Family holidays in Europe have become increasingly popular as more families seek memorable experiences together. Choosing the right destination is crucial for a memorable family vacation. So considering factors such as family-friendly amenities, attractions, safety, affordability, and accessibility is key. Similarly, to determine the best family holiday destinations in Europe for 2024, we conducted thorough research using a variety of sources, including travel experts, online reviews, and family travel websites. Criteria considered during the selection process included the availability of family-friendly accommodations, attractions suitable for all ages, safety ratings, affordability, and ease of access for families with children. And, here’s what we found:
Best Family Holiday Destinations Ranked
Barcelona, Spain
- Barcelona is located on the northeastern coast of Spain. It is known for its unique blend of culture, architecture, and gastronomy.
- Families can explore iconic landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. All were designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí.
- Barcelona offers several family-friendly beaches, including Barceloneta Beach, where kids can build sandcastles and splash in the shallow waters.
- Families can enjoy boat tours along the coastline, bicycle rides through the city’s parks, and picnics in the scenic Montjuïc Hill.
- Sample traditional Catalan dishes such as paella, tapas, and churros, available at local restaurants and food markets throughout the city.
Disneyland Paris, France
- Disneyland Paris is a magical theme park located just outside the city centre of Paris. Moreover, it offers enchanting experiences for visitors of all ages.
- Families can enjoy thrilling rides, meet beloved Disney characters, and watch spectacular parades and fireworks shows.
- Stay at one of the Disney-themed hotels or partner accommodations. Each with convenient shuttle services to the main park.
- Choose from a variety of dining options, including character breakfasts, themed restaurants, and snack carts offering delicious treats.
- Enjoy live performances, stage shows, and interactive experiences. Besides, get inspired by Disney’s timeless stories and characters.
Algarve, Portugal
- The Algarve is a picturesque coastal region in southern Portugal. It is known for its stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns.
- Families can relax on golden sands and swim in crystal-clear waters at popular beaches. A few of these include Praia da Marinha and Praia da Rocha.
- Explore the historic town of Lagos, take a boat tour of the famous Benagil Sea Cave, or visit Zoomarine theme park for dolphin shows and water slides.
- Indulge in fresh seafood, grilled sardines, and pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) at local restaurants and beachside cafes.
- Choose from a range of family-friendly resorts, holiday villas, and beachfront hotels. Each offering amenities such as kids’ clubs and swimming pools.
Rome, Italy
- Rome is the capital city of Italy and a treasure trove of ancient history, art, and culture. All offering countless attractions for families to explore.
- Visit iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon, where kids can learn about ancient Roman civilization.
- Explore St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo’s famous frescoes.
- Spend leisurely afternoons in Rome’s beautiful parks, such as Villa Borghese and Villa Pamphili, offering playgrounds, gardens, and picnic areas.
- Treat the family to delicious gelato from local gelaterias. Enjoy flavours ranging from classic favourites like chocolate and strawberry to unique creations like tiramisu and pistachio.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Dubrovnik is a picturesque coastal city located on the Adriatic Sea. It is known for its well-preserved medieval walls, historic Old Town, and stunning beaches.
- Similarly, walk along the ancient city walls for panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the red-roofed buildings of the Old Town below.
- Visit filming locations from the hit TV series Game of Thrones, including Fort Lovrijenac, Dubrovnik Cathedral, and the Pile Gate.
- Take a short boat ride to Lokrum Island, where families can explore botanical gardens. Additionally, swim in the Dead Sea lake, and encounter peacocks roaming freely.
- Relax on popular beaches such as Banje Beach and Copacabana Beach. Each offering sun loungers, water sports, and beachside cafes serving fresh seafood and cocktails.
London, United Kingdom
- London is the capital of the United Kingdom. It offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor spaces to explore.
- Visit world-class museums such as the British Museum, Natural History Museum, and Science Museum, offering interactive exhibits and activities for children.
- Spend time outdoors in London’s beautiful parks, including Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Kensington Gardens. Here you can find playgrounds, boating lakes, and open spaces for picnics.
- Experience the magic of the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour, where families can explore sets, props, and costumes from the iconic film series. For similar unique experiences, explore here.
- Watch a family-friendly musical or stage show in London’s West End theatre district. Here you can see productions such as The Lion King, Matilda, and Wicked, immersing audiences of all ages.
Vienna, Austria
- Vienna is the capital city of Austria. It’s known for its imperial palaces, classical music heritage, and family-friendly attractions set against a backdrop of historic architecture.
- Explore the opulent rooms and gardens of Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs. Here you can find attractions including the Children’s Museum and Tiergarten Schönbrunn Zoo.
- Visit Vienna’s oldest amusement park, Prater Park, home to the Giant Ferris Wheel and a variety of rides, games, and attractions. All of which are suitable for children of all ages.
- Admire the beautiful gardens and art collections of Belvedere Palace. These feature works by Austrian artists such as Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, with family-friendly audio guides and interactive exhibits.
- Escape the city and explore the Vienna Woods. It is a tranquil forested area offering hiking trails, picnic spots, and outdoor activities such as horseback riding and cycling.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam is a charming canal city known for its picturesque waterways, historic architecture, and cultural attractions, offering plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy.
- Take a leisurely canal cruise through Amsterdam’s iconic waterways, passing by historic landmarks, charming houseboats, and picturesque bridges.
- Visit the Anne Frank House to learn about the life and legacy of Anne Frank, with interactive exhibits and educational programs suitable for families with older children.
- Explore the ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe, featuring a diverse collection of animals, botanical gardens, and playgrounds for children.
- Relax in Vondelpark, Amsterdam‘s largest city park, with open lawns, playgrounds, and outdoor concerts and performances during the summer months.
Athens, Greece
- Athens is the historic capital city of Greece, known for its ancient landmarks, archaeological sites, and vibrant culture, offering educational and immersive experiences for families.
- Climb to the top of the Acropolis to admire the iconic Parthenon and other ancient monuments, with guided tours and family-friendly activities available to enhance the experience.
- Explore the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, home to a vast collection of Greek antiquities, including sculptures, pottery, and artefacts from ancient civilizations.
- Wander through the charming streets of the Plaka neighbourhood. Besides, these streets lined with traditional tavernas, souvenir shops, and street vendors are perfect for local indulgence.
- Visit the Attica Zoological Park, located on the outskirts of Athens, to see a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants, as well as interactive exhibits and animal shows.
Prague, Czech Republic
- Prague is a fairy-tale city known for its medieval architecture, romantic atmosphere, and cultural heritage, offering a wealth of family-friendly attractions and activities to discover.
- Explore Prague Castle, one of the largest ancient castles in the world, with guided tours available to explore the royal residences, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Golden Lane.
- Visit Prague Zoo, ranked among the top zoos in the world, with a diverse collection of animals, interactive exhibits, and children’s activities set against the scenic backdrop of Troja Castle.
- Take a funicular ride to the top of Petřín Hill for panoramic views of Prague‘s skyline, with attractions including a mirror maze, observatory tower, and rose gardens to explore.
- Attend a puppet show at the Czech National Marionette Theatre, showcasing traditional Czech puppetry and fairy tales beloved by children and adults alike.
Tips for Visiting European Family Holiday Destinations
- Pack comfortable clothing, ample snacks, and entertainment like books and board games.
- Book accommodation early, look for family-friendly deals, consider self-catering options, and prioritise free or low-cost attractions and activities.
- Choose hotels with kids’ amenities, consider holiday rentals, book rental cars in advance, and explore family-friendly public transportation options like city passes or discounted travel cards.
- Childproof accommodation, keep an eye on kids in crowded areas, ensure comprehensive travel insurance coverage, have emergency contact information on hand, and establish a meeting point in case of separation.
- Pack necessary medications and copies of prescriptions, research medical facilities in your destination, ensure children are up to date on vaccinations, and protect against sunburn and insect bites with appropriate clothing and repellents.
- Educate children about local customs and etiquette, encourage respectful behaviour towards locals and historical sites, and involve them in cultural activities such as language lessons or traditional crafts.
- Plan activities that engage and educate children, such as museum visits, nature hikes, or guided tours tailored to families. Moreover, look for interactive exhibits or educational programs designed for young learners.
- Allow for downtime in your itinerary to rest and recharge, especially for younger children. Be prepared to adjust plans as needed and embrace spontaneity, allowing for unexpected discoveries and memorable experiences.
- To know more on a few secret tips and tricks for your next family holiday in Europe, read here.
Conclusion
Europe offers a plethora of family-friendly holiday destinations, each with its own unique charm and attractions. So whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors, cultural experiences in historic cities, or relaxation on sun-drenched beaches, there’s something for every family to enjoy in Europe. So visit these iconic Family Holiday Destinations in Europe this year with MyFlightPal. Similarly, if you’re searching for more such destinations to visit in 2024, read on here.