Family travel can be transformative. Exposing children to different places and cultures broadens their horizons and fosters positive development. If you’re looking to embark on family adventures, the question naturally arises: “Where should we go?”
Drawing from years of family travel experiences, we’ve explored destinations worldwide, learning valuable lessons about age-appropriate travel. While there’s no single “perfect” place for a specific age, trips tailored to your child’s interests are always the most rewarding. Consider your child’s passions and choose a destination that ignites their curiosity. Make the journey about them, fostering unforgettable family memories.
However, the desire for concrete suggestions is understandable. So, while acknowledging that every child is unique and personal preferences vary, here are some destination ideas categorized by age, drawing on our family’s travel journey. Remember, these are suggestions based on general suitability, and you know your children best. Feel free to adapt these ideas to your family’s specific needs and interests.
Top Family Vacation Spots by Age
Ages 0-3: Explore Without Limits
The beauty of traveling with toddlers and babies is their adaptability. Don’t feel restricted in your destination choices. Dreaming of the Great Wall of China, the Egyptian Pyramids, or the scenic landscapes of Iceland? Go for it! While flights might present challenges with kids under two, the journey is temporary, and the destination awaits. Routine adjustments for naps and meals will be necessary, but young children are surprisingly adaptable to new environments.
The key at this age is to align the activities with your child’s needs. Avoid destinations requiring extensive car travel if your child dislikes car seats. Museum visits might be shorter, replaced by parks and playgrounds. Focus on creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the whole family, wherever you choose to roam.
Exploring Naples, Italy with a one-year-old, showcasing the adaptability of young children to travel.
Age 4: Australia – Down Under Adventure
Australia is a fantastic choice for families with four-year-olds. The English-speaking environment eases communication. The unique wildlife and animal encounters are captivating for young minds. Beautiful beaches offer relaxation and play. Even picky eaters will find familiar food options. Getting around is convenient with excellent public transportation, eliminating the need for car rentals. While climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge has an age limit, most Australian experiences are accessible and enjoyable for four-year-olds.
Daughter with Australian Souvenirs in Sydney at Age 4
Related Blog Post: A California Getaway to Australia to Cuddle Koalas
Brisbane Hotel Recommendation: The central and budget-friendly Brisbane Hilton.
Age 5: Spain, Italy, and Portugal – European Charm
Italy holds a special place in our hearts, and we’ve explored it with our children since they were infants. Spain and Portugal are equally appealing to families, and we’ve enjoyed those countries with young kids as well. These European destinations offer a blend of history, delicious cuisine, walkable cities, and family-friendly outdoor dining. Plus, beautiful beaches are readily accessible. Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (April/May or September/October) to avoid peak tourist crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, especially beneficial when kids are not yet tied to school schedules.
Children immersed in play at an olive orchard in Italy, exemplifying the family-friendly experiences in European villas.
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: Apartments at Palazzo Belfiore offer great location, spacious rooms, and laundry facilities.
Rome Hotel Recommendation: Albergo del Senato with Pantheon views.
Venice Hotel Recommendation: Hotel al Ponte Antico, a favorite with family-friendly room setups.
Cascais Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Baia – loved for its location and views.
Age 6: Costa Rica and Panama – Tropical Adventures
Costa Rica is a fantastic all-around destination for six-year-olds, offering beaches, wildlife, and exciting activities. Resort stays can be combined with national park excursions to spot monkeys and sloths. Panama offers a similar experience to Costa Rica, with the added attraction of the Panama Canal, which is fascinating for children of all ages. Panama tends to be less crowded and more budget-friendly. Direct flights from the US make both countries easily accessible.
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 kid-friendly with beach access.
Panama Hotel Recommendation: While we haven’t found a standout hotel in Panama yet, the country itself offers rich experiences.
Age 7: Scandinavia or Canada – Outdoor Escapes
Seven is an excellent age to embrace the outdoors. Scandinavia, particularly Norway and Sweden, are incredibly kid-friendly with safe, walkable cities and easy access to nature via public transport. In Oslo, a short metro ride takes you to Sognsvann lake for hiking, swimming, and lakeside picnics. Forests accessible by metro offer berry picking opportunities. In Sweden, venture to Kolarbyn after arriving in Stockholm. Stay in forest huts, canoe to a floating sauna, and cook meals over campfires – a truly magical experience with mushroom and berry picking in the surrounding forests.
A cozy forest hut at Kolarbyn, Sweden, representing an immersive nature retreat ideal for families.
For a closer-to-home option (for US-based families), consider Canada. Similar to Scandinavia, Canada boasts stunning nature and cool cities. Summer (June-September) is ideal, while Alberta is fantastic in winter. Activities range from kayaking and hiking to skating and snowshoeing, plus diverse wildlife encounters. English is widely spoken, making it easy to navigate. Manitoba and Alberta (Banff and Lake Louise) are highly recommended regions.
Family canoeing at Oak Hammock Marsh in Manitoba, Canada
Family snowshoeing in the winter wonderland of Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada, demonstrating year-round family appeal.
Related Blog Posts: Manitoba, Canada with Kids: Three Days of Animal Adventures!, 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 centrally located and spacious suites at Fort Garry Hotel.
Lake Louise, Alberta Hotel Recommendation: The iconic and perfect Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Age 8: Antarctica or Japan – Polar or Cultural Extremes
Antarctica, surprisingly, is an excellent destination for eight-year-olds. They are captivated by the wildlife (penguins, seals, whales), enjoy playing in the snow and ice, and are generally well-behaved on expedition boats. Their lighter weight is even an advantage in snow walks! Don’t wait until retirement – Antarctica offers a magical family experience starting from around age 8-10.
Daughter in Antarctica at eight years old
If Antarctica is not feasible, Japan is another fantastic option for eight-year-olds. The blend of culture, temples, and modern attractions like anime creates a unique and engaging experience. Japan’s cultural richness is both zen and exciting, captivating young minds.
Exploring the cultural heart of Kyoto, Japan, with kids, showing the city’s appeal to families.
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” firsthand.
Kyoto Hotel Recommendations: Kyoto Inn Gion for a cute, well-located inn, or the new Park Hyatt Kyoto for a luxurious experience.
Age 9: Bali – Tranquility and Culture
Bali has become a popular choice for nine-year-old trips in our family. It offers a blend of beaches and wildlife (monkey forests are a hit with kids) alongside culture, yoga, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an excellent transitional destination as children mature beyond purely “kid-centric” activities.
Rice field view in Ubud, Bali
Related Blog Post: Bali with Kids
Hotel Suggestions: In Ubud, Komaneka at Monkey Forest is conveniently located. Tanah Gajah offers a tranquil retreat outside town. For beachside stays, Kayumanis Jimbaran is a favorite.
Age 10: African Safari or Amazon Rainforest – Wildlife Encounters
Our family safari in Tanzania and Kenya was incredible, and we found age 10 to be ideal for this experience. While younger children can certainly enjoy safaris, the recommended vaccinations and medications for Africa are easier to manage with older kids. Longer safari drives are also better suited for ten-year-olds.
Wildlife viewing during a safari in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, exemplifying the adventure suitable for ten-year-olds.
For a more budget-friendly and logistically simpler wildlife adventure, consider Brazil’s Amazon rainforest. This was another favorite kid trip, and age ten is perfect. The Amazon offers abundant wildlife, thrilling adventures, and a welcome digital detox for the whole family.
Sunset over 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 – Myth and History
Greece has been a consistent family favorite since our children were born. The Greek Islands in summer are magical, making Greece a highly recommended destination at any age. However, age 11 is particularly enriching as children are likely studying Greek history and mythology in school. A trip to Greece brings these subjects to life in a tangible and exciting way.
Late afternoon at the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, connecting ancient history with family travel experiences.
Daughter 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
Hotel Suggestion: Nissaki Beach Hotel on Naxos – our favorite place to stay in Greece.
Age 12: Paris – Culture and City Exploration
Paris, like Italy and Greece, has been a frequent family destination since our kids were very young. While Paris is enjoyable at any age, twelve-year-olds are particularly ready to appreciate its museums and cultural offerings. They are more likely to engage in museum visits, especially with kid-focused tours. Paris’s shopping scene also becomes more appealing to this age group.
Family cooling off at the Louvre Museum in Paris, showcasing the city’s cultural attractions 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
Hotel Suggestion: Hôtel de Londres Eiffel is well-located near Rue Cler and the Eiffel Tower, offering family room setups. Apartment rentals are also a great option.
Age 13: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand – Southeast Asian Culture
Thirteen-year-olds might still enjoy beach and animal-focused vacations, or perhaps a cruise with teen activities. However, this age is also ideal for more culturally immersive trips. Southeast Asia is a safe and accessible region with delicious food and incredible historical sites. Vietnam and Laos remain relatively less touristy, while Cambodia (Siem Reap) and Thailand attract more visitors. Combining cultural exploration with beach or resort time is easily arranged in this region.
View from Phousi Mountain in Laos
Exploring the ancient Bayon Temple in Cambodia, highlighting the region’s rich cultural heritage.
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 Suggestions: Almanity Wellness Resort in Hoi An and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay further south. For Ha Long Bay cruises, Hera Cruises is recommended.
Laos Hotel Suggestion: Satri House in Luang Prabang offers colonial charm.
Cambodia Hotel Suggestion: Any of the Shinta Mani hotels in Siem Reap: Bensley Collection, Shinta Mani, or Shinta Mani Shack.
Thailand Hotel Suggestions: The Peninsula in Bangkok in Bangkok and Soneva Kiri on Ko Kood for island luxury.
Age 14: India – Cultural Immersion
India, while fascinating at any age, is particularly impactful for teenagers. It’s a destination of intense cultural immersion, color, and adventure, but also chaotic and potentially challenging in terms of health. It’s less about beaches and more about experiencing pure culture. Camel rides in Rajasthan, visiting the Taj Mahal at sunrise, exploring desert forts, and witnessing the Ganges in Varanasi offer profound experiences. Showing teenagers the slums of Mumbai can provide a powerful reality check. While a ten-year-old might find India overwhelming, it’s often a better fit for teens.
The iconic Taj Mahal at sunrise in India, representing a must-see cultural experience for families.
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 Suggestion: Suryagarh – a palace hotel experience.
Mumbai Hotel Suggestion: The iconic and well-located Taj Mahal Palace – choose the Palace wing.
Age 15: Patagonia, Faroe Islands, or Greenland – Hiking Adventures
Patagonia, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland share common threads: stunning scenery, remoteness, fewer tourists, and adventure, particularly hiking. As children grow, longer hikes become more enjoyable. For adventurous fifteen-year-olds (or younger, depending on their outdoor inclination), these destinations are ideal.
Family hiking in the dramatic landscapes of Chilean Patagonia, showcasing adventure travel for teens.
Hiking in the Faroe Islands
Boat travel in Greenland, where roads are limited, offering a unique blend of hiking and nautical exploration.
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 Suggestion: Tierra Patagonia – an amazing experience.
Faroe Islands Hotel Suggestion: Gjaargardur Guesthouse Gjogv – our favorite hotel there.
Greenland Hotel Suggestion: Consider staying on a sheep farm – details in our blog post.
Age 16: The Maldives – Luxury and Relaxation
The Maldives are synonymous with luxury and relaxation. Six Senses Laamu is our top resort recommendation, ideal for honeymooners, couples, and families. While enjoyable for younger children, age seven and up is best as kids can bike around, including on long jetties to overwater villas. For a splurge trip at 16, focusing on relaxation, independence, and luxury, the Maldives are unparalleled. It’s a long journey from California, making it a truly special and distant escape.
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
Hotel Suggestion: Six Senses Laamu. While the Maldives offer numerous amazing hotels, this remains our top choice.
Your Thoughts?
These are just suggestions to spark your family vacation planning. Every family and child is unique, and the best destinations are those that resonate with your family’s interests. What are your experiences and recommendations? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We’d love to hear your Best Places For Family Vacations and any disagreements or alternative suggestions you have for specific ages.
Travel Insurance Note:
Travel insurance is crucial, especially for family trips. We learned this firsthand after a medical incident while traveling. Consider an annual plan like G1G for peace of mind.
Affordable Travel Tips:
Dreaming of these destinations but concerned about cost? We travel inexpensively by leveraging points and miles. Consider a travel rewards credit card, ideally one with no foreign transaction fees, and use it for everyday spending to accumulate points for flights and more.
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