Traveling with kids in Europe

September 4, 2023

Traveling with kids can be an incredible experience, providing opportunities to create lasting memories and explore the world together. Whether you’re seeking theme parks, beach resorts, or cultural destinations, there are countless places that cater to families with young children. Having kids doesn’t mean you have to stop traveling!

In this blog post, I’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite travel destinations that offer extraordinary adventures for the whole family.

Traveling With Kids around Europe

Paris, France

Paris is not just for lovers but for families too! With its iconic landmarks, interactive science museums, and of course, Disneyland if that’s your cup of tea.

Take a stroll along the Seine River, and you’ll be greeted by splendid bridges and charming riverside cafés. And speaking of cafés, Parisian pastries are a delight for young and old alike. Indulge in flaky croissants, colorful macarons, and the famous hot chocolate that will warm your heart.

Now, imagine the joy on your children’s faces as they ascend the Eiffel Tower, taking in the breathtaking views of the city. And let’s not forget the picturesque parks where families can have delightful picnics, rent paddleboats on the lakes, or simply enjoy some leisurely playtime.

Check out where we visited in these posts.

Bologna, Italy

First of all, the food! Oh, the “food capital” of Italy has so much to offer when it comes to delicious cuisine. From hand-rolled pasta served with mouth-watering sauces to the famous mortadella sandwich, your taste buds will be dancing with joy.

But it’s not just the food that makes Bologna special. The city is brimming with history and culture, and families can explore the ancient towers, majestic palaces, and beautiful piazzas at their leisure. Climb the Torre degli Asinelli with your little ones, and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city that will take your breath away.

Take a stroll in the picturesque Giardini Margherita, a stunning park that’s perfect for picnics, playing ball games, or enjoying a relaxing afternoon. And if you’re looking to take a day trip, Bologna is conveniently located near other fantastic destinations like Florence, Venice, and the scenic Tuscan countryside.

Bologna is a city that will charm you and your family with its warmth, beauty, and culinary delights. It’s a fantastic destination for those seeking fun, relaxation, and exploration all in one breath.

Nice, France

Ok I’m just going to state right now that France is generally a great place to travel with kids.

Picture this: colorful buildings, sunny skies, and the sparkling blue waters of the French Riviera as your backdrop. Nice has it all! The Promenade des Anglais offers a safe and picturesque space for leisurely strolls, with plenty of ice cream pit stops along the way. And don’t get me started on the beaches! They are perfect for building sandcastles and dipping little toes in the Mediterranean. The charming Old Town will captivate everyone with its narrow streets, lively markets, and delicious local treats. Plus, Nice is a gateway to other incredible destinations in the region, so you can easily plan day trips to places like Ville Franche Sur-Mer. From stunning views to family-friendly activities, Nice is an absolute dream for creating magical memories with your little adventurers. Trust me, it’s a vacation that will have you saying “Nice” every single day!

Porto, Portugal

Porto, with its stunning riverside location and colorful tiled buildings, feels like stepping into a storybook. As you wander through the narrow, winding streets, you’ll stumble upon hidden treasures at every turn.

But Porto isn’t just about scenic vistas; it’s a haven of delights for young and old. Indulge in the city’s delicious culinary offerings, from the world-famous pastéis de nata to mouth-watering grilled sardines. And let’s not forget the port wine!

One of our family’s highlights was visiting Museu Serralves. You can read more about what we got up to in this beautiful city here. My top tip would be to give the Livraria Lello, a bookstore straight out of a fairytale a miss. It’s rumored to have inspired scenes in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series but is expensive and overcrowded in my opinion.

Tenerife, Canary Isles

Tenerife is a dream come true for families seeking the perfect break. First of all, the weather! Oh, Tenerife is blessed with year-round sunshine and warm temperatures that will make sun seekers very happy.

But Tenerife is not just a destination for beach bums. The island is brimming with family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained. For the nature enthusiasts in your family, a visit to Teide National Park is a must. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet as you explore the lunar-like landscapes and gaze up at Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. Trust me, the views will leave you breathless and your little ones in awe.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a city of bikes, and let me tell you, kids go absolutely bananas for them! Rent some bikes and pedal your way through the city, feeling the wind in your hair as you explore. It’s like a magical adventure on wheels.

Amsterdam is brimming with delightful green spaces where your little explorers can run wild. Vondelpark is a favorite among families, with its sprawling lawns, playgrounds, and even a puppet theater.

The NEMO Science Museum is a treasure trove of interactive exhibits that will ignite your little ones’ curious minds. And let’s not forget the Anne Frank House, where they can learn about history in a way that feels personal and meaningful. During a trip to Amsterdam we also visited Efteling which was a highlight for us all. You can see their website here.

And the icing on the pancake? Pancakes! Amsterdam is famous for its delicious Dutch pancakes, both sweet and savory. When hunger strikes, treat your kids (and yourself!) to a stack of fluffy pancakes topped with berries, chocolate, or even cheese.