Are you looking for the perfect family vacation destination in Europe; no worries, we got you covered.
With so much variety, it’s hard to pick your next European vacation. To help you find your next dream destination, we’ve compiled a list of the best family destinations in Europe.
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From stunning beaches to exciting cities, there is something for everyone on this list. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
Here is our list of the 10 best family destinations in 2023.
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Best Family Vacations in Europe
Antalya, Türkiye
By Louisa from The Turkey Traveler
As a family, it can often be a struggle to find family-friendly destinations with enough attractions to keep kids entertained. Plus, let’s be honest, mom and dad want some fun, too!
Antalya in Turkey is the best destination in Europe for families to park their feet. It has everything your family needs to enjoy your time in Europe.
There are family-friendly attractions, excellent WiFi, a plethora of places to stay, and lots of history to explore.
What makes Antalya a great place over other cities in Turkey is its location. It’s nestled on the Turkish Riviera on the South coast. This location makes it an ideal place to base yourself to take day trips.
Antalya is close to several stunning blue flag beaches, mountains, hiking trails, canyons, and historical landmarks such as the Ancient City of Perge and Lycian Rock Tombs. For kids, there are several water parks and amusement parks.
Kids will love playing in the sand on the beaches, participating in water sports, or exploring the nature spots nearby – and mom and dad will love it too!
When it comes to places to stay, there are a lot of options. The best neighborhood to stay in is Old Town since it’s close to all the attractions.
Depending on the time of year, you can find hotels for around $20-$35 per night.
Since the Turkish Lira has been dropping since the beginning of 2022, your money goes a long way in Antalya.
Food is incredibly cheap – you can find meals for around $4-$6 per person.
Transport is also reasonably priced. You can easily explore more of Turkey on weekends. Domestic flights can go for as little as $60 to Cappadocia or Istanbul.
If you’re looking for a European vacation where your money goes further, then Antalya is a top contender for one of the best family vacation destinations in Europe.
Prague, Czech Republic
By Samantha at Undiscovered Path Home
Prague consistently ranks as one of the top European family vacation destinations.
The historic central European city is home to incredible architecture, sweeping views, lots of green space, and a big expat community.
It’s the perfect destination for families looking for a neighborhood-in-a-city vibe, lots of green space, excellent public transit, and an affordable cost of living.
Families love visiting Prague because it’s a livable city with lots of parks, kid-friendly restaurants, and free activities.
From visiting Prague’s famous zoo to wandering Stromovka to visiting the neighborhood farmers market to enjoying local festivals each weekend — there’s so much to do for free or for cheap with kids in Prague.
The best part of visiting Prague is you don’t need a car to explore the city or the surrounding areas, thanks to public transit. Public transit is fast, affordable, and reliable.
Trains will take you across the country if you want to spend time exploring the beautiful cities that the Czech Republic has to offer on a day trip from Prague by train.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
By Samantha from Sam Sees World
Amsterdam is a known playground for adults, but it is also full of things to do for children!
One of the top things to do in Amsterdam for kids is head to museums such as Nemo Science Museum and Moco, or if you are traveling with teenagers, something more mature like Rijksmuseum.
There is also Artis Zoo, Wester park, Efteling Theme Park, and many parks scattered throughout the city.
The best thing about Amsterdam is some of the activities that are great for kids are also super enjoyable for adults, such as canal cruises, spending a day in Vondelpark, bike riding, and more.
Amsterdam is not the cheapest family destination in Europe. You can save money by walking, but I highly recommend taking advantage of the free activities.
If you visit from March – October, prices are much higher, and the closer to the city center the more pricey, but you are closer to attractions and can save on transportation.
During high season, expect prices from €150 to €350 / night, but it is certainly worth it.
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Rhodes, Greece
by Emily from Sailing Two Get Lost
Rhodes is one of the best islands in Greece, with thousands of people flooding there for sun, crystal clear waters, and delicious Greek cuisine.
With its dramatic scenery, incredible ancient ruins, and vibrant cafe culture, Rhodes is the perfect Greek island for your family’s next European vacation of a lifetime.
The average cost of accommodation is reasonable, at around 50-75 euros a night during the high season, with better deals for monthly rentals and during the off-peak months.
If you’re wondering how to keep youngsters entertained here, then do not worry. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities to suit all budgets and interests.
The numerous beautiful, safe beaches and local parks mean you can find fun here for free.
You can also splash out on some days to remember at the massive water park, explore the butterfly farm, or head to the astronomy cafe to learn more about space.
Watersports are the main event on the island of Rhodes, with some world-famous kite-surfing spots and numerous boat and paddleboard rental opportunities at many beaches.
If you’re looking for exciting ways to bring learning to life, then Rhodes is full of historical ruins and stunning ancient architecture.
Rhodes is the perfect place to base yourself while vacationing in Europe. It has ferry links to nearby islands, which make fun day trips.
The island of Symi is only a few hours from Rhodes and is one of Greece’s most beautiful islands, with its stunning harbor and colorful houses.
If your family is looking for the perfect holiday destination in Europe for families, then look no further; the island of Rhodes does have it all.
Cork, Ireland
by Amber from Amber Everywhere
Cork, Ireland is one of the best family destinations in Europe for families. The city is welcoming, the internet is fast, and you can easily feel at home, even after a short while.
Cork is a very safe place to visit, especially for families.
This is one of the best family destinations in Europe, thanks to the mild weather. There are few days of sweltering heat or frigid winds.
There are many great things to do in Cork, from exploring the English Market to strolling through Fitzgerald Park.
Kids can visit one of the city’s museums or swing by an old-fashioned candy maker, Shandon Sweets, for timeless treats.
On any given Saturday, you will see families sprawled out along the River Lee, sharing a picnic or feeding the swans while older children swim and play in the river.
For a fun family outing, visit the nearby town of Kinsale and explore Charles Fort, a 300-year-old military fort made of stone.
Parents can learn about the Charles Fort’s fascinating design and history while children play in and among the ruins.
You can also go to Cobh, the last stop the Titanic made before setting off across the Atlantic for America.
While in Cobh, you can tour Spike Island, a historic prison and military fort set on an island just off the coast of Cobh.
Brussels, Belgium
By Babs from Next Stop Belgium
So what makes Brussels a great holiday destination for families?
Brussels is a city composed of many unique neighborhoods, each with its own charm.
If you are looking for an authentic experience in Brussels at an affordable rate, Schaarbeek and Anderlecht are budget-friendly neighborhoods for Airbnbs.
The second thing that makes Brussels a popular vacation destination for families is the the infrastructure. Brussels is well connected city both for local and international travel.
The airport is only 12km from the city, making it the perfect base to explore Europe.
You can easily catch trains to other popular European cities, such as Antwerp, London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Cologne.
Thanks to its excellent public transportation links, it is easy to get around the city without a car.
Finally, the culture and lifestyle can’t be beat. Brussels is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population and plenty of things to see and do.
The food scene is excellent, with countless restaurants serving delicious Belgium fare.
There are also plenty of kid-friendly activities in Brussels to keep your little ones entertained, from museums to parks to playgrounds.
You can visit the Comic strip center, natural science museum, toy museum, Brussels Children’s Museum, the Atomium, the Royal Palace, and CHOCOLATE.
There are also many beautiful parks in the city to relax and let the little ones play.
In short, Brussels is an easy choice for a European holiday.
6 Underrated Family Destinations in Europe
Trevignano Romano – Italy
by Annalisa from Travel Connect Experience
Located only 40 km north of Rome, you will find one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, Lake Bracciano.
Three ancient towns with picturesque historic centers overlook the lake: Bracciano, Anguillara Sabazia, and Trevignano Romano.
Trevignano Romano is a quiet town where residents spend their free time strolling along the shores of the lake or enjoying a coffee or ice cream at one of the cafes overlooking the lake.
During the warm season, the lake is the main attraction.
The water at the lake is crystal clear, and although motorboats are not allowed, you can enjoy the water. Take a refreshing swim or enjoy water sports such as kayaking, SUP, windsurfing, or sailing.
There is an entrance at the start of the town with trails through the Bracciano and Martignano Lakes nature reserve.
The place to gather is the long, well-maintained lakeside promenade. Here you will find quaint little restaurants serving excellent pizza and local dishes such as fried lake fish.
This quaint Italian village is the perfect place to spend a few days during a European vacation with family.
Lake Braccianohas public transportation connecting the main towns, so it is easy to get around without a car.
Trains from Bracciano or Anguillara reach the historic center of Rome in less than an hour, so make this part of your family vacation itinerary.
Ericeira, Portugal
by Michelle from Ericeira Family Adventures
Is your family looking for an affordable and kid-friendly European vacation destination? Well, look no further.
As the only World Surf Reserve in Europe, sunny Ericeira is a fabulous family destination that does not disappoint.
This famous destination is only half an hour from Lisbon’s international airport, making it easily accessible for families.
We recommend using this European vacation destination as a base to explore central Portugal.
The quaint fisherman village buzzes with action during summer months, and whether it be on a surfboard or a beach towel, the sunshine, waves, cliffs, and sandy shores beckon both young and old to soak it all in.
With the range of kid-friendly activities available in the area finding something to entice your group is a breeze.
Be sure to visit the miniature Portuguese village with your kids. Make time to visit the National Palace. This old-world treasure takes you back in time!
You will enjoy the relaxed, family-oriented vibe in the village center, and walking the cobblestoned streets while kids scoot around the square and parents enjoy a coffee or glass of wine in the sunshine is a pleasure.
Restaurants are also very child friendly, and most have high chairs, changing tables, a smile, and a lollypop for your kids.
Portugal is known for its friendly locals and great prices, and Ericeira is no exception! Accommodation in Ericeira is generally affordable and high quality.
A short-term rental flat within walking distance of the village and beaches goes for between 50 and 90 Euros, July and August being slightly more.
This affordable European destination should be on your bucket list and is one not to be missed!
Costa del Sol, Spain
By Cristina from My Little World of Travelling
Are you looking for your next holiday destination in Europe? Malaga and its towns, referred to as Costa del Sol, are the perfect place for your next family vacation in Europe.
Thanks to the sunny and mild temperatures from October to May, you can make the most of spending time outdoors.
Christmas is a magical time to spend with your family in Malaga. You can go to Muelle Uno (the port of Malaga) to see Santa’s Grotto or attend the Three King’s Parade on the 5th of January.
The area is very kid-friendly, and you will find plenty of activities to do with your children – from spending the day on the beach and going to waterparks like Aqualand to visiting zoos and playing in beautiful parks and playgrounds.
One of the best towns to enjoy family-friendly activities is Benalmadena, located 20 minutes from Malaga.
Visit Parque de la Paloma, a beautiful and spacious park with animals, playgrounds, and cafes.
You can also go to Selwo Marina or Sealife, take the cable car to Calamorro Mount and visit the butterfly park.
What many families love about visiting Costa del Sol is its affordability.
The average cost of accommodation will vary from the city to the coastal and mountainside towns.
Living in Malaga, compared to other Spanish cities, isn’t as expensive; however, staying outside the city center is more economical.
You don’t need to spend much money to take your kids out because of the variety of free outdoor activities they can do.
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Istria, Croatia
Istria is a spectacular peninsula in Croatia. It is a fantastic choice for a family holiday in Europe.
The low season is the best time to visit. There are hardly any tourists, the prices are lower, and you can still often enjoy a lot of suns and the sea. Moreover, the apartments in Istria are very cheap at this time.
Visiting Istria is an adventure for the whole family. Not only will you find excellent beaches for water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and SUP, but there are also plenty of places to explore.
The clean air, fresh sea breeze, green hills in the hinterland, idyllic bays along the coast, and picturesque villages are jewels in Istria.
Spend the night in one of the enchanting coastal towns, such as the town of Rovinj. Here you will be amazed by the colorful townhouses that wind up a hill. Together with the sea, this conjures up a magnificent backdrop for Instagram-worthy pictures.
Other highlights along the coast are Umag, Porec, Novigrad, and not to forget the city of Pula, where there is a Roman amphitheater.
If you love quiet, you should take a house in the hinterland, where you can find beautiful villages with historic old towns.
If you like sports and love the outdoors, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for jogging, nature walks, and bike rides.
Consider stopping in Istria during your next European family holiday.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow, Poland is a rich destination for a family vacation in Europe.
Thanks to the low cost of living, it is a fun and affordable holiday in Europe for families. This historic city has an international flair without the added cost.
The average cost of accommodation for a hotel near the city center is €87 per night. A meal is about 30 zloty ($6).
If you are traveling Europe on a budget, there are local places known as “bar mleczny”. These are the best places to get local and authentic meals for an affordable price.
The city itself has a deep and rich history. The last few years have seen an expansion of family-friendly activities and cafes.
Indoor kid play areas have become more popular as the weather gets cold. The central square in Krakow, the largest in Europe, has a large cloth hall where amber, jewelry, and cultural items are sold.
The Rynek Underground tour has a museum under the square that takes visitors through tunnels and passages while teaching the city’s history.
Wawel Castle nearby has a deep history, and the Dragon’s den nearby takes families through a cave with a curious history of a dragon living in it.
It’s perfect for families with children as the fantasy story allows their imaginations to run wild with the experience.
Wieliczka, a deep underground (former) salt mine is not far from the city. There are daily tours to Wieliczka.
It’s an excellent way to spend the day, particularly during the hot summer months when the temperature underground is more pleasant.
For families with older children or teenagers, many people visit Auschwitz.
Though sobering, it offers visitors the opportunity to learn about one of the most significant times in Polish history that forever changed its people.
Self-tours are available, so visitors can take their time walking around both camps.
For families looking for a vacation destination in Europe steeped in history, Krakow Poland is the place for you.
Belgrade, Serbia
By Angie from She Can Blog
Serbia, in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful and underrated family vacation destinations in Europe.
Since the conclusion of the war in the 1990s, the country has been blossoming. This is the perfect vacation destination in Europe for families who love nature.
Whether you enjoy winter or summer, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
During the summer, you can visit beautiful natural sites in Serbia, such as waterfalls, lakes and rivers, forested mountains, and hot springs.
In the winter you can go skiing in Kopaonik or Zlatibor mountain.
Families who love visiting historical sites will adore spending time exploring the capital city of Belgrade together.
Kalemegdan Park provides an incredible view of the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers.
Kalemegdan Park is the largest and most well-known monument in Belgrade, plus the Belgrade Fortress is within the park.
The Orthodox Saint Sava temple in Belgrade is another must-see. It is one of the symbols of Serbian nationhood and a remarkable sight on any trip to Belgrade.
Family is deeply rooted in Serbian culture, and the country reflects that through its support of families and children.
The people are welcoming and friendly toward children. When you visit attractions or shopping malls, there is often extra consideration given to the presence of children.
In many areas, there are small sinks to accommodate little ones. How great is that for families traveling with toddlers?
