Looking for somewhere a little different for your next family holiday? Here are 10 of the coolest and best vacation spots for kids — the kind of trips that have them racing to tell their friends their “holiday news” when school goes back.
From forest cabins to seaside towns and easy-going American cities, these destinations all share one thing in common: they’re genuinely built with families in mind, not just an afterthought.
The Black Forest, Germany
Famous for its stunning scenery, the Black Forest in south-west Germany is also a wonderfully family-friendly destination, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.
The region has earned a reputation for its family focus — many local destinations carry a special “family holiday” quality seal, awarded only when a place meets a full range of children’s needs and wishes.
For day trips, the spa town of Baden-Baden and the cathedral city of Freiburg are both lovely options, as is a visit to one of Germany’s classic amusement parks in the area.
Staying on a farm is one of the best ways to experience this part of Germany, letting kids get up close with animals and everyday farm life — a nice change of pace from a typical hotel stay.
Sweden
Sweden is well known as a winter destination, but visit in summer and you’ll find an outdoorsy, family-friendly country with plenty to fill your days — forests, rivers, sea islands, castles, palaces and Viking history all within reach.
Sweden’s three big cities — Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö — all offer a good mix of museums and attractions for kids, including open-air museums combining history with animal encounters.
For something quieter, consider renting a lakeside cabin or summer cottage rather than a city hotel — a properly Swedish way to spend a family holiday, with lake swims and forest walks on your doorstep.
You might enjoy: A Family Holiday to Skåne in Southern Sweden
Ostend, Belgium
Ostend is Belgium’s biggest and best-known coastal resort — a lively, easy-to-love town with plenty to see and do. There’s a long stretch of sandy beach to enjoy, and the local food is about as child-friendly as it gets: waffles, chocolate, shrimp and frites.
Families with curious kids will enjoy a hands-on science and play attraction in town, along with the chance to climb aboard historic sailing ships that have been turned into museums.
Don’t miss a stop at Leopold Park, home to a striking flower clock made entirely from thousands of flowers and plants — a lovely, low-key stop between bigger activities.
You might also enjoy: Top Tips for Travelling with Toddlers and The Best 10 Spots for Family Camping in Europe
Pacific Northwest, USA
The cities of Seattle and Portland — about three hours’ drive apart — make a great twin-city family holiday. Both are relaxed, walkable destinations with plenty for kids to enjoy (and excellent coffee for the grown-ups).
In Seattle, don’t miss:
- Pike Place Market — look out for the famous fish-throwing stallholders
- The Seattle Aquarium
- A ride on the Monorail to the iconic Space Needle
- A museum of music and pop culture
- Day trips to nearby islands, with a chance to spot whales
In Portland, don’t miss:
- The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
- Portland Children’s Museum
- The Portland Aerial Tram
- A visit to one of the city’s famous doughnut shops
You might also enjoy: 10 Free Things to Do in Seattle with Kids
Girona, Spain
Most people only know Girona as an airport for reaching Barcelona — which is a shame, because Girona is a beautiful medieval walled city well worth exploring in its own right.
It has a well-preserved Jewish Quarter, a striking baroque cathedral, and plenty of cafés lining its cobbled streets — a lovely spot for a coffee stop
