Europe may be tiny, but it boasts an enormous catalogue of experiences for all ages. It has museums and Michelin-star restaurants for mom and dad, playgrounds and petting zoos for the little ones. Then, there are the breathtaking beaches and picturesque parks for family hiking and cycling. Add in the ancient landmarks and fairytale castles that tickle the imagination of both young and old, and you have a family-friendly destination no one can say no to.
But the truth is, some places in Europe may not be a hit with kids. So, when planning your next family adventure, pick a location that is a cut above the rest in terms of child-friendly amenities, places of interest, and variety of activities. To help you plan your trip, we’ve listed Europe’s best family-friendly destinations you and your loved ones will love.
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Croatia
Croatia is one of those places that doesn’t scream family destination at first glance. But look deep enough, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the experiences it offers.
The Dalmatian Coast, in particular, is a fabulous place to travel with children. It’s rife with gorgeous beaches with crystal-clear waters safe for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking. Best of all, it has hundreds of islands to explore. One of the top things to do in Croatia as a family is to charter a boat, cruise around the islands, and, hopefully, spot a dolphin or two.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take a boat to the island of Lokrum. You can stroll around its botanical garden, visit a ‘cursed’ 12th-century Benedictine monastery, and float in Croatia’s version of the Dead Sea. Don’t skip a trip to Krka National Park or the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Both feature a network of waterfalls, turquoise-blue lakes, swirling water holes for swimming, and scenic walking trails through lush woodlands.
For culture vultures and history buffs, Dubrovnik is a treasure chest of landmarks to explore, ranging from the ancient city walls surrounding the Old Town to the medieval palaces and the narrow cobblestone alleys lined with bustling shops. The city also has a lot of family-friendly restaurants, so it’s a lovely place to start exploring Croatian cuisine.
Italy
Home to iconic landmarks, high-end fashion, alluring artworks, and well-curated museums, Italy is a dream destination for many cultural buffs. But would it appeal to children? If the cultural attractions fail to catch your kid’s fancy, perhaps the world-renowned cuisine and sunny coast would. What kid doesn’t like pizza or hanging out at one of the most beautiful beaches in the world?
Among the top things to do in Italy with your family is to go on a beach holiday. The Amalfi Coast has stunning ones, but they get overcrowded, especially in summer. Instead, consider heading to the islands, particularly Sardinia and Sicily. Staying in Sicily also means you can easily access family-friendly spots, such as the Bioparco di Sicilia, a zoological garden with life-sized replicas of dinosaurs, EtnaLand, an adventure park, and even Mount Etna itself, Europe’s highest active volcano. There are also some great family friendly villas in Sicily where you can relax and unwind after a day of adventure
For a dash of culture and history, Rome is a must-see. Its awe-inspiring landmarks, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, will evoke a genuine sense of wonder in kids as they imagine gladiators and emperors. Toss a coin at the Trevi Fountain for good luck, then enjoy gelato in one of the city’s many gelaterias.
Greece
A superb getaway for families, Greece flawlessly fuses breathtaking beaches and outdoor adventures with ancient history and rich culture. It has age-old ruins for history enthusiasts, stretches of fine sand and balmy waters for beach bums, and delectable but healthy cuisine for food lovers.
One of the highlights of a Greek vacation is island hopping. It allows you to discover secret coves, seaside ruins, traditional fishing villages, whitewashed houses perched on cliffs, and even rustic tavernas serving the freshest seafood. Crete has some of the best family-friendly places to stay and activities. You can hike the UNESCO-listed Samaria Gorge or visit the ruins of Knossos, where kids can step into the myths of Theseus and the Minotaur.
Athens is a must-visit for families with a fondness for culture and history. The Acropolis will leave a lasting impression on your budding historians, while the Acropolis Museum engages their young minds with its interactive exhibits. If the exploration makes you hungry, scour the city for traditional favourites souvlaki and moussaka.
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United Kingdom
Contrary to the United Kingdom’s infamy for dreary weather, families visiting the country will find many kid-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy, rain or shine. There are magnificent castles, interactive museums, and outdoor adventures to experience. Plus, the UK has fantastic last-minute accommodation deals – from glamping sites in the woodlands to cosy cottages in the countryside and luxurious hotels in the cities.
London, of course, is a place you shouldn’t skip on a holiday to the UK. The capital’s famous attractions – the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the Natural History Museum – will amaze everyone, young and old. Get on the London Eye and discover what the city looks like from a bird’s-eye view. Lake District boasts soul-stirring scenery that nature lovers can soak up.
Escape London and travel to the Scottish countryside. The Highlands are excellent for hiking and wildlife spotting. You can also visit its famous lochs and then go on an exhilarating train ride through jaw-dropping landscapes. Make sure to drop by Edinburgh for a unique urban adventure. In Wales, you’ll find medieval castles like Caernarfon and Conway.
Spain
Whether you love exploring cities or relaxing by the beach, Spain charms you with its remarkable balance of culture, history, and beautiful nature. And if you and your kids love trying new dishes, Spain is one of the top destinations in Europe for a culinary trip.
At Park Güell in Barcelona, kids and the kids at heart can marvel at the whimsical architecture of Antoni Gaudí. Other hits with families are the Barceloneta Beach and the Barcelona Aquarium. The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a great place to hang out after a day of sightseeing, with its evening light shows and music.
Madrid lures history-loving families with its beautiful architecture, artworks, and kid-friendly museums, such as Reina Sofia and the Museum of Illusions. Outdoor lovers can enjoy horseback riding at the Madrid National Park or a picnic in the gardens of Retiro Park. Beach lovers can travel to Costa del Sol, known for its family-friendly resorts and vibrant beaches.
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