Family travel opens up a world of possibilities, enriching children’s lives with new cultures and experiences. At hudsonfamily.net, we believe in the transformative power of exploration, and we encourage parents to embark on adventures with their kids, no matter their age. The question isn’t if you should travel with your family, but where to go to create the Best Family Trips for everyone involved. Choosing the right destination can seem daunting, but by considering your children’s ages and interests, you can unlock incredible vacation opportunities that cater to every stage of childhood.
Often, the inspiration for our family travels stems from personal connections – visiting relatives, attending celebrations, or accepting invitations from friends. While safety and age-appropriateness are always considerations, we’ve learned that the world is largely accessible and rewarding for families. Through years of globetrotting, we’ve gained valuable insights into crafting successful family trips and identifying destinations that resonate with different age groups.
For years, our guide, “The Best Age to Travel Everywhere”, has served as a dynamic resource, evolving with our family’s ever-expanding travel experiences. Complementing this, our “Top Spots” lists are brimming with destinations, hotels, and activities we’ve personally cherished. These resources are designed to spark your imagination, presenting a diverse array of options you might not have considered for your best family trips.
Our blog chronicles countless family adventures, from ambitious Asian odysseys spanning six countries in three weeks to whimsical around-the-world journeys dreamed up by a 10-year-old. Perhaps you won’t replicate these exact itineraries, but we hope our stories and photos ignite your own family’s wanderlust, inspiring you to create unique and memorable best family trips, whether grand or intimate.
Finding Your Perfect Family Getaway: Age-Appropriate Travel Ideas
Despite the wealth of resources available, a common question persists: “Where should we go with a [specific age] year old?” While we’ve always offered personalized advice, the reluctance to create a definitive guide stemmed from a core belief: there’s no universally “perfect” destination for a particular age. Every child is unique, with individual passions and preferences.
The cornerstone of the best family trips is personalization. Consider your child’s interests, hobbies, and what truly excites them. Let their passions guide your destination choice and then, importantly, tailor the trip to their enjoyment. Making the journey about your child (or children) ensures a more engaging and rewarding experience for everyone.
Specific Destination Ideas for Every Age Group
However, we understand the desire for concrete suggestions. So, with the caveat that every family is different and these are simply starting points, here are destination ideas categorized by age. We also encourage you to share your own experiences and alternative suggestions in the comments below! Remember, there are no right or wrong answers – the best family trips are the ones that work for your family.
Best Family Trips for Ages 0-3: Embrace Flexibility and Simplicity
For families with infants and toddlers, the world is your oyster! Don’t feel limited in your destination choices. With kids under three, your travel style will naturally adapt to their needs. While adults-only resorts might be less ideal, most destinations are perfectly manageable. Dreaming of the Great Wall of China, the Egyptian Pyramids, the historic streets of Dubrovnik, or the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland? Now is the time to go! Flight logistics with little ones under two can be challenging, but remember, the flight is temporary, and the destination awaits. Nap schedules and mealtime routines will travel with you, but young children are remarkably adaptable travel companions.
Toddler exploring Naples, Italy, highlighting family travel with young children
While destination flexibility is key, remember to align the trip with your child’s temperament. If long car rides are a struggle, opt for destinations with minimal driving. Museum fatigue is real for this age group, so prioritize parks, playgrounds, and open spaces where they can roam and explore freely. Focus on experiences over rigid itineraries, and you’ll discover that even the simplest trips can become the best family trips at this age.
Best Family Trips for Age 4: Australia – Down Under Adventures for Little Explorers
Australia emerges as an exceptional destination for four-year-olds. The English-speaking environment eases communication, and the country boasts an incredible array of unique wildlife encounters. From cuddly koalas to playful kangaroos, Australia’s animal experiences are captivating for young minds. Beautiful beaches abound, offering endless opportunities for sandcastle building and splashing in the waves. Even picky eaters will find familiar and appealing food options readily available. Navigating Australia is also straightforward, with reliable public transportation eliminating the need for car rentals in many areas. While climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge requires being a bit older, most of Australia’s wonders are perfectly accessible and engaging for four-year-olds, making it one of the best family trips for this age.
[A young girl in Sydney, Australia, holding souvenirs, representing family fun and age-appropriate travel destinations
Blog Post Inspiration: “A California Getaway to Australia to Cuddle Koalas”
Kid-Friendly Brisbane Hotel Suggestion: The Brisbane Hilton – Central location and budget-friendly.
Alternative Destination: Consider a family-friendly cruise. Many cruises offer excellent kids’ clubs and itineraries that cater to young children, providing a structured yet exciting vacation experience.
Best Family Trips for Age 5: Europe’s Charm – Spain, Italy, and Portugal Beckon
For five-year-olds, Europe, particularly Spain, Italy, and Portugal, presents a delightful blend of culture, history, and kid-friendly environments. Italy, a personal favorite, has been a family destination since our children were infants. Spain and Portugal offer equally compelling experiences, with rich histories, delicious cuisine, and walkable cities perfect for little legs. Outdoor dining is prevalent in all three countries, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for families. Plus, beautiful beaches are easily accessible, combining cultural exploration with seaside fun. With kids likely not yet deeply entrenched in school (Pre-K or Kindergarten), consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (April/May or September/October) to avoid peak tourist crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, making these some of the best family trips to Europe.
Children playing in an olive grove in Italy, illustrating family travel experiences in Europe
Blog Post Inspiration: “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”
Family-Friendly Hotel Suggestions:
- Barcelona: Hotel DO Placa Reial – Excellent location with connecting rooms for larger families.
- Florence: Palazzo Belfiore – Apartments with laundry and a great location.
- Rome: Albergo del Senato – Overlooks the Pantheon.
- Venice: Hotel al Ponte Antico – A favorite hotel, consider booking two rooms for families.
- Cascais, Portugal: Hotel Baia – Great location with scenic views.
Alternative Destination: Consider a visit to a U.S. National Park like Yellowstone or Yosemite. These parks offer stunning natural beauty and ranger-led programs perfect for engaging young children with the outdoors.
Best Family Trips for Age 6: Central American Adventures – Costa Rica & Panama
Costa Rica and Panama emerge as ideal destinations for six-year-olds, offering a captivating trifecta of beaches, wildlife, and exciting activities. Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise, brimming with lush rainforests, stunning coastlines, and abundant animal encounters. Base yourselves at a family-friendly resort and venture out to national parks to spot playful monkeys, sleepy sloths, and vibrant toucans. Panama offers a similar allure to Costa Rica, with equally impressive biodiversity and the added attraction of the Panama Canal – a fascinating engineering marvel that intrigues kids of all ages. Panama also tends to be slightly less crowded and more budget-friendly than Costa Rica. Both countries are easily accessible via direct flights from many U.S. cities, making them convenient choices for best family trips to Central America.
[Kids in Costa Rica, showcasing wildlife encounters and family-friendly adventure travel
Blog Post Inspiration: “Punta Islita – Amazingly Family-Friendly Costa Rica”, “A Panama Vacation with Thomson Family Adventures”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestions:
- Costa Rica: Hotel Punta Islita and Los Suenos Marriott – Both offer excellent kid-friendly amenities, room setups, and beach access.
- Panama: Research family-friendly resorts in beach areas like Playa Blanca or Bocas del Toro for hotel options.
Alternative Destination: Consider a domestic beach vacation to Florida or California. These destinations provide sunshine, sand, and family-oriented activities without the need for international travel.
Best Family Trips for Age 7: Outdoor Escapes – Scandinavia or Canada’s Wilderness
Seven is the perfect age to immerse children in the great outdoors, and Scandinavia (Norway and Sweden in particular) and Canada excel as destinations for nature-focused best family trips. Scandinavia boasts safe, walkable cities seamlessly connected to breathtaking natural landscapes via efficient public transportation. In Oslo, a short metro ride takes you to Sognsvann lake, ideal for hiking, lakeside picnics, and even a refreshing (if brisk!) swim. Forests accessible by train offer berry picking adventures. In Sweden, venture to Kolarbyn after flying into Stockholm. This eco-lodge provides a unique experience sleeping in forest huts, canoeing to a floating sauna, and cooking meals over campfires – a truly magical and unplugged experience immersed in nature.
Forest hut in Sweden, exemplifying outdoor family adventures in Scandinavia
For families preferring to stay closer to home (especially from the US), Canada mirrors Scandinavia’s outdoor appeal. While parts of Canada experience long winters, the months from June to September are glorious, and Alberta is stunning year-round. Canada offers a vast playground of activities, from kayaking and hiking in summer to ice skating and snowshoeing in winter, coupled with incredible wildlife encounters and vibrant cities. English is widely spoken, simplifying communication. Manitoba, centrally located and easily accessible, and Alberta, home to Banff and Lake Louise, are particularly captivating regions for best family trips in Canada.
[Family canoeing in Manitoba, Canada, illustrating wildlife viewing and outdoor activities
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The Parthenon in Athens, Greece, representing historical and cultural family travel
Blog Post Inspiration: “Manitoba, Canada with Kids: Three Days of Animal Adventures!”, “Exploring the Magical Forests of Central Sweden”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestions:
- Sweden: Kolarbyn Eco Lodge – Rustic, camp-like experience without electricity or wifi.
- Winnipeg, Manitoba: The Fort Garry Hotel – Centrally located with spacious suites.
- Lake Louise, Alberta: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – Iconic and perfectly situated on the lake.
Alternative Destination: Consider camping or renting a cabin in a U.S. National Forest or State Park. These options offer affordable outdoor experiences closer to home.
Best Family Trips for Age 8: Polar Extremes & Cultural Immersion – Antarctica or Japan
Age eight marks a fantastic time for truly extraordinary and educational best family trips. Antarctica, surprisingly accessible to families, becomes a captivating option. Our first blog post detailed taking our eight-year-old daughter to this icy continent, and it was a resounding success. She was enthralled by the wildlife – penguins, seals, whales – and delighted in playing in the snow and ice. Boat journeys held her interest, and she enthusiastically participated in hikes and kayaking excursions. Her lighter weight even proved advantageous, preventing her from sinking into snowdrifts like the adults! Returning with our twelve-year-old daughter proved equally magical. While Antarctica might seem like a retirement destination, it’s incredibly enriching for children starting around 8-10 years old.
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The Taj Mahal at sunrise, India, representing iconic landmarks and cultural immersion for family travel
However, Antarctica isn’t for every family, and budget can be a significant factor. Japan emerges as another compelling option for eight-year-olds, offering a fascinating blend of culture, tradition, and modern marvels. Temples and anime coexist, creating a unique and stimulating environment. Our daughter adored Japan at ages seven and eight, captivated by the vibrant culture and kid-friendly attractions.
A child in Kyoto, Japan, showcasing cultural family travel and urban exploration
Blog Post Inspiration: “Antarctica with an 8-Year-Old”, “Adventures with Disney Antarctica: A Magical Expedition”, “Tokyo with Kids Made Easy”, “Kyoto with Kids”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestions:
- Tokyo: The Park Hyatt Tokyo – Iconic hotel featured in Lost in Translation.
- Kyoto: Kyoto Inn Gion – Charming inn in a great location. Consider the newer Park Hyatt Kyoto for a splurge.
Alternative Destination: Consider a trip to Washington D.C. The U.S. capital offers numerous free museums, monuments, and historical sites, providing a rich educational and cultural experience closer to home.
Best Family Trips for Age 9: Spiritual & Natural Beauty – Bali’s Enchantment
Bali has become a popular choice for families with nine-year-olds, and for good reason. Both our daughters chose Bali for their nine-year-old trips, drawn to its captivating blend of beaches, wildlife, culture, and tranquility. The Monkey Forest is a must-visit for kids, offering close encounters with playful primates. Beyond the wildlife, Bali offers a rich cultural tapestry, opportunities for yoga and wellness, and a pervasive sense of peace. It’s a perfect transitional destination for children entering a less overtly “child-like” phase, making it one of the best family trips for pre-teens.
Rice field in Ubud, Bali, representing cultural immersion and natural beauty in family travel
Early morning in a serene rice field near Ubud, Bali, capturing the peaceful essence of Balinese family travel.
Blog Post Inspiration: “Bali with Kids”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestions:
- Ubud: Komaneka at Monkey Forest – Walking distance to town. Tanah Gajah – Just outside of Ubud.
- Jimbaran (Beach): Kayumanis Jimbaran – Favorite beachfront hotel.
Alternative Destination: Consider a dude ranch vacation in the American West. Riding horses, exploring nature, and experiencing cowboy culture can be a unique and engaging adventure for nine-year-olds.
Best Family Trips for Age 10: Wildlife Encounters – African Safari or Amazon Rainforest
Ten is an ideal age for unforgettable wildlife-focused best family trips, with an African safari or an Amazon rainforest expedition topping the list. Our family safari in Tanzania and Kenya was incredible, and we found ten to be the sweet spot age-wise. While we took our kids at 5, 8, and 10, the ten-year-old benefited most. Vaccinations and medications for African travel are more extensive, and younger children, like our five-year-old, can struggle with malaria pills. Safari vehicle days can be long, making it easier for older children to remain engaged. However, safaris with younger children are certainly doable – some families make it an annual tradition from birth!
A child in Kyoto, Japan, showcasing cultural family travel and urban exploration
If an African safari is beyond your budget or desired travel distance, the Amazon rainforest in Brazil offers an equally captivating and adventurous alternative. The Amazon remains a personal favorite family trip, taken with our daughter at eight, but suitable for children aged 7-14. Abundant wildlife, thrilling jungle explorations, and the bonus of being “unplugged” from the internet create a truly magical and immersive experience for both kids and adults.
[Safari in Kenya, Africa, representing wildlife-focused family adventure travel
Blog Post Inspiration: “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”
Family-Friendly Hotel Suggestions: Research safari lodges in Tanzania or Kenya based on budget and desired experience. For the Amazon, explore eco-lodges along the Rio Negro in Brazil.
Alternative Destination: Consider a trip to the Galapagos Islands. These islands offer unique and up-close wildlife encounters in a relatively accessible and safe environment.
Best Family Trips for Age 11: Mythology & History Come Alive – Greece
Greece holds a special place in our family travel history, with visits nearly every year since our children were born. The Greek Islands in summer are simply enchanting. While Greece is wonderful at any age, eleven is particularly opportune. By this age, children are often learning about Greek history and mythology in school, making a trip to Greece incredibly enriching and relevant. Imagine seeing the Parthenon or walking in the footsteps of ancient heroes – Greece brings history and mythology to life in a tangible and unforgettable way, making it one of the best family trips for culturally immersive experiences.
Family snowshoeing at Lake Louise, Alberta, representing winter family activities in Canada
A child walking through Paros, Greece, showcasing island scenery and family exploration
My 11-year-old daughter exploring Paros, Greece at sunrise, capturing the beauty of the Greek Islands for family travel.
Blog Post Inspiration: “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”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestion: Nissaki Beach Hotel on Naxos – a family favorite in Greece.
Alternative Destination: Consider visiting Rome, Italy. Rome also offers ancient history and mythology brought to life, with iconic sites like the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Best Family Trips for Age 12: Art & Culture Immersion – Paris, City of Lights
Paris, like Italy and Greece, has been a recurring destination for our family since our kids were very young. Paris is enchanting at any age, but twelve is particularly rewarding. Paris boasts world-class museums, and younger children often have shorter museum attention spans. By twelve, kids are more receptive to spending a couple of hours exploring museums, especially with engaging, kid-oriented tours. Twelve-year-olds also begin to appreciate Paris’s shopping scene and fashionable atmosphere. Exploring iconic landmarks, indulging in delicious pastries, and soaking in the Parisian ambiance makes for one of the best family trips focused on art and culture.
Children cooling off at the Louvre Museum, Paris, illustrating cultural family travel in Europe
Blog Post Inspiration: “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”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestion: Hôtel de Londres Eiffel – Minutes from Rue Cler, the Eiffel Tower, and transportation. Offers multi-room family setups. Apartment rentals are also a great option for families in Paris.
Alternative Destination: Consider London, England. London offers a wealth of museums, historical sites, and kid-friendly attractions, similar to Paris, but with the added ease of English language.
Best Family Trips for Age 13: Southeast Asian Culture & Beaches – Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia & Thailand
Thirteen-year-olds may still crave beach and animal-centric vacations, or perhaps a teen-focused cruise. However, if your teen is open to cultural exploration, Southeast Asia presents an incredible and accessible option for best family trips. Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand) is generally safe and easy to navigate, offering delicious food, stunning temples, and vibrant cultures. Vietnam and Laos remain relatively less touristy, while Cambodia (especially Siem Reap) and Thailand attract more Western visitors. Combining cultural sightseeing with beach or resort time is easily arranged in this region.
Laos mountain scenery, representing cultural and scenic family travel in Southeast Asia
At the summit of Phousi Mountain in Laos, capturing the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Southeast Asian family travel.
[The Parthenon in Athens, Greece, representing historical and cultural family travel
Blog Post Inspiration: “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!”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestions:
- Vietnam: Almanity Wellness Resort in Hoi An, Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Nha Trang. Hera Cruises for Ha Long Bay.
- Laos: Satri House in Luang Prabang.
- Cambodia: Shinta Mani hotels in Siem Reap: Bensley Collection, Shinta Mani, Shinta Mani Shack.
- Thailand: The Peninsula in Bangkok in Bangkok, Soneva Kiri on Ko Kood.
Alternative Destination: Consider a trip to Italy, focusing on cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Italy offers a blend of culture, history, and delicious food that appeals to teenagers.
Best Family Trips for Age 14: Intense Culture & History – India’s Rich Tapestry
India, a personal favorite, offers an intensely cultural and historically rich experience, making it a compelling destination for best family trips with teenagers. While possible to visit at any age, India’s chaotic energy and potential for stomach ailments make it better suited for older children. This is not a beach vacation; India is about immersing yourselves in a vibrant tapestry of culture, colors, and adventures. Imagine riding camels through the Rajasthan desert, witnessing the Taj Mahal at sunrise, exploring ancient desert forts, or taking a boat trip down the Ganges past Varanasi’s cremation ceremonies. Attending festivals and experiencing the bustling cities, even visiting Mumbai’s slums for a dose of reality, offers profound learning opportunities. Our ten-year-old son found India overwhelming, suggesting it’s a more impactful destination for teens ready for intense cultural immersion.
A young girl in Antarctica, emphasizing unique family travel destinations and wildlife viewing
Blog Post Inspiration: “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”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestions:
- Jaisalmer: Suryagarh – A palace hotel experience.
- Mumbai: The Taj Mahal Palace – Iconic and well-located, choose the Palace wing.
Alternative Destination: Consider a trip to Peru to explore Machu Picchu and Inca culture. Peru offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and adventure suitable for teenagers.
Best Family Trips for Age 15: Adventurous Hiking & Remote Beauty – Patagonia, Faroe Islands or Greenland
Patagonia, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland share a common thread: breathtaking scenery, remoteness, fewer crowds, and abundant hiking opportunities. These destinations cater to adventurous families seeking active best family trips. While our kids are reasonably outdoorsy and enjoy hiking, long treks with younger children can be challenging. As kids reach fifteen, hikes become more enjoyable and rewarding. If your family craves serious adventure, these three destinations offer incredible options.
Family snowshoeing at Lake Louise, Alberta, representing winter family activities in Canada
[The Parthenon in Athens, Greece, representing historical and cultural family travel
Family snowshoeing at Lake Louise, Alberta, representing winter family activities in Canada
Blog Post Inspiration: “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”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestions:
- Patagonia: Tierra Patagonia in Chile.
- Faroe Islands: Gjaargardur Guesthouse Gjogv in Gjógv.
- Greenland: Consider staying on a sheep farm for a unique experience (details in blog post).
Alternative Destination: Consider a hiking trip in the Swiss Alps. The Alps offer stunning mountain scenery and well-maintained hiking trails suitable for families.
Best Family Trips for Age 16: Luxury & Relaxation – The Maldives
The Maldives epitomize luxury and relaxation, making them an exceptional choice for a splurge-worthy best family trip for sixteen-year-olds. Six Senses Laamu, our favorite resort globally, is ideal for honeymooners, couples, and families with children of any age, though seven and up is perhaps optimal as kids can bike independently, including on the long jetties to overwater villas. The Maldives are a significant journey, especially from California, making them perfect for a special “sweet sixteen” trip focused on relaxation, independent exploration, and luxurious indulgence.
[Family relaxing in hammocks in the Maldives, representing luxury family vacations and relaxation
Blog Post Inspiration: “Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives: Our New Favorite Resort Anywhere”, “Six Nights in Paradise – A Return to Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives”
Kid-Friendly Hotel Suggestion: Six Senses Laamu. While the Maldives offer many incredible hotels, Six Senses Laamu remains our top recommendation for families.
Alternative Destination: Consider a luxury resort vacation in Hawaii or the Caribbean. These destinations provide beautiful beaches, high-end resorts, and relaxing atmospheres closer to home.
We encourage you to share your thoughts and alternative destination suggestions in the comments below! What destinations would you recommend for specific ages for best family trips?
Travel Insurance Considerations
A quick note on travel health insurance: While we traveled extensively without it, my wife’s knee injury highlighted the importance of having a policy. We opted for an annual plan through G1G. Travel insurance is a worthwhile consideration for any family trip, regardless of destination.
Leveraging Points and Miles for Affordable Family Travel
Concerned about affording these incredible destinations? Our post on how we travel inexpensively offers valuable tips. One key strategy is utilizing points and miles to fly for free. If you take away one piece of advice, get a credit card that earns travel points/miles and charge everyday expenses to it. We recommend a card without foreign transaction fees for international travel.
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