Family travel in Europe is easier than many parents expect. Cities are compact and walkable, public transport is excellent, history comes alive in castles and ruins, and almost every capital has parks, playgrounds, and museums designed for kids. Here are the best places to visit in Europe with children, plus practical tips for traveling as a family.
The Best Places for Family Travel in Europe
1. Rome, Italy
Gladiators, emperors, and gelato make Rome a hit with kids. Explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum (book a family-friendly tour), throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and let the kids run around the Villa Borghese gardens, where you can rent pedal carts. Pizza and pasta keep even fussy eaters happy.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Canal boat rides, the NEMO Science Museum, and Vondelpark's playgrounds make Amsterdam great for families. Older kids will appreciate the Anne Frank House, which needs tickets booked well in advance. Rent a family cargo bike if you're feeling brave.
3. Paris, France
Beyond the Eiffel Tower, Paris has the Jardin du Luxembourg's puppet shows and sailboats, the Jardin d'Acclimatation amusement park, and the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie. Disneyland Paris is a short train ride away.
4. Zurich, Switzerland
Clean, safe, and close to nature. Swim or take a boat trip on Lake Zurich, ride up Uetliberg for mountain views, visit the zoo's elephant park, and take the train to the Alps for a day. Switzerland is expensive, but very easy with children.
5. Barcelona, Spain
Gaudí's colorful buildings look like something from a storybook. Park Güell, the Sagrada Família, city beaches, the aquarium, and the CosmoCaixa science museum keep everyone entertained.
6. Vienna, Austria
Ride the giant Ferris wheel in the Prater, see the Lipizzaner horses at the Spanish Riding School, and visit Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest zoo in the world. The Haus der Musik lets kids conduct a virtual orchestra.
7. London, England
Many of London's best museums are free, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the British Museum. Add a ride on the London Eye, the Tower of London's ravens and crown jewels, and a Harry Potter studio tour.
8. Athens, Greece
Myths and legends come to life at the Acropolis and its museum. Go early to avoid the heat, then cool off at the beaches of the Athens Riviera or take a day trip to the islands.
Family Travel Tips for Europe
- Slow down. Pick fewer places and stay longer. Two or three bases are plenty for a two-week trip.
- Use trains. Kids love train travel, and many operators offer family tickets or free travel for young children.
- Book apartments. A kitchen and a washing machine make family travel much easier.
- Look for family tickets at museums and attractions, and check free entry days.
- Plan breaks. Build in time for parks, playgrounds, and gelato stops between sights.
- Bring a lightweight stroller. Cobblestones and stairs are common, so a compact one is best.
- Keep everyone connected. The egoViet Europe eSIM covers 33 countries, so parents and teens can use maps and message each other without roaming fees. Each phone needs its own eSIM, so check that your phones support eSIM.
Traveling in winter? See our guide to family winter holidays in Europe, and download the best European travel apps.
FAQs: Family Travel in Europe
What is the best city in Europe for families?
London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, Barcelona, and Vienna are all excellent, with plenty of kid-friendly museums, parks, and easy public transport.
Is Europe expensive for families?
It can be, but free museums, family tickets, apartment rentals, and train travel help. Southern and Eastern Europe are generally cheaper than Switzerland or Scandinavia.
What is the best way to travel around Europe with kids?
Trains are the easiest and most comfortable, with space to move around and no airport security queues.
Do my kids need their own eSIM?
If they have a phone and need data, yes. Each device needs its own eSIM plan.