Europe: best family escapes

Stockholm, Sweden

Best for… tiny tourists

Come the summer holiday, locals head in their droves to the Stockholm archipelago giving the city a more relaxed feel. What’s more, Stockholm is great for children: this lively, clean city is built on 14 islands making it ripe for little adventurers wanting to explore by boat.

Best for culture is…

Junibacken is a magical children’s attraction in Stockholm dedicated to Astrid Lindgren and other beloved Scandinavian children's authors. Young visitors can explore interactive storybook worlds, ride the famous Story Train and enjoy theatre performances that bring classic tales to life.

Let them run off steam at…

One of the many parks and playgrounds scattered generously around the city. The adventure playgrounds, or parkleks as they’re known locally, have staff on hand to organise activities and offer an abundance of toys to borrow for free. Many also have kiosks selling tasty snacks and, most importantly, coffee to fuel further adventures.

Restore energy levels at…

One of the many cafes, where fika – the warm and sociable Swedish coffee break ritual – is almost mandatory. If you get a chance, try a kanelbulle: these cinnamon buns are a delight, but you’ll need to get a taste in before small hands get hold.

Rest weary little legs at…

The boutique urban bolthole Lydmar Hotel offers picturesque views over Stockholm’s harbour. Bang in the city centre it combines a welcoming atmosphere with chic rooms. Cots and extra beds are available, along with a babysitting service.

Menorca, Spain

Best for… beach babies

Menorca has well over 100 beaches and although it buzzes in July and August, the island is much quieter and more family-focussed than its Balearic neighbours. The clear waters and coves here are perfect for snorkelling, while you can also explore prehistoric monuments before heading to pretty coastal villages for a nice cooling drink in the shade.

Do the culture bit at…

Little soldiers will love 18th Century Fort Marlborough, at the mouth of Mahon harbour, especially when re-enactment battles bring its past to life.

Let them run off steam at…

One of the island’s 100 or so beaches, with clear blue water, soft sand and, in many places, gently sloping shores, making the water safe, warm and perfect for paddling and play.

Restore your energy at…

One of the island’s many restaurants. While Menorca’s gastronomy is varied, rich and unique, you also won’t have far to look if your little darlings want pizza or a burger. If you want to try something more local, then your little ones will love the local sweets and pastries from the spiral-shaped ensaimadas to the bountiful and colourful fruits and vegetables grown here. And while they eat, why not sample the famous local gin-based cocktail, Pomada?

Rest weary little legs at…

Insotel Punta Prima Resort and Spa offers plenty of activities to keep little ones entertained, including a lively kids’ club. There are also pools, a children’s buffet, and the beach is just 100 metres away.

St Moritz, Switzerland

Best for… adventurers in the making

Once the snow melts, St Moritz becomes the perfect paradise for kids to channel their inner Heidi. Even getting there is fun. Hop on a train from Zurich to St Moritz and seek out the Schellenursli Trail at Salastrains. Based on a Swiss children’s book, Schellenursli, this stroller-friendly hike is great for wooden sculptures and illustrations that bring the book to life.

Do the culture bit at…

The Alpine Cheese Dairy close to the Morteratsch Glacier. Watch traditional Swiss cheese being made before sampling the delights of the cheese platter.

Let them run off steam at…

Just about anywhere. St Moritz is tucked in the beautiful Engadine Valley, which is known for its stunning walking trails (many are suitable for pushchairs – see www.engadin.ch/en).

Restore energy levels at…

One of Europe’s highest barbecuing points at Sass Queder. Take the cable car to Diavolezza from where it’s a 40-minute walk – you can even buy a picnic package to take with you including firewood, meat, salad, drinks and dessert. Reservations are essential (corvatsch-diavolezza.ch).

Rest weary little legs at…

The Kempinski Grand Hotel Des Bains, which describes itself as the ‘Gateway to St Moritz’. With its dazzling mountain setting, it won’t fail to impress, whatever your age. It’s five-star all the way with gourmet restaurants, a full-service spa, tennis centre and luxury rooms – there’s even a dentist. Children might prefer the Kids Club, which offers everything from excursions out on the lake and muffin-making to painting and storytelling. Plus, there’s babysitting, a children’s a la carte menu, and all the baby paraphernalia you might possibly need.

Lisbon, Portugal

Best for… mini culture vultures

Lisbon is buzzing right now and is leaping up lots of people’s lists as a top city to visit. Go now before it becomes even more popular and discover a wealth of activities in the city for children. Not only does it boast the bright yellow Tram 28 that’s perfect for a sightseeing tour with but it also has the Sao Jorge Castle, a real fortress with ramparts to climb and sweeping views, plus the city offers plenty of kid-friendly foods like pasteis de nata, grilled fish, and chicken and rice dishes.

Do the culture bit at…

The Science Alive Centre in the Pavilion of Knowledge makes learning about physics and science fun.

Let them run off steam at…

Monsanto Forest Park is the largest green space in Lisbon, with plenty of shady spots to escape the summer heat. The 10 km2  playground is not just for nature lovers; there are climbing walls, obstacle courses and even a children’s driving school.

Restore energy levels at…

Bonjardim specialises in spit-roasted chicken served with chips, which locals like to eat with their hands. That makes it great fun and very kid-friendly, and being in the heart of Lisbon, the restaurant is easy to get to and from. A cherry to the culinary cake is that it’s affordable and hearty.

Rest weary little legs at…

Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon. Its central location means easy access around the capital. Nice touches include mini bathrobes, on-site treasure hunts, Disney-themed linens, teddy bears and free nappies. There are some interconnecting rooms as well as a kids’ club and babysitting services when adults need some downtime. Kids will also love the heated indoor lap pool or cosy movie nights on offer.

Lyon, France

Best for… growing gourmands

Avoid the busy summertime crowds of Paris and instead head to historic Lyon. The third-largest city in France is a gastronomical hub and is pedestrian-friendly. What’s not to love when you’ve got the family in tow?

Do the culture bit at…

Children can play gladiators at Theatres Romains de Fourviere which boasts two Roman theatres. The views over the city are superb but it’s a bit of a hike to get there, so hop on the F1 funicular towards Saint‑Just and get off at the Minimes – Theatres Romains station.

Let them run off steam at…

For families with energy to burn, France Aventures offers an action-packed day out. Children can tackle rope climbs, scramble across suspended net bridges and soar along zip lines high above the ground. Set within the historic Fort de Bron, just east of Lyon, it's a fun-filled escape from the city centre.

Restore energy levels at…

Sebastien Bouillet’s Chokola, a boutique-workshop known for its eye-catching displays, including a dramatic wall of flowing chocolate. Visitors can see into the workshop and watch chocolatiers at work, while browsing a wide selection of macarons, chocolates and pastries.

Rest weary little legs at…

The Novotel Lyon Gerland Musee des Confluences hotel, which is conveniently located in the Lyonbiopole district. Set on the banks of the Rhone River it offers access to the city’s tram system. Plus, there are family rooms, play areas, child-friendly menus and a personalised welcome gift. All in all, little ones will be happy giving you that important peace of mind to relax.

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