Family travel can be transformative, enriching, and incredibly fun! Sharing new experiences and cultures with your children creates lasting memories and strengthens your bonds. Inspired to embark on a family adventure? The next exciting question is: where should you go?
Drawing upon years of family travel experience, we’ve explored destinations far and wide, learning firsthand what works best for different ages and interests. While we’ve previously shared insights on the ideal age to travel anywhere and curated lists of our top spots, we consistently receive questions about specific age recommendations.
Many parents seek the “perfect” destination for their 7-year-old, 13-year-old, or children of any age in between. While there’s no single right answer, as every child is unique, we believe the most rewarding trips align with your child’s passions and interests. Consider what truly excites your child and let that be your compass in choosing your destination. Make the journey about them, and you’re already on the path to an unforgettable family vacation.
However, we understand the desire for concrete ideas! So, we’ve compiled a guide to some of the Best Places To Travel With Family, categorized by age, keeping in mind that these are suggestions, and the best choice ultimately depends on your individual children and family. Remember, your insights and experiences are invaluable, so please share your thoughts and alternative suggestions in the comments below!
Top Family Travel Destinations by Age
Ages 0-3: Embrace Exploration Anywhere
The world is your oyster when traveling with toddlers and babies! Don’t feel limited by their age. Aside from adult-only resorts, young children are remarkably adaptable travel companions. Dreaming of seeing the Great Wall of China, the Egyptian Pyramids, or the stunning landscapes of Iceland? Now is a fantastic time to go! While flights might present challenges with children under two, remember that the flight is temporary, and the enriching travel experiences await. Of course, the routines of home, like nap times and meal schedules, will travel with you, but children at this age are incredibly resilient and will often surprise you with their adaptability.
Key Tip: While destination flexibility is high, tailor your trip to your child’s temperament. If long car rides are a struggle, opt for destinations with minimal driving. Museum visits might be shorter, but parks and playgrounds become your new best friends!
A toddler daughter immersed in exploration in Naples, Italy, showcasing the joys of early childhood travel.
Age 4: Australia – Down Under Family Fun
Australia consistently ranks as a top destination for families with young children, and for good reason. The English-speaking environment makes navigation easy, and the abundance of unique wildlife and animal encounters captivates young minds. From stunning beaches to the iconic Sydney Harbour, Australia offers a diverse range of experiences. Even picky eaters will find familiar and appealing food options readily available. Getting around is a breeze with excellent public transportation, often eliminating the need for a rental car. While climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge has an age limit of eight, most of Australia’s wonders are perfectly accessible and enjoyable for four-year-olds.
Daughter with Australian Souvenirs in Sydney
Featured Blog Post: A California Getaway to Australia to Cuddle Koalas
Family-Friendly Brisbane Hotel: The Brisbane Hilton – Centrally located and budget-friendly.
Age 5: Southern Europe – Spain, Italy, and Portugal Beckon
For families seeking a blend of history, culture, and delicious food, Spain, Italy, and Portugal in Southern Europe are ideal choices for five-year-olds. Italy, a personal favorite, has been a beloved family destination since our children were infants. These countries boast fascinating historical sites, walkable cities perfect for little legs, and a welcoming outdoor dining culture that’s inherently kid-friendly. Plus, beautiful beaches add another layer of family appeal. Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of April/May or September/October to avoid peak tourist crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, especially beneficial when traveling with children not yet tied to a school schedule.
Children, ages three and five, joyfully playing in an olive orchard at a rented Italian villa, capturing the essence of family time in the Italian countryside.
Explore Family Travel in Southern Europe:
- 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-Recommended Hotels:
- Barcelona: Hotel DO Placa Reial – Perfectly located with connecting rooms for larger families.
- Florence: Palazzo Belfiore – Apartments with great location and laundry facilities.
- Rome: Albergo del Senato – Overlooking the Pantheon for a memorable stay.
- Venice: Hotel al Ponte Antico – A favorite hotel, consider booking two rooms for family comfort.
- Cascais: Hotel Baia – Great location with stunning views.
Age 6: Central America Adventures – Costa Rica & Panama
Costa Rica and Panama offer an irresistible combination of beaches, wildlife, and exciting activities, making them fantastic destinations for six-year-olds. Costa Rica is a haven for nature lovers, with national parks teeming with monkeys, sloths, and vibrant birdlife. Panama provides a similar tropical experience, enhanced by the fascinating Panama Canal, a point of interest for all ages. Panama is also generally less crowded and more budget-friendly than Costa Rica. Both countries boast direct flights from many US cities, simplifying travel logistics.
Family in Costa Rica at ages 6, 9, and 11
Dive into Central American Family Adventures:
- Punta Islita – Amazingly Family-Friendly Costa Rica
- A Panama Vacation with Thomson Family Adventures
Family-Approved Costa Rica Hotels:
- Hotel Punta Islita – Exceptionally family-friendly with excellent amenities.
- Los Suenos Marriott – Kid-friendly with great room setups and beach access.
Panama Hotel Recommendation: While we haven’t found a truly exceptional hotel in Panama yet, the country itself is a fantastic family destination.
Age 7: Scandinavian & Canadian Outdoors – Nature’s Playground
Seven is the perfect age to embrace the great outdoors, and Scandinavia and Canada offer incredible opportunities for nature-based family adventures. Norway and Sweden are particularly family-friendly, boasting safe, walkable cities alongside easily accessible natural wonders. In Oslo, a short metro ride takes you to Sognsvann lake for hiking, swimming, and lakeside picnics. Forests accessible by train lines offer berry picking in season. For a unique experience in Sweden, venture to Kolarbyn, where you can sleep in forest huts, enjoy a floating sauna, and cook meals over campfires – a truly magical and immersive nature experience!
A cozy forest hut at Kolarbyn in Sweden, inviting families to experience the tranquility and adventure of Scandinavian nature.
If staying closer to home is preferred, Canada mirrors Scandinavia’s appeal with stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. From kayaking and hiking in the summer to skating and snowshoeing in winter, Canada offers year-round family fun. Alberta, with Banff and Lake Louise, and Manitoba, centrally located and easily accessible, are particularly appealing. The (mostly) English-speaking environment further enhances the ease of travel.
Canoeing at Oak Hammock Marsh, Manitoba
Family snowshoeing adventure at the iconic Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada, highlighting winter family activities in Canada.
Explore Scandinavian & Canadian Family Adventures:
- Manitoba, Canada with Kids: Three Days of Animal Adventures!
- Exploring the Magical Forests of Central Sweden
Family-Recommended Hotels:
- Sweden (Kolarbyn): Kolarbyn Eco Lodge – A unique, 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.
Age 8: Polar & Eastern Wonders – Antarctica & Japan
For a truly unforgettable and unique family trip, consider Antarctica at age eight. This age is ideal for appreciating the incredible wildlife (penguins, seals, whales) and enjoying snow and ice activities. Eight-year-olds are generally well-behaved on expedition ships, enthusiastic about hikes and kayaking, and their lighter weight can even be an advantage in snowy conditions! Don’t postpone Antarctica until retirement – it’s a magical experience for families with children starting around age 8-10.
Daughter in Antarctica at age 8
If Antarctica isn’t the right fit, Japan offers a captivating blend of culture and modernity. The fascinating juxtaposition of ancient temples and vibrant anime culture creates a unique and engaging experience. Japan’s blend of zen tranquility and exciting urban life resonated deeply with our daughter at ages seven and eight.
A child experiencing the cultural richness of Kyoto, Japan, highlighting the blend of tradition and modernity that captivates families.
Explore Polar & Eastern Family Adventures:
- Antarctica with an 8-Year-Old
- Adventures with Disney Antarctica: A Magical Expedition
- Tokyo with Kids Made Easy
- Kyoto with Kids
Family-Recommended Hotels:
- Tokyo: The Park Hyatt Tokyo – Iconic “Lost in Translation” hotel with amazing views.
- Kyoto: Kyoto Inn Gion – Cute inn in a great location. Consider the new Park Hyatt Kyoto for a luxurious experience.
Age 9: Bali – Tranquility & Culture in Indonesia
Bali, the “Island of Gods,” has become a popular choice for families with nine-year-olds, offering a harmonious blend of beaches, wildlife, and cultural immersion. The famous Monkey Forest is a hit with kids, while the island’s rich culture, yoga retreats, and peaceful atmosphere provide a sense of tranquility. Bali serves as an excellent transition destination as children mature beyond purely “kid-centric” activities, yet still offers plenty to captivate their interests.
Rice Field in Ubud, Bali
Explore Balinese Family Adventures:
- Bali with Kids
Family-Recommended Hotels:
- Ubud: Komaneka at Monkey Forest – Walking distance to town and attractions. Tanah Gajah – Luxurious option outside of town.
- Jimbaran (Beach): Kayumanis Jimbaran – A favorite beachfront hotel for families.
Age 10: Wildlife Encounters – African Safari or Amazon Rainforest
Age ten is prime time for incredible wildlife experiences like an African safari or an Amazon rainforest adventure. While safaris can be enjoyed with younger children, age ten strikes a perfect balance. Older children handle the longer safari drives more comfortably, and are better able to manage necessary vaccinations and medications. A safari in Tanzania and Kenya provides unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wildlife viewing during a safari in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, illustrating the excitement and educational value of an African safari for families.
For a closer-to-home and potentially more budget-friendly wildlife adventure, consider the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. An Amazon expedition offers a thrilling unplugged experience with abundant wildlife and adventure activities. Ten is an excellent age to fully appreciate the rainforest’s wonders, with children in the 7-14 age range thriving on our Amazon trips.
Amazon Rainforest Sunset
Explore Wildlife Family Adventures:
- 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 & History Come Alive
Greece, with its rich history and stunning islands, is a perennial family favorite, enjoyable at any age. However, age eleven is particularly enriching as children are likely learning about Greek history and mythology in school. A trip to Greece at this age brings these subjects to life in a tangible and exciting way. Exploring ancient ruins, wandering through charming villages, and island hopping in the Greek Isles create lasting memories and educational opportunities.
Late afternoon at the iconic Parthenon in Athens, Greece, inviting families to explore ancient history and architectural wonders.
Sunrise in Paros, Greece
Explore Greek Island Family Adventures:
- 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
Family-Recommended Hotel (Naxos): Nissaki Beach Hotel – Our favorite place to stay in Greece.
Age 12: Paris – Museums & City Exploration
Paris, like Italy and Greece, is a city that welcomes families of all ages. However, age twelve marks a sweet spot for appreciating Paris’s world-class museums. While younger children might have limited museum stamina, twelve-year-olds are more likely to engage with museum exhibits, especially with kid-focused tours. Furthermore, Paris’s shopping scene becomes more appealing to this age group.
Cooling off at the Louvre Museum in Paris on a hot summer day, showcasing family-friendly museum experiences in Paris.
Explore Parisian Family Adventures:
- 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
Family-Recommended Hotel: Hôtel de Londres Eiffel – Convenient location near Rue Cler, Eiffel Tower, and transportation, offering family room setups. Apartment rentals are also a great option for families in Paris.
Age 13: Southeast Asia – Culture & Temples Await
For families seeking cultural immersion and adventure, Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand, is an excellent choice for thirteen-year-olds. These countries are generally safe and easy to navigate, offering delicious food and incredible historical sites. Vietnam and Laos retain a more off-the-beaten-path feel, while Cambodia (Siem Reap) and Thailand are more accustomed to Western tourists. Combining cultural exploration with beach or resort time is easily arranged.
Phousi Mountain in Laos
Exploring the ancient Bayon Temple in Cambodia, highlighting the historical and cultural richness of Southeast Asia for families.
Explore Southeast Asian Family Adventures:
- 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!
Family-Recommended Hotels:
- Vietnam: Almanity Wellness Resort (Hoi An), Six Senses Ninh Van Bay (Ninh Van Bay), Hera Cruises (Ha Long Bay).
- Laos: Satri House (Luang Prabang) – Colonial charm.
- Cambodia: Shinta Mani Hotels in Siem Reap: Bensley Collection, Shinta Mani, Shinta Mani Shack – All wonderful options.
- Thailand: The Peninsula Bangkok (Bangkok), Soneva Kiri (Ko Kood).
Age 14: India – Cultural Immersion & Adventure
India, a land of vibrant culture and captivating chaos, is best experienced with older children, around age fourteen. While India can be visited at any age, teenagers are better equipped to handle the intense cultural immersion, potential for stomach ailments, and the fast-paced environment. India is not primarily a beach destination; instead, it’s about experiencing pure culture, color, and adventure. Camel rides in Rajasthan, sunrise at the Taj Mahal, exploring desert forts, and a boat trip on the Ganges in Varanasi offer unparalleled experiences. Consider showing your teens the slums of Mumbai for a powerful reality check.
The breathtaking Taj Mahal at sunrise in India, a must-see historical monument for families traveling with teenagers.
Explore Indian Family Adventures:
- 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
Family-Recommended Hotels:
- Jaisalmer: The Suryagarh – A palace hotel for a royal experience.
- Mumbai: The Taj Mahal Palace – Iconic and centrally located, choose the Palace wing.
Age 15: Hiking Havens – Patagonia, Faroe Islands, Greenland
For adventurous families who enjoy hiking, Patagonia, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland are exceptional choices for fifteen-year-olds. These destinations are remote, stunningly beautiful, less touristy, and offer incredible hiking opportunities. As children grow older, hiking becomes more enjoyable for everyone. These destinations provide serious adventure, with varying levels of challenge suitable for active families.
Family hiking amidst the dramatic landscapes of Chilean Patagonia, offering challenging and rewarding outdoor adventures.
Hiking in the Faroe Islands
Boat travel in Greenland, emphasizing the remote and adventurous nature of travel in Greenland, often requiring boats or hiking for inter-town travel.
Explore Hiking Family Adventures:
- 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
Family-Recommended Hotels:
- Patagonia: Tierra Patagonia – Amazing hotel with stunning views.
- Faroe Islands: Gjaargardur Guesthouse Gjogv – Our favorite guesthouse in the Faroe Islands.
- Greenland: Stay on a sheep farm for a unique cultural experience (information in our blog post).
Age 16: Maldives – Relaxation & Luxury
For a splurge-worthy family trip focused on relaxation and luxury, the Maldives are an unparalleled destination, particularly for sixteen-year-olds. While enjoyable for younger children, the Maldives become especially appealing to older teens seeking independence and sophisticated experiences. Six Senses Laamu, our favorite resort globally, is perfect for families, honeymooners, and couples alike. Kids aged seven and up can enjoy biking around the island, including on jetties leading to overwater villas. The Maldives, being geographically remote and often expensive, make for an exceptional destination for a memorable family trip.
Maldives Hammocks at Sunset
Explore Maldivian Family Adventures:
- Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives: Our New Favorite Resort Anywhere
- Six Nights in Paradise – A Return to Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives
Family-Recommended Hotel: Six Senses Laamu – Our top choice in the Maldives and globally.
Essential Travel Considerations
Health Insurance
Travel health insurance is a crucial consideration for family trips. While we previously traveled without it, a personal experience highlighted its importance. We now use an annual plan through G1G, which provides peace of mind when traveling with family. Exploring travel health insurance options is highly recommended.
Points and Miles
To make family travel more affordable, leveraging points and miles is key. A significant way we travel inexpensively is by utilizing credit card rewards to fly for free. Consider getting a credit card that earns travel points or miles and use it for everyday purchases. Opt for a card with no foreign transaction fees for international travel. Learn more about travel credit cards and no foreign transaction fee cards.
We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! What destinations would you recommend for specific ages? We value your insights!
