Top 8 European Staycations for Families: Adventure, Relaxation, and Memories to Cherish

Author : Oliver Williams | Published On : 12 Feb 2024

Planning a family vacation in Europe can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many incredible destinations to choose from. If you're looking for an adventure-filled trip that also offers relaxation and unforgettable moments, consider a staycation in one of these vibrant European cities:

1: London, England:

Adventure: Explore iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, ride the London Eye for panoramic views, and get lost in the magical world of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.

Relaxation: Take a stroll through Hyde Park or Regent's Park, have a picnic lunch by the River Thames, and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at a charming cafe.

Memories: Watch a West End show, catch a family-friendly musical, or spend an evening punting on the River Thames. Create unforgettable memories and save on your transportation costs with Cheap Train Tickets for a memorable London getaway.

2: Dublin, Ireland:

Adventure: Visit Dublin Zoo, climb the Guinness Storehouse for stunning city views, and take a day trip to explore the Cliffs of Moher.

Relaxation: Wander through St. Stephen's Green, enjoy live music in a traditional pub, and savor delicious Irish cuisine.

Memories: Learn about Celtic history at the National Museum of Ireland, take a literary pub crawl, and kiss the Blarney Stone for the gift of gab.

3: Edinburgh, Scotland:

Adventure: Explore Edinburgh Castle, climb Arthur's Seat for panoramic views, and take a ghost tour through the city's ancient alleyways.

Relaxation: Stroll along Princes Street Gardens, enjoy a picnic lunch in Holyrood Park, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Memories: Dress up in traditional kilts, attend the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August), and learn about Scottish history at Edinburgh Castle.

4: Cardiff, Wales:

Adventure: Explore Cardiff Castle, visit the National Museum Wales for dinosaur exhibits, and take a boat trip around Cardiff Bay. Don't forget to enhance your experience by securing Great Western Railway train tickets for convenient travel throughout your Cardiff adventure.

Relaxation: Enjoy a scenic train ride on the Brecon Mountain Railway, have a picnic lunch in Bute Park, and visit the Doctor Who Experience.

Memories: Watch a rugby match at the Principality Stadium, go on a Doctor Who-themed treasure hunt, and learn about Welsh legends at Cardiff Castle.

5: Rome, Italy:

Adventure: Explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and climb the Spanish Steps for stunning views.

Relaxation: Enjoy gelato in a piazza, take a boat ride on the Tiber River, and have a picnic lunch in Villa Borghese gardens.

Memories: Learn about Roman gladiators at the Colosseum, make your own pizza in a cooking class, and attend a traditional opera performance.

6: Marseille, France:

Adventure: Visit the Château d'If, explore the Calanques National Park, and take a boat trip to the Frioul Islands.

Relaxation: Enjoy the beaches of the Prado, stroll along the Corniche Kennedy waterfront, and savor fresh seafood at a portside restaurant.

Memories: Learn about Marseille's maritime history at the Musée de la Marine, visit the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica for panoramic views, and attend a pétanque game in a local park.

7: Lyon, France:

Adventure: Explore the Vieux Lyon (Old Town), visit the Parc de la Tête d'Or for a boat ride or zoo visit, and take a day trip to medieval Pérouges.

Relaxation: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Jardin du Rosaire, stroll along the banks of the Saône River, and savor Lyonnais cuisine in a bouchon.

Memories: Learn about silk making at the Musée des Tissus et des Arts Décoratifs, attend a puppet show at the Guignol Theatre, and take a cooking class to learn how to make Lyonnais specialties.

8: Lille, France:

Adventure: Explore the Citadelle Vauban, visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts museum, and take a boat trip on the Deûle River.

Relaxation: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Jardin Vauban, stroll through the historic Vieux Lille district, and savor local specialties like gaufres (waffles) and moules frites (mussels and fries).

Memories: Learn about Lille's industrial past at the LaM museum, attend a Braderie de Lille flea market (September), and take a chocolate-making workshop.

These are just a few suggestions to get you started. Remember, the best staycation is the one that caters to your family's unique interests and preferences. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!