Unforgettable summer holidays with children: the best destinations worldwide

Contents:

• What makes a destination ideal for holidays with children?
• Unforgettable summer holidays in Europe with children
• The best theme parks in Europe
• The 7 most exciting cycle routes for families in Europe
• Adventurous long-haul destinations for unforgettable family holidays
• Conclusion: Get ready for an unforgettable summer holiday with the family!

What makes a destination a good choice for a family holiday?

An unforgettable family holiday starts with choosing the right destination and a well-organised summer holiday packing list to ensure you’ve got everything you need. But what exactly makes a destination ideal for a family holiday? Here are some key criteria to ensure the whole family has a great time:

• Child-friendly accommodation: A family-friendly destination offers accommodation specifically tailored to the needs of families. Spacious family rooms, self-catering apartments and hotels with special children’s programmes are a must. Many hotels also offer facilities such as childcare, playgrounds and children’s pools to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.
• High safety standards: Children’s safety is the top priority. Good destinations have high safety standards in accommodation, theme parks, beaches and public areas. Reliable on-site medical care is also important.
• A wide range of activities: A great family holiday destination offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities. These include child-friendly beaches, theme parks, museums, nature reserves and cultural events. Activities such as cycle rides, boat trips, walks and wildlife spotting ensure varied and exciting experiences.
• Child-friendly dining: A wide range of restaurants and cafés offering child-friendly menus and healthy options is another plus point. Family-friendly restaurants often provide high chairs, children’s cutlery and play areas to keep the little ones occupied whilst their parents relax.
• Easy access: A family-friendly destination should be easy to reach to avoid long, tiring journeys. Good transport links, short transfer times and convenient travel options such as direct flights or well-maintained roads make the journey stress-free and pleasant.
• Friendly environment: A warm and welcoming environment contributes significantly to the well-being of the whole family. Friendly locals, a safe and clean location, and a relaxed atmosphere create the ideal conditions for a successful family holiday.
• Good infrastructure: A well-developed infrastructure is crucial for an unforgettable holiday. This includes easily accessible supermarkets, chemists and paediatricians’ surgeries. Public transport should also be easily accessible and family-friendly.
• Educational and leisure activities: A good holiday destination also offers educational activities for children that enable them to learn and discover through play. Museums, science centres and cultural events are ideal for satisfying children’s thirst for knowledge whilst ensuring they have fun.

A destination that takes all these factors into account makes a family holiday not just enjoyable, but unforgettable. When parents and children feel comfortable and well looked after, nothing stands in the way of a brilliant time full of wonderful memories. Pack your bags and look forward to a wonderful time with your loved ones!

Unforgettable summer holidays in Europe with children

Europe is a true paradise for families looking for an unforgettable summer full of adventure, relaxation and cultural experiences. With its diverse landscapes, child-friendly facilities and rich cultural offerings, the continent offers countless opportunities for the perfect family holiday. Here are some of the best destinations in August and throughout the summer for holidays with children in Europe:

• Mallorca, Spain: Mallorca is the epitome of a relaxing family holiday. The island attracts visitors with its magnificent beaches, which slope gently into the water and are ideal for little swimmers. Many resorts offer special children’s programmes, playgrounds and swimming pools, ensuring that parents and children alike get the most out of their stay. 

           Highlights for children:

1. Watching fish and sharks at the Palma Aquarium

2. A ride on the historic railway from Palma to Sóller

3. Playing and splashing about at the Aqualand El Arenal water park

• Lake Garda, Italy: Lake Garda in northern Italy is perfect for families looking to combine adventure with relaxation. Picturesque villages, child-friendly beaches and a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and water sports offer something for everyone.

Highlights for children:

1. Riding the rollercoasters at Gardaland theme park

2. Sliding and splashing about at the Caneva Aquapark

3. A boat trip on Lake Garda

• Costa Brava, Spain: The Costa Brava captivates visitors with its stunning beaches and charming fishing villages. Family-friendly resorts offer kids’ clubs and entertainment. A day trip to Barcelona, with its famous sights and child-friendly museums, is the perfect way to round off the holiday.

Highlights for children:

1. Water adventures at the Aquabrava Water Park

2. Fascinating insects at the Empuriabrava Butterfly Park

3. A visit to the interactive CosmoCaixa science museum in Barcelona

• South Tyrol, Italy: For families who love the outdoors, South Tyrol is the ideal destination. The region offers a wide range of walking and cycling trails that are also suitable for children. Many accommodation options are family-friendly and offer special facilities for children.

Highlights for children:

1. Climbing and adventure at the KronAction high ropes course

2. Pony rides and feeding animals on a farm

3. A hike to the Three Peaks in the Dolomites

• Brittany, France: Brittany, on France’s Atlantic coast, offers the perfect combination of nature and culture. Rugged coastlines, idyllic beaches and historic towns such as Dinan and Saint-Malo provide plenty of opportunities for exploration. Children love the medieval castles and interactive museums. The delicious Breton cuisine, with its crêpes and galettes, delights the whole family.

Highlights for children:

1. Exploring castles and palaces, such as the fortress of Saint-Malo

2. Fantastic sandy beaches such as the Plage de l’Île Vierge

3. Walks along the Pink Granite Coast

• Denmark: Denmark is an outstanding destination for families. The country offers plenty of highlights for children and adults alike. The capital boasts many child-friendly attractions, whilst the coastal regions create a relaxed atmosphere with picturesque beaches and cosy holiday homes. Denmark combines cultural experiences with natural beauty, making it an ideal place for an unforgettable family holiday.

Highlights for children:

1. Adventures at Legoland Billund

2. A ride on the rollercoaster at Tivoli Amusement Park

3. Watching penguins and elephants at Copenhagen Zoo

• Sweden: Sweden is known for its child-friendly atmosphere and the numerous outdoor activities on offer. In summer, families can swim in the many lakes, go hiking or canoeing. The country also offers the chance to bring the stories of famous children’s authors to life. The capital, Stockholm, delights visitors with its many child-friendly museums and attractions that offer both education and fun.

Highlights for children:

1. Experience the world of Pippi Longstocking at Astrid Lindgren’s World

2. See animals and explore historic buildings at the Skansen open-air museum

3. A boat trip through the archipelago off Stockholm

• Algarve, Portugal: The Algarve in Portugal is renowned for its breathtaking beaches and mild climate. Many beaches are child-friendly and have gently sloping waters. Away from the beaches, numerous water parks and zoos offer plenty of variety. Boat trips to the region’s impressive caves and grottoes provide an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

Highlights for children:

1. Sliding and splashing about at the Slide & Splash water park

2. Experience the fascinating marine world at Zoomarine Algarve

3. Discover caves and grottos on a boat trip

• The Swiss Alps: In summer, the Swiss Alps offer a wide range of outdoor activities. Hiking, mountain biking and cable car trips provide exciting adventures in the crisp mountain air. Many regions have special family hiking trails and adventure parks that combine nature experiences with fun. Accommodation ranges from cosy mountain huts to child-friendly hotels with extensive leisure facilities, providing the perfect setting for relaxing and exciting holidays.

Highlights for children:

1. Hiking on child-friendly trails such as the “Murmelweg” in Saas-Fee

2. Exciting adventures on the “Muggestutz Zwergenweg” in Hasliberg

3. A cable car ride up to the Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe”

Europe offers a wide range of destinations that are perfect for summer holidays with children. Whether it’s relaxing days on the beach, adventurous outdoor activities or cultural explorations – every family will find the perfect holiday experience here. Pack your bags and enjoy an unforgettable time with your loved ones in Europe’s most beautiful regions!

The best theme parks in Europe

Amusement parks are a highlight for many families and offer entertainment for young and old alike. Here are some of the best amusement parks in Europe:

• Europa-Park, Germany: Europa-Park in Rust is the largest theme park in Germany and one of the most popular in Europe. With over 100 attractions and shows, including numerous rollercoasters and themed areas representing various European countries, the park offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

• Siam Park, Tenerife, Spain: Siam Park on Tenerife is a first-class water park that is perfect for families. The park features thrilling water slides and relaxing lazy rivers set within an impressive Thai-themed landscape. With numerous child-friendly attractions, Siam Park offers an unforgettable experience for young and old alike.

• PortAventura, Spain: This park near Barcelona features six themed areas, including the thrilling Ferrari Land. Here, families can enjoy exciting rides, shows and attractions based on different cultures and adventures.

• Efteling, Netherlands: Efteling is a fairytale park particularly suited to younger children. The park offers beautiful themed areas based on well-known fairytales, as well as numerous rides and shows.

• Disneyland Paris, France: Disneyland Paris in Marne-la-Vallée is Europe’s most famous theme park and a dream destination for families. With numerous attractions and shows, including thrilling rollercoasters and magical parades, the park offers an unforgettable experience for children and parents alike. Themed areas such as Fantasyland and Adventureland allow visitors to immerse themselves in the world of their favourite Disney stories and create unforgettable moments.

• Legoland Windsor, UK: Legoland Windsor is perfect for families with young children. The park offers a wide range of Lego-based attractions, interactive rides and creative play areas.

A successful family holiday requires careful planning and the right destination. Whether it’s a beach holiday, an adventure in the great outdoors, magical experiences at a theme park or cultural discoveries – the destinations featured here offer something for every taste and age group. With the right preparation, nothing stands in the way of an unforgettable summer holiday with the family. Pack your bags, make some wonderful memories and enjoy the time with your loved ones!

The 7 most exciting cycle routes for families in Europe

Cycling holidays in Europe have never been easier for families. With routes suitable for all abilities – from toddlers to teenagers – these destinations offer the perfect opportunities to explore nature together. According to National Geographic, here are seven of the best cycle routes for families

• Bannau Brycheiniog, Wales: Bannau Brycheiniog, also known as the Brecon Beacons, offers breathtaking scenery with rolling hills and picturesque valleys. The family-friendly cycle routes are ideal for all age groups. Children love cycling along old railway lines, whilst parents enjoy the peaceful and safe routes. A highlight is the Taff Trail with its spectacular views and numerous picnic spots. Cycling difficulty: The routes in BikePark Wales are suitable for all abilities, from beginners to experienced cyclists.

• Lake Constance, Germany & Switzerland: The Lake Constance Cycle Route stretches across Germany, Austria and Switzerland, offering a picturesque route around the lake. The flat paths are ideal for families and allow for stops at beaches, playgrounds and charming villages. The combination of breathtaking scenery and cultural attractions makes this route unforgettable. Cycling difficulty: The route is perfect for beginners, as you can cycle as far as you like each day, and ferry crossings add to the fun.

• Danube Cycle Path, Austria: The Danube Cycle Path is one of Europe’s best-known cycle routes, particularly family-friendly and mostly flat. The route between Passau and Vienna takes you through historic towns, castles and monasteries. Numerous opportunities for boat trips and water-based activities make the route particularly varied. Cycling difficulty: The specially designed cycle paths are flat and smooth, making them ideal for beginners and families.

• Van Gogh Cycle Route, Netherlands: The Van Gogh Cycle Route in the Netherlands combines art and nature. It winds through the picturesque countryside that inspired Vincent van Gogh and features interactive museums and art installations that children particularly love. The flat, well-marked paths are ideal for families. Cycling difficulty: Peaceful and gentle, this route is a great introduction to cycling holidays.

• Atlantic Coast Route, Portugal: The Atlantic Coast Route in Portugal offers a spectacular ride along the coast with stunning sea views. The route passes through charming fishing villages, picturesque beaches and historic towns. Well-maintained cycle paths are suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists alike. Families can stop off at the beaches and enjoy Portuguese cuisine. Cycling difficulty: Some hilly sections require slightly more experienced cyclists.

• From Lake Garda to Venice, Italy: The cycle route from Lake Garda to Venice offers varied landscapes stretching from the Alps to the Venetian Lagoon. The flat, well-maintained route is ideal for families. Along the way, families can cycle through vineyards, explore historic towns and enjoy Italian cuisine. The highlight is arriving in Venice with its famous canals and sights. Cycling difficulty: The longer daily stages might be too challenging for younger cyclists.

• Ciro Trail, Balkans: The Ciro Trail is a new cycle route through the breathtaking landscape of the Balkans. The route, which follows a former railway line, combines nature and culture. Families can cycle through unspoilt countryside, visit historic towns and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. The well-signposted route offers numerous accommodation options and places to stop for refreshments. Cycling difficulty: Suitable for confident cyclists, with some climbs and a few off-road sections.

A cycling holiday in Europe offers families the perfect opportunity to enjoy nature together and discover new places. These seven routes combine scenic beauty, cultural attractions and family-friendly facilities. Pack your bikes and helmets and look forward to unforgettable adventures on two wheels!

Adventurous long-haul destinations for unforgettable family holidays

The summer months are ideal for taking a long-haul holiday with the family. In many countries, these months offer pleasant weather and a wide range of activities that are particularly suitable for children. Here are some of the best long-haul destinations for families during the summer months:

• Canada: Canada is a dream destination for families in the summer. National parks such as Banff and Jasper offer breathtaking scenery and a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and canoeing. The cities of Vancouver and Toronto are also ideal for families, with their numerous museums, zoos and child-friendly attractions. The mild temperatures and long days make Canada particularly attractive in July and August.

Highlights for children:

1. Exploration tours in Banff and Jasper National Parks

2. Visits to Toronto Zoo and the Vancouver Aquarium

3. Outdoor adventures such as canoeing and cycling

• Costa Rica: Costa Rica is a green paradise in summer. The rainy season ensures that nature is in full bloom and that the waterfalls and rivers are flowing abundantly. Families can explore the rainforest, go on volcano hikes and relax on the beaches of Manuel Antonio. The diverse wildlife and adventurous activities such as ziplining and white-water rafting make Costa Rica an exciting destination for children.

Highlights for children:

1. Adventurous ziplining tours through the rainforest

2. Visits to wildlife reserves and butterfly farms

3. Fun white-water rafting and days on the beach in Manuel Antonio

• South Africa: The South African winter, from June to August, offers mild, dry weather and is ideal for safaris. Kruger National Park and other game reserves offer the chance to see the ‘Big Five’ and enjoy exciting wildlife spotting. Cape Town also offers plenty of child-friendly activities, including a visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium and cable car rides up Table Mountain. The cool but pleasant temperatures ensure comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

Highlights for children:

1. Safari adventures in Kruger National Park

2. A visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town

3. Cable car ride up Table Mountain

• Bali, Indonesia: Bali is in its dry season in July and August, offering ideal conditions for days at the beach and outdoor adventures. Families can enjoy the beautiful beaches, explore lush nature reserves and take in the stunning scenery. The child-friendly resorts offer numerous activities and facilities specially tailored to families. Particularly noteworthy is the warm hospitality of the locals, who are known for their loving care of children. Bali perfectly combines culture, nature and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for families.

Highlights for children:

1. Monkey watching in the Ubud Monkey Forest

2. Days at the beach on the family-friendly beaches of Seminyak and Nusa Dua

3. A visit to the impressive rice terraces of Tegalalang

• Australia (Northern Territory and Queensland): During the southern winter months, the northern regions of Australia, such as the Northern Territory and Queensland, are ideal to visit. The Great Barrier Reef offers excellent conditions for snorkelling and diving, and families can explore the wildlife in the Daintree Rainforest. Darwin and the Red Centre, home to Uluru, offer fascinating cultural experiences and stunning landscapes. The dry season ensures pleasant temperatures and clear days.

Highlights for children:

1. Snorkelling and diving on the Great Barrier Reef

2. Exploring the Daintree Rainforest

3. Cultural tours and excursions to Uluru

• Japan: Japan is a fascinating summer destination, offering a wealth of festivals and cultural events. Families can visit picturesque beaches, explore breathtaking landscapes and discover the country’s cultural treasures. Cities such as Tokyo and Osaka offer numerous child-friendly attractions, including theme parks, museums and zoos. The warm temperatures and wide range of activities make Japan particularly exciting in July and August.

Highlights for children:

1. Taking part in the Gion Matsuri Festival in Kyoto

2. Days at the beach in Okinawa

3. Visits to theme parks and museums in Tokyo and Osaka

• USA (National Parks): The summer months are ideal for family holidays in the USA’s national parks. These parks offer stunning landscapes and a wide range of outdoor activities. Families can go camping, hiking, wildlife spotting and take part in ranger programmes specially designed for children. The long summer days and mild weather create the perfect conditions for outdoor adventures.

Highlights for children:

1. Camping and hiking in Yellowstone National Park

2. Exploration tours in Yosemite National Park

3. Wildlife spotting and ranger programmes in the Grand Canyon

The summer months of July and August offer numerous opportunities for exciting and unforgettable long-haul family holidays. From the lush rainforests of Costa Rica to the impressive national parks of Canada and the USA, right through to the cultural treasures of Japan and Bali – these destinations offer the perfect setting for a varied and relaxing family holiday. Pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Conclusion: Get ready for an unforgettable summer holiday with the family!

The summer holidays are the perfect opportunity to discover the world together as a family and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re longing for sunny beaches, stunning landscapes or exciting cultural experiences – there are countless family-friendly destinations just waiting to be explored.

In this blog post, we’ve introduced you to a wide range of destinations that offer the ideal conditions for summer holidays with children. With our tips and the highlights and activities specially tailored for families, your next trip is guaranteed to be a resounding success.

So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable summer holiday full of fun, relaxation and adventure with the whole family. The world is waiting to be discovered by you!