Hey there, fellow travel lovers! Planning a family trip can be a bit of a juggling act, right? You want to keep the kids entertained while making sure the grown-ups aren’t just tagging along for the ride. The good news? Europe is packed with destinations that tick all the boxes for a perfect family getaway. Whether you’re after a beach holiday, a cultural experience, or a bit of both, there’s something here for everyone.
In this post, I’m going to share some of my favorite family-friendly destinations in Europe. These are places I’ve either visited with my own kids or have on my bucket list after hearing rave reviews from friends and family. So grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine, no judgment here!), and let’s dive in.
1. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of those cities that has a little bit of everything, making it an ideal spot for families. When I first visited Barcelona with my kids, I wasn’t sure how well they’d cope with the mix of art, architecture, and urban life. But honestly, they loved every minute of it.
What to do:
- Park Güell: If your kids are anything like mine, they’ll love Park Güell. It’s like stepping into a Dr. Seuss book with all the colorful mosaics and whimsical shapes. My son couldn’t get enough of the giant lizard sculpture, which we dubbed “Lizzy.”
- La Rambla: Walking down La Rambla is a treat for everyone. Street performers, stalls selling everything from souvenirs to sweets, and the general buzz of the city make it a sensory delight. We spent hours just people-watching and sampling snacks from the food vendors.
- Beaches: Barcelona’s beaches are another big draw. After a morning of sightseeing, we’d often head down to Barceloneta Beach to let the kids run around while we relaxed with a book or took a dip in the Mediterranean.
Where to stay:
- For families, I’d recommend staying in the Gràcia neighborhood. It’s a bit quieter than the city center but still close to all the action. Plus, it has a very local, laid-back vibe, with plenty of parks and playgrounds.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to take advantage of the numerous outdoor festivals and events that take place in the city. There’s always something happening, and many activities are geared towards families.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam might have a reputation as a party city, but don’t let that fool you—it’s incredibly family-friendly too. On our trip there, I was pleasantly surprised by how many activities were perfectly suited for kids of all ages.
What to do:
- Canal Cruises: One of the first things we did was take a canal cruise. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective, and the kids were fascinated by the houseboats and the hundreds of bikes parked along the canal edges. The commentary is usually child-friendly, with lots of fun facts and stories.
- Vondelpark: Vondelpark is a huge, beautiful park where you can easily spend half a day. We rented bikes (complete with kids’ seats) and explored the park, stopping at playgrounds and grabbing ice cream from one of the many vendors.
- NEMO Science Museum: This was a hit with my kids. The NEMO Science Museum is packed with interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational. We practically had to drag them out at closing time!
Where to stay:
- The Jordaan district is a great place to stay with kids. It’s picturesque, with lots of small cafes, boutique shops, and close to many of the city’s attractions. Plus, it’s less crowded than the city center, which makes it easier to navigate with little ones.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Amsterdam in the spring, take a day trip to Keukenhof Gardens. It’s a short drive or train ride from the city, and the sight of millions of blooming tulips is something your kids will never forget.
3. Rome, Italy
Rome is like an open-air museum, and while it might not seem like an obvious choice for a family holiday, it’s actually fantastic for kids. I mean, who doesn’t love pizza, gelato, and ancient history?
What to do:
- Colosseum: The Colosseum is a must-visit, of course. My kids were enthralled by the stories of gladiators and wild animals that used to fight there. We booked a guided tour that was specifically designed for families, which made the history come alive in a way that was really engaging for the kids.
- Trevi Fountain: Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is a fun activity that’s sure to be a hit with the kids. Mine were determined to make their wishes come true, and it was one of those moments that made the trip extra special.
- Borghese Gardens: After a day of sightseeing, the Borghese Gardens offer a welcome respite. We rented a pedal boat on the small lake, and the kids enjoyed chasing each other around the wide-open spaces.
Where to stay:
- I’d recommend looking for accommodation near the Spanish Steps or the Pantheon. Both areas are central, which makes it easy to walk to many of the major attractions, and there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants nearby.
Pro Tip: Rome can be very hot in the summer, so plan your sightseeing for the early morning or late afternoon, and take plenty of breaks for gelato. Trust me, no one will complain about that!
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a city that feels like it was designed with families in mind. It’s clean, safe, and packed with activities that will keep both kids and adults happy.
What to do:
- Tivoli Gardens: Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, and it’s a magical place that’s as charming for adults as it is fun for kids. We spent an entire day there, enjoying the rides, the beautiful gardens, and the live performances.
- Nyhavn: Nyhavn is the picture-perfect harbor that you’ve probably seen in photos. We took a canal tour from here, which was a great way to see the city’s historic buildings and modern architecture. Plus, the kids loved sitting in the front of the boat, pretending to be captains.
- The Little Mermaid: A trip to Copenhagen wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Little Mermaid statue. It’s a bit touristy, but it’s one of those things you just have to see. The nearby Kastellet fortress is also a great place to explore and let the kids run off some energy.
Where to stay:
- The Østerbro neighborhood is ideal for families. It’s quiet and residential but still close to the city center. There are plenty of parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly cafes where you can relax after a day of sightseeing.
Pro Tip: Copenhagen is super bike-friendly, so consider renting bikes for the whole family. It’s a great way to get around, and the kids will love the adventure.
5. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a city that’s rich in history and culture, but it’s also incredibly family-friendly. We visited during the Edinburgh Festival, and the city was buzzing with activities for all ages.
What to do:
- Edinburgh Castle: No trip to Edinburgh is complete without a visit to the castle. The kids were fascinated by the Crown Jewels and the One O’clock Gun. We also enjoyed the panoramic views of the city from the castle grounds.
- Arthur’s Seat: If your family enjoys a bit of outdoor adventure, a hike up Arthur’s Seat is a must. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views from the top are worth it, and it’s a great way to burn off some energy.
- The Museum of Childhood: This museum was a surprise hit with my kids. It’s full of toys, games, and exhibits that show what life was like for children in the past. They loved comparing the old toys to the ones they have at home.
Where to stay:
- The Old Town is a great place to stay, especially if you’re visiting during the festival. It’s close to all the major attractions, and there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat.
Pro Tip: If you’re in Edinburgh during the summer, be sure to check out the many street performers that pop up during the festival. There’s always something entertaining happening, and it’s usually free!
6. Paris, France
Ah, Paris! It might be the city of love, but it’s also a fantastic place to visit with kids. There’s so much to see and do, and the city is surprisingly child-friendly.
What to do:
- Eiffel Tower: Of course, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see. We booked tickets in advance to avoid the long lines, and the kids were thrilled to take the elevator all the way to the top. The views are incredible, and there’s something magical about seeing the city from above.
- Louvre Museum: Visiting the Louvre with kids might sound daunting, but it’s totally doable. We made a game of finding famous artworks like the Mona Lisa and the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the kids enjoyed the Egyptian antiquities section the most.
- Jardin du Luxembourg: After a morning of museum-hopping, we spent an afternoon at the Jardin du Luxembourg. The kids loved sailing the little boats on the pond, and there’s a great playground where they could let off some steam.
Where to stay:
- The Marais district is a great area to stay with kids. It’s central, close to many major attractions, and has a very local feel with its small shops, cafes, and bakeries. Plus, there are plenty of parks nearby.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to indulge in some French pastries! We made it a daily habit to stop at a bakery for croissants or pain au chocolat, and it was one of the highlights of our trip.
7. Munich, Germany
Munich is often associated with Oktoberfest, but it’s also a city with a lot to offer families. It’s full of parks, museums, and activities that will keep everyone entertained.
What to do:
- Englischer Garten: The Englischer Garten is one of the largest urban parks in the world, and it’s a fantastic place for a family day out. We rented a paddleboat on the lake and watched the surfers on the Eisbach wave. There’s also a great beer garden where the adults can enjoy a cold drink while the kids play.
- Deutsches Museum: This science and technology museum is huge, and it’s packed with interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids. My son especially loved the section on space exploration, while my daughter was fascinated by the model trains.
- Marienplatz: The central square of Munich, Marienplatz, is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of the city. We watched the famous Glockenspiel, which delighted the kids, and then wandered around the nearby shops and cafes.
Where to stay:
- I’d recommend staying in the Altstadt (Old Town) area. It’s close to many of the city’s main attractions, and there are plenty of family-friendly hotels and restaurants.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Munich in the winter, don’t miss the Christmas markets. They’re magical, and the kids will love the festive atmosphere, the twinkling lights, and the chance to meet Santa.
8. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a city that’s full of charm, and it’s surprisingly easy to navigate with kids. The hilly streets might be a bit of a workout, but the views and the activities make it all worth it.
What to do:
- Belém Tower: The Belém Tower is a fun place to explore with kids. We climbed to the top for great views of the river and the city, and then we visited the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, which is also very impressive.
- Tram 28: Riding the iconic Tram 28 is a must-do. It’s a fun way to see the city, and the kids loved the rickety old trams that rattled through the narrow streets. We hopped on and off to explore different neighborhoods.
- Lisbon Oceanarium: The Lisbon Oceanarium is one of the best in Europe, and it’s a hit with kids. The central tank is massive, and we spent ages watching the sharks, rays, and colorful fish swim by.
Where to stay:
- The Alfama district is a great place to stay with kids. It’s one of the oldest parts of the city, with narrow, winding streets and a real sense of history. Plus, it’s close to many of the major sights.
Pro Tip: Lisbon’s trams can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. If you’re traveling with young kids, consider going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
9. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a city that’s known for its elegance and culture, but it’s also a fantastic destination for families. There are plenty of parks, museums, and attractions that will keep everyone entertained.
What to do:
- Schönbrunn Palace: The Schönbrunn Palace is a must-see, and the gardens are perfect for a family day out. We took a tour of the palace, and the kids loved the maze and the zoo in the palace grounds.
- Prater Amusement Park: Prater is home to the famous Giant Ferris Wheel, which offers great views of the city. The park also has a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, so we spent a fun afternoon there.
- Haus der Musik: This interactive music museum was a big hit with my kids. They loved creating their own compositions and learning about different musical instruments. It’s a great way to introduce kids to classical music in a fun and engaging way.
Where to stay:
- The Innere Stadt (First District) is a great area to stay with kids. It’s central, close to many of the city’s main attractions, and has a wide range of family-friendly hotels and restaurants.
Pro Tip: Vienna has a fantastic public transport system, so take advantage of it to explore different parts of the city. The trams and trains are clean, efficient, and easy to use, even with young children.
10. Reykjavik, Iceland
Last but definitely not least, Reykjavik is a destination that’s perfect for adventurous families. Iceland is like something out of a fairy tale, with its geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
What to do:
- Golden Circle Tour: The Golden Circle is a must-do when visiting Iceland. We took a day tour that included stops at Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. The kids were amazed by the geysers and the sheer power of the waterfall.
- Whale Watching: We went on a whale-watching tour from Reykjavik’s harbor, and it was an unforgettable experience. We were lucky enough to see several whales and dolphins, and the kids were thrilled.
- Blue Lagoon: The Blue Lagoon is a great place to relax after a day of exploring. The warm, milky-blue waters are soothing, and it’s a fun experience for the whole family. Just be sure to book in advance, as it can get busy.
Where to stay:
- I’d recommend staying in the city center, where you’ll be close to shops, restaurants, and many of the main attractions. Reykjavik is small and walkable, so it’s easy to get around even with young children.
Pro Tip: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for anything. We experienced everything from sunshine to snow during our trip, sometimes all in one day!
Conclusion:
So, there you have it—my top picks for family-friendly destinations in Europe. Each of these places offers something unique, whether it’s the vibrant culture of Barcelona, the fairy-tale charm of Copenhagen, or the outdoor adventures in Reykjavik. Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be stressful; in fact, it can be incredibly rewarding. These destinations are proof that with a little planning, you can create unforgettable memories that the whole family will cherish.
Now it’s over to you—where will your next family adventure take you?
If you’ve been to any of these destinations or have other suggestions, I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below. Happy travels!