If you want to visit Europe as a family it's important to do your research and pick the right destinations. Whether that's golden beaches, exploring historic castles, or enjoying theme parks.
It is in this spirit I have carefully selected a range of destinations for the best family holidays in Europe. From picturesque Normandy to the shores of Crete, each destination offers its own unforgettable memories.
Whether you are looking for exclusivity or a more affordable family holiday in Europe, I’ve got you covered.
1. Provence, France: A sensory journey with the family
Provence, home to vast lavender fields and hilltop villages, is a popular destination for families in France. Children will be amazed by the vibrant colours and captivating scents of the region. Discover the Provençal markets to introduce your little ones to local foods, including cheese, olives, and sweet nougats.
Don't miss a visit to the famous Verdon Gorge, a paradise for canoeing and hiking enthusiasts. For an educational experience, historic sites like the Arena of Nîmes should captivate the whole family.
- Where to stay? For comfortable family accommodation in Provence, the Hôtel Birdy by Happyculture is a good option. Families will enjoy the many on-site activities, including the swimming pool and child-friendly dining options.
2. Normandy, France: History and nature for young and old alike
Normandy is an ideal backdrop for an enriching family holiday in Europe. From the majestic Mont Saint-Michel to the D-Day beaches, history comes to life here. For a fun day, the Cerza Zoo is a must, promising wonder and learning.
Normandy's beaches also offer vast expanses for sandcastles and swimming in the sea. Finally, local food, such as pancakes and salted butter caramels, will delight the taste buds of young and old alike.
- Where to stay? For a family stay in Normandy, the Hotel Barrière Le Normandy in Deauville is an ideal choice. This establishment offers an elegant and friendly setting, perfect for families.
3. Côte d’Azur, France: Seaside and cultural adventures
The Côte d’Azur is an ideal destination to go with family. Between its sparkling beaches and bustling cities, it offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Visit the Lérins Islands for an island adventure or enjoy the family beaches of Juan-les-Pins.
The aquariums, theme parks, and botanical gardens will entertain the whole family, while the colourful streets of Nice and Cannes promise cultural discoveries.
- Where to stay? For family accommodation on the Côte d’Azur, the Royal Riviera Hotel in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a great option. Offering stunning sea views, this hotel has family rooms and a swimming pool for a memorable seaside holiday.
4. Cornwall, UK: Coastal and surfing adventures
Cornwall, with its vast sandy beaches and welcoming waves, is a paradise for families. In Newquay, the famous Fistral Beach, popular with surfers, offers lessons for all levels. It’s the ideal place to introduce children to surfing in a fun and safe environment.
For a day that is as educational as it is fun, the famous Eden Project is a must-visit. These gigantic biodomes house exotic plants and offer interactive activities for children. Equally captivating, the Lost Gardens of Heligan will transport you to a lush plant world, ideal for a day of family exploration and play.
- Where to stay? For a family stay in Cornwall, try Sands Resort Hotel & Spa in Newquay. This hotel offers spacious family rooms, a kids' club, indoor and outdoor pools, and activities for the whole family, all in a beautiful beachfront setting.
5. Tyrol, Austria: Alpine adventures
Tyrol, with its breathtaking Alpine landscapes, is the ideal destination for an active and memorable family holiday. This region offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure, suitable for all ages. For cycling enthusiasts, the cycle paths offer a fun and healthy way to explore the landscapes, with routes suitable for varying levels.
Tyrol is also famous for its adventure parks, offering activities ranging from treetop adventure trails to obstacle courses. These parks provide a fun and educational experience, with activities designed to encourage teamwork and self-confidence.
- Where to stay? In Tyrol, the Aqua Dome is perfect for families. With its thermal pools, water park, and varied family activities, this hotel offers relaxation and entertainment in a spectacular alpine setting.
6. Tuscany, Italy: Rustic charm and cultural richness
Tuscany, with its pretty landscapes and cultural treasures, is an ideal place to visit with kids. Families can venture into the Tuscan countryside, exploring medieval villages like San Gimignano or Monteriggioni. These small towns offer a fascinating insight into Italian history, with their narrow streets and bustling squares.
Tuscany is also a paradise for foodies. Moreover, families can learn about Italian cuisine through cooking classes, where children learn to make fresh pasta or pizza. Local markets are full of fresh produce too, perfect for picnicking in vineyards or parks.
- Where to stay? For a family stay in Tuscany, book Hotel Borgo di Cortefreda in Tavarnelle Val di Pesa. This charming hotel offers family rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and children's activities, all in the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
7. Algarve, Portugal: Golden beaches and marine adventures
The Algarve, with its long stretches of golden beaches and crystal clear waters, is a popular destination for families in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. Portugal is famous for beaches like Praia da Marinha or Praia de Benagil. They have calm waters and are ideal for family swimming.
Beyond the beaches, the Algarve is full of natural parks and hiking trails. The Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, with its lagoons and islets, offers a natural spectacle. A stay in the Algarve is also an opportunity to discover beautiful Portuguese cities, like Tavira or Faro.
- Where to stay? For a comfortable family stay, the Algarve Race Resort – Hotel in Portimao is ideal. This hotel offers family-friendly facilities, with spacious rooms and activities for children.
8. Bavaria, Germany: A family holiday filled with fairy tales
Bavaria, with its picturesque landscapes and fairy-tale castles, is a magical setting for a family holiday. This region, rich in history and culture, is a perfect playground for children and adults.
Visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired the Sleeping Beauty Castle, a must-see for any family. The cities of Munich and Nuremberg, with their historic centres and interactive museums, are perfect for cultural excursions too.
- Where to stay? For an authentic experience, consider staying at a traditional Bavarian farmhouse or family-run Gasthaus. For example, the Landhotel Maiergschwendt in Ruhpolding is ideal for families, with child-friendly activities.
9. Crete, Greece: Culture, history, and beaches
In Crete, each day promises a different adventure for families. Exotic beaches, such as Elafonissi with its pink sand, provide the perfect setting for days of relaxation and swimming. The island is also full of archaeological sites, such as the Palace of Knossos.
Traditional villages like Chania and Rethymno are gems where families can experience local culture. Taste Cretan cuisine in a family tavern and let yourself be charmed by the hospitality of the locals.
- Where to stay? For a comfortable stay, consider Aquila Atlantis Hotel in Heraklion, which offers family rooms and a swimming pool.
10. Dalmatia, Croatia: Natural treasures on the Adriatic coast
Dalmatia is famous for its spectacular coastline, lined with beaches and secret coves, ideal for family swimming and snorkelling. Accessible islands, like Hvar or Brac, offer a quiet escape with picturesque beaches and welcoming villages.
The history-rich cities of Split and Dubrovnik are perfect for teaching children about the importance of world heritage. Explore ancient palaces and medieval fortresses while enjoying the lively atmosphere along the numerous cobbled streets.
- Where to stay? The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa in Split is a great option with activities for children and stunning sea views.
11. Lake Garda, Italy: A water paradise
Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is a one-of-a-kind destination for a family holiday. With a multitude of sports available, such as sailing and paddleboarding, it is a paradise for lovers of water activities.
Families can also enjoy the surrounding amusement parks, like Gardaland, for a day full of thrills. The landscape around the lake, with its mountains and picturesque little villages, is an ideal setting for hikes and outdoor picnics.
- Where to stay? For a comfortable stay near Lake Garda, the Hotel Du Lac and Bellevue in Bardolino is ideal. It has family-friendly facilities, a swimming pool, and offers proximity to major attractions.
12. South Wales, UK: A coastal and historic family adventure
South Wales is a fascinating place to visit with kids. Its picturesque beaches, like those on the Gower Peninsula, offer perfect spaces for relaxing and building sandcastles.
The many historic castles, like that of Caerphilly, will delight little budding knights. And for a unique experience, explore Pembrokeshire's coastal walks, where wilderness meets history.
- Where to stay? The Thyme and Beyond Hotel in Saundersfoot offers comfortable family rooms and a spa to relax in after a day of exploring.
13. Majorca, Spain: An island of a thousand wonders
Majorca is a dream destination for family holidays in Europe. Its beaches, like Alcudia or Palma Nova, are ideal for children, with shallow waters and fine sand for carefree fun. In addition, the island invites discovery and adventure. The Drach Caves, for example, are a fascinating must-see, offering an out-of-this-world escape into a mysterious underground world.
Likewise, the hiking trails of the Serra de Tramuntana are a call to exploration, promising breathtaking panoramas and lasting memories. Majorca harmoniously combines relaxation on its heavenly beaches and exploration. Its natural and cultural riches offer a complete and enriching holiday experience.
- Where to stay? The Iberostar Selection Playa de Palma is an excellent choice with its activities for children and its proximity to family beaches.
14. Adriatic Coast, Italy: An idyllic seaside holiday
The Italian Adriatic Coast is a paradise for family holidays. With its especially child-friendly beaches, charming seaside resorts, and tasty local cuisine, this region is one of my favourites.
Cities like Rimini or Riccione offer soft sandy beaches, water parks, and lively promenades. Enjoy the region's culinary specialities, such as fresh seafood or piadina (a thin Italian flatbread), for family meals everyone will enjoy.
- Where to stay? For a pleasant family stay on the Adriatic Coast, the Hotel Adlon in Riccione offers comfortable family rooms, activities for children, and direct access to the beach.
15. Costa Brava, Spain: Picturesque family fun
The Costa Brava, with its stunning beaches lined with hidden coves and crystal clear waters, is the perfect place for families who enjoy the sea. Explore destinations like Lloret de Mar or Tossa de Mar, which offer the perfect mix of historical charm and modernity. For more fun, water parks in the area, like Water World in Lloret de Mar, guarantee days full of laughs and slides.
- Where to stay? For a family stay on the Costa Brava, the Hotel Santa Marta in Lloret de Mar offers an idyllic setting with direct access to a private beach and activities for the whole family.
Find a flight to Lloret de Mar
Budget-friendly family holidays in Europe
Want to enjoy a great family holiday in Europe without emptying your bank account? Discover my carefully chosen selection to enjoy yourself on a controlled budget.
16. Brittany, France: Inexpensive family holidays
Brittany welcomes you for affordable family holidays, with its fine sandy beaches and pretty fishing villages. The coastal paths offer a multitude of activities, delighting young and old without straining your budget.
Discover the beauty of the Pink Granite Coast and its spectacular rock formations. The Breton islands, like Ouessant, promise nature and tranquillity. For a gourmet break, the region's traditional creperies offer delicacies at very affordable prices, providing a treat for the whole family.
- Where to stay? For an affordable stay in Brittany, the Hotel Les Ajoncs d’Or is a fantastic option. This property offers comfortable accommodation and a range of nearby activities, perfect for a family seaside holiday without breaking the bank.
17. Alentejo, Portugal: Affordable and authentic
Alentejo, a vast region of Portugal, offers a less expensive alternative to the Algarve for a family holiday. Its charm lies in its picturesque countryside landscapes, traditional villages, and quieter beaches. Unlike the Algarve, the Alentejo is less visited by tourists, which allows you to benefit from more affordable accommodation and dining.
Activities in Alentejo are numerous and varied. Discover the medieval remains of Évora, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or stroll through typical white villages like Monsaraz. For nature lovers, wild beaches like those of Comporta or Porto Covo are perfect for a family day.
- Where to stay? For a budget-friendly family holiday in Alentejo, consider renting an apartment. For example, the apartments at Bejaparque Hotel in Beja are a fantastic option. They offer the space and amenities needed to make you feel at home, allowing you to cook and save on meals.
18. Asturias, Spain: A hidden gem for a budget-friendly family holiday
Asturias in northern Spain offers a beautiful and affordable setting for a family holiday. Less crowded than more popular Spanish coastal destinations, this region offers picturesque beaches, charming villages, and a rich culture.
For nature lovers, the Picos de Europa is a paradise for hiking and outdoor activities. Asturias is also famous for its cider and seafood, offering a delicious and affordable dining experience.
- Where to stay? For a family holiday in Asturias, the Hotel Asturias in Gijon is a great affordable option. The establishment offers rooms with unbeatable value for money, in addition to a very nice view of the beach.
Your family adventure doesn’t stop here. For more great holiday ideas check out the best beach holidays in Europe.
