two children playing under umbrella on seashore

Best Family Vacation Destinations

Choosing the right destination for your family vacation is key to ensuring that everyone has a great time.

FAMILY VACATION

Oliver Weber

7/23/20246 min read

a group of people sitting on the shore of a lake at sunset

Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and challenging. Finding destinations that cater to the interests and needs of both parents and children is key to creating lasting memories. To help you choose the perfect spot for your next trip, we’ve curated a list of the best family destinations around the world. These locations offer a combination of family-friendly accommodations, engaging activities, and unique cultural experiences that will delight travelers of all ages.

people standing near grey statue during daytime
people standing near grey statue during daytime

Orlando, Florida, USA

Family-Friendly Accommodations:

  • Disney's Art of Animation Resort: A Disney-themed resort with family suites that are perfect for kids.

  • Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Stay close to Universal Studios and enjoy early park admission and a lagoon-style pool.

Top Activities:

  • Walt Disney World Resort: Visit the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios for a mix of thrilling rides, character meet-and-greets, and stunning parades.

  • Universal Studios Orlando: Explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where fans can experience Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and ride the iconic Hogwarts Express.

  • SeaWorld Orlando: Get up close with marine life, enjoy thrilling roller coasters, and cool off in the water park, Aquatica.

Why It’s Great for Families: Orlando is often dubbed the "Theme Park Capital of the World," making it a top destination for families. The city is home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, among other major attractions. Each of these parks offers a wide variety of rides, shows, and experiences designed to entertain both kids and adults.

aerial photography of London skyline during daytime
aerial photography of London skyline during daytime

London, England

Family-Friendly Accommodations:

  • The Rubens at the Palace: A luxurious family-friendly hotel located near Buckingham Palace, offering themed rooms and child-friendly amenities.

  • Premier Inn London County Hall: A budget-friendly option with spacious family rooms, conveniently located near major attractions.

Top Activities:

  • Natural History Museum: Explore the dinosaur exhibit, the Earth Hall, and many other interactive displays that captivate young minds.

  • The Tower of London: Discover the history of the British monarchy and the Crown Jewels while learning about the fascinating stories of this historic fortress.

  • Harry Potter Studio Tour: Go behind the scenes of the famous film series and see the sets, costumes, and props used in the movies.

Why It’s Great for Families: London is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and entertainment, making it an excellent destination for families. The city offers numerous attractions that cater to children and parents alike, from world-class museums to iconic landmarks.

people walking on road near well-lit buildings
people walking on road near well-lit buildings

Tokyo, Japan

Family-Friendly Accommodations:

  • Hilton Tokyo Bay: An official hotel of Tokyo Disneyland, offering themed family rooms and easy access to the parks.

  • Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo: Located in Shinjuku, this hotel offers spacious rooms and a range of amenities for families, including a rooftop pool.

Top Activities:

  • Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea: These two parks offer a mix of classic Disney magic and unique attractions inspired by Japanese culture.

  • Ueno Zoo: Japan’s oldest zoo, located in Ueno Park, is home to a wide variety of animals, including the famous giant pandas.

  • TeamLab Borderless: An immersive digital art museum where children can interact with stunning light installations and explore endless rooms of digital wonders.

Why It’s Great for Families: Tokyo offers a unique blend of modern attractions and cultural experiences, making it a captivating destination for families. The city's cleanliness, safety, and efficient public transport system make it easy to explore with children.

a roller coaster with palm trees
a roller coaster with palm trees

Gold Coast, Australia

Family-Friendly Accommodations:

  • Sea World Resort: Stay within Sea World for easy access to the park and enjoy the hotel’s water play area and family rooms.

  • Paradise Resort Gold Coast: A family-focused resort featuring a kids’ club, water park, and daily activities for children.

Top Activities:

  • Dreamworld: Australia’s largest theme park, offering a wide variety of rides, animal encounters, and live shows.

  • Sea World: Explore marine life exhibits, enjoy live shows, and experience exciting water rides at this ocean-themed park.

  • Surfers Paradise Beach: Spend a day relaxing on the golden sands, building sandcastles, and swimming in the warm ocean.

Why It’s Great for Families: The Gold Coast is a family-friendly paradise known for its beautiful beaches, thrilling theme parks, and outdoor adventures. With a sunny climate year-round, it's an ideal destination for families who love the outdoors.

bird's eyeview photo of high rise buildings
bird's eyeview photo of high rise buildings

Barcelona, Spain

Family-Friendly Accommodations:

  • Hotel Barcelona Catedral: Located in the Gothic Quarter, this hotel offers spacious family rooms and a rooftop pool.

  • Hotel Royal Passeig de Gracia: A modern hotel near Gaudí’s masterpieces, offering family rooms and stunning city views.

Top Activities:

  • Park Güell: Explore this whimsical park designed by Antoni Gaudí, where children can marvel at colorful mosaics and playful sculptures.

  • Barcelona Aquarium: Discover marine life from the Mediterranean and beyond in one of Europe’s largest aquariums, complete with an underwater tunnel.

  • Magic Fountain of Montjuïc: Enjoy a spectacular evening light and music show at this famous fountain, which is sure to enchant visitors of all ages.

Why It’s Great for Families: Barcelona is a vibrant city that offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and family-friendly attractions. With its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine, it’s a destination that appeals to both kids and adults.

turned-on lights in city at night
turned-on lights in city at night

Vancouver, Canada

Family-Friendly Accommodations:

  • Fairmont Pacific Rim: A luxury hotel with family-friendly amenities, including a rooftop pool, kids’ activities, and spacious rooms.

  • Loden Hotel: A boutique hotel offering family suites and personalized service, located close to many of Vancouver’s top attractions.

Top Activities:

  • Stanley Park: Rent bikes and explore this massive park, home to beaches, playgrounds, and the Vancouver Aquarium.

  • Grouse Mountain: Take the Skyride to the top of Grouse Mountain for hiking, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking views of the city.

  • Science World: This interactive science museum is perfect for children, offering hands-on exhibits, an OMNIMAX theatre, and live demonstrations.

Why It’s Great for Families: Vancouver is a city where urban sophistication meets outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for families who love both nature and city life. From mountains to beaches, there’s no shortage of activities for kids and adults alike.

a group of people riding in the back of a truck
a group of people riding in the back of a truck

Cape Town, South Africa

Family-Friendly Accommodations:

  • The Table Bay Hotel: Located at the V&A Waterfront, this luxury hotel offers family rooms, a kids’ program, and stunning views of Table Mountain.

  • Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront: A family-friendly hotel with a prime location by the sea, offering a kids’ club, spacious rooms, and easy access to local attractions.

Top Activities:

  • Table Mountain: Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and surrounding ocean. Hiking trails and a kid-friendly café make it a great day out.

  • Boulders Beach: Visit this famous beach to see the resident colony of African penguins up close. The sheltered bay is also perfect for swimming.

  • Two Oceans Aquarium: Explore the diverse marine life of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, with interactive exhibits and touch tanks for kids.

Why It’s Great for Families: Cape Town offers a unique combination of stunning natural landscapes, cultural diversity, and family-friendly activities. From exploring Table Mountain to visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach, there’s something to captivate every family member.

man in white shirt carrying girl in gray shirt

Choosing the right destination for your family vacation is key to ensuring that everyone has a great time. Whether you're looking for the excitement of theme parks, the cultural richness of historic cities, or the beauty of natural landscapes, these destinations offer something for every family. With family-friendly accommodations, engaging activities, and unforgettable experiences, any of these locations will make for an incredible family adventure.

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man and woman looking on silver laptop while smiling