Introduction

So, you're thinking about embarking on a family travel adventure to Europe with your kids? Buckle up, because it's going to be a wild - but wonderful - ride!

Traveling with a 4 year old and a 4 month old to Europe might sound like an absolutly insane and miserable idea, but trust me, it's more akin to an amazing adventure filled with thrills, spills and unforgettable memories.

Our family had the pleasure (and occasional displeasure) of exploring the picturesque landscapes of France and Spain back in the summer of 2022. Spoiler alert: we all survived! And guess what? We even managed to do it on a budget. Yep, that's right. Affordable European travel with kids is not as mythical as unicorns.

This might seen obvious, but this was no ordinary vacation. It was an empowering experience for our little explorers - and for my husband and I as well. They got to see the world from a different perspective, learned about new cultures, tasted delicious food and realized that not everyone speaks English (a mind-blowing revelation for them).

And don't get me started on the benefits for us as parents. Seeing the world through their wide, curious eyes? Priceless! And perhaps more priceless was the sense of accomplishment and empowerment we experienced because we did it - we actually did it!

So, whether you're considering traveling to Europe with kids, or just need some tips on how to make your next family trip less chaotic and more fun - stick around! 

Welcome to our European Family Adventure 101. Let's get started!

Why Choose Europe for Your Family Vacation?

Packing up the kiddos and jet-setting to Europe might sound like a plotline from a quirky family comedy, but it's totally doable – and magical. Family travel isn't just about finding places that can tolerate the pitter-patter of little feet; it's about immersion in experiences that turn "Are we there yet?" into "Wow, look at that!"

Let's face it; Europe is practically a smorgasbord of cultural feasts for families:

1. Landmarks that make history books jealous

Picture this - your mini-me's gazing up at the Eiffel Tower or playing gladiator outside Rome's Colosseum. These aren't just photo ops; they're interactive history lessons sans the snooze fest.

2. Cultural deep dive without the scuba gear

Imagine exchanging bonjours and gracias as part of the daily banter. Kids are linguistic sponges, and what better way to empower them than by throwing them into the linguistic deep end (floaties provided by local interactions).

3. Memory factory on overdrive

European travel is like stepping into a storybook where each page turn reveals a new adventure – from fairy-tale castles in Germany to Gaudí’s playground in Barcelona.

4. Kid-friendly doesn't mean adult-boring

Cities like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona get standing ovations for their ability to wow all ages. They've mastered the art of blending stroller-friendly streets with sights that'll have kids and adults grinning from ear to ear.

So, Travel to Europe? Absolutely. It's a playground of empowerment where every cobblestone can lead to a new discovery, every gelato flavor becomes a taste bud party, and every "I'm bored" is magically replaced by "What’s next?" European travel isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about transforming perspectives – one family adventure at a time.

Planning Your Trip to Europe with Kids

Tips for choosing your own family-friendly destination

1. Consider What Your Family Likes: Just because everyone raves about Rome doesn't mean your family will enjoy it too.
2. Do Your Homework: Researching destinations can be time-consuming but it's worth every minute.
3. Prioritize Safety: This should be non-negotiable. Always check for healthcare facilities nearby and educate yourself on local laws.
4. Don't Forget The Kiddos: Make sure there are enough activities to keep your little ones entertained.

And remember, the goal is not to see all of Europe in one trip (unless you have a magic carpet). It's about creating beautiful memories and giving your kids a taste of different cultures. So take your time, pick a few places that tick all your boxes and start packing those suitcases!

Creating a Budget for Your Trip

When it comes to family travel, especially the "Travel to Europe" kind, planning is your best friend. It's like that reliable babysitter you can't live without—always there to make sure the kids (in this case, your vacation plans) stay on track.

Now, onto budgeting. Don't worry—it isn't as terrifying as it sounds. I’ve got some practical advice to help you keep those purse strings tight without compromising on the fun!

1. Accommodations

An easy way to save money is by opting for accommodations with kitchen facilities. This way, you're not eating out for every meal (because let's face it, those croissants and baguettes add up!). Researching destinations with a variety of lodging options can offer savings too.

2. Transportation

• Walk when possible—it’s free and a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Plus, it counts as a workout (so more croissants for you!).
• Public transport is also more wallet-friendly than taxis or rental cars, plus, you don’t have to deal with carseats.

3. Meals

• Eating where locals do rather than sticking to tourist hotspots can save you a pretty penny.
• Also, picnics! They're fun, affordable and perfect for families. Grab some fresh produce from local markets and voila! You have a delicious meal and an authentic Travel to Europe experience.

So there you have it! Some straightforward tips for budgeting your family vacation in Europe. A little bit of planning can go a long way in ensuring your trip is smooth sailing.

Booking Accommodations for Your Family

Accommodations, accommodations! That's the mantra we followed on our euro-trip. And we're not talking about finding the cheapest cardboard box to sleep in. We needed space, comfort, and amenities that would make a 4-year-old and a 4-month-old feel like they were more at home.

When you embark on a family travel to Europe, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodations. From quaint bed and breakfasts in the English countryside to modern apartments in the heart of Barcelona, there's something for every family.

Our top pick: Spacious apartments

They can offer home-like comfort with separate rooms for kids (and parents who need their sanity!). Plus, they usually come equipped with a kitchen, allowing you to save on meals and cater to picky eaters.

Hotels are also an option if you prefer:

1. Room service
2. Daily housekeeping

Opting for hotels with family rooms can ensure everyone gets their own bed without breaking the bank. Some even have amenities like kid’s clubs or babysitting services - bonus points!

In addition to comfort, remember safety is paramount. Check out reviews from other families who've stayed there before. And yes, those one-star reviews can be as entertaining as they are helpful!

Planning Your Itinerary with Kids in Mind

Travel planning shouldn't mean losing your sanity. Let's face it, we've all seen "Home Alone", and nobody wants a repeat of that at the airport. With children, you may need to switch gears from a see-everything-do-everything approach to a more relaxed, child-friendly pace.

One of the secrets to successful family travel is flexibility. This isn't about cramming in every museum or landmark into your schedule, but rather allowing room for spontaneity and those much-needed naps (for both you and the kiddos).

Tips for Planning Your Itinerary

Keep these points in mind while crafting your itinerary:

1. Include kid-friendly attractions: Europe is chock-full of them! Slot in visits to places like Disneyland Paris, The Chocolate Museum in Barcelona, or the Children's Museum in Rome.
2. Plan for downtime: Kids are unpredictable. (I’m assuming I’m not alone in this!). Some days they might be up for an adventure, on others they would just want to build sandcastles at the beach. Balance out busy days with relaxed ones.
3. Foodie explorations: Children love trying new things...sometimes! European cuisine offers both familiar and unique options. Include some food-related activities like attending a pizza-making class in Naples or tasting gelato in every Italian city!

Researching destinations thoroughly beforehand can help ensure a smooth trip. Look up local customs, weather patterns during your visit, and most importantly, where to find the nearest playgrounds for some impromptu playtime.

Remember: The goal isn't to tick off every sightseeing spot from your list but to create lasting memories as a family. So pack your bags, let's embark on this European adventure together!

Interested in our day to day itinerary (including specifics to accommodations, restaurants, total cost, etc) in addition to even more helpful advice for planning a child-friendly European getaway? Sign up for a free trial of Empowered Abroad for access to members-only exclusive content!