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Summer’s sun is calling, and the urge to escape with the family is stronger than ever! Planning your summer destinations with kids, especially summer vacations with toddlers, can feel daunting, but the rewards are immeasurable.
Imagine your children’s eyes widening at the sight of ancient ruins, their laughter echoing through vibrant markets, or their toes sinking into sands of exotic beaches. We’ve curated a list of 10 incredible international summer destinations that cater to families of all ages, from adventurous teens to curious toddlers. Each location offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, natural wonders, and kid-friendly activities, ensuring that every member of the family has a fantastic time.
Get ready to pack your bags and embark on a journey that will create lasting memories and show your family to the wonders of the world!
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Kyoto, Japan
- Best For: families who appreciate cultural immersion, history, and well-organized travel. Bonus: Japan is one of the most baby- and toddler-friendly destinations on the planet!
- Why it’s great: Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern culture, perfect for families seeking diverse experiences. Children will be fascinated by the serene temples and vibrant festivals, while parents can appreciate the rich history and artistic heritage. The city’s efficient public transportation and family-friendly accommodations make it easy to explore, ensuring a comfortable and memorable trip. Plus, the variety of food options will please even the pickiest eaters.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: hiking through thousands of red torii gates
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: a magical walk
- Kyoto Railway Museum: hands-on train exhibits
- Transportation: Excellent public transportation (trains and buses), or join a tour.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: Hotel Granvia Kyoto (connected to the train station, with family rooms).
Iceland
- Best For: adventurous families who love cool weather nature, outdoor activities and unique landscapes.
- Why it’s great: Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, from glaciers and volcanoes to waterfalls and geysers, offer an unparalleled natural playground. Kids will be amazed by the otherworldly scenery and the chance to witness nature’s raw power. The abundance of outdoor activities, like whale watching and hiking, provides endless opportunities for adventure. The clean air and wide-open spaces allow for a feeling of freedom and exploration that’s rare to find.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Golden Circle tour (geysers, waterfalls, and Thingvellir National Park).
- Whale watching tours from Reykjavik.
- Exploring lava fields and black sand beaches.
- Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring beyond Reykjavik, or you can join a tour.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: Hotel Ísland – Spa & Wellness Hotel (centrally located in Reykjavik, has a pool and family rooms).
Costa Rica
- Best For: families who love wildlife, outdoor adventures and relaxing beach vacations.
- Why it’s great: Costa Rica is a paradise for families seeking both adventure and relaxation. The country’s commitment to eco-tourism means you can explore pristine rainforests and encounter diverse wildlife while also enjoying beautiful beaches. The friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere create a welcoming environment for families, and the wide range of activities ensures there’s something for everyone, from thrill-seekers to nature lovers.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Ziplining through the rainforest.
- Wildlife spotting in Manuel Antonio National Park.
- Relaxing on the beaches of the Pacific or Caribbean coast.
- Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for flexibility, or join a family tour.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal (hot springs, wildlife and adventure activities).
Algarve, Portugal
- Best For: families seeking a relaxing beach vacation with access to historical sites and fun activities.
- Why it’s great: The Algarve’s stunning coastline, with its golden beaches and dramatic cliffs, makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing family vacation. The region’s warm climate and abundance of family-friendly resorts provide the perfect setting for enjoying the sun and sea. Beyond the beaches, there are historical towns, water parks, and boat trips to explore, ensuring that kids of all ages will stay entertained. The relaxed pace of life and delicious seafood make it a very enjoyable destination.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Boat trips to Benagil Caves.
- Exploring the historic town of Lagos.
- Spending days on the golden beaches.
- Transportation: Renting a car is helpful for exploring the region, but public transport covers main towns.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort Hotel (kids’ clubs, pools, and activities).
Slovenia
- Best For: Families who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and a more relaxed pace of travel.
- Why it’s great: Slovenia’s compact size and diverse landscapes make it easy to explore, offering a mix of alpine adventures and tranquil lake experiences. Families can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and rafting, while also discovering charming towns and historical sites. The country’s focus on sustainability and eco-tourism ensures that its natural beauty remains pristine. The friendly people, great food, and value for money make Slovenia a hidden gem worth discovering.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Exploring Lake Bled (boat rides to the island, Bled Castle).
- Hiking or biking in Triglav National Park.
- Rafting or kayaking on the Soca River.
- Transportation: Renting a car is best for exploring the diverse landscapes. Public transport is available, but limited. You can also join a tour.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: Hotel Triglav Bled (Lake views, family rooms, and close to activities).
Quebec City, Canada
- Best For: Families who appreciate history, culture, and charming city experiences, all while staying in a close time zone.
- Why it’s great: Quebec City’s charming Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and French architecture, feels like stepping into a fairytale. The city’s rich history and cultural attractions offer educational and entertaining experiences for kids. The welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly activities, like tobogganing in winter and exploring the Citadel, make it a delightful destination. The abundance of parks and green spaces also allows for plenty of outdoor fun.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Exploring the Citadel of Quebec.
- Taking a stroll through Old Quebec.
- Visiting the Aquarium du Québec.
- Transportation: Quebec City is walkable, and public transport is good. A car is not needed in the city itself.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (iconic hotel with family amenities).
Scotland
- Best For: Families who love history, folklore, and exploring dramatic natural landscapes.
- Why it’s great: Scotland’s dramatic landscapes, ancient castles, and mythical lochs ignite the imagination and create a sense of adventure for families. The friendly locals and rich cultural heritage provide a warm and welcoming experience. From exploring historic cities to hiking in the rugged Highlands, there’s a wealth of activities to enjoy. The storytelling and folklore that surrounds many locations in Scotland also provides for many memorable moments.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Exploring Edinburgh Castle.
- Searching for Nessie on Loch Ness.
- Riding the Jacobite Steam Train (aka the Harry Potter Express)
- Transportation: Renting a car is ideal for exploring the Highlands. Train travel is good between major cities.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: Inverlochy Castle Hotel (luxury castle hotel with tons of activities).
Peru’s Sacred Valley
- Best For: Families interested in ancient history, cultural immersion, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
- Why it’s great: The Sacred Valley provides a unique opportunity to immerse your family in ancient Inca culture and breathtaking Andean landscapes. The combination of historical ruins, vibrant markets and stunning natural scenery offers a diverse and enriching experience. The opportunity to travel to Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world, is an unforgettable experience. The friendly people and colorful culture make this a very memorable destination.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Exploring the Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo.
- Visiting the Pisac market.
- Taking a train ride to Machu Picchu.
- Transportation: Renting a car can be helpful for exploring the valley, but train travel is essential for reaching Machu Picchu. The best option is to join a family tour.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado (beautiful setting, family-friendly activities, and close to many attractions).
Morocco
- Best For: adventurous families who love cultural immersion, unique experiences, vibrant atmospheres and don’t mind the desert heat.
- Why it’s great: Morocco offers a sensory explosion of colors, sounds, and flavors, providing a truly immersive cultural experience for families. The opportunity to ride camels in the Sahara Desert, explore ancient cities, and navigate bustling souks creates lasting memories. The friendly hospitality and delicious cuisine make it a welcoming destination for all ages. The diversity of the landscapes, from deserts to mountains to coastlines, means there is always something new to explore.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Riding camels in the Sahara Desert.
- Exploring the colorful souks of Marrakech.
- Visiting the ancient city of Fes.
- Transportation: Hiring a private driver or taking organized tours is recommended for traveling between cities and exploring the desert. Within cities like Marrakech, walking and taxis are common.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: Pestana CR7 Marrakech (kid-friendly amenities, a pool and is close to many of the Marrakech attractions.).
Bali, Indonesia
- Best For: Families seeking a tropical getaway with cultural experiences, relaxation, and diverse activities.
- Why it’s great: Bali’s lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage create a tropical paradise that’s perfect for families. The friendly locals and warm hospitality make it easy to feel at home, while the diverse activities, from surfing to temple visits, offer something for everyone. The delicious food, vibrant arts scene, and relaxing atmosphere make it a truly unforgettable destination. The abundance of family friendly resorts makes traveling with children easy.
- Top 3 Kid Activities:
- Waterbom waterpark
- Exploring the rice terraces of Tegallalang.
- Learning to surf on Kuta or Seminyak beaches.
- Transportation: Renting a car or scooter is an option, but hiring a driver is often more convenient.
- Kid-Friendly Hotel: Club Med Bali (all-inclusive resort with extensive kids’ facilities).
Wrapping it up
Venturing beyond familiar borders for your family’s summer vacation can transform a simple getaway into an extraordinary adventure. From the ancient wonders of Kyoto to the sun-kissed shores of Bali, and the dramatic landscapes of Iceland to the vibrant souks of Marrakech, the world offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. These ten destinations, each with its unique charm and kid-friendly appeal, promise to create lasting memories that your family will cherish for years to come.
Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, thrilling outdoor activities, or simply a relaxing escape, there’s a perfect international destination for you. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and prepare to embark on a summer vacation that will broaden your horizons and strengthen your family bonds. The world is waiting, and the memories you make will be priceless.
Have you explored any of these destinations with your little ones? Don’t forget to share this article with other families looking for unforgettable summer adventures.
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