Holidays in Europe for Families with Pre-School Children

Travelling with pre-school children is very different to travelling with older kids — and that’s not a bad thing. At this age, holidays are less about ticking off sights and more about ease, routine, safety and simple fun.

For many families, the priorities are clear:

• Short, straightforward travel

• A relaxed, child-friendly atmosphere

• Places where children are genuinely welcome

• Mild, comfortable temperatures

• Easy access to parks, playgrounds and simple activities

Europe offers some excellent options that feel manageable rather than overwhelming, and where parents can actually relax knowing their children are safe, entertained and accepted — even if there’s the odd meltdown in a restaurant.

Below are some of the best European destinations for a 5–10 day family holiday with pre-schoolers, chosen for their practicality and child-friendly culture.

Spain (especially mainland & Balearic Islands)

Spain is consistently one of the easiest countries to travel with young children.

Why it works well:

• Short flight times from the UK and Ireland

• Family-friendly hotels and apartment resorts

• Relaxed dining culture — children are welcome everywhere

• Warm but manageable temperatures outside peak summer

Great for pre-schoolers:

• Shallow beaches and promenades

• Excellent play parks in towns and resorts

• Water parks and soft play centres

• Zoos and aquariums in many regions

• Late dinners mean no one minds a tired or noisy child

Ideal for: 7–10 days, especially with a pool-based hotel or apartment.

Portugal (Algarve & Lisbon area)

Portugal is calm, safe and extremely welcoming to families.

Why it works well:

• Easy airport transfers

• Clean, well-organised resorts

• Friendly, patient service culture

• Good value for quality accommodation

Great for pre-schoolers:

• Purpose-built family resorts

• Safe beaches with lifeguards

• Water parks and mini train rides

• Zoos and simple boat trips

• Child-friendly museums in Lisbon with interactive exhibits

Ideal for: 5–10 days with a relaxed pace and minimal moving around.

Italy (Lake Garda, Tuscany & smaller cities)

Italy can be brilliant with young children — if you choose the right areas.

Why it works well:

• Italians are famously tolerant of children

• Family life is central to daily culture

• Excellent food for even picky eaters

• Walkable towns and piazzas

Great for pre-schoolers:

• Lake Garda theme parks and playgrounds

• Traffic-free squares to run around

• Gelato everywhere (a win for everyone)

• Children’s museums and interactive science centres

• Parks, fountains and open spaces

Ideal for: 5–7 days, staying in one base rather than moving frequently.

Netherlands

Often overlooked, but outstanding for families with young children.

Why it works well:

• Extremely safe and well organised

• Flat, walkable cities

• Excellent public transport

• Calm, tolerant culture

Great for pre-schoolers:

• Outstanding playgrounds and parks

• Zoos and aquariums

• Children’s museums designed for under-6s

• Short distances between attractions

• Mild summer temperatures

Ideal for: 5–7 days, particularly Amsterdam plus one nearby base.

Austria (lakes & mountain regions)

Austria is exceptional for active but gentle family holidays.

Why it works well:

• Clean, safe and family-oriented

• Cooler summer temperatures

• Excellent infrastructure

• Calm, organised travel experience

Great for pre-schoolers:

• Mountain play parks and adventure trails

• Cable cars with pushchair access

• Lakes with shallow swimming areas

• Child-focused attractions included with guest cards

• Farms and animal parks

Ideal for: 7–10 days for families who enjoy nature and fresh air.

Denmark

One of the most child-friendly countries in Europe.

Why it works well:

• Children are genuinely prioritised in public spaces

• Very safe and clean

• Relaxed attitudes in cafés and restaurants

• Excellent design for families

Great for pre-schoolers:

• World-class playgrounds

• Zoos and aquariums

• Interactive museums

• Legoland (even for younger children)

• Easy city travel with buggies

Ideal for: 5–7 days, especially for a city-based family break.

Final thoughts

For families with pre-school children, the best holiday is rarely the most ambitious one. It’s the trip where:

• Travel days are easy

• Children feel welcome

• Parents don’t feel rushed or judged

• There’s time to rest as well as explore

Choosing the right destination — and the right pace — makes all the difference