Traveling with kids can feel like planning a grand circus; there’s excitement, a few juggling acts, and the occasional unexpected encore. Whether you’re thinking of a gelato-fuelled excursion through Italian piazzas or chasing the sunrise in Iceland, finding the right destination makes all the difference for your family.
At Remitly, we know the priority when planning where to go for family travel is peace of mind. In this article, we’ll cover the safest places to visit, the best time to go, and useful tips for a stress-free, memory-making family vacation.
Top family-friendly countries to explore
Vacationing with kids means finding places that cater to everyone’s tastes, such as grandparents looking for relaxation, teens chasing thrills, or toddlers needing plenty of space to roam.
France: museums and cultural wonders
In Paris, you can turn a trip through the Louvre into a playful scavenger hunt that has kids racing from one masterpiece to the next. Beyond the capital city, the lavender fields of Provence provide space to run free, and the Loire Valley’s fairytale châteaux host puppet shows and medieval reenactments that feel straight out of storybook magic.
- Best time to visit: April to June or September to October (milder weather, fewer crowds).
- Top attractions: Disneyland Paris, Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, Mont-Saint-Michel, Château de Chambord, Le Petit Train d’Artouste, and Alsace Villages.
- Local eats: Crêpes (your kids will love nutella and banana), croque-monsieur (hot ham and cheese sandwich), tarte aux pommes (apple pie), gratin dauphinois (potato gratin), and pain au chocolat (chocolate croissant).
- Cultural tip: Many national museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month.
Iceland: nature, adventure, and hot springs
Iceland is like a real-life geography textbook, filled with volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and puffins. Kids love the wild landscapes and the chance to spot seals or soak in naturally warm swimming pools. With a strong focus on sustainability and safety, it’s a peaceful, exciting destination for families who love being outdoors.
- Best time to visit: June to August (mild weather and long days).
- Top attractions: Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle waterfalls, whale watching, and Geysir Geothermal Area.
- Local eats: Pylsa (hot dogs), skyr (yogurt), pönnukökur (pancakes), and kleinur (doughnuts).
- Cultural tip: Public pools are a big part of Icelandic culture, just be prepared for pre-swim showers and family-friendly locker rooms.
Italy: history, gelato, and family-style dining
Rome welcomes kids with tailored audio tours and shady playgrounds behind ancient ruins. In Naples, rolling out pizza dough side by side turns dinner into a hands-on lesson in deliciousness, and gelato break after gelato break keeps spirits high (sometimes before breakfast, no judgment here). From gondola rides in Venice to olive-picking at a Tuscan agriturismo, Italy has a way of making every generation feel at home.
- Best time to visit: April to June or September to October (pleasant temperatures).
- Top attractions: Colosseum, Villa Borghese Gardens & Zoo, Trevi Fountain, Lake Garda theme parks, Amalfi Coast, and Pompeii ruins.
- Local eats: Pizza margherita, lasagna, gnocchi, arancini (Italian rice balls), gelato, and panzerotti (savory turnovers).
- Cultural tip: Italians eat later, so pack small snacks to tide hungry travelers over until dinners start around 8 p.m.
Spain: beaches, festivals, and siestas
Spain has a natural rhythm that works well for families: laid-back mornings, sunny afternoons, and evenings that stretch out with good food and plenty of conversation. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of Seville, playing on the beaches of Costa del Sol, or exploring the colorful parks in Barcelona, there’s a welcoming pace to life that makes traveling with kids feel easier.
- Best time to visit: May to June or September to October (warm but not scorching).
- Top attractions: Park Güell, Tibidabo Amusement Park, Retiro Park, Warner Bros Theme Park, Oceanogràfic, Plaza de España in Seville, San Sebastián beaches, and Teide National Park.
- Local eats: Tortilla española (Spanish omelet), albóndigas (meatballs), croquetas, gazpacho (cold soup), churros con chocolate, and magdalenas (muffins).
- Cultural tip: Children are embraced everywhere, and those long, quiet afternoons? They’re perfect for a siesta, or simply watching the world go by from a café table.
Canada: national parks and scenic road trips
Canada is a place where families can slow down and enjoy the outdoors without feeling rushed. From paddling on a calm lake in Banff to spotting totem poles in Vancouver’s Stanley Park or exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, there’s a mix of nature and culture that suits all ages. Things are clean, spacious, and easy to navigate, and there’s always a park, a trail, or a quiet spot nearby when you need a break.
- Best time to visit: June to September (summer warmth).
- Top attractions: Niagara Falls, Toronto Zoo, Stanley Park & Seawall, Banff National Park, Old Quebec City, and Prince Edward Island.
- Local eats: Poutine (French fries and cheese curds), BeaverTails (fried dough pastry), bannock (flatbread), butter tarts, and Peameal bacon sandwich.
- Cultural tip: Tap water is drinkable everywhere, pack a refillable bottle to stay hydrated, and be eco-friendly.
Australia: wildlife encounters and coastal escapes
Australia is tailor-made for active families, with its laid-back cities, endless beaches, and iconic animals that never fail to amaze. The country’s outdoor lifestyle means kids can run free, splash in the ocean, and explore nature without it feeling like a formal activity.
- Best time to visit: September to November or March to May (mild weather, fewer crowds).
- Top attractions: Taronga Zoo, Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne Aquarium, Phillip Island, and Darling Harbour.
- Local eats: Meat pies, fairy bread, Tim Tams, Vegemite on toast, and Lamingtons (chocolate- and coconut-covered cake).
- Cultural tip: Many public spaces have free playgrounds, BBQ areas, and baby-changing facilities, and it’s common for locals to offer help if you’re out with young children.
Finland: forests, saunas, and sled dogs
Finland combines serene nature with some seriously fun winter magic, from husky safaris to snow-covered cabins that feel straight out of a fairy tale. Even in cities like Helsinki, family-friendly design makes getting around simple and enjoyable. For little ones, the Moomin characters are everywhere, while older kids will love the country’s embrace of outdoor adventure.
- Best time to visit: June to August (summer fun) or December to February (snowy adventures).
- Top attractions: Moomin World, Ranua Wildlife Park, Santa Claus Village, Heureka Science Centre, and Levi or Ruka ski resorts.
- Local eats: Salmon soup, Rye bread, Lihapiirakka (savory turnover), and Pulla (sweet bread).
- Cultural tip: Finns value quiet and personal space; even playgrounds have a calm, relaxed vibe.
Germany: Castles, trains, and fairytale forests
Germany has a magical blend of storybook landscapes and efficient infrastructure, making it easy to get around with kids. Historic towns, scenic railways, and hands-on museums offer plenty of variety, and the country is known for being incredibly clean and safe.
- Best time to visit: May to October (mild weather and festivals).
- Top attractions: Neuschwanstein Castle, Miniatur Wunderland, Berlin Zoo, Legoland Deutschland, and the Black Forest.
- Local eats: Pretzels, Schnitzel (fried breaded meat), Bratwurst, Frikadellen (pan-fried flat meatballs), Apfelstrudel, and Pfannkuchen (German pancakes).
- Cultural tip: Germans are punctual and appreciate quiet in public spaces, so trying to encourage kids to respect local etiquette will go a long way.
United States: diversity, parks, and road trip adventures
The US is as varied as it is vast, with something for every type of family, from beach getaways to theme park thrills to hiking through dramatic landscapes. Cities are packed with interactive museums and hands-on science centers, while rural areas offer quiet, scenic retreats.
- Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) for milder weather.
- Top attractions: Walt Disney World, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Central Park, San Diego Zoo, Kennedy Space Center, and Lake Tahoe.
- Local eats: Mac and cheese, hot dogs, peanut butter & jelly sandwich, grilled cheese sandwich, bagels, and s’mores.
- Cultural tip: Tipping in restaurants is expected (15–20%), and many public attractions have family or group pricing.
Sri Lanka: culture, wildlife, and beaches
Sri Lanka is a deeply welcoming, sensory-rich destination with something for every kind of traveler. Kids can ride scenic trains, spot elephants in national parks, and play on palm-fringed beaches, all in one trip. Distances are manageable, and the pace of travel invites families to slow down and take it all in.
- Best time to visit: December to March (west and south coasts), April to September (east coast).
- Top attractions: Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, train ride from Kandy to Ella, Yala National Park, Mirissa Beach, and Little Adam’s Peak.
- Local eats: Roti with banana and honey (coconut flatbread), appa (rice pancakes), watalappan (coconut pudding), and kiribath (milk rice).
- Cultural tip: Sri Lankans are very family-friendly, so expect lots of warm hospitality and people going out of their way to help you with kids.
More countries to visit with your family
For many parents, safety is non-negotiable. There are plenty of countries that rank high on global safety indices and excel at making families feel at home.
Sweden
Sweden is super easy to explore with kids; it’s clean, calm, and built with families in mind. Public transport is stroller-friendly, and playgrounds are everywhere. Even big cities like Stockholm feel peaceful, with lots of space to roam and zero stress.
Portugal
Portugal feels warm in every sense: sunshine, people, and the welcome you get as a family. Locals adore children, and you’ll often see kids playing freely in plazas or along safe riverside paths. Cities like Lisbon and Porto are walkable and relaxed, with plenty of car-free zones.
New Zealand
New Zealand’s nature is next-level, but exploring it with kids is surprisingly easy and safe. Roads are well-maintained, trails are clearly marked, and locals are always happy to help. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or glowworm-spotting, you’ll never feel far from support.
Japan
Japan might be one of the safest places on earth to travel with kids. Everything runs on time, streets are spotless, and even the busiest cities are respectful and orderly. From fun meals to interactive museums, it’s a high-tech playground that still feels totally safe.
Switzerland
In Switzerland, everything works. Trains are on time, paths are signposted, and even mountaintop adventures feel totally secure. Families are welcome everywhere, and most trails are suitable for small feet and strollers. Plus, there’s chocolate around every corner, just in case you need a sweet bribe.
Budget-friendly family vacations
You don’t need a royal treasury to give your kids a global education. Thoughtful planning and savvy choices let you stretch each dollar further.
Poland
Poland is full of family fun without the high price tag. Think medieval castles, hands-on museums, and beautiful parks. Cities like Kraków and Warsaw are walkable, affordable, and packed with things kids will love.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a paradise for outdoorsy families, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. National parks are full of monkeys, sloths, and waterfalls, and many eco-lodges offer family deals. It’s a safe, welcoming place where kids can surf, zip-line, or just play on the beach.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has family-friendly resorts that offer great value, especially outside of peak season. The beaches are warm and gentle, and many resorts include kids’ clubs, pools, and family activities. For a local twist, explore small towns or go on a boat trip without stretching your budget.
Hungary
Budapest delivers castles, thermal baths, and river cruises, all at budget-friendly prices. Public transport is cheap, and kids under a certain age often travel for free. With parks, playgrounds, and lots of cake shops, it’s a surprisingly fun spot for young travelers.
Vietnam
Vietnam is bursting with kid-friendly sights, from puppet shows in Hanoi to boat rides in the Mekong Delta. Meals are cheap, tasty, and easy to customize for picky eaters. Locals are friendly toward families, and traveling by train or tuk-tuk is part of the fun.
Why kid-friendly vacations are valuable
Vacations with kids give your family the chance to create lifelong memories, spark curiosity, and learn together. By choosing destinations designed with families in mind, you ensure that both you and your little ones can relax, without parents needing a post-vacation vacation.
Safety, healthcare access, and peace of mind
When you’re traveling with kids, knowing you’re in a place that understands families makes all the difference. Think wide sidewalks for strollers, clean public bathrooms (no frantic searches), and signs that actually make sense, even if you’re jet-lagged. And if anything unfortunate happens, it’s comforting to know you can find a clinic with English-speaking staff nearby.
Educational and entertainment benefits
The best family trips are the ones where kids have so much fun, they don’t even realize they’re learning. Watching a geyser erupt in Iceland or standing in front of a Roman ruin in Italy turns schoolbook stuff into real-life “wow” moments. From hands-on museums to local cooking classes and animal encounters, these experiences spark curiosity without a single worksheet in sight.
Tips for your kid-friendly vacation
Travelling with kids can feel overwhelming at times, so it helps to be prepared for all types of situations.
Plan smart before you pack
When you’re hauling car seats, suitcases, and a snack-hungry toddler, organization becomes your secret weapon. Start by checking everyone’s passport, many countries require at least six months’ validity beyond your stay. Make copies of important documents and leave a set with someone you trust back home.
Budgeting is key, especially with kids in tow. Factor in meals, transit, attraction tickets, and extras like stroller taxis or spontaneous ice cream stops. A simple spreadsheet or budget app can help you track daily costs.
Pack for comfort
Packing for little ones means preparing for weather changes, spills, and mood swings. Bring layers, a basic first-aid kit, sunscreen, motion-sickness meds, and that all-important comfort item.
Don’t forget a few tricks to make the trip smoother. ID bracelets with your phone number, a well-stocked snack bag, a safety plan, and pre-downloaded cartoons or audiobooks can go a long way. And one extra outfit per child (and one for you) is always a good idea.
Make the most of your time
It’s tempting to see everything, but kids need downtime just as much as adventure. Plan museum mornings followed by lazy park afternoons or beach breaks. Keep days flexible so you can follow their pace; some of the best moments happen when you ditch the schedule.
Engage your kids in local culture
Travel becomes magical when kids connect with the world around them. Try making a vacation bingo card, look for things like a statue, a street performer, or a pastry shop. Many museums offer kid-friendly audio guides or hands-on activity packs that turn history into play.
Learning a few phrases in the local language through a kid-friendly app like Duolingo can also be a fun family challenge. These small touches spark curiosity, encourage empathy, and leave lasting memories.
FAQs
What is the most kid-friendly country to visit?
Italy, Spain, and Portugal all shine for their family-friendly infrastructure, calm public spaces, and welcoming culture.
Which country is best for a family tour?
New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Canada are perfect for families who want variety without the stress. You can go from beaches to mountains in a day, explore wildlife parks, and join in on cultural activities that kids actually enjoy.
What is the safest country for a family vacation?
Switzerland, Japan, and Finland consistently rank among the safest thanks to their clean, well-run public systems, respectful culture, and access to quality healthcare.
Which international destination is best with kids?
France, Germany, and Australia each offer a mix of cultural enrichment and wide-open spaces to play. France blends world-class museums with picnic-perfect gardens, while Germany adds fairytale castles and hands-on museums. In Australia, you’ll find safe beaches and incredible wildlife.
Which is the cheapest country to visit with kids?
Poland, Vietnam, and Costa Rica deliver great value without skimping on experiences.