Best Places of Europe to Visit: Top 10 Family Holiday Destinations

Best Places of Europe to Visit With Kids

Europe offers a treasure trove of destinations that are perfect for families.

 Here, we include our personal favorites, most of which we have already explored, and others are on our family's bucket list.

As avid travelers and parents, we understand the unique needs and desires of families embarking on an overseas journey. In this blog post, we're excited to share our firsthand recommendations for a European escapade that promises fun, enrichment, and lasting memories for the entire family.

Whether you're seeking captivating cultural experiences, breathtaking natural wonders, or simply the joy of exploration, our tailored suggestions will help you create the perfect family getaway in Europe.

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Tips to Make Your Holidays Exciting With Kids

Our Chart of Top Countries for Family Holidays with Kids in Europe

# 1 Switzerland

This country is an absolute gem for family vacations. It's packed with incredible family adventures that you won't want to miss. And here's a surprise: Switzerland has some gorgeous beaches! Take Lucerne Lake, for instance—nestled among majestic mountains, it's a haven for kids with sandy shores and pristine, warm lake waters that make for a sea-like swim.

Reasons Why Switzerland Is the Top Family Destination in Europe

Our Favorite Hike for Families With Small Kids (Stroller-Friendly)

In Switzerland, we found the best hikes for kids ever, with beautiful playgrounds at the top of the mountains and the most delicious ice cream. The hiking trails are easy, and even small kids can handle them, especially if you take a cable car up and down the mountain to save energy and keep them excited. 

 We recommend one of our favorite hikes in Switzerland that is easy for small children. The trail is situated in the Jungfrau region and has some of the best and picturesque views.

Best Museums for Kids in Switzerland

Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum Zürich), Zurich:

This museum provides a comprehensive overview of Swiss history and culture, with interactive exhibits, artifacts, and hands-on activities for children.

Swiss Transport Museum (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz), Lucerne:

A favorite among families, this museum explores all aspects of transportation, including trains, planes, automobiles, and more. It features interactive displays, simulators, and a planetarium.

Zurich Zoo, Zurich:

While not a traditional museum, Zurich Zoo offers a chance for kids to learn about animals from around the world. It has educational programs, wildlife exhibits, and opportunities to get up close to some animals.

Technorama Science Center, Winterthur:

This interactive science museum allows children to explore various scientific concepts through hands-on experiments and exhibits.

P.S. There are many small museums of Swiss chocolate around the country, which you must visit with your kids!

How to Save Money in Switzerland

Here are some passes that will save you money in Switzerland depending on the duration, location, and type of your holidays:

Swiss Travel Pass: This pass offers unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network for consecutive days. It provides free access to public transportation, including trains, buses, and boats, and free admission to museums. You can purchase it online or at Swiss Travel System points of sale.

Swiss Family Card: The Swiss Family Card is typically provided for free to accompany children under the age of 16 traveling with at least one parent holding a Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss Travel Pass Flex. You can obtain it at railway stations or online when purchasing adult passes.

Regional Travel Passes: Switzerland offers various regional passes, such as the Geneva Transport Card and Zürich Card, which provide access to local public transportation and discounts on attractions within specific regions. You can purchase these passes at transportation hubs and tourism offices in cities or regions.

Museum Passes: Some cities and regions offer museum passes that provide free or discounted access to local museums and cultural attractions. You can often purchase these passes at participating museums and tourist information centers.

Ski Passes: If you're visiting Switzerland during the winter and plan skiing or snowboarding with your family, consider purchasing ski passes with discounts for families. You can usually buy them at ski resorts and online.

Tell-Pass: The Tell-Pass provides unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System network, including boats, buses, trains, selected mountain railways, and cable cars. It's available for various durations and covers areas such as Lake Lucerne, Lake Uri, and Lake Schwyz.

Jungfrau Travel Pass: This pass grants access to a network of railways, cable cars, and mountain transport in the Jungfrau region, which includes popular destinations like Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Lauterbrunnen. It's a great option for those exploring the Swiss Alps.

Zermatt Peak Pass: The Zermatt Peak Pass provides access to cable cars and mountain railways in the Zermatt region, home to the iconic Matterhorn mountain. It allows visitors to enjoy breathtaking alpine views and outdoor activities.

Engadin St. Moritz Mountain Pass: This pass covers a range of mountain railways and cable cars in the Engadin St. Moritz region, which is famous for its winter sports and scenic landscapes.

Verbier Unlimited Pass: For those interested in the Verbier area, the Verbier Unlimited Pass offers unlimited access to the Verbier 4 Vallées ski area, including cable cars, lifts, and slopes.

#2 Spain

This country has so much to offer that we never feel bored whenever we go there. Offering such a wide variety of experiences, from sandy beaches and stunning mountings to museums, castles, zoos, and botanical gardens to colorful cultural events and delicious food from street markets, Spain became our beloved destination for family vacations.

The best, warmest, and cleanest beaches for kids are Costa Blanca and the Baleares.

Costa Blanca may not be as fancy as some parts of Costa del Sol. Still, beaches and water temperatures are much more comfortable for families with little kids. We've visited multiple times and spent the month of September at the beach with our children, and the weather was absolutely ideal for little ones.

Moreover, Costa Blanca offers several family-oriented attractions like Aqualandia, Terra Natura, Mundomar, and Terra Mítica in Benidorm.

But our favorite places are natural attractions such as La Mata Lagoon Natural Park, Algar Waterfalls, Las Salinas near San Pedro del Pinatar, swimming in Mar Menor, La Manga strip, and Guadalest Castle, and Santa Barbara Castle in Alicante. However, Algar Waterfalls and Alicante's Castle are better to attend with school-aged kids, as they might be dangerous for little ones.

Baleares, especially Mallorca, is a beautiful island where you can find everything you need for a perfect stay. It has sandy beaches, stunning, moon-like mountain landscapes, beautiful small Instagram-worthy villages, historic sites, and even a place to admire Gaudi's work in the Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, so you can check this off your bucket list without wedging yourself into crowds of Barcelona.

On the other hand, families with older kids might find Barcelona an appealing vacation spot. This city offers a wealth of top-notch attractions for children, such as CosmoCaixa museum, various sightseeing spots, and thrilling amusement and water parks like PortAventura World in Salou, Catalonia. While the beaches along the Catalonia coast can get crowded, older kids and teenagers tend to be more tolerant of bustling crowds.

#3 Italy

This country is amazing, offering virtually everything you wish for during a family vacation. It could easily top our list if driving were more straightforward. While driving in Italy, and especially parking, can be an adventure in itself, it's worth noting that trains and other public transportation are also practical and budget-friendly options, particularly when traveling with school-aged kids.


We divided vacation with kids in Italy into three categories depending on the activities and children's ages:

Perfect Getaway for Families with Young Children and Beach Lovers

1. Towns of North Italy (Caorle, Bibione, and Lignano) have sandy beaches with warm and clear water, where little kids can safely play because of their shallow waters and small waves. Also, we recommend the small town of Grado for a less crowded vacation. This is a much less touristy place where locals enjoy their holidays. But if you go there, book your accommodation well in advance because this hidden gem gets fully booked during the season.

2. Sardinia is a fairy-tale place due to its stunning views, white sand, and turquoise waters. It is undoubtedly an expensive holiday as this is an island and accommodation options are somewhat limited, but with its nature, you won't regret spending that much money.

3. Sicily is full of fantastic beaches suitable for kids. It offers such a wealth of diverse experiences and delicious cuisine that every member of your family, whether they're food enthusiasts, history aficionados, or beach lovers, will absolutely adore this incredible island. However, take into account that Sicily can get very hot during summer, where temperatures occasionally exceed 35°C (95°F) or even reach 50°C (122°F) in some inland areas. Coastal areas tend to be slightly cooler due to sea breezes. Therefore, going to Sicily with kids in May-June or September-October is better to steer clear of extreme heat and larger crowds.

You can find other sandy beaches around Italy perfect for kids, and we would appreciate it if you shared your tips in the comments!

Discovering Nature and History on Hikes with School-Aged Kids

1. Dolomites offer a fantastic Alpine nature and landscapes and a distinctive spirit close to German and Austrian traditions but with Italian charm. Holidays in the Dolomites can also be a bit less expensive than in the Austrian Alps, but the experience will be as fulfilling and memorable.

2. Exploring Italy's volcanoes can be an exciting and educational trip for families with older children interested in geology and natural sciences. Mount Vesuvius, Mount Etna, and Stromboli are among the country's famous volcanoes, offering unique opportunities to learn about volcanic activity and witness stunning landscapes.

3. Kids will be thrilled to visit Pompeii and Herculaneum during your volcano trip as these old towns provide a fascinating historical context for kids to explore. Children can see ancient streets, houses, shops, and even plaster casts of human and animal remains preserved from the eruption.

However, it's important to note that Pompeii and Herculaneum involve a fair amount of walking, so be prepared for some physical activity. Additionally, the sites can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, so arrive early to avoid crowds and midday heat. It is even better if you get a guided tour just for your family to learn more facts about the place in a fun and explorative way.

Exploring Italian Cities with Kids

Rome 

The capital city is a living museum with ancient Roman ruins, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Visit the Vatican City to see St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel. Don't forget the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Spanish Steps.

This trip can be a memorable and exciting experience for the whole family. Still, you must consider some things beforehand.

All the above points apply to the following two cities on our list. Still, with proper preparation, this vacation can become one of the most memorable in your lifetime.

Florence 

Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance and is home to incredible art and architecture. Visit the Uffizi Gallery, Florence Cathedral, and the Florence Baptistery. Don't miss the charming Ponte Vecchio bridge.

Venice 

Explore the unique canal city of Venice and its historic landmarks like St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica, and the Doge's Palace. Take a gondola ride and visit the nearby islands of Murano and Burano.

In conclusion, Italy is one of the best countries to spend your vacation with kids because it is so vibrant, full of life and taste, and so beautiful that we can guarantee your family's time there will create everlasting memories.

#4 Czech Republic

If your children are interested in medieval ages, knights, and castles, we personally could not recommend the Czech Republic highly enough. Prague Castle is famous worldwide for its stunning architecture and St. Vitus Cathedral, and we guarantee that your kids will freeze in awe when they see it.

Our children also have a deep affection for other Czech Castles like the one in Cesky Krumlov, Konopiste, Hluboka nad Vltavou, and a lesser-known hidden gem, which isn't as crowded with tourists, Loucen Castle, nestled in the Central Bohemian Region and easily reachable from Prague.

One of the great perks of traveling in the Czech Republic is its compact size, allowing you to traverse from north to south or east to west in just 4 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Moreover, this country boasts a plethora of astonishing and meticulously preserved castles that will undoubtedly astonish any enthusiast.

Stay tuned for our upcoming blog post, where we'll share a wealth of tips and insights for your family vacation in the Czech Republic!

#5 Christmas in Germany and Austria

Christmas Germany - An Unforgettable Place to Visit in Europe with Kids

There is nothing like spending Christmas in Germany, the cradle of the best Christmas traditions, including festive Christmas markets, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and advent calendars.

Traveling to Germany before Christmas is a truly magical experience that allows you to immerse yourself in centuries-old traditions, savor delicious holiday treats, and enjoy the warmth of the season in a beautiful setting. It's a memory-making adventure for the whole family.

Famous Christmas markets in Germany

Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt: One of the most famous Christmas markets in the world, known for its gingerbread cookies (Lebkuchen) and handmade decorations.

Cologne Christmas Market: Located in the shadow of Cologne Cathedral, it features a large ice rink and numerous stalls offering traditional gifts.

Dresden Striezelmarkt: Germany's oldest Christmas market, famous for its Stollen festival and wooden pyramid decorations.

Munich Christkindlmarkt: Set in the heart of Munich's historic Marienplatz, this market is known for its medieval atmosphere and unique Nativity scene.

Berlin Christmas Market (WeihnachtsZauber at Gendarmenmarkt): Located in a stunning setting, it offers a variety of crafts, entertainment, and international food.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market: The medieval town of Rothenburg is transformed into a fairy-tale Christmas village.

Hamburg Christmas Market: Known for its nostalgic charm and historic carousel.

Frankfurt Christmas Market: Features a massive Christmas tree and hundreds of stalls offering crafts and culinary delights.

Stuttgart Christmas Market: One of the largest in Europe, known for its beautiful decorations and cultural events.

Erfurt Christmas Market: Set against the backdrop of Erfurt's medieval cathedral, it's a picturesque market with a 25-meter Christmas tree.

In our humble opinion, the best Christmas market in Germany is in Dresden, which history dates back to 1434. It is relatively less crowded than in other big cities like Munich and seemed cozier and more festive.

There are plenty of things you can enjoy, from its beautiful and iconic wooden pyramid decorations featuring intricate carvings and rotating figures to handmade wooden ornaments to buy to a wide range of culinary delights, including traditional Saxon dishes, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and, of course, Dresden's famous Christstollen.

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Christmas Time in Austria - A Perfect Family Destination in Europe

Christmas in Austria offers many charming Christmas traditions and events with a magical backdrop of the snow-covered Alps. The beautiful Christmas markets provide a heartwarming experience for the entire family:

Vienna Christmas Markets: Vienna boasts multiple Christmas markets, with the ones at Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Palace being particularly famous.

We really enjoyed the Christmas time in Vienna, but have to emphasize that Christmas markets tend to be overcrowded, so we would suggest choosing smaller towns to immerse into Christmas spirit fully. The following Christmas market is #1 in our bucket list.

Salzburg Christmas Market: Set against the backdrop of the historic Hohensalzburg Fortress, it's a delightful market focusing on traditional crafts.

Innsbruck Christmas Markets: The Old Town market and the one at Maria-Theresien-Strasse offer a magical atmosphere in the heart of the Alps.

Graz Christmas Market: Known for its beautiful decorations and ice crib, a unique nativity scene carved from ice.

Linz Christmas Market: Located in Linz's main square, it features an extensive cultural program and a delightful Christmas tram.

Hallstatt Christmas Market: Nestled in the picturesque village of Hallstatt, it's known for its idyllic setting by Lake Hallstatt.

Advent Markets in Salzkammergut: The lakeside villages in the Salzkammergut region host charming Advent markets that offer a serene escape.

Why is Austria a Perfect Place for Family Vacations In Europe?

But to us, the perfect time to visit and fully enjoy the spirit of Germany and Austria is during Christmas time (but not directly on Christmas, as everything will be closed!).

Pro tip: If you're looking to fully immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit, consider planning a Christmas market adventure that begins in Vienna, then hop on a train to Prague, and wrap up your journey in Dresden.

One of the great perks of Europe is the close proximity of these cities, allowing you to savor three unique Christmas experiences in just one week. The train ride from Vienna to Prague takes approximately 4-6 hours, while the trip from Prague to Dresden is a quick 2.5-hour train ride.

#6 Netherlands

A trip to the Netherlands has been a long-standing dream for our family, and it's an experience that is truly magical for families with kids.

What to Do In The Netherlands With Kids

In conclusion, it's a great idea to thoughtfully map out your visit depending on your kid's age and interests because there are so many exciting things to experience.

As for adults, this remarkable country is bound to ignite your desire to make it your second home. Unsurprisingly, countless Americans have been drawn to the Netherlands, given its reputation as one of the finest places to raise a family.

#7 Poland

A family vacation in Poland offers an unexpectedly budget-friendly yet high-quality experience. Poland's tourism industry is rising, with new spa resorts popping up each year.

Spa at the Baltic Sea in Poland

Things to Do in Baltic Sea

The Baltic Sea is a hugely overlooked and underrated vacation destination. A vacation at a Baltic Sea spa can offer a rejuvenating and health-enhancing experience. The Baltic Sea is rich in minerals, seaweed, and brine, which are believed to have therapeutic effects.

Among many Baltic countries, we prefer Poland due to its high-quality resorts that are much more budget-friendly compared to some of its Baltic neighbors, making spa vacations more accessible for the whole family, including kids.

Moreover, the Polish Baltic Sea coast offers a blend of relaxation, wellness, and family-friendly activities. Coastal towns like Sopot and Gdańsk provide a mix of historical sites and charming promenades where kids can explore and enjoy delicious seafood dishes.

The region's natural beauty, including the Hel Peninsula and nature reserves like Słowiński National Park, provides opportunities for outdoor adventures and educational experiences, where kids can explore shifting sand dunes and learn about local wildlife. Your family can also visit amber mines in the region, such as the Amber Mine in Rozewie, where kids can learn about the history of amber and even try amber hunting.

However, you should consider this vacation more as a spa and treatment opportunity rather than a beach destination as the Baltic Sea is cold, and even on a warm summer day, its water temperature ranges from approximately 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F). So it might feel a bit disappointing for kids who love swimming in the sea.

Hot Springs in Poland

While hot springs may not be Poland's most famous attraction, the country does offer a variety of family-friendly thermal baths where you can unwind and enjoy quality time with your loved ones. In this blog post, we share our firsthand experiences at hot springs in the region, perfect for families seeking relaxation and fun.

We love the the Zakopane region in Poland and think it is a perfect family destination for winter and summer holidays. Zakopane is situated in the southern part of Poland, in the foothills of the High Tatras, making it a gateway to this beautiful mountain region. Visitors to Zakopane can enjoy stunning alpine scenery, outdoor activities, and access to the High Tatras for hiking, skiing, and other mountain adventures.

In winter, after an exciting day on the ski slopes, you can unwind and relax in the region's thermal baths, which offer a range of thermal pools, saunas, and wellness treatments to rejuvenate and soothe sore muscles.

In summer, there are many stunning hiking trails in the Tatra Mountains for all skill levels you can enjoy with kids. And relax in thermal pools after a long day in the mountains.

Why Zakopane?

Along with its hospitality, fantastic nature, and quality facilities for kids, all the attractions, including hiking trails, ski slopes, and thermal baths, are located near each other, making it a very convenient location. You can even visit Slovakia's famous ski resort, Štrbské Pleso, located in about a 1.5-hour drive.

It's worth noting that you'll need a car to access all of the attractions mentioned above since they're close to each other, only for drivers. Getting around by bus can be pretty inconvenient.

If you want to learn more about where to go with kids in Zakopane, let us know in the comments.

Thermal Baths in Zakopane

Here are two of the most famous resorts with thermal water in the region:

Bukowina Tatrzańska Thermal Baths (Termy Bukovina): Located approximately 30 kilometers from Zakopane, Termy Bukovina is a large thermal complex with indoor and outdoor pools. The facility offers family-friendly pools with various water attractions, such as slides, waterfalls, and water jets. There's also a dedicated children's pool area with shallow, warm water. The picturesque views of the Tatra Mountains make it a scenic spot for relaxation.

Chochołowskie Termy: Situated in Chochołów, about 15 kilometers from Zakopane, Chochołowskie Termy is another thermal complex in the region. While it may not have as many water attractions as Termy Bukovina, it provides a relaxing environment for families to unwind. There's a separate children's pool with warm water, as well as a spa zone for adults looking for relaxation and wellness treatments.

There is also a fantastic resort for families with kids located about 25 km (or 15 miles) from Zakopane, in Białka Tatrzańska, the town the locals prefer more than Zakopane.

Terma Bania (Białka Tatrzańska): Terma Bania is a popular thermal complex with indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, and relaxation areas. It's known for its family-friendly atmosphere and variety of water attractions. Kids can enjoy dedicated children's pools with water features and mini slides. The complex also offers wellness and spa facilities for adults.

In summary, Poland is a fantastic destination for families looking to enjoy a budget-friendly spa and relaxation getaway while also exploring nature and having a great time outdoors. We're big fans of Polish cuisine, the warm hospitality, and the country's natural beauty, and we believe that Poland deserves more recognition as a family-friendly destination.

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#8 Finland

When I was around 12 years old, I stumbled upon a magazine from a travel company showcasing articles about various countries and the tours they offered. One article, in particular, captured my imagination and became a cherished favorite. It was all about Finland's Santa Village in Rovaniemi.

Like any child, I had a deep love for Christmas, and the idea of visiting the real North Pole, witnessing the Northern Lights, and taking a magical ride in Santa's sleigh pulled by reindeer became a timeless dream.

As I grew older, I decided that I would absolutely visit this enchanting place at least once in my lifetime. But I held onto a special wish - I wanted to experience it with my kids to relive the pure childhood excitement and Christmas magic through their eyes.

However, planning this trip takes effort because the demand and prices tend to soar during the holiday season.

Additionally, it's crucial to get the right winter gear in order. Starting from scratch for the entire family can add up, especially if you won't use it back home. The good news is that many resorts and tour operators rent winter clothing, such as snowsuits, thermal overalls, boots, gloves, and hats. However, you'll likely still want to invest in new thermal underwear, socks, and sweaters for your kids and you, which can still be pricey.

However, all the effort is absolutely worth the incredible time and experience your family will cherish forever. If you're coming from a warmer climate without much snow, this journey presents an incredible opportunity for your kids to learn and fully enjoy some of the best winter activities available. 

Magical Activities to Do in Finland With Kids

Visit Santa Claus: Lapland is known as the home of Santa Claus, and meeting the jolly man himself is a must. Head to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, where kids can chat with Santa, receive a special gift, and explore his enchanting village.

Sleigh Rides: Enjoy a traditional reindeer or husky sleigh ride through the snowy landscapes. Kids will love the gentle reindeer or the excitement of being pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies.

Northern Lights Hunt: Lapland offers fantastic opportunities to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Join a guided Northern Lights tour, and kids can marvel at the dancing colors in the night sky.

Snow Fun: Enjoy classic winter activities like snowball fights, building snowmen, and tubing down snow-covered hills. Many resorts provide equipment and dedicated snow play areas for kids.

Ice Hotel: Some Lapland destinations have ice hotels or igloos where families can spend a unique and frosty night. It's a memorable experience kids won't forget.

Arctic Wildlife Safaris: Embark on wildlife safaris to spot Arctic animals like reindeer, elk, and maybe even the elusive wolverine. Learn about Lapland's unique fauna and flora.

Ice Skating: Glide across ice skating rinks, often found in towns and resorts. It's a fun way for kids to enjoy the wintery surroundings.

Visit Traditional Sami Villages: Explore the rich culture and traditions of the indigenous Sami people. Kids can learn about Sami customs and crafts and even try traditional dishes.

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: Take the family on winter hikes with snowshoes or enjoy cross-country skiing on well-groomed trails. It's an excellent way to explore Lapland's serene wilderness.

Christmas Crafts: Many Lapland programs include Christmas-themed crafting sessions where kids can create ornaments, cards, and other festive decorations.

Ice Fishing: Try your hand at ice fishing on frozen lakes. Kids can experience the thrill of catching fish through a hole in the ice.

Warm Up in Saunas: Embrace the Finnish tradition of saunas. Many accommodations have private saunas, and public saunas are available in towns.

In conclusion, spending the winter holidays in Lapland with your family is a dream come true. Lapland's snowy landscapes, enchanting Christmas spirit, and thrilling activities create an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike.

Every moment is filled with wonder and joy, from meeting Santa Claus to exploring the pristine wilderness on husky sleighs. Lapland's unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and holiday magic will leave your family with cherished memories that will warm your hearts for years. It's a winter wonderland adventure where the season's magic truly comes to life.

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#9 Scotland

10 Things to Do in Scotland With Kids

Explore Edinburgh Castle: Discover Scotland's history and culture while exploring this iconic castle. Kids will love the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Climb Arthur's Seat: Located in Edinburgh, Arthur's Seat is an extinct volcano offering panoramic city views. It's a relatively easy hike suitable for families.

Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia: Step aboard the Queen's former floating palace in Edinburgh and learn about royal life at sea.

Hike in the Highlands: The stunning Scottish Highlands offer excellent hiking opportunities for families, with trails suitable for all skill levels.

Loch Ness Monster Hunt: Take a boat trip on Loch Ness and watch for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, Nessie.

Discover Scottish Wildlife: Visit the Highland Wildlife Park to see native Scottish animals like red deer, wildcats, and snowy owls.

Explore the Fairy Pools: Located on the Isle of Skye, these magical pools are perfect for a family hike and offer breathtaking views.

Discover Castles: Explore fairy-tale-like castles such as Eilean Donan and Urquhart Castle, which are both kid-friendly and steeped in history.

Go on a Harry Potter Tour: For wizarding world fans, there are Harry Potter-themed tours in Edinburgh, including a visit to the Elephant House Cafe, where J.K. Rowling wrote some of her books.

Glenfinnan Viaduct (Near Fort William): Known as the Hogwarts Express route in the films, you can watch the Jacobite Steam Train cross this iconic viaduct. It's a beautiful sight for any Potterhead.

To fully enjoy Scotland's unique nature, you must visit its beaches. Scotland's Highland beaches can offer a unique and beautiful experience for a family vacation with kids. While they may not provide the same warm waters and traditional beach activities in some other destinations, they have charm and appeal.

The Most Beautiful Highland Beaches to Visit

Dornoch Beach (Dornoch): Dornoch Beach is known for its golden sands and clear waters. It's a family-friendly spot with plenty of space for kids to play and build sandcastles. The nearby town of Dornoch also offers cafes and shops.

Achmelvich Beach (Lochinver): Achmelvich Beach is a picturesque white-sand beach nestled between rocky hills. It's an excellent place for swimming, picnics, and exploring rock pools. The turquoise waters make it a unique and beautiful spot.

Gairloch Beach (Gairloch): Gairloch Beach is a vast, sandy beach with stunning views of the Torridon Mountains. It's perfect for beachcombing, and kids can explore the sandy dunes and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Camusdarach Beach (Arisaig): Camusdarach Beach is famous for its appearance in the film "Local Hero." It boasts soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Families can enjoy picnics and beach games while taking in breathtaking views.

Sango Bay Beach (Durness): Sango Bay is a stunning beach near the village of Durness. It offers expansive sands and dramatic cliffs. Families can explore the caves and rock formations in the area.

Mellon Udrigle Beach (Ullapool): Mellon Udrigle is a remote, peaceful beach with white sand and azure waters. It's ideal for beachcombing, paddling, and taking in the tranquility of the Scottish Highlands.

Rosemarkie Beach (Rosemarkie): Located on the Black Isle, Rosemarkie Beach is known for its fossil beds. Families can explore the rock pools and search for ancient fossils while enjoying the seaside atmosphere.

Silver Sands of Morar (Morar): The Silver Sands of Morar are famous for their silver-white sands and stunning views of the Small Isles. The shallow waters are suitable for paddling, and the scenery is captivating.

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#10 Croatia

In recent years, Croatia has emerged as a beloved vacation spot for families all across Europe. With its stunning natural beauty, historic cities, and even a backdrop that Game of Thrones fans will recognize, it's no wonder people are drawn here.

While Croatia offers lovely beaches, we have to admit that for families with young kids, it may not be on the list compared to destinations like Spain, Italy, or Greece. In our view, Croatian infrastructure falls a bit short, and while we have a lot of love for the country, we'd say that service and hospitality could use some improvement.

However, one thing that truly stands out in Croatia is its breathtaking natural landscapes. You'll be left in awe by its sheer beauty. For an unforgettable vacation in Croatia, renting a yacht is the way to go. It's a fantastic way to soak in the country's charms and create lasting memories with your family.

Is Croatia a safe destination for a yacht holiday with kids?

Is yachting in Croatia an expensive vacation?

You can approach the yachting in Croatia in many ways, and your costs will depend on your preferences.

Here is an approximate range of prices, which will vary depending on the company you choose:

- To rent a catamaran for a week will cost you around 6k to 8k Euros;

- Skipper services are around 1.5 to 2k Euros per week, but you can also find cheaper offers;

- Parking a yacht in a Croatian marina costs anywhere between 50 to 150 Euros per night;

- Diesel costs for a catamaran will solely depend on your yachting style and preferences. 

Why opt in for a skipper?

The skipper is the key to a relaxing sailing adventure. They can be your ultimate trip advisor and point you toward decent attractions and restaurants where you can savor local, fresh, and authentic delicacies. Also, they are experts in maritime conditions and take charge of steering, docking, and navigation, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the journey.

In summary, Croatia is a fantastic family vacation destination, offering natural beauty, historical charm, and diverse experiences. While service may not match some other destinations, its stunning landscapes, safe anchorages, and unique culture make it an unforgettable place to create cherished family memories. Whether sailing the Adriatic coast or exploring historic towns, Croatia invites families to embark on a rewarding journey of wonder and discovery.

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