Europe has some of the most fabulous travel destinations in the world, from elegant mansions with incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea to Michelin-starred restaurants in a glitzy city to ancient castles overlooking the kings. The catch is that planning a vacation that both kids and adults would enjoy can be a little tricky. You want a destination that has age-appropriate activities to keep the kids busy while relaxing. When it comes to accommodation, crowded spaces are a must, while child-friendly facilities and an efficient transport network are a must.
To make matters worse, your destination must offer the highest levels of comfort and limitless opportunities for relaxation, with a little adventure in between. After all, what good is a vacation if it isn’t invigorating? Here are five upscale European destinations that are perfect for you and your family.
1. Scotland
Scottish and rustic, Scotland is a magical destination full of forts, secret bays, enchanting lakes and beautiful valleys. But Scotland also has a posh side with its bustling cities, brilliant architecture, luxurious vacation homes, gourmet cuisine and endless festivals. Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is full of attractions that visitors of all ages will enjoy, including the Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, the National Museum, Arthur’s Seat and a Harry Potter tour. Glasgow, Edinburgh’s rival city, offers fascinating museums, breathtaking landscaped parks and historic castles.
If your family loves the outdoors, head to the Scottish Highlands to experience some of the UK’s most stunning natural landscapes – from rocky mountain ranges to sandy coastlines. Hop on the Jacobite Steam Train through the city of Fort William to Mallaig fishing port. Visit Puck’s Glen, with its plunging waterfalls and rocky forest canyon believed to be home to ghosts, or hop on a ferry to the Isle of Skye for a wild swim in the crystal clear waters of the fairy pools.
Make the most of your Scotland vacation by staying in a luxury 5 star Scotland castle. Several castles offer self-catering and group accommodation, ideal for families who want a lot of privacy and enough space inside and outside.
2. Menorca
Quieter than Mallorca and gentler than Ibiza, Menorca is a jewel for everyone looking for peace and solitude. However, the island is also teeming with fun activities that are guaranteed to entertain and burn off extra energy.
Scattered along the Menorcan coast are white sandy beaches with warm and clear turquoise waters that are shallow enough for children to swim safely. If you are looking for a secluded beach with all amenities like restaurants, pedal boats, beach chairs, head to Cala Galdana. For animal lovers, visit the Lloc de Menorca Zoo to see native and exotic animals, and venture into a wetland and lemur forest. Explore the countryside on a jeep safari and pass archaeological sites, rolling hills, and sandy shores. Enjoy the water slides, trampolines and go-karts in the Aquarock Waterpark or conquer the zip lines, sandpits, swings and climbing frames in Castillo Menorca. Take a boat trip and discover secluded bays that are inaccessible on foot, then explore the 186 km of old Cami de Cavalls coastal path on horseback. If your kids are older, try snorkeling or diving.
After all day sightseeing, don’t you want to relax in a luxurious and quiet place? Rent spacious, upscale Menorca villa while you are on the island and experience ultimate comfort and relaxation.
3. France
Paris is not just for couples in love. The City of Lights also has many activities for families – Disneyland Paris, Parc Astérix, Center George Pompidou, Jardin du Luxembourg and traditional desserts. But it would be nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the lush countryside, golden beaches, historical landmarks, quaint towns and majestic castles.
Be amazed by the beauty of Mont-Saint-Michel, stroll through the gardens of Versailles, soar over the Loire Valley in a hot air balloon. Roam the streets of the UNESCO listed City of Bordeaux, stroll through a sunflower field in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and inspire the artist in you at Claude Monet in Giverny.
If you are looking for beaches, there is Nice and Saint-Tropez on the Cote de Azur. However, if you prefer a simple beach with equally azure blue water and soft, fine sand, head to Plage de la Nartelle or Plage Les Eléphants in Sainte-Maxime.
4. Croatia
From the medieval walls of Dubrovnik to the island clubs of Hvar, Croatia has become a sought-after vacation destination not only for Game of Thrones fans and party-goers, but also for families craving a Mediterranean vacation. Croatia has beaches, countless of them. And because they are all beautiful, you have a hard time picking a favorite.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see as many breathtaking bays, islands and coves as possible. Rent a yacht and explore the bright blue sea dotted with islands that vary from lush green to rocky gray to brilliant white. You can enjoy the sun on the exciting Croatia yacht charter while you enjoy the wonderful landscape or jump into the warm water, while the crew pours you a glass of champagne and the children are supervised. But Croatia is not just made up of beaches. You have the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik, the surreal Krka National Park, and the towering Biokovo Mountain in Split. Make a beehive to the Museum of Illusions in Zagreb, go canoeing to the Blue Cave in Bisevo, hunt waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Make your family vacation more memorable by staying in one of Croatia’s unique accommodations. Can you imagine sleeping in a lighthouse? How about a tree house or an airplane?
5. Italy
Italy is a standard on every traveler’s bucket list. Italy is rich in historical sites, blessed with breathtaking natural scenery, and full of postcard villages and remarkable cities. Italy has something to offer for all ages. The capital Rome alone has so much to offer: the Colosseum, paintings in the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, Villa Borghese and ice cream.
The country has as much to offer as the cities, maybe even more. Travel to Tuscany and admire art, nature, and architecture on trips to Florence and Pisa. Explore the Tuscan countryside on a bike tour or take long walks through markets and vineyards.
Ride a gondola in Venice, take a private boat tour on Lake Como, or sail along the mild waters of the Amalfi Coast. Hike the trails in the Cinque Terre region, laze on a beach in Sardinia, eat all you can in Bologna and see the majestic Marmore Waterfalls in Umbria.
