Family getaways provide an opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones, while helping you to introduce your kids to new cultures and experiences.
If you are dreaming of spending a week or more together with your children, you might be unsure about the perfect spot for a holiday.
To ensure every family member has an unforgettable, educational experience, check out this rundown of the 10 best family-friendly destinations to visit, which are ranked in no particular order.
- Canary Islands, Spain
Whether the whole clan wants to embark on a relaxing summer getaway or an outdoor adventure this summer, the Canary Islands will not disappoint. Thanks to its year-round sunshine, you can head off on a summer holiday at any point in the year to take in the beauty of its golden beaches and famous fiestas.
The Canary Islands also offer so much more than a beautiful backdrop, as it is a trekker’s paradise. It can, therefore, be an ideal way to help your children to learn more about geology, as they can hike their way through various tropical rain forests, volcanic terrain and mountains. Find out more about Canary Island holidays online and see what you could explore.
- Perth, Australia
How does pristine beaches and endless sunshine sound to you? If your answer is bliss, make the journey to sunny Perth this summer.
When you and the kids aren’t lounging on the beach, you can take your pick from many exciting activities and attractions, as the Australian city offers a wildlife park, nature reserve, multiple museums, and art centres.
For example, they can explore:
- The Museum of Perth
- The Nostalgia Box
- Art Gallery of WA
- SciTech
- Mercy Heritage Centre
- Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts
- Orlando, Florida
Let’s face it; Orlando is almost every child’s dream. When the children aren’t meeting Mickey and Minnie Mouse at Walt Disney World Resort, they can hop aboard onto the Hogwarts Express at Universal Orlando Resort.
Another world-famous attraction to visit is Magic Kingdom Park, which is home to six themed lands that feature impressive rides, parades, and costumed characters. While Orlando Studios Florida is also a must-visit, as it offers jaw-dropping movie-themed rides and superb entertainment that the whole family is unlikely to forget.
Sounds fun, right? Well, the trip could potentially trigger your child’s imagination and a passion for the arts, as they might want to enjoy a career as a writer, movie director, dancer, costume designer or musician.
Don’t forget to pay a visit to the many educational museums in Orlando, such as:
- Orlando Science Centre
- Orange County Regional History Centre
- Mennello Museum of American Art
- SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology
- Sunny Beach, Bulgaria
While Bulgaria might not be the first country that springs to mind when planning a summer holiday, it is definitely worth a consideration. One of the most family-friendly resorts is Sunny Beach, which is world-renowned for its beautiful Blue Flag beaches, a multitude of water sports and an atmospheric promenade.
There is, however, more to this beautiful resort, as it is worth taking the kids on a day trip to Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which will allow you all to explore various temples, a fortress wall, and a Medieval Basilica.
- Paphos, Cyprus
Paphos is an ideal destination for all the family, as it offers everything from stunning scenery, a rich history, and delicious cuisine. After spending the day on one of the many clean beaches on the island, which is near the coast of Turkey, you can explore the various historic ruin sites dotted across Paphos.
For example, you can educate your children by taking them to Paphos Archaeological Park, which will allow the whole family to view the ruins of Roman villas. You also can visit the Tomb of the Kings, which is a 4th Century ruin of a large necropolis, with tombs carved into the rock.
- Zante, Greece
Not only does Zante offer many exquisite beaches to choose from, but it is also well-respected for its stunning turquoise waters, which will ensure you each have a picture-perfect holiday. The Greek island also enjoys a long summer season, as you can experience warm weather from May until October.
When the children aren’t playing in the pool or at the beach, they can visit many historical Greek landmarks, such as:
- Venetian Castle
- Kampi Cross
- Venetian Tower
- Argasi Bridge
- Sarakina House
However, if you want to beat the crowds at this popular resort, you would be smart to time your visit for at the start or the end of the peak season.
- Puglia, Italy
It is almost impossible for Italy to disappoint when planning a family-friendly holiday, as it offers beautiful scenery, gorgeous sunshine, and an endless array of historic landmarks to visit. If, however, you are looking for a relaxing, tranquil destination to visit with your children, jump on a plane to Puglia.
In addition to offering endless beaches, Puglia is home to Bitonto Cathedral, which offers striking Italian architecture that will take the family’s breath away. While Troia Cathedral offers an amalgamation of Puglian Romanesque, Byzantine and Muslim styles, which will make you fall head over heels in love with this picturesque city.
You also cannot visit Puglia and not step inside Castellana Caves, which is a natural wonder comprised of stalagmites, stalactites and precious crystals that will wow your children.
- Antalya, Turkey
Keep the whole family entertained during a getaway by taking a trip to Antalya in Southern Turkey. After spending many an hour on Konyaalti beach, you should pay a visit to Antalya Aquarium, which will delight both young and old. The kids will also love to take a trip to the popular Wildpark, which will allow them to learn more about various reptiles and insects.
What’s more, both adults and children must take a walk around the ruins of Phaselis, which will provide an insight into Turkish life under the rule of Alexander the Great, as the remains feature a beautiful amphitheatre, aqueduct, and a market street.