Expert Answers: Top Questions About Europe Family Vacation spots in Europe

Looking for the Best European Vacations For Families

Hey there, it's Jennifer! Are you planning a family vacation in Europe and wondering where to go? Well, you're in luck! I've put together a list of the top 30 family vacation spots in Europe. Whether you're looking for stunning beaches, charming cities, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, you'll find something for everyone on this list. So sit back, relax, and get ready to plan an unforgettable family trip to Europe!

Best Family Ski Resorts in Europe

Whether you're an expert skier or a novice, you'll find a ski resort in Europe that suits your needs. Whether you're looking for family-friendly resorts with lots of activities for children or resorts that are perfect for couples, our list of the best ski resorts in Europe will give you plenty to choose from.

Austria Ski Resorts  and Italian ski resorts are some of the best in Europe. We have reviewed some more  of the best ski resorts in Europe on our family Ski Resorts review

First Trip to Europe with Family:

Traveling to Europe with kids for the first time can be overwhelming, but with some careful planning, it can be a wonderful experience for the whole family. One of our best trips was our first family vacation to Paris. We made sure to include plenty of activities that our kids would enjoy, like a visit to Disneyland Paris and a boat ride on the Seine. It was a magical experience that we'll never forget.

Europe Trip for Family of 4

Traveling with a family of four can be challenging, but it's also a great opportunity to create lasting memories. One of our favorite trips was a road trip through Ireland. We rented a car and explored the stunning countryside, stopping at castles, museums, and other attractions along the way. It was a fantastic adventure that we'll always treasure.

Traveler Review

In this video by Multi-City Trips, a travel company specializing in personalized multi-city trips to Europe, the top five best European cities for family vacations are highlighted. The video begins by acknowledging the challenges of planning a trip with young children and how many vacation destinations are not suitable for visitors of all ages. However, European cities are an exception and offer numerous family-oriented activities. The video then introduces the top five cities - London, Paris, Barcelona, Stockholm, and Madrid - and highlights the attractions and activities that make each city ideal for a fun family holiday. From visiting museums, art galleries, and popular landmarks to exploring beaches, amusement parks, and kid-friendly restaurants, the video provides useful insights for families planning their next European vacation.

Top 30 Family Vacation Spots in Europe

Hey there, it's Jennifer! As a travel enthusiast and mom, I've put together a list of the top 30 family vacation spots in Europe. Whether you're looking for history, culture, outdoor adventures, or just some quality family time, Europe has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation!"

30 family vacation spots in Europe in Jenifer's persona:

  1. Paris, France - "The city of love and lights is a must-visit for families with its museums, parks, and Disneyland Paris."
  2. Rome, Italy - "Explore ancient history and indulge in authentic Italian cuisine with your family in Rome."
  3. Barcelona, Spain - "The colorful streets, delicious food, and family-friendly beaches of Barcelona make it a perfect vacation spot."
  4. Amsterdam, Netherlands - "Take a bike ride around the city, visit museums, and enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere in Amsterdam."
  5. Berlin, Germany - "Learn about history and culture in Berlin while also enjoying family-friendly attractions like the Berlin Zoo and LEGOLAND."
  6. London, England - "Visit famous landmarks like the Tower of London, London Eye, and Harry Potter World for a magical family vacation in London."
  7. Athens, Greece - "Explore ancient ruins and enjoy Mediterranean cuisine with your family in Athens."
  8. Vienna, Austria - "Visit the famous Vienna Zoo, explore the Schonbrunn Palace, and indulge in delicious pastries in Vienna."
  9. Lisbon, Portugal - "Experience the vibrant culture and family-friendly beaches of Lisbon for a memorable vacation."
  10. Copenhagen, Denmark - "The Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid statue, and colorful houses in Nyhavn make Copenhagen a wonderful family vacation spot."
  11. Dublin, Ireland - "Learn about Irish history and culture while enjoying the family-friendly atmosphere in Dublin."
  12. Edinburgh, Scotland - "The Scottish capital offers castles, museums, and family-friendly attractions like the Edinburgh Zoo."
  13. Reykjavik, Iceland - "Experience the natural beauty and outdoor activities like whale watching and the Northern Lights in Reykjavik."
  14. Prague, Czech Republic - "The stunning architecture, puppet shows, and delicious food make Prague a great family vacation spot."
  15. Zurich, Switzerland - "Experience the stunning Swiss Alps, chocolate factories, and adventure parks in Zurich."
  16. Stockholm, Sweden - "The Vasa Museum, Skansen Open-Air Museum, and beautiful parks make Stockholm a great family vacation destination."
  17. Dubrovnik, Croatia - "The walled city, beaches, and Game of Thrones tours make Dubrovnik a unique and memorable family vacation spot."
  18. Brussels, Belgium - "The Atomium, chocolate shops, and the famous Manneken Pis statue make Brussels a fun family vacation spot."
  19. Budapest, Hungary - "Visit the famous thermal baths, explore castles, and indulge in Hungarian cuisine in Budapest."
  20. Salzburg, Austria - "The birthplace of Mozart offers family-friendly attractions like the Salzburg Zoo and Sound of Music tours."
  21. Florence, Italy - "Visit museums, indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, and take a bike ride around the city in Florence."
  22. Santorini, Greece - "The stunning beaches, sunsets, and family-friendly activities like the water park make Santorini a great vacation spot."
  23. Valencia, Spain - "The City of Arts and Sciences, beaches, and delicious food make Valencia a perfect family vacation spot."
  24. Seville, Spain - "Experience flamenco shows, stunning architecture, and delicious food in Seville."
  25. Krakow, Poland - "The Wawel Castle, Salt Mines, and Old Town make Krakow a great family vacation destination."
  26. Munich, Germany - "Visit the famous beer gardens, explore castles, and take a bike ride in Munich."
  27. Oslo, Norway - "The Viking Ship Museum, outdoor activities, and family-friendly parks make Oslo a great vacation spot."
  28. Porto, Portugal - "The Ribeira district, beaches,
  29. Ljubljana, Slovenia - The charming city of Ljubljana offers a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere with its pedestrianized city center and numerous parks and playgrounds.
  30. Salzburg, Austria - The birthplace of Mozart and the setting of "The Sound of Music", Salzburg is a charming and picturesque city that offers plenty of family-friendly activities such as visiting the Hohensalzburg Fortress and taking a tour of the salt mines.

London Family Travel Tips

London is packed with such a lot of historical and inspiring attractions. Your kids may know it as the home of Harry Potter but the reality of London today will inspire them to a sense of wonder and beyond. Home to more than eight million people, yet it is easy to get around on foot, or in the famous double-decker bus tours. The royal parks in central London are located nearby the family tourist attractions and offer families a hand respite and an attraction within themselves. 

Travel London With these Kid Friendly IdeasTravel London With these Kid Friendly Ideas

London Travel Guide

Thanks to Expedia for this London Travel Guide. Some of the top attractions include: St. Paul’s Cathedral, which is one of the well-known churches. The  Tower of London which is good for kids, the Palace of Westminster, and Westminster Abbey, Hyde Park and Green Park, in central London.

Below, in the video we feature some of the attractions and trip advise for coming out on top in one of the most expensive cities in the world followed by another video on the top attractions and things to do. Kits will become magnificently repulsed by the bloodshed at the tower of London and thrill at the chance at riding on the London Big Eye.

Some tips:

  • Let the kids carry money and practice converting the currencies.
  • Mum and dad split up and visit appropriate attractions then report back to the family.
  • VIDEO: London Destination Guide

London Family Accommodation

Find Family Friendly reviewed London hotels, Bed and Breakfasts and vacation rentals on TripAdvisor.

All Inclusive Family Resorts in Spain

Spain is an ideal destination for a family vacation, and there are many all-inclusive resorts in Spain that will make your experience unforgettable.

The Canary Islands are one place with a good assortment of all-inclusive family resorts, but there are lots of others in Spain. 

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All-inclusive resorts in Spain offer a variety of activities for the whole family, as well as delicious food and drinks. There are also plenty of entertainment options such as live shows, water parks and more.

The Best Spanish Beach resorts

The best Spanish Beach resorts for families have many of the same features as they would in any other country, but there are some differences in these Spanish resorts that make them stand out. For example, many of these top family-friendly hotels offer kids’ clubs and organized activities to keep the children entertained while parents are relaxing or enjoying a spa treatment.

Italy All Inclusive Family Vacations

Italy is a world-class destination for family vacations. It has so much to offer, from the famous Roman ruins and picturesque villages of Tuscany to the sunny beaches of Sardinia and Naples. Now, Italy also offers all-inclusive packages that include transportation, lodging, meals and other amenities like meals at restaurants, guided tours or spa treatments.

Italy is one of the most popular destinations for an unforgettable vacation. Families can enjoy a wide range of activities, historical sites and mouthwatering cuisine.

Many families are looking for a vacation that can include their entire family. Italy is an affordable option for your next family vacation. With all-inclusive resorts, you don't have to worry about meals or drinks for the week. You can spend more time playing in the water and enjoying every moment with your loved ones.

Sardinia all-inclusive resorts are a good affordable option in this case.

Which European country is cheapest to vacation?

If you're looking for a cheap European vacation spot, consider traveling to Portugal. The country offers beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and plenty of affordable accommodations and activities. We've also found that Hungary and Poland are great budget-friendly destinations, with plenty of cultural and historical attractions to explore.

Researched Review of The Most Affordable Family European Destinations

This video from MojoTravels presents a list of the top 10 affordable European destinations for 2022. The destinations listed provide a more budget-friendly alternative to more expensive countries like France and Switzerland. The list includes Latvia, Turkey, Slovenia, Poland, Czechia, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary, and Bulgaria. The video provides information on the cost of hotels, transportation, and sightseeing in each country, as well as the best time to visit to save money. Viewers are also given a glimpse of the unique cultural experiences and landmarks available in each destination, making it a useful resource for budget-conscious travelers looking for new and exciting places to explore.

Q and A with Jennifer mother of two on European family Travel

Welcome to our Q&A segment with Jennifer, a seasoned traveler and family vacation expert. Jennifer has visited many countries around the world and has extensive knowledge about the best places to go for a family vacation. In this segment, Jennifer will be answering some common questions about family vacations in Europe, including the best countries to visit, how to travel on a budget, and the best time of year to go. Let's dive in!

What are the top 3 European countries to visit?

This is subjective, but some popular European countries to visit include Italy, France, and Spain.

Which trip is best for family?

The best trip for a family depends on the interests of the family members. Some families prefer beach vacations, while others prefer city trips or outdoor adventures.

How to travel Europe with kids cheap?

To travel Europe with kids cheap, consider staying in hostels or vacation rentals instead of hotels, using public transportation instead of taxis, and taking advantage of free attractions such as museums and parks.

Can you travel Europe on $50 a day?

It's possible to travel Europe on $50 a day, but it would require very budget-conscious choices such as staying in hostels, eating street food, and using public transportation instead of taxis.

What is the cheapest time to travel in Europe?

The cheapest time to travel in Europe is typically during the off-season, which varies depending on the destination but is generally in the fall or winter.

How much does a European vacation for a family of 4 cost?

The cost of a European vacation for a family of 4 varies widely depending on the destination, length of stay, type of accommodations, and activities planned. A budget of around $10,000 to $15,000 USD is common for a week-long family trip.

Which European country is cheapest to vacation?

This varies depending on the destination, but some budget-friendly European vacation spots include Hungary, Poland, and Portugal.

Where is the cheapest place to travel with kids?

This varies depending on the destination, but some budget-friendly places to travel with kids include Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

What is the safest cheapest country to visit?

This varies depending on the destination, but some budget-friendly and safe countries to visit include Iceland, Portugal, and Costa Rica.

London Family Travel Ideas for Kids

London's top family attractions by Charlene Patricia Peck. She is a member of The London Dungeon's. Her favorite attractions include: The London Dungeon, ZSL London Zoo, SEA Life London Aquarium, Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter, the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum.

The London Dungeon Tour

A video of the  Tooley Street London Dungeon. The attraction opened at the site in 1974 and is a good option for kids who are into scary things and wont get freaked out.  The facility itself did not close until January 31st 2013 before moving to the new site. This video was recorded by specially arranged permission from The London Dungeon 

What To Do With Kids in London

 Family travels from a warmer climate to London. Some of the highlights were a launch event, an intimate Justin Timberlake concert and our first European soccer game! 

Thanks to The Bucket List Family for these great London Family Travel Ideas.

Changing of the Guard

Thanks to SLEkins who provided this Changing Of The Guard video. She says she didn't know the actual ceremony takes place behind the closed Palace gates! The ceremony begins on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace, following a march by a detachment of the Old Guard, with musical support, from St. James's Palace. Children soak it all up.

The Tower of London

Howcast offer some advice on Planning a trip to London? Great tips on what you'll see on a visit to the Tower of London.  Also known as the Bloody Tower, and it’s earned the name. Since 1066, when William the Conqueror had it built to frighten his subjects into submission and to threaten those who wanted to invade his kingdom

Madame Tussauds London Walkthrough

Millions have visited Madame Tussauds since it opened over 200 years ago. This is a unique, emotionally-charged journey of the powerful and famous. The museum-style ropes and poles have gone so guests can truly get up, close and personal with A-list celebrities, sporting legends, political heavyweights and historical icons.

You might like these European Resorts

Cheap Post COVID Vacation in Germany 

Neuschwanstein CastleNeuschwanstein Castle

Are you ready for a cheap Germany vacation but are not sure where to start?  We took a road trip around Germany to experience first hand all the affordable options for families from the Berlin to the  Black Forrest, Bavarian Alps and beyond.

VIDEO: Visit Germany - The DON'Ts of Visiting Germany

With alps, a magical forest, road trips through castle country, our trips through the land of Hansel and Gretel sure landed us some unique family friendly experience different from the beach experience we were used to. While we got to enjoy our usual outdoor approach to life, the cultural aspects and medieval remnants of old Europe add loads of charm . And the kid the child centered approach to life is evident in the Germans half price tickets for attractions and often free inclusions in German room rates.

While you may think the thriving economy of Germany would drive the costs out of reach of most families the reality is Germany is more affordable than most European countries.  The Family Friendly Guesthouses which include breakfast work with families, and farm stays are more accessible and affordable here than in other countries.  Find reviews of the family friendly German accommodation options here

Look to book in advance where you can, especially around the times when it is finally warm enough (basically summer for families to travel in comfort. 

German Road Trips

he popular German Road trip itineraries  have seemingly been made with children in mind.  They traverse along castle routes and old historic villages with plenty of cool family friendly places to stay and attractions for kids. 

The Castles of Germany

This video explores Munich, the Alps, and their castles.


The Medieval castles of Germany will intrigue kids and adults alike. These impressive fantasy  worlds of insights in to another Europe.  Some of the most important are Heidelberg Castle, in the Rhineland, Hohenschwangau Castle,  at Fussen,  Also at Fusan is the kid's favourite Neuschwanstein.

While it is possible to include Fussen on a road trip, kids amy also enjoy catching the train there.  Busses are then available to transfer you up  to the incredible fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein. If the steady hike up to the castle is too much for your kids there are horse drawn carts to save you. This is a great place to stay and enjoy the old city as well. 

See accommodation and reviews of Fussen on TripAdvisor

If you're stopping off in Munich you will find plenty to keep kids intrigued.  Deutsches Museum is absolutely massive kids science museum and shows how highly the Germans value this perspective of reality.

Oktoberfest Ride CarouselOktoberfest Ride Carousel

 In the main square downtown you find lot's of opportunities for each member of the family to try their own thing in sampling Germain fare.  Why not each person get something different and share.  Then easily stroll over to the  awesome Viktualienmarkt (market) and enjoy the plentiful of green spaces of the wonderful parklands.

If you kids don't mind heights Zugspitze to the south of Munich has trams to take them to the top of the country's highest peaks.

Even the Romantic road trip which covers the couple of hundred kilometres through the old towns at the Alps foothills (between Wurzburg and Fussen) is speckled with medieval castles. 

The Bavarian AlpsThe Bavarian Alps

The Alpine roads which rise slightly into the Bavarian Alps themselves are a little windy for a lot of kids but you will find the views and slight change in culture rewarding if this is not an issue. 

The Moosal Valley  Road trip Follows the Rhine River where a lot of the populated centres are. The upper Rhine is where you will find many of the great castles.

Black Forrest Road Trip

Even more kid friendly is the journey between  Freiburg and Lake Titisee which is known as the Black Forest Road  (Schwarzwald in Germain).  A popular family activity here is to  visit Belchen, mountain and look down upon the  the Rhine. You could spend days exploring the beauty of this place and the  lakes by Schluchsee which have a similar family friendly vibe.

Black Forrest Road TripBlack Forrest Road Trip

Around Berlin

Around Berlin enjoy a children's puppet show, visit the huge natural history museum, and take a dip in the outside pools.

One of the many open air pools around BerlinOne of the many open air pools around Berlin

This overview of Berlin shows a lot of family friendly activities in Berlin. Of course each individual parent set will need to make up their own minds is visiting something like the holocaust memorials is appropriate for their family. 

Puppentheater Firlefanz

The Puppentheater Firlefanz is an extremely kid friendly puppet theatre awakens the imagination with its extraordinary puppets and marionettes.  Fairy tales, and all the old classics are re enacted with such an entertaining style even the adults are sure to leave impressed.

Moving in Germany

You can hire a car but trains are pretty efficient in Germany. Kids will love the rail network and getting around in this way - after all it is the efficient German way. If you do find the somewhat pricey tickets a bit rich to take than the German road network is obviously first class, and you are not forced to take the high speed autobahns, with lots of byways available. 

Eating in Germany

If your kids are fussy eaters get ready for a reprieve. Kid friendly small goods and meats are common even at breakfast. Our little one loves fermented products like sauerkraut because we had a probiotic rich fermented vegetable business when she was younger. Germany is renowned for its Sauerkraut, and it has been a staple here since Genghis Kahn brought it in from workers on the Great Wall of China. Make sure yours has the live culture for maximum benefit.   German breads are rich and hearty and you will also find a good range of desserts.

potential pros and cons of European family vacations, as well as some alternative options:

Pros:

  • Rich history and culture: Europe is filled with ancient sites, museums, and landmarks that can be educational and enriching for families.
  • Variety of activities: From hiking in the Alps to exploring medieval towns, there are plenty of activities for families of all ages and interests.
  • Delicious food: Europe is known for its cuisine, and families can enjoy trying new foods and experiencing local flavors.
  • Easy transportation: Europe has a great network of trains and buses that make it easy to get around without a car.

Cons:

  • Cost: Europe can be expensive, especially during peak travel season.
  • Crowds: Popular tourist destinations can be crowded, making it harder to enjoy activities and navigate with kids.
  • Language barrier: Depending on where you go in Europe, you may encounter language barriers that could make travel more difficult.
  • Long flights: Depending on where you're coming from, getting to Europe can be a long, tiring journey.

Alternative options:

  • Domestic travel: Consider exploring your own country or neighboring countries to avoid long flights and language barriers.
  • Asia: Many countries in Asia offer a mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities at a lower cost than Europe.
  • South America: South America has a variety of family-friendly destinations, from the beaches of Brazil to the ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru.
  • Cruises: Family-friendly cruises can offer a mix of activities, cuisine, and transportation to different destinations.

Remember that every family is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Consider your family's interests, budget, and travel preferences when deciding on your next vacation destination.

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Family Travel Inspiration Awards 

While we have our own ideas of what makes for a great family vacation to Europe which we think is objective and adaptable to different families, TripAdvisor also has some great inspiration which we have checked out when planning our European vacation. Check out the Awards here: Best Family Friendly Vacations - Europe.


About the Authors

April Ricky Author Photo

Avid travelers who love to find a deal, Ricky and April Wright love to share about awesome experiences in amazing places. Ricky worked in resorts for decades which led him to prioritize guest experience combined with great locations. The result is awesome, hand-picked resorts for you to visit. 

Name: Jennifer Age: 40 Occupation: Business Executive Personality: Discerning, organized, and enjoys luxury travel experiences with her family

Family: Married with two children (ages 8 and 10) Interests: Fine dining, historical sites, and cultural experiences

Jennifer is a discerning traveler who appreciates the finer things in life. As a business executive, she values organization and efficiency, and she expects the same from her family vacations. With two young children, Jennifer looks for destinations that offer a mix of entertainment for both adults and kids. Jenifer is a  persona we created especially for this review to make the review voice more relevant for you. 

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