Are you planning a trip to Europe with family and wondering which are the best European cities to visit with kids? This post is for you!
Since becoming parents in 2018, we've taken our kids on several Europe family-friendly vacations, city trips, and road trips by campervan.
Traveling as a family is different than traveling as a couple, but we love it just as much! Sure, you need to plan more, slow down your travel pace, and pack properly for your (first) trip with kids.
But traveling with your children and sharing adventures together is a wonderful and enriching experience!
Best European cities to visit with kids
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The best cities in Europe for kids
To provide you with plenty of travel inspiration, I've asked family bloggers for their personal recommendations for the best European cities for families.
The result is this list which includes 35 of the best places to visit in Europe with kids, but it's by no means exhaustive.
Nevertheless, I hope it will give you lots of ideas when planning your (next) family trip to Europe!
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Cities in Europe with kids: map
You can find all the European cities for families included in this post in the map and list below.
Click here for the interactive map
35 amazing family city trips in Europe
- Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Athens, Greece
- Barcelona, Spain
- Belgrade, Serbia
- Bern, Switzerland
- Bruges, Belgium
- Budapest, Hungary
- Cagliari, Italy
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Cordoba, Spain
- Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Florence, Italy
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Kotor, Montenegro
- Lisbon, Portugal
- London, United Kingdom
- Madrid, Spain
- Munich, Germany
- Nantes, France
- Nice, France
- Paris, France
- Porto, Portugal
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Rome, Italy
- Salzburg, Austria
- Seville, Spain
- Sibiu, Romania
- Tallinn, Estonia
- Tbilisi, Georgia
- Valencia, Spain
- Venice, Italy
- Vienna, Austria
- Warsaw, Poland
- Wroclaw, Poland
Also read about the most kid-friendly cities in Scandinavia and the U.K.
The most stunning European cities with kids
1. Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Tracy from Amsterdam Wonderland: if you're looking for the best city in Europe for kids it's hard to top Amsterdam. This small family-friendly capital is packed with treats to delight the little ones.
With hands-on museums, transport wonders to amaze (think bikes, trams, and child-friendly canal boat tours), and over 400 playgrounds, yes you read that right, you'll be spoiled for choice.
- The extraordinary Mouse Mansion (a little workshop with floor-to-ceiling mice frolicking in tiny dioramas).
- Tony's Chocolonely shop with its amazing chocolate vending machine.
- NEMO, the city's world-famous science museum with its “touch everything” philosophy (click here to buy a skip-the-line ticket online).
Sample some typical Dutch cuisine
What's more, Amsterdam food is perfect for little ones too. Why not taste kibbeling from a street-side food truck (crispy fried pieces of fish served with mayonnaise).
Or try ‘een wit broodje met hagelslag‘ (chocolate sprinkles on white bread), a very Dutch breakfast. And of course, you can't miss the ultimate Dutch specialty: pancakes or poffertjes!
=> Join this food tour and pamper your taste buds with some of the best treats Amsterdam has to offer.
Keukenhof Garden
If you want to venture a bit further afield and visit the world's largest spring garden, check out this excellent Keukenhof Garden tour that includes transport from Amsterdam city center and a skip-the-line ticket.
So whatever the age of your youngsters, Amsterdam is sure to become their very favorite Euro destination!
Best hotels for families in Amsterdam:
• Mercure Hotel: spacious rooms and great value for money. Click to book.
• GH Amsterdam: a lovely apartment with an excellent location. Click to book.
• Monet Garden: canal views in the city center. Click to book.
2. Athens, Greece
Dawn from 5 Lost Together: I loved our family trip to Athens! I had heard mixed reviews about Athens before we visited, so I wasn’t sure what to expect.
It ended up being a city we loved visiting with kids, full of rich history and culture!
You don’t have to work hard to experience the history of Athens; ruins thousands of years old rise up against modern city streets.
For most visitors, the Acropolis is the main attraction of Athens. Book a skip the line (small-group) tour to the Acropolis online or visit independently.
For our Percy Jackson obsessed daughter, she was in heaven checking out the ancient ruins and hearing about the different buildings and the connection to Greek mythology.
Another highlight of our Athens family trip was this food tour, where we tasted our way through the city. Greek food is world-renowned, but it was amazing to visit hidden gems with the expertise of a local.
We loved wandering the compact neighborhoods of central Athens, eating al fresco in the streets on the warm summer nights and enjoying the views from the top of Lycabettus Hill.
Athens has a distinct feel from other European cities and is, in my opinion, one of the best places to travel in Europe with kids.
If you've got more time to spend in Greece, Athens is also a great jump-off point for a visit to one of the many beautiful Greek Islands.
Click here for the best family hotels in Athens
3. Barcelona, Spain
Keri from Little City Trips: one of the best places to visit with kids in Europe is beautiful Barcelona.
Located on the Spanish coast and full of cultural attractions, Barcelona is a great city for families since it offers both opportunities for outside play as well as traditional sightseeing.
Families are spoilt for choice when it comes to child-friendly activities in Barcelona! In terms of green areas, the famous Parc Guell is a beautiful park where kids can play while parents admire the whimsical creations of architect Gaudi.
Parc de la Ciutadella is lovely to visit and hosts the Barcelona Zoo (click here to purchase Zoo tickets).
The beach is always a hit with kids and Barceloneta is surprisingly family-friendly, with many cafes equipped with high chairs, juices, and often even kids' menus.
If you are looking for attractions that are just for kids but adults can enjoy too, head over to Montjuic. Here you can visit the Poble Espanyol, a village built to replicate the different parts of Spain.
Kids can also play at the Magical Fountain, which has a light show on summer nights that your kids will adore (and so will you!).
Last but not least, don’t forget to plan a trip to the Barcelona Aquarium where you can walk in an underwater, see-through tunnel! Book your tickets online and skip the queue.
Click here for the best family hotels in Barcelona
4. Belgrade, Serbia
Stephanie from Sofia Adventures: Belgrade is one of my favorite cities in Europe and it has great options for families traveling with kids.
Some of my favorite things to do in Belgrade include having cake at Hotel Moskva, exploring the city’s unique communist architecture, and enjoying the city’s great food culture.
Families traveling to East Europe with kids should make sure to visit the Nichola Tesla Museum, which offers tours that include electricity experiments.
The children on our tour were absolutely delighted when the Tesla coils lit up the light bulbs they were holding like light-sabers.
The city also offers opportunities to explore World War II history by visiting the monument dedicated to the Concentration Camp that was located in Novi Beograd during the war.
There is also a Nazi ship that’s been restored and turned into a restaurant and cultural center.
Belgrade is also a great family destination because it’s easy on your budget. With services and amenities comparable to Western Europe cities, but at Eastern European prices, families can stretch their travel budgets much further here!
The city also has tons of free things to do. As it sits at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, there are plenty of beaches, river islands, and other fantastic green spaces to explore.
A lovely evening activity is taking a sunset sightseeing cruise to admire the beautiful monuments of the magical capital of Serbia lit up. Check availability here.
A perfect way for your kids to blow off some steam after a morning spent in museums and other cultural sites.
Altogether, Belgrade is one of the best family holiday destinations in Europe!
Click here for the best family hotels in Belgrade
5. Bern, Switzerland
Claudia from The Travelling Mom: the stately capital city of Bern, Switzerland, is a surprisingly kid-friendly destination that offers lots and lots for visiting families.
Bern has a highly walkable, pedestrian-friendly downtown core with a UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
Check out this 90-minute walking tour to learn about the city’s 800 years of history from a local guide.
Some of the best family-friendly attractions are easily accessed by wandering through Bern’s historic limestone arcades.
These include the 16th-century Zytglogge astronomical clock that chimes every 15 minutes, the waterpark in front of the Federal Parliament Buildings, and the famous Bear Park, home to the brown bears that are the city’s namesake.
The Park is situated next to the Aare River and offers landscaped green space for the bears to roam.
Upriver is the popular MarziliBad swimming pool area, where swimmers can also access the fast-flowing Aare for an exhilarating swim in the glacial meltwater.
A short tram ride from the Old Town leads to Gurten Park, a mountain-top playground for children, with cafes, restaurants, and a 360-degree view of the city and Alpine countryside. It’s a wonderful place for kids to run off energy and have fun!
Bern is also home to various museums, including the Alpine Museum, Bern Historical Museum, and Einstein House.
For budding fine art lovers, Museum Paul Klee has a wonderful children’s program called Creaviva, which offers hands-on creative fun inspired by one of Switzerland’s most famous modern artists.
Altogether, Bern is also definitely one of the best places in Europe to visit with kids!
Click here for the best family hotels in Bern
6. Bruges, Belgium
Sierra from Free to Travel Mama: Bruges is a picturesque little canal city and is another one of the best cities in Europe to visit with kids.
Upon arrival for your weekend getaway, you can’t help but sigh at its fairy-tale appearance. Bruges is very walkable for families, be sure to visit Markt Square and meander its quaint streets.
The most popular activity is to take a canal cruise to get an overview of the city’s history and see areas that would go unseen when exploring on foot.
A canal tour is a perfect activity for families with small children as it's inexpensive and not too lengthy.
The Belfry tower is located in Markt square, climbing tours are available for those willing to brave the steps. You can also rent a bike from several shops near Markt Square.
Explore Bruges like a local on a guided bike tour or go for a bike ride along the canal to the nearby town of Damme (less than an hour's ride) for windmills views and a place for children to run freely in the countryside.
Once you have worked up an appetite, Bruges’ famous chocolate shops, waffles with toppings, French fries, moules e frites, and breweries are sure to provide you with options that everyone in the family will love!
Chocolate is very popular in Bruges and there is even the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum, a place your kids are bound to love.
The entrance ticket (get your online tickets here) includes free chocolate tastings and you get to watch a chocolate-making demonstration
Click here for the best family hotels in Bruges
7. Budapest, Hungary
Gabor from Surfing the Planet: Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in East Europe and a perfect destination for all kinds of public.
Many of the best things to do in Budapest are perfect to visit with kids. There are amazing views you can enjoy from either Gellért Hill or Buda Castle (book a Buda Castle walking tour here).
Furthermore, Budapest is famous for its thermal baths which you can enjoy both in summer and winter (when the outdoor pools are often surrounded by snow!).
There are also many other great places your kids will enjoy, such as:
- The Budapest Zoo
- The Theme Park (near the City Park)
- The Budapest Eye (a large Ferris wheel that also offers fascinating views of the city center)
Budapest is a great culinary destination with lots of local dishes your kids will enjoy. Be sure to try some goulash or stuffed cabbage in the (cheap) local restaurants.
? When visiting Budapest with kids, a smart thing to do is purchasing a Budapest Card, the official city pass.
With this card, you can benefit from a range of discounts, free entries to attractions, and unlimited public transportation. Click here to get your Budapest Card.
Alternatively, you can get a Hop-On-Hop-Off bus ticket (24, 48, or 72 hours) to discover the many sights of Budapest.
Click here for the best family hotels in Budapest
8. Cagliari, Italy
Claudia from My Adventures Across the World: often overlooked for other more famous destinations in Italy is Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia.
However, Cagliari is actually a fantastic destination for a city break, as well as a great starting point to explore the island.
Cagliari is one of the best cities for kids in Europe and an ideal place to travel to for families. The city is packed with history and culture, plus the old city center is easy to explore.
The four main areas are all connected to each other and each of them has its own style and interesting spots.
- Castello is where the Cathedral is located and, as it's on a hill, it's the perfect place to get incredible views of the city.
- La Marina is right by the harbor.
- Stampace is home to several beautiful churches.
- Villanova is a maze of small alleys with beautiful colorful buildings and lovely squares where children play in the summer months.
To learn more about Cagliari's Old Town, book this guided walking tour with a local guide.
One of the best things to do in Sardinia is hiking and Cagliari has several trails that, although located at a mere 10 minutes' drive from the city center, will transport you to a completely different world!
The trail that takes to La Sella del Diavolo (one of the city's landmarks) starts at the lovely Calamosca beach. In just 30 minutes you can hike to a viewpoint from where you can see the entire gulf.
Poetto, Cagliari's main beach, is a fabulous place to run, bike, or skate and a favorite of local families. From Poetto beach you can easily access Molentargius, a natural park perfect to admire wildlife.
With its city charm and its easy access to nature and beaches, Cagliari is one of the best places to visit in West Europe with kids!
Our experience of renting a car in Sardinia >>>
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is one of the European destinations that often gets overlooked, but it's a city with lots to offer for traveling families.
With a beautiful setting on the coastal islands of Zealand and Amager, panoramic views, lovely canals, and colorful houses, Copenhagen definitely has a lot going for it.
A must-visit is Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest theme parks in the world and a good choice for families with kids of all ages.
Important: please note that you'll need an entrance ticket as well as a ride pass because the park admission fee doesn't include tickets for the rides.
Den Blå Planet is Northern Europe's largest aquarium where kids can learn about the fascinating underwater world and walk through an underwater tunnel with hammerhead sharks swimming above their heads.
Copenhagen also offers lots of outdoor activities. You can join a bike tour or take a canal cruise, or simply let your kids run around at one of the many playgrounds (The Tower Playground is great).
No matter if you're visiting Copenhagen on a short break or as part of your family vacation in Denmark, you and your kids will quickly come to love this colorful city.
? Save money with the Copenhagen Card
See the sights of Copenhagen at your own pace and enjoy free entrance to 89 attractions. Choose a card to suit your needs (24 to 120 hours) and save time and money while exploring the Danish capital.
Get your Copenhagen Card here.
What is a good time of the year to visit Copenhagen?
While there is no best time to visit Copenhagen, its northern location means it can get (really) cold. Especially for families with younger children, the winter months are best avoided.
If you don't mind the cold, however, visiting Copenhagen during winter gives you the best chance of seeing the magical Northern Lights.
While northern lights aren't as common in Denmark as in other Scandinavian countries, you can see them if you're very lucky. January and February as the best months to see the Northern Lights in Denmark.
That being said, I'd recommend visiting Copenhagen in June. This is quite possibly the best month to visit Copenhagen, with comfortable temperatures and long daylight hours.
Click here for the best family hotels in Copenhagen
10. Cordoba, Spain
Lori from Fitz 5 on the go: of all the cities we visited during our gap year, the city of Cordoba in the Andalusia area of Spain was my son's favorite.
We had watched videos of the area before our trip and the kids were really looking forward to seeing the “candy cane” mosque.
They were so excited that I was afraid it would not live up to the hype, luckily it did and more!
The main tourist area of town is very walkable and a great representation of an old Spanish city. Our first stop was the famous Mezquita de Cordoba.
This mosque/church has changed hands several times during its 1000-year history. The majority of the building is a fabulous mosque with unique red and white striped columns.
Right in the middle sits an ornate Catholic Cathedral. This was by far my kid's favorite building of our year-long trip. Click here to purchase skip-the-line tickets.
After touring the mosque, we explored the town and took a lovely stroll across the Roman Bridge, and guess what's on the other side? A playground!
Cordoba is a perfect place to visit with kids, it's full of surprises and a city where music hangs in the air.
Click here for the best family hotels in Cordoba
11. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Rachel from Adventure and Sunshine: when I first set eyes on Dubrovnik, it was as spectacular as I had imagined. A medieval walled city, sitting on the edge of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, it has to be seen to be believed.
We were staying in the nearby town of Mlini and caught a small water taxi to Dubrovnik, it was the perfect way to arrive in this imposing city!
What to do in Dubrovnik with kids?
Surrounded by solid stone walls and two drawbridges leading into the city, it is like stepping into a history book.
You can imagine the city as it might have been hundreds of years ago, with knights on horses entering the city and soldiers watching on the wall.
Our best tip, and great family activity, is to walk the city walls. It is about 2km to do a full loop, although you can exit at a number of locations along the way.
This walk gives you the best view of the city from every angle. Click here to book a guided City Walls tour.
When you reach the seaward edge of the wall, look for the divers leaping off the rocks into the sea below. There are also a number of small bars on this side of the wall to grab a drink or an ice cream for your kids (and yourself;-).
Once you come down off the wall, take a walk through the tiny alleyways within the city.
We wound our way through the cobbled streets, and discovered gorgeous doorways, a good number of animals, and pretty outlooks into the plazas below.
To make the most of the outdoors, we recommend you make time to head to one of the beaches nearby. If you have older kids, rent a kayak or book a day sailing out on the water.
What is the best time to visit Dubrovnik with kids?
Dubrovnik is a great family destination to visit on a Europe trip with kids. However, note that it is hugely popular, both with tourists and cruise boats. It also gets incredibly hot in the summer.
We recommend planning your family visit out of peak season, June through early October, so you can escape both the crowds and the heat.
Click here for the best family hotels in Dubrovnik
12. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is among the best destinations in Europe for families. Its compact city center means most highlights are only a short walk apart.
And if you do want to venture a bit further afield you can easily use Edinburg's excellent public transport.
The imposing Edinburgh Castle is one of the major highlights of the city and a must-visit. Check out this skip-the-line walking tour of the Castle or pick up the kid's quiz from the audio guide desk and head off on a treasure hunt in the castle.
While you may not expect it, Edinburg has one of the best Christmas Markets in the UK. Pick up a Harry Potter-themed gift, enjoy some good food from one of the many street stalls or buy local arts and crafts.
Walk the Royal Mile and check out some of the historic landmarks in Edinburgh, such as St. Giles Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament.
If you've got more time to spend in Edinburg, consider taking a day trip to Loch Lomond National Park. Follow a (short) nature trail, visit Doune Castle and admire the amazing views.
Edinburgh and its surroundings have plenty to keep families occupied for several days!
Click here for the best family hotels in Edinburg
13. Florence, Italy
Raluca from Whisper Wanderlust: Florence, the city in the heart of Tuscany, is one of the wonderful places to visit with kids in Europe.
The Italian city has so much to offer, that it's often called an open-air museum. Buildings with spectacular architecture, historic bridges, vibrant streets, delicious food, and a pleasant atmosphere make up the landscape of the settlement divided by River Arno.
Florence is a perfect city for couples and families with children. The little ones will have much to learn here about the world's greatest artists, Florence also known as the heart of the Renaissance.
The streets are filled with monuments and imposing statues, and the balconies are decorated with flowers. Your kids will also enjoy eating pizza and gelato.
Fun fact: did you know Florence is the birthplace of gelato?
Florence or Firenze is also a very safe place and most of the areas of interest are pedestrian, so parents can spend an unforgettable vacation here with their little ones.
Our massive guide to Italy for first-timers >>>
14. Istanbul, Turkey
Lindsay from Carpe Diem Our Way: Istanbul’s position as the gateway between Asia and Europe has made it strategically important for thousands of years.
Straddling two continents, it has a rich history ranging from Roman to Byzantine to Ottoman.
This has led to ancient and very diverse architecture as seen in the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and underground wonders such as the Basilica Cistern.
? Save money and time with a Combo Ticket: skip the ticket lines at the Basilica and Topkapi, and visit Hagia Sophia with a guide. Stay inside as long as you want, and benefit from an audio app. Check availability.
There is no shortage of fun things to do with kids in Istanbul! Families can marvel at the architecture, eat their way around the food markets, enjoy a ride on a boat on the Bosphorous or enjoy views of the city from rooftops.
Your kids will also enjoy strolling around the Grand Bazaar or trying a cup of Turkish tea.
While perhaps not one of the first places families think of when planning a trip, Istanbul could very well be the best place in Europe for kids.
They will surely be impressed by the melting pot of cultures, as people from all over the world come to marvel at the history of Istanbul.
Click here for the best family hotels in Istanbul
15. Kotor, Montenegro
Jeanne from Learning to Breathe Abroad: Montenegro is the gem of the Adriatic and Kotor is its crowning glory.
The city of Kotor has the most stunning scenery, sitting nestled in a valley on the edge of the magnificent Bay of Kotor.
The Old Town is surrounded by immense fortified walls that continue up into the mountains above, forming a 4.5km circle of protection around the city.
These walls are lots of fun for kids to clamber upon, even better is to hike up to St. Johns Fortress. It's called the “huff and puff” trail due to the 1350 steps you need to climb, but kids of all ages can easily manage it.
Kotor is also known as the “City of Cats” and you'll find lots of furry bundles to cuddle everywhere you go.
A visit to the unique cat museum is fun and your €1 entrance fee goes towards feeding the strays. You can even signup your own cats as members for the small fee of €2.
The small beach just outside of the old town is a great place to relax and let the kids have a swim. We also found some of the best gelatos in the Balkans here.
Another fun family activity in Kotor is hopping on a boat tour to the most popular sights of Montenegro. See the impressive Our Lady of the Rocks, swim in the Blue Cave, and visit the caves where submarines were hidden.
Click here for the best family hotels in Kotor
16. Lisbon, Portugal
Katja from Globetotting: Lisbon has everything that you look for in a city; it's colorful, charming, and walkable and there is lots of incredible food to be found!
But there’s more to Portugal’s capital than endless sunshine and grilled sardines. Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, predating London, Paris, and even Rome by hundreds of years.
This makes Lisbon a fascinating city to visit for kids and parents alike.
Tip: it's worth looking into getting a Lisbon card as it will give you unlimited free rides on Lisbon's public transport and free entry to lots of the premier attractions in Lisbon.
Start your adventure with a tram ride onboard Eléctrico 28. This trolley operates like a hop-on-hop-off bus and takes you through some of Lisbon’s most popular neighborhoods.
Make sure to jump off at Praça do Comércio, the city’s biggest public square down by the waterfront.
This is a great place for the kids to run around and it’s also where you’ll find Livraria Bertrand, the oldest bookstore in the world.
Other highlights are the Lisbon Aquarium, the Lisbon Story Center, and the Jeronimos Monastery. Although the kids might be more interested in the Pastéis de Belém pastry shop nearby, which sells the most famous custard tarts in town!
But sights aside, my absolute favorite thing to do in Lisbon is to just wander around…
Its vibrant neighborhoods are a joy to discover on foot and you can always hail a tuk-tuk if the kids decide that they’ve had enough!
Click here for the best family hotels in Lisbon
17. London, United Kingdom
London is one of my favorite places in the world and you're bound to have a great time with young children.
Check out the dinosaur skeletons and animated T-Rex in the Natural History Museum and take a boat ride over the Thames.
Watch the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace and marvel at the view from the Sky Garden situated in the Fenchurch Building (one of the famous landmarks in the city center).
Shop at Hamley's, the largest toy shop in the world, ride the London Eye and have a picnic in Greenwich Park. These are just some examples of all the fun stuff there is to do for families in London!
The best way to get around London is by public transportation. So get yourself an Oyster card and hop on the tube to explore this big city full of exciting adventures.
The best part? Kids under 11 travel free! Read more about getting an Oyster card here.
While most historical sites may seem boring to kids, a visit to the Tower of London is guaranteed to make an impression. Check out the Crown Jewels and meet the ravens known as the guardians of the Tower.
Purchase a skip-the-line ticket to the Tower of London & Crown Jewel Exhibition here.
What is the best time to visit London with kids?
While London is a good place to visit regardless of the time of year, I recommend visiting in Spring or Fall.
May and September are my favorite months for a family trip to London. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to bring an umbrella for the (occasional) shower.
London is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and with good reason: with its wonderful parks, lots of free museums and countless family-friendly places to eat it's a city that will keep you and your family occupied for days (if not for weeks).
Click here for the best family hotels in London
18. Madrid, Spain
Sinjana from Backpack & Explore: the Spanish capital Madrid is one of the most interesting cities to visit in Europe with family.
It will bring to life some of the things which your kids would have only read about in their GK (General Knowledge) books.
Be it the grandeur of the world's largest palace, or the first of the victory arches in Europe (the Alcala gate), there is no dearth of attractive monuments in Madrid.
You can visit the archaeological museum, which is a gem and the most fun way to learn about human history. And if your kids love art there are ample art museums to take them to.
Furthermore, you can enjoy some great family time in the beautiful parks of Madrid. West Park and Retiro Park are among my favorite European parks.
At night you can dine out while watching a flamenco dance show. If time permits you can even add a day trip to the historical city of Toledo.
Click here for the best family hotels in Madrid
19. Munich, Germany
Soumya from Stories by Soumya: Munich is the capital city of Germany’s largest state Bavaria.
While Bavaria itself is an extremely picturesque destination as well, its capital is one of the best places in Europe for kids.
Families usually start at the Marienplatz which is home to a number of exciting activities. For example, you can watch a free show of the Rathaus-Glockenspiel, a huge clock that comes to life with a wedding dance and a jousting match every day.
Alternatively, you can climb up the Peters Tower for an amazing view of the city.
? For families with younger kids the hop-on-hop-off bus is comfortable and easy way to see many of the iconic landmarks in Munich without having to walk all day. There are 3 different routes and 16 stops.
Check availability here.
If you are looking for your kids to run free, head straight to the Englischer Garden or the opulent grounds of the Nymphenburg Palace. Let your kids run wild while you settle down with a comfortable, German picnic.
Munich also houses the Deutsches Museum, which will keep your child engaged for hours and hours. The museum has a Kid’s kingdom, special guided tours for children, and a huge interactive collection.
Altogether, Munich is definitely one of the best family-friendly cities I've ever been to!
Click here for the best family hotels in Munich
20. Nantes, France
Elisa from World in Paris: if you are wondering where to go in Europe with kids, consider visiting Nantes, a beautiful city in France.
The former capital city of Brittany is located by the Loire River and at only two hours from Paris by TGV train.
Nantes is Jules Verne’s hometown and the city inherited his adventurous character and creativity.
You can start your Nantes exploration by visiting his museum, with several short videos and activities designed especially for kids.
The city is best known for its industrial past, it's also home to the biggest shipyards in the country.
Today the former shipyards host Les Machines de l’Ile de Nantes, a group of unusual and quirky machines loved by kids and adults alike.
Families can wander around the island on a giant elephant or take a ride on the carousel of Sea World, populated by fantastic creatures. Or they can check the newest machines created to populate the future giant the Heron Tree.
Finally, don’t miss Nantes’ delicious crêpes and galettes, after all, you are in Brittany! Also, there are many yummy cakes like “le Gateau Nantais” or “the Kouign Amann”.
Click here for the best family hotels in Nantes
21. Nice, France
Alex from Laska Baby Travel: Nice la Bella undoubtedly is the shining star of the Azure coast. A vibrant cosmopolitan city with a stunning coastline, parks, and cafes.
Nice makes a great base for exploring with children!
From Nice, you can easily go day-tripping across the Rivera because it's well connected to the rest of the Coast and the Alps Hinterlands.
Nice was one of our favorite places in France. We enjoyed a day on a beach, while our children played in the gentle waves of the Mediterranean sea.
Strolling along the Promenade des Anglais (you can also rent bikes, roller-skates, or skateboards here) towards the Port of Nice is also highly recommended.
Don't forget to pay a visit to the Old Town, nestled on the top of the hill, with amazing views overlooking the coast.
Nice is easy to explore on foot, even with small children. Kids will love Parc Phoenix, a large green area with playgrounds, greenhouses, and animals.
For older children, there are Adventure Parks (with obstacle courses and zip lines) located around the Riviera.
In addition, French cuisine is great for the whole family, so why not take a cooking class? Children as young as 3 years old can participate!
For those planning a family tour to France, definitely add Nice to your itinerary as it's one of the most child-friendly cities in Europe!
Click here for the best family hotels in Nice
22. Paris, France
Rim from Curious and Geeks: The French capital is one of the most visited cities in the world and has an incredible amount of activities to offer.
Surprisingly, it's also one of the most child-friendly European cities! Be it cultural visits, playful activities, excursions, or macaroon testing, your kids will love Paris.
If you only have a couple of days to visit, be sure to ride the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower, the kids will be amazed by its height.
Then head to the Luxembourg Gardens and let your kids test out their skills with model sailing boats, enjoy a carousel ride, or admire the statues.
A trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without a museum visit. Choose the Louvre if your kids are into art and history or the National History Museum if they prefer animals!
Take a subway to la Villette and let them explore the fascinating Science Universe.
For a relaxed way to see some of the most beautiful sights in Paris, hop aboard this family friendly cruise on the Seine. Children and adults alike will discover all the secrets of Paris during this one-hour cruise.
Finally, if you've got more time to spend in this beautiful city, day trips to Versailles and Disneyland Paris are an amazing addition to every Paris trip with kids.
10 must-visit viewpoints in Paris >>>
23. Porto, Portugal
James from the Portugalist: Porto may be a great destination for boutique hotels and boozy Port-tasting sessions, but it’s a surprisingly good destination for families as well.
It’s within easy reach of the beach, which is perfect for families visiting Porto during the summer. Plus, there are lots of things in Porto City Center that are worth seeing and doing as well!
There is no shortage of great accommodation options, including some hotels that really are family-friendly.
And did you know that J. K. Rowling lived in Porto, and was undeniably inspired by a lot of the city’s architecture and culture?
If your kids are Harry Potter fans, then taking them on a tour around all those Harry Potter landmarks (like Livraria Lello and the Majestic Cafe) is an absolute must.
While you’re out and about, be sure to check out the city’s fabulous street art as well, this is always a winner with kids.
Or hop on a “Six Bridges” river cruise down the Douro River and enjoy fantastic views of the Foz do Douro.
As well as Harry Potter landmarks and street art, Porto also has several museums that are great for families.
Two family-friendly museums in Porto are the Museu do Carro Electrico (tram museum) and the World of Discoveries museum, which showcases the adventurous Portuguese age of discoveries.
Whatever you decide to do, Porto is an incredibly beautiful city and one that you and your family will remember for many years to come.
Click here for the best family hotels in Porto
24. Prague, Czech Republic
Melissa from Parenthood and Passports: Prague in the Czech Republic is a Central European gem and one of our favorite family-friendly cities in Europe.
Many restaurants, businesses, and other establishments in Prague welcome families traveling with kids. Some even offer special play areas to keep children entertained while parents dine or shop.
Throughout the city, you’ll find lovely parks, unique outdoor spaces, and viewpoints that provide little ones enough space to roam, run and burn energy.
Adults will want to visit popular places like Old Town Prague, Astronomical Clock, and the Charles Bridge for their picturesque qualities and historic charm.
Children will also enjoy these areas for the lively atmosphere created, in part, by funny street performers and entertainers.
If you’re traveling to Prague with older children or teens the famous John Lennon Wall is a must-visit attraction. The iconic wall has become a colorful international symbol of hope, love, and world peace.
Purchase an inexpensive can of spray paint and let your child leave an inspiring message for future visitors to read. It is a great way to encourage conversation about both past and current world events.
Finally, people of all ages will enjoy wandering the cobblestone streets while savoring a Trdlnik. This heavenly cylinder-shaped dessert is cooked over a warm oven and covered in sugar.
Rest assured, the delicious, doughy treat will bring out the kid in everyone!
Where to stay in Prague: 6 best neighborhoods >>>
25. Rome, Italy
Marta from Learning Escapes: we love family city breaks in Europe but there is no city we love exploring more with our kids than Rome.
The Eternal City is special for visitors and particularly impressive for little ones and their parents: here they find endless opportunities for sightseeing and copious amounts of Pizza and gelato, likely to be a hit with very young travelers!
In terms of sights, these famous attractions in Rome are suitable for all ages:
- The Colosseum: with its immense size and gladiator stories it never fails to impress children. Click here to purchase a priority access ticket to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
- St. Peter’s Square: this is often mentioned by our kids as a highlight, crossing an international border on foot is not something they do every day! Check this skip-the-line Vatican and Sistine Chapel tour.
As well as important historical landmarks, Rome offers its visitors large green spaces and cool play areas.
On a sunny day, large inner-city parks such as Villa Borghese offer refuge from the traffic with playgrounds, a large pond, and the Rome Zoo.
If rain hits, kids and adults can stay dry in Explora, Rome’s children's museum with attractions suitable for babies (they have a soft play area for under 3 years) to teenagers.
Rome truly is great for families, in all seasons!
Click here for the best family hotels in Rome
26. Salzburg, Austria
Vrushali from Couple of Journeys: one destination that is ideal for your trip to West Europe with kids is Salzburg. Places that kids particularly enjoy in this culturally rich city are:
Hohensalzburg Fortress
One needs to take a funicular to travel to the top of this Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Kids find the short journey particularly amusing and because the frequency of the funicular is fantastic, parents don’t have to wait with impatient kids in long queues.
The fort offers breathtaking views of Salzburg. The museums on the Fortress also provide educational value to the inquisitive minds of young kids.
? Save money with the Salzburg Card
Get free access to all of the top sights and attractions in and around Salzburg, as well as unlimited use of public transportatio, and lots of additional discounts and perks at locations across the city.
Get your Salzburg Card here.
Hellbrunn Palace
The unique trick fountains of this palace were designed by its owner to have some fun with his guests. The fountains are operational all through the summer and will surely amuse your kids.
The open lawn area next to the palace is ideal for an open-air picnic lunch. Next to the palace area, is the famous Salzburg Zoo where kids get to see a great variety of animals from various regions of the world.
Mozart Residence
Kids, even though uninitiated to western classical music, can’t help but admire the many different musical instruments kept here.
That Mozart was a child prodigy himself proves to be an added source of inspiration for kids.
The Sound of Music
Salzburg is the city of the timeless classic ‘The Sound of Music’. Kids who have watched the movie are always elated when they get to visit the locations where the movie was shot.
Altogether Salzburg is a great city for kids and definitely worth a family visit!
Click here for the best family hotels in Salzburg
27. Seville, Spain
Katy from Untold Morsels: Seville in the Andalusia region of southern Spain is a fun European city for a family escape.
Lonely Planet nominated the city as the best place to visit in 2018 for good reason.
This is a city with culture, delicious tapas, modern and ancient architecture, parks, and much more. Seville has a pedestrianized old town and wide squares that are perfect for wandering with kids.
The most famous of these, the Plaza de España, is a riot of colorful tiles and fountains sure to capture your children’s imaginations.
Walk through the adjacent park and along the Guadalquivir river from where Christopher Columbus set sail for the new world. You can also visit his tomb in the city’s famous cathedral.
Eating is fun in Seville. The best thing to do is snack your way around the tapas bars of the city that welcome children of all ages.
Don’t forget to try the churros dipped in hot chocolate. Then soak up the culture and enjoy the city’s flamenco heritage.
You will find street performances on street corners and in plazas. Or, for a real treat, take the family to the short and fiery shows at the Flamenco Museum.
Click here for the best family hotels in Seville
28. Sibiu, Romania
Anda from Travel Notes & Beyond: Romania is one of the most overlooked countries in Europe. However, those who venture here are surprised to discover how beautiful this country really is.
The more famous part of Romania is Transylvania, a region blessed with amazing natural beauty and charming medieval towns.
One of these is the city of Sibiu, which dates back to the Middle Ages. Sibiu has one of the most authentic and well-preserved historic centers in all of Europe.
Sibiu is a pedestrian-friendly city, therefore it's very easy to explore with kids.
The upper town is home to most of the city's historic sites, like the Brukenthal Palace, the Catholic Church, the Generals’ House, and the Bridge of Lies.
Also, three of Sibiu's beautiful squares are in this part of town (Huet, Kleiner Ring, Grosser Ring). Meanwhile, the lower town has a succession of smaller squares surrounded by very colorful houses.
There is a labyrinth of narrow streets, steps, and covered passages that connect the upper and the lower town. Going up and down these stairs is always fun for the children.
Another fun attraction for kids in Old Town Sibiu is climbing up the Council Tower for a birds-eye view of the area around.
Click here for the best family hotels in Sibiu
29. Tallinn, Estonia
Amy from Family Globetrotters: Tallinn is not usually the number one choice for family travel, which therefore makes it a little gem for an East European getaway.
Most people make the mistake of making their visit to Tallinn too short and feel that a day trip across the Baltic Sea from Helsinki is enough.
However, if you've got time available, spend at least 2-3 days here with your family and explore this beautifully interwoven culture of the medieval and the contemporary.
Known as the most beautiful Old Town in all of Europe, this historic town center is a UNESCO Heritage Site. The kids will feel as if they have stepped back in time or into a movie set as they trample across the cobblestone streets.
They will discover a realm of castles dating back to the 13th century, old Gothic buildings, and traditionally clad folk in restaurants and open stalls.
The lookout from Toompea Hill is a must-visit and ice skating in the open-air Harju ice rink in the winter is an awesome activity for the whole family.
You can also check out the Kalev Spa Waterpark, Nõmme Adventure Park, the puppet museum with the “Cellar of Horrors” and the Estonian Open-Air Museum.
For the little kids, hop on the City Train that meanders through the street of the Old Town.
So, if you’re ever near the northern back of Europe, do add the eclectic city of Tallinn to your itinerary. It remains one of our favorite holiday destinations for families!
Click here for the best family hotels in Tallinn
30. Tbilisi, Georgia
Rahma from The Sane Adventurer: Tbilisi is the capital city of Georgia and is located in Eastern Europe. It's an old cobbled-street city giving the perfect vibe of vintage European architecture.
Surrounded by hills, Tbilisi is home to the famous Sulphur baths and one of the largest churches in Eastern Europe: the Holy Trinity Church.
Infused with a long history of war and a successful Kingdom rule, which made Tbilisi what it is today, the city is also an ideal place to visit with your family.
There is a lot of history to be learned. From the Soviet war-torn museums on the outskirts of the city to the history of the emergence of Christianity and the Soviet war, Tbilisi has a lot to offer to the curious traveler.
It also holds a unique intercultural diversity due to its link with the Arabs and the Ottoman Empire.
With tourism and infrastructure currently booming in the city, Tbilisi holds a huge potential to become an ideal tourist destination in the near future. Be sure to plan a family trip here before that happens;-).
Click here for the best family hotels in Tbilisi
31. Valencia, Spain
Jason from An Epic Education: when people plan a trip to Spain, places like Barcelona and Madrid come to mind first.
That’s okay with Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city. It doesn’t mind being out of the spotlight. After all, it has plenty of sunshine as it is.
Sitting on the Mediterranean, Valencia is sunny year-round, with loads of fun things to do with kids.
Let's start at Turia Gardens, a nine-kilometer strip of green built into a diverted riverbed. Here you’ll find playgrounds, bike rentals, museums, and sports fields.
On the western end of the gardens is Bioparc, one of Europe’s best zoos. On the eastern side is the City of Arts and Sciences.
This futuristic squadron of white buildings houses a science museum, a planetarium, and an opera house. Next door is the largest aquarium in Europe.
A few minutes drive south of the aquarium and you arrive at the Al Bufera nature reserve and the home of paella.
It's here where the rice for Valencia’s most famous export is grown. Yet it's also a resting point for thousands of migratory birds each year: from ducks to flamingos.
This is just a primer for all Valencia has in store. Throw in the amazing traditional festivals and countless excellent restaurants, and you have everything you need for one of the best family vacations you'll ever experience!
Click here for the best family hotels in Valencia
32. Venice, Italy
Catherine from We Go With Kids: our family loved our two-day visit to Venice. We arrived via Thello night train from Paris, which was our kids' favorite sleepover party, ever.
We took the Vaporetto (Venice water bus) to St. Mark’s Square and walked to our Airbnb. After dropping off our bags we explored Venice on foot for two days.
We visited St. Mark's and were wowed by Byzantine architecture, particularly the gold mosaics. My daughter loved chasing pigeons in St. Mark's Square.
Doge’s Palace gave us a glimpse into the lives of Venice’s government leaders and felons and also some stunning Renaissance art and Venetian Gothic architecture.
✨ Book this tour with an expert guide to skip the long lines at Doge’s Palace and get stunning views of Venice from the terrace of St. Mark’s Basilica. Check availability.
We also enjoyed wandering through the narrow pedestrian streets and then following the signs back to St. Mark’s.
But, the highlight of our time in Venice was the gondola ride that took us through Venice's beautiful canals. Venice was a magical city like no other we’ve visited!
Click here for the best family hotels in Venice
33. Vienna, Austria
Linda from Travel Tyrol: there are many reasons why Vienna, the capital of Austria, is one of the best cities to visit in Europe with kids.
After all, how can the place that was named the best city to live in nine years in a row not be kid-friendly?
? Spending a couple of days in Vienna? Get a Vienna PASS, an all-inclusive sightseeing card that gives you free admission to many attractions and unlimited hop-on hop-off bus rides.
Did you know that Vienna is home to the world's oldest zoo (Schönbrunn Zoo) as well as the world's oldest amusement park (Prater Park)? Both destinations are great hits with kids!
The Children's Museum at Schönbrunn Palace is highly worth visiting, especially with this private skip-the-line tour with roundtrip transportation.
At the Children's Museum, kids can learn about the everyday life of the imperial family and even play with toys from the past.
But they’re only three of the seemingly endless variety of things to do in Vienna with kids. Viennese museums all cater to younger visitors.
Some, like the Vienna Museum of Technology, focus mainly on keeping future engineers and inventors happy. The best part is that entry to this museum, and many others in the city, is entirely free for kids.
Even learning about Viennese history is fun for kids with an underground Vienna Time Travel experience. And it’s one of the safest cities to let kids run wild in one of the many beautiful and clean public parks.
Click here for the best family hotels in Vienna
34. Warsaw, Poland
Maria and Rui from Two Find a Way: Warsaw is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets as well as one of the best places in Europe with kids.
We fell in love with the city during our Erasmus exchange period in Warsaw, but it is also one of the best cities to visit in East Europe with kids.
To add to its stunning Old Town, there are beautiful parks wherever you go. Each one has a special charm and specific areas your kids will love to explore.
The most famous one is the Royal Lazienki, complete with palaces, a beautiful lake, and even a Chinese garden.
Right next to it, you can find the University of Warsaw Botanical Garden, a place where you can learn more about the nature around you.
If you are looking to get out of the center, there are even national parks located on the outskirts of Warsaw.
The capital of Poland is also filled with museums, many of which are new and interactive. We’re sure your whole family will love the Copernicus Science Center, with a stunning rooftop garden. Plus, it's located next to the Vistula river, a perfect area for a (long) walk.
As a bustling European capital, it’s no surprise that Warsaw’s food scene is on the rise. Due to the city’s affordability, it is the perfect place to enjoy food from all over the world.
And of course, don’t forget to indulge in delicious Polish food as well!
Click here for the best family hotels in Warsaw
35. Wroclaw, Poland
Corinne from Reflections Enroute: Wroclaw is a city in western Poland and very easy to get to from many places in Europe, especially cities like Dresden, Berlin, or Prague.
I think it’s the absolute best city for kids anywhere in the world.
Why, you may wonder? Wroclaw has mini-statues, gnome-sized statues to be exact, set up all over the city. Kids of all ages will enjoy searching for over 300 statues.
We’ve been a couple of times and it’s such a unique place that we continually bring more families to experience it. No longer are there any complaints or whining as you trudge to all the city sights.
Instead, the kids lead the way!
The statues show the gnomes doing everything normal humans would do and since they are often paid for by a business, they will highlight that business, like a pierogi restaurant or ice cream store.
We found gnomes going to the ATM, being a tourist, playing in the symphony, riding motorcycles, and really doing all kinds of things.
The statues aren’t really hidden, but since they are small, some are harder to find than others.
You can buy a map that shows where some of the gnomes are located at the tourist information center, but honestly, it’s more fun to find them on your own.
All children love going on a city gnome hunt; I know I did. If you are going to take your kids to East Europe, Wroclaw is a must-see city. You will want to go back again and again.
Click here for the best family hotels in Wroclaw
Family-friendly European cities: in conclusion
I hope this list has inspired you to visit (some) of the best places for kids in Europe on your next Europe family-friendly vacation, happy travels!
This post was updated in July 2024.
Anna
Thursday 15th of December 2022
I have pinned it for future reference! I've wanted to travel to Europe, especially to Paris. But I'm hesitant because I'll be traveling with my 2 children ages 5 and 3. I know how handful it could be but after reading this article, it makes my mind at ease. I am thinking of getting a local guide for museum trips so it's easier and I don't have to think about the tickets getting sold out then we will be wandering the city. Of course, Disneyland will not be missed from our itinerary.
Lotte
Thursday 15th of December 2022
Hey Anna,
Thanks for reading and I'm happy to hear the post has inspired you to visit Paris with your kids:-) Getting a local guide is a great idea, especially to gain a more in-depth insight into the city as well as the ability to customize your itinerary to meet your family's needs.
Have a great trip and let me know if there's anything I can help with! Lotte
Joanne Gavin
Friday 20th of March 2020
This is a really great article and tons of helpful information!
Lotte
Saturday 21st of March 2020
Thank you Joanne:-)
Sarah
Tuesday 4th of February 2020
Splendid post! Thanks for sharing the information and keep up the great work.
Lotte
Tuesday 4th of February 2020
Thank you Sarah!
littral
Thursday 16th of January 2020
I also enjoyed myself while I was visiting this kind of places.
Lotte
Friday 24th of January 2020
That's great!
Dominic
Friday 13th of December 2019
I must say that Europe is the safest continent on the planet to visit with your family. The crime rate is almost lower in Scandinavian nations and in case of issues, there are local authorities everywhere to help out foreigners.
Lotte
Friday 13th of December 2019
Yes I agree Europe is a great and generally very safe place to visit as a family!