15 best international family vacations
From mountaintop Alpine playgrounds to iconic landmarks and laid-back beaches, we’re rounding up the 15 best international family destinations that offer unforgettable experiences for kids and adults alike. Whether you're craving adventure, culture or some quality downtime, discover the perfect spot for your next big trip abroad. And if you find yourself falling in love with one of these destinations, why not turn a one-time trip into a long-term tradition? From Europe to Mexico and beyond, here are 15 international destinations perfect for your next family getaway. This picturesque region of central Italy is more than just a getaway for wine lovers; it's also one of the best family destination spots. Tuscany offers around 120 medieval villages. Kids will love exploring historic castles and climbing ancient towers like ▪️ ▪️ The Swiss Alps, featuring postcard-worthy villages, clear lakes and snow-capped peaks, are one of the best family vacations for outdoor lovers. This region has numerous Alpine playgrounds, so you can enjoy the views while your little ones play. For thrill-seeking older children, check out the area's mountain coasters, also called toboggan runs. These gravity-powered sleds ride on tracks down the Alps, offering twists, turns, and stunning views. ▪️ ▪️ Kyoto is one of Japan's largest cities and offers a charming old-world feel you won't find in Tokyo. With easy public transportation and a calm, welcoming atmosphere, Kyoto is a great introduction to Japan for families or Popular cultural destinations we recommend include walking through the Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine and exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. ▪️ ▪️ Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a resort town that feels like you're enjoying a Swiss village but without the jet lag. Famous for its turquoise lakes like ▪️ ▪️ Located at the base of Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is a small, leisurely town with tropical vibes. This region is known for its rainforest hikes, geothermal hot springs, and wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans. Families can explore hanging bridges, zipline through the treetops or visit the La Fortuna Waterfall, where older kids can swim at the base. ▪️ ▪️ If you're looking for a trip with castles, cobbled streets, and a moody landscape, look no further than Edinburgh, Scotland. This city served as J.K. Rowling’s inspiration for Harry Potter and feels like it’s straight out of a fantasy novel. Kids will love exploring Edinburgh Castle, perched dramatically on a volcanic rock with sweeping city views. The Royal Mile is lined with shops, street performers and quirky museums like the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. ▪️ ▪️ Reykjavik is a great base for exploring Iceland’s unique landscapes. The city is small and easy to get around, with museums and attractions that kids can enjoy. At Perlan, families can walk through an ice cave and learn how glaciers form or catch a show in the planetarium. It’s also a good jumping-off point for day trips. The Golden Circle route includes stops at Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir hot springs and Gullfoss waterfall. ▪️ ▪️ Antalya, located along Turkey's southwestern coast, is famous for its ancient ruins, like the Roman-era Hadrian’s Gate, and the charming old town, Kaleiçi, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings. Families can relax at one of the many beaches, enjoy boat trips along the turquoise coast or visit the Old Harbor, which dates back to Roman times. ▪️ ▪️ There are plenty of The Tower of London is a favorite for school-aged kids who enjoy stories about royalty and ravens. Before your visit, consider giving your child For a quieter moment away from the crowds, stroll through the elegant streets of ▪️ ▪️ Located along Portugal’s southern coast, the Algarve is known for its cliff-lined beaches, seaside villages and fresh seafood. It’s one of our favorite places to travel for a family vacation, thanks to its blend of relaxing beaches and kid-friendly excursions, including boat tours that explore sea caves and dolphin habitats. Portugal is also considered ▪️ ▪️ Located in southern Spain, Seville offers a mix of history, culture, and family-friendly activities. Its cobblestone streets and historic plaza are best explored by foot, providing kids plenty of opportunities to burn off energy and explore at their own pace. We recommend visiting the Real Alcázar, a royal palace with gardens and hidden passageways, or climbing to the top of the Giralda Tower for stunning city views. ▪️ ▪️ Sanur is a laid-back beach village in southern Bali known as one of the country's most serene vacation destinations. Sanur's long, sandy beach is perfect for younger children, offering safe, shallow waters and opportunities for water sports like surfing and snorkeling. ▪️ ▪️ Los Cabos is famous for its desert landscapes and ▪️ ▪️ Punta Mita is a coastal town on Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, known for its beaches and variety of outdoor activities. It’s a great spot for families who enjoy relaxation and adventure, offering calm waters for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling, along with options for golfing and whale watching. ▪️ ▪️ Paris, the City of Light, offers a blend of culture, If you only have ▪️ ▪️ Sharing travel experiences with your kids is rewarding but also comes with a few extra considerations. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your trip goes smoothly. Here are a few ways to make international travel easier for the whole family. Whenever possible, try to book nonstop flights to avoid the stress of rushing through unfamiliar airports with kids in tow. If a layover is unavoidable, look for one that’s long enough to allow your family time to eat, stretch and reset between flights. A longer layover is also a helpful buffer in case of delays. Hungry kids can get cranky quickly, especially during long travel days or delays. Pack a variety of easy, mess-free snacks like granola bars, crackers or dried fruit to keep everyone content between meals. Having familiar snacks on hand can also be a lifesaver if your child is a picky eater or not a fan of airplane or foreign food. Jet lag can hit kids hard, especially after long international flights. Plan for a low-key day when you first arrive so everyone has time to adjust to the new schedule. A flexible day with minimal plans allows kids to catch up on sleep and settle in before diving into sightseeing. Getting kids involved in the planning process can make them more excited and engaged during the trip. Let them choose an activity, museum or restaurant. This gives them a sense of ownership and something to look forward to. Whether your family loves snow-capped mountains, historic cities, or sunny coastlines, these destinations offer some of the most fun vacations for kids worldwide. If one of these places feels like the perfect spot to return to year after year, make it your family’s home away from home. With Pacaso, you can co-own a luxury vacation home in your favorite international destination, creating a space for lasting memories without the full-time responsibility of ownership.
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