Travelling overseas for a family holiday in Europe can be hard work. Toddlers and young children can be especially difficult because they have shorter attention spans, get restless during travel times and have a tendency to wander off.
When choosing the best family holiday destination in Europe, there are key factors to consider before you book. Although most family holiday destinations have plenty of child-friendly options, you also need to find resorts that are suitable for the whole family.
Accommodation
Where you stay is arguably the most important choice you will have to make. Family-focused resorts with pools, slides and a full-schedule of organised children activities are often the best option.
You should also consider hotels or resorts that provide childcare facilities, a children’s club and children’s menu. Whilst the kids are away playing with the hotel staff, it gives parents an opportunity to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.
However, some families prefer the privacy of a private villa with a pool. Spacious self-catering apartments can be less demanding to keeping an eye on your toddler and gives you more scope to cater for your children’s dietary needs - especially if they are fussy eaters or have food allergies.
Family Holiday Destination Ideas
Having plenty to do in and around the resort will be a major influence in your choice of family holiday destination. Large European cities, for example, can be tiring for young children even though there are plenty of things to do with children.
Ideally, you should choose a resort that has plenty for all the family. The Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands are excellent choices for families as they have water parks, safe, sandy beaches with water sports, fun play zones and zoos.
Location
The location of your accommodation should ideally be centrally located to the places you intend to visit whilst on holiday. Small islands such as Lanzarote, Zante and Rhodes are ideal because they are easy to get around.
Child-Friendly Meals
The best family holiday destinations in Europe offer menus that are geared towards children. In Europe, you will find most family-friendly restaurants offer meal packages for children - oftentimes inviting them to eat for free.
In some European countries such as Italy, even the adult food is loved by kids. Encourage young children to try pizza and pasta. And the seemingly endless flavours of gelato always go down a treat!
Safety
The safety of your children is obviously a priority. Whilst most family holiday destinations in Europe are safe, it’s worth investigating resorts that take extra special care to protect children on beaches and busy city centres.
If you plan to stay in a beach resort, check to see whether the beach has been awarded a Blue Flag for safety. Portugal, Greece, France and Italy are all quoted as having the best family-friendly beaches in Europe.
There are endless opportunities to have a great family holiday in Europe. If you’re looking for family holiday destination idea or want to narrow your search, check out our list of Europe’s most family-friendly destinations
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