Planning the perfect family vacation can feel overwhelming. You want to create lasting memories, but finding a destination that excites everyone, from toddlers to teenagers, can be a challenge. At hudsonfamily.net, we believe that travel is one of the most enriching experiences you can share with your children. Exposing them to new places and cultures broadens their horizons and fosters personal growth in incredible ways.
If you’re feeling inspired to embark on a family adventure, the next question is undoubtedly: where should we go?
Drawing from years of family travel experiences, we understand the nuances of traveling with kids of different ages. Initially, our family trips were often centered around visiting relatives, attending weddings, or accepting invitations from friends. While safety and age-appropriateness were considerations, we generally embraced the world as our oyster. Through these adventures, we’ve gathered invaluable insights into what makes a destination truly shine for families at various stages of childhood.
We previously shared our thoughts on “The Best Age to Travel Everywhere” and regularly update our “Top Spots” lists with our favorite destinations, hotels, and activities worldwide, hoping to spark your wanderlust. We also document our family travels extensively in our blog posts. Perhaps you’ll be inspired to explore six Asian countries in three weeks, circumnavigate the globe in two weeks, or even let your children choose your annual vacation destination. Our goal is that our stories and photos ignite your own family travel dreams, whether those dreams are grand or delightfully simple.
Finding Your Family’s Perfect Getaway
Despite these resources, a common question we receive is for specific destination recommendations tailored to children of particular ages. While we used to respond individually, we realized the need to address this question more broadly. Why did we hesitate to write this post initially?
Because the truth is, there’s no universally “perfect” destination for a specific age group. Every child is unique, with different interests and temperaments.
The most rewarding family trip, regardless of age, is one that resonates with your child’s passions. Consider what truly excites your child, and let that guide your destination choice. And remember to center the trip around your child’s (or children’s) enjoyment.
Age-Based Vacation Ideas: Truly, Where Should We Go?
We understand that sometimes, you just need concrete suggestions to get started. So, here are some destination ideas categorized by age, with a crucial caveat: these are just starting points. You know your children best. While we suggest Paris might be ideal for a 12-year-old, a 2-year-old might also be captivated. If your 7-year-old adored India, that’s fantastic! Every family and child is different, and the “best” vacation is subjective and personal.
Top Family Vacation Destinations by Age
Ages 0-3: Flexibility is Key for Travel with Babies and Toddlers
For families with children aged three and under, destination choice is less about the location and more about travel style and logistics. With very young children, you can genuinely go almost anywhere—perhaps excluding adults-only resorts seeking tranquility. Whether it’s the Great Wall of China, the Egyptian Pyramids, the charming streets of Dubrovnik, or the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, these destinations are all accessible with little ones. Flights may present challenges with infants and toddlers (especially those under 24 months), but the flight is temporary, and the adventures await upon arrival. The routines of home, like nap times and meal schedules, will travel with you, but young children are remarkably adaptable.
Important Note: While destination is flexible, our core advice to tailor the trip to your child still applies. If your toddler dislikes long car rides, avoid destinations requiring extensive driving. Museum visits might be shorter for now; consider parks and playgrounds instead.
Our daughter exploring Naples, Italy at just one year old, highlighting that even very young children can enjoy international travel.
Age 4: Australia – An English-Speaking Adventure for Young Explorers
Australia has become a beloved family destination for us, with five trips, including a New Year’s celebration in 2025. It’s particularly wonderful for four-year-olds for several reasons. The English language eases communication. The unique wildlife and animal encounters are captivating for young minds. Beautiful beaches abound for playtime and relaxation. Even picky eaters will find familiar foods readily available, similar to the US or Europe. Getting around is straightforward, even without a car, thanks to excellent public transportation. While climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge has an age limit of eight, most of Australia’s attractions are perfectly suited for four-year-olds.
Daughter with souvenirs in Sydney, Australia at age 4
Related Blog Post: A California Getaway to Australia to Cuddle Koalas
Brisbane Hotel Recommendation: The Brisbane Hilton. Central location and budget-friendly.
Age 5: Spain, Italy, and Portugal – European Charm for Kindergartners
Italy holds a special place in our hearts, and we’ve been exploring it with our children since they were babies. Spain and Portugal are equally fantastic and popular among families, and we’ve enjoyed both with our young ones. These three European countries offer a delightful blend of history, delicious food, walkable cities, and plentiful kid-friendly outdoor dining options. Plus, they all boast beautiful beaches. With children in Pre-K or Kindergarten, consider traveling during April/May or September/October to avoid peak tourist crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, without significant school disruptions.
Our children, ages 3 and 5, enjoying the outdoors in an olive orchard at an Italian villa, illustrating the family-friendly atmosphere of Italy.
Related Blog Posts: Kid-Friendly Adventure in Trentino, Italy’s Stunning Val di Fassa; Adventures with Kids in the Dolomites: Two Days in Trentino’s Val di Fiemme; Florence with Kids – What to Do and Where to Stay in Our Favorite City; A Villa in Tuscany for a Month; How to Visit Cinque Terre
Barcelona Hotel Recommendation: Hotel DO Placa Reial – Perfectly located with connecting rooms for larger families.
Florence Hotel Recommendation: Palazzo Belfiore – Apartments with great location and laundry facilities.
Rome Hotel Recommendation: Albergo del Senato – Overlooking the Pantheon, a truly memorable location.
Venice Hotel Recommendation: Hotel al Ponte Antico – One of our global favorites, perfect for families splitting into two rooms.
Cascais Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Baia – Great location with stunning views.
Age 6: Costa Rica & Panama – Eco-Adventures and Wildlife Encounters
Costa Rica offers an ideal mix of beaches, wildlife, and exciting activities for six-year-olds. Base yourselves at a family-friendly resort and venture into national parks to spot monkeys, sloths, and diverse flora and fauna. Panama is a similar gem, boasting rainforests, beaches, and the fascinating Panama Canal, which captivates children of all ages. Panama is often less crowded and more budget-friendly than Costa Rica. Both countries are easily accessible via direct flights from many US cities.
Family in Costa Rica at ages 6, 9, and 11
Related Blog Posts: Punta Islita – Amazingly Family-Friendly Costa Rica; A Panama Vacation with Thomson Family Adventures
Costa Rica Hotel Recommendations: Hotel Punta Islita and Los Suenos Marriott. Both offer excellent kid-friendly amenities, room setups, and beach access.
Panama Hotel Recommendation: We are still searching for a truly amazing family hotel in Panama to recommend!
Age 7: Scandinavia or Canada – Outdoor Adventures and Nature’s Playground
Seven is an ideal age to embrace the great outdoors. Scandinavia, particularly Norway and Sweden, are exceptionally kid-friendly with safe, walkable cities and stunning natural landscapes easily accessible by public transportation. In Oslo, a short metro ride takes you to Sognsvann lake for hiking, lakeside picnics, and even swimming in the refreshing (though brisk!) water. Forests along the metro lines offer opportunities for berry picking. In Sweden, fly into Stockholm and take a train to Köping, then a taxi to Kolarbyn, an eco-lodge where you can sleep in forest huts, canoe to a floating sauna, and cook meals over campfires. Mushroom and berry picking in the surrounding forests add to the magic!
Our cozy forest hut at Kolarbyn Eco-Lodge in Sweden, highlighting unique and nature-immersive family accommodations in Scandinavia.
If you prefer to stay closer to home (especially for US-based families), consider Canada. Similar to Scandinavia, Canada offers stunning nature and outdoor activities. While parts of the year are colder and darker, June to September are perfect, and Alberta is incredible even in winter. From kayaking and hiking in summer to skating and snowshoeing in winter, along with wildlife encounters and cool cities, Canada has something for everyone. English is widely spoken, making it easy to navigate. We especially love Manitoba, centrally located and accessible, and Alberta, home to Banff and Lake Louise.
Canoeing in Manitoba, Canada
Snowshoeing adventure at the iconic Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada, demonstrating Canada’s year-round appeal for outdoor family vacations.
Related Blog Posts: Manitoba, Canada with Kids: Three Days of Animal Adventures! and Exploring the Magical Forests of Central Sweden.
Sweden Hotel Recommendation: Kolarbyn Eco Lodge. A unique, camp-like experience without electricity or wifi.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Hotel Recommendation: The Fort Garry Hotel. Centrally located with spacious suites.
Lake Louise, Alberta Hotel Recommendation: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Iconic and perfectly situated.
Age 8: Antarctica or Japan – Extraordinary Adventures for Budding Explorers
My first blog post was about taking my daughter to Antarctica at age eight, and it was truly perfect. She was fascinated by the animals (penguins, seals, whales!), loved playing in the snow and ice, and was engaged throughout the cruise. She handled hikes and kayaking with ease and was even light enough to navigate snowy paths better than the adults! Returning with my other daughter at twelve was equally magical. Many people postpone Antarctica until retirement, but we believe it’s an incredible family destination starting around age 8-10.
Daughter in Antarctica at age 8
Antarctica isn’t for every family, though. It’s expensive, and not every child is drawn to polar landscapes. Japan offers another fantastic option for eight-year-olds. It’s a captivating blend of culture, where ancient temples and modern anime coexist in harmony. Our daughter adored Japan at both seven and eight years old.
Family enjoying the cultural sights of Kyoto, Japan, demonstrating Japan’s appeal as a family-friendly destination with a rich cultural experience.
Related Blog Posts: Antarctica with an 8-Year-Old; Adventures with Disney Antarctica: A Magical Expedition; Tokyo with Kids Made Easy; Kyoto with Kids
Tokyo Hotel Recommendation: The Park Hyatt Tokyo. Experience “Lost in Translation” in this iconic, amazing hotel.
Kyoto Hotel Recommendations: Kyoto Inn Gion – Cute and well-located. Park Hyatt Kyoto – A luxurious new option we want to try.
Age 9: Bali – Spiritual and Natural Beauty for Pre-Teens
Both of our daughters chose Bali for their 9-year-old trips, and it’s easy to see why. Bali offers a beautiful blend of beaches, wildlife (the Monkey Forest is a hit!), culture, yoga retreats, and a sense of tranquility. It’s a perfect transitional destination for children moving beyond pure “kid” activities.
Rice field in Ubud, Bali
Related Blog Post: Bali with Kids
Bali Hotel Recommendations: Ubud options include Komaneka at Monkey Forest, within walking distance of town, and Tanah Gajah just outside of town. Near the beach, we recommend Kayumanis Jimbaran.
Age 10: African Safari or Amazon Rainforest – Wildlife Adventures for Older Children
Our family safari in Tanzania and Kenya was incredible when our children were 5, 8, and 10, but we found ten to be the sweet spot. While younger children can enjoy safaris, 10-year-olds are better equipped to handle longer safari drives and any necessary vaccinations or medications (like malaria pills, which can be tricky for younger children to swallow).
A thrilling wildlife encounter on safari in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, highlighting the excitement and educational value of an African safari for families.
If an African safari isn’t feasible, consider Brazil’s Amazon rainforest. It remains one of my favorite family trips of all time. I took my daughter at eight, and children aged 7-14 on our boat all had a fantastic time. Ten is a particularly great age. The Amazon offers abundant wildlife, thrilling adventures, and the bonus of disconnecting from the internet—a welcome break for both kids and adults!
Sunset in the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
Related Blog Posts: An African Safari with Kids; How to Book an Affordable African Safari; Packing List for a Family Safari; Five Tips for Taking Your Kids on an African Safari; The Amazon Rainforest with Kids: A Magical (Unplugged) Expedition
Age 11: Greece – History and Mythology Come to Life
We’ve been taking our children to Greece almost annually since they were born. The Greek Islands in summer are truly magical at any age, but if your 11-year-old hasn’t experienced Greece yet, now is the perfect time. By age 11, children are likely learning about Greek history and mythology in school, making a trip to Greece incredibly enriching and bringing their studies to life.
Late afternoon at the iconic Parthenon in Athens, Greece, demonstrating the historical and educational aspects of a family vacation to Greece.
Child walking through Paros, Greece at sunrise
Related Blog Posts: Naxos Greece: Our Favorite Island | Three Weeks on the Greek Island of Naxos (with Kids); Paros Greece with Kids; A Day Trip to Santorini from Naxos
Greece Hotel Recommendation: Nissaki Beach Hotel on Naxos – our absolute favorite place to stay in Greece.
Age 12: Paris – Museums and Culture for Young Teens
Like Italy and Greece, Paris has been a regular destination for our family since our children were babies. Paris is wonderful at any age, but as children get older, they can appreciate its museums and cultural offerings more fully. By 12, children are often more willing to spend a couple of hours in a museum, especially with kid-focused tours. Twelve-year-olds also tend to enjoy Paris’s shopping scene.
Cooling off at the Louvre Museum on a hot summer day in Paris, demonstrating the cultural and iconic experiences Paris offers for families.
Related Blog Posts: Tips for Visiting Paris on a Budget; The Best Things to Do in Paris with Kids; 10 Tips for a Perfect Family Vacation in Paris
Paris Hotel Recommendation: Hôtel de Londres Eiffel – Minutes from Rue Cler, the Eiffel Tower, and public transport. Offers multi-room family setups. We also often rent apartments.
Age 13: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia & Thailand – Southeast Asian Culture and Adventure
Thirteen-year-olds might still desire beach and animal-focused vacations or perhaps a teen-friendly cruise. However, if they’re open to cultural immersion, Southeast Asia is an excellent choice. It’s safe, easy to navigate, offers incredible food, and boasts numerous stunning historical sites. Vietnam and Laos remain relatively less touristy, while Cambodia (especially Siem Reap) and Thailand are more accustomed to Western visitors. Combining temple visits with beach or resort time is easily arranged in this region.
View from Phousi Mountain in Laos
Exploring the ancient Bayon Temple in Cambodia, demonstrating the historical and architectural wonders of Southeast Asia.
Related Blog Posts: Asia with Kids: A Crazy Three-Week, Six-Country Itinerary; Soneva Kiri: Kid-Friendly Perfection in Thailand; Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam: Pure Relaxation!
Vietnam Hotel Recommendations: Almanity Wellness Resort in Hoi An and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay further south. For Ha Long Bay cruises, Hera Cruises is excellent.
Laos Hotel Recommendation: Satri House in Luang Prabang for its colonial charm.
Cambodia Hotel Recommendations: Any of the Shinta Mani hotels in Siem Reap: Bensley Collection | Shinta Mani | Shinta Mani Shack. All are wonderful.
Thailand Hotel Recommendations: The Peninsula in Bangkok in Bangkok. On the islands, Soneva Kiri on Ko Kood if budget allows.
Age 14: India – Cultural Immersion and Adventure for Teenagers
India is a personal favorite, and while family trips are possible at any age, India’s intensity and chaos might be better suited for older children and teenagers. It’s less about beaches and more about profound cultural experiences, vibrant colors, and adventure. Imagine camel rides in the Rajasthan desert, witnessing the Taj Mahal at sunrise, exploring ancient desert forts, or a boat trip down the Ganges past Varanasi’s cremation ceremonies. India is a sensory feast, and showing your children the slums of Mumbai can offer a powerful perspective shift. While my 10-year-old son felt overwhelmed, it’s often a more impactful destination for teenagers.
The iconic Taj Mahal bathed in the soft light of sunrise in India, showcasing the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of India.
Related Blog Posts: Around the World (Again) with a 10-Year-Old!; Ten Incredible Places to Visit in India; The Time I Went to a Royal Wedding in India
Jaisalmer Hotel Recommendation: The Suryagarh – A truly palatial and amazing hotel.
Mumbai Hotel Recommendation: The Taj Mahal Palace. Iconic, well-located, choose the Palace wing.
Age 15: Patagonia, Faroe Islands, or Greenland – Hiking and Remote Beauty for Active Families
What do Patagonia, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland share? Stunning landscapes, remoteness, fewer tourists, and incredible hiking opportunities. While our children have always been reasonably active, longer hikes were challenging with shorter legs. As they’ve grown older, hiking has become easier and more enjoyable. For families seeking serious adventure at 15 (or even earlier, depending on your children), these three destinations are exceptional choices.
Family hiking amidst the breathtaking scenery of Chilean Patagonia, highlighting the adventurous and active family vacation options in Patagonia.
Hiking in the Faroe Islands
Boats in Greenland, illustrating the remote and water-based travel in Greenland, where hiking and boating are primary modes of transport between towns.
Related Blog Posts: Spring Break in Patagonia; A Multi-Sport Adventure in Argentinian Patagonia; An Amazing Week in the Faroe Islands (with Kids); South Greenland: Kid-Friendly Adventure in a Stunning Destination; The Beauty of Unplugging in South Greenland
Patagonia Hotel Recommendation: Tierra Patagonia – An amazing experience.
Faroe Islands Hotel Recommendation: Gjaargardur Guesthouse Gjogv – Our favorite hotel in the Faroes.
Greenland Hotel Recommendation: Stay on a sheep farm! Details in our blog post.
Age 16: The Maldives – Luxury and Relaxation for Older Teens
We are huge fans of the Maldives. Six Senses Laamu is our top resort globally, perfect for honeymooners, couples, and families with children of any age, though perhaps best suited for ages seven and up (due to bike riding and overwater villas). However, we recommend it for 16-year-olds as a splurge trip focused on relaxation, luxury, independent exploration, and pure fun. The Maldives are a significant journey from places like California, making it ideal for a special occasion or milestone trip.
Relaxing in hammocks at Six Senses Laamu, Maldives
Related Blog Posts: Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives: Our New Favorite Resort Anywhere; Six Nights in Paradise – A Return to Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives
Maldives Hotel Recommendation: Six Senses Laamu. While the Maldives boasts many incredible hotels, this is our unwavering favorite.
Now it’s your turn! Share your thoughts in the comments below. Do you disagree with any of our age-based suggestions? What destinations would you recommend for specific ages instead? We’d love to hear your family travel experiences!
Travel Health Insurance
A quick note about travel insurance: Despite extensive family travel, we previously hadn’t purchased trip or health insurance. This changed when my wife broke her knee and we experienced the regret of not having a policy. We now use an annual plan through G1G. Travel insurance is a worthwhile consideration for any family trip, regardless of destination.
Travel Points and Miles
To make dream destinations more accessible, remember that traveling inexpensively is possible. One key strategy is leveraging points and miles. If you take one piece of advice from our site, it’s to get a credit card that earns travel points/miles and use it for all possible purchases. We highly recommend a card without foreign transaction fees for international travel.
