Choosing where to take children aged one to twelve is a different problem from choosing where to go on holiday. A destination that delights a nine-year-old may exhaust a toddler by mid-morning. A place with world-class museums may have nowhere to change a nappy. The following destinations are assessed on the things that actually shape a family day out, walking distance, heat exposure, queue tolerance, toilet availability, food options, transport ease, and whether a buggy can realistically be pushed from the car park to the entrance.
1. Orlando, Florida, USA
Orlando exists for families in a way few destinations do. The concentration of theme parks, water parks, and child-oriented attractions within a short drive of each other means you can build a holiday around the specific ages and energy levels in your group rather than compromising on a single park for everyone.
The practical case for Orlando rests on its infrastructure. Roads are wide, parking is plentiful, and the tourism corridor along International Drive and Kissimmee is designed around families arriving by hire car. Restaurants open early, supermarkets stock familiar brands, and pharmacies are easy to find. For parents travelling with a toddler who needs a nap at a predictable time, that familiarity reduces friction.
Walt Disney World covers four theme parks, two water parks, and a shopping and dining district across roughly 25,000 acres. Magic Kingdom suits younger children best because the ride height restrictions are minimal and the park is built around short, gentle attractions. Animal Kingdom has the widest appeal across ages because the safari, walking trails, and live shows do not depend on thrill tolerance. Epcot’s World Showcase involves a lot of walking and is better suited to children who can handle a full day on their feet.
Universal Orlando’s two main parks lean toward older children and teenagers. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter areas have height restrictions that exclude most children under six from the headline rides, though the theming itself is worth seeing even if your child cannot ride. Legoland Florida, roughly 45 minutes southwest of the main theme park area, targets children aged two to twelve with gentler rides and extensive interactive building areas.
Summer in Orlando is hot, humid, and prone to afternoon thunderstorms. Families with young children often find that arriving at park opening, taking a midday break back at the hotel, and returning in the late afternoon works better than pushing through the heat. Winter months bring milder temperatures and heavier crowds around the Christmas and New Year period.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica works for families who want their children to encounter wildlife, volcanoes, and rainforest without sacrificing comfort. The country has built a tourism infrastructure around nature-based experiences that are accessible to children, and the travel distances between the main family-friendly regions are manageable.
The Arenal Volcano area, around the town of La Fortuna, is the most practical base for families with younger children. The volcano is visible from much of the town, hot springs with shallow pools allow toddlers to paddle safely, and the Mistico Hanging Bridges park has paved trails suitable for buggies. The La Paz Waterfall Gardens, between San José and Arenal, combines animal sanctuaries with waterfall walks and is one of the few places where you can see toucans, monkeys, and butterflies in a single visit without a strenuous hike.
Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast offers easy wildlife spotting along flat, shaded trails. Sloths, capuchin monkeys, and iguanas are commonly seen close to the main path, which means children do not need to be quiet or patient for long stretches. The park has a beach inside its boundary, so you can combine a nature walk with swimming. Note that the park limits daily visitor numbers and is closed on Mondays.
Monteverde Cloud Forest is cooler and mistier than the lowland areas, and the hanging bridges and zip-lines suit older children who are comfortable with heights. Families with toddlers may find the cloud forest less rewarding because the wildlife is harder to spot and the terrain is steeper.
The dry season runs from December to April, which is also the busiest period. The green season, from May to November, brings afternoon showers but lower prices and fewer crowds. Roads in Costa Rica vary in quality, and travel times between destinations are often longer than they appear on a map. A private transfer or hire car with a driver is usually more practical than self-driving for families unfamiliar with the road conditions.
3. Japan
Japan combines a level of public safety, cleanliness, and transport reliability that makes travelling with children unusually low-stress for a country with such a distinct culture. Trains run on time, station staff are helpful, and convenience stores provide reliable access to nappies, wipes, and child-friendly food at almost any hour.
Tokyo works well as an introduction. The Tokyo Disney Resort, comprising Disneyland and DisneySea, is one of the most popular family attractions in the country. DisneySea is particularly well-suited to older children and adults because its design and attractions are more sophisticated than a typical castle park. The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, which requires advance timed tickets purchased before you travel, appeals to families familiar with Studio Ghibli films. TeamLab Planets and TeamLab Borderless are immersive digital art experiences that allow children to touch and move through the exhibits, which makes them a good option for toddlers who struggle with traditional museums.
Kyoto involves more walking and more crowds than Tokyo, but several sites work for families. The Fushimi Inari shrine has thousands of vermilion torii gates along a mountainside path, and children often enjoy counting them or running ahead through the tunnels. The Arashiyama Monkey Park requires a steep uphill walk but rewards it with free-roaming macaques and a view over Kyoto. The Kyoto Railway Museum has interactive exhibits and a large collection of trains, including a working turntable.
Osaka’s Universal Studios Japan includes the Super Nintendo World area, which appeals to children familiar with the games. Legoland Discovery Center in Osaka is an indoor option suited to younger children. The city is also known for its food, and children who are comfortable with noodles, rice, and grilled meat will find plenty to eat.
Families travelling with children aged six to eleven benefit from the JR Pass child rate, which is roughly half the adult price. Children under six travel free on most trains when not occupying a reserved seat. Strollers are allowed on trains but can be difficult during rush hour, particularly in Tokyo. Luggage forwarding services between hotels are widely used and reduce the amount of baggage you need to manage on trains.
4. Italy
Italy rewards families who are willing to slow down and choose a base rather than attempting to cover multiple cities in a single trip. The country’s strengths for children are food, outdoor spaces, and the sheer visual drama of its historic sites.
Rome works surprisingly well for children because the ancient sites are large, outdoor, and tangible. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill can be visited on a single ticket, and children often engage more with ruins they can walk through than with objects behind glass. The Pantheon is free to enter, close to a gelato shop, and takes less than half an hour to see. Villa Borghese, the city’s largest park, has a small train, rowing boats on a lake, and a zoo. The Time Elevator and the Leonardo da Vinci Experience museum offer indoor, interactive alternatives for rainy days or afternoons when the heat becomes oppressive.
Florence is more compact than Rome and easier to navigate on foot, but the Uffizi and Accademia galleries require standing and queuing that younger children may find difficult. The Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum is small, hands-on, and better suited to children than the major galleries. The Boboli Gardens behind the Pitti Palace offer space to run and a view over the city.
The Amalfi Coast involves winding coastal roads and a lot of steps, which makes it a challenging destination for buggies and toddlers. Families with older children who can handle uneven terrain and ferry travel will find it rewarding. Sorrento is a flatter, more accessible base with easy ferry connections to Capri and Positano.
Sardinia offers a different version of Italy, one built around beaches and shallow water. The southern coast around Villasimius and Chia has long, shallow beaches with calm water that suits young children. The island’s interior is mountainous and less developed, with opportunities for walking and visiting traditional villages. Forte Village, in the south, is one of the most established family resorts in Italy, with kids’ clubs, sports academies, and multiple pools.
5. Greece
Greece works for families because the combination of shallow water, warm weather, and short ferry connections between islands allows you to build a trip around swimming and downtime rather than sightseeing. The archaeological sites add interest for older children, but the beaches are the main attraction for most families.
Crete is the largest Greek island and offers the widest range of options for families. The north coast has long, organised beaches with shallow water and sunbed rentals. The south coast is wilder and less developed. The Palace of Knossos, near Heraklion, is one of the most accessible archaeological sites in Greece for children because the myths associated with it, including the Minotaur and the labyrinth, give them something to imagine as they walk through the ruins. The Aquaworld Aquarium in Hersonissos is small but hands-on, allowing children to hold snakes and lizards.
Rhodes has a medieval old town that is largely pedestrianised and easy to explore with a buggy. The Palace of the Grand Master is a short visit, and the street of the Knights is car-free. Lindos, on the east coast, has a clifftop acropolis with a donkey ride option for the climb, which children often enjoy. The beaches around Lindos have shallow, calm water.
Zakynthos, in the Ionian islands, is known for turtle nesting beaches and boat trips to the Blue Caves. The south of the island around Laganas and Kalamaki has shallow water and organised beach facilities. The National Marine Park protects the nesting beaches, and boat operators run trips that allow children to see turtles from a respectful distance.
Greek food is generally child-friendly. Souvlaki, grilled meat on skewers, is widely available and familiar in flavour. Greek salad, bread, and olives are usually accepted even by picky eaters. Supermarkets stock familiar brands if you need backup options.
6. Portugal (Algarve)
The Algarve has become one of Europe’s most reliable family destinations because it combines warm weather, calm beaches, and a tourism infrastructure that has been refined over decades. The region is compact enough that you can reach most of its attractions within an hour’s drive from a central base.
The coastline varies from the long, sandy beaches of Albufeira and Vilamoura to the smaller coves and rock formations of Lagos and Praia da Luz. The water is generally calm on the sheltered eastern beaches and more exposed on the western coast. Praia de Odeceixe has a lagoon that forms at low tide, creating a shallow, warm area ideal for toddlers. Praia da Rocha, near Portimão, is wide and backed by a promenade with restaurants and shops. The beach at Cacela Velha, near the Spanish border, has shallow water and a quieter atmosphere than the main resort beaches.
Beyond the beaches, the Algarve has several water parks, including Slide & Splash near Lagoa and Aquashow Park near Quarteira. Zoomarine, near Guia, combines a small aquarium and zoo with a water park. SandCity, near Lagoa, is a large sand sculpture park that changes its theme each year and holds children’s attention for an hour or two.
The region is well-served for self-catering families. Supermarkets are large and well-stocked, and apartments with kitchens are widely available. This matters for families with toddlers because it allows you to prepare familiar food and keep to nap schedules without relying on restaurant timings.
Summer temperatures regularly reach the high twenties and low thirties, but the Atlantic breeze keeps the heat more manageable than in the Mediterranean. The main school holiday period is busy, particularly in August. June and September offer warm weather with fewer crowds.
7. Iceland
Iceland works for families who want a holiday built around natural phenomena rather than beaches or theme parks. The country’s appeal for children is the sheer visibility of geology and wildlife: geysers that erupt every few minutes, waterfalls you can walk behind, and the possibility of seeing whales or puffins from a boat.
The Golden Circle route, covering Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, is a driving route that can be completed in a day. The paths at Geysir are paved and accessible for buggies. Gullfoss has a viewing platform reached by a paved path. Thingvellir is a national park where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which older children tend to find genuinely interesting.
The Blue Lagoon and the Sky Lagoon both have shallow areas and provide buoyancy aids for children. The Blue Lagoon has a minimum age of two for entry. The Secret Lagoon at Flúðir is smaller, less commercial, and often less crowded. Most geothermal pools in Iceland are heated to between 37°C and 39°C, which is comfortable for children but can be too warm for toddlers for extended periods.
Reykjavik has several family-friendly attractions. The Whales of Iceland museum has life-size models of whales that children can walk beneath. The Perlan museum has a real indoor ice cave and a planetarium. The Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park is small but includes farm animals and a playground.
Iceland’s weather changes quickly, and even in summer you may encounter rain, wind, and low temperatures. Waterproof outer layers and sturdy footwear are essential. Many of the natural attractions are close to roads, but some, including the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, have strong currents and sneaker waves that make them unsuitable for young children. Distances between attractions can be long, and a hire car gives you the flexibility to stop when children need a break.
8. New Zealand
New Zealand suits families who are comfortable with driving and want to combine outdoor adventure with wildlife encounters. The country is sparsely populated, which means attractions are rarely crowded, but it also means you need to plan for longer drives between destinations.
The North Island offers the most accessible family experiences. Auckland has the Auckland Museum, which includes a Maori cultural performance and a war memorial, and the Auckland Zoo. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, south of Auckland, involve a boat ride through a cave lit by thousands of glowworms, which has genuine wonder for children and adults alike. The boat ride is silent and lasts about 45 minutes. Note that photography is not permitted inside the cave.
Rotorua is the geothermal centre of the North Island, with bubbling mud pools, geysers, and hot springs. The Te Puia geothermal valley includes the Pohutu geyser, which erupts up to 20 times a day, and a Maori arts and crafts institute. The Rotorua Skyline Gondola and Luge allows children to ride a gondola up the mountain and then descend on a luge track at their own pace.
Hobbiton, near Matamata, is a working farm that was converted into the Shire for the Lord of the Rings films. The guided tour lasts about two hours and includes the Hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn. It appeals most to families who have seen the films, but the scale and detail of the set are impressive even for those who have not.
The South Island offers more dramatic scenery but involves more driving. Queenstown is the adventure capital, with the Skyline Gondola, the TSS Earnslaw steamship, and Kiwi Park. The drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound is long but passes through some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Families with young children may find the driving distances challenging, and it is worth limiting the number of bases you move between.
9. Bali, Indonesia
Bali has become a popular family destination because it offers a combination of cultural experiences, water-based activities, and resort infrastructure at a lower cost than many comparable destinations. The island is large enough to offer distinct regions, and choosing the right base matters more than trying to see everything.
Nusa Dua, in the south, is a purpose-built resort area with calm, shallow water, wide beaches, and a concentration of family-friendly hotels. The water is protected by a reef, which keeps the waves small and makes it suitable for young children. The area is quiet at night, which suits families who want an early bedtime. Waterbom Bali, in Kuta, is consistently rated as one of the best water parks in Asia, with a dedicated toddler area, a lazy river, and slides for older children. It is well-shaded and has a good range of food options.
Ubud, in the interior, is the cultural centre of Bali. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary allows children to see long-tailed macaques in a temple setting, though the monkeys can be bold and parents should keep belongings zipped away. The Bali Bird Park has a wide collection of Indonesian birds and runs shows that children enjoy. Ubud is also a good base for rice terrace walks, cooking classes, and visiting traditional markets.
Bali Safari and Marine Park, near Gianyar, combines a safari-style animal park with a water park and cultural performances. The safari bus passes through enclosures with elephants, lions, and rhinos, and there is a dedicated area for younger children with tame animals and playgrounds.
Health considerations matter in Bali. Drink only bottled or filtered water, use mosquito repellent, and be cautious with street food if you have young children with sensitive stomachs. The main tourist areas have good clinics and pharmacies, but travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is advisable.
10. Singapore
Singapore is one of the easiest cities in Asia to navigate with children because it is safe, clean, compact, and English-speaking. The public transport system is efficient and stroller-friendly, with lifts at almost every station and wide platforms. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available and inexpensive by international standards.
Sentosa Island is the main family hub, with Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and a luge park within a short distance of each other. The island also has beaches with calm water and a cable car connection to the mainland that gives views over the harbour. The S.E.A. Aquarium, on Sentosa, is one of the largest aquariums in the world and includes a tunnel that passes beneath sharks and rays.
The Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, and Bird Paradise are all part of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve in the north of the island. The zoo is known for its open-concept enclosures, which allow animals to be viewed without visible barriers in many areas. The Rainforest Kidzworld section includes a water play area, a petting zoo, and a carousel. The Night Safari involves a tram ride through nocturnal enclosures and is best for older children who can stay up late.
Gardens by the Bay, on the waterfront, has the Supertree Grove, the Cloud Forest, and the Flower Dome. The outdoor gardens are free to enter and have wide paths suitable for buggies. The Cloud Forest has a large indoor waterfall and a walkway through the canopy. The Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, within the Singapore Botanic Gardens, is free and includes a playground, a maze, and a small water play area.
Singapore’s hawker centres offer a wide range of affordable food in a single location, which makes them practical for families with different tastes. Most have high chairs and are clean and well-lit. The city is hot and humid year-round, so planning indoor activities during the middle of the day is sensible.
11. Thailand
Thailand offers a combination of beaches, wildlife experiences, and cultural sites at a cost that makes it accessible for families who might not be able to afford a comparable trip in Europe or North America. The main tourist areas have a well-developed infrastructure for families, and the food is generally familiar enough for children who are comfortable with rice, noodles, and grilled meat.
Phuket is the largest island and has the widest range of family accommodation. The west coast beaches, including Bang Tao, Surin, and Kata, have calm water during the dry season and a good choice of restaurants and shops. The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary and the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary allow visitors to observe and feed rescued elephants without riding them. The Phuket Aquarium and the Phuket Zoo are smaller attractions but work for a half-day visit.
Khao Lak, north of Phuket on the mainland, is quieter and more laid-back than Phuket but has wide, uncrowded beaches and a good selection of family resorts. It is a practical base for visiting the Similan Islands for snorkelling and for day trips to Khao Sok National Park, where you can stay in floating bungalows on a lake surrounded by limestone cliffs.
Chiang Mai, in the north, is cooler than the southern beaches and has a different appeal. The Elephant Nature Park, which rescues elephants from the tourism and logging industries, allows visitors to feed and walk with elephants. The Chiang Mai Night Safari and the Chiang Mai Zoo are both family-friendly. The city also has several cooking schools that run classes suitable for children, where they can learn to make simple Thai dishes.
Bangkok is usually the arrival point for international flights and can be overwhelming for families, but several attractions work well. The Siam Paragon mall has an aquarium, KidZania, and a wide range of restaurants. The Chao Phraya riverboats offer a cheap and scenic way to see the city, and the temple of Wat Arun can be reached by ferry.
12. Maldives
The Maldives has shifted from a destination aimed almost exclusively at honeymooners to one that welcomes families, particularly at resorts that have invested in kids’ clubs, family villas, and shallow lagoon access. The appeal for children is straightforward: warm, shallow water, white sand, and an abundance of fish and marine life visible from the shore.
The key decision for families is choosing the right resort. Resorts with a house reef allow children to snorkel directly from the beach and see reef fish without needing a boat trip. A shallow lagoon with a gentle slope into the water is safer for toddlers than a steep drop-off. Resorts with kids’ clubs offer structured activities and give parents some time to themselves. The age ranges vary: some clubs start at four years old, while others accept children from two or three.
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has a kids’ club for children aged four to twelve and a shallow lagoon. Finolhu has a well-regarded kids’ club and a teen hut for older children. Club Med Kani offers an all-inclusive model with supervised children’s programmes and a dedicated toddler playroom for children under three. Kuramathi has a kids’ club and family beach houses with two bedrooms.
The Maldives is reached by a short flight from Colombo or a direct flight from several Asian and Middle Eastern hubs. Resorts are reached by speedboat or seaplane from Malé. Seaplane transfers are more expensive and operate only during daylight hours, which can affect arrival and departure times.
The dry season runs from November to April, with the most reliable weather from January to March. The wet season, from May to October, brings more rain and higher humidity but lower prices. The Maldives is a Muslim country, and alcohol is available only at resorts. Outside the resort islands, modest dress is expected.
13. Fiji
Fiji has built a reputation as one of the most welcoming destinations in the Pacific for families, largely because of the local culture’s genuine affection for children and the prevalence of resorts with nanny services, kids’ clubs, and shallow lagoons. The flight from Australia’s east coast is about four hours, making it accessible for a shorter trip, though from the UK it is a long-haul destination.
Denarau Island, near Nadi, is the most convenient base. It is a short drive from the airport and has a concentration of resorts with family facilities. The Denarau Marina is the departure point for day trips to the Mamanuca Islands. The resorts on Denarau have large pools, kids’ clubs, and a range of dining options.
The Mamanuca Islands, a short boat ride from Denarau, have several family-friendly resorts. Plantation Island Resort is particularly well-suited to families, with an inflatable water park, mini golf, and a kids’ club that includes traditional Fijian craft activities. Malolo Island Resort has a kids’ club and family bures. Castaway Island is smaller and more intimate but accepts children and has a shallow lagoon.
Fiji’s appeal for children is the combination of water-based activities and cultural experiences. Snorkelling in the shallow lagoons is possible for children as young as five or six with adult supervision. Village visits introduce children to traditional Fijian life, including kava ceremonies, basket weaving, and meke dances. Many resorts run crab races and coconut-husking demonstrations that children find genuinely entertaining.
The dry season, from May to October, is the best time to visit, with lower humidity and calmer seas. The wet season, from November to April, is hotter and more humid, with a risk of cyclones. Fijian food is generally mild and based on fresh fish, root vegetables, and tropical fruit. Resorts cater to international tastes, and children’s menus are common.
14. Hawaii, USA
Hawaii offers American familiarity with Polynesian culture and dramatic natural landscapes. The four main islands each have a distinct character, and the right choice depends on whether your family prioritises beaches, volcanoes, or outdoor adventure.
Oahu is the most accessible island and the easiest for a first visit. Waikiki Beach has calm, shallow water protected by a reef, and the surrounding area has a high concentration of hotels, restaurants, and shops. The Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium are both within walking distance of the main hotel strip. The Polynesian Cultural Center, on the north shore, presents a full-day experience with villages representing different Pacific cultures, canoe rides, and a luau. Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial are sobering but accessible for older children.
Maui is a popular choice for families because it offers a balance of beaches, wildlife, and scenery. The road to Hana is a full-day drive with waterfalls, black sand beaches, and hiking trails, but it involves many winding sections and is best for children who tolerate car journeys well. Whale watching is possible from December to April, and the shallow water at Kaanapali and Wailea is suitable for young swimmers.
The Big Island offers volcanoes, waterfalls, and manta ray snorkelling. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park includes the Kilauea caldera and the Thurston Lava Tube, which children can walk through. The drive from Kona to Hilo passes through dramatic scenery and takes about two hours. The west coast has calmer water and better snorkelling than the east coast.
Kauai is the greenest and least developed of the main islands, with dramatic cliffs along the Na Pali Coast and a slower pace. The Lydgate Beach Park has a protected lagoon that is safe for young children. The Waimea Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, has several lookout points accessible by car. Families with older children can hike the Kalalau Trail for a few miles before turning back.
15. Kenya
Kenya offers a version of a family holiday that few other destinations can match: the chance for children to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos in the wild. The country has a well-established safari industry with lodges that have adapted to families, offering child-friendly guides, shorter game drives, and activities specifically for younger visitors.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is the most famous safari destination in Kenya and the site of the annual wildebeest migration from July to October. The reserve has a high concentration of predators and is particularly good for seeing lions and cheetahs. Family-friendly lodges in the Mara include House in the Wild, which has a kids’ club and offers activities such as bush walks, fishing, and beading. The camp is unfenced, so children need supervision at all times, but the guides are experienced with families.
Amboseli National Park, in the south near the Tanzanian border, is known for its large elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is smaller than the Mara and easier to cover in a shorter trip. Family lodges in Amboseli offer shorter game drives and cultural visits to Maasai villages.
Laikipia, in central Kenya, is a plateau region with conservancies that offer a wider range of activities than the national parks. Children can go on nature walks, track animals on foot, learn bushcraft skills, and visit community projects. The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is particularly good for families, with rhino tracking, horse riding, and camel safaris.
Nairobi has the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where orphaned elephants are cared for and can be visited during a daily public viewing hour. The Giraffe Centre allows children to feed endangered Rothschild’s giraffes from a raised platform. The Nairobi National Park is within the city boundaries and can be visited on a half-day game drive.
Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for most safari areas in Kenya. Families should consult a travel health clinic well before departure. The dry seasons, from January to March and July to October, are the best times for game viewing because the vegetation is thinner and animals congregate around water sources.
16. Croatia
Croatia has become a popular family destination because it combines clear Adriatic water, historic towns, and a relatively short flight from the UK and northern Europe. The coastline is long and varied, with sheltered coves, organised beaches, and a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.
Dubrovnik is the most famous destination, but it is also the busiest. The old town is car-free and surrounded by medieval walls that children can walk along, though the full circuit takes about two hours and involves many steps. The cable car to Mount Srđ gives panoramic views and has a restaurant at the top. The island of Lokrum, a short ferry ride from the old town, has a botanical garden, a small fort, and free-roaming peacocks. Šunj Beach on Lopud, one of the Elafiti islands, has shallow, sandy water that is rare in Croatia and ideal for young children.
Split, Croatia’s second city, is built around the Roman palace of Diocletian. The palace is a living neighbourhood with shops, restaurants, and apartments within its walls, and children can explore the underground cellars and the peristyle square without the formality of a museum. The nearby island of Brač has Zlatni Rat, a distinctive pebble beach that juts into the sea, and the town of Bol has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Istria, in the north, is less crowded than Dalmatia and has a different character. The town of Pula has a Roman amphitheatre that is better preserved than the Colosseum in some respects and hosts film festivals and concerts in summer. The Aquacolors water park near Poreč is one of the largest in Croatia. The Brijuni National Park, accessible by ferry from Fažana, has a safari park with zebras and elephants and dinosaur footprints on the rocks.
Summer in Croatia is hot, and the sea is warm enough for comfortable swimming from June to September. The main coastal towns are very busy in July and August. May, June, and September offer warm weather with fewer crowds and lower prices. Croatia is a popular sailing destination, and chartering a boat with a skipper is an option for families who want to explore the islands at their own pace.
17. Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife has become one of the most reliable winter sun destinations for European families because it is warm enough for beach weather from October to April, when most of southern Europe is too cool for swimming. The island has two airports, with Tenerife South receiving most of the international flights, and the main resort areas are within a short drive of the airport.
The south of the island, around Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, and Los Cristianos, is the most developed for tourism and has the best concentration of family-friendly hotels. The beaches are a mix of sand and volcanic rock, and several have calm, shallow water suitable for children. Playa de Fañabé and Playa del Duque are both sheltered and have good facilities. Lago Martiánez, in Puerto de la Cruz in the north, is a complex of saltwater pools designed by the artist César Manrique, with shallow areas for children and a striking volcanic setting.
Siam Park, in Costa Adeje, is one of the best water parks in Europe, with a wide range of slides and attractions. The park has a dedicated children’s area with smaller slides and shallow pools. Loro Parque, in Puerto de la Cruz, is a zoo and marine park with penguins, orcas, and a large aquarium. It is consistently rated as one of the best animal parks in Spain. The journey from the south of the island takes about an hour by car or coach.
The Teide National Park, in the centre of the island, is a volcanic landscape that children often find fascinating. The cable car to the summit of Mount Teide operates year-round, though it can close in high winds. The summit is above 3,500 metres, and young children may experience altitude discomfort. The drive through the national park passes through lava fields and rock formations that look like another planet.
Tenerife is a year-round destination, but the south of the island is sunnier and drier than the north. The main resort areas have a wide range of restaurants, supermarkets, and medical facilities. The island is a Spanish territory, and the euro is the currency. English is widely spoken in the tourist areas.
18. Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca has moved beyond its reputation as a party destination and is now one of the most family-friendly islands in the Mediterranean. The island is large enough to offer distinct regions, from the sheltered bays of the north to the rugged Serra de Tramuntana mountains and the long beaches of the south.
Port d’Alcúdia and Playa de Muro, in the north, have some of the best family beaches on the island. The water is shallow and calm, the sand is fine and white, and the beach shelves gradually into the sea. The resort areas have a wide range of hotels, apartments, and restaurants, and the nearby S’Albufera Natural Park offers easy walking trails through wetlands and dunes.
Palma, the capital, has a historic centre with a Gothic cathedral, a Moorish palace, and narrow streets that are best explored on foot. The Castell de Bellver, a circular castle on a hill overlooking the city, has a park with a playground and is a short bus or taxi ride from the centre. The Palma Aquarium has a large collection of Mediterranean and tropical marine life and is a good indoor option for a hot or rainy day.
The Serra de Tramuntana, along the northwest coast, is a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of terraced hillsides, olive groves, and dramatic coastal roads. The vintage train from Palma to Sóller passes through the mountains and is a memorable experience for children. The port of Sóller has a seafront promenade and a pebble beach with clear water.
The east coast, around Cala d’Or and Porto Cristo, has a string of small coves with shallow water and a more intimate feel than the large resorts. The Cuevas del Drach, near Porto Cristo, are large limestone caves with an underground lake where a classical music concert is performed on a boat. The caves are cool and dark, which can be a welcome break from the heat, but the concert involves sitting still for about an hour, which may be a challenge for very young children.
19. Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia is the Italian island that most consistently delivers on the promise of clear water, white sand, and shallow swimming. The southern coast has the most accessible family beaches, while the interior offers a quieter, more traditional version of the island.
Villasimius, in the southeast, has some of the best beaches in Sardinia. Porto Giunco has a long stretch of sand and shallow water with a view of an old tower. Simius Beach, near the town, is wide and has good facilities. Punta Molentis, a small peninsula, has two beaches with calm water and is protected as a marine area. The town of Villasimius has a good selection of restaurants and is less developed than the northern resort areas.
The Costa Smeralda, in the northeast, is the most exclusive part of the island, with luxury hotels, golf courses, and manicured beaches. It is less suited to families on a budget, but the beaches at Liscia Ruja and Capriccioli are beautiful and have shallow water. The nearby archipelago of La Maddalena can be reached by ferry and has several beaches suitable for children.
The Sinis Peninsula, on the west coast, is less well-known than the southern beaches but has a distinctive character. The beach at Is Arutas is made of quartz pebbles that look like grains of rice. The nearby archaeological site of Tharros has Phoenician and Roman ruins on a headland overlooking the sea. The lagoon at Cabras is known for its population of pink flamingos, which can be seen from the road.
Sardinia’s interior is mountainous and forested, with opportunities for walking and visiting traditional villages. The Gennargentu National Park has trails suitable for older children. The nuraghe, ancient stone towers unique to Sardinia, are scattered across the island and can be visited at several sites. The most famous is Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
20. Cornwall, UK
Cornwall works for British families because it offers a combination of beaches, outdoor activities, and a relaxed pace without the need for a flight or a lengthy drive. The county has a distinctive character, with fishing villages, rugged coastline, and a mild climate that makes it pleasant from spring through autumn.
The north coast, around Newquay, has some of the best surfing beaches in the UK. Fistral Beach is the most famous, with consistent waves and a surf school that runs lessons for children as young as eight. The town also has Newquay Zoo, the Blue Reef Aquarium, and a range of family-friendly restaurants. Further north, Padstow has a sheltered harbour, a ferry to Rock, and the Camel Trail, a flat cycle path along a former railway line that is suitable for families with young children.
The south coast, around St Ives and Penzance, has a gentler coastline and a more artistic character. St Ives has several beaches, including Porthmeor for surfing and Porthminster for calmer swimming. The Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden are both small and manageable for children. Penzance is the departure point for ferries to the Isles of Scilly, which have some of the clearest water in the UK and a sub-tropical climate.
The Eden Project, near St Austell, is a large botanical garden housed in biomes that recreate rainforest and Mediterranean climates. The rainforest biome is hot and humid, and the Mediterranean biome is cooler and drier. The site has a wide range of family activities, including a zip-line and an aerial trekking course. The Lost Gardens of Heligan, nearby, has a jungle garden, a farm, and an adventure playground.
Cornwall’s weather is changeable, and even in summer you should be prepared for rain. The sea is cold enough that most children will need wetsuits for extended swimming. The main roads can become congested in peak season, and parking at popular beaches fills up early in the day. Self-catering cottages and holiday parks are common, and many are designed specifically for families.
21. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam may not be the first city that comes to mind for a family holiday, but it is one of the most practical city breaks in Europe for children. The city is compact, flat, and easy to navigate by tram, bike, or on foot. The Dutch attitude toward children is relaxed, and family-friendly facilities are widely available.
The NEMO Science Museum, near the central station, is the standout family attraction. It occupies a striking building that resembles a ship and has five floors of interactive exhibits on science, technology, and engineering. The roof terrace has a view over the city and a play area with water features. The Artis Zoo, in the Plantage district, is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and includes the Micropia museum, which is dedicated to microbes and is more interesting than it sounds.
The Van Gogh Museum has a family wing with activities designed for children, and the Rijksmuseum has a dedicated family guide and a garden with a playground in summer. The Anne Frank House is a powerful experience but is best for older children who have some understanding of the history. Tickets must be booked online in advance and sell out quickly.
A canal cruise is a good way to see the city without walking. Several operators run family-oriented cruises with commentary in English and Dutch. The Amsterdam Light Festival, in winter, adds illuminated art installations along the canals. The city’s parks, including Vondelpark and Westerpark, have playgrounds and open space for children to run.
Amsterdam is a cycling city, and renting bikes with child seats or cargo bikes is a practical way to get around. The city is flat and has extensive cycle paths, though the traffic can be busy in the centre. Dutch food is simple and child-friendly, with pancakes, cheese, and fried snacks widely available.
22. Rome, Italy
Rome works for families because the ancient sites are large, outdoor, and tangible in a way that few other historical destinations are. Children who have learned about Romans at school can walk through the Forum and the Colosseum and see the scale of the buildings for themselves. The city is also compact enough that you can visit several major sites on foot in a single day.
The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill are covered by a single ticket and are best visited in the morning before the heat and crowds build. The Colosseum has a lift for visitors with reduced mobility, though the upper tiers are reached by stairs. The Forum involves uneven ground and loose stones, which can be difficult for buggies. A carrier is more practical for children who cannot walk long distances.
The Pantheon is free to enter, takes less than half an hour to see, and is close to the gelato shops around Piazza Navona. The Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps are outdoor sites that children can visit without queuing. The Villa Borghese gardens have a small train, rowing boats on a lake, a zoo, and a puppet theatre. The park is large enough to spend a full afternoon without feeling crowded.
The Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica involve long queues and a lot of standing, which can be challenging for younger children. Booking a skip-the-line tour reduces waiting time, and some operators run tours specifically designed for families. The Sistine Chapel is crowded and requires silence, which is difficult for young children. The Vatican Gardens can be visited by guided tour and offer a quieter alternative.
Rome is hot in summer, with temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C. Spring and autumn are more comfortable for walking. The city has a good public transport system, though the metro is limited compared to other European capitals. Buses and trams cover more of the city, and taxis are available. Many restaurants are family-friendly, and pasta, pizza, and gelato are reliable options for children.
23. Paris, France
Paris is a city that rewards families who plan around children’s energy levels rather than trying to see everything. The key is to build in park time between the major sights and to accept that a successful day may involve fewer attractions than you would attempt as an adult.
The Eiffel Tower is the obvious starting point. Tickets can be booked online in advance, which saves queuing. The first level has a glass floor and is accessible by lift. The second level has a viewing platform and a restaurant. The top level has the best views but involves another queue for the lift. Children often enjoy the tower more from the ground, where they can run around the Champ de Mars, than from the top.
The Jardin du Luxembourg is the most family-friendly park in Paris. It has a large playground, pony rides, a puppet theatre, and a pond where children can hire small boats to push with sticks. The park is close to the Panthéon and the Luxembourg Museum, and there are plenty of cafés nearby for a break. The Jardin d’Acclimatation, in the Bois de Boulogne, is an amusement park with rides and attractions designed for young children.
The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, in the Parc de la Villette, is a large science museum with interactive exhibits and a planetarium. The nearby Cité des Enfants is a dedicated space for children aged two to twelve with hands-on activities. The Parc de la Villette itself has themed gardens and open space.
The Louvre is vast and can be overwhelming. The Denon wing, which houses the Mona Lisa and the Italian paintings, is the busiest. Families with young children may find the Egyptian antiquities or the medieval Louvre more engaging. The museum offers family trails and activity booklets. The Musée d’Orsay has a more manageable collection and a large clock face that children often find memorable.
Disneyland Paris, east of the city, is a full-day or multi-day experience. The main park has the classic Disney attractions, while the Walt Disney Studios park has more thrill rides and behind-the-scenes attractions. Both parks are connected by a short walk. The RER train from central Paris takes about 40 minutes.
24. London, UK
London has one of the highest concentrations of free family attractions of any city in the world. The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Victoria and Albert Museum are all in South Kensington within walking distance of each other and all have free entry. The Natural History Museum’s dinosaur gallery and the Science Museum’s interactive galleries are both reliable for children aged four and up.
The British Museum has a family activity programme and a dedicated family room. The Egyptian gallery, with its mummies, is a highlight for many children. The museum is free to enter, though special exhibitions are ticketed. The Tower of London involves more queuing and a higher ticket price but has the Crown Jewels, the medieval palace, and the ravens, which children often find compelling.
The London Transport Museum in Covent Garden is hands-on and includes buses and trains that children can climb on. The Postal Museum has a small train that runs through a tunnel and a play area. The Young V&A in Bethnal Green has a design and play focus for children. The Museum of London Docklands has a soft play area and interactive exhibits about the city’s history.
The West End has several long-running family shows, including The Lion King and Matilda, which have the production values and running times to hold older children’s attention. The Puppet Theatre Barge, on the Regent’s Canal, runs shows for younger children in a small, intimate setting.
London’s public transport is extensive but can be crowded during peak hours. The Tube is not all step-free, and many stations have stairs that make travelling with a buggy difficult. Buses are more accessible and give children a view of the city. The Santander Cycles bike hire scheme has child seats available, though the traffic can be intimidating for families unfamiliar with cycling in a large city.
25. San Diego, California, USA
San Diego combines a mild climate, excellent beaches, and one of the best zoos in the world in a city that is easy to navigate by car. The weather is pleasant year-round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C or rising above 28°C, which makes outdoor activities comfortable in almost any season.
The San Diego Zoo, in Balboa Park, is the city’s most famous attraction. It is large, hilly, and involves a lot of walking, but the guided bus tour and the Skyfari aerial tram provide a rest from walking and a view over the enclosures. The zoo has a dedicated children’s area with a petting zoo, a playground, and a miniature train. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, in Escondido, is a separate attraction that focuses on open-range enclosures and conservation. The safari park involves more walking than the zoo and is best for children who can handle a full day on their feet.
SeaWorld San Diego, in Mission Bay, combines marine animal exhibits with rides and shows. The park has a Sesame Street area for younger children and a range of roller coasters for older ones. Legoland California, in Carlsbad, north of the city, is aimed at children aged two to twelve and has a water park and an aquarium on the same site.
La Jolla, north of downtown, has a coastline with sea caves, tide pools, and a large population of harbour seals and sea lions. The Children’s Pool Beach is a sheltered cove where seals haul out on the sand, and the nearby Birch Aquarium at Scripps has a good collection of local marine life. The tide pools at Cabrillo National Monument, on Point Loma, are another option for children interested in marine biology.
Balboa Park, surrounding the zoo, has a cluster of museums, including the Fleet Science Center, the San Diego Natural History Museum, and the San Diego Air & Space Museum. The park has wide lawns, gardens, and playgrounds, and the Spanish Village Art Center has studios where children can watch artists at work. The park is walkable, with a free tram that connects the main attractions.
