Get Your Kids Involved
The secret to a big family vacation is getting the whole family on board and getting excited. Europe is full of amazing landmarks, attractions, theme parks, and must-sees, and having your kids participate in planning your Europe trip will be a dream vacation. Do your research ahead of time, choose the attractions you want to visit, the attractions your kids like, and then list 3-4 attractions for the kids. This way everyone is happy and has something to look forward to every day.
2. Stay at an AirBnB
Airbnb is cheaper, more private, and has a homey feel, which is very important for children when away from home. Airbnb is a good accommodation option for a family vacation in Europe because hotels in Europe are expensive, even with a breakfast deal. Staying at an Airbnb gives you a kitchen to cook your meals, lunch, and breakfast time where you can discuss the day.
Plus, kids and parents have plenty of space and privacy to relax after a long day of exploring.
3. Tips for family vacations in Europe
Europe is full of spectacular nature reserves and national parks, with great hiking and picnic spots. Europe’s natural splendor is such that even if you travel with small children, you can still explore waterfalls and scenic spots.
Most parks are accessible via train from major city centers. If you plan ahead and prepare, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the fresh air, forests, and theme parks.
4. Book your transportation
Knowing your way around a foreign place is crucial when traveling with children. You don’t want to get lost and travel on foot or through the airport, regardless of the weather. So, planning and booking your transportation routes in Europe will make for a great family vacation.
Public transport is very reliable and comfortable in Europe. There are many travel options within and outside the city centers. Traveling by train and tram is best for kids because you can go everywhere, keeping traffic out of your travel budget.
Compared to renting a car, parking or spending a lot of time paying attention to the route, you can enjoy the ride and snacks, when a train traveling with children in Europe. A big advantage of traveling in Europe by train with kids is that kids travel free with a Euro Rail Pass.
5. Pack light
Traveling to train stations in Europe can be challenging with strollers and large suitcases. Some stations don’t have elevators or escalators, so it’s best to pack light. Be sure to pack foldable strollers and carry-ons, this way if the kids are older, they can carry their luggage.
Additionally, packing light means packing essentials for family travel. Thus, keeping kids busy for train rides with coloring supplies, audio books, or watching cartoons on the iPad, will be a big help.
6. Eating out with kids in Europe
You should know that restaurants in Europe do not serve children, so it’s adults’ portions for everyone. This is especially important to note if you’re traveling to Italy, you won’t find kid-sized portions of pizza or pasta, so be prepared.
But, you don’t need to eat. Europe
One of our best tips for traveling with kids is Family Outings. Much has been said about the parks and nature of Europe because the green beautiful lands are simply designed for your family picnics. Pick up pastries, fresh fruits, and vegetables at the local market and you’re ready for a picnic lunch. Prices at farmers markets are significantly cheaper than supermarkets and restaurants. To top it all off, think of the ideas you’ll enjoy with every bite and completely free.
7. Boat and Free Walking Tours in Europe
You can do it all with a map and books and apps, but joining a boat or walking tour is best. Many European cities have free city walking tours with a local guide. This cheerful guide will show you the best secrets of the city, without you getting lost in the streets. The guide will point out local restaurants with lunch menus and give the best advice on what to do in town.
Europe is full of canals and rivers, so boat trips are another fun and unique way to travel and explore. It will be exciting for the kids and relaxing for you.
8. Set aside time to ride the carousel
Many European cities have the brightest and most beautiful carousels in the main city square. Instead of running to the next site, stop and let the kiddos run as many tracks as they want. Enjoying a carousel ride with the Eiffel Tower behind you is an unforgettable
9. Tips for family vacations in Europe: Make time for “oops”.
Just because you’re in Switzerland doesn’t guarantee everything will go smoothly on your family trip. When you’re traveling with kids, anything can happen, even in Europe, so be sure to leave time for an oops on the trip. Allow time for unplanned surprises, thanks to delays, grumpy kiddos, and be ready to show up and adjust.
10. Show children the way out of Europe
One of our top tips for traveling with kids is to show them how to travel off the beaten path in Europe. Avoid the masses of the main squares, lines for gelato, and family pictures, by heading to those hidden spots, picturesque villages, and extraordinary nature.
Kids love fairy tales and adventures, so take them to places where legends are made. This is a great way to spend quality time together, make the most of a family vacation in Europe, and teach them about Europe’s rich culture and history.
Europe is a great family vacation destination at any time of the year. Whether you’re an adventure-seeking family or interested in sightseeing and museums, Europe’s got it all. Additionally, Europe is family-friendly when it comes to transportation and special city tours. Our 10 best tips for a family holiday in Europe will be of great help as you plan your next or first trip to the land of castles and legends.
