Recently updated on January 21st, 2020 at 06:46 pm
Travel can be one of the most rewarding family experiences, creating ever-lasting memories and stories that will be recounted for many years to come. Some destinations are superior to others for family trips though, with unforgettable activities for all ages within some of the world’s most scenic and culturally fascinating regions. From zip-lining through the Costa Rican rainforest to dressing up as samurai in Japan, here’s our pick of outstanding destinations for kids.
Samurai and Scenic Railway Journeys in Kyoto
With its high-tech cities, contrasting landscapes and extraordinarily rich culture, Japan certainly leaves a lasting impression. And this is truer than ever in the country’s cultural hub Kyoto, where temples, ancient tea houses and bamboo forest lie amidst the forested mountains. The city is also home to Toei Kyoto Studio Park, a theme-park-style movie set recreating a samurai town from the Edo period. Catch live ninja performances, get lost in the ninja maze and be astounded by the 360° 3D theatre and haunted house. Visitors even have the opportunity to dress up as samurai and geisha. While you’re in Kyoto, enjoy panoramic views on the Sagano Scenic Railway. This nostalgic train follows railway tracks through the mountains and along Hozugawa River, before arriving in Arashiyama where a bamboo forest is waiting to be explored.
Travel to Kyoto as a family on the Samurai Discovery trip with Trafalgar.
Spotting Elks in the Grand Canyon
Covering an immense area of 277 river miles, the one-mile deep Grand Canyon is justifiably named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The sheer vastness of this landscape and the changing hues of its astounding rock formations is sure to stamp a lasting image on your child’s mind. Before even arriving at the Grand Canyon, make the journey there equally as remarkable by travelling on the Grand Canyon Railway. From the historic train’s carriages, spot wildlife such as elk, mule deer and pronghorn antelope, alongside other rare species. The national park itself hosts an abundance of family-friendly activities, including mule rides, an immersive IMAX experience and a towering 70-foot high Skywalk. With a little more time, your kids can take part in the Junior Ranger programme.
Travel to the Grand Canyon on the Pioneer Adventures of the Old West itinerary.
A Coastal Journey and Creative Play in Monterey
Situated on California’s wild central coast, Monterey is the ideal escape for families who enjoy wildlife and the great outdoors. Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the coastal city’s most famous sites, and with so many interactive exhibits to take part in it’s easy to understand why. Embark on a virtual deep-sea dive, get involved in craft activities and catch the aquarium’s daily shows. Meanwhile, over at the Monterey County Youth Museum children are given the opportunity to learn through creative play; after donning a costume, they’ll take to the stage at MY Theater to play a life-sized game of ‘Operation in MY Hospital’, among many other absorbing activities. In between the sites, get to know Monterey a little better by cycling through the city and setting out on a journey along the coast.
The family-friendly California Dreamin’ trip takes you to Monterey.
A Day at a Gladiator School in Rome
The enigmatic streets of Rome are sure to captivate travellers of all ages, but children will find the city even more appealing after a visit to the Gladiator School. Each gladiator student for the day will be taught the art of Roman sword fighting and have the chance to discover the fascinating history of gladiators in a two-hour class involving costumes. Once they’ve had a taste of Rome’s past, they’ll jump at the chance to explore the city’s ancient Roman ruins, where many of the events took place.
Discover Rome and its history on the Gladiators, Gondolas and Gold itinerary.
Rainforest and Ocean Exploration in Costa Rica
Manuel Antonio National Park is home to over 200 different species of wildlife, from howler monkeys and sloths to birdlife such as toucans, and even sea mammals like whales and dolphins. And it’s not just the wildlife that draws families here; the national park is bursting with outdoor pursuits, from water sports like snorkelling and surfing, to land activities such as horseback riding, white-water rafting and kayaking through the mangroves. For those yearning for more there’s also the ADR Adventure Park; set amidst rushing waterfalls and lush rainforest, visitors can try rappelling and zip-lining, among the many adrenalin sports on offer.
Visit Manuel Antonio National Park on the Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes trip.
Image credits: Cover photo of a squirrel monkey in Costa Rica © iStock / Sam Camp. Arashiyama bamboo forest in Kyoto © iStock / boygovideo. The Grand Canyon © Erik Harrison / iStock. Monterey © iStock / JTravisPhotos. The Colosseum in Rome © iStock / lakovKalinin. Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica © iStock / Mlenny.