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This list of family getaways in Europe is proof that you don’t need to travel far to enjoy a classy holiday with the kids, which is good news. As you know, travelling with the little ones can be challenging and requires utmost patience and planning. Thankfully, many countries in Europe can cater to families with kids. These countries offer stunning natural beauty, rich history, and high-end experiences.

Here are some destinations to consider for classy family getaways in Europe.

• Iceland 

As one of the world’s most awe-inspiring places, Iceland is the perfect destination for a classy family holiday. The country looks very enchanting that even the most cynical children will be amazed by its giant glaciers, dramatic landscapes, majestic waterfalls, and lava formations.

The best way to enjoy a family holiday in Iceland is to rent a high-spec SUV, allowing you to visit even the most remote destinations home to incredible attractions the country is known for. Once you have your SUV, make your way to Geysir and marvel at the country’s dramatic geysers. Located about 125 km from Reykjavik, Geysir was the original erupting hot spring and where the term “geyser” was derived. Although it’s already inactive, the Stokkur geyser nearby still projects boiling water to an incredible height of 35 metres every ten minutes.

There are many geothermal spas around Reykjavik, but the Blue Lagoon is the most popular. Rich in natural mineral salts and algae, it is surrounded by black sand and lava fields and has an average temperature of 37°C. For a classy family holiday, stay at The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon, which offers a luxury spa experience.

• Croatia

Croatia is one of Europe’s most diverse holiday destinations. Its main charm is the seemingly endless Adriatic coast, home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches. Croatia is also famous for its picturesque coastal towns, incredible karst mountains, and rich culture and history, making it an ideal destination for a classy family holiday. 

Take your kids on a scenic stroll along Dubrovnik’s medieval walls. Dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, Dubrovnik earns its iconic status not only because of its beautiful Old Town but also for the charming suburbs of Lapad and Gruz, which are home to family-friendly beaches and resorts. Head to Split, and explore its historic centre, impressively built on the ruins of the Diocletian Palace. Wander around the medieval Trogir, stunningly situated on an island connected to the mainland by a bridge.

For families fascinated by history, visit the island of Pula and stroll through the Roman ruins. Dominated by a spectacular amphitheatre now used as a venue for concerts and opera, the Pula Arena is the only remaining Roman amphitheatre where all four side towers are intact.

• Greece

Greece is an ideal destination for a classy family holiday. The weather is always warm, the beaches are inviting, and the locals are welcoming, especially to kids. Here, you’ll spend most of your days at the beaches or perhaps cruising around the Aegean Sea to visit unspoilt islands. 

A luxury family cruise is the best way to start your holiday in Greece. Make your way to the lush Ionian islands in the northwest part of the country, surrounded by thick woodland with cypresses and olives. Visit Corfu, Zakynthos, and Kefalloniá, each with a unique charm. You will love exploring Corfu’s Old Town, home to some historical sites. But if you prefer to visit the beach, check out Canal d’Amour, which has a natural passage formed by the smooth rocks that serve as a tunnel where you can swim. Zakynthos, on the other hand, is a mythical Ionian Island with breathtaking landscapes, idyllic beaches with powdery white sand, and turquoise blue waters. Kids will also love the abundance of water sports on this island.

The historic island of Kefalloniá is another place worth visiting on your family holiday to Greece. This picturesque fishing village is home to pastel-coloured Venetian houses dating to the 18th Century. 

• Portugal 

The Algarve region of Portugal is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for family holidays. It is blessed with a moderate climate and is home to fantastic beaches and several accommodations ideal for families. Given the vast array of fun activities to enjoy here, your active kids will never get bored. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing family break or something more active, you have many reasons to love the Algarve.

Venture into Albufeira, where you will find some of the most classy holiday lettings in the Algarve that cater to families. Albufeira is also home to beautiful family beaches, such as Falesia. Outside Albufeira, you’ll find ZooMarine, a water theme park with fun waterslides and aquarium. Another theme park to take the kids is Aqualand, which is much bigger than ZooMarine. It is famous for its 36m-drop Kamikaze that will surely delight thrill-seeking kids!

Another resort town to explore in the Algarve is Vilamoura, home to family-friendly beaches with excellent range of facilities, including a golf course. You will also find a good selection of boat trips and excursions in the area, which departs from Vilamoura Marina.

• France

France is a favourite among families looking for classy holidays. Exuding timeless and elegant appeal, France is often synonymous with picturesque villages, good food and wine, sophisticated locals, and the most romantic cities in the world.

Paris may cater to the honeymooners, but it’s more child-friendly than most people think. It’s home to several family-friendly attractions, and Disneyland Paris is the most popular. But if you want to escape the bustling city and experience a slice of the great outdoors, head to the beautiful forest of Fontainebleau, about 40 min south of Paris. It has great family walks in the woods and by River Seine. 

The Versailles is also worth a visit for families. Located about 20 km southwest of Paris, this extravagant palace is home to French Kings who ruled for more than a hundred years. Not far from Versailles is Elancourt, home to France Miniature, a miniature park featuring scale models of major landmarks of France.