Best Destinations in Europe for a Family Holiday

by Damien Troy

Booking a family holiday can be tricky, if you’ve got a wide age range to cater for it can be hard to find a holiday to please everyone. There’s also the matter of budget, creating your ideal holiday can be expensive but luckily there are plenty of affordable options for family holidays in Europe. There are plenty of ways you can cut costs and have the holiday of a lifetime, if you book to park at Stansted airport in advance you could save yourself a considerable amount of money!

Algarve, Portugal

One of the top destinations for families, is the Algarve in Portugal. With stunning rocky coastlines, endless sandy beaches and plenty of activities for children and adults alike, it’s hardly surprising that the Algarve has become so popular. In the unlikely event you get tired of the beaches, you can head to the Zoo Marine waterpark or go shopping at the local markets. Whether you choose a hotel or self-catered accommodation, you’ll find that everyone is friendly and welcoming towards children. Eating together with the whole family is a big part of Portuguese life, so you won’t need to worry about taking the little ones out to dinner with you.  

Brittany, France

If you’re looking for a more adventurous holiday, Brittany is perfect. The region is beautiful, with a combination of countryside and some of the best beaches in Europe. Brittany is ideal for camping, perfect for a budget family holiday. The campsites are top quality, complete with playgrounds, bowling alleys and swimming pools. When you want to head out to explore, don’t miss the fortress town of Dinan, which is both historical and beautiful. Brittany’s oldest city, Quimper, feels like it has remained untouched throughout time. It’s the perfect place to try a traditional macaroon!

Corfu, Greece

Greece has been great for an affordable holiday for several years now. The island of Corfu is hot and sunny all summer long but it’s known as the ‘green gem’ of Greece because of its unique plant life. Wander through the old town and enjoy some gelato, spend time exploring the rocky coastline and hidden beaches, or simply soak up the sun around the pool. For the more active family, there’s plenty of hiking trails. In fact, the Corfu Trail goes from one end of the island to the other!

Costa Brava, Spain

If you want a pool, beach and plenty of things to do in easy reach of your hotel then Costa Brava is a perfect location. The coastal region has some incredible beaches, top class waterparks and an enormous National Park. With plenty of historic towns to explore, including Peratallada and Begur, you and your family will be spoilt for things to do in Costa Brava. For the budding artist among you, don’t miss the Salvador Dali House Museum, its home to some weird and wonderful pieces.

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal really does have everything for families, the capital city Lisbon is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. It’s beautiful and exotic, you’ll feel more like you’re in South America than Europe. The city has a huge range of activities for all the family, take a tram ride through the narrow streets, go shopping or visit the Oceanarium. There are also two impressive castles to visit, Sinatra and St George Castle.