20 Beautiful Family Summer Destinations in Europe
Europe is packed with incredible destinations perfect for a summer family vacation. From sun-soaked beaches to fairytale villages, there’s something for every traveler—whether you’re looking for adventure, history, or relaxation. The best part? Many of these destinations are family-friendly, with activities that keep both kids and adults entertained.
If you’re planning your next European getaway, these beautiful family summer destinations should be on your list. Think crystal-clear waters, charming old towns, thrilling outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences that will make your family trip unforgettable. Here are 20 of the best places to visit with kids this summer!
1. Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve is a paradise for families who love the beach. With its golden cliffs, hidden coves, and warm waters, it’s one of the best places in Europe for a seaside holiday. Kids will love exploring Benagil Cave, while parents can relax at Praia da Marinha, one of Portugal’s most stunning beaches.
For some adventure, visit Zoomarine, a marine park with dolphin shows, water slides, and an aquarium. You can also take a boat trip to see wild dolphins or explore the charming town of Lagos, known for its history and scenic coastline.
2. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Few places feel as magical as Lake Bled, where a tiny island sits in the middle of emerald-green waters. Families can take a traditional pletna boat to Bled Island, where kids can ring the famous wishing bell.
For an active day, hike up to Bled Castle for incredible views or rent bikes to cycle around the lake. Don’t forget to try Bled’s famous cream cake—a delicious treat for both kids and adults!
3. The French Riviera, France
The French Riviera isn’t just for luxury travelers—it’s also a great family destination. Head to Antibes, where the sandy beaches are perfect for kids, or explore Nice, with its colorful old town and lively markets.
A visit to Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum is a must, featuring giant aquariums and interactive exhibits. For a laid-back day, take the family on a scenic coastal train ride between the charming seaside towns.
4. Tuscany, Italy
Rolling hills, medieval towns, and some of the best food in the world—Tuscany is a dream for families who want a mix of culture and relaxation. Visit San Gimignano, a medieval town with towers that kids will love climbing.
For a hands-on experience, take a family-friendly cooking class in Florence or go on a truffle-hunting adventure in the countryside. The Pisa Leaning Tower is also a fun stop for kids who love taking silly photos!
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a fairytale city where families will feel right at home. Visit Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, where kids can ride vintage carousels and roller coasters.
A trip to The Little Mermaid statue and Nyhavn’s colorful harbor is a must. For a unique experience, explore Den Blå Planet, Northern Europe’s largest aquarium, where you can walk through a giant underwater tunnel.
6. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is bursting with fun activities for families. Visit Park Güell, where kids can climb on Gaudí’s colorful mosaic structures, or take a cable car up to Montjuïc Castle for panoramic views.
The sandy shores of Barceloneta Beach are perfect for a break from sightseeing. For an unforgettable experience, catch a magic fountain show at Montjuïc, where water and lights dance to music.
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is surprisingly kid-friendly, with bike-friendly streets and exciting attractions. Take a boat ride along the canals or visit NEMO Science Museum, where kids can experiment with hands-on exhibits.
Families will also love Artis Royal Zoo, one of Europe’s oldest zoos. Don’t miss a visit to Zaanse Schans, a nearby village with working windmills, cheese-making demonstrations, and clog workshops.
8. Edinburgh, Scotland
If your family loves history and adventure, Edinburgh is a fantastic summer destination. Walk up to Edinburgh Castle for a taste of Scotland’s royal past, or explore the mysterious underground vaults on a fun ghost tour.
For something truly magical, visit The Elephant House Café, where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of Harry Potter. Kids will also love Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers an easy hike with rewarding city views.
9. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik’s walled old town looks like something straight out of a storybook, making it a great place for families to explore. Walk the ancient city walls and enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
For beach fun, head to Banje Beach, where kids can swim while parents relax with a seaside cocktail. If your family loves adventure, take a kayak tour around the city walls or hop on a boat to Lokrum Island, home to wild peacocks and a hidden saltwater lake.
10. Bavaria, Germany
Bavaria is home to Neuschwanstein Castle, the fairytale palace that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Kids will love exploring the towering turrets and hidden passages of this magical landmark.
The Bavarian Alps offer plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking to scenic train rides. In Munich, visit the Deutsches Museum, one of the world’s best science museums, with hands-on exhibits perfect for kids.
11. Santorini, Greece
Santorini might be famous for honeymooners, but it’s also a fantastic family destination. The island’s black sand beaches like Kamari Beach are perfect for kids who love unique landscapes, and the calm waters make for great swimming.
Take a catamaran cruise to see the caldera and swim in the island’s famous hot springs. For an unforgettable experience, ride a donkey up the cliffs of Fira or take the cable car for breathtaking views.
12. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is one of the most kid-friendly capitals in Europe. The Vasa Museum, featuring a giant 17th-century ship, is a hit with young explorers. The open-air Skansen Museum lets families see traditional Swedish homes, feed reindeer, and watch craftsmen at work.
For a day of fun, visit Gröna Lund, a charming amusement park by the water. And if your kids love stories, take them to Junibacken, a magical museum dedicated to Astrid Lindgren’s Pippi Longstocking.
13. The Azores, Portugal
For adventurous families, the Azores offer breathtaking natural beauty. Kids will love spotting wild dolphins and whales on a boat tour, while parents can relax in the island’s natural hot springs.
Explore the Sete Cidades twin lakes, a landscape that looks straight out of a fantasy movie. If your family enjoys hiking, there are easy trails leading to waterfalls, volcanic craters, and secret lagoons.
14. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is full of history and elegance, but it’s also a wonderful place for families. The Schönbrunn Palace has a special children’s museum where kids can dress up as princes and princesses. The palace’s zoo, the oldest in the world, is home to pandas, tigers, and elephants.
Don’t miss a ride on the Wiener Riesenrad, a giant Ferris wheel offering stunning city views. And for music lovers, Vienna’s House of Music has interactive exhibits where kids can compose their own symphonies!
15. Bruges, Belgium
With its fairytale canals, medieval towers, and delicious chocolate shops, Bruges is a delight for families. Take a boat tour along the canals to see the city from a unique perspective.
For something sweet, visit Choco-Story, a museum all about chocolate, where kids can see how Belgian chocolates are made (and taste some too!). The Belfry of Bruges offers stunning city views for those willing to climb the 366 steps.
16. Cornwall, England
Cornwall is perfect for a classic British seaside vacation. The region’s golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming fishing villages make it an ideal family getaway.
Visit St. Michael’s Mount, a tidal island with a medieval castle, or explore The Eden Project, a futuristic greenhouse filled with tropical plants. Kids will also love the Minack Theatre, an open-air stage built into the cliffs with incredible ocean views.
17. Lake Geneva, Switzerland
Switzerland might be known for its winter landscapes, but Lake Geneva is a stunning summer destination. Families can enjoy paddleboarding, swimming, and scenic boat cruises on the crystal-clear lake.
Visit Château de Chillon, a medieval castle that looks like something out of a fairytale. If your kids love science, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne is a fantastic interactive experience dedicated to the history of the Games.
18. Malta
Malta offers a mix of history, adventure, and beautiful beaches, making it a great spot for families. Explore the ancient walled city of Mdina, where narrow streets feel straight out of a medieval fantasy.
For beach days, Golden Bay and Mellieħa Bay have calm, shallow waters perfect for young swimmers. Don’t miss Popeye Village, a colorful film set turned amusement park where kids can meet characters from the classic movie!
19. The Dolomites, Italy
If your family loves the outdoors, the Dolomites are the perfect summer escape. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers easy hiking trails, stunning lakes, and adventure parks for kids of all ages.
Take a cable car to Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest alpine meadow, where kids can see horses, cows, and breathtaking mountain views. Another must-visit is Lago di Braies, one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, where you can rent a boat and glide across the emerald-green waters.
20. Lapland, Finland
You might think of Lapland as a winter wonderland, but summer here is just as magical. The Midnight Sun means endless daylight hours for outdoor adventures like canoeing, wildlife safaris, and berry picking.
Families can visit Santa Claus Village, where it’s Christmas all year round, or take a boat trip to spot reindeer and huskies in the wild. For an unforgettable experience, stay in a glass igloo and watch the Northern Lights if you’re visiting late in the season!
