Dreaming of a family vacation in Europe? Europe has long been at the top of the bucket list for many travelers. Its rich history, diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisines have a magnetic allure that draws people from all corners of the globe. But when you throw kids into the mix, the very thought of navigating this enchanting continent can feel a little daunting. Sure, there might be extra luggage, unpredictable tantrums, and the odd misplaced favorite toy, but traveling with your little ones can also transform your European adventure into an unforgettable family voyage of discovery.
Think about it: your child’s first wide-eyed glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, their giggle as a Venetian gondola gently rocks, the joy of eating a genuine Italian gelato… these are memories in the making. Experiencing Europe through your child’s eyes could have you falling in love with this incredible continent all over again.
But, let’s be real. Traveling with kids isn’t always smooth sailing. It requires planning and compromise. Your days of impromptu pub crawls might be swapped for early bedtimes, and your dream of leisurely exploring art galleries could be traded for hours spent in playgrounds. But that’s where the magic lies. Traveling as a family encourages you to think outside the box, to slow down, and to appreciate the little things.
Our list of the top 15 family-friendly cities for your family vacation in Europe is a blend of the iconic, the historic, and the just plain fun. Each city offers a mix of sights, activities, and cuisines to keep the whole family engaged and entertained. We’ve included handy tips on where to eat, how to get around, and what cultural nuances to be aware of.
Traveling to Europe with kids is not only possible, but it’s also an adventure waiting to happen. Pack your bags, let’s get started!
1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
The city of canals, bicycles, and tulips, Amsterdam, is a picturesque and safe city for a family vacation in Europe.
- Best Places to Eat: “The Pancake Bakery” for the best Dutch pancakes and “Restaurant Vandaag” that serves a global buffet with a play area for kids.
- Places to Visit: Visit the NEMO Science Museum and Artis Royal Zoo. A canal cruise is a must-do.
- Transportation: Amsterdam is very bicycle-friendly. You can also rely on trams, buses, and ferries.
- Average Cost: Moderate. You can find a mix of budget and high-end options.
- Cultural Considerations: Dutch people appreciate directness, so feel free to ask for assistance or directions.
2. London, England
England’s capital offers a mix of history, culture, and modern attractions.
- Best Places to Eat: “Rainforest Cafe” offers a unique dining experience with its jungle-themed setting, and “Giraffe” is known for its kid-friendly menus.
- Places to Visit: The London Eye, Tower of London, and the Natural History Museum are excellent choices.
- Transportation: London has an extensive Underground (Tube) system and iconic red buses.
- Average Cost: Expensive. However, many museums in London offer free admission.
- Cultural Considerations: British people value politeness and queues. Make sure your little ones understand the importance of waiting their turn!
3. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a charming city known for its colorful houses and cycling culture.
- Best Places to Eat: Try “Papirøen” for a variety of food options in one place and “RizRaz” for their kid-friendly Mediterranean buffet.
- Places to Visit: Don’t miss Tivoli Gardens amusement park and the National Museum of Denmark, which has a dedicated children’s museum.
- Transportation: Bicycles rule in Copenhagen, but the city also offers efficient buses and metro services.
- Average Cost: Expensive. But the city offers a Copenhagen Card that provides free access to numerous attractions and public transportation.
- Cultural Considerations: The Danes highly value work-life balance and family time.
4. Rome, Italy
Immerse your family in history with a trip to Rome.
- Best Places to Eat: “Trattoria Da Luzzi” offers affordable Italian dishes, while “Oliver Glowig” provides a fine dining experience with a dedicated kids’ menu.
- Places to Visit: Take a step back in time with visits to the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Villa Borghese park is perfect for picnics and boat rides.
- Transportation: Rome’s public transportation includes buses, trams, and Metro. Be aware that traffic can be chaotic.
- Average Cost: Moderate to expensive, depending on your choices.
- Cultural Considerations: Italians adore children, so your family will feel welcome. However, remember that many businesses close in the afternoon for a siesta.
5. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona offers a blend of beach, city, and mountains for an active family vacation in Europe.
- Best Places to Eat: “Els Quatre Gats” is a family-friendly restaurant serving traditional Spanish cuisine. “Picasso” is a fun place offering creative menus for kids.
- Places to Visit: Visit the famous Park Güell, Barcelona Zoo, and enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches.
- Transportation: Barcelona is well connected by bus, tram, and Metro services.
- Average Cost: Moderate. Many places offer family discounts.
- Cultural Considerations: In Spain, it’s typical for children to be included in all aspects of life, including late-night meals.
6. Vienna, Austria
Historic and beautiful, Vienna is a dream destination for families who love culture and music.
- Best Places to Eat: “Café Sperl” offers traditional Austrian cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere. The “ZOOM Children’s Museum” has a family-friendly café.
- Places to Visit: Enjoy a day at Schönbrunn Palace, which includes a zoo, a maze, and beautiful gardens. The House of Music is an interactive discovery museum.
- Transportation: Vienna’s public transportation network is efficient and includes buses, trams, and a subway.
- Average Cost: Moderate to expensive.
- Cultural Considerations: Austrians are generally formal and polite. Note that shops often close early, especially on weekends.
7. Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s rich history combined with its vibrant and artistic present makes it an exciting destination for a family vacation in Europe.
- Best Places to Eat: “Monsieur Vuong” offers tasty and affordable Vietnamese food, while “Ritter Sport Bunte Schokowelt” will be a hit with chocolate-loving kids.
- Places to Visit: Visit the Museum of Natural History, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Tiergarten, a massive urban park.
- Transportation: Berlin offers buses, trams, the U-Bahn (subway), and the S-Bahn (commuter train).
- Average Cost: Moderate. There are many free or low-cost attractions.
- Cultural Considerations: Germany is a very child-friendly country, and families are welcome almost everywhere.
8. Stockholm, Sweden
With its beautiful archipelago and innovative museums, Stockholm is a great choice for families.
- Best Places to Eat: “Hermans” offers a vegetarian buffet with stunning views, and “Pasta Gudfadern” is loved for its child-friendly environment and Italian dishes.
- Places to Visit: Explore the open-air museum Skansen, the Vasa Museum, and Djurgården, a tranquil oasis in the city.
- Transportation: Stockholm offers buses, trams, ferries, and an extensive subway system.
- Average Cost: Expensive, but the Stockholm Pass can help save money on attractions.
- Cultural Considerations: Swedes are generally reserved but are very friendly and helpful.
9. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is perfect for families that love history, literature, and outdoor activities.
- Best Places to Eat: “The Pantry” and “Mary’s Milk Bar” are great spots for families.
- Places to Visit: Edinburgh Castle, the Museum of Edinburgh, and the Royal Botanic Garden should be on your list.
- Transportation: The city is well-served by buses and trams.
- Average Cost: Moderate to expensive.
- Cultural Considerations: Scotland is very family-friendly with a relaxed and welcoming attitude.
10. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon offers a blend of historical charm, colorful streets, and beach fun, making it a unique spot for a family vacation in Europe.
- Best Places to Eat: “Mercado da Ribeira” offers a variety of cuisine options. “La Siesta” serves delicious tapas and is kid-friendly.
- Places to Visit: Take a tram ride to explore the city, visit the Oceanario de Lisboa, and spend a day on the beach.
- Transportation: Lisbon’s trams, metro, and funiculars make getting around the city an adventure.
- Average Cost: Cheaper than many other European cities.
- Cultural Considerations: Portugal is a laid-back country with a strong emphasis on family.
11. Dubrovnik, Croatia
For families that love beaches and history, Dubrovnik is a gem.
- Best Places to Eat: “Nautika” offers sea views and a dedicated children’s menu. “Pizzeria Mirakul” is perfect for casual dining.
- Places to Visit: Walk the city walls, visit Fort Lovrijenac, and relax on the beautiful beaches.
- Transportation: Buses are the main mode of public transportation in Dubrovnik.
- Average Cost: Moderate, with many free beaches and parks.
- Cultural Considerations: Croatians are known for their hospitality and warmth, especially towards children.
12. Reykjavik, Iceland
For families seeking unique adventures, Reykjavik offers breathtaking landscapes and a chance to see the Northern Lights.
- Best Places to Eat: “Café Loki” and “Icelandic Street Food” are great for tasting traditional Icelandic food.
- Places to Visit: Visit the National Museum of Iceland, Hallgrímskirkja Church, and go on a Northern Lights tour.
- Transportation: Reykjavik is a walkable city, but also offers buses.
- Average Cost: Very expensive.
- Cultural Considerations: Iceland is a very safe and welcoming country for families.
13. Munich, Germany
Munich, the charming capital of Bavaria, offers a delightful blend of culture, history, and family-friendly attractions.
- Best Places to Eat: Savor traditional Bavarian cuisine at the famous Hofbräuhaus or enjoy a family-friendly meal at “Ratskeller München” in Marienplatz.
- Places to Visit: Explore the magnificent Nymphenburg Palace, have fun at the interactive Deutsches Museum, and enjoy the beauty of the English Garden.
- Transportation: Munich has an efficient public transportation system with trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway) for easy exploration.
- Average Cost: Moderate. Munich offers a range of accommodation options and family-friendly activities.
- Cultural Considerations: Keep in mind that Munich strongly emphasizes punctuality and cleanliness, so be mindful of these cultural values during your visit.
14. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin offers a warm welcome to families with its friendly locals and green parks.
- Best Places to Eat: “Eddie Rocket’s City Diner” and “Queen of Tarts” are great family-friendly choices.
- Places to Visit: Explore Dublin Zoo, visit the Natural History Museum, and enjoy the city’s many parks.
- Transportation: Buses, trams, and trains make it easy to get around.
- Average Cost: Moderate.
- Cultural Considerations: Ireland is famous for its hospitality, and this extends to its youngest visitors too.
15. Krakow, Poland
Krakow is a fairy-tale city that offers a mix of history, culture, and fun activities for kids.
- Best Places to Eat: “Biala Roza” and “Morskie Oko” offer Polish cuisine in a family-friendly environment.
- Places to Visit: Visit the Wawel Castle, the historic Main Market Square, and the Krakow Zoo.
- Transportation: The city offers efficient bus and tram services.
- Average Cost: Cheaper compared to many other European cities.
- Cultural Considerations: Polish people love children and go out of their way to make them feel welcome.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it – 15 European cities bursting with family-friendly adventures just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re planning to pack your bags right away or enjoying these destinations from the comfort of your inbox, we hope this guide has offered a glimpse into the joy and wonder of a family vacation in Europe.
Perhaps, right now, your travel dreams feel like distant whispers amid the cacophony of everyday life. But remember, those whispers are the echoes of possible adventures, of memories waiting to be created. So even if the reality of passports and plane rides feels a bit too daunting today, know that these dreams are not just flights of fancy, but possible plans for your future.
And who knows? Maybe one day soon, you’ll find yourself, loved ones in tow, stepping off a plane onto European soil, ready to explore these wondrous cities you’ve been dreaming about. Until then, keep dreaming, keep exploring in your imagination, and know that when you’re ready, these destinations aren’t going anywhere.
