Travelling with kids around Europe: 3 great family destinations for Summer 2026

Taking a family holiday is the perfect way to build great memories, see new sights and enjoy quality time with the people you love most.

But sometimes, if the logistics are not planned properly, things can get stressful quickly. Choosing the right destination is one of the easiest ways to keep everyone happy, make travelling smoother and ensure there is plenty to keep the kids entertained.

After all, even the best family destination can feel harder work if getting around is a challenge. Having access to a car gives families the freedom to travel at their own pace, pack everything they need and explore beyond the main tourist hotspots. That’s where comparing options through platforms such as hire car site CarJet can help, making it easier to find a vehicle that suits both your family and your budget before you travel.

Having access to a car gives families the freedom to travel at their own pace

Best summer holiday destinations in Europe for families

Finding the right destination can sometimes feel overwhelming. There is a lot to think about, from how you are going to get around and what activities are available to what the weather will be like.

Here are three European summer destinations that are particularly well-suited to families, with plenty of activities, attractions and outdoor adventures to keep all ages entertained.

Amsterdam

Most people visit the Netherlands during the colder winter months, missing out on how beautiful the country is in summer. If you want to escape the Mediterranean heatwaves, Amsterdam is a great choice.

Amsterdam is full of green spaces. Vondelpark and Amsterdamse Bos are huge and make perfect playgrounds for children to run around and burn off some energy. When you want to do some sightseeing, there are plenty of family-friendly options, including Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and the NEMO Science Museum.

One thing you absolutely have to do is the Pancake Boat cruise, where the kids get unlimited toppings while you see the city from the water. To save money and avoid the busiest crowds, consider staying in a quieter neighbourhood such as Oud-West.

Amsterdam

Crete

Crete is a fantastic destination for families. You get sunshine, a relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly beaches without dramatic cliffs or demanding hikes.

Here are some awesome beaches with calm, safe waters:

• Elafonisi Lagoon – Crete’s most famous beach, known for its pink sand and shallow waters.

• Falassarna – Wide stretches of sand give children plenty of room to play, while adults can enjoy some of the island’s best sunsets.

• Kedrodasos – A quieter alternative that is perfect for a peaceful picnic by the sea.

Public transport rarely reaches the best beaches, so exploring Crete with your own car gives you complete flexibility and allows you to travel at your own pace.

Away from the coast, the island is packed with family attractions, including the Palace of Knossos, Greek Mythology Theme Park, Lasinthos Eco Park and Psychro Cave.

Crete

The Algarve

The Algarve is fantastic all year round, but summer is when you can really enjoy its spectacular coastline. Whether you choose Lagos, Albufeira or Tavira, you are guaranteed a brilliant family holiday.

Here is what makes each destination so good for families:

• Lagos – A charming town of colourful houses. From here, it is easy to drive to Burgau, a peaceful seaside village often referred to as the “Santorini of Portugal”.

• Albufeira – Home to the popular Zoomarine theme park and a marina filled with family attractions, including pedal karts and bouncy castles. Staying in one of the quieter neighbourhoods helps avoid the nightlife while keeping you close to beaches such as Praia de Santa Eulalia.

• Tavira – Ideal for a slower-paced break. Explore the castle ruins or take a short boat trip to Tavira Island. The beaches at Fábrica and Cabanas are particularly good for younger children thanks to their calm waters.

How to move around as a family

Road trips are more popular than ever and it is easy to see why. The journey before you arrive can often be the most stressful part of a family holiday.

Overtired children and crowded public transport are rarely a good combination. Taxis can become expensive quickly, while trains and buses do not always work well around nap times and family schedules.

That is why hiring a car can make family travel much easier, offering both flexibility and good value compared with relying solely on public transport or taxis