20 Ideas for a Family Holiday: Where to Take Your Kids

We’ve prepared a list of the top 20 tried-and-tested ideas for the perfect family holiday – filled with fun, unforgettable memories, and sunshine. For those looking to discover new cultures and enjoy some sunbathing, we’ve curated foreign travel inspiration. Others, who prefer the convenience of short journeys and the beauty of local sights, can browse our ideas for an unforgettable stay in Poland. Are you ready to get inspired?

How to Plan a Family Holiday and Keep Everyone Happy

Before diving straight into the various offers, it’s a good idea to sit down with your family and consider a few key points. This way, you’ll find a destination that truly suits everyone.

Think about your children’s needs, while taking their ages into account. Consider how you’d like to balance your need for relaxation with their need for activity and play. Also, ask yourself: what’s the most important ingredient for a successful holiday? Is it being close to nature, having easy access to organised attractions, or simply spending quality time together as a family?

If you’re unsure where to go on holiday with your children, don’t worry — below is a practical guide to help you decide and plan your dream family trip, so everyone comes back with a smile.

Baltic Sea Holiday with Children

Sandy beaches, warm sea water, and a variety of attractions make this a perfect holiday spot. What if the weather isn’t on your side? No worries! You can always relax by the hotel’s pool, where fun and relaxation know no limits.

Here are three proven destinations that offer the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure for the whole family.

Ustka – Port Town Surrounded by Legends

Ustka is a charming seaside resort, where the ambience blends the charm of a fishing village with modern attractions. Your children will love wandering around the harbour, marveling at the various ships, or even hopping aboard a pirate ship. Other sights worth visiting include the lighthouse and the mermaid statue.

Best for Kids: Trip aboard a pirate ship

Łeba – Adventure Among Desert Sands

Łeba is a favourite among families with children, primarily because of the unique shifting sand dunes in Słowiński National Park, which are unlike any other in Europe. A trip to the dunes feels like a journey to a real desert and leaves a lasting impression.

Best for Kids: Shifting sand dunes, Łeba Park (dinosaurs), Discovery Park.

Jastarnia – At the Heart of the Hel Peninsula

On one side, there is a wide, open beach along the Baltic Sea, while on the other, the shallow and warmer waters of the Bay of Puck offer a paradise for beginner windsurfers and kitesurfers. It serves as a great base for excursions to nearby Hel (where a seal sanctuary awaits) and Jurata.

Best for Kids: Windsurfing lessons in shallow waters, a trip to the seal sanctuary in Hel

Family Holiday in Tatras

The Tatra Mountains are a wonderful destination for a holiday with children, offering gentle walking trails, relaxation, and unforgettable views. By choosing a base in Zakopane, Białka Tatrzańska, or Kościelisko, you can enjoy the perfect blend of adventure and leisure.

Zakopane – The Ever-Awake Heart of Tatras

The famous Krupówki serve as a focal point, but beautiful trails are only a short walk away.

Best for Kids: Ride the railway up Gubałówka and admire the view of the Tatra Mountains, gravity slide, Wielka Krokiew ski hill.

Białka Tatrzańska – Active Leisure with Mountain Sights

A modern town offering stunning views of the Tatra Mountains and numerous outdoor attractions, serving as a slightly quieter alternative to the bustling Zakopane.

Best for Kids: Take the chairlift to the top of Kotelnica and then ride down on monster rollers – large off-road scooters. It’s a fantastic combination of laughter and adrenaline for the whole family!

Kościelisko – Peace, Quiet, and Beautiful Valleys

Kościelisko is a picturesque and much quieter alternative to Zakopane. It’s a perfect place if you’re looking to find easy and kid-friendly trails in the Tatra Mountains.

Best for Kids: A walk through the Kościeliska or Chochołowska Valley, a ride on the horse-drawn carriage.

Energylandia – The Biggest Family-friendly Amusement Park in Poland

Are you searching for a destination that will meet the holiday needs of the entire family? The answer is clear: Zator and Energylandia! It’s no ordinary amusement park, but the largest in the region, boasting dozens of attractions.

What Energylandia truly excels at is offering something for everyone, regardless of age or courage. Young visitors can delight in the enchanting fairy-tale-like Little Kids Zone, while families can enjoy the Family Zone, featuring gentler roller coasters and water adventures suitable for all ages. Thrill-seekers can push their limits in the Extreme Zone, home to rides that set new speed and height records. All of this is perfectly complemented by the sprawling tropical Water Park, a perfect retreat to cool off and unwind during the hot summer days!

Plan Your Fun: Spend 1, 3, or even 7 days at Energylandia!

With so many attractions, it’s helpful to plan the duration of your stay and a quick itinerary. Energylandia has options to suit every occasion:

One-day trip – Bite-sized Fun This is the ideal option if you live nearby or have limited time. To make the most of your visit, a good plan is essential to see the key attractions, but it’s definitely doable and promises an exciting experience.
Weekend at Energylandia (2-3 days) – The Best Choice In our opinion, that’s your best choice. A weekend gives you the freedom to divide your time – one day filled with thrilling rollercoasters and rides, and the other relaxing in the Water Park Zone. It’s also a great chance to stay overnight at the Route 44 official camping zone, so you can extend your adventure even further!
Week-long holiday at Energylandia and Małopolska – All-in Adventure! This is an ideal option for those wishing to combine a visit to the park with exploring the surrounding region. Camping in Zator can serve as the perfect base for discovering the entire Małopolska area! From here, you can reach historic Kraków and the Wieliczka Salt Mine in less than an hour, visit the papal town of Wadowice, or explore the scenic Ojców National Park.

No matter how much time you have, one thing is certain – an unforgettable adventure awaits! Explore all the attractions of Energylandia and plan your one-of-a-kind trip!

>> Read The Full Guide: Kid-Friendly Activities near Kraków

Child-friendly Masuria Holidays

Renting a cottage by the lake embodies the essence of a Masurian holiday and is a fantastic choice for a family vacation. It offers the perfect blend of independence, proximity to nature, and access to numerous attractions for children in Masuria. Here are a few tried-and-true destinations:

Mikołajki and surrounding areas In this region, you can relax on your own beach or pier during the day, and in the evening, take a stroll around the lively port in Mikołajki, enjoy some ice cream, and watch the sailboats glide by.
Giżycko and surrounding areas Renting a cottage near Giżycko provides the perfect base for exploring the heart of the Great Lakes Region. It serves as an ideal starting point for lake cruises, and the town itself boasts attractions like the historic Boyen Fortress and the iconic swing bridge.
Ruciane-Nida and surrounding areas Cottages nestled within the Piska Forest, often with direct access to the Krutynia River, ensure a peaceful retreat. They are perfect for shared canoeing adventures and cozy evening bonfires.

Family-friendly Farm Stays in Podlachia

A farm stay with children is a wonderful choice for a relaxed, slow-paced holiday. No region in Poland is as magical and peaceful as Podlachia – a land of storks, vibrant shutters, unique flavours, and endless meadows. It’s the perfect place for a true family reset. What adventures await you there?

Close Encounters with Animals. It’s fantastic fun for the little ones! Staying on a farm with animals gives children the chance to see chickens, goats, cows, and horses up close. Feeding the animals or collecting eggs for breakfast offers a hands-on lesson in nature that no book can match.
Become Part of the Homestead. Many farm stays offer engaging workshops for the whole family. Baking bread together, making cheese, or trying folk crafts are wonderful ways to learn through play and immerse yourself in the authentic countryside atmosphere.
Unmatched Nature and Serenity. Podlachia, known as The Green Lungs of Poland, offers pristine landscapes and peaceful escapes. With the Biebrza National Park and Białowieża Forest nearby, you’ll find endless scenic walking and cycling trails. And in the evening? Just silence, stars, and the gentle chorus of crickets.

From mountain hikes and the soothing sounds of the Baltic Sea waves to idyllic farm stays – Poland offers endless opportunities for a unique family holiday.

Family Holiday in Turkey with Aquaparks and All-inclusive Hotels

Turkey, especially the Turkish Riviera, has been a favourite among Polish families for years. The reason is simple: it offers a ready-made recipe for a successful holiday – reliable weather, beautiful beaches, and, most importantly, hotels designed with children in mind.

Antalya and Alanya – Hubs For a Family Getaway

The two most popular regions on the Turkish Riviera, Antalya and Alanya, vie for the title of top family-friendly destination. Choosing a hotel in this area means your children can look forward to:

Impressive aquaparks: Most large family hotels feature their own water parks, complete with a dozen or more slides, wild rivers, wave pools, and dedicated shallow paddling pools for toddlers.
Mini clubs and Activities: Throughout the day, professional entertainers organize games, activities, and competitions, giving parents a chance to relax.
Dedicated Menus and Accessibility: Hotel restaurants offer special buffets for children, and rooms often have cots and other amenities available.

Budget-Friendly Holiday in Greece for the Entire Family

Greece is a destination that doesn’t have to break the bank! While there are many options to choose from, three islands have consistently remained popular among families for years, offering the perfect blend of stunning landscapes, interesting attractions, and affordable prices.

Crete – The Largest and Most Diverse Crete offers something for everyone. From stunning sandy beaches, like the famous Elafonisi with its pink sand, to fascinating ruins of Minoan palaces such as Knossos, as well as picturesque gorges – Crete truly has it all.
Rhodes – The Island of Sun and Knights Rhodes is a perfect blend of sunbathing and history. The island’s capital city, Rhodes, with its impressive Palace of the Grand Masters, will take you back to the era of medieval knights. The eastern coast, including areas like Faliraki and Kolymbia, is renowned for its sandy beaches and calm, warm sea – ideal for children.
Zakynthos – Renowned for its Iconic Views The famous Shipwreck Cove, with its white cliffs and turquoise waters, is a breathtaking sight! Zakynthos also boasts sandy beaches, such as those in Laganas and Kalamaki, where visitors can encounter the majestic Caretta caretta turtles – a wonderful attraction for children.

Family Holiday with Children in Bulgaria

If you’re seeking a destination with stunning, expansive sandy beaches, warm seas, and great value for money, Bulgaria is the perfect choice.

Sunny Beach – The Capital of Summer Fun It is Bulgaria’s largest and most vibrant resort. Its hallmark is a several-kilometre-long, wide beach with a gentle slope into the sea, making it ideal for small children. Along the beach runs a lively promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions such as water parks (e.g., Action Aquapark) and amusement parks.
Golden Sands – Tranquil Greenery Situated slightly further north and surrounded by a nature park, Golden Sands features a similarly beautiful sandy beach, but in a quieter and greener environment. The area boasts numerous hotels offering a wide range of all-inclusive packages and swimming pools. Additionally, the large Aquapolis water park provides children with plenty of water fun.

Best Destinations in Croatia with Children

Are you wondering where to go abroad by car? For years, Croatia has been the top choice among Polish families who prefer to travel by car for their holidays. Its crystal-clear sea, stunning landscapes, and excellent tourist infrastructure make it an ideal holiday destination.

The Makarska Riviera – Spectacular Beaches at the Foot of the Mountains The distinctive pebble beaches, with their gentle slope into the azure sea, are perfect for children (don’t forget water shoes!). Above them, the majestic Biokovo Mountains create a breathtaking backdrop. Towns like Makarska, Baška Voda, and Tučepi are lively hubs, offering numerous restaurants, playgrounds, and seaside promenades – ideal for evening strolls.
Istria – The Little Tuscany Closer to Poland Istria enchants visitors with its landscape reminiscent of Italian Tuscany – green hills, charming hilltop towns like Motovun, and stunning coastal ports such as Rovinj and Poreč. The region offers both rocky and pebble beaches, along with numerous water parks (e.g., Istralandia) that are especially popular with children.
Islands (Krk, Rab) – The Peaceful Charm of the Island Life Many Croatian islands, such as Krk, are connected to the mainland by bridges, removing the need for ferry crossings. Meanwhile, the island of Rab is renowned for its sandy beaches – rare in Croatia and perfect for young sandcastle builders. Rab is an excellent choice for a more intimate, family-friendly holiday.

City Break with Children in Barcelona

This city combines all the best features: fascinating architecture, delicious cuisine, the energy of a bustling metropolis, and… sandy beaches right in the heart of the city! Wondering what to see in Barcelona with children? We have a few tried-and-true recommendations.

Park Güell It’s a place straight out of a fairy tale – adorned with colourful mosaics, whimsical buildings that resemble gingerbread houses, and home to the famous longest bench in the world, offering a breathtaking view of the entire city.
- Pro-tip: Buy the tickets online in advance to avoid long queues!
Sagrada Família Even if your children aren’t fans of visiting churches, the Sagrada Família will leave a lasting impression. Its interior resembles a magical forest, with towering, branching columns and vibrant stained glass windows that create a stunning display of light.
Beaches One of Barcelona’s greatest advantages is that after a busy day of sightseeing, you can easily unwind on a sandy beach. The famous Barceloneta Beach is lively, filled with playgrounds and cafés.

Combining sightseeing with relaxation on the beach makes this one of the best ideas for a city break with children in Europe.

In Summary: How To Choose The Best Destination for A Family Holiday

In order to choose the best destination for your family holiday, simply ask yourself a few key questions:

How long will the journey take? When traveling with small children, this is a key factor. If you’re planning to go abroad, choose a destination with a short flight – up to 2-3 hours – and a quick transfer. Alternatively, if you opt to spend your holiday in Poland, select locations that can be reached by car within a few hours at most. This approach helps to minimize fatigue and allows you to start your holiday relaxed and stress-free.
What are we going to do there? Does your family prefer to spend time at the hotel water park or explore local attractions? Be sure to check out what child-friendly activities the area offers, and look for information about mini clubs, entertainment options, and special menus available at the hotel itself.
What’s our budget and when are we planning to leave? Remember that the costs of your stay will be significantly lower and the crowds smaller if you choose to travel just before or after the peak season (e.g., in June or September). This is the best way to enjoy a more comfortable and affordable holiday.
What are the other parents saying? This is a golden rule! Before making a reservation, read reviews of the hotel and location written by other families with children. Their experiences are the most valuable source of information about whether a place is truly child-friendly.

We hope this guide helps you choose and plan your perfect holiday. No matter which destination you select, we wish you a fantastic family vacation filled with unforgettable moments!