Family Travel: Five Perfect Family Holidays in the Mediterranean

Exploring different cultures is one of the best ways to expand your children’s minds, and make lasting memories together. Family is first and foremost in the Mediterranean, making it an excellent choice for your next family holiday. Children are welcomed into restaurants and shops, infrastructure is very good, and with a wide selection of food that will tempt even the pickiest of eaters, it’s to think of a reason not to travel the Mediterranean as a family. We’ve designed 5 family-friendly itineraries across Italy, Greece and Egypt that are a balance of adventure, relaxation, and opportunities to learn. From archaeological wonders to easy going beach stays, these itineraries are proof that you don’t have to shelve your sense of wanderlust once you have kids.

 

5

The Grand Tour of Italy

Begin in Rome, where children will be captivated by the Roman remains of the Eternal City. After your kids have played gladiator at the Colloseum, head to the Neapolitan Riviera for four nights. With Sorrento as your home base, adults will enjoy exploring the island of Capri and Amalfi coast (including Positano), while children’s imaginations run wild at the famed ruins of Pompeii. Wrap up your tour of Italy at one of our Tuscan villas where you can enjoy your own pool, and a kitchen to prepare your meals using fresh produce from the region’s markets.

 

4

Sicily

Adventure awaits in Sicily! The ancient sights of Syracuse and Agrigento – this year’s Italian Capital of Culture – are easily explored with children. Take your time enjoying the beautiful beaches and famous street food of Sicily (which is also the birthplace of cannoli). Base yourself in one of the charming towns 2-3km outside of Taormina, which are much better value for money. If you must stay in Taormina (we call it the White Lotus Effect), we recommend families stay by the beach rather than in town.

For teenagers: Journey across the formidable Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano.

 

3

Puglia

Kids eating you out of house and home? Head to Puglia, known to have the best produce and liveliest food culture in Italy. Eat your way from north to south while enjoying magnificent beaches. Begin in historic Bari or Polignano a Mare before making your way south to the baroque gem of Lecce. Along the way, admire the quaint 14th century Trulli houses in UNESCO-protected Alberobello, and be awed by the ancient cave dwellings of Matera. As an added bonus, Puglia is very flat and therefore great for families with prams.

 

2

Greece

Nothing fascinates like Greek mythology. Begin with a city tour of Athens, taking in the Acropolis and its excellent museum. Next, it’s time to head to the islands for some relaxation. Rhodes and Kos have a superb selection of resorts with kids clubs and quad rooms that cater well to families. Naxos is also a great choice for its famed beaches.

For teenagers: Add on a multi-day tour to the ancient sites of Delphi, Olympia and the gravity-defying monasteries of Meteora. Consider visiting Crete, where teenagers will be occupied by the range of outdoor activities, including hiking through the beautiful Samaria gorge.

 

1

Egypt

The ancient wonders of Egypt top the bucket lists of children and adults alike. The sights and sounds of bustling Cairo never fail to impress, with plenty of markets and museums to explore. The Pyramids of Giza are just outside of Cairo, making for an easy day trip. Red Sea resorts such as Hurghada or Sharm el Sheik are fabulous for kids with plenty of water activities and fantastic snorkelling on offer. The Grand Egyptian Museum is slated to open in the middle of this year, and will be the largest archaeological complex in the world. Start planning your family holiday to Egypt now!

For teenagers: Enjoy a cruise down the legendary Nile, and more extensive touring of the temples of Luxor.

 

Get in touch with our team of Destination Experts to plan your next family journey to the Mediterranean.