If you’re starting to plan your summer getaway this year, choosing a family-friendly option is a top priority for many people. Whether you have tiny tots or older children, getting the right balance is essential to ensure everyone has the best time.
Europe has some of the best spots for family fun and beautiful destinations. Plus, you don’t have to go to the main tourist areas to make the most of your summer experience either.
When considering a holiday with children, there are many different things to think about. Take a look at some of the main aspects below:
Flight Time
It’s no surprise that children can get bored quickly. Flight time should always be considered depending on how well you think they will react during this time. It’s not just the flight time in isolation, however.
There are so many aspects to flying to consider, such as the check-in, luggage collection, and, of course, waiting around for the flight itself. These all make up airport time, and that’s not even factoring in delays.
By keeping flight time as low as possible to help with hours of boredom, it’s usually helpful in making an easier travel experience.
Weather
Of course, most people want to experience as much sun and hot weather on their time away as possible. However, heat and excessive sun can be too much for young children. In most cases, they can be covered up or away from the midday sun, but you may want to think about the time of year you visit if you feel some locations may be too hot.
Just outside of peak summer season is still pleasantly warm, but the change in season just slightly takes the edge off the heat.
Accommodations
Where you stay for a week or fortnight is extremely important when you have children to think about. Hotels are ideal if you want everything to hand. However, villas can be the perfect option if you want seclusion and a peaceful space to spend with the family.
Activities
Checking out the type of activities the destination has to offer is a great way to pick the best location. Depending on the age of your children, you might want waterparks and adventure or play parks and crèche facilities. Researching the options beforehand can help keep them occupied.
So once you have considered the above elements for your family getaway, choosing the destination is the next step. So which places are the best to visit this summer?
Check some examples out below:
Mallorca – perfect for affordable summer fun
This island in the Balearics is a top choice for families looking for a good all-rounder. You have everything from sun-drenched beaches, fantastic activities for all ages, and pretty towns and villages with a welcoming community vibe. This location is an affordable option that also offers a luxury feel too.
If you’re looking for a Mallorca villa to rent, there are lots of options scattered across the island that will provide you with a holiday home from home.
France – great for camping trips and group holidays
For families looking for a self-catering vacation, camping in France is a top choice. The campsites here are some of the best in Europe, and they are huge resorts in their own right.
You’ll find everything from kids clubs and pool complexes to restaurants and parks. Plus, many options are right on the beach, so you won’t have to walk far to enjoy a fun day out by the azure waters.
The Canary Islands – ideal for winter sun
If you’re looking to enjoy some winter sun this year, then the Canary Islands is a great choice. Due to its location, it enjoys warm temperatures all year round and is a quiet destination from November to March. Tenerife is often an excellent choice for family breaks as it has a myriad of beach destinations and fun activities.
If you decide on a stay here, be sure to visit Teide National Park, which is home to the island’s active volcano. Plus, the kids will love a day trip to Siam Park, often hailed as one of the best waterparks in the world.
Portugal – perfect for large family breaks
For families that are planning multi-generational holidays or going away with friends, Portugal is a great destination. The Algarve, in particular, has something for people of all ages. While the kids love playing in the sand on its glorious beaches, the adults can relish the golf courses and charming eateries on offer.
The beauty of this destination is that it offers everyone the chance to explore as a family or in smaller groups, as we all know, not everyone has the same tastes.
Malta – ideal for families with young children
If you have babies and toddlers in your vacation party, Malta is an excellent choice for family-friendly fun. The slower pace of life and tranquil spots create a relaxing haven for everyone, while the historical sights and pretty locations have plenty of opportunities for exploring.
The island is also a hive of entertainment, including open-air music events and concerts, which are family-friendly. Some places even have colorful re-enactments of medieval times, so the kids will love seeing actors dressed up as knights and soldiers.
Barcelona, Spain – perfect for families with older children
For families with older children that love the buzz of city life, Barcelona is a great holiday spot. It’s not only beautifully warm in the summer months, but it also offers a myriad of activities and attractions. A top choice is the Port Aventura Theme Park, which is approximately an hour from the city.
Plus, for an enriching and exciting tour, check out the Sagrada Familia for a fascinating slice of Spanish history. There are also a number of walking tours and bus trips around the city, and you will see a snippet of top sights around the area.
These are some of the top European destinations to enjoy a family holiday this year, and each provides a unique experience the whole family will love.
A great way to pick your next destination is to get the entire family involved and combine everyone’s preferences to get the best out of the whole experience.