Best Kid-Friendly Vacation Destinations Globally

Travelling with kids can be a daunting prospect, but it needn't be. There are so many family-friendly destinations around the world, and travelling with children can be an enriching experience for everyone involved.

If you're looking for a beach holiday, you could try Mexico, Hawaii, the Yucatan Peninsula, or the Cayman Islands. For a city break, London, New York, and Tokyo are all great options, with plenty of attractions for kids and adults alike.

If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, you could try a safari in Kenya, or a trip to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. Or, for a mix of city, beach, and culture, why not try Crete, Bali, or Cape Town?

If you're looking for something a little closer to home, there are plenty of family-friendly destinations in the US, from the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park to the bright lights of New Orleans.

The Best Destinations for Each Age Group

Ages 0-3: Anywhere you want to go

There’s no perfect destination for kids three and under. You can take young kids anywhere. Always wanted to see the Great Wall of China, or the Pyramids, or Dubrovnik, or Iceland? Go! Flights are a hassle with kids under 24 months or so, but that doesn’t matter – flights are over with quickly, and then you can enjoy your trip.

Age 5: Spain, Italy and/or Portugal

All three countries are amazing – historical with great food and walkable cities, and lots of very kid-friendly outdoor dining. And they all have beaches too. Given that your kids aren’t in school yet or, if they are, it’s Pre-K or Kindergarten and they’re not going to miss major projects, I’d travel in April/May or September/October. You’ll be avoiding the peak tourist times and still have good weather.

Age 6: Costa Rica and Panama

Costa Rica is the best of all worlds for kids – beaches, animals and activities. Base at a resort, but head off to the national parks in search of monkeys and sloths. Or go to Panama – similar to Costa Rica, but with the Panama Canal (interesting for kids of all ages) and it’s a little less touristed and less expensive. Both countries are reachable via direct flights from the US.

Age 7: Scandinavia or Canada

Seven is a perfect age for getting outdoors. Norway and Sweden are especially kid-friendly when it comes to having safe, walkable cities and amazing nature a bus, metro or train ride away. In Oslo, you can take the T-Bane to Sognsvann to hike, barbecue by the lake or go swimming in the (fairly cold, but fun) lake. There are forests on the T-Bane lines as well for berry picking. In Sweden fly into Stockholm, take the train roughly an hour and a half to Köping and take a taxi to Kolarbyn, where you can sleep in a forest hut, canoe to a floating sauna and cook all of your meals over campfires. Oh, and there’s mushroom and berry picking in the forests all around there. Magical!

If you want to stay closer to home (assuming home is the US), look at Canada. It’s very similar to Scandinavia – cold and dark some of the year, but June through September are perfect, and Alberta is amazing in winter. So much to do, from kayaking and hiking to skating and snowshoeing to animal experiences to exploring really cool cities. And it’s (mostly) English-speaking. We love Manitoba, right in the middle and accessible from everywhere, and Alberta, with Banff and Lake Louise.

Age 8: Antarctica or Japan

The first blog post I ever wrote was about taking my daughter to Antarctica when she was eight. It was a perfect age – she loved seeing the animals (penguins, seals and whales mainly) and playing in the snow/ice. She didn’t get bored on the boat. She was great with the hikes and kayaking. And she was light enough that she didn’t sink into the snow on our walks like the adults did. And then I returned with my other daughter when she was 12 and it was just as magical. A lot of people wait to visit Antarctica until they’re retired. That’s a waste. Take your kids! Starting at 8-10 or so, they’ll love it.

But Antarctica isn’t for everyone. Japan is another good option at eight. It’s cultural but in a really interesting way with temples and anime coexisting – zen and crazy. My daughter absolutely loved Japan at seven and eight.

Age 10: An African Safari (or the Amazon Rainforest)

We loved our safari in Tanzania and Kenya when our kids were 5, 8 and 10. We found that it was best for our 10-year-old however. There are a lot of vaccinations/medicines that are recommended for Africa travel, and our 5-year-old had trouble swallowing malaria pills. And long days in the safari vehicle are easier for older kids. Ten is pretty much perfect. Again, feel free to take younger kids. I have friends who have taken their kids on safari every year since the kids were born.

If a safari is out of your budget, or if you don’t want to travel that far, think about heading to Brazil’s Amazon rainforest. It’s still my favorite kid trip ever. I took my daughter at eight, but there were kids on our boat between seven and 14. Ten was a perfect age. Lots of animals and lots of adventure, and not having internet is good for kids and adults alike!

Ages 11-13: A Montana Dude Ranch

Between the ages of 11 and 13, kids, or tweens, will likely want some autonomy, but they also need boundaries. A dude ranch or guest ranch encompassing hundreds of acres of pristine, wide-open space makes for a wonderful compromise.

"When kids are in their early teenage years, there is nothing better than a vacation that combines adventure with something new," says Spence. "Watching our kids step outside of their element — horseback riding on mountainside cliffs or even just hiking in the beautiful Montana nature — is one of the best parts of being a parent."

Teenagers (Ages 14-17): An African Safari

"It is all about the thrill of experiencing something so different from what they've ever seen before," says Extraordinary Journeys' founder and CEO Elizabeth Gordon of taking the kids on an African safari.

Biggs Bradley adds, "Safaris are a huge area of passion for me, and I was eager to open my kids' eyes to them when they were young. The sweet spot to take children on their first safari is after 14 because by then you can ensure they will really remember the experience. They'll be able to sit in a vehicle for long periods of time and likely won't be nervous about sleeping in a tent. Plus, many camps also don't allow kids under 12 years old.

A safari is a special experience for a family to encounter together, witnessing an exciting array of animals in their natural habitat — not to mention beautiful traditions and cultures, too. "An amazing guide will teach [the kids] about tracking, get them to think like a detective, and figure out what may have happened in the area by looking at footprints," says Gordon.

College (Ages 18-21): Queenstown, New Zealand

Once kids have gone off to college, it can take a pretty enticing offer to pull them back into the fold for family vacations. Queenstown, New Zealand, is one such attractive proposition. Known as the "adventure capital of the world," it's the kind of all-season destination that offers a scene for everyone — plus, English is the main language spoken.

College Graduates (Age 22 and Up): Japan

By the time they've graduated college, many young adults will be ready to dive, respectfully, into a

The Best Destinations for Outdoor Adventures

Costa Rica and Panama

Costa Rica is a fantastic destination for kids of all ages. It offers beaches, wildlife, and activities. You can base yourself at a resort and head to the national parks to spot monkeys and sloths. Panama is similar but with the added bonus of the Panama Canal, which is interesting for all ages.

Scandinavia or Canada

Norway and Sweden are ideal for families with kids who love the great outdoors. Both countries offer safe, walkable cities and incredible nature just a short train or bus ride away. In Oslo, you can hike, barbecue, or swim at Sognsvann, all easily accessible via the T-Bane. In Sweden, you can fly into Stockholm and head to Kolarbyn, where you can sleep in a forest hut and cook over campfires.

If you're looking for a destination closer to home, Canada is a great option. Alberta, Manitoba, and British Columbia offer kayaking, hiking, skating, snowshoeing, and animal experiences.

Antarctica

Antarctica is a unique and exciting destination for families with kids aged 8 and above. They can enjoy spotting wildlife such as penguins, seals, and whales, as well as playing in the snow and ice and going kayaking. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will create lasting memories.

The United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is an excellent choice for families new to international travel. With English as the primary language, it's easy to navigate and communicate. London offers plenty of kid-friendly attractions, such as the Making of Harry Potter Studio.

The United Arab Emirates

Dubai is a central hub for flights and a great stopover destination. It offers tons of family-friendly activities, from desert safaris to theme parks and beaches. Abu Dhabi is also a fun city for kids, with plenty to explore and enjoy.

Australia

Australia is a large country with diverse offerings for families. The Sunshine Coast, Fraser Island, Sydney, and the Great Ocean Road are ideal for a month-long vacation. You can see kangaroos and koalas, snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef, and enjoy the beaches.

The Best Destinations for Theme Parks and Activity Centres

There are so many amazing destinations for families with kids, and choosing the right one will depend on your child's age, interests, and the type of activities you want to do together. Here are some of the best places to consider for theme parks and activity centres:

Rome, Italy

Rome is an excellent choice for school-aged children as they can learn about ancient Rome, the Colosseum, and gladiators. There are also plenty of exciting activities, such as pizza- and gelato-making classes, treasure hunts in the Vatican, and exploring the Villa Borghese. Rome has something for everyone, from museums and historical sites to delicious food and charming neighbourhoods.

Tokyo DisneySea, Japan

Tokyo Disney Resort is a must-visit for Disney fans. Tokyo DisneySea stands out with its unique nautical theme, fantastical lands, and sections inspired by the Mediterranean, Arabian, and American coasts. It offers a fresh and imaginative take on the classic Disney experience.

The Island of Hawai'i

Hawaii is ideal for toddlers who are captivated by new environments and have a newfound sense of freedom in walking and running. The Island of Hawai'i offers a diverse range of natural wonders, from lava flows to waterfalls, along with resorts that provide family-friendly activities like crab hunting, Hawaiian language lessons, and cultural experiences.

Alton Towers Resort, England

Alton Towers, located in the Staffordshire countryside, combines a rich history with thrilling rides and attractions. Once a private estate, the towers and gardens are now filled with entertainment for all ages. It's a great option if you want a mix of theme park thrills and exploration of the estate's grounds and past.

Orlando, Florida

Orlando is home to some of the most famous theme parks in the world, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. These parks offer a wide range of experiences, from the magic of Disney and its iconic characters to the movie-themed attractions of Universal. Orlando is an excellent choice for families with children of various ages and interests.

Montana, USA

Montana is an ideal destination for tweens who crave autonomy yet need boundaries. A dude ranch or guest ranch in Montana offers wide-open spaces and a variety of activities like horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and sapphire mining. The Ranch at Rock Creek is a highly-rated option, providing a balance of adventure and relaxation for the whole family.

The Best Destinations for History and Culture

Rome, Italy

Once your kids reach school age, they begin to hear a little more about the world around them. Basic elementary school lessons typically include ancient Rome, the Colosseum, and gladiators, so a trip to Rome "will further engage them in the touring, since what they've learned in school will be brought to life." There are countless exciting activities available for kiddos, and even picky eaters will find something they love in the boot-shaped country known for pizza, pasta, and gelato.

London, England

London is a family-friendly destination for parents who want their kids to experience a major European city. English is obviously spoken, it still feels like a foreign place, and they’re likely to be fascinated with the world they may have seen on screen in Harry Potter or other films. Teens and older kids will especially enjoy the ghoulish tales heard at the Tower of London. Europe’s first fortress, it was constructed in the 11th century at the request of William the Conqueror. Queen Anne Boleyn was beheaded there in 1536 and is rumored to still haunt the place. Princess lovers won’t want to miss Buckingham Palace, the former home of Queen Elizabeth. Gather at the big iron gates for the Changing of the Guards, where soldiers march out in their trademark red coats and black hats, accompanied by music and royal horsemen.

Paris, France

As soon as your kids are old enough to appreciate museums, Paris is the place to go. Paris is home to amazing museums, and the younger your kids, the fewer museums you’re going to visit. By 12, kids will be willing to spend a couple of hours in a museum – especially if you book a kid-oriented tour. Twelve-year-olds will have more fun with Paris’ shopping as well.

Athens, Greece

Athens is a great place to take the kids to. I visited France many times when I was a kid and had no concerns or worries about taking our kids there. But, I would highly recommend either driving yourself through the countryside or checking out other places than the major hub of Paris. We loved our time in Biarritz where we enjoyed the French life and visited where the French go on vacation. France is the best country to travel with kids if you are looking for a bit of cultural change but still some westernized influences, it’s very easy to travel to with kids.

Tokyo, Japan

In Tokyo, you can let the teens explore Akihabara, where every other store on its main street is either a video game shop, a toy shop, or a manga retailer (a Japanese-style comic book store). You’ll find plenty of parks and interactive museums to explore together too. And Tokyo Disney Resort is an experience not-to-be-missed. Imagine a Magic Kingdom that combines the best of Disney World and Disneyland.

Edinburgh, Scotland

With a storied countryside that includes countless lakes and tales of an ancient loch monster, not to mention Harry Potter filming sites and fairy pools, it’s the perfect place to bring the kids. The options are practically endless, but one of the top things to do is visit the reindeer herd in the Cairngorms Mountains on a short hill walk led by a herder, departing from Aviemore. The free-ranging animals are friendly, and you’ll have the chance to hand-feed them and take plenty of photos too. If the kids are fans of Harry Potter, you might take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, which crosses the famous 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct made famous in the films. There are beautiful beaches for sandcastle-building, short nature walks leading to waterfalls, canal boats for cruising The Kelpies, and so much more. Start in Edinburgh with a visit to the castle that soars over the historical center.

The Best Destinations for City Breaks

Rome, Italy

Once your kids are school-aged, they will have heard a little about the world around them. Basic elementary school lessons usually include ancient Rome, the Colosseum, and gladiators, so a trip to Rome will further engage them in the touring, since what they've learned in school will be brought to life.

There are countless exciting activities available for kiddos, and even picky eaters will find something they love in the boot-shaped country known for pizza, pasta, and gelato. Pizza- and gelato-making experiences are a must, and kids love making ceramics and mosaics, too. They'll also love treasure hunts in the Vatican and the Villa Borghese, where they can also ride four-wheel bikes and stop for picnics.

London, England

London is a family-friendly destination for parents who want their kids to experience a major European city. English is obviously spoken, but it still feels like a foreign place, and they're likely to be fascinated with the world they may have seen on screen in Harry Potter or other films. Teens and older kids will especially enjoy the ghoulish tales heard at the Tower of London. Europe's first fortress, it was constructed in the 11th century at the request of William the Conqueror. Queen Anne Boleyn was beheaded there in 1536 and is rumored to still haunt the place. Princess lovers won't want to miss Buckingham Palace, the former home of Queen Elizabeth. Gather at the big iron gates for the Changing of the Guards, where soldiers march out in their trademark red coats and black hats, accompanied by music and royal horsemen.

Tokyo, Japan

There are many kid-friendly destinations in Japan, but for a place that offers activities the whole family will enjoy, you'll be especially spoiled for options in Tokyo. Let the teens explore Akihabara, where every other store on its main street is either a video game shop, a toy shop, or a manga retailer (a Japanese-style comic book store). You'll find plenty of parks and interactive museums to explore together too. And Tokyo Disney Resort is an experience not-to-be-missed. Imagine a Magic Kingdom that combines the best of Disney World and Disneyland.

Edinburgh, Scotland

With a storied countryside that includes countless lakes and tales of an ancient loch monster, not to mention Harry Potter filming sites and fairy pools, it's the perfect place to bring the kids. The options are practically endless, but one of the top things to do is visit the reindeer herd in the Cairngorms Mountains on a short hill walk led by a herder, departing from Aviemore. The free-ranging animals are friendly, and you'll have the chance to hand-feed them and take plenty of photos too. If the kids are fans of Harry Potter, you might take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, which crosses the famous 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct made famous in the films. There are beautiful beaches for sandcastle-building, short nature walks leading to waterfalls, canal boats for cruising The Kelpies, and so much more. Start in Edinburgh with a visit to the castle that soars over the historical center.

Paris, France

As the kids get older, they'll be willing to spend a couple of hours in a museum – especially if you book a kid-oriented tour. Twelve-year-olds will have more fun with Paris' shopping, too.

New York City, USA

Visiting New York City is the perfect opportunity to teach your kids about U.S. history in a much more fascinating way than they could ever learn by studying books.

Vist the Statue of Liberty, one of the nation's most recognized symbols of freedom, and walk in the footsteps of the millions of immigrants who came through Ellis Island in hopes of a better life. At Ground Zero, they'll be able to link what they've heard about 9/11 to the actual site and read the names of the victims that are etched in the bronze panels that surround the twin reflecting pools. Of course, there are plenty of opportunities for fun too, including watching the performers in Central Park, visiting the zoo, and walking through the bright lights of Times Square.

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