Recently updated on July 7th, 2023 at 10:10 am
If you can’t wait to take your family on holiday but you’re not sure where to go, look no further. From the jungles of Costa Rica and the beaches of Thailand to the temples of Japan and the castles of Ireland, we’ve rounded up 11 of the very best family travel destinations to inspire your next family vacation.
1. Australia
Australia has got to be one of the all-time best family travel destinations. There are endless wonders to explore from the Great Barrier Reef to Uluru to the Daintree Rainforest, plus everyone will get a kick out of seeing the fascinating animals like kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles. Whether your family loves to spend a day at the beach, a wildlife park, or a world-class museum in the city, Australia has got it all.
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2. Hawaii
Got an active bunch? One of the best family travel destinations is Hawaii! You can tire your family out with activities like swimming, snorkelling, diving, surfing, hiking, and wildlife spotting… Then get immersed in the Hawaiian culture with hula shows and luau feasts. Whether you want to see Hawaii’s volcanoes in action or spot whales in the ocean, your family will be amazed by Hawaii.
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3. Japan
If you’re thinking about family vacation ideas, put Japan on your list. It’s one of the best destinations for adults and kids alike, with everything from neon arcades in Tokyo to ancient temples in Kyoto. Go hiking up Mount Fuji and marvel at the ornate gardens and cherry blossoms. Learn about samurais in old castles, enjoy dinner at a robot restaurant, or relax in a soothing onsen pool. Whatever you do, your family will love Japan.
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4. Italy
From kids to grandparents, Italy is always the most popular of family travel destinations. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins and learn about life as a gladiator in Rome or cruise the dreamy canals of Venice, Italy appeals to everyone. Fill up on pizza and gelato in Florence, snap some funny shots at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or swim in the stunning waters of the Amalfi Coast. Italy will be a place your family never forgets.
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5. South Africa
Wondering where to travel as a family? What about South Africa? This blockbuster destination is sure to impress everyone. Start with a thrilling safari game drive to spot elephants, lions, rhinos, zebras, buffalo and more, and spend your nights in a gorgeous lodge in the bushveld. Then head to the vibrant city of Cape Town and take a ride up Table Mountain. Or meet the penguins along the coastline at Boulders Beach. It’s non-stop family fun in South Africa!
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6. Costa Rica
From jungle adventures to special wildlife experiences, Costa Rica is one of the best family travel destinations for nature lovers. Go cruising along the canals of Tortuguero National Park, ziplining down a volcano, or watch sea turtles hatching on the beach. Walk along with the Arenal Hanging Bridges, spot sloths in the jungle, or soak in thermal pools. Meet a local family to learn about their farming life and taste the freshest fruit you can get. Whatever you do, Costa Rica will be a trip your family will be talking about for years to come.
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7. United Kingdom & Ireland
From exploring the magical world of Harry Potter in London to staying in the regal Ashford Castle in Ireland, this is a destination that’s sure to get everyone excited. Spot the real-life Peter Rabbit in the Lake District or try your hand at archery at Winterfell Castle from Game of Thrones. Dive into Liverpool, the birthplace of the Beatles or experience life as a Roman soldier at Hadrian’s Wall. You could even get up close to royal life at Buckingham Palace or meet a hairy Highland cow in Scotland.
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8. Thailand
There are few places where you can go from snorkelling in the ocean to hiking through green hills to exploring temples and spotting elephants in one incredible trip. Thailand is one of the most diverse family travel destinations, with mouthwatering food, amazing festivals, and extraordinary nature. Known as the land of a thousand smiles, your family will also fall in love with the friendly hospitality of the Thai people. Plus, if you head there on National Children’s Day (the second Saturday of January), your kids will get free activities and public transport across the country!
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9. United States
The United States is one of the most exciting family travel destinations you can get. Hit the world’s best theme parks in Florida and California. Explore the most stunning national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite and learn about Native American culture. Or get out into the Wild West and spend the night on a real Montana ranch. Whether you want to see the natural icons like the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls or see the sights in famous cities like New York and Memphis, the USA will be an unforgettable family adventure.
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10. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The awe-inspiring wildlife of the Galápagos Islands will have everyone feeling that child-like sense of wonder – even the adults! As you sail the ancient islands, you’ll encounter giant tortoises, sea lions, penguins, iguanas, albatross and more. Go snorkelling in the crystal ocean, hiking for jaw-dropping views, and learn about the active volcanoes. You can also hear stories about 16th-century and 17th-century pirates who hid on the islands, or learn how Charles Darwin’s world-changing theories were inspired by the wildlife here.
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11. Singapore
If you thought Singapore was just a quick stopover destination, you’ve been missing out! It’s one of the greatest family travel destinations with a huge range of family-friendly activities from Singapore Zoo to Sentosa Islands. Marvel at the Gardens by the Bay light show and spend the day at Universal Studios. Wander the colourful streets of Little India, see the temples of Chinatown, or go shopping in the Arab Quarter. Explore the stunning beaches, gardens, jungles and waterfalls… And don’t forget to fuel up at the vibrant hawker food markets where you can try the most delicious cuisines from Chinese to Malay to Indian food.
What are your favourite family travel destinations? Let us know in the comments below!