Make it happen

Edgy Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront has a great location near the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa.

• Best hotels in Cape Town
• Best things to do in Cape Town

2. Kakheti, Georgia

Kakheti, Georgia’s premier wine region, is beautiful at any time of year. But winter is its hidden secret. Tourists are scarce but the wineries remain open, lighting their fires to warm you up as you taste unique wines you’d struggle to find anywhere else. Georgians love a good feast (known as a supra). Try to find a tour or hotel that is offering a traditional supra to experience the incredible, almost medieval revelry of feasting here — which includes platter upon platter of grilled meats and veg as well as oozy, cheesy khachapuri flatbreads.

Make it happen

Lopota Lake Resort & Spa hosts a range of festive events — including markets with boots of sweets and live Georgian folk music. There’s also an ice rink and a kids’ club. Georgian Christmas is on January 7 so late December should be much quieter for bookings.

• Best tours of Georgia

3. The Rhine

Spend the Christmas season afloat on the Rhine, accompanied by a glass of local wine as steep vineyards and historic castles slip by. The journey is a soothing way to celebrate the festive season, as most sailings stop at Rhineland cities such as Cologne, Koblenz and Bonn. Here, amid the twinkling lights, visitors and local people mingle in charming Christmas markets, while the swish of skates on an ice rink, shoppers’ voices and Christmas carols provide a lively soundtrack.

Make it happen

Riviera Travel’s Christmas on the Rhine tour is a unique way to discover the area’s history, as well as its enchanting festive markets.

• Best Christmas markets in Europe
• Best Rhine river cruises

4. Berlin, Germany

Christmas holidays are celebrated with gusto in Germany as its festive markets overflow with copious helpings of mulled wine and twinkling fairy lights. Hip Berlin has a huge funfair and you can get straight into the Christmas spirit with a ticket to one of the regular shows on Alexanderplatz. There’s a high chance of snow: temperatures can slip well below zero in December and the average low is minus 1C.

Make it happen

Wilde Aparthotels Berlin, Checkpoint Charlie, is a short stroll from the landmark as well as metro connections to other parts of the city.

• Best things to do in Berlin
• Best hotels in Berlin

5. Barbados

The Caribbean is made for Christmas. Barbados, a go-to Caribbean favourite for Brits, is at its most relaxed between mid-September and mid-December, when hotel prices drop by up to a third and the air-kissing, winter sun-seeking regulars haven’t yet jetted in. There’s a risk of rain, but it never lasts long, and the temperature’s still a balmy 27C. The island’s Atlantic side is an exhilarating whirl of dramatic shores (particularly around the little town of Bathsheba), rolling surf, flapping coconut palms and topsy-turvy hills that seem a world away from the busy beach resorts lining the west and south coasts. Drive over to bask in the peace and fresh air; the Bay Tavern in Martin’s Bay is a mellow spot where Bajans take a break on Thursday afternoons, shooting (and feeling) the breeze at a “lime” (informal hangout).

Make it happen

Sandals Barbados and its sister resort Sandals Royal Barbados have access to a beautiful stretch of beach and are just outside the lively resort of Oistins.

• Best hotels in Barbados
• Best things to do in Barbados

6. Courchevel, France

Courchevel is still a gathering ground for the world’s super-rich. Broad, easy-skiing pistes combine with Michelin-starred restaurants and five-star hotels to create the most luxurious of all ski resorts. The period from Boxing Day to New Year’s Eve has the biggest social buzz: think champagne bars and perfect teeth, set against a razor-sharp mountain ridge. New Year in Courchevel isn’t cheap, so save where you can by booking a central, self-catering apartment in the Forum. Brush up your skiing with New Generation Ski and Snowboard School, so you don’t take a tumble outside the key slopeside bars. And don’t wait until December 31 to start the celebrations.

Make it happen

If you’re a serious skier with no budget constraints, Hotel Le K2 Altitude is a ski-in, ski-out option with just 14 rooms and 18 suites.

• Best ski resorts in France

7. Muscat, Oman

Hop on an overnight flight to Oman and wake up seven hours later in the capital Muscat, then get straight to the beach — it’s only ten minutes’ drive from the airport. For the rest of your stay, take a traditional dhow boat trip from Marina Bandar al Rowdha so the little ones can enjoy the rare marine life, or absorb the Bedouin vibes of the Arabian desert with teens. Try stargazing and camel-riding at Wahiba Sands, or head to turquoise-hued Wadi Bani Khalid oasis. Alternatively, hire a local driver through your hotel and day trip around Muscat to explore its frankincense-scented Mutrah Souq. Nearby, the call to prayer echoes around the minarets at the opulent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, open most days for visits.

Make it happen

The Chedi Muscat is a sprawling seafront resort within easy reach of the city centre.

• Best hotels in Oman

8. Edinburgh, Scotland

It’s not just gingerbread-scented markets and riotous Hogmanay parties that make wintry Edinburgh so appealing. Even under grey skies, you’ve got warm, world-class museums and restaurants — and the icy North Sea winds are your excuse to duck into a snug watering hole for a soul-warming Scotch. For bargains, go in early December when the Christmas markets are open, but the city is still relatively peaceful. Take a spin on the panoramic big wheel above Princes Street, bar crawl under the fairy lights of George Street and pop into the National gallery to contemplate winter scenes. After dark, head to the Royal Botanic Garden to sip spiced cider and marvel at its Christmas illuminations.

Make it happen

For a memorable stay, check into gothic-inspired Witchery by the Castle for gourmet feasting in a decadent dining room.

• Best hotels in Edinburgh
• Best things to do in Edinburgh

9. Salzburg, Austria

Revel in the unabashed schmaltz — this is the fantasy festive break. Dressed to the nines in baroque finery and surrounded by snowcapped peaks, Salzburg is the staunchly traditional, chocolate-box city of Mozart and The Sound of Music, and will cocoon you in comfort. Walk around the streets of the old town streets, dive into vaulted beer cellars and shop for lederhosen. To warm up? Climb every mountain, of course. Make your first wander an atmospheric browse along the narrow Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s glitzy shopping alley, where five-storey Renaissance houses provide a bulwark against winter weather. Explore its dimly lit, arched passages and within a few paces, you might stumble upon Balkan Grill Walter, a kiosk selling Balkan beef sausages since 1950. After, make a prosecco pitstop at Seppo, an intimate wine bar, or cosy up with the crowds in the hidden Sternbräu beer garden.

Make it happen

Hotel Goldener Hirsch is in the heart of the city’s baroque centre.

• Best ski resorts in Austria

10. Finnish Lapland

For the real deal and endless other wintry activities, such as snowmobiling, skiing and reindeer rides, head north to the smaller resorts of Levi, Yllas or Saariselka. Levi is just 20 minutes’ drive from Kittila airport, making transfers with weary tots super speedy. Here, Santa’s village is way out in the wilderness: a huddle of twinkly log cabins hidden among snow-laden pines. Kids can decorate gingerbread cookies with Mother Claus, make decorations and visit Elf school to learn Finnish terms such as “Hyvaa Joulua” (”Merry Christmas”), as well as having a private tête-à-tête with Santa. The focus is firmly on wholesome festive fun and, refreshingly, souvenir stops are sparse.

But don’t go too early — travel from the second or third weekend in December for a guaranteed snowscape. Ample time is crucial: do not book one of those 24-hour round-trips, as children will become so tired and cranky you’ll wonder why you bothered. Four nights is better, and even then you’ll wish you had more. Darkness reigns here: daylight falls between 10am and 2pm, when an eerie green and pink glow illuminates the sky.

Make it happen

To make the most of your setting, book a stay at Golden Crown Iglu, which has glass igloos primed for northern lights viewing.

• Best hotels in Lapland
• Best places to visit in Lapland

11. New York, US

This city is the face of Christmas, especially in films. Don’t miss the magical displays at Macy’s (Miracle on 34th Street); the steps of the Plaza Hotel (Home Alone 2); and the Rockefeller tree (Elf). The chance of snow isn’t as high as in the perma-dusted movies, but it’s always possible as temperatures can dip to a bracing minus 10C. New York’s stores turn charitable at Christmas, with epic window displays resembling free galleries. Start with the glittering scene at Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue, then pass Tiffany before nipping over to Saks. Next head to the Rockefeller Center for a mulled wine and a gawp at the tree. For Christmas shopping, Bryant Park is transformed into the Winter Village, with stalls selling affordable gifts such as handmade scarves and soaps. It’s free to hit the ice rink here, too.

Make it happen

Facing its namesake park, Bryant Park Hotel is one of the few places in the city where you can wake up to greenery without paying a small fortune for it.

• Best affordable hotels in New York
• Best things to do in New York

12. Tenerife, Spain

If you’re hoping to add some winter sun to your Christmas, this is the place to be. Yes, tourism has made its mark on Tenerife, but the resorts in the south-coast destinations of Costa Adeje and Playa de las Americas take up only a fraction of the island. Beyond, unspoiled beauty awaits: seaside villages and picturesque coves, gracious colonial towns, a rainforest dripping with lichen, and ravishing ravines. And all beneath the awesome gaze of a 170,000-year-old volcano, Spain’s highest, Mount Teide.

Make it happen

Adults-only Hacienda del Conde on the north coast of the island is your escape from the hubbub.

• Best hotels in Tenerife
• Best villas in Tenerife

13. Cities along the Danube

One of Europe’s great rivers, the Danube is perfect for a Christmas cruise, taking in cities along the way such as Budapest, Bratislava and Regensburg. Passing through the heart of central Europe, revellers can celebrate the festive season at Christmas markets garlanded with Christmas lights and spirit. A mulled wine here, a juicy, grilled sausage there — which Christmas market will be your favourite?

Make it happen

Avalon Waterways has multiple great-value sailings along this route.

• Best Christmas market cruises
• Best river cruises in Europe

14. The Ganges, India

Consider spending Christmas on a luxurious cruise along India’s holiest river where the warmth of the winter sun mixes well with the festive spirit. Standouts include misty early mornings revealing ancient temples, small boats bumping along in the water and devotees by the edge, followed by the wake-up call of bazaars and the solemn fortresses of Jaipur and Varanasi.

Make it happen

Try Uniworld, whose decadent vessel Ganges Voyager II allows you to complete the journey in comfort.

15. Marrakesh, Morocco

There’s a local saying that Morocco is “a cold country with a hot sun”, and while snow on the Atlas Mountains from mid-November to April demonstrates how bitterly cold it can be at night, there are also piercing blue skies and sunshine warm enough for you to hit the pool. December is the time to snag a bargain to Marrakesh, but pack layers and stay somewhere with heating. Only July and August are cheaper — but they’re only worth it if you can handle temperatures in the high 40s.

Make it happen

At Royal Mansour Marrakech, you’ll have a whole riad with private plunge pool to yourself and access to fine dining restaurants from Michelin-starred chefs.

• Best hotels in Marrakesh
• Best things to do in Marrakesh

16. Mauritius

It’s the blossoming of flame trees rather than the dressing of firs that marks the start of the festive season in Mauritius. These trees, red as Santa’s suit, bloom between late November and early December. Shortly after, seasonal hotel lobby decorations and shop window displays appear across the island. Food is central to a Mauritian Christmas and hotels in beach resorts like Grand Baie and Flic en Flac offer gala dinners and festive brunches so you can tuck in with a cocktail or two.

Make it happen

Located right on Flic en Flac beach, laid-back Sugar Beach offers a fabulous view at sunset.

• Best hotels in Mauritius
• Best things to do in Mauritius

17. The Maldives

Trade in the traditional festive palette of red and green for a landscape that’s a centillion shades of blue. Sleep in a villa suspended on stilts above the Jacuzzi-warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and snorkel and day-sail your way through the season. Many hotels in the Maldives offer traditional menus on Christmas Day. However, if you boycott the sprouts, you’ll be rewarded with platters of fresh lobster, oysters and grouper — all washed down with a bottle of something sparkling.

Make it happen

Fly to the capital, Malé, then take a seaplane to a private island resort such as Medhufushi.

• Best hotels in the Maldives
• Best overwater villas in the Maldives

18. Singapore

Singapore soups up the Christmas experience. Festivities start in mid-November when almost two and a half miles of Christmas lights are switched on in the Orchard Road shopping area. Shortly after, restaurants debut their festive menus and Christmas Wonderland opens at Gardens by the Bay. The season’s climax is the extravagant countdown and fireworks party at Marina Bay.

Make it happen

If you’re worried about it all feeling a little too merry and bright, stay at a beach hotel like Capella Singapore on Sentosa Island. With its infinity pools, 30-acre gardens and views of the South China Sea, it’s a sanctuary amid the festive flamboyance.

• Best hotels in Singapore
• Best things to do in Singapore

19. Antalya, Turkey

No jokes about eating turkey in Turkey please — here in Antalya, you can be as festive or not as you want. Many of the resorts in the region will have stonking good deals on all-inclusive breaks, with gala dinners put on for Christmas day. Even if you’re not set on a fly-and-flop, the fact that Christmas Day isn’t a public holiday here means you can shop, go to restaurants and visit attractions as normal. There’s a good chance of sun, but it’ll probably be too cold to hit the beaches. Instead, why not visit one of the ancient ruins for some light culture without the crowds? Termessos and Perge are particularly impressive.

Make it happen

A short drive from Antalya city, family-friendly Limak Lara Deluxe Hotel & Resort Antalya is a great choice if you’re after an all-inclusive option.

• Best hotels in Antalya
• Best things to do in Antalya

20. Japan

Tokyo goes all in on the Christmas spirit, but with its own twist. Around the city are illuminations, where lights are strung up around buildings, trees and just about everything else from around mid-November. Look out, too, for festive fairs and Christmas markets where you can pick up kawaii (cute) handmade gifts. If you have kids, a visit to Tokyo Disneyland is essential. And no, you don’t have to adopt the tradition of eating KFC instead of a roast on Christmas Day — plenty of hotels will offer a more conventional festive meal.

Make it happen

Foodies will love the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, home to the Michelin-starred restaurant est.

• Best things to do in Tokyo
• Best hotels in Tokyo

21. Christmas Island, Australia

What could be more apt than spending the festive period on Christmas Island? This slice of paradise is closer to the tropical waters of Indonesia than the Australian mainland, making the weather here pretty much hot all year round. That said, December tends to be the rainy season in the region, with days often overcast — no matter, you’re likely to spend most of your time snorkelling its bath-warm waters anyway. Back on dry land, you’ll see one of the most spectacular annual migrations: it’s mating season for red land crabs and millions of them will be scuttling from the forest to the coast.

Make it happen

If Christmas Island’s location isn’t remote enough for you, Swell Lodge, standing alone on the west coast, will certainly up the ante.

22. Iceland

Iceland is the perfect holiday destination for travellers in search of Christmas spirit. Here, the festive season pulsates with lively Christmas markets where wooden booths brim with food and drink, and gifts glitter as imposing Christmas trees stand guard. Expect a true winter wonderland made up of wild lava fields and craggy mountains topped with snow for added sparkle. Take a self-drive into the mountains and catch the northern lights glimmering in the dark sky, and don’t forget other seasonal sojourns such as trekking near the Snaefellsjokull glacier.

Make it happen

Book a tour of Iceland to let someone else tackle the snowy winter terrain while you take in the views.

• Best hotels in Iceland
• Best things to do in Iceland

23. London, England

London does a stonking good job of putting on a good Christmas display — as you would expect from any capital city — but what it’s particularly good at is the stunning array of settings where twinkling lights breathe magic into the air. There’s Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, where fairground rides, circus acts and Christmas market stalls selling mulled wine and bratwurst will make anyone giddy. Or Battersea Power Station, where the brightly lit facade overlooks a riverfront ice rink. And who could forget the shopping streets around Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus, where shops compete to put on the best displays? Fortnum & Mason’s is unmissable.

Make it happen

art’otel London Battersea Power Station overlooks the landmark, and the best views are, of course, from its rooftop pool and bar.

• Best things to do in London at Christmas
• Best affordable hotels in London

24. Zakopane, Poland

When it comes to Christmas, Poland goes big. The traditional festive meal here (eaten on the evening of December 24) consists of 12 courses — from beetroot soup and dumplings to the honeyed, spiced gingerbread cake that is piernik. Zakopane is Poland’s winter wonderland: a ski resort two hours’ drive south of Krakow. The pretty mountain town is stuffed with wood-panelled taverns and family-run hotels and has options for horsedrawn sleigh rides and sledging. If you’re eating out, book a table in advance somewhere rustic and cosy like Gospoda Polska Kolibecka.

Make it happen

Snomads has a range of chalets where you can cook for yourselves (if you have room after Polish Christmas dinner). Prices for ski passes and hire are usually much cheaper than in the Alps.

snomads.co.uk

Additional reporting by Qin Xie, Imogen Lepere, Marianna Hunt

Balancing what we want versus our children’s expectations for a family vacation feels like an impossible task. One kid wants to stay all day in the hotel pool, the other wants to visit the arcade, and you wish you could relax just for a moment with a quiet coffee and a view. And if you’re on a budget, meeting everyone’s needs can be even more difficult. But when everything clicks? Pure magic. That’s why choosing the right destination is so important.

We’ve all been there: struggling to plan the perfect family vacation. The good news is that family travel is easier than ever! These days, more and more parents are looking for trips that offer a mix of fun, learning, and time to actually enjoy each other’s company (without devices or distractions). Whether it’s spotting wildlife in a national park, tasting new foods in Europe, or building sandcastles together on a quiet beach, a family holiday is the best way to make memories that’ll last forever.  

We’re here to help you plan the vacation you and your family deserve. From nearby US getaways to once-in-a-lifetime international adventures, we want to help you discover the best spots to take your kids in 2025—all within your budget, so you can spend on the good stuff (like museum passes, park entrance fees, and ice cream for the whole family).

Planning the perfect family vacation in 2025

Why family travel is more popular than ever

Once you become a parent, you see the world in a whole different way, and that includes traveling. There’s a common misconception that children and travel do not mix, but honestly, there are few things more rewarding than watching them explore the world. And what better way to do it than through memories made while experiencing things together.

On top of that, there’s a new travel mindset when it comes to families, one that aims to make parents feel welcomed. These days, it’s more common to find kid-friendly spaces anywhere you travel, from airports and hotels to tourist attractions. We’re also seeing better flight routes, more flexible bookings, and family discounts that make planning your family vacations a breeze. Even better? Going can simplify your airfare search by sending you the best deals from your local airport.

How to make your family vacation unforgettable

Every parent knows: You can’t control everything, so no use expecting that it’ll all go according to plan. The best family vacations are the ones where everyone laughs and learns something new. 

To make your trip truly unforgettable, it helps to think in big sections. Start with a few “must-do” activities, but leave space in your itinerary for slower, unscripted moments—like a spontaneous stop at a scenic overlook. Mix structured activities (like a guided city tour or timed-entry attraction ticket) with unstructured ones (playgrounds, ice cream stops, or just a lazy beach afternoon).

And, this may sound small, but snack breaks and rest time work wonders (especially when traveling with toddlers). A well-timed juice box or a quick nap at the hotel can turn a meltdown into a fun afternoon. Keep expectations flexible, celebrate the little wins (like catching a train just before departure!), and remember: The goal isn’t to see everything—it’s to enjoy it all together.

Best family-friendly destinations in the US

1. Orlando, Florida

Known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” Orlando is a favorite for kids of all ages. With Walt Disney World and Universal Studios practically in its backyard, this city’s entire economy was built around fun. It’s stroller-friendly, easy to navigate, and loaded with accommodations designed specifically for families. Even beyond the theme parks, you can find water parks, science centers, and interactive shows—meaning even on your “rest days,” there’s plenty to do.

• Top attractions: Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Kennedy Space Center
• Best time to visit: Late spring (April–May) or fall (September–November) for fewer crowds and better prices.
• Why it’s great for kids: Endless themed entertainment, character encounters, rides for every age, and family-focused hotels make Orlando perfect for vacations with toddlers through teens.

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

If your kids are the kind who get excited about animals, plants, or just being outdoors, most US national parks are an excellent choice. Yellowstone is one of the best choices for its diversity and accessibility for families. The park’s extensive landscapes, roaming wildlife, and surreal geothermal features offer the kind of incredible moments that make any vacation unforgettable. Plus, there are ranger programs to help kids connect with nature.

• Top attractions: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Lamar Valley wildlife watching
• Best time to visit: Summer (June–August) for full access to trails and visitor programs.
• Why it’s great for kids: Outdoor adventure, wildlife, and natural wonders make this a perfect unplugged vacation for curious kids and active families.

3. San Diego, California

San Diego sits in that sweet spot between laid-back beach town and fun-filled city. You can spend one day watching lions roar at the world-famous zoo and the next building sandcastles at La Jolla Shores. Plus, if you consider LEGOLAND and  the USS Midway Museum, you’ve got a destination that entertains everyone.

• Top attractions: San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California, La Jolla Shores Beach
• Best time to visit: March–May or September–November for great weather and lighter crowds.
• Why it’s great for kids: Combines animals, beach days, and gentle attractions into one easygoing destination that’s fun for all ages.

Best family-friendly destinations internationally

1. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo offers a cultural experience that you can’t find anywhere else. From quirky vending machines and themed cafés to ancient temples and bustling markets, there’s something cool around every corner. The city is clean, extremely safe, and known for its hospitality. Besides, who wouldn’t want to visit a place where you can pet capybaras in one park and battle Pokémon in another?

• Top attractions: Tokyo Disneyland, Ueno Zoo, Harajuku shopping
• Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms or fall (September–November) for cooler weather.
• Why it’s great for kids: Tech, anime, and theme parks make Tokyo perfect for curious, energetic kids and teens interested in pop culture.

2. Paris, France

Paris might not be the first place you think of for a kid-friendly vacation, but beyond the Eiffel Tower, there are parks with puppet shows, boat rides on the Seine, and crepe stands around nearly every corner. There are also interactive museums like the Cité des Sciences tailored for children. Plus, you can easily pair a cultural outing with a magical day trip to Disneyland Paris.

• Top attractions: Eiffel Tower, Versailles Palace, Cité des Sciences, Disneyland Paris
• Best time to visit: April–June or September–October for mild weather and fewer tourists
• Why it’s great for kids: Mix of classic sightseeing and kid-centered museums, plus pastries and public gardens that make exploring fun and relaxing

3. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is basically a natural playground, and it’s especially ideal for active families who love wildlife and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re zip-lining through the jungle, relaxing in hot springs, or spotting monkeys during a hike, the country invites you to connect with nature and one another. Many eco-lodges are also family-run and ideal for staying with kids.

• Top attractions: Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, zip-lining tours
• Best time to visit: December–April (dry season) for the best weather
• Why it’s great for kids: Offers a mix of wildlife, adventure, and educational opportunities that are both exciting and meaningful for children.

Best destinations by age group: from toddlers to teens

For toddlers (0–4 years)

The key to traveling with toddlers is slowing down, keeping routines close, and creating a safe, simple environment where they can explore without getting overwhelmed. The destination should offer stroller-friendly streets, minimal travel stress, and lots of open space for free play.

Best destinations

San Diego is a toddler-approved destination thanks to its gentle beaches and world-famous zoo. A cruise through the Caribbean can also be a great choice thanks to their built-in family-friendly structure, toddler splash zones, and onboard childcare.

If you’re looking for a slower-paced vacation in nature, a destination like Stowe, Vermont, is great for fresh air and quiet walks. Also Banff, Canada, with its scenic gondola rides and stroller-friendly trails, offers amazing views without needing to hike.

For young kids (5–10 years)

At this age, kids are like a sponge: They soak up new information and experiences but still enjoy the magic of make-believe. It’s ideal to find destinations that are hands-on, imaginative, and full of action without being too fast-paced or overwhelming.

Best destinations

At this age, kids love hands-on fun and a touch of magic. Orlando tops the list with its theme parks. Copenhagen also offers whimsical rides at Tivoli Gardens and its interactive museums. Similarly, Chicago’s museums offer just the right mix of education and play. 

If you want a vacation where both you and your kids can relax and unplug, Lake Tahoe is a peaceful retreat with beginner-friendly hiking trails and plenty of space to get outside together. Amelia Island, Florida, is another gem, with quiet beaches, bike paths, and a charming small-town vibe.

For tweens (11–13 years)

This might be the hardest group to please. Tweens want to feel independent and capable but still close to the comforts of home. The best way to keep them happy is to find destinations with the kind of cool-factor that keeps them off their electronics—at least for a little while.

Best destinations

New York City gives tweens a taste of big-city life with iconic attractions and famous Broadway musicals. London blends the urban with old-world charm. Plus, Harry Potter attractions also add to the experience.

If you’re looking for an adventure you and your kids can enjoy, Costa Rica is full of jungle adventures and animal encounters. Hawaii’s Big Island is also an exciting choice with volcano excursions and snorkeling experiences.

For teens (14+ years)

Teenagers can also be tricky to please, but the right destination can get them excited, curious, and open to new experiences. You’ll want places where they can roam a bit, discover things on their own, and try something new.

Best destinations

If you’re looking for an adventure in nature, Oahu offers teens a perfect mix of surfing lessons, scenic hikes, and laid-back island energy. Rome is also great for slow-paced exploring, blending history with ancient ruins and gelato breaks between landmarks.

For something more upbeat, Seoul blends K-pop culture, night markets, and trendy neighborhoods in a city that’s vibrant yet safe to explore. Similarly, Tokyo is the perfect place for teens that love anime, arcades, and street fashion.

Quick overview of favourite family travel spots and top deals

Best tips for traveling with kids

Plan ahead: How to make the trip smoother

When you’re traveling with kids, even the tiniest details matter. It’s no secret that sometimes a missed nap or long wait can snowball. Still, it’s important to distinguish between planning ahead and mapping out every second. A well-planned trip means taking care of the basics before you leave home. Book flights that match your kids’ natural rhythms (midday flights often work better than early mornings), and choose accommodations with space. If possible, try to find a place with a pool, kitchenette, and laundry (you’ll thank us later).

Also, make a rough outline of each day so you’re not scrambling to figure things out while someone’s hungry or tired. Pre-book attractions with time slots and keep a short list of kid-friendly food spots near you.

Pack smart: What to bring for kids’ comfort

Packing for a family trip is all about preparation, not perfection. Kids often appreciate options, especially when it comes to clothes. First and foremost, bring layers and backup outfits for everyone (including you). Also, if you have small children, bring familiar items from home that offer comfort, like a favorite stuffed animal or bedtime book. For entertainment, load a tablet with movies or games, pack coloring books or sticker pads, as well as kid-friendly board games.

Don’t underestimate the power of snacks. Go for options that are portable, mess-free, and can keep your kids full. Think crackers, fruit pouches, granola bars, and refillable water bottles.  Most importantly, make sure your carry-on has the appropriate medications, wipes, and a change of clothes in case of spills, accidents, or sudden weather changes.

Involve the kids in the planning process

It can be hard to let go of control, but including your small children in planning your vacations is the best way to keep them engaged. Show them pictures of your destination, let them help choose an activity or a souvenir, or ask them what they’re most excited about. It makes them feel included and helps them be more assertive.

For older kids and teens, you can let them pick one thing to do each day—whether it’s a museum visit, a food stop, or a walk to a cool local shop. It helps avoid resistance and also takes the pressure off parents to entertain them 24/7.

Take breaks and keep a flexible schedule

Sadly, no matter how much fun you’re having, kids can still get tired, bored, or cranky. Even for grown-ups, airports, museums, and big cities can be overstimulating, so don’t overschedule. Limit your days to one or two activities max, with built-in time for rest, meals, and simply sitting still. 

Make space in your schedule for unplanned events, like playground visits and breaks to taste local pastries. These small moments often become the best memories. And if plans go sideways? You can always adjust. The best family vacations are the ones where everyone feels like they had time to enjoy, not just to “get through it.”

Be prepared for the unexpected

Here’s the first rule of family vacations: Something will go wrong. That’s just part of the deal. But a little preparation can make those bumps easier to handle. Carry a small emergency kit with band-aids, motion sickness medicine, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and a few comforting items like candy or a toy.

Another easy way to prepare for the unexpected is to download Google Maps for offline use, pack backup chargers, and keep snacks handy at all times. Think of yourself as the calm, snack-equipped captain of the ship. You’ve got this! Even if the ship is occasionally on fire.

Let the adventure begin: Plan your family vacation in 2025

There’s no one-size-fits-all family vacation. Whether your dream trip involves hiking through a national park, wandering ancient ruins, or sunbathing and disconnecting from daily routines, now’s the time to start planning and create memories with your kids. 

No matter what you’re looking for, these experiences don’t have to come with a sky-high cost. With Going’s personalized flight alerts, you can discover amazing destinations for far less than you might expect. Our app helps you find the best deals, as you can set up flight alerts for the destinations you want to go, without having to wait for an email notification when our team finds cheap flights.

So take this as your sign to start planning! There’s a perfect destination waiting for your family, and we’re here to help you get there for less.