Top 50 Cities in Europe for Family Travel
- Tamir Rosenblum
- May 29
- 7 min read
Get ready to be inspired! We’re kicking off our countdown of the Top 50 Cities in Europe for Family Travel, starting with no. 50. These cities may not always make the top of the typical travel lists, but they’re packed with charm, culture, and experiences your whole family will love. From scenic strolls to hands-on adventures, these spots prove that great family memories often begin in the most unexpected places.
50. Bologna, Italy
Known for its iconic medieval towers and endless covered arcades, Bologna is a hidden gem for families seeking a more relaxed Italian city experience without sacrificing charm or excitement. Kids will love exploring the Museo della Storia di Bologna, where interactive exhibits bring the city’s rich past to life in a fun, hands-on way. Just outside the city, the Gelato Museum Carpigiani is a dream come true, families can learn how gelato is made, see vintage machines, and even take part in a tasting workshop. Add in Bologna’s famous pasta dishes (hello, tagliatelle al ragù!) and wide pedestrian areas perfect for easy strolling, and you’ve got a destination that’s both delicious and full of discovery for every age.
49. Bergen, Norway
A vibrant gateway to Norway’s stunning fjords, Bergen is a colorful harbor city that blends natural beauty with rich history, making it a fantastic stop for families. Kids will be captivated by the Fløibanen funicular, a scenic ride that climbs up Mount Fløyen and offers sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains. At the top, you’ll find easy hiking trails, a large playground, and even friendly mountain goats! Down by the waterfront, the bustling fish market is a sensory adventure where little ones can see (and taste) local seafood and treats. For a dash of history, dive into the area’s Viking past with interactive museums that bring ancient legends to life. Bergen’s walkable streets, bright wooden houses, and fjord cruises make it a magical place to explore together.
48. Bucharest, Romania
Often overlooked by travelers, Bucharest is full of surprises, especially for families. This dynamic capital offers a unique blend of history, green spaces, and cultural charm that makes it an unexpectedly fun destination with kids. The Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world, is a sight to behold and offers kid-friendly tours that spark curiosity about architecture and history. For outdoor fun, Herăstrău Park is a sprawling oasis with boat rentals, shaded playgrounds, and wide paths perfect for biking or strolling. A true highlight is the Dimitrie Gusti Village Museum, an open-air museum where families can wander among traditional Romanian houses, barns, and windmills, giving kids a hands-on look at rural life from centuries past. With its relaxed vibe, spacious parks, and fascinating cultural spots, Bucharest delivers a rewarding and family-friendly European adventure.
47. Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp is a vibrant city that blends old-world charm with modern flair, making it a delightful destination for families traveling with kids. Start your adventure at the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest and most beautifully designed zoos in Europe. Located right next to the central train station, it features lush gardens, interactive exhibits, and over 5,000 animals, from elephants to penguins, making it a favorite for kids of all ages.
Beyond the zoo, Antwerp is a treasure trove for young explorers. The city is famous for Belgian chocolate, and many local chocolatiers offer tastings or workshops where kids can watch the magic happen (and sample some, of course!). Budding artists and comic fans will love the Comic Station Antwerp, an indoor theme park celebrating Belgium’s iconic cartoon characters like Tintin and the Smurfs, with rides and hands-on attractions.
Parents will appreciate Antwerp’s rich history and stylish architecture, while kids will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and walkable city center. Plus, its location makes for easy day trips to fairytale-like Bruges or bustling Brussels, both less than an hour away by train. Whether you’re animal lovers, chocolate fans, or curious little travelers, Antwerp delivers fun at every turn.
46. Kraków, Poland
Kraków feels like stepping straight into a storybook, making it a dream destination for families. The city’s Old Town is filled with cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and a lively main square where street performers and bubble-blowing artists keep kids entertained. At the heart of it all stands the majestic Wawel Castle, where children can explore royal chambers, climb towers, and even search for the legendary Wawel Dragon, a beloved creature in local folklore. Don’t miss the dragon statue at the foot of the castle—it actually breathes fire!
For an unforgettable adventure, take a short trip outside the city to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like a fantasy world underground. Kids will be amazed by the salt-sculpted chapels, tunnels, and chandeliers carved entirely out of salt, and the mine even has a playground and interactive exhibits just for them.
Add in hearty Polish food (hello, pierogi!), warm hospitality, and plenty of green parks for play breaks, and Kraków becomes one of Europe’s most magical and memorable cities for family travel.
45. Bordeaux, France
Though it’s best known for its world-class wine, Bordeaux is a surprisingly wonderful city for families with kids. The city’s beautifully restored waterfront promenade is a hub of activity, featuring open spaces to run around, shaded playgrounds, and plenty of room for scooter rides or casual strolls. A standout for little ones is the Miroir d’Eau—the world’s largest reflecting pool—which transforms into a splash zone on warm days. Kids can run, jump, and laugh through the mist while parents snap unforgettable photos with Bordeaux’s grand architecture reflected in the water.
For curious young minds, Cap Sciences is a must-visit. This hands-on science museum is packed with interactive exhibits on everything from space and robotics to the human body, with dedicated areas tailored for younger children. It's a great place for learning through play.
Families can also hop aboard a boat ride along the Garonne River, offering scenic views of Bordeaux's stunning 18th-century facades and a relaxing way to explore the city from a different perspective. With charming neighborhoods, casual cafés that welcome children, and plenty of green parks, Bordeaux offers the perfect blend of culture, fun, and relaxation for a family getaway in France.
44. Turin, Italy
Turin is a delightful blend of royal history, chocolatey indulgence, and family-friendly fun, often flying under the radar compared to other Italian cities. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Italy, Turin still shines with grand palaces, elegant squares, and wide boulevards perfect for stroller walks or bike rides. Families can explore beautiful parks like Parco del Valentino, complete with riverside paths, playgrounds, and even a reconstructed medieval village that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
One of the city's true highlights is the National Cinema Museum, located inside the soaring Mole Antonelliana, Turin’s most iconic building. The museum is packed with interactive exhibits, old movie props, and optical illusions that fascinate both kids and adults—and the glass elevator ride to the top offers sweeping views of the city and the Alps.
And then there’s the chocolate. Turin is the birthplace of gianduja (a creamy chocolate and hazelnut blend), and you’ll find charming cafés and patisseries throughout the city offering treats that will make everyone smile. From sipping velvety hot chocolate to tasting local gelato, Turin’s sweet side is irresistible. With its rich culture, relaxing green spaces, and engaging attractions, Turin is a true Italian gem for a family city break.
43. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is like stepping straight into a fairy tale. With its charming medieval Old Town, cobbled streets, red-roofed towers, and hidden courtyards, it’s a place where kids can let their imaginations run wild. Whether pretending to be knights and princesses at Toompea Castle or climbing ancient stone towers along the old city walls, Tallinn invites families to explore its storybook setting at every turn.
One of the city’s top family attractions is the incredible Seaplane Harbour Museum. Housed in a massive hangar by the sea, this interactive maritime museum lets kids climb aboard a real submarine, test flight simulators, explore icebreaker ships, and engage with hands-on exhibits that bring Estonia’s seafaring history to life. It’s immersive, educational, and a guaranteed hit with curious kids and parents alike.
Add in cozy cafés with delicious Estonian pastries, stroller-friendly parks, and seasonal delights like festive Christmas markets or summer outdoor performances, and Tallinn becomes a magical and memorable destination for families year-round.
42. Cardiff, Wales
Cardiff is a city where myth meets modern magic, making it a fantastic family destination with just the right blend of history, imagination, and fun. At the heart of the city lies the impressive Cardiff Castle, where kids can explore medieval towers, climb ancient battlements, and even spot a dragon or two, at least the mythical kind! The castle’s lavish interiors and wartime bunkers add layers of excitement and discovery for curious young explorers.
For sci-fi fans, Cardiff holds special appeal as the former home of the Doctor Who Experience. While the main exhibit has closed, the city is still dotted with filming locations from the beloved show, and local tours take families behind the scenes of where the Time Lord once roamed.
Beyond castles and time travel, Cardiff is coastal, walkable, and welcoming, with wide pedestrian paths perfect for strollers, and family-friendly spots like Cardiff Bay, where you’ll find boat rides, cafés, playgrounds, and Techniquest, a hands-on science discovery center that’s a hit with kids.
With its friendly atmosphere, magical stories, and mix of outdoor and indoor adventures, Cardiff makes a wonderfully unique stop on any family’s European journey.
41. Malaga, Spain
Málaga is where sunshine, history, and creativity come together for the ultimate family escape. Located on Spain’s Costa del Sol, this vibrant coastal city offers something for everyone, golden beaches, fascinating cultural spots, and plenty of kid-approved adventures.
Start your day with some beach time, Playa de la Malagueta is just steps from the city center and perfect for sandcastle building and a splash in the Mediterranean. Then, dive into the life of one of the world’s most famous artists at the Picasso Museum, where interactive displays and colorful artwork make it easy for kids to engage with art in a fun, hands-on way. After all, Málaga is Picasso’s birthplace!
For a dose of adventure, climb up to the Gibralfaro Castle, an ancient hilltop fortress with breathtaking views over the city and sea. The walk itself is an adventure through pine-scented trails, and once at the top, kids can roam the old stone walls and imagine life as a medieval lookout.
Sprinkled throughout Málaga are Roman ruins, palm-lined plazas, and tasty tapas bars where even picky eaters can find something to love. With its relaxed pace, friendly locals, and endless sunshine, Málaga is a winning choice for families looking to mix beach days with cultural play.
Loved discovering cities no. 50 to no. 41? We’re just getting started! Be sure to check out our follow-up blog post, where we continue the countdown and reveal even more amazing European cities that are perfect for traveling with kids. From fairytale castles to thrilling outdoor adventures, the next batch of destinations promises unforgettable moments for the whole family. Don’t miss it!
Comentários