The best family vacations don’t always have to be US. If you’re looking for something new and exciting, why not head over to Europe? There are so many places in this continent that offer amazing opportunities with their breathtaking scenery.
Take your kids on an adventure across the pond with European vacations. Western Europe is different enough to make it a excitingly unfamiliar place, but similar enough that you’ll feel at home and put sense of comfort in most American travelers, making this region perfect for beginners like yourself who want their first overseas trip!
Best Family Vacation Spots in Europe
Europe is a treasure trove of family-friendly destinations. From Paris to the Scottish highlands and everywhere in between, there are so many amazing places for kids with an adventurous spirit who love exploring new things! You can go on adventures at historic sites like Stonehenge or take part in Mayan ruins tours.
Europe is a fantastic place to visit with children. There are many places in Europe that offer family-friendly vacation, and here we list six of them:
1. Paris
Paris is a city that never disappoints. From the beautiful parks, iconic monuments and world-class museums; there’s always something new for visitors even if there are kids along.
Things to Do in Paris with Kids
Spend your afternoon in Paris with the local Parisian families at Bois de Boulogne, a sprawling green space full of walking trails and playgrounds. For some indoor time there’s City Of Science And Industry – Europe largest science museum that will satisfy even curious kids!
Jardin des Tuileries is a traditional garden that will feel like an adventure for any child. The lawns are perfectly trimmed thanks to the sheep who live here, acting as living lawn mowers and providing entertainment in their own way with playtime on offer at every turn or opportunity along side some whimsical attractions such as maze & carousel!
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic sites in Paris, and it’s easy to see why. With an glass-enclosed elevator ride up top for your convenience (saving time!), you can marvel at its beauty from high above without worrying about getting wet or exposed! Afterward head out into The City Of Lights below while watching lights hypnotically twinkle before going back home again.
The French have a saying that translates to “man cannot live by bread alone,” but if you ever visit one of their French boulangeries and purchase an entire baguette with some cheese on top then I can assure this will change your perspective. You will be transported right into picnic heaven!
Where to Stay in Paris with Kids?
Brach Paris is a modern and upscale hotel located in the chic 16th arrondissement. It has a indoor pool and guests can enjoy their stay by taking advantage not only with its unbeatable view towards Eiffel Tower but also live chickens that roam around!
2. Rome
Rome is a city where kids can attend restaurant meals with their parents and take part in cultural events such as opera. There’s no better way for them experience Italy than by experiencing life here themselves!
Things to Do in Rome with Kids
The great gladiatorial arena, Colosseum and ruins of Roman Forum are all within walking distance from each other. If you want to take in some architecture then explore St Peter’s Square or Piazza Navona which have beautiful squares filled with fountains. You can explore the maze of back streets and watch Romans zip through traffic on mopeds.
The Villa Borghese, Rome’s beloved park is a great place for kids and parents alike. There are playgrounds throughout the grounds as well an old-school zoo that will delight any little one who loves animals or nature walks in addition to plenty of shade from lush trees if you want some relaxation time. There’s always room for gelato and pasta when you’re in Rome which is fresh produced at the many open air markets.
Where to Stay in Rome with Kids?
Nearing Rome’s major tourist attractions in the heart of town, Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese offers luxurious large family suites on a quiet street next door to one of the most famous gardens Villa Borghèse.
3. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a European vacation spot that will make your kids feel like they’ve been transported to another world. With swan-studded canals and chocolate shops enough for Willy Wonka himself, this little city in Belgium excels at creating magical moments with children of all ages!
Things to Do in Bruges with Kids
The city is a beautifully lace-made place, where you can watch the masters work their magic. Take an evening boat ride down its waterways and enjoy all of this coastal culture’s nautical charm! The awe-inspiring Belfry Tower is a must for any visitor. The continuous serenade courtesy of 47 bells will leave your heart full, while climbing 366 steps rewards you with an unparalleled view straight out into the North Sea from on top!
The perfect food for little ones is just what you need after scaling those steps. Belgian fries, served out of a paper cone with creamy dipping sauce will keep them happy and full all night long! Waffles are delicious. There’s a lot of variety in waffle flavors, but the two most common types are Brussels-style which is light and dusted with a veil of powdered sugar or Liege waffle which has an added crunch from caramelized sugars on top!
If you’re looking for a sweet treat to take back home with your travels, head over the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum. You’ll learn all about how cocoa is transformed into delicious chocolate smiles here!
Where to Stay in Bruges with Kids?
Step into the airy, beautifully decorated rooms of Duke’s Palace Residence. With 26 bright and cheerful guestrooms to choose from you’re sure find one that suits your needs!
4. Madeira, Portugal
Madeira is a remote outpost in the Atlantic Ocean with an alluring mix of black sand beaches, natural rock pools and lush mountain trails. The semi-tropical climate provides perfect conditions for families who love spending time outdoors!
Things to Do in Madeira with Kids
The most exhilarating experience of Hemingway’s life was taking a wicker basket toboggan down Madeira’s steep streets. A 10-minute thrilling journey when there are two straw hat wearing clad drivers guiding us expertly across the hills!
VIP Dolphin‘s is the perfect way to get up close and personal with marine animals in their natural habitats. With an English speaking biologist on board, you will be able not only see but learn about all things aquatic!
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more picturesque Europe family vacation spot than this one. A walk through the lush green forests will reveal walking trails dotted with ferns and fragrant bay bushes, while waterfalls tumbling down from high cliffs.
Monte Palace Tropical Garden has one of the most beautiful paths in all Japan, with delicate floral fringes that make it easy to push a stroller. You’ll ride an overhead cable car right up to your entrance so you can enjoy looking at these gorgeous plants even when traveling with toddlers!
Where to Stay in Madeira?
The Pestana Carlton is a luxurious getaway for families, with ocean access and multiple indoor/outdoor saltwater swimming pools.
5. Lake Geneva, Switzerland
Lausanne, the lakefront city of western Switzerland is a compact metropolis that packs Gallic panache. The city’s lakeside location provides many opportunities to enjoy nature, like taking boat rides or going swimming!
Things to Do around Lake Geneva with Kids
The bells of the Notre Dame Cathedral ring out each evening at 10 p.m., calling all who hear them to prayer and giving insight into what it was like for people centuries ago. Why not let the kids stay up late and witness an old-fashioned charm? In today’s high tech world, this ritual seems frozen in time. It’s a good reason to enjoy some yesteryear memories with your family!
The Olympic Museum is an inspiring place for young visitors to reflect on the values of sports in society. State-of-the art robotic, computer and audiovisual technology make it possible experience what life as a professional athlete might be like with all their highs and lows!
Aquatis, the largest freshwater aquarium in Europe is home to a diverse array of marine life and an immersive journey through the earth’s aquatic environments.
Where to Stay in Geneva?
The elegant Beau-Rivage Palace has an indoor swimming pool that is perfect for all types of weather conditions.
6. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is a stunning destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustles of everyday life. The country has so much natural beauty, with glacial formations that will leave your mouth agape in awe or waterfalls worth diving right off an ship at sea! With five hours flight time from East Coast cities in U.S.A like New York City you can be there in no time, making it easy on both parents who want some peace-time fun as well as kids craving outdoor activities outside their usual comfort zones.
Things to Do in Reykjavik with Kids
The country of Iceland is well-known for its beautiful landscape and rich culture. One way to experience this deep into the heartland, head out on an excursion with boat operators who offer Whale Watchings in Reykjavik’s Old Harbor. The Reykjavik Maritime Museum is an engaging, educational experience that celebrates fishing in the nation’s economy. For high tech fun that feels like real life without any risk. Fly Over Icelandic has it all including wind sensory extras such as mist & scents which give users virtually flying over their own home turf.
Sky Lagoon is an volcanic swimming complex that offers family-friendly Icelandic bathing culture. If you’re looking for something with a little more action, head over to the famous Blue Lagoon spa where everyone from all ages will enjoy this geothermal experience!
The hot dog is one of the most popular foods in Iceland, and you’ll find scores of stands selling them. These can be served on a steamed bun with your favorite toppings which makes it perfect to put smile on your kids faces.
If you are looking for a spot to explore the scenic southwest of Iceland, then Thingvellir National Park is an excellent choice. Geysir and Gullfoss waterfalls can also be found within driving distance from Reykjavik while Seljalands Glacier lies just outside town in West Saronic Gulf Coast region.
Where to Stay in Reykjavik?
The Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre is a modern hotel that has been imaginatively repurposed into an old-fashioned, retro setting with local artwork and vinyl records.
