to visit in West Europe with kids!

Click here for the best family hotels in Cagliari

9. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of the European destinations that often gets overlooked, but it's a city with lots to offer for traveling families.

With a beautiful setting on the coastal islands of Zealand and Amager, panoramic views, lovely canals, and colorful houses, Copenhagen definitely has a lot going for it.

A must-visit is Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest theme parks in the world and a good choice for families with kids of all ages.

Important: please note that you'll need an entrance ticket as well as a ride pass because the park admission fee doesn't include tickets for the rides.

Den Blå Planet is Northern Europe's largest aquarium where kids can learn about the fascinating underwater world and walk through an underwater tunnel with hammerhead sharks swimming above their heads.

Copenhagen also offers lots of outdoor activities. You can join a bike tour or take a canal cruise , or simply let your kids run around at one of the many playgrounds (The Tower Playground is great).

No matter if you're visiting Copenhagen on a short break or as part of your family vacation in Denmark, you and your kids will quickly come to love this colorful city.

? Save money with the Copenhagen Card See the sights of Copenhagen at your own pace and enjoy free entrance to 89 attractions. Choose a card to suit your needs (24 to 120 hours) and save time and money while exploring the Danish capital. Get your Copenhagen Card here .

What is a good time of the year to visit Copenhagen?

While there is no best time to visit Copenhagen, its northern location means it can get (really) cold. Especially for families with younger children, the winter months are best avoided.

If you don't mind the cold, however, visiting Copenhagen during winter gives you the best chance of seeing the magical Northern Lights.

While northern lights aren't as common in Denmark as in other Scandinavian countries, you can see them if you're very lucky. January and February as the best months to see the Northern Lights in Denmark.

That being said, I'd recommend visiting Copenhagen in June. This is quite possibly the best month to visit Copenhagen, with comfortable temperatures and long daylight hours.

Click here for the best family hotels in Copenhagen

10. Cordoba, Spain

Lori from Fitz 5 on the go : of all the cities we visited during our gap year, the city of Cordoba in the Andalusia area of Spain was my son's favorite. 

We had watched videos of the area before our trip and the kids were really looking forward to seeing the “candy cane” mosque.

They were so excited that I was afraid it would not live up to the hype, luckily it did and more! 

The main tourist area of town is very walkable and a great representation of an old Spanish city. Our first stop was the famous Mezquita de Cordoba . 

This mosque/church has changed hands several times during its 1000-year history. The majority of the building is a fabulous mosque with unique red and white striped columns.

Right in the middle sits an ornate Catholic Cathedral. This was by far my kid's favorite building of our year-long trip.  Click here to purchase skip-the-line tickets .

After touring the mosque, we explored the town and took a lovely stroll across the Roman Bridge, and guess what's on the other side? A playground!

Cordoba is a perfect place to visit with kids , it's full of surprises and a city where music hangs in the air.

Click here for the best family hotels in Cordoba

11. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Rachel from Adventure and Sunshine : when I first set eyes on Dubrovnik, it was as spectacular as I had imagined. A medieval walled city, sitting on the edge of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, it has to be seen to be believed.

We were staying in the nearby town of Mlini and caught a small water taxi to Dubrovnik, it was the perfect way to arrive in this imposing city!

What to do in Dubrovnik with kids?

Surrounded by solid stone walls and two drawbridges leading into the city, it is like stepping into a history book.

You can imagine the city as it might have been hundreds of years ago, with knights on horses entering the city and soldiers watching on the wall.

Our best tip, and great family activity, is to walk the city walls . It is about 2km to do a full loop, although you can exit at a number of locations along the way.

This walk gives you the best view of the city from every angle. Click here to book a guided City Walls tour .

When you reach the seaward edge of the wall, look for the divers leaping off the rocks into the sea below. There are also a number of small bars on this side of the wall to grab a drink or an ice cream for your kids (and yourself;-).

Once you come down off the wall, take a walk through the tiny alleyways within the city.

We wound our way through the cobbled streets, and discovered gorgeous doorways, a good number of animals, and pretty outlooks into the plazas below.

To make the most of the outdoors, we recommend you make time to head to one of the beaches nearby. If you have older kids, rent a kayak or book a day sailing out on the water.

What is the best time to visit Dubrovnik with kids?

Dubrovnik is a great family destination to visit on a Europe trip with kids. However, note that it is hugely popular, both with tourists and cruise boats. It also gets incredibly hot in the summer.

We recommend planning your family visit out of peak season , June through early October, so you can escape both the crowds and the heat.

Click here for the best family hotels in Dubrovnik

12. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is among the best destinations in Europe for families. Its compact city center means most highlights are only a short walk apart.

And if you do want to venture a bit further afield you can easily use Edinburg's excellent public transport.

The imposing Edinburgh Castle is one of the major highlights of the city and a must-visit. Check out this skip-the-line walking tour of the Castle or pick up the kid's quiz from the audio guide desk and head off on a treasure hunt in the castle.

While you may not expect it, Edinburg has one of the best Christmas Markets in the UK. Pick up a Harry Potter-themed gift, enjoy some good food from one of the many street stalls or buy local arts and crafts.

Walk the Royal Mile and check out some of the historic landmarks in Edinburgh, such as St. Giles Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament.

If you've got more time to spend in Edinburg, consider taking a day trip to Loch Lomond National Park. Follow a (short) nature trail, visit Doune Castle and admire the amazing views.

Edinburgh and its surroundings have plenty to keep families occupied for several days!

Click here for the best family hotels in Edinburg

13. Florence, Italy

Raluca from  Whisper Wanderlust : Florence, the city in the heart of Tuscany, is one of the wonderful places to visit with kids in Europe.

The Italian city has so much to offer, that it's often called an open-air museum. Buildings with spectacular architecture, historic bridges, vibrant streets, delicious food, and a pleasant atmosphere make up the landscape of the settlement divided by River Arno.

Florence is a perfect city for couples and families with children. The little ones will have much to learn here about the world's greatest artists, Florence also known as the heart of the Renaissance.

The streets are filled with monuments and imposing statues, and the balconies are decorated with flowers. Your kids will also enjoy eating pizza and gelato.

Fun fact: did you know Florence is the birthplace of gelato?

Florence or Firenze is also a very safe place and most of the areas of interest are pedestrian, so parents can spend an unforgettable vacation here with their little ones.

Click here for the best family hotels in Florence

14. Istanbul, Turkey

Lindsay from  Carpe Diem Our Way : Istanbul’s position as the gateway between Asia and Europe has made it strategically important for thousands of years.

Straddling two continents, it has a rich history ranging from Roman to Byzantine to Ottoman.

This has led to ancient and very diverse architecture as seen in the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and underground wonders such as the Basilica Cistern.

? Save money and time with a Combo Ticket : skip the ticket lines at the Basilica and Topkapi, and visit Hagia Sophia with a guide. Stay inside as long as you want, and benefit from an audio app. Check availability.

There is no shortage of fun things to do with kids in Istanbul! Families can marvel at the architecture, eat their way around the food markets, enjoy a ride on a boat on the Bosphorous or enjoy views of the city from rooftops.

Your kids will also enjoy strolling around the Grand Bazaar or trying a cup of Turkish tea.

While perhaps not one of the first places families think of when planning a trip, Istanbul could very well be the best place in Europe for kids.

They will surely be impressed by the melting pot of cultures, as people from all over the world come to marvel at the history of Istanbul.

Click here for the best family hotels in Istanbul

15. Kotor, Montenegro

Jeanne from Learning to Breathe Abroad : Montenegro is the gem of the Adriatic and Kotor is its crowning glory.

The city of Kotor has the most stunning scenery, sitting nestled in a valley on the edge of the magnificent Bay of Kotor.

The Old Town is surrounded by immense fortified walls that continue up into the mountains above, forming a 4.5km circle of protection around the city.

These walls are lots of fun for kids to clamber upon, even better is to hike up to St. Johns Fortress. It's called the “huff and puff” trail due to the 1350 steps you need to climb, but kids of all ages can easily manage it.

Kotor is also known as the “City of Cats” and you'll find lots of furry bundles to cuddle everywhere you go.

A visit to the unique cat museum is fun and your €1 entrance fee goes towards feeding the strays. You can even signup your own cats as members for the small fee of €2.

The small beach just outside of the old town is a great place to relax and let the kids have a swim. We also found some of the best gelatos in the Balkans here.

Another fun family activity in Kotor is hopping on a boat tour to the most popular sights of Montenegro . See the impressive Our Lady of the Rocks, swim in the Blue Cave, and visit the caves where submarines were hidden.

Click here for the best family hotels in Kotor

16. Lisbon, Portugal

Katja from Globetotting:  Lisbon has everything that you look for in a city; it's colorful, charming, and walkable and there is lots of incredible food to be found!

But there’s more to Portugal’s capital than endless sunshine and grilled sardines. Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, predating London, Paris, and even Rome by hundreds of years.

This makes  Lisbon a fascinating city to visit for kids and parents alike.

Tip: it's worth looking into getting a Lisbon card as it will give you unlimited free rides on Lisbon's public transport and free entry to lots of the premier attractions in Lisbon. Click here to purchase the Lisbon Card online.

Start your adventure with a tram ride onboard Eléctrico 28. This trolley operates like a hop-on-hop-off bus and takes you through some of Lisbon’s most popular neighborhoods.

Make sure to jump off at Praça do Comércio, the city’s biggest public square down by the waterfront.

This is a great place for the kids to run around and it’s also where you’ll find Livraria Bertrand, the oldest bookstore in the world.

Other highlights are the Lisbon Aquarium, the  Lisbon Story Center , and the Jeronimos Monastery. Although the kids might be more interested in the Pastéis de Belém pastry shop nearby, which sells the most famous custard tarts in town!

But sights aside, my absolute favorite thing to do in Lisbon is to just wander around…

Its vibrant neighborhoods are a joy to discover on foot and you can always hail a tuk-tuk if the kids decide that they’ve had enough! 

Click here for the best family hotels in Lisbon

17. London, United Kingdom

London is one of my favorite places in the world and you're bound to have a great time with young children. 

Check out the dinosaur skeletons and animated T-Rex in the Natural History Museum and take a boat ride over the Thames.

Watch the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace and marvel at the view from the Sky Garden situated in the Fenchurch Building (one of the famous landmarks in the city center).

Shop at Hamley's, the largest toy shop in the world, ride the London Eye and have a picnic in Greenwich Park. These are just some examples of all the fun stuff there is to do for families in London!

The best way to get around London is by public transportation. So get yourself an Oyster card and hop on the tube to explore this big city full of exciting adventures.

The best part? Kids under 11 travel free! Read more about getting an Oyster card here.

While most historical sites may seem boring to kids, a visit to the Tower of London is guaranteed to make an impression. Check out the Crown Jewels and meet the ravens known as the guardians of the Tower.

Purchase a skip-the-line ticket to the Tower of London & Crown Jewel Exhibition here.

What is the best time to visit London with kids?

While London is a good place to visit regardless of the time of year, I recommend visiting in Spring or Fall.

May and September are my favorite months for a family trip to London. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to bring an umbrella for the (occasional) shower.

London is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and with good reason: with its wonderful parks, lots of free museums and countless family-friendly places to eat it's a city that will keep you and your family occupied for days (if not for weeks).

Click here for the best family hotels in London

18. Madrid, Spain

Sinjana from Backpack & Explore : the Spanish capital  Madrid is one of the most interesting cities to visit in Europe with family.

It will bring to life some of the things which your kids would have only read about in their GK (General Knowledge) books.

Be it the grandeur of the world's largest palace, or the first of the victory arches in Europe (the Alcala gate), there is no dearth of attractive monuments in Madrid.

You can visit the archaeological museum, which is a gem and the most fun way to learn about human history. And if your kids love art there are ample art museums to take them to.

Furthermore, you can enjoy some great family time in the beautiful parks of Madrid. West Park and Retiro Park are among my favorite European parks.

At night you can dine out while watching a flamenco dance show. If time permits you can even add a day trip to the historical city of Toledo.

Click here for the best family hotels in Madrid

19. Munich, Germany

Soumya from Stories by Soumya:  Munich is the capital city of Germany’s largest state Bavaria.

While Bavaria itself is an extremely picturesque destination  as well, its capital is one of the best places in Europe for kids.

Families usually start at the Marienplatz which is home to a number of exciting activities. For example, you can watch a free show of the Rathaus-Glockenspiel, a huge clock that comes to life with a wedding dance and a jousting match every day.

Alternatively, you can climb up the Peters Tower for an amazing view of the city.

? For families with younger kids the hop-on-hop-off bus is comfortable and easy way to see many of the iconic landmarks in Munich without having to walk all day. There are 3 different routes and 16 stops. Check availability here.

If you are looking for your kids to run free, head straight to the Englischer Garden or the opulent grounds of the Nymphenburg Palace. Let your kids run wild while you settle down with a comfortable, German picnic.

Munich also houses the Deutsches Museum , which will keep your child engaged for hours and hours. The museum has a Kid’s kingdom, special guided tours for children, and a huge interactive collection.

Altogether, Munich is definitely one of the best family-friendly cities I've ever been to!

Click here for the best family hotels in Munich

20. Nantes, France

Elisa from World in Paris: if you are wondering where to go in Europe with kids, consider visiting Nantes, a beautiful city in France.

The former capital city of Brittany is located by the Loire River and at only two hours from Paris by TGV train.

Nantes is Jules Verne’s hometown and the city inherited his adventurous character and creativity.

You can start your Nantes exploration by visiting his museum, with several short videos and activities designed especially for kids.

The city is best known for its industrial past, it's also home to the biggest shipyards in the country.

Today the former shipyards host  Les Machines de l’Ile de Nantes , a group of unusual and quirky machines loved by kids and adults alike.

Families can wander around the island on a giant elephant or take a ride on the carousel of Sea World, populated by fantastic creatures. Or they can check the newest machines created to populate the future giant the Heron Tree.

Finally, don’t miss Nantes’ delicious crêpes and galettes, after all, you are in Brittany! Also, there are many yummy cakes like “le Gateau Nantais” or “the Kouign Amann”.

Click here for the best family hotels in Nantes

21. Nice, France

Alex from  Laska Baby Travel : Nice la Bella undoubtedly is the shining star of the Azure coast. A vibrant cosmopolitan city with a stunning coastline, parks, and cafes.

Nice makes a great base for exploring with children!

From Nice, you can easily go day-tripping across the Rivera because it's well connected to the rest of the Coast and the Alps Hinterlands.

Nice was one of our favorite places in France. We enjoyed a day on a beach, while our children played in the gentle waves of the Mediterranean sea.

Strolling along the Promenade des Anglais (you can also rent bikes, roller-skates, or skateboards here) towards the Port of Nice is also highly recommended.

Don't forget to pay a visit to the Old Town, nestled on the top of the hill, with amazing views overlooking the coast.

Nice is easy to explore on foot, even with small children. Kids will love Parc Phoenix, a large green area with playgrounds, greenhouses, and animals.

For older children, there are Adventure Parks (with obstacle courses and zip lines) located around the Riviera.

In addition, French cuisine is great for the whole family, so why not take a cooking class? Children as young as 3 years old can participate!

For those planning a family tour to France , definitely add Nice to your itinerary as it's one of the most child-friendly cities in Europe!

Click here for the best family hotels in Nice

22. Paris, France

Rim from Curious and Geeks : The French capital is one of the most visited cities in the world and has an incredible amount of activities to offer.

Surprisingly, it's also one of the most child-friendly European cities! Be it cultural visits, playful activities, excursions, or macaroon testing, your kids will love Paris.

If you only have a couple of days to visit, be sure to ride the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower , the kids will be amazed by its height.

Then head to the Luxembourg Gardens and let your kids test out their skills with model sailing boats, enjoy a carousel ride, or admire the statues. 

A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without a museum visit. Choose the Louvre if your kids are into art and history or the National History Museum if they prefer animals!

Take a subway to la Villette and let them explore the fascinating Science Universe. 

For a relaxed way to see some of the most beautiful sights in Paris, hop aboard this family friendly cruise on the Seine. Children and adults alike will discover all the secrets of Paris during this one-hour cruise.

Finally, if you've got more time to spend in this beautiful city, day trips to Versailles and Disneyland Paris  are an amazing addition to every Paris trip with kids.

Click here for the best family hotels in Paris

23. Porto, Portugal

James from the Portugalist : Porto may be a great destination for boutique hotels and boozy Port-tasting sessions, but it’s a surprisingly good destination for families as well.

It’s within easy reach of the beach, which is perfect for families visiting Porto during the summer. Plus, there are lots of things in Porto City Center that are worth seeing and doing as well!

There is no shortage of great accommodation options, including some  hotels that really are family-friendly . 

And did you know that J. K. Rowling lived in Porto, and was undeniably inspired by a lot of the city’s architecture and culture?

If your kids are Harry Potter fans, then taking them on a tour around all those Harry Potter landmarks (like Livraria Lello and the Majestic Cafe) is an absolute must.

While you’re out and about, be sure to check out the city’s fabulous street art as well, this is always a winner with kids. 

Or hop on a “Six Bridges” river cruise down the Douro River and enjoy fantastic views of the Foz do Douro.

As well as Harry Potter landmarks and street art, Porto also has several museums that are great for families.

Two family-friendly museums in Porto are the Museu do Carro Electrico (tram museum) and the World of Discoveries museum , which showcases the adventurous Portuguese age of discoveries. 

Whatever you decide to do, Porto is an incredibly beautiful city and one that you and your family will remember for many years to come.  

Click here for the best family hotels in Porto

24. Prague, Czech Republic

Melissa from Parenthood and Passports : Prague in the Czech Republic is a Central European gem and one of our favorite family-friendly cities in Europe.

Many restaurants, businesses, and other establishments in Prague welcome families traveling with kids. Some even offer special play areas to keep children entertained while parents dine or shop.

Throughout the city, you’ll find lovely parks and unique outdoor spaces that provide little ones enough space to roam, run and burn energy.

Adults will want to visit popular places like Old Town Prague, Astronomical Clock , and the Charles Bridge for their picturesque qualities and historic charm.

Children will also enjoy these areas for the lively atmosphere created, in part, by funny street performers and entertainers.

If you’re traveling to Prague with older children or teens the famous John Lennon Wall is a must-visit attraction. The iconic wall has become a colorful international symbol of hope, love, and world peace.

Purchase an inexpensive can of spray paint and let your child leave an inspiring message for future visitors to read. It is a great way to encourage conversation about both past and current world events.

Finally, people of all ages will enjoy wandering the cobblestone streets while savoring a Trdlnik. This heavenly cylinder-shaped dessert is cooked over a warm oven and covered in sugar.

Rest assured, the delicious, doughy treat will bring out the kid in everyone!

Click here for the best family hotels in Prague

25. Rome, Italy

Marta from Learning Escapes : we love family city breaks in Europe but there is no city we love exploring more with our kids than Rome.

The Eternal City is special for visitors and particularly impressive for little ones and their parents: here they find endless opportunities for sightseeing and copious amounts of Pizza and gelato, likely to be a hit with very young travelers!

In terms of sights, these famous attractions in Rome are suitable for all ages:

• The Colosseum: with its immense size and gladiator stories it never fails to impress children. Click here to purchase a priority access ticket to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
• St. Peter’s Square: this is often mentioned by our kids as a highlight, crossing an international border on foot is not something they do every day! Check this skip-the-line Vatican and Sistine Chapel tour .

As well as important historical landmarks, Rome offers its visitors large green spaces and cool play areas.

On a sunny day, large inner-city parks such as Villa Borghese offer refuge from the traffic with playgrounds, a large pond, and the Rome Zoo.

If rain hits, kids and adults can stay dry in Explora , Rome’s children's museum with attractions suitable for babies (they have a soft play area for under 3 years) to teenagers. 

Rome truly is great for families, in all seasons!

Click here for the best family hotels in Rome

26. Salzburg, Austria

Vrushali from Couple of Journeys : one destination that is ideal for your trip to West Europe with kids is Salzburg. Places that kids particularly enjoy in this culturally rich city are: 

Hohensalzburg Fortress

One needs to take a funicular to travel to the top of this Hohensalzburg Fortress .

Kids find the short journey particularly amusing and because the frequency of the funicular is fantastic, parents don’t have to wait with impatient kids in long queues.

The fort offers breathtaking views of Salzburg. The museums on the Fortress also provide educational value to the inquisitive minds of young kids.

? Save money with the Salzburg Card Get free access to all of the top sights and attractions in and around Salzburg, as well as unlimited use of public transportatio, and lots of additional discounts and perks at locations across the city. Get your Salzburg Card here.

Hellbrunn Palace 

The unique trick fountains of this palace were designed by its owner to have some fun with his guests. The fountains are operational all through the summer and will surely amuse your kids.

The open lawn area next to the palace is ideal for an open-air picnic lunch. Next to the palace area, is the famous Salzburg Zoo where kids get to see a great variety of animals from various regions of the world.

Mozart Residence

Kids, even though uninitiated to western classical music, can’t help but admire the many different musical instruments kept here.

That Mozart was a child prodigy himself proves to be an added source of inspiration for kids. 

The Sound of Music

Salzburg is the city of the timeless classic ‘The Sound of Music’. Kids who have watched the movie are always elated when they get to visi t the locations where the movie was shot .

Altogether Salzburg is a great city for kids  and definitely worth a family visit!

Click here for the best family hotels in Salzburg

27. Seville, Spain

Katy from Untold Morsels : Seville in the Andalusia region of southern Spain is a fun European city for a family escape.

Lonely Planet nominated the city as the best place to visit in 2018 for good reason.

This is a city with culture, delicious tapas, modern and ancient architecture, parks, and much more. Seville has a pedestrianized old town and wide squares that are perfect for wandering with kids.

The most famous of these, the Plaza de España, is a riot of colorful tiles and fountains sure to capture your children’s imaginations.

Walk through the adjacent park and along the Guadalquivir river from where Christopher Columbus set sail for the new world. You can also visit his tomb in the city’s famous cathedral. 

Eating is fun in Seville. The best thing to do is snack your way around the tapas bars of the city that welcome children of all ages.

Don’t forget to try the churros dipped in hot chocolate. Then soak up the culture and enjoy the city’s flamenco heritage.

You will find street performances on street corners and in plazas. Or, for a real treat, take the family to the short and fiery shows at the Flamenco Museum .

Click here for the best family hotels in Seville

28. Sibiu, Romania

Anda from  Travel Notes & Beyond : Romania is one of the most overlooked countries in Europe. However, those who venture here are surprised to discover how beautiful this country really is.

The more famous part of Romania is Transylvania, a region blessed with amazing natural beauty and charming medieval towns. 

One of these is the city of Sibiu, which dates back to the Middle Ages. Sibiu has one of the most authentic and well-preserved historic centers in all of Europe. 

Sibiu is a pedestrian-friendly city, therefore it's very easy to explore with kids.

The upper town is home to most of the city's historic sites, like the Brukenthal Palace, the Catholic Church, the Generals’ House, and the Bridge of Lies.

Also, three of Sibiu's beautiful squares are in this part of town (Huet, Kleiner Ring, Grosser Ring). Meanwhile, the lower town has a succession of smaller squares surrounded by very colorful houses. 

There is a labyrinth of narrow streets, steps, and covered passages that connect the upper and the lower town. Going up and down these stairs is always fun for the children.

Another fun attraction for kids in Old Town Sibiu is climbing up the Council Tower for a birds-eye view of the area around.

Click here for the best family hotels in Sibiu

29. Tallinn, Estonia

Amy from Family Globetrotters : Tallinn is not usually the number one choice for family travel, which therefore makes it a little gem for an East European getaway.

Most people make the mistake of making their visit to Tallinn too short and feel that a day trip across the Baltic Sea from Helsinki is enough.

However, if you've got time available, spend at least 2-3 days here with your family and explore this beautifully interwoven culture of the medieval and the contemporary.

Known as the most beautiful Old Town in all of Europe, this historic town center is a UNESCO Heritage Site. The kids will feel as if they have stepped back in time or into a movie set as they trample across the cobblestone streets.

They will discover a realm of castles dating back to the 13th century, old Gothic buildings, and traditionally clad folk in restaurants and open stalls.

The lookout from Toompea Hill is a must-visit and ice skating in the open-air Harju ice rink in the winter is an awesome activity for the whole family.

You can also check out the Kalev Spa Waterpark, Nõmme Adventure Park, the puppet museum with the “Cellar of Horrors” and the Estonian Open-Air Museum.

For the little kids, hop on the City Train that meanders through the street of the Old Town.

So, if you’re ever near the northern back of Europe, do add the eclectic city of Tallinn to your itinerary. It remains one of our favorite holiday destinations for families!

Click here for the best family hotels in Tallinn

30. Tbilisi, Georgia

Rahma from The Sane Adventurer :  Tbilisi is the capital city of Georgia and is located in Eastern Europe. It's an old cobbled-street city giving the perfect vibe of vintage European architecture.

Surrounded by hills, Tbilisi is home to the famous Sulphur baths and one of the largest churches in Eastern Europe: the Holy Trinity Church.

Infused with a long history of war and a successful Kingdom rule, which made Tbilisi what it is today, the city is also an ideal place to visit with your family.

There is a lot of history to be learned. From the Soviet war-torn museums on the outskirts of the city to the history of the emergence of Christianity and the Soviet war, Tbilisi has a lot to offer to the curious traveler.

It also holds a unique intercultural diversity due to its link with the Arabs and the Ottoman Empire.

With tourism and infrastructure currently booming in the city, Tbilisi holds a huge potential to become an ideal tourist destination in the near future. Be sure to plan a family trip here before that happens;-).

Click here for the best family hotels in T bilisi

31. Valencia, Spain

Jason from An Epic Education : when people plan a trip to Spain, places like Barcelona and Madrid come to mind first.

That’s okay with Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city. It doesn’t mind being out of the spotlight. After all, it has plenty of sunshine as it is.

Sitting on the Mediterranean, Valencia is sunny year-round, with loads of fun things to do with kids.

Let's start at Turia Gardens, a nine-kilometer strip of green built into a diverted riverbed. Here you’ll find playgrounds, bike rentals, museums, and sports fields.

On the western end of the gardens is Bioparc, one of Europe’s best zoos. On the eastern side is the City of Arts and Sciences .

This futuristic squadron of white buildings houses a science museum, a planetarium, and an opera house. Next door is the largest aquarium in Europe.

A few minutes drive south of the aquarium and you arrive at the Al Bufera nature reserve and the home of paella.

It's here where the rice for Valencia’s most famous export is grown. Yet it's also a resting point for thousands of migratory birds each year: from ducks to flamingos.

This is just a primer for all Valencia has in store. Throw in the amazing traditional festivals and countless excellent restaurants, and you have everything you need for one of the best family vacations you'll ever experience!

Click here for the best family hotels in Valencia

32. Venice, Italy

Catherine from We Go With Kids : our family loved our two-day visit to Venice . We arrived via Thello night train from Paris, which was our kids' favorite sleepover party, ever.

We took the Vaporetto (Venice water bus) to St. Mark’s Square and walked to our Airbnb. After dropping off our bags we explored Venice on foot for two days.

We visited St. Mark's and were wowed by Byzantine architecture, particularly the gold mosaics. My daughter loved chasing pigeons in St. Mark's Square. 

Doge’s Palace gave us a glimpse into the lives of Venice’s government leaders and felons and also some stunning Renaissance art and Venetian Gothic architecture. 

✨ Book this tour with an expert guide to skip the long lines at Doge’s Palace and get stunning views of Venice from the terrace of St. Mark’s Basilica. Check availability .

We also enjoyed wandering through the narrow pedestrian streets and then following the signs back to St. Mark’s.

But, the highlight of our time in Venice was the gondola ride that took us through Venice's beautiful canals. Venice was a magical city like no other we’ve visited!

Click here for the best family hotels in Venice

33. Vienna, Austria 

Linda from Travel Tyrol : there are many reasons why Vienna, the capital of Austria, is one of the best cities to visit in Europe with kids.

After all, how can the place that was named the best city to live in nine years in a row not be kid-friendly?

? Spending a couple of days in Vienna? Get a Vienna PASS , an all-inclusive sightseeing card that gives you free admission to many attractions and unlimited hop-on hop-off bus rides.

Did you know that Vienna is home to the world's oldest zoo (Schönbrunn Zoo) as well as the world's oldest amusement park (Prater Park)? Both destinations are great hits with kids!

The Children's Museum at Schönbrunn Palace is highly worth visiting, especially with this private skip-the-line tour with roundtrip transportation .

At the Children's Museum, kids can learn about the everyday life of the imperial family and even play with toys from the past.

But they’re only three of the seemingly endless variety of things to do in Vienna with kids . Viennese museums all cater to younger visitors.

Some, like the Vienna Museum of Technology , focus mainly on keeping future engineers and inventors happy. The best part is that entry to this museum, and many others in the city, is entirely free for kids.

Even learning about Viennese history is fun for kids with an underground Vienna Time Travel experience. And it’s one of the safest cities to let kids run wild in one of the many beautiful and clean public parks.

Click here for the best family hotels in Vienna

34. Warsaw, Poland

Maria and Rui from Two Find a Way : Warsaw is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets as well as one of the best places in Europe with kids.

We fell in love with the city during our Erasmus exchange period in Warsaw, but it is also one of the best cities to visit in East Europe with kids.

To add to its stunning Old Town, there are beautiful parks wherever you go. Each one has a special charm and specific areas your kids will love to explore.

The most famous one is the Royal Lazienki, complete with palaces, a beautiful lake, and even a Chinese garden.

Right next to it, you can find the University of Warsaw Botanical Garden, a place where you can learn more about the nature around you.

If you are looking to get out of the center, there are even national parks located on the outskirts of Warsaw.

The capital of Poland is also filled with museums, many of which are new and interactive. We’re sure your whole family will love the Copernicus Science Center, with a stunning rooftop garden. Plus, it's located next to the Vistula river, a perfect area for a (long) walk.

As a bustling European capital, it’s no surprise that Warsaw’s food scene is on the rise. Due to the city’s affordability, it is the perfect place to enjoy food from all over the world.

And of course, don’t forget to indulge in delicious Polish food as well!

Click here for the best family hotels in Warsaw

35. Wroclaw, Poland

Corinne from Reflections Enroute : Wroclaw is a city in western Poland and very easy to get to from many places in Europe, especially cities like Dresden, Berlin, or Prague.

I think it’s the absolute best city for kids anywhere in the world.

Why, you may wonder?  Wroclaw has mini-statues, gnome-sized statues to be exact, set up all over the city. Kids of all ages will enjoy searching for over 300 statues.

We’ve been a couple of times and it’s such a unique place that we continually bring more families to experience it. No longer are there any complaints or whining as you trudge to all the city sights.

Instead, the kids lead the way!

The statues show the gnomes doing everything normal humans would do and since they are often paid for by a business, they will highlight that business, like a pierogi restaurant or ice cream store.

We found gnomes going to the ATM, being a tourist, playing in the symphony, riding motorcycles, and really doing all kinds of things.

The statues aren’t really hidden, but since they are small, some are harder to find than others.

You can buy a map that shows where some of the gnomes are located at the tourist information center, but honestly, it’s more fun to find them on your own.

All children love going on a city gnome hunt; I know I did. If you are going to take your kids to East Europe, Wroclaw is a must-see city. You will want to go back again and again.

Click here for the best family hotels in Wroclaw

Family-friendly European cities: in conclusion

I hope this list has inspired you to visit (some) of the best places for kids in Europe on your next Europe family-friendly vacation, happy travels!

This post was updated in November 2022.

Thursday 15th of December 2022

I have pinned it for future reference! I've wanted to travel to Europe, especially to Paris. But I'm hesitant because I'll be traveling with my 2 children ages 5 and 3. I know how handful it could be but after reading this article, it makes my mind at ease. I am thinking of getting a local guide for museum trips so it's easier and I don't have to think about the tickets getting sold out then we will be wandering the city. Of course, Disneyland will not be missed from our itinerary.

Thanks for reading and I'm happy to hear the post has inspired you to visit Paris with your kids:-) Getting a local guide is a great idea, especially to gain a more in-depth insight into the city as well as the ability to customize your itinerary to meet your family's needs.

Have a great trip and let me know if there's anything I can help with! Lotte

Joanne Gavin

Friday 20th of March 2020

This is a really great article and tons of helpful information!

Saturday 21st of March 2020

Thank you Joanne:-)

Tuesday 4th of February 2020

Splendid post! Thanks for sharing the information and keep up the great work.

Thank you Sarah!

Thursday 16th of January 2020

I also enjoyed myself while I was visiting this kind of places.

Friday 24th of January 2020

That's great!

Friday 13th of December 2019

I must say that Europe is the safest continent on the planet to visit with your family. The crime rate is almost lower in Scandinavian nations and in case of issues, there are local authorities everywhere to help out foreigners.

Yes I agree Europe is a great and generally very safe place to visit as a family!

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The best family holidays in Europe to take in 2024

By Lauren Burvill

A well executed family holiday can be difficult to get right. With adults seeking a rejuvenating escape, and children craving a dynamic adventure; trying to strike the balance can leave either party feeling short-changed and frustrated. Thankfully, there are a number of mesmerising hotels peppered throughout Europe that have mastered the art of family-holidaying. From providing all the practical equipment needed to keep tiny tots happy to creating moments of actual relaxation for exhausted parents, Condé Nast Traveller have selected the most idyllic stays that will satiate the travel-bug in all members of the family.

For more family-friendly stays in Europe, see our related guides:

• The best family friendly hotels in Greece
• The best family friendly hotels in Portugal
• The best family friendly hotels in Mallorca
• The best family friendly hotels in Ibiza
• The best family friendly hotels in Turkey
• The best family friendly hotels in Paris
• The best family ski resorts in Europe

The Peligoni Club

Zakynthos, Greece

You’d have heard the whispers from well-heeled SW families, the fact that a holiday with children can actually be fun and relaxing at The Peligoni Club. It’s because this place has everything you’d ever want for a multi-generational family trip - sprawling, souped-up villas where everyone can have their own rooms, with space to waft and throng around the pool, no set times for breakfast and dinner (you’ll want Villa Kyanos , a five-bedroomed linen-draped, driftwood-bedecked vision of muted, soothing tones with a view so mesmerising, it feels as if it floats above the water). Then there’s the actual club, wrapped in cypress and ancient olives with a laidback, easy-come-easy-go vibe that will see you and your gang realising this is the best break you’ve had in a long time, the little ones doing Nasa obstacle courses at the crèche and teens busily competing on the water and flirting on the pontoon, while you flop on a supersized sunlounger, toes tickling the turquoise Ionian as you peer over your paperback with a glass of the crispest Rosé de Léoube. It’s all so deliciously chilled, with sun-kissed staff catering to your every whim - but do head out to explore the famous shipwreck and eat in local tavernas such as La Storia in the port overlooking the sea, and the club’s sister restaurant, Mikro Nisi, a 15-minute salty-sea-in-the-hair boat ride away, which serves some of the freshest grilled octopus and prawns you’ll ever eat. Annabelle Spranklen

Price: Membership from £185 per person in low season to £525 in high season. Accommodation rates vary, from £620 per week ( Mimi’s B&B ) to £14,500 per week at villa Figari .

Bolzano, Italy

You sense a unique vibe at Sonnwies, an exclusively family-only wellness, ski and farm hotel when you first arrive. Perhaps it’s down to the mutual understanding shared by all the adults-with-hangers-on here. It’s a place for parents who want to enjoy the finer things in life no matter how many boundary-pushing blow-ups their toddlers or teens may have in store, such as the slopes of UNESCO World Heritage Site the Dolomites, organic fine dining and drinking, and luxurious but eco-friendly design. Fortunately, the many creative activities on offer in the phenomenal Kids’ and Babies’ clubs are likely to stop oncoming tantrums in their tracks, from pony rides and alpaca-patting to finding breakfast eggs at the little farm and taking part in productions in the huge theatre. Access to a 900m-long slope and lift comes included, with private ski lessons easily arranged for those aged two-and-a-half and up. Besides the farm fare, wine, fruit and cheese rooms, the daily afternoon tea, cakes and soft-scoop ice cream on tap, Sonnwies’ very highest highlight is its five pools, including a shallow option with cinema screen, speedy, screamy slides and an indoor-outdoor heated pool from which steam dreamily wafts, ideally situated for swimmers to marvel at the snow-capped mountains nearby, or fire-pit come nightfall. Becky Lucas

Price: Family rooms from about £530 per night based on two adults and two children sharing a Double Room on a half-board basis

La Pandilla

Ibiza, Spain

Something about the pool  and  beach combo ticks all the right boxes, so when chic French hotelier Sophie Berdah, of  Paris ’s hip Le Citizen, stumbled across a rough Salinas diamond – formerly Fred’s Finca – she pounced. La Pandilla (‘the gang’, in Spanish) is a clutch of 10 whitewashed casitas clustered around an oval pool just ten minutes from the ice-white slick of Salinas. The creamy, curvaceous casitas sleep from two to 10 (or rent the whole lot and bring 65 mates) and have been designed with extended families in mind and can be as private or as communal as you like. Terraces open onto lush tropical gardens stashed with mango, fig and lemon trees and the pool bar, with its all-day, local-produce menu and roster of visiting DJs, is the heart of the whole affair. The standout at La Pandilla, however, is the cult of creativity – regular workshops range from the artistic to avant-garde, with local experts shipped in to teach theatre, flamenco, knitting, painting, photography, cooking and ceramics in the two stylish studios. If games are more your thing, there are giant quoits and board games by the pool, or else hotfoot it down to Las Salinas itself for sailing, paddleboarding and kayaking for the kids, followed by cocktails and DJs for the grown-ups at newly revived ‘90s beachside icon, Hostal Mar y Sal. Maya Boyd

Price: Doubles from about £170

Hillside Beach Club

Fethiye, Turkey

On a private cove of white sand, lapped by turquoise water and bookended by pine-forested cliffs, Hillside Beach Club is a completely dreamy beach hideaway designed with families in mind. Suites have adjoining rooms with shared terraces; there are six restaurants and bars, three beaches (one adults-only), and two spas, and the whole spot is utterly sublime… but the stand-out is the innovative roster of workshops and events for children and adults, among them BFI screenings, drumming workshops, silk painting, jazz yoga, live music on the beach and on a floating stage, while three kids clubs offer ents as diverse as DJing sessions for tweens, piano lessons for primary schoolers, plus sailing, diving, ebiking and tennis. A great option for only children who can meet new friends easily. Fethiye and all its outdoorsy diversions (hiking, paragliding, diving, ruins) are nearby. Laura Fowler

Price: Family rooms from £998 for three nights

Porto Zante

The promise of a villa that has all the bells and whistles of a hotel is pretty irresistible. The space, yes, the privacy too, but also the bed-making in your wake, the sweeping up of toys and trails of crumbs. So it’s surprising that this tucked-away spot on Zakynthos ’s green east coast, with its nine houses on a hillside above an immaculate bay, remains so under the radar. This is not driftwood, sun-faded, rustic Greece. Rooms are decked out in Armani Casa and Bang & Olufsen, with Bulgari soaps and lotions (and special kids’ versions) in the bathrooms, while outside teak sunbeds shaded by zingy, canary-yellow umbrellas surround each pool (stocked with a menagerie of inflatables plus baby pool seats and armbands). It’s the kind of supremely well-thought-out place that means for once there isn’t more luggage than people travelling. Cots, stairgates, pushchairs, highchairs are already there. Down on the beach are buckets, spades, diggers and wheelbarrows, with pedalos, paddle boards and sea canoes on standby for the energetic. The kids’ club is filled with craft materials and table-football games, and offers treasure hunts, mini zumba classes and smoothie-and-dance parties. In the evening, the lovely Vasiliki Bekioti can babysit while you slip down paths lined with bougainvillaea and giant geranium to Maya, the Asian restaurant with a terrace that juts out over the Ionian. But a restaurant that comes to you is much easier. Course after course can be set up at a white-linen-covered table under the pergola, the baby monitor still in range as you sip buttery Greek Chardonnay. Everything is seamless, in part because the owner is a perfectionist. Are the tempura oysters at Maya just-so crisp? Is the Roots Rakomelo, a honeyed digestif that tastes of Christmas, served at the ideal temperature? Is the sand on the beach swept in perpendicular lines? The answer here appears always to be yes.

Insider Tip: Being a parent is often backbreaking work, so book and have it tended to by masseuse Artemis Karavata in the open-sided spa room.

Price: Villas from about £2000 per night.

Halkidiki, Greece

While Sani Resort as a whole, with its stellar reputation, is a failsafe option for exhausted parents any time between May and October (and even better for those with under-fours who can avoid school holidays), picking which part of the sprawling set-up to stay in is trickier. Look to Porto Sani, tucked away in the lush manicured grounds like a secret hangout. What it lacks in beach frontage it more than makes up for with bobbing-boat views and finger-clicking-quick access to the shops and restaurants of the marina. Following a recent refurb of the hotel – rooms now channel a stripped-back, sun-bleached palette with pale duck-egg blues, abstract seascapes on the walls, and hessian and rattan making an appearance in the sitting rooms. And while that all sounds nerve-rackingly easy for children to trash, this is actually one of the most family-friendly parts of the complex.

Kids go wild for the looping, lagoon-like swimming pools; there is a mass of choice when it comes to rooms (suites, extra bedrooms, interconnecting, with a garden, with a pool); and Annabel Karmel makes a starry appearance on all the menus. The gelateria is a 30-second scoot away, as is a brilliant supermarket for picking up any forgotten essentials – although you’ll find practically everything you need in your room. There is a kind of village vibe here, with children forming little tribes, ordering their own juices from the bar, plotting and planning to go into the kids’ club at the same time. It’s hard to ask for more than that.

Insider Tip: Do pre-book dinner reservations before you even get on the plane. It sounds nuts, but if you want that sunset slot at gorgeous sushi restaurant Katsu or at the pretty taverna Ouzerie in Sani Club, you need to be on the ball.

Price: Doubles from about £295

Paphos, Cyprus

Paphos city and its melee may be moments from Almyra, but you’ll be hard-pressed to drag yourself from the hotel’s family comforts. Every age group is catered for, from the five freshwater pools – including one for kids, heated and partially shaded by a beautiful olive tree, and one sleek adults’-only option, some distance away – to tennis and swimming lessons for the easily bored, and the mighty, multi-spaced kids’ club. Split into groups from four months to teens, it guarantees the most attention-grabbing activities – from rather impressive art projects to exploring the nearby harbour and castle. It comes armed with every piece of kit a young human could possibly need, including the space-saving Baby Go Lightly service (also on offer at Anassa, which is owned by the same family), enabling you to pre-order most paraphernalia ahead, from car seats to swim nappies.

Parents can therefore shoot off stress-free to the adults’-only wellness spa for a spot of sage-smudging, meditation and massage. You actually want to spend time all together? Book an experience: maybe picking and pressing olive oil, or trekking to where Aphrodite met Adonis. The ultimate highlight here, however, is the food. From heavenly sushi and miso cod at cool Japanese-Mediterranean fusion spot Notios, to super-fresh fish and salads served with a serenade at beachside Cypriot restaurant Ouzeri, all dishes are wonderfully distant from nuggets. Somehow this reasonably priced family-owned hotel manages to be laidback enough for rambunctious crews, yet smart enough for grown-ups after a real escape.

Insider tip: Book a recently renovated, slick but simple sea-facing Kyma (or ‘wave’) room, and bring the monitor so you can disappear to its iconic white rooftop with a bottle of the local red during naptime. Becky Lucas

Price: Rooms from about £142

One&Only Portonovi

Portonovi, Montenegro

Mountains, pine forests and preserved medieval villages ring the sumptuous, fjord-like Bay of Kotor. More recently, slick superyacht marinas have been popping up along the shore. The latest is Portonovi Village, home to the first European outpost of the glossy One&Only marque that is more often seen on the beaches of Mauritius and the Maldives . It has pulled out all the stops here. Children start the day devouring doughnuts at breakfast before joining the melée at KidsOnly, a club for treasure hunts and telescope making, science labs, and stick-raft building.

Parents lurk by the pool in Chanel beachwear, ordering Veuve Clicquot by 11am. The most health-conscious focus on recalibration in the heavyweight Chenot Espace, which offers medical-grade diagnostics and transformative treatments from wellness pioneer Henri Chenot. While the Chenot diet is legendary, and effective, it would be a shame to miss out on all the other sensational food (and perhaps foolish to attempt a detox on a family holiday). Sabia turns out the best Italian dishes this side of the Adriatic – don’t skip pizza-making in the kitchen. In summer, the kids’ club is open for movie nights on request, meaning parents can slip off to sushi suppers at the Tapasake Club. It’s not often that indulgence can be this family-friendly.

Price Doubles from about £315

Paul Richardson

CNT Editors

Arati Menon

Olivia Morelli

Sicily, Italy

An evergreen beachside hangout, this hotel in Sicily was a labour of love for Rocco Forte and his sister Olga Polizzi when it opened more than a decade ago on the south-west coast. The huge estate between the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the fishing village of Sciacca remains as slick as ever. Its architecture, a pared-back, modernist affair, has stood the test of time, the whitewashed buildings sitting strong in the rugged landscape dotted with olive groves and fragrant citrus trees. New this summer are 20 Hollywood Hills-style villas with private pools, and while they might look terribly grown-up, with earthy tones of terracotta and ochre and handcrafted ceramics, they come kitted out with night lights, safety plugs, baby baths and other crucial paraphernalia. The whole place is subtly but deftly geared towards the smaller members of the family.

Fussy eaters won’t have anything to complain about, feasting on spaghetti al pomodoro on colourful, unsmashable plates at Liolà trattoria. Food miles are minimal – the fish at all four restaurants is fresh from the sea. Extra energy is burnt off in the sports clubs where professionals train in everything from football to windsurfing, on the tennis courts, dive-bombing into the indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and cycling around the 230-hectare grounds, which are flat enough to navigate with a buggy. The kids’ club is full of singing-and-dancing Sicilian Mary Poppins organising fun and games. Toddlers can take naps in a cool sleep room while parents have theirs under the parasols on the sandy beach or on a treatment bed in the state-of-the-art spa. Smart, easy to get to and high-octane, this may be where Diane von Furstenberg, Leonardo DiCaprio and Bradley Cooper come to attend Google Camp, but it’s also a laidback refuge for those looking for some vitamin D-fuelled downtime and to feel the sea breeze on the whole family’s skin.

Insider Tip: Carve out at least a few wellness-focused hours – the spa is quietly up there with the very best in Italy . Alongside serious results-driven programmes Rocco’s daughter Irene Forte has created a menu of facials using her own natural skincare line made with olive oil, nuts and herbs grown on Verdura’s farm.

Price: Doubles from about £385

Andronis Arcadia

Santorini, Greece

Much of the whitewashed hotels on Santorini are confined to honeymoon-worthy adult-only stays, which is why Andronis Arcadia – one of five Andronis properties on the island – is a real find for families. There's no scrimping regarding swoon-worthy good looks – suites here retain the island's authenticity, with bright-white-meets-earthy-neutral interiors composed as if they've been carved out of the rock itself. With only suites and villas, there's room for the whole crew – the largest villa sleeps up to 12. All open out onto private infinity pools. There are three more sweeping pools on the property (including one for kids) to choose from, each cascading down the caldera and offering a unique perspective. Activities for tinies are in keeping with the hotel's nature-loving ethos – yoga, family cooking classes and a kid's club with a considered focus on holistic learning. Dining options include the Pacman Sunset Restaurant, where the sushi menu is a standout, and the Beef Bar, which, as the name suggests, specialises in carnivorous street food, plus a decent selection of vegetarian options. The staff here are what really brings the magic to life, though. Ever accommodating, especially to our son, knowledgeable and passionate about making your stay peaceful and personal. Tanya Fernandes

Saint-Tropez, France

The hedonistic charms in this part of France are particularly famous, and this glorious Saint Tropez hotel offers the perfect invitation to flop beneath olive trees amid the soothing peace of a 30-acre estate away from the main event. The fairy-tale château, the latest Mediterranean opening from the group behind Le Grand Contrôle in Versailles, is all turrets and cupolas with a sun-blazed ochre façade.

The suites spoil with sea or pool views, Ralph Lauren homewares and citrus products from Parisian perfumer Blaise Mautin. Creative dining panders to every tantrum and tiredness level: Italian in the Carrara bistro, real McCoy Provençal at the Thirties L’Auberge des Maures (which moved here from downtown St Tropez last year) or pan-Asian at Nobu-partnered Matsuhisa (kudos for the DJ and itinerant magician). Seafood and cocktails with lavender, thyme and other local herbs seduce guests in the superlative beach club on A-lister Plage de Pampelonne. But where are all les enfants? Having a ball at the kids’ club extraordinaire, a palatial villa with activity rooms (Lego kingdom, arcade games, art studio, pottery workshop, cinema, you name it), trampolines, tennis courts, a treehouse, pirate-ship playground and smart outdoor pool.

Price: Doubles from about £361

Puente Romano Beach Resort

Marbella, Spain

Wander out to the balcony around sunrise and beyond the bougainvillaea and ceiba flowers rustling in the breeze you’ll hear the Mediterranean rolling in. Built like a traditional Andalucian village with whitewashed walls, sky-blue ceramic tiles and winding terracotta pathways, Puente Romano opened in the late 1970s just down the Golden Mile from its older sister The Marbella Club. And after a series of refurbishments and embellishments – including a Six Senses spa, Nobu outpost and turbo-charged tennis club where Marko Djokovic (Novak's brother) is available for children’s coaching – it may even have the edge now. That's not to mention La Casita Club, a villa renovated and relaunched in 2022 to cater for five to 12-year-olds, offering events run by experts Sharky and George, an immersive escape room, cinema, Spanish lessons, pool and rooftop yoga classes. It joins the mini club for under fives and teen lounge, where adolescents can learn to DJ at the nightclub, take a sushi masterclass with Nobu’s Executive Chef Eleni Manousou or choreograph their own TikTok. While most of the best hotels in Marbella shout about their seclusion, this hotel is firmly rooted as a local hub – there will be a gang of cocktail-sipping marbellís and weekending madrileño couples strolling on the silver-sand beach. It is a busy machine of a place veiled as a laidback hangout.

Dawn beach yoga gives way to lazy breakfasts of mushroom omelettes, just-cut jamón and freshly squeezed orange juice at Bali -feel Sea Grill before a dip in one of the pools. The spa gets crazy booked up for its new CBD-based treatments (due to its new partnership with leading CBD brand Kloris), as do martial-arts sessions in the gym (the wellness and fitness programme is ever-changing). In the evening, as the sky swirls dusty pink, everyone gathers by the first-century Roman bridge at buzzy La Plaza. Punchy chilli-coconut Mojitos do the rounds; superstar Dani García’s team delivers wood-fired tapas, succulent steaks and now French dishes from his latest restaurant addition, Babette; and Nobu chef Eleni Manousou works magic with market-fresh produce in spinach and miso salads or spicy salmon maki. The sun-baked Costa del Sol sometimes gets short shrift, but for an all-singing, all-dancing, everything-at-your- fingertips break, this is about as reliable as it gets.

Insider tip: The surrounding landscape is spectacular: hike into the wild Sierra Blanca mountains, or escape to the deliciously quiet Sierra de las Nieves, set to become Spain’s 16th national park. It’s also perfectly placed for adventures around Andalucía – head to olive-growing Ronda, beachy barefoot Tarifa or arty Málaga.

Price: Junior Suites at Puente Romano Beach Resort start from about £351 per night for a family of three (two adults and one child aged four to 12-years-old), with breakfast included

Tuscany, Italy

“There will be wolves,” was all the incentive needed to stir enthusiasm in my perma-wired boys, aged 10 and 13, for a few nights at Oasyhotel, a new collection of sixteen Scandinavian-inspired wooden lodges perched 3,600 feet up a mountain in the Tuscan Apennines. As we sat around a campfire on our first evening, mesmerised by the crystal-clear sky, the wolves felt tantalisingly close, even if seeing these elusive animals in daylight is rare. Wolves spotted: zero, but the deep nature immersion had a magnetic pull regardless. The entire site is a World Wide Fund for Nature reserve, with regenerative principles at its core, so wildlife, including deer, wild boar and foxes, roams free. But the real magic was the thrill of whizzing up and down mountain trails at speed: we were kitted out with electric bikes on arrival.

This former hunting estate is set in more than 2,470 acres of wild-flower meadows and beech and pine forests. We visited in deepest autumn, but in the summer a lake offers swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking. For grateful parents, there is yoga and an on-site spa offering transportative massages. And for kids, the young and utterly charming staff brought a relaxed and fun energy, even during the swanky dinners in Le Felci, one of two restaurants. The ecological ethos extends to the food: 70 per cent of the produce used at the hotel comes from the mountain, so breakfast included the estate’s own organic yoghurts, cheeses, jams and juices, while dinners were mostly rich, hearty and meaty Tuscan dishes of pork, rabbit and beef. The younger and pickier guests among us were plied with fantastic burgers, cotoletta cutlets and fries on repeat. Less popular with my snowflakes was a morning spent making caciotta cheese in the dairy (my idea of heaven), but feeding the farm’s Limousin cattle next door distracted them. It’s hard to imagine cows having this transfixing effect at home, but on the mountain, nature wove its magic. Clare Coulson

Price: Doubles from £370

Praia do Canal

Aljezur, Portugal

You’ll find Praia do Canal where the drama of the Atlantic pounds limestone cliffs and surfers dot the waves. This is Portugal’s wild west coast , and the resort sits just inland on its own 500 acres, in a protected spot with scope for exploring. Praia do Canal’s particular beauty lies in its privileged sense of space. There are paths to follow through the forest; bicycles to ride down bumpy tracks to a pebbled beach; and expanses of verdant lawns beyond the seemingly never-ending infinity pool.

The subtle kasbah aesthetic that pervades the airy, modern and somewhat minimalist rooms is a nod to the Algarve’s Moorish heritage. Two-bedroom family suites lead to lawns inset with private pools so parents can keep a close eye on splashing children. Regional dishes such as codfish and chickpea purée and veal with sweet-potato chips blend vague familiarity with new tastes for young palates (or there’s always wood-fired pizzas), while local products are to the fore for parents: cheeses from Odemira, Serpa and Evora; the black pork of Barrancos and Estremoz; fish from the sea at the end of the gardens.

Cocktails made with fruit from a strawberry tree at the Medronho Bar and an Elemis-stocked spa with glass walls that appear to melt into the leafy landscape complete the parent-pleasing picture. All together, this is one of the best family hotels in Portugal .

Price: Doubles from about £155

Kimpton Aysla Mallorca

Mallorca, Spain

One of Aysla’s key attractions isn’t mentioned on the website or by the concierge. Each morning, on the golf driving range adjoining the Mallorca hotel , a teenager trundles a buggy up and down, arms outstretched to scoop up golf balls. The Pac-Man-esque diligence becomes a daily fixture for me and my son, watching from the balcony sunbeds. “Yes,” we agree, “that would be an excellent job to have.” We’re on the southern side of Mallorca here, but not directly on the coast; instead tucked away on a residential hillside enclave beloved of local families, with the busy sands of Santa Ponsa just five minutes’ drive away. Aysla is American group Kimpton’s debut opening in Spain , and the branding is subtle: designed by Mallorcan architect Guillermo Reynés, both the main hub (in the former hacienda-style golf club) and the clean-cut, modernist bedroom wing act as showcases for the island’s artisans.

Hammock chairs and bulbous ceramics here, geometric tiles and woven lampshades there, and a curiously feminine installation with layers of silk like an oyster shell sitting above the check-in desk. Outside, little paths wind past pomegranate and olive trees, punctuated by wicker seats and benches so that, at night, the garden resembles a fairy grotto. You can venture out on the hotel’s e-bikes to experience the cheap thrills of Santa Ponsa and the smart marina at Puerto Portals, where there’s a quieter beach, but mainly this is a place to lie back and let the island do its thing. Aysla opened last autumn, and this season will bring T-shirt-painting and ceramics sessions, along with a Mediterranean grill, though the Asian restaurant is great for sushi-curious teens (there are seats at the counter where we watch chefs slice tuna and stir-fry bibimbap). We’ve never been to a small hotel with so many pools – two outside and one inside – which we hop between like Burt Lancaster in The Swimmer, playing skimball and reading books in our cabana. Surprisingly for Mallorca , the island where modern tourism was invented, there are few other resorts open year-round, making this a no-brainer for quick-fix, out-of-season holidays. Rick Jordan

Price: Doubles from £250

Elix, part of Mar-Bella Collection

Igoumenitsa, Greece

You should choose to arrive at Elix by private boat transfer from Corfu . Even the surliest adolescent will be exhilarated by the Mediterranean breeze, the coves and caves and secluded beaches. Like a hidden Bond villain’s lair, the hotel, opened in 2021, emerges from the pine-covered hillside, with a funicular running down to the cream-coloured sands of Karavostasi beach. In another life, this was a favourite hangout of German campervanners. Today it’s one of the best beach hotels in Europe , home to inviting sunbeds and a slick beach restaurant and bar, Azure.

Helping to cut down the list of what to pack when travelling with a baby , the hotel provides strollers and baby monitors, plus has a well-stocked shop and heated and shaded children’s pool. The hotel draws on its surroundings, with complimentary sailing tasters and snorkelling around underwater meadows, hiking, yoga and mountain biking on land. A London creative events company organises everything from star gazing to Greek mythology games for children come summer. Choose from nine family-room options, some with panoramic private pools or two storeys – all of them, like the rest of the hotel, comfortable but super smart; beachy but beautifully pared back. Becky Lucas

Ikos Andalusia

Málaga, Spain

As you cycle along the boardwalk that leads to Estepona, it’s fun to peek over walls at the other hotels and villas – a Malibu-like jumble of architectural styles that track Marbella ’s evolution. Ikos arrived in 2021 with a fresh approach and an aquatic symmetry – buildings are set either side of four main swimming pools, leading down to the beach – that would have the designers of the Alhambra tipping their hat. Dolphin inflatables and pool-side rosé appear throughout the day, the day’s newsletter perused – aqua aerobics at 9am, perhaps, with football for teens before lunch.

This is the brand’s first hotel outside Greece, but it’s the smartest, an Ibizan-style chiringuito writ large in white walls, rattan and straw lampshades. Ikos’s great idea was to redefine the all-inclusive concept for those who’d never normally consider it. Room service and bottles of Taittinger are covered, as is a round of golf if desired, and there’s an urban buzz to the many restaurants, mostly devised by Michelin-grade chefs (try the Spanish and Greek first), and bars (cocktails by Shoreditch-based Marian Beke). What’s more, guests are encouraged to connect with the region. A day’s Mini Cooper rental is thrown in and the all-inclusive perks are extended to local restaurants, meaning you never feel hemmed in. The only downside is the Melissa Odabash kaftans in the pool shop are not included.

Price: Garden view room (sleeps 4), from £1,082 per night all inclusive. Minimum 5 night stay.

Anassa is supremely beautiful. A glossy supermodel of an estate and one of the best hotels in Cyprus , it cascades down the Paphos hillside like flowing golden Champagne, a mirage of effortlessly chic, traditional white buildings with blue shutters and terracotta roofs, manicured gardens and gently swaying trees, infinity pools, lush lawns and cappuccino-shade sands. But your kid doesn’t care about any of that. What they do care about is the daily breakfast and supper banquets, where tribes of children dart excitedly between buffet tables, wondering how long they have to wait before they can hit the spectacular spread of kids’ puddings (so good the adults go in for its ice cream with all the toppings too). They care about the toys magicked up on the beach, the zoo trips, pottery lessons and baking at the excellent kids’ club open to babies from just four months, or the self-captained boat trips they can paddle off on (along with their adults), out into the serene, memory-forming Mediterranean blue.

Parents, meanwhile, are passionate about the hotel’s suitcase-saving Baby Go Lightly service, which ensures all holiday-changing essentials, from baby wipes to buggies, are on-hand upon arrival, the early restaurant sittings, evening kids’ activities and babysitting options. It’s no wonder so many families return year after year to this now decades’-old dream of a destination, until one generation slides into another. By Becky Lucas

Price: Rooms from about £450

Cretan Malia Park

Crete, Greece

A considered boho revamp has given this classic Crete hotel on the north-east shore of the island a second wind. Opened by the Sbokou family in the 1980s, with low-rise buildings set in tropical gardens of banana trees, palms and cacti, it is now drawing in a curious Euro crowd. On the private beach, Italian couples kick back and sunbathe, a bookish Parisian flicks through the latest Prix Goncourt-winning novel and a group of Germans order a round of Negronis. Little ones come out of the kids’ club giggling before splashing into the river-like swimming pool, racing for the pink-flamingo and crocodile inflatables. Teens hang out at The Place, with its hammock-strung outdoor cinema where parents are kindly invited not to come. The modernist spaces were cleverly designed more than three decades ago – despite having 204 rooms the property never feels overcrowded. Nature envelops it all: the many trees provide shade throughout the grounds and the grassy lawn makes everything smell cool and fresh even in the searing summer heat.

When Agapi and Costantza Sbokou undertook the complete renovation in 2019, they focused on sustainability and the Cretan soul of the place. Designer Vana Pernari opted for knocked-back tonal textures for the interiors with lots of ceramics, wood and stone, plus nature-inspired jungle green and Aegean blue alongside works by urban artists Thanassis and Dimitris Kretsis. Make a beeline for the deluxe family bungalows – with their built-in bunks and separate bedrooms for the grown-ups, they get snapped up early. At Mouries restaurant, the large open kitchen with a huge fireplace hosts cooking lessons using vegetables from the garden during the day and becomes a farm-to-table taverna after sunset. It’s lovely to feast on local flavours under the starry sky listening to the sound of the lyre. This is definitely an elegant new look for Malia.

Insider tip: Take your little Robinson Crusoes out to discover the secret gorges of Sarakina or trace the path of Victoria Hislop’s bestseller The Island , set on Spinalonga.

Price: Junior suites (sleeping 4) from about £245 per night.

Corfu, Greece

If you tremble at the thought of battling families at a heaving resort of buffets and evening cabaret, this private Greek Island villa experience has all the perks of a hotel with none of the crowds. Nestled in the quiet hillside of North East Corfu ’s undiscovered San Stefano region, the Villa Ines boasts a stunning infinity pool overlooking the Ionian Sea. A short and windy drive down the mountain lands you in a charming fishing village, where cafes serve up plates of fresh seafood and homemade delicacies while the waves lap at your feet.

The villa itself features five modern bedrooms, seven bathrooms and an outhouse – perfect for grandparents – and is ideal for families with older children who don’t need to be watched around the pool, or teenagers looking for the perfect Instagram shot. A chef is on hand to provide breakfast and a main meal from an impressive menu designed for you each day, leaving you and the crew to truly unwind and spend quality time together.

Insider tip: The villa is remote, so for anyone with itchy feet – a rental car to take you to nearby villages and hiking trails is essential.

Prices: From £8,750 per week including a private chef and a cleaning service

Limassol, Cyprus

If you’re the sort of parent who likes to be reminded that you’re still cool, you’ve probably had one beady eye on this hotel opening. Nobu Matsuhisa chose its designers – New York’s Rockwell Group, along with SB Architects and WA Interiors – as one of his conditions before agreeing to open his restaurant, Matsuhisa Limassol, here.

Everything is contemporary and subtly masculine. However, the stylish aesthetic doesn’t render the place child-repellent. The hotel is shrewdly divided into two wings. One is adults-only with a spa. The other, open to families, has a cosy crèche and shiny, well-stocked kids’ club. There are separate infinity-pool areas for grown-ups and children, while baby bathtubs and bottle warmers can be borrowed free of charge. Excellent babysitters can also be arranged should you wish to reclaim your evenings. Amara has two big-gun restaurants: Michelin- grade Ristorante Locatelli, with possibly the best beach views in all of Cyprus, and Nobu’s ultra-cool Japanese-Peruvian outpost. Believe it or not, children are made to feel extremely welcome at both, no matter how much food they may be splattering, with the friendly team happy to cater to any whims. By Becky Lucas

Price: Doubles from about £251

Six Senses Ibiza

The understated, haute-bohemian Six Senses was the most significant Ibiza hotel opening of last year, and it raises the game for the entire Balearics with its legions of staff, immaculate interiors and impossibly cerulean views. Set in the far north, it is not just physically removed from the action, but feels a world away from the posadas that pump out poolside techno. Merging with lush gardens bursting with pomegranate, pomelo and quince trees, the family-friendly junior suites (which can fit up to two children) are prepped with bespoke mid-century-modern furniture to please the adults and a fenced terrace that will contain crawling babies.

While grown-ups are enjoying the contemporary Middle Eastern cooking at the open-air HaSalon or sushi at BondSt, the kids’ club offers the earthy activities one might expect from Six Senses, such as yoga and art made from recycled food, while older children can join apothecary classes where fragrant lotions are mixed from their home-grown herbs, or have a junior reflexology treatment in the spa. Hotel cars are available for safe passage to that first trip to Pacha. No, you are not invited. Just cross your fingers and hold on till dawn.

Price: Doubles from about £300

Ostergotland, Sweden

Ulrika Krynitz and Håkan Strotz have been running a farm here at Odeshög since 1993 and their extraordinary hideaway, three hours east of Gothenburg , is bound up in their love of the environment. Meaning ‘inspired by nature’, the eco -lodge takes you right to the heart of it, with 10 fairy-tale treehouses and turf-roofed wooden huts buried deep in the forest. The handbuilt cabins are cosy and – most importantly – have no electricity. The idea is to embrace a stripped-back existence in all its simplicity: if it’s dark, light a candle; if it’s cold, start the fire. That simplicity is a guiding factor, with composting loos, resident chickens and a complete lack of screens, but that’s not to say this spot isn’t special or delightful. It has all the best elements of nature right here: clear water to swim in, a marked trail lined with wild strawberries, the sound of birds to wake you up. For city dwellers needing a biophilic lift, this is it.

The main clubhouse, where breakfast is served, is a two-minute walk past horse paddocks and sheep pastures. Beyond, Lake Visjö glitters in the early-morning light, waiting to be explored with canoes and paddleboards. The sauna is ready, piping hot, on your return. Vegetarian food is included on a cook-it-yourself basis, much of it grown in the nearby vegetable patch by Krynitz and her gang; local meat, beers and wine are also available. In the evening, a medley of adults stir pots over crackling fires and share cooking tips in the semi-open kitchen barn while children tumble in hammocks and make new friends. Occasional activities might involve Strotz gathering the kids to pick wild cherries or collect eggs, but overall everyone’s free to roam and enjoy the Scandinavian landscape in a relaxed and thoughtful way. It’s a true rewilding experience.

Insider Tip: Swedish midges can be fierce and ticks are prevalent in this part of the country, so pack insect repellent and long-sleeved T-shirts.

Price: Cabins for a family of four from about £232 per night, full board (minimum two nights)

Stari Grad, Croatia

One of last year’s most interesting but under-the-radar openings in the Med is this hideout on the rocky coastline of Hvar . Not one of Dubrovnik ’s grandes dames, or the more barefoot lo-fi hotels that dot the islands, but something in between. The positioning is high end, high level, high expectations, but with a 21st-century spin and sustainability at the forefront. From a distance, the low-rise wood-clad buildings are barely distinguishable from the earthy green of the Aleppo pine and olive trees – natural building materials were integral to architect Tomislav Alujević’s design. Inside, everything is open and minimal: sheer linen curtains divide the lobby and library, and a huge slab of Brać stone makes up the reception desk. Interiors don’t distract from the sea outside; the hypnotically blue swipe of Adriatic is glimpsed through every window. It’s this water you will be drawn to for snorkelling, kayaking and exploring the many swimming spots.

For those happier on dry land, the kids’ club hosts cooking classes and climbing-wall sessions, plus farm tours and tree planting. During the day, everyone pads around in their swimsuits, wandering up from sunbathing decks or the saltwater pool for a long lunch. Local ingredients are given an Asian edge; if the menu begins to feel a little limited after a few days, stroll to town for a hearty supper. There are cycling and trekking routes through lavender fields, as well as wine and olive-oil tastings at nearby producers, but if you’d rather stay horizontal the spa treatments incorporating sound healing and reiki are very good. Come nightfall, the vibe turns sultry; cocktails served in golden glasses, dinner by candlelight. If you’re staying in one of the villas, definitely book the babysitter and room service for the children.

Insider tip: Try guided meditation for the whole family in the organic garden to the soothing soundtrack of cicadas and rolling waves.

Price: Doubles from about £365

The Unbound

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

This is where the cool Dutch crew pop to for a countryside blast, but amazingly it’s only a 30-minute cycle ride from the capital’s central Grachtengordel neighbourhood. Another world appears at the outskirts of Amsterdam -West as the landscape changes from canals, bikes and medieval architecture to green polders, ever-changing widescreen skies and fresh breezes blowing in off the North Sea. At The Unbound young families rent a cabin for the weekend to unwind. Children quickly clamber straight to the natural playground and forget that thing called the iPad ever existed while their parents sink glasses of wine on the sunny deck or nip between the barrel sauna and the dip bath overlooking the pond. Don’t come expecting the pizzazz of Soho Farmhouse – things are pretty relaxed but incredibly comfortable.

The forward-thinking, architect-designed free-standing cabins, made from sustainable European wood, sit on stilts and are linked by boardwalks. Interiors are stylishly pulled together by Studio Pistache, with a vintage Ligne Roset Togo sofa, exclusively designed fabrics and merino-wool blankets. The family-friendly lodges include The Lighthouse, which has its own hot tub, The Barn, modelled on traditional farm buildings, and The Wikkel, partially constructed from cardboard. There is cabin service, which means it’s possible to order in for breakfast, lunch and supper, or pootle to The Daily shop, fully stocked with wine and food, for supplies to bake your own margheritas in the outdoor pizza ovens. But the hub of the place is The Unbound restaurant. Devised by Swiss chef Ralph Schelling, who has worked for big names such as Ferran Adrià and Heston Blumenthal, dishes are inspired by the produce from the organic vegetable fields. Yet there’s no need to dress for dinner. Kick back, relax and no one will bat an eyelid at muddy wellies under the table.

Insider tip: Visit the neighbouring farm, Fruittuin van West, where the bounty of fruit takes pick-your-own to the next level.

Price: Cabins for a family of four from about £225 per night

Les Hortensias Du Lac

Landes, France

Life is sweet on the shores of Lake Hossegor, a few hundred yards from the rollers that draw surfers from around the world to this south-west corner. Both rugged and cool, the Landes region is usurping the nearby Basque Country in the hearts of Parisians. They come here with their children for August holidays to sidestep the chi-chi hotspots of Ile de Ré and Juan-les-Pins, to roam the countryside and have space to plant their parasols on the beach. This classic hotel, tucked into the pines, was taken over and transformed by the Domaines de Fontenille group: after a top-to-toe renovation it now looks like a kind of mid-century-modern Hamptons surf lodge. The restaurant with its bulb-string-lit terrace serves up a sunny menu of pan-fried squid, mussels and hay-roasted chicken.

Bedrooms are light and bright, and downstairs whisky decanters and loose-covered sofas have made way for jute rugs on polished-concrete floors, decorative surfboards stacked in a corner, cane benches and velvet footstools. It feels smart, but also somewhere for wet footprints coming in from the pool or sandy toes from the beach. And the real focus is the sea. The surf clubs that run along La Côte d’Argent offer lessons to everyone from first-timers to near-pros, and there are all sorts of surf competitions and festivals to watch, as well as paddle-boarding on the lake and yoga back at the hotel. A fresh way to tap into the salty-haired vibe of the area, but without the villa hassle of having to cook supper or make the beds.

Insider tip: The hotel rents out electric bikes that are great fun to take on the 25-mile cycle track that runs up to Seignosse, and back round via Capbreton – a top spot to grab a café au lait or fresh juice.

Price: Doubles from about £234

Les Maisons de Campagne

Ile-de-France, France The fairy-tale Château de Villiers-le-Mahieu looks on first appearance like any other obscenely romantic, 17th-century French country house: clipped yew trees, a glassy moat and a portico with pretty turrets peeking out. But inside, the atmosphere is more hip house party with pops of kitsch; industrial-look lighting and wild wallpapers lend style. Here, paying upfront and not sweating the small stuff is done the slick way, designed to appeal to Parisian families for whom it’s just an hour’s journey. Previous creator Guillaume Multrier has form with this variety of fun-luxe, opening the first Folie Douce après-ski hotel in 2019 in Chamonix, where acrobats twirl on rings in the lobby. Though it’s not quite so ‘extra’ here, trampolines on the lawn demonstrate that a similar sense of merry-making pervades. But the focus is on unfussy pleasures: rowing on the moat and borrowing bicycles to explore nearby towns. At the pool, baskets of armbands are one of many thoughtful touches that act as analgesics on stressed parents. Food is of course a self-serve affair, but very nicely done with colourful salads, rich dauphinoise, and dorada sizzled on the barbecue out back. Then, as the shadows lengthen, grown-ups retreat to the pétanque pitch. Everything is chilled, and life is sweet. Insider tip: Babysitting services are available

Price: Doubles from about £277

Bonnelles, France

French country hotels have traditionally tended to be stand-on-ceremony château-grand or heavily upholstered floral-chintz classics. Not places, really, for those prone to tantrums. Which is why this laid-back spot – a cluster of reimagined old barns, like a stripped-back Soho Farmhouse or countrified Hoxton, on the 200-hectare Le Haras de La Cense equestrian estate 40 minutes outside Paris – was such an exciting opening. It seems the boho Marais folk agree: on weekends it’s packed out with couples in matching Ray-Bans soaking in the Nordic baths and Carven-clad parents with artful tattoos chasing toddlers around the lobby. Franco-American owner William Kriegel teamed up with two clever collaborators to make Le Barn’s studied ease so on point: Edouard Daehn of the Marugal hotel group (Cap Rocat, Mallorca ; Gecko, Formentera) and Paris design agency Be-Pôles, which had a hand in The NoMad hotels in New York and LA , and the French Riviera hotel Les Roches Rouges. Rooms have a Shakerist, functional minimalist design: Barbour-fabric curtains, enamel mugs and plates, retro camping chairs. Activities are an all-get-stuck-in affair: bikes with child seats already installed are propped outside the front door, guarded by hotel dog Clark. There’s a rowing boat on the little lake, mini orange life jackets flung over the bench next to it, plus a pirate-and-princess-filled dressing-up box and plenty of paths for rambles through the surrounding forest. Saturdays see more planned events, from mural workshops to archery trials. Naturally, horses are a big part of the action: the smallest riders (from age three) bob along on mini Shetland ponies, and graceful shire horses take the whole gang out for a carriage ride before supper at La Serre greenhouse restaurant. This is the rural good life, with a hefty dose of nonchalant Parisian cool.

Insider Tip: Babysitting can be arranged, but no one bats an eyelid at kids doing sticker books under the table past 10pm.

Price Doubles from about £175

Santa Marina

Mykonos, Greece

Remember announcing pre-parenthood that having children wouldn’t change your holidays? This could be as close as you’ll ever get to realising that statement, without actually leaving the little ones at home. Looking out from the deck of the bar across the water, the DJ’s house music playing discreetly in the background, it feels like you might just have beaten the system. The hotel sums up Greek chic. A family-run classic hideout, it was treated to a full refurbishment a few years ago by the owner, Christiana Papageorgiou. Out went the traditional taupe and in came coral artwork, bamboo furniture, basket lamps and vintage-style travelling trunks. Unlike the town’s party beaches and narrow streets, it is not short on space. Tiny tantrums are easily hidden; there is room to run around. Vast rattan day beds with hoods are great for lunchtime snoozes under super-size beach towels. Lunch is served as early as you want, and there’s a constant stream of fruit smoothies and ice cream by the pool. Forget bringing the buggy: there is a lift to all levels of the estate, which is cut rather impressively into the rocks. There is also a sleek boat that zips around the island to the beach clubs, so no time is wasted on winding roads in Greek taxis. Not that there is any reason to leave. This is the only private stretch of sand on Mykonos , and it’s all yours. Beach attendants are incredibly friendly and attentive, despite the obligatory dark glasses and swagger, and there is no shortage of sunbeds, front row or otherwise. The sceney Buddha-Bar attracts plenty of private yachters coming ashore, so parents more accustomed to spooning lobster spaghetti into kids’ mouths can still get a small hit of the party vibe.

Insider Tip: If you have pre-school children go in September just after the new term has started. The island itself will still be in full flow but it will be much easier to make reservations at beach-club restaurants.

Price Doubles from about £445

Cabu by the Lakes

Co Cavan, Ireland

It is fair to say that this is one of Ireland ’s undiscovered counties. The lake-strewn swathe of countryside always seemed to be on the way to somewhere else. Not so any more – the recent arrival of Cabü by the Lakes has put its tranquil charms firmly on the map. Surrounded by the bosky beauty of the Killykeen Forest Park and overlooking Lough Oughter, this cluster of hipster hideaways embraces the great outdoors with its riff on the rustic retreat. A two-hour drive from both Dublin and Belfast , this is where you will find clued-up Irish families eager to immerse themselves in nature. Its wooden huts, loft and lake houses are dotted among trees and a wildflower meadow, and interiors tap into the cabin-in-the-woods trope with kilims, woollen blankets and vintage botanical prints. There are fully stocked kitchens, wood-burning stoves and barbecues, but also Netflix- enabled TVs and Wi-Fi for rainy days. Children can run wild in the 100-acre, car-free grounds and there is direct access to the hiking and biking trails of the forest park. The jetty by the lake has boats and fishing rods for hire to explore the waterlogged landscape of islands, lakes and channels that teem with swans, ducks and fish. Given the unpredictability of the weather, The Sitooterie is a clever call – an inside-outside space with twinkling fairy lights, cosy blankets, comfy chairs and a blazing fire to keep chills at bay. The snappily curated Cabü Corner sells coffee and groceries, as well as homeware, gifts and books. Drop into the Cabin Club for an Aperol Spritz or eat every meal there, taking advantage of the all-day menu and Argentine-style night-time grills. There are also hot tubs and saunas, or steal into the woods for Japanese -style forest bathing surrounded by the swaying trees. This is a Swallows and Amazons fantasy but with all the frills.

Insider tip: Rent kayaks and paddle out to the romantic Clough Oughter, a ruined 13th-century castle on a tiny artificial island known as a crannóg in the middle of the lake.

Price: Cabins from about £370 for two nights

Casa la Siesta

Cádiz , Spain

Arriving here with children feels akin to smuggling a toddler into a nightclub: very much not the done thing. The hotel is a grown-up hideaway of stepped lawns and terraces, winding paths and olive and citrus trees sunk into a cleft between dusty hills. Tables for two sit beneath draped vines, and garden nooks are set with day beds for afternoon snoozing. In other words, a retreat where wheeling swifts are the only thing dive-bombing the saltwater pool. For a few weeks a year, however, they elbow out the couples to let families in, with activities that stretch from circus skills and mobile-making to trampolining and pool games, all overseen by a tomboyish childcare whizz and her team. There’s an imaginative children’s menu plus all the pool inflatables, bubbles and glitter they could ever want (and someone else to clear it up). Complimentary babysitters will relieve you of your charges for an hour or two so you can drink wine and read a sentence of your book before dozing off in the shade. These weeks are the brainchild of the hotel’s owners, Lee and Amelia Thornley, who run the design studio Bert & May and, being parents themselves, are well-versed in the challenges of family holidays. The nine-room finca has been deliciously restored in a restrained, rustic style, with tactile plaster walls, antique dressers, stone arches, iron balustrades, and airy rooms with balconies and bathtubs. For larger families there’s the new two-bedroom villa, The Stables, set away from the hotel but with a direct phone line to reception, so room service can be ordered. Or there’s a three-bedroom casita with its own pool and terrace, and – better yet – a yurt for grumpy teens. This is a supremely clever choice for anyone with a phobia of big, all-singing-all-dancing resorts.

Insider tip: Baby monitors reach the courtyard, so you can eat under the stars without having to troop back to the room to check on little ones.

Price: Doubles from about £156

7 European destinations ideal for a cheap family vacation

If you're ready to get back to Europe with your family after the pandemic temporarily paused travel, you're not alone. All signs point to a very active tourist season this year on the European continent. According to the European Travel Commission , 3 out of 4 Europeans want to travel to another European country this summer, and data from Allianz shows that travel from the U.S. to Europe is up over 600% from last year.

Get the latest points, miles and travel news by signing up for TPG's free daily newsletter .

Prices for airfare and hotels have already been skyrocketing for summer travel both within and outside of the U.S., so choosing an affordable destination is more important than ever, especially if you have your heart set on Europe. If you have a stash of points and miles, you can use them to fly and stay. But most importantly, being in a cheaper European destination ensures you can save money on food, activities, drinks and more for the whole crew.

The destinations on this list are both family-friendly and on the more affordable side, allowing you and your whole family to enjoy a summer vacation in Europe on a budget — even during what may just be a record-breaking tourist season.

Related: Traveling to Europe this summer? Here's what to expect

Porto, Portugal

Portugal is one of Western Europe's most affordable countries, and Porto, located in the north, is the perfect destination for families on a budget. The city is easily walkable, with colorful tiled buildings and art nouveau architecture to admire. Kids will enjoy free activities like walking across the river via the double-decker Dom Luís I Bridge or taking the city's funicular and cable car (for a low price).

The stunning Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world, costs 5 euros to enter (free for children 3 and under) but the ticket price will go toward your purchase if you buy a book. And when the kids need a break, you don't have to feel guilty about taking them for a cheap and easy meal at a McDonald's when traveling abroad — Porto's McDonald's is frequently dubbed "the most beautiful McDonald's in the world," complete with stained glass and chandeliers.

Related: The US dollar and euro are almost equal: What that means for travelers

Seville, Spain

If your family loves castles and horses, a sunny getaway in Seville, Spain , makes for a great vacation without overspending. Although tickets to the famed Alcazar palace are 14.50 euros per adult (1 euro for children under 13) — kids will love the massive gardens where they can run and play after touring the inside of the castle — you could make this a full-day activity. Afterward, riverside strolls and wandering the winding streets of the city center are free. In and around Seville and nearby city Jerez, there are plenty of stables and farms to ride and view purebred Spanish horses.

Dining in Seville can be cost-effective as well. Some local spots will give you free tapas when you order a drink, and a glass of wine can cost as little as 2.50 euros. Renting bikes is another affordable activity that can keep the whole family occupied. And children and adults alike will love visiting the fairytale-like Plaza de Espana, complete with footbridges and towers (free). Between the square and its neighboring park, there's lots of space for the little ones to explore while parents enjoy the sunset. Just note that it gets extremely hot during the summer — but the upside is that Seville is usually cheaper during this time.

Related: These are the best times to visit Spain

Rhodes, Greece

Visiting the Greek islands with a family takes a bit of patience and organization. Budget travelers might want to avoid expensive islands like honeymoon-oriented Santorini or party island Mykonos, but may not want to stray too far off the beaten path. Rhodes is an easy answer. It's more cost-effective than other islands and visitors can fly there from hubs like Athens, London and Munich. For the best hotel rates, consider traveling outside of the summer high season.

Rhodes has many beaches with shallow waters like Tsambika Beach, complete with ample parking and amenities. The island offers many activities besides just enjoying the sun and sand. Ticket prices for nature reserve Valley of the Butterflies, complete with waterfalls, a petting zoo, a monastery and a museum, range from just 3-5 euros per adult and are free for children under 12. And kids can check out vintage toys and play with many of them at the Rhodes Toy Museum, where entrance is free.

Related: 7 things no one tells you about the Greek islands

Budapest, Hungary

One of the most affordable capital cities in Europe , Budapest features some interesting and educational activities for traveling families. And if you've already made it to Europe, consider flying Hungarian low-cost carrier Wizz Air to Budapest from a number of European hubs. The airline is no-frills, and I wouldn't recommend it for long-haul flights, but it's a cost-effective way to get the whole family to Budapest.

When it comes to activities, the Children's Railway is one of the most distinct: a train that runs along about 7 miles of track through the Buda Hills that's entirely operated by children. Ticket prices are less than $2 (800 Hungarian forints) for adults and less than $1 (400 forints) for kids. The Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden is reasonably inexpensive with adult tickets costing around $9 (3,339 forints) and kids tickets $6 (2,225 forints). Complete with a butterfly garden and a petting zoo, families can spend the whole day here.

Dordogne, France

Paris and the French Riviera can be expensive for families on a budget . If you're dying for a jaunt to France but can't afford some of the most popular spots, consider an alternative French region like the Dordogne, which is northeast of Bordeaux.

Parents can still indulge in that coveted French wine and cheese, but there's also plenty for kids to enjoy. The region has hundreds of castles, as well as a number of prehistoric caves to explore. And when it comes to castles — you don't always have to pay to go in. Sometimes, spotting them from the town or the car is just as fun. During your French road trip, plan to stop in some of the area's quaint riverside villages like Beynac-et-Cazenac or La Roque-Gageac. There are also plenty of nature activities like easy hiking, kayaking, fishing and even camping offered throughout the region.

Sicily, Italy

Popular Italian family-friendly destinations like Tuscany and the northern lake district can be easily explored with the kids in tow, but they can also be expensive. Instead, consider a visit to Italy's largest island, Sicily. With two main airports on opposite sides of the island, Catania (CTA) and Palermo (PMO), fly into whichever one has the better deal and plan your trip around that particular area.

Sicily has it all: incredible, affordable, delicious cuisine, beautiful villages in the Val di Noto, rich Italian culture and traditions, stunning beaches and even the volcanic Mount Etna. Speaking of Mount Etna, it's free to climb up to 2,500 meters (or drive up to 1,800 meters, if your kids are small), an activity that can be done year-round. You'll need to take a tour to go any higher or summit.

Children will love the cable car in Taormina, and there are affordable agriturismos, or Italian farm stays, around the island that the whole family will love — complete with pools, farm-fresh cuisine and sprawling outdoor space. If that's not enough, locals basically eat ice cream for breakfast (granita), so your kids will definitely be sugared up and happy on a family trip to Sicily.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Your kids might not be able to properly pronounce Slovenia' s capital, but they'll love visiting it thanks to the gorgeous bridges spanning the Ljubljanica River and the greenery of Tivoli Park.

This is a destination where getting a tourist card can really make sense. The Ljubljana tourist card offers cardholders a free guided city tour, a free funicular ride and entrance to the castle, a free riverboat cruise, four hours of bike rental, free travel on public transport and admission to more than 20 different attractions (including the arboretum, various museums and the zoo) and even bus transport between the airport and city center. Prices range from 16 euros for a child's 24-hour card to 40.50 euros for an adult's 72-hour card when purchasing online.

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• European Vacations

13 Best Bucket List Family Vacations in Europe 2020

May 31, 2018

See recent posts by Nicole Wiltrout

While many destinations claim the overused cliche of “there’s something for everyone,” Europe lives up to the hype. Determine the type of experiences your family most enjoys when traveling, and you’re bound to find a destination within Europe that offers this for a vacation to remember forever. These are the best bucket list family vacations in Europe.

It’s hard to find a more ideal European destination for families than Italy . Not only do Italians love children, but the cuisine is some of the best you’ll find around the world and extremely pleasing to children’s palettes. Italy offers a great mix of culturally interesting cities like Rome , Florence , and Venice , which are full of history, art, and architecture… not to mention gelato shops on nearly every corner! But families return year after year for the beautiful settings and incredible countryside, like those found in Tuscany, Lake Como, or the Amalfi Coast.

Recommended Hotel: Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese

2. United Kingdom

With no language barrier other than that charming accent, the UK makes for a popular location for a first family trip to Europe. London has so many iconic landmarks that kids will immediately recognize from books and movies , like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. Checking Scotland off the bucket list is easy, as Edinburgh is a four-hour direct train ride from London. Or round out the trip by exploring England’s own beautiful rural locations, like the Cotswolds, Devon, or Cornwall. For families with limited time, it’s fun to just stay in London for a week and do day trips to smaller cities like Bath, Windsor, or Oxford. If this all sounds too touristy, consider Wales . It’s one of Europe’s undiscovered secrets and full of rugged natural terrain, beaches, and spectacular castles.

Recommended Hotel: The Rubens at the Palace

Related: 7 Exotic Family Vacation Spots Where English Is Widely Spoken

What parent doesn’t dream of the moment their child sees the Eiffel Tower for the first time? Paris  has long been a favorite city for families, with its charming carousels, incredible art museums, Seine river cruises, and parks that look straight out of a Monet painting. But don’t miss the French countryside, where your children can play in castles in the Loire Valley, roam through lavender fields in Provence, or hike through caves from man’s earliest days in the Dordogne. Consider renting an apartment in Paris or a gite in the countryside to really live like a local and embrace the French lifestyle, even if it’s only for a couple of days.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel les Theatres

Spain is such a great microcosm of what’s most appealing about a family vacation in Europe. Spain has incredible cities like Madrid and Barcelona , so full of art, architecture, museums, and parks. The two connect easily by high-speed train. Families can then head north for mountains, coastal villages, and often slightly cooler weather and fewer crowds. But southern Spain is even more popular, offering picture-perfect towns and smaller cities, like Granada (where a tour of the Alhambra is a must) and Seville (home to flamenco). And for families who feel like no trip is a vacation without time on a beach, don’t miss what Europeans have long loved about Spain—their sunny coastal regions like Malaga .

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Roger De Lluria Barcelona

Whether you’re tracing your family’s Irish ancestry or just want to finally see for yourself those legendary green fields dotted with sheep after countless movie and book scenes, Ireland makes a great family destination. As far as flights go, it’s typically one of the shortest and cheapest European routes from North America. Once you arrive, families enjoy the leisurely pace of a trip here: lots of outdoor hikes, farm visits, famous driving routes, sheer cliffs, and maybe even some adventures like falconry or Irish dancing lessons. Dublin is walkable and feels less overwhelming than other larger European cities. Castles that have morphed into hotels and resorts are worth incorporating into travel plans for a true touch of Irish luxury.

Recommended Hotel: Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel

Related: Vacation Like Royalty: 5 Best Castle Hotels for Families

6. Switzerland

Outdoorsy, adventurous families should strongly consider a summer trip to Switzerland. The hiking is some of the best in the world, and the country is incredibly easy to get around given its highly developed and efficient train system. This is ideal for families who don’t want to drive while in Europe, but still want to get to smaller villages. The ski resorts do a phenomenal job of offering fun, family-friendly summer experiences, like mountain biking trails and toboggan runs. Cap off each day’s adventures by swimming in refreshing mountain lakes. This is one to save up for—Switzerland can be a very pricey destination, but the hotel quality is top-notch. What might be considered a 3-star hotel in Switzerland would be equivalent to a 4-star elsewhere in Europe.

Recommended Hotel: Gstaad Palace

7. Portugal

On the flip side, families can get incredible value and not compromise at all on quality with a trip to Portugal. It’s one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe. Families typically begin and end their trip in Lisbon, a fascinating, lively city that always surprises visitors with its beauty and charm. A day trip to Sintra (or even a longer stay there) will allow your family to see some of the most picturesque castles and palaces in all of Europe. Upon leaving Lisbon, round out the trip with relaxation on the beach in one of the coastal regions like the Algarve or Cascais. This is one European destination that’ll leave your family feeling like you truly had a vacation, not just a European sightseeing slog.

Recommended Hotel: Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort & Hotel

Norway first got on the radar of many traveling families because of the popularity of Disney’s Frozen . But interest hasn’t subsided since. It’s also a popular re-direct for families who are considering Iceland, as there are many similarities between the two countries (in climate, scenery, and even the opportunity to catch the Northern Lights). Most visitors come to Norway for the fjords, the stunning mountains-meet-water landscape formed by glaciers. The Norway in a Nutshell tour makes planning your route and transportation easier and it will allow you to see much of the most picturesque views and be in areas that cater toward tourists. Driving is also fairly easy throughout Scandinavia, so more independent-minded families can consider renting a car and creating their own route through the countryside.

Recommended Hotel: Citybox Bergen

Related: 6 “Frozen”-Inspired Vacations Your Kids Will Love

A trip to Germany is a real treat for families who love to mix city exploration with natural, outdoor experiences. Munich is a great starting point: rent bikes and ride through the Englischer Garten, stopping for food and refreshments at beer gardens along the way. You’ll be joining hundreds of local families, and most have live music and playgrounds for kids to enjoy while parents sip and socialize. You can also visit the BMW Museum, wander the Viktualienmarkt for interesting foods to try, people watch in the Marienplatz, and explore the Deutsches Museum (the largest science museum in the world). As you venture out of the city, Bavaria offers jaw-dropping castles like the famous Neuschwanstein (said to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle), hiking in the foothills of the Alps, and relaxing lakeside resort towns like Tegernsee.

Recommended Hotel: Aloft Munich

From ancient ruins to gorgeous beaches, the possibilities are endless for families traveling to Greece . Visit Athens for a modern city with ancient ruins, making it a perfect balance. The islands offer stunning scenery with beaches that will make everyone happy.  Don’t forget the literary side of Greece, either. If you have a kid who loves the Percy Jackson series , they’ll love visiting spots that Percy explored. There are even tours you can take that cater to the books. If your kids are into Greek Mythology , visiting the places mentioned in various myths are sure to be a hit. Head to Crete to visit the home of Zeus, check out Mount Olympus, the Temple of Poseidon, or, if you really want to delve in, take a day trip from Mykonos to the island of Delos, which has no modern architecture.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Erato

11. Austria

Skiing, caves, and dinosaur parks are just a few of the exciting adventures that Austria has to offer for your family. Head to Vienna and have a day of fun at Wiener Prater, the world’s oldest amusement park; check out the city’s many museums, including the ZOOM Children’s Museum; explore the city in a fiaker (horse-drawn carriage), or take in a children’s concert at the Haus Der Music. If it’s caves you’re after, Carinthia has the Obir Stalactite Caves, complete with a light show and a dragon that comes to life! If you’re looking for a ski vacation, head to Tyrol, where there are plenty of family-friendly ski resorts. For fans of  The Sound of Music , it’s Salzburg you’ll be interested in. You can also visit Mozart’s birthplace and residence, not to mention take a tour of a salt mine.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Sacher, Salzburg

12. Czech Republic

Maybe the Czech Republic isn’t on your list… but it should be!  Prague , considered the “heart of Europe,” has so much to offer for families. Prague Castle is sure to delight everyone, and the Prague Zoo and National Technical Museum (where every exhibit is interactive) are also a must when visiting the capital city. Northeast of Prague, in Milovice, you’ll find Mirakulum Park, a “child’s dream come true” that has eight towers that interconnect through a system of footbridges, tunnels, and ladders. There’s even a rope center for the more daring kids. In the southern part of the country, you can explore the life of monks in the middle ages at the Minorite Monestary.

Recommended Hotel: Aria Hotel Prague

Families that may only do one European trip with their kids and who want to get the most out of the experience should consider a European cruise. Popular routes through the Mediterranean or the Baltic Seas allow families to see several different countries and cultures hassle-free. If your children have grown accustomed to Disney trips or family-oriented beach resorts when it comes to vacation, a cruise allows you to see Europe in a way that’s not too far out of your family’s comfort zone. It will give everyone a taste of destinations you might consider returning to in the future, while still having lots of entertainment and fun on board the ship. Families with older kids and those who dislike large ships can check out some of the river boat cruise lines, several of which are beginning to cater to children in meaningful ways. This allows you to get deeper into the continent and experience more of the smaller towns and cities, and avoid the crowds of the major ports of call in Europe.

Related: 4 Best River Cruises for Families

What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Women’s/mom’s summer outfit, shop the look.

'Nuria' Espadrille

Polarized Sunglasses

Straw Wicker Earrings

Men’s/Dad’s Summer Outfit

Vintage Round Sunglasses

Casual Button Down Shirt

Chino Shorts

Leather Platform Sandals

Summery dressy outfit for boys.

Piqué Polo Shirt

Chino Stretch Pants

Dress Socks

Dress Shoes

Summery dressy outfit for girls.

Kids' Flutter Sleeve Dress

Geo Metal Bobby Pin Trio Set

Letter Initial Necklace

Sunscreen Lotion

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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The 10 Best Family-Friendly Destinations in Europe

Planning a family holiday in one of Europe’s cultural hotspots? Then you’ll want to stay somewhere with enough space for all your tribe, with child-friendly amenities, convenient transport links and self-catering facilities. Here are some of the most family-friendly places to stay, be it an eco-hostel in Copenhagen , a seaside resort in Dubrovnik or a city-centre apartment in Prague .

Vienna , the former capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, is full of grand buildings and dripping with history, and offers a treasure trove of kid-friendly destinations. Where else can you see a horse show (or a practice, at least) in a building resembling a wedding cake besides the Winter Riding School? How many castles have one of the world’s oldest zoos in their beautiful gardens besides Schönbrunn? Vienna’s ferris wheel at the Prater is perhaps less unique, but no less exciting. Night or day, you’ll get an excellent view of the city, and the ride’s entry hall even has a charming exhibit about the history of the city that’s perfectly tailored to a young audience.

1. Myplace Premium Apartments

Hotel, Apartment

Myplace offers modern apartments in the heart of Vienna, either just a five-minute walk from St Stephen’s Cathedral or by the riverside. Each building has a fitness lounge and roof terrace with 360-degree views over the city. The premium two- and three-bed apartments are ideal for families, featuring kitchens and living areas with comfy sofas and cable TV. Children up to two years old sleep free of charge, and baby cots are available.

London has something for everyone, so it’s perhaps no surprise that it’s also an excellent place to take children. It’s chock-full of museums, many of which have kid-friendly sections where young ones can get their hands into history, science, technology and more. Would they like to try and lift a gold brick, or to explore the decks of a World War II warship? Both are possible – at the Bank of England Museum and the HMS Belfast, respectively. When it’s time to sit down for a while, why not check out a West End show? There are several that will be excellent for children and parents alike, such as The Lion King , Wicked , or Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella .

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2. The Rosebery ApartHotel

The Danish capital of Copenhagen isn’t all about fancy restaurants or hunting down marijuana in the self-proclaimed republic of Christiania. It’s also got a number of attractions that make it remarkably family-friendly. Tivoli Gardens, for example, the theme park in the center of the city, is the second oldest continually operating theme park in the world, and it’s just as exciting as — if not more than — one that was built in the last decade. Being the home of fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen is also a perfect destination for those captivated by his stories – particularly The Little Mermaid , whose statue you can find in the harbour.

3. Danhostel Amager

Looking for a quiet hostel surrounded by countryside? Then opt for the eco-friendly Danhostel, set in Amager Faelled Nature Reserve, less than three miles (five kilometres) from Copenhagen. Stay in a family room with views of the surrounding fields and forest. There’s a communal TV room, library and hangout area with bright sofas and graffiti murals, as well as play areas for kids. Make the most of the organic local breakfast buffet in the dining room or wraparound terrace.

The Adriatic gem of Dubrovnik is filled to the brim with activity , so it’s a great place to come with kids who need to blow off some steam. One of the top things to do is to take a walk around the walls of the inner city, which will be a treat for all members of the family – especially if someone fancies herself to be a photographer. Swimming is also possible at numerous points around the city, so braving the on-season to take advantage of the warmth is well worth it. Getting out of the centre for hikes around the area is another good thing to do, and if people tend to get hungry, no fear – there are numerous roadside stands selling hot and fresh Balkan specialties all over the place.

4. Valamar Club Dubrovnik

Valamar Club is one of Dubrovnik’s top child-friendly resorts, known for its Maro Kids’ Club. There’s also a separate teen lounge and programme of sports and evening entertainment. Kids will love the outdoor pools and playground, as well as three nearby beaches. Valamar offers family rooms with connecting doors, a babysitting service and a children’s corner in the buffet restaurant. Thanks to its location on the Babin Kuk Peninsula, you’re just a few minutes from historic Dubrovnik’s city centre.

Prague is a city that loves its parks , and that’s one of the features that makes it such a great place to bring kids. Of particular interest will be Petrin Hill, on the west side of the Vltava river that has an excellent garden at the top, including a mirror maze and a mini Eiffel Tower with a viewpoint. You’ll need to keep a close eye on the little ones when you’re in the most tourist-heavy areas in the centre, but braving the crowds will bring rewards like medieval-themed restaurants and kid-friendly museums, such as the Museum of Chocolate. Plus, the zoo was recently voted the seventh best in the world.

5. James Hotel

If you’re looking for somewhere in central Prague, James Hotel in the old town overlooks Petrin Hill and puts you within walking distance of Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge. The contemporary units are set in a building with a hotel reception and concierge, secure parking and an on-site café. Each of the 14 apartments has kitchens, a terrace and a balcony, but the three-bed options are ideal for bigger families and can accommodate six people.

The practically endless good weather in Barcelona is one of many reasons why you should consider it for your next family trip. The Gaudí architecture, one of the foremost features of the city, is whimsical and colourful enough to be enjoyable to everyone. The beach is always a good retreat, or for a little more excitement, you can take a walk down La Rambla to take a look at the myriad street performers. Let’s not forget another of the world’s most distinguished amusement parks – Tibidabo – which offers numerous old-fashioned attractions and fun for the whole family.

6. Arai Aparthotel

There’s nothing like the great outdoors to keep your family happy, active and, by the end of the day, thoroughly exhausted – and Reykjavík has outdoor wonders in spades. Public pools fed by thermal hot springs are a huge part of Icelandic culture, and they range in style from expensive and touristy to quiet and local. Catching the northern lights will be an experience that no one will ever forget, and seeing a whale on a boat trip will be similarly memorable. There’s plenty of hiking nearby, or spice things up and go horse riding instead. Best of all, Reykjavík is incredibly safe for a capital city.

7. Reykjavík Residence Hotel

Reykjavík Residence describes itself as a home away from home. Its aparthotels are set inside two fully-renovated period houses located downtown. There’s a 24-hour reception and guest parking, as well as a choice of up to three-bed apartments, each stocked daily with milk and juice. The six-berth family suites have kitchenettes and flat-screen TVs with PlayStations. Interiors are homely with plump sofas, and baby cots are available for a fee.

We know, we know – the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions Munich is beer, and a lot of it. But why should having a family along with you stop you from enjoying that pleasure? The beer gardens in Bavaria’s capital all welcome children, and of course they offer plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks for their younger patrons. Besides that, there are also museums like BMW World, which has a lot of technologically advanced exhibits that will be sure to fascinate visitors of all ages. It might be best to avoid the city during the three weeks of Oktoberfest, but that leaves 49 other weeks to enjoy.

8. Cocoon Hauptbahnhof

When you check into Cocoon Hauptbahnhof, you’ll be transported to an alpine lodge. Think wood panelling and mountain murals, gondola artwork, a fireplace in the lobby and antlers hanging from the ceiling. Rooms are just as unusual, with cow photos and farmer tubs, as well as bathrooms designed like train compartments. Book the Chill Out Alm or two-level Cocoon Chalet for the perfect family holiday. This eccentric concept hotel lies in Ludwigsvorstadt, a short walk from Munich’s train station.

Amsterdam is similar to Munich in that the attractions tourists know it for are not exactly the most family friendly. However, it’s also absolutely bursting at the seams with activities that don’t involve checking out certain legal substances. How about renting a bicycle or going on a canal tour? If you go in the summer, definitely swing by the Tropenmuseum, the roof of which becomes a beach. The food is also something that children will love – how many places have French fries and waffles as the ultimate must-try treats?

9. Lloyd Hotel

Boutique Hotel, Budget Hotel

Experience the world’s first 1-to-5-star hotel, located on the IJ River, 10 minutes by tram to Amsterdam Central Station. The property was built in the 1920s as a hostel for migrants and later became a prison before it was converted into a hotel. Each of the 117 rooms has been individually created by Dutch designers and come in various shapes and sizes, some sleeping up to seven. You can pick your star grading, but the exact room you’ll receive is a surprise.

For a warmer and far more natural beach, head to Lisbon , where the city’s natural exuberance will lead to one of the most fun vacations you can imagine. Don’t miss the aquarium, one of the biggest in Europe, which has plenty of exhibits specially set up for younger viewers. A short train trip to the nearby village of Sintra offers castles galore (plus a train trip!), or if you’re set on staying in the city, you can just use the charming tram system to get around. Perhaps best of all, many Lisbon restaurants have special kids’ zones where they can keep themselves occupied while the parents enjoy a quiet meal.

10. Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family Suites

Suite Hotel, Hotel

Martinhal is a speciality family hotel in the centre of Lisbon. The kids’ clubs include a creche with a tented ceiling and activity rooms for older kids complete with a climbing wall, arts and crafts, and games consoles. Take advantage of the baby concierge and pyjama club which runs until 10pm so adults can have a meal out in Lisbon. Self-catering suites and apartments often come with bunk beds and are decorated in bold colours with kid-friendly touches like Tintin posters and high chairs.

Fancy more stunning family-friendly places to stay in Europe? Check out our guide to the best family-friendly hotels in Provence, France , bookable with Culture Trip Amy Blyth contributed additional reporting to this article.

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The Family Vacation Guide

20 of the Best Spots for a Family Trip to Europe

posted by James Brockbank on June 22, 2022 // last updated on June 22, 2022

There’s nothing like going on a vacation with your family . The memories that you can make will last a lifetime. Whether you’re interested in a mountain getaway, beach escape, or visiting a bustling city, there’s an abundance of things for you and your family to do. 

Europe is a beautiful place to take your family on vacation. With 44 countries and thousands of cities to choose from, the options are almost limitless. If you’re thinking about taking your family to Europe, it is the first step to figure out the best place to take them. 

Before you rush to start packing your bags and booking your flights, here are 20 of the best spots for a family trip to Europe. 

Paris, France 

Rome, italy , faro, algarve, portugal, london, england, barcelona, spain , valletta, malta, amsterdam, netherlands, athens, greece, budapest, hungary , cinque terre, italy , vienna, austria , prague, czech republic , corfu, greece , dublin, ireland, zagreb, croatia , edinburgh, scotland , zurich, switzerland, brussels, belgium , berlin, germany , stockholm, sweden.

One of the most popular places to vacation in Europe is Paris, France. While many people consider it to be a great romantic destination for partners, you shouldn’t write it off as a destination to bring your family to. Paris is an excellent place for families with people of all ages. 

Several things await you and your family when you travel to Paris. Some of the best museums and attractions to visit with your family are the Louvre , the most visited museum in the entire world, the Jardin des Plantes botanical gardens, and Disneyland Paris . 

Besides the great museums and Disneyland in the area, there are several beautiful parks to hang out at in the city. The green spaces are perfect for relaxing while your kids play and make new friends. 

A great free thing to do with your family is to relax around the Eiffel Tower. It doesn’t cost a dime to lounge in the grassy areas on the north and south side of the landmark. You can purchase wine for the adults and Nutella crepes for the kids. Or, if you’re not afraid of heights, head up to the second or third level of the tower for incredible views.

Arguably one of the most famous European destinations is Rome, Italy. This gorgeous, cultural, and historic city is a beautiful place to vacation with your family. There are activities that people of all ages can enjoy and plenty of things to see and learn about. 

Rome has some remarkable historical architecture. One of the most famous and incredible sites to see is the Colosseum . This ancient area that housed lions and duels is magnificent. Whether you take a tour with your family or simply walk around it to see its beauty, you won’t want to miss it while in Rome.

You can also take a boat ride through the gardens, watch great puppet shows, and eat your way through the city. The gelato will be a hit with people of all ages, as will the pizza and pasta. Religious or not, the Vatican City is something you need to experience with your family. 

The Vatican features beautiful artwork and religious artifacts that are wonderful for Catholics and non-religious folk. The Trevi Fountain is another beautiful thing to see, and you and your family can all make wishes before tossing a coin into the fountain.

Depending on where you live, you may not know much about Faro in the Algarve region of Portugal. It’s a popular family vacation spot for Europeans, but many people don’t know about it. It’s the ideal vacation spot for your family when you want a fantastic beach getaway. 

Much of the area features beach resorts and hotels ready to accommodate families of any size and style. Faro is the capital of the Algarve region and is more than just a beach town. While you need to make time for lounging on the beach, there are other things to do in this Portuguese city.

When you need a break from soaking up the sun, swimming in the ocean, or building sandcastles with the family, the Municipal Museum of Faro is a great option. This museum showcases several archeological exhibits of the area.

London may be a large bustling city, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a great place for families to visit when they need a vacation. The city has plenty of shopping, restaurants, museums, and other landmarks to see. Plus, the city’s public transportation is safe and super easy to navigate.

There are many things for you and your family to do. There’s the London Bridge, SEA LIFE London Aquarium , Warner Brothers Studio Harry Potter tour, and so much more. You can also go to the London Transport Museum to learn more about public transportation in the city. 

Before you leave London, you have to visit the London Eye. This massive Ferris Wheel is a sight to see and a great way to get some spectacular views of London.  

Everyone’s heard of Barcelona, Spain, making it one of the best spots for a family trip to Europe. Barcelona offers families the perfect combination of a city and beach getaway. You don’t need to spend time at the beaches, but it’s a great location when you can’t decide between a city or a beach vacation. 

Some of the best beaches in Barcelona for families with people of all ages include Playa del Calella and Playa del Castelldefels. They’re vast expanses of sandy beach with plenty of room to spread out away from other families or groups. 

The La Sagrada Familia is one of the best landmarks to see while in Barcelona. This stunning cathedral is beautiful and almost always under construction but worth seeing while in the city. There’s plenty of green space and food trucks nearby to enjoy. You and your family will love Park Guell . This spacious park has gorgeous views of the city.

Malta is a lesser-known spot in Europe, but it’s one you may want to consider for your next family vacation. Malta is a beautiful island in the Mediterranean that survives off tourism. The capital city, Valletta, is your best option if you’re thinking about bringing the family to Malta.

Even though the city is small, there’s still a lot to do with your family. One of the top attractions in the area is St. John’s Cathedral . This 16th-century church is a beautiful place to see, regardless of religious affiliation. Another beautiful thing to see in Malta is the Upper Barrakka Gardens . 

It’s a free activity that people of all ages will love. Even walking around the city, trying new foods, and taking in the atmosphere is something you and your family won’t soon forget. You’ll want to make time to walk near the water to appreciate the beauty and see the city in a way you couldn’t before.

Holland is a beautiful area of Europe to visit with your family. Amsterdam is at the top of most people’s list because of the numerous family-friendly activities you can do there. The city is super walkable, which is great for burning energy when traveling with little ones. 

The canal system in Amsterdam is something you probably won’t see anywhere else. As you and your family walk through the streets, you’ll see the canals, the various boats, and the beautiful houses that line the canals. 

If you’re looking for some other things to do in Amsterdam, besides taking in the beauty of the canals, you can’t miss the famous Anne Frank House . It’s a fantastic place for both children and adults to see where Anne Frank lived during one of the most turbulent times in history.

Other attractions in Amsterdam that are great for families include the Nemo Science Center, Artis Royal Zoo, and the Amsterdam Museum . The Amsterdam Museum is a great place to learn all about the city and how it came to be. 

Similar to Rome, Athens has plenty of historical sights and landmarks to share with your family. While you’ll want to make time to see the significant historical sites while you’re in the city, there are plenty of other things to do with your family while in Athens. 

Athens has more than its fair share of historic sites. While some kids may not see the importance of these sites depending on their age, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to tour or see them. Major landmarks/museums worth seeing include the Acropolis Museum, the Panathenaic Stadium, and the National Archeological Museum .

Your family will also love riding a little train through the streets of Athens. The Happy Train runs from Ermou Street off of Syntagma Square. It’s something small, but kids love it. The best part is tickets last for ten hours, so you can hop on and off as you choose.

Budapest is an excellent option if you’re looking for a family vacation destination in Europe that probably hasn’t crossed your mind before. The capital of Hungary offers more than enough family-friendly activities for you and everyone to enjoy. 

Situated on top of the Buda Hills is the Buda Castle . This stunning and historic castle was completed in 1295 and is something out of fairy tales. While the palace’s history isn’t as peaceful as fairy tales, when traveling with little ones, you’ll forget all about that. You can walk up the hill or take a ride on the funicular, which gives you some amazing views of Budapest. 

Some of the great things for you and your family to do in Budapest include the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden , the Palatinus Baths, and the several city parks, which are great for relaxing and strolling through.

One of the most beautiful places in Italy is the Cinque Terre. The Cinque Terre is a combination of five fishing villages on the northwestern side of Italy. If you’ve seen photos of those colorful houses on the cliffs in Italy, that’s this stunning destination. 

The five villages that make up this area are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza. Each one features beautiful buildings, great restaurants, beaches, and a vibe all their own. The best thing about this area is traveling between the five is accessible via their metro. 

Spending your days at the beaches is popular, as is booking a boat tour along the coast. You can find various tours that take you to swimming holes and talk about the region’s history. If you want to snap some great photos of your family with the colorful houses in the background, Manarola has a hike that’s relatively easy for most individuals.

If you want to travel to Austria with your family, Vienna is one of the best options. Vienna is a super family-friendly city with museums, parks, delicious restaurants, and more. The Austrian capital also has a great history to learn about. 

Vienna is known for its beautiful palaces. While you probably don’t want to visit every castle while you’re there, you can’t miss seeing the Schönbrunn Palace . 

You can see the imperial heritage of Austria preserved in this stunning castle. Something unique about this palace is that you can try on royal clothes! It’s a great photo opportunity and something you can’t do everywhere. 

The Zoom Children’s Museum is an excellent option for those traveling to Vienna with young children. You can watch your budding artist create art and learn more about different art styles. Before you leave Vienna, you and your family have to try dessert at Demel . This dessert shop has been around since 1888 and is a top attraction in the city.

Eastern Europe may not be the first destination you have in mind when taking your family on vacation, but Prague is one you have to consider. It’s a beautiful city in the Czech Republic that many consider the “heart of Europe.”

The Old Town Square is an iconic area of the city, and even locals love walking around and taking in the beauty. You’ll wander through old buildings, local stores where you can get handcrafted gifts, and marionette shows. 

The Vltava River allows you to rent swan and pedal boats, so you can explore the water off the land. The river features various little islands and is fun for people of all ages. Blacklight theater is popular in Prague and great for everyone. The performances are held in pitch black, and everything you can see can only be seen under ultraviolet light. 

Whether you’re ten or 60, these performances are worth checking out. Other attractions include the Prague Zoo , Petrin Hill, and the Museum of Senses .  

Greece has hundreds of beautiful islands, but if you’re looking for a family vacation to the Greek islands, one of the best is Corfu. This island is great for families because it has a little bit of everything. There are stunning beaches, museums, and other activities for you and your family to do together. 

This island features large mountains and several resorts along the coast. You don’t need to stay in one of the resorts to enjoy your time on the island, though. While you’re on the island, exploring Corfu Old Town needs to be on your list. This ancient town features Venetian fortresses, restaurants, shops, and stunning architecture. 

There are dozens of beaches on the island for you and your family to visit. If you’re looking for one of the best, Paleokastritsa Beach is your best bet. It’s tucked slightly inward, making waters a little calmer here, which is excellent for weak swimmers and young travelers. 

Other attractions you may want to add to your list while in Corfu are the Blue Eye Cave, Angelokastro, and Old Perithia.

Ireland is a beautiful country that’s fairly easy to get to from most places in the world. One of the best cities to visit with your family is Dublin. It has enough to keep you and your family occupied throughout your stay but is central enough for day trips to other country areas. 

One thing Dublin is famous for is the Guinness Factory . While the factory is dedicated to the entire history and production of one of the world’s most popular beers, people of all ages can enjoy the experience. The tour is fun educational, and the adults can have a cold Guinness at the end. 

Like other cities in Europe, Dublin also has a medieval castle worth seeing. The Dublin Castle used to serve as a fortress for Irish royalty, and now it’s a historic site with government buildings nearby. You can visit the castle to see artifacts and learn more about Ireland’s history. 

Other things you may want to do with your family include visiting the Dublin Zoo and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Croatia has been rising in popularity for European vacation destinations for several years. The beautiful area has old stone fortresses, beaches, and more for your family to see. Zagreb is one of the best cities in the country for a family vacation. 

Zagreb is the capital of northwestern Croatia and features 18th and 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture. While visiting Zagreb, one of the best and free things you can do with your family is to walk around King Tomislav Square. You can go on a self-guided tour to see the buildings, fountains, and flowers blooming. 

The Dolac needs to be on your itinerary. It’s Croatia’s largest and most famous open-air market. You and your family can wander through the vendors looking at produce, food, and handmade trinkets that are great souvenirs to bring home with you. 

The Croatian National Theater is another attraction worth seeing. You can see the outside and admire the architecture or catch a show.

Whether you’re looking to visit only one city in Europe on your vacation or several, a great option is Edinburgh, Scotland. It’s only a four-hour train ride from London, making it a good place to visit for a day or longer. 

Much of Edinburgh has ancient architecture from medieval times and is surrounded by roaring hills. Edinburgh Castle sits on top of one of the many hills, looking down at the city below. People have occupied the castle since the Iron Age, and you and your family can take a tour if you choose.

Arthur’s Seat is an unpaved walking trail through the hills for the outdoorsy family. During the spring and summer, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful flowers, and the higher you walk, the better the views of the city are. Walking through the old town is a wonderful free activity if you’re not sick of walking after this activity. 

Visiting at least one museum while traveling is a good idea. A great one in Edinburgh is the National Museum of Scotland . Here, you can learn more about Scotland and how it came to be the central city it came to be. There are also exhibits on dinosaurs and other ancient creatures that roamed the land. 

It’s no secret that Switzerland is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Zurich is one of the best spots for a family trip to Europe when you crave a city vacation and want to be surrounded by the mountains. 

Zurich is a stunning city that focuses on business and finances, but that doesn’t mean everyone in your family can’t enjoy their time here. The rivers running through the town are bright blue, and the mountains that surround the city make the backdrop feel like a dream. 

If you’re looking for an easy and free thing to do in Zurich with your family, there are several walking paths or promenades near the rivers and lakes, such as Lake Zurich , for you to enjoy. You can take a tram throughout the city if you want to cover as much ground as possible during your stay. Walking is always great, but the tram can save you a lot of time. 

Switzerland is famous for chocolate, so you have to make time to shop for some authentic Swiss chocolate with their Sweet Zurich Tour . This is something people of any age will look forward to.

Brussels is the perfect city to take your family to. This Belgium city is perfect for their chocolate and waffles lovers, but there’s more to do than just eat your way through the city. Brussels is the capital of Belgium and is often called the European Union’s (EU) capital due to being the center of all EU operations. 

The Grand Palace is a stunning square in the heart of Brussels. Large buildings and fountains will surround you, and you’ll see dozens of other people walking around, taking in the fresh air. Art is very important to Belgians, and many great cartoons and comics have come out of this city. 

That being said, there’s a wonderful museum where you can view and learn all about the various comics that came from Belgium. The Comics Art Museum is educational yet fun for kids since the art focuses on something they genuinely enjoy.

You can’t go to Belgium without trying Belgian chocolate. You can buy the chocolate pretty much anywhere, but the Cocoa and Chocolate Museum lets you learn all about the process and sample chocolate at the end.

Berlin may be famous for nightclubs and party spots, but it’s still a great place to vacation with your family. Like many other European cities, there are plenty of museums, green parks, and reminders of their past everywhere. 

As you make your way through this city that’s been around since the 13th century, you’ll see reminders of WWII, including a Holocaust Memorial and a memorial where the Berlin Wall once stood and fell. Now, the concrete barrier features works of art from local artists. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the period when Berlin was divided, the DDR Museum is the place to do so. You and your family will explore the museum via interactive exhibits. 

Other things you and your family may want to do while in Berlin are to visit the Technology Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Jewish Museum.

Of all the places in Scandinavia, one of the best cities to visit with your family is Stockholm, Sweden. The capital of Sweden has 14 islands that make up the entire city of Stockholm. You can explore these islands via the 50 bridges that connect them to the mainland. 

The Royal Palace is something worth seeing while you’re in Stockholm. While you can’t go inside the castle, seeing the massive property with your family is something none of you will forget. They do have a museum near the palace that teaches you more about the history of the palace and city. 

Some favorite things to do while in Stockholm are to visit the Vasa Museum , Skansen’s open-air gardens and zoo, the Nobel Prize Museum, and take a ferry ride through the islands. 

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re interested in spending time in one of Europe’s major cities like Paris, Rome, or London, or heading somewhere a little more unique, you can rest assured your family is going to have the time of their lives. 

From exploring new cities, lounging on the beaches, and hiking in the mountains, there’s the perfect European vacation waiting for you and your family.

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

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• Best European destinations for a family holiday

the best destinations to discover Europe in family

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You want to discover Europe with your family and you think that big cities are not for you? We have selected the best destinations to discover Europe in family . Discover the most beautiful capitals like London, Madrid and Paris, as well as magnificent destinations to relax and have family walks in the Algarve, Costa Brava, Malta, where you can escape and dive into the blue waters. 

Discover the best European destinations for a family holiday and book your hotel, apartment, villa, guesthouse at the best price and your activities in Europe for a great family holiday.

Welcome to one of the most wonderful regions of Portugal with a mild and sunny climate all year round! The Algarve is a region that you should discover with your children who will love its golden beaches, its blue waters and the hidden beaches of Benagil caves.

Choose your hotel, apartment, villa, guesthouse at the best price in Algarve . Book your accommodation in Portimao, Albufeira or Faro and enjoy a 5-star holiday for young and old alike.

Come and watch the dolphins in the Algarve, one of the best destinations for dolphin watching in Europe or enjoy a full-day Jeep safari tour in the Algarve or offer your family the Algarve coast.

It is never too early to discover the roots of one’s history and civilization. Come to Athens for a family holiday and alternate relaxing excursions like a full-day cruise to Hydra or a full-day trip to Meteora with cultural activities.

Visit the Acropolis and Parthenon. Stay in family in our selection of hotels, guesthouses, villas, resorts, apartments, in Athens . Treat yourself to a dream holiday at the best price in family in Athens.

3. Barcelona

Take your children to Barcelona and let them discover the treasures and beauties of the destination. Barcelona is exceptional for families; visit the Sagrada Famillia or the Port Aventura theme park with transfer from Barcelona.

We have selected for you the best activities in Barcelona as well as the best hotels, apartments, guesthouses at the best price guaranteed in one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.

4. Brittany

Come spend your holidays in one of the most beautiful regions of France : Brittany . You will enjoy  fresh air, stroll along the beaches, classified among the most beautiful ones in Europe . Dinard is perfect for a relaxing holiday at the seaside, Go to Quimper, taste the best macaroons of France and walk in its beautiful typical alleys, Enjoy a thalassotherapy in Quiberon, go shopping in Brest.

Spend a week or two in Benodet (the Breton riviera) or Saint-Malo for its authentic charm and its ramparts. Book your hotel / accommodation at the best price in Brittany for a great outdoors family holiday.

Treat yourself to a piece of paradise for a family holiday and leave for the Greek island of Corfu . Corfu enjoys summer sunshine almost every day and quite pleasant temperatures around 30 degrees.

The island of Corfu is not a dry and arid rock; it offers an important vegetation, a fauna and a unique flora in Greece. Offer your family an unforgettable holiday in Corfu by booking your stay at the best price in our selection of hotels, villas, apartments, guest houses in Corfu . Treat yourself  to one of the best activities in Corfu  such as a private wine tasting excursion

6. Costa Brava 

The Costa Brava is European families’ favourite destination. It is the perfect destination for families who wish to rest in the sun and have everything at hand: hotels, apartments, villas at affordable prices.

Book your accommodation at the best price at the Costa Brava as well as one of the best activities such as a Hot Air Balloon flight.

Lisbon awarded Best European Destination a few years ago, is one of the most popular destinations in Europe. The city is beautiful and exotic ; you will feel like you are in South America! Discover the beauties and richness of Lisbon, one of the best destinations for a family holiday in Europe and visit the sumptuous castles of Sintra , as well as the St George Castle in Lisbon and the stunning alleys of the old quarter of Alfama.

Lisbon is a particularly sunny city but if might be rainy. Don’t worry, plan a visit to the Lisbon Oceanarium or one of the dozens of activities in Lisbon that we have selected for you.

Book your accommodation in Lisbon at the best price guaranteed and head for the capital of Portugal.

London is a multifaceted city. It seems to be made for shopping lovers, rock culture or underground but it is also one of the best destinations for families in Europe. Let your kids discover the beauty of Green Park and Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, Legoland or a Warner Bros Studio tour in the footsteps of Harry Potter.

We have selected for you the best activities in London as well as the hotels, apartments, guesthouses at the best price in London . There is always something to discover in London. 

Your children will love this incredible city. Madrid , the capital of Spain is famous for its quality of life, its magnificent parks but also for its football team!  

Give your children an unforgettable moment with a visit of the Atlético de Madrid. There are hundreds of perfect activities for families in Madrid . Discover them and book your accommodation in Madrid at the best price for a family holiday in the capital of Spain.

Malta is family friendly with its hotels at affordable prices, sunshine throughout the year, a wild, protected nature. Come discover the historical treasures of La Valletta and the wild nature of the island of Gozo or the beautiful town of Mellieha , crowned " European destination of excellence " by the European Commission for its commitment to sustainable tourism and ecology.

Offer your children an exceptional visit of Popeye village built for the musical "Popeye" tour in the 70s in Mellieha. Book your hotel or your apartment at the best price  and get ready to fall in love with Malta.

Each year hundreds of thousands of families stroll through the streets of Paris in family. This open-air museum is perfect for families. Your children will discover the statues of Rodin, the Mona Lisa, or Dadaism at the Georges Pompidou Museum, the gargoyles of Notre-Dame de Paris, the summit of the Eiffel Tower. Book your hotel, guesthouse, apartment at the best price in Paris as well as the best activities for your family.

12. Dalmatia

Beautiful landscapes await you in one of the most beautiful regions of Croatia, Dalmatia. Come discover Korcula, Trogir, Hvar, Pltivice Lakes, Split . We have selected for you the best family activities in Dalmatia. Book your hotel, apartment, villa at the best price and come to live an unforgettable holiday. Dive into the blue waters of Croatia, discover its history, its gastronomy, its sumptuous landscapes.

13. Porto & Norte

Porto is not only one of the best European destinations. This beautiful city has many attractions to please you. There are so many activities for children such as The World of Discoveries or a visit to the  surroundings ( Braga, Guimaraes, the Douro Valley, the beautiful beaches, parks, landscapes, vineyards). Give yourself 3 to 4 days in family in Porto,  Go  on  excursion to Braga and Guimaraes for a day or two and take the train to the Douro Valley.

Stop at Pinhao and book an apartment, a house or a hotel room and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book your hotel, apartment or guesthouse at the best price in Porto and your best activities in Porto and area.

You may have visited Rome before with friends or your beloved, but Rome in family is a fantastic experience. Your children will be amazed by the Colosseum or the genius inventions of Leonardo da Vinci. The city, which was the capital of the world, marked the history of many countries.

Book your accommodation in Rome at the best price and your family activities in Rome to make the most of your holiday. Discover the history, gastronomy and landscapes of one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

15. Vienna 

Vienna is not only one of the most romantic European destinations , it is also one of the best destinations for Christmas in Europe and one of the best destinations for a family holiday in Europe. 

The sumptuous palaces of Vienna, such as the Schönbrunn Palace are  must visits places for you. Let your children experience the Prater amusement park with its permanent fun fair and Ferris wheel, one of the symbols of Vienna. Book your accommodation at the best price in Vienna and discover our selection of the best activities for a successful family holiday. 

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European Family Vacation: The Best 25+ Places to Travel in Europe with Kids

If you are planning on traveling to Europe with kids, there are several fantastic places to go. Whether you visit Portugal, France, or even Switzerland, you are sure to find some amazing attractions that kids will enjoy visiting. 

Europe as a whole is a beautiful place to go. The culture, the beauty and all the amazing opportunities to explore are sure to keep you and your children entertained. There are so many places to visit in Europe but these are the Best Places to Visit in Europe with Kids. 

Don’t put off that long-awaited European vacation for after the kids are grown and gone. Major European cities like London and Paris have elements of appeal for traveling families.

You’ll find world-class zoos and aquariums, spacious parks, plazas, and amusement centers galore. But dig deeper with your travel plans and you’ll discover destinations with day trips that balance the feel of city and country. 

Look for wayside castles and palaces, and places with tales and legends to spark the imagination. UNESCO sites are guaranteed to provide lots of interest, and national parks are the perfect places to experience different landscapes and wildlife.

This list of the best kid-friendly places in Europe suggests destinations with hidden gems to learn world history and geography and to understand cultural differences and commonalities. 

If you are interested in travel you may also be interested in  Travel Gifts! 

This week our Guest Blogger is Anna from  Expert World Travel . Anna was born to travel the world having studied languages all her life. Although she has traveled the world, she now calls Switzerland home and  has provided us with  the ins and outs of exploring  Kid-Friendly Destinations in Europe!  You can follow her on   Facebook ,  Twitter  and  Pinterest .

Back in 2020 we created an European Family Vacation Guide, however this current guide asked parents to provide more of their thoughts and insights into why these locations are perfect to visit with kids.

Best Places to Visit in Europe With Kids

Click on the links to scroll through some amazing kid-friendly places in Europe.

Lisbon, Portugal

• Algarve, Portugal 

Lagos, Portugal

Lugano, switzerland, zurich, switzerland, glasgow, scotland, london, england, venice, italy.

• Vienna, Italy 

Florence, Italy

• Dublin, Ireland 

Bucharest, Romania

Paris, france, copenhagen, denmark, zakopane, poland, vik, iceland, hamburg, germany, rudesheim, germany, munich, germany.

• Andalucia, Spain 
• Costa de Sol, Spain 

North Wales

• Gothenburg, Sweden

Prague, Czech

Krakow, poland, amsterdam, netherlands.

Kid Friendly Places in Europe

There are so many great places in Europe to visit with kids. Book your vacation today and explore all the beauty that Europe has to offer. You will have the best time.

If you are looking for the Best Places to Visit in Europe with Kids for a family trip, you will find several amazing ideas for planning your next vacation.

Photo Credit: Allison Baxley, Renovating Life

The capital city of Portugal, Lisbon, is a wonderful place to visit with kids in Europe. Portugal in general is very family friendly. The Portuguese people are so warm and welcoming and love kids. So much so that you may have several people (usually of an older generation) smile at them, pat them on the head, or even offer them a small treat. Additionally, restaurants and public spaces welcome kids with open arms and don’t mind at all if they run around and play during a meal. 

There are tons of activities that are perfect for kids in Lisbon. The Lisbon Oceanarium is a must see. Fairly small in size, this aquarium is perfect for young kids. You can get through all the displays in as little as an hour or you can meander longer around the central cylindrical tank.

Next door to the Oceanarium is the Pavilion of Knowledge, also known as the Interactive Science Museum. Kids love this museum because it’s hands on, offers two stories of interactive displays and play spaces, and makes learning fun!

Sometimes, sightseeing with kids can be tiring and difficult, but Lisbon offers a few options that make getting around fun for kids. Consider doing a tuk-tuk tour to see the best of the city, or take a ride on the historic 28 Tram which offers views of and stops at some of the best sights to see in Lisbon. 

Two easy day trips from Lisbon can either take you to Sintra to see all the famous castles and palaces or to the picturesque town of Cascais, where there are a number of kid-friendly beaches to enjoy.

The BessaHotel group has several hotels throughout Lisbon, and the Liberdade location offers adjoining rooms which are perfect for families.

You’ll enjoy visiting Portugal with kids so much you may just decide to move to Portugal .

Algarve, Portugal

Photo Credit: Linn Haglund, Amused by Andalucia

A wonderful place to travel with kids is the southern region of Portugal. With bewildering beaches and a rugged coastline full of hidden caves and intriguing rock formations, there are a lot of things to do for the whole family. 

There are boat trips taking you on dolphin safaris, snorkeling, and exploring the coastline from the water – including secluded beaches you can only reach by boat. If your kids are more adventurous, rent a paddleboard or a kayak to uncover the coastline firsthand. 

One of the biggest attractions is the Benagil Cave, a large sea cave with a sinkhole in the ceiling letting a spotlight of sun light up the beach inside. Furthermore, the towns in the Algarve are wonderful. Particularly for kids, stay in either Lagos or Albufeira where there are a lot of fun things to do. They can take surf lessons or try parasailing. 

There are also tours taking you to the countryside of Algarve to learn about the lesser-known wine regions. Another wonderful place to visit with kids is the lesser-frequented eastern area and the Ria Formosa Natural Park. There, you can see wild flamingos and take a small tourist train to Tavira Island and see the quirky Anchor Cemetery and spend the day on the beach. A lovely family-friendly place to stay is Lagos Atlantic Hotel.

Photo Credit: Alya, the Algarve Family

Algarve, a beautiful sunny region in Southern Portugal is a perfect place to visit with children. The area offers warm sunny weather, spectacular nature, beautiful sandy beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities suitable for travelers with children.

There are several popular holiday towns in the Algarve. Lagos is one of the region’s best places for a family holiday. It has a beautiful historic centre with many restaurants and multiple sandy beaches that are great for playing in the sand and swimming. 

There are many amazing things to do in Lagos . Some of the most popular summer activities for travelers with children include dolphin watching, boat tours to Ponta da Piedade and Benagil Cave, a visit to Slide and Splash waterpark, learning to surf, and visiting Lagos Zoo and Zoomarine. 

Hiking is another popular activity in the area. There are several boardwalks with breathtaking views suitable for walking with a stroller e.g. boardwalks at Ponta da Piedade, Meia Praia and Alvor. Travellers with older children can explore the area following one of the many coastal hiking trails e.g. The Fisherman’s Trail or the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.

Belmar Spa and Beach Resort is one of the best places to stay in Lagos. It’s located a 5-minute walk from Porto de Mos Beach. It has outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a beautiful garden, and a restaurant.

Photo Credit: Vanessa Gordon, East End Taste Magazine

Lugano, Switzerland, set close to the Italian border on Lake Lugano, is a stunning city that is ideal for tourists of all ages. The picturesque city is a stunning blend of Italian, Swiss and French influences. The primary language is Italian though you will notice that English is widely spoken as is French and German. Though you can cover a lot in Lugano in one day, a two day weekend is ideal for making the most out of your visit. 

Lugano is a very walkable city and is filled with many high end shops, department stores, restaurants, and boutique shops. During select times of the year, including the Harvest Festival in late September, you will notice many street vendors in Piazza della Reforma selling jewelry, soaps, crafts, jams, handmade toys, and much more. 

Particularly for children, activities include a scenic cruise around Lake Lugano via ferry which takes roughly four years if you were to cruise to Ponte Tresa and back to Lugano. Other great activities include a visit to Swissminiatur located less than fifteen minutes outside the city center, journey to the top of Mount Bre for the best sweeping views of the city, and taking a visit to Chocolat Alprose about twenty minutes outside the city. 

For an overnight stay in Lugano that is perfect for families, look to Swiss Diamond Hotel Lugano. This lakefront hotel has indoor and outdoor pools, onsite restaurants, a spa, afternoon teas, golf stay packages, and more. 

Photo Credit: Anna from Expat Travel

Switzerland’s largest city is both walk-friendly and kid-friendly. Walking the famous waterside promenade along Lake Zurich and the Limmat River is a must. You’ll find places that open into lush gardens to rest or perhaps go for a swim. At the end, the Blatterwiese has a  Chinese garden  and a playground. Even if your kids are young, you can just carry them in a  comfy child carrier ! So, don’t worry about that. 

 Catch the ferry back to town to stroll around Zurich’s Old Town and then visit the popular  Toy Museum . Or, if you children are into things more technical, it might be worth a stop at the  Beyer Watch Museum  to explore the watch history that is unique to Switzerland. Then, make a stop at Lindenhof city park for fantastic views and room to play. 

And if you have more time don’t miss out on the mountains, lakes, and city of Lucerne. It’s only a 30-mile day trip to the south. Plan on spending at least one night in one of the kid-friendly accommodations. The  Swiss Transport Museum  is a favorite for children featuring spaceships, planes, and an adventure ride as a “train driver.” Be sure to take a boat excursion on Lake Lucerne aboard a lake steamer. 

Photo Credit: Moumita & Sankha, Chasing the Long Road

If you are looking for a kid-friendly holiday in Europe, Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, should definitely be on your list. There are plenty of intriguing and interactive museums, historical sites, lots of green spaces and nature trails in and around the city that will keep your kids engaged.

One of the must-visit tourist attractions in Glasgow is Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. It boasts a massive collection of 8000 artifacts, which include those from ancient Egypt. You can also check out the exhibit featuring the famous Sir Roger the Asian Elephant. The adjacent Kelvingrove Park is a fantastic place to have a little wander and a picnic, weather permitting. There is also an adventure park where kids can have a great time. From here, you would get a fantastic view of Glasgow University, which itself is worth a visit for the fabulous architecture and its museums.

Another unmissable family-friendly attraction in Glasgow is the famous Riverside Museum on the bank of River Clyde. It houses an impressive display of transportation from different time periods, including vintage cars, model ships, skateboards and baby strollers. Inside the museum, the recreated old street of Glasgow will take you back in time. Also, get onboard the historic Tall Ship that lies next to this museum.

Maldron Hotel Glasgow City is an excellent choice to stay near the city center. 

Photo Credit: Ellie Quinn Belhaj, The Wandering Quinn

London may be a big and bustling city, but it is a city that’s great for children and families to visit for a few days. No matter how old your children are, they are bound to love the Natural History Museum and Science Museum, and if you have young ones, London Transport Museum is a good one to take them to. If you can, I recommend visiting the museums during weekdays as they get busier on weekends.

Part of the fun of visiting London with kids is showing them the famous sights they’ve seen in movies and read about in books! Plan a day in your London itinerary with kids to see Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Big Ben and the London Eye. Taking a boat trip along the Thames is a great way to see a lot of these great sights whilst ensuring your children don’t have to walk much.

One of the great things about London are its parks. You’ll find local families in them all year round and they are a good way to let your children play and run free. Good parks to go to are Greenwich Park, Hyde Park and Regents Park.

I do recommend hiring an apartment in London slightly out of the center of the city in zone 2 or 3, so you’ll benefit from more room in your accommodation and a slightly lower price.

Photo Credit: Planningaway

One of the best places to take kids in Europe is London.  There are lots of amazing activities for kids in London but one of the best is a Harry Potter London vacation.   

You will want to be sure to book a Warner Brother Studios Making of Harry Potter tour.  This is not an amusement park but more of a museum.  Many of the props used in the movies are on display. 

There are also interactive experiences.  You can fly on a broomstick, hop on the Hogwarts Express, and even grab some butter beer.  You will want to plan at least a 3-4 hour visit. Your kids will love it! 

There are a few more Harry Potter experiences in London that your family will love.  A muggle walking tour should be at the top of your list.  Make sure you get to Kings Cross Station to visit the Harry Potter souvenir shop.  

You will also want to make sure you book the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Play.  There are two parts and each show requires separate tickets.  It is important to reserve your tickets ahead of time.  

One of the best places to stay on your Harry Potter London vacation is the Georgian House Hotel. All of the rooms are Harry Potter-themed!

If you have more time you can take a day trip to Oxford to see more areas where Harry Potter was filmed.  

Your family will love the London Harry Potter experience! It is sure to be a favorite place for them to have visited.

Photo Credit: Melissa, Parenthood and Passports

Slovenia is an incredible and underrated country filled with castles, beautiful nature to explore, and even dragons – all things children will love! For this reason, the country in the Balkans is one of the best places to visit with kids in Europe. 

Start your visit by exploring the country’s capital city, Ljubljana. Known as the City of Dragons, Ljubljana is teeming with fairytale folklore, history and beauty. Among the many things to do in Ljubljana , take the funicular to Ljubljana castle. The fortress atop a hill overlooking the city’s Old Town district is now a museum. But if visiting with kids, you can book a special Escape the Castle ticket, which turns your ordinary museum visit into an escape room-style experience. 

Another fun place to visit in Slovenia with kids, Lake Bled is only an hour away from Ljubljana. The scenic lakeside resort town is known for its turquoise water and little church on an island in the center of the lake. Families will love canoeing to the island, swimming in summer, or riding the mountain toboggan at the adventure park at Lake Bled. There are so many fun ways to spend time outdoors and make memories on a family vacation in Slovenia.

Vienna, Italy

Photo Credit: Erin Martin, Wanderlust with Kids

Vienna is one of the best places to visit in Europe with kids! While it’s known for its beautiful architecture, classical music and art galleries, there are also so many fun things to do in Vienna with kids. From kid-friendly cultural attractions to museums designed for young ones, Vienna offers plenty of activities for the whole family.

One of the most popular is Schönbrunn Palace, where children can explore the historic grounds, dress up as royals and learn about the palace’s fascinating history. Also on the palace grounds, the Vienna Zoo is another favorite for families. 

Vienna’s Museum Quarter is also full of amazing attractions that are perfect for kids. There’s the Natural History Museum with its wonderful collection of animals and dinosaurs, the Museum of Technology and Austria’s first museum for kids, the Zoom Children’s Museum.

And then there’s the House of Music, where kids can try their hand at conducting and learn about Vienna’s rich musical history.

Aside from the many cultural attractions, Vienna also has plenty of parks and green spaces for kids to run around in. The Stadtpark is a great spot for picnics and paddling pools, while Prater Park is great for theme park rides and rollercoasters, and of course, Vienna’s iconic ferris wheel. 

Stay: KH Opera Apartments is conveniently located across from Karlsplatz Metro and one block from the Opera House. The one-bedroom apartments are spacious and quiet, with huge windows, great views of Karlsplatz and a kitchenette to cook up some quick meals. 

Venice is a fantastic European city to visit with kids not only because kids can run freely around its calli (streets) but also up and down the bridges without worrying about cars. At the Doge’s Palace, as a family, you can join different educational activities to get to know its history and spaces in an engaging way. You can choose between solving a crime inside the palace, going on a lion hunt, or joining an understanding and reconstructing the palace workshop.

If your kids love spending time at the museum but also love art, I recommend going to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection on a Sunday. At 3 pm the museum runs free workshops for children aged from 4 to 10 where they will be introduced to art and can experiment with art techniques. Most children are fascinated by animals and evolution and the Natural History Museum is a perfect place to learn about the animal world.

Children can see an almost complete dinosaur skeleton of over 7 meters, visit the cetacean gallery, the collection of fossils and another with butterflies and insects. Finally, if your kids love painting, why don’t you join a Carnival mask workshop at Ca’ Macana? Your little ones can take part in different courses and learn how to create beautiful masks.

Accommodation can be expensive, but there are many family-friendly 4 star hotels in Venice that are very affordable. For example, Hotel Saturnia & International is perfect as children can stay for free with breakfast included and you’ll be just a few minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square.

Florence, Italy is one of the best places to visit in Europe with kids.

It’s known for its Renaissance art, beautiful architecture, and delicious food.  This capital city of the Tuscany region has a lot to offer children.

Kids will be wide-eyed at their first sight of the stunning Duomo.  But don’t just take a look at it, climbing the Duomo is one of the most popular things to do in Florence.   Kids will love the adventure of climbing 463 steps to the top for the most amazing view in all of Florence.

Italy is known for its pizza and gelato, both kid-friendly foods.  So, when in Florence enjoy daily pizza and gelato.  Stop by Venchi for delicious gelato and to see the amazing chocolate wall.  There are also cooking classes in Florence geared specifically for families with kids.

When in Florence with kids, you must ride the famous Carousel at Piazza della Repubblica.

Florence has many fun shops for kids including LEGO Store Firenze and stores themed after the famous Pinnochio.

The Uffizi Gallery is one of the top attractions in Florence; world-renowned for its sculptures and paintings. There’s a Uffizi tour specifically geared toward kids to make it fun for them too.

Galileo 2000 is the perfect place to stay in Florence.  It’s located in San Firenze Square near many of the main attractions in Florence.  

Dublin, Ireland

Photo Credit: Catrina, 24 Hours Layover

Dublin is a fantastic city to visit with children as there is so much to do to keep them occupied. Even if you only have one day in Dublin you can still fit in a lot – from museums and exhibitions to parks and castles, the kids will be entertained whatever the weather!

Malahide Castle is a great place to take the kids. Not only is the castle really impressive, but there’s a fairy trail and a big playground with zip lines so the children can burn their energy!

The Howth Coastal Walk is also a great activity in Dublin to do with kids. It offers absolutely fantastic views and there are even some beaches along the way if the children need a break. Afterwards get some fish and chips in Howth: their fish and chips is divine!

If it’s rainy take the children to EPIC Museum – voted the leading tourist attraction in Europe for three years in a row! Full of educational experiences, this is sure to delight kids of all ages.

Harry Potter fans may want to check out The Old Library at Trinity College – the inspiration for Hogwarts Library and one of the world’s most impressive libraries!

For older children interested in learning about Ireland’s history, a visit to Kilmainham Gaol is particularly educational.

For the perfect hotel in a convenient location head to Trinity Townhouse Hotel. Located in the famous St Stephen’s Green, the children will love the famous coloured doors on these iconic Georgian properties!

Romania is one of the  most affordable European countries  where you can enjoy your weekend vacation without breaking your bank. Bucharest is the capital of Romania and is known for its mesmerizing beauty and medieval history to the world. You shouldn’t miss this place when you’re planning a Europe vacation with your kids.

From monumental architecture to art galleries, and museums to shopping spots, everything in this city will keep you engaged and make you happy. The Museum Of Senses is one of the spots where your kids can have super fun. This place is famous for its illusion-trained animators, infinity room, ball pit and more.

When it’s about family time, you must visit Edenland Park. This park is full of activities such as wall climbing, horseback riding, biking, softball games and many other things. After a lot of fun and activities, you must go to the National Museum of Art where you can learn about the historical past of Romania with your kids. From medieval history to the modern age, props and elements can be seen and take you to the past time of Romania too.

After visiting museums, go to Cărturești Carusel. Carturesti Carusel is a library, but its architecture and modern setup attract bibliophiles worldwide.

Apart from this, you can visit other tourist destinations like teahouses( to taste 50 types of tea), King Michael I Park and the Romanian Athenaeum.

To taste authentic Romanian food, you can go for Mititei or Mici, Covrigi, sarmale and Salam De Biscuiti. These are some signature foods of the capital city of Romania.

You can book a room at Venis Boutique hotel if you want to spend quality days in Bucharest with your family at a reasonable price. This is one of the best budget-friendly hotels in the place.

Photo Credit: Stephanie

Paris, France is an excellent destination for traveling with kids in Europe, as there is a large variety of activities and attractions to keep them engaged and entertained. Plus, Paris is a very walkable city, and the metro is cheap and easy to use, so it’s not hard to get around with kids. 

One of the best places to visit with kids in Europe is Paris, the capital city of France. The sights of Paris are a lot of fun to see with kids. For example, it can be great to go up the Eiffel Tower and see the city from above with kids. Also, it can be fun to go to the Sacre-Coeur, which is a famous church located on a hill from where you can get a panoramic view of the city as well.

So, what to in Paris with Kids ? Definitely don’t skip the Eiffel Tower – being inside the structure as you walk up the stairs or take the elevator is extremely cool, and the views from the top are amazing. Definitely come back when it’s dark to watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle (for 5 minutes at the top of every hour). 

Going on a Seine River cruise is another fun activity kids will love, as you get to watch the city go by from the water. Another great activity to do with kids is a cruise on the River Seine that cruises along some of the most famous sights of the city. Make sure you stop at a  local cafes  and check out the parisian   food choices including croissants, and baguettes.

Furthermore, in winter, it can be great to go to Galeries Lafayette with kids. This is a department store where you can see a very large Christmas tree and beautiful window displays with moving elements during the winter season. 

One great thing about Paris is that there are tons and tons of public parks and gardens. The Jardin de Luxembourg is a particularly good garden for kids, as it has tennis and basketball courts, a large pond where you can rent toy sailboats, and a playground. 

Also, the Louvre Museum could be great to check out with children as its collection is very impressive to see. Moreover, during the months of July and August, you can find Fête des Tuileries next to the Louvre in the Tuileries Garden. This is a fair, kind of like one of the theme parks, with lots of attractions and rides that are great to visit with kids. Furthermore, a good hotel for families is Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel, which is a hotel located close to the Eiffel Tower.”

Older kids might enjoy the kind of creepy, and cool catacombs of Paris, where you go underground and walk through a maze of stacked bones of Paris’s deceased. 

One of the absolute best parts of any Paris itinerary with kids are the multiple stops at boulangeries (bakeries), where you can sample all sorts of delicious breads, pastries, and desserts. 

And of course, there’s always Disneyland Paris, which is about ½ hour outside of the main part of the city. 

The Elysees Union is a great hotel option for families, as there are large family rooms and it’s situated in a central location between the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. 

Photo Credit: Dymphe, Dymabroad

You may also be interested in:  Places to stay in Paris with Kids

Photo Credit: Anna from  Expert World Travel

Historic yet youthful, Copenhagen is home to two centuries-old amusement park, historical sites, and museums filled with Viking and Bronze Age treasures. Below you will find the Best Places for kids in Copenhagen, Denmark.

The city gets many visitors for the sole purpose of visiting  Tivoli Gardens , the world’s second oldest of its kind. Besides a carousel called the Star Flyer that rises 80 metres above the ground and an unforgettable roller coaster, the whole family will be amazed at the 19th-century representations of the Orient. Also visit Bakken, the second most popular attraction, and the world’s oldest operating amusement park existing since 1583. These are great attractions when visiting Copenhagen with Kids. Check out this itinerary for 3 Days in Copenhagen .

Copenhagen is flat and has broad bicycle lanes. Rental bikes with a touch screen tablet and built-in GPS to tour the town. The historic waterfront is adjacent to a 17th-century canal. Kids will find it interesting to learn that fairytale author Hans Christian Anderson once lived in this district. 

Get lost in  Copenhagen’s National Museum  with its remarkable collection of artifacts. Tour the Rosenborg Castle and admire the lavish interior of the palace built by Christian IV at the beginning of the 17th-century. At the Christianborg Palace, you’ll see a Riding School and a little court theatre built in 1767. 

Plan a day trip using Denmark’s superior public transit to visit Kronborg Castle, the setting for William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet, and  Fredriksborg Castle  with its stunning surrounding gardens. You can even cross the Oresund Bridge into Sweden. 

Photo Credit: Kristin,  Global Travel Escapades

If you’re looking for a wonderful lesser-known place in Europe to visit with your kids, consider heading to Zakopane, which is not far from Krakow . Here, you’ll find that the village has all kinds of family-friendly activities and offers breathtaking views that your little ones will surely love.

For example, one place you’ll want to definitely make sure to visit is Gubałówka Mountain. On top of the mountain, you’ll not only catch the most amazing views of the town below but also discover a nearby street lined with hundreds of different carnival-like stalls. There are even ropes courses and other adventure activities available for little ones to help burn off any excess energy!

Alternatively, if your family prefers to spend more time in the great outdoors, Zakopane is also a lovely place to go hiking. Within the small town, there’s a wide assortment of hikes through the Tatra Mountains that accommodate any level of difficulty!

Thus, if your family is ready to travel off the beaten path, then consider checking out the beautiful town of Zakopane. And, for places to stay, be sure to check out the Aries Hotel and Spa! It’s a great hotel that will offer everything you need to fully relax after a full day of exploring!

Photo Credit: Amber, Get Lost in Wanderlust

Iceland is known for its breathtaking landscapes and waterfalls. The charming village of Vik is a fantastic place to stay in Iceland. Vik is located 2.5 hours from the capital of Reykjavik and is an easy, yet scenic drive. 

There are many things to do near Vik . On the drive to Vik, two must-stop locations are Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. These are two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls, and they are also very easy to visit with kids as you can park right near the falls. 

Once in Vik, a fun family activity is visiting the Lava Show. This is a great activity for older kids that are interested in volcanos and seeing what lava looks like! Iceland is also famous for Icelandic horses, and Vik Horse Adventures offers fun 30-minute kid-friendly horseback rides for kids 6 years and up. For Star Wars fans, check out the Yoda cave. The cave is shaped like Yoda and was a filming location for Rogue One. It’s located 15 minutes outside Vik and is easy to visit as you can drive up to it.

Staying in Vik is a great option while exploring south Iceland. Black Beach Suites, located just outside of Vik offers apartment-style accommodations with fantastic views. Hótel Kría is another great option in the center of town. 

If you continue east along the Ring Road, make sure to check out Glacier Lagoon. Here you can see giant icebergs, and even take a family-friendly boat tour around the lagoon. 

Photo Credit: Phil, JOURNICATION Travel Blog

Things To Do In Hamburg With Kids

There are lots of things you can do with your kids in Hamburg during vacation. For instance, there is Miniatur Wunderland. This is the perfect spot for adults and kids. Without any doubt, your kids are going to love what it has got to offer. Apart from its unique surface area and landscape, its technology has caught the eyes of tourists over the years.

This model railway as well as airport attracts thousands of kids and adults every month. It contains around 1300 trains and 10,000 vehicles. Furthermore, there are over 130,000 trees, 500,000 lights, and many more. Your kids can explore its rail system which is the most attractive. Also, they will be blown away after checking out its airport. This gives them the chance to see planes landing and taking off. The activities here can keep your kids busy all day.

Do you plan to spend one day in Hamburg with your kids? If that is the case, you will need to make plans for hotel accommodation before exploring Miniatur Wunderland. A great option is Premier Inn Hamburg City. This hotel is affordable and has all the necessary facilities to make you and the kids comfortable. 

Photo Credit: Morgan Fielder, Crave the Planet

Rudesheim Germany is a place for families, outdoor lovers, hikers, and people who want to experience the magic of dozens of medieval castles all located within one short stretch of the Romantic Rhine River.   There is a castle or castle ruin on average every 2.5 km along this steep river gorge.

This weekend getaway close to Frankfurt or Luxembourg is located at the mouth of the UNESCO Upper Middle Rhine Valley and is home to 40 castles and castle ruins dating back to the 13th century.  Here’s a Rhine River Castles google map with all of them listed.

The coolest thing to do for the kids is to book a stay at the castle hotel called Burg Schoenburg.  They have a garden to run around in, a tower you can climb that has a toy trebuchet, a little crossbow range and delicious food.  It’s fun and lovingly restored to medieval glamor for the whole family to enjoy.

Beyond the castles, you can experience a hop on, hop off boat tour with your kids or ride one of the multiple gondolas that sail over the top of perfectly lined up vineyards.  The hikes around town are stroller and wheelchair friendly.  They also include interactive and educational outdoor exhibits that engage kids to learn more about the history of the area.

The city has many paid car parking lots and a train station with easy connections to Frankfurt.

Check out the best things to do in Germany for more information. 

Munich has impressive museums, squares, and green spaces, but the best thing about making it your family vacation destination is the location. As the capital city of Bavaria, Munich gives you easy access to day trips among majestic lakes, forests, mountains, and castles. 

Expose the kids to world-class museums in Munich. Even young children will grow up appreciating that they have had the chance to see masterpieces by great artists such as da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Reubens. See them at Munich’s  Alte Pinakothek museum , and view more modern art at the Pinakothek der Moderne. 

Older kids, teens, and car enthusiasts will be amused at  BMW World . Part museum and part showroom, it’s a unique experience. Take selfies with classic cars and motorcycles, and “drive” using gaming consoles. Adults will find the documents tracing the rise and fall of Nazis and Hitler interesting.

Just out of town, kids will find the 17-century  Schloss Neuschwanstein  jaw-dropping. Said to be the picture-perfect castle, it was the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Almost as impressive is the Schloss Elmau, a 20th-century castle about an hour south of Munich. Adding to its charm is the 1600 acres it sits on in the Bavarian Alps, a place for luxury lodging with spas and planned children’s activities. 

Andalucia, Spain

If you are looking for a unique place to travel with kids, look no further than Andalucia in southern Spain. The region offers such a wide variety of activities and fun things to do that your kids will stay entertained for weeks to end. 

With over 320 days of sunshine a year, there is nothing in the way of spending time on the beaches. Especially on Costa del Sol, you will find everything your kids can want from a beach with jumping castles bobbing in the water, volleyball nets, and beach bars where you can get lunch and cold drinks. 

Head to Nerja for exceptional snorkeling and kayaking opportunities in the clear water, or go surfing and whale watching on the Cadiz coast. There are also a whole lot of kid-friendly villages near Malaga that the whole family will love. To mention a few, Juzcar, is a blue-painted mountain village with a Smurf theme that the little ones will love, A little further in the mountains, a tiny village called Parauta, has a fairytale trail in the forest where the kids can explore little houses in the trees and fun fairytale statues. 

In the Alpujarras in Granada, there is a witch-themed village with spooky statues and a Hansel and Gretel House along a “witch trail” that is fun for the whole family. A good base for families is Malaga. Stay at the Soho Boutique Equitativa in the city center.

Costa de Sol, Spain

Photo credit: Cristina, My Little World of Travelling

Costa del Sol is well-known for its fantastic summer holidays for everyone, especially for families looking for fun kid-friendly activities and creating moments with their little ones.

Within Costa del Sol, some of the best coastal towns for families are Torremolinos, Benalmadena, and Fuengirola . No matter which one you stay, you will find many activities to do with kids. However, it is recommended to rent a car so you can move with ease between these towns and attractions.

Benalmadena is the winner for kid-friendly attractions. For animal lovers, head to Sealife and Selwo Marina, where kids can see and learn about marine animals. For adventure seekers, take the cable car to Mount Colomorro, where you and your family can enjoy fantastic views of the coast and see eagles and other birds.

Other popular things to do in Benalmadena with kids are going to Butterfly Park and La Paloma Park. The latter is free and a fantastic place to enjoy a picnic surrounded by green spaces and small animals like chickens, rabbits and parakeets which run freely around the park.

If you plan to go to Costa del Sol in the summer months, your kids will also have the opportunity to enjoy waterparks and water activities at the beach. The best waterpark in the area is Aqualand, located in Torremolinos.

Photo Credit: Paulina, the UK Every Day

Underground playground inside a massive slate cavern where kids can jump on the trampoline or experience the world’s fastest zip line in North Wales are only a few ideas of spending an unforgettable time with family in Europe.

For adventurous kids, this region has plenty of attractions such as river bugging or Zip World Forest Safari. Moreover, this country is famous for its beautiful water cascade where kids can swim in shallow pools alongside some of the best waterfalls in Wales .

Younger kids will love the train ride at Gypsy Wood Park or the beautiful village inspired by Italy – Portmeirion. The colorful and unusual buildings of this region and plenty of space for kids to run around allow for spending an unforgettable day in Wales.

This country has everything from beautiful mountains, sandy beaches, and ancient woodlands to plenty of indoor attractions. Welsh Mountain Zoo set in picturesque scenery over Colwyn Bay is a great place to see some rare species from various parts of the world.

There are also other locations in North Wales, where you can see animals in their natural environment. Head to Porth Dyniewaid Angel Bay for seal spotting or visit Puffin Island just off the Anglesey Isle. For a comfortable stay, book accommodation at Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa situated in the lovely scenery of North Wales.

Gothenburg, Sweden – Sweden Vacation with Kids

Lodging and amenities are less costly in Gothenburg than in Stockholm. Families can save money and still experience the culture and history of Sweden. You’ll have access to top-rated museums, green spaces, and amusement parks. Sweden offers may things to do with kids, including  Slottsskogn  which is the largest park in the city. It includes a zoo filled with Nordic animals like Gute sheep and elk. Kids get a chance to ride the Gotland ponies. Admission to the park is free! 

For bumper cars, roller coasters, and lots of other amusement rides, kids love  Lisenberg Park . This park actually has more acreage and flowers than Tivoli. Some rides, like the pony merry-go-rode and boats, are free for tots. The park also has a hotel on the property for lodging. 

At Universeum, the largest of its kind in Scandinavia, kids can see creatures from the North Sea, conduct experiments in the chemistry lab, and walk through a simulated rain forest. For more nature, visit the Naturhistoriska museum boasting the world’s largest mounted blue whale. 

Take a day in Gothenburg to head out of the city and ride the ferry out to  Carlsten’s Fastening , a 17th-century reenactment fortress. 

The Czech Republic’s capital and largest city has a number of activities families with children will enjoy. The kids will have a blast on a steamship ride to the fabulous  Prague Zoo , said to be one of the world’s most beautiful zoos. 

The National Tech Museum at Letna has exhibits of high interest to children with an old steam locomotive and antique cars, motorcycles, and planes. 

Be sure to sample the fresh pastries sold around town at shops like the Erhart Pastry Shop and the Mysak Cake Shop on Vodickova street. After riding a historic tram and visiting the Zizkov TV tower’s observation deck, plan some exciting day trips outside the city. 

Cesky Krumlov  is a UNESCO World Heritage site located 106 miles south of Prague. The picturesque town with cobblestone streets is nestled in the bend of the Vltava River. It’s home to the Krumlov, a hilltop castle from 1302 featuring a marble chapel, tower views, and a Baroque theater. Kids can learn to write with a quill along with other medieval skills on a tour of the monastery. 

Thirty miles north of Cesky Krumlov, the  Sumvara National Par k has hiking trails that wind through a forest with centuries-old trees,  lakes, and waterfalls. 

The whole family will love the fairy tale look of historic Krakow with its pastel-painted buildings, large market square, and hilltop castle.  Wawel Castle , once the home of Polish kings, sits on a hill squarely in the middle of Krakow. It’s been a museum since 2019 and features wonderful old tapestries sewn with threads of pure gold and an important collection of Renaissance artwork. 

Krakow is a great town for foodies to visit. In 2019, it was given the title of European Capital of Gastronomic Culture. Sampling the local bagels called Obwarzanki is a must, and kids can learn to make their own at the  Muzeum Obwarzanka . 

Take a break from walking with an hour-long cruise on the Vistula River with scenic views before touring the underground tunnels at the Wieliczka salt mine. It’s sure to be a unique experience for youngsters of all ages as they walk through rooms and chapels with sculptures carved from solid salt. 

Spend a day exploring the Tatra mountains with a trip to  Zakopane , a ski and hiking tourist town where snow-capped peaks form the Slavokian border. 

Dubrovnik, Crotia

Less than a day’s drive from Krakow, Dubrovnik is Croatia’s favorite tourist destination. If you’re traveling with a gaggle of Game of Thrones fans, you’ll want to see a few of the  19 sites around the city  used as sets. Begin with the Pile Gate and Fort Bokar. Both are part of the city’s medieval walls. Walk the path atop all the way around for a view of the Adriatic Sea and Dubrovnik’s red-tiled roofs, some dating back to medieval times.  

The kids will enjoy touring the Old Town with street performers and delicious treats like arancini, sugared orange grinds, and makaroni, a macaroni cake. If you’re here from mid-July to mid-August, the town hosts a spirited summer festival with music, theatre, and dance. 

Don’t leave Dubrovnik before spending a day or two on the beaches.  Copacabana Beach  on Babin Kuk Peninsula is a good choice. It’s a pebbly beach, but good for playing and kayaking. For a sandier beach, try Sunj Beach at Lopud Island, a 50-minute boat ride away. 

Once in town, you’ll see why Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most popular cities to visit with children. It begins with several  Speeltuinen , whimsical playgrounds scattered around the city, each with its own unique flavor. Kids will be delighted to discover the “hidden” playgrounds. 

Consider purchasing a  Museumkaart  for access to Amsterdam’s museums such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum without standing in long lines. Take in all the delights of the Netherlands at Madurodam, a theme park that’s like a shrunken replica of the whole country. 

Be sure to check out the ARTIS  Amsterdam Royal Zoo  centrally located in the city. It features over 750 different kinds of animals and emphasizes animal protection and conservation. 

You’ll find so much to do within the city of Amsterdam, but don’t leave before spending an afternoon in the Amstelpark outside of town. It features a huge playground, petting zoo, and a theme park with rides. 

With so many great cities in Europe that cater to kids, choosing one to visit can be daunting. Of course, there are more prominent cities like London and Paris, but this list was created for a more unique European experience.

Whether you take public transportation around to explore or find other ways to get around, you are sure to have a great time.

Pin for Later:

2023 Update: Originally written in 2020 by Anna from  Expert World Travel . Anna was born to travel the world having studied languages all her life. Although she has traveled the world, she now calls Switzerland home and  has provided us with  the ins and outs of exploring  Kid-Friendly Destinations in Europe!  You can follow her on   Facebook ,  Twitter  and  Pinterest . Anna gave us insight on: Copenhagen, Gothenburg, Prague, Krakow, Dubrovnik, Munich, Zurich, and Amsterdam. So we decided to ask other parents for advice on new cities.

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22 best european summer holiday destinations for families.

Are you looking for a place in Europe to visit this summer with your family? Look no more! Here are some handpicked European destinations for families, where both adults and kids can enjoy their summer break.

Mountains, islands, city breaks, beaches and forests. Explore Europe in its variety.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Sardinia, Italy
• 1.2 The Island of Zakynthos, Greece
• 1.4 The Algarve, Portugal
• 1.5 The French Riviera, France
• 1.6 Malaga, Spain
• 2.1 Georgia’s Black Sea Coast
• 2.2 Istria, Croatia
• 2.3 Slovakia
• 2.4 Saint Petersburg, Russia 
• 3.1 Jutland, Denmark
• 3.2 North Norfolk Coast, UK
• 3.3 Rovaniemi, Finland
• 3.4 Edinburgh, Scotland
• 3.5 Peak District, UK
• 3.6 Skåne, Sweden
• 4.1 French Alps, France
• 4.2 Basque Country, Spain
• 4.3 Giethoorn, Netherlands
• 4.4 Texel, Netherlands
• 4.5 Tyrol, Austria
• 4.6 Munich, Germany 

Southern Europe

Sardinia, italy.

By Claudia Tavani from Strictly Sardinia

At the heart of the Mediterranean, the Italian island of Sardinia is by far the best summer holiday destination for families. It is blessed with thousands of gorgeous beaches, pristine nature, quaint villages, clean beaches, archeological sites, delicious food and wine. Sardinia is the kind of place where children have a blast. Take them to the beach and they will enjoy endless sand-castle games, snorkeling in the clear, shallow waters, and playing soccer with other children they will befriend. 

With so many places to pick from in Sardinia, where should you spend your holidays then?

La Maddalena Archipelago, at the northeastern tip of Sardinia, is certainly a favorite place. Easy to reach by ferry from Palau, a quick drive from Olbia airport, and now a national park, this set of islands is a sight to behold. Only 7 of them are inhabited – most are highly protected! 

Make sure to enjoy a boat tour around La Maddalena . It will take you to the best beaches such as Cala Coticcio, in Caprera island, or places such as Spargi island and Budelli, one of the most beautiful (and highly protected) pink beaches in Sardinia. 

Fancy exploring the south of Sardinia instead? Head to Villasimius, at easy driving distance from Cagliari. A sleepy small town in the winter, Villasimius swells with visitors in the summer months. The tourists from Sardinia, Italy and Europe come then to enjoy the gorgeous beaches of Porto Giunco, Punta Molentis, and more.

The Island of Zakynthos, Greece

by Stéphanie from Bey Of Travel

The beautiful Greek island Zakynthos is the perfect getaway for a family holiday in Europe. The exotic island is known for its breathtaking landscapes, crazy nightlife, beautiful beaches, and turquoise waters. The most famous trademark of Zakynthos is the Shipwreck beach. You can visit the wreck and its surrounding cliffs by boat, or you can enjoy the breathtaking view from above. 

Another famous beach on the island is Laganas beach. This is the island’s largest beach and the nesting grounds for endangered Caretta-caretta sea turtles. They lay their eggs on the beach during spring and summer. You might be lucky enough to see them getting out of the sea to hide their eggs under the sand, but you should by no means disturb them!

Located on the southeast peninsular of Zakynthos, you will find the small town Vasilikos. This is the perfect area if you like nature and less touristic places. Or if you are looking for a quieter place on the island to enjoy a family holiday. You can explore the area on foot, by bike, or by quad. You will find many traditional Greek cuisines in one of the many family restaurants.

Make sure to book a room in Porto Zante Villas And Spa . The hotel offers luxurious villas with private heated pools and private gardens set right on the beachfront.

There is a Kids’ Club and an outdoor playground. Babysitting services and baby equipment are also provided.

The best time of the year to visit Zakynthos is during summer, the temperatures are amazing. It is the perfect holiday destination for families if you love water sports, snorkeling, boat rides, and adventure.

By Lavina from Continent Hop

There are many family-friendly destinations in Europe that people think of when it comes to spending summer in Europe. Some of the popular ones are Greece and Italy. However, places like Cyprus are perfect because they are not only more budget-friendly but also are less crowded. Cyprus is also a great European family holiday destination because it has options for a stay that serve multi-generational families. 

The weather is warm for most of the year, so Cyrpus is one of the few places in Europe that one can play in the sea. Although in summer temperatures here reach quite a high, the mornings and evenings are very pleasant and have the best sunrises and sunsets!

The beaches are clean and many resorts are located by the sea. So some of the family can relax and others can take a walk, hike or do other activities. 

The island isn’t huge however it has a lot to offer. It has many archaeological attractions that one can enjoy. Among them are Neo Paphos, Tomb of the Kings, Paphos Castle, and the Agios Neophytos Monastery. Most of these are concentrated in the capital Paphos but many are scattered around the country too. 

In addition to this, there’s also Petra Tou Romiou and the Adonis Baths waterfalls. These natural landmarks are stunning and worth a visit. 

Cyprus is great not only because it has great history and architecture but it also has great food. Traditional food in Cyprus is delicious and simple. 

One of the ways to taste as many things as possible is to order a mezze platter. You can get tzatziki, hummus, grilled halloumi, local sausages, stuffed vine leaves – ten or more items on one platter. 

Cyprus offers a lot for the whole family. Kids and grown-ups can indulge in surfing, kayaking, exploring caves, going for walks, and even scuba diving. Stay busy yet have a great time!

The Algarve, Portugal

By Nichola from the Global Mouse Travels

The Algarve is one of the best locations for a family summer holiday. The Algarve, the region at the bottom of Portugal, is particularly welcoming to those travelling with kids. There are water parks and fun activities at every turn.

The Algarve has amazing stretches of sandy beaches and the temperature can be balmy even in winter. In summer it really comes into its own though with almost guaranteed sunshine every day and a temperature that is perfect for a beachside break. It’s the perfect place to get active too with golf, horse riding and mountain biking perfect activities.

Head to the Ria Formosa Natural Park to spot wildlife and wind your way to the gorgeous beach here. Head to the furthest point west, to the sleepy town of Sagres. It looks out across the rocks to the sea beyond. It is in Sagres that Europeans once thought the world ended and it is a really atmospheric spot. Visit the lighthouse and walk along the top here for beautiful views, particularly as the sun sets.

There are plenty of fantastic restaurants in the Algarve too. A place like “2 Passos”, set out on the sand, is ideal for casual dining where you will be greeted like family. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal with kids , make sure the Algarve is your number one destination – however long you come for won’t be enough.

The French Riviera, France

By Ophelie from Limitless Secrets

The French Riviera in the South of France is one of the best family holiday destinations for summer! This region, named “Côte d’Azur” in French, is located on the eastern part of the Mediterranean coastline between Marseille and the Italian border. The French Riviera is a perfect place to visit in summer. Here there is usually a lot of sun and no wind, and the sky is bright blue like the sea!

But the French Riviera also has a lot of assets for a family vacation! First of all, it offers a great number of beautiful beaches. Whether you want to lie down on the sand and rest or play with your kids and swim, you will have plenty of choices! Check out the beaches of Plage de la Mala in Cap d’Ail, plage de l’Île de Porquerolles or Plage de la Salis in Antibes.

Also, in this region, you will find a great variety of stunning landscapes that you can explore. For example, the National Park of the Calanques near Marseille and Cassis is a great place for a hike and a swim. It will satisfy all the young adventurers out there!

But the cities in the French Riviera are also very interesting. You can check out the big cities like Nice and Marseille. Here you can visit a lot of museums and do other cultural activities. 

Besides that, you shouldn’t miss the towns and villages. They are full of colors like Villefranche-sur-Mer and Menton or will take you back in time as the medieval Èze.

Last but not least, you can do a lot of boat trips on the French Riviera . It’s located on the Mediterranean coastline: a great kid-friendly activity!

Malaga, Spain

By Joana from Andalucia in My Pocket

Malaga is a wonderful destination to visit with your family in the summer. You are guaranteed days of sunshine, not a cloud in the sky, and plenty of things to do. Malaga is the gateway to Costa del Sol, but it’s also a great city to visit. It offers everything a traveller wants: beaches, culture, good food and lively nightlife.

Malaga is fortunate to have two wonderful beaches right in the city, walking distance from the old town. The most famous one is La Malagueta, which is a wide, sandy beach, with shallow and warm water. The beaches are serviced by lifeguards and benefit from all the facilities, including play centres for children and boat rentals.

Alongside the beach, you will find plenty of chiringuitos (Spanish beach bars). There you can indulge in the local speciality, the espetos. These are skewers of sardines grilled over an open fire and served with lemon and fries. You must try it when you visit Malag a. It is one of the dishes that make the destination famous with the foodies.

Malaga has been under the Moorish occupation for centuries, the same as the entire South of Spain. The Moors have built here a beautiful fortress and palace with landscaped gardens overlooking the sea. Visiting the Alcazaba is a great way to learn about the history of the city.

Malaga is also home to the famous painter Pablo Picasso. You can visit here the home he was born in but also the museum desiccated to his works.

Eastern Europe

Georgia’s black sea coast.

By Emily from Wander-Lush

Budget-friendly and with a vast diversity of landscapes and cultural activities on offer, the Republic of Georgia is one of the best destinations in the region for a summer family holiday.

Georgia’s Black Sea Coast is extremely popular as a summer destination. Tourists and locals alike flock to the beach to escape the heat of the cities. Batumi, the biggest resort city, has an international airport and is easy to reach by high-speed train from Tbilisi . It does tend to get crowded and a touch expensive in July and August. However, so it’s best to spend a few days exploring then venture elsewhere.

Kids will love the Roman fortresses on the Black Sea Coast, including Gonio Apsaros and Petra. The quality of the beaches improves vastly as you head north from Batumi with beautiful fine-grain black sand around Ureki and Shekvetili in particular. Both these resort towns are a lot smaller and quieter by comparison.

Shekvetili is a great choice for families. It boasts a lot of kid-friendly activities beyond the beach. In the Miniatures Museum you can see scaled models of Georgia’s most important churches and monuments. One of the best resorts in the country, Paragraph, is located in Shekvetili. It has outdoor play areas for younger kids plus a large pool. It’s a good idea to bring your own car. This way you have the freedom to explore the other coves, gardens, and charming seaside towns dotted along the coast.

The sunsets on Georgia’s west-facing beaches are outstanding and will make your family holiday all the more memorable. Hotel: https://www.booking.com/hotel/ge/paragraph-resort-spa-shekvetili-autograph-collection.es-mx.html

Istria, Croatia

By Martina & Jürgen from Places of Juma

One of our most amazing destinations for a perfect summer family holiday is for sure Istria in Croatia !

The best way to explore all the main places is by car. While driving around you will explore gorgeous beaches, fascinating hilly landscapes, and romantic mountain villages! Don’t miss the coastal towns of Pula, Poreč, and Rovinj that attract countless visitors from all over the world.

Istria is not just only for sightseeing, there are also lots of kid-friendly activities. One of the main highlights is the Dinopark Funtana. Built on an area of 80,000 m², this great amusement park offers a variety of life-size and movable dinosaur statues, which are guaranteed to amaze children. The two main water parks: Istralandia near Novigrad and Aquapark Aquacolors in Porec are great fun for young and old!

Istria offers countless possibilities for sportive family activities. Go cycling along the coast or hiking in the green, hilly hinterland. Explore the coast by kayak tours, boat tours, or by SUB.

Istria in summer is one of the most recommended places for a family holiday and should be high up on any bucket list!

By Jiayi from The Diary of the Nomad

If you’re looking to spend an unforgettable summer with your family, Slovakia is definitely one of the most underrated European destinations to consider. Many tourists who visit Slovakia usually just drop by Bratislava for a day. However, there is so much to see and do in the rest of the country. Also, most of it is devoid of crowds, making it the perfect spot for a quiet and relaxing family getaway.

One of the best places in Slovakia is the majestic Tatras Mountains. They offer a variety of stunning hiking trails and scenic walks in the summer. Many of the walking paths are very family-friendly, and you’ll come across lots of local families with kids vacationing there. Moreover, AquaPark Tatralandia, the biggest aquapark in Slovakia, is also located right next to the Tatras Mountains and is filled with fun slides and pools.

If your family is into historic places, Slovakia has tons of beautiful castles to keep you busy. Kids will especially love Bojnice Castle, which looks straight out of a fairytale. Orava Castle is also very pleasant to visit and offers spectacular views from its upper floors. 

Slovakia is also home to lots of gorgeous medieval towns such as Bardejov, Kremnica, and Levoča. Walking around the quiet streets of these towns is a wonderful way to relax and sightsee as a family. 

Don’t miss out on Košice if you’re a foodie family and want to taste the best of the local cuisine. There’s also a gorgeous botanical garden in Košice with lots of butterflies and beautiful plants. It is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with your kids.

Saint Petersburg, Russia 

By Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Saint Petersburg in Russia is a great destination in Europe in summer. Because of its northern latitude, you can enjoy white nights as well as warm and sunny weather without it becoming too hot. The biggest reason to visit Saint Petersburg with your family though is the variety of things to do. 

Saint Petersburg is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer for everyone, no matter their age. It’s full of history, culture, and architecture. The amount of museums, palaces, and cathedrals to choose from is astounding. Children will love the Leningrad zoo, the Bolshoi puppet theatre, the Aurora battleship, the railway museum, or the largest planetarium in Europe. 

In general, Saint Petersburg is a very child-friendly city. Lots of restaurants have a children’s menu or even a playroom. Most attractions have made an effort to be sure that they will pick the interest of younger members of the family too. Even art museums like the Hermitage or the Kunstkamera are interactive enough for children to enjoy.  

In summer, there are lots of outdoor activities as well. You can join the local families in the city’s parks and palace gardens. Many of them will have children’s playgrounds. There are even a few beaches where you can go swimming on the seashore. A boat tour on the beautiful canals or a cruise to nearby islands in the Neva River is another highlight of St Petersburg in summer.

Finally, St Petersburg is a great base for a number of day trips. The Peterhof Palace, where the Russian tsars once roamed around, is a must-visit. Especially in summer when you get there by hydrofoil. Other palaces where children will feel like a prince or princess in the lavishly decorated rooms are the Catherine and Pavlovsk palaces.

Northern Europe

Jutland, denmark.

By Nichola from the Family Hotel Expert

There can’t be many better places to visit, at any time of the year, than Jutland in Denmark. This region at the top of the country is filled with castles and culture and lots of fun too. Summer is the perfect time to visit when balmy temperatures allow for long, lingering days out exploring. Visit the beaches where the waves crash spectacularly and rolling sand dunes are perfect for clambering up.

If you’re looking for a family holiday to Denmark then this region, with all its links to Legoland is perfect. Visit the world’s first Legoland theme park and explore the history of this famous brick in the new, interactive Lego House. There’s plenty more here though, particularly in the form of culture.

Visit the sweet town of Jelling where you can see the original Viking rune stones. Or make your way to picturesque Ribe, the oldest town in Denmark. Every street there seems more beautiful than the last.

For somewhere really spectacular head to the top of Jutland and the atmospheric town of Skagen. Here the sea seems a little wilder and the beaches even more beautiful. It’s the perfect place to spot seals basking on the sand.

With plenty of holiday homes and great resorts, Jutland provides the perfect place for a summer holiday. Denmark is wonderful for families, couples, and solo travellers and Jutland has so much of the best the country has on offer.

North Norfolk Coast, UK

by Anisa from Norfolk Local Guide

The North Norfolk Coast is a perfect place for a summer vacation as a family away from the hustle and bustle of London.  Of course, there are pristine beaches, but the coast has much more to offer.

Base yourself about 140 miles from London in the Victorian seaside resort town of Cromer, famous for its pier.  Kids will enjoy trying to catch some Cromer crabs from the pier. They will also love the beach, which is one of six that was awarded the blue flag in Norfolk. In Cromer, there are also arcades, a crazy golf course, beach huts, and plenty of family-friendly dining options.  It’s also worth visiting the Henry Blogg Museum, where kids will be inspired to learn about the local hero through interactive displays.

Just to the west of Cromer, you will find the charming town of Sheringham . It’s home to another blue flag-winning beach and more beach huts.  The short walk up the Beeston Bump is suitable for children and offers fantastic views of the coast.  Here you can also catch a ride on the North Norfolk Railway’s historic steam train.   

Great Yarmouth, which is a bit southeast of Cromer, is another great town for families. While it does have a beach, that is not the main attraction. You can take the kids to Pleasure Beach, which is a traditional theme park with 28 rides and attractions.  There is also a Sea Life Centre, the historic Hippodrome Circus, and the family-friendly Elizabethan House Museum.

Rovaniemi, Finland

By Ucman from Brown Boy Travels

Rovaniemi is located close to the Arctic circle and it is one of the best spots to spend vacation time with kids and families. What better place than the Santa village to visit for a holiday!

Rovaniemi has its own airport with a good selection of hotels. The city is small and fairly quaint but there are plenty of options when it comes to food. Reindeer and salmon are must-try, that goes without saying.

Santa village is a short drive away. You can also stay in the village but that comes with a hefty price tag. The village is at its best in winters with lots of snow around but summer is equally festive. It truly is magical and if Santa had to choose a hometown, it would be here for sure. There are many activities to do around here from mailing postcards to your friends and family back home to playing tons of games. 

Outdoors you can meet the reindeers and huskies. Learning about the local lifestyle is added fun. There are tons of lakes around to spend a great time in and take advantage of those long summer days.

One of the most interesting activities for adults is floating in a lake at night.

Rovaniemi is a fun visit no matter which age you belong to, it offers fun and excitement for everyone.

Edinburgh, Scotland

By Gemma from Everything Edinburgh

Whether you have a weekend in Edinburgh or a week in Scotland’s capital, there is so much to do for families! You’ll want to return for your next trip!

Starting in the Old Town, kids love the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions with its five floors of crazy activities such as a magic mirror maze! Head to the top floor for epic views of its neighbour, Edinburgh Castle. 

Don’t miss Victoria Street, which is the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. Are you a family of Potterheads? Join fellow muggles on The Potter Trail tour around the Old Town. 

The National Museum of Scotland is a free attraction with floors of artefacts, science, technology and Scottish history. The viewpoint, which is also free, provides lovely views of the buildings. Don’t forget to say hi to Greyfriars Bobby, who lives close by. 

If parents are worried about dragging their kids around the Royal Yacht Britannia while they get their Crown fix, don’t stress! There’s a corgi dog hunt around the royal yacht. 

Once you’ve exhausted the indoor activities and the budget is feeling a tad tight, it’s time to get outdoors! Walk to the top of Calton Hill to see the monuments; kids love to climb the National Monument of Scotland. 

For a longer hike, consider Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park. The walk takes around an hour and starts at the Scottish Parliament. It often has ponds filled with kids and the occasional dog!

On the rare sunny day, head to one of Edinburgh’s beaches. There are two to choose from, Portobello and Cramond.

Peak District , UK

By Jenny from Peak District Kids

The Peak District, nestled between the big cities of Manchester, Sheffield, and Derby, is the oldest National Park in the UK. It’s a wonderful destination for outdoor families with an abundance of family walks through winding valleys. For example, the Dovedale walk or Lathkill Dale or along dramatic escarpments, such as Baslow Edge or Stanage Edge. Many of disused railway tracks in the District have been transformed into traffic-free cycle paths that criss-cross the National Park. These are relatively flat and wide, so perfect for families (such as the Monsal Trail and High Peak Trail).

Whilst the Peak District offers a fantastic array of outdoor activities for families (also including wild swimming, canoeing, and abseiling), there are also some excellent attractions. Among these:

• the cable car ride up to the caverns at Heights of Abraham
• the adventure playground, and farmyard at Chatsworth (one of the grandest estates in the country)
• the deep underground caves around Castleton and Buxton
• feeding the farm animals at Matlock Farm Park
• …not forgetting the thrilling rides at Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock (best suited to kids aged 3-10).

The weather is very unpredictable in the Peak District. Summer though is a great time as all the campsites are open, the days are longer and generally warmer. On an especially hot day, the kids can go for a paddle in the river at Padley Gorge, or even a wild swim at Three Shires Head. Plus, over the summer holidays, there are often special events laid on for families at the main attractions.

Skåne, Sweden

By Kirstie from Hall Around The World

Skåne, Sweden’s southernmost province, is the perfect holiday destination for families who love the outdoors. Located just a short trip over the Öresund Bridge from the bustling Danish capital of Copenhagen, Skåne’s coast is dotted with pristine beaches , quaint seaside villages, lush forests, and charming cities. The idyllic coastal county offers ample outdoor spaces to explore and a number of activities are sure to be fun and entertaining for the whole family.

Older kids will love outdoor adventures and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding in Skåne’s lakes, rivers, and seas. Younger family members can enjoy up close and personal wildlife encounters. In Skåne, you can try activities like horseback riding and alpaca trekking. Or spend a day at Skånes Djurpark, an animal park that is home to more than a thousand Nordic animals.

While you’re here, head to Kungsbygget Adventure Park in Hallandsåsen. There your family can test its limits with exhilarating activities like zip-lining, climbing, and bungee jumping. Or spend the day exploring Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city. This region is also a paradise for foodie lovers with plenty of locally sourced culinary options available.

Whatever you choose to do while visiting Skåne, this is a holiday destination that will not disappoint… especially in the summer when the days never seem to end. The early sunrises and late sunsets create plenty of extra time for outdoor activities, making this region the go-to getaway for families who love to explore.

Western Europe

French Alps, France

By Elisa from France Bucket List

The French Alps is an excellent destination for a summer trip in Europe with kids. In addition to some of the highest peaks in Europe, the French Alps in the summer offer gorgeous landscapes, endless outdoor activities for all ages, and great food.

It is never too hot in the summer in the French Alps, with the temperatures more bearable for kids than on the coast. Depending on the altitude, you may need an extra layer for sleep!

The French Alps are well connected to the rest of France via an excellent network of trains and motorways. If you are coming from other countries in Europe, you can easily travel to the French Alps by train with a change in Paris or Lyon. Flying to the French Alps is possible too, with four major airports serving Savoie Mont Blanc in Geneva (Switzerland), Lyon, Grenoble, and Chambéry.

The best way to visit the French Alps is on a road trip. Hit the road and explore quaint towns and villages, forests, alpine lakes, and more. You can also decide to set your base in one of the main alpine cities – Annecy, Chambéry, Chamonix – and explore the surroundings on day trips or guided tours. Typical activities for families in the French Alps are biking, hiking (all distances and levels), swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. Also, keep some time for sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying the regional specialties.

If possible, avoid the second half of the summer, when the French families are on holiday. If you can travel to the French Alps sometime between June and mid-July, you will find fewer crowds and more accommodation options.

Basque Country, Spain

By Roxanne from Far Away Worlds

With beaches, great food and culture, Basque Country in Northern Spain is a great destination for a family holiday. While Spain is very popular in the summer, Basque Country is a lot quieter than the southern parts of the country, with more local tourists visiting its beach towns than foreign visitors. Its climate is temperate, even in the summer months, although the rainfall is significantly less this time of year. It is definitely warm enough to swim.  The region’s varied landscapes also make it a fascinating place to visit as a family.

Start your trip by visiting Bilbao, the de facto capital of the Basque region. There you can explore the Guggenheim Museum, which has art spaces and interactive exhibitions for families. The giant spider sculpture at the entrance is sure to be a favourite with the kids!

San Sebastián is also a must for any Basque Country itinerary. There’s plenty for children to do, from the various beaches to the aquarium. For more active families, there’s are some beautiful walks and lovely villages tucked into the nearby Pyrenees.

Base yourself in one of the charming coastal towns for at least a week. Explore the nearby beaches, wander through the cobblestoned streets of small towns, and go on day trips up the coast.

The region is also renowned for its food. The pintxos, the local version of tapas, are similar to mini-sandwiches and very accessible for children. Whether you choose to focus just on that region or include it as a stop on a Northern Spain road trip , Basque Country is an idyllic place for families to experience together.

Giethoorn, Netherlands

By Angelie from Ask the Dutch Guy

Giethoorn is an enchanting little village in the Dutch province of Overijssel. Coming here is like stepping into a make-believe neighborhood where everything is perfect. The sun shines brightly in summer, snow is glistening in winter, the locals are friendly, and the gardens are fresh and lovely. There is peace and quiet (except for the many other tourists who are lining up to get on a “whisper” boat to cruise along the lovely canals).

Everyone is welcome to Giethoorn, except for corporate people who intend to bring their business here. Giethoorn is strictly for holiday, rest, and leisurely rides along the canals, rivers, and lakes.

Cars are also not welcome in the village. When arriving in Giethoorn in your car, you will be asked to leave it at a designated parking area. You will walk the rest of the way, or ride a bicycle or rent a boat. Most accommodations here include a boat or access to boat rentals. Other cool and fun rides that can take you around the village are the kick bike step, e-bike, e-chopper, moped, and kinderfeet.

No matter how you wish to see Giethoorn, make sure to visit Olde Maat Uus Museum to understand better how the Dutch people lived hundreds of years ago. Head to the De Oude Aarde museum to see precious gemstones, fossil minerals, and the world’s largest egg. The popular De Weerribben-Wieden National Park is home to a number of lakes, forests, and an array of wildlife.

Getting to Giethoorn from Amsterdam is easy. Take a train from Amsterdam Centraal to Steenwijk and then ride Bus 70 to the Dominee Hylkemaweg. From there, the village is just 10 more minutes away on foot.

Texel, Netherlands

By Cosette from KarsTravels 

Texel in The Netherlands is a perfect island to visit in the Summertime. It has many beaches and these are perfect for a whole or half a day in the Summer. Nothing beats building a sandcastle with your kids, flying a kite on the beach on a windy day or swimming in the sea.

The beach however isn’t the only option on Texel for families: go cycling on Texel . The island is flat and has ample opportunities for biking. There are 140 kilometers (87 miles) of biking paths on Texel. You can rent bikes and tandems all over the island. There are kids’ bikes, tandems suitable for a kid and adult, and bike seats available. When exploring by bike, visit the lighthouse De Cocksdorp up North, the fishing village Oudeschild or the picturesque village Den Burg.

Perfect for kids is the Schipbreuk- en Juttersmuseum Flora or Kaap Skil museum, each with a different take on beachcombing. Both have a collection of finds from beachcombing on display. The Juttersmuseum has a scavenger hunt for kids throughout the museum.

At Ecomare seals and porpoises are being sheltered temporarily. When visiting you can check them out and learn more about these animals. You can also spot seals in the wild on a boat trip from Oudeschild. They can come rather close to the boat. Another fun boat tour is to go shrimp fishing. In which you head out to sea, they fish on shrimp and you get educated on everything they find.

Texel is an island and is reachable by ferry from the mainland, departing from the city of Den Helde.

Tyrol, Austria

By Jurga from Full Suitcase family travel blog

While we have traveled all over Europe with kids, there’s one destination that always stands out above all others as being most family-friendly, and that is the Tyrol region in Austria.

Austrian Tyrol is a mountainous region with stunning Alpine scenery and a huge variety of outdoor activities – perfect for those looking for an active summer holiday with kids. In addition to the typical summer activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, or swimming, you can also visit ice caves, ride Alpine coasters, go ziplining, or spend hours at the adventure parks… And the best thing is that most of these activities are really family-friendly.

No matter how old your children are, you’ll always find plenty to do with them in Tyrol. There are so many easy hiking trails with all kinds of treasure hunts and quests to keep children busy along the way, but there are also amazing hikes in the mountains for families with older kids or teens. You’ll also find playgrounds literally everywhere you go. And not just any playgrounds, but state-of-the-art installations with so much to do and to discover that even older kids will not want to leave.

If your budget allows it, you can stay at one of the many family resorts with indoor pools, amazing playrooms indoors and playgrounds outdoors, kids clubs, babysitters, kids meals, and even all kinds of baby gear that you can use during your stay…

But even if you are on a lower budget, Tyrol is a great destination for families. It’s quite easy to find affordable accommodations (even in the peak summer season) and also food is very reasonably priced (and kids will love Tyrolean dishes).

Furthermore, many accommodations offer free regional cards that include all kinds of tickets and activities, allowing you to see and do a lot without having to worry about the budget. For more inspiration and tips on where exactly to go and what to see, take a look at this guide to the best things to do in Tirol with kids in summer .

Munich, Germany 

By Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Summertime, Munich literally ticks all the right boxes for families. Both Munich and its surroundings offer a boatload of exciting activities for children of all ages.

On top of the touristic things to do, there are countless children-friendly activities in Munich.

The parks of Munich are the best playgrounds for children: Englischer Garten, Olympia Park, Nymphenburger Park, and Hirschgarten are not only perfect for strolling around but for other awesome activities. In Englischer Garten the kids can even splash in the water in one of the streams of the park or in the Isar River next to Englischer Garten.

In Olympia Park, the kids can have some fun in the trampoline park and visit Sea Life to discover an amazing underwater world. Nymphenburger Park, is full of ducks and swans, and there is also a lavishly organized botanical garden with a butterfly house. In Hirschgarten, while the kids are feeding deers, the parents can nosh on traditional Bavarian dishes with a pint of Bavarian beer.  

You can enjoy epic waterparks with exciting adventure pools and a myriad of wellness activities in Munich, in the world’s largest spa, in Therme Erding. That will speak not only to the kids but to the parents.

If your kids love cars, there is no better place for them than the BMW Museum. The old classical cars are exhibited there and the latest BMW releases are shining the BMW Welt. Had enough of just looking at cars? Grab a roller or bicycle and cruise around in Olympia Park.

The best museum in Munich for children is the Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum). It has an extraordinary toy collection including antique teddy bears and dolls.

There are also abundant outdoor activities somewhat off the tourist radar. If your kids are animal-loving adventurers, take them to the Poing WildPark in Munich. There deer and goats are roaming around freely waiting for you to feed them. Just an hour or so from Munich in the Alps there are a lot of alpaca farms.

You can also take a lot of amazing day trips to castles and medieval towns. Visit the Neuschwanstein Castle and the Linderhof castle where your children will feel part of a fairy tale. Explore the most magical towns of Germany – Regensburg, Nuremberg, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber to immerse yourself in a medieval fantasy.

Encourage your kids to step out of their comfort zone to experience Bavaria to the fullest. Head off on a road trip and discover the mountains and lakes of Bavaria.

Children will be easily smitten with hiking on the countless epic hiking trails of the German Alps, visiting the highest mountain of Germany, Zugspitze, and swimming in alpine lakes.

The most beautiful lakes in Bavaria are Lake Königssee , Eibsee, and Walchensee. Walchensee is the place where you can do a myriad of outdoor activities with kids: playing in the sand, swimming, surfing, cycling, hiking, and camping.

You might want to push the envelope further if your children really love adventure. Try the climbing parks, alpine coasters, and zip-lining in the forests of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. They will have a blast for sure!

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Heya, I'm Ana, the writer of this blog. I live in Brussels and  I travel mostly around Europe with my husband and our two kids. As the blog name suggest, I travel quite slowly with many stops for food, relaxing and noticing small details.

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• Travel with kids

The Best Family-Friendly Holiday Destinations In Europe

No matter how seasoned of a traveler you are, going on vacation and traveling with kids is a whole other ballgame, even in somewhere as popular and well-traveled as Europe.

Maybe you’re flying with children for the first time on an international flight or on the hunt for family-friendly travel destinations; either way, anyone who’s reading this and is eager to travel the world with kids, we’ve got you covered.

Throughout this article, we’re going to break down Europe’s top vacation destinations that are family-friendly, along with cheap places to travel with kids in this notoriously expensive part of the world, plus some bucket-list spots you won’t want to miss out on.

• What Is The Best Age To Travel Internationally With Kids?

Before we get started, there’s one question that frequently pops up when it comes to heading overseas with your little ones: is there an ideal age your kids should be when you travel internationally?

In all honesty, there are no limits on the best age to travel the world with kids. Families with kids of different ages, parents vacationing with toddlers in tow, and those of you trying to cater to older children will always find something that fits the bill. This definitely holds true in European countries.

Toddler-friendly spots like Disneyland Paris are where you’ll make the most magical memories with your children, while a huge number of Spanish holiday resorts offer action-packed clubs for older kids.

Better yet, if you have a big family of children with age gaps, family-oriented countries like Italy and Germany have a little something for everyone.

What Are Europe’s Best Family-Friendly Travel Destinations?

Everyone’s idea of what makes a vacation destination family-friendly for them looks a little different. Many people dream of taking their little ones to see bucket-list spots like the Eiffel Tower or Buckingham Palace, while for others, an ideal getaway would be spending the summer soaking up the sun along the Mediterranean.

For this reason, we’ve divided our favorite European family-friendly destinations into a bunch of different categories to help you find spots that are suited to you, your youngsters, and your budget.

• Where Can I Travel With Kids On A Budget?

As any parent knows all too well, your travel expenses and pretty much every other cost skyrocket when children come into the picture. This is no different in Europe, but there are definitely some cheap places to travel to with kids out there if you know where to look.

Let’s take a look at a couple of budget-friendly destinations that won’t completely empty your wallet.

This sensational Southern European gem is incredibly beautiful and packed full of things to see and do, but it’s also one of the best cheap countries to travel with kids that you’ll find. Not only is Portugal much more affordable than some of its neighbors, but the 300 annual days of sunshine this country receives makes it a fantastic year-round destination.

The bustling city of Porto has aquariums like Sea Life, the Santo Inacio Zoo, and even super cheap mini golf courses. In contrast, the Algarve region in the south has pristine beaches, dolphin-watching tours, and exciting waterparks.

Portugal’s capital, Lisbon , rightfully deserves its own section. As well as fun activities like visiting the Science Museum and riding the cable car, Lisbon is a short drive from the seaside town of Cascais. Local taxi companies like Lisboa Taxis and Taxi-Link will have you there within 30 minutes.

Another wonderful country that your children will absolutely love is Czechia , formerly known as the Czech Republic.

A charming nation that will be kinder to your bank account than most, Czechia has so much to offer families. If your kiddos are particularly adventurous, check out spots like Dolní Morava for hiking and bobsleighing, while families with young kids have to stop by Soběhrdy Farm Park. Here, little ones can hop on the farm train and feed the likes of goats and llamas.

The fairy-tale capital of Prague is just as family-friendly, with attractions like Prague Castle and the quirky Czech Repubrick to explore, which is a museum filled with amazing Lego models of famous attractions. Between AAA Taxis and apps like Uber, you’ll have no problem getting around.

Some of the best value in Europe for accommodation, transport, and food can be found in Hungary .

Chilled-out spots like Lake Balaton are great places to visit if you’re after a laidback vacation with your gang, but you also have the option of exploring lesser-known cities like Esztergom and Eger, which are steeped in history and close to nature.

We can’t talk about Hungary without mentioning its beloved and vibrant capital, Budapest . Although it has a reputation as a hotspot for cheap alcohol and late-night partying, Budapest is home to the enchanting Fisherman’s Bastion, Budapest Zoo, and gorgeous botanical gardens. However, be warned that the hot waters of the thermal baths aren’t recommended for visitors under 14.

Between the public transport and Budapest Taxi, exploring the city is a breeze.

• What Are The Best Summer Family-Friendly Destinations In Europe?

Most of us fantasize about what it’s like to spend a summer frolicking around Europe , and kids don’t have to miss out on any of the fun (unless you’re planning on dancing until the sun comes up in Ibiza or Mykonos , that is!).

We’ve compiled a collection of our favorite family-friendly tourist destinations for a summer vacation.

France is always a good idea, and is on everyone’s list, from couples and solo travelers to families. Hundreds of playgrounds and green spaces are scattered all over the country, from beachside cities like Nice to walkable spots like Nantes and Strasbourg , so you can’t really go wrong with France . Anyone looking for a family-friendly surf destination should add Biarritz to their itinerary.

As the home of Disneyland Paris, the French capital has become a family-friendly honeymoon destination, otherwise now known as a familymoon. Especially if you’re trying to travel with toddlers or planning a vacation for kids under 10 years old, Paris will be your saving grace, as it’s hugely diverse.

Keep an eye out for Taxi G7 and Alpha Taxi during your family trip.

One of the most underrated places to vacation with your children is Denmark . Among the best and safest family-friendly destinations, Denmark also boasts both the picturesque and adventure-filled Tivoli Gardens and the iconic LEGOLAND, so your children are guaranteed a sensational trip.

Copenhagen Zoo, the Blue Planet Aquarium, and The Nature Playground, a huge park with over 15 different play areas, are just some of the fabulous attractions Copenhagen has to offer families. Experiences like the changing of the guard at the Amalienborg Palace or attending a show at the Det Lille theater are ways for kids to dip their toes into Danish culture.

Taxi companies like Viggo, excellent public transport, and your feet are all you need to get around.

Switzerland

From one safe destination to another, Switzerland is the kind of place you can bring your kids to and have an easy mind the entire time. During the summertime, you’ll be able to take advantage of out-of-the-world trekking trails, many of which are suitable for younger hikers, and spend afternoons swimming in lakes like Lauerz and Walensee.

Most of the country is well-connected by train and bus, while taxi companies like Zurich Taxi 24 and Royal Taxi Luzern are ideal within Zurich and Lucerne, respectively.

The Netherlands

With countless child-friendly hotels, interactive museums, old-school villages, world-class public transport, and some of the top European center park locations, there are an abundance of reasons to visit The Netherlands with your kids, or teenagers for that matter. Any of you thinking about international travel with kids in  March, April, or May will be in luck, as this is tulip season here!

Despite what many people associate with the Dutch capital, Amsterdam is the perfect place for a family-centric city break. Cafes like Coffee & Kids provide workshops for the little ones while you have a break with a cup of joe, and the likes of the NEMO Science Museum and Madame Tussauds are always so much fun.

Amsterdam has some brilliant taxi services, including Taxibus and Taxi Centrale.

Between being regularly dubbed as the world’s safest country and the home of surreal waterfalls, geysers, and volcanoes, finding reasons not to visit Iceland is almost impossible. You’ll create some unforgettable memories with your loved ones with a summer visit, like witnessing the midnight sun and seeing the landscapes turn to a vivid green.

Renting a car will give you the most freedom to make your way around the island, but cab companies like Hreyfill will take you from place to place in Reykjavik .

• What Are The Best Winter Family-Friendly Destinations In Europe?

When the temperatures start to drop and the winter woolies begin to make a reappearance, it’s officially time to pack your bags and hit up some of Europe’s Christmas markets to watch dozens of cities transform into winter wonderlands.

Below are some of our recommendations for your family this winter.

Whether you’re in the market for a ski holiday or a quick weekend city visit, Austria has some superb options for each of those categories. Home to the Alps, the birthplace of Mozart, and filled with mesmerizing architecture, this is one place you don’t want to miss.

You’ll never be short of things to do with your family in Vienna as you take your pick between the ice rink at City Hall, the adorable Prater amusement park, and children-themed shows at the Opera House. That’s all before mentioning the twelve Christmas markets in operation.

Vienna Airport Cab will be your go-to taxi service.

The picture-perfect city of Salzburg has its own set of whimsical winter markets that could rival Vienna’s, with Santa visits, hot chocolates, and festive tunes all on the agenda. Don’t forget to set aside some time for the Natural History Museum and the Salzburg Zoo.

Whenever you need a ride, look out for Taxi Transfer or Salzburg Taxi cars.

Considered to be the first country to set up winter markets, Germany is the ultimate European family-friendly destination when the holiday season comes around. During the colder months, particularly from January to March until the spring weather kicks in, the breathtaking Neuschwanstein Castle and the majestic Black Forest are covered in snow. Young and old visitors will love these spots.

Tons of child-friendly cafes, aptly called kinder cafes, ice rinks, and kid-centered museums like Labyrinth are just a taste of what Berlin has to keep the whole family entertained. This city has much more going for it beyond its famous nightlife and art scene.

A combination of buses, trams, and Taxi Berlin will get you from A to B.

The southeastern state of Bavaria is where you’ll find some of Germany’s cutest and quaintest towns that look like they’ve come straight from a picture book. Munich , Nuremberg , and Rothenburg ob der Tauber should all be on your list.

You can count on Taxi-Munchen whenever you need a ride.

England often gets overlooked by mainland European destinations when it comes to winter getaways, but there are plenty of places here to enjoy with your little ones. From sweet countryside towns in the Cotswolds to historic cities like Bath, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

If your family is more into the hustle and bustle of city life than quiet villages, then a trip to London will be exactly what you’re looking for. Hyde Park’s annual Winter Wonderland Festival is an absolute must for all ages, as is the Kew Gardens light displays. That’s all before mentioning the numerous opportunities for ice skating and the thrilling Harry Potter tours.

London has heaps of taxi companies, but Blackberry Cars and Cab Service London are great options.

England’s northern neighbor tends to get colder winters, but that only means one thing: snow! Many of Scotland’s castles operate as hotels today, and you’ll find a lot of them are covered in blankets of snow during the winter. In the Highlands, you can even go on a husky-drawn sled ride and see real-life reindeer.

Edinburgh gets less snow than the north of the country, but it’s no less magical. Seasonal markets, light shows, and carnivals will keep your kiddos enthralled for days.

Call on Capital Cars when you need a ride.

• What Are The Best Family-Friendly Destinations In The Mediterranean?

Some of Southern Europe’s most iconic and jaw-dropping destinations are those dotted alongside the Mediterranean Sea. Each of these heavenly locations is filled with exciting cities, sublime beaches, and hotels that are geared toward every age group.

Experience La Dolce Vita with your whole gang in tow in pretty much any corner of Italy . From the centuries-old cities to the upmarket seafront villages, there’s nowhere quite like it.

Discover one of the world’s greatest ancient civilizations together in Italy’s capital. A city that needs no introduction, Rome is fascinating for all ages. When you’re not walking through world heritage sites, take your children to the adorable gladiator school or partake in a cooking class as a family.

Take a break from the summer heat as Cab Shuttle Taxis take you around.

For a real taste of the laidback Mediterranean lifestyle, head to the island of Sicily. Trips to the beach, watersports, visits to Mt. Etna, and a whole lot of gelato, you and your kids won’t want to leave this paradise.

Get a rental car and cruise around the island, or call on Sicily Transfer Taxi.

A firm favorite amongst visitors from all over the world, few places can boast as many family-friendly amenities as Spain . Hotels built with children in mind, adventure parks, a magnificent coastline, and a culture that’s all about family, Spain really does have it all.

Are you struggling to decide between hitting the beach and getting a taste of city life? With Barcelona , you won’t have to sacrifice either. You can look forward to eclectic architecture, mountain-top funfairs, and FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou.

Stick to Taxi Barcelona 7 Plazas, and you won’t go wrong.

Although the weather is at its best in the summer, the island of Majorca is a lovely place to catch some winter sunshine. You’ll have a blast visiting aquariums, waterparks, and spots like Dinosaurland with the whole family.

Taxi PMI are some of the best in business when you need a cab.

A country that continues to become increasingly popular each year, Greece is absolutely stunning, brimming with history, and full of attractions that appeal to all ages. Travel back in time with your kids at the Acropolis, go island-hopping between quieter islands like Naxos and Paros, or brush up on your football knowledge at the Greek Football Museum.

TaxiAthens will take care of your rides in Athens , while most islands will run smaller-scale services.

An up-and-coming Mediterranean nation that’s been making waves over the last few years, Malta is quieter than many neighboring countries but has enough going on to keep kids of any age happy. Get ready for fun-filled boat tours, walks through the Old City, and trips to the marine park.

Explore the island with GetCab Malta.

As the home of some of the planet’s best family-friendly vacation destinations, you can easily turn your dreams of enjoying unique travel experiences with your kids into a reality in Europe.

Although we often assign many parts of Europe to backpacker favorites or honeymoon hotspots, we hope this guide has opened your eyes to the endless family-friendly destinations available to you across this diverse pocket of the world.

Want more interesting tips on how to travel with your kids ? Read more Travel with children articles!

• What Are Europe's Best Family-Friendly Travel Destinations?

• Travel with pets

The 17 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

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It’s no secret Europe is an appealing continent for country-hopping. Once you’re there, cycle-friendly streets, extensive train systems, and relatively cheap inter-country flights make it highly accessible. Scenery wise, Europe has everything from snowy mountains, lush forests, and glittering beaches to ultra-modern cities, medieval villages, and Neolithic structures. Wherever you go, you can just as easily spend your time immersed in local history, art, and architecture as you can lingering over a four-hour meal, wandering cobblestone streets, or dancing the night (or day) away.

Perhaps the biggest challenge in planning a trip to Europe is deciding where to go. To make it a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to our favorite places. The first nine are the obvious contenders; there’s a reason why these countries are frequently talked about—they’re easily reachable, they’re well-adjusted to tourists, and they feature a wide range of activities, experiences, and landscapes. The remaining eight countries represent equally great options for something similar but slightly more off the beaten path (for non-European tourists, at least). Whichever you choose, you'll find something for every type of traveler.

United Kingdom

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With four separate countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland— the U.K . offers a taste of European diversity. From mountains, lakes, and valleys (like the Mourne Mountains , Snowdonia National Park , and the Scottish Highlands ) to rocky coastlines, rolling hills, and pebble-strewn beaches (like Seven Sisters , the Lake District , and the Pembrokeshire Coast ), it’s a hiker’s paradise. Beyond its natural wonders, the U.K. also boasts lots of lively, inclusive cities packed with bustling literary and expat scenes, LGBTQIA+ history, some of Europe’s best comedy, music, and drag festivals, and a culture centered around food and drink.

Whether you’re exploring some of the world’s best cocktail bars or restaurants in Barcelona and Madrid , lounging in the turquoise waters of the Costa Brava or Tenerife , browsing the art of Bilbao , or marveling at the medieval architecture of Seville or Toledo, one thing unites all of Spain —its warm, welcoming people. Known for closing shops to eat lunch with loved ones and later chatting for hours over pintxos and wine at dinner, Spaniards make time to appreciate life and its simple pleasures, and that energy is delightfully contagious. Solo travelers especially will never feel alone here.

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Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, France is more than high-end fashion, delicious pastries, and top-quality wine—though of course those are prevalent. While you can easily live out your ritzy cinematic montage via shopping on the Champs-Élysées , sunbathing on wind-swept piers in the French Riviera , or touring chateaux in wine country, the affordable ways of experiencing French culture are what make it special. Most museums offer free or discounted hours, cabarets often have cheaper performance nights, some of the best meals come from Paris street vendors or Aix-en-Provence markets, and five euro grocery store wine is better than most table wines.

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Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, with a partner, or with family, Italy has something for everyone. You can have a city break filled with art and shopping in Milan or Florence or immerse yourself in harrowing history in Pompeii . You can relax on white sand beaches in Sardinia or the Amalfi Coast . You can have an action-packed skiing trip or hiking trip. Whatever you choose to do, there is one thing you can and should explore everywhere, at every opportunity: the country's food and wine scene. Local cooking classes from the village nonna are especially fun.

Although Iceland is slightly harder to reach and could get overcrowded at popular spots like The Blue Lagoon , once you’re here, any hassle is forgotten. There are so many jaw-dropping waterfalls , glaciers , mountains , caves , and hot springs everywhere you look that you’ll forget you’re still on Earth. If you road trip (or travel by horse ) around the Ring Road that circles Iceland’s perimeter, you can also branch off to lesser travelled lava rock fields, fjords, and potential Northern Lights viewing spots. For an extra dose of Icelandic magic scenery, keep an eye out for elf walks .

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An excellent choice for nature lovers, history buffs, and partiers alike is Greece . Islands like Santorini , Crete , and Mykonos attract the most visitors and press, but there are literally hundreds of inhabited islands made for hiking, snorkeling, and dancing in the sun. If you prefer city life on the mainland, Athens is the heart of Ancient Greek history with modern levels of fine-dining and nightlife, and Thessaloniki is rich in Byzantine art and international festivals. To combine history and art all in one experience, visit during the brief public opening times of Ancient Greek theaters to catch a play. 

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With long, dark winter nights and long, bright summer days, Sweden is prime territory for Northern Lights viewing and Midsummer celebrations, but its friendly locals, buzzy student population, and inviting bakeries make it entertaining year-round. Stockholm is a great gateway city, as it has everything you’d want from an urban hub—museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and a distinct mix of architectural styles—plus easy access to day trips , farther afield Swedish cities, and the equally appealing neighboring countries of Norway and Finland. Always make time to enjoy fika , a daily social hour with friends over coffee and pastries like kanelbullar (Swedish cinnamon buns).

Known for its breweries , meat-heavy meals, exclusive nightclubs and festivals , and eclectic art scene, Germany is often seen as a hipster’s paradise or the perfect backdrop to a rowdy night out. While it is both of those things—especially Cologne with its university life and Berlin with its extensive street food, street art, and prevalence of eerie abandoned spaces—it’s also a country with impressive architecture, meandering scenic drives , an appreciation for literature , kid-friendly attractions, some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and a strong commitment to remembering its darker history . 

The Netherlands

Most people associate the Netherlands with three Ws: windmills, waterways, and weed. While it’s difficult to go anywhere without encountering at least one of those—and you should wander canals and frolic in tulip-covered fields—it’s home to more than just natural and “herbal” beauty. The first country to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption, the Netherlands is a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ visitors and hosts queer-celebratory festivals, performances, and events throughout the year. It’s also edam gouda destination for cheese aficionados, with dedicated cheese museums in Amsterdam and traditional medieval cheese markets easily accessible from the capital city.

Evan Schiller/Courtesy of Ballybunion Golf Club

If dramatic scenery and its culturally-ingrained love of alcohol attract you to the U.K., Ireland has both—plus even greener landscapes and even kinder locals. You’ll pay steeply in Dublin, especially for attractions like the Guinness Storehouse , but its unique architecture , literary heritage, and theater scene are worth the coin. The best way to see the country, though, is to drive along the western coastline via the Wild Atlantic Way . Accommodation ranges from homestays to full-on castles , and you can traipse woodland waterfalls , befriend Connemara horses, hike the Cliffs of Moher , and hear live music in Galway along the way.

Take everything great about Spain while subtracting the heftier crowds and costs, and you'll get Portugal . In addition to wine and sangria, you can sip on local drinks like port, ginjinha (sour cherry liquor), and vinho verde (green wine) for a few euros a glass, plus intercity train travel and rideshare apps are often cheaper than the bus. Approachability is a big plus, but the highlights are river tours around Porto and the Douro Valley , sampling pastel de nata (egg custard tarts) and pão de deus (coconut bread) in Lisbon , exploring fairytale castles of Sintra , and hopping beaches and coves along the Algarve .

Switzerland

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As with France, people often associate Switzerland with elaborate indulgences, like fancy ski resorts , the wealthy city of Geneva , and internationally acclaimed dining . While no trip to Switzerland would be complete without a surplus of fondue and chocolate, some of the best experiences in the country are found outside its cities. Hiking and skiing around its lakes , mountains, and parks will give you the chance to get up close and personal with its natural charm, but you don’t even have to be an active traveler to partake: there are also many ways to catch the views by train .

This central European country shares more than just a border with Italy: it also shares a passion for local wines, truffle-laden pastas, mountaintop skiing, and lakeside castles and hiking—and all at a fraction of the price. Capital city, vegetarian-friendly Ljubljana, is completely walkable, with lots of meandering canals and small farmers’ and flea markets even on the coldest of days. If you head to Slovenia’s most popular lake—Lake Bled—during the off season, you can avoid touristy beach parties and instead enjoy a virtually uninterrupted view of crisp, turquoise water shimmering beneath the mountains.

Faroe Islands

It’s hard to find unspoiled nature, but the Faroe Islands get pretty close. Located between Iceland and Norway, this remote sovereign nation offers the same rugged, otherworldly landscapes as its neighbors, but with significantly less foot, car, and boat traffic. If you’re more of an indoor cat, you may want to give this trip a skip, but otherwise suit up with layers and waterproof gear and get ready to fall in love with puffins. Stay with a local if you can—it’s more traditional, more affordable, and you’ll learn more about respecting the ecosystems around you.

Much like Greece, Croatia can impress steadfast city-breakers as much as die-hard nature-chasers. From summer festivals in Split and Dubrovnik to dedicated booze-cruise boats that take you to islands like Hvar and Brač, it has plenty of opportunities to indulge hedonistic tendencies. Equally prominent, though, are chances to rejuvenate on more remote islands , plan a leisurely food crawl , or hike through forest, mountains, and waterfalls at national parks like Krka or Plitvice Lakes .

Czech Republic

If Germany’s castles, scenic road trips, and literary appreciation are as appealing as its vast quantities of alcohol, the Czech Republic offers all of the above but with smaller crowds and, especially outside its capital, significantly lower costs. With its Franz Kafka museum, striking Jewish quarter, and black light theater performances as well as its thriving restaurant , nightlife , and absinthe scenes, Prague is definitely worth a visit, but make sure to take advantage of the extensive domestic train system to take day trips or spend time elsewhere to see some of its best architecture, World War II history, and wine and beer producers.

If you can’t decide whether to go to France, Germany, or the Netherlands, Belgium has elements of all three. It has the excellent chocolate of France, the impressive range of architecture like Germany, and the walkable, canal-filled cities like the Netherlands. Plus, the Belgians are the inventor of frites . The bilingual capital of Brussels is an ideal gateway to other cities and neighboring countries, and with its diplomatic ties, it also offers a great cultural melting pot. Eat at least one meal in Matongé, its African quarter, before traveling out to other cities like Antwerp or Bruges .

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Best European Vacations for Families

Europe! A continent so diverse, you can experience the grandeur of ancient history and the charm of modern living all in one day. It's like stepping into a time machine, but with better food and less risk of altering the space-time continuum. Now, imagine embarking on this splendid adventure with your family. Yes, including the kids who can't seem to live without Wi-Fi and the teens who believe eye-rolling is a form of communication.

Table of Contents

Why europe is a top choice for family vacations, the cultural smorgasbord, a history lesson they'll actually enjoy, language, lovely language, the great european outdoors, top european destinations for families, paris, france: more than just romance, rome, italy: a time-traveling adventure, barcelona, spain: a cultural and beach bonanza, london, england: a city of stories and surprises, planning your european family vacation, best time to visit europe with family, accommodation tips for families, keeping connected: the role of travel sim cards, budgeting for your european family vacation, cultural experiences for kids, educational and fun activities, engaging kids in history and art, navigating europe with kids, transportation tips, managing jet lag and travel fatigue, safety tips for family travel in europe, health and safety precautions, keeping connected, sustainable and responsible travel with family, teaching kids about eco-friendly travel, supporting local communities, wrapping up: the joys of family travel in europe, recap of the joys of family travel, encouragement to explore and create memories, 1. where is the best place to travel with kids in europe, 2. what is the best way for a family to travel around europe, 3. how do i plan a trip to europe with kids, 4. how many european countries should i visit, 5. which country in europe should i visit first.

But fear not, dear traveler, for Europe is a treasure trove of experiences perfect for families. From the fairy-tale castles of Germany that seem to have leaped straight out of a Disney movie (no singing teapots, though) to the sun-kissed beaches of Greece where you can give your kids a history lesson without them even realizing it – Europe is a playground for all ages.

And in this digital age, where being connected is almost as essential as the air we breathe, let's not forget the importance of a reliable SIM card. Enter Simify, your knight in digital armor, ensuring you stay connected whether you're Instagramming your croissant in Paris or getting lost (and then found, thanks to Google Maps) in the winding streets of Venice.

So, pack your bags, grab your passports, and join me on a whimsical yet informative journey through the best European vacations for families. We'll explore destinations that will make your family album a subject of envy, learn how to keep teenagers engaged without resorting to magic, and discover how not to turn your dream vacation into a scene from 'Home Alone' – unless you're aiming for a bit of adventure, of course.

In the words of the great philosopher, Dr. Seuss, "Oh, the places you'll go!" And indeed, we shall go to some of the most enchanting, exciting, and Instagram-worthy places in Europe. Let's begin, shall we?

Now, you might be wondering, "Why should I drag my family across the ocean to Europe when there are perfectly good theme parks just a few hours' drive away?" Well, dear reader, Europe is not just a continent; it's a colossal museum, an open-air classroom, and a playground rolled into one, minus the long lines for the roller coaster.

Europe is like that box of assorted chocolates – you never know what you're going to get, but it's almost always delightful. One day, you're in Italy, convincing your kids that yes, pizza is indeed an Italian invention, and not just a clever marketing ploy by fast-food chains. The next day, you're in Greece, showing them what a real Olympic stadium looked like, minus the sneaker endorsements.

Remember those history lessons that had the magical ability to put you to sleep faster than a lullaby? Well, in Europe, history is not just in the books; it's etched in the cobblestone streets, it's towering over you in the form of ancient castles, and it's staring back at you from the ruins of Rome. It's history they can touch, feel, and take selfies with.

And let's not forget the languages! Europe is a babel of tongues, a place where you can say "hello" in a dozen different ways before lunch. It's a fantastic opportunity for your kids to hear, and maybe even pick up a few phrases in, languages other than the ones they hear at home or in a classroom. It's like a live Duolingo app, but with better scenery and tastier snacks.

For those who think Europe is all about old buildings and museums, let me introduce you to the European outdoors. The Alps are not just a chocolate bar theme (thanks, Toblerone), but a playground for skiing, hiking, and gasping at the sheer beauty of nature. The beaches of the Mediterranean invite families for a splash, while the green meadows of the English countryside are perfect for a family picnic, with or without Paddington Bear.

In short, Europe offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, each more enriching than the last. It's a place where every family member, from the tiny tots to the sulky teenagers and the history-buff parents, can find something to marvel at. And with the ease of travel between countries (thank you, Schengen Area), it's like getting multiple vacations in one.

So, buckle up, or rather, fasten your seatbelts (we're going classy, remember?), as we embark on a journey to some of the most family-friendly destinations in Europe. Next stop: Paris, where the croissants are buttery, the art is mind-boggling, and the Eiffel Tower is waiting to make your Instagram feed just a bit more 'ooh la la'.

Embarking on a European tour with your family is like stepping into a series of postcards, each more picturesque than the last. Let's explore some destinations that are not just stunning but also brimming with activities that will keep everyone from toddlers to teenagers (and let's not forget the grown-ups) thoroughly entertained.

Ah, Paris! The city of lights, love, and... lively family adventures? Absolutely! Paris is not just for starry-eyed lovers; it's a wonderland for families.

• Family Attractions: Start with the Eiffel Tower, which, contrary to popular belief, is not a giant radio antenna. The view from the top might just make your kids forget their tablets for a moment. Then, there's Disneyland Paris, where fairy tales come to life, and parents get to relive their childhood, albeit with slightly more expensive snacks.
• Kid-Friendly Dining: French cuisine might sound fancy, but it's also home to crepes and croissants, which are essentially sophisticated pancakes and buttery bread – kids' menu gold.
• Accommodation: Choose a charming apartment in Le Marais or a family-friendly hotel near the city center. Paris is walkable, but little legs tire easily, so proximity to attractions is key.

Next, we jet off to Rome, where history isn't just a subject in school; it's the backdrop of the city.

• Historical Adventures: The Colosseum, where your kids can marvel at the grandeur and perhaps be grateful they're not gladiators. The Roman Forum, a place to wander and wonder about ancient life.
• Gelato and Pizza Delights: Italian cuisine is a winner with kids. Pizza, pasta, and gelato – it's like the country was designed with children's palates in mind.

Barcelona, with its unique architecture and beachside location, offers a blend of culture and relaxation.

• Beaches and Parks: The city's beaches offer a relaxing day out for families. Don't miss the whimsical Park Güell, where art and play merge seamlessly.
• Interactive Museums and Activities: Explore the colorful works of Gaudí and interactive science museums that make learning fun and engaging.

Finally, we hop over to London, a city where history and modernity coexist in a delightful muddle.

• Harry Potter Tours and Museums: For the Potterheads in the family, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a must. The city's many museums, many of which are free, offer interactive exhibits for curious minds.
• Family-Friendly West End Shows: Catch a matinee of a family-friendly show in London's West End. It's like Broadway, but with more tea.

In each of these cities, you'll find a blend of history, culture, and fun that's perfect for families. And remember, the best part of family travel is not just the places you see, but the memories you create together – even if it involves the occasional meltdown over who gets the window seat.

Now, planning a family vacation can sometimes feel like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube – it's a colorful puzzle, but oh, the satisfaction when everything clicks into place! Let's look at some essential tips to ensure your European family adventure is more 'The Sound of Music' and less 'National Lampoon's Vacation'.

Timing, as they say, is everything, especially when you're trying to herd your family across continents.

• Seasonal Considerations: Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season, but it's also when Europe is at its sunniest, albeit with a side of crowds. Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) offer milder weather and fewer tourists, perfect for those Instagram shots without random strangers photobombing.
• Regional Differences: Remember, Europe is diverse. While you're sunbathing in Spain, you might need a sweater in Sweden. Check the weather and pack accordingly – layers are your friends.

Where you stay can make or break a vacation, especially with kids in tow.

• Family-Friendly Hotels and Rentals: Look for places that welcome kids with open arms, not just tolerate them. Family-friendly amenities can include everything from cribs to kids' clubs.
• Importance of Location: Central locations can be more expensive, but they save you time and tantrums. Proximity to major attractions or public transport can be a game-changer.

In the digital age, staying connected is crucial, especially when you're navigating foreign lands with a family.

• Benefits of Using Simify for Families: With Simify, you can keep the whole family connected without the fear of shocking roaming charges. It's like having a digital lifeline, whether you're trying to find the nearest restroom or translate 'I'm allergic to nuts' into Italian.
• Choosing the Right SIM Card: Consider data limits, coverage areas, and compatibility with your devices. Remember, in the battle of paper maps vs. GPS, technology usually wins.

Europe can be expensive, but with some savvy planning, you can keep your bank account relatively happy.

• Cost-Saving Tips: Look for city tourist cards offering free public transport and discounts on attractions. Eating out for every meal is a quick way to deplete your funds, so consider accommodations with kitchen facilities.
• Balancing Splurges and Savings: Decide what's worth the splurge. Maybe it's a fancy dinner in Paris or a gondola ride in Venice. Save in other areas to balance it out, like opting for free walking tours.

Europe is not just a continent; it's a colossal tapestry of cultures, each thread woven with history, art, and a dash of mystery. Let's unwrap some of these cultural gifts that are sure to leave your kids wide-eyed with wonder.

• Interactive History Lessons: Turn history lessons into adventures. Imagine chasing the ghosts of gladiators in the Colosseum or searching for secret passages in a medieval castle.
• Art That Talks: From the Louvre to the Uffizi, Europe's art galleries are full of stories. Many offer interactive tours for kids, turning 'boring' art into a fascinating treasure hunt.
• Scavenger Hunts and Workshops: Many European cities offer scavenger hunts that turn sightseeing into a game. Workshops in museums often let kids create their own masterpieces, bridging the gap between past and present.
• Local Festivals: Participating in a local festival can be a cultural immersion like no other. It's where folklore, food, and fun come together in a vibrant celebration.

Traveling through Europe with kids might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be as smooth as Belgian chocolate.

• Rail, Bus, or Car?: Europe's rail system is a wonder, often the easiest way to hop between cities. Buses offer a budget-friendly option, while renting a car gives you flexibility, especially for exploring those quaint villages off the beaten path.
• Family Passes and Discounts: Many European countries offer family discounts on public transport. Research in advance and you might save enough for an extra gelato or two.
• Adjusting to Time Zones: If possible, start adjusting your family's sleep schedule a few days before you leave. Once in Europe, try to sync with the local time as quickly as you can – sunlight is your ally in this battle against the clock.
• Keeping Kids Energized: Regular breaks, healthy snacks, and staying hydrated are key. Also, a portable charger for devices can be a lifesaver when energy levels (both kids' and gadgets') start to wane.

While Europe is generally safe, it's always wise to be prepared, especially when traveling with your most precious cargo – your family.

• Travel Insurance: It's like a safety net for your vacation. Make sure it covers everyone and everything, from lost luggage to unexpected doctor visits.
• Emergency Preparedness: Have a plan in case you get separated. Teach your kids important phrases in the local language and ensure they know how to contact you.
• Staying in Touch: With Simify, you can easily keep track of each other and stay connected. It's not just about posting photos online; it's about peace of mind, knowing you can reach each other at any time.

In an era where 'sustainable' is more than just a buzzword, traveling responsibly with your family can turn your holiday into a force for good. It's about leaving a place a little better than you found it, and teaching your kids the art of traveling with a conscience.

• Green Transportation: Opt for walking or cycling tours in cities. When longer distances are involved, trains are a more eco-friendly choice compared to planes or cars.
• Respect Nature and Wildlife: Teach your kids the importance of respecting local flora and fauna. It's a chance to instill a sense of responsibility towards the environment, whether it's not disturbing wildlife or avoiding single-use plastics.
• Shop Local: Skip the big chain stores and head to local markets. It's not just about souvenirs; it's about experiencing the local culture and supporting small businesses.
• Eat Local: Encourage your kids to try local delicacies. It's a culinary adventure that supports local farmers and producers, and it's usually healthier and tastier than fast food chains.

As our journey through the best European vacations for families comes to a close, let's take a moment to reflect on the magic of travel. It's not just about the places you visit; it's about the experiences you share, the bonds you strengthen, and the memories you create.

• Shared Experiences: Whether it's marveling at the Eiffel Tower or getting lost in the streets of Venice, these shared moments become precious family memories.
• Learning and Growing Together: Travel is the best education. It teaches adaptability, appreciation for different cultures, and the joy of discovery.
• Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Encourage your kids (and perhaps yourself) to try new things, whether it's a new food, a new activity, or even a new language.
• Capture the Moments: Take photos, keep a travel journal, collect mementos. But also remember to sometimes put the camera away and just soak in the experience.

Thanks for visiting our blog, are you planing to travel to   Europe ? Check out our   eSIM Europe .

Before you take off make sure to check with   local government   of the travel status.

To round off our guide, let's address some common questions about family travel in Europe:

The best place to travel with kids in Europe really depends on your family's interests. For history and culture, cities like Rome and Paris are unbeatable. If you're looking for outdoor adventures, consider the Swiss Alps or the beaches of Spain. For a magical experience, destinations like Disneyland Paris or the fairy-tale castles of Germany are perfect. Each European country offers its unique charm and family-friendly activities.

The best way to travel around Europe with a family depends on your budget, comfort, and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trains in Europe are a convenient and scenic way to travel between major cities and countries. For more flexibility, renting a car can be a good option, especially for exploring countryside areas. Budget airlines also offer quick and often inexpensive connections between major cities.

Planning a trip to Europe with kids involves a few key steps:

• Research and Choose Destinations: Consider what interests your family and the age of your kids. Look for destinations with a mix of history, culture, and fun activities.
• Book Accommodations: Look for family-friendly hotels or vacation rentals that cater to the needs of children.
• Plan Your Itinerary: Balance sightseeing with relaxation. Include activities that are engaging for kids, like interactive museums or outdoor adventures.
• Prepare for the Journey: Pack appropriately, considering the weather and the needs of your children. Don't forget essentials like travel adapters and a reliable travel SIM card for connectivity.

The number of countries you should visit in Europe depends on the length of your trip and your travel style. For a one to two-week trip, two to three countries are manageable without feeling rushed. Remember, less can be more, especially with kids. It's often better to explore a few places in depth than to hop rapidly from one country to another.

Choosing which country to visit first in Europe depends on your family's interests and where you're traveling from. If it's your first time in Europe, countries like France, Italy, and the UK are popular starting points due to their rich history, iconic landmarks, and family-friendly attractions. Consider starting with a country that has direct flights from your home country to ease into your European adventure.

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5 Best Places To Visit In Europe With Teens

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Home » 5 Best Places To Visit In Europe With Teens

As a parent, you want to provide experiences that your teens will remember long after they’ve grown up and moved on.

If you are looking for an impeccable destination to travel to with teenagers, Europe is the best place. The continent has plenty of attractions that are suitable for hard-to-please teenagers.

It is also one of the best places to travel for weekend getaways in Europe .

When it comes to exploring new destinations with the family, Europe is an amazing place packed with incredible sights and activities and has some really fun European cities to visit !

From the beaches of Spain to the fjords of Norway, there are plenty of exciting places in Europe that your teenagers will love!

If you’re planning a trip across the pond, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to visit in Europe with teens – each bursting with thrilling attractions and unforgettable memories.

Europe is one of the best holiday destinations for teenage families . With its remarkable history and dazzling sights, there is no shortage of incredible places to visit in Europe – perfect for everyone from the thrill-seeking teen to those who prefer a more educational approach.

Check out our recommendations of the five destinations in Europe that are perfect for family vacations and definitely deserve to be on your bucket list.

1. Italy

Italy is a country that has long summer and shorter winter seasons. It means there are more activities for teens to do all year round.

From rural countryside towns to ancient cities like Rome or Florence with their gelato shops on every corner.

The beautiful islands offer an escape from it all.

Italy offers something different in terms of culture and scenery at each place you visit.

Considering how much fun they can have while exploring Italy’s rich history, it can be both pleasant and educational.

Thus, kids can learn new things about other cultures through sampling cuisine not found anywhere else around the globe.

Luckily, Italy has many family-friendly destinations that you can choose for the best experience.

Best places to visit in Italy:

• Lake Garda – Theme parks, cable cars, climb the clock tower.
• Rome – Walking tours, bike tours and Colosseum visits.
• Cinque Terre – Hike to Manarola, Corniglia and Vernazza.
• The Amalfi Coast – Positano beach, the valley of ironworks, Ice cream from L’Eco del mare.

Find loads more helpful information in our article about how to travel to Italy with kids .

2. France

France is another country with a large number of places to visit with your family.

This country has insuperable beauty in its cities and countryside that you can’t witness anywhere else.

The attractions here are perfect for your teenager/s to enjoy, including castles, museums, parks, beaches, etc. Besides this, striking monuments like the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame Cathedral are also perfect for exploring with the family.

The most crucial factor that makes France a great country for holidaying is the affordability of tickets and attractions.

This means you can spend less on getting passes and more on restaurant food, souvenirs, etc. Thus, France will give you the opportunity to see the mesmerizing Luxembourg gardens, the stunning coastline of Brittany, or the Loire Valley.

Also, France has brilliant family hotels that can make your stay even more comfortable.

Most of the options are also highly authentic and have maintained their glorious history throughout the years.

Best places to visit in France:

• Dordogne – Castles, Caves, and Adventure Parks.
• Les Arcs – Snowy Mountain Adventures.
• Bordeaux – UN World Heritage Site City.

3. Austria

Austria is a country that offers plenty of opportunities for yourteens to have fun through outdoor activities.

Some stunning mountains are perfect for teens who love skiing adventures, while the beaches offer boating, jet ski rides, and many more things.

Moreover, the unique architecture built by kings in the past has been maintained perfectly throughout the years. Also, you can explore the beautiful castles and museums that show a lot about culture and history.

Best places to explore in Austria:

• Vienna – ZOOM children’s museum, Watch sharks at Haus des Meeres.
• Graz – Graz Art Museum, The Styrian Armoury, Old Town Graz.
• Salzburg – Explore caves, Salzburg Zoo, Hellbrunn Fortress Hohensalzburg (find more day trips from Salzburg to include for fun days out).

To us, Austria is one of the best places to visit with kids in Europe . Kids of all ages will enjoy Austria, but it is especially great for teenagers who love nature. We had boat rides, cable cars, salt mines, lookout points and so much more during our trip!

Poland is another destination where you and your family can have a great vacation time.

There are many things for teens to do here, like going to amusement parks, zoos, aquariums, etc.

Besides this, some gorgeous cities are here that can be explored, and you can visit museums or monuments there.

Furthermore, as of 2021, there are 17 World Heritages Sites in Poland. Fifteen are cultural sites and two natural ones, and mostly all of them are suitable to visit with your family.

Best places to explore in Poland:

• Lódź – Fala Aquapark, botanical gardens, museums.
• Kraków – Wieliczka Salt Mine , The Cloth Hall.
• Sopot – Beaches, Sopot Museum, Sopot Lighthouse.

5. Spain

Imagine a country with the perfect weather, delicious food, and beautiful beaches.

Spain is such a fantastic destination for families because it has so many ideal places to visit.

Spain is a country in Europe that offers excellent facilities for your family trip. Some stunning cities are here where your kids can enjoy the rides and attractions.

This place is perfect for exploring beaches, culture, sports, shopping, etc. Spain has numerous beautiful parks and gardens.

This country is a little expensive compared to other choices on this list, but it would be worth the experience.

Best places to explore in Spain:

• Zaragoza – Catholic Basilica-Cathedral.
• Alicante – Beaches, sunbathing, swimming in the Mediterranean Sea.
• Madrid – Historical buildings, food markets, art museums.
• The Canary Islands – Camel riding, whale watching, national parks.

Final Words

Now that you know about these places, it’s time to plan your trip. These are perfect examples of countries where you can spend quality family time while enjoying various attractions and facilities.

These places offer everything that a fantastic holiday destination must have, so don’t miss out on them.

Additionally, you can also try to save some assets while planning your trip. If possible, start the preparation as early as possible. You can find loads more handy tips on our Europe travel guide here and our travel with kids posts are always great to check out too.

This might help you find the most budget-friendly tickets! Furthermore, a free VPN could help you evade price discrimination on various goods, like hotel bookings and car rentals.

Give it a try and enjoy your dream vacation for less!

Andrzej Ejmont

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Affordable European Vacations for Families: Explore Europe on a Budget!

Affordable European vacations for families can be planned by choosing budget-friendly destinations, traveling during the off-season, looking for discounts and deals, staying in affordable accommodations, and utilizing public transportation. Some of the cheapest European cities for a family vacation include Lisbon and Porto in Portugal, Seville in Spain, and Rhodes in Greece.

By following these tips, families can enjoy a memorable trip to Europe without breaking the bank.

1. Best Affordable Family Destinations In Europe

Discover the best affordable family destinations in Europe for an unforgettable vacation. From the stunning beauty of Porto to the charm of Prague and the historical treasures of Malta, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for families looking to explore Europe.

Travel smart and create lifelong memories without breaking the bank.

• Explore the charming city of Porto, located along the Douro river in Portugal.
• Visit the colorful Ribeiro district and stroll along the picturesque streets.
• Take a cruise along the douro river and admire the beautiful landscapes.
• Indulge in the city’s famous port wine and traditional cuisine.
• Discover historical sites like the clerigos tower and palacio da bolsa.
• Relax on Porto’s sandy beaches, perfect for a family day out.
• Immerse yourself in the fairy-tale city of prague, the capital of the Czech Republic.
• Wander through the medieval streets of the old town and marvel at the stunning architecture.
• Explore prague castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world.
• Take a relaxing boat ride along the vltava river and enjoy the city’s panoramic views.
• Visit the prague zoo, one of the best zoos in Europe, with a variety of animals and activities for kids.
• Experience the magical atmosphere of prague’s christmas markets during the holiday season.
• Discover the hidden gem of Malta, an island nation located in the Mediterranean sea.
• Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches and swim in the crystal-clear waters.
• Explore the fortified city of valletta, a unesco world heritage site.
• Visit the ancient temples of hagar qim and mnajdra, offering a glimpse into malta’s rich history.
• Enjoy water sports like snorkeling and diving in the vibrant underwater world.
• Indulge in delicious Maltese cuisine, influenced by Italian, French, and North African flavors.
• Explore the stunning adriatic coastline in croatia, known for its breathtaking natural beauty.
• Visit the historic city of dubrovnik and walk along its ancient city walls.
• Discover the picturesque plitvice lakes national park with its cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes.
• Relax on the sandy beaches of split and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
• Take a boat trip to the beautiful islands of hvar or korcula and explore their hidden coves.
• Experience the lively local culture and delicious seafood cuisine.
• Delve into the rich history and culture of portugal, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities.
• Explore the capital city of lisbon and visit iconic landmarks like belem tower and jeronimos monastery.
• Discover the fairytale-like village of sintra and its stunning palaces and gardens.
• Relax on the golden beaches of the algarve region and enjoy the warm mediterranean climate.
• Experience portuguese cuisine, with its famous dishes like pastel de nata and bacalhau.
• Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, and dolphin watching.
• Venture to the captivating city of budapest, located on the banks of the danube river.
• Visit the historic buda castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Relax in one of budapest’s famous thermal baths, such as the széchenyi baths.
• Take a cruise along the danube river and admire the city’s stunning architecture.
• Explore the unique ruin bars of budapest, located in abandoned buildings.
• Indulge in traditional Hungarian cuisine, including goulash and chimney cakes.

These are just a few of the best affordable family destinations in europe. Each destination offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable vacation for the whole family. From porto’s riverside charm to budapest’s vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without breaking the bank.

Start planning your affordable european family vacation and create lifelong memories together.

Note: as an ai language model, i cannot guarantee the accuracy or current availability of the mentioned destinations. Please refer to official sources and do thorough research before making any travel plans.

2. Cheap Countries For Family Vacations

Discover the best affordable european destinations for family vacations. From the stunning landscapes of portugal to the historic charm of budapest, these cheap countries offer budget-friendly options for families looking to explore europe.

• Thailand is a vibrant and budget-friendly destination for family vacations.
• The country offers stunning beaches, exotic wildlife, and rich cultural experiences.

Here are some reasons why thailand is an affordable choice for families:

Affordable accommodations: From budget hotels to guesthouses, thailand offers a wide range of accommodations that suit every family’s budget.

Delicious street food: Sampling local street food is a great way to experience thai cuisine on a budget.

Free and low-cost activities: Thailand has many attractions that are free or low-cost, such as exploring temples, visiting night markets, and enjoying the natural beauty of national parks.

Affordable transportation: Public transportation options like tuk-tuks, songthaews, and buses make traveling within thailand budget-friendly.

Laos is a hidden gem in southeast Asia that offers a unique and budget-friendly family vacation experience.

Here are some reasons why Laos is a great choice for families on a budget:

Affordable accommodations: Laos offers a range of accommodations, including guesthouses and budget-friendly hotels.

Cultural experiences: Exploring ancient temples, participating in traditional ceremonies, and interacting with local communities are all affordable cultural experiences in laos.

Outdoor adventures: Laos is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities like trekking, river tubing, and cycling, which are budget-friendly options for families.

Delicious and affordable food: Enjoying laotian street food and local markets is an affordable way to savor the flavors of the country.

Jamaica is a Caribbean paradise that offers affordable family vacation options.

Here are some reasons why jamaica is a budget-friendly destination for families:

All-inclusive resorts: Jamaica is famous for its all-inclusive resorts, which offer meals, activities, and entertainment in one package.

Beautiful beaches: Enjoying the sun, sand, and turquoise waters of jamaica’s beaches is a cost-free activity for families.

Local cuisine: Jamaican street food and local restaurants offer affordable and delicious options for families.

Cultural experiences: Immerse yourself in jamaican culture by visiting local markets, exploring historical sites, and enjoying live music and dance performances.

France may not be the first destination that comes to mind for budget-friendly family vacations, but it does offer affordable options.

Here are some reasons why france can be a great choice for families on a budget:

Affordable accommodations: France has a wide range of accommodations, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals.

Free attractions: Many of france’s attractions, such as parks, gardens, and museums, offer free admission or discounted rates for families.

Budget-friendly dining options: Look for local cafes and bakeries that offer affordable meals and snacks.

Public transportation: France has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, which can help families save money on transportation costs.

El Salvador

El Salvador is an affordable and off-the-beaten-path destination for families seeking adventure and cultural experiences.

Here are some reasons why El Salvador is a budget-friendly option:

Affordable accommodations: El salvador offers a range of accommodations, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and eco-lodges.

Outdoor activities: From surfing on pristine beaches to hiking volcanoes and exploring national parks, el salvador offers affordable outdoor adventures for families.

Cultural experiences: Immerse yourself in el salvador’s rich culture by visiting colonial towns, mayan ruins, and local markets.

Delicious and affordable food: Explore the local cuisine by trying pupusas, tamales, and other traditional dishes at affordable prices.

3. Best Budget-Friendly Overseas Vacations For Families

Discover the best budget-friendly overseas vacations for families with affordable options for european vacations. Explore iconic cities and stunning landscapes in porto, prague, malta, croatia, and more, without breaking the bank. Plan an epic family trip to europe on a budget in 2023.

• Italy is a captivating destination that offers a plethora of budget-friendly options for families.
• Explore the historic city of Rome and visit iconic sites such as the colosseum and the Vatican City.
• Enjoy the scenic beauty of tuscany and indulge in delicious food and wine.
• Take a gondola ride in the enchanting city of venice and marvel at its stunning architecture.
• Discover the picturesque amalfi coast and its charming coastal towns.
• Experience the charm of florence and visit world-renowned art galleries such as the uffizi gallery.
• Enjoy the scenic landscapes of the italian countryside and explore charming villages off the beaten path.
• Italy offers a range of affordable accommodations and transportation options, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious families.
• Costa rica is a paradise for nature-loving families on a budget.
• Explore the lush rainforests and go on a wildlife adventure in national parks such as manuel antonio and tortuguero.
• Relax on beautiful beaches and enjoy water activities like snorkeling and surfing.
• Discover the stunning arenal volcano and soak in natural hot springs.
• Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the canopy and spot exotic birds and animals.
• Costa rica offers affordable accommodations, local food options, and public transportation, making it an excellent choice for budget-friendly family vacations.
• Singapore may be known as a luxury destination, but it also offers several budget-friendly attractions for families.
• Visit popular tourist spots such as gardens by the bay and marina bay sands, which offer free entry.
• Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of little india and chinatown, where you can indulge in delicious street food at affordable prices.
• Discover the family-friendly attractions of sentosa island, including universal studios and s.e.a aquarium.
• Experience the cultural diversity of singapore by visiting temples, museums, and heritage sites.
• Singapore has an efficient public transportation system and a range of budget accommodations, making it feasible for families on a budget to explore the city-state.

The Bahamas

• The bahamas is not just a destination for luxury travel; it also offers affordable options for families.
• Visit nassau, the vibrant capital, and explore its colonial architecture and vibrant markets.
• Enjoy the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
• Discover the stunning underwater world by visiting the andros barrier reef, the third-largest coral reef system in the world.
• Experience the unique culture of the bahamian people through their music, dance, and cuisine.
• The bahamas offers a range of affordable accommodations, including family-friendly resorts and vacation rentals, making it an excellent choice for budget-friendly family vacations.
• Belize is a hidden gem in central america, offering a range of affordable options for families.
• Explore the ancient maya ruins and learn about the rich history and culture of the country.
• Dive into the turquoise waters of the great blue hole and discover the vibrant marine life.
• Relax on the beautiful beaches and enjoy water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking.
• Experience the unique wildlife of belize by visiting the belize zoo and cockscomb basin wildlife sanctuary.
• Belize offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations, from eco-lodges to guesthouses, making it a perfect destination for families on a budget.

Plan your next family vacation to one of these budget-friendly destinations and create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank. Whether you choose Italy, Costa Rica, Singapore, the Bahamas, or Belize, you can have an amazing overseas vacation that fits your budget.

How Much Would A Family Trip To Europe Cost?

Experience the wonders of europe without breaking the bank with these affordable european vacations for families. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family of four, you can expect an average 7-day trip to western europe to cost $1,359, $2,441, and $4,576 respectively, including accommodations ranging from $45 to $207 per night.

Average Cost Of A 7-Day Trip To Western Europe:

Planning a family trip to europe can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, it’s important to consider the costs involved to ensure that the trip remains affordable. Here is a breakdown of the average costs for a 7-day trip to western europe:

Solo traveler:

• For a solo traveler, the average cost of a 7-day trip to western europe is approximately $1,359.
• This cost includes expenses such as flights, accommodation, meals, transportation, and attractions.
• If you’re planning a romantic getaway with your partner, the average cost for a 7-day trip to western europe is around $2,441.
• This price includes the same expenses as the solo traveler option, but with double the cost for accommodation and meals.

Family of 4:

• Traveling as a family of 4 can be an incredible experience, but it does come with additional costs.
• On average, a 7-day trip to western europe for a family of 4 can cost around $4,576.
• This price includes flights, accommodation, meals, transportation, attractions, and additional expenses for children.

Accommodation Costs:

Accommodation is a significant factor in determining the overall cost of your european vacation. Here are the average prices for different accommodation options:

Hotel prices:

• The cost of hotels in western europe can vary depending on the location and quality of the hotel.
• Prices typically range from $45 to $207 per night, with an average cost of around $80.
• It’s advisable to research and compare hotel prices to find the best deals that suit your budget.

Vacation rental prices:

• Another option for accommodation in europe is vacation rentals, which can be more economical for families.
• Prices for vacation rentals vary depending on the size, location, and amenities of the property.
• On average, vacation rentals can cost between $70 and $200 per night.
• Renting a vacation home or apartment can provide more space and amenities for families, making it a cost-effective option.

Cheapest Ways To Travel In Europe On A Budget:

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on the quality of your experience. Here are some cost-saving tips for exploring europe without breaking the bank:

Use budget airlines: Opting for budget airlines can significantly reduce your transportation costs. Companies like ryanair, easyjet, and wizz air offer affordable fares to various european destinations.

Take advantage of public transportation: Utilize trains, buses, and trams in europe, as they are often cheaper than renting a car or taking taxis.

Consider staying in hostels: Hostels provide affordable accommodation options, especially for solo travelers or young families. They offer shared dormitories or private rooms at lower prices compared to hotels.

Cook your meals: Eating out at restaurants can quickly become expensive. Consider staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities, allowing you to prepare your own meals and save money on dining expenses.

Plan your itinerary wisely: Opt for free or low-cost attractions, visit museums on discounted days, and take advantage of city passes that offer discounts on multiple attractions.

By implementing these money-saving strategies, you can enjoy an unforgettable european vacation without straining your budget. Start planning today and create lifelong memories with your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average cost of a family trip to Europe can vary depending on the number of family members and the duration of the trip. On average, a 7-day trip to western Europe can cost around $4,576 for a family of 4.

This includes accommodation, transportation, meals, and attractions. Hotels in western europe range from $45 to $207 per night, while vacation rentals can cost between $150 and $380 per night for the entire home. To save money, it’s recommended to travel during the off-season, look for discounts and deals, and choose budget-friendly accommodation.

Utilizing public transportation can also help reduce costs.

How To Travel Europe On A Budget With Kids?

Plan an epic family trip to europe on a budget in 2023. Choose your destination wisely and travel during the off-season for better prices. Look for discounts and deals on accommodations, attractions, and activities. Stay in budget-friendly hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals.

Take advantage of public transportation, such as trains and buses, to save money on transportation costs. Some of the cheapest european cities for a family vacation include lisbon and porto in portugal, seville in spain, and rhodes in greece. With careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy a memorable and affordable trip to europe with your kids.

How To Afford A Family Trip To Europe?

To afford a family trip to europe on a budget, follow these tips: 1. Choose a budget-friendly destination in europe, such as lisbon, porto, or seville. 2. Travel during the off-season when prices are lower and attractions are less crowded. 3.

Look for discounts and deals on flights, accommodations, and activities. 4. Opt for budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or vacation rentals. 5. Use public transportation, such as buses or trains, to get around and save on transportation costs. 6. Plan your itinerary carefully and prioritize free or low-cost attractions and activities.

7. Pack your own snacks and meals, or eat at local markets and cheaper restaurants. 8. Consider booking package deals or guided tours that offer discounts. 9. Save money by exploring and experiencing the local culture rather than relying on expensive tourist traps.

10. Set a realistic budget and stick to it by tracking your expenses during the trip.

Where Is Good To Take Kids In Europe?

Some good places to take kids in europe are: lisbon, portugal; porto, portugal; seville, spain; and rhodes, greece. These cities offer budget-friendly accommodations and have plenty of activities for children. Traveling during the off-season and looking for discounts and deals can help with keeping the trip affordable.

It is also recommended to stay in budget-friendly accommodation and make use of public transportation to save money. Planning an epic family trip to europe on a budget is possible with careful research and planning.

Planning an affordable european vacation for your family doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By carefully choosing your destination, taking advantage of off-season travel, and searching for discounts and deals, you can ensure a memorable trip that won’t break the bank.

Consider budget-friendly European cities like Lisbon and Porto in Portugal, Seville in Spain, or Rhodes in Greece. These destinations offer a wealth of cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, and family-friendly attractions at affordable prices. During your trip, opt for budget-friendly accommodation and make use of public transportation to save on expenses.

This will allow you to allocate more of your budget to exploring and experiencing the local culture and cuisine. Remember to plan your trip wisely, taking into account the best times to visit and any seasonal events or festivals that may coincide with your travel dates.

With a bit of research, flexibility, and smart planning, you can create a memorable European vacation for your family without breaking the bank. So start planning your affordable European adventure and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

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Thinking of a family trip to Europe? These are the safest and most affordable spots

These safe and budget-friendly destinations offer something for every family member to enjoy

Credit: 123rf

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Travelling with family holds its own special charm, yet the prospect of organising a trip for the entire family can often feel daunting due to the hefty price tag . But fret not!

A recent study conducted by Deluxe Holiday Homes has unveiled Europe’s most budget-friendly destinations for safe and enjoyable family travel. The study analysed data from Google Flights, focusing on the ten most searched travel destinations in Europe. Criteria such as safety ratings, availability of family-friendly accommodations on booking.com, average cost of a family room, and dining expenses for a family of four were meticulously assessed for each destination.

Subsequently, these destinations were ranked based on a composite score, considering both safety rates and overall affordabilit y (weighted equally at 50% each).

Here, the ultimate guide to family-friendly and safe travel destinations promises adventure, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences without straining your wallet.

Related: 10 staycation ideas for the perfect babymoon

Related: How to travel with your friends without fighting with them

Related: 10 travel destinations for solo female travellers

Romania leads the list of the most affordable destinations for safe family travel with a composite score of 74.7. This destination is attractive for families thanks to the cheap experience it offers with the lowest costs for family rooms at $135 and dining out at $35.

The Czech Republic, with its 68.8 score, is the 2nd most affordable destination for safe family vacation. The safety rate here is higher than in Romania, while the accommodation and eating out costs are slightly elevated, ranking it 2nd.

The 3rd most affordable destination for safe family vacation is Croatia with a score of 67.7. Croatia draws families with the highest safety rate among the countries on the list, combined with affordable costs for accommodation and eating out.

Finland is the 4th most affordable destination for safe family travel, with a composite score of 64.9. Finland provides high safety across the country and is a great choice for families enjoying Nordic experience.

The most searched country on the list, Portugal, stands 5th in the ranking. Portugal offers more affordable options for staying and eating out than Finland and Croatia, regardless of the safety rate being slightly lower.

Netherlands ranks 6th on the list, with a composite score of 63.7. The Netherlands is appealing to families for the safety it provides, and is the 3rd most searched country for vacation, even with the highest family room rates on the list at $300 .

Spain takes the 7th spot on the list of the most affordable destinations for safe family vacation with a 63.3 score. Spain offers a great number of family accommodations at 9.6K (the highest on the list) combined with accessible prices.

Germany, scoring 61.6, is the 8th most affordable destination for safe family vacation. Its appeal is based on the blend of safety, high availability of family accommodations, with lesser costs of accommodation and eating out.

Coming 9th on the list of the most affordable destinations for safe family vacation, Malta has a composite score of 57.5. Even with the least family accommodation options on the list, Malta still attracts families with rich history and Mediterranean charm.

Belgium rounds off the list of the most affordable destinations for safe family travel. It’s still an affordable and safe destination worldwide, even with the lowest safety rate and the highest eating out prices on this ranking.

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Alternative Europe: How to Get Off the Beaten Path

By CNT Editors

Traveling to Europe in the summer months is a rite of passage—steamy nights spent in the south of Spain , snoozy days on the most beautiful Greek islands , breezy afternoons sipping rosé on a terrace in the South of France . But as tourism levels continue to rise after a few quiet years, and peak-season temperatures climb from Italy to Croatia , is the appeal of a big European summer holiday dwindling?

Savvy, conscientious travelers are staying clued-up on the pitfalls of height-of-summer travel to over-touristed destinations, and choosing a different track . That might mean visiting the most popular hotspots in the shoulder season or off-season, and eschewing these places in favor of lesser-known or unsung regions when traveling during the summer. But where should you go? We tapped our editors and contributors to answer that very question—and here, they give guides to some of their most beloved alternative destinations to visit this summer, from northern Spain to Norway.

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To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Now, travelers are moving towards visiting lesser-known—and cooler—destinations.

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There's a rapidly growing trend for traveling to alternative destinations—#dupe or #dupes amassed 342,000 posts on TikTok as part of surging interest. Thoughtful travelers are reacting to the world around them and selecting off-beat destinations to visit instead.

Discovering the Dolomites, Italy's Deliciously Underrated Mountain Region

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Asturias Is the Unsung Spanish Vacation Destination You Need to Visit This Year

This corner of northern Spain has its own language, culture, and cuisine—and is finally edging onto the radar of nature-loving travelers.

Antwerp is Europe's Effortlessly Cool Design Destination

Buzzing with entrepreneurial energy, Antwerp’s creative culture is cooler than ever. Often bypassed by international visitors for other European cities, Antwerp offers an embarrassment of riches in a compact city at the crossroads of Europe.

How Bodø Has Become Norway's New Culture Capital

For a long time seen as a jumping-off point for the Lofoten Islands, Bodø’s arts-led reinvention and rich vein of outdoor pursuits mean there’s plenty worth sticking around for.

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The City of Baths, also known for its rambunctious ruin bars, has for centuries beckoned travelers with a salve for their ailments. But beyond purported curative powers, these historic bathhouses also mesmerize with a transportive Old-World ambience.

In Kosovo's Self-Preserving Tourism, Old Traditions and Thrilling New Adventures

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The Best Alternative Beaches in Europe for Crowd-Free Shores

From the cerulean waters of Karpas Peninsula in Portugal (a popular nesting ground for sea turtles) to cave-clad Ramla Bay in Malta and beyond, these are our favorite seaside spots for when you’re keen to not follow the crowd.

Editors: Sarah Allard, Charlie Hobbs, Sarah James, Shannon McMahon, Arati Menon

Visuals: Andrea Edelman, Sophie Knight, Pallavi Kumar

Lead social media: Mercedes Bleth

Supporting social media: Lucy Bruton, Kayla Brock

Audience development: Abigail Malbon, Amber Port

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I've been to 107 countries. Italy and Mexico are great, but these 5 underrated destinations should be on your travel radar.

• I've visited 107 countries, and I recommend these 5 that can be overlooked for more popular places. 
• Estonia is a European dream, and Namibia is one of my favorite places in the world . 
• Costa Rica is popular but not as packed with tourists as some similarly beautiful places nearby. 

This year, travelers are looking to visit more under-the-radar destinations than popular ones — in part to dodge crowds and in part to save money.

Some are specifically looking for "travel dupes," a term for destinations similar to popular spots that are often cheaper with fewer crowds.

And, as someone who's been to 107 countries , I can tell you each region of the world has an often overlooked country that may offer a more rewarding experience than a more well-known place. These more under-the-radar destinations are often less crowded, and your dollar just might go further.

Popular travel destinations like Italy, France, and Mexico are great picks — but consider visiting these alternative options to the more popular choices in the region.

Estonia is a European dream.

I was immediately captivated by the fairy-tale appearance of Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia.

Walking the cobblestoned streets within the fortress-like walls of the old city transported me back to medieval times.

The city is small enough to explore on foot, and there's plenty to entertain history and architecture enthusiasts. Enjoying a coffee or a beer in the Town Hall Square while people watching is a highlight of my European travels.

Although many people visit Tallinn as a day trip from Helsinki, which is a two-hour ferry ride away, it's worth staying here for a few days and heading into the Estonian countryside. The roads are often quite empty and incredibly peaceful.

I enjoyed Estonia so much that I returned twice more in the 18 months after my first visit.

I've enjoyed visiting Oman, a country in the Middle East.

Dubai gets a lot of attention for its luxurious travel opportunities , and many know Qatar because it recently hosted the World Cup, but nearby Oman should not be skipped.

After all, Oman's capital, Muscat, provides an excellent gateway to the country.

A stroll along the beautiful Corniche will take you along the water and by the bustling Grand Bazaar. For those who love hikes, there are plenty of options in Oman, including several easily accessible trails in Muscat that offer great city views.

Better still, the amazing Wadi Shab is less than two hours from the capital city and is one of the best hikes I've ever experienced . The trail takes you through narrow gorges and across streams and ends with a surreal swim through incredible caves.

It's an experience so breathtaking I'd expected it to be packed with tourists, but it wasn't when we visited. We only saw a handful of people, which allowed us to really enjoy our trip.

I've seen many parts of Africa, but Namibia may just be my favorite spot.

I have been fortunate to go on safaris in Kenya , Botswana, and Tanzania, but Namibia is my favorite travel destination of the bunch.

While there, we rented a campervan and did a self-drive tour of the country, allowing us to explore independently. Yet again, we avoided the crowds and the campsites were usually just us and local animals.

Waking up to the sounds of monkeys, elephants, and even lions was a special treat, especially knowing we were safe inside our campervan.

In addition to the wildlife, there's a lot to explore in Namibia, including colossal dunes, which we hiked up and surfed down —undoubtedly the trip highlight for my children.

Sri Lanka showcases a lot of what Asia landscapes have to offer.

Asia has some beautiful beaches, but Sri Lanka has beaches and tea plantations, mountains, rocks, waterfalls, and more.

We visited Sri Lanka last year and hired a driver and guide who showcased the diverse landscapes of this island country. The food was terrific and extremely cheap — our family of four was fed for less than $10 on most occasions.

The locals I interacted with were incredibly friendly and the island is also small enough to allow for in-depth exploration in a relatively short time.

Costa Rica is an excellent place to visit in Central America.

Growing up in Texas, my wife has been to Mexico many times since the state shares a border with the country. But to explore somewhere new, smaller, and in the same region, we chose to have our honeymoon in Costa Rica .

Although it's still popular, Costa Rica offers an authentic travel experience as I feel it has yet to be overrun by tourists. Like the other countries on this list, it has a diverse landscape, from white-sand beaches to rainforests to volcanoes, so there's plenty to do.

We also visited during the rainy season, so we took advantage of low crowds , low prices, and often received upgrades — and, as a bonus, it rarely rained!

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The 5 Best European Cities To Visit: Where To Go and When

E urope is a hotspot for tourism due to its impressive diversity and access. There are a multitude of cultures, cuisines and landmarks in Europe. The continent is also relatively easy to get around, since public transportation there is efficient. Some travelers may even opt to travel around Europe all at once since there are jaw dropping views within close proximity. The continent is a traveler’s paradise since the infrastructure is well designed for commuting . There are so many popular destinations within Europe, so it may be difficult for travelers to determine where exactly they should go. These are the best European cities to visit and the ideal season for travel in each. 

London 

London, the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. Travelers visiting London can experience the top attractions in the bustling urban metropolis. It is a cultural capital with a plethora of historical sites that travelers can witness. This metropolitan city has plenty for travelers to explore. Some of the most popular things to do and see are the Big Ben clock tower, Westminster Abbey, The British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London. Foodies can indulge in some English delicacies like fish and chips, traditional English breakfast and bangers and mash. There are many other cuisines that travelers can try in London, including Indian, Italian, Chinese, Thai, French and many other cultural foods. 

Best Times To Visit

The best time to visit London, England depends on the traveler. For the best sightseeing weather, travelers should make their way there between March and May. The temperature in this season is around 60 degrees, so travelers should dress themselves in layers. The high season for travel in London is in the summer and winter. If travelers want to avoid crowds, they should not visit London between June to August or December to January. 

Paris 

Paris, France is a major tourism destination that has plenty of globally recognizable monuments and cultural hallmarks. Even the cityscape of Paris is quite popular due to its iconic landmarks. French culture is all around very influential, but beyond that Paris is a remarkable city with plenty to see. The architectural wonders of Paris are a big appeal of the city. In fact, over 30 million travelers enjoy the picturesque city of light each year. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Versailles Palace, Paris Catacombs, Luxembourg Gardens and the Champs-Elysees are among the best attractions in the city. Tourists can enjoy the cheeses, soups, macarons and fresh breads of Paris while visiting Paris. 

The best times to visit Paris are either in the spring or autumn. During these times travelers can expect better temperatures. This weather allows them to comfortably sit outside and enjoy things like Parisian cafe tables. The weather is nice and moderate in the city between April to May and September to October. Travelers will even notice that there are less crowds in the tourist areas.

Rome is the capital city of Italy and it has certainly made its mark on the globe. It is among one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Some of the art, architecture and cuisine of Rome dates back 3,000 years. The city offers travelers a deep dive into ancient history and culture. There are plenty of famous sightseeing attractions in Rome that travelers should visit during their Europe trip. Some of the most popular ancient buildings for tourists to view in Rome include The Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, The Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica. There are a large number of famous remnants of the Roman Empire that have historical significance in this city. Some other things that tourists can do in Rome include guided walking tours, countryside trips, shopping, indulging in delicious Italian food and strolls around the city.  

Travelers visiting Italy should expect bigger crowds in areas like Rome. Although crowds are somewhat consistent, travelers can plan their trip so that it is as convenient as possible. Between October and April travelers will experience the least amount of crowds. The costs of accomodations are lower during this time too, but travelers may have to tolerate the chilly weather in exchange for price. Travelers should be sure to pack a jacket since weather can be around 50 and 70 degrees in Rome during this season. 

Barcelona 

Barcelona, Spain is an artistic looking and charming city with plenty for visitors to experience. The city overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is a modern hub as well as one of Spain’s most popular cities. It has a wide range of leisure activities and is a walkable city, so plenty of travelers love Barcelona. The unique architecture, beaches, culinary options and art of Barcelona keep travelers coming back. Travelers can enjoy the food of Barcelona while in the bustling city. Paella, croquettes, potato bombas and escalivada are just a few of the most popular dishes of Barcelona. Tourists commonly enjoy the Picasso Museum, the Cathedral of Barcelona, Casa Milá, Park Güell, Las Ramblas and Barceloneta Beach while in the city. Some of the most popular attractions of Barcelona are the buildings and shopping areas. Alternative activities for travelers include hot air balloon tours, walking tours, food and wine tours, private sailing tours and immersive museum experiences. 

Best Times To Visit 

The best time to travel to Barcelona is between April and July. During this time travelers will experience the best weather. Temperatures are around the mid 70’s during this season which means that the outdoor conditions are manageable. This is particularly important for travelers depending on public transportation. If sightseeing is a priority travelers should visit in early spring or autumn since there are less crowds. During the spring there is some rainfall, especially during April. Since a lot of the attractions in Barcelona are outdoors, this will definitely impact a trip. 

Amsterdam 

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and it is a quite popular city. It has a vibrant culture, rich history and stunning landscapes. The picturesque canals, historic homes, creative spirit, liberal appeal and shopping opportunities are the top features of the city. Tourists looking to immerse themselves in this European city can try the local cuisine. Pannenkoeken, haring, oliebollen, kaas and stamppot are some of the top Dutch comfort foods. These traditional food items are popular among locals but travelers should try them while they are exploring abroad. Stamppot, a dish made from potatoes and vegetables, is the national dish. Other than cuisine, travelers can visit the top attractions of the area to learn more about Amsterdam. The Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Heineken brewery tour, red light district, Body Worlds Museum and local parks are the top things to see. 

The best months to visit Amsterdam are spring and autumn. Between April and May or September and November is the most ideal time to visit. There are less crowds and more mild weather during these seasons. Although the weather is not particularly dependable, these months provide pleasant temperatures of around 60 degrees. If travelers prefer to travel during the most affordable time to go to Amsterdam, the winter may be best. Temperatures generally are around 30 or 40 degrees during the winter, but hotel rates are low. 

Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags:

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's vice president of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.