If you thought that traveling to Europe with the whole family would burn a hole in your wallet, think again. Europe offers a plethora of affordable European vacations for budget travelers, and for a good reason. With its rich history, iconic monuments, beautiful beaches, and delicious food, Europe has something for everyone. This article will guide you through the best European destinations that offer a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
Best Places for Families
Eastern Europe: The Unsung Hero
Eastern Europe is one of the best destinations for family vacations on a budget. Countries like Czech Republic, Hungary, and Romania offer a plethora of historical sites, outdoor activities, and local markets. Prague Castle in the Czech Republic and Wawel Castle in Poland are great attractions to explore. With affordable hotel rates and delicious street food, Eastern Europe is an excellent choice for families.
The Canary Islands: Sun and Surf
Located in the Atlantic Ocean, the Canary Islands offer beautiful beaches and plenty of things for the entire family. A boat ride is a great way to explore the islands and offers a unique perspective. With lower prices than most popular destinations in Western Europe, the Canary Islands are perfect for those traveling with young children.
The Greek Islands: A Perfect Destination
With their ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and delicious food, the Greek Islands are a perfect place for families. Take a tour of the islands or spend a day at the local markets, a great way to get a sense of the city. Many tour operators offer all-inclusive resorts that cater specifically to families.
When To Go?
The Best Time to Travel
The best time for travel depends on what you want to do. For outdoor activities, late spring to early fall is best. However, if you prefer indoor time, visiting major cities with world-class museums might be a good idea during the winter months. High season means high prices, so traveling during the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall could result in lower ticket prices and hotel rates.
Getting Around
Public Transportation
Public transportation is the best way to explore European cities. In places like the City of Light (Paris), almost every popular attraction, including the Eiffel Tower, is within walking distance from the city center or easily accessible via public transport.
Attractions For Kids
A Day In The City
Big cities often offer the best things for kids. For example, the Eiffel Tower is always a hit with young kids and little kids alike. Alternatively, London offers the Crown Jewels and the Royal Mile, both of which have free admission. Cities like Rome offer a different sense of adventure with their ancient ruins like the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum. The Eternal City is a great place for older kids who love history.
Nature and Adventure
If your family leans more towards nature, places like the Swiss Alps offer a wealth of outdoor activities. For a sense of the rugged coast, the Douro Valley in Portugal offers a unique experience. For those looking to stay closer to home, the Lake District in the United Kingdom is a great place for outdoor families.
For The Little Ones
Theme Parks and More
If you are traveling with young children, theme parks like Disneyland Paris could be an excellent choice for your next family trip. While certainly not the cheapest places, they can be budget-friendly if planned in advance.
Educational Fun
Northern Europe offers a different type of fun: think the Northern Lights in Scandinavia or botanical garden visits in places like Amsterdam. Educational and fun, these are perfect for kids and parents alike.
Custom Family Vacation
Tailoring your trip based on interests is a good idea. While travel books offer generic plans, custom family vacations can be more rewarding. Whether you opt for a city like Prague for its rich history or a city like Barcelona for its beautiful beaches, the choice is yours.
Whether it’s the rich history of Eastern Europe, the ancient ruins of Rome, or the beautiful beaches of the Canary Islands, Europe offers great things for the entire family. With options ranging from theme parks for young kids to world-class museums and historic sites for adults, it’s no wonder Europe is one of the best family vacation ideas you could have.
So pour yourself a glass of wine, open your sense of adventure, and start planning your family vacation to Europe. With some research and careful planning, you can experience the very best that this beautiful continent has to offer, even on a tight budget.
