I started my family travel blog to be a source of inspiration for families wanting to explore the world with their children. I share our experiences on social media to show just how incredible our planet is. Exposing your kids to different places and cultures firsthand is transformative in the most positive ways, and I truly believe that.
If you’re feeling inspired to travel as a family, the next big question is: where should you go?
Looking back at our own family travels, our early destination choices were often influenced by family visits, weddings, invitations from friends, or simply places we were personally drawn to. We did rule out a few locations due to safety concerns or the kids’ ages, but for the most part, we considered the entire world as our playground. Through this process, we learned invaluable lessons about family travel and discovered which destinations were particularly well-suited for different age groups.
Years ago, I wrote a post titled “The Best Age to Travel Everywhere,” and I’ve consistently updated it as our travel experiences have grown. For continuous travel inspiration, I also maintain my “Top Spots” lists. The purpose of these pages is to compile every destination, hotel, and activity that we have absolutely loved. Perhaps you’ll find a place that sparks your interest, one you might not have considered before.
Of course, I also write detailed blog posts about all our family adventures. Maybe you’re considering an ambitious trip to Asia, exploring six countries in three weeks with your kids? Or perhaps a spontaneous around-the-world journey just for the fun of it? Or even letting your kids choose their dream destination each year? Maybe these aren’t your exact plans, but I hope that a story or a photo will resonate with you and inspire you to embark on your own incredible adventure, whether it’s a wild escapade or a perfectly planned getaway.
“Where Should We Go?” – Finding the Right Family Vacation Destination
Despite all these resources, I still receive numerous emails each week asking for destination recommendations for specific age groups – for a 7-year-old, a 13-year-old, and every age in between. I’ve always responded personally because I hesitated to write this post. Why?
Because there’s no single “perfect” destination for a specific age. Every child is unique.
The most rewarding trip, at any age, is one that aligns with your child’s passions and interests. Think about what truly excites your child, and choose a destination that caters to those interests. Then, make the trip all about your child (or children).
“No Really, Where Should We Go?” – Age-Based Family Vacation Ideas
I understand that many parents are looking for concrete ideas to get started. So, here are some destination suggestions based on age! I also encourage you to share your own thoughts and experiences in the comments below. A quick caveat: you’re right! No matter which of these suggestions you might disagree with, you’re absolutely right. Taking a two-year-old to Paris instead of waiting until they’re twelve? Absolutely! Your child adored India at seven? Wonderful! Every answer is valid because you know your children better than anyone.
The Best Family Destination for Every Age Group
Ages 0-3: The World is Your Oyster for Family Travel
There isn’t a single destination that’s inherently better for kids aged three and under. Apart from perhaps adults-only resorts, you can realistically take young children anywhere. You’ll likely be carrying them or pushing a stroller regardless of location. Have you always dreamed of seeing the Great Wall of China, the Pyramids of Egypt, Dubrovnik, or Iceland? Then go for it! Flights can be a bit challenging with kids under 24 months, but remember that flights are temporary. Once you arrive, you can enjoy your trip. Of course, you’ll still be in parent mode, and the usual routines of home (nap times, meals) will still be present while traveling. However, young children are incredibly adaptable.
Important Note: While destination is flexible, my advice to tailor the trip to your child’s preferences still applies. If your little one hates long car rides, avoid destinations that require extensive driving. And your days of leisurely, hours-long museum visits are on hold for a while. Opt for parks and playgrounds instead.
Our daughter experiencing the charm of Naples, Italy at just one year old.
Age 4: Australia – An Aussie Adventure for Young Families
I’ve taken my kids to Australia five times, including for New Years 2025, and it’s an outstanding destination for very young children. English is widely spoken, making communication easy. The country is brimming with unique animals and captivating wildlife encounters. Beaches abound for fun in the sun. If you have a picky eater, you’ll find familiar foods easily available, similar to the US or Europe. Getting around is straightforward – we’ve never rented a car and relied entirely on public transportation. While climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge has an age limit of eight, most other attractions are perfectly accessible and enjoyable for four-year-olds.
Best trip at age 4 – Australia
My four-year-old daughter in Sydney, Australia, proudly showcasing her new souvenirs.
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 Families
Italy holds a special place as my favorite country, and we’ve been traveling there with our kids since they were babies. However, Spain and Portugal are equally loved by many families, and we explored both with our kids when they were very young as well. All three countries are exceptional – rich in history, boasting delicious cuisine, walkable cities, and plenty of kid-friendly outdoor dining options. Plus, they all offer beautiful beaches. Given that your kids are likely not yet in school, or are in Pre-K or Kindergarten without major school projects, consider traveling in April/May or September/October. You’ll avoid peak tourist crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather.
Our children, ages three and five, enjoying playtime in a picturesque olive orchard at a rented Italian villa.
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 offers a perfect location, and their connecting rooms can accommodate families of five.
Florence Hotel Recommendation: Consider an apartment at Palazzo Belfiore. Great location, spacious rooms, and laundry facilities!
Rome Hotel Recommendation: We loved our stay at Albergo del Senato with its stunning views overlooking the Pantheon.
Venice Hotel Recommendation: Hotel al Ponte Antico is a personal favorite worldwide. Booking two rooms works perfectly for families.
Cascais Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Baia. Enjoyed the location and view. The room was perfectly adequate.
Age 6: Costa Rica and Panama – Nature and Adventure for Young Explorers
Costa Rica offers the best of all worlds for kids: beautiful beaches, fascinating wildlife, and exciting activities. Consider basing yourselves at a resort, but venture out to national parks to spot monkeys and sloths. Alternatively, Panama offers a similar experience to Costa Rica, but with the added attraction of the Panama Canal (captivating for kids of all ages). It’s also generally less crowded and more budget-friendly. Both countries are easily accessible via direct flights from the US.
Best trip at 6: Costa Rica family vacation
Family time in Costa Rica with kids aged 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 are exceptionally kid-friendly with excellent room setups and beach access.
Panama Hotel Recommendation: We haven’t yet discovered any truly amazing hotels in Panama to recommend.
Age 7: Scandinavia or Canada – Outdoor Adventures for Active Families
Seven is an ideal age to embrace the great outdoors. Norway and Sweden are particularly family-friendly, offering safe, walkable cities and stunning natural landscapes easily accessible by bus, metro, or train. In Oslo, take the T-Bane to Sognsvann for hiking, lakeside picnics, or swimming in the (refreshing!) lake. Forests along the T-Bane lines also offer berry picking opportunities. In Sweden, fly into Stockholm, take a train to Köping (about 1.5 hours), and then a taxi to Kolarbyn, where you can stay in a forest hut, canoe to a floating sauna, and cook meals over campfires. Don’t forget mushroom and berry picking in the surrounding forests – truly magical!
Our cozy forest hut accommodation at Kolarbyn in Sweden.
If you prefer to stay closer to home (assuming you’re in the US), consider Canada. It shares similarities with Scandinavia – with colder, darker periods but perfect weather from June to September. Alberta is fantastic even in winter. There’s so much to do, from kayaking and hiking to skating and snowshoeing, animal encounters, and exploring vibrant cities. And English is widely spoken. We love Manitoba, centrally located and accessible, and Alberta, home to Banff and Lake Louise.
Winnipeg Manitoba – Canoeing at Oak Hammock Marsh
Canoeing and birdwatching at Oak Hammock Marsh in Manitoba.
Snowshoeing adventure at the breathtaking Lake Louise in Alberta.
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. Expect no electricity or wifi, but a fantastic, camp-like experience.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Hotel Recommendation: The Fort Garry Hotel is perfectly situated and our suite was incredibly spacious.
Lake Louise, Alberta Hotel Recommendation: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is iconic and truly perfect.
Age 8: Antarctica or Japan – Unique and Cultural Family Experiences
My very first blog post detailed our trip to Antarctica with my daughter when she was eight. It was an ideal age – she was captivated by the animals (penguins, seals, whales), loved playing in the snow and ice, and didn’t experience any boredom on the ship. She was a great participant in hikes and kayaking, and her lighter weight meant she didn’t sink into the snow as much as the adults! I later returned with my other daughter at age 12, and it was equally magical. Many people postpone visiting Antarctica until retirement, but that’s a missed opportunity. Take your kids! Starting around 8-10 years old, they’ll absolutely love it.
Family travel planning: 8-year-old daughter in Antarctica
Family travel planning with my 8-year-old daughter in the stunning landscapes of Antarctica.
However, Antarctica isn’t for everyone. My son, for instance, hasn’t expressed interest in going. Plus, it’s a significant expense. Japan offers another excellent option for eight-year-olds. It’s a cultural immersion unlike any other, where ancient temples and modern anime coexist in a fascinating blend of zen and vibrancy. My daughter adored Japan at both seven and eight years old.
Exploring the cultural richness of Kyoto, Japan, as a family.
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 is incredible. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Lost in Translation, which was filmed there.
Kyoto Hotel Recommendations: We enjoyed our stay at the charming Kyoto Inn Gion and were happy with the inn and its location. Next time, I’d like to try the new Park Hyatt Kyoto.
Age 9: Bali – Culture, Nature, and Serenity for Growing Kids
Both of my daughters chose Bali for their 9-year-old trips, and it’s easy to see why. It offers a blend of beautiful beaches, fascinating animals (the Monkey Forest is a hit with kids), rich culture, yoga retreats, and a sense of tranquility. It’s a perfect transitional destination for kids who are starting to outgrow purely “kid-centric” vacations.
Best Age to Travel – Bali rice field
An early morning view of a serene rice field near Ubud, Bali.
Related Blog Post: Bali with Kids
Hotel Recommendations: Too many to list here! In Ubud, Komaneka at Monkey Forest was a great choice, within walking distance of town. Tanah Gajah outside of town was also lovely, though I’m unsure if the experience has changed under new ownership. Our favorite beachfront hotel is Kayumanis Jimbaran.
Age 10: An African Safari (or the Amazon Rainforest) – Wildlife Adventures for Families
We adored our safari in Tanzania and Kenya when our kids were 5, 8, and 10. However, we found that it was particularly perfect for our 10-year-old. There are several recommended vaccinations and medications for African travel, and our 5-year-old struggled with swallowing malaria pills. Long days in a safari vehicle are also easier for older children. Ten is pretty much the ideal age. That said, feel free to take younger kids too! I know families who have taken their children on safari every year since they were born.
Experiencing the incredible wildlife of Kenya’s Maasai Mara on safari.
If a safari is beyond your budget, or if you prefer a shorter travel distance, consider Brazil’s Amazon rainforest. It remains my favorite kid-friendly trip ever. I took my daughter at eight, and there were children on our boat ranging from seven to fourteen. Ten proved to be a fantastic age. Abundant wildlife and thrilling adventures await, and the absence of internet is a welcome break for both kids and adults!
Amazon Rain Forest with Kids – Sunset over Rio Negro
Breathtaking sunset views from the Jacaré Açu boat on the Rio Negro in Brazil’s Amazon Rainforest.
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 Island Hopping for Families
We’ve been bringing our kids to Greece almost every year since they were born. The Greek islands in summer are simply magical. While Greece is wonderful at any age, if your kids are around 11 and haven’t been yet, now is the perfect time. By age 11, they’ve likely studied Greek history in school and are probably learning about Greek mythology. A trip to Greece will bring all of that to life in an unforgettable way.
Experiencing the historical grandeur of the Parthenon in Greece during late afternoon.
Paros Greece – Sunrise walk through Paros
My 11-year-old daughter enjoying a peaceful sunrise walk through Paros, Greece.
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
Hotel Recommendation: Our favorite place to stay in all of Greece is Nissaki Beach Hotel on Naxos.
Age 12: Paris – Culture and City Exploration for Families
Similar to Italy and Greece, we’ve been taking our kids to Paris practically since they were born. Any age is fantastic for Paris. However, Paris is home to incredible museums, and the younger your children, the fewer museums you’re likely to visit. By age 12, kids are generally more willing to spend a couple of hours in a museum, especially if you book a kid-focused tour. Twelve-year-olds will also appreciate Paris’s shopping scene more.
Cooling down at the Louvre Museum in Paris on a hot summer day.
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
Hotel Recommendation: I loved Hôtel de Londres Eiffel – just minutes from Rue Cler, the Eiffel Tower, and train and Metro stations. They offer multi-room family setups. Otherwise, we’ve mostly rented apartments.
Age 13: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand – Southeast Asian Culture and Adventure for Teens
Your 13-year-old might still crave beach or animal-centered vacations, or perhaps a Disney cruise to hang out with other teens for a week. If not, it could be an excellent time for a more culturally immersive trip. Southeast Asia is safe and easy to navigate (truly, nothing to be intimidated by), the food is amazing, and there’s an abundance of incredible sites to explore. Vietnam and Laos remain relatively less touristy, while Cambodia (especially Siem Reap) and Thailand attract more Western tourists.
And if you want to combine temple sightseeing with some beach or resort relaxation, that’s easily arranged as well.
Asian countries – Laos – Phousi Mountain view
Panoramic views from the summit of Phousi Mountain in Laos on our second day.
Family exploration at the captivating Bayon Temple in Cambodia.
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: Our favorites were Almanity Wellness Resort in Hoi An and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay further south. For Ha Long Bay, Hera Cruises is exceptional.
Laos Hotel Recommendation: We loved the colonial charm of Satri House in Luang Prabang.
Cambodia Hotel Recommendation: Any of the Shinta Mani hotels in Siem Reap are wonderful: Bensley Collection | Shinta Mani | Shinta Mani Shack.
Thailand Hotel Recommendation: The Peninsula in Bangkok is a personal favorite worldwide. On the islands, Soneva Kiri on Ko Kood is amazing if it fits your budget.
Age 14: India – Cultural Immersion for Teenagers
India is one of my favorite destinations, and while you can certainly take kids of any age, it can be chaotic and stomach issues are common. It’s less about beaches and more about pure culture, vibrant colors, and adventure. Imagine riding camels through the Rajasthan desert, visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise, exploring ancient desert forts, taking a boat trip down the Ganges past cremation ceremonies in Varanasi, and attending lively festivals. Showing your kids the slums of Mumbai can also be a powerful reality check. My son at 10 was overwhelmed by India, making it perhaps a better destination for teenagers.
Highly recommend experiencing the magical sunrise at the Taj Mahal, even with kids!
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 is literally a palace. Absolutely amazing!
Mumbai Hotel Recommendation: The Taj Mahal Palace. Iconic and perfectly located. Choose the Palace wing.
Age 15: Patagonia, the Faroe Islands, or Greenland – Hiking and Adventure for Active Teens
What do Patagonia, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland have in common, besides being stunningly beautiful, remote, less touristy, and adventurous? Lots of hiking! Our kids are reasonably outdoorsy and enjoy hikes, but long hikes were challenging when they were younger. As they’ve gotten older, hiking has become easier and much more enjoyable. If you’re seeking serious adventure at 15 (or even earlier, depending on your kids), these three destinations are excellent choices.
Family hiking adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Chilean Patagonia.
Faroe Islands – Hiking through sheep pasture
Hiking back down through a sheep pasture in the Faroe Islands, rather than along the cliff edge.
In Greenland, travel between towns is primarily by hiking or boat, as there are no roads connecting them.
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 was incredible.
Faroe Islands Hotel Recommendation: Gjaargardur Guesthouse Gjogv was our favorite hotel.
Greenland Hotel Recommendation: Stay on a sheep farm! More details are in my blog post.
Age 16: The Maldives – Relaxation and Luxury for Teens
We absolutely love the Maldives. Six Senses Laamu is our top resort worldwide, perfect for honeymooners, couples, and families with kids of any age. Seven and up is probably ideal, as kids can ride bikes, including on the long jetties to overwater villas. However, I’m listing it here as the Maldives are 1) expensive and 2) quite remote. From California, few places are farther away. It’s the perfect destination for a splurge trip at 16, centered around relaxation, fun, independent exploration, and luxury.
Maldives with kids – Hammocks at Chill Bar
Relaxing in the sunset hammocks at the beautiful Chill Bar 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
Hotel Recommendation: Six Senses Laamu. The Maldives are full of amazing hotels, but we wouldn’t stay anywhere else.
And as I mentioned in the introduction, please share your thoughts in the comments below! What do you disagree with? What destinations would you suggest for specific ages instead?
Health Insurance for Family Travel
A quick note about travel insurance. We travel extensively with our kids and had never purchased trip or health insurance – until my wife broke her knee and we deeply regretted not having a policy. We now use an annual plan through G1G. It’s definitely worth considering, no matter where you’re traveling with your family.
Points and Miles for Affordable Family Travel
And for those wondering how to afford trips like these, I have a post on how we travel inexpensively. One key strategy (almost a cliché now) is flying for free as often as possible using points and miles. If you take just one piece of advice from my website, get a credit card that earns points/miles and charge everything you can to it. I recommend a card without foreign transaction fees.
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