The world is for everyone to see regardless of age. In fact, parents are encouraged to bring their children with them when travelling. This early exposure to different places, people and cultures instil in them a penchant for adventure and an appreciation for diversity. However, the main obstacle for young families to travel together is the notion of limited child-friendly destinations.
This is actually a misconception and the best example to illustrate that there is an abundance of child-friendly destinations in Europe. European holidays are teeming with sights, sounds and activities for young globe trekkers.
Below are just some of the most visited child-friendly holiday spots in Europe you should definitely explore on your next luxury family getaways.
Live the London lifestyle
It’s foreshadowing that the European city featured in one of the most popular children’s songs of all time is also one of the most child-friendly destinations on the continent. London should definitely be included in your family’s European holiday. One of the latest additions to London’s child-appropriate tourist spots is Platform 9 at the King’s Cross Station as featured in Harry Potter. Of course, your family’s visit to London won’t be complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace. Also, swing by Covent Garden where there are regular performances by fire-eaters as well as the London Dungeon where out-of-the-box attractions await including Madam Tussauds’ famous wax characters. There are also lots of free places to visit in London too if you are travelling on a budget.
Roam the streets of Rome
Going to Rome is like giving your kids a lesson in history in real life. Imagine visiting the Colosseum together and reliving the many historic events that took place within its walls. Another must-see is the Spanish Steps where some of Europe’s greatest literary geniuses wrote their masterpieces. It’s also a stone’s throw away from a number of retail options and a European holiday won’t be complete without doing some (or a lot of) shopping. Additionally, a trip to the Trevi Fountain can give your kids a quick course in baroque architecture. Meanwhile, the different art and architectural masterpieces found in St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City are worth the trip even if your family is non-Catholic.
Bustle in Brussels
Brussels definitely ranks high as one of the most kid-friendly destinations for a family holiday. Get your family photo taken in front of the world-famous Mannekin-Pis, an iconic and whimsical fountain featuring a young boy taking a pee. Children will have a blast at the Belgian Comic Strip Museum where they can get to know their favourite cartoon characters and superheroes such as Batman up close and personal.
Experience Edinburgh
Those who are eyeing to go on a European holiday in August, be sure to take your kids to experience the yearly Edinburgh Festival. Veering away from the traditional attractions, this festivity will allow your entire family to experience firsthand the culture of Edinburgh. Your kids can wear kilts while dancing to traditional bagpipe music. After all the merry-making, you can spend a quiet time with your family by going on a picnic set against the panoramic Scottish Highlands and explore the many famous landmarks in Edinburgh.
March to Madrid
Compared to Barcelona, Madrid is the more family-friendly destination in Spain and in fact, welcoming young travellers is a huge part of its tradition. If your kids are sporty, watching a soccer match at the Bernabeu Stadium will definitely be a treat. The boat ride at Retiro Park Lake is also a hit among children. The 350-acre park also has other children-friendly attractions including several playgrounds and sprawling greenery where royalties used to lounge and rest. Now, it’s your family’s turn to get the royal treatment.
Pampered in Paris
While Paris is generally considered a destination for lovers, a European holiday would feel odd without visiting the City of Lights. Besides, popular Parisian landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum are not just for couples. Upwardly mobile families with children will definitely enjoy traversing the fashionable streets of Paris while admiring its architecture, savouring its cuisine and reliving its rich history. It is also possible to visit Paris on a budget, with lots of free museums and parks to explore.
A number of experts are now saying that travelling with your family overseas is a great reinforcement to your children’s education. There are countless parents who have shared anecdotes on how travelling improved their children’s academic performance and social skills. These stories are backed by cognitive development studies.
While family holidays are not that easy to organise, with the right destination such as Europe and careful planning, it can be an extremely rewarding experience for the entire family.
