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Are you looking for the best destinations for family holidays in Europe? Then, you have come to the right place! As you know, Europe is a vast continent and home to so many beautiful places that deciding where to take your family can be tricky. It’s jam-packed with historical sites and fabulous attractions that will appeal to everyone in the family. 

If you are in the process of planning your family holiday travel to Europe and need some inspiration on which places to visit, refer below for the top destinations for families travelling Europe.

Italy

the bar at scamporella in rimini italy

Given its wealth of family-friendly activities, Italy is an ideal destination for family vacations. And while only the older kids will love the idea of exploring the country’s rich culture and history, Italy is also home to many beautiful parks where little kids can play around. 

While in Italy, take your kids to explore the many great cities, from Florence to Rome and Venice. Rome can be particularly appealing in spring but consider visiting places outside of the main cities as well. Head for the beaches, especially those in the islands of Sardinia and Sicily. Aside from the stunning stretches of golden white sands, these places are also home to great restaurants offering mouth-watering Italian cuisines. 

Explore Naples and venture into the splendid Amalfi Coast. Home to the beautiful resort towns of Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi, the Amalfi Coast is ideal for families who love to explore. As for the older kids, take them to Pompeii along the Bay of Naples. It’s an extraordinary place to discover Italy’s rich culture and history.

Iceland 

Northern Lights, Winter in Iceland: hofudborgarsvaedid-nott-nordurljos-5-1

Iceland is famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes that even the most cynical families will be enchanted by its magical landscapes of massive glaciers, stunning lava formations, and spectacular waterfalls. Indeed, Iceland is a vast natural playground, making it one of the best destinations for family holidays in Europe.


One of the most exciting things to do in Iceland is to go horse-trekking on a Viking horse, an activity that your kids are guaranteed to love. These horses are ideal for little kids since they are known for their gentle temperament and smooth gait. Discover the Gullfoss waterfall, located about 150 km from Reykjavik. Along with the geysers and the Thingvellir national park, all three attractions form part of the famous Golden Circle Route.

The best way to discover Iceland’s stunning landscapes is to go on a road trip. Thus, the first thing you should do upon your arrival in Reykjavik is rent a car. Since you’re travelling with the family, think over renting an SUV in Iceland, as it’s spacious enough to accommodate the entire family. 

France

view from locaboat canal boat france eileen cotter wright

France is a favourite destination for many families heading to Europe. The country is beautiful, inspiring, and has lots of amazing food. It also offers a huge variety of family-friendly activities to satisfy your vacation needs, regardless of your preferences. 

While Paris has a reputation for being a honeymoon destination due to its romantic vibe, it also offers tons of family-friendly attractions and activities that your little ones are guaranteed to love. Take them to Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, the biggest science museum in Europe. The Luxembourg Gardens are also fabulous for toddlers, while Boi de Boulogne is great for teenagers. 

For a taste of the great outdoors, explore Fontainebleau’s stunning forest. Located about 40 minutes south of Paris and has many scenic walks, with most routes taking you to the woods. Of course, the Versailles is not to be missed. This famous castle is located about 20 km southwest of Paris and has been home to French kings for hundreds of years. Head northwest, and you’ll find yourself in Normandy, a beautiful place for family road trips. Dotted with picturesque villages, it’s home to the famous Mont Saint Michel, a rocky islet with a beautiful abbey at the top.

Turkey 

evil eye in cappadocia turkey

Sitting at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Turkey is a great destination that offers something for everyone, whether you want to frolic at the beach, explore mosques and museums, or discover classical ruins and extraordinary rock formations.


Explore the cosmopolitan and often crowded city of Istanbul. Visit famous sites like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. Venture into the Marmara region, only a short ferry ride from Istanbul. Here, you’ll be within easy reach of Bursa, an ancient city lying on the slopes of Uludag. It’s famous for its bazaars, green-tiled mosques, and therapeutic hot springs. 

If you are here for the beach, head for the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, home to long stretches of crystal-clear blue waters. Escape into the Coruh Valley in eastern Turkey, where you’ll find scenic rivers and forests and a popular spot for kayaking and white-water rafting. For a truly relaxing 2022 villa holiday in Turkey, stay at a luxury family villa equipped with modern, child-friendly amenities.

Spain

alhambra granada spain eileen cotter wright

Spain is a popular family holiday destination, especially for families craving a relaxing holiday at the beach. It’s home to endless stretches of sandy beach and numerous rocky coves. With its seaside resort towns of Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and Costa Brava attracting millions of tourists each year, Spain is the perfect destination for fun, family holidays at the beach. 


Aside from the beaches, there’s more for families to discover in Spain. Explore the Andalucia region, and discover the fabulous cities of Seville, Granada, and Cordoba. Venture into the laidback Costa de la Luz, with beautiful mountains and great weather. Travel southeast of the country and head to the province of Alicante, where you’ll find Costa Blanca, a great family destination for its warm seas, soft sands, and wonderful climate. It’s also home to the famous tourist resort of Benidorm. 

Discover the picturesque city of Valencia, a must for families who love paella. The biggest draw for families is the City of Arts and Sciences, which contains an opera house, a performing arts centre, a planetarium, and a science museum. Head for the nearby Buñol, especially if you’re visiting in August when the town hosts the world-famous La Tomatina festival.

Pure Wander Contributor

Author Pure Wander Contributor

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