Let's Plan Your Family Trip to Europe: Itinerary & Tips
Imagine unpacking once and waking up in a new, exciting location every day!
If you’re dreaming of the perfect family trip to Europe itinerary, look no further.
Book your cruise, grab some Eurail passes for families and explore inland cities between ports to make your vacation mesmerizing.
But here's the thing: a successful family trip doesn't just happen by chance. Before you set sail, brush up on some European travel safety tips for families – it's like packing a invisible shield of protection for your crew!
That's why we're here to guide you through the process of planning your perfect European family cruise. Let’s plan your dream family trip to Europe itinerary!
Choosing the Right European Cruise for Your Family Trip to Europe Itinerary
Mediterranean
The Mediterranean's appeal extends beyond its landmarks to its vibrant culture and cuisine. Picture your little ones gasping in awe at European landmarks for kids, from the Eiffel Tower to the Colosseum, like their history books coming to life!
It's an opportunity to expand your children's palates and create lasting food memories.
There are many family-friendly European cities that'll make your kids' jaws drop.
From pizzerias where kids can play chef to charming cafes with special menus, you’ll find many kid-friendly European restaurants that will turn your picky eaters into mini food critics!
In Dubrovnik, you can walk the city walls and pretend you're defending King's Landing from Game of Thrones.
Wondering about the best time to visit Europe with family? Late spring to early fall is your golden ticket – perfect weather, fewer crowds, and happy kids!
However, if you don't mind the heat and bustle, the summer months provide the longest days for exploring and the warmest sea temperatures for beach activities.
Our Allure of the Seas ship through the Western Mediterranean begins sailing from Barcelona in April 2025. Start exploring your beautiful trip and book now!
Northern Europe and Baltic Capitals
Venturing north, we enter a realm of fairy-tale cities, Viking legends, and breathtaking natural beauty. Northern Europe and the Baltic region offer a distinctly different flavor of European culture, one that's sure to captivate your family's imagination.
Let's start our journey in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden and a city built across 14 islands. Here, your family can step back in time at the Vasa Museum, home to a perfectly preserved 17th-century warship, or enjoy some modern fun at the ABBA Museum. Don't miss Skansen, the world's oldest open-air museum, where you can experience traditional Swedish life and even see Nordic wildlife.
Copenhagen, with its colorful Nyhavn harbor and the iconic Little Mermaid statue, offers a perfect blend of history and whimsy. Hold onto your Mickey ears, because European theme parks like Tivoli Gardens aren't just rides and cotton candy, but they're a slice of history with a side of adrenaline!
What sets Northern Europe apart is the unique cultural experiences available. Imagine taking a sauna in Finland, learning about Viking history in Norway, or witnessing the midnight sun in the Arctic Circle. These are the kind of extraordinary experiences that turn a vacation into an adventure.
Family-friendly attractions are plentiful in Northern European ports. In Helsinki, families can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Suomenlinna, a sea fortress with museums, bunkers, and picnic spots. In Tallinn, kids will feel like they've stepped into a fairy tale as they wander the medieval Old Town.
The best season for cruising in Northern Europe is typically from late spring to early fall. June and July offer the longest days, perfect for maximizing your exploration time. However, if you're hoping to catch the Northern Lights, consider a late-season cruise in September or early October.
Explore our Baltic Cruises, which touch on all these locations and more!
British Isles
Crossing the North Sea, we arrive at the British Isles and Western Europe, a region steeped in history and brimming with iconic landmarks. This area offers a perfect blend of familiar cultural touchstones and surprising discoveries, making it an ideal cruise destination for families.
London, the vibrant capital of the UK, is a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions. From the Tower of London with its Crown Jewels to the magical Warner Bros. Studio Tour showcasing the world of Harry Potter, there's something to captivate every member of your family. Don't miss a ride on the London Eye for a bird's-eye view of the city!
Sailing west, we reach Dublin, where the spirit of Irish hospitality awaits. Families can explore the sprawling grounds of Phoenix Park, home to Dublin Zoo, or dive into Irish mythology at the National Leprechaun Museum. For a taste of history, visit the ancient Book of Kells at Trinity College.
Family-friendly activities abound in British and Western European ports. In Edinburgh, families can hike up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views or explore the interactive exhibits at Our Dynamic Earth. In Amsterdam, a bike tour along the canals offers a fun way to see the city, while the NEMO Science Museum provides hands-on learning experiences.
One of the greatest appeals of cruising in this region is the opportunity to explore multiple countries in a single trip. Imagine starting your day with a full English breakfast in Southampton, enjoying a leisurely lunch in Guernsey, and ending with a dinner of moules-frites in Bruges – all without changing hotels!
Our cruise to the British Isles is perfect for families who want to check multiple countries off of their bucket list in one go!
Royal Caribbean's Family-Friendly European Ports
Spain, Portugal & Canary Islands
In Spain, your family might find themselves exploring the winding streets of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter or marveling at the fantastical architecture of Gaudí. Royal Caribbean's shore excursions here often include family-friendly bike tours or visits to Park Güell, where kids can let their imaginations run wild in Gaudí's whimsical wonderland.
Portugal's ports offer a different flavor of Iberian culture. In Lisbon, families can ride the iconic yellow trams up steep city streets, explore the fairytale-like Pena Palace in Sintra, or learn about the Age of Exploration at the Maritime Museum. Don't forget to try a pastel de nata – these creamy custard tarts are a hit with kids and adults alike!
The Canary Islands, despite belonging to Spain, feel like a world apart. In Tenerife, families can take a cable car ride up Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, or enjoy the golden beaches of Playa de las Americas. Lanzarote offers otherworldly landscapes shaped by volcanic activity – perfect for budding geologists!
Baltic Sea & Scandinavia
Key ports of call often include Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, and the crown jewel – St. Petersburg. Each city offers its own distinct flavor. In Stockholm, families can step back in time at the Vasa Museum, home to a perfectly preserved 17th-century warship. Helsinki's Suomenlinna sea fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site that doubles as a fantastic picnic spot with views of the Baltic.
Tallinn's medieval Old Town feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with its winding cobblestone streets and Gothic spires. And St. Petersburg? It's a feast for the senses, from the opulent Catherine Palace to the world-renowned Hermitage Museum.
Natural beauty is a huge draw in this region. From the Norwegian fjords to the Swedish archipelago, the landscapes are breathtaking. Royal Caribbean often offers excursions that allow families to experience this beauty up close, whether it's a fjord cruise or a hike in the pristine Scandinavian wilderness.
Unique experiences in Baltic capitals might include a traditional Russian ballet performance in St. Petersburg, a visit to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi (if your cruise extends to northern Finland), or a tour of the ABBA museum in Stockholm – a hit with both parents reliving their youth and kids discovering classic pop!
British Isles
In Edinburgh, families can explore the majestic Edinburgh Castle or hike up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views of the city. Dublin offers a chance to visit the Guinness Storehouse (with special family tours available) or explore the whimsical National Leprechaun Museum. Belfast's Titanic Museum provides an interactive journey through the ill-fated ship's history, while Liverpool's Beatles Story is a must for music-loving families.
Royal Caribbean excels at creating family-friendly activities in these destinations. For example, in Cork, families might enjoy a visit to Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. In Glasgow, a trip to the hands-on Glasgow Science Centre can keep kids engaged for hours.
The appeal of British culture is multifaceted, from its rich literary heritage (think Harry Potter tours in Edinburgh) to its royal history (changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace in London). Many families find the familiar yet distinct culture of the British Isles comforting and exciting.
Southampton's convenience as a departure port cannot be overstated. It's easily accessible from London, allowing families to potentially extend their trip with a pre- or post-cruise stay in the capital. From seeing Big Ben and riding the London Eye to visiting Platform 9¾ at King's Cross Station, London offers endless opportunities for family fun.
Unique experiences in British ports might include a medieval banquet in an ancient castle, a ghostly tour of Edinburgh's underground vaults, or a visit to the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland – a UNESCO World Heritage site with an intriguing legend attached.
While the weather in the British Isles can be unpredictable, it rarely interferes with the wealth of indoor and outdoor activities available.
Onboard & Excursion Activities for the Whole Family: Book Your Cruise Now!
While your cruise ship is like a floating resort, don't miss out on budget-friendly European accommodations for extended stays – from cozy guesthouses to apartment rentals that won't break the bank!
Royal Caribbean offers a wide variety to suit different age groups and interests.
Whether your family wants to explore ancient ruins, try local cuisines, or engage in adventurous activities, there's an excursion for you. Crafting the perfect family trip to Europe itinerary can be as easy as booking your cruise.
Browse through all our destinations and book your family’s perfect trip today!
