Best Family Travel Destinations

Organising a family vacation can feel overwhelming, particularly when seeking a destination that caters to everyone's interests and keeps them entertained. This list of best international family vacations includes something for everyone.

Greece

Greece is a country in southeastern Europe with thousands of islands throughout the Aegean and Ionian seas. With its history, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine, Greece is a dream destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. Explore the iconic Acropolis in Athens, wander through the lively streets of Mykonos, or soak up the sun on the beaches of Crete. Families can indulge in Greek mythology, enjoy water sports activities, or simply relax and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals. With its diverse attractions and family-friendly atmosphere, Greece is sure to captivate travellers of all ages.

Which areas of Greece are best for families?

Greek islands such as Crete, Corfu, Kos, Rhodes and Zante in particular are perfect for a family break due to them all having high volumes of tourists every summer they have encountered for everyone's ideal holiday. Greece has a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters.

The daytime is the perfect opportunity to book a boat trip and stop off to see other islands or get some lunch. Some excursion companies offer food and drink whilst onboard too. You and your family can enjoy a fun day of snorkelling and island hopping. If turtle spotting is on your bucket list then this is a popular excursion in Zante. The boat excursions normally take up the whole day leaving in the morning and not arriving back until around 6 pm.

Corfu has lots of family-friendly beaches such as Kalami which is a picturesque beach equipped with changing rooms, showers and toilets on site. It also has a beach bar for food and drinks or a supermarket down the road. If relaxing on the beach doesn't take your fancy then there are also watersports and boat rentals.

If you are visiting a Greek island like Kos then you can also enjoy an off-road buggy adventure up the mountains as it's a popular excursion in Greece. This is the best way to see the amazing views of the island and stop off at one of the local towns.

Rhodes has old towns such as Lindos which is perfect for an evening visit as a family, there are lots of vibrant restaurants and shops with a fun atmosphere.

Weather

If you're a sunseeker the best time to visit Greece is between June and September. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 33 C and an average low of 17 C.

Is Greece a safe country to travel to?

Greece is one of the safest countries to visit in Europe which makes it ideal for a family getaway. Those who live in Greece rely on tourism and are very friendly to those visiting their country. English is widely spoken and understood throughout Greece which is helpful when booking excursions or getting around the island however, as with any foreign country you’ll visit, learning a couple of basic words is sure to make the locals more open to you, and will surely put a smile on their faces! 

Airlines that fly to Greece

• Aegean Airlines
• Ryan Air
• Wizz Air
• Easy Jet
• British Airways
• United Airlines
• American Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• KLM
• Lufthansa
• Air France
• Turkish Airlines

Turkey

Turkey is located in Southeastern Europe and Southwestern Asia and the capital is Ankara. Turkey offers a variety of attractions catering to travellers of every age, including beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, exciting activities for children, and fascinating historical ruins. From enjoying water park thrills to delving into historical wonders, children won't find a dull moment during their visit to Turkey.

Which areas of Turkey are best for families?

Istanbul is one of the best areas in Turkey for a family holiday. This city also has some of the finest restaurants in the world and a variety of entertainment options such as boat trips and aquariums. The city has a busy nightlife and many restaurants serving delicious food.

Cappadocia is also highly recommended for the perfect family getaway as it is famous for the hot air balloon rides which is a magical experience you won't forget! It offers breathtaking scenery and underground cities, which are now popular tourist destinations. 

Antalya, Turkey, is a stunning coastal city on the Mediterranean Sea. It is known as the “Pearl of the Turkish Riviera” due to its picturesque views of the sea, hilly countryside, and ancient ruins. Antalya is a popular family destination due to its accessible beaches, fun entertainment, and historical sites like the ancient city of Phaselis. It has a Land of the Legends theme park and a dolphin land which is a perfect day out for the whole family.

Bodrum is a stunning resort town located on the western coast of Turkey, along the Aegean Sea. This city is one of the best places to visit in Turkey with family, due to the vibrant atmosphere of the old town and the modern features of the new city, giving you the best of both worlds. With a Mediterranean climate, white sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters, Bodrum is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country. You can enjoy a trip to the Bodrum Castle or the Aqua park if you want an adventure.

Weather

April, May, September and October are the perfect times to visit Turkey, with temperatures of 20°C to 30°C. If you're looking for guaranteed sun and hot weather then the summer months (June through to September) are very hot, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties on the south coast.

Is Turkey a safe country to visit?

It depends on where you're travelling to but most regions in Turkey are safe and tourist-friendly. However, the Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria, and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces. Although Turkish is the official language of Turkey, English is widely spoken, especially in major tourist areas. You'll find that many locals in Istanbul speak English and are happy to help you with directions, recommendations, and other inquiries.

Airlines that fly to Turkey:

• Turkish Airlines
• British Airways
• Lufthansa
• KLM
• Aegean
• Air France
• Pegasus Airways
• United Airlines
• American Airlines
  

The Caribbean

The Caribbean or West Indies is a subregion of the Americas that includes the Caribbean Sea and its islands, some of which are surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and some border both the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. The Caribbean is a well-known and thriving tourism hotbed due to its tropical climate, white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. The constant sunshine in the Caribbean is perfect for kicking back and taking leisurely walks along its beaches. It's a total paradise for travellers craving stunning scenery and unforgettable adventures. Plus, the blend of different cultures and nationalities gives the area a special vibe all its own.

Which Islands in the Caribbean are best for families?

Antigua is perfect for parents who want to unwind and relax. Antigua has 365 beaches, ensuring there's always a new spot to explore every day of the year. With such variety, it's no wonder this destination ranks high among the best family vacation spots in the Caribbean. A must-do on a family getaway to Antigua is the weekly barbecue at Shirley Heights. Every Sunday, this spot becomes a hub of excitement with delicious food and live music, creating a festive atmosphere that's ideal for family enjoyment. Antigua also offers a snorkelling experience that caters to younger travellers. Long Bay Beach, on Antigua’s east coast, has plentiful marine life on a reef in shallow water. The reefs are so shallow that you can walk to them, and even kids who can’t swim yet may be able to see fish and practice with snorkel masks.

The Dominican Republic offers the perfect hassle-free Caribbean escape for families with children. With lots of fun excursions featuring waterslides, pools, and entertainment, it's an ideal destination for families seeking a few days of fun and relaxation. Whether your kids are seeking thrill or adventure, or you’re simply looking for an easy beach getaway, you can find it at a reasonable price point in the Dominican Republic. That’s what makes it one of the best Caribbean islands for families. 

Barbados offers an array of beach activities, ensuring kids have an amazing time. From sailing lessons, snorkelling, and catamaran cruises to jet skiing and boogie boarding, older kids can get their adrenaline fix. Meanwhile, younger ones can enjoy the calmer waters of the West Coast while mum and dad soak up the sun. You might also enjoy a stroll into Bridgetown as it has a vibrant nightlife. With so many brilliant activities, indulgent all-inclusive resorts, beautiful beaches and all-year-round sun, it’s no wonder Barbados is so popular for family holidays.

Weather

The best time to visit Barbados is between December and June when the weather is driest. The island has a warm, tropical climate year-round, with temperatures averaging highs of 30°C. The wet season is a cheaper time to visit and lasts from July to November in Barbados, with rain falling for at least an hour every day. After a storm, however, rain is usually instantly followed by hot and sunny weather, drying everything very quickly.

Is The Caribbean a safe country to visit?

While Caribbean Islands are generally a very safe destination and English is the first or second language in most Caribbean countries which is helpful when booking excursions and travelling around the islands. The locals who live there are very friendly and welcoming to tourism in their country.

Airlines that fly to the Caribbean

• Caribbean Airlines
• British Airways
• Virgin Airways
• Air France
• KLM
• Delta
• Jetblue
• United Airlines
• American Airlines

Cyprus

Cyprus, officially the Republic of Cyprus, is an island country located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Half of Cyprus is Greek which is Paphos and the other half is Turkish which is Larnaca. Cyprus has something for everyone to discover, making it the ideal choice for your family holiday in the sun. Select from stunning sandy beaches and warm waters, explore spectacular ancient architecture, discover mountain climbing adventures and check out the array of water parks dotted around the island. Older children might prefer to check out the exciting range of water sports, including kayaking or windsurfing, or discover the local water park with rides and slides, thrills and spills for all ages. 

Which areas of Cyrpus are best for families?

Aphrodite Waterpark is located in Paphos and is the ideal place for a day out for the whole family. Try the lazy river, dare yourselves to slide down the highest slides or head to the wave pool.

Learn about the history of the area at Limassol's medieval castle, hit the shops or spend the day splashing about on the warm sands of the beach. There are plenty of activities for little ones, and most of the restaurants cater to children and families as well.

Families can try the water sports on the Blue Flag beach, as well as horse riding, mountain biking and hiking through the surrounding hills. Head back into town for a fishing village feel, with Pissouri having escaped the waves of tourists and retained much of its original charm.

Larnaca is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere, having an array of excellent dining spots and bars, making it an ideal vacation spot for families. The primary allure of Larnaca undoubtedly lies in its picturesque beaches.

Weather

Blessed with a sunny Mediterranean climate, Cyprus can be a year-round destination, depending on where you want to go and what you’d like to do. The best time to visit Cyprus is either side of the peak summer heat, in May, June, September and October. During these months, the temperatures are warm enough for swimming, but not uncomfortably hot. July and August are the driest, sunniest time of year, and hot midday temperatures reach into the mid-30s °C.

Is Cyprus safe to visit?

Crime against visitors is not common in Cyprus, but the usual common sense rules apply around keeping your belongings safe in your hotel room and when out in restaurants and bars. The official languages of the Republic of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish. However, the majority of the population speaks Greek as their first language. In addition, many Cypriots also speak English.

Airlines that fly to Cyprus

• Cyprus Airways
• Ryan Air
• Wizz Air
• Easy Jet
• TUI Airways
• British Airways
• Turkish Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• Pegasus Airlines
• Lufthansa
• American Airlines
  

Dubai

Dubai is the most popular city in the United Arab Emirates and the capital of the Emirate of Dubai. The vast theme parks, sandy beaches, cultural experiences and unique attractions mean they won't be bored. But the safety and cleanliness make it a dream destination, particularly for those travelling with their children for the first time. Dubai is perfectly located in the Middle East with desert adventures and seaside water sports. It’s crammed with amusement parks, dazzling displays and educational attractions that offer hands-on learning opportunities — all of which make Dubai a great destination for a family holiday.

Which areas of Dubai are best for families?

In Dubai, you can count on year-round sunshine and dry heat, making it the ultimate spot to master the art of relaxation. The city's waterparks are seriously top-notch, whether you're up for a laid-back float down a lazy river or a heart-pounding descent on a high-speed slide. With options ranging from family-friendly fun to hair-raising thrills, there's something for everyone at Dubai's waterparks. Over at Aquaventure Waterpark (situated within the hotel complex of Atlantis, The Palm), is the perfect family day out in Dubai!

Dubai might be best known for its skyscrapers, but its beaches are top class too, and most are free to access. The stretch of sand in front of Jumeirah Beach Residence, aka The Beach, is one of the most popular due to the sheer number of people who live in the area. This is the best place to unwind with the kids and keep them entertained in the scorching heat.

Ideal for tiring out adrenaline-addicted kids, many local tour companies will take you out for a day of dune bashing, which involves taking a 4×4 vehicle full of gleefully shrieking families and hurling it at hourglass landscapes. For the full experience, try an evening’s desert safari package, which usually includes dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting and a barbecue feast fit for a Bedouin king, complete with live music.

If thrill rides are what your kids crave, then Dubai has much more in store. Only topped by Warner Bros World in Abu Dhabi, Worlds of Adventure is the second-largest indoor theme park on the planet. With four diverse zones - all packed with an extensive array of rides, shopping outlets, and dining options, the facility has been designed to fulfil the leisure needs of patrons of every age group and skill.

Weather

The temperature can skyrocket to the early forties in June to August and sometimes go further to the fifties. The humidity and heat continue to escalate during these months. Sandstorms whip their way into the city, making it difficult to move around. The Dubai rainy season is supposed to fall between January and March, but the rains are not heavy at all. Some years, there may be no rain whatsoever. December to March is generally the best time to visit Dubai weather-wise as it's not too hot but can still reach the 30's.

Is Dubai safe to visit?

Dubai stands out as one of the safest cities for tourists in the Middle East. Thanks to its stringent laws, crime is kept to a minimum, providing a sense of security that many visitors appreciate. Compared to other regions worldwide, Dubai has a significantly lower crime rate, making it a preferred destination for travellers seeking peace of mind. It is generally safe for women to visit Dubai, even alone. However, it's important to dress conservatively.

Airlines that fly to Dubai

• Emirates
• Fly Dubai
• British Airways
• KLM
• Virgin Atlantic
• United Airlines
• Turkish Airlines
• American Airlines
• Pegasus Airlines
• Singapore Airlines
  

Spain

Spain or the Kingdom of Spain(Reino de España), is a country located in Southwestern Europe, with parts of its territory in the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea and Africa. From the warm climes of Tenerife to the trendy beaches of Marbella, we have chosen their top picks for the best family holidays in Spain and why you should visit. Discover scenic beaches, vibrant cities and family-friendly resorts in our roundup of the best destinations in Spain for a family holiday.

Which areas of Spain are best for families?

The Canary Islands are a little slice of heaven in the Atlantic Ocean, not far off the north-west coast of Africa, Tenerife itself has a gorgeous volcanic landscape, so you’ll be enjoying the beach with incredible views of Mt. Teide and the hillsides of the rocky island looming over you, with fabulous weather year-round. In Tenerife, Loro Parque Zoo is a large animal park that offers a fun and informative day out. Or, you could go to Siam Park to cool down from the heat – this waterpark will keep all ages entertained for hours.

As one of Europe’s most popular destinations, Mallorca appeals to all travellers. It may be close to Spain, but feels like it’s miles away from anywhere else. If you're eager to venture out and discover the waters surrounding Mallorca, there's no shortage of options for boat excursions. You'll have the chance to explore the island's stunning bays, take a refreshing plunge into the warm waters, and snorkel while seeking out underwater treasures. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins frolicking nearby as you sail!

An otherworldly landscape with beautiful safe beaches, Lanzarote is the perfect place in Spain for families to soak up the sun on a relaxing holiday with the kids. Lanzarote is one of the Canary Islands off the coast of West Africa. Families will find plenty of activities to keep them busy, including tennis courts, golf courses, sailing clubs, horse riding stables, swimming pools, and diving centres.

Marbella might come as a surprise on the list of best family destinations in Spain. Despite its reputation, Marbella offers numerous fantastic attractions for families, particularly those with older children. Puerto Banus stands out as a must-visit spot, with its glamorous marina ambience and an array of upscale restaurants and shops that appeal to teenagers. Be sure to make a pit stop at La Creperie in the evening for a delightful treat of pancakes and ice cream!

Weather

The best time of year to visit Spain is in the spring and early summer (April-June) and fall (September-October) for abundant activities, good weather, and fewer tourists. However, if you are a Sunseeker and don't mind paying a bit more for peak time then the hottest months to visit are months of July and August with temperatures peaking at 30 °C.

Is Spain safe to visit?

You shouldn't find Spain intimidating, It is a lovely country with very nice people. It is easily one of the most welcoming countries for expats, and the country is particularly popular with families. Spain has a low crime rate however, like any country there is still records of petty crime like theft so keep that in mind when visiting.

Airlines that fly to Spain

• Iberia
• Easy Jet
• Wizz Air
• Vueling
• Lufthansa
• TAP
• TUI Airways
• British Airways
• American Airlines
• United Airlines
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Thailand

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country. It's known for tropical beaches, royal palaces, ancient ruins and temples displaying figures of Buddha. Thailand is tailor-made for family vacations. It's an ideal destination for warm weather and fun activities. On Thailand's southwest coast north of Phuket, Khao Lak has the right balance of calm and action for kids and young families with a variety of fun and memorable activities to keep your kids happy. Other places in Thailand that we suggest you visit are Koh Samui and Chiang Mai. From beautiful islands and natural scenery to its abundant variety of cultures and traditions, Thailand offers something for visitors of any age.

Which areas of Thailand are best for families?

Are you thinking of going to Thailand for a family holiday but worried there isn't much there for kids? Thailand is known as the "land of smiles," which promises endless smiles for your family. If you're seeking more family-friendly experiences to add to your Thailand vacation, look no further. Here's your comprehensive guide to family-friendly activities in the country's most popular cities for family holidays.

If you're in Phuket, visiting the famous James Bond Island and Phi Phi Islands is usually at the top of every traveller's bucket list. While exploring these stunning islands, your kids can enjoy snorkelling and swimming while you relax on the beach with a coconut or watermelon smoothie in hand!

Kids can learn about the protection of elephants and ethically interact with them at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is the only World Animal Protection-certified elephant sanctuary in Phuket.

In Phuket, they have opened a new water park called Andamanda. Dive into the refreshing Andamanda Water Park, where you can enjoy exhilarating water slides, swim-up bars, and an artificial wave pool that will transport you to the shores of the Great Andaman Bay. This is an ideal day out with family where everyone can join in.

Weather

The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool and dry season between November and early April when temperatures range from 29°C to 34°C. However, due to the microclimates, you can visit all year round. July onwards starts the monsoon, and the next three months are the wettest and the least appealing ones to head to Thailand.

Is Thailand safe to visit?

In general, Thailand is one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for tourists. But laws are strict, and you have to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation. The majority of the people are respectful, and friendly and will help if you're in need. Thailand is currently ranked #9 safest country for solo female travellers.

Airlines that fly to Thailand

• Thai Airways
• Qatar Airways
• Cathay Pacific
• IndiGo
• Emirates
• British Airways
• Oman Air
• Etihad Airways
• Ethiopian Airlines
• American Airlines

Portugal

Portugal is a southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain. Portugal stands out as one of the most family-friendly countries in Europe. Children are warmly embraced as an essential part of daily life, and they're joyfully welcomed everywhere, be it museums, restaurants, town squares, or theatres. Portugal is between a two to three-hour flight time from the UK, making it an easy-to-reach destination for the whole family to travel. From exploring ancient castles to wandering the narrow cobbled streets of Lisbon, not to mention the glorious beaches of the Algarve, there are so many things to do for all types of families.

Which areas of Portugal are best for families?

With plenty of sunshine and coastline, the popular Algarve region in the south is a real draw for families, with masses of water-based attractions including Aquashow, Aqualand and Zoomarine, which combines a theme park, water park, zoo and conservation projects for an exhilarating day out.

Portugal’s capital Lisbon is also worth a visit with the little ones, as there’s plenty to keep them entertained from imagining tales of knights at the Castle of São Jorge to exploring the city’s zoo and science museum.

While Lisbon is Portugal's top holiday destination, quieter Porto is a great alternative if you have kids in tow. Why? Well, for one thing, it's smaller and more manageable, with a compact downtown hub, and plenty of parks with viewpoints and cafes as a reward for climbing its famous hills.

The waters around the Algarve are a natural habitat for various species of dolphin, including Bottlenoses, Striped and Common dolphins. Go dolphin-watching and see these majestic marine mammals leap out of the depths of the Atlantic Ocean from inflatable boats or family-friendly catamarans, depending on your operator.  

Weather

The climate in Portugal varies greatly between the north and south of the country. Porto and northern Portugal have a relatively mild year-round climate. During the summer months, temperatures can reach 25C with plenty of sunshine. But during the winter, heavy wind and rain in the region can make it feel pretty chilly. Lisbon has a hotter year-round climate than Porto and the north. Summer temperatures can reach 30C+, while the winter cools down to a pleasant 15-20C.

Is Portugal safe to visit?

Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates. Particularly, if you visit the autonomous islands of Madeira and the Azores, you'll find them some of the safest destinations. You'll notice that the streets are well-lit, and there are tons of restaurants and bars open late at night with people out and about. Low crime rates along with excellent public transport and friendly locals make Portugal the ideal destination for females travelling alone for the first time.

Airlines that fly to Portugal

• TAP Air Portugal
• EasyJet
• Ryanair
• Jet2
• British Airways
• American Airlines
• United Airlines

The USA

In the United States, you have the option to delve into the expansive outdoor landscapes of California's national parks with your family, try lasso like a cowboy on a ranch, or uncover a different facet of Florida beyond its amusement parks. Hawaii's relaxed culture, volcanic wonders, and pristine beaches offer an escape that feels worlds away from the mainland USA. Meanwhile, cities like San Francisco offer plenty of family-friendly activities, ranging from museums and city tours to guided bicycle rides. If you want an exciting family holiday with an endless list of activities then the USA is the place to visit!

Which areas of The USA are best for families?

Ohana (family) is deeply important in Hawaiian culture, which makes the islands a welcoming destination for kids of all ages. From snorkelling and sandcastle building on sun-soaked beaches to exploring volcanoes and sacred cultural sites, the Hawaiian Islands are a natural playground you never outgrow.

Known as the Theme Park Capital of the World, Orlando is easily one of the most popular family holiday destinations in America. From death-defying roller coaster rides to dolphin shows and Disney character parades, it's easy to see why families flock to Florida every year. But there is more to Florida than its theme parks. The Sunshine State gets its name from its year-round sunshine, making it a great beach destination for families. Navigating many of the incredible activities in Orlando can be overwhelming when planning a family trip. That's why we've put together comprehensive guides featuring enjoyable ideas such as character dining, family-friendly restaurants, mini-golf, indoor attractions, budget-friendly options, free activities, and more. By utilizing these recommendations, crafting a well-rounded Orlando vacation that your children will treasure for years to come becomes effortless.

San Diego's year-round perfect weather and wealth of epic attractions make it a serious crowd-pleaser. After all, the town nicknamed “America's Finest City” has sandy beaches, iconic theme parks, Major League Baseball, and kid-friendly experiences.

Weather

The climate of the United States is highly diverse, ranging from tropical conditions in south Florida and Hawaii to arctic and alpine conditions in Alaska and across the Rocky Mountains. Florida has a humid climate with hot sultry summers and a drier sunnier winter season. visit between June and September, however many holidaymakers think the best time to visit is between October and May when the weather is near perfect. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 34 C and an average low of 24 C. The coolest month of the year is January with an average daily maximum of 22 C and an average low of 11 C.

Is the USA safe to visit?

Although the USA is generally safe, some cities are considered to be more dangerous than others, with some areas that you should avoid. Americans are very welcoming and friendly, especially in states such as Florida and California.

Airlines that fly to The USA

• American Airlines
• Jetblue
• Delta
• United Airlines
• Spirit
• Virgin Airways
• British Airways

From the sunny beaches of Spain and Greece to the exotic wonders of Thailand and the adventures of Disney, each of our best holiday destinations for families has its unique charms attractions and experiences. whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, thrilling wildlife encounters – or all of the above – there’s something for every family. So pack your bags, and embark on the journeys of a lifetime with your loved ones. We understand that taking the family away on holiday can be pricey and it can be difficult to find something within your budget. Book your flights now with Alternative Airlines and use Fly Now, Pay Later options to spread the cost of your vacation and make it more affordable.