Kids are expensive enough, right? School trips, birthday presents, new trainers seemingly every week... you've already splashed out half your wages on your kids, so save a few bob on your family summer holiday.
Keep it short haul – not only do you avoid a difficult long journey, but by keeping the cost of your flights down you'll be able to spend more on ice cream (for them) and sangria (for you) when you get there. If you don't mind where you go as long as you can build a sandcastle, use Skyscanner's ever-so-useful Everywhere search (see our helpful how-to article for hints and tips) to see where you can get the cheapest flights. Here are 10 suggestions for fantastic, fun family holiday destinations to get you started.
1. The Algarve, Portugal
You could easily spend your whole holiday in the Algarve soaking up the sun on beach or by the pool, but if the kids need some excitement in their lives, they’ll be satisfied with a day at Aqualand, near Alcantarilha – one of the largest water parks in Europe. One of its star attractions is 'Banzai', which involves a 23-metre slide and what looks like a tray with handles on top – excited youngsters can enjoy the thrill of precariously skimming across the water on said tray before plunging merrily into the depths. But if all of that sounds far too exhausting, you could always head to the relatively uncrowded beach of Praia da Rocha near Portimao instead, and simply let the kids build sandcastles while you doze in the sun.
Read more: 10 best beaches in Portugal: in pictures
2. Menorca, Spain
Menorca has a well-deserved reputation for family-friendly sun, sea and sand holidays. It is far quieter than neighbouring Ibiza and Majorca – you won't be disturbed by all-night discos. It’s only two hours from the UK, and shorter is better when it comes to flying with kids! Make sure you have a paddle at Binibeca Nou – one of the loveliest beaches on the island. Or alternatively, visit the small but beautiful Cala Macarelleta, with its stunning turquoise waters. And if your children are a bit older, then a great way to visit the more secluded beaches is by paddling a kayak along the coast. You can rent sea kayaks from Menorca en Kayak, who also offer tours.
Read more: 17 beautiful places in the Balearic Islands
3. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is brilliant for a first family city break. The children are sure to be fascinated by the various weird and wonderful buildings designed by famed architect Antonio Gaudí. The wonderfully colourful Parc Guell, situated on a hill overlooking the city, is sure to capture the imaginations of young children with its curving mosaics and giant lizards. Then there's Gaudí joyously odd apartment building, La Pedrera, complete with jumbled, curving chimneys that look like they come straight from the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Aside from the Gaudí marvels, there's the huge Parc de Ciutadella, which is perfect for a family picnic and even has a zoo in the middle. And if weird creatures fascinate the kids, the aquarium at Port Vell offersa chance to gape at seahorses and sharks - and it even features a children's area with 50 activities to explore. The market on Las Ramblas – La Boqueria – provides some fascinating sights and is a great place for the kids to sample some authentic tapas. And if all else fails, hit the beach at Barceloneta.
Read more: 10 best things to do in Barcelona: a local's guide
4. Brittany, France
Brittany is ideal if you want to take the kids abroad but not somewhere too hot. There are many child-friendly resorts around its coast, from Saint Malo to La Baule, with sandy beaches big enough for a city of sandcastles. The traditional seaside resort of Dinard is especially convenient as it’s got its own airport. Make sure you visit the awe-inspiring Mont Saint Michel (Saint Michael's Mount), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a beautiful abbey which is linked to the mainland by a spindly causeway. It was featured in the video gameAssassin's Creed: Brotherhood – make sure to casually drop that into the conversation when informing the little 'uns about the trip and they'll be clamouring to go there.
Read more: A photo gallery of 14 fabulous places in France
5. Edinburgh, Scotland
Summer is festival time in Edinburgh. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe (which takes place throughout August) has hundreds of shows especially for kids, including stand-up comedy for younger audiences – which means no swearing, and jokes about Ben 10. Comedy Club 4 Kids even offers children a chance to have a go at stand-up for themselves. Then there are the many street theatre shows, which are guaranteed to include fire juggling and audience participation, two things that are sure to put a smile on kids' faces. Away from the Fringe, older kids will love the creepy Edinburgh Dungeon, and Deep Sea World lets kids see seals and sharks up close.
Read more: 10 beautiful places to visit in Edinburgh
6. Disneyland Paris, France
Ah Paris, city of culture, romance, fine food… and Disneyland! If Disney World in Orlando is too far to travel with offspring, Paris is only a short flight away, which makes it easier, and of course the kids will love it. Pluck up the courage to go on Space Mountain, take a swashbuckling ride with the Pirates of the Caribbean, and meet your (sorry, your kids’) fave Disney characters. And since 2002, Disneyland Paris has been joined by Walt Disney Studios Park, which houses rides based on animated films like Toy Story and Ratatouille, plus there's even an entertainment district called Disney Village, featuring Disney-fied shops restaurants and bars. You'll never have to leave! (But if you DO get tired of the endless happiness, the surly waiters of Paris are merely an hour's drive away from the resort.)
Read more: 10 best things to do in Paris – a local’s guide
7. Europa Park, Germany
If you've already been to see Mickey and the gang, take the kids to meet Euromaus (yes, that's actually a thing, Disney's lawyers have been informed) at Europa Park near Baden-Baden in southern Germany. One of Europe’s biggest theme parks, Europa boasts exhilarating rollercoasters and loads of other attractions spread over European country-themed areas. So take a crazy taxi ride around London, a gondola ride through Venice and an Elf Ride(!) in Germany. For more of an adrenaline thrill (if your blood isn't already pumping from the Elf Ride), try the Blue Fire Megacoaster, which rockets to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, or attempt to keep your lunch down on the Silver Star, a roller coaster that pulls 4 g and reaches heights of 73 metres. Yikes.
Read more: 10 best places to visit in Germany
8. Corfu, Greece
Corfu attracts over a million visitors every year, most of them in the summer holidays, and mostly to a few resorts on the island's north and west coasts. If you would prefer a little peace and quiet, rent a villa in a village on Corfu's east coast – the peaceful village of Kalami is a great place to unwind with the family, with its secluded bay and scenic walks. However, if the kids are hankering for something to do, try Avlaki beach in the north, where they can learn to windsurf or even ride horses courtesy of Dimitri's Horse Riding. Flights are cheap, as is the wine (good news for parents) – but if you're concerned about Greece's current economic crisis, take a look at our travel tips.
Read more: A guide to 20 beautiful Greek islands
9. Lopud, Croatia
Croatia's islands aren't the preserve of young, trendy things hanging out in cool bars and posing in maxi dresses with Prosecco bellinis. The car-free island of Lopud is popular with families and boasts some cracking beaches – like Sunj bay, which is one of Croatia's best, complete with small-child-friendly shallow water. Lopud is a short ferry trip from Dubrovnik, itself a cheap flight away from the UK. Don't forget to mention to the kids that Game of Thrones was filmed in Dubrovnik – specifically, the walls are those of King's Landing in the series. There's even a3-hour Game of Thrones walking tour, during which important tourists are killed off at key moments. (That's a joke, by the way, no tourists have been harmed during the tour. As far as we know.)
Read more: Top 10 things to do in Croatia
10. Marrakech, Morocco
If you think that the kids should have more eye-opening excitement than water slides and rollercoasters, then how about Morocco? It may seem like a far-away land, but you can get a return flight to Marrakech for just over £100. Bustling bazaars, snake charmers, camel rides – they’ll certainly have lots of tales to tell their classmates. As long as you don't lose them in the souk, that is. If you fancy a less fraught trip, try heading into the Atlas Mountains – the village of Imlil is only around an hour and a quarter away by road and is an ideal base for trekking.
Read more: Top 9 things to do in Marrakech
Skyscanner.net
Keep it short haul – not only do you avoid a difficult long journey, but by keeping the cost of your flights down you'll be able to spend more on ice cream (for them) and sangria (for you) when you get there. If you don't mind where you go as long as you can build a sandcastle, use Skyscanner's ever-so-useful Everywhere search (see our helpful how-to article for hints and tips) to see where you can get the cheapest flights. Here are 10 suggestions for fantastic, fun family holiday destinations to get you started.
1. The Algarve, Portugal
You could easily spend your whole holiday in the Algarve soaking up the sun on beach or by the pool, but if the kids need some excitement in their lives, they’ll be satisfied with a day at Aqualand, near Alcantarilha – one of the largest water parks in Europe. One of its star attractions is 'Banzai', which involves a 23-metre slide and what looks like a tray with handles on top – excited youngsters can enjoy the thrill of precariously skimming across the water on said tray before plunging merrily into the depths. But if all of that sounds far too exhausting, you could always head to the relatively uncrowded beach of Praia da Rocha near Portimao instead, and simply let the kids build sandcastles while you doze in the sun.
Read more: 10 best beaches in Portugal: in pictures
2. Menorca, Spain
Menorca has a well-deserved reputation for family-friendly sun, sea and sand holidays. It is far quieter than neighbouring Ibiza and Majorca – you won't be disturbed by all-night discos. It’s only two hours from the UK, and shorter is better when it comes to flying with kids! Make sure you have a paddle at Binibeca Nou – one of the loveliest beaches on the island. Or alternatively, visit the small but beautiful Cala Macarelleta, with its stunning turquoise waters. And if your children are a bit older, then a great way to visit the more secluded beaches is by paddling a kayak along the coast. You can rent sea kayaks from Menorca en Kayak, who also offer tours.
Read more: 17 beautiful places in the Balearic Islands
3. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is brilliant for a first family city break. The children are sure to be fascinated by the various weird and wonderful buildings designed by famed architect Antonio Gaudí. The wonderfully colourful Parc Guell, situated on a hill overlooking the city, is sure to capture the imaginations of young children with its curving mosaics and giant lizards. Then there's Gaudí joyously odd apartment building, La Pedrera, complete with jumbled, curving chimneys that look like they come straight from the pages of Alice in Wonderland. Aside from the Gaudí marvels, there's the huge Parc de Ciutadella, which is perfect for a family picnic and even has a zoo in the middle. And if weird creatures fascinate the kids, the aquarium at Port Vell offersa chance to gape at seahorses and sharks - and it even features a children's area with 50 activities to explore. The market on Las Ramblas – La Boqueria – provides some fascinating sights and is a great place for the kids to sample some authentic tapas. And if all else fails, hit the beach at Barceloneta.
Read more: 10 best things to do in Barcelona: a local's guide
4. Brittany, France
Brittany is ideal if you want to take the kids abroad but not somewhere too hot. There are many child-friendly resorts around its coast, from Saint Malo to La Baule, with sandy beaches big enough for a city of sandcastles. The traditional seaside resort of Dinard is especially convenient as it’s got its own airport. Make sure you visit the awe-inspiring Mont Saint Michel (Saint Michael's Mount), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a beautiful abbey which is linked to the mainland by a spindly causeway. It was featured in the video gameAssassin's Creed: Brotherhood – make sure to casually drop that into the conversation when informing the little 'uns about the trip and they'll be clamouring to go there.
Read more: A photo gallery of 14 fabulous places in France
5. Edinburgh, Scotland
Summer is festival time in Edinburgh. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe (which takes place throughout August) has hundreds of shows especially for kids, including stand-up comedy for younger audiences – which means no swearing, and jokes about Ben 10. Comedy Club 4 Kids even offers children a chance to have a go at stand-up for themselves. Then there are the many street theatre shows, which are guaranteed to include fire juggling and audience participation, two things that are sure to put a smile on kids' faces. Away from the Fringe, older kids will love the creepy Edinburgh Dungeon, and Deep Sea World lets kids see seals and sharks up close.
Read more: 10 beautiful places to visit in Edinburgh
6. Disneyland Paris, France
Ah Paris, city of culture, romance, fine food… and Disneyland! If Disney World in Orlando is too far to travel with offspring, Paris is only a short flight away, which makes it easier, and of course the kids will love it. Pluck up the courage to go on Space Mountain, take a swashbuckling ride with the Pirates of the Caribbean, and meet your (sorry, your kids’) fave Disney characters. And since 2002, Disneyland Paris has been joined by Walt Disney Studios Park, which houses rides based on animated films like Toy Story and Ratatouille, plus there's even an entertainment district called Disney Village, featuring Disney-fied shops restaurants and bars. You'll never have to leave! (But if you DO get tired of the endless happiness, the surly waiters of Paris are merely an hour's drive away from the resort.)
Read more: 10 best things to do in Paris – a local’s guide
7. Europa Park, Germany
If you've already been to see Mickey and the gang, take the kids to meet Euromaus (yes, that's actually a thing, Disney's lawyers have been informed) at Europa Park near Baden-Baden in southern Germany. One of Europe’s biggest theme parks, Europa boasts exhilarating rollercoasters and loads of other attractions spread over European country-themed areas. So take a crazy taxi ride around London, a gondola ride through Venice and an Elf Ride(!) in Germany. For more of an adrenaline thrill (if your blood isn't already pumping from the Elf Ride), try the Blue Fire Megacoaster, which rockets to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, or attempt to keep your lunch down on the Silver Star, a roller coaster that pulls 4 g and reaches heights of 73 metres. Yikes.
Read more: 10 best places to visit in Germany
8. Corfu, Greece
Corfu attracts over a million visitors every year, most of them in the summer holidays, and mostly to a few resorts on the island's north and west coasts. If you would prefer a little peace and quiet, rent a villa in a village on Corfu's east coast – the peaceful village of Kalami is a great place to unwind with the family, with its secluded bay and scenic walks. However, if the kids are hankering for something to do, try Avlaki beach in the north, where they can learn to windsurf or even ride horses courtesy of Dimitri's Horse Riding. Flights are cheap, as is the wine (good news for parents) – but if you're concerned about Greece's current economic crisis, take a look at our travel tips.
Read more: A guide to 20 beautiful Greek islands
9. Lopud, Croatia
Croatia's islands aren't the preserve of young, trendy things hanging out in cool bars and posing in maxi dresses with Prosecco bellinis. The car-free island of Lopud is popular with families and boasts some cracking beaches – like Sunj bay, which is one of Croatia's best, complete with small-child-friendly shallow water. Lopud is a short ferry trip from Dubrovnik, itself a cheap flight away from the UK. Don't forget to mention to the kids that Game of Thrones was filmed in Dubrovnik – specifically, the walls are those of King's Landing in the series. There's even a3-hour Game of Thrones walking tour, during which important tourists are killed off at key moments. (That's a joke, by the way, no tourists have been harmed during the tour. As far as we know.)
Read more: Top 10 things to do in Croatia
10. Marrakech, Morocco
If you think that the kids should have more eye-opening excitement than water slides and rollercoasters, then how about Morocco? It may seem like a far-away land, but you can get a return flight to Marrakech for just over £100. Bustling bazaars, snake charmers, camel rides – they’ll certainly have lots of tales to tell their classmates. As long as you don't lose them in the souk, that is. If you fancy a less fraught trip, try heading into the Atlas Mountains – the village of Imlil is only around an hour and a quarter away by road and is an ideal base for trekking.
Read more: Top 9 things to do in Marrakech
Skyscanner.net
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