Family Holidays – Family Summer Holidays & Holidays for Families

Family holidays are all about spending quality time together, away from the daily routine and digital distractions. Whether it’s building sandcastles on the beach, exploring theme parks, or going on countryside adventures, a well-planned family holiday creates moments that kids—and grown-ups—will remember for years.

What makes family holidays so enjoyable is the shared experience. It’s a chance to bond, laugh, explore new places, and try new things as a unit. From toddlers to teens (and the young-at-heart parents too), there’s something special about discovering the world together—especially when the destination is set up with families in mind. With family-friendly resorts, child-safe beaches, and all-inclusive packages available, travelling as a group has never been easier.

Europe offers some brilliant family holiday destinations. Spain’s Costa del Sol and the Canary Islands are loved for their sunshine, soft beaches, and waterparks galore. France combines charm and adventure, with Disneyland Paris, countryside retreats, and Alpine escapes. Italy wins with pizza, gelato, and history around every corner—while Greece’s welcoming hospitality and safe shores make it a top choice for family fun. Don’t forget Portugal’s Algarve or Croatia’s island coastlines for scenic, relaxing family getaways.

This section of the site is packed with helpful tips, destination inspiration, and planning tools to make your family holiday stress-free and unforgettable. From choosing the right accommodation and finding activities for every age, to travel hacks for flying with kids or road-tripping with teens, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re going all-inclusive or DIY, abroad or UK-based, this is where your next family adventure begins—filled with fun, laughter, and lasting memories.

Costa Dorada, Spain – Theme Parks, Sandy Toes & Sunshine-Filled Family Time

When it comes to family holidays that tick every box, Spain’s Costa Dorada delivers sun, sea, and non-stop smiles. Translating to “Golden Coast,” this long stretch of shoreline south of Barcelona is packed with family-friendly beaches, thrilling theme parks, lively resorts, and a pinch of Spanish charm to keep everyone happy—from toddlers to teens to grown-ups.

Whether you're building sandcastles, riding rollercoasters, or just soaking in the Mediterranean sun, Costa Dorada is built for family memories.

Most families base themselves in Salou, the region’s action-packed hub. Here, wide sandy beaches with calm, shallow waters make it perfect for little ones. The palm-lined Jaume I promenade is great for buggy strolls, scooters, or ice cream pit-stops, while older kids will love the water sports and beach games on offer.

Nearby, Cambrils offers a quieter vibe with a charming harbour, family-run restaurants, and more chilled-out beaches—great for relaxing after a day of adventure. And don’t miss a day trip to Tarragona, where ancient Roman ruins meet tapas bars and seafront fun.

Let’s be honest—PortAventura World is the star attraction. One of Europe’s biggest and best theme parks, it’s actually three parks in one:

• PortAventura Park: rollercoasters, water rides, shows, and themed zones from the Wild West to Polynesia.
   
• Ferrari Land: for speed-seekers and car lovers.
   
• Caribe Aquatic Park: a splash-filled paradise of slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.
   

You’ll also find mini-golf courses, water parks, go-karting tracks, and boat trips along the coast. Fancy a change of pace? Hop on a glass-bottom boat to see the fish, or explore Parc Samà, a peaceful botanical garden with animals and shady walks.

Costa Dorada is sunny, safe, affordable, and absolutely packed with family fun. It’s the kind of place where the kids run free, the days fly by, and the evenings are filled with sunset strolls and shared tapas.

With easy flights, short transfers, and activities to suit all ages, it’s no wonder so many families return year after year.

If you’re looking for a holiday where no one utters the words “I’m bored,” Costa Dorada is calling.

Menorca, Spain – Calm Waters, Family Fun & Laid-Back Island Magic

If your dream family holiday includes quiet beaches, shallow turquoise water, stress-free exploring, and plenty of ice cream, then Menorca is your island match. Often overlooked in favour of its louder Balearic sisters (Mallorca and Ibiza), Menorca is perfect for families who want all the sunshine without the crowds.

From toddler-friendly beaches to charming villages and natural parks, this island is made for relaxed adventures, slow days, and quality time together.

Base yourself in one of Menorca’s family-focused beach resorts—like Cala Galdana, with its crescent-shaped bay, playgrounds, and pedal boats, or Punta Prima, where gentle waves and a laid-back vibe make it easy to switch into holiday mode.

For a bit more buzz (but still family-friendly), Ciutadella is a beautiful old town with cobbled streets, colourful markets, and sunset views from the harbour. Or explore Mahón (Maó), the island’s capital, where historic sites and boat trips add some culture to your beach days.

Let’s start with the obvious: the beaches are phenomenal. With over 100 coves and beaches to choose from, you’re never far from your next family day out. Many are gently shelving, calm, and perfect for paddling. Favourites include Son Bou (Menorca’s longest beach), Cala Mitjana, and Cala’n Bosch—where you’ll also find waterparks and mini golf.

Adventure-loving families can explore Cami de Cavalls, a historic trail that loops around the island—ideal for walking or cycling short scenic stretches.

Get hands-on at Lloc de Menorca, a small animal park where kids can feed goats, meet lemurs, and learn about local wildlife. Fancy a boat day? Glass-bottom boat tours leave from various harbours and offer a great way to explore the coastline with zero effort required.

And don’t forget the food! Many restaurants welcome kids with open arms, and local favourites like ensaimadas (sweet pastries), croquettes, and fresh grilled fish will keep even the pickiest eaters happy.

Menorca is safe, scenic, and wonderfully unhurried. It’s perfect for first-time family holidays, multi-generational escapes, or just hitting pause on everyday chaos. No hustle, no noise—just warm days, salty air, and slow living.

If you want to unwind somewhere your whole family can truly relax, Menorca is the easygoing island escape you've been looking for.

Lake Garda, Italy – Cable Cars, Castles & Gelato-Loving Family Adventures

Welcome to Lake Garda—Italy’s largest lake and a family holidays paradise packed with adventure, lakeside charm, and unforgettable views. With colourful towns, calm waters, theme parks nearby, and plenty of pizza, it’s no wonder Lake Garda is a favourite for families of all ages.

Whether you’re paddleboarding, climbing castles, or simply enjoying a long lunch while the kids run free by the shore, this destination has the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

The lake stretches over 50km, so there are plenty of great spots for families to base themselves. On the southern shore, Peschiera del Garda and Lazise are favourites thanks to their gentle beaches, play parks, and easy access to the region’s top theme parks.

For something quieter, head north to Riva del Garda, where you’ll find a more alpine feel—ideal for families who love cycling, walking, and watersports. The medieval town of Malcesine, with its mountaintop cable car and fairy-tale castle, offers the perfect mix of history and fun.

The star attraction for families? Without a doubt, it’s Gardaland—Italy’s biggest theme park, packed with rollercoasters, 4D cinemas, and themed worlds from pirates to Peppa Pig. Next door, you’ll find LEGOLAND Water Park and Movieland, offering splash-tastic fun and movie-themed thrills.

Back by the lake, rent a pedal boat or hop on a ferry to explore the different lakeside towns—kids will love the novelty of boat travel, and the views are spectacular. Older kids and teens can try windsurfing, kayaking, or even canyoning in the nearby hills.

Take a ride on the Monte Baldo cable car from Malcesine, which whisks you high above the lake for panoramic hikes and snowy photo ops in spring and autumn. Then descend for a slice of lakeside pizza and the biggest scoop of gelato you can find (don’t worry—it’s a holiday!).

Lake Garda is relaxing, rewarding, and refreshingly wholesome. It’s a place where kids can run free, teens can stay entertained, and parents can actually unwind—with a spritz in hand and a view to remember.

Whether you’re after theme park thrills, lakeside lounging, or active adventures, Lake Garda is a family holiday that brings the wow factor without the worry.

Brittany, France – Beaches, Bicycles & Buckets of French Family Fun

If your family is after family holidays full of coastal charm, countryside adventures, crêpes, and castles, then Brittany might just be your dream destination. Nestled in north-western France, this region offers an irresistible mix of rugged coastline, sandy beaches, medieval towns, and outdoor freedom—ideal for families who love to explore, play, and enjoy nature (with a side of cheese and pastries, of course).

Brittany is road-trip ready, campsite friendly, and packed with places that will keep kids smiling and grown-ups grinning.

Base your break in one of Brittany’s many family-friendly spots. Carnac is famous for its megalithic stone rows (like Stonehenge but French), and also has safe beaches, bike paths, and cafés serving fresh crêpes all day long.

For medieval magic, head to Dinan, where half-timbered houses and cobbled streets feel like stepping into a storybook. Or try Quiberon Peninsula for dramatic cliffside walks and golden sands that are perfect for castle-building and kite-flying.

And if you’re into surfing or rock-pooling? Head for La Torche or the family beach at Concarneau.

Brittany is built for active family adventures. There are hundreds of kilometres of cycle paths and coastal trails, so pack your bikes or rent locally and set out with a picnic. Younger kids will love paddling in calm waters or taking pony rides along the sand, while older children can try sea kayaking or sailing lessons.

Explore castles like Château de Fougères or Château de Suscinio, where kids can climb towers, walk the ramparts, and let their imaginations run wild. Wet day? Head to Oceanopolis in Brest—an enormous aquarium with sharks, seals, and touch pools.

Brittany is also home to fantastic family campsites, many with pools, water slides, play zones, and evening entertainment—great if you’re travelling with siblings or grandparents in tow.

Brittany is authentic, adventurous, and affordable. It’s the kind of place where you spend the morning chasing crabs in rock pools, the afternoon eating ice cream in a walled town, and the evening watching the sunset wrapped in a blanket on the beach.

With no need for flights (you can drive or take the ferry), Brittany is a brilliant family holiday that’s big on fun, freedom, and French flavour.

Canary Islands, Spain – Volcanoes, Waterslides & Sunshine All Year Long

Looking for a family holiday that ticks all the boxes? Say hello to the Canary Islands—a year-round paradise just off the coast of Africa, but with all the convenience of Spain perfect for family summer holidays . With their warm weather, safe beaches, adventure parks, and dramatic landscapes, the Canaries are ideal for families who want fun in the sun without the stress.

Whether you head to Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, or Fuerteventura, you’ll find plenty to keep kids entertained and grown-ups happily relaxed.

Tenerife is the biggest island and a family favourite for family holidays , thanks to its mix of beaches, water parks, and cable cars. Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos are packed with family-friendly resorts, easy beaches, and playgrounds.

Lanzarote is great for families who love exploring. Think moon-like volcanic landscapes, colourful lava caves, and peaceful beaches like Playa Blanca. It’s compact and easy to drive around—ideal for short attention spans!

Gran Canaria offers a mix of lush mountains, golden dunes, and bustling seaside towns. Puerto Rico and Maspalomas are particularly family-focused.

Fuerteventura is the quietest and most beach-heavy—perfect if you want space, sand, and simplicity.

Top of the list? Siam Park in Tenerife—often voted Europe’s best water park. With everything from lazy rivers and wave pools to adrenaline slides, it’s a guaranteed winner for all ages.

Animal lovers will love Loro Parque, also in Tenerife, with dolphins, penguins, and an award-winning conservation programme. In Lanzarote, explore Timanfaya National Park and watch geysers shoot steam from the earth—kids will love the volcano-cooked chicken!

Try camel rides across the dunes, glass-bottom boat trips, or take a cable car ride up Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak. And for simpler pleasures? Every island has safe, sandy beaches, perfect for sandcastle-building and splashy afternoons.

Restaurants are welcoming, the pace is relaxed, and many resorts offer kids’ clubs, mini discos, and activities galore.

The Canary Islands are stress-free, sun-filled, and seriously fun. You don’t need to over-plan—just pack your swim gear, sun cream, and sense of adventure. With direct flights, short transfers, and loads to do, it’s an easy win for any family.

Whether it’s their first trip abroad or your tenth family holiday together, the Canaries offer sunshine, smiles, and so much to explore., once the haunt of Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec, now a dreamy hilltop neighbourhood with cobbled streets, hidden cafés, and the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica overlooking the city.

And of course, no trip to Paris is complete without standing beneath the Eiffel Tower, strolling the Champs-Élysées, or admiring the stained glass at Notre-Dame (still stunning, even in restoration).

Paris is best explored slowly. Sip coffee in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, picnic along the Canal Saint-Martin, or glide down the Seine on a sunset river cruise. Art lovers can spend days between the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou. Fashionistas will adore browsing the boutiques of Le Marais, and foodies? Prepare for heaven.

Feast on buttery croissants, cheese platters, steak frites, and too many macarons. Don’t forget to try escargot—just once. Pair it all with a glass of French wine and you're living the Parisian dream.

Paris is many things: romantic, elegant, artistic, and delightfully indulgent. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, take it all in, and fall just a little bit in love—whether with a view, a pastry, or a moment you didn’t expect.

Perfect for couples, solo travellers, and culture-hungry explorers, Paris is a timeless city break that feels like stepping into a dream—one cobbled street, glass of wine, and whispered bonjour at a time.

Pack your stripes, your appetite, and your camera—Paris is always a good idea.

Copenhagen, Denmark – Fairy Tales, Fun Parks & Cool-Parent City Breaks

If you’re looking for a city break that’s fun, clean, safe, and full of kid-friendly adventures, Copenhagen is a total winner. Denmark’s capital blends Scandinavian style with fairy-tale charm, making it the perfect destination for families who want a mix of culture, play, and really great pastries.

With wide open parks, colourful streets, world-class attractions, and a chilled-out vibe, Copenhagen makes travelling with kids feel refreshingly easy and ideal for family summer holidays .

Start your adventure in the city centre at the legendary Tivoli Gardens—one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. It’s part theme park, part fairy-tale fantasy land, with rollercoasters, puppet theatres, lush gardens, and twinkling lights after dark. It’s as magical for grown-ups as it is for little ones.

Next, head to Nyhavn—Copenhagen’s iconic harbour with rainbow-coloured buildings, bobbing boats, and plenty of waterside cafés where you can grab a hot dog or cinnamon roll while watching the world go by.

Take a boat tour through the canals, hop on a cargo bike (a local family favourite!), or head to the Royal Copenhagen Zoo, one of the oldest and best in Europe.

Get hands-on at the interactive Experimentarium, where science becomes an exciting playground of water tunnels, giant bubbles, and sensory experiences. Or explore the National Aquarium Denmark (Den Blå Planet)—an architectural wonder packed with sea creatures and a cool underwater tunnel.

Culture meets play at the National Museum of Denmark, where kids can dress up like Vikings, climb into a medieval kitchen, or explore the children’s museum section. Prefer the outdoors? Relax in King’s Garden or take a picnic to Superkilen Park, one of the quirkiest playgrounds in Europe.

Copenhagen’s compact size makes it easy to walk or cycle, and with high chairs, stroller ramps, and child-friendly menus almost everywhere, it’s one of Europe’s most parent-friendly cities.

Copenhagen is calm, creative, and endlessly cool—but in a way that’s warm and welcoming to families. It proves that a city break with kids doesn’t have to be stressful—it can be stylish, smile-filled, and surprisingly relaxing.

Whether you’re sailing past castles or twirling on a carousel at Tivoli, Copenhagen offers a Scandi-style family holiday full of wonder and ease.

Lapland, Finland – Snowflakes, Sleigh Bells & the Real Home of Santa

If you're looking for a family holidays that feels like stepping straight into a Christmas card, look no further than Lapland. Specifically, Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, located just inside the Arctic Circle. With its snowy forests, twinkling lights, and husky howls on the wind, this is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure your children (and you!) will never forget.

Lapland isn’t just a destination—it’s a magical experience, wrapped in snow and topped with a red hat.

The heart of the Lapland experience is Santa Claus Village, a festive dreamland open all year round. Here, kids can meet Santa himself, send postcards from the Arctic Circle Post Office, and cross the actual Arctic Circle (complete with certificate!).

Stay in cosy cabins, glass-roofed igloos, or family lodges in and around Rovaniemi, where fairy lights and log fires set the scene, and snow-covered trees are the norm.

Beyond meeting the big man in red, Lapland offers a sleigh-full of snowy adventures. Take a husky sled ride through frozen forests—an adrenaline rush for older kids and a wide-eyed joyride for little ones. Try a reindeer sleigh ride for a slower, more traditional trot through the snow.

Go snowmobiling, build snowmen, or try a gentle intro to cross-country skiing. Brave families can even jump into ice-fishing or take a chilly dip before warming up in a traditional Finnish sauna.

At night, keep your eyes on the sky. Rovaniemi is a prime spot for spotting the Northern Lights—watching the aurora dance above snow-dusted trees is pure family magic.

And let’s not forget Arktikum, a brilliant science and history museum where kids can learn about the Arctic and Sámi culture through interactive exhibits and storytelling.

Lapland is festive, fantastic, and utterly unforgettable. It's where your kids’ dreams of Christmas come true and your whole family gets a dose of winter wonder you simply can’t replicate elsewhere.

Whether you visit in December or catch the quieter snow season in early spring, Lapland brings together magic, nature, and memory-making in the most heartwarming way.

This isn’t just a holiday—it’s a snow-dusted storybook come to life.

Dutch Coast – Sand Dunes, Sea Breezes & Family Fun by the North Sea

If your perfect family holiday includes sandy beaches, safe cycling routes, and ice cream by the sea, the Dutch Coast is calling. Stretching along the North Sea, destinations like Egmond aan Zee and Zandvoort offer a refreshing alternative to crowded resorts—where the vibe is relaxed, the beaches are clean, and family time takes centre stage.

It’s the kind of place where kids can roam free, parents can actually relax, and the days are filled with simple seaside joy.

Egmond aan Zee is a laid-back, family-friendly beach town with wide open beaches, colourful beach huts, and a lovely car-free centre where you can stroll to shops, cafés, and play parks without worry.

Zandvoort, just a short train ride from Amsterdam, offers a great balance of beachside fun and easy city access. It’s slightly more developed, with beach clubs, restaurants, and the famous Zandvoort Circuit, but still retains a calm, family-friendly feel—especially outside of peak events.

Both towns are ideal bases for exploring the coast and dune reserves, with family-friendly holiday parks and accommodations that often include playgrounds, bike rentals, and even mini golf.

First stop? The beach—of course! The North Sea may be brisk, but on sunny days the shallow waters are great for paddling, swimming, or flying a kite. Many beaches have supervised swimming zones, play areas, and beach cafés that welcome sandy feet and sticky fingers.

For land-based fun, rent bikes (with child seats, trailers, or tandems) and ride through the Noordhollands Duinreservaat—a scenic nature reserve full of dunes, deer, and cycling trails that seem made for family adventures.

Hop on the train to Haarlem for canals and museums, or make a day trip to Amsterdam and explore NEMO Science Museum, Artis Zoo, or take a canal boat tour. Then retreat back to the coast for a peaceful evening stroll with chips and mayo.

And yes, the food is kid-approved! Think pancakes, poffertjes (mini fluffy pancakes), fries, and fresh seafood—plus loads of ice cream stands along the promenade.

The Dutch Coast is easy, breezy, and built for families. It’s not flashy—it’s friendly. You’ll find space to roam, sea air to breathe, and a gentle rhythm that makes family time feel effortless.

For a simple, safe, and sunshine-soaked escape that everyone will love, the Dutch Coast is a summer favourite that delivers, every time.

Black Forest, Germany – Fairy Tales, Forest Trails & Fun for the Whole Family

Welcome to the Black Forest (Schwarzwald)—Germany’s legendary land of cuckoo clocks, enchanted woods, toboggan runs, and half-timbered towns. It’s a destination that feels like a living storybook, making it perfect for family summer holidays for those who want fresh air, adventure with a sprinkle of magic, and plenty of outdoor fun.

Whether you’re hiking in the hills, exploring medieval castles, or diving into one of Europe’s best theme parks, the Black Forest delivers natural beauty, imagination, and action-packed memories.

Base yourself in family-friendly towns like Freiburg, Baiersbronn, or Titisee-Neustadt, where the vibe is warm, walkable, and full of character. These towns offer easy access to forests, lakes, and attractions—plus plenty of alpine-style lodges, chalets, and family hotels.

Lake Titisee is a must—this crystal-clear lake surrounded by forested slopes is ideal for swimming, boating, and relaxing on sunny afternoons.

Let’s start with the big one: Europa-Park. Located in Rust, this is Germany’s largest theme park, and it’s amazing. With themed zones based on European countries, family rides, shows, and some big thrills for older kids and teens, it’s a full-day (or two-day!) adventure for all ages.

Beyond the theme parks, the Black Forest is made for exploring. Follow well-marked hiking trails to waterfalls, wooden bridges, and magical views. Try the Baumwipfelpfad (Treetop Walk) at Bad Wildbad—an elevated path through the treetops that ends in a spiralling observation tower.

You’ll also find summer toboggan runs that twist and turn down forested hills—huge fun for kids and parents alike.

Want to bring the stories to life? Visit the Black Forest Open-Air Museum (Vogtsbauernhof) to see how people lived centuries ago, or stop by Triberg, home of Germany’s highest waterfalls and the world’s largest cuckoo clock.

Local restaurants are super family-friendly, and the region’s hearty comfort food—think schnitzels, spätzle, sausages, and Black Forest cake—is a hit with even picky eaters.

The Black Forest is wholesome, wondrous, and packed with variety. It’s where you can start the day hiking to a waterfall, ride a rollercoaster by lunchtime, and finish with a lakeside picnic as the sun sets behind the pines.

If your family loves nature, fairy tales, and active adventures with room to roam, the Black Forest is your perfect woodland escape.

Crete, Greece – Sun-Soaked Shores, Ancient Myths & Family-Sized Adventures

Looking for a family holidays that combines relaxation, discovery, and just the right amount of beachside bliss? Say hello to Crete—Greece’s largest island and one of Europe’s best destinations for families. With its gentle beaches, welcoming locals, fascinating history, and a climate that practically guarantees sunshine, Crete offers something for every member of the family.

Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, splashing in shallow coves, or tucking into a seaside taverna feast, Crete serves up easy-going family fun with plenty of Greek charm.

Families often flock to Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, or Gouves—peaceful resort areas with shallow waters, sandy beaches, and plenty of family-friendly hotels and apartments.

For more lively fun, Hersonissos has water parks, aquariums, and beach clubs with activities tailored for kids. And for a mix of culture and coast, head to the charming Venetian port towns of Chania or Rethymno, where cobbled streets meet colourful harbours.

Start with the beach, of course! Crete is home to some of Greece’s best family beaches—like Falassarna, Plakias, and Elafonissi, famous for its pink-tinged sand and shallow, turquoise lagoon that’s ideal for little swimmers.

Then dive into a bit of adventure. Visit Cretaquarium, one of Europe’s best marine parks, or Dinosauria Park, where life-size dinosaurs and interactive exhibits make learning seriously fun.

Step into mythology at the Palace of Knossos, the legendary labyrinth said to be home of the Minotaur. It’s history with a storybook twist, and kids love wandering its ruins and imagining life in ancient Crete.

Nature-loving families can hike the Imbros Gorge (a shorter, easier alternative to the famous Samaria Gorge), or take a boat trip to Spinalonga Island, a dramatic fortress island with fascinating stories and stunning views.

And when it’s time to refuel? Greek food is fresh, flavourful, and family-friendly. Think grilled meats, fluffy pittas, fried cheese, and sweet loukoumades (Greek doughnuts)—plus plenty of ice cream stops.

Crete is laid-back, sun-drenched, and effortlessly enjoyable. It’s big enough for adventure, small enough for stress-free exploring, and full of people who genuinely love welcoming families.

Whether you're chasing myths, making sandcastles, or soaking in the sunset over the Aegean, Crete is a family holiday you’ll want to relive again and again.