Family Travel Guide to Explore Europe
Europe offers a diverse range of vacation destinations that cater to every member of the family. From enchanting castles to sun-soaked beaches and cozy medieval towns, Europe really caters to families with a wide array of interests. Selecting the best family vacation destinations in Europe can be overwhelming, yet here are the standout options that’ll guarantee fond memories for everyone.
Europe’s Best Family Vacation Destinations You Must Visit
The best family vacation destinations in Europe are sure to impress and delight every member of your crew. Visit a range of attractions designed for family fun, including fairytale castles, sunny stretch of coastlines and thrilling theme parks.
Orlando for Theme Parks? Try Paris for Disneyland
A trip to Disneyland Paris, only 32 km from Paris, is a must-do for families with little ones or devoted Disney lovers. Families can enjoy iconic rides such as Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean, amazing parades and the opportunity to meet their favorite stars at characters’ appearances. Families visiting Paris will also find plenty of activities, including climbing the Eiffel Tower, exploring museums along the Seine and learning by doing at Cité des Sciences.
Family Highlights:
- Disneyland Paris Resort
- Eiffel Tower light show
- Louvre treasure hunt tours for kids
- Day trip to Versailles with gardens perfect for picnics
Rome, Italy – A Living History Book
Visiting Rome makes history come alive for people of all ages. Visit the Colosseum, toss coins into the Trevi Fountain, and enjoy flavorsome gelato on a historic street. The city is easy to explore on foot and offers plenty of opportunity for learning at its engaging museums and impressive remnants of the past.
Family Highlights:
- Gladiator school experiences for kids
- Time Elevator Rome 5D movie attraction
- Vatican Museum family tours
- Delicious pizza and pasta-making classes
Barcelona, Spain – Beaches and Architecture
Barcelona offers the best of both city and seaside worlds. The fantastical artistry of Gaudí is brought to life by buildings like the unfinished Sagrada Família and Park Güell. Children can visit several aquariums, play in green open spaces and enjoy dining out at many kid-approved restaurants.
Family Highlights:
- Barcelona Aquarium and Zoo
- Magic Fountain show at Montjuïc
- Tibidabo Amusement Park
- Barceloneta Beach for sandcastles and swimming
Amsterdam, Netherlands – Canals and Culture
There’s more to Amsterdam than its famous canals and bicycles. There are so many things to do that are perfect for kids to enjoy. Hiring one of the many family-sized bikes in town lets you explore new sights. You can also tour local museums with hands-on activities or go on a leisurely cruise along the canals. Region of Switzerland is ideal for both parents and children, as it’s many parks and playgrounds throughout.
Family Highlights:
- NEMO Science Museum
- Artis Royal Zoo
- Vondelpark (bike paths and play areas)
- Anne Frank House (for older kids)
London, United Kingdom – Royals, Museums, and Magic
Every child’s fantasy comes true in London thanks to its connection to Harry Potter and grand historic places. The city has many museums that are free to visit and have special sections designed for children. Public transport is easy to use, and there’s no language barrier, making it ideal for first-time travelers to Europe.
Family Highlights:
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter
- Tower of London and Buckingham Palace
- Natural History and Science Museums
- KidZania London (interactive indoor city for kids)
Copenhagen, Denmark – The Happiest City for Families
Copenhagen consistently ranks among the world’s cheeriest and most secure cities to live in. It’s tidy and small, with numerous activities designed for children. Unique Scandinavian style ensures every area is attractive and practical at the same time while museums and amusement parks are great for children’s development.
Family Highlights:
- Tivoli Gardens (historic amusement park)
- Copenhagen Zoo
- The Blue Planet (Denmark’s National Aquarium)
- Fairy-tale boat tours on the canals
Interlaken, Switzerland – Alpine Adventures
Families who enjoy the great outdoors will find everything they need in the stunning landscape of Interlaken. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to ski in the winter and hiking and lake-swimming are perfect ways to enjoy the great outdoors during summer. Ride a cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” or explore nearby Lauterbrunnen with its dramatic waterfalls.
Family Highlights:
- Paragliding and rope parks (for older kids)
- Boat rides on Lake Brienz
- Swiss chocolate-making workshops
- Ice Palace at Jungfraujoch
Munich, Germany – Beer Gardens and Toy Museums
Munich may be known for its beer but it actually has plenty to offer families. Plenty of historic sites, ample parks, and hands-on museums delight children. Its sittings in the heart of the country provide families the chance to venture out on day trips to nearby attractions such as castles or the mountains.
Family Highlights:
- Deutsches Museum (largest science and tech museum)
- Englischer Garten for boat rides and picnics
- Neuschwanstein Castle (inspiration for Disney castles)
- Munich Toy Museum
Lisbon, Portugal – Tram Rides and Sunshine
You and your family can enjoy golden sunshine and relaxed charm while discovering Lisbon together. You can easily overcome the city’s slopes using its charming tram and funicular systems. The riverside area invites you and your kids to leisurely walks while discovering all kinds of marine creatures.
Family Highlights:
- Oceanário de Lisboa (Europe’s largest indoor aquarium)
- Tram 28 ride through historic neighborhoods
- Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery
- Day trip to Sintra’s palaces and forests
Reykjavík, Iceland – Nature’s Playground
Outside Reykjavík are landscapes so extraordinary that they feel like another planet. Imagine geysers, hot springs, glaciers, and black sand beaches. You’ll have a very different kind of nature adventure that lets you connect and discover.
Family Highlights:
- Whale-watching and puffin tours
- Blue Lagoon for family spa time
- Golden circle road trip
- Northern Lights viewing (winter)
Dubrovnik, Croatia – A Seaside Fortress City
This site known as a UNESCO World Heritage treasure is graced with ancient city walls, glistening waters and a Game of Thrones connection. However, there’s plenty more for families to enjoy in Dubrovnik, such as its stress-free beaches, scenic boat trips and boat-accessible islands.
Family Highlights:
- Cable car ride to Mount Srđ
- Island day trip to Lokrum
- Kayaking around city walls
- Dubrovnik Aquarium
Salzburg, Austria – Music, Mountains, and Magic
Sharing its connection with Mozart and “The Sound of Music,” Salzburg delights families with its generous culture and picturesque core. It looks straight out of a dream if you love music, history, and the Alps. Covered in snow, Salzburg takes on the beauty and wonder of a magical winter wonderland.
Family Highlights:
- Sound of Music tours
- Hohensalzburg Fortress
- Toy Museum and Trick Fountains at Hellbrunn Palace
- Cable car rides and mountain hiking
Edinburgh, Scotland – Castles and Creepy Tales
You’ll find history-steeped landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and plenty of ghostly tales in Edinburgh. Kids aged 9 to 17 will love exploring the city’s creepy past. Fans of the Harry Potter books and movies will love exploring Edinburgh’s mysterious old sections.
Family Highlights:
- Edinburgh Castle
- Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
- National Museum of Scotland
- Potter-themed walking tours
Tuscany, Italy – Vineyards and Villages
Families will find plenty to love in Tuscany beyond its renowned vineyards. A visit to Tuscany allows you to unwind while discovering interesting history and flavors. Kids have a blast learning new culinary skills and discovering the outdoors on agriturismos.
Family Highlights:
- Stay at a countryside farmhouse
- Explore Siena and San Gimignano
- Pisa’s Leaning Tower climb
- Gelato-making workshops
Lapland, Finland – Meet Santa Claus
There’s something truly magical about a family visit to Lapland during winter. Snow-covered with interesting activities to do it earns its place among the most popular family holiday spots in Europe. At Christmas, the whole experience becomes even more magical as families meet Santa up close.
Family Highlights:
- Visit Santa Claus Village
- Husky sledding and reindeer rides
- Northern Lights safaris
- Snowmobiling and igloo hotels
Tips for Planning a Family Vacation in Europe
There are many family vacation destinations in Europe, preparing for the trip can help make it enjoyable and stress-free.
Choose the Right Season
Summers in Europe attract the most visitors and offer plenty of activities in the mild conditions. Milder weather and fewer crowds make spring and fall ideal for visiting Europe. Skiing or experiencing a traditional European Christmas are perfect ways to make the most of winter travel.
Pack Smart
Pack clothing that can be easily layered as European weather can change suddenly. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, a travel stroller, as well as toys and games for journeys by train or plane.
Use Public Transport
Europe’s vast rail and metro networks are well organized and easy to use. A number of cities provide family passes which provide complimentary or reduced prices to museums and various modes of transportation.
Book Family-Friendly Accommodations
Prioritize lodging that includes kitchens, laundry service and on-site recreational space. Private rentals and smaller family-run accommodations often provide a cozier and more relaxed feeling.
Don’t Overpack the Itinerary
Kids get tired quickly. Schedule in breaks to relax at a park or enjoy a leisurely morning. Don’t forget to mix up sightseeing with activities that kids can enjoy and get involved in.
Final Thoughts
Family vacation destinations in Europe offer a unique blend of education and entertainment, making it easy to create lasting memories together. Europe lets families with children of any age enjoy everything from nature to adventure along with cultural opportunities. Thanks to its reliable transportation and high safety levels for travelers, planning a vacation in Europe is a seamless experience for parents.
The variety of family experiences across Europe ensures that every place offers its unique flavor, charm and memories that last a lifetime for parents and children alike. There is an assortment of experiences in Europe to suit every family, no matter what the season happens to be.
No matter which European destination you choose, the memories you make are guaranteed to be treasured for years to come.
Ready to make memories? Get ready to set off on the ultimate family trip across Europe. Europe awaits!
