Travelling as a family is one of the most rewarding experiences.

Exploring new places together, creating unforgettable memories, and seeing the joy on our kids’ faces is priceless.

Over the years, we’ve had our fair share of fantastic family-friendly destinations across Europe, and for 2025, I want to share my top picks with you.

Whether you’re after a city break, a beach retreat, or an adventure in nature, these family holiday destinations are sure to impress!

1. Disneyland Paris, France – A Magical Escape

If there’s one place that embodies childhood dreams, it’s Disneyland Paris.

We took the kids a few years ago, and it was nothing short of magical.

From meeting their favourite characters to thrilling rides and enchanting shows, Disneyland Paris is a must for families.

A vibrant and magical parade at Disneyland Paris featuring Cinderella and Prince Charming riding in an elegant, horse-drawn carriage. Cinderella is dressed in her iconic blue gown, wearing a delicate tiara, and waving gracefully to the crowd, while Prince Charming sits beside her in a regal white and gold outfit. The beautifully adorned carriage, decorated with lush green foliage and purple and gold accents, is led by a strikingly detailed white horse with a sculpted mane. Behind them, a whimsical float adorned with oversized flowers, woodland creatures, and characters from Disney classics adds to the fairy-tale atmosphere. In the background, the enchanting Sleeping Beauty Castle towers over the scene, with its pink and blue spires glistening under a partly cloudy sky. The parade route is lined with excited park visitors, including families and children, capturing the moment on their cameras. The setting perfectly captures the essence of Disneyland Paris, where fantasy and childhood dreams come to life.

Top Attractions:

  • Sleeping Beauty Castle
  • Pirates of the Caribbean ride
  • Ratatouille: The Adventure

Family-Friendly Accommodation:

Staying on-site at Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel meant we were immersed in the experience from start to finish.

The hotel is beautifully themed and has excellent family facilities.

Travel Tips:

  • Book your tickets in advance to get the best deals.
  • Plan your FastPass rides to avoid long queues.
  • Stay at a Disney hotel for early park access.

2. Tenerife, Spain – A Sun-Soaked Island Paradise

For families looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, Tenerife is a fantastic choice.

We visited Playa de las Américas last year, and it was perfect – sandy beaches, kid-friendly resorts, and a wealth of activities.

A vibrant and action-packed scene at Siam Park, a renowned water park in Tenerife, Spain. The focal point of the image is 'Lost City,' an intricately designed play area with ancient temple-inspired structures, wooden bridges, and thrilling water slides. A massive tipping bucket at the top of the structure is releasing a powerful cascade of water, splashing down into the shallow pool below. Children and adults can be seen enjoying the refreshing water, with one child standing directly under the splash and another running toward the excitement. The area is surrounded by lush tropical greenery, including palm trees and exotic plants, enhancing the park's jungle-like atmosphere. A sign labeled 'Lost City' is prominently displayed near the central staircase, adding to the adventurous theme. In the foreground, a stone sculpture featuring carved snakes adds to the ancient aesthetic. The cloudy sky above suggests a warm but slightly overcast day, perfect for a fun-filled family outing at one of Europe's top water parks

Top Attractions:

  • Siam Park – Europe’s best water park!
  • Loro Parque – A fantastic zoo and conservation park.
  • Teide National Park – A stunning volcano hike.

Family-Friendly Accommodation:

We stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife, which had brilliant family amenities, including a kids’ club and family pools.

Travel Tips:

  • Rent a car to explore the island easily.
  • Visit Siam Park early to beat the crowds.
  • Take a boat trip to spot dolphins and whales.

3. Copenhagen, Denmark – A Fairytale City

Copenhagen is one of the most underrated family destinations in Europe.

We were blown away by how welcoming it was for kids, from amusement parks to interactive museums.

A young child wearing a blue fleece jacket and a plaid cap stands on a paved walkway, capturing a photo of a highly detailed LEGO model of Nyhavn, the iconic waterfront district in Copenhagen, Denmark. The miniature scene, part of the Legoland Billund park in Denmark, features a row of colorful LEGO-built townhouses with red, yellow, blue, and white facades, meticulously designed to resemble the real-life harbor. Tiny LEGO boats float on a reflective water feature, mirroring the vibrant buildings. In the background, other visitors explore the park, strolling along landscaped paths lined with green shrubs and bright yellow flowers. The lush greenery, tall trees, and a partly cloudy sky create a serene outdoor setting. The child's stance and focus on the LEGO model highlight their fascination with the intricate details of the display, making the image a perfect representation of family-friendly travel and creative exploration

Top Attractions:

  • Tivoli Gardens – A magical amusement park.
  • The Blue Planet Aquarium – The largest aquarium in Northern Europe.
  • LEGO House in Billund (a short trip from Copenhagen).

Family-Friendly Accommodation:

The Tivoli Hotel is an excellent choice for families, offering themed rooms and a swimming pool.

Travel Tips:

  • Get the Copenhagen Card for free entry to attractions and transport.
  • Rent bikes – it’s the best way to explore the city.
  • Try the local hot dogs – the kids loved them!

4. Lake Bled, Slovenia – A Storybook Escape

If you’re looking for a peaceful yet adventurous getaway, Lake Bled is a dream.

This stunning alpine lake, surrounded by mountains and forests, feels like something out of a fairy tale.

A picturesque courtyard at Bled Castle in Slovenia, surrounded by lush greenery and historic medieval architecture. The castle, perched atop a hill, features a distinctive round tower with a red-tiled roof and white stone walls, giving it an authentic, centuries-old appearance. Visitors are seen strolling through the cobbled courtyard, admiring the scenic surroundings and exploring the castle’s various attractions. Some tourists are dressed in summer attire, carrying backpacks and cameras, indicating a warm and sunny day. A shaded seating area with tents and an outdoor café is visible in the background, providing a resting spot for visitors. On the right, a red sign offers historical information about the castle. The foreground is framed by ivy-covered walls and trimmed bushes, adding to the enchanting, storybook-like setting. The entire scene captures the charm and rich history of one of Slovenia’s most famous landmarks, making it a must-visit for families and history enthusiasts alike

Top Attractions:

  • Bled Castle – A medieval castle with amazing views.
  • Pletna Boat Ride to Bled Island – A fun tradition.
  • Vintgar Gorge – A beautiful nature trail.

Family-Friendly Accommodation:

The Rikli Balance Hotel offers spacious family rooms and fantastic wellness facilities.

Travel Tips:

  • Rent bikes to cycle around the lake.
  • Try the famous Bled Cream Cake – it’s delicious!
  • Pack comfortable shoes for hiking trails.

5. The Black Forest, Germany – A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Germany’s Black Forest is a fantastic destination for families who love the outdoors.

We had an amazing time exploring the fairy-tale villages, hiking trails, and adventure parks.

A joyful scene in the charming medieval village of Gengenbach in the Black Forest, Germany. A mother and her young son sit on a rustic wooden bench outside a half-timbered house adorned with vibrant pink and red flowers cascading from window boxes. The mother, wearing a straw hat, sunglasses, and a white summer dress, smiles warmly while holding her son's hand. The little boy, dressed in a striped t-shirt, blue shorts, and yellow sandals, laughs with delight. The cobblestone street is lined with picturesque, traditional German houses, each decorated with potted plants and trailing greenery. In the background, a few people stroll leisurely, adding to the relaxed and inviting atmosphere of this historic village. The bright, sunny weather enhances the colorful and idyllic ambiance, making this a perfect representation of a family-friendly European travel destination

Top Attractions:

  • Europa-Park – Germany’s largest theme park.
  • Triberg Waterfalls – Germany’s highest waterfalls.
  • Mummelsee Lake – A scenic mountain lake.

Family-Friendly Accommodation:

The Hotel Colosseo at Europa-Park is a great option, especially if you’re visiting the theme park.

Travel Tips:

  • Pack layers – the weather can change quickly.
  • Try the famous Black Forest cake.
  • Visit the Cuckoo Clock Village for a unique experience.

Final Thoughts

Travelling with kids doesn’t have to be stressful – with the right destination, it can be an absolute joy.

These family-friendly destinations in Europe offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture that cater to families of all ages.

Whether you’re planning a sun-soaked beach holiday, a cultural city break, or an outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone.

Have you visited any of these family holiday destinations?

Or do you have a favourite that’s not on the list?

Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear your recommendations!

Happy travels! ✈️

Photo Credit: Depositphotos

Discover more from Zena's Suitcase

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Previous articleWhich Stocks and Shares ISA is Best?
Next articleOutdoor Living for a Healthier Mind: Designing a Space That Nurtures Wellness

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.