Travelling with kids can be both an exciting and challenging experience. Finding a destination that offers the perfect mix of fun, adventure, and educational experiences can be quite daunting. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing cities around the world that offer just that. To help you plan your next family vacation, we’ve rounded up the top 11 cities to take your kids on holiday, recommended by parents who have been there and done that. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, nature, or just some quality family time, these cities are sure to offer a memorable experience for the whole family. So pack your bags, grab your kids, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!.
Top 11 Family-Friendly Cities
1. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is known for its breathtaking natural wonders, such as the Northern Lights and geothermal pools. Reykjavik, the capital city, is a great place to start your family adventure. Kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Perlan Museum, the Icelandic Phallological Museum (yes, really!), and the Reykjavik Maritime Museum. Take a dip in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon, go whale watching, or explore the lava fields on horseback. Get the complete Reykjavik family-friendly travel guide.
2. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a charming medieval city with cobblestone streets and colorful houses. Kids will love visiting the Tallinn Zoo, where they can see over 13,000 animals, including tigers, elephants, and penguins. Take a walk on the city walls and towers, or visit the Seaplane Harbour Museum to learn about Estonia’s maritime history. Get the full Tallinn family-friendly travel guide.
3. Istria, Croatia
Istria is a region in Croatia that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The town of Pula has a well-preserved Roman amphitheater, while Rovinj is a picturesque fishing village with colourful buildings and winding streets. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, or go truffle hunting in the forests of Motovun. Get your free Istria family-friendly travel guide.
4. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is a vibrant city with plenty of activities for families with children. Visit the Dublin Zoo, the National Aquatic Centre, or the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum to learn about Ireland’s history and culture. Kids will also love exploring the colourful streets of Temple Bar and trying some traditional Irish cuisine, such as fish and chips and Irish stew. Get your free Dublin family-friendly travel guide.
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a charming and picturesque city with a rich history and culture. Kids will love riding the vintage trams, exploring the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, and taking a boat ride on the Tagus River. Visit the Lisbon Oceanarium to see sharks and other marine animals, or take a day trip to the nearby beaches of Cascais and Estoril. Get the complete Lisbon family-friendly travel guide.
6. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a fairy-tale-like city with canals, narrow streets, and historic buildings. Kids will love taking a boat ride on the canals, climbing the Belfry tower, and visiting the chocolate museum. Try some Belgian waffles and chocolate, or take a bike ride to the nearby windmills and countryside. Get your free Bruges family-friendly travel guide.
7. London, UK
London is a bustling city with endless activities for families with children. Visit the iconic Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London, or take a ride on the London Eye. Kids will love visiting the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the London Zoo. Don’t forget to try some fish and chips and afternoon tea once there. Get your free copy of the London family-friendly travel guide.
8. Paris, France
Paris is a magical city with plenty of activities for kids. Visit the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, or take a boat ride on the Seine River. Kids will love exploring the Jardin des Tuileries, the Luxembourg Gardens, and the Disneyland Paris theme park. Try some delicious croissants and baguettes, or have a picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower. Get the complete Paris family-friendly travel guide.
9. Rome, Italy
Rome is a fascinating city that offers a unique blend of history, art, culture, and culinary delights. Taking your kids to Rome is an excellent opportunity to introduce them to ancient Roman history, art, and architecture. Some of the most popular attractions include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican City. Children will be fascinated by the stories of gladiators, emperors, and mythical creatures that lived in ancient Rome. Parents can also indulge in the delicious Italian cuisine, including pizza, pasta, gelato, and more. Rome is a city that will leave an indelible mark on the whole family. Get a free copy of the Rome family-friendly travel guide.
10. Athens, Greece
Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and the birthplace of Western civilization. It is a city that offers a unique blend of history, art, and Mediterranean charm. Taking your kids to Athens is an excellent opportunity to introduce them to ancient Greek history, mythology, and philosophy. Some of the most popular attractions include the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Ancient Agora. Children will be fascinated by the stories of gods, goddesses, and heroes that lived in ancient Greece. Parents can also enjoy the delicious Greek cuisine, including moussaka, souvlaki, and feta cheese. Athens is a city that will enchant the whole family. Get the full Athens family-friendly travel guide.
11. Heidelberg, Germany
Heidelberg is a charming university town located on the banks of the Neckar River in southwestern Germany. It is a city that offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and education. Taking your kids to Heidelberg is an excellent opportunity to introduce them to the German language, culture, and history. Some of the most popular attractions include the Heidelberg Castle, the Old Bridge, the Philosopher’s Walk, and the Zoo. Children will love exploring the castle ruins, taking a boat ride on the Neckar River, and seeing the animals at the zoo. Parents can also enjoy the delicious German cuisine, including sausages, pretzels, and beer. Heidelberg is a city that will captivate the whole family. Get the full Heidelberg family-friendly travel guide.
Although flying with babies and toddlers can be challenging, it is worthwhile to plan ahead some in-flight activities for kids to make the time on the plane more manageable.
Travelling with kids can be an unforgettable experience for the whole family, and the destinations mentioned in this article offer a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to both children and adults. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic cities, relaxing on beaches, or enjoying outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone. To help plan your family holiday, check out Booking with Kids, providing travel tips, family-friendly guides, and inspiration for families with children. With the right preparation and a sense of adventure, you can create lasting memories that your children will cherish for years to come.
