Best family holidays Europe

We’ve found the best places for family holidays in Europe - where sunny days, big adventure and quality time come naturally. It's your chance to swap everyday routines for time spent among trees and streams. Ready to show the kids a different kind of adventure?

Our family holidays are all about fresh air, freedom and unforgettable moments together in the great outdoors.

Think days spent exploring lush trails and dense forests, or the excitement of summit playgrounds and tree-top adventures.

Whether it’s climbing, biking, or making a splash with water sports, every day is packed with chances to laugh, explore, and create memories that will outshine any souvenir. After all, the best holiday memories aren’t things you bring home in a suitcase – they’re the moments that stay with you long after the sunshine fades.

In Selva, Italy, every day is an adventure waiting to happen. It’s a paradise for teens and tots alike. The Val Gardena Active Programme is your ticket to free family fun - get involved with as many activities as you want, from hikes leading to hidden adventure playgrounds to mountain biking. 

Stay at: Hotel Rodella

Family Fun Includes:

• Sports Centre: Bowling, tennis and ping pong
• Nives Climbing wall
• Zipline Adventures at Monte Pana

Heading out to the Juac Hut with the family is a blast, and you can even walk a bit further to the Regensburger Hut if you're feeling adventurous. The whole trail is about 8km long, but it's easy and takes around three hours to walk.

The walk starts at a car park above Selva Val Gardena and follows a forest trail marked as No. 3. Along the way, you'll see cool wood-carved animals, a pretty pond and some interesting signs to read.

The Juac Hut itself is under some big cliffs and has a great view. Plus, there's a football field, a big sundial, tasty food, and lots of space for the kids to run around.

Grindelwald is an endless fun-factory for families. Soar through the skies on the First Flyer or Glider ziplines, or explore the mountain biking trails. You can even try a Trottibike, which are like a cross between a mountain bike and a scooter. You've also got the option of three-wheeled mountain carts if you want to make your adventures in the great outdoors even more unique. And for those rainy days? An indoor rope park awaits.

Stay at: Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof or Hotel Belvedere

Family Fun Includes:

• Canyoning
• Biking trails
• Themed walks
• Indoor rope park

As you follow the trail from the top of the Männlichen gondola to the middle station, you're treated to stunning views and an exciting adventure with Lieselotte the cow and her friends.

The real highlight? There's 13 play stations dotted along the path. Each station offers a unique and fun activity, so little ones stay engaged and entertained throughout the walk.

It's a brilliant family day out that combines a little exercise with a whole lot of sunshine-filled fun in the nature. 

Get ready for action in Saalbach Hinterglemm. Europe's largest high rope park, mountain bike zones, mini-golf and adventure pools promise excitement at every turn. This is one of the best places for families in Europe to experience adventure. Plus you can make use of the Joker Card and the Salzburgerland Guest Mobility Ticket - each vary but are equal in value for money, from unlimited use of city transport to entry to local attractions.

Stay at: Hotel Saalbacher Hof & Gardenhotel Theresia

Family Fun Includes:

• High rope park
• Motor skills park
• Jump and slide park
• Themed walking paths 

Saalbach Hinterglemm is a treasure chest for families who love the great outdoors. With around 400km of trails to explore, there's something for everyone.

And the views? Absolutely stunning. The perfect backdrop for a family photo - don’t forget to say cheese.

And getting around is simple, all thanks to a brilliant network of lifts, and with the Joker Card, you can hop on some of these lifts for free. This card is given to you by your hotel at reception on check in.

It’s good for your entire stay, letting you enjoy lots of activities without spending extra. Plus, there are many bonus partners who offer attractive discounts for Joker Card holders.

This is an exciting adventure waiting at the end of the Glemm Valley. Kids will love spotting wooden animal figures hidden in the woods and learning about the local wildlife.

Don't forget to peek through the giant binoculars at the Ossmannalm – who knows what you might spot! Plus, complete the wildlife quiz and snag a cool medal at the Ossmannalm.

Perfect for a family outing, this easy, pram-friendly walk is about 3km long and should take you around 90 minutes. Starting from the top of the Kohlmais lift to the middle station, this path is dotted with huts offering special treats for kids.

The mission? Help Montelino the clown find his lost friends and toys. Grab a game pass at the lift's bottom, and let the adventure begin, following the owl through woods and meadows full of fun activities.

Want a bit of a challenge? Pick up a hiking challenge pass from the Tourist Office and start collecting stamps as you explore the themed trails. Once your young adventurers have enough stamps, they can exchange their pass for a little surprise reward.

Morzine is a haven for alpine excitement - this charming French town is one of the best family destinations in Europe. That's thanks to its well-known summer status, and, with that, a host of activities for all ages. Paragliding, canyoning, rock climbing, or leisurely bike rides... take your pick. The Morzine Multipass offers free activities including lift access and local discounts.

Stay at: Hotel Champs Fleuris, Hotel Le Cret, Hotel La Clef des Champs

Family Fun Includes:

• Walking trails 
• Canyoning
• Whitewater rafting
• Swimming
• Rock climbing 

Lac de Montriond is just what you need: a day out by the lake. Kids of all ages will love it here, as the flat terrain around the lake is perfect for little legs. It's also easy for walking, running or even pushers strollers, meaning the whole family can enjoy a leisurely day out by the lake. 

Plus, the gentle shores of the lake offer a great spot for playtime or a picnic, allowing kids to play safely while adults relax. It's easy to reach by public transport, making the journey part of the adventure for the young ones.

With the beautiful natural setting, it's a wonderful place for children to explore, learn about nature and have loads of fun in the great outdoors.

Andorra is a hidden gem among the best family destinations in Europe. Yes, it's one of the smallest countries, but it's like a giant playground for families.

Picture zooming down zip lines and whooshing on toboggan rides at Mon(t) Magic. Then, shift gears to Pal Arinsal, which has one of southern Europe’s biggest bike parks. It’s a cyclist's dream. The country is home to over 200km of marked cycling trails, where you'll likely spot wildlife like horned ibex and golden eagles along the way.

And in Naturland, the little ones can channel their inner Robin Hood with archery and explore enchanting forest trails.

Stay at: Hotel Princesa Parc & Spa

Family Fun Includes:

• Adventure sports
• Pekepark: Slides, Ball pits, Trampolines
• Pal-Arinsal water activities

Andorra is the perfect destination for families who love to explore the great outdoors together.

Arinsal’s trails are a real treat. Whether you’re out for an easy family stroll or up for a more adventurous hike, there’s something for the whole family.

Plus, getting around is simple thanks to a handy bus service. You can zip over to nearby towns like La Massana for even more exploring.

And let’s not forget the gorgeous forests, mountains, lakes, and wildlife that make this resort so special.