Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog

Europe With Kids: 35 Best European Cities For Family Travel

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: November 13, 2023

Categories Europe , Family Travel

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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:-).

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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.

best-cities-in-europe-with-kids-map-phenomenalglobe.com

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

Colorful cobblestoned street in Kotor Montenegro

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 ). 

I Amsterdam sign - best places to see in Amsterdam with kids

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

Percy Jackson fan in Athens - visit Athens with kids

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

This is Poble Espanyol, a beautiful area in Barcelona. Barcelona is a wonderful city to visit with kids!

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

Belgrade with kids

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

Bern with kids

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

Bruges with kids

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

Budapest with kids

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

Cagliari with kids - view of Stampace

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-with-kids-phenomenalglobe.com

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

Cordoba with kids

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

Dubrovnik with kids - Adventure and Sunshine

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-with-kids-phenomenalglobe.com

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

Florence with kids

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

Istanbul with kids - photo by Lindsay Nieminen

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

Kotor with kids

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

Lisbon funicular 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.

Lisbon with kids - photo by globetotting

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 Tower Bridge sunrise

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.

London Greenwich Canary Warf view

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

Madrid with kids

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

Glockenspiel - Munich with kids

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

Machines de l Ile Nantes - Nantes with kids

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

Nice with kids

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

Paris with kids

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

Sunset over Porto Ribeira district - 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

Prague with kids - photo by Parenthood and Passports

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

Rome with kids

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

salzburg-with-kids-phenomenal-globe

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

Seville with kids - photo by Untold Morsels

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

Sibiu in Romania with kids

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

Toompea Hill Lookout - Tallinn with kids

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

Tbilisi with kids - 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

Valencia with kids - Torres Serranos - photo by An Epic Education

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

Venice with kids

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 

Vienna with kids

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

Old Town Warsaw with kids - photo by Two Find a Way

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

Wroclaw Poland with kids - photo by Reflections Enroute

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.

Looking for the best European cities to visit with kids? Read about 32 family-friendly European cities to help you plan an unforgettable Europe family trip! #Europe #FamilyTravel #CityTrip

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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  • Last Updated On
  • October 16, 2023

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

Claire Allard

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

best cities to visit in europe with family

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

best cities to visit in europe with family

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

best cities to visit in europe with family

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)

Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane

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

best cities to visit in europe with family

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

best cities to visit in europe with family

The 17 Best European City Breaks for Families (2024) According to Top Travel Bloggers

Wondering what the best European city breaks for families are? This guide features some of the best European city breaks to go on with kids chosen by top travel bloggers as well as our favourite family city breaks in Europe. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway in Europe

Here you’ll find the best summer city breaks in Europe to try with kids as well as the best city breaks in Europe in Spring and the best European city breaks in spring. If you’re looking for a winter city break, view the best winter breaks in Europe here.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my full disclosure for further information.

Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Europe for Easter :

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Table of Contents

The Best European City Breaks for Families in 2024

1. berlin city break (germany).

Submitted by Oksana & Max, Drink Tea and Travel

The German Capital may not be the first city that comes to mind for a city break with kids, but Berlin with kids is surprisingly kid-friendly. The city has tons of great parks, museums (including some of the best museums of Europe ), and galleries that all ages will enjoy. 

Tiergarten and Volkspark are both great parks to enjoy with the family. They are some of the biggest in the city and dotted with nature trails, ponds, gardens, and playgrounds. In the wintertime, they even have their own skating rinks. 

In trendy Friedrichshain, you can find one of the city’s most interesting playgrounds. Dragons Playground is a kid’s playground in the shape of a wooden dragon. However, the most interesting park is definitely Tempelhof Park, a former airport turned park. It is a popular place to fly kites or cycle.

If the weather is poor and you would rather stay inside, the Zeiss-Großplanetarium is a planetarium with some first-class kids programs. Otherwise, you also can’t go wrong with a visit to one of the city’s famous historical museums like Kulturforum or Mauermuseum at Checkpoint Charlie. For a more mainstream children’s activity head to Legoland. 

If you have never been to the German capital before, boat tours are a great way to see the city. The whole family will no doubt enjoy discovering  Berlin  from the water and learning about it along the way.

Berlin, Germany, German Capital, Berlin with kids, Best European citybreaks with young childeren

2. Cologne City Break, Germany

Submitted by Jenny, Travelynn Family

There’s much more to Cologne than its magnificent cathedral and beer cellars. We visited Cologne, Germany when our boys were 6 and 4 years old and they had the best time!

It’s a very walkable city, with little play areas along the way and diverse scenery to engage. Start your trip to Cologne with kids at the Cologne Cathedral.

We couldn’t help but think the spires are a little grubby and could do with a scrub. But the sheer height of the spires that pierce the heavens is impressive and families are more than welcome to explore inside.

Then walk towards the river where you’ll find a little play area next to the bridge. It’s not immediately obvious as it looks like a sculpture. But this is an art installation for play!

Walking along the Hohenzollern Bridge which stretches over the River Rhine, you can’t help but notice the thousands of love locks attached. It’s fascinating reading the names and dates.

On the other side, is KölnTriangle for epic 360° views over the city on a clear day. Then follow along further to the left for the huge playground at Rheinpark.

There are also lots of family-friendly museums and attractions in Cologne. Our favourites are the Odysseum (Science Museum totally geared to kids), the Chocolate Museum, and the huge indoor waterpark at Aqualand.

For more ideas on what to do in and around Cologne, check out our post:  Top things to do in Cologne with kids.

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, Berlin bridge

3. Dublin City Break (Ireland)

Submitted by Cath, Travel Around Ireland

A great city to visit with young children in Europe in Dublin, the capital of Ireland and the perfect place to add to your Ireland bucket list . The city centre is not too big and the main shopping streets are wide and fully pedestrianized after 9am, making them very stroller and toddler-friendly.

There are two great parks to visit with kids, St. Stephens Green and the Phoenix Park. St. Stephens Green has a lake, gardens, and a newly renovated playground, while the Phoenix Park is where Dublin Zoo is located and where, if you are lucky, you could spot the herds of deer. Both can be reached via public transport or on the city sightseeing buses.

Other great things to do with young children are visiting the ‘Dead Zoo’  as locals call the Natural History Museum, visiting Imaginosity, the Dublin Children’s Museum or venturing out of the city to go to Explorium, the science and sports centre which has a huge range of interactive displays and activities, many suitable for young children.

If the weather is nice, a visit to the Botanic Gardens is worth it and back in the city centre, Dublinia beside Christchurch Cathedral is worth visiting. It details the history of Dublin from the times of the Vikings, through the Medieval Ages and into the modern-day, with interactive exhibitions for kids to enjoy. Parents can read, while kids play.

Dublin is a very family-friendly city and has lots to offer younger children. There are family-friendly hotels to suit all budgets and a wealth of cafes and restaurants to suit everyone.

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, dublin kids museum

4. Krakow City Break (Poland)

Submitted by Diana, Travels in Poland

Krakow, Poland is a wonderful place to be taking a short break with young children.  As one of the largest cities in Poland, Krakow is still not as crowded as huge cities such as Rome and Paris. However, it still has the charm, history, and fun of any major city.

Krakow is home to the largest main square in Europe, which also houses the Sukiennice building.  Sukiennice houses dozens of vendors inside where families can find toys, clothing and other artisan products to purchase. 

The surrounding area in the square is well known to have hundreds of pigeons crowd the area daily.  The pigeons are quite used to people and will gladly feed out of your hand and become very friendly. 

Children love chasing the pigeons, feeding them, and being able to get up to them so close up.

Krakow is also home to a vast waterpark, Aquapark, which has many attractions available to children of all ages.  Krakow also has several child-friendly museums.

These include the Transportation Museum, Muzeum Inzynierii Miejskiej w Krakowie, which used to house trams.  Children can climb aboard all the different trams in the museum and explore.

Finally, families can go to Smocza Jama, an indoor dragon’s lair which tells the story of the dragon that used to live there. 

A walk along the Wisla River right at the exit and on to one of the hundreds of highly-rated restaurants in the main square are just additional reasons why Krakow is one of the best cities to go with children.

Krakow, Poland, Main Square, Europe, Poland With Kids

5. London City Break (United Kingdom)

Submitted by David, Delve into Europe

London is an incredible city for young kids, and it is a firm favourite with our well-travelled five-year-old. We had taken him there several times as a toddler, then had an extended two-month stay in London, and he adored the place.

London is so brilliant for young children because of the sheer wealth of things for them to do. The Museums in Kensington are a great place to start, and he was fascinated by all three. The Natural History Museum is his favourite, mainly for the animatronic T-Rex and the time-travelling grandfather clock used in the BBC series Andy’s Prehistoric Adventures. He was also captivated by the Science Museum and, just across the road, the V&A.

The city’s parks and public spaces are also great for kids to explore. The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens is very popular with families, but if you turn up on a quiet weekday afternoon outside the holidays and you shouldn’t have to queue to get in, plus it’s always free. The other Royal Parks are also great for kids, with so much room for them to roam and explore.

Our son also enjoys the squares of London, and one of the best ones for kids is the courtyard of Somerset House. During spring and summer, the fountains are turned on, and our little fellow loved running through them and getting soaked through. The courtyard is also put to good use in winter when an ice rink is set up between November and January. If you’re visiting London for New Year, it’s one of the best cities in Europe to spend New Year’s Eve .

London is one of the more expensive cities in Europe to travel around, and the cheapest way to do so is with an Oyster card. We tend to travel by bus around central London, as it’s more convenient than the Tube. Some stations are not stroller-friendly, whereas buses usually have space for two.   

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, London

6. Manchester City Break (United Kingdom)

Submitted by Jenny, Peak District Kids

There’s more to uber edgy Manchester than football and music. Manchester is famous for so many things and has so much to offer for a city break with kids with a range of free museums, loads of outdoor play space, super fun indoor activity centres, and family-friendly restaurants and cafes on every corner.

Our favourite museum in Manchester is the excellent Science and Industry Museum (free entry) which has a strong focus on the history of the UK’s first industrial city. It also houses the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station and the world’s first railway warehouse from 1830. Dinosaur fans should head to Manchester Museum, which is part of Manchester University, to see the huge T-rex skeleton along with other natural and worldly artefacts.

Kids will love the huge aquarium at Sea Life Manchester and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, which feels like you’ve been shrunk and entered a huge LEGO box. But if you want to get active, head to the massive indoor activity centre of Play Factore (this place redefines everything you have thought about soft play centres) or visit the snow (it’s real snow, not fake!) at Chill Factore for skiing, snowboarding and sledging. For outdoor bouncy fun, we absolutely love Treetop Manchester; a series of ropes and huge nets in the trees for your little monkeys to run wild.

But what would a trip to Manchester be without visiting Old Trafford? The Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour offer a behind the scenes look at the world’s most iconic stadium. Get a feel for life in the Premier League and walk through the players’ tunnel towards the hallowed turf and find the seat of your favourite player in the dressing room. A must-do for all footy fans and families are very welcome.

If you are staying in Manchester for more than a couple of days, it’s also worth getting the train over to the Peak District. Edale station is just 50 minutes away, and there are so many  things to do in the Peak District  for outdoor families; a fantastic contrast to the city!

Read More: Facts About Manchester

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, manchester

7. Prague City Break (Czech Republic)

Submitted by Veronika, Travel Geekery

Prague  is a top tourist destination, and that applies to family trips with young children too.

Children will love e.g. the Lego Museum right in the city centre or the interactive National Technical Museum, where they can watch machines in operation and play with cars in a playroom. 

Hamley’s toy store just off Wenceslas Square is a real kid’s dream. Toys everywhere, giant mascots, a real carousel, even a slide… And the fun doesn’t stop there. In the basement of Hamley’s, you can find a butterfly house, a large jungle-like room where butterflies fly right above your head and rest on leaves around you.

When visiting Prague on a city break with kids , don’t leave out Petřín, an observation tower atop a hill overlooking Prague. You can ride up in a funicular, which is already an awesome experience. What’s more, on the top of the hill, right next to the observation tower, is Prague’s no.1 mirror maze. Finding their way through a labyrinth into a room with distorting mirrors is great fun for kids and it’s sure to produce a good amount of giggles.

Also, the Prague Zoo is hugely popular among families and if you have a full or at least a half-day to spend there, it’s well worth the trip to Trója district.

The public transport is child-friendly, but if you have a stroller, you need to plan a little. Various metro stations in the city centre feature elevators (look for a handicapped symbol) and when it comes to trams, many of them have no stairs. Otherwise, when you encounter short stairs and need help, don’t hesitate to ask any man around, it’s common to do so.

Many cafés in Prague are children-friendly too and often feature kids playing areas. For example Café Mistral in the Old Town, Le Caveau in the Vinohrady district, or Café Jedna in the Holešovice district.

For accommodation, either opt for an apartment through Airbnb or Booking.com or choose a luxury hotel, which offers even a babysitting service, such as the Hilton Prague Old Town hotel.

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, prague technical museum

Best Summer City Breaks in Europe to Try with Kids

8. barcelona city break (spain).

Submitted by Jenni, Cruise Mummy

“ Barcelona is a fantastic city break destination for families. If you ever take a cruise from this popular Mediterranean port, I would definitely recommend extending your stay for a few days to explore all that Barcelona has to offer.

We often stay in a  hotel near Barcelona cruise port  which is within walking distance of attractions such as the Barcelona aquarium and the beach. Barcelona has lots of great parks to explore as well as incredible historic attractions like La Sagrada Familia. There’s also a cable car which is great fun and offers a fantastic view of the city. In the evening, you should visit the Magic Fountain show which kids and adults will both love.

Barcelona has some fantastic food and we always find that you can’t go wrong with tapas. When choosing a restaurant, I’d recommend avoiding the touristy Las Ramblas and instead of walking one or two streets away from where the food will be cheaper and the sangria not watered down so much.

The best way to get around Barcelona during a city break with kids is in an Uber as they appear almost instantly and are relatively inexpensive. There’s also a great open-top bus which young kids love.”

Best European city breaks with kids | Barcelona

Related Post: How to Get from Malaga to Barcelona

9. Dingle City Break (Ireland)

Submitted by Emer, Let’s Go Ireland

If you are looking to treat the kids to something special, then consider a trip to Dingle in Ireland! The charming, colourful streets of Dingle in the South West of Ireland are a pleasure to explore and the nearby sandy beaches (such as Inch beach, Ventry) offer plenty of playtime opportunities.

While in the vicinity, younger and older Star Wars fans might also like to visit some of the Star Wars filming locations nearby. Dingle is home to Ireland’s largest aquarium, Dingle Oceanworld. Regardless of the weather outside, this aquarium is likely to keep boredom at bay for several hours and is perfect for families of all ages. Plus visitors can also visit the new butterfly oasis to experience the wonder of the fluttering friends up close. 

Probably the most famous resident in Dingle is Fungie, the wild bottlenose dolphin that has frequented Dingle Harbour since the early 1980s. Boat tours to see Fungie in their natural habitat run frequently and this special encounter is likely to be an absolute holiday highlight for any kid.

Finish off your day with amazing ice cream from Murphy’s. The fabulous flavours are renowned for being among the best ice cream that Ireland has to offer! It is easy to wander around Dingle on foot, but if you want to venture outside Dingle itself, then having your own personal transport makes the most sense, particularly with little ones!

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, dingle, ireland

Related Post | The best beaches in Greece for families

10. Lisbon City Break (Portugal)

Submitted by Emily, Wander-Lush

Safe, affordable, and brimming with historical sites and fun outdoor activities, Lisbon is one of the best cities in Europe for a city break with young children.

For accommodation, opt for a spacious apartment-hotel in the city centre. Most attractions are within walking distance, or else you can use the easy-to-navigate metro system to get around.

There are lots of things to do in Portugal’s capital with kids. Spend an afternoon at Oceanario, the biggest aquarium in Europe, take the cable car over the river, climb the Belém Tower for a view, and ride on one of the iconic yellow trams – a must-do for any  first-time visitor to Lisbon . If the historical monuments get a little dry, there are lots of interactive, child-friendly museums, including the Electricity Museum, plus plenty of green spaces throughout the city. In summer, white-sand beaches are just a short train ride away.

Lisbon has a variety of restaurants to keep even the fussiest of eaters happy. Time Out Market is a local icon and offers a huge range of world cuisines under one roof. If your littlies don’t have a taste for Lisbon specialities such as anchovies and sardines (I don’t blame them!), they’re sure to love pastel de nata, Portuguese custard tarts. Eat them in family-run bakeries around the suburb of Belem, or better still, join a kid-friendly cooking class and learn how to make them yourself.

Finally, no visit to Lisbon is complete without a day trip to the palaces at Sintra – a dream come true for any little princess or prince.

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, lisbon

11. Malaga City Break (Spain)

Submitted by Joanna, Andalucia in my pocket

Malaga is a very family-friendly city and perfect for a city break with kids. The city itself is quite small, which makes it very easy to explore on foot, even by the young members of the family. There are many child-friendly attractions in Malaga, starting with the beaches. La Malagueta is the most popular beach in Malaga, which is very well equipped with all the facilities, including lifeguards during the high season. There is even a playground directly on the beach and two waterparks which are great for younger children.

Malaga is Picasso’s birthplace, and whilst adults will enjoy visiting the museum dedicated to his work and the home in which he was born, children might not be as enthusiastic. For them, a visit to the Imagination Museum is a must. Here, children will enter a world of illusions, being entertained by exciting games and cool photo opportunities. The museum even has a supervised playroom for children.

Another exciting activity that families with young children can add to their  perfect Malaga itinerary  is a boat trip to see dolphins in the open sea. Some of the trips even allow swimming in the sea if the water is calm. There are many dolphins in this part of the Mediterranean Sea, sometimes visible from the shore. Even if the trips don’t guarantee dolphin sightings, the chances of seeing them are quite high.

Most of the restaurants in Malaga are family-friendly, providing high chairs and children menus. People living in Malaga love to go out in the summer evenings with their children. There is always a chance that your children will make new friends during dinner time.

Andalucia in my pocket, malaga, spain. best european citybreaks with young children, europe

Related Post by a fellow travel blogger | Plan your Disney Paris Holiday

12. Paris City Break (France)

Submitted by Elisa, World In Paris

Paris is a great city for a family break, with many things to see and do for kids. There are many beautiful parks and green spaces where kids can play but if you are travelling to Paris from another country for sure you are looking for something else.

Head to Paris the Latin Quarter, to visit La Grande Galerie de l’Evolution, and have a blast amongst dinosaurs and other beasts. Or move to the other side of the Seine River, to learn about men and mankind in the fabulous Musée de l’Homme. 

If you want to get a taste of  food in Paris  you could also join a food tour or a cooking class to learn how to make macarons.

If your children are more Arts oriented a Street Art tour in Paris 13 is always a great idea, but if you prefer a more relaxing day instead, sail the Parisian canals on a self-guided electric boat. When renting these boats you can also add a picnic basket and stop on the banks for a picnic Parisian style. To find out more about parism find out what Paris is famous for >

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog

13. Rome City Break (Italy)

Submitted by Dani, Diapers in Paradise

Rome , the bustling capital city of Italy, is a fabulous European city break with kids! There is so much to see and do, and many of the most iconic sites in Rome are actually great to do with kids. Young children love visiting fountains, which there is no shortage of in Rome. You can do a scavenger hunt, wandering from piazza to piazza to look for them! Be sure to include Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona.

Kids will enjoy strolling through the Roman Forum, will awe at the Vittoriano, and will love exploring the hallways of the Colosseum. Just keep in mind that very little in Rome (or Italy in general!) is stroller-friendly, so if your little one is young enough, you definitely want to invest in a good baby carrier for travel.

While public transport is not ideal in the historic centre of Rome, the taxis are plentiful. But if you stay in the Centro Storico neighbourhood, you can leisurely walk to most of the places that you’ll want to visit with young children anyway! And while hotels are tiny and expensive in this neighbourhood, there are lots of family-friendly apartments on sites like Airbnb or VRBO.

The best part about visiting Rome with young children is the freedom to explore. There is something incredible to see around every corner, and when those little legs get tired, you’re never far from a gelato shop for a quick break!

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, rome, italy, rome with kids,

Related Post | The 12 best beaches in Greece for families

14. Syracuse City Break (Italy)

Submitted by , Annabel, Smudged Postcard

Syracuse, on the South East coast of Sicily, is a brilliant city for a city break with kids. The historic heart, Ortigia, is reached from the mainland by a bridge and is small enough to explore on foot. It’s a warren of medieval streets with interesting shops and enticing bars and restaurants.

If you’re visiting  Syracuse with kids , be sure to see a show at the puppet theatre. It’s an incomprehensible mix of monsters and knights which children love, the front seats of the theatre are reserved for kids. Syracuse has a brilliant archaeological park where children can wander inside a giant cave “ear” which has brilliant acoustics: shouting is encouraged!

On the far tip of Syracuse is the wonderful Castello Maniace which features tunnels and turrets with windows overlooking the sea, perfect for wannabe knights and pirates.

And let’s not forget why Syracuse is great for the whole family, not just kids. It’s essential to enjoy a granita or ice cream in the city’s most beautiful square, Piazza del Duomo. This car-free space is perfect for children to run around in while parents can relax in one of the cafes. The perfect place for a city break with kids.

 Piazza del Duomo | Sicily |Best European Citybreaks with kids

15. Bruges (Belgium)

Submitted by Darek, Darekandgosia.com

At first glance,  Bruges  may not seem attractive to visit for a European city break with kids, but nothing could be more wrong.

If your children like animals, you can visit most of the historical Bruges by horse-drawn carriage. This is, in fact, one of the best ways to explore this compact city.

Going on a boat trip is always fun – not only for children. Your little ones may not appreciate the beautiful architecture, but they will be delighted with the swans swimming with you. After 30 minutes of the boat ride, feeding ducks and swans will be also a winner when it comes to activities with children.

It is worth visiting one of the few stores where homemade chocolates are made – heaven for any kid! In Bruges, there is also the Choco-Story and a chocolate museum. And if you’re going to Choco-Story then you can’t miss the next original Frietmuseum, dedicated to potatoes and how to make Belgian fries.

Bruges is a fantastic city to explore with children. You just can’t get bored here. In addition, many attractions are free. If you plan a city break with children, be sure to add Bruges to your list!

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, Krakow main square

16. Helsinki (Finland)

Submitted by Cath, Passports and Adventures

The Finnish capital is one of the best European cities for a break with young kids. Wide pavements, public transport free to under 7’s when they travel with an adult who is also free. With lots of things to do in Helsinki with kids , it’s a great city to consider for your next family trip.

Stay in the centre, close to the main train station and you’ll be in the heart of the city. Many other areas of the city are walkable. There is a range of great restaurants and cafes for feeding hungry kids.

For the kids themselves, pay a visit to Children’s Town, the Children’s Museum of Helsinki where they can play, put on a show, pretend they’re a shopkeeper and dress up to their heart’s content. Best of all, it’s free.

The Helsinki Natural History Museum is amazing. Four floors have interactive displays and animals from across the globe, kids and parents alike will enjoy a visit there. You could also bring the kids to SeaLife Helsinki, a great aquarium. You’ll need to make your way there on public transport or via a taxi as it’s not walkable with young children.

A must-visit is to Suomenlinna, the Sea Fortress accessed by a ferry. There is a great museum which tells the history of the fortress which adults will enjoy. Kids will love visiting the Toy Museum. This is filled with toys from the 19th century through to the 1970s and it is fun for adults to see if they spot something they remember from their childhood. Stop at the little café inside the building for a cuppa and some cake. For dads, there is also a Military Museum close to the Toy Museum. You could easily spend a day exploring the island.

Near the dock for the Suomenlinna ferry is the Helsinki SkyWheel. It’s as big as the London Eye, but it is cheaper and gives great views across the city. And in this part of the city, you’ll also find the outdoor pool, open year-round.

View More Cities in Finland Here >>>

Best European city breaks with kids | Travels With Eden Blog, finland, helsinki, museum

17. Copenhagen (Denmark)

Submitted by Derek, Everything Copenhagen

One of the best cities in Europe to visit for a city break with kids is Copenhagen. There are so many  things to do in Copenhagen  with the whole family but one of the best is Tivoli Gardens. It’s an urban amusement park and pleasure gardens in the shadows of Copenhagen City Hall. The grounds are exquisite with manicured landscaping and flower beds, a lake (built from the former moat), and 16 kiddie rides. There are also games, an arcade, several theatres and entertainment venues around the park.

Seasonal events in Tivoli Gardens happen regularly as well including a Halloween makeover in the autumn with trick-or-treating and a fantastic Christmas event with Santa Claus and more.

There are other fun activities in Copenhagen for a city break with kids including taking them on a family boat ride or swimming in the harbour pools. Travelling in the city is easy with young children because the public transportation system is clean, efficient, and kid-friendly. It’s rarely crowded, even in peak commuter times, and Copenhagen is also a very walkable city. Some visitors rent a Christiania bike, which allows an adult to pedal their children who are seated in a small wagon. These bikes are a great way to see the city and a ride along the harbour for ice cream will be a nice treat for young children.

Getting Around Europe with Kids

By Car | Europe’s road system is very advanced making it easy to get around the majority of the continent when travelling to a city break with kids Road-tripping Europe is often a popular choice when travelling with kids. There’s a huge range of good hire-car companies available, many of which offer car seats at a fee.

By Coach | Flixbus, Eurolines and Megabus are the major coach companies operating in Europe. They’re often cheaper but slower than travelling by train and you usually need to provide your own car-seats for little ones.

By Train | Europe has an extremely efficient and modern train system. Trains often need to be booked in advance. If you’re considering a longer trip, Eurorail offers train passes for interrail trips around Europe which offer unlimited train travel for a number of days or a set time. One adult can bring up to 2 children under 12 free of charge. Many companies charge a child-fare from around 4 years old so Interrail has become a popular choice when travelling with kids. The routes are less developed in Eastern Europe and often take more time to get from A to B.

By Ferry | Many ferry companies connect Europe. Many have on-board entertainment for kids and private rooms with all the facilities needed. Brittany Ferries connects Ireland and the United Kingdom with France and Spain.

Uk companies also connect Scotland’s islands as well as the Isle of Wight and Isle of Man. Spain is also well connected by ferry with regular services running to and around the Canary Islands as well as to Italy and Morocco.

Italy has by far the most routes with services running to Croatia, Greece, Spain, and the outlying Italian islands. The ferries are well equipped for children too!

The Greek islands are also well connected with ferries serving the majority of islands from Athens and Turkey.

By Air | With major airports in most cities traveling frequently around and out of Europe at speed, flying is also very popular with families. Children under 2 usually fly free of charge with child fares for under 12’s. Budget airlines Ryanair and Easyjet operate the cheapest flights around Europe, although, make sure you double-check on Skyscanner first.

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best cities to visit in europe with family

Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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Europe with Kids – Where to Go & What to Do

SD › Europe for Families Updated: February 11, 2023

Best vacation destination in Europe for families.

The Greek Islands are my favorite destination in Europe when traveling with kids. Spectacular, fun, interesting, and good value.

Hotels in Europe for Families Amsterdam – Hotels for Families Athens – Hotels for Families Barcelona – Hotels for Families Berlin – Hotels for Families Dublin – Hotels for Families Edinburgh – Hotels for Families Florence – Hotels for Families Istanbul – Hotels for Families London – Hotels for Families Lyon – Hotels for Families Madrid – Hotels for Families Milan – Hotels for Families Mykonos – Hotels for Families Nice – Hotels for Families Paris – Hotels for Families Pisa – Hotels for Families Prague – Hotels for Families Rome – Hotels for Families Siena – Hotels for Families Santorini – Hotels for Families Venice – Hotels for Families My boys doing a cooking class in Florence , Italy. The Best Kid-Friendly Destinations in Europe Best City for Kid-Friendly Attractions: London • Paris Best for Kid-Friendly Beaches: Naxos (Greece) Best for History and Culture: Italy Best for First Timers: UK & Ireland Best for Beach Vacation: Greece Best Value: Portugal Best for Outdoor Activities: Switzerland & Germany Best for Train Trips: France Best for River and Canal Cruises: Germany & France Best for Fun and Relaxation: Greece Best for Idyllic Evening Dinners: Spain & Greece Best for Kid-Friendly Bike Tours: Amsterdam

Greek Islands with Kids

Cruise ship docked off Santorini.

Greece Highlights

  • Santorini – Incredible views and scenery. Take a boat tour of the caldera which was formed by a volcanic explosion and forms a huge cliff that runs the length of the entire island. The beaches are not Greece’s best but there is a water park with slides.
  • Crete – The largest island in Greece. Lots to do and see. Great beaches, historical sites, small traditional villages, thriving cities, and some wonderful hikes. Crete offers a little bit of everything – or rather, a lot of everything.
  • Rhodes – A great island if you’re looking to visit Turkey – whether it be a day trip or a more involved trip up to Istanbul. Rhodes has great beaches and an incredible Old Town.
  • Naxos – The best island for families in all of Greece. Wonderful kid-friendly beaches, with a gentle slope, and calm shallow water. The main village is packed with fun restaurants and shops. The island’s interior offers interesting traditional villages and great walks.
  • Paros – A hipper version of Naxos with a bit more partying and shopping and perhaps beaches that aren’t quite so kid-friendly – though still wonderful. Nearby Antiparos is a great day trip for its laid-back charm and quiet beaches.
  • Corfu – One of Greece’s most beautiful islands. Corfu Town is a beautiful old city and makes a great base for exploring the island. Lots of kid-friendly activities on the island (including a water park) and some great beaches.

Book in Advance

  • Half-Day Athens Food Tour with Tour Guide
  • Athens Highlights Walking Tour
  • 5-Hour Catamaran Sunset Cruise on Santorini
  • Mykonos to Delos 4-Hour Tour
  • Crete: Hiking Tour in Samaria Gorge

Further Reading

  • Santorini Travel Guide
  • Mykonos Travel Guide
  • Greece Travel Guide

London With Kids

London Eye ferris wheel with kids

• Where to Stay in London

London Highlights

  • Natural History Museum : A stunning collection of kid-friendly exhibits, with dinosaurs and a huge blue whale among the favorites.
  • The London Transport Museum and The Imperial War Museum : My kids loved these museums and they’re 2 of London’s best attractions for kids.
  • Tower of London and Tower Bridge : History and sightseeing; torture chambers and a medieval castle.
  • London Eye : Great views of the city from the world’s tallest observation wheel.
  • The Science Museum , British Museum , National Portrait Gallery , and the Victoria and Albert Museum all have kid friendly tours and programs.
  • Tower of London Ticket with Crown Jewels Exhibition
  • Harry Potter: Warner Brothers Studio Tour and Transfers
  • Classic London 3.5-Hour Bike Tour – A fun and active way to see the best of central London. With tour guide.
  • Afternoon Tea Cruise on the River Thames

Further Reading on London

  • London with Kids – The Ultimate Guide
  • The Best Hotels in London for Kids
  • Book London Tours & Tickets in Advance
  • The Best Playgrounds in London
  • Tips for Visiting the British Museum
  • Tips for Visiting Stonehenge
  • A Guide to the Best Markets in London
  • The Best Castles to Visit in England with Kids

Paris With Kids

Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

• Where to Stay in Paris

Paris Highlights

  • The Eiffel Tower (of course): Great views are often dismissed by kids as boring, but not from the Tour Eiffel. The city looks small far below but never feels distant. If your kids are old enough walk the stairs instead of wait in line for the elevator.
  • The Catacombs : Run this by your kids first — you’ll descend 20 metres below street level where you’ll be able to explore 1.7km of corridors walled with the remains of long dead Parisians. They’ll either be thrilled or terrified and you can make your plans from there.
  • Musée de Louvre : It’s a huge intimidating museum that can make for a long visit for kids or an enthralling cultural journey depending on how you approach it. Read and discuss some of the paintings and sculptures before you arrive. Buy postcards of famous paintings and hunt for them during your visit. The Skip the Line Guided Tour is worth the expense.
  • Musée d’Histoire Naturelle de Paris : France’s best science museum could fill a whole day. The highlight for kids is usually the Galerie de l’Evolution.
  • Notre Dame Cathedral : Climb the 422 steps to the cathedral’s towers and you’ll be face to face with some fierce Gargoyles and an incredible view of Paris. Kids will recognize the scenes from The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
  • Eiffel Tower Skip The Line Tickets
  • Louvre Skip The Line Tickets
  • Chocolate and Pastry Tasting Tour
  • Behind the Scenes Bakery Tour
  • Versailles Guided Bike & Palace Tour
  • Paris with Kids — The Ultimate Guide
  • The Best Hotels & Apartments in Paris for Families
  • Book Paris Tours & Tickets in Advance
  • Travel Guide: Paris with Kids
  • Montmartre Family Tour
  • Tips for Visiting the Louvre
  • What You Pay for Everyday Things in Paris

Amsterdam With Kids

Canal in Amsterdam

• Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Amsterdam Highlights

  • Boat tour: Hop on board a canal tour or rent your own pedal boat (from the same shop) to see Amsterdam’s famous canals. There are 3 lines for the canal tours and 14 stops. Day passes are available and most of Amsterdam’s major sites are easily accessible from the
  • Bike tour: Amsterdam is famous for it’s bike friendly culture and visitors will feel quite comfortable getting around it’s compact center on 2 wheels. Numerous shops rent bikes and little ones can hop into a bakfiets — the local version of a bike trailer.
  • Science Center NEMO : Lots of hands-on fun at the Netherlands largest science museum for children aged 6 to 16.
  • Visit one of Amserdam’s beautiful parks: Both Amsterdamse Bos (cheese farms, watersports, and horse riding) and Vondelpark (walking, biking, an open air theatre,  playground, and near to Rijksmuseum ,  Stedelijk Museum and  Van Gogh Museum ) are great parks that could keep the kids busy for hours.
  • Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Small-Bus Tour
  • Small-Group Bike Tour of Central Amsterdam
  • Food Tasting Tour of Jordaan
  • Amsterdam with Kids – The Ultimate Guide
  • Recommended Hotels in Amsterdam for Families
  • Book Amsterdam Tours & Tickets in Advance
  • Amsterdam for Families and Children

Barcelona With Kids

Church in Barcelona.

• Where to Stay in Barcelona

Barcelona Highlights

  • Parc Güell : A fun and wacky collection of Gaudi’s creations. Kids will love the colors, crazy sculptures, and playful nature of the park.
  • Ride one of the city’s 2 cable cars: one goes to the beach , the other up to an old castle . Both are great for adventurous kids.
  • L’Aquarium Barcelona or the Barcelona Zoo are easy to get to and make a great morning or afternoon visit.
  • The great city beaches and the city’s famous and colorful boulevard Las Ramblas are fun ways to enjoy some unstructured family free time.
  • Private Cooking Class and Market Tour
  • Barcelona Highlights & Montjuic Cable Car – Half-Day Tour
  • The Best Hotels in Barcelona for Kids & Families
  • Barcelona with kids – the best things to do
  • Book Barcelona Tours & Tickets in Advance
  • 15 Things to Do with Kids in Barcelona

Cornwall & Devon Counties With Kids

Long Beach in Cornwall.

Cornwall & Devon Highlights

  • The fantastic beaches of Southwest England: Kid friendly beaches can be found up and down the coasts’ of both counties.
  • St Michael’s Mount , Marazion: Walk during low tide (or ferry during high tide) to Cornwall’s most important historical landmark.
  • National Maritime Museum Cornwall , Falmouth: The huge maritime collection of boats and artifacts is perfect for slightly older kids.
  • Rent a cottage : Stay in a self-contained cabin — on a farm, near the sea, or in a small Cornish village.
  • Dartmoor National Park : Camp, hike, and explore this beautiful park.
  • The Eden Project : An amazing all-weather destination focused on nature, the environment, the arts, and having fun.
  • West Cornwall Private Tour

Further Reading on Cornwall & Devon

  • Book Cornwall Tours & Tickets in Advance
  • 10 of the Best Campsites and Family Day Trips in Cornwall
  • Official Guide to Southwest England
  • Information on the resorts and towns of South Devon

Dublin With Kids

Light Rail in Dublin.

• Where to Stay in Dublin

Dublin Highlights

  • Dublin Zoo : One of Europe’s best zoos. Easy access with the hop-on hop-off bus.
  • Kilmainham Gaol Historical Museum : A great introduction to Ireland’s history. Located out of town but on the hop-on, hop-off bus route.
  • The National Museum – Archeology : Features items pulled from the bogs (including mummified bodies) and a viking exhibit that are very popular with kids.
  • The Natural History Museum (a.k.a. the Dead Zoo): An amazing collection of animals that kids love.
  • Viking Splash : Tour Dublin and get a (small) spattering of history aboard an amphibious WW II vehicle.
  • Take the DART train to Howth (north) or Bray (south): Get to the coast, go for a walk, play on the beach, and take a break from the city.
  • Cliffs of Moher Full-Day Tour from Dublin
  • Full-Day Scenic Tour of Giant’s Causeway
  • Blarney Castle Full-Day Tour from Dublin
  • Dublin: Afternoon Tea Vintage Bus Trip
  • Hotels for Families in Dublin
  • Book Tours & Tickets in Advance
  • Especially for Kids in Dublin

Edinburgh With Kids

Castle in Edinburgh.

• Where to Stay in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Highlights

  • Edinburgh Bus Tours : It’s a hilly city with lots of up and down (on cobblestoned streets that don’t lend themselves to strollers). This hop-on hop-off bus has 24 stops sprinkled around the city center.
  • Edinburgh Castle : Just about everyone’s favorite attraction in Edinburgh. A must.
  • Museum of Childhood : 4 floors of games, toys, and action figures. Lots of hands on fun for kids of all ages.
  • Dynamic Earth : Fun, educational, and engaging. An interactive museum with films and presentations.
  • National Museum of Scotland : Hands on fun for kids. Loads of Scottish history for the adults.
  • Edinburgh Fringe Festival : If you’re in Edinburgh in August — and can find accommodation — be sure to take in the festival’s children’s theatre, puppetry, kids comedy, and dance and music workshops. If your visit is in May then the Imaginate Children’s Theatre Festival is a can’t miss event. And for April there’s the wonderful Edinburgh International Science Festival .
  • Edinburgh Guided Walking Tour
  • Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Highlands Small Group Tour
  • West Highland Lochs and Castles – Small Group Tour
  • Edinburgh’s Best Hotels for Families
  • Edinburgh with Kids – Things to Do
  • Book Edinburgh Tours & Tickets in Advance
  • The Top Sights and Views in Edinburgh
  • Edinburgh.org : Information on hotels, festivals, and planning your visit.
  • Glasgow.com : Glasgow is only 55 minutes away by train and makes a perfect daytrip if you’re short on time.

Prague With Kids

Prague with Kids – Things To Do and Best Prague Tours for Families

• Where to Stay in Prague

Prague Highlights

  • Petřín Hill has a funicular that goes up to the top you’ll have great views, a mirror maze for kids, pony rides on the weekends, and a sizeable rose garden. For an even better view, climb up to the top of Lookout Tower or visit the observatory to take in the stars through their collection of telescopes.
  • Nostalgic Tram No. 91 is a unique way to see the city. Vintage tram cars from the early 1900s travel along a special route that runs throughout Prague and past many of the city’s best sights. Not well known among tourists and for an affordable $1.50, it’s popular with both young and old.
  • Theater and Puppet Shows – There are several kid friendly theater options unique to Prague including the Black Light Theater which combines elements of dance, animation, mimes and illusions. Puppet shows also have a strong tradition in the Czech Republic and the National Marionette Theater does puppet versions of Mozart’s Don Giovanni and the Magic Flute.
  • Kid-Friendly Museums – At the Art Gallery for Children (Galerie umění pro děti) children are encouraged to interact in this multimedia space by touching, creating or even altering the art installations. Workshops are available for kids 5-12 and it’s a great way to introduce them to art. Or visit the Lego Museum – the largest in Europe. You’ll get to see lego versions of classic Prague landmarks like the 5 meter tall Charles Bridge.
  • Children’s Island – Though there are numerous outdoor playgrounds around Prague, this one is devoted entirely to kids. It features a full range of swings, slides, climbing nets, sandpits, open space to run around. Most importantly it offers a great place for parents to sit and relax on the bank of the Vltava River with a nearby café for coffee and refreshments.
  • Prague: City Tour By Bus, Boat, and on Foot
  • Prague City Bike Tour
  • Prague Castle Tour (and Admission Ticket)
  • Eating Prague: Half-Day Food Tour
  • Český Krumlov Full-Day Trip from Prague (with Lunch)
  • Best Hotels for Families in Prague
  • Highlights of Prague
  • Prague is a Real Life Fairy Tale
  • Best Budget Places to Stay in Prague
  • The Spa Towns of the Czech Republic

Provence & the Cote d’Azur With Kids

Avignon in the south of France.

Provence & the Cote d’Azur Highlights

  • The cities of Arles , Avignon , and Aix-en-Provence — Three cultural giants that are beautiful, walkable, and packed with cool attractions. Each is overflowing with art and architecture and all are within an hour’s drive of each other.
  • Beaches: The southern coast of France is known for it’s fantastic beaches with the best found between St Tropez and St Raphael.
  • Monaco: A small city state whose narrow winding streets are fun to explore. Highlights for the kids will undoubtedly be the fantastic Oceanographic Museum , the Prince’s collection of antique cars , and the parks and gardens that fill the city.
  • Le Pont du Gard : This Unesco World Heritage Site is a wonder of Roman planning and architecture. The kids program for 5-12 year olds is enriching, well designed, and describes in detail how the aqueduct was built and used.
  • Carcassonne : A remarkably well preserved medieval city. Le Cite can be painfully busy during July and August but as it’s one of Europe’s largest city fortifications it’s probably worth enduring the crowds.
  • One Day Tour of Provence from Cannes
  • Half-Day Tour of Monaco, Monte Carlo, and Eze (from Cannes, Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Monaco)
  • Full-Day Tour of French Riviera (from Cannes, Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Monaco)
  • Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in South France
  • The Best Family Hotels in Nice
  • Book Tours for Aix-en-Provence in Advance
  • Kid-friendly things to do in Saint-Tropez
  • Best of Provence, activities for families

Rome With Kids

Trevi Fountain in Rome.

• Where to Stay in Rome

Rome Highlights

  • Colosseum and Roman Forum : the highlight of a trip to Rome (likely for the whole family). Visit early to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Villa Borghese Gardens : rent row boats and bikes, have a picnic, hop on the #3 tram for a tour of Rome, and visit the Cinema dei Piccoli for afternoon and evening children’s movies. This large park can easily form the basis of an entire day’s activities.
  • Explora : Rome’s top notch kids’ museum has lots of hands-on fun, an outdoor play area, and an ice cream shop. Visits are limited to 90 minutes.
  • Tivoli’s temples and gardens make a great day trip out of the city. The nearby Aquapiper water park makes it worthwhile for the kids as well. ( Hydromania is another water park closer to Rome.)
  • Visiting the Vatican and the Vatican Museum probably won’t be at the top of your children’s to do list. If you decide to go anyway, a private tour will allow you to skip the long entrance lines and pick out the highlights of the museum’s extensive works.
  • Gladiator School
  • Walking Tour: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
  • Skip The Line: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s
  • Pizza Making Class in Rome
  • Italy Travel Guide
  • Great Hotels & Rentals for Families in Rome
  • The Best of Rome with kids – the 10 best things to do with kids in Rome
  • Book Rome Tours & Tickets in Advance
  • 5 Quirky Things to Do In Rome

Tuscany: Agriturismo With Kids

Tuscany and Umbria Agriturismo with swimming pool for Family

This is so much fun for families. Stay at one of the Best Agriturismo in Tuscany or Best Agriturismo in Umbria . These are working farms typically with a beautiful setting and a rustic atmosphere (though accommodations can range from spartan to luxurious). Getting a villa that has a swimming pool is a good idea when traveling with kids. Meals are often included (and delicious). Getting a rental car is close to mandatory as agriturismos are off the usual bus and train routes.

Best Agriturismo for Families in Italy

  • Salvadonica – Family rooms sleep family of five. Nice swimming pool.
  • Castello Vicchiomaggio – Two-bedroom apartments and family junior suites sleep families of four and five. Nice swimming pool.
  • Skip the Line: Leaning Tower of Pisa & Cathedral Ticket
  • Florence Walking Tour and Skip-the-Line Uffizi Gallery
  • The Best Agriturismo Villas in Tuscany
  • What is an Agriturismo
  • Best Things to Do in Florence
  • Where to Stay in Florence
  • Best Places to Go in Europe
  • Best Time to Visit Europe
  • Family Camping In Europe
  • Best Time to Visit Paris
  • Best Time to Visit London
  • Best Time to Visit Rome
  • Best Time to Visit Venice
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We are a family of four (kids 12 and 15) who will be visiting the Dolomites for 4 or 5 days in July. We plan on hiking and eating! We will have another week or so afterwards and would like to visit somewhere else in Europe for a beach holiday. So of course I ‘m thinking about Greece. We are an active family that enjoys swimming in the sea, jumping off rocks and eating seafood. We (I) also love visiting historical sites. What is your recommendation? Should we stick to one island or maybe two? Which ones? We have traveled to Spain, England and Italy and my family’s favorite was the town of Praiano on the Amalfi Coast- the food, swimming and jumping off rocks! Thank you for your help. Cheers!

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In the Cyclades, Santorini, Naxos, Ios, and Milos all have cliff jumping. Santorini and Naxos are the best for history (actually both are great for history). All of them have wonderful food. With one week I’d stick to two islands, max.

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A lot of great ideas here! Thanks. We are planning to go to Paris followed by London March 29 to April 6 (and back to Paris for flight home). This just happens to coincide with Brexit. If we nix the London leg, where else would you recommend we take our 10 & 6 year old for a few days? I’m starting to get concerned about the possible issues with Brexit and want to consider another, close by, location that we could travel to – as our first trip overseas as a family of 4.

Barcelona is great with kids and much better weather than London in April. Amsterdam is another good alternative.

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Hello Dave,

I’m planning to travel along with my wife and my 3-years old boy. The period is between December 25 and December 31. Ideally we would love to have a place where the kid can have really some good time (he enjoys parks, and love animals) as well we enjoy the city and restaurants.

Which city would you recommend?

Barcelona is a great kid-friendly destination in winter for families.

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We are travelling at the end of September and beginning of October to Switzerland to visit friends. We have a 7 and 9 year old. We will be ending our trip in Prague but we are trying to figure out a destination that would be fun for us in the middle part of our vacation. We have discussed flying to Barcelona or Italy, but is there any destination that you would recommend. Thanks for your advice. Great website.

I think the Greek islands are the best family-destination in Europe. Crete is a great choice for a trip later in the fall. Great weather and beautiful towns and beaches.

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We are planning to travel in October with a 2.5 year old and a 5 month old. We have a flight booked to London and then South of France, Zurich then Dubai (1 full month here). What are your recommendations for how to spend our month in Europe? An idea we had was 9 days in London, fly to Nice for 7 days, train to Zermatt for 3 days, train to St.Moritz for 3 days and then 7 days in Zurich. We are a bit worried with such young kids that his might be way too much traveling. Any recommendations of how to move around with more ease? Also out of those location is there a place you wouldn’t recommend us to see given our family situation?

Thanks Chris and Nicole

It sounds wonderful. Traveling by train through Europe is the way to go (though for longer routes obviously flights are best). My only hesitation is Switzerland in October – it’s not winter yet with snow-related fun, and not summer when you’d be swimming. Not sure what you have planned there but I would be more inclined to move south (Italy, Spain, Crete) than north.

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Dave, Your site has been so helpful in planning our past overseas trips! What a great resource, thank you for this great site! We’re an active family of two adults and three kids, ages 10, 8 and 6. We’re hoping to take our kids on their first European adventure this July, flying from NYC. My husband and I traveled fairly extensively throughout Europe before kids, but are struggling with where to take the kids for their first EU trip. Just when it seems we’ve decided on an itinerary, we remember a wonderful past trip and what an impact it had on us and we’re lost in the memories. We only have a week, but would like to break up our short time between city/culture and beach. We’ve discussed Italy (Rome/Sicily or Rome/Sardinia?), Spain (Barcelona?) or Greece (Athens + an island?). Culture, great food and weather are important. Do you have a favorite European destination that checks off these boxes and and can be enjoyed in week?

Greece is my favorite family destination in Europe. Super fun, unique, great food, history, beaches, island hopping. It’s the best of the best.

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This is a great resource. I was reading all the previous questions and answers, trying to triangulate to an answer. But, I thought I’d comment directly – I have a 13, 11, 9 year-old kids who have never been to Europe. We have a week (plus weekends) off in April and trying to figure out a good european destination. Based on your insights, I was thinking Barcelona, but wanted to see if you thought hitting another location there is feasible/recommended, and if so, what do you suggest? They’ve never been on a “real” train to date, so wondering if Nice or Madrid would be a good experience. Anyhow, I’m very open if you have any recommendations since we are a blank slate. Thanks in advance.

I would do Barcelona and Madrid with train ride between the two. (Stay a night or two longer in Barcelona than Madrid.) Try to fly into one city and out of the other so you don’t have to backtrack.

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Hi! I enjoyed reading all your information. We loved Sorrento on a trip to Italy a couple years ago as it was walkable, had interesting shops, was close to historic sites for day trips and was on the beach. We’re looking at another trip to Europe (initially thinking Spain). Can you recommend other similar cities in Spain or elsewhere that we might like based on our love for Sorrento?

Thanks!! Amanda

I’d suggest San Sebastián in northern Spain’s Basque Country. Set on a beautiful bay near the French border, it has a fabulous beach and an atmospheric Parte Vieja (old town) that’s easily covered on foot. It’s also renowned for its amazing food. There are several Michelin-starred restaurants in and around the city and its attractive streets are lined with bars serving pintxos (delicious bar snacks like a Basque version of tapas). At the other end of the country in Andalucía, Almuñécar is a beach resort much loved by Spanish holidaymakers. It boasts a couple of long pebbly beaches and a small historic quarter capped by a hilltop castle. From the town, you can take trips to the Sierra Nevada mountains and to Granada, whose Alhambra palace complex is one of Spain’s most magnificent sights.

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Hi Dave, Heaps of good info here. Could you please recommend a picturesque small coastal Italian town/village to stay in with a 10 year old. A swimming beach is a must, and being within striking distance of Rome and other kid friendly day trips would be ideal. Amalfi Coast and Capri look amazing, but they do seem extremely busy with tourist traffic. September/October time period. Any ideas? Thank you. Ben Tilley

The Amalfi Coast and Capri are both wonderful but they’re some way from Rome. For somewhere closer, Sperlonga has two glorious sandy beaches and a charming hilltop center. The only problem is it’s something of a hike to get to – you’ll need to take a train from Rome Termini to Fondi-Sperlonga (about one and a quarter hours) and then a connecting bus. Some 90km south of Rome, Sabaudia is another possibility. It’s not the most beautiful of towns but it boasts a fabulous beach and a good range of restaurants and pizzerias, and there’s great walking/cycling in the nearby Parco Nazionale del Circeo. North of Rome, Santa Marinella is a pleasant resort town with an excellent beach and good train connections. Alternatively, you could try Lago di Bracciano, a large volcanic lake popular with weekending Romans. The best base here is Anguillara Sabazia, a small lakeside village accessible by train from Roma Ostiense station. Hope that helps.

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Hi David, We are heading to Barcelona in late January and early February and have two kids (1.5 and 4 years old). We are in the area for two weeks and were also contemplating a visit to Portugal. Would you recommend Lisbon or Porto for two toddlers? Are there any other cities in Spain that would be good for a winter trip? Thanks so much for all the tips. Love all the recommendations! Irene

In general Lisbon has more attractions for families with toddlers than Porto, though in Porto there are a few places that’ll keep you occupied. Zoo Santo Ignacio is fun for kids, and it’s possible to feed lemurs and penguins. Then there’s the World of Discoveries, where staff in period costume and a boat ride takes you through Portugal’s discoveries, though that’s more for your older child than the younger one. The neighbourhood of Foz, where the Douro River joins the Atlantic Ocean, is a great place to go for a walk by the sea with a stroller. Apart from that, Porto’s attractions for families with young children are limited to the Crystal Palace Gardens, where there are plenty of ducks and peacocks, plus the gardens at the Serralves contemporary museum and Gaia Biological Park, with trails suitable for strollers, replica rural houses to explore, and an otter tank.

As a bigger city, Lisbon has quite a lot in terms of kid-friendly attractions. There are some nice beaches a short train ride from the city, and though you’ll be visiting in winter, Mediterranean winters are mild and it should be warm enough for your kids to play in the sand. Lisbon Oceanarium, with its shark tank, tropical fish and more, is popular with families, though I’d avoid it on weekends when it gets rather congested with strollers. Lisbon Zoo has well-cared-for animals and a petting zoo for young kids. The zoo is at one end of the Parque das Nacoes (Expo Park), which has interactive outdoor features for your older child, plus a cable car. Riding on the classic Tram 28 through the narrow streets of the Alfama neighbourhood is a big hit with some kids, though avoid taking the tram during rush hour. The one challenging thing about Lisbon is that it’s hilly, and there are many cobbled streets, which make pushing a stroller hard work.

In Spain, Barcelona’s an excellent choice for a vacation with small children, especially since most attractions are accessible year-round because of the climate. There’s Barcelona zoo, with a farmyard section, petting zoo and pony rides, the excellent L’Aquarium with shark tunnels and the nearby marina and long stretch of the Barceloneta Beach, which is great for wandering along with a stroller. If your older child likes museum, the Museu Egipci is a good place to learn about mummies, the secrets of the pyramids and pharaohs. Museu Blau, part of the Science Museum, has a skeleton of a whale, plus the Science Nest with interactive activities for young kids up to the age of 6. For great views of the city and some gentle fairground rides, it’s worth making the trip to Parc D’Attracions Tibidabo, up in the hills above Barcelona. Apart from that, there are large parks for kids to let loose in – Montjuic, with its cable cars and gardens, plus Parc de la Citadella being just two of them.

As for other Spanish cities worth a visit in the winter, Seville immediately springs to mind. It’s not too cold during the day, and you can visit the Alcazar Palace with its extensive gardens and beautiful rooms, go for a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of the historic centre, take a stroller along the picturesque Guadalquivir river, visit the aquarium or take the kids to the large, popular Maria Louisa park with a large playground and pigeons to feed.

Madrid can be quite cold in winter, but if you don’t mind the cold, there’s plenty to do as a family. Parque de Retiro with its lake and extensive gardens is very popular, plus there’s a good zoo, aquarium, and Faunia (kind of like a zoo, with different climatic areas, penguin enclosure and interactive sections where kids can feed goats and donkeys. Then there’s a Natural Science Museum, which would be particularly fun for your older child, with its different interactive displays.

The nice thing about Spain (and Portugal) is that families with kids are generally made to feel very welcome in cafes and restaurants, and even if there’s no child menu, waiters tend to make an effort to keep kids happy, so feeding your kids is very rarely an issue.

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Hello, We are traveling from this summer June 10-August 20 with our 3 boys (Ages 14,12, 8). We are at the very beginning of our planning and I have some general transportation questions. We were thinking of renting a camper van or could be get by with a small rental car and staying in AirBnbs. Or could we get around by train. We want to be efficient in our travels because we have a lot we want to see.

We are very big into hiking and the mountains but we are also wanting to see many of the historic sites. The countries we would like to visit are as follows: Spain: 2 weeks. Do you recommend Barcelona over Madrid? We also are going to see a friend in Santandar for one week France: Chamonix looks amazing or is there another area is Southern France you like. We may or may not make it to Paris. Switzerland: We want to see the cute mountain towns and do some hiking. Any base area you recommend? Number of days required. Maybe 2 different bases for a few days each. Northern Italy: I want to see the Dolomites and we want to take the kids to Venice Austria: My son wants to see Salzburg and Vienna but Innsbruck and Hohe Tauern National Park looks gorgeous Slovenia: Bled and Mt Triglav looks amazing but wondering about places with historic significance in Slovenia. Or could we skip Slovenia. Croatia: Plitvice Lakes National Park and Split Hungry: Budapest (A must) Poland: Krakow, my boys know everything about WWII and they want to see this. Southern Czech Republic and several small towns. Amsterdam for a few days at the end.

My main question is transportation. We have been saving for this trip for years and will be on a budget with 5 but we can spend the money where we need to. Do you recommend renting a camper van, trains for 5 people and staying in apartments or are there some countries where a car is necessary to get to the little towns and mountains.

Thanks so much Jenny

If I had to choose between a camper van or a car and staying in Airbnb’s, I would definitely do the latter. It’s just that in many European cities, streets tend to be too narrow to navigate in a camper van and finding a parking space can be very difficult. Narrow mountain roads can also be a problem. Plus, staying in AirBnbs gives you a much more immersive experience, since you’d be staying with and interacting with locals. It would make your trip more memorable, especially if it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Train travel is also viable, since many European destinations are well-connected by train. It’s worth figuring out exactly where you’d like to go before making a final decision about transportation, and to do that it’s worth having a look at Eurail and Interrail to get an idea of where you can easily get to by train and how much rail passes would cost for the entire family. Also, cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Budapest, Vienna and Amsterdam have excellent public transportation, so you wouldn’t need a car when in the cities themselves.

The one advantage of renting a car is being able to get to and around the more out of the way places more easily, especially since you’re keen hikers, though all places you mention are reachable by public transportation. Depending on your final plans, you can spend most of your time travelling by train (and public transportation in cities) and only rent a car from time to time, just to get out to more remote areas. Out of all the places you mention, there’s nowhere where having a car is an absolute must; it’s just that having your own wheels means getting around remote places quicker rather than having to adjust your plans in order to catch the one or two daily buses or trains heading into the mountains. Also, having a car gives you that extra flexibility in case you decide to change your plans somewhat and stay a bit longer in one place or another. Travelling around Europe by train is very doable, though on some popular routes, it means booking train tickets in advance, which makes it most difficult to change your plans. Cost is something to consider as well: renting a car for the entire time that you’re in Europe may work out cheaper for the five of you than a train passes for the whole family. It’s worth comparing the costs of the two.

Spain: if you have time to visit both Madrid and Barcelona, I would recommend both, because they’re both vibrant, interesting cities with a lot to see and do, and they’re very different in character. If I had to choose, Barcelona would probably just about win because if its stunning location by the sea and surrounding attractions. Since you’re going to Santander, you might want to consider spending a couple of days in the Picos de Europa national park – it’s about an hour’s drive from Santander and there’s some excellent hiking to be done there. During the peak season of July to September, some access roads into the park are closed to private vehicles, and served by local buses and taxis instead.

France: For hiking, Chamonix really is amazing and the hiking is excellent; if I had to choose one region in France to go hiking, it’d definitely be Chamonix. If you find that you have a couple of days for Paris, it’s well worth a visit because it’s a wonderful, interesting city.

For Switzerland, Zermatt in the south of the country makes an excellent hiking base, with numerous day hikes of varying length and difficulty amid stunning mountain scenery. Grindelwald is another good base with a good variety of hikes, from easy to challenging, plus on the Eiger Trail you can get close to the famous Eiger mountain popular with mountain climbers.

Austria: Salzburg is small and beautiful and if you’re fans of the Sound of Music, that’s where the movie was shot and you can easily do a tour of the movie locations. It’s hard to beat Vienna for culture (and good food) and Innsbruck is a superb destination for hikers; it’s in the heart of Tyrol, Austria’s scenic mountain region, and you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to trails. There’s some very good hiking around Salzburg as well, but not quite on the same scale as around Innsbruck. Hohe Tauern National Park is another beautiful location and worth visiting; it all depends on how much time you want to spend and where.

Northern Italy: Dolomites is an excellent choice for hiking and Venice is an absolutely unique city – there’s nowhere in Europe quite like it.

Slovenia: If you visit one place, make it Bled – it’s a really beautiful location with a lakeside castle and the country’s best hiking in Triglav National Park, right on the doorstep. Places of historic significance in Slovenia include old towns such as Ljubljana (the capital, with an old historic centre, castle, cathedral) and Celje (centuries-old town with medieval castle), but if you find yourself short of time, Slovenia is not Europe’s must-see.

Croatia: Can’t argue with Plitvice Lake National Park – absolutely beautiful lakes, waterfalls and some great walking trails. Split is one of Croatia’s most beautiful cities and it’s only a couple of hours away from Dubrovnik, further south, which has a gorgeous maze of medieval streets (and it’s also where parts of the Game of Thrones was shot, in case you’re fans).

Budapest: Absolutely. It’s a very scenic city, sitting on both sides of the Danube River and there’s plenty to see – it’s heavy both on medieval history and WWII history, plus there’s good hiking in the Buda Hills nearby, there are lots of great places to eat and it’s also famous for its thermal baths – both indoor and outdoor ones.

Poland: Krakow is definitely one of the two places I’d visit in Poland, the other being Warsaw. And yes, it’s a must-see for WWII history, not least because the remains of the Auschwitz concentration camp are an hour away from the city and easy to visit. For something completely different, it’s also worth visiting the Salt Cathedral , one of Poland’s biggest attractions.

Czech Republic: The Czech Republic has the densest network of hiking trails in the world so you are spoiled for choice. I’d head to the northern mountains – Krušné and Krkonoše, taking in castles and spa towns on the way. Of course you’d want to see Prague, perhaps at the start.

Netherlands: Amsterdam is a great way to finish off the trip – lots to see, culture-wise, easy to get around, either on public transportation and hiring bicycles, and lots of good places to eat.

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Heading to Madrid to visit relatives for a week with our 12, 10 and 7 year old. We have a second week and exploring our options for other locations. This will be their first time to Europe. In their minds, they want to see the Eiffel Tower, but wondering if London would be more suitable? Jessica

London has more to see and do that clearly falls into the kid-friendly category. Paris feels more foreign and unique (in a good way) for an American. London is busier and more spread out. Paris is more compact and walkable. Tours (e.g. food, bike, boat) are more plentiful and appealing in Paris.

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We are travelling to Europe next August for a wedding in Sicily, with two active boys aged 4 and 23 months. Any suggestions for where to visit for 6 nights after Sicily, before we end our trip with a week in Lake Como? We want to stay in one location to minimize packing, and has to be kid-friendly in terms of accommodation, the sights & activities and getting around.

Options we are considering include either Nice / Provence region, Sardinia, Athens (or one of the islands), Paris or Amsterdam? We are from Australia and this will be the first long-haul trip with the kids, and (apart from a few nights in Paris 12 years ago), we have not visited any of these places before to know what they are like. The boys love the outdoors and are not interested in sitting in restaurants watching the world go by.

All the places you mention are awesome, but I’m partial to Greece and the Greek islands. Nothing beats island hopping, beach going, and the relaxed (but still charming) vibe on a Greek island.

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Love your tips! I enjoy travelling with my kids and showing them the world so much. Before every trip me and my husband always try to make an itinerary and find as many attractions for our family as possible, and some children-friendly spots, it saves us so much time when we have it ready. Last time we went to Poland and had so much fun. We got some recommendations from our Polish friends and the one place that we really loved was a restaurant called the Akademia, it was in Warsaw. We had great time with delicious food and our kids were not bored, as they have a special corner for children. I wish more restaurants follow the example. All in all, Warsaw and Poland was amazing and it is perfect for a trip with kids. Claudia

Wow! Sounds amazing. Thanks for the info.

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Dave, we are looking to vacation in Europe for 2 weeks in 2nd half of May, with two small children (11 months and 5 yr old). We will fly from LA and are looking for suggestions on where to go. We are interested in culture and history and are trying to stay in two places (1 week each) as hauling luggage and small kids is very taxing. We would consider staying by a beach in a historic town, then travel somewhere else. As an alternative we are looking at going to Prague for a week, then somewhere else other than Vienna as long as it can be reached easily by train or with a budget airline. Any suggestions for itineraries?

There are so many possibilities to try to single one out is a little silly … but I’ll try: how about 1 week in Barcelona then (train or fly) to Nice, France for the second week. Both are great family-friendly places.

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We will be in Vienna for 2 days, with 9 and 7 year old boys. The youngest loves music. What are your top recommendations of things to do in Vienna. Thanks, Jay

The Haus der Musik for sure. And the Schönbrunn Palace .

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Hi, I like your suggestions and agree that there are some superb places in Greece that can’t be beaten (but remember there is more to Greece than the islands and the mainland (esp. Peloponnese) is equally interesting and fun).

I’d like to suggest a new blog idea for you – we are tentatively planning a 12-month road trip with two kids aged, maybe 9 and 10 by then, almost certainly in a camper-van, starting in, say, Holland and ending in Portugal where we live. We will exclude the UK & Ireland, since we have visited there a couple of times, and our focus is to visit must-see places important for children to know about i.e. predominantly historical sites and maybe some natural wonders and any other must-see-in-a-lifetime places.

If you see my first-pass without-thinking list below you will get the idea. I wonder if you’d like to make a few suggestions or a full blog?

Thanks and regards, Matthew Cullen.

• Anne Frank Museum + Kids museum • Eiffel tower, Catacombs Paris • Loire valley castles? • Oradour-Sur-Glane • Germany – where? Berlin wall • Malbork (Marienburg) Castle, near Gdansk • at least one concentration camp (Sachsenhausen / Auschwitz- Birkenau, + Warsaw ghetto • Krakow incl enamel factory • the Wolf’s Lair? • Tatras • Prague • Vienna • Budapest • north & central Romania? • Dubrovnik, Croatia • Montenegro • Winter in Greece: Prespa, Vergina, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, Monemvasia +++ can’t wait! • Aoos gorge if weather permits (in lieu of Samaria gorge in Crete) • boat to Italy • Sicily? • Perugia?, Rome, Florence, Pisa, Venice • Nice, Arles, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, Carcassonne etc southern France • canoeing Pont du Gard • San Sebastian • Barcelona? but been there often • tomato festival, Valencia? • Madrid, Toledo because I have never been there • fantastic Portugal – all over

I’m not sure what you’re asking or if there’s even a question. Looks like a fun itinerary though. Good luck.

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Thank you for your information. My family of 4 would like to visit Naxos, Greece from your recommendation for best family friendly places with a beach. Which is the best way to get to Naxos? I believe we will fly into Athens or is flying into Santorini. Dee Dee

Naxos is the single best beach destination for families in Europe, so good choice. Both Santorini and Athens have direct flights from western European hubs. Naxos does not (but does have flights from Athens). Santorini is closer to Naxos than Athens and it’s quicker/easier getting from Santorini airport to the ferry port, than from Athens airport to the ferry port. If you’re interested in both Athens and Santorini I would fly into one, spend a night or two to see the sights, ferry to Naxos, ferry to the other one, see the sights, and fly home. No need to arrive and depart from the same place.

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We are looking to make our first trip that involves a longer flight (Hawaii,Europe) in the Fall- likely mid October or possibly November. We have twins who will be 6 at that time. Candidly I’m overwhelmed by all of the options. I want to go somewhere where there are beaches/activites that the kids would enjoy but it seems like most of the places that I’ve researched aren’t warm enough at that time or beach towns have kind of shut down (Greece, Croatia). Am I missing something? Would love any suggestions you might have. Lisa Basch

Crete (in Greece) has the warmest weather in October/November of any European beach destination. It will be fine for swimming and beach activities in mid-October but by late October / early November it will be getting cool and it would take an unseasonable heat wave for you to be swimming in early November. The south side of Crete will be more likely to be warm late into October.

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Awesome site! I would like to take my mother (69 with some mobility issues) and my son (6) to Europe in late July. My son loves the beach and nature, whereas my mother loves shopping and great restaurants. Any suggestions on where to go to please them both. Alicia

Chania (Crete), Mykonos, or Barcelona.

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Hi David, your blog/website has helped me with my last two trips to Europe from Australia. This time around I am hoping for some advice. We will be in Bulgaria (for sons sport) until 21st November. We have then booked a cruise from 26th November from Genoa Italy. In the days in between I would have loved to visit Santorini but my research is telling me that it’s not the best time to enjoy it. So my question is where should we go? (We have previously been to Rome, Venice, Paris, London, Rovenimi, Denmark). We travel with our 13 and 16 year olds. Thank you in advance. Tracey McGuinness

Santorini can be chilly and have some rain in late November – so yes, less than ideal – but it can also be warm, clear skies, and very few tourists, so I wouldn’t say it’s a no-go. But there probably are better options. Barcelona would be right at the top of my list.

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Hi David, Family of 6 (kids aged 15,14, & 9yo twins) would like to travel to Europe in late July/early August. Any destination suggestions that would be budget-friendly? Kids not so into museums etc., more active participation activities (biking, hiking, boating) would be better. Help! Nicole

The Greek Islands are the best value for money in Europe for families. Super fun, easy, and kid-friendly – and still unique, new, and a little “foreign”.

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I have just come across your website and I love the detailed information you give. I love travelling and seize every opportunity to do it for I work for an airline. I need some suggestions…in the upcoming spring break (End March- early april), I would like to travel with my kids aged 8 and 5 to some place in Europe. Was looking at the islands in Greece or if not Barcelona, Nice, or Lisbon. Any suggestions and what you feel may be a good option? Would be grateful for any advice. Looking at just 5-6 days and this travelling will be without my husband so need someplace which is relatively safe. Thanks, Lynette

All of these places are great (and safe). You won’t be swimming or sun bathing at all in March/early April so that makes the Greek islands a little less appealing. Barcelona and Lisbon will have the most going on as they’re big lively cities. Since it’s essentially a coin-flip I’d look at flight connections and decide by what has the easiest itinerary.

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Love your site, thanks for all the info. Thinking of planning a trip in late June, 2 weeks, with our 2 girls, ages 8 and 11. I am having a hard time choosing an itinerary. Our kids love beach vacations, but I’d like to show them some culture. We are an adventurous family, love hiking and exploring. Our 8 year old won’t do well visiting many museums, she has quite a bit of energy. Places I’ve considered are London, Paris, Switzerland, Austria, Spain, or spending the entire 2 weeks in Italy. Obviously I can’t do it all, any thoughts? Thanks!! Rene

Those are all great ideas but the first place that jumped into my mind was Crete: great beaches, hikes, history, and culture. I’d do 10 days there then ferry to Santorini for 3 or 4 more days. Santorini has some stunning walks/hikes and you can do a caldera boat tour with a visit to the volcano and hot springs. The destruction of the island by the volcano is interesting for both kids and adults. You can fly directly into Crete from Western Europe and fly back out from Santorini (don’t retrace your steps to Crete).

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Looking for a great place with to take my 2.5 year old in September of this year? We love food, culture and the local charm but still would need kid friendly places to eat where the adults may be able to grab a pint or glass of wine as well. Any suggestions? I was looking at the UK or Netherlands? Nicole

The first place that comes to mind is Nice, France as it is a wonderful small city that ticks all your boxes. In the UK, I would do Galway. In the Netherlands, consider Utrecht.

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Hi David, Never been to Europe, yet planning a 2+ week trip to Europe from US in June. Kids will be 17, 13, 13 at time of travel. Likely would fly into London, train to Paris, fly to Rome and then return home from Rome. We like to be active, take guided tours, self explore, and see the sights, yet schedule in a couple “do nothing” days to recharge and just soak in the local vibe. Considering 5 nights in London, 5 nights in Paris, and 5 nights in Rome, but would be curious of your thoughts on this itinerary and whether you would adjust the # of nights for a family with 3 teenagers.

Regards, Todd

Sounds like an awesome trip and I like that you’re not trying to do too much. London does have the most to do for teens (in terms of actual attractions) so if anything, add a day there. That said, if it were me I would do 5/5/5.

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We’re taking a big family trip to Europe for 4 weeks next year with our 2 yr old. We’re thinking Spain, Italy and Portugal.

What cities would you suggest and what are the must see/do?

Thanks, Kate

Highlights: Porto, Barcelona, Seville, Florence, Siena, Rome, Perugia, Orvieto, Lucca.

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Hi David, We would like to visit Italy (Rome, Naples, and then Sorrento as our base for day trips to Capri etc) the first week in October for 10 days. Our children will be 6 and 3 at the time of travel. We did Paris last year at the same time…the museum’s, churches even the Eiffel Tour was a big bore for them. They had the best time in parks with playgrounds and DisneyLand Paris.

I have read your comments on your favourite places for kids and it Barcelona is coming out tops. Should we consider doing this instead in the Italian itinerary I have in mind? Would the South of France also be a good option instead?

Looking forward to your advise.

Kind regards Zelrese

All 3 areas are wonderful. Since Italy grabbed your attention first I would stick to that.

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Hi, Wow what an awesome blog! I’ve a son who’ll be 2 in July. We’re from the UK and looking for a European break in August that will suit him and us. Not sure where to go, any recommendations? We like some culture, but would like the option to have lazy days in the sun playing on beaches and water parks too. We were looking at Italy as my DH hasn’t been there, but open to suggestions! Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Nice, France is an idyllic destination with great parks, water fountains, restaurants, and beach-front walkway. Beaches here are stoney but it’s easy to hop on a train and get to great sand in less than 20 minutes.

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Hi David, love your blog!

We are from Sydney, Australia and planning to visit Europe mid-Apr. We have 3 kids (9,5,3); which cities are best for kids? We’re thinking – London, Paris, any more suggestions? Will 3 weeks be enough in Europe?

Amsterdam is great for families. Weather in Amsterdam can be all over the place in April – anything from rain and clouds to warm and clear. If you’re looking for better weather then Barcelona is a wonderful choice.

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Looking for the best kid-friendly destinations for mid October. Interested in Europe, but not limited to. Thank you! Misty

Beaches: Greece, Spain, Bali, Fiji. Sightseeing and activities: Italy, Japan, California Cities: London, Paris, Rome, New York, Boston, Tokyo

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Please help, I am in need of suggestions for a family vacation in March for 10 days, it will be myself, my husband and our three kids (4,2 and 5 months). I have no idea where to go, all I know is that I want to visit Europe. Any suggestions? Julie

Portugal and Spain are wonderful in March – though you still won’t be swimming (water is still chilly) but sightseeing and exploring are great in spring.

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Greetings David! Thank you for an awesome family travel site. We are planning a 2-3 week European trip with kids ages 6 & 5 in October. We were thinking of driving from Switzerland down to Austria & then to Italy. We’d appreciate any recommendations. Thank you! Michelle

My main recommendation would be to take the train instead of driving. Much easier, more relaxing, and feels more like a trip to Europe. Take the train and your kids will remember for years running through the station, finding your seats, and the border guards walking down the aisles of the train. Drive a car and it will blend it with the trip to your hometown mall.

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Hi David, we are planning a trip from Australia to Europe in May for my brothers wedding and have a few things already planned but have another week up our sleeve and are not sure where to go. We will be in Ireland for a week for the wedding, we’ve already got 2 weeks booked near Lot region in France (plus Paris Disney etc) and 5 days London. For the extra 5-7 days we were thinking either Berlin, Switzerland or somewhere else? Our kids will be 5 and 3 years old and my husband and I have done a lot of European cities already when we were living in London (pre-kids) so trying to find somewhere we both haven’t been to! Italy, and Greece out as we’ve both done lots of that and my hubby has already done heaps of Spain. Thanks in advance. Holly Henry

Switzerland has some wonderful cities and towns. Prague is high on my list of favorites. Biking around the Netherlands (it’s easy to rent kid-carrying trailers) would also be highly recommended.

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I want to travel to Europe from NYC for 8-10 days in August with my husband and almost 2 year old son. We LOVE to travel. But we have never been to Europe. Instead of birthday parties for our son we decided we will celebrate his birthday in a different place of the world each year. His first birthday was spent in Barbados. This year, we want a place in Europe where we can explore the culture, beaches, nature and food. We are looking for a family-friendly escape that will not break the bank. Can you perhaps suggest your top choices so that we can have a starting point? Do you recommend Home rentals over hotels? ANY tips would be extremely helpful.

Cheers! Sandra

Naxos is a wonderful Greek island that might be exactly what you’re looking for. Fantastic beaches, great food, interesting history and culture, and pretty cheap (for Europe). Could also do some island hopping to Paros, Mykonos, or Santorini as jumping on a ferry is always fun (for kids and adults). For Naxos accommodations, using Booking.com or Hotelscombined is best for price and convenience.

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Hello David, we are planning to head to Europe in early February from warm sunny Singapore. Considering places like Paris, Rome, Barcelona or Switzerland. Will be travelling with a 3 year old and a 5 month old and the 3 year old requested to see snow for her first time. Any recommendations for which place has snow to play with but is baby friendly and child friendly? Jane

There are lots of family friendly areas along the border where France, Switzerland, and Italy meet. A beautiful, family friendly area is Lake Annecy which is popular in both summer and winter due to its great skiing as well as cultural attractions. The lake is one of the most beautiful in Europe and the region is home to an ancient chateau. The town of Annecy looks like it is out of a fairy tale and has a charming medieval quarter. Chamonix is another town to consider because not only does it have rustic charm, you’re also at the base of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps. Mont Blanc is covered in snow year round, even in summer. There are cable cars that take you up to the peaks where you can see panoramic views and glaciers. If you’re looking for more of a family friendly resort with lots of different activities, then one of the most popular is Avoriaz. They don’t allow cars (only horse drawn carriages and snow mobiles) and they have the “Village des Enfants” which hosts everything from a daycare center for infants to a beginners ski school for kids ages 3-16. Lessons are even timed so that parents start their classes 15 minutes after the kids, and there is something for all ages.

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Hi there – I have a young son who will be 3 years old in March. I am looking for a place in Europe or Asia to vacation in March. I am wondering if you have any suggestions. Thanks. Dena Murphy

The weather is still cool to cold in most of Europe in March. OK for sightseeing but not great weather for beaches (not sure if that’s an interest or not). If sun and sand are a priority then the islands of Thailand have great weather in March.

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Dear David We are from Australia but now live in Bucharest. We have 2 young sons and will be having visitors fro Australia for a few weeks in July. We don’t know where to take them! Somewhere not too expensive, but we almost have too much choice. What do you know about the Black Sea Coast? We have been looking at the Bulgarian coast. We need your help! We love Barcelona too. We will be travelling with a 5 and 3 year old, and more elderly parents. Thank you in advance Frances Biffin

Sorry, I don’t know anything about the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, though I’ve heard it’s beautiful. You are also close to Croatia’s wonderful coast and the Greek islands. Greece can be pretty cheap if you plan ahead and find an inexpensive family-owned hotel with a kitchenette.

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Hi David, We are hoping to go to Europe this summer for 10 – 14 days (still planning). We aren’t sure whether to go to Greece, Barcelona or do a driving trip around Ireland. We are a family of four – 2 adults and 2 children (18 months and 6 years old). What would you recommend? A couple of countries are possible as well since our time is pretty flexible. Thanks for your help! Alyson Sagara

Nothing beats Greece for a family vacation. So much fun! (But we love Ireland and Barcelona too, so can’t really go wrong.)

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We leave for Spain in a few days and I was thinking of taking our in-line double stroller (its a city select by baby jogger). We will be in Barcelona for some time and Madrid for some time, spending all together 15 days traveling around. Our kids are 3yrs and 1.5yrs. Do you advise taking a double stroller or two separate umbrella strollers? Nini

Umbrella strollers don’t do very well in old European cities. I’d go with your jogger as the city select ones are still a restaurant-suitable size.

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Hi! My husband and i are planning a trip next year for my 30th birthday. Our son will be 1 yr old. We are thinking of doing a road trip in Spain for a couple of weeks as we think that it will be much more laid back and we wont have to be on a “set” schedule. Besides Barcelona, are there any other cities that you recommend while having in a mind a toddler? thank you!

Lots of great little towns throughout the country (in many ways it doesn’t matter which ones you choose) but as for cities Seville is pretty close to a must.

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We are planning a trip for a week overseas. We have a 13 year old and 11 year old who have never been outside the US. Where would you recommend taking them for their first trip overseas? We would be going in mid April. Was thinking maybe London/England but open to suggestions. They love to travel and we want to make it special and fun for them!

It doesn’t get much better than a trip to London and Paris. Fly into one and home from the other so you don’t have to retrace your steps (can cost a little more but worth it for the money and time you save not having to return to where you started). Take the Eurostar train (kids love it) from city to the other. So much to do in both cities and the big crowds will not have really kicked in yet. Weather could be surprisingly pleasant, though do pack for anything.

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Hello, We are looking to travel for New Years (around December 28th – January 5, but flexible with dates!) with our 4 year old daughter and almost 2 year old son. We usually go to Brazil, but we just come back from there. Where would you suggest that we all could enjoy a beautiful kid friendly celebration, nice food and a weather that is not so cold? We already been to Paris and Italy. Andreza

Barcelona is wonderful at New Years. And mild/warm temperatures for Europe.

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We are a family of 5 – 2 Adult+1 senior and 2 kids ( 6 yrs and 4 month old). We are planning our first trip to Europe from Austraila. We have about 25 days to spend in Europe. Can you please suggest some country/attraction that is pram friendly? We definitely want to see Paris and London. Rome is something we would like to see but not sure if its going to be challenge with a 4month old. Thanks for your time

Amsterdam and Berlin are the two most pram-friendly cities in Europe. London and Paris are both pretty easy with kids (taking the bus is often better than metro since you don’t have to descend the stairs) but the streets are hit and miss for strollers. Nice and Barcelona are two other cities that are very easy to get around with kids and have a great family-friendly vibe.

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I am due to take my kids (3.5 and 1.5) to England in Feb. I will be working during the day in Crouch End and my mother will be watching the kids during the day. Any recommendations on where to stay? We are thinking of renting a apartment/condo for 7-10 days, any neighborhoods that are great for kids? It will be easier for me to travel to work than her to travel with 2 small kids each day.

Also, 10 hour flight ALONE with 2 kids… We fly often, but never more than 5 hours. Tips?

Taking your kids’ ages into consideration, I’d suggest renting an apartment in the South Kensington area, since it’s right near two museums which are excellent for small children. Crouch End is also fairly easy to get to on the tube from South Kensington tube, with a change at Leicester Square to the Northern Line.

The Science Museum has lots of hands-on sensory exhibits to play with and two areas specifically for toddlers. Right next to it, the Natural History Museum has its Dinosaur Room (great for under-5s), plus the Mini-Beast Room with lots of buttons and hands-on displays, as well as the Investigate Room for older toddlers (this one tends to be booked for school groups on weekdays, so it’s best to visit in the afternoon). South Kensington is also near Hyde Park, where your mother and the kids can go walking, feed the ducks and play on the playgrounds. South Kensington is also a short tube ride from Regent’s Park, where there are also play areas, as well as London Zoo .

Covent Garden/Leicester Square would be another good place to stay because it’s really central, your mother could take the kids to the National Portrait Gallery (www.npg.org.uk), which toddlers tend to find entertaining, plus there’s also the excellent London Transport Museum where kids can climb aboard different modes of transport, dress up in the designated play areas and play with model cars and buses. Your mother could also take the kids on a boat from Westminster Pier to Tate Modern, where there are family activities on weekends (11am-4pm) and digital sketch pads for the little ones to create their own masterpieces at the Bloomberg Connect Drawing Bar on Level 3 of the gallery. Leicester Square is even more convenient for your commute to Crouch End (straight up the Northern Line), but the drawback of staying there is that there are no green spaces/playgrounds nearby, unlike South Kensington.

As for apartments try booking.com lets you specify the neighbourhood and your accommodation preferences. Airbnb.com can also be a good option, since you can also look for apartments for a short-term stay in your preferred part of London. For flying, make it fun. Kids pick up on your energy. If you’re worried and anxious they will be too. If you say, “wow, this is going to be great,” then it’ll be fun (hopefully).

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Dear David,

Thanks for your service with this blog very generous. I am moving with our 17 months daughter and husband to Dublin. We will have 6 weeks before he starts working in January so I am exploring options to travel in Europe with a baby in such cold weather. I was thinking to travel to Poland, Prague, Switzerland, Spain, and Portugal. Is that too much with a baby? We definitely could do it but never travelled to Europe with her before. Should aí include or drop any country? Would love to do Sweden, and Denmark but not too sure about weather and kids-friendly options. Also I wanted to include London but I realised that I will have many other opportunities as it’s so close to Dublin. Could you help a little to choose the right itinerary? So lost!!!! Thanks, Gabriela Romero

If it was me I would stick to the southern countries. Fly to Porto, Portugal then train through Lisbon, Madrid, Seville, Barcelona, South France, Tuscany, and fly back to Dublin from Rome or Naples. Unless there is some specific appeal to northern Europe in winter I would save those countries for warmer months.

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Our family of five is moving to Spain in the new year (kids: 5, 3, 1), and we are starting to plan our first vacation. We would love to do a driving adventure in Ireland. The countryside seems like it would be laid back with our collection of little people – and our kids would love the fairies, leprechauns, castles, etc. And, it will be nice to take a break in an English speaking country. Do you think we would be setting ourselves up for failure? Would we be better off starting elsewhere? Thank you!

I think it sounds great. Driving around Ireland is wonderful – so many beautiful places to stop. And the trips between the towns is so short it’s perfect for families.

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Hi! Great site! We are looking for a European destination for a short vacation, mid December. We are traveling with a 6 month old baby and a nine year old so we are mostly worried about the weather. What would you recommend? Elana

Spain and Portugal are your best bets: Porto, Lisbon, and Seville are all good choices.

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Hi, I’m trying to plan a trip for the family – two kids age 6 and 7. We will have around 25 days to spend in Europe, which sounds like a lot, but I’m quickly learning it’s not! I have a list pf places I would love to see – this is the first time there for any of us (hopefully not the last). Ideally we were thinking of having three different bases in Europe and travelling to other places from there so we can get a feel of what it’s like to actually live there, rather than just do the tourist things, but I’m not sure about that because everyone keeps telling us it’s a terrible idea!! So, I’m going to have to cut some places out. What would you recommend? This is the (very long) list of places we are interested in: France: Troyes, Strasbourg, Colmar, Paris Czech Republic: Prague, Cesky Krumlov Austria: Vienna, Salzburg Italy: Venice, Siena, Cinque Terra, Florence Slovenia: Ljubljana, Lake Bled Belgium: Bruges

As you can see it’s quite a list….any advise would be very much appreciated by this inexperienced Kiwi! Marlise

You could do a loop of Europe by train that would work quite well. You would need to cut a few destinations for time but otherwise it should be great. The destinations a little out of the way (e.g. Cinque Terra, Lake Bled) are probably the most natural to skip.

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I am trying to plan a trip to Europe with my family of 6 plus my mother for June. My youngest child is 6 yr old and I am having a hard time finding a packaged vacation that allows for children that young. Do you happen to know of any good ones?

I don’t know of any package vacations, sorry. But I always recommend that people book trips on their own (find flights on Kayak.com and hotels with Booking.com) – it usually comes out cheaper and you get a better choice of flights and hotels.

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Hi David Any thoughts or suggestions on Iceland with a 9 yo girl? We took our first European trip last year to London and now she has the travel bug. We are an adventure loving family of three who loves exploring the less touristy sites of any destination. We thought it could be an interesting trip Thank you, Amy in Orlando

Iceland is beautiful and a great destination for those who like a little (or a lot) of adventure. Rent a car and do a 7 to 10 day loop of the Ring Road.

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Hi David, I love your site and always enjoy reading your post. I’m beginning to research and plan our 4 week trip to Portugal and Spain. It will be my husband and I and are two girls (14 & 8 at the time of travel). We will be visiting end of June through end of July. We are very excited and it’s the first time doing Europe with the kids. We enjoy sightseeing, museums, architecture, food, people watching and beaches. We will be doing Airbnb and Hostel for stay and mostly public transportation but a certain part of Spain might do a rental, just because it would be easier. Any pointers would be greatly appreciated. We are simple budget travelers and love integrating with the local culture when we travel. I also speak Spanish fluently.

Thanks in advance for any advice. Ana

Do at least one walking food tour and one cooking class. They’re marvelous, easy-going, fun ways to get to know a culture. And kids (generally) love them.

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Hi David Awesome site. We will be travelling with children aged 9 and 11 in September next year from Sydney. We are looking at spending a few days in Singapore then onto Europe We will have 2 and 1/2 weeks to see as much as possible,then we are travelling to Athens and islands for another two weeks for some chill out time before travelling home. Our must see list is London, Paris, Barcelona, Florence, Venice, and Rome. I have a few questions. Can you give me your suggested itinerary? Is there any other places you recommend we see ? How would you travel between these places ? Do you think two and 1/2 weeks is long enough? Which islands in Greece do we definitely need to visit? Any help would be appreciated. Lesley

Getting Around: London to Paris take the Eurostar train. Fly or train Paris to Barcelona. Fly to Italy, then train within Italy. Fly to Greece. Where To Go: Those are all great places, but it’s a lot for 2.5 weeks so might need to drop one (probably Venice or Florence). In Greece: Naxos is the most kid-friendly and has great beaches. Mykonos is busy but lots of fun. Ios has a handful of incredible beaches. Santorini is not known for it’s kid-friendliness but it’s so incredible do at least a few days there.

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This is great! Such a helpful resource. I am hoping to take my two children (9,8) to Europe next summer. We are flying into London, where I believe we will spend a week and perhaps go to Ireland. I believe we will also go to Germany/Austria for a week. The final week I am undecided on though I have narrowed it down to France, Italy or Greece. We would likely do Paris, Rome, Athens as a homebase but maybe some travel from there. Do you have a recommendation for which you would choose and why? Elizabeth

Nothing beats the Greek islands with kids. So relaxed (easy-going island vibe), fun (island hopping by ferry), and just this perennial summer-vacation feel (beaches, food, late dinners).

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My husband and almost 2 year old and I will be traveling to Prague (3 nights), Florence (7 nights) and Rome (4 nights) on 10/28. Although it is too late now, I am second guessing the Florence destination as it doesn’t seem there is too much there to entertain a toddler and would love some suggestions please. Also, any thoughts on day trips that a 2 year old will survive through that isn’t too much?

Lastly, is bringing a stroller on this trip a bad idea if we are unable to keep her content in the Ergo for long periods of time?

Thanks for your help!

Prague, Florence, and Rome might be the 3 worst cities in Europe for a stroller, so yeah, not going to be much use for transport. But it can still be handy as a place to nap in museums and while eating out. A highlight of Florence is eating at one of the restaurants around Piazza Santo Spirito. Great vibe and lots of fun. Great for kids. Siena, San Gimignano, and Fiesole (the closest) are great day trips from Florence.

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We’re considering renting a place in Europe for 2 weeks in April with our kids (10, 7, 3) and in laws. We have been to Paris and London. Any recommendation for somewhere with a decent climate and a good home base with family friendly day trips? Southern Spain? Italy? Other?

Barcelona and Florence would be my top picks.

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This is truly a very helpful forum. My husband and I want to take a 7 day trip to Europe from 29 December to 6 January with our 3 year old daughter. We were mainly considering Amsterdam or Paris and couldn’t decide which is better. We are mainly interested in child-friendly activities and seasonal Christmas / NY markets and fairs with more holiday spirit and enough activities. Can you please advise which would be a better choice or recommend any other similar destination keeping the above in mind? Prachi

Both are wonderful cities and would be great over the New Years week. I might lean slightly to Paris (since it has more indoor attractions) but can’t go wrong with either.

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Just moved to Basel, Switzerland from Canada for a year…looking forward to using some of your great trip ideas while here!

Cynthia Hickey

Great central location. Have fun.

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Hi David, My husband and I have decided to pack up our three children, aged 8,6 and 4 and take them on a year long adventure around western Europe and GB. We are from New Zealand, so its a big and rather scary adventure. We have booked one way tickets into London on May 2 and from there will be Motor homing for 10-12 months! We will be on a very tight budget and plan to mix between wild camping and staying in camping grounds.. This has been a dream of ours, and we are so excited to finally be embracing on our big journey. I am finding lots of information on places that are great for children etc, however – I wonder where is NOT good for children, and/or not safe. I also would love any other advice you have for us. I look forward to hearing from you Thank you for your time, Allie.

Certainly there are less desirable areas in Great Britain and Europe (busy highways and areas with no parks or sidewalks) but generally they’re pretty obvious to the eye and too numerous to name. There are no shortage of wonderful areas so with a little research and a destination in mind each time you start the engine avoiding the uglier parts shouldn’t be much of a problem.

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Hi there. Your website has been so helpful to me in planning vacations with my kids, so thank you! Last year, we went to Paris, Bruges and Amsterdam, and my 8 year old twins loved it. I want to plan a spring break trip at the end of March to probably Europe again. They will be 9 at the time and really loved staying in neighborhoods (Saint Germain in Paris and on a houseboat in Amsterdam) on the last trip, so I’d be looking to do the same on this trip. The kids also loved Bruges and all of the medieval architecture, riding on boats through the canals, etc.

We will have around 8-10 days for the trip and would like to hit a couple of places either within one country or possibly 2 if we fly into one and out of the other.

Initial thoughts were Barcelona and some other area along the coast in Spain or Germany/Austria or something in Italy. Any thoughts on what might be best?

Lindsey in Denver

There are so many places to go that meet the “magical” criteria. Barcelona is wonderful – just a great vibe. Nice, along the southern French coast, is super family-friendly – it’s a stone-beach but otherwise perfect for kids and a great base for making fun day trips around South France. Italy is loaded with magical hill towns or old classical villages: Orvieto, Perugia, Lucca, Gubbio, San Gimignano, Todi, or Siena are all great (and there are many others).

And for something really different and wonderful try staying at a Agriturismo in Tuscany . It’s basically a farm out in the countryside with some rooms to rent (though some have been converted to full-blown hotels or B&Bs). Many have pools and your kids will love it.

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Hi- we live in New Zealand and planning to visit Europe in late December and January for 4 weeks. We have 4 kids ages 1-8 years. We have never been to Europe! We are thinking of staying somewhere? Cheaper such as Spain or France and traveling on and out from there. Is this a feasible plan? Do you have any recommendations as to were to base ourselves? Any advice would be much appreciated!

Based on what you’ve told me, I would suggest Barcelona. In general, Spain is cheaper than France and the time of year you’re planning your trip for (late December-January) is a period when many shops in France close. It’s very common for the French to take the week off between Christmas and New Year’s Eve which would be a significant part of your holiday! Even in Paris, many of the better restaurants and mom and pop shops close up. The opposite is almost true in Barcelona and there will be lots of activity to choose from. Plus, besides nicer weather, Barcelona has both mountains and a beach (for walking and playing – you won’t be swimming in December or January). You’ll also be in a great position to explore other parts of Europe. For example a new high speed train links Barcelona and Paris in about 6 hours. You’re roughly a 5 hour drive to the Cote D’ Azur and from there just a few hours to Northern Italy. In Spain, you’re about a 6 hour drive to Bilbao or Madrid or a cheap and quick 2 hour flight away from Portugal, Germany, or the UK on Ryanair.

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Hi David, Love your advice, so helpful! Planning a weeklong trip to England with my 16 month old, and I have two questions: do most hotels in London have cribs we could use in the room? And what would be a wonderful “English countryside” 2-3 day side trip we could easily take from London? I’m picturing strolls down green country lanes and rustic pubs. Thank you! Shana

Most hotels in London will provide cribs on request, but it’s best to contact them in advance to make sure; many provide cots free of charge, but some may charge a little extra. Chain hotels such as Novotel tend to be well-geared towards families. Other hotels that are child-friendly include Queen’s Gate Hotel (www.thequeensgatehotel.com; boutique town house with comfortable family rooms, near museums, 5min walk from Hyde Park), Rydges Kensington Hotel (www.rydges.com; boutique hotel 10 min walk from Hyde Park, right near Gloucester Rd Underground station, really nice beds, stylish rooms, good location for bus tours); the friendly, family-run Rhodes Hotel (www.rhodeshotel.com), also near Hyde Park – and the Nadler Kensington (www.thenadler.com; spacious family rooms, offers large discounts if you book in advance, rooms have mini-kitchens). If you’re after something top-end, The Athenaeum (www.athenaeumhotel.com) in Mayfair has a great location and they offer services such as organic baby food, nanny service, etc.

If you’re looking for good places to take your baby in London, the Dulwich Picture Gallery (www.dulwichpucturegallery.org.uk) in Southwark (South London) has a Mini Masterpieces workshop on Tuesdays where parents and babies up to 18 months old can get messy. The V&A Museum of Childhood (www.vam.ac.uk/moc) in Bethnal Green has a sensory pod with water- and bubble-filled columns and mirrors, and the visual and touchy-feely displays are very popular with toddlers.

As for the English countryside, it’s hard to top the villages in the Cotswolds (West England) when it comes to green country lanes, thatched-roofed cottages and rustic pubs. It’s worth renting a car to get around; most of the villages are 2-3 hours’ drive from London, but if you don’t fancy making your way through London traffic, you can take a train to Oxford (1 hour from London) and rent a car there instead. The prettiest villages in the Cotswolds include Bourton-on-the-Water (stone cottages, cosy pubs, traditional tea rooms), Lower Slaughter (landscaped Manor Gardens, an old mill museum), Castle Combe (cute limestone cottages, good pubs), and Kingham (stone cottages, open village green). Kingham is actually reachable by train from Oxford if you don’t want to drive and are happy to stay and relax in one village. If you’re looking for somewhere good to stay, The Dial House in Bourton-on-the-Water is a 17th century manor with comfortable rooms; it also served creative British food. In Kingham, I can recommend The Wild Rabbit (rustic pub with inventive dishes and cosy rooms). If you’re after something fancy, Lords of the Manor in Upper Slaughter (near Lower Slaughter) is a historic hotel with beautifully landscaped gardens and a Michelin-starred restaurant.s). Kingham is actually reachable by train from Oxford if you don’t want to drive and are happy to stay and relax in one village. If you’re looking for somewhere good to stay, The Dial House in Bourton-on-the-Water is a 17th century manor with comfortable rooms; it also served creative British food. In Kingham, I can recommend The Wild Rabbit (rustic pub with inventive dishes and cosy rooms). If you’re after something fancy, Lords of the Manor in Upper Slaughter (near Lower Slaughter) is a historic hotel with beautifully landscaped gardens and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

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Hi! We are traveling with our kids (4 and 1) to St. Tropez, Monte Carlo and Capri. Trying to decide which stroller to bring. We have a double city mini gt but I imagine it will be too big and bulky to travel with. Will a double umbrella stroller make it in and around these cities ok?? My 4 year old can walk but I do like the idea of him being able to sit back and rest if need be, or be strapped in if the streets are busy but if you believe we will be much better off with a single umbrella stroller that is the way we will go!

I would go with the single umbrella stroller. Just so much easier that I would live with any other trade offs.

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Thanks for this awesome load of information on travelling with kids. I just wanted to pick your brains on selecting the right neighbourhood for our 4 nights in Paris. I was highly impressed and influenced by your recommendation for StayCity Serviced Appartment (Gare de l’Est) as the best budget hotel option in Paris. However, I then encountered some threads on different forums about the whole Gare De l’est location being too near the station and being far from real Paris experience. And of course I am confused now.

Just to add to the confusion I also read your recommendation for Marais neighbourhood and I found one budget hotel option – Hôtel Du Vieux Saule [ 6 Rue De Picardie, 3rd arr., 75003 Paris, France] .

Could you help us select between – Marais neighbourhood Vs StayCity apartment considering the cost of the two is almost the same.

Really appreciate your help. Nidzi

If the cost of both options is the same, I’d choose the Marais. However, that’s not to knock the Gare de L’est area which has a lot going for it too. It’s definitely not a tourist destination, but that’s also part of its charm. You’ll be in an area that sees few tourists but has been steadily gentrifying over the years. Its biggest advantage is that you’ll be right by the Canal Saint Martin, a fantastic area with lots of cool boutiques and restaurants. The StayCity is also right by a great park if you’re traveling with kids (Jardin Villemin) and also one of the city’s secret gems, Cafe A. The space was once an abbey and has now been converted into the Maison de l’Architecture. Within this setting you have a large, open terrace, perfect for having a coffee or drink in the summer with regular exhibits and jazz concerts. Since you mentioned that your goal was to have a “real Paris experience” though, I’d lean towards the Marais because you’ll be better positioned to enjoy the museums, the Seine, the farmer’s market at Bastille, as well as shopping and restaurants. Just in that area alone you can visit the Picasso Museum, the Centre Pompidou, the historic Place des Vosges and one of the oldest covered markets in Paris, the Marche des Enfants Rouge. And don’t miss the falafel at L’as on Rue des Rosier or the crepes at Cafe Breizh on Rue Vieille du Temple. Both will have a line but totally worth it!

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Hi! I love your website. We are a family of 5, Dad,Mom, 17,15 and 7 year old boys. Our kids have never been to Europe. I have 2 questions. If we arrive in London 24 of June and leave Rome on the 19 of July. What would be your ideal itinerary? What travel guides do you think have fun, interesting facts. We can’t pay for a private tour guide but would like them to learn facts that will make it interesting and unforgettable for them. Can decide what tour guides to read or what to look for? Thanks! Susana

I would definitely hit Paris and Amsterdam. But after that, there are so many places that’s it’s hard to narrow it down. The good news is that you can’t really go wrong. South France or Tuscany or Bavaria. Are they different? Sure, very different. But you have to choose one over the others – and in the end your choice won’t matter a great deal. For the big cities the Rick Steves’ Guides are quite good and very detailed for specific sights and attractions.

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Hi David, My husband and my (will be) 9 month old are wanting to visit Europe from Australia in May/June this year. We have to visit family in both London and Brest but that’s all so far. We are wanting to go for about 4 weeks. Are there any particular cities you would recommend that are stroller friendly? My husband loves the countryside and adventure things, while I love the history!

Thanks! Ash

I would single out Amsterdam as a stroller-friendly and walkable city. Tram is super handy for getting around. Nice parks in city center. Boat trips along the canal are fun.

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Hi, I was just wondering what your thoughts are.. we are thinking of going to Europe in July and have two girls 3 & 5 years old. We are thinking of doing coastal Italy (for a relaxing holiday) and then would like to do either Copenhagen, Paris, or London for a week (for site seeing), before we travel to Hong Kong (Disney) on the way home to Australia. Do you have any suggestions for coastal Italy with kids? And which city would you suggest for sightseeing? Angela

Italy’s coast is very varied, boasting everything from long sandy beaches to rocky bays and heaving resort towns. Some of the most spectacular beaches are on Sardinia. The island is well set up for family holidays with a vast array of seafront accommodation and regular flight/ferry connections. On the south coast, Chia is a popular spot with two gorgeous sandy beaches.

On the Italian mainland, Tuscany has some wonderful seaside retreats. Between Livorno and Piombino, Marina di Bibbona is a relaxed family-friendly resort set near a pine grove and a lengthy stretch of sand.

Down in the heel of the country, the southern region of Puglia is where many Italians take their summer holidays. It has some stunning beaches and its laid-back atmosphere is great for families. Particularly beautiful is the Salento area near the baroque city of Lecce.

For stunning coastal scenery nowhere can top the Amalfi Coast, south of Naples, and the Cinque Terre in Liguria. But while both are fabulous to look at, the practicalities of getting to and around them can make them difficult with small kids.

For city sightseeing those are all great. London definitely has the most kid-friendly attractions but at that age they might not get as much out of them as they will in a few years. I’d say you can’t go wrong with any of those 3 so perhaps base your decision on the most convenient and best priced connections.

Thank you David much appreciated!

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I am thinking of visiting London, Paris and Zurich with my wife and 2 kids. Do you have a recommendation on the best site to book a multi-city Europe vacation? I have tried Expedia, but it is not too friendly when it comes to multi city trip planning.

Thanks. Vinod

There’s no one website for booking your trip. The best for finding cheap airfares (and widest selection of flights) is Kayak.com . The best websites for finding good hotel deals are Booking.com and HotelsCombined.com. And the best website for train information is Seat61 (you can’t book tickets on the site but each page has very specific info on the best way to reserve seats).

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Morning, We’re a family with 2 boys (6yrs and 2yrs) who live in Sydney and headed back to visit England this July. We currently have non stop flights on Singapore to LHR (may amend one flight to stop) and looking to include London, Paris and Lanzarote!! London for the usual reasons, plus we have family with young kids about 35 mins away from central London on the train. I also would like to visit a friend in Paris (although she’s North Paris). In terms of Lanzarote it’s not somewhere we would chose to go except for the fact my parents in law moved there from he UK. I speak Spanish and French and I’m nervous it will be Brits abroad and not at all my thing! We are committed To 5 nts in Playa Blanca but will Stay longer if you think it’ll be ok. We’re looking for a balance of culture (love the Spanish) and showing them England (London Eye, Zoo, Dinosaur Museaum, beach/pool for kids, relaxing, them getting to understand the culture, while combining with what we want as adults….we also have friends in Southampton/Bristol/Essex and no idea how we fit all in in 4wks!!! so thinking to prioritise London, Paris, maybe Barcelona and Lanzarote! Help! Cara Davis

Sounds like a great trip but don’t have the foggiest idea of what you’re asking.

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Hi – great website, thanks for all the useful information! We are taking the kids (aged 4) to Paris mid-April. Can’t decide where else to go to (got a 7-8 days besides Paris) which will be interesting for us + them and not having to travel too much… having considered: Barcelona, French south coast, Rome, Amsterdam. Have left off London from the list as additional visa required plus have been there a few times recently. Any suggestions?

Amsterdam can be wet and rainy in April and the south of France (though pleasant) doesn’t offer as much to do as the large cities when it’s not beach weather. So, I would do Barcelona or Rome – both great cities but I would lean towards Rome.

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Hi David, I’m planning to travel to Europe for 2 weeks with my husband and 3 years old son in November this year for our wedding anniversary. Which countries do you think we should go to? None of us have been to Europe. Thanks, Olivia

I’d either visit Paris and London (which have lots to do any time of year). Or the southern countries – Italy or Spain – which will have the nicest weather.

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We just booked tickets for our family of four including two little guys (7, 3). We are flying into CDG and have two weeks. Suggestions on focus for our trip. My husband and I have been to England and Italy, but that’s it as far as Europe. This will be the kids first trip.

Paris is a great place to start so definitely spend a few days there. There is no end to the number of places I could list off but in general I’d choose between heading west and north (Atlantic coast beaches, then Amsterdam and area) or going south (French Riviera with a stop in Lyon and Provence on the way, maybe even continuing on to Barcelona).

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Hi David, We are a family of 5 – 2 adults and 3 children aged 14, 11 & 4. We are planning to travel to UK & Europe in June starting June 3rd for 3weeks from Singapore. However, we are having difficulties planning our trip. We definitely need to go to London to visit relatives and thereby hope to travel to few places like Brussels, Frankfurt, Switzerland, and hopefully Italy too. But i’m not sure how feasible it is. Would you be able to guide us on this? Wani Mohan

I can certainly answer some questions for you (the more specific they are the more likely I can help, the more vague the harder it is to give advice).

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David, My husband and I are planning on taking our children (ages 3 and 5) somewhere in August for 2 weeks (probably mid-end of August). I have been looking around quite a bit and am uncertain where to even start as I’d love to go every where!!! My husband would like to go visit Iceland since it is a quick and affordable flight for us from Minneapolis but it seems as if it could get quite pricey with car rental and lodging for 2 weeks. I’d love to visit Europe and possibly see a couple countries. Since the kids are quite young and we realize we wouldn’t be doing the typical tourist places but instead go hiking, playgrounds, etc, I was wondering if you have a place(s) in mind that you would choose for your family (now knowing all that you know). Also, can you recommend a good site for searching air fares? We’ve been going to google flights just to give us an idea since you can explore all destinations based on price.

Thanks and I love seeing the world through your site!

Denise in Minnesota

Iceland is a great destination if you like hiking and the outdoors. You could easily fill 2 weeks there if you set out in rental car to do in a tour of the top spots … but at the same time it seems a little long for the country. I think you’d want to seem more. Take a look at Iceland Air as they offer free stopovers in Reykjavik if you buy a ticket to Europe. They fly to a bunch of European capitals.

Otherwise, I use Kayak.com to do all my flight searches.

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Hello David, wonderful site with very useful information.

Although question from Jim above echoes my queries too, I have a few more. We are a family of 4 (daughters aged 14 & 8) & planning to visit Europe in May for around 10 days. Want to visit just 2/3 cities. Shortlisted cities: London, Paris, Brussels, Switzerland, Barcelona, Rome, Budapest. Which ones would you recommend? My husband & I have stayed in London for a few months in the past, but none of us have been to any other European City. Budget is limited.

Thanks, Arch

I’d do London and Paris for sure (but they are the most expensive of all the cities you named) and then either Barcelona (great sites and good beaches) or Rome (walking tours and wonderful historical sites).

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Hi David, I love this site, thankyou! I would like to ask your advice. Next July, I plan to travel to Europe for 3-4 weeks with my husband and 18 month old son. We must go to London & Amsterdam to meet family. There are so many options, we are having trouble deciding where to spend our time whilst there. We have already been to France, Turkey, Italy & The Greek Island in the past, so would like somewhere different this time and toddler friendly. What would you suggest? Beth

Barcelona, Madrid, and Porto, Portugal are great destinations. The coast of Croatia is absolutely beautiful – Greek-like beaches and coastline. Prague, Budapest, and Krakow are all magical cities.

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Hi David This is a great site! We are needing some planning advice. We are traveling to Europe from Western Canada with our 3 yr old and 14 yr old in March/April. We have planned for 3.5 weeks, with key highlights including Athens, Rome, Venice, Monaco/south of France, Paris then either London and/or Copenhagen and Oslo (where we have family). We want to see historical sites but also have a chance to relax a day here or there without being over scheduled with sightseeing time. Is going south to north the best route? Plane or train? Thanks for your help!!! Dena Pedersen

You’ll need to fly to get to Athens and then best to fly from there to Rome (you could take the ferry from western Greece to Venice but it takes a fair bit of time and effort to take the bus from Athens to Igoumenitsa). But from Rome to Paris you can do all by train. Train is fun and easy (though can get a little boring on the longer journeys). It saves you from the airport/security/hassle and train stations are centrally located so that makes the train travel much more convenient. There’s a good overnight train from Venice to Paris (if you ever decided to skip south France). London is wonderful if your kids like history and train/military museums.

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Thanks for the advice. One last question, we are thinking of bringing our jogging double stroller. The 3 yr old can sleep and eat and play in it, and her bag can ride beside her (we will be packing light with back packs for the rest of us). Is the double stroller going to be an issue on trains/commuter planes or sightseeing?

Yeah, unfortunately I think it will. Doesn’t mean it’s impossible but be prepared for some major hassles.

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This is such a great resource. We have christmas holidays coming up this December and no plans yet. Assuming we make it to Paris – what are your suggestions for things to do and places to go over Christmas and New Years? We have a 9yo son who wants to have a white christmas. Or is there anywhere else in the world you can suggest we spend our 3 weeks during that time? I’m stumped for ideas and we would be travelling from Australia. Olive

Paris is wonderful at Christmas time but you wouldn’t be guaranteed a white Christmas – for that head east and north (Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and beyond). There is no shortage of great places to go in Europe.

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Hi David, What a great site. My husband and I are planning a 3 month trip to Europe next summer with our two young children (ages 4 and 2 ). We are trying to figure out where to visit. We know that we probably will just choose 3-5 places and stay at each for a few weeks.

I would love to get your opinion of some of the places on our list since we need to narrow them down! Here goes: Dublin, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, the South of France or Italian Riviera (any thoughts?), somewhere in Switzerland, somewhere in Spain.

Any thoughts or suggestions to help us narrow down our list? Also, if there is another location that you highly recommend (especially given the toddler factor), we are open to ideas!

Thanks! Alison Freedman

Those are all great places. I have to throw in London as there’s just so many awesome kid-friendly attractions there (5x what Dublin has). South of France is more expensive than the Italian Riviera but also has more to do for families. The Italian coast is cheaper and less busy – though this changes as you move east. I highly recommend the Greek Islands for families. They’re just great – laid back, great food, great beaches, and so much fun island hopping on the ferries.

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Hi David My husband and I were thinking of going to Europe in the summer for 3 weeks Flying from Canada to Munich for a few days and then a train to Austria Kitzbuel ( where I had stayed for 6 months, 10yrs ago and fell in love with) but our concern is wether this would be too hard on our kids who are almost 3 and 5. Just considering the long flight and 8 hr time change on toddlers. We thought Austria, kitzbuel is low key with simple adventures and train rides to Innsbruck or Salzburg if wanted to Do you think it would be to much on a 3 and 5 yr old with flights trains and time changes?

3 weeks gives you and the kids lots of time to get settled and adjusted to the time zone. It should be great.

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My wife and I are considering spending 3-4 weeks in Europe next Spring (March); the timing and spot are linked to a meeting I will attend in The Hague, Netherlands in early March. So we thought it would be a good opportunity to travel with our two kids (son will be 5 and daughter 3). We were considering home exchange or apartment/house rental, either in Amsterdam, Belgium, or Paris, close enough for a short trip from The Hague by train.

Our main concern is the climate and time of the year. We are from Canada, so used to cold and snow, but we wonder whether we would be able to take advantage of what these countries/cities have to offer in March (obviously too early for tulips, but maybe too late for real winter activities)…

What are your thoughts about travelling to Amsterdam/Paris/Belgium in early Spring?

Thanks, your input would be much appreciated, Simon

Paris will tend to have better weather in March than Amsterdam or Belgium. Amsterdam has very uncertain weather in spring so expect anything. But it won’t be anything like winter in Canada – you’ll certainly be able to get outside and enjoy the sights. Both Amsterdam and Paris have many indoor attractions that are fine in any weather.

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Planning a vacation to Europe with my almost 2 year old for about 9 or 10 days! Could you recommend the best kid-friendly places to go? I visited Rome, Venice, Florence, Paris, London, and Madrid already, but was thinking that going to Paris and London again would be nice since everything is a new experience when you have kids… What do you think? Anyris

Yes, they are very different experiences with kids. In general I recommend going to big cities (lots to do) or beach towns (kids love beaches). And Paris and London are the 2 best, funnest, and most enchanting cities for kids in Europe. Both cities can easily fill a week of almost constant exploration.

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Hi David, We are booked to travel from Hong Kong for our Europe trip. our daughter is just under 3 years. We arrive into London (13th July) and plan on taking a morning Eurostar to Paris on 18th July. At the moment we are thinking maybe see a bit of Paris on 18th July and then have full 2 days 19th and 20th too. is that enough or do you think we need an extra day in Paris. We are definitely not doing Disney as we have one in HK and our daughter gets too tired and with the long queues its going to be a long day for us all.

We have our flight out from Rome on 27th July in the afternoon so thought of doing 3 full days 4 nights in Rome (reach 23rd night in Rome and have 24th-26th).

Now you can see we have 21 – 23rd free, .and wondering should we spend 21st in Paris or maybe do the following:

Option 1 – flight to Nice and Monte carlo and cities around and fly straight to Rome Option 2 – fly to Nice spend a day and then next day take a train to Pisa and see Florence too (stay overnight) and 23rd eve go to Rome.

can you please help…we need to book our Paris/Rome hotels..thank you so much.

cheers Karan

Wow. Sounds like a wonderful trip. I would go with Option 1. Option 2 sounds a bit too busy and Pisa and Florence can be stifling hot in July. South France will offer more to do for a 3 year old.

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Your web site is amazing with full on knowledge for everyone. I am planning to travel from 1st to 15th of August to Europe (1st time) with my wife and 3 kids aged 11, 8 & 6. We plan to get an airline ticket from Dubai to London & back from London to Dubai. It will make cheaper. We plan to spend 3-4 days in London, 3-4 days in France (inclusive of Disney land), 3-4 days in Switzerland (Zurich / Mt. Titlis) and remaining have not yet planned. Please advise and do correct of my previously mentioned plan if you think it is not appropriate. We are interested to go to Italy or Germany. Please advise accordingly. Regards, Syed

It sounds like a wonderful plan. I would focus on what you have already planned which makes for a nice loop of western Europe. Adding Italy or Germany will make for a busier trip and I think what you have planned is right at the point of doing too much (but still good). When it comes to Europe, travel, and kids, less is more.

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Hello David –

What a wonderful resource for information you have put together – tremendously helpful!

I will be traveling with my 7 year old daughter in early June and she wants to go to Venice and London from Boston. Her older sister did a “mommy and me” trip at age 7 also, but was very focused on London and Paris. There were many thongs to do in both cities and the logistics were easy because we flew into London, took the train to Paris, flew back to London and then back on to Boston. My younger daughter wants to go to Venice because of the Olivia books she read as a child and her main desire is to go on a Gondola (my older daughter wanted to go to see the Eiffel Tower).

A few questions: 1. Is there enough to do in Venice for the 7 year old and is it worth the trip to go on a Gondola ride? It is proving to be difficult to get to Venice ad then back to London from Boston. 2. Are there museums there? How many days would you stay? 3. Other than going back to Paris, is there another city or region that would be fun for her and easy to get to from London? She wants to do something different from her sister. 4. Whats the easiest way to fly from Boston to Venice, back into London for 4 days and then back to Boston? 5. Do you recommend taking the train from London to Venice?

Many thanks for your help here! Berret

Venice is great but it’s more about wandering around, exploring the city, and taking a gondola ride than about seeing any particular museums (though the Gallerie dell’Accademia is a must-see). Getting there from London requires taking the Eurostar to Paris and then the overnight train to Venice. Of course, there are plenty of direct flights from London to Venice too. 3 or 4 days in Venice is plenty of time.

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We would like to spend a few days in Europe this august (up to a week), with 2 kids, ages almost 3 and 1. I would like it to be an airline hub city to save money. I am trying to decide between Rome, London, Barcelona or Copenhagen. What do you think? Thank you! Chana.

London has the most flights by a large margin – but no one saves money by staying in London. I wouldn’t worry about staying in an airline hub. All those cities have plenty of flights and you only need one – not 5, 10, or 20 flights.

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Hi David, We are from Canada and want to take our two sons (12&14) to Italy in October for 11 days. My husband wants to go at that time of year for the grape harvest. After reading your posts I know this is not enough time to see and do all there is. I would like to see Venice. What would be your suggestions as to where to fly into, drive to, and fly out of given the time we have. We want to experience European culture and history. Beaches are not a priority for this trip. You had mentioned to another reader to go to Greece in October. Is this because the weather is not good? Pauline

Yes, the weather in October is very nice in Greece – especially if you’re not interested in beaches as it can dip just enough to make it hard to enjoy the sea but is still wonderful for touring, hiking, sightseeing. I wouldn’t recommend both Italy and Greece for an 11 day trip, however – it’s just too much for a short amount of time. Sticking to one country or another with maybe one other city (say, Paris, Barcelona or Amsterdam) would be fine. For Italy, flying into Rome and out of Venice makes for a good trip with Florence or Siena in the middle.

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Just wanted to say, wow what an amazing blog!! I appreciate all the info you’ve collected and published here.

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Hi David, We’re trying to decide between Paris and Barcelona for a week long stay in August after we visit family in England. We’ll be traveling with a 2 and 6 year old — which city do you think is more kid friendly for young children? Thanks! Tessa in NYC

I think Barcelona has a more kid-friendly vibe but Paris has more for kids to do – if that makes any sense. Both are great. The train from Paris to Barcelona is only 6.5 hours so could easily do both.

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HI David, I am trying to organise our family trip to London France Switzerland for this September. We are flying from Australia with a 1 night stop over in Singapore to break the long journey with our 6 year old. Then: 5 nights London 5 nights Paris 3 Nights Disneyland then I thought we might go to Strasbourg or Colmar 3/4 nights then wanted to do Switzerland and thought about going to Wengen..but now I think it might not be the right time of year and maybe should pick another place in Switzerland for the 4 nights or just stick to France? Then make our way to Lyon for 4 nights – fly home from here. Any help would be appreciated. We plan to use the trains to travel. Thanks

Both Switzerland and Strasbourg are wonderful destinations. 3 days in Disneyland seems like a lot to me but you know better than myself. London and Paris are both great but London does provide a lot more to see than Paris (for kids and families).

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Am enjoying your blog so much. I always thought…children will only enrich our journey not restrict.

I am thinking of a trip to Europe in the 1st week of Sep & at the moment leading towards Italy (Rome, Tuscany or Florence) or France (Paris, Provence or ??) but anywhere would be fine. I am a single mom & my girl would be 2yrs 3mo by then. We travel by baby carrier & she’s an active girl who likes to walk/run/climb. No stroller. Places to visit will have to include the beach/pool where she get to play with water…her favourite activity.

Any suggestions would be great….it will just be a 9~12days trip. Wish it could be longer…but not when living & working in this side of the world. judy

Those both sound like great trips and very doable. I would probably lean towards France rather than Italy. More playgrounds, more open spaces. The beaches on the Atlantic coast are more family-friendly (and less expensive) than the beaches of southern France.

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Hi David, thanks for the links you have shared. We have a 5 yr old daughter and planning for our Venice tour. This is going to be her first tour so far away from home. I have collected a lot of information so far and your links helped a lot. We are planning a train journey from venice to rome. I am pretty sure of the fun she is going to have at Explora museum. We have seen some good itineraries from Triphobo and added a few more attractions as suggested here. Do you think 5 days will be sufficient to tour both rome and venice?

Yes, 5 days is not a lot but it’s certainly enough to get a good look around.

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hi, David. My husband and I are planning to spend 10 days in Greece, London, and Paris in March. We will depart from New York City, where shall it be our first stop? Any good ideas? Is it going to be a rush for going to 3 countries? If yes, then can you pick one between London and Paris? Because Santorini island, Greece is a must-go place for us. Thanks! Vivian

Yes, I do think that’s too much for 10 days but if you could get direct flights to and from Santorini and your flight from NYC to Europe went to Paris or London and you flew home from the other city (called an open-jaw ticket which would save a lot of time and hassle) then you could make it work. Both London and Paris are great but if I had to choose one for a first timer it would be Paris.

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Hi David – Your site is really helping me out. I was wondering if you could comment on my itinerary which was haphazardly put together as a starting point. I have never been to Europe but have traveled quite a bit with our one child who will be 5. Travel from April through June:

# Nights Destination 7 London 12 Paris 3 Lyon 3 Venice 4 Florence 5 Rome 12 Provence & Cote d’Azur 10 Barcelona 6 San Sebatian 7 Madrid 3 Seville 5 Algarve beaches 7 Lisbon 1 Home!

Sounds awesome. Try to book your arrival and departure from different cities so you won’t have to backtrack. Book train tickets in advance and through the country ticketing office (e.g. Use the Italian train website to book tickets in Italy not the general Euro website).

I have stumbled across your website and am getting a lot of good ideas but am still stumped on a couple things mainly on duration and timing. I am planning a 3 month trip from Vancouver, Canada to Europe with my husband and will be 5 year old from April to June. I was considering starting in Paris. we would want to book apartments (airbnb and the likes) but I want to book in flexibility in case we love/hate a place. Is there a ballpark length per city you would recommend. We also really love the beach, so seeking out places places that might be warmer in May and June would likely be our thing.

You can easily spend 10 days in the Paris and London. Bank on 5 days in Rome, Barcelona, Madrid, Amsterdam. 3 days in Florence, Milan, Munich, and Lake Geneva. For beaches you need to go south in May and June. Barcelona is fine for swimming in June (late June even better). For May you would have to be in the southern Greek islands like Rhodes or Crete.

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We need to plan a trip somewhere in Europe during Scotland’s school holiday (mid October) with a 6 and 7 year old looking for a bit of a holiday. We have a week, give or take. There’s Disney Paris (meh), but weather is obviously a factor as is the attention span of small children who likely will find a cathedral or gallery of minimal interest. Self catering the entire time would maximize adult stress. We are pretty flexible, but feel completely stuck. Any suggestions?

What about Greece? Weather is still good in October and flights and hotels are cheaper than summer.

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Hi David, My wife and I are planning a trip with our 1.5 year old baby to Europe in May. We are thinking about flying into Amsterdam staying 3 days, taking a train to the Loire Valley for 2 nights or possibly Avignon, renting a car and driving to Provence for 9 nights in a cottage within walking distance to a small village. Does this make sense? Any suggestions on where to stay in Provence? Thank you! Jake

That sounds great. Ensure the car company you rent from has a car seat – or take one with you. For hotels here are a couple in Cannes and Nice to get you started. Don’t overlook Marseilles – lots to see and do.

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Hello David,

Love the site!! It’s already provided us with some great ideas for our upcoming 18 day trip to Europe and the UK in July. As my wife and I have been to the UK before to visit family we wanted to experience something new as we take our children (12 -10) along for the first time. We are flying into Paris and home out of Dublin with stops planned for Belgium (Brussels and Bruges), London, Bath, Colwyn Bay (family) and then Dublin. We’re planning to use the high speed train between Paris-Brussels and Brussels-London. I guess my question would be…how long to spend in Paris/Belgium? Was thinking 4-5 nights in Paris, maybe 1 in Brussels and 2 in Bruges or visa versa on the last two. Any thoughts? Steve

That sounds like a great trip. 4 to 5 days will be easy to fill in Paris – so I would stick with that. And yes, would probably recommend more time in Brussels than Bruges. (Read 25 things to do with kids in Brussels ). Good luck.

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Hi David, My husband is going to be in Monaco a few days in early April for work. We would love to take our boys (ages 3, and 7) on a 2 – 2 1/2 week trip but are having a difficult time planning an itinerary. We want to spend our final week with friends who live in Zurich. However, we are not sure what to do with the first half of our trip. We love Paris, Provence and Tuscany but this is our first time with kids so we want to do something kid friendly and are concerned about weather in early April. Where would you recommend for about a week between Monaco and Zurich? Also, should we take the boys to Monaco or set up camp somewhere else and just send Dad off to Monaco by himself? Thanks!

Monaco is great for kids (just be prepared for lots of hills). There’s a great aquarium there that is very kid-friendly. There are easy day trips by train to other cities along the coast (Cannes or Nice). And there’s an open-air trolley tour the kids should enjoy. I’d split my time between Monaco and Paris. Lots of great kid-friendly activities in the city. You could easily fill a week with your kids in Paris. I find cities to have lots to do and it’s the quieter places that you might think have a more kid-friendly vibe that leave you scratching your head to find things to do. But both Monaco and Paris should offer you plenty to keep busy. Good luck.

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Ours is a bit different a question than what you normally see. We are a family of four (kids almost 4 & 19 months) & are planning on moving to either Spain or France. Our goal is at least two years & then who knows (a year in each country). Given your travels & knowledge, what cities would you recommend as wise choices? We speak Spanish & plan on learning French. The main purpose of the trip is to immerse ourselves in culture, food, culture & more food. Granada, Barcelona, Lyon, Provence…so many wonderful options!! Any suggestions would be most appreciated.

Barecelona and Paris would be right at the top of my list for places to live. But what about traveling around for the first month and choosing a place after that?

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I’m an intern at a kid’s travel subscription site and these tips are great! I especially love #4, and hope to use it on our next family trip… It’s great to have variety and try new experiences that you might have not tried otherwise :) Cheers & happy travels!

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So just to clarify… Is that 100-250 euro per per person per day? Not 100-250 euro for the 3 of us per day! Thanks for all your help.

That would be for everyone. But there’s no upper limit. You could spend 250 euros a day per person with very little effort. Good luck.

Hey there, I am taking my family of 3 (myself, spouse, 10-year-old girl) to Northern Italy (1 week), Switzerland (1 week), and France (1 week). Then the little girl is flying back home, and the spouse and I are going to Netherlands (1 week), Gremany (1 week), and Southern Italy (1 week) (3 weeks for the daughter, and 6 weeks for 2 adults). Accommodations are all paid for, and a car is leased. So I’m wondering if you can suggest a budget per person per day (in Euros) that would be reasonable to have a good vacation. Thanks.

Oh…timeframe is last week in August till first week of October. Thanks again.

There is a huge range of possible budgets. Since your accommodations and transportation are paid for it will primarily be your food, attraction entrance fees, and incidentals. You could get by on 100 euros a day but that could easily bump up to 250 euros a day without feeling like you’re being indulgent. Hope that helps.

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Somehow or other, our first Europe trip with our two daughters (8 and 6) has shaped itself into London-Paris-Venice, but without any real detail. London and Paris we can organise easily – but any tips for Venice with kids?

Hi Andrew, this is a great resource for Venice .

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Hi David. Great site by the way. We are a family of 2 adults, 2 kids (13 & 15) from Australia and want to experience our first white Christmas in December. Was thinking Europe for 3 weeks. Was hoping to spend New Years Eve in Paris. As we have never been to Europe is it better to cruise or not. Wanting to see Paris, Rome, Italy, Venice, Greece. Friends have also said Austria is great for the Christmas festivities and spirit. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks

Hi Fiona. That sounds great. I would not do a typical sea-cruise – getting around by train is much more interesting. Though a river or canal cruise would be cool. But they won’t be running nearly as often in winter. Good luck.

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I am traveling to San Sebastián in May for work. Having lived in Seville for a while in college I thought it would be fun to take my three kids (ages 4, 6, 8) and travel around Spain for a couple weeks. My husband thinks I am crazy and is discouraging it. I am trying to put together a reasonable travel plan that would allow us to be in San Sebastián from may 2-4 with travel before and after. Would love the kids to see Barcelona, Seville, and Toledo. Madrid would be nice but scares me a bit as my brother was nearly abducted there in the mid 90s and our concierge told us it “happens all the time” related to slave trade…? (Not sure how accurate that is). Do you have suggestions for great things to see and do with young kids in Spain (I already saw your page about Barcelona which was very helpful). Thanks!!

Hi Kristen. Sounds like a great plan. (And yes, I’m confident that Spain is incredibly safe and abductions exceedingly rare.)

I do know of another family that just did a 3 month tour of Spain ( blog here .) I’ll see if she has a few minutes to offer some suggestions.

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Lay your fears to rest! So many horror stories. So little reality. We just returned from living for three months in Spain with our 9 and 12 years old children and we had the opportunity to go to all the places you are hoping to visit. We had also heard may stories about pickpocketing on the Ramblas in Barcelona, and Gypsie scams in the south, but none of them came to fruition. Spaniards absolutely ADORE children! The family is the core of their culture, and you will be quite welcome when you bring your little ones along. In San Sebastian just wander around and hit the beach and eat every chance you get. The pintxos are fabulous! In Toledo be sure to buy a sword that can fit in your luggage – there will be so many options to choose from. The kids will love clambering up the stairs to the top of the Giralda Bell Tower in Sevilla. They’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that they made it, and be rewarded with great views. The Sevilla’s Alcazar has a whole group of ducks and peacocks running around, and it’s a great place to spend some time. Watch out for the duck that thinks one of the peacocks is his girl – he’ll bite your shoelaces if you get close to her! And as for Madrid – go! Madrid is fabulous. There are so many little parks and playgrounds sprinkled throughout the neighborhoods and the Parque Buen Retiro has little boats to rent. Your kids are younger than mine are, but we also traveled part of the time with my sister-in-law who had a 2 and 5 year old. We all had a great time and they were the hit at all the restaurants. Above all, just enjoy. We always stopped in pastry shops and had the local goodies, and when we had car journeys we would let the kids pick a bag of small Spanish candies from a corner store and distribute them through the ride. They loved looking at all the different wrappers and not knowing quite what they were going to get. As for lodging go with Booking.com. We booked 75% of out places through there and they all turned out outstanding. Giralda Suites in Sevilla were fabulous. In Madrid we stayed in an apartment from Homes for Travellers called the La Latina Loft. Apartments are the way to go. With that many people you are paying too much in a hotel, and they often don’t have the right size of beds to fit everyone. They don’t do two queens like we do here in the US. Also, once you are past 2 people it is sometimes the same price to taxi as to metro. We used the metro a lot, but sometimes a taxi was the better option and just as reasonable. Buen viaje!

Thank you so much! That is so helpful. We have booked our flights and I have rooms reserved for the whole time through booking.com. I was able to get the place you recommended in Seville. Now I am trying to prioritize what to see and do in Barcelona, Madrid and Seville. There is so much and we will only have 2 – 3 days in each. I guess it is a good problem to have!!

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I am glad I found you site, as planning a trip without any advise is so complicated. Every package/ deal offered is different and so are the cost and believe me it does not help!

We as a family ( 2 adults & 10 yrs kid) are planning an Europe trip from Dubai this summer for 10 days..Our main aspect is to cover Disneyland for 2-3 days as my little one is very keen to see it. Appreciate if you could suggest a suitable itineray that will cover other places (Zurich, Rome, Italy, Paris, Geneva) along with Disneyland and that is cost effective too. In addition seek you valuable suggestion on budget friendly hotel/ hostel that offer family rooms.

First off, the more you travel the more you’ll spend. There’s the cost on travel itself plus the longer you’re in one place the more your costs tend to come down. You get comfortable with an area, find the grocery store, the cheaper restaurants, a place to eat a picnic. The faster you’re moving about the more compromises you make and say, “Oh, lets just eat at that place over there – I’m tired, I don’t care how much it costs.”

If it were me I’d head from Paris to South France for a few days and then onto Rome for the final 3 or 4 days and fly home from there.

Hotelscombined.com is the best website for finding discounted hotels throughout Europe. It searches every other major (and minor) site and gives you a list of available rooms and prices at each website.

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Hi David What an amazing website. Thank you. We have a 9 yo boy and 7yo girl, traveling from Australia to Europe. We want to go to Legoland, and Paris, I’d welcome any suggestions regarding an itinerary: about 5 weeks. Thanks again

Lots to see of course. Paris is great. London, Rome, Amsterdam. So many great cities. If you’re there in summer the beaches in northern Europe are great too (e.g. the Atlantic coast of France) so no need to visit the Riviera if you didn’t want to. Not sure when you’re going but Legoland Windsor does close from December to March. Not sure about the Legolands in Germany and Brussels. I’d buy tickets to attractions like those in advance. Good luck.

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Hi David, We are planning to go to France in July next year to stay in Pezenas with our in laws. (They are there for the entire month, we will spend a week with them) We have 3 boys aged 4,7,9. I want to spend a further 3 weeks travelling, one week will be with my husband and kids, the second week will be with my parents on their yacht and the other week me and the boys. I’d welcome any suggestions. Regards Helen

Hi Helen. There are so many different options it’s hard to narrow it down. I guess if I had one tidbit to offer it would be to fly into and out of different cities so you won’t have to retrace your route to get home.

For destinations you’ll be very central and by the sounds of it you’ll have 2 different weeks to fill. I’d choose between either Barcelona, Madrid, and Spain; Paris and central France; or Rome and Tuscany. Don’t do too much so just choose 2 of those 3 regions and enjoy yourself.

Hope that helps.

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Thank you David. We are actually thinking of changing our plans to lake Geneva. We are thinking of staying in Lausanne and touring around the lake and the srounding mountains. Do you have some tips for things to do, places to stay? Thanks

Frommer’s has a great site on Switzerland: frommers.com .

We loved the time we spent in Geneva.

Hi David, We are a family of 4, our kids are 3 and 5. We would like to visit Europe for one week on our way to USA. We are thinking either London or Paris. Which one is more kids friendly? Do you have other suggestions? Thanks

For kids a little older I’d definitely give the nod to London but for ages 3 and 5 it’s less about attractions and more about parks and street life and wandering around and I think in that category Paris might be the winner. Both are great however. I think you’d have an easier time finding a hotel with a pool in London than in Paris if that means anything to you. Good luck.

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Hi David, my husband and 2 kids (8 and 10) are planning a holiday to France this summer. We thought we would fly into Paris, rent an apartment for 2 weeks and then travel south for the remaining 2 weeks. Any suggestions on an itinerary of where we should go in the south, a great “home base” where we could take day trips and still enjoy the beach? Also, any tips on finding great but also budget friendly short term accommodations? Any ideas would be great! Thanks, Carmen

Renting a place in Paris for a 2 week stay is a great idea. I think you’ll love it.

For a homebase in the south of France I’d say Aix en Provence would make a great choice. Central, lots to see, good transportation, charming city.

For hotel discounts you’re best to use hotelscombined for Aix-en-Provence , Nice , or Cannes as they’ll find the best rates (rather than focusing on specific hotels).

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Hi David, Your site is fantastic and I’m glad I found it.

I’m 21, and my family has put me in charge of planning our 18/19 day trip to Spain, Italy and France. We are planning on visiting Barcelona, Madrid, Alicante, Rome, Porto Recanit and Paris.

We have home bases in Madrid and Porto Recanti (family, and we’ll be lodging there for a few nights). I was curious if you would recommend, if we start in Spain or Italy? What should we consider as a form of travel between the countries on a budget, we’ll all be adults by then and don’t mind traveling in unconventional ways, its all part of the adventure.

Also, any recommendations as to what things in those cities most people tend to miss? (We’ll be there flying out of MCO on either 5/28/13 or 6/3/12 with 18 nights. What do you think?)

Hi Juan. Firstly I would recommend flying into and out of different cities so that you don’t have to backtrack. It saves time and money. Maybe fly into Paris and fly home from Rome. It might cost a little more for the air tickets but it’s easily made up for by the return trip (e.g. from Rome to Paris) and hotel/lost time.

I’d take the train between the major cities. It probably won’t be worth it buying a eurail pass. The cheapest way to buy tickets is through each individual country’s train website – so don’t book through the more general Eurail site. Italy’s website, in particular, offers good rates.

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Hi I’m planning a europe trip for my family (2 adults & 3 kids 7-9-10yrs). We will be travelling from cumbria in the UK and plan to see Paris, Geneva, Marseille, Barcelona, San sebastien, La Rochelle and Normandy before going home (all in all 3 weeks!) We had planned on taking our car, use the ferry crossings at Dover and Calais and we plan to either use hostels and camp. Do you think planes and trains would be a more economical way to travel? And are there any places you would recommend which would be great for the kids instead of the above mentioned? Thank you, Gemma

That sounds like an awesome itinerary. There’s always more to see but I think those are great choices. I often recommend flying to save time and money but I think with what you have planned (especially with the camping) then taking your own car should work well and be a great way to keep costs down.

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We have traveled with the kids (now ages 9 and 11) to Europe 3 times. We just returned from our most recent trip in which we spent 4 weeks going through Germany, France, and Italy. We followed your advice to fly home from a different city than we arrived in and it was wonderful. Great tip. Previously we would fly to London, then over to France only to have to return by train to London for that final night. A big expense with no benefit.

On this trip we spent time in Berlin, Munich, camping in northern France with some friends, Paris (of course), the south of France (mainly around Cannes), and then Milan briefly, Florence, and Rome. We would have liked to visit Venice but ran out of time and seeing as we were very rushed at the end I’m glad we didn’t try to squeeze it in.

The kids most enjoyed Rome (they had both shown an interest in Roman history in the few weeks before we left and there was lots to see there). The sites of Rome seemed to lend themselves to being enjoyed by kids. They’re right there in front of you so it’s very personal and hands-on, or I guess eyes-on. Paris is always nice but the kids had been twice before so there wasn’t much new there. The beaches of Southern France were wonderful. Very family friendly in their feel and amenities.

I think our next trip we’ll try to make it to Venice and then ferry (maybe!) to Greece. That’s the plan anyways.

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We are wanting to take our kids out of school for a period of 1-2 years and possibly place them into a school somewhere in Europe. Public or international school we are not quite sure. Where would be the easiest place for children aged 7 & 9 from Canada best integrate into? Would probably have to take our two dogs, so can a person rent homes in the countryside that accept pets? Just looking for some ideas that would be best for the kids and from there we could use it as a base to explore the remainder of Europe. Thanks for any suggestions.

There are lots of great places and fantastic international schools all over Europe. The biggest difficulty will be securing a visa for that long (unless you have EU passports, but it doesn’t sound like it). Without a visa you can only spend 90 days in any 6 month period in all the Schengen countries (basically Western Europe and Greece). That’s 90 days total, not in each one.

Unless you’re traveling for more than 3 or 4 weeks I would suggest finding some cheap flights to Paris, Rome, Barcelona, or anywhere around Europe that you want to go. For example, if you wanted to see Barcelona, south France, and a bit of Italy, I would fly to Barcelona, train along the coast of France to Rome, and then fly home from there. If you really want to take in a lot of spots and are going on an extended trip then the car could save you some money. But a shorter trip that hits just 4 or 5 spots is probably cheaper with a combination of train and plane. I hope that helps. Good luck.

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I’m traveling to Europe from Canada in August, flying into Paris (4 days) then traveling to Barcelona (3 days) and Rome for (7 days).

I have flights to Paris and from Rome also all hotels booked, but am wondering what’s the best (economical) way to travel from Paris to Barcelona and Barcelona to Rome. We are a family of 5 – 2 adults and 3 children aged 14, 12 and 7

Train is the funnest way to travel but flights often turn out to be cheaper (and obviously faster). Use airninja.com to find the budget airlines for the routes you need. But remember that many budget airlines depart from smaller airports that are often well outside the city center, so be sure to factor the time and expense of getting out there when comparing to taking the train which will leave from a terminal within the city.

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Hi David! We are planning a six week trip to Europe this coming June to July. We are looking for the best options/itineraries for a large family of two adults and 6 kids ranging from 16 to 2 years old. I have looked at house/apartment rentals which seem to make more sense economically. Can you please suggest an itinerary and transportation modes that will be convenient/less costly for all of us? We want to go as many places as possible but would also want to be realistic about it. Thanks in advance!

I’d pick out 8 or 10 places that you really want to see and then try to develop a line through a majority of them that starts and ends at different major cities. Fly into the first one and fly out of the last one. You save time and money by not backtracking. If it were me going on my first trip to Europe I’d start in Paris, train to Barcelona, then train to Rome with stops in the Cote d’Azur and Florence along the way.

Train is usually always the best way to get around.

Hotelscombined is the best for finding hotel deals.

vrbo.com is good for apartments and houses.

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Hi I love this website. I have been trying to figure out how to start off a 6 week long trip for myself, my partner & our 2 children (5 & 12) to Europe/UK in October/November and I keep coming back to this website for advice & tips, it’s so informative, so thank you. However, I’m still confused as to what the best route/mode of transport we should take from NZ. We want to be in Scotland around 10th November for my partner’s grandmother’s 80th and the other places we want to visit include London, Devon, Paris, South France, Barcelona & Gibraltar, Italy (probably just west coast places like Rome). We thought we could fly from New Zealand to Italy, France or Spain and move up towards England & Scotland but thought we would fly into Scotland or England, leave some gear with family in either place & travel down to Europe and go to Scotland and fly out of Scotland or England again??? It’s so confusing, we want to do it on a budget and have started the process of looking for couch surfers but I’m still unsure how to get from place to place. Any help would be so greatly appreciated. Regards, Tania, John & Kids

The best way to save money is to travel around as little as possible. So with that in mind, the best budget route would be to fly into Rome (or maybe Paris, Madrid, or Barcelona), travel north to London and then Scotland, and then fly home from there. Rectracing your steps is costly. (You could also do this trip in reverse but the weather will be much nicer in Italy and Spain at the end of October rather than the middle of November.) I hope that helps. Good luck.

Thanks for your help :-)

Which would you suggest Lyon or Brittany?

For the kids Brittany.

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Wonderful site with loads of info.

We are family of 4 with 7 and 1 year old boys planning to visit Europe from Malaysia for 2 weeks. We would like to visit Amsterdam, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, France, Italy and London. I am interested to show my elder son places of historic interests plus some science centers and kids specific activities.

Can you suggest how to go about? Is train travel cheaper?

We are visiting Europe for the first time and would like to stay in apartments than hotels and keep the trip enjoyable and pleasant yet on a budget too.

Tq in advance.

With regards, Preethi

The easiest way to keep expenses down is to visit in the off or shoulder season, somewhere between late September and late May. That said, London is always expensive and the cities of Western Europe are never cheap. hotelscombined.com is an awesome site for finding good deals on hotels.

Also, the more you move around the more you’ll spend. Train tickets are expensive and you tend to spend more in a place on your 1st day then on your 4th (when you have a better feel of where to shop, eat, and how much things should cost). You’ll often get better hotel deals for a longer stay too.

To save money on trains book early. There are a limited number of cheap tickets and once they’re sold they’re gone. You’ll have to do the math to see if a train pass is worth it. Don’t assume that the train pass will be cheaper. The greater the number of stops you plan to make the more a train pass pays off. Also, check the websites of the individual countries when buying train tickets. So if you’re buying tickets for Italy visit the Italian train website instead of buying through the general Eurail site.

Plane tickets can be cheaper than the train but they require more planning and the airports for the budget airlines often lie far out of town making even a short flight a half-day ordeal. The train is much funner, easier, and feels more European. Airports have a more generic, “I could be anywhere” feel.

I hope that helps.

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THANK YOU for such a great site. I just came back from two months in Europe with my two boys (6 and 11). My husband only joined us for two weeks because of work. I wish I had seen your site earlier. Now that I am planning a return trip for (9 weeks this time), I will be relying heavily on your site. I love your section on Greece. Thank you again for such great ideas.

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Travelling to Europe with kids aged 4 and 2. Landing in London. Planning to spend a few days there. Following that, fly to Florence and take day trains to Pisa, Milan, Rome. How does that sound? Any other ideas?

That sounds great. Check out the new Kids Zone at the Army Museum which is perfect for those ages (though you need to book in advance).

They’d probably like taking a look at the huge Hamley’s toy store on Regent street .

We stayed a week at the Marylebone Hotel which was great and has a pool (though it’s only open for kids from 3:30 to 5:00 which you need to plan around). But the staff are great with kids and make every effort to keep them happy. The neighborhood around the hotel is fantastic and very central. Good luck.

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Hi. My husband and I have decided to take our 4 kids (13,12,11 and 9) to the UK and Italy, Spain and Belgium (family connections) for 9 weeks beginning in March this year. We are still undecided on the best mode of transport – trains/public transport seem too expensive, car ok but then we need to find accommodation; motorhome seems good option but so large and very expensive …. ahh! Does anyone have any suggestions? We are happy to see less and experience more, and would love flexibility to change plans as we go… We have no experience of youth hostels or their cost/availablity, or of actually driving around in a motorhome – indeed of anything much! Ideally we would camp but feel the weather may be far too cold and maybe wet? Some may say we are travelling blind! thanks in advance for any comments.

When you factor in the costs and hassle of getting your own vehicle, I think the train would win out. The good thing is that you should be able to find great deals on hotels that time of year. Look for longer term options on vrbo.com or even airbnb.com. Good luck.

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GO TO DEVON IT IS AWESOME! (I may be slightly biased since I live here but when I first moved here I was amazed at how beautiful it was – now I kind of take it for granted.)

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Hi David, Love the blog! My family of 5 (kids 15, 13 & 11) are planning a 3-4 week trip with another family of same age kids. We originally were going to do a London/Europe trip as you suggested with flying into London and out of Barcelona, however now the other family is leaning toward trip to Bali. You’ve been to both- your thoughts would be so appreciated! Jackie Moes

Hi Jackie. Both are great, but very different. Since you’re planning to travel with another family then I think Bali wins out as it’s much more easy going and chill-out friendly. Big cities are great for kids, but I think trying to negotiate all the challenges, planning, arranging that Western Europe requires would be too much for 2 families and probably result in some unneeded headaches. Go simple, go Bali.

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We’re planning a trip to Paris and Rome in June with the kids. Right now, I see a fare for non-stop legs LAX-Paris-Rome-LAX for about $1450 on Air France and Alitalia. In your experience, is that fare in a reasonable range given that it’s June or should I wait a few more months hoping that price will drop?

Thanks, Rachel

Hi Rachel. It does sound reasonable and if you’re certain you’ll take the trip then I’d book it. Could there be cheaper fares? Yes. But, at best, probably not less than $1300 or so. Whereas it could move in the upwards direction several hundred dollars. My only suggestion for getting a cheaper ticket would be to leave the Paris to Rome leg off your ticket and do this by train or a cheap budget airline. It likely wouldn’t save you a lot of money but you would gain some flexibility (maybe stopping in South France, Milan, or Florence on your way to Rome) and the kids would get to do an overnight train ride which they’d love. Good luck.

We’ll be flying from Chicago to Europe in the fall and are wondering what you’d recommend for a family trip itinerary. We’ll have almost 2 weeks (probably 12 or 13 nights) and are open to anything. We’re a family of 4 with an 8 year old and 13 year old. My wife went on a school trip to France in high school but other than that this will be our first trip to Europe. Thanks for your time.

Hi Jim. That sounds awesome. Europe is a fantastic destination for kids – especially slightly older ones that will enjoy the history, castles, hikes, and urban attractions. There are so many places to visit it’s hard to pick one perfect itinerary. You’ll always be left feeling like you didn’t see enough.

My first recommendation would be to fly into one city and out of another. This saves time, effort, and money. Though “open-jaw” tickets, as they’re called, usually cost a bit more it’s more than made up by the savings in a return train ticket, one night in a hotel, and the wasted time spent retracing your steps.

So with that in mind, I’d look for flights into London and a return flight from either Barcelona, Madrid, or Rome. Spend 4 nights in London, then take the train under the Channel to Paris. 3 or 4 days there – perhaps with a day trip to Versailles – should keep you busy and happy.

Both Paris and London have some wonderful museums for kids and the subway systems in both are an easy and exciting way to get around the city.

I’d spend the end of the trip in either Rome, Madrid, or Barcelona – probably favoring Barcelona if you wanted some beach time, Rome and Madrid if the kids were really enjoying the historical sites. Train connections from Paris to all 3 of these cities are great – though you should book in advance, especially if you plan to get a family sleeper.

If you had a few more days or shortened your time in some of the cities, then a few days at the beaches of Provence and the Cote d’Azur would be a great option.

Also, IcelandAir has some great prices on trips to Europe with free stopovers in Reykjavik. It breaks up the trip and allows for a day or 2 to explore the city and maybe visit the Blue Lagoon.

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Great. Thanks David!

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Hi…I love travelling and so do my Family..We’ve done entire India and have done few South East countries. I have two great daughters aged 10 and 8 Years and would want to take them out for the first time outside India..although they have been to our neighbouring countries. It would be in October for 10 days max and I would want to budget my travel..so that I can show them a new country every year..where in Europe would you suggest..that appeases to all and make memories ..and how much would be the budget and how can we make use of Eurorail ???

Hi Jaya. Train travel can be expensive in Europe so my first piece of advice – especially if you’re planning to return multiple times – is to focus on just one area, one country, or a couple of cities and keep the travel (and train ticket purchases) to a minimum. Generally the north and west of Europe are the most expensive countries. As you move south and east things are cheaper – often much cheaper. Greece is a great family destination for a first trip to Europe. The islands are great to visit and kids love the ferry trips. Greece is much cheaper than, say, France or Spain, (though not nearly as cheap as it was 10 or 20 years ago), and you can often find great deals on flights between Athens and Mumbai or Delhi. I hope that helps a little. Good luck.

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Great list and links, thanks. Taught in Spain near Barcelona for a while and several years, a marriage and 2 kids later am planning to return with family – looking forward to exploring the city from a child’s perspective

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This summer my Australian husband and I are moving from New Jersey to his native Australia with our two year old daughter. We have time, so we’re saving money and buying around-the-world tickets, planning on visiting Iceland, England, Spain, Italy, the Greek Islands, and South Africa before heading to Australia. This trip will probably take us about 8-10 weeks. We’re all pretty seasoned travelers and our daughter has flown many times, so we’re pretty cluey, but have never done anything of this magnitude with a kid involved. We’re interested in doing a blog about our preparations, the move, and of course, the trip itself, but we’ve never done one before and are looking for advice. Any tips on that?

Hi Ashley. I’m going to be doing a blog post on this soon — as I get lots of questions on it — but here are a few quick ideas:

– If you’re serious about your blog and about (maybe) putting some serious time and effort into it, then go with a WordPress self hosted blog. That means you’ll have to buy a domain, host it on a site (like Godaddy for example) and then use WordPress to run it.

– On the other hand, if you just want a site for friends, family, and people you meet along the road, then blogger.com is perfectly fine.

– Plan before you start blogging. There are lots of little decisions you’ll make along the way, and doing a little prep work (or a lot of prep work) before you start will save you having to tear things down and start again.

I hope that helps, let me know if you have a specific question.

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Dear Friends, We are a family of 4 , 2 adults and 2 kids ( 16 & 8 ) from India.We plan to visit Europe in May for 10-12 days. My budget is around Euro 1250 per head. Total Euro 5000 . Can somebody please suggest some itineraries? This will be my first trip to Europe and any suggestions/advice are welcome. Best wishes.

Hi JV. If I had to suggest some spots it would probably be a route between 2 cities, say Paris and Rome (or Paris and Barcelona). Fly into one, take the train between them, and then fly out of the other if you’re able to – thus saving the time and expense of backtracking. My perfect trip would probably include a few days in Paris, followed by 2 or 3 days in the south of France. Then on to Florence or Siena. And finishing in Rome. If anything take a stop out before adding any more. Keep it simple and don’t rush and you should have a great time.

Dear David, Thanks a lot for your comments. I really appreciate it. Any other suggestions/comments anybody. Best wishes to all

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What keeps our travel dreams on hold is flight cost? How do you cut that down?

Hi Loraine. I agree that’s a huge part of being able to travel – the initial cost of plane tickets. My biggest suggestion is to be flexible – as flexible as you can. The more you’re able to pick and choose from the different seat sales – whether it be the dates, the days of the week, the destination, or all 3 – the better the deal you’ll get.

The good thing is that many places that require a bigger expense on the tickets side: Thailand, Vietnam, Greece, Turkey, Venezuela, offer great value to travelers. So once you’re there, if you really watch what you spend you can make that big expense up front pay off.

Mexico is one place where you get both great deals on airfare and – if you stay away from the big tourist resorts like Cancun or Puerta Vallarta – you can still get great deals and very affordable accommodations.

I’m currently writing a piece on finding great deals on air travel. I’ll be sure to send it to you once I’ve finished it.

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These are wonderful tips for families traveling to Europe! We have been on an open ended, non-stop world tour as a family since 2006 & many of our 32 countries & 175,000 miles (most overland) so far have been in Europe.

We travel & live large on just 23 dollars a day per person. We’ve done everything from 5 star hotels to hostels, cargo ships to camels, but our main lodging AND transportation mode is by small motorhome.

It is a fantastic way to see Europe with most campsites being 5 star resorts near all the sites with easy access via mass transit, biking or walking. Great for families as there is no packing & unpacking and almost all have kid’s clubs and great pools, restaurants, stores and beaches for after touring days.

It’s a wonderful educational opportunity that will last you a lifetime!

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What a wonderful adventure for your family!! May I ask who/where did you rent your motorhome in Europe? This idea really appeals to us. Thanks

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soultravler3: I am very, very interested in your travels, planning, tips, ideas, anything! how do you do it on so little money? how did you decide to “leave it all behind” and travel the world? what a classroom for your kids. I am so interested in your travels, any information would be very appreciated.

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7 of the best European destinations for families

Lori Zaino

With travel springing back into action, Europe may be the perfect place to take your family on an international trip .

While you can't really go wrong with the classics, there are many amazing, family-friendly destinations to visit beyond iconic cities such as London or Paris .

In addition to focusing on choosing locations with activities for families , it's important to consider the distinct cultural aspects of each country in Europe.

Mediterranean cultures truly love kids and are used to having them running around everywhere, including in bars and restaurants. Other destinations have history and attractions that are particularly apt for teens or best for those with smaller babies . Many spots have plenty of wide-open space and fresh air for kids to run around or feature family-friendly beaches . Likewise, many European destinations are exceptionally welcoming for LGBTQ+ families .

best cities to visit in europe with family

Whether you're traveling with teens, small children, your infant, grandma and grandpa or beyond, these are some of the best destinations to visit in Europe with your family.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Edinburgh, Scotland

best cities to visit in europe with family

Edinburgh has one of the most epic castles in all of Europe. It's practically a village complete with a royal palace, cathedral, war museum, one of Europe's largest cannons (Mons Meg) and of course, all the classic castle features that capture a child's imagination: turrets, dungeons and the like. Kids from little to old and even adults will love exploring all this massive castle has to offer.

Afterward, children will love running around the picturesque hills of Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat (make sure to watch "Camelot" with the family before the trip). Arthur's Seat, which is actually an extinct volcano, is reachable via hikes of varying difficulty, including an easier, more child-friendly route that requires more driving and less walking. Those traveling with a stroller may want to skip this activity, though.

In general, Scotland is perfect for families coming from the U.S. or Canada that don't want to deal with a language barrier. Plus, the country has lots of open space where kids can breathe in fresh air throughout its 900 islands and two national parks. And, of course, the real Harry Potter train also operates in Scotland .

Related: Fun activities for families visiting Edinburgh

Madrid, Spain

best cities to visit in europe with family

Taking your children to bars and restaurants in Madrid — actually, in all of Spain — is practically a national pastime, and no one will stare at you if little Liam has a meltdown or baby Becky is tired and won't stop crying for a bit. Just sip your beer and take it in stride like Spanish parents do.

Many of the capital's metro stations have elevators which make moving around with a baby easier. Madrid is extremely walkable (believe it or not, your stroller wheels buzzing over the cobblestones will lure your little angel right to sleep). If you're traveling with anyone older, you probably won't find ageism in Madrid. Everyone from babies to retirees hangs out in the squares till the wee hours of the night (or morning), especially during the summer months. Just note that July and August are very hot times to visit. (Here are some of the best times to visit Spain .)

A city that's also extremely welcoming to LGBTQ+ families (be sure to enjoy dining and shopping in the Chueca neighborhood), Madrid has plenty of activities that let families see the top attractions together.

Book guided child or family tours of some of the top art museums such as the Prado and the Reina Sofía, or simply enjoy wandering squares like Plaza Mayor or green spaces like Retiro Park.

Salzburg, Austria

best cities to visit in europe with family

If your child's all-time favorite movie is "The Sound of Music," you should definitely plan to head to Salzburg , a charming city that's just as welcoming to children as it is to adults. From activities such as a Toy Museum to an interactive Water Museum, there's much for children to learn about while still having fun.

For those aforementioned "Sound of Music" fans, a walk around the Mirabell Palace Gardens might seem familiar, as several scenes from the movie were filmed there. Plus, the city's family-friendly beer halls and gardens will keep both the adults and the kids entertained.

Visiting the Hohensalzburg Fortress, perched on an overlook, is also fun with kids — they'll love its hilltop location and listening to the massive mechanical organ known as the "Salzburg Bull." But what they might love most about the adventure is the funicular ride on the way up, offering bird's-eye views of the palace and city down below.

Related: 11 good hotels for your next trip to Austria

Amsterdam, Netherlands

best cities to visit in europe with family

Amsterdam might actually be best for toddlers or preschool-age kids, since you can strap your little one in a bike seat and roam the city.

Teens can enjoy the city's bike and canal culture as well as its compelling history. Many students read "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank in middle school, making this the perfect age for your tweens to visit the Anne Frank House and connect it to what they've learned from the book.

You can also arrange countryside bike tours with your older kids, tweens and teens that take you through the flat, Amstel River area past windmills and to clog and cheese factories. For younger kids, consider a ride on the city's historical tram , which operates on Sundays. The city is particularly LGBTQ+ -friendly, too.

Related: 12 mistakes made by Amsterdam tourists

Crete, Greece

best cities to visit in europe with family

With endless options for beach days, Crete is a laid-back island paradise for a relaxing family vacation. It's the largest Greek Island, meaning there are plenty of sandy shores for everyone. Children will have lots of space to run around and play without bothering other beachcombers.

Although there are many kid-friendly beaches on the island, the shallow waters of Elafonissi Beach are especially great for families, and the kids will love that the sand has a pinkish tone, too. Crete also has a few water parks that the whole family will enjoy.

For a sun-free day, Crete features Minoans World, a 3D museum and 9D cinema experience, as well as the CretAquarium and Natural History Museum. Teens can enjoy sailing lessons and food tours or wander the colorful, floral-lined streets of Chania.

The Dolomites, Italy

best cities to visit in europe with family

While it is possible to enjoy spots like Rome and Florence with kids, a family trip to enjoy the great outdoors is also a great choice. The Dolomites, a mountain range in northern Italy , make for a nature-filled, enjoyable family getaway.

While there are plenty of difficult hikes, there also are many rural walks suitable for children, with beautiful scenery including resident goats, lakeside picnics, former war trench visits and waterfall adventures. With so much open space, there doesn't have to be much to "do" here — you can let your children run around and enjoy the rolling hills or many parks, especially ones close to the cable car exits, which boast pretty cool equipment such as towers, tunnels, huge slides and even zip lines.

Although this area is heavily influenced by its proximity to Austria, you can still find traditional Italian delights like pizza , pasta and gelato that will quickly cure your child's crankiness. And while this is a popular ski area in the winter, you may want to visit in the warmer spring, summer and early fall, especially if you have smaller kids or don't want to deal with snow.

best cities to visit in europe with family

Ireland 's verdant landscape and rugged, open expanse make it the perfect destination for families with energetic kids. The country is small, around the same size as the state of Indiana. Since driving distances are short, it's easy to visit myriad destinations without too much car time, minimizing those "Are we there yets?" and bouts of carsickness.

Start in Dublin, checking out kid-friendly attractions like the Irish Emigration Museum and Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe. Many areas worth a visit are located within easy reach of Dublin, such as Glendalough, a monastic glacial valley home to the Wicklow Mountains National Park and the Blarney Castle, site of the famous Blarney Stone.

Kilkenny is a medieval town near Castlecomer Discovery Park, home to the longest zip line in Ireland. In Limerick, kids can even hunt for fairies along special trails. Just make sure to pack your raincoats and rain boots.

Related: Dublin and Edinburgh on points

Bottom line

The logistics of planning a family getaway to Europe may seem complicated — it's true that the continent has fewer family-friendly, larger hotel rooms . You may also be wondering how locals manage to get their strollers up to their apartments in capital cities.

best cities to visit in europe with family

But Europe is generally extremely welcoming to traveling families. With just a little extra research and organization (and picking the right destination), families of all different shapes and sizes with kids of varying ages can have an incredible vacation.

34 Epic Places to Visit in Europe with Kids in 2024

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Planning a trip to Europe with kids? Wondering where in Europe should you take your kids? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a round-up of the best places to visit in Europe with kids! Culturally diverse, historically rich, and achingly scenic, Europe is one continent that allows you to tick many countries off your bucket lis t in a single trip. We have traveled to about 15 countries in Europe with our daughter and loved each one of them. There’s no way you can ever get enough of this beautiful continent. We wanted to compile a list of the best places to visit in Europe with kids for so long but couldn’t because we are yet to discover many of the amazing European destinations.

We, thus, asked the seasoned family travel bloggers to recommend their favorite kid-friendly European country or city, to fill in the gaps of places we haven’t visited in Europe yet. Here we bring you an inspiring list of the best places to visit in Europe to help you plan the best European vacation with your family.

Best Places to Visit in Europe with Kids

Our list of kid-friendly destinations in Europe includes the cities and countries that have been rated the best for a family holiday time and again. These destinations welcome their little guests with loads of love and care.

Tip: To save on sightseeing, always book well in advance and buy the tourist discount cards or passes most European cities offer.

1. Vienna, Austria

schönbrunn palace and gardens vienna austria

Time and again ranked as one of the best cities to live in the world, Vienna is amazingly family-friendly.

Kids are sure to have fun in a city that houses the world’s oldest zoo, Schönbrunn Zoo as well as the world’s oldest amusement park, Prater. Plus, the museums in Vienna are super kid-friendly. Zoom Children’s Museum, Chocolate Museum, and Museum of Technology are the best of the lot. Spanish Riding School, Aqua Terra Zoo, Butterfly House, and Time Travel Vienna are a few of the endless fun things to do in Vienna . Are you already crafting an itinerary ? We recommend staying in the heart of the city which really gives you time to pause and relax which is really needed while traveling with kids.

Hotel Altstadt Vienna is one of the best hotels in Vienna’s city center. Read our guide to where to stay in Vienna .

Suggested Reading: Best Day Trips from Vienna Best Things to do in Austria Best Places to Visit in Austria Austria Itinerary

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

kids having fun on the streets of Copenhagen

Copenhagen tops our list of favorite European cities to discover with kids. The Danish capital is just so right for families. Effortless. Fairytale castles packed with 6,000-year-old history, colorful Nyhavn, unique urban spaces, and an overwhelming range of child-friendly museums that give free entry to children – you’ll never run out of things to do with kids in a city where Hans Christian Anderson’s tales come alive. Hey! And I saved the best for the last 😉 Your children are going to love you for taking them to Tivoli Gardens, the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world. Let them whoop it up at the tallest carousel in the world, Star Flyer. citizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen located conveniently in the heart of the city is a perfect family-friendly hotel in Copenhagen.

Suggested Reading Copenhagen on Budget Best Airbnb in Copenhagen Best Hotels in Copenhagen Beautiful Day Trips from Copenhagen Dragor – A Perfect Day Trip from Copenhagen The Best Itinerary for Denmark Most Beautiful Places in Denmark Scandinavia Itinerary

3. Rovaniemi, Finland

kids met santa claus in santa claus village in rovaniemi finnish lapland

Rovaniemi is literally one of the special places in the world to visit with kids. Did you know Rovaniemi is the official hometown of the kids’ favorite – The Santa Claus? You can’t even imagine how fab it feels when you meet the man in red himself. It’s an exhilarating experience for kids and kids at heart. Another bucket-list-worthy experience in Finnish Lapland is crossing the Arctic Circle! You even get a certificate that authenticates your achievement. It makes for a perfect souvenir to take back home. Lapland is a wonderland no matter what season you visit and how old your kids are. Finnish Lapland in summer offers the warmth of the Midnight Sun while it gives you other-worldly Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights in winter . The capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi unfolds the magic in a way that kids refuse to leave it 🙂 Book a Glass Resort if you visit Rovaniemi in winter and Santa Claus Holiday Village if you plan a trip to Rovaniemi in summer. Read our guide to where to stay in Rovaniemi .

Suggested Reading Best Winter Destinations in Europe Best Places to See Northern Lights Best Christmas Markets in Europe Best Places to Visit in Europe in February

4. Turku, Finland

Katja from Globetotting

turku finland best places to visit in europe with kids

Lying on Finland’s southwest coast is Turku, the oldest city in Finland. Founded in the 13 th  century, the city was once Finland’s capital although little remains from its founding years; Turku has survived some 30 fires over the course of its history but many of its original buildings were destroyed. Nevertheless, this is a pretty city and one rich in history. There are lots of things to do in Turku and you can easily fill several days here. Favorites include Turku Castle, the city’s most famous attraction. This castle is over 700 years old and is filled with stories of daring escapes, treacherous families, and romantic promises – not to mention the ghosts that reportedly prowl the corridors! Turku Market Hall is another must-see. Dating back to 1896, this market hall is filled with food stalls and restaurants and is a fantastic place to come for lunch or to pick up some fresh produce for dinner.

Some of the family-run stalls, such as the butcher, have been here since the market hall first opened. If you visit during the summer months then you should hire a Låna electric boat and cruise along the Aura River, which runs through the heart of the city. And, of course, when you visit Turku you must say hello to the Moomins. This Finnish city is the gateway to magical Moominworld, Finland’s most famous residents!

Located in the neighboring town of Naantali, Moominworld is a glorious celebration of Tove Jansson’s loveable characters.

Read More: How to Plan a Trip to Europe

5. Barcelona, Spain

Sinjana from Backpack n Explore

mount Tibidabo Amusement park barcelona spain

Barcelona, the cultural capital of Spain and a great winter sun destination is the perfect place in Europe for a family vacation.

Think of the gorgeous Prussian blue sea, the delicious Mediterranean food, Gothic architecture, beautiful parks, and a plethora of fun activities. The funicular ride to Tibidabo amusement park, one of the oldest in the world perched atop the Tibidabo hill is something kids will certainly enjoy.

The rides in the park are few but quite unique. The views are spectacular. Next, you can chill out on the Barceloneta beach – the most happening beach I have ever been to. There’s a huge Columbus welcoming you, talented sand artists, amazing dancers, sea cruises, and much more.

Check out the modern art installations in the bustling Rambla del Mar while splurging in the street markets. Barcelona is also a city of great history, that can be experienced especially in the old Barcelona. The Gothic Quarter, Gaudi’s monuments, Roman walls, Sagrada Familia, and Park Guell are some of the unmissable attractions of Barcelona.

You can book the Montjuic cable car experience from Barceloneta and then visit the National Art Museum at the hilltop. Families will also enjoy the hop-on hop-off bus tour. It’s also an easy way to get oriented in this great city. If you love football, then I don’t need to mention the famous Barcelona FC stadium Camp Nou.

You can book a tour of the stadium as well. If you have more than 3 days in Barcelona , you can include day trips to historic towns like Girona. You can stay at Hotel W for the perfect luxury experience by the sea.

6. Seville, Spain

Joanne from Sunsets and Rollercoasters

Torre de Oro Seville Spain best places to visit in the europe with kids

Seville is an amazing location to travel with kids. We visited with our three pre-teens and not only did we enjoy  3 days in Seville , but the city is also a great destination if you want to do day trips to explore more of Spain.

As a family of five, we usually prefer to stay in local apartments rather than hotels. It gives us the space we need along with the option to eat breakfast at home.

In Seville, we had a little bit of both worlds! Sevilla Plaza Suites is an aparthotel located just 10 minutes from the Seville Cathedral.

It has space for our family and a washer and dryer available. Beyond this, the view of the Cathedral from the rooftop terrace is absolutely stunning!

We‘re huge proponents of hiring local guides when we travel and our visit to Seville wouldn’t have been the same without Not Just a Tourist .

We had several guides during our visit and each and everyone was wonderful with the kids.

We used their services for a walking tour, a tapas tour (which the kids loved!), and a day trip to Cadiz and Jerez as well as guided transport from Seville to Granada.

On to the good stuff! What to actually do in Seville! The Royal Alcazar of Seville dates back to Moorish times.

The curved, keyhole entryways and beautiful ceramic decoration are so unique and the gardens are spacious and fun to explore. Nearby is the Seville Cathedral. Kids love being able to see the tomb of Christopher Columbus and climbing the ramp to the top of the Giralda (the tower).

Wander closer to the waterfront to visit the Torre de Oro (Seville’s maritime museum) and the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería, Seville’s bullring. The Torre de Oro has models of each of Columbus’ ships and Seville’s bullring offers tours where kids can visit the grounds of the ring and explore a museum showing the history of bullfighting in Seville. And if you want to experience the Spanish culture first hand, then do plan to stay at one of the many historic hotels in Spain , called the Paradores.

7. Brussels, Belgium

Bhushavali from My Travelogue by Bhushavali

comic strip route brussels belgium

Brussels is a big city, but somehow it’s not as famous as its counterparts in the Netherlands or France.

Nevertheless, Brussels has some beautiful gems and mustn’t be missed, Brussels is super kid-friendly!

The comic culture of Brussels is something not very well-known to the world.

Did you know Belgium is the birthplace of Tintin & Smurfs? Brussels has a dedicated Comic Strip Route (BD-Parcours), which is a map of all the murals in the city. Honestly, it is so extensive that it cannot be finished in one day! Esp., the ceiling mural of Smurfs close to Brussels Central station is extensive and so gorgeous that my toddler prefers to just stay beneath it for more than 15 mins, adoring & describing each & every part of the mural!!!

Apart from the murals, there are 2 museums dedicated to comics, in Brussels – the Museum of Original Figurines (MoOF) and the Comic Strip Centre. Comic Strip Centre is an absolute delight to go to with my gal.

There are huge blow-ups of comic strips, of course, in the local language, French. There are life-sized play areas, puzzles, games, and photo spots for kids and it’s just freaking awesome to be there with toddlers!!!

MoOF has limited edition figurines of comic characters over the last century!!! I had fond memories of Nintendos and other ‘naive’ hand-held game consoles of my childhood!

There were working models of a few of these games and I guess I loved it more than my kid!

It is easy to reach all of these places by public transport. Brussels is well connected by metro, tram & bus. Just on the outskirts of Brussels is yet another museum dedicated to the life & works of Herge, the creator of Tintin.

8. Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Frankie from As the Bird Flies Blog

Bubbles in Museumplein Amsterdam Netherlands

I live in Amsterdam with my two half-British, half-Australian kids, and not only do I think it’s a great place to live with young children but it also follows that I think it’s a fantastic holiday destination for families too. Amsterdam is what I like to call a “big little city”. It’s small (and flat!) enough to get around easily by foot (or bike if you want to join the locals), but if you have walking-adverse children (like my four-year-old) then Amsterdam’s public transport is reliable, safe, and affordable too making that part of the adventure for young kids. In fact, one of my most recommended things to do with kids in Amsterdam is hopping on the free ferries that take you from Centraal Station to Amsterdam Noord, a fun upcoming part of Amsterdam that older kids will like for the street art and younger ones for the boat spotting opportunities. Many children may possibly be familiar with the story of Anne Frank and if you plan on visiting Anne Frank House with children (or not!) you definitely need to book your tickets in advance as only 20% are available on the day to buy online (and the rest are released two months in advance). There are also other fantastic museums for children in Amsterdam like NEMO Science Museum (which also has great views over the city from its rooftop) and the nearby Maritime Museum where kids can explore a real pirate ship. Amsterdam is also a very outdoorsy city and you will find kids’ playgrounds scattered around neighborhoods, most schools keep their playgrounds open at weekends so other kids can play on them too. Also, don’t forget to take a self-guided or curated food tour of Amsterdam to sample the local delicacies. In terms of places to stay with children, Amsterdam’s hotel rooms can be notoriously expensive and small, especially in the center of the city so I always recommend looking at staying outside of the Red Light District and three main ring canals in order to find well-known hotel brands that have family rooms or options like NH Collection , Marriott and Novotel Hotels. I would also recommend thinking about staying in a self-catering apartment because you’ll likely get (a lot!) more space for your money and you will be located in family-friendly neighborhoods rather than the busy center of Amsterdam. Try Airbnb to find family-friendly apartments in pretty neighborhoods in Amsterdam.

There are many other experiences you can add to your Amsterdam bucket list to explore the best of this beautiful capital city of the Netherlands.

9. Wassenaar, the Netherlands

Helen from Holidays from Hels

wassenaar netherlands

Wassenaar is a small photogenic Dutch town, perfect for a family holiday. It is located a handy 30-minute drive from the Hook of Holland Ferry Port, and a cycle ride from the center of The Hague.

You enter the town by way of Millionaires’ Row, a leafy avenue lined with impressive mansions, owned by wealthy Hague diplomats.

With its tiny cobbles, traditional Dutch buildings, and pedestrianized walkways, the town is both charming and family-friendly. Colorful pancake shops serve this traditional Dutch fare under pretty awnings.

A firm favorite is the ice cream shop in the center, with its outdoor seating area where you can watch the world go by. To complete the picture, the town comes, of course, with its own windmill.

Whilst in Holland, you may want to hire bikes and take a family cycle ride to the lovely Wassenaar beach, fringed with an array of wooden-decked café bars.

Some even come with their own trampoline, perfect for entertaining the children while the adults relax on cushioned sofas on the sand.

Staying at Duinrell holiday park , 500m from the town center is what makes this one of the best family holiday destinations. It has its own woodland funfair and indoor/outdoor water park.

You are twirled around the skies in a Dutch-themed windmill ride and roller coasters whisk you between the trees. There are watersides for tubing and, for the brave, a trap door ride that opens to send you vertically down its chute.

A traditional Dutch town with fairs, water parks, and beaches on hand, Wassenaar literally has it all for a fun-filled family holiday.

We loved it so much we are going again next summer, and taking 2 more families with us.

10. Rome, Italy

Marta from Mama Loves Rome

rome with kids best places to visit in europe with kids

If you are looking for a wonderful city to explore with your kids during your vacation in Europe, then Rome may just be the place. Famous for incredible history, gorgeous art, and delicious food, Rome may not come to mind as a quintessential child-friendly place, however, after very many family trips there, we can guarantee it has a lot to offer to families with kids of all ages! The best things to do in Rome with kids are a mix of sightseeing and kids’ attractions.

Among Rome’s must-see sites, the Colosseum is always a hit with our children, with its gory story of gladiators and emperors and the Vatican is fun for them too.  They get a kick when they walk across the State line between Italy and Vatican City and the record-breaking dome and basilica always get a wow. To make the most of both attractions, I highly recommend you book a family tour: The Pink Umbrella tour of the Colosseum and the Rome4kids tour of the Vatican was our favorite.  When you need a break from sightseeing, you can join local families in one of Rome’s many parks and playgrounds or visit the lovely Explora, Rome’s children’s museum.  This is a wonderful place for a rainy afternoon and one our kids adore: there is a soft area for under 3s and lots and lots of installations and games for primary school children and even teenagers. 

And don’t miss out on a visit to Villa Borghese, a lush oasis that’s perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely boat ride on the lake. It’s like Rome’s playground, where kids can run free and everyone can take a breather from the bustling city life. To make the most of your family time in Rome, I highly recommend you pick accommodation in the historical center. The area around the Pantheon, in particular, puts you within walking distance from the main attractions and within easy reach of restaurants and shops.

We love Le Clarisse al Pantheon ,  a well-priced place with family rooms and apartments in a perfect location. Check out the 3 days in Rome itinerary to plan a perfect family trip to Rome.

11. Tuscany, Italy

Katy Clark from Untold Italy

tuscany italy best places to visit in europe with kids

Italy is a favorite destination for families and Tuscany is a region that has a wealth of options for your entire crew. It looks ethereal, especially during spring .

From exploring hilltop villages to countryside activities and beach time, you’ll find something to please everyone in Tuscany. Do your children love art and culture? Then head to Florence. The Renaissance city is overflowing with masterpieces by famous artists like Michelangelo and Raphael.

Visit the galleries or simply wander around the city admiring its many statues and fountains. Break up your day with a ride on the vintage carousel in Piazza Della Republicca or a run through the Boboli Gardens.

Families that prefer outdoor activities should consider Lucca as an alternative base. The walls of this pretty medieval city have been converted into a huge park. You can rent bikes to explore the walls and the mainly car-free historic center.

Pisa is a short train ride or a drive away so you can take some fun family snaps with the famous leaning tower.  The hills of Tuscany are the perfect base for exploring the countryside. Choose an agriturismo or farm stay like Fattoria San Donato near picturesque San Gimignano and you can spend the morning going horse riding or hiking and your afternoons by the pool relaxing. If you’re a beach lover, the Tuscan coastline is relatively undiscovered by tourists and is full of treasures too. Here you will find white sand beaches, national parks , and pretty fishing villages.

Larger resorts like Viareggio and Forte Dei Marmi are favorites with Italians and you’ll find plenty of fun, games, and beach clubs there. When it is time to eat you’re sure to find some of the best pasta and pizza you’ve ever tasted. And let’s not forget your daily gelato. Maybe two. After all, you’re on vacation.

12. Sardinia, Italy

Angela from Chasing the Unexpected

Giara plateau sardinia italy

Among the  things to do in Sardinia , plenty will easily be your kids’ favorite activities.

The Italian island is surrounded by a gorgeous coastline, and while not all beaches are safe to go to with children, many are such as Putzu Idu and S’Archittu in Oristano province. Putzu Idu, in particular, is fantastic as the water remains very low for many meters so kids can play without danger.

As much as the beaches are one of the favorite playgrounds for kids from all over the world, Sardinia has plenty of other things to do. Such as taking your kids to some archaeological sites like the Nuraghe Losa near Ghilarza, the Roman thermal baths of Fordongianus, the Phoenician Tharros near Cabras, or Santa Cristina sacred well near Paulilatino. If you are traveling to Sardinia during Carnival time, visit towns like Oristano for the Sartiglia, a spectacular acrobatic horse vaulting performed by masked riders, or Mamoiada, where the ancient masks of the Mamuthones enchant adults and kids dancing their ancient ritual along the streets. For great fun, there are plenty of water parks all over the island, such as Aquadream in the exclusive Costa Smeralda, or Aquafantasy in Sassari province. If your children enjoy nature, you can explore magical places like the Burgos forest in central Sardinia or the gorgeous Giara plateau where you will see the rare horses native to the island that didn’t evolve and stayed smaller than the horses we know today. A lovely place to stay with kids in Sardinia would be an agriturismo, which is a traditional house usually with a farm that includes accommodation and a place to eat. One that we know is very nice is Archelao Agriturismo near Oristano. They are immersed in nature and they have animals such as cows, goats, donkeys, and sheep, a playground, and a delicious restaurant.

You Might Like to Read: Best Islands in Europe

13. Nervi, Italy

Jaishree from Manish Jaishree

parchi di nervi genoa italy

Nervi is a small up-market residential town in Genova, Italy. It boasts of a seaside; not with beaches but rocky cliffs.

This saves the sea from unending rows of sun umbrellas, a crowd of sunbathing people, and a horde of tourists.

However, a two-kilometer promenade called Passagiata Anita Garibaldi along its coastal side more than compensates for the beach. We stayed at  Savoia & Savoia apartments which is set in a private park. It has its own swimming pool and overlooks the promenade and sea.

The train station, sea, and promenade are just five minutes distance from here. You can access the sea from the promenade at many places through the stairs. Kids love climbing up and down these stairs. On a day just after a stormy sea day, they love going down cliffs to find the puddles lodged by the sea in rocks.

Parchi di Nervi can be easily reached from the promenade. Kids love it for running freely and cycling. It is a big park spread over 22 acres with a lovely lawn, and many exotic trees, and lovelier it is in spring when thousands of roses bloom in its rose garden. A railway track underneath divides the park in two and a bridge connects it. Kids run to be on the bridge whenever a train came across to look at the train changing the tracks.

A walk on the promenade and playing in the park increases the appetite. It is best satiated at a few kiosks on the promenade, offering good Italian gelato and Focaccia and Pasta with pesto, a specialty of Genoese Cuisine. You can also take kids to Cinque Terre for a trek. There is a direct train from Nervi to Corniglia which takes only an hour. Kids can also do the sailing course with the Italian Sailing Federation and the kayaking course.

Simply watching kids take kayaking and the sailing course is also fun. While kids do not like museums much, they do like the drawing workshop at the Museum of Nervi.

14. Ireland

Cath from Passports and Adventures

cliffs of moher doolin irealnd

Ireland is one of the most family-friendly countries in Europe and no matter where you visit in the country, you will always find cool and fun things to do in Ireland with kids .

From Dublin to Galway and Cork to Limerick, each city has a wealth of family fun things to do. Ireland is steeped in history too and in every major city, you’ll find castles and historical sites to visit. Some of the best castles are in the Republic, or the South, and many of them have interactive displays to keep kids entertained. Some, like Bunratty Castle, even have extensive grounds with folk parks, fairy gardens and more so if the main attraction isn’t for them, the grounds certainly will be.

Many cities within Ireland are also hosting other interesting things for kids and their families. In Cork, you will find Blackrock Castle. While yes, it is a castle, it is also home to an observatory. In Dublin, you will find an abundance of things to do with kids such as Dublinia where you can learn about Dublin’s history, there is a Children’s Museum that kids will love, and Explorium, a science museum dedicated to kids. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Head west and you can visit the quaint town of Galway before heading to see the famous Cliffs of Moher. Want to see some Game of Thrones filming locations? Head to Northern Ireland, and while you are there explore Belfast, which has lots to keep little ones and their families entertained. While you could join guided tours, to really explore Ireland , hire a car and go where the wind takes you.

It gives you the freedom to stop wherever takes your fancy and you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to picture taking.

15. Iceland

Jacquie Hale from Flashpacking Family

Gerduberg Cliffs Iceland Europe with kids

Iceland was always on our radar but we had put it off for years thinking it would be an expensive holiday.

When we found very cheap flights to Reykjavik one day, our curiosity got the better of us. It turns out that whilst Iceland can be expensive, you can also do  Iceland on a budget . Visiting Iceland with the kids has been one of the best family holidays we have had. We spent all day, every day outside exploring and the best part was that almost everything we did was free.

The highlights for us were Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and neighboring Diamond Beach in the south near Hofn, the incredible waterfalls of Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skogafoss, and climbing the Gerduberg cliffs on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. If you love the great outdoors, then you will love Iceland. If you ask our kids what their favorite thing was though, they will no doubt say it was the swimming pools.

Everyone hears about the hot springs in Iceland, which are definitely worth visiting, but our kids love the municipal pools. The pools (both indoor and outdoor) are also heated geothermally but with slides, saunas, and jacuzzis.

They are really social and a great way to meet locals.

We highly recommend  Laugardalslaug  in Reykjavik (under 5 free, 5-17 years are £1) and the pool in Hvolsvollur (under 12s free). We also recommend hiring a car and visiting these places yourself. Not only will it save you money but it will give you much more flexibility which is so important when traveling with kids. If you’re basing yourself in Reykjavik, we can highly recommend Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura which has great and reasonably priced family rooms and plenty of parking space.

16. Athens, Greece

Tiffany from Mommy and Me Travels

parthenon on the acropolis athenes greece best places to visit in europe with kids

Athens, Greece is a bustling city with so many wonderful things for families to explore and experience.

The historical sights within this city can easily take up your whole trip.  Do your kids love gaining more knowledge about the Greek Gods and Goddesses? You will easily find a temple, statue, garden, or museum in all of them.

At Mommy And Me Travels we always recommend starting with the most famous of all landmarks, the Acropolis Of Athens .

From almost anywhere in the city, you will see this magnificent site rising above all others.  If you are like us, once you finish hiking all over Acropolis Hill, you will be looking for something to eat or at least a snack.

Don’t miss finding your favorite restaurant among the many delicious places on Restaurant Row. You can easily find this massive amount of choices by walking down several flights of stairs or jumping into a cab.

Looking to soak up the sun on a beach day? Jump on the bus and head just outside of town to Sounion. Here you will be able to play along the beach and also visit the Temple of Poseidon as it towers over the sea. Athens, Greece is definitely a spot that you and your family should spend some time in when starting your tour around Greece.

17. Crete, Greece

Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

balos lagoon gramvousa island crete greece

The Greek island of Crete is a fantastic family holiday destination thanks to its varied attractions, beaches, hotels, and restaurants.

Being the largest of Greece’s islands, Crete offers something for everyone, so whether you’re a family interested in hiking in nature, exploring archaeological sites, chilling on the beach, or shopping and eating out in metropolitan towns, Crete will have you covered! Crete not only has a number of family-specific tourist attractions such as the aquarium in Heraklion, Water City, and Aqua World, but it also has some interesting historical sites and museums that kids absolutely love.

Whether they’re discovering the Knossos ruins, exploring the Venetian fortress, or enjoying interactive exhibits at the Natural History Museum, your children are sure to be both learning and having an incredible vacation. Of course, a family holiday isn’t just about keeping the kids busy, though, but thankfully Crete has a whole host of beautiful beaches that are perfect for both adults and children. Beaches such as Elafonisi, Bali, Vaï, Kato Gouves, and Paleohora feature shallow waters and intriguing coves and lagoons that will ensure the whole family is relaxed, happy, and entertained. Most of the beaches also offer sunbeds and parasols, restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy drinks, meals, and ice creams and a handful of souvenir shops, so there’s everything you need on hand for a good day out. Whether you choose to stay in one of the larger towns such as Heraklion or Chania or opt for one of the resort regions such as Elounda , you’ll have plenty to do to ensure you have a great trip.

Hiring a car offers you the most flexibility as a family as you’ll be able to move between attractions, towns, and beaches at your leisure.

Rai from A Rai of Light

Valetta Malta with kids

There’s no denying that a visit to this Mediterranean island is almost guaranteed to include awesome experiences, fine food, friendly locals, beautiful landscapes, and a good mix of cultures and languages.

There are also a whole lot of things to do in Malta . Fortunately, it is a destination that is ideally suited for families. As one of the safest countries in the world, it made exploring the country as a family a welcome experience.

Malta is a year-round destination even while the rest of Europe experiences less-than-ideal conditions, particularly during the winter months. Don’t miss a visit to Valetta, Mdina, Balutta Bay, and the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk.

Public transportation is cheap and well-suited to get around most parts of the island. Due to its strategic location in the center of the Mediterranean, the region has a rich past and is ideal for history lovers. Adventurous families will enjoy exploring the coastal areas, swimming in the cool waters, or partaking in the numerous activities on offer at any time of the year.

Expect to find a wide variety of accommodation options, including a sufficient amount of family-focused places. Famed for its character and points of interest, the island comprises interesting places and is well worth taking the time to get to.

19. Krakow, Poland

Karolina Klesta from Lazy Travel Blog

beautiful city of krakow poland

One of the best family holiday destinations in Europe is Krakow in the south of Poland by the Czech border, which has a lot of attractions that are suited for different types of tourists, especially children. Krakow has an atmosphere that captures the imagination of children with the winding cobblestone streets of the Old Town and the fairytale appeal of Wawel Castle with its underground limestone caves where a dragon once lived. Watch their eyes pop open when they spot the bronze dragon sculpture at the cave’s exit.

What makes it even cooler is that it breathes fire every few minutes. Take note that this passage can only be accessed from April to October, the ideal time to  visit Krakow . Add to the magic by packing some snacks with you and going on a stroll down the Vistula River from the cave exit, then complete the story by taking your children on a 20-minute carriage ride around the Old Town. Another fantastic attraction is the Rynek Underground Museum, where touch-screen holographic exhibits and automated puppets will show what Krakow was like 100 years ago.

The same museum even has an 11-century cemetery, where vampire prevention burials were once conducted to ensure that the unliving will not rise from their graves. In Kazimierz, the Jewish quarter of Krakow, there are museums that offer both fun and learning to children, like the Ethnographic Museum, where they can walk around a 19th-century Polish classroom and take a look at the colorful folk costumes and instruments on display.

Another must-visit in this area is the Museum of Municipal Engineering, where there are many interactive hands-on exhibits. To have a hassle-free experience in Krakow, the best accommodation for your family should be close to the city center.

Just below the castle is the Sheraton Hotel , which will literally put the city at your doorstep.

Another well-recommended family hotel is the DoubleTree which is 1.6 kilometers from the Polish Aviation Museum and has a swimming pool, where you and your family can relax after a long day of sightseeing.

20. Lisbon, Portugal

Soumya from Stories by Soumya

tram on the roads of Lisbon portugal

Lisbon is one of the best places to visit on a  family holiday in Portugal . And that is because there are hundreds of things here that you can enjoy doing with your kids.

I traveled to Lisbon with my 7-year-old and he really enjoyed riding Lisbon’s antique trams, getting on top of the São Jorge Castle, spotting stories on blue tiles, and eating delicious Portuguese desserts. The trams and funiculars of Lisbon are a must-do when you are in the city with your kids.

Tram #28 is quite popular with tourists but crowded. If you are looking for some peaceful time with your family, ride Tram #24 instead.

Equally rickety and picturesque but much less crowded. You can also walk over an aqueduct in Lisbon. Now, that is not something you can do everywhere else, can you?

The Águas Livres Aqueduct in Armoreira is a lesser-known UNESCO heritage site and offers panoramic views of Lisbon. If your kids are curious about old vehicles, head to the National Coach Museum in Belem.

Gilded horse-drawn carriages, opulent wagons, and tiny bogies for kids of royal families will keep the young minds enthralled. Lisbon is also surrounded by some of the best beaches in Portugal. Carcavelos and Cascais are close by and easy to get to by public transport. When in Lisbon with kids, it is always a good idea to stay close to the city center so that you can minimize your travel time.

There are lots of family-friendly hotels and apartments in Lisbon. And most of them serve delicious Pasteis de Nata for breakfast! More reason to visit Lisbon with your family.

21. Porto, Portugal

Josie from Where Jo Goes

sunset in porto portugal

Porto, nestled on the banks of the Douro River in Portugal, is famous for its port houses.

But putting port quaffing aside, it’s also a fantastic place for a family holiday. We enjoyed a great few days exploring the city and its environs. From the center, catch a vintage tram to the coast – the seaside resort of Foz, with its rocky beaches and palm-fringed promenades, is just a 30-minute ride away. For kids, Porto is an easy city to explore and one that’s fun to get around. Catch a cable car at the quay or jump in a tuk-tuk for a city tour.

For Harry Potter fans, Porto boasts the bookshop that inspired J K Rowling – the Livraria Lello with its wooden staircases curving to the ceiling, reminiscent of Olivander’s Wand Shop. We joined a food tour with  Taste Porto . It took us on tastings around the city, from sardines to chocolate, a unique way to explore Porto and very popular with my children.

You can book a food tour with Taste Porto here. World of Discoveries is an interactive museum, great for younger children, bringing to life the history of Portuguese exploration of the globe. Kids can try on suits of armor, lie down on bunks, and take a boat ride through lands that Portuguese adventurers discovered.

For a shot of Porto life, stroll under Dom Luis bridge and along the Cais Ribeira for street entertainers and pavement cafes.

For families, Porto has so much to explore and, after a day’s sightseeing, don’t forget to try the port! We stayed at Flores Boutique Hotel and Spa . Perfectly positioned in a beautiful house in the old quarter, the hotel has a rooftop garden with great views and a small basement spa pool as well as family rooms. 

22. Sintra, Portugal

Mari from Mari on the Map

pena national palace sintra portugal

Just 40 minutes outside of Lisbon by train lies the most magical place in Europe:  Sintra, Portugal .

A former playground for Portuguese royalty turned Unesco World Heritage Site, Sintra is ideal for families with kids of all ages. From colorful palaces to medieval fortresses to more modern Alice in Wonderland-style gardens, you can easily have a fairytale day trip or long weekend exploring Sintra. 

Disney princess and prince fans will love Pena National Palace, a pastel palace perched atop a hill, as regal as they come.

Kids interested in play battles will love the medieval Castle of the Moors, featuring stairs on the exterior wall, so you can literally storm the castle! And no trip to Sintra is complete without a visit to the enigmatic Quinta da Regaleira, where families can play hide and seek through a maze of towers and hidden tunnels.

A favorite secret tunnel of ours was behind the garden’s waterfall. A map provided on entry shows all of the tunnel and tower locations. 

While there’s a lot of ground to cover, Sintra has great options for getting around.

Multiple in-town buses loop to all of the main sites and back through the main town square.

Bike taxis are also a fun way to travel between the sites. Anyone who feels ambitious can walk or hike from the palace to the palace.

23. Madeira, Portugal

Sinead from Map Made Memories

Ponta de São Lourenço Madeira Portugal

The tropical Atlantic island of  Madeira  is underrated as a European family holiday destination. The small island has a lot to offer families who prefer an active holiday. The pretty capital, Funchal, offers ornate cathedrals, decorated churches, interesting museums, and several city parks to visit.

Football fans will love CR7, the harborfront museum dedicated to a locally-born icon, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring the colorful plants and winding walkways of Monte Tropical Gardens which can be accessed by a scenic cable car ride from Funchal. Choose to ride the famous wicker toboggans back to the city center, a short but thrilling ride expertly guided by straw-hatted Carreiros.

Madeira has a couple of artificial sandy beaches but what the island lacks in beaches it makes up for in family-friendly seawater pools and lidos, many of which are set against the backdrop of dramatic cliffs such as the pools at Porto Moniz. Families can visit small, charming villages, explore the caves and volcano exhibition at Sao Vicente, and learn about Madeiran culture at Santana Theme Park.

Test your family’s head for heights on the glass floor viewing platform at the highest sea cliffs in Europe at Cabo Girao. Hikers from all over the world flock to Madeira to walk the famous irrigation channels, the Levadas, which crisscross the island and there are several family-friendly routes to choose from.

Our kids loved the views, the tranquility on the hikes, the plunging waterfalls, and the chance to trek through pitch-black tunnels over 1 kilometer long!

24. Arosa, Switzerland

Augusta from Mini Me Explorer

Beautiful town of Arosa Switzerland

Arosa (Switzerland) is the perfect destination for families. It is not as packed with people as other better-known Swiss resorts, and yet it offers the same incredible alpine scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. It is located in the Graubunden canton, not far from St. Moritz. The highlight is certainly the Bear Sanctuary, which opened in 2018, to give a home in appropriate conditions to bears rescued from chains and mistreatment. From a comfortable viewing platform, we waited under 5 minutes before the first bear was in sight: imposing and mild-looking.

He stood there in front of us, oblivious of everyone, eating blueberries as if there was no tomorrow. Nearby you can find a game of bear-themed miniature golf and a playground. The playground is the trailhead of a path leading down to Arosa and allows kids to take part in a scavenger hunt, with a prize to collect from the tourist office in town.

Still talking of bears, another big (and fake) one can be found on top of Mount Weisshorn, 2653 meters above sea level, which you can reach by cable car. It’s the Wishing Bear and it’s all covered with blue and yellow ribbons.

The 360-degree panorama from up there is amazing. Arosa offers many hiking trails, of all levels – and some of them are accessible with strollers.

One of them is the Squirrels Trail, which starts behind the train station. You will meet plenty of hungry squirrels along the path, looking for opportunities to be fed from a gentle kid’s hand.

An almond did the trick for my son, and he is still raving about it. Finally, one last recommendation: daredevil kids should not miss the adventure park (Seilpark) behind the Coop supermarket.

The minimum age is 4 years old so that even kids shorter than 140 cm can have fun. There are two “rope routes” for them, one particularly challenging. Adrenalin rush guaranteed.

25. Prague, Czech Republic

Veronika from Travel Geekery

Ducks in a lake prague with kids

Prague  is one of the most sought-after destinations in Central and Eastern Europe and one that’s increasingly popular with families too!

Even Prague locals themselves don’t retreat to their homes once they start a family but often keep doing the same things they’ve enjoyed pre-kids, such as going to cafés. Café-hopping has thus become children-friendly too and there are many cafés that even feature kids playing areas.

For example Café Mistral in the Old Town, Le Caveau in the Vinohrady district, or Café Jedna in the Holešovice district (in the same building as the National Gallery). Special outdoor playing areas (often featuring sandpits) can be found in most residential districts, rather further from the very city center.

A big playground is located at Vyšehrad, a hill of the same name and the seat of the first Czech kings with a stunning Basilica of Sts Peter and Paul. The playground is themed and includes large wooden carved statues. A good area for kids to run around freely is also the Kasárna Karlín, a former barracks in the Karlín district.

You can find a large sandpit, plenty of kid-friendly activities, a small exhibition space, and a little café. Older children will be thrilled at the Karel Zeman Film Museum of Special Effects.

Karel Zeman was a pioneer of special film effects from the ’50s to the ’70s. The museum is interactive and is a great fun as well as a learning experience.

Don’t forget to take your kids to Prague Castle, an awe-inspiring complex that’ll have them feeling like they’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The views from the castle grounds are spectacular, and it’s a fantastic way to introduce your little ones to the rich history of the city. Apartments are the best places to stay for a family since they tend to have more rooms and you can even cook a little something if needed.

You can find those on Airbnb and Booking.com .

With that being said, most luxury hotels are family-friendly too and even offer a babysitting service – check out e.g. the Hilton Prague Old Town Hotel .

26. Dordogne, France

Kirsten from Kids are a Trip

Chateau de Castelnaud dordogne france

One of our favorite places to visit in Europe is the Dordogne region of France. This beautiful area is located north of Toulouse and east of Bordeaux and features winding rivers, cliffside villages, and historic attractions.

There is an abundance of outdoor activities for families, castles, and more. There are many  things to do in Dordogne with kids , but one of our favorite things to do is canoeing on the Dordogne River.

Dordogne region has some of the most beautiful villages in France . Families can cruise along the river and admire villages and castles along the way.

It’s an easy adventure, and buses pick you up at the end and transport you back to your vehicle. If you have a castle lover in the group, don’t miss Chateau de Beynac and Chateau de Castelnaud.

The latter has a fascinating museum of war and life-size trebuchet kids will love. Spend some time strolling the charming towns of Sarlat and La Roque Gages.

Head to Lascaux IV to see re-creations of the original Lascaux cave paintings which are over 20,000 years old. And if kids need somewhere to get out their energy, head to the Gardens of Marqueyssac, with its hedge mazes and interactive exhibits for children.

We highly recommend staying in a local gite that allows access to all of the sights. Le Chevrefeuille offers a bed and breakfast as well as self-catering apartments. The hosts, Ian and Sarah, offer superb hospitality and delicious meals, as well as spectacular accommodation that is centrally located for all the Dordogne, has to offer.

27. Munich, Germany

Nymphenburg Palace Munich Germany

Apart from being one of the  best places to visit in Bavaria , Munich has always been among the most family-friendly destinations in the whole of Europe.

Vast open spaces, a vibrant city center, world-class museums, and plenty of tall towers to climb – Munich has a plethora of things for kids of every age. I would highly recommend starting with a tour of the Marienplatz, the historic city center of Munich. This is a pedestrian zone where you can find lots of fresh pretzels and ice cream.

This is also where you can watch a free show of the Rathaus-Glockenspiel – a huge mechanized clock that comes to life every day with a wedding dance and a jousting match. Close by is the Viktualenmarkt, an open-air market that sells everything from fresh fruits and cold meat to garden decorations. If you are looking for somewhere to burn off those extra calories, head to the Englischer Garten with its beautiful pools, open fields, and picturesque walking trails.

Also explore the Deutsches Museum, an absolute must-do for families in Munich. The museum has a Kid’s Kingdom, special guided tours for children, and a huge interactive collection that the kids can toy around with for hours. And if that is not enough for your little ones, you can easily do day trips to Lake Königssee – Germany’s prettiest alpine lake, the Nymphenburg Palace – a Baroque mansion with splendid gardens, and Regensburg – a UNESCO heritage site that also houses the world’s oldest sausage kitchen and a large BMW plant. Yes, you can take a tour of the car factory too!

28. Freiburg, Germany

Hannah from Hannahs Happy Adventures

freiburg germany

After spending a year living in Freiburg, Germany, I would like to share with you why Freiburg is a perfect family holiday destination in Europe.

The city offers so much from beautiful castles to stunning mountains that are easily accessible for a family.

The overwhelming range of family-friendly things to do in Freiburg and its outdoorsy character make for a great destination to visit with kids. A ride up the funicular to Schlossberg promises beautiful views of the city. Seepark (Lake Park) is a great attraction, especially in the summer. You can take a dip in the lake or have a family picnic. A short tram ride out of the city takes you to Mundenhof – a free animal park that’s great to have a walk around and is open all year round. Once the family has had enough of Freiburg’s city center, the black forest is just on the doorstep. It’s fun for the whole family for an entire day.

You can ride a cable car up Schauinsland, take a stroll through the woods in the summer, or hit the sledding park in the snowy winter. You’d need cash to pay for your sled hire. The black forest is home to a small water park on Lake Schluchsee that’s worth visiting during the summer.

Furthermore, don’t forget to visit the alpine coaster, a fun activity for everyone in the family. The chairlift takes you to the top while the coaster brings you down. Young kids can ride with their parents. I highly recommend renting a family-friendly apartment like this one . Alternatively, the Novotel Freiburg Am Konzerthaus has a great location if you prefer a hotel. It has breakfast options available too.

29. Paris, France

eiffel tower paris france europe

Paris might be famous as one of the most romantic cities in the world, but trust me, it’s equally fantastic for families too.

You can’t go wrong starting with the Eiffel Tower. It’s not just a big hunk of metal; it’s an adventure to the top, complete with an awesome view! And if your kids are bouncing off the walls afterward, there’s a playground right at its base.

What’s next? Disneyland Paris, of course! It’s just a quick train ride away and it’s where your kids’ favorite cartoons come to life. After a day of thrill and magic, you’ll all be singing Disney tunes for days.

But don’t overlook the simple joys. The Luxembourg Gardens are perfect for a laid-back day. Your kids can sail wooden boats on the pond, and there’s enough room to run around or have a picnic. Speaking of food, make sure to grab a crêpe from a street vendor or try a cooking class designed for families. It’s a tasty way to dive into French culture!

For something a bit different, hop on a Seine River Cruise. It’s a fun and relaxed way to see the city’s famous landmarks. And if you’ve got a young reader in your crew, don’t skip Shakespeare and Company, a classic English-language bookstore that’s perfect for a quiet afternoon.

So pack your bags and head to Paris. From the must-see sights to local delights, it’s a city that rolls out the red carpet for families. Trust me, you won’t want to leave!

30. London, United Kingdom

buckingham palace london ultimate europe bucket list

This iconic city is like a sprawling playground for families. Picture this: you and your kids hopping on a classic red double-decker bus, and you’re off on an adventure! From the historical Tower of London to the interactive wonders of the Science Museum, there’s no shortage of kid-approved attractions.

But wait, it gets even better! Ever tried navigating the Thames on a family-friendly river cruise? It’s like London’s history unfolding before your eyes but from the water. And speaking of water, the London Aquarium is a must-visit. Your kids will be wide-eyed, spotting everything from vibrant coral to waddling penguins.

Now, if you’re thinking outdoor fun, don’t forget the charming parks—Hyde Park’s paddle boats are a hit for families. And let’s not ignore the elephant in the room, or rather, the giant Ferris wheel by the river. A ride on the London Eye offers panoramic views that’ll make everyone’s Instagram feed pop.

How could we forget Buckingham Palace? You simply can’t visit London without catching the Changing of the Guard ceremony here. Kids will be utterly fascinated by the pomp and pageantry, and let’s be honest, so will the adults!

Don’t forget, London serves as a fantastic launchpad for day trips that the whole family will love . From the enchanting spires of Oxford to the historic grandeur of Windsor Castle, there’s a nearby adventure waiting for everyone!

So grab those Oyster cards and let London unfold its magic. Each tube stop is a new adventure waiting to happen. From the British Museum’s Egyptian mummies to a West End show that’ll have your kids dancing in the aisles, London is the ultimate family-friendly destination!

31. Edinburg, Scotland

calton hill Edinburgh Scotland UK with kids

Edinburgh , the enchanting Scottish capital feels like stepping into a storybook! Imagine walking the cobbled streets with your family, where each turn feels like a new chapter in an epic tale. Castles? Check. Festivals? Double check. A mountain right in the city center? Oh, you better believe it!

Edinburgh Castle reigns supreme over the city, and trust me, kids go nuts for this place. They’ll be captivated by the Crown Jewels, the firing of the One o’Clock Gun, and tales of daring knights and royal intrigue. If they’re into Harry Potter, take them to The Elephant House, where J.K. Rowling wrote the first book—talk about inspiring the next generation of wizards!

But Edinburgh is not just about historic haunts; it’s a natural playground too. Holyrood Park offers a fun family hike up to Arthur’s Seat, providing a 360-degree view that’ll leave even the youngest explorers breathless (in a good way!). And for a more structured nature fix, the Edinburgh Zoo is a win-win, home to the UK’s only pandas.

When it comes to festivals, this city goes big. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August is like Disneyland for art lovers. Street performances, magic shows, and puppetry—the kids will be spoilt for choice, and so will you!

So pack those tartan scarves and prep the family for an unforgettable Scottish escapade. Edinburgh offers a seamless blend of the historical and the whimsical, creating a family vacation that’s as educational as it is entertaining!

32. Budapest, Hungary

hungarian parliament budapest itinerary

This Hungarian gem is split by the mighty Danube, and let me tell you, each side of the river offers its own unique set of wonders that’ll keep the whole family grinning from ear to ear. Buda, with its historic Castle Hill, and Pest, buzzing with life, work in harmony to offer an unforgettable family vacation.

Skipping the thermal baths in Budapest is like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower—it’s practically a sin! At Széchenyi Thermal Bath, both you and the kiddos can bask in the naturally warm waters. Oh, and get this: if you swing by during winter, the kids will be over the moon to be swimming outdoors while snowflakes drift down from the sky!

If you’ve got young explorers in your crew, the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden is a must-visit. It’s one of the oldest in the world and houses some truly exotic creatures. From elephants and polar bears to tropical birds, it’s a mini safari right in the heart of the city.

And speaking of heart, the Hungarian State Circus is where your family’s heart will beat to the thrilling acts of acrobats, clowns, and jugglers. A circus might seem old-school, but trust me, this is pure, wholesome fun that transcends age.

Take a leisurely family cruise on the Danube to see the city from a whole new angle. The twinkling lights of the Parliament and Buda Castle from the water are magical, especially as the sun sets.

For accommodation, consider staying in an apartment to give you that home-away-from-home feeling. Apartments often have kitchens, which is a lifesaver if you’ve got picky eaters. Plus, it’s often more cost-effective when traveling with a gang.

So, whether it’s the thermal baths, the history, or just the unique European charm, Budapest is a city that rolls out the red carpet for families. A trip here is like a fun history lesson mixed with some good old-fashioned family bonding time!

33. Oslo, Norway

viking ship museum in oslo norway

This Scandinavian gem is a playground for families ! Think of Oslo as an open-air classroom, where kids can learn about Viking history one minute and go sledding down a snow-covered hill the next. The Viking Ship Museum is a must-visit; it’s like stepping into a Norse saga. Don’t even get me started on the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology—it’s interactive fun for kids and adults alike.

And when it comes to expanding little horizons, Oslo’s got that covered too. With art museums putting together activities specifically designed for families, the fun is both recreational and educational. Take the International Children’s Art Museum, for instance, where you can see the world through children’s art from more than 180 countries.

You can get up close and personal with reptiles at the Oslo Reptile Park. Yup, I said reptiles! Snakes, lizards, and even turtles are waiting to give your family an exciting afternoon, especially on Tuesdays, which is feeding day. Want to see a snake devour its lunch? Here’s your chance!

Just about 20 km (12 miles) south of Olso, TusenFryd is not just Norway’s largest amusement park; it’s a rollercoaster of delight with VR technology that takes thrills to a whole new level. Imagine river rafts whisking you through tunnels and waterfalls—now that’s what I call a family adventure!

And here’s the cherry on top: the city’s public transport is so easy that even the little ones could figure it out. So, whether you’re cruising down the Oslofjord or taking a tram to the Vigeland Park to see those iconic sculptures, Oslo makes exploring a breeze for families.

In short, Oslo is a bonanza of activities that engage, thrill, and educate making it one of the best family-friendly destinations in Norway . So, don’t wait! Pack those bags and let Oslo show you how family vacations are done right.

34. Ljubljana, Slovenia

view of ljubljana castle perched on a hill and orange tile roof houses from a street in ljubljana old town

Ljubljana , the capital of Slovenia , might not be the first European city that pops into your head when you’re thinking of a family vacation, but hold on to your hats, because it’s a hidden gem for families with kids.

The city is practically a fairy tale come to life, with its charming bridges, vibrant town square, and a castle looking down from a hill. Trust me, the kids will feel like they’ve stepped into a storybook!

First things first, let’s talk about Ljubljanica River. The heart of the city, it’s perfect for a leisurely boat ride. The kiddos will love waving at the locals and other tourists from their floating viewpoint.

Did someone say dragons? Yep, the Dragon Bridge is an instant hit with the younger crowd. I mean, who wouldn’t love a bridge guarded by four dragon statues? It’s like living out a fantasy adventure in real time.

Now, if your kids love animals, take them to the Ljubljana Zoo. It’s not overwhelmingly big, which is perfect for tiny legs that get tired quickly, but it’s got plenty of diversity. From bears to birds, it’s a mini-safari in the heart of Europe!

For those days when you want to kick back and let the kids burn some energy, Tivoli Park is the spot. It’s the city’s biggest park and offers plenty of space for running around, climbing on playground structures, or enjoying a family picnic. Some even say it’s Ljubljana’s version of Central Park!

Ljubljana also loves its festivals, and many of them are child-friendly. Whether it’s the Ljubljana Festival in the summer with tons of kids’ workshops or the December festivities with Santa Claus meet-and-greets, there’s always something happening.

So, there you have it! Ljubljana may be small, but it’s jam-packed with activities that will keep those young faces smiling. It’s one of those places you’ll leave with the feeling that you’ve discovered one of Europe’s best-kept secrets . And for the little ones, it’s a trip they’ll be talking about for years to come!

We sincerely hope this exhaustive list of the best places to visit in Europe with kids suggested by the experts has inspired you to add some of them to your Europe bucket list!

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Travel Babbo

Travel Babbo

A Family Travel Blog

Europe with Kids: The 10 Best Family Holiday Destinations in Europe

By Eric Stoen on December 6, 2019 • Last Updated October 30, 2023 This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Disclosure here .

Best European Cities with Kids

We’ve traveled throughout a lot of Europe with kids the past 16 years – 70+ cities in 20+ countries – and I made a short list of our favorite kid-friendly European cities. Then I deleted the largest two, London and Paris , since they’re the top two European destinations for American travelers every year, and you’ve likely visited them already. (If you haven’t, what are you waiting for?)

In no particular order, our ten favorite (slightly-smaller) European cities for kids:

Budapest, Hungary

Winter in Budapest is charming, with Christmas markets and ice skating, but we definitely prefer to visit in spring and summer. We typically combine indoor activities like cooking classes and market visits with picnics in Városliget Park and trips to the zoo, and it’s always fun to take the Funicular up to Castle Hill and Fisherman’s Bastion on the Buda side. If you want to do an easy day-trip, the artsy historic town of Szentendre is only 45 minutes away.

Kid-friendly European cities: On the Castle Hill Funicular, overlooking the Chain Bridge

A highlight was taking a speedboat on the Danube past the Hungarian Parliament Building and other major sites (obviously those along the river) at sunset. If speedboats are too crazy for you, there are slow boat options for daytime, sunset and dinner cruises.

Kid-friendly European cities: On our sunset speedboat ride on the Danube

Don’t Miss:  We always purchase chimney cakes (dough wrapped around a metal cylinder, baked and rolled in cinnamon sugar) as afternoon snacks. You can get them at stands throughout the city, especially in the pedestrian areas, as well as from bakeries. So good!

Stay: The Aria Hotel Budapest is perfectly-located, and we had a great connecting room setup.

Kid-friendly European cities: Overlooking St. Stephen’s Basilica from the rooftop patio of the Aria Hotel Budapest

Copenhagen, Denmark

We’ve taken our kids to Copenhagen four times now and love it. Of course all of Scandinavia is kid-friendly, and I could just as easily include Oslo, Bergen, Gothenburg or Stockholm on this list, but Copenhagen gets the nod because of Tivoli Gardens, a great old-school amusement park.

Kid-Friendly European Cities - Copenhagen - At Tivoli Gardens

Beyond Tivoli, Copenhagen is easily walkable, and there’s an excellent metro system as well. Take a tour (the walking tour we did with OURWAY Tours was excellent, and Context Travel has tours as well) or simply walk everywhere. We always like to wander around the meatpacking district and photogenic Nyhavn.

And given how flat it is, Copenhagen is one of the best European cities for toddlers. I’d put Amsterdam and Bruges on my Toddler list as well. Flat cities and parks: you can’t go wrong!

Kid-Friendly European Cities - Copenhagen -

Don’t Miss: At Sømods Bolcher kids can watch hard candy being made. Good luck not buying any! Head to Tivoli Gardens and Nyhavn of course. And Noma, one of the world’s top restaurants, is in Copenhagen. We used to love Noma’s more casual 108 Corner Cafe, but it’s sadly now closed. Hoping they open another cafe.

Kid-Friendly European Cities - Copenhagen - Candy being made at Sømods Bolcher

Stay: 71 Nyhavn is perfectly-located and nicely boutiquey.

Kid-Friendly European Cities - Copenhagen - Early-morning reflections in Copenhagen - easy to capture when you wake up jet-lagged at 4am at 71 Nyhavn!

Florence, Italy

Florence is definitely not an unknown destination, but a lot of people are surprised at how kid-friendly it can be. We stay in the center of town (typically not far from the Arno on either side) and walk everywhere – the city is nicely compact. Climbing the Duomo and the bell tower are fun for kids, and while the hike to Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset is challenging, the kids’ legs are shorter than ours, and their knees are better, and they can handle it! Dining is easy. What kid doesn’t love pasta, pizza and gelato?

Sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo is perfect!

We return to Florence virtually every year and make sure that our kids have an appreciation for what Florence is known for – art, architecture, history and food – but in a kid-friendly way. There are numerous family-friendly walking tours and museum tours where you can skip the lines and see the sites and artwork that kids find the most interesting (check out Context Travel ), and we include sketching everywhere we go. We’ve also done art/drawing workshops, fresco making, paper making and book making, and have done cooking classes for pasta, tiramisu, gelato and pizza. Our kids only make pasta from scratch now!

We love walking around Florence early in the morning, before the day-trippers arrive

Don’t Miss:  The Stibbert Museum requires a short taxi ride to get there, but it’s incredibly cool for kids, with over 16,000 pieces of arms and armor from Asia and Europe, anywhere between 100 and 600 years old.

Stay Here: We love Palazzo Belfiore . The location is excellent (in the Oltarno section of the city) and we can all stay in one apartment – with a washing machine!

Things to do in Florence with kids - At the Stibbert Museum

My full blog post on everything that we love in Florence is here . Our favorite restaurants are here . And I have half a dozen other posts on Florence is well if you use the search bar at the top of the page. Definitely one of the best European cities for kids.

Kid-friendly Europe - Boboli Gardens in Florence

Istanbul, Turkey

We waited years to take our kids to Istanbul, simply because we felt like it was a little riskier than visiting other European cities. We shouldn’t have waited. We loved everything about the city – the history, the sites, the food, the hotels and the people. And yes, we felt safe everywhere we went, even at night. Definitely one of the best family holiday destinations in Europe.

Istanbul with Kids - The Hagia Sophia

Istanbul has the same cobblestones and hills as most European cities (and yes, it’s half in Europe and half in Asia), so you may have issues with a stroller, but otherwise getting around is easy via taxi, bus, metro, streetcar and ferry. Most one-way trips are less than 2 TL ($0.35). Simply get an Istanbulkart and load it with a few dollars.

Istanbul with Kids - Heading to our painting workshop

My blog post on everything we did in Istanbul is here . Skip the Grand Bazaar.

Don’t Miss: My kids still talk about the Şerefiye Cistern as being their trip highlight.

Istanbul with Kids - In the Şerefiye Cistern

Stay Here : We were very happy at both hotels we stayed at, but if I had to pick one I’d go with Ciragan Palace Kempinski , simply because we loved the location right on the Bosphorus and within easy walking distance from Ortaköy.

Istanbul with Kids - Morning at Ciragan Palace Kempinski

Naxos Town, Greece

The Greek Islands are our favorite place to travel in the summer. There’s nothing like spending several weeks simply enjoying island life – waking up late, having breakfast at the hotel, heading to the beach, having an amazing two-hour lunch at an outdoor cafe, having downtime in the afternoon, heading out for drinks in the late afternoon, having another perfect meal of Greek seafood and tzatziki, and then repeating it the next day – all the while surrounded by white buildings with blue shutters, and looking out at the Aegean Sea.

Affordable Family Travel - In Naxos, Greece, a great family-friendly summer destination, far less expensive than Mykonos or Santorini

Of all the islands we’ve visited (close to 10), we prefer Naxos. There are no cruise ships (thousands of day-trippers ruin the vibe), there are very cool ruins in town, there’s an amazing hotel that’s perfect for families (below), the ferry to other islands (Paros, Santorini, Mykonos) is right in town, and the airport is only a short drive away. Europe with kids doesn’t get any better.

My most recent blog post on Naxos is here .

Greece with kids: Evening in Naxos Town

Don’t Miss: We love walking up to the castle virtually every afternoon and having drinks at 1739 as the sun sets over Naxos Town. We get sangria and the kids opt for the homemade lemonade.

Greece with kids: Drinks at 1739 above Naxos Town - lemonade and sangria!

Stay Here: We stay at the Nissaki Beach Hotel every time we visit Naxos. The location is perfect – on a (very kid-friendly) beach and just a few minutes’ walk from town. Excellent breakfasts and dinners too.

Greece with kids: Nissaki Beach Restaurant on St. George Beach

Kinsale, Ireland

Kinsale is our favorite town in Ireland. Fly into Cork and drive 25 minutes south, or start or end your Wild Atlantic Way drive in Kinsale. We’ve visited several times now and we never get tired of exploring the small town, heading to Charles Fort , hiking around Sandycove and/or heading out to Goats Island, and having drinks at the Bulman Pub . And Kinsale is a good base for exploring all of County Cork.

Things to do in Kinsale: At Charles Fort

Don’t Miss: Do a Ghost Tour through Tap Tavern .

Things to do in Kinsale: The Kinsale Ghost Tour

Stay Here: Actons Hotel Kinsale is the top-rated Kinsale hotel on TripAdvisor , and is perfectly-located, next to The Town Park and a very short walk to the middle of town.

Things to do in Kinsale: Walking out to Sandycove Island at low tide

My blog post on everything we love in Kinsale is here .

Salzburg, Austria

We’ve visited Salzburg in both the summer and the winter and, while snowy winter nights are cozy, we prefer the summer. Mozart was born in Salzburg and the Sound of Music was filmed in and around the city. If your family enjoys either, you’re set! You can visit Mozart’s birthplace, his home, and the cathedral where he was baptized. Or attend a concert. And there are Sound of Music tours that take you to various movie locations. Our last visit we actually stayed at  Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron , which features prominently in the film.

Kid-Friendly European Cities - Salzburg - Playing in the gardens of Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron

We always enjoy spending time in the gardens of Mirabell Palace, and our kids loved exploring Festung Hohensalzburg, one of the largest medieval castles in Europe – even with the climb required to get there from the city. The Toy Museum is a good place to spend an hour, especially if it’s raining. And visit the outdoor markets in the center of town. We rarely eat lunch in restaurants – the street food is too good. Good day-trip options include Hallstatt, Austria’s oldest and most picturesque village, and Berchtesgaden, Germany, with its family-friendly salt mine tour (another good thing to do if it’s raining).

Kid-Friendly European Cities - Salzburg - The gardens of Mirabell Palace. Hohensalzburg Castle is in the distance.

Don’t Miss: The Salzburg Festival every summer includes child-focused events and performances. Our kids all enjoyed the two operas for children that we attended – professional performances shortened to an hour and fifteen minutes or so and easy to follow.

Stay Here: While we liked Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron , we didn’t love how far it was from town. Check out Hotel am Dom , which is well-located in the center of Salzburg and seems to allow three to stay in its rooms. If you happen to find a hotel in town that allows 4 or even 5 in any rooms, or that has connecting rooms, please let me know! Salzburg is family-friendly, but most of its hotels aren’t. TripAdvisor could be a good resource as well.

Kid-Friendly European Cities - Hallstatt, an easy day trip away

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges isn’t perfect – it gets crowded in the summer and the restaurants close very early by European standards – but we love the city. It’s compact and walkable and is basically the best of Europe – cobblestones, history, parks, playgrounds, squares and a bell tower you can climb. Plus there are waffles everywhere! And it’s flat, so it’s easy to push strollers around.

Kid-Friendly European Cities - Bruges - Walking to dinner in the evening

Don’t Miss: Have a picnic! It’s not very kid-friendly to have to eat every meal in a restaurant. Stop by a small grocery store and a bakery and then walk to a playground, have a quick meal and let the kids run around. We’ve found Bruges to be one of the best places to do this.

Best European Cities for Kids - Bruges

Stay Here: We really enjoyed Hotel de Orangerie . It’s perfectly-located, and we had two rooms next to each other that had more space that we needed.

Kid-Friendly European Cities - Bruges - Looking out from the Hotel de Orangerie - our hotel pick in one of the best family holiday destinations in Europe

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb remains our favorite city in Croatia. The city is compact, with parks, fountains, squares, markets and pedestrian streets, and we can easily spend two days relaxing and exploring, wandering down side streets and getting food as we go – from market stalls, cafes and street vendors. It’s worth walking by the cathedral, and don’t miss Lotrščak Tower, an easy climb with a great view.

Best family holidays Europe - Croatia - Zagreb Cathedral, the tallest building in Croatia

The best reason to visit Zagreb, though, is for Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the world’s most beautiful sites and only two hours from Zagreb. Plitvice sees over 1 million visitors a year, but it’s still largely ignored by Americans traveling to Europe.

Best family holidays Europe - Croatia - Plitvice Lakes National Park is stunning!

The park consists of a series of 16 interconnected lakes, cascading into each other via waterfalls, with wooden walkways along the lakes as well as stairs for some of the steeper climbs. There are also boats linking the shores of the larger lakes. The lakes are gorgeous, virtually all turquoise or green-colored. We arrived at Plitvice at 11am and didn’t leave until 5pm. The entire time we simply walked from lake to lake – well I walked, but my son ran most of the time! We also took two boat rides and had lunch at one of the park’s restaurants.

Best family holidays Europe - Croatia - Walking around Plitvice Lakes National Park, just two hours from Zagreb (perfect for city breaks with kids)

A note: Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for kids starting at four or five years old. Three-year-olds may be ok, but they’ll get tired. Younger kids should be in a carrier. The paths are NOT stroller-friendly!

Don’t Miss: Zagreb’s Tkalciceva Street was our everyday destination for snacks, meals and smoothies. There’s a playground nearby as well.

Best family holidays Europe - Croatia - Zagreb's Tkalciceva Street

Stay Here: I love iconic hotels. In Zagreb that means the Esplanade . Great location and luxury at a non-luxury price.

My blog post on Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes National Park is here .

Tórshavn, Faroe Islands

For my 10th city I could easily include Prague or Amsterdam, but I’m going to mix it up a little and suggest Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. It’s small and fun to explore, and there are mini football (soccer) pitches everywhere. Take a ball with you!

Faroe Islands - Walking around Torshavn

And take day trips. We stayed in three hotels and a B&B over the course of a week , but you can base in Tórshavn and do day trips to anywhere on the six interconnected islands and even several islands reachable only by ferry and helicopter. The scenery is stunning everywhere, your kids will love the sheep, and virtually every hike can be as easy or difficult as you want it to be depending on how far you go.

Faroe Islands - Viðoy Island

But the best reason to visit the Faroe Islands is that it’s not yet over-touristed, and given the limited number of hotel rooms and rental cars, probably won’t be in the near future. Florence and Budapest in the summer are crowded. You’ll see very few other tourists in the Faroe Islands.

Faroe Islands - The iconic Múlafossur Waterfall shot

Don’t Miss: The highlight of our trip was an overnight visit to Mykines with Go Local Faroe Islands . It’s a short ferry ride away, and only a few people at a time can stay overnight. Amazing having thousands of puffins to ourselves!

Faroe Islands - Walking back down, past hundreds of puffins. NBD.

Stay Here: Given that none of the hotels in or around Tórshavn get great reviews on TripAdvisor and we didn’t like Hotel Foroyar , I’d opt to stay in the middle of town next time. Hotel Hafnia doesn’t look like a bad option.

What are the kid-friendliest European cities that you’ve been to? Where do you return every year? What’s on your European bucket list?

Travel Insurance

We had never purchased insurance when traveling to Europe with kids – neither travel health insurance nor trip interruption/cancellation coverage – but after my wife’s recent knee injury , I’ve learned the hard way that travel insurance is necessary! We now have an annual policy through G1G . I’m impressed by their coverage and pricing, although luckily we haven’t had a claim yet.

What are the best European cities for kids? Here are our top 10 best family holiday destinations in Europe, and what we like about each one.

More from Travel Babbo

The Best Countries to Visit (Our 20 Favorite Countries Ranked)

March 2, 2017 at 5:30 am

What a great list! Your last two cities sound especially amazing. Anything to do with music, I know I would love and I think our girls would love it too. And those waterfalls in Croatia look incredible. I’ll definitely keep this list in mind next time we plan a trip around Europe!

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March 2, 2017 at 8:09 am

Thanks Ashley! And I now have Sault, Saint Melo, Etretat, Hornfleur and Pech Merle on our list because of you!

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March 23, 2017 at 2:41 pm

Beautiful pictures…and great options! It’s nice to have a few suggestions as a starting point when planning family travel.

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June 7, 2017 at 11:27 am

Just wanted to give thanks for easing my mind about family travel and with a little one on the way in July, my wife and I are already planning a bunch of trips. Our big adventure will be taking your advice and going to Europe for a week when our baby is ~one. We’ve chosen Amsterdam as I’ve read it’s very kid-friendly with a lot of parks and easily walkable (or even bikeable), plus it’s a non-stop flight from us. Any tips on other things to do, restaurants or hotels would be very much appreciated.

Thanks for the inspiration!!

June 7, 2017 at 5:28 pm

Thanks Andrew! Have a great trip! Amsterdam is an excellent choice. I don’t have specific suggestions – we usually just walk a lot and stumble across restaurants. My last two times there were more layovers than destination trips and we stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Centraal Station simply because it was easy to get into the airport, take the train to Centraal Station, walk a block or so to the hotel and leave our luggage in our room before exploring. But there may be far better hotels for families?

One note of caution: when we visited with kids in diapers, eight years ago or so, I couldn’t change my son’s diapers. When I would attempt to take him into restrooms, I would be turned away since there were no changing tables and told that my wife had to bring him to the women’s restroom to change him. That happened multiple times in the city and at Keukenhof. It was a bizarre attitude for an otherwise progressive city and it’s one of the only places that’s happened to us.

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February 11, 2020 at 9:30 am

Great suggestions! Thinking of heading to Verona next year (and doing a quick trip to Venice), but possibly a quick trip to Austria; any Austrian border towns (or within 3 hours or so) that you suggest that are family friendly? Will be bringing our 6 and 9 year olds. Love your blog!

February 11, 2020 at 9:46 am

Very cool! That entire area is amazing, from cultural Italy into the mountains. I don’t have specific recommendations for Austria. We’ve honestly never found anything in the middle of Europe that wasn’t kid-friendly. And 6 and 9 can be good hiking ages, if you find yourself in a cobblestoned Austrian town with a path that heads…up!

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July 24, 2020 at 10:13 am

What a wonderful blog! Enjoyed it so much!

We had a European vacation all planned out with our three granddaughters and then the pandemic hit. This is all good info to save for when the world opens back up.

July 24, 2020 at 2:26 pm

Thank you Cristina! Hopefully 2021 will be a little more normal…

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March 28, 2021 at 8:49 pm

I desperately want to take my 5 kids to Europe next summer/fall. My oldest will be 12 and my youngest will be 3. Am I crazy?? Is it doable??

March 30, 2021 at 9:11 am

Hello! It’s definitely doable and you’re not crazy. You know your kids. You know how they get along and whether they’re independent/helpful as a group.

We’ve traveled with kids those ages to Europe many times, but only with three kids. I have a lot of advice throughout my site, but one important thing: the less we move around, the better. Transportation/flights/trains/taxis/etc… can be stressful, and travel days aren’t fun. We’ve had the best experiences when we’ve based in a place for 1-2 weeks and then maybe switched destinations once.

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August 18, 2021 at 6:59 pm

What would you recommend for a winter vacation? My family wants to travel between Thanksgiving and New Years Eve (Only for a week but within those school holidays because I’m a teacher). We’ll have a 7,5,4,and 2 year old along with 6 adults. Thanks for any help you can give!

August 19, 2021 at 10:57 am

Hi Annie. Did you see my post on the best trips in every month? https://travelbabbo.com/best-vacations-for-kids/ .

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March 10, 2022 at 11:18 pm

Hi! What a great blog, I’m glad I chanced upon it. I’m traveling to Israel from NY for the Passover holiday and would love to stop over in Europe on the way for 2-3 days. Which city would you suggest? I have five kids the youngest is 4 and the oldest 17. Thank you

March 11, 2022 at 8:23 am

Number one would be anywhere that you really want to go. What’s at the top of your list? Where haven’t your kids been?

Number two would be based on flight schedules. From NYC to Tel Aviv, if you’re not flying non-stop, the best stopover options look to be Paris, Rome and Istanbul. Those are all amazing. Vienna, Brussels, Warsaw and Zurich are also options, but personally I’d go for Rome, Paris or Istanbul.

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September 11, 2022 at 8:56 pm

As always great articles. I did a search and haven’t noticed anything come up for Amsterdam

September 12, 2022 at 1:27 pm

Nope, sorry! We’ve been to Amsterdam several times and love it. But a lot of that travel was before I had this blog, and I don’t feel like my knowledge is up-to-date enough to really talk about hotels, restaurants or things to do.

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July 8, 2023 at 1:42 am

As a European that has travelled to most cities on this continent i must say Prague was the most child friendly city i have been to. Me and my two wild boys aged 6 and 9 just came back from a 5 day trip to Prague. There are sights and things to do everywhere and the city is safe and easy to navigate. Buy the 72 hous metro/bus/tram-pass. Children travel for free on public transport and you can get anywhere. There are also nice playgrounds with an island in the river calked «childrens island» with a great playground. We went to the zoo, bobsled, majaland (great indoor amusementpark connected to a large outlet next to the airport, with free buses going there from the northern suburbs. Lots of parks and beautiful castles and buildings and the city is affordable (specially outside the tourist hub). We loved it and my kids just want to go back.

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10 Best Places to Travel with Kids in Europe

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A mom and her young daughter look into the center of the Colosseum in Rome, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

Travelers looking to embark on their first trip to Europe with family may be wondering, what are the best countries in Europe to visit with kids? We get this question a lot in our Facebook community , so we asked our members to share their recommendations for families considering Europe with kids for the first time. Our list of the best places to travel with kids in Europe focuses on countries that are accepting of young kids, offer a lot of family-friend things to do, and have other kid-friendly features. So whether you are looking to relax on a European beach, soak in some history, or practice your language skills, we have a perfect family trip to Europe just for you!

Companies such as  Viator  or  GetYourGuide   offer various tours in France, Italy, Portugal, Greece, and all over Europe with a flexible cancellation policy and a book now, pay later option. These companies offer peace of mind for families if they have to cancel for any reason.

Best Places to Travel with Young Kids in Southern Europe

Whether you are seeking the best places to travel with a baby in Europe, some of the best European vacations with toddlers, or generally the best places to travel with kids in Europe , Southern Europe offers some of the top-ranking options! From beaches to scrumptious food to ancient history, these countries offer a lot for families looking to explore Europe for the first time!

A young girl sits on the edge of a pond within the Borghese Gardens in Rome, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

Italy was the most recommended country in Europe for young kids by our Facebook community . As one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe , you can expect friendly locals, kid-friendly foods, and an amazing array of things to do – including playgrounds in many cities. We hear it all the time, Italians love kids! And it’s so true. Families who choose Italy can expect locals to strike up conversations and look fondly at their little ones. In fact, Italy is also one of the best places to travel with a baby in Europe. Summers in Italy are very hot and August is the busiest month for tourism, so spring and fall are the best time to visit.

You won’t find any kids’ menus here, but kids can order anything off the regular menu and you can ask for a kid-sized portion from most restaurants. Of course, kids will love eating as much pizza and gelator as they please! Plus, pizza bianca, pasta bianca, and Macedonia (fruit salad) are great options for picky palates. It’s worth noting that there is no smoking allowed inside restaurants in Italy, however, it is still allowed on restaurant patios.

Where to Go in Italy with Kids

Two boys in looking at a book while exploring the Colosseum in Rome.

If you choose Italy with kids, there are many great cities to choose from too! 

  • Rome : History and art lovers will adore Rome , where they can see the Colosseum, explore a children’s museum together, and spend relaxing days in the Villa Borghese gardens, offering multiple playgrounds, a rowboat pond, and a zoo, among other things.
  • Sicily : Those looking for a unique experience can head to Sicily . Here, families with young kids can learn about Mt. Etna, float down lazy rivers at Etnaland, and meet the wildlife at Bioparco di Sicilia.
  • Tuscany : Tuscany is filled with small towns offering quaint stays filled with peaceful days. Here, you can roam vineyards, shoot down waterslides at Piccolo Mondo Park, and meet the animals at the Zoological Garden of Pistoia. Located in Tuscany, Florence offers a children’s museum, in addition to some of the world’s best art museums. You can even enjoy a kid-friendly tour at the Uffizi Gallery. 
  • Puglia : New to American tourists, Puglia is another wonderful region with young kids. Here, meander charming towns, relax on the beach, and get adventurous at Parco Avventura Indiana Park (with areas for children as young as 2). Or, go hiking, take carriage rides, and more at Ostuni Adventure Park.

A young girl sits on a terrace in Greece with buildings and the ocean in the distnace.

Certainly, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe is Greece! With a family-oriented culture, Greece is a great option for your first family trip to Europe. Many cities in Greece even offer free dining, accommodations, and public transportation for little ones. Here, families can visit beaches, historical sites, and more. Plus, the locals adore kids. Expect your kids to get a lot of positive attention! Familie will also appreciate the top-notch family resorts available. Summers are often the busiest time for tourism, due to its great weather and most things, like hotels, being open for the season. Winter is a great time to visit too, just be prepared for fewer hotel options and no beach time.

Kids will be able to find a lot of food they’ll love too! Have them try souvlaki, chicken, or pork skewers, with Greek-style potatoes (fried in olive oil) on the side. Plus, kids will adore dipping pita into tzatziki or other spreads. Traditional Greek gyros can be a great option too!

Where to Go in Greece with Kids

Two kids stand together and smile with a view of Idra, Greece in the distance, along the ocean.

If you’re looking for popular kid-friendly destinations in Greece, there are several to choose from. Here are the best places to travel with kids in Europe!

  • Rhodes : Consider Rhodes , a family-friendly Greek Island, offering lovely beaches. Here, peek at vintage toys at the Rhodes Toy Museum, explore the Valley of the Butterflies, and visit the historic ruins at the Acropolis of Rhodes. Then, head to Faliraki Water Park for a fun day spent on waterslides and in pools.
  • Halkidiki : Located in mainland Greece, Halkidiki is another great choice for families with young kids. Spend lazy days on the soft sands of Kalamitsi beach. Then, engage with interactive stations at Aristotle Park or take adventurous kids to the Petralona Cave.
  • Zakynthos : Zakynthos is a great choice for a Greek Island with kids. Not only with you have an array of beaches to choose from, but kids will adore meeting the small animals at Askos Stone Park and splashing the day away at Tsilivi Waterpark and Water Village!
  • Athens : Athens is another classic Greek destination for families. Filled with ancient history, great restaurants, and a lot of family-friendly activities, Athens is sure to please everyone in your family. Here, explore ancient ruins like the Acropolis, stroll through the National Garden, and take the 40-minute tour with Happy Train with Kids, an adorable street train that lets families see the sights from Ermou Street to Syntagma Square.

RELATED : 16 Exciting European Beach Destinations For Families

A mom holds her young son while exploring Barcelona, Spain, with La Sagrada Familia in the distance, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

In Spain , families can expect friendly locals who want to chat with or smile at kids. This warm attitude toward little ones is just one of the reasons Spain is on our list of the best places to travel with kids in Europe . With beaches, impressive museums, and walkable cities, it is easy to see why families love Spain with kids. Plus, Spain also offers an array of incredible outdoor experiences for adventurous families. Spain tends to be busiest during the summer, making the shoulder session a great option for families looking for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Plus, food in Spain is divine! From tapas to seafood, parents will be thrilled with their options! And kids will be too. Consider kid-friendly foods like paella, revueltos (basically scrambled eggs), and plenty of sandwich options too, including the kid-favorite bocadillo de jamón. Gelato and churros con chocolate are popular options too.

Where to Go in Spain with Kids

Three kids sit on the beach in Barcelona, Spain, with the water in the distance.

If you choose Spain for upcoming European family vacations , you’ll have your choice of cities. Here are the best places to travel with kids in Europe!

  • Barcelona is perfect for families seeking a mix of time on the beach and plenty of museums. Stroll through colorful Park Güell, learn something new at the Chocolate Museum, and take advantage of the nearby beaches. Plus, don’t miss spending a day at the Tibidabo Amusement Park! Then, read more about the best things to do with kids in Barcelona here .
  • Malaga is a great option for families who want to see castles, relax on the beach, and visit a thrilling water park. You can also meet dolphins, penguins, and other fantastic creatures at the Selwo Marina Delfinarium. Don’t miss spending a day at Tivoli World Amusement Park too!
  • Valencia is one of the most family-friendly cities in Spain. Here, you can experience an immersive zoo experience at Valencia Bioparc, stroll through Parque de Cabecera, and relax on Malvarrosa beach. Plus, don’t miss Parque Gulliver, where kids will be amazed by this incredible playground experience.
  • Interest in a winter visit? The Spanish Pyrenees of Catalonia make a great snow destination in Europe for families. Here, you can experience a cozy mountain escape, as well as opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing or sledding, and dog sledding.  

Research remarkable homestays in Spain with Plum Guide now!

Father standing with two kids, and one kid on this shoulders, on a street in Lisbon, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

Up next on our list of the best places to visit with kids in Europe is Portugal ! Like its neighbors along the Mediterranean, Portugal is famed for its welcoming locals and warm attitudes toward kids. In fact, hotel and restaurant staff are notoriously caring and helpful with young kids in Portugal. Due to its location, parents can also typically find direct, as well as relatively short flights when choosing Portugal (NYC to Lisbon is less than 7 hours). Plus, the weather is delightful. Lisbon is even known as one of the sunniest places in Europe! Finally, Portugal is also a very safe country to visit with kids since it has very little crime.

As one of the best European vacations with toddlers, Portugal also offers several foods that even the pickiest eaters will love. Grilled chicken and fish are widely available. Small fishcakes are usually a hit with the kids! Then, kids should also try the local favorite francesinha (“little Frenchies”), or Portugal’s answer to the French croque-monsieur. For deserts, ice cream and pasteis de Belem (custard tarts) reign supreme. Similar to Italy, dinner usually starts around 7:00 PM. As a plus, all cafes will also provide tap water (perfect for mixing bottles at the table!).

Visiting Portugal As A Family: Important Information You Need To Know

Where to Go in Portugal with Kids

Kids sit along a ledge at a yellow castle in Sintra, near Lisbon.

Families who choose Portugal for their next European vacation with kids have several great areas to explore! Here are a few of our favorites when it comes to the best places to travel with kids in Europe. 

  • Algarve : Portugal’s southernmost region, Algarve , is a great choice for young kids. Here, families will find an array of lovely resorts, plenty of beaches, and stunning scenery. When you’re ready to leave the beach, head to Zoomarine, Lagos Zoo, or embark on a dolphin-watching cruise. Don’t miss spending the day splashing at Aqualand Algarve, an exciting water park for the whole family.
  • Porto : Located in the north, families love Porto for its history, easy-going locals, and an array of family-friendly activities. Spend your days strolling through the gardens at the Crystal Palace and embarking on cruises along the Douro River. Then, just outside of the city, spend a fun day learning about animals at the Zoo Santo Inácio.
  • Lisbon : Visiting Portugal’s capital, Lisbon , is another great option for families! With all the amenities of a large city, while still being filled with charm, Lisbon offers families the best of both worlds. When you’re ready to explore, add The Lisbon Zoo, The Lisbon Aquarium, St. George’s Castle, and a scenic gondola ride on the Lisbon Cable Cars to your itinerary. Here are more Amazing Things to Do in Lisbon With Kids . Looking for a great day trip from Lisbon? Sintra looks like a fairytale and makes a great family excursion.

A shoreline of Malta, featuring several sail boats in the water.

Wondering where to go in Europe with kids and looking for something a little unique? As one of the best countries in Europe to visit with kids , Malta features one of the longest tourist seasons in Europe and plenty of sunshine (and very little rain!). Family-friendly resorts are dotted across the island, but if you’re looking for a city stay, make Valletta your home base. Those seeking a kid-friendly resort will appreciate that many of them even offer free shuttles to explore Valletta. Plus, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful resorts. For options with a kids’ club, consider The Westin Dragonara Resort, Malta , InterContinental Malta, an IHG Hotel , or Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands .

Things to Do in Malta with Kids

When you’re looking for things to do in Malta with kids, there are plenty of beaches to choose from, like Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay. For time off the beach, head to the ​​Malta National Aquarium. Families will also love taking a boat tour to see the crystal clear waters of the Blue Lagoon! Finally, with any extra time, take the ferry to explore the neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino.

Kid-Friendly Food in Malta

If you’re looking for kid-friendly food in Malta, it won’t be hard to find! Italian restaurants serve pizza and pasta across the island. Then, have kids try pastizzi (cheese-filled pastry snacks) or imqaret (deep-fried dates wrapped in pastry). Fish and delicious bread are also widely available. After dinner, top off the night with a little gelato. This is surely one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe!

Best Places to Travel with Young Kids in Western Europe

Some of the best places to visit with kids in Europe are famed for historic sights, iconic foods, and top-notch family hotels. If you’re planning a family trip to Europe, we recommend adding Paris and London to your list. Certainly, they are some of the best places to travel with kids in Europe! Read more to find out why.

READ NEXT : The Ultimate Guide to Vrbo vs Airbnb for Families

London, England

A mother holds her young son agains a guard rail looking over into the Thames River, while the London Bridge stands in the background, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

When thinking about the best European places to visit with kids, London likely comes to mind. With no language barrier for Americans and a very connected subway system, it is a great starter city for those planning a family trip to Europe. Public transportation included with the Oyster card lets kids 10 and under ride free. Then, as one of the best places to travel with a baby in Europe, neighborhood pharmacies carry baby food, diapers, and other essentials. If you’re wondering which neighborhoods to stay in, we recommend West End (tons of attractions, but expensive), South Bank (near many attractions and great restaurants), South Kensington (near many free museums and two large parks), or Greenwich (trendy with river views).

Buy European train tickets, the safe and simple way by using  Rail Europe .

Things to Do in London with Kids

Plus, London is filled with playgrounds, parks, and gardens for kids to burn extra energy after visiting some of the best museums in the world. Speaking of museums, most of them offer free admission to kids. Many museums also offer self-guided and led tours designed for children and families, including The National Gallery and The Victoria & Albert Museum. To soak in the city’s sights, families will also appreciate the option of a Hop-On Hop-Off bus (perfect for resting tiny feet and still seeing what London has to offer!). The London Eye, London Duck Tours, and the Sea Life London Aquarium are also great things to do in London with kids. Here are 13 Exciting Things to Do in London with Kids !

Kid-Friendly Food in London

Picky eaters won’t leave London hungry! Here, they can munch on kid-friendly fare like pasties and fish and chips (french fries). Afternoon Tea is also a treat! Kids will delight in eating tiny sandwiches and sweets. Plus, Afternoon Tea in London may be one of the only times you’ll find a kids’ menu in Europe! Street food is also easy to find, making eating on the fly easy to do (not to mention delicious!).

Read Next : Best Places For A Kid-Friendly Tea Time in London

Two sisters of color embrace with Paris' iconic carousel and Eiffel tower behind them, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

France may not as quickly come to mind when thinking about the best places to travel with kids in Europe, but Paris is a very kid-friendly destination. For starters, the city’s wide boulevards are lined with charming cafes, meaning tired trekkers have many choices to sit and rest. Plus, Paris is filled with beautiful parks and squares where families can relax or have a picnic. Families looking for the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris with young kids should consider the 1st arrondissement (the heart of Paris, with lots of things to do), the 5th and 6th arrondissements (lively, but family-friendly with great restaurants), or the 7th arrondissement (small accommodations with views of the Eiffel Tower ) to start.

If you’re looking for hotels in Paris, here are the Best Paris Hotels for Families with Pools or Kids’ Programs !

Things to Do in Paris with Kids

It’s easy to fill your itinerary with amazing things to do in Paris with kids. Spend your days meandering lush gardens, like the Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin de Plantes. Then, don’t miss the chance to take a quick day trip and stroll through the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens together. Kids will also enjoy meeting the animals at the Paris Zoological Park , seeing the Eiffel Tower from all angles, and embarking on a river cruise down the Seine. Near the Eiffel Tower , you will even find an enchanting carousel perfect for kids. Finally, don’t miss the chance to treat kids to Disneyland Paris !

Read Next : Fantastic Things To Do In Paris With Young Kids

Kid-Friendly Food in Paris

When it’s time to eat, families will find endless options. In fact, parents won’t be the only ones embracing their inner foodies! Spend mornings devouring croissants and other sweets. For lunch and dinner, kids can eat local favorites like omelets, ham and cheese crepes, cheese plates with fresh bread, and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. When in doubt, grab your favorite picnic supplies for a fun afternoon under the Eiffel Tower. Kids’ menus (menu enfant) can also be found at some restaurants throughout the city. Finally, don’t miss these 9 Amazing Places for Pastries and Desserts in Paris For Families .

Pro Tip : While Paris is a great place for a family trip to Europe, don’t plan to bring a stroller. Baby carriers are the way to go, as Metro stops do not offer elevators and many places do not allow strollers due to limited space.

Visiting France As A Family: Important Information You Need To Know

Best Places to Travel with Young Kids in Northern Europe

If you’re still wondering where some of the best European places to visit with kids are located, we have two great options in Northern Europe for you to consider. Here, you’ll find European family vacations filled with fun things to do, picturesque scenery, and more. Keep reading to find out why families love Findland and Copenhagen, two of the best places to travel with kids in Europe!

A dad and his young son pose while sitting on a sled, with a reindeer behind them in Finland, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

If you’re wondering where to go in Europe with kids that offers endless outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, Finland is your answer! This Nordic country offers beautiful fjords, endless skies, and epic chances to see the Northern Lights. As such, winter is a popular time to visit. However, as one of the best places in Europe to visit with kids , there are plenty of fun activities all year round. Spend summers hiking and enjoying the Baltic Sea or winter skiing and visiting Santa. While not known to be overly outgoing, Finnish people are generally very happy and warm once you start chatting. English is also widely spoken here. Finally, Finland is a very safe country with very little crime. 

Not only does Finland offer fun things to do with kids, but the food is surprisingly good too! For breakfast, kids can munch on yummy options such as blini (pancakes), riispuuro (rice porridge), or köyhät ritarit (similar to French toast). Later in the day, soups, fish, sausages with sides of mashed potatoes and lingonberries, and daily-made bread are a staple for families. Adventurous eaters can also try reindeer. Those with a sweet tooth will also appreciate the wide variety of berry-themed desserts featuring tasty options like blueberries, lingonberries, cloudberries, and cranberries.

Where to Go in Finland with Kids

Left Image: A family of four stands with Santa in Lapland. Right Image: A young boy sits on a blue snowmobile in Lapland.

As one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe, there are plenty of cities to choose from for your visit. Here are a few of our favorite Finnish cities for families!

  • Helsinki is a popular choice for the summer months. Here, you can swim in the Baltic Sea, stroll through large food markets, and even take a day trip to nearby Estonia! This seaside city also boasts family-friendly things to do like the ​​Suomenlinna Island Fortress, the Helsinki Zoo, the Helsinki Underground Playground, and the Finnish Museum of Natural History. It’s a great choice for families who desire a more local feel, yet still vibrant city.
  • Families seeking a fairy tale world to explore can make Naantali their home base. Here, you’ll be in quick proximity to Moominworld, which is a magical place sharing the tales of Tove Jansson (and only open during the summer months). Plus, you can spend your days strolling through Kultaranta Garden and watching ships in the harbor. This southwestern city also offers an array of lovely summer resorts.
  • Winter travelers can’t miss searching for the Northern Lights and meeting Santa Clause at Rovaniemi . Kids will adore Santa Clause Village, where they can meet Santa’s reindeer and the big man himself. Outdoor winter activities like sledding and dog sledding are also available. Read more about spending Winter In Lapland: The Ultimate Itinerary For Families .
  • Offering ten children’s slopes, Levi is the ideal option for ski families looking for a winter adventure in Finland. As the largest ski resort in Finland, there are 45 slopes in all,  mostly suitable for beginners and intermediates. After skiing, head to Kids’ Land to roast marshmallows and go sledding. Levi also offers opportunities to catch the Northern Lights. Plus, kids will adore the Searching For Santa experience.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Family in front of colorful row homes by a canal in Copenhagen Denmark, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

Copenhagen welcomes kids with open arms! With hundreds of parks and kids’ activities, reliable public transportation (free for kids under 12), a walkable city center, and plenty to do, it’s certainly one of the best places to visit with kids in Europe! As an example of how kid-friendly Copenhagen is, visitors may be surprised to find kids sleeping cozily in their strollers outside cafes. Those embarking on their first trip to Europe with their family will appreciate that most museums offer free admission or reduced rates for kids under 12-years-old. When looking for accommodations, consider neighborhoods like Frederiksberg (wide tree-lined streets, outside the city center), Nyhavn (touristy with colorful, fairytale-like buildings), or Østerbro (near the city center, with fewer crowds). 

Things to Do in Copenhagen with Kids

When you’re ready and explore, there are plenty of things to do in Copenhagen with kids. Enjoy family-friendly museums like the Experimentarium, the National Aquarium, and the National Museum of Denmark, which includes a top-notch children’s museum too. Then, spend a thrilling day at Tivoli, which offers green spaces, rides, and restaurants. You can also visit the 35-meter  Round Tower ,  where kids can try to run the whole way up the long winding spiral. Plus, the view is stunning! Another kids-favorite thing to do in Copenhagen is watching the  changing of the guards  at Amalienborg Palace. When you’re ready for a low-key afternoon, Skydebanen in Vesterbro and the Bermuda Triangle in Nørrebroparken in Nørrebro are popular playgrounds.

If you’re looking to get out of the city, take your kids on an exciting treasure hunt for The Six Forgotten Giants. Alternatively, you can also visit the island of Malmö, Sweden, or take the almost three-hour drive to Legoland®.

Kid-Friendly Food in Copenhagen

When you’re ready to eat, kids will be pleased with their options. Kids who like meatballs and mash potatoes may enjoy Frikadeller, while other kids may prefer the daily fish option. Plus, we can’t forget about the delicious assortment of Danish pastries! Those traveling with littles will even find options with high chairs and changing tables in the bathrooms.

Best Places to Travel with Young Kids in Wider Europe

If you are still wondering where to go in Europe with kids, we have one more exciting option to put on your list. While Turkey technically splits its borders between Europe and Asia, the city of Istanbul is a fantastic option for those looking for unique European places to visit for families. Keep reading to find out why it’s one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe!

Istanbul, Turkey

A woman wearing a hijab leans over a railing along the water while looking at the Istanbul skyline.

The final location on our list of the best places to travel with kids in Europe is Istanbul ! While perhaps not the first city that comes to mind, Istanbul is a great option for families seeking vibrant cultural experiences and must-see historical sites. Plus, Istanbul puts you near some amazing Turkish beach destinations with crystal clear water. Children are highly regarded in Turkey, and most people will go out of their way to ensure they are comfortable and well cared for while visiting. While you won’t find many (if any) changing tables here, diapers and baby food are widely available at pharmacies and grocery stores. Those staying in residential neighborhoods are also likely to find playgrounds too.

Things to Do in Istanbul with Kids

When you’re ready to explore one of the best European places to visit with kids, there are tons of family-friendly things to do in Istanbul. Firstly, kids will love visiting Legoland Theme Park, where they can build legos, visit the Istanbul-themed mini-park, enjoy the 4-D cinema, and more! Then, don’t miss kid-friendly places like the Istanbul Toy Museum, Istanbul Aquarium, Basilica Cistern, and the Istanbul Maritime Museum. If you’re interested in a day trip, take the ferry to Princes’ Islands, where you can leave the hustle and bustle of Istanbul for carriage rides and sea views. Finally, if you want to add a beach destination to your Turkish itinerary, consider Cesme, Marmaris, Fethiye, Bodrum, or Antalya.

Kid-Friendly Food in Istanbul

Expect gracious service across Istanbul when you’re ready to eat with kids. Most restaurants in Istanbul are kid-friendly, and many offer high chairs and children’s menus (though, certainly not all). If you’re looking for foods kids are sure to love (or at least try), consider options like döner (similar to sandwiches), bazlama tost (think pita), Turkish pancakes, or kumpir (similar to a loaded potato). There is even a Turkish-style of pizza! After dinner, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in Turkish ice cream.

Tips for Visiting Europe with Young Kids for the First Time

A family of four stands in a historic street within the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

Now that we have shared the best places to visit in Europe with kids , there are some things you should know about your first trip to Europe with family. Here are a few tips to help you have a successful trip to Europe with kids. Plus, don’t miss reading our Comprehensive Guide on How to Travel with Kids if this is one of your first trips with kids.

  • Get tips from parents who have been there before! Getting advice from family travel experts, like those in our Facebook community , can help you prepare for your upcoming trip.
  • Keep in mind, that there is still a lot of smoking across Europe. You will notice it on the street and most restaurant patios.
  • Learn a bit of the language (and teach your kids too!). This will go a long way in communicating with the locals, especially in places where English may not be widely spoken.

Planning Your Itinerary

  • Plan low-key days in your itinerary. Having rest days or beach days can be helpful for kids.
  • Finally, remember that this trip is about making memories together! If you don’t get to everything on your list, don’t fret, just focus on enjoying this special time with your kids.
  • Many museums and classes offer kid-friendly tours. Do your research ahead of time and book opportunities that will appeal to your kids.
  • Adding a smaller town to your itinerary can be more manageable than only big cities. Think about pairing some of the other best places to travel with kids in Europe, like Assis with Rome, for example.
  • Hotel rooms tend to be smaller in Europe. And, they may have occupancy restrictions. Families who need a lot of space or who have more than one or two children should consider renting a home or apartment through Vrbo or Plum Guide .
  • Book your hotel stay using   Hotels.com ,  Travelocity , Agoda , or Expedia . Or book directly with your favorite chains, like  Marriott   to  Hilton , etc.
  • If you’re considering a home rental, read The Ultimate Guide to Vrbo vs Airbnb for Families .

Restaurants

  • Do not expect kids’ menus in any of the locations we recommend. You may find them at touristy restaurants, but we advise doing some research about typical foods in the location you choose so you know what your kids may like ahead of time. Dinner also tends to be eaten later in Europe, so be prepared for late opening times (many restaurants may be closed between lunch and 7:00 pm, for example). Choosing accommodations with a kitchen where you can prepare your own food can help too! Finally, keep a few beloved snacks hidden for the hardest days.
  • Do not expect public restrooms or changing tables in bathrooms. Be sure to pack your own changing mat and be flexible while traveling.

Getting Around

  • Depending on where you are visiting, you may encounter cobblestone streets or rough streets (and no sidewalks!). Packing a baby carrier or finding a durable stroller is the way to go! If you bring a stroller, make sure you can manage to fold and store it quickly. Some museums – but not all – will offer stroller parking. Finally, check with your hotel ahead of time that your stroller will fit within your room.
  • Kids are often free or discounted on a lot of public transportation, so double-check age requirements before purchasing tickets. In fact, kids under four are not required to have a Eurail pass, and kids 4-11 years need a pass but it’s free! Be aware, that not every Metro station has an elevator, which can make strollers tricky.

Happy Travels!

A family of seven sits smiling with Buckingham Palace in the distance, while traveling in London, one of the best places to travel with kids in Europe.

Travelers about to embark on their first trip to Europe with family have so much to look forward to! We hope you found this article featuring the best places to travel with kids in Europe helpful in planning your next adventure. Whether you want to relax on a beach in Spain, dine on scrumptious Italian food, or explore Scottish castles, we know you will make amazing memories with your little ones. Certainly, if you were wondering where to go in Europe with kids , we are sure you found a great option – or two!

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Best european destinations for a family holiday

  • 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.

Algarve  - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  Nomad_Soul  - European Best Destinations

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.

Athens - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  Nadezhda1906  - European Best Destinations

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.

Barcelona  - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  Boule  - European Best Destinations

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.

Brittany - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  Elena Dijour  - European Best Destinations

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.

Corfu Greece  - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  Anna Jedynak - European Best Destinations

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

Costa Brava - Tossa de Mar  - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  Sergey Peterman - European Best Destinations

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 - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  ESB Professional

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 - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright CroMary - European Best Destinations

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. 

Madrid  - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright   Danor Aharon   - European Best Destinations

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 - Mellieha - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright mRGB - European Best Destinations

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.

Paris - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright   TravnikovStudio   - European Best Destinations

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.

Plitvice Croatia  - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  melis  - European Best Destinations

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.

Porto & Norte - Aveiro  - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  silky - European Best Destinations

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.

Roma - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  Alliance  - European Best Destinations

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.

Vienna  - Best Family destinations in Europe - Copyright  Ekaterina Pokrovsky - European Best Destinations

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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The Japanese garden in the Planten un Blomen in Hamburg.

Five of the best European city breaks with kids

Smaller European cities make for brilliant breaks with kids, be they toddlers, tweens or teens. Our writers pick cool things to do and see

Germany’s second-largest city is a fabulous all-rounder for families. As well as enjoying a breezy maritime atmosphere – it’s the largest port in the country and crisscrossed by dozens of canals – it offers oodles of urban flair and cultural and outdoor activities.

Hamburg is highly walkable, and has an excellent public transport system, but a weekend visit will still benefit from some planning. Staying in the commercial centre (Mitte) gives quick and easy access to many of the main sights, including the pretty Aussen-Alster lake , the beautifully restored brick warehouses of the Unesco-heritage Speicherstadt , and the slick new HafenCity district.

The Miniatur Wunderland in Speicherstadt is the world’s biggest miniature railway, with more than 1,000 trains and 260,000 figures. The wave-shaped Elbphilharmonie concert hall hosts regular concerts and has a viewing platform with sweeping harbour views. The Internationales Maritimes Museum displays model ships (including a Lego version of the Queen Mary), sextants and a copy of the first nautical atlas. Smaller kids will get a kick out of the HafenCity’s Schatzinsel Spielplatz (Treasure Island Playground) in Grasbrookpark, which has a climbing area, lawns and a pirate ship.

Alster lake is a recreational hotspot, especially on warmer weekends, with pedal boats, paddleboards and canoes for hire. There are waterside cafe terraces from which to admire the views and a circular pathway enjoyed by strollers, joggers, inline skaters and dog walkers.

The DOM, northern Germany’s biggest funfair.

Bigger thrills can be found in the adjacent St Pauli area – no, not the Reeperbahn red light district but the DOM ( hamburg.com/dom , free with online ticket), northern Germany’s biggest funfair, held here three times a year (the next from 22 July-21 August), with rollercoasters, carousels and food stalls. A short walk away is the U-Boat Museum Hamburg , a fully functional submarine whose engine and torpedo rooms can be explored.

For a quieter stay, the northern Eimsbüttel district has a slower pace and a more local vibe, with the lovely Isemarkt farmers’ market, and one of Hamburg’s oldest indoor swimming pools ( Kaifu Bad ). Hagenbeck Zoo , just north of here, has no cages – a narrow moat separates visitors from the 200-plus animals – a tropical aquarium and a polar enclosure, plus pony rides and a tourist train.

HafenCity Riverbus.

For a picnic or a fresh-air runaround, Planten un Blomen is a central oasis where kids can cool down with water pumps, play on climbing frames and have an ice cream. There’s a separate play area for toddlers, a Japanese garden and tropical greenhouses should the weather turn.

A city tour in the HafenCity Riverbus , an amphibious vehicle that travels on roads and water, makes a fun rainy-day activity.

Where to stay Adina Apartments (family room from €223) has two well-located hotels, one in the Speicherstadt and one in the centre. Both have spacious, well-equipped rooms, restaurants and indoor pools. For a kid-friendly lunch or dinner, Peter Pane next to the Schanzenpark serves good burgers, salads and drinks, and the park has playgrounds and sports areas.

Hamburg is just 1¾ hours by train from Berlin – so you could combine a trip here with a stop in the capital. Paul Sullivan , Berlin-based travel writer who visits Hamburg regularly

Genoa, Italy

Aerial view of the Genoa ferris wheel at the marina in the the old port district.

This vibrant port city on the Ligurian coast is often overlooked in favour of Rome, Venice or Verona, but Genoa has it all: sun-drenched piazzas, outstanding Unesco sites , the amazing food that makes Italian cities magical, as well as tons of kids’ attractions. There’s a fraction of the crowds in the more-celebrated cities, often at a fraction of the cost. Excellent train connections with Milan make Genoa easy to reach, too.

Start by visiting the Porto Antico, a beautiful, vibrant area full of attractions and a great place to walk with a gelato. This is the maritime heart of the city that gave birth to Christopher Columbus, and home to the Aquarium . It’s one of the largest in Europe, with weird and wonderful marine animals, penguins and a fascinating “behind the scenes” tour to experience how an aquarium works. The breathtaking onsite Bigo Panoramic lift , a cabin that ascends vertically to 40 metres and was designed by local – and world-famous – architect Renzo Piano, has outstanding views of the Mediterranean sparkling in the sun.

The Neptune, a replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon, built for the 1985 film Pirates.

Visitors to the Galata Maritime Museum can board a real submarine, the Nazario Sauro, while young pirates should visit nearby Neptune, a replica of a 17th-century galleon that was created for the 1986 Roman Polanski film Pirates, now docked in Genoa.

To refuel, Genoese specialities include delicious focaccia and pasta with its famous pesto. Good options include the local branch of Eataly , posh snack bar Panino Marino and the historic Osteria di Vico Palla .

Another day can be spent in the historic centre. Its caruggi are charming small alleys with traditional shops for older kids to poke around in, and eateries that feel like something from the middle ages. A ride on Pippo , the city tourist train, is fun for little kids, and impressive architecture includes the Unesco-listed Palazzi dei Rolli and the Duomo, with the shell of an unexploded second world war bomb in one corner.

For refreshments, Cremeria Buonafede does a unique Genoese coffee semifreddo called panera, and nearby Titilla Papilla does wonderful homemade natural gelato. Young ones could run off the sugar at Spianata dell’Acquasola , a panoramic garden within the 14th-century walls.

Where to stay Hotel Genoa NH Collection Marina (family room for two adults and one child from €193, two adults and two children from €246) has spacious family rooms in the Old Port area.

Marta Correale , Italian family travel writer at mamalovesitaly.com

The Hague, the Netherlands

North Sea beach at Scheveningen, The Hague.

The Hague is the royal and political nerve centre of the Netherlands, home to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and several palaces. But few outsiders realise there’s plenty of fun to be had here, too. A less frantic alternative to Amsterdam , it is packed with child-friendly museums, art galleries and shops, as well as having sandy beaches nearby and a gorgeous historic centre with leafy boulevards and canals. An efficient tram service makes it easy to get around. Getting here from the UK is simple, too – take the Eurostar and change at Rotterdam (around 4½ hours).

Plot your days to include a visit to One Planet , an interactive culture and science museum good for all ages. Older children (eight and over) interested in crime and punishment, or with a taste for the gruesome, should head to De Gevangenpoort (the Prison Gate) , a museum housed in a medieval prison and displaying instruments of punishment and torture. Visitors can play judge in an interactive exhibition featuring historical crime stories. For cultured kids, Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring awaits in the small Mauritshuis museum, along with other impressive 17th-century Dutch and Flemish art pieces.

Madurodam model world

After a morning of sightseeing on foot, take a 90-minute canal cruise around the old centre, for glorious views of the Peace Palace gardens and former merchant houses along the Mauritskade.

Covering all the sights of the Netherlands in miniature and in one afternoon, Madurodam model world has interactive exhibitions, many of them outdoors. Kids can kick footballs, play with water sluices and dikes, voyage on a 17th-century ship to fire cannons in New Amsterdam (known these days as New York) and measure their weight in Dutch cheeses.

Teenagers with an interest in world politics could visit the Peace Palace , where the ICJ is located, for a tour, film and exhibitions. (The Dutch parliament is usually open to visitors, but currently closed for renovations.)

The Hague has food choices galore. Try traditional Dutch pancakes or poffertjes (little fluffy pancakes) at the Paviljoen Malieveld , then walk off your lunch in the nearby Haagse Bos woods . Ice-cream vendor Moes is part of the street furniture, so look out for his stall, which moves between prominent locations. Even Queen Máxima of the Netherlands is rumoured to indulge.

Those with more than a couple of days should have time to venture beyond the city. A sure-fire winner is Duinrell , an amusement park and indoor and outdoor waterpark in Wassenaar, easily accessible by tram from the city centre. For a day on the beach, sandy Scheveningen is only 20 minutes away by tram, and has a Legoland Discovery Centre , a pier with a Giant Wheel over the sea, bungee jumping and surfing. There are beach cafes to relax in, and teenagers might relish staying up to experience the bustling nightlife as the sun sets.

Where to stay Staybridge Suites (from €200 for two double rooms, is in a fantastic location opposite parliament (great for an evening stroll); rooms have a fully equipped kitchen.

Amanda van Mullig en, freelance writer living in the Netherlands with her Dutch husband and three sons

Durbuy, Belgium

Durbuy is in the heart of the Ardennes.

Belgium is filled with fun cities to discover with kids. Obvious destinations include Brussels , Bruges and Ghent , but for a city with a difference try Durbuy (pronounced Dur-bwee) in the French-speaking Wallonia region. Just 90 minutes’ drive from Brussels, it looks like a pocket-size town (by train it’s around 2hr 15min ride from Brussels to Barvaux, then a 20-minute bus journey), and has just 11,000 inhabitants, but it is a city: it was granted the title in 1331 by Jean de Bohème, Count of Luxembourg and King of Bohemia. Today Durbuy calls itself “la plus petite ville du monde” (“the world’s smallest city” – though this is far from true). But although it has grown substantially since the 14th century, the original centre remains pretty much unchanged.

For families there is a lot to do, particularly for those who love the great outdoors. Durbuy is in the green and rolling Belgian Ardennes, a great area for kayaking, fishing, cycling, hiking and more.

The sights of central Durbuy can take up a full day, followed by a couple exploring the surrounding area. The tourist office has a good walking tour, which details the history of the town and the half-timbered houses that line the narrow, cobbled streets. Le Petit Train Touristique winds its way up to a viewing tower for a bird’s eye view over the city.

Boucherie Bodson.

Parc des Topiaires , next door to the privately owned Château de Durbuy, is the largest of its kind in Europe, home to more than 250 topiary figures crafted and shaped from boxwood plants. Lunch could be a picnic of cured meat or fish and salads from Boucherie Bodson at the Roche à la Falize, an enormous rock on the north side of town that is over 300 million years old. For a post-lunch treat, Bonbon Chic sells traditional Belgian chocolates.

Just outside of Durbuy is Adventure Valley Durbuy , the largest adventure park in Belgium. This is a brilliant day out for kids aged six and over, with ziplines, a bike park, a via ferrata, a tubing slide, bouncy bridges and more.

Chèvrerie de Borlon , a goat farm in the nearby town of Borlon, offers a taste of life in the Belgian countryside. Welcomed by the very charismatic Géradine, visitors can spend anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day with the goats, helping to milk and herd them.

A family favourite for dinner is Sept by Juliette , which specialises in sharing plates of local produce (bitter ballen, gouda bruschetta, etc). There’s also a delicious dessert tapas plate.

Where to stay Luxury safari tents in Adventure Valley Durbuy cost from €200 a night for four .

Katja Gaskell, editor of family travel website Globe Totting

Angers, France

Children can play in the fountains at Saint Maurice Cathedral.

The phrases “great outdoors” and “city break” don’t often go together, but they combine very well in Angers in the western Loire. Its position on the Maine River, with the Loire, Mayenne and Sarthe rivers also running nearby, means its main sights, cycle trails and social life all sit happily on riverfronts and appeal to every generation.

A short break would naturally start at Chateau d’Angers : the looming walls high above the Maine are punctuated by 17 robust towers. Inside are the rather more delicate turrets of the chateau itself and the main draw, the 14th-century Tapestry of the Apocalypse. This series of six-metre-high embroidered panels in a dramatically dark gallery tell the story of the Book of Revelation, and kids can delight in spotting seven-headed Beasts, flying angels and a bit of dragon slaying.

Terra Botanica theme park.

The city’s other attractions – including Maison Adam , a timber-framed medieval house decorated with gurning wooden figures – are cleverly linked by a two-mile-long blue line on the pavement. Parents could follow that until the whingeing starts, then head down the steps from the Saint-Maurice d’Angers cathedral to Quai Ligny, where children can play in the fountains and on climbing frames.

To get out along the rivers, Espace 2 Roues hires out bikes for rides up the Mayenne or Sarthe. The village of Cantenay-Epinard, on the Mayenne, is home to riverside restaurant Le Cabane du Chat Qui Pêche . The village of Écouflant, on the banks of the Sarthe, has the open-air La Guinguette Mazette . In the 19th century, this village was a hotspot for riverside bars, or guinguettes (featured in many an impressionist painting), a trend which has seen a recent resurgence across France.

There are many other guinguettes along Angers’ riverfronts; many also offer live music, Bollywood dance classes or yoga. In central Angers, just over the Maine from the chateau, on the edge of Parc Balzac, the Heron Carré giungette has an amazing view, a simple menu of chips, steaks and salads and music events to keep teens amused until late. For a full day out, the Terra Botanica theme park is a 10-minute drive (30 minutes by tram) from the centre, with mazes, low-tech rides and boat rides, all on a plant-life theme.

Where to stay Angers City Kamp (two-bedroom cabin from €159 in summer), a lakeside campsite just outside the centre with a pool and pizzeria. There are bikes to hire, for an easy ride into town or to the pretty village of Bouchemaine and the island of Béhuard, on the Loire. Carolyn Boyd, food and travel writer and expert on France

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The 10 Best Family-Friendly Destinations in Europe

Barcelona is one of the top kid-friendly cities in Europe, with its Tibidabo amusement park offering family fun

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.

Horsemen at the Winter Riding School

1. Myplace Premium Apartments

Hotel, Apartment

best cities to visit in europe with family

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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best cities to visit in europe with family

2. The Rosebery ApartHotel

best cities to visit in europe with family

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.

Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen

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.

Swimming and cliff diving from the city walls in Dubrovnik

4. Valamar Club Dubrovnik

best cities to visit in europe with family

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.

Ruzovy Sady on Petrin Hill, Prague

5. James Hotel

best cities to visit in europe with family

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.

Tibidabo amusement park in Barcelona

6. Arai Aparthotel

best cities to visit in europe with family

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.

Thermal springs in Reykjavík, Iceland

7. Reykjavík Residence Hotel

best cities to visit in europe with family

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.

An old tram on a Munich street

8. Cocoon Hauptbahnhof

best cities to visit in europe with family

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?

Child-friendly transport in Amsterdam

9. Lloyd Hotel

Boutique Hotel, Budget Hotel

best cities to visit in europe with family

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.

The Oceanario aquarium in Lisbon

10. Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Family Suites

Suite Hotel, Hotel

best cities to visit in europe with family

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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Nyhavn Harbor on a sunny day in Copenhagen Denmark, one of the best cities to visit in Europe

35 Best Cities to Visit in Europe (Bucket List for City Lovers!)

A complex, interesting, beautiful city is among the most remarkable kinds of places we can experience in our lifetimes, and there’s no doubt that the best cities to visit in Europe rank among the absolute best in the world.

There’s something magical about cities: the best ones have a life all their own, made up of the millions of moments lived and stories told in (and about) them each and every day.

I truly believe that there’s a city for every personality when traveling, even for those who don’t consider themselves “city people”, so to speak, in their day-to-day lives.

Once upon a time, we didn’t think we loved cities… and then we fell in love with traveling.

We’ve since moved to Europe, and picked a beautiful city (Lisbon) as our home base.

We’ve rounded up the best cities to visit in Europe, from the absolute icons to smaller gems tucked in quiet(er) corners of the continent.

No matter what kind of European city you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

Table of Contents

Once You Narrow Down Your Dream Cities in Europe…

The most iconic cities to visit in europe, other best cities to visit in europe (that are slightly less iconic), best small cities to visit in europe, more cool cities to add to your europe bucket list.

Trip to Italy Cost: View of Verona from Tower

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

If you’re ready to start planning your trip in more detail after reading this guide to the best cities in Europe, consider checking out our guide to planning a trip to Europe next!

We also have a detailed guide to train travel in Europe , a guide to the best European road trips , several packing lists for Europe , and a roundup of the best travel tips for Europe here on Our Escape Clause that might help kickstart your general planning.

In addition, we’ve also written about most of these European cities in more detailed guides!

We’ll link relevant blog posts throughout this list of the best cities to visit in Europe, if you’re curious about our coverage of any particular city, you can use the search bar in the top right corner of the site to see what we’ve written.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm in front of St. Mark's Church--even if you're only seeing Zagreb in a day, it's definitely worth stopping by here!

These cities almost need no introduction: woven into our collective culture, from books to movies to historical stories, the most iconic cities to visit in Europe are certainly all well worth the trip to reach them. 

As one of the most visited cities on the planet, Paris tops plenty of Europe bucket lists around the world, and even travel bucket lists more generally.

Home to the iconic Eiffel Tower, the world’s largest art museum at the Louvre (not to mention the hundreds of other incredible museums in Paris), legendary cuisine, and plenty of other highlights like Notre Dame, Montmartre , and the beloved banks of the Seine, Paris is absolutely one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Kate Storm in a gray dress standing in Rue de l'Universite in Paris with the Eiffel Tower behind her

The capital of the United Kingdom and once the seat of the most powerful empire in the world, London is positively packed with an interesting history and iconic sites.

However, London also feels like an extremely modern city, allowing for visitors to put together an excellent London bucket list that includes historical attractions like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square , right alongside the bustling Theatre District (London has one of the best theater scenes in the world).

Plus, for millennials like us, London is home to the Harry Potter Studio Tour and plenty of other related sights–not to mention plenty of Harry Potter-themed gifts and souvenirs to shop for!.

Big Ben and Parliament as seen from across the river. London is absolutely one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

It’s a close race, but on more days than not, we consider Rome to be our absolute favorite city in the world.

Nicknamed the Eternal City, Rome has a captivating quality of impressing upon you its endurance, its consistency, and its strength with every street explored and monument admired.

Home to icons like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain as well as equally impressive spots that are nearly devoid of tourists, exploring Rome, and peeling back its layers one by one, can easily be a lifelong project.

Couple in front of Colosseum: Visiting Rome in Winter

Gaudi, beaches, and the Gothic Quarter : unique and fascinating Barcelona is an incredibly popular place to kick off European adventures!

With its colorful neighborhoods, coastal location, thriving city center, and utterly unique architecture, it’s not hard to see why.

Of course, the most famous landmark in Barcelona , its basilica La Sagrada Familia, remains incomplete: construction began in 1882 and is currently projected to wrap up in 2026!

view of park guell in barcelona spain, a top europe bucket list travel destination

With its stunning architecture primarily dating to the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age and its many canals juxtaposed with its modern reputation for partying, visiting Amsterdam can often feel like visiting a city of extremes.

Whichever part of the city appeals to you, Amsterdam is certainly worth visiting .

As one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe and one of the most unique cities in the world, Amsterdam lives up to its reputation as a compelling and incredibly beautiful place to visit.

Want to ditch (some of) the infamous crowds?

Consider bundling up and visiting Amsterdam in winter !

Canal in Amsterdam with a bridge visible to the right of the photo

Venice is, without a shadow of doubt, one of the most unique cities in the world–so of course it also ranks among the best cities to visit in Europe!

Venice’s mere existence is improbable.

Made up of 118 islands divided by 150 canals and then knitted together by 400 footbridges, Venice’s topography is like nowhere else.

Once a powerful empire that controlled the seas all the way to Crete and held the title of the wealthiest city in Europe, Venice’s 13th-century peak can still be felt in certain places today, including in its iconic Piazza San Marco , in its ornate palaces, and along its gorgeous bridges.

Before visiting, we were Venice skeptics–but less than a day into our first trip there, we were completely smitten with Venice.

Now, we can’t imagine that we’ll ever stop going back!

Girl in striped dress standing in front of Rialto Bridge in Venice Italy

Byzantium, Constantinople, New Rome: Istanbul has had many names throughout its more than 2500 years of history, and today it is celebrated as one of the most unique cities in the world.

With one of the longest and most complicated histories of any of these cities in Europe, Istanbul is actually, technically, only half European.

One half of the city lies on the European continent, and the other half, located an easy ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait, is located in Asia.

In addition to being able to visit two continents in a single day, the top things to do in Istanbul include touring the phenomenal Hagia Sophia, shopping in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, admiring the Blue Mosque, and enjoying the views from the top of the Galata Tower.

Blue Mosque of Istanbul as seen from below the dome. Istanbul is one of the best European cities to visit.

Emphasis on slightly less iconic: these cities are still easily among the most popular cities to visit in Europe.

Unlike some of the longstanding icons above, though, many of these European cities gained (or regained) popularity on the tourism circuit at some point within the last few decades.

Prague or Budapest: Fisherman's Bastion

In our slightly biased opinion, as it’s one of our personal favorites, Budapest easily ranks among the top ten best cities to visit in Europe.

Set on the Danube, with its iconic Parliament nestled right up against the river and majestic architecture rising on both sides of the river, Budapest is simultaneously incredibly regal and beautiful, and incredibly laid-back and affordable.

Known for its compelling history, thermal baths that dot the city, stunning architecture, and engaging nightlife, there is an overwhelming number of things to do in Budapest !

And, it packs plenty of variety in, too: in Budapest, you can have breakfast in a luxurious coffee shop in the morning, explore the city’s caves and thermal baths in the afternoon, and then relax at a ruin pub in the evening–and that’s just within the first day!

Budapest or Vienna: Statue of Imre Nagy

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague absolutely looks the part of the quintessential European city, all ornate buildings framed by a winding river and overlooked by the majestic Prague Castle.

Once known as an offbeat European city to visit, the Prague of today is immensely popular (with the crowds to match, especially during the height of summer), but it is still absolutely magical to visit.

Be sure to meander your way across the Charles Bridge, explore the Prague Castle, admire the Old Town Square, and drink plenty of that famous Czech beer while visiting Prague .

And yes, the legend is true: at some restaurants, the beer is indeed cheaper than water!

Best Views in Prague: View from Old Tower Bridge

Less popular with foreign tourists than colorful Barcelona, but no less captivating, Spain’s capital city is simultaneously regal and relaxed.

Home to incredible sights like the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and gorgeous Plaza Mayor, spending a few days in Madrid means having a chance to experience fantastic food, incredible art, and a hearty dose of Spanish culture.

Madrid’s biggest park, El Retiro, is among our favorite urban parks in all of Europe, and definitely belongs on your list of things to do in Madrid !

Puerta de Alcalá in Madrid Spain with yellow flowers in the foreground

As the largest city (and airport hub) on the French Riviera, Nice is both busy and beautiful.

In other words, Nice is exactly what you would hope for from a coastal city that boasts one of the most iconic urban beaches in the world!

A visit to Nice practically requires spending some time on the beach and a taking stroll along the picturesque Promenade des Anglais, of course, but there are plenty of other fun things to do in Nice as well.

While you’re there, be sure to climb Castle Hill, check out the Sun Fountain, and enjoy the colorful architecture of the old town.

Nice is also perfectly placed to use as a base for incredible day trips, including to nearby Monaco, Eze, St. Paul de Vence, and Menton.

view of promenade des angalis from above in nice france with med to the right

To be perfectly frank, Athens doesn’t rank among the most beautiful cities in Europe as far as we’re concerned… but it’s still one of the best cities in Europe to visit.

Greece’s capital is often used as a gateway to its (rightfully) famous islands, but the city itself absolutely deserves to be explored as well.

Athens is home to some of the most famous Greek ruins in the world, including the phenomenal Acropolis (where you’ll find the Parthenon) and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Ancient Greece is only the beginning of the story, though!

You’ll also find trendy neighborhoods like Plaka and incredible museums like the National Archaeological Museum when exploring Athens.

And, quite honestly, even if there was nothing else to do there, it would be worth visiting Athens just to eat enormous amounts of Greek food .

Athens Parthenon--if your dream trip includes this view, your choice between visiting Greece or Croatia is clear!

If there’s one word that comes to mind for describing Vienna, it’s regal.

From the world-famous opera house to the Hofburg Palace to the glitz and glamour of Vienna’s cafe culture, Vienna gives the impression of wealth, strength, and beauty at every turn.

This is hardly an accident: as the seat of the Hapsburgs for around 600 years, Vienna definitely shows signs of being ruled by a fairly modern empire.

For example, while other European city centers frequently maintain a good portion of their small streets and medieval architecture, wide swaths of Vienna’s were cleared away in favor of wide boulevards and sweeping avenues.

If you’re not sure when to visit Vienna, it’s hard to argue that there’s a better time than during the holiday season.

Not only is the cafe culture particularly lovely when it’s cold outside, but Vienna’s Christmas markets are among the best in Europe , and the perfect way to kick off a Christmas trip in Austria !

Budapest or Vienna: Vienna Spanish Riding School

Canals, cyclists, and hygge: these are just a few of the delightful things you’ll find in Copenhagen.

Denmark’s capital city is known for its many cyclists, its beautiful canals and picturesque harbor (Nyhavn), and recently, its extreme culture of coziness.

Hygge, a word that means something approximating coziness and contentment, is a large feature of Copenhagen.

Since the word has been popularized in popular culture worldwide, even more travelers flock to Copenhagen not just to snap photos at Nyhavn or determine for themselves if the Little Mermaid Statue is, in fact, as underwhelming as they say, but to experience Danish hygge for themselves.

And, while hygge and a northern climate may not be words that bring “beach trip” to mind, Copenhagen’s picturesque location also makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with beaches !

cityscape of copenhagen denmark from above on a sunny summer day

The capital of Bavaria is definitely known best for one thing on the tourism circuit: its incredible Oktoberfest celebration that draws travelers from across the globe.

Even outside of the annual festival, though, Munich remains one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

While there, check out Marienplatz and the gorgeous Munich Residence, as well as the Nymphenburg Palace and (at least) one of the city’s fun beer gardens.

Munich is also within day-tripping distance of the famous Neuschwanstein Castle , so if you have a few days to spend in the area, consider escaping to the Bavarian countryside for a day!

Central Europe Itinerary: Couple in Munich, Germany

Germany’s capital city may not be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but it is an incredibly interesting one.

It’s well worth experiencing at least a few days in Berlin to get a feel for this unique European city.

Known today primarily for its intense Cold War history and its quirky, artistic culture, Berlin is packed with interesting sights and things to do.

While in Berlin, be sure to check out the famous Brandenburg Gate, see the Reichstag Building, and, of course, see the remains of the Berlin Wall and accompanying memorials.

For great views of the city, consider heading up the Berlin TV Tower, and to see the city’s best museums, head to Museum Island.

aerial view of berlin tv tower at sunset, one of the most interesting european cities to visit

Scotland’s stunning capital city is easily one of the best cities to visit in Europe and one that captures the adoration and imagination of most who visit it.

With hints of fairytale magic in the air (helped along, no doubt, by the city’s ties to Harry Potter lore), Edinburgh is packed with fun things to do.

During your visit, be sure to stroll down Royal Mile, admire the views from Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill, and enjoy Edinburgh Castle.

Travelers who love the arts may want to plan their visit for August when the Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes over the city.

Fair warning, though: prices in the city absolutely skyrocket during the festival!

Skyline of Edinburgh Scotland at sunset, one of the most popular places to visit in Europe

If you’re hoping to see a smaller city in Europe, then these cities in Europe might be for you!

In most of these cities, you can enjoy most of the major tourist attractions in only a couple of days or less and/or more or less exclusively tour the city on foot.

As the capital city of Alsace, Strasbourg is a unique delight of a city nestled in northeastern France and is a gateway to the famed Alsace Wine Route, glorious mountains, and the charming, colorful smaller villages of Alsace.

The region of Alsace was once held by Germany, and the result is that in Strasbourg you can find hints of German influences among the French culture, all blended together to create the unique Alsatian culture you will find in the city today.

Tips for Airbnb Hosts: Strasbourg

Croatia’s most famous city has risen to international stardom in recent years, in large part thanks to its role as King’s Landing on Game of Thrones, but this bite-sized coastal city is a magical place to visit even for those who have never seen a single episode of the show.

Dubrovnik’s crown jewel is its intact town walls that still encircle the old town, where you can walk fully around the city, with the terracotta rooftops of Dubrovnik glistening on one side and the shimmering Adriatic Sea on the other.

While visiting Dubrovnik , be sure to also check out the view from Mount Srd, the views from the Lovrijenac Fortress, and, if you’re up for a bit of a physical challenge, a kayaking tour to Lokrum Island!

Fun Things to Do in Dubrovnik Croatia: View of Fort Lovrijenac viewed from city walls

As the Cradle of the Renaissance and one of the most popular places to visit in Europe, you might expect Florence to be a large city, but no.

Travelers can easily walk the bulk of the historic center, and some of the areas beyond it, in just a couple of days–no other transportation is necessary!

Florence is an endlessly beautiful city, and so packed full of world-class artwork that the city is almost a work of art unto itself.

From the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore to the incredible masterpiece that is Michelangelo’s David to the Ponte Vecchio to all the treasures of the Uffizi Museum, looking at Florence is like looking at Renaissance-era art, architecture and engineering come to life. 

Kate Storm in a red dress overlooking the Ponte Vecchio in Florence Italy

Nestled in southwestern Germany, the small university city of Heidelberg is far from the most popular city to visit in Germany, but it absolutely deserves to make the list.

Set on the beautiful Neckar River and overlooked by the impressive Heidelberg Palace, Heidelberg looks every bit the part of a fairytale-esque small European city.

And it’s not just modern visitors and the students who flock to study at Heidelberg University who understand the magic of Heidelberg: Mark Twain was inspired by the city and spoke of it very fondly after spending a summer living there.

In fact, according to some accounts, the idea for The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was conceived thanks to the Neckar River.

While that’s partially inaccurate, there’s no doubt that Twain was captivated by the beauty of Heidelberg!

view of heidelberg germany from above with castle across the river, one of the most beautiful cities in europe to visit

When travelers plan a trip to Slovenia, it’s rare that the charming capital of Ljubljana tops the list of what they hope to see.

And that’s understandable: it’s hard to beat the majesty of Lake Bled, the beauty of Triglav National Park, or the adorable seaside beauty of Piran .

That being said, though, Ljubljana itself is also a great place to spend a couple of days in Slovenia.

Not only is it conveniently located within day-tripping distance of ever-popular Bled, it’s a fun city to experience in its own right.

Home to the lovely Ljubljana Castle, the fascinating street-art-covered neighborhood of Metelkova, the quirky Dragon Bridge, and colorful Preseren Square–not to mention plenty of charming cafes and delicious restaurants–Ljubljana is an easy European city to love.

Green dragon statue perched on Dragon Bridge in Ljubljana Slovenia, one of the most fun cities in Europe to visit

As the hometown of Mozart and as a city surrounded by hills that are alive with The Sound of Music, charming Salzburg, Austria is easily one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Regardless of whether you choose a sunshine-and-blooming-flower-filled summer trip or a festive Christmas market trip, Salzburg is bound to charm!

Overlooked by the striking Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg is a feast for the eyes.

It’s also home to highlights like the beautiful Mirabell Palace (known, among other things, for its status as a filming location for The Sound of Music), the incredible Salzburg Cathedral, and both Mozart’s Birthplace and later Residence, and is an incredibly fun city to visit.

Skyline of Salzburg Austria as seen from above on a cloudy day

Located in southern Poland, Krakow is best known on the tourism circuit for its proximity to two things that lay entirely outside the city: Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

While both of those places are worth visiting (and in the case of Auschwitz-Birkenau, arguably very important to experience if you’re in the area and feel up to a very emotional day), the charming city of Krakow itself is also home to interesting sights that make it one of the best city breaks in Europe.

Be sure to explore the impressive Wawel Castle as part of your trip to Krakow, as well as St. Mary’s Basilica, Town Hall Tower, and, of course, a milk bar or two to enjoy classic Polish pierogi.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm at Wawel Castle, Krakow on their first 2 week Europe trip.

The prettiest city in Belgium (in our opinion, anyway) is bite-sized and beautiful, easy to cover in just a day or two, and absolutely gorgeous from every angle–though if you ask us, its best angle is from the water during a canal cruise.

While visiting Bruges, consider climbing to the top of the Belfry for incredible views, seeking out the beautiful Bonifacius Bridge, enjoying a canal cruise, checking out the colorful Market Square, stopping by the Basilica of Holy Blood, and relaxing at Minnewater Park.

As a small and incredibly popular European city to visit, Bruges can feel crowded at times–but by planning a winter trip , you can experience (somewhat) reduced crowd levels.

Kate Storm in a black coat standing on a brick footbridge in Brugesduring a trip to Belgium

It may be a bit of a stretch to include an entire country of roughly 33,000 people on a list of the best cities to visit in Europe, but San Marino is worth making a slight exception for.

Styled as the oldest republic in Europe (founding date: 301 AD) and simultaneously the least-visited country in Europe, San Marino is an absolutely gorgeous (though yes, quite small) country that is entirely surrounded by Italy.

Featuring castle and countryside views from Mount Titano that are worthy of any fairytale and very interesting history (you can stroll right into Parliament to check it out–no tour necessary), San Marino is definitely well worth a visit! 

While you can take a San Marino day trip from Bologna , it’s a fun place to see at night (once the day-trippers leave) as well.

View of castle of San Marino perched on a hill

Nicknamed the Venice of the Alps, the beautiful city of Annecy, France, is located less than an hour south of Geneva and features beautiful views of Lake Annecy (considered the cleanest lake in Europe), delicious Alpine cuisine (including all kinds of amazing cheese), and stunning canals.

The combination of Annecy’s incredible gastronomy, colorful old town surrounded by canals, and crisp Alpine air make it one of the best city breaks in Europe.

While Annecy is a popular day trip from Geneva, this small city is worth enjoying for at least a couple of days if you can spare the time.

If you can, schedule your trip to Annecy to coincide with at least one market day.

Fridays and Sundays are the biggest market days of the week, but there is a smaller market that takes place on Tuesdays as well.

Chateau d'Annecy seen behind tulips, Best Things to Do in Annecy France

Surrounded by medieval walls dating to the Saxons, and then by the Carpathian mountains beyond that, Brasov is an incredibly beautiful city to visit in the heart of Transylvania, and definitely deserves to feature on any trip to the region!

Must-see sights include the impressive Gothic-style Black Church, both the Black and White Towers, the views from Tampa Mountain, and the charming Council Square.

And, though it’s not within the city itself, we can’t mention Brasov without mentioning Bran Castle.

This infamous castle is located about a 30-minute drive away and is an absolutely incredible sight (though, fair warning: the Dracula connections are nothing by myth).

black church in brasov romania in early autumn, an offbeat european city break option

Set less than an hour away from Florence by train, Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, and is absolutely beautiful, packing in gorgeous Italian architecture and plenty of museums in its small size.

The biggest reason to visit, though, isn’t its beauty: it’s the food.

Bologna is one of the absolute best cities to visit in Europe for foodies.

As the capital of Emilia-Romagna, you can thank the region surrounding Bologna for mortadella (the original and far superior version of what non-Italians call bologna), parmigiano-reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, and tagliatelle al ragu (aka pasta bolognese)… just to name a small sliver of its delicacies.

Even with one day in Bologna , you can eat extremely well, see several of the most popular attractions, and even seek out a few hidden gems like the city’s canals.

Things to Do in Bologna: San Petronio's Terrace, Florence to Bologna Train

Away from bustling capital cities and world-icon status, Europe boasts hundreds of other incredibly cool, lesser-visited cities that are still absolutely worthy of being considered one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Here are just a few of them–consider mixing a couple of these into your Europe bucket list along with the more iconic options above!

gardens of royal alcazar in seville spain

As the capital of Spain’s southern Andalucia region, beautiful Seville is known for its stunning architecture (including its magnificent cathedral), its many orange trees that bloom in the summer, its flamenco culture, its seemingly endless sunshine (and heat), its beautiful Alcazar, and its photo-worthy Plaza de Espana.

It’s also known for acting as a filming location for two of the most famous franchises around!

The Alcazar played the Water Gardens of Dorne in Game of Thrones, and the Plaza de Espana was featured as the city of Theed in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.

Seville is also an excellent launchpad for a full Andalucia road trip !

kate storm jeremy storm and ranger storm in plaza de espana seville spain

The capital of Serbia is definitely one of the least-visited of the European cities rounded up in this travel guide, but it certainly deserves more attention.

Colorful, historic, and incredibly affordable, Belgrade is a fun and invigorating city that is absolutely packed with things to do .

While you’re there, be sure to check out the gorgeous Church of Saint Sava, the Belgrade Fortress, and the Knez Mihailov shopping street.

If you have a few days to spend in Belgrade, consider also adding on a day trip to colorful, nearby Novi Sad!

belgrade serbia as seen from across the river on a sunny day

With its waterfront setting, steep hills, iconic trams, and gigantic red suspension bridge, Lisbon draws a lot of comparisons to San Francisco–but luckily, a trip to Lisbon is far more affordable.

Colorful and laid-back, Lisbon’s architecture is beautiful, its culture warm and inviting, and its attractions beautiful, making it one of the best cities in Europe to visit.

While you’re there, be sure to stroll through the historic neighborhood of Alfama, ride the popular Tram 28 past beautiful views (or at least snap photos of it going by), admire the city from a couple of different miradouros (viewpoints) check out the Time Out Market, and enjoy the sunset along the Tagus River.

Be sure not to leave without eating a dozen or so pasteis de nata, either!

4 Days in Lisbon: Street Car Alfama District

Hilly, crowded, chaotic Naples is certainly a bit controversial among these best cities to visit in Europe–people tend to either love or hate it–but as we adore it, we want to include it here.

Built on the coast of Campania and boasting phenomenal views of Mount Vesuvius from its shores, Naples is an absolutely dynamic city.

Its streets are generally packed, its salesmen a bit more intense than those further north in Italy, and yes, it is a bit dirtier and rougher around the edges than Florence or Venice. 

However, it’s also gorgeous–places like the San Carlo Theater, Piazza del Plebiscito, and Galleria Umberto I are all beautiful–and incredibly interesting.

Features like the Bourbon Tunnel, Naples Underground, Castel Nuovo, and Naples Archaeological Museum are all incredible places to visit, and even if you don’t find Naples’ environment or attractions quite to your taste, there’s always its world-famous pizza to grab (and hold) your attention.

With incredible day trip options like Pompeii  and the legendary Amalfi Coast , you sure can’t beat its location, either!

Trip to Italy Cost: View of Mount Vesuvius from Naples

Estonia’s small-yet-stunning capital city has long been under the radar as far as tourism is concerned, but luckily, that is starting to change.

With a beautiful cityscape right on the water, affordable prices, and plenty of fun things to do (be sure to add checking out the views from Toompea Hill and strolling through the hipster haven of Telliskivi Creative City to your list of things to see), Tallinn is a fantastic city to explore for a few days.

Once you wrap up, you can even travel by boat to easily extend your trip to another country!

Helsinki, Finland is only about 2 hours away from Tallinn by ferry.

Cityscape of Tallinn at sunset, one of the best hidden gems in Europe

Portugal’s “second city” has been gaining in popularity in recent decades, but still remains somewhat under-the-radar when compared to busy Lisbon.

Set on the Duoro River, Porto is known for its gorgeous, colorful architecture, churches covered in gorgeous azulejos (Portuguese hand-painted tiles), its dramatic views, and–most of all–for its port!

Once upon a time, the famous port grown in the nearby Duoro Valley was floated down the river to Porto, and today, you can still tour traditional port houses along the banks of the river (complete with tastings, of course).

kate storm in front of igrejo do carmo azulejos, one of the best places to visit in porto in a day

Less visited than Florence or Milan , and yet stunningly beautiful, Verona is set in southern Veneto, nestled on the banks of the Adige River.

Home of a remarkably well preserved Roman amphitheater, amazing views, and the legend of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is as captivating as it is beautiful.

Be sure to enjoy the views from the Castel San Pietro and the Torre dei Lamberti as part of your visit.

And, if you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider taking a whitewater rafting trip down the Adige!

Best Things to Do in Verona: Castel San Pietro

As the second-largest city in Norway and nicknamed the Heart of the Fjords, Bergen doesn’t generally top European bucket lists (at least for those of us that hail from outside the continent)–but perhaps it should.

Featuring highlights like the traditional wooden houses of Bryggen, a bustling fish market, and sweeping views from Mount Fløyen, Bergen makes for a fantastic introduction to Norway.

As the gateway to Norway’s incredible fjord beauty and home to what is arguably one of the most picturesque harbors in Europe, stunningly beautiful Bergen definitely ranks among the best cities to visit in Europe!

4 photos of European cities: Venice, Krakow, Rome, Paris. Red and black text on a white background reads "bucket list cities to visit in Europe"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

30 thoughts on “35 Best Cities to Visit in Europe (Bucket List for City Lovers!)”

No Plovdiv or Sofia or Veliko Tarnovo. It is not a good enough list. ?

If I ever expand this list to 50, at least Sofia will make the list! Sofia holds a special place in our hearts, we’ve spent months there visiting good friends of ours.

Add all of Ireland to this list ?

Birmingham England

Birmingham is very much a cultural hotspot in the uk. It has lovely Victorian industrial buildings and has more miles of canal than Venice.

Most depressing soulless sprawled out place I’ve ever lived

What about Dublin??? Great atmosphere, great people, great history Cork, Kilkenny and Galway for smaller cities!

Bucharest is also a very beautiful city, once called “little Paris”!

In agreement with all of the listings even living on two of them! I would add Siena to the list of small cities to visit

We love Siena! It’s definitely a fantastic place to visit.

Siena is beautiful but I think Lucca is better!

Lucca is one of my favorites too! Tried to keep the level of Italy in check on this post, LOL, but I could easily do a whole list of only Italian cities, too. 🙂

Worth expanding the list. Need Wales, perhaps Conway, more Spain for example Caceres, Burgos, what of the lovely Island of Crete – Xania? And surely can’t miss Brittany and San Malo. Actually this is impossible….. Expand to 100 and leave out the iconic cos people know them? Be so good to have loads more of less well known.

Also ireland and Northern Ireland as Belfast portstewart portrush and some Irish cities

Surprised none of Switzerland’s cities are in there. I loved Lucerne and Zurich. Magical feeling walking around both cities.

I would also include Stockholm, Helsinki, Dublin, Moscow, and Oslo. Vienna, Amsterdam, Bruges and Lisbon are in my modest opinion quite overrated cities.

I disagree about Vienna and Dublin but agree about Moscow and Lisbon

Budapest and Vienna Salzburg or Brussels with Brugees? This a real question. After 2 years in quarauntine we want to explore Europe. (Budapest first time )

Very hard decision! They’re all wonderful in their own way.

If we had to pick, though, we’d pick Budapest/Vienna/Salzburg. 🙂

Τhank you Ms. Kate, After a lot of videos and Reviews and even though Bruges looks fantastic will be closer to choose Budapest and Salzburg. (even though Vienna is for the Second time after 2017). But still, this about as you wrote is a really hard decision if you think Bruges Ghent and of course Amsterdam that is really close to all of them … But we will be closer to your opinion that why i wrote here to take a feedback. Thank you for this

Budapest all day long

Warsaw is a beautiful city

I totally agree Warsaw is so quick changing city I have seen almost whole Europe and over 100 capitals in the world and I am so happy that I live in Warsaw

If you like Amsterdam, then don’t forget to visit Leiden. It’has the same look and feel as Amsterdam with canals and beautiful museums.

I have traveled many European cities mostly on business and a few with my wife on pleasure. I agree with your selections and comments. Your list is also very informative for me to visit the places we have not been to. Thank you for your postings.

Great Blog! You really made a very good choice of your top 35 cities in Europe (and choosing only 35 is extremely difficult). Keep the good work up and have fun travelling, now that it is possible again.

Saint Petersburg should be included. Beautiful place.

Hi Kate Have loved reading your post. Had been thinking of visiting Milan but see it doesn’t get a mention in this list. What are your thoughts on its merits? Thanks Barbra

We’ve visited Milan several times (were just there again a couple of weeks ago, in fact), but it’s not among our favorite cities in Italy!

That’s very subjective, of course, many people love it. As the business capital of Italy we don’t find it quite as idyllic and picturesque as many Italian cities, but of course its major sites–the Duomo, the Last Supper, etc–are all wonderful and worth visiting. We don’t dislike it, just don’t love it as much as other places.

We do have a guide to spending a day there! Here it is: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/one-day-in-milan-itinerary/

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14 Best Cities to Visit in Europe With Family (Family Bucket List!)

Destinations.

Millions of families travel to Europe every year . Those hordes of tourists contribute nearly a trillion dollars to the European economy. If you’re one of the many that have always dreamed of making your pilgrimage to the Colosseum of Rome or the tapas stalls of Barcelona and will have enough money saved up next year to make your dreams real, you might be wondering which European city you see should visit with your family . There are a lot of options of cities to visit in Europe for a family vacation . If you can only visit one or two on next year’s family vacation, here’s where you should go.

And if you have never been to a European city before, don’t worry, I’m going to cover the easiest ways to get around a city in Europe, it’s not that hard!

The European continent is home to some of the world’s greatest, most historical, and stunning cities, from the small and intimate to the vast and impersonal, but all with their very unique appeal and sell.

From Sweden to the North, Poland to the East, Italy to the South, and Ireland to the West, metropolitan cities abound, and it is truly worth your while to stop anywhere in between.

Cities to Visit in Europe

Table of Contents

Best Cities for Family Vacation in Europe

That’s a hard question to answer. After all, every European city has its own special attractions to offer.

To help narrow the list of places that you might pop into, though, our team has created this list of the best cities to visit in Europe with family.

Pick any one of these dream destinations, and we’re confident that you’ll have a blast!

prague at night

Kicking off our list of five cities in Europe that everyone needs to visit in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic  and arguably one of the most historically beautiful and best-preserved cities on the continent.

The Vltava River partitions the city in two and is connected by 18 bridges. On one side rests the Old and New Town, and on the other stands the Lesser Town and Prague Castle.

It is known as the “city of a hundred spires”, thanks to its gold-tipped church towers that decorate the city’s skyline. The city’s story is a thousand years old, with remnants of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque culture scattered throughout the city.

And for those who favor the views, the journey to the top of the Prague Castle, built in the 9 th  century, is truly worth the panoramic views of the city, while you will have walked in the footsteps of Bohemian Kings and Roman Emperors.

birdeye view of Barcelona city

The city of Barcelona is a living piece of art. The people are fabulous, the food is to-die-for and the wonderful, beaches and parks will make it so you’re never at a loss of things to do.

While over-tourism has pushed this world-class city to the brink of destruction, Barcelona still stands tall among the best cities to visit in Europe.

Put Barcelona at the top of your European itinerary sooner rather than later because tourist hordes may soon spoil this gem.

Dublin

While not as big as some of the powerhouse European cities, Dublin is one of the continent’s best and it will be a blight on your travel record if you fail to tour the famous Irish capital.

Perhaps one of the most appealing features of Dublin is that, whilst still, a city with a population of one million people, a lot of its best attractions are within walking distance making it the perfect trip for a personal and intimate stay.

Dublin is the epicenter of both Irish history and the Irish present. Some of the best things to do in Dublin include a trip to the GPO, the City Hall, Dublin Castle, Trinity College, or the Guinness Storehouse.

Elsewhere, take a pint in the Temple Par, shop in Grafton Street, go for a coffee in O’Connell Street or take a walk in St Stephen’s Green and you will thank us for recommending a trip to Dublin.

Colosseum in Rome, Italy

When you ask somebody that’s never been to Europe where they want to go, 8 out of 10 times they’ll tell you Italy. When you ask them where in Italy they’d like to visit, Rome is likely the first place on their list.

Rome is a city that’s steeped with history that’s too dense for us to recount in this blog post. All you need to know is that the remnants of a once-great empire are still a treasure to behold to this day.

Come to Rome to see incredible art, bury yourself in fabulous stories or even try your luck at bumping into the Pope in nearby Vatican city.

There are lots of tour guides out there that can help with planning your trip around this popular destination.

birdeye view of east london

England is sometimes cited as being the United States of Europe. That comparison is made because many people from the country made up the early settlers of the USA.

While the United States and England do share a special kind of relationship, London definitely has a culture all its own.

Stop into London for the outstanding theater and stick around for the delicious beer and fish and chips. You definitely won’t regret doing so.

One of the events you should not miss is the Mcm London Comic Con. MCM London is excited to feature awesome series of workshops, designed to help you create, learn and inspire. Meet the people behind your favorite characters from the film, video games, and online personalities at the London Comic Con.

Take a look at this travel guide if you are  visiting London for the first time. 

Paris eiffel tower

The city of lights. The city of romance. Paris.

The Eiffel Tower. The Louvre. The Arc de Triomphe. The Notre Dame. We could almost stop here for the beautiful city of Paris and make our case as to why it’s the best city in Europe everyone needs to visit.

The French capital,  Paris is one of the largest, most thriving, and restless metropolises in the world, where over 2.5 million people call it their home while millions more make it their number one travel choice.

And we can certainly see why. Like London, its vast size is shrunk by its impressive transportation system to help you along your way. It’s the city that never ends and never stops surprising.

Enjoy the French cuisine and marvel at the world’s finest artwork. Shop along the Champs Elysses, catch a landscape view of the city from the Eiffel Tower or the Arc, wander the numerous city parks and make it worth your time to discover some of the city’s hidden gems.

There is perhaps no city on earth quite like it. It bore or at least temporarily housed some of the most influential artists of all time and still acts as a source of infinite inspiration.

Sure, Paris’s allure has made it rather expensive. Still, experiencing the city is well worth the price and we have no doubt that, after spending a few weeks here, you’ll never want to leave.

Budapest

Eastern Europe is often put on the cities to visit in Europe back-burner because it’s not as talked about as the gems that sit in Western Europe. To that, we say, “Great! More Eastern European fun for us.”

As far as the best Eastern European cities go, Budapest is the best.

Budapest features incredible landscapes, river cruises, spas, and wonderful Hungarian hospitality. What’s even better is that Budapest is nowhere near as expensive as more popular destinations in France, Spain, and Italy.

Sunset in Calton Hill, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh contains some of the British Isles’ finest attractions.

The city’s castle famously inspired the Harry Potter books and those who enjoy walking tours can discover other famed hot spots relating to the series. These visitors may also enjoy one of the city’s many ghost tours – be warned, they are not for the faint of heart!

Nor is the Royal College of Surgeons Museum where true crime fans familiar with the story of Burke and Hare can come face to face with their death masks, as well as the skeleton of William Burke.

If none of this ruins your appetite, don’t miss out on the local delicacies – while you’re in town, why not tuck into a deep-fried Mars bar or haggis?

berlin

Berlin feels like a real city. You know, one with movie theaters, casual restaurants, and regular working-class people?

There’s just something about Berlin’s down to earth vibe that makes us feel at home whenever we step foot in it.

You can make a day out of hitting up some food stalls here, checking out where the Berlin wall used to stand or by strolling around this city’s incredible zoo.

The Tower, Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon truly deserves its position on this list of underrated European cities.

But it is something of a rising star on the continent, and it’s not uncommon to encounter returning tourists in Portugal – in fact, many of the country’s admirers visit year-in, year-out for their summer holidays.

Lisbon offers travelers (and residents) vibrant city life just a thirty-minute drive away from white sandy beaches. On top of this, the city’s coastal areas feature several major fishing hot spots, meaning local menus are sure to please seafood lovers, whilst Lisbon’s many bakeries are perfect to satisfy a sweet tooth.

Overall, Lisbon is not only an underrated city but a versatile holiday destination for all, whether you’re traveling with a family, as a couple, with friends, or even on your own.

canal in amsterdamn in autumn

Amsterdam, located in the Netherlands, is not a hard city to sell by any stretch, and it is absolutely no wonder that we have it so high on the list of European cities that everyone needs to visit, you may not be thinking as a family-friendly city to visit in Europe but it’s!.

Amsterdam is a gem for history and museums, such as Van Gogh Museum in Museum Square which is the largest collection of the man’s artwork, while the city’s food and festivals are other notable reasons to catch a city break here.

A must-do when in the Dam is a canal cruise, a journey along the still waters that dissect the town and is easily the best way to view the city.

Perhaps the most unique crown in Amsterdam’s many jewels is that large parts of the city are car-free. The city thus becomes a hub of people, perfect for a pedestrian walk or a cycle, which is a big deal in Amsterdam.

a street in Mariacka, Gdańsk, Poland

This seaside city is instantly striking and brimming with history.

Home to St Mary’s Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world, scenes both in the city and on its beaches are breathtaking.

And whilst the architecture reflects the city’s rich history, there are some surprising marks of modernity too in the city’s affection for street art. Visitors to the Zaspa region of the city are greeted with a number of impressive and vibrant street murals and contemporary sculptures.

venice italy boats and buildings

Did somebody say canals? We did? Oh… Well then, it must be time to mention Venice!

Images of taking Gondola rides around this once sleepy city is what inspires many people to travel to Europe in the first place. Once you get past the gondolas though, is this city still worth visiting?

We think so.

Venice has some pretty cool photo opportunities, decent gelato and some fun churches to explore.

Plan on 2 to 3 days here and you’ll have gotten your fill.

Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy

Two Italian cities in a row? You bet!

Rounding out our cities to visit in Europe is Florence.

If you like food and you like wine, Florence is the place to be. There’s not too much more to say about this city beyond that it houses one of the world’s most treasured pieces of art Michelangelo’s David.

How to Get Around in a City in Europe

1) accompany other travelers.

If you are a solo traveler, not knowing your way around European cities might make you stand out more as a foreigner, which will undoubtedly attract pickpocketers and other unscrupulous individuals. Although Europe is known as the  most peaceful  region in the world, it still does not hurt to keep your wits about you! For this reason, make sure that you inform a relative or a friend of your whereabouts and try to find other tourists to tag along with. Not only will new friendships blossom out of this, but these tourists may end up being more familiar with the area you want to explore than you are.

2) Hitchhike

If you want to get the full European experience, then this tip will surely strike your fancy! Backpacking and hitchhiking are both great ways of exploring unfamiliar areas, and they help you avoid having to ask for help and standing out as a tourist. Nonetheless, keep in mind that if you truly cannot make heads or tails of the area you want to explore, you will end up making your situation much worse if you don’t ask for help! An easy way of avoiding this is to rely on your phone’s GPS to guide your steps. If you are concerned about not getting good reception, you should buy a Europe continent map or find an application that works offline. It all depends on what type of traveler you are. If you think this hack is too advanced for you, don’t worry; you can use the next few methods instead.

3) Book a Tour

Worrying about logistics like picking the right means of transportation and finding your way around winding streets and alleys can pretty much ruin the fun of visiting Europe. To avoid this, we recommend that you contact a travel agency and book a tour in the European city of your choice. This way, you can enjoy all the attractions the area has to offer without feeling too overwhelmed. Just make sure that you choose the right tour provider for your needs and budget. To pick the best package, head over to the websites of at least 3 tour providers and compare the itineraries they offer. After you create a shortlist, eliminate providers based on your budget until you find the one that gives the best value for money.

5) Hop on Megabus

If you want to navigate European cities the traditional way, then Megabus is the solution to all your problems. Megabus is a transportation company that operates in the UK, Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels.

In addition to being extremely cheap, with tickets averaging between £1 and £15, Megabus can be used to move across the aforementioned cities. So, if you are planning a multi-destination trip to Europe, this is the best way to save money.

6) Rent a Car

Renting a car is one of the smartest ways of moving around areas you have not been to before. It gives you the freedom to navigate cities at your own pace without having to wait around to catch the bus or rely on locals to get where you want. Just use your phone’s GPS or a detailed paper map to reach your destination! That said, when renting a car, we recommend that you check the provider’s license and credentials to avoid legal issues.

Europe is a diverse continent filled with travel opportunities for the intrepid family. Many European Cities are worth visiting, and I have included some of the main ones that should you visit on a family vacation. So, if you’re planning on heading to Europe with your family next year, you’re probably stressing about where to go. We hope that our suggestions have added some clarity to your cities to visit in Europe possibilities.

Last Updated on September 28, 2023

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The Exploring Family

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.

Travelling Europe 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.

best cities to visit in europe with family

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.

best cities to visit in europe with family

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

best cities to visit in europe with family

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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.

best cities to visit in europe with family

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.

best cities to visit in europe with family

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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. 

Best places to visit with kids in Zurich

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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. 

best cities to visit in europe with family

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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. 

best cities to visit in europe with family

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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.

best cities to visit in europe with family

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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.

best cities to visit in europe with family

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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

Vienna with kids

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. 

best cities to visit in europe with family

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

Dublin with Kids

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!

best cities to visit in europe with family

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.

best cities to visit in europe with family

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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. 

Paris with Kids

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You may also be interested in:  Places to stay in Paris with Kids

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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.

copenhagen for kids

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. 

things to do in copenhagen with kids

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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!

Vik-Iceland with Kids

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. 

best cities to visit in europe with family

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. 

things to do in munich with kids

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. 

things to do in munich with kids

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.

best cities to visit in europe with family

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

sweden vacation

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. 

best cities to visit in europe with family

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. 

prague with kids

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

dubrovnik with kids

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. 

things to do in amsterdam with kids

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.

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Family Vacations in Europe

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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best cities to visit in europe with family

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10 cities in Europe for the best vacations for families with teenagers

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Europe is one of the most amazing places to visit with family, especially when travelling with teens. From history to culture and back again, there are so many perfect cities in Europe for teens to explore.

Many are so diverse that your teens will be learning things without realising it. So here are our top cities in Europe for the best vacations for families with teenagers.

11. Kotor, Montenegro

10 epic destinations in europe for family travel with teenagers.

While some of these cities in Europe are very popular and touristy, there are still amazing reasons to visit with teens. To help plan your epic destinations for the best vacations for families with teenagers, here are the top European cities for family travel.

Dark haired teen waiting to cross a busy road in a city at dusk on the best vacations for families with teenagers in Europe

1. Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw is full of history and is one of the easiest cities to travel around in Europe with teens. With a mixture of old and new, Warsaw will surely be high on your list of best places to go with teens in Europe.

You can spend the day wandering Warsaw with teenagers or venture into the Polish countryside to taste the real Poland. Warsaw is an easily walked city , especially around the Old Town area.

market in Warsaw Old Town. A set of colouful buildings with tables out the front with umbrellas

Best things to do in Warsaw for teenagers:

Warsaw has a brilliant mix of activities for families travelling to Poland with teenagers. While our teens love history and art there are also many other things to do in Warsaw for families.

Warsaw is a great city to visit in the summer and winter. You will find the city alive with light installations in the lead-up to Christmas, and during the summer months, the banks of the Vistula River will be teeming with locals soaking up the sun.

Below, we have included some of the best things to do in Warsaw with teens that we love.

  • Guided Tour of Warsaw
  • Chopin Concert in the Old Town
  • Polish Dumpling Cooking Class
  • Hop-on hop-off bus tickets
  • Warsaw Food Tour
  • Old Town Segway Tour

Foods to eat in Warsaw with teens:

Eating out in Warsaw is one of the greatest experiences for teens. If you can find a local ‘Milkbar’, you will be in for a treat. These restaurants were popular in the Soviet Era and gave many Polish people a good, hearty meal. Now, they are open to everyone to enjoy.

There is nothing like sitting down to a meal with teens when on vacation in Europe. If you can’t sit down, grab a Zapikanka and pick a spot to enjoy it. Our favourite was a tiny hole-in-the-wall place right near the Royal Castle.

Day trips from Warsaw with teenagers

There are so many amazing day trips from Warsaw for families. Day trips are amazing experiences for teens visiting cities in Europe.

Places to stay in Warsaw for families

There are so many places to stay in Warsaw for families that will suit every budget . Getting the best accommodation in Warsaw will help you see all the best Warsaw tourist attractions during your holidays with teenagers in Warsaw. Staying near the Old Town in Warsaw is a top place to stay in Warsaw.

We can highly recommend staying at the Dream Hostel in Warsaw . It is right near the Warsaw Old Town, The Royal Castle and within walking distance of parking if you are driving. Out the front of the hostel is a bus stop that will get you to Wilanow and to the Palace of Science and Culture.

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2. Freiburg, Germany

Freiburg, Germany, is a brilliant European city for families. This beautiful German city will have plenty of green areas and a very relaxed atmosphere. You will find Freiburg to be one of the best places to go with teens on your family vacation to Europe.

When you travel with teenagers to Freiburg, you can stay in the city or use it as a base to add more vacation destinations for teens to your European vacation with family.

Best things to do in Freiburg with teenagers:

Freiburg is a brilliant city for teens. It is a university town with many options for things to do. It is right near one of the best theme parks in Europe, Europa Park. You can spend time in some of the green spaces and learn about the region’s history.

  • Rafting Tour on the Rhine River
  • Epic walking tour of Freiburg
  • Freiburg Scavenger Hunt
  • The Great Black Forest Tour

Foods to eat in Freiburg with teens:

Many families will remember their best holidays with teenagers and previous family holidays to Europe over a meal. You can find some of these at the market near the Munster, Martins Brau , and any good cake shop will have a Black Forest Cake for you to try when you holiday in Freiburg .

  • Black Forest Cake
  • Currywurst at the market
  • Flammekeuche
  • Roasted Pork Knuckle

A teenager walking down a misty street in Freiburg Germany.

Day trips from Freiburg for families

There are so many amazing day trips from Freiburg for families, including other countries that are easily visited. Day trips are a great way to ensure you have the best vacations for families with teenagers.

Places to stay in Freiburg with teenagers

There are so many places for families to stay in Freiburg. You will find many different Freiburg accommodation options for your holiday in Freiburg with teenagers.

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Having spent a lot of time in and around Freiburg, our Freiburg travel guides will help you plan your family trip to Freiburg with ease. Freiburg is one of our top destinations in Europe for families.

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  • Heidelberg on a day trip

There are so many other cities in Germany to visit with teens. Use our Germany Destination Guide Page for more inspiration on more cities to visit in Germany with teenagers.

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3. Zurich Switzerland

Zurich is one of the most expensive places in Europe you can visit with teenagers, but it is totally worth it. If you need to travel to Zurich on a budget, it is achievable; you just need to make sure you plan your trip to Zurich with your family well.

A red head teenager looking out over a balcony onto the street below in Zurich Switerzland on their best vacations for families with teenagers

Best things to do in Zurich for teens:

Switzerland is known as one of the most expensive countries in the world, and I can tell you we were shocked when we arrived at the prices of daily basics.

Below we have included some of the top things to do In Zurich but also some passes that will help you save some money when you visit Zurich.

  • Unlimited Swiss Travel Pass
  • Zurich Super Saver Card
  • Lindt Chocolate World
  • FIFA Museum Entry Ticket
  • Eurail Global Mobile Pass
  • Unlimited 4g Pocket Wi-Fi
  • Zurich City Tour
  • Private Zurich Tuk-tuk Tour

Foods to eat in Zurich with teens:

A great way to plan more activities with teenagers on your family holiday to Zurich is to find a good meal and enjoy it together.

  • Swiss Cheese
  • All the chocolate

Day trips from Zurich for families

There are a few day trips from Zurich that should be on your Switzerland itinerary. This will surely make it one of the best vacations for families with teenagers.

  • Rhine Falls Half-Day Tour
  • Grindelwald and Interlaken Trip
  • Heidiland and Liechtenstein Day Trip

Places to stay in Zurich with teenagers

From 5-star luxury to budget chain hotels in Zurich, you will find accommodation for families in Zurich easy to find. Your budget will determine where you stay in Zurich with teens.

We can highly recommend the Leonech Swiss Hotel in Zurich for your family holiday with teens. But if you are looking for next-level accommodation in Zurich and the surrounds, Plum Guide has some magnificent stays around Switzerland

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Use our detailed Zurich travel guides to plan your family trip to Zurich.

  • Things to do in Zurich with teens
  • How to get from Basel to Colmar

Planning family holidays with teenagers can be time-consuming. Visit our Switzerland Destination Guide Page to help plan your family trip to Switzerland

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4. Reykjavik, Iceland

Be prepared to be wow-ed by Iceland in any season. You will easily find a photo opportunity around every corner, making Iceland one of the best vacation destinations for families with teenagers in Europe.

Reykjavik has to be one of the best places to go with teens, and you are guaranteed some magnificent experiences with teens while you are travelling in Iceland . Put Reykjavik on your list of top European cities for family travel.

Best things to do in Reykjavik for teens:

You will find such a wide range of things to do in Reykjavik. You can enjoy nature, experiencing epic landscapes, and making unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Again, Iceland is an epic destination, one of the top places we have visited, but it is very expensive. We’ve included some amazing deals to save money when you visit Iceland.

  • Golden Circle & Volcanic Crater Tour
  • Reykjavik Food Tour
  • Snorkelling between continents
  • Northern Lights Small Group Tour
  • Puffin Watching Boat Tour
  • Blue Lagoon Entry & Transfers
  • Red Lava Horse Riding tour
  • Katla Ice Cave and Jeep Tour

Foods to eat in Reykjavik with teens:

After a huge day of sightseeing in Reykjavik with teens, there is nothing better than sitting down to a good meal together. You can find the world-famous hot dog stand in Reykjavík.

  • Icelandic lamb
  • Icelandic Hot Dogs

The amazing Church in Reykjavik rising towards the perfect blue sky.

Day trips from Reykjavik for families

How do you make your family vacation to Reykjavik even more epic? Do some day trips from Reykjavik with teens. There are so many places to visit with family that surround Reykjavik.

Places to stay in Reykjavik with teenagers

Budget travel is difficult in Iceland, so having a place to cook some meals may be the way to go if you travel with a large family to Iceland.

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Planning the very best vacations for families with teenagers takes a lot of work. Take the hassle out of your trip to Iceland with our first-hand travel guides to Iceland on our Iceland Destination Guide Page

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Search here for all the very best travel products for your family vacation and beyond!

5. Luxembourg City

A city overlooked by many families on holiday in Europe with teens, it should be on your travel with teens list. This gorgeous city is easy to get around, and day trips around the entire country are magnificent. Luxembourg is one of the most relaxing places in Europe to visit with family.

Best things to do in Luxembourg for teens:

Luxembourg is such a beautiful place, but many of the top attractions are out of the city. It is easy to get around with the free public transport but you can also walk the city easily.

  • Luxembourg Hop-on Hop-off bus
  • 3-Hour Food Tour
  • History and Castles Day Tour
  • Luxembourg City Walking Tour
  • Mudam Museum Entry Ticket
  • Bus and City Train Combo Tickets

Day trips from Luxembourg for families

While Luxembourg is easy to drive around and see the sites yourself, you can do some amazing day trips from Luxembourg City. Add another country to your Luxembourg itinerary easily to make your vacation with teenagers in Luxembourg unforgettable.

Places to stay in Luxembourg with teenagers

From amazing campgrounds to hotels with the world of Luxembourg on your doorstep, you will be spoilt for accommodation in Luxembourg.

We can highly recommend staying in the Beter-uit vakantiepark Walsdorf Campground located in Tandel just out of Luxembourg City.

This amazing campground is fantastic for families visiting Luxembourg and has on-site cabins, tent sites, RV sites and onsite tents available. Public transport is available close by as well.

Two teen girls having fun on a bridge in Luxembourg City on their best vacations for families with teenagers

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Any family that travels to Luxembourg will be astounded by its beauty. Our top travel tips for Luxembourg for families will help make your trip to Luxembourg wonderful.

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6. Strasbourg France

Tourists flock to Strasbourg at Christmas for the world-famous markets , but did you know Strasbourg is beautiful in any season? Wander the fairytale streets with picturesque houses and sample some of the best cuisines in Europe when you visit Strasbourg with your family.

Best things to do in Strasbourg for teens:

One of our favourite places to visit with teens, we loved our time in Strasbourg . The city is again another easy holiday with kids but you may find you want to visit out of the city too, especially if you enjoy wine.

Strasbourg is one of the top cities in Europe to visit at Christmas time. You will find it is at the top of many people’s must-see lists at this time, and for good reason. It is absolutely amazing.

  • Medieval Villages and Castles Tour
  • Private City Boat Tour
  • Strasbourg Food Tour
  • 7-day Strasbourg Pass Card
  • Guided Segway Tour
  • European Parliament Tour

Foods to eat in Strasbourg with teens:

Some of the finest food comes from this area. Influenced by German and French tastes you will find so man y memorable meals to be had in Strasbourg. Families travelling in Europe will fall in love here.

  • Flammekueche
  • Vin Chaud (mulled wine)
  • Cordon Bleu
  • Gingerbread

Strasbourg is located in The Alsace Region of France, one of the world’s best wine regions. There are many wonderful vineyards, wine caves and cellar doors to visit during your family vacation to Europe.

*In France, children over 14 can have a glass of wine with a meal while accompanied by adults.

A blonde teen looking out over the cananl towards the wooden thatched houses in Strasbourg France.

Day trips from Strasbourg for families

While staying in Strasbourg for your family vacation with teens to Europe, there are some stunning day trips from Strasbourg.

Places to stay in Strasbourg with teenagers

Picture yourself calling one of the most photographed houses in the world home for a few nights. You can easily rent an apartment or stay in a hotel, but whatever you do, Strasbourg is one of the best vacations for families with teenagers.

For many, a trip to the Alsace is a bucket list vacation. Known for its world-famous cuisine, stunning wine caves, and picturesque villages, a stay in the Alsace is epic.

If you want to add another layer of beauty to your holiday in the Alsace, search Plum Guide for stays in the Alsace that are truly unforgettable.

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There are so many epic destinations in France for family holidays with teenagers. Our France Destination Guide Page will have you adding to your France trip with family.

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7. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal should be among the top cities on your list of best vacations for families with teenagers. There are so many experiences for teens in and out of the city. Lisbon is a top city for the best vacations for families with teenagers.

Best things to do in Lisbon for teens:

You can find plenty of things to do in Lisbon with older children . There is something around every corner, from epic castles to jaw-dropping food!

  • Walking Food Tour of Lisbon
  • The Super Saver Lisbon Card
  • Segway Tour of Lisbon
  • Private City Tour of Lisbon
  • Lisbon Hop-on hop-off bus
  • Live Fado Show Tickets
  • Luz Stadium Tour
  • Lisbon Oceanarium Entry Ticket

Foods to eat in Lisbon with teens:

There is one thing that you must eat in Lisbon and that is a Pastel de Nata. These sweet treats are hard to go past when you’ve started.

A teen with a ponytail looking throught the clear glass at the Oceanarium in Lisbon as a shark swims by. Lisbon is one of the best vacations for families with teenagers

Day trips from Lisbon for families

There are some places to visit with family during your stay in Lisbon . Sintra, Evora and the Algarve are some places to go with teens on your Lisbon family vacation with teenagers.

  • Knights Templar Day Trip
  • Small Group Sintra Tour
  • Estoril, Cascais and Sintra Tour
  • Fatima, Nazare and Obidos Day Trip
  • Lisbon To Porto with 3 stops
  • Night-time Fatima Tour

Places to stay in Lisbon with teenagers

There are many great places for families to stay in Lisbon on your Portugal family vacation in Europe. Remember that Lisbon is an extremely hilly city so you must consider that when you plan your family travel with teenagers to Lisbon.

A stay in Lisbon is a truly magical experience and once you lay eyes on Pena Palace is near Sintra you will fall in love with the beautiful Portuguese landscapes. If you are looking to make our trip to Lisbon even more unforgettable why not look at staying in a luxury Plum Guide apartment in Lisbon or Sintra?

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  • 3 amazing day trips from Lisbon

Add more family travel with teenagers places in Portugal with our Portugal Destination Guide Page

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8. Seville, Spain

With its amazing orange tree-lined streets, movie sets, ancient Roman amphitheatre and the Royal Alcázar there is something in this amazing city for anyone planning a family holiday in Spain with teenagers. Families on holiday in Europe with teens will be spoiled for choice in Seville.

Best things to do in Seville for teens:

Seville and its landmarks have featured in plenty of films so you can walk in the footsteps of your favourite actors! It is also a brilliant place to taste some of the best foods in Spain too. Below we have included some of the best things to do in Seville Spain !

  • Skip the Line Alcazar Tickets
  • Hop-on, hop-off bus tickets
  • Sevilla Food Tour
  • Live Flamenco Show
  • Seville Cathedral and Giralda entry
  • Visit Ancient Roman City Italica

Foods to eat in Seville with teens:

Seville is known for some amazing tapas stalls as well as Jamon (ham) You should also try a paella if you are not travelling to any other city in Spain.

An ariel view of the semi circle shape of plaza esapan in Seville You can see the lagoon and bridges the make this building unique. a must see on your 3 days in seville

Day trips from Seville for families

Travel with teenagers out of the city with some of these amazing day trips from Seville. Adding a day trip to your European holiday itinerary is an amazing way to gain more experience. There are so many different day trips from Seville for you to enjoy !

  • Private Granada Full-Day Tour
  • White Villages and Ronda day-trip
  • Caminito del Rey full-day hike
  • Visit Cordoba and Carmona
  • Rio Tinto Mines and Aracena Tour
  • Pueblos Blancos and Ronda Trip

Places to stay in Seville with teenagers

Staying close to the city centre is a great way to see more of Seville on your family holiday with teenagers to Seville. The city is easily walked, and the public transport is easy to use as well if you need to for kid-friendly activities.

Step back in time and stay in the Walls of the Alcazar or in a Spanish villa with a luxury stay with Plum Guide . Be taken on an added journey when you pick the most epic place to stay in Seville.

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  • Visit Italica the Birthplace of Emperors
  • Visit the inspiring Seville Cathedral

Spain is one of the best places to visit with family in Europe and there are so many extra places to go in Spain. Use our Spain Destination Guide Page to add more destinations to your family holiday in Europe.

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9. Liverpool, England

This amazing English city is full of amazing things to do with travelling teens. No family trip to Europe would be complete without an English city to visit with teens. Home to the Beatles, The ferry across the Mersey and some of the biggest football teams on the planet.

Sports-mad families on holiday in England would be crazy to miss a holiday in Liverpool and will be remembered as the best vacations for families with teenagers in Europe.

Travel with teens to Liverpool to see the Titanic story in the city. A teen looks excited to be at the museum with one arm raised and a big smile

Best things to do in Liverpool for teens:

The home of the Beatles will have you visiting as many places as you can.

  • Beatles Magical Mystery Tour
  • Liverpool Hop-on, hop-off bus
  • Silent Disco Adventure Tour
  • The Super Saver Liverpool Pass
  • Mersey River Cruise
  • Liverpool Football Club Stadium Tour
  • Ghost Walk of St James Cemetery
  • Peaky Blinders Half-day tour

Foods to eat in Liverpool with teens:

You can’t go past a full English Breakfast to start the day on your family holiday in Europe when you are travelling with teens

  • Fish n Chips
  • Bacon Butty’s
  • Miss Molly’s Trifle
  • Scones, Jam and Cream

Day trips from Liverpool for families

There are some brilliant day trips from Liverpool for families . One of the most popular would be to visit the stunning Lake District or hop down to London to see sights such as the Tower of London, Crown Jewels and Big Ben.

  • Chester Day Trip from Liverpool
  • The Lake District Tour

Places to stay in Liverpool with teenagers

Being central to all of the action in Liverpool is essential to making your family holiday with teens in Liverpool amazing.

Choose a city stay or a quaint little country home for your trip to Liverpool with family. Plum Guide has epic stays both in the city centre and in the surrounding areas for you to have your perfect English holiday.

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Liverpool can provide one of the best vacations for families with teenagers with its wealth of activities and experiences for teenagers on holiday in the UK.

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Our England Destination Guide Page will easily provide you with more family travel with teenagers destinations for your holiday in the UK with family.

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10. Dubrovnik, Croatia

This amazing hub on the coast is an epic family travel destination in Europe for anyone who loves the TV show Game of Thrones. With its red roofs and city walls, Dubrovnik is a wonderful family-friendly city in Europe for families.

Best things to do in Dubrovnik for teens:

Many people find planning a visit to Dubrovnik difficult. Cruise ships pull up during the summer months en-masse and the narrow streets become clogged with tourists. We visited Dubrovnik in the winter and we found the city to be beautiful and less crowded although many of the museums and restaurants were closed.

  • Game of Thrones Tour
  • Panoramic Zipline Tour
  • Old Town Food Tour
  • Sea-kayak and snorkelling tour
  • Dubrovnik Walls Guided Sunset Tour
  • Old Town Walking Tour

Food to try in Dubrovnik:

Many Croatian meals are hearty and very tasty. While a vegetarian scene is really starting to emerge you will find some amazing treats for you to enjoy when you visit Dubrovnik.

We loved picking up a piece of Borek from our local bakery and something sweet before we headed off on our daily adventures.

Day trips from Dubrovnik for families

You can go on one of the many tours of all the best movie sets from the show Game of Thrones or you can visit another country on a day trip from Dubrovnik. There are so many places to visit with family on your family vacation to Europe.

  • Bay of Kotor Tour From Dubrovnik
  • Elafiti Island Day Trip
  • Blue Cave Small Group Tour
  • Mljet National Park & Islands Tour
  • Lokrum Island & Betina Cave
  • Medjugorje Pilgrimage Site Tour

Places to stay in Dubrovnik with teenagers

We highly recommend you stay in the Old City of Dubrovnik on your family holiday with teens to Dubrovnik . There are plenty of options for all budgets within the City Walls.

Need a pool? Want views of the city walls? Want an epic stay in Dubrovnik? Then check out all of the amazing places to stay in Dubrovnik on Plum Guide ! You can easily find a stay that will add an extra level of awesome to your trip.

Related posts on Dubrovnik, Croatia for families

Dubrovnik is a stunning place to visit with the family on your trip to Europe with teenagers.

  • How to get from Dubrovnik to Mostar
  • The Dubrovnik Cabel Car for family

See more of Croatia: All the very best things to do in Split

So many families travelling to Europe only end up in Kotor Montenegro if they are onboard a cruise ship. A visit to Kotor should be taken as a brilliant European destination for families by itself.

You will find a beautiful old walled city, hiking trails and some of the most amazing scenery in this stunning European city for families travelling with teens.

Traveling with teenagers to amazing places like Kotor. A teen sitting in a stone window frame with a stone church in the background on their  best vacations for families with teenagers.

Best things to do in Kotor for teens:

Wandering the narrow streets and going up to the very top Oof Kotor Fortress are some of the best things to do in Kotor. Don’t forget to pick yourself up some amazing olive oil or local wine from one of the local shops in the heart of the Old Town of Kotor .

  • Kotor Old Town Walking Tour
  • Perast Old Town Tour
  • Our Lady of the Rock Boat Tour
  • Epic 25 Turns Bike Descent
  • Private walking food tour
  • Blue Cave Tour

Day trips from Kotor for families

You can see some stunning places from Kotor on your day trip with teenagers.

  • Lovcen National Park Tour
  • Budva, Tivat or Herceg Cruise Tour
  • Visit Monastery Ostrog
  • Durmitor and Black Lake Trip

Places to stay in Kotor with teenagers

When you visit with teens staying within the City Walls is a great experience. While many old European cities have walled towns there aren’t many like Kotor. Make your family holiday in Europe with teenagers to Kotor unforgettable with some accommodation within the city walls.

Related posts on Kotor, Montenegro for families

Planning an epic trip to Europe for teenagers is easy with our first-hand Kotor travel guides.

  • Climbing Kotor Fortress with kids
  • Visit Our Lady of the Rocks

Pack like a pro: Top must-have reversible travel clothes for teen girls

Best vacations for families with teenagers

We have personally visited all of these cities in Europe with teens and we can say without a doubt there is something for everyone. Everyone who plans to travel with teenagers wants the best vacations for families with teenagers to make the holiday with young adults easy, hassle-free and enjoyable for the whole family.

Don’t be limited to these destinations only we can also vouch for more European cities we have visited such as Copenhagen,  Madrid ,  Barcelona , Amsterdam, Vienna, Munich, Rome and more.

In Copenhagen, you have the Tivoli Gardens, In Amsterdam, you have the Van Gogh Museum and in Rome, Italy the Colosseum and Gelato. While we have rated the cities in this post as the best vacations for families with teenagers destinations, some of these others are brilliant too.

Essentials for vacations in Europe with teens

There are a few items that should be on your must-get list well before you take off for your holiday in Europe with teenagers. You don’t want any unwanted or unexpected bills when you return home so some of the items below are things you shouldn’t plan a trip to Europe with teens without.

Essential travel items:

These top few points are things we never, ever leave home without. We always say if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel and we still stand by that today. We’ve also touched on money and visas.

  • For International travellers, travel insurance is a must, get a  quote through Insurance Masters  and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses.
  • Do you need a visa to visit Europe? Some countries in Europe may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorisation) to enter the country. You can check and   buy these documents at iVisa.
  • Load  a Revolut Travel Money card  with Euro or the local currency for your visit and save on transaction fees

Safety items for your European adventure with teens:

There is nothing worse than a bored teen and having availability to the internet is important. Not only for communicating with each other while you are away this connection allows them to feel like they are not missing out at home too.

  • Make phone calls with an   international sim card   that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a  virtual e-sim   for your mobile phone.
  • A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can   rent a pocket modem  that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel, alternatively  buy a pocket modem  that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet or computer.
  • Make sure you grab a VPN for your trip.   VPN Proxy Master   has plans available from one month to one year to help keep your data safe from hackers and malware while traveling.

Comfort, internal travel and hassle-free transport options:

Travelling with young adults has just as many issues as traveling with young kids so to make their trip to Europe go well a little vacation planning goes far.

Getting your internal transport sorted can take a lot of stress off arriving in a new place off you all. It leads to a smooth transition into a new destination and sets the holiday off on the right foot. Here are some of the must haves for making that possible.

  • If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip you should consider getting a lounge pass with Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world.  Search now for your lounge pass
  • You can easily book your  train tickets with Omio here to save you time and the hassle of navigating a new city and the train station
  • We can personally recommend  Kiwi Taxi transfers  from the airport to the city
  • Eurolines and  Flix bus  arrives and departs hourly from most major cities in Europe and are a great, budget-friendly way to see Europe with teenagers
  • You can reserve a  rental car  and have it waiting for you at many of the Airports in Europe

Travel for teenagers can be a wonderful experience and families that travel with teenagers find so many benefits of finding amazing places to go with teens in Europe.

We hope this article from us here at Wyld Family Travel has helped you easily choose some of the best vacations for teens destinations in Europe for your next family holiday with teenagers to Europe.

Travel with tweens and teens: Travelling with young adults has just as many issues as travelling with children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations can be so time-consuming. 

Use our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides from all over the world for your next family vacation inspiration to make your family vacations with teens epic.

  • Travel teens Middle East
  • Travel teens Americas
  • Travel teens Australasia
  • Travel with teens in Asia
  • Travel teens tips, tricks and advice
  • Travel for teens in Europe

Looking for more family destinations in Europe for families travelling with teens? Click through to our travel with teens in Europe city destination guides for more brilliant family travel tips.

More inspiration for family vacations with teens

30+ realistic and helpful budget travel for families tips
All the best travel essentials for teens
21 activity holiday adventures in the UK and Europe

best cities to visit in europe with family

Rebecca Wyld

[email protected]

Content Creator/SEO Editor

Co-founder and SEO editor here at Wyld Family Travel. Bec has travelled to over 45 countries across 3 continents and is a journey with kids advocate. When Bec is not planning travel, she creates content for our family travel blog or does local community service work. You can find all of Bec’s detailed travel guides here on Wyld Family Travel and on other popular websites such as Lonely Planet.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Europe in December With Family

European Christmas Market

From gorgeous places to escape for some winter sun to the most festive of Bavarian Christmas markets, there’s a magic that descends upon Europe in December that – despite often subzero temperatures – makes it the top of many family bucket lists.

We got to experience an incredible nine cities in our last European adventure in December on a train tour of Europe , but for this article, we’ve reached out to other family travellers for even more inspiration on where you could include in a Europe winter itinerary with kids.

Top Tips for Experiencing Europe In December

Bansko, bulgaria, barcelona, spain, dublin, ireland, lapland, finland, london, england, munich, germany, paris, france, prague, czechia, reykjavik, iceland, rome, italy, rothenburg ob der tauber, germany, salzburg, austria, seville, spain, stuttgart, germany, venice, italy, vienna, austria, warsaw, poland, more europe travel inspiration.

You will want to read this post alongside our European travel guides, including:

  • Top Tips For Travelling to Europe in Winter
  • Eurail around Europe With Kids
  • Our Complete European Packing List For Winter

Don’t forget the long-awaited ETIAS (online Visa waiver) will likely come into effect in early 2024. So even if you’re from a country that doesn’t need a Schengen Visa to visit Europe, you may still need an ETIAS for all members of your family.

A collage of images from Europe in December with winter blue  colours - titled  17 Fabulous Places to Visit in Europe in December

Suggested by Vicki from This Parenting Thing

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 36°F (2°C) and lows of 23°F (-5°C)

As part of our full-time travel adventure, we decided that some snow for winter would be nice and if we could find somewhere with other travelling families hanging out, then even better.

Luckily for us, at Worldschool Hub in Bansko, Bulgaria, ticked all our boxes, and we arrived in December.

My first recommendation is to check out the Sunday market in town. Packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, spices, pickles, crafts and sweet treats. Super affordable, and plenty of freebies for the younger kids from the stall holders.

OG - Vicki - Bansko

Next up, hot springs. There is a lot in the area, and after visiting a few, for families, we feel that Alpha Spa and Pool is best. Fabulous outdoor, naturally heated pools with a shallow one for those less confident swimmers, a colder one for the hardier and a super warm hot tub to thaw you out nicely. They also have saunas and steam rooms, as well as a bar and restaurant to keep you going for hours.

Bansko is a ski town , and although the milder weather this year meant that the slopes couldn’t open fully in December, we enjoyed riding up the Ski Gondola to the bottom slopes of the Pirin mountains and playing in the snow there. Sledging, snowball fights and snow angels all topped off with hot chocolates and mulled wine. The lack of snow also meant we could hike up the “snow road”, enjoying the woodland hikes and picturesque streams and rivers running down the mountain.

Don’t miss the New Year’s Eve fireworks in the main square and the New Year’s Day folk festival full of amazing music and incredible costumes.

Bankso is a wonderful cheap destination in Europe if you’re looking for a great value outdoor European adventure with your family.

Suggested by Melissa from The Family Voyage

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 56°F (13°C) and lows of 40°F (4°C)

Barcelona is a delightful addition to your European winter itinerary! It balances the best of both worlds, with a festive atmosphere but relatively low crowds and mild temperatures. When the temperature dips at night, it’s easy to pop in for every child’s favourite Spanish food, churros con chocolate.

best cities to visit in europe with family

Many of the city’s streets and alleys are adorned with overhead light displays as the country’s municipalities compete for who has the best decorations. If you’re seeking Christmas markets, you’ll find the largest in front of Barcelona Cathedral and smaller ones sprinkled throughout the city in places like La Sagrada Familia and the Columbus Monument. The large ones operate from late November until just before Christmas.

Families deciding where to stay in Barcelona with kids should consider El Born. This charming neighbourhood is still in the walkable historic centre, but it’s less rowdy than the nearby Gothic Quarter. Be careful as you seek accommodations, as many rooms in the city only accommodate two or three guests.

Suggested by Catherine from Travel Around Ireland

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 47°F (8°C) and lows of 39°F (4°C)

A great European city to visit with kids in December is Dublin, Ireland. Apart from Christmas, December is typically a quieter time when it comes to tourists, but unlike some cities in Europe, everything remains open in the Irish capital.

Dublin has some Christmas markets centred around Mary Street and Henry Street, the main shopping street on the north side of the city. There are some smaller markets in other areas of the city.

OG - Catherine - Dublin

On the south side, Grafton Street has Christmas lights to enjoy while browsing the shops, and there are other light displays around the city to get visitors into the festive spirit.

All tourist attractions remain open, and many guides are also running their walking and food tours of Dublin , during which you might just visit a Christmas market or two.

To be in the heart of the city, stay on the southside in Temple Bar (but beware of noisy Christmas parties at night), or close to St Stephen’s Green.

Note that the 8th of December is the day during which many people from outside Dublin flock to the city to do their Christmas shopping. So, it can get busy on this day. But, aside from that, December is a great time to visit Dublin with kids .

Suggested by Katy From Otis and Us

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 19°F (-7°C) and lows of 8°F (-13°C)

Lapland is truly magical in December and an incredible Winter family holiday. There are so many options for Lapland holidays , including package holidays and DIY holidays. You can fly into Helsinki, the capital of Finland and head to a Christmas market before moving on to Lapland for the ultimate Christmas destination.

OG - Katy - Lapland

Lapland is the northernmost region of Finland and is known for the Northern Lights and, of course, is the home of Father Christmas. Lapland offers an abundance of family-friendly activities in December, including husky rides, reindeer safaris, snowmobile safaris, skiing, sledging, and a visit to see Santa!

It can be difficult to decide which resort to stay in Lapland. We flew into Helsinki and then took connecting flights to Kittila, staying near Yllas, however, there are many resorts to choose from, including Rovaniemi, Levi, Luosto, and Saariselka. There are also many accommodation options for families in Lapland too, including in a glass igloo, hotel, apartment or log cabin!

Combine a visit to Helsinki with a stay in Lapland for a truly magical family-friendly Christmas break.

Suggested by Cathy from Mummy Travels

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 48°F (9°C) and lows of 40°F (4°C)

From light trails to festive markets, pop-up ice rinks, family-friendly theatre and other Christmas events, London really is magical in winter – plus, you’ll find a string of things to do at Christmas in London with kids .

The Christmas lights are switched on in the main shopping streets from early November, while you’ll find special light trails popping up at some of the historic houses and palaces too. Don’t miss the Christmas markets, with around 10 to choose from. Winter Wonderland, with its rides, shows, Santa’s grotto, an ice rink and stalls, is one of the biggest, so it has timed tickets and an entry fee, but stroll through others, including some by the riverside, in Leicester Square and in Trafalgar Square.

best cities to visit in europe with family

Add in ice skating in the shadow of the city’s most iconic buildings, a steam train with Santa aboard, pantomimes and child-friendly theatre productions, special family activities at the main attractions and some unforgettable hot chocolate; it’s perfect for a winter break.

Unsurprisingly, London gets very busy during the Christmas season, so visiting earlier in December is a good way to enjoy the festive fun but avoid the crowds. Bear it in mind when booking accommodation, too: consider areas like the South Bank, close to key attractions with their own festive events but away from the busiest shopping streets.

Suggested by Keri from Mama Loves A Drink

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 37°F (3°C) and lows of 26°F (-3°C)

The clinking of beer hall steins and the chime of the Glockenspiel in Marienplatz is only part of the magic of Munich during the festive month of December. The wonderful warm aromas of gingerbread and pretzels fill the air, along with traditional Glüwhein and Kinderpunsch in every flavour combination you can imagine at Chrsitkindlmarkt, one of Europe’s largest Christmas markets.

This traditional Bavarian market has roots dating back to the 14th century and sprawls across several locations of Old Town München. The stunning neo-Gothic town hall in Marienplatz takes centre place through much of lat December until Christmas Eve, with live Bavarian Stubenmusik and choirs frequenting the balcony with performances throughout the festive season.

A mulled wine hut in the English Garden Munich in mid winter snow

Our Munich highlight in December was a snowy trip to the Englischer Garten, where a crisp silence falls over the giant urban park. The warming scents of bratwursts and chestnuts fill the space normally filled with summer sunbathers to make for a picture-perfect white Christmas scene.

If you’re travelling to Munich by train, there’s a wide selection of hotels, many offering family-sized rooms situated around Karlsplatz (between München Hauptbahnhof and the Old Town), where the majority of market stalls can be found.

Suggested by Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 44°F (7°C) and lows of 36°F (2°C)

The French capital is a beautiful city to explore at any time of year, but December is a particularly special time to visit Paris with children .

Although Paris is cold in December, there are plenty of places to buy a warming crepe for the kids too much on as they wander through the pretty streets. To encourage reluctant young visitors to walk that little bit further, Paris has the perfect reward – unlimited free rides on the carousels (or merry-go-rounds) which are dotted through the city.

OG - Annabel - Paris

The best place to head for is Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, which is beautifully decorated with lights projected onto the town hall. Here, families can enjoy rides on the carousels together. There is a small selection of stalls here selling vin chaud and hot chocolate.

A ride on one of the Seine boats is a great way to admire the sights of Paris from a warm interior. Top tip : wrap up warm if you plan to scale the Eiffel Tower – it’s a lot chillier at the top than it is at the bottom!

Paris is great throughout December – it’s not essential to visit during Christmas. The period between Christmas and New Year is a little quieter and a great time to tick off some of the tourist attractions.

The Luxembourg Gardens are always a hit with families – stay at Hotel Baume to be within easy reach of this popular park. The hotel has suites and interconnecting rooms.

Suggested by Erin from WanderlustwithKids

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 36°F (2°C) and lows of 28°F (-2°C)

Prague is a great destination to visit in December with kids.

Prague’s Old Town Square transforms into a winter wonderland complete with a large, beautifully-decorated Christmas tree and thousands of festive lights. The largest of Prague’s Christmas Markets is held here and has an array of stalls selling everything from traditional handcrafted gifts to tasty treats like crepe-like palačinky and sweet trdelnik.

In addition to the Christmas Markets, Mikuláš Day, known in other countries as St. Nicolas Day, is a fun event for kids.

OG - Erin - Prague

On December 5th, Mikuláš, along with an angel and a frightening-looking character named Krampus, is seen throughout town, visiting children at the Christmas Markets to see if they have been good.

If they have, the angel writes their name down in a large book, and Mikuláš knows to bring them a present.

And for a festive way to see the best of the city, hop on the Christmas Tram, which is decorated with lights and takes a circular route past some of the most popular sights in Prague.

There are plenty of family-friendly accommodations in Prague, whether you’re looking to stay in the midst of things in the Old Town or in a quieter area in the New Town.

Suggested by KyAnn from KidTripster

Those who visit Iceland during the holiday season will discover that it’s a place of myth and majesty.

The myth relates to tales of Christmas trolls. There’s not just one single Santa, but instead, 13 mischievous Yule Lads. For 13 nights leading up to Christmas Eve, children leave shoes on windowsills. If they’re good, the lads leave them treats, if not, the lads might leave a rotten potato.

OG - KyAnn -Reykjavik

The majesty comes in the form of frozen waterfalls, snowy landscapes, and steaming hot springs. You might get lucky and see the Northern Lights. Well-known tourist destinations like the Golden Circle and the black sand beach are still accessible in winter, although we recommend that you leave the driving to professional tour operators .

Base yourself in Reykjavik. Tours pick up passengers at hotels around the city. We love the historic Kvosin Hotel. Rooms include kitchenettes, which are always helpful for families. The hotel’s within walking distance of major attractions in Reykjavik.

During the month of December, Downtown Reykjavik sparkles with holiday lights and festive decor. Small Christmas markets take place in and around Reykjavik on weekends. Christmas begins at 6 pm sharp on Christmas Eve, marked by the simultaneous ringing of church bells around the country.

Collage of places to visit in Europe in December at night

Suggested by Marta from Mama Loves Rome

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 54°F (12°C) and lows of 38°F (3°C)

If you are looking for a fabulous destination for a December city trip with kids, then look no further than Rome!

The Eternal City is endlessly fascinating for kids and has activities so varied you are sure to find something your children will love, whatever their age.

OG - Marta - Rome

December is a great time to visit the Colosseum, kids’ number one must-see. It is also a great time to visit St Peter’s Square at the Vatican, which boasts one of the best Christmas trees in the city and stunning Piazza Navona, with its cute Christmas market.

As well as historical landmarks, kids’ activities in Rome include mosaic classes, cooking classes , treasure hunt tours, and outdoor pursuits such as biking in the Borghese Gardens, lovely during this chilly yet often sunny time of the year.

The Christmas season in Rome starts on the 8th of December, and visitors’ numbers grow steadily from that day to the end of early January included. Booking of attractions and accommodation is a must. For the best experience, secure accommodation in the Pantheon/ Navona area or the Monti neighbourhood, among the most charming and best located in Rome.

Suggested by Marianne from PastaPretzels&Passports

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 37°F (3°C) and lows of 28°F (-2°C)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming medieval town located in the Franconia region of Germany. It’s a popular destination for tourists all year round, but in December, it transforms into a winter wonderland that’s truly worth visiting.

One of the main reasons to visit Rothenburg in December is to experience the town’s famous Christmas market. Known as the Reiterlesmarkt, it features a variety of traditional crafts, wooden toys, and gifts, as well as delicious food and drink.

Enjoy live music and entertainment while you shop, and don’t forget to try a cup of white Glühwein – a Rothenburg speciality. The markets are open from the end of November until the end of December, so there’s plenty of time to take in all the sights and sounds of the holiday season.

best cities to visit in europe with family

Another highlight of a December visit to Rothenburg is the town’s Christmas lights. The streets are lined with beautiful, colourful lights, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic stroll or a family outing.

At night, experience the town’s charm with a family-friendly candlelit Night Watchman’s tour. Meander through the town’s narrow streets, past beautifully lit buildings and monuments, all while learning a bit of the town’s history.

Other activities to enjoy in Rothenburg during December include visiting local museums, such as the town’s famous Christmas museum, exploring some of the historical buildings like the Gothic St. James Church, or walking along the town’s famous fortification walls.

So pack your bags and head out to this charming German town for a memorable and magical December family vacation.

Suggested by Jenn from Those Johnson Boys

Salzburg is a quaint city surrounded by a dramatic landscape, making it the perfect spot to experience a fairytale-like vacation . From exploring a fortress to sipping coffee (or hot chocolate for the younger ones!) at the same cafes frequented by Mozart, you’ll feel like you stepped back in time.

In December, the magic of Christmas really comes alive in Salzburg. You may even get a snowy day, turning the city into a winter wonderland.

OG - Jenn - Salzburg

While you’ll come across several Christmas markets scattered around the city, you can’t miss the Salzburg Christkindlmarkt at the Dom and Residenzplatz. Its roots date back to the 15th century, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world. It’s open from mid-November until January 1st.

When looking for accommodation, choosing a hotel in Altstadt (Old Town) will put you right in the heart of the main attractions. If you’d rather be located closer to the train station, Neustadt is a great area to stay.

Suggested by Astrid from The Wandering Daughter

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 61°F (16°C) and lows of 43°F (6°C)

The city of Seville is an ideal European city to visit in December if you’re looking to escape the cold in Southern Spain . Not only is Seville decked out in festive lights during December, but you’ll also experience pleasantly mild weather.

best cities to visit in europe with family

Many of Seville’s beautiful buildings date back thousands of years. The city is influenced by the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and other cultures. Catch a glimpse of these cultures with a visit to the Royal Alcazar or watch a flamenco show at Teatro de Flamenco. Then, stroll through Seville’s historic streets while munching on delicious churros and buñuelos.

In December, keep an eye out for nativity scenes, known as belen. You’ll find them at churches and cathedrals. However, businesses will also install nativity window displays. To stay close to the action, find a hotel in Casco Antiguo. Alternatively, look for hotels in the Triana neighbourhood, which is home to a handful of great restaurants.

Suggested by Diana from Travels in Poland

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 40°F (4°C) and lows of 29°F (-2°C)

A major city in southern Germany, just a two-hour drive from the French, Austrian, and Swiss borders, Stuttgart is a great place to visit for December before continuing on to other beautiful locations. The Stuttgart “Weihnachtsmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest and largest Christmas markets, visited by millions every year. It typically runs for one month, from November 23 to December 23 and has stalls in different areas of downtown Stuttgart.

best cities to visit in europe with family

There is a children’s fairyland that takes children on a steam train ride around a beautiful miniaturized version of Stuttgart. There are concerts at Alten Schloss that are free to the public and various other types of entertainment.

There is typically a Nordic market, a children’s area, and numerous artisan shops not seen at other markets, and in 2022, the market added a Winter Hut, with ice stick shooting and an array of food and beverage items such as the infamous gluhwein Germany is known for. There is usually an annual ice rink, though, in 2022, it changed to a skating rink to help the city reduce energy costs.

With over 300 merchants, the entire Christmas market is quite special, as Stuttgart is nestled in a valley, thus, twinkling lights from houses and buildings nearby are hard to miss. Kronenhotel Stuttgart is a great palace to stay in, as this 4-star hotel is centrally located with easy walkable access to the centre.

Suggested by Marta from Mama Loves Italy

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 44°F (7°C) and lows of 33°F (1°C)

Venice is one of the world’s most beautiful cities and a fantastic destination for a December city trip with kids. Entirely built in water and famous for its evocative atmospheres, Venice is like a giant playground for families, a place with many fun activities that will keep kids and adults busy and entertained!

During a winter visit to Venice , families can enjoy the famous Doge’s Palace, the incredible St Mark’s Basilica and, of course, a gondola ride. Art-loving kids can have fun taking one of the many hands-on workshops, teaching them local arts such as mask making and glass making, great activities for winter, especially when bad weather is possible. Active kids will love taking a rowing class or going ice skating on one of the ice rinks that dot the city in winter.

OG - Marta - Venice

Venice gets busy during Christmas, and early booking of activities and accommodation is mandatory. Visitors’ numbers peak around the 8th of December, a National holiday, and again during the week between Christmas and New Year but tend to be low during the rest of the month. Stay in Cannaregio or Dorsoduro, two beautiful and well-served areas with accommodation options to suit all budgets.

Suggested by Keri from Little City Trips

Vienna is a classic European city to visit in December, with some of the best Christmas Markets dotted all around the city. The most famous is “Wiener Christkindlmarkt” – Vienna Dream Christmas Market at Rathausplatz. Not the largest of all the markets, but the ice skating rink set in front of City Hall is one of the largest in Europe and the most magical of Christmas settings.

The fun continues across the city with the year-round fun fair Prater, a great spot for kids, whatever the season. At Wintermarkt am Riesenradplatz, you can ride one of the oldest wooden Ferris wheels in Europe before jumping in your dodgem car, visiting the Chocolate Factory or Madam Tussauds, then warm up with your hot chocolate, kinderpunsch, Glühwein or Schnapps!

There are more Christmas markets to be found in Stephansplatz, Schönbrunn Palace, Maria Theresien Square, and one of our favourites, the Arts and Crafts market on Karlsplatz, where the focus is on local handicrafts.

A christmas market in Vienna on a sunny December day

Most markets in Vienna run from late November and up to the 23rd of December (Christmas is celebrated by families in Austria on the evening of the 24th), though some continue through until the first week of January.

Staying near the very centre of town and Stephansplatz will give you the most options for heading to the markets on foot each evening or catching the affordable and convenient Wien Metro.

Suggested by Mark from Poland Travel Expert

Average December Temperatures: Expect daytime highs of 34°F (1°C) and lows of 25°F (-4°C)

Warsaw, in winter, can be a great destination for a family trip with kids. The city offers many activities that can be enjoyed indoors, such as visiting museums, art galleries and indoor playgrounds. Some popular sightseeing options include the National Museum, the observation deck at the Palace of Culture, the Hop on hop off bus and the Pinball Station.

For indoor playtime, check out the Playground at the Warsaw Uprising Museum or the Children’s Room at the Museum of King Jan III’s Palace at Wilanow. You will find all the December Christmas lights equal anywhere in Europe. They were quite stunning.

OG - Mark - Warsaw

Outdoor activities, such as ice skating, are also available in the winter, with several rinks around the city, such as the one at the Old Town Square. Additionally, you can take a stroll through the colourful Christmas markets, where you can find traditional crafts and food.

The best part of the city to stay in is in and around the Royal Castle area of Warsaw. We choose the budget option for our winter accommodation in Warsaw and stayed at Safestay, an upmarket hostel with all the features of a hotel.

It’s important to note that Warsaw can be quite cold during the winter, so make sure to dress warmly and bring appropriate clothing and gear for your children.

We hope you’ve found the perfect inspiration for your next December trip in amongst this fabulous selection of European destinations. From magical Christmas markets to making the most of snowy weather and meeting Father Christmas himself, Europe can make the perfect winter family vacation.

Looking at visiting Europe with kids at another time of year? We’ve got plenty of ideas and inspiration for your European plans, why not check out next:

  • The Best Winter Sun Destinations in Europe
  • Family Ski Resorts in Europe Perfect For Beginners
  • February Half-Term Break Ideas Around Europe
  • Plan Your Spring Break in Europe
  • Autumn Half-Term Escapes From the UK in October

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best cities to visit in europe with family

Wanderlust Storytellers – An Inspirational Family Travel Blog

5 Best Places To Visit In Europe With Teens

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

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.

How to sese the five Cinque Terre Towns in Italy - Cinque Terre with Kids

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.

Gardaland Themepark

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.

Aeolian Islands

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.

Ardèche France - Camping with the kids in France

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.

Travel Destinations for Students

Some stunning mountains are perfect for teens who love skiing adventures, while the beaches offer boating, jet ski rides, and many more things.

Enjoying a Salt Mines tour - Hallstatt Austria

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.

Best Things to do in Zakopane, Poland in the Summer

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.

10 things to do in Krakow Poland

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.

Valencia Spain with Kids

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.

Ibiza Spain

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!

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Andrzej Ejmont

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Globe Gazers

15 Best Places in Europe for Solo Travel in 2024

Looking for the best places in europe for solo travel.

As a frequent solo traveler myself, I’ve got you covered on discovering the best places to travel in Europe alone. In my experience, Europe is one of the very best continents for solo travel. Not only does it boast some magical cities, but the vast majority are extremely safe for solo travelers.

You’ll also find plenty of amazing settings and locations to choose from that you’ll love no matter your travel style. Whether you’re after fascinating cities bursting with culture, incredible rural scenery or the most beautiful beaches – European destinations tick many boxes. 

Planning a trip? Use  my favorite resources:

  • Accommodations:  booking.com
  • Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing
  • Tours & Excursions:  Viator
  • Flights:  Skyscanner
  • City Pass:  Go City
  • eSim:   Airalo

15 Best Solo Travel Destinations in Europe

Ready to plan your solo trip ? Then check out the best places in Europe for solo travel in 2024!

1. Florence, Italy

Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a city that’s overflowing with history, culture and art. It’s a beautiful city that’s one of the most romantic places in Italy – but it’s not just for couples!

Like most cities in Italy, this is a destination that’s packed with stunning landmarks and architecture. Florence Cathedral is absolutely gorgeous and the city’s gardens are the perfect spot for a solo stroll in summer. 

Florence also has some of the best museums and galleries to explore, including the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery, which is where you can see Michelangelo’s David. 

As a walkable and compact city, Florence is the perfect place for a slower-paced solo getaway. You’ll also find some of Italy’s best foodie spots in Florence so it’s ideal if all you want to do is indulge and live the Dolce Vita lifestyle.

Where to stay: Hotel Calimala

2. Lisbon, Portugal

If you’re worried about safety traveling alone in Europe (especially as a female solo traveler), Lisbon is a great capital city to consider. Widely seen as one of the safest major cities in Europe, Lisbon is artsy, vibrant and amazing to explore. 

Recently, Lisbon has become a lot more popular with backpackers and digital nomads thanks to being one of the more affordable destinations in Western Europe.

This also means there’s a lot going on socially for those who want to travel solo to Lisbon but still have a chance to meet new people. You’ll find many cool hostels, bars and nightlife scenes to join. 

There’s lots to take in – from the cute, cobblestoned neighborhood of Alfama to the UNESCO attractions of Belém.

There’s also plenty for culture lovers with street art and gorgeous architecture, as well as markets and a great foodie scene. If you have extra time, a day trip to Sintra is also well worth it.

Where to stay: Hotel Da Baixa  

Despite being easy to reach from both Europe and the Eastern US, Iceland feels like a faraway fairytale land. If you’re after a unique setting for a solo adventure, not many places in Europe compare. I visited Iceland in October over a long weekend and had an incredible experience.

Known as one of the world’s safest countries, Iceland is a perfect choice for solo travelers in any season . There’s also an incredible choice of things to see and is ideal for a back-to-nature getaway. 

From waterfall and geyser tours to hiking and chasing the Northern Lights , there are so many bucket list experiences in Iceland. If you want solitude, you could rent a car and explore the Golden Circle on a self-drive solo vacation. 

Or, you could join a group tour or take organized day trips to the country’s key attractions. There’s so much to fill your time that it will be an unforgettable, bucket list vacation.

Where to stay: Reykjavik Residence Hotel

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen has become one of Europe’s trendiest destinations. It’s known for its cool, laid-back hygge vibes, tasty pastries and photogenic settings. 

As one of the safest cities on the continent, it’s one of the best places for solo travel in Europe. It’s also a walkable city and easy to navigate. 

So if you’re looking for a relaxing and leisurely city break, this could be the perfect destination for you.

When you’re not hopping from bakeries to cozy cafes sampling Danish treats, you can visit the colorful Nyhavn waterfront district, jump on a boat tour or cycle your way around the city. 

If you travel in season , you can also visit the famous Tivoli Gardens – an amusement park in the city center that offers something for every type of traveler.

Where to stay: Andersen Boutique Hotel

5. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is another great solo travel destination in Europe. On a solo trip to Barcelona you can explore architecture that is renowned around the world, explore artsy neighborhoods, join in on the nightlife scene and feast on tapas. 

While Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, you can still cater your experience of the city to be more unique by getting off the beaten path . 

With its combination of beach life, city life and museum scene you’ll have plenty to explore in this famous Spanish city . 

Where to stay: Petit Palace Boqueria Garden

6. Paris, France

Sure, many consider Paris a city fit for romance. It certainly can be that, but as someone who has frequently solo traveled to Paris I can assure you it’s just as fun on your own. 

You can follow my own solo Paris trip itinerary or curate one based even more on your own tastes. It’s possible to visit all of the typical tourist attractions in Paris solo without feeling out of place, as the areas are always busy anyway.

Find a bit of peace with a solo sit near Trocadero, looking up at the Eiffel Tower from the grassy surroundings. 

Wander aimlessly through the streets of Montmartre. Enjoy a sunset river cruise as you learn about the city. Romanticize your relationship with yourself in the city of lights. You can even book a solo travel photography session like I did.

If you’re wondering how safe Paris is , simply follow the typical safety best practices you’d follow in any big city – avoid dark, empty streets alone at night and keep a close eye on your belongings. 

Where to stay: Elysées Ceramic 

7. Rome, Italy 

Ah, Roma. 

Rome is one of my personal favorite cities in Europe and I have plenty of Rome tips to share from my travels there. I’ve traveled to Rome many times, both solo and not, and have loved every experience. 

Despite its oft-chaotic, gritty city feel at times I’ve always felt perfectly safe in Rome . While there are areas I’d avoid being out alone in at night, that’s true of really any city I travel to. 

Rome is bustling with life and energy at all hours, and especially if you stay near the city center you’ll never feel alone. 

Whether you visit on a solo trip or not, Rome is worth seeing at some point in your travels. 

Where to stay: Kolbe Hotel

8. Crete, Greece

If you’re dreaming of a sun-kissed island escape in Europe, Greece is probably on your bucket list. This is a country that has so much to offer. As well as captivating historical and cultural sites, Greece has some of the best beaches in Europe.

It’s also a destination that’s known for its friendly locals, so it’s a generally safe country for a solo trip. Island-hopping is an amazing option for solo travel in Greece. But, if you want the ease of sticking to just one destination, you’ll want to add Crete to your list. 

As Greece’s largest island, Crete has a ton to offer. You’ll find so much to fill your time – from boat trips and beach days to hiking and visiting ancient historical sites. It’s an amazing island to explore.

Where to stay: Cocoon City Hostel 

9. Edinburgh , Scotland

The UK has so many great spots for solo travel. But, if you’re looking for a unique city break, the Scottish capital of Edinburgh is a perfect choice. Edinburgh is one of the very best cities to visit in the UK . It’s a charming destination that’s overflowing with history and culture.

As one of the world’s most welcoming cities with incredibly friendly locals, Edinburgh is a great place for solo travel in Europe. There’s also lots to see and do to keep you busy for a short city break. 

In addition to strolling through the gorgeous cobblestoned old town, you’ll be able to visit historical spots like Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle. You could also hike up nearby Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views, find comfy cafes, great shopping and lots of museums.

If you’re planning a summer trip, Edinburgh is also great in August during the Festival Fringe. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the biggest performing arts festival in the world!

Where to stay: CoDE Pod – The CoURT

10. Venice, Italy

Venice might be one of the most romantic cities in Europe, but it has so much to offer solo travellers in Italy , too. A one-of-a-kind destination, this city is magical and bursting with charm.

If you love history, culture and architecture, Venice is absolutely worth visiting and definitely needs to be on your European solo travel list.

The only way to get around Venice is by boat or on foot so it’s a great option if you love to leisurely wander. It’s also a safe destination and is an option where you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport or finding yourself too far off the beaten path.

In fact, getting lost in Venice is part of the experience and one of the places where it’s safest for solo travelers to do so.

There’s loads to see and do in Venice, too – from visiting St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace to exploring the outer islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. It’s a city where you definitely won’t be bored on your own.

Where to stay: Palazzo Veneziano 

11. Krakow, Poland

There’s a lot to love about a visit to Krakow. This charming Polish city is known for its UNESCO Old Town, cobbled streets and grand squares. It’s a welcoming and friendly city – and also an affordable destination – making it one of the best places in Europe for solo travel.

With a compact city center, Krakow is easy to get around on foot. There are plenty of free walking tours that are great for solo travelers. If you visit, you’ll also want to check out Wawel Castle and the historic Jewish Quarter. 

Where to stay: Hotel 32 Kraków Old Town

12. London, England

Easily one of the best large cities in Europe, London is the perfect place for a solo city break. Although it’s a sprawling city, many of the main attractions are very centrally concentrated. The underground train network is relatively easy to navigate as well, especially if you download the Citymapper app.

There’s so much to see and do in London that you’ll never be bored. From iconic tourist attractions like Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge and Big Ben to quirky markets, Royal Parks and museums, there’s something for everyone. 

You’ll also find amazing cafes, restaurants and food markets that are perfect for solo travelers. Plus, you have some of the world’s best shopping as well as an incredible theater in the West End. It’s the ideal city for an urban adventure.

Where to stay: Hub by Premier Inn

13. Bruges, Belgium

A pocket-sized city, Bruges feels like a fairytale European destination. If you’re after a quaint and compact city that’s packed with history, this is the one for you.

Known for its canals, winding streets and beautiful Flemish architecture, Bruges is exceptionally photogenic (there’s a reason why it’s known as Venice of the North!). But, not only this – Bruges is also a very safe city with low crime rates.

Walking is the best way to get around Bruges so there’s no need to navigate public transport. The historic center and the lively Markt Square are the highlights. You could also hop on a canal cruise, visit Minnewater Park and make the most of the food scene with Belgian chocolate, fries and waffles.

Where to stay: Hotel Adornes

14. Ibiza, Spain

Spain’s Balearic Islands (Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera) are famed for being some of the world’s most beautiful. Gorgeous beaches, picturesque fishing villages and breathtaking natural scenery sum up these Mediterranean islands. All are great for solo travel, but Ibiza has to be a top pick.

Known for its nightlife with beach clubs and bars, Ibiza is an amazing choice for solo travelers who want to socialize. But, there’s also so much more to Ibiza than its party scene. Away from the iconic bars, Ibiza has super pretty towns, historic sites, a beautiful coastline and quieter areas as well. 

Yoga is big in Ibiza, so it’s perfect if you’re interested in going on a wellness retreat. Plus, you could also join boat trips, go hiking and relax on the beach. There’s something for every solo traveler to fall in love with in Ibiza.

Where to stay: Hostal Rosell Boutique

15. Madeira, Portugal

Spectacular landscapes, scenic hikes and lush forests – it’s no wonder Madeira is becoming so popular. A part of Portugal, but closer to Africa, Madeira is a really great option for a solo trip in Europe if you want a rural adventure.

It’s also a European destination that’s popular with digital nomads so you’ll find a great community of other solo visitors while you’re there.

Known as the Hawaii of Europe, Madeira is a volcanic and incredibly photogenic island. As well as its remarkable natural beauty, the island is known for its charming villages, vibrant capital and also its winemaking heritage. 

You’ll find a lot to see and do if you visit – from hiking and exploring the city of Funchal to relaxing in one of the island’s natural pools. 

Where to stay: Sé Boutique Hotel

Traveling in Europe alone FAQs

If you’re considering a solo trip to Europe, you might be wondering:

Is it a good idea to travel solo in Europe?

Europe is one of the best continents for solo travel. It might not be as affordable as some other destinations in Asia or South America, but there are so many different places to explore.

Regardless of your interests or what you want most from your vacation, there’s a perfect destination to suit what you’re looking for within Europe.

Plus, for many American solo travelers Europe will still feel somewhat familiar with less of a culture shock than elsewhere in the world. If you’re newer to solo travel, that’s certainly something to keep in mind as you choose your destination. 

What are the best European cities for solo travelers? 

Europe has so many amazing cities that are perfect for solo travelers. Whether you want a cosmopolitan and bustling option like London or you’re looking for somewhere quieter, you’ll find a city you love.

Some of the best European cities for solo travelers include London, Krakow, Lisbon and Copenhagen.

What is the safest country in Europe to travel alone as a woman?

Most of Europe is considered relatively safe, but some of the safest countries for females include Iceland, Denmark and Portugal. .Even though they’re good destinations for female solo travelers, you’ll still want to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe – as you would in any destination.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Europe Solo

There’s a reason why Europe is one of the best places for solo travel. With beautiful beaches, gorgeous rural scenery and incredible cities, there’s no shortage of amazing places to visit.

There are also so many choices that are safe for solo travelers and options that tick all the right boxes, no matter your interests, budget or vacation style.

So, choose the destination that most speaks to you and start planning your adventure!

The post 15 Best Places in Europe for Solo Travel in 2024 first appeared on Globe Gazers .

Looking for the best places in Europe for solo travel? As a frequent solo traveler myself, I’ve got you covered on discovering the best places to travel in Europe alone. In my experience, Europe is one of the very best continents for solo travel. Not only does it boast some magical cities, but the vast...

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