Berlin is hailed as the ideal family destination in Europe, thanks to its highly efficient public transportation system. With transport cards offering 72 hours or 5 days of unlimited travel on subways, trams, and buses, the city ensures convenience and savings. Gwen Kozloffsky, a seasoned traveler, suggests staying at Adina Hackescher Markt Hotel, where double suite prices are more budget-friendly than standard rooms in many five-star hotels. Families can explore Checkpoint Charlie for a dose of rich historical and cultural vibes, with Kozloffsky recommending visits later in the day when tourist buses have departed.
Dijon, the capital of the Burgundy region in France, is renowned for its Burgundy red wine, but there’s much more to explore for children. Renowned French travel expert Jack Dancy describes the city as steeped in medieval history, once the domain of the Duke of Valois. Dancy involves his children in the local organic market, immersing them in the region’s rich heritage. The family stays at the Cologne-Boulevard Hotel in Parc, and parents can relax in Liberation Square, enjoying coffee while observing their children play by the fountain.
At first glance, this city may not seem ideal for a family trip, as its famous attractions are mostly museums and monuments, which might appear too solemn and grand for adults,” says Maria Gabrielle Rand and Brian Dore, authors of the “Florence Travel Guide.” “However, after some exploration and planning, Florence, or the history of the Italian Renaissance, becomes lively and interesting, capturing the children’s interest. Many museums in this city, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Galileo Museum, offer travel routes designed specifically for children. The Bardini and Boboli Gardens are perfect outdoor picnic spots. And don’t forget to reward yourself with some delicious gelato.
Author Earl Staki of the “Istanbul Travel Guide” believes that art is a window for children to understand Turkish culture, and he has arranged private lessons in pottery, wet painting, and cooking. Many attractions in this city are also very attractive to young people themselves. “The interactive displays at the Rahmi M Industrial Museum are very suitable for children to watch. They are also sure to be interested in observing fish in the underground Byzantine cistern,” Staki said. In terms of food, even the most discerning foodies will praise Turkish pizza and the freshly squeezed fruit juice that is everywhere in Istanbul. The best way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city is to take a ferry to the vehicle-restricted Büyükada Island, where visitors can rent a bicycle or take a horse-drawn carriage to enjoy rare leisure time to the fullest.
London‘s free museums make it a top choice for many families. According to Jonathan Epstein, touring the Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, British Museum, Tate Modern, National Portrait Gallery, National Maritime Museum, National Gallery, and the London Museum, even if only visiting half of them, would cost an average of $100 per person. He also added that the language barrier is relatively small for children on a trip to London, which is very beneficial for them, especially for children traveling abroad for the first time. Epstein’s six-year-old companion is a fan of the pirate ship at Princess Diana Memorial Square. Additionally, a must-visit attraction is the Harry Potter sites, where the whole family can explore various scenes mentioned in the books and visit filming locations.
