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From beaches to mountains, forests to deserts, Europe is a diverse continent. The proximity of European countries also makes them perfect for country-hopping. However, you may be dead-set on choosing one (or two) European destinations for a family holiday this year.
So, which will it be? We’ve compiled a list of all the top options, though it certainly isn’t a definitive one! Yes, there are so many excellent options for families, we just couldn’t fit them all on this page.
Italy
The delicious food, including family hits like pizza and gelato. The sparkling coastline. The temperate climate. Italy really has it all. Most Italian establishments, including restaurants and hotels, are also quite welcoming to children, which isn’t always the case.
What can we say? Italy has a family-first culture, making it a delight for traveling families. The only downside is just how busy the top Italian destinations and cities may get in peak season (June through August). However, if you’re willing to brave the throngs, you won’t forget a memorable holiday here. You can also try to go off-peak before June or after August.
3 Top Italian Cities To Visit as a Family:
- Rome
- Florence
- Venice
France
France is also a culinary destination, with decadent, intricate pastries and confections that sweet-toothed kids will love. It’s also a great destination for older teens, who will appreciate the egalitarian culture, proactive youth, fine wines, and active lifestyle.
The country offers everything from alpine mountains to warm, sunny coastlines. So, it’s just a matter of deciding where in France you’d like to visit. Paris has special appeal, and it’s also home to Disneyland Paris. However, Nice has all the lovely turquoise waters and beaches.
3 Top French Cities To Visit as a Family:
- Paris
- Nice
- Lyon
Denmark
Denmark consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world (currently 2nd after Iceland), including for families and children. In fact, the country prides itself on its family- and child-friendliness, with plenty of playgrounds, bicycle paths, and a healthy work-life balance.
Billund is also home to the first-ever LEGOLAND, located right next to the original LEGO factory. Yes, LEGO was invented here, so there are few better places to take LEGO-loving kids (and kids at heart). Don’t forget: LEGO is a toy for all ages! You can also visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum in Odense.
3 Top Danish Cities To Visit as a Family:
- Copenhagen
- Billund
- Odense
Spain
Spain is another country with a Mediterranean climate, which can be particularly appealing when the weather cools down elsewhere. Plus, like Italy, it has a very family-forward culture. You will often find families and kids dining and socializing late at night when temperatures drop.
There’s a reason siestas exist — to cool down during hot Spanish days. This is why Spain also gets so busy at night. Catholicism’s prevalence also leads to plenty of year-round, bright, busy parades, fairs, and processions, each featuring its own special celebratory pastries and dishes.
However, one thing you must know is how little English is spoken here. You might want to stay connected with eSIM plans for Europe to ensure you can use your translation and dictionary to look up common words and phrases. You can also start learning Spanish on your way here.
3 Top Spanish Cities To Visit as a Family:
- Barcelona
- Valencia
- Seville
The Netherlands
The Netherlands has a unique, diverse culture, and its maritime history may be especially fascinating for boat-loving children. You can even ride a houseboat on the canals, take sailing lessons, or take boat rides off the coast on everything from a yacht to a steamboat.
Plus, one thing you may overlook is how flat the Netherlands is. Unlike more geographically and altitudinally diverse countries, you are unlikely to struggle pushing that stroller around here. Instead, you can walk the abundant footpaths. Or even try a bicycle with a child seat or trailer on the equally common bike paths.
3 Top Dutch Cities To Visit as a Family:
? Amsterdam
? Utrecht
? Rotterdam
Switzerland
While expensive, Switzerland is a fairytale European destination. Though you can travel here any time of the year, it’s one of those destinations you want to head to for a white Christmas. The markets are arguably unmatched, and you’ll likely see snow in winter. The old-town architecture, plus the stunning Christmas lights and decorations, only add to the appeal.
Dairy-forward Swiss food also suits children’s palates. Think bread, potatoes, chocolate, cheese, sausages, and pastry. In fact, as the home of the milk chocolate bar, your visit isn’t complete without a stop at a chocolatier’s shop or chocolate factory, such as Lindt, Sprüngli, or Toblerone.
3 Top Swiss Cities To Visit as a Family:
? Lucerne
? Zurich
? Bern
Portugal
If you love the idea of an Italian or Spanish holiday, but not the crowds, then Portugal is one to consider. It shares the same Mediterranean latitude and culture, so think sparkling coastlines, siestas, family meals out, and a larger-than-life focus on family.
Of course, it’s also its own country, with distinctive experiences such as Lisbon’s bright-yellow trams, its colder northwest-facing Atlantic coastline, and Portuguese natives’ slightly quieter, more reserved sense of expression. Portugal’s Anglophilic status also means English is spoken more commonly and proficiently here.
3 Top Portuguese Cities To Visit as a Family:
? Lisbon
? Porto
? Sintra
Time to Pack Your Bags
Whether your family dreams of gelato in Rome, fairy tales in Copenhagen, or Christmas magic in Zurich, Europe has a destination that fits. Each country on this list welcomes children with open arms, so the hardest part is simply choosing where to go first. Consider your kids’ ages, your budget, and the season, then let that guide your decision. And remember, the best family vacations rarely go exactly to plan, but those little detours often become the stories you retell for years.