Gone are the days when you could set off backpacking without a thought for tomorrow: traveling with children requires a minimum of organization. But what a joy it is to spend quality time together as a family! From Edinburgh to Rome, from fairytale castles to interactive museums, exciting your little ones has never been easier! To help them catch the travel bug early, Petit Futé has selected 10 European cities ideal for a family city-break.
1. Prague, kid-friendly
Beneath its air of a party capital, Prague could put off many parents. However, " the city of a hundred spires" is full of places to visit with the whole family, starting with Petrín! Located in the heart of the city, this is Prague's largest hill. Take the funicular up to the top to avoid exhausting the whole family! At the top, you'll be greeted by ice-cream vendors, ponies and an unmistakable replica of the Eiffel Tower! Children will be delighted! Note: detský jídelnícek means "children's menu"! Tempted? Check out our article "What to do in Prague? 17 must-sees!"
2. Where to travel with children in Europe? Madrid, la vida loca en famille
Where to travel with children in Europe? Often overlooked in favor of Barcelona, Madrid is nevertheless a city where life is good. Children love to try tapas and other local specialties, and are always well received in restaurants. The Santiago-Bernabéu stadium is a must! It's a chance to see the pitch for real, and above all, to take home a souvenir jersey bearing the image of your favorite footballer! For a family day out, why not visit Retiro Park, the city's green lung and a Sunday rendezvous for all Madrilenians! What to do in Madrid Discover all the must-see and must-visit places here!
3. Brussels and the 9th art
With its gastronomy, Brussels has everything to please the little ones: French fries, waffles and chocolates will delight their palates! There are also many museums to discover, such as the Musée des Enfants, dedicated entirely to children . Among the must-sees in Brussels, don't forget to devote a day to comics, the national pride: Tintin, the Smurfs... Countless heroes were born in Belgium! Younger visitors will be delighted to go in search of comic strip murals in the city, before visiting the museum dedicated to this 9th art form.
4. Where to travel with children in Europe? Vienna, in the footsteps of the Empress
Vienna is full of places to see and visit, but the undisputed star attraction is Shönbrunn. Allow at least a day to visit this majestic palace. Its gardens, zoo and superb puppet theater will delight families. But it's above all the interior that's worth the detour: as you wander through the rooms, you'll be transported into a fairytale world where you'll find many reminders of the woman who occupied the premises: the famous Empress Elisabeth, better known as Sissi! What to do and see in Vienna in 2 or 3 days? Discover our itinerary tips here .
5. Copenhagen, a toddler's paradise
Where to travel with children in Europe? Copenhagen! Your little ones will love the city's fairytale castles, colorful houses, the splendid Little Mermaid statue and, above all...the amusement parks! They're among the oldest in the world! Tivoli Gardens, for example, opened in 1843. Andersen is said to have strolled here several times. In the evening, the atmosphere is magical and very romantic. It's a chance for parents to get together while the little ones enjoy themselves on one of the world's largest carousels!
6. Where to travel with children in Europe? Legendary Edinburgh
A city of legends, from the most terrifying to the most sympathetic, Edinburgh is adestination of choice for family vacations. Children will love seeing the real-life castle used as the setting for the latest Harry Potter film! It's also a great opportunity to brush up on historical knowledge while enjoying a splendid view of the city. A land of tradition, Edinburgh is also known for its distinctive culture, from kilts to bagpipes. As for the parents, they'll be enjoying (in moderation!) succulent whiskies! To help you plan your trip, read our dedicated article: What to see and do in Edinburgh? The 17 must-sees.
7. London, in the heart of the kingdom
If there's one destination everyone agrees on, it's London and its must-sees! Teenagers will love its trendy side, while little ones will be thrilled by the statues of Paddington, the traveling bear! The British capital is easy to get to, and offers a wide range of attractions: from Madame Tussaud's Museum and its wax statues to the Warner Bros Studio Tour, which follows in the footsteps of Harry Potter. Perfect for a weekend away! What to do in London in 3 days? Discover our itinerary tips here .
8. Where to travel with children in Europe? Lapland, land of Santa Claus
We've all dreamed of Lapland! What better gift to give your little one? Among the places to see and visit, thetwo must-sees are Santapark and Santa's village: even in the middle of August, you'll see children's eyes light up! And don't forget to take advantage of this white paradise for family outings by snowmobile or sleigh. Beware, though, that temperatures are very low in winter, so plan to set off with plenty of gear for everyone!
9. Paris, escapade in the City of Light
Where to travel with children in Europe? From the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre and the banks of the Seine, there's always a place to delight your children in Paris! A city of light if ever there was one, the capital leaves a lasting impression on first-time visitors. Take advantage of the many activities on offer, such as the famous Cité des Sciences, cruises on the Seine, and don't hesitate to take advantage of the many opportunities to find a guided tour in Paris. You'll see that Disneyland Paris isn't the only attraction for toddlers after all (although it's certainly still the favorite)! To help you organize your stay, have a look at our articles "What to see in Paris in 3 days? Les incontournables" and "Visiter Paris en famille : 11 sorties à faire avec des enfants".
10. Where to travel with children in Europe? Rome and its treasures
Where to travel with children in Europe? In Rome and Italy in general, the bambino is king! It's a children's paradise, where you can discover the city of gladiators and other ancient heroes. From the Trevi Fountain to the Colosseum, not forgetting the Vatican and its Swiss Guards, the Italian capital is a veritable open-air museum. In terms of cuisine, the whole family will be delighted with pizza and gelati . And don't forget pasta carbonara, a Roman specialty par excellence, which will blow your taste buds away! What to see and do in Rome? Discover the 21 must-sees.
Wondering how to visit Rome in 3 days with your family? Click here for our itinerary tips!
