Why Kids Need to Travel: 10 Best Travel Destinations for Children!

Exploring has no limit. It is for every human being no matter what their age is. Travelling is as important to your children as it is to you. It boosts your child’s skills and introduces them to places that they can never learn about only by reading books.

It’s hard to find suitable travel destinations for children out of so many countries in the world. Which countries are actually best for children to travel to? Definitely the ones that have theme parks, beaches and exciting architectural monuments. Here are the 10 best travel destinations for children which are a must visit for your little ones.

Why Do Kids Need to Travel?

Traveling can be an enriching experience for children, providing them with numerous opportunities to learn, grow and develop. The benefits of traveling with kids go far beyond simply seeing new sights and experiencing different cultures. Here are some of the key reasons why kids need to travel:

Learning about the World: Traveling provides children with the opportunity to learn about different countries, cultures, customs, and traditions. It exposes them to new languages, foods, and ways of life, which can broaden their perspectives and help them become more empathetic and understanding individuals.
Developing Life Skills: Traveling also helps children develop important life skills such as adaptability, resilience, problem-solving, and independence. By navigating unfamiliar environments, children learn to rely on themselves and develop a sense of self-confidence.
Getting Away from Technology: Traveling allows children to disconnect from technology and the internet, giving them a chance to engage with the world around them. They can explore nature, discover history and enjoy the simple pleasures of life, all without the distractions of screens and devices.
Improving Social and Communication Skills: When traveling, children have the opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and learn how to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds. They can develop social skills such as empathy, cooperation, and teamwork, which are essential for success in life.
Fostering Creativity and Imagination: Traveling can spark a child's imagination, stimulating their creativity and encouraging them to think outside the box. They can discover new hobbies and interests, and gain a deeper appreciation for art, music, and literature.

Traveling is an excellent way for children to learn and grow, providing them with a range of benefits that extend far beyond the time spent on the road. It can help them become more well-rounded individuals with a deeper understanding of the world around them.

The 10 Best Travel Destinations for Children:

01. London, United Kingdom:

London is a kids’ favorite for a variety of reasons like- Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio, Madame Tussauds, and Shrek’s Adventure. Children love checking out their favorite cartoon theme parks and meeting their favorite celebrities. Although they might not get to meet their favorite celebrities in London, they’d surely get to see their wax sculptures.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in London:

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter: This attraction is a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan. Visitors can explore the actual sets, costumes, and props used in the movies, and even step inside the Great Hall of Hogwarts.
Madame Tussauds: This world-famous wax museum features lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and even superheroes. Children can take photos with their favorite stars and even get up close and personal with the figures.
KidZania: KidZania is an interactive city made just for kids, where they can role-play different careers and learn about the real world. Children can try their hand at being a doctor, pilot, chef, and more.
Shrek’s Adventure! London: This immersive experience takes visitors on a journey through the world of Shrek, complete with interactive shows and rides. Kids can meet their favorite characters from the movies and even help save the kingdom.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium: This attraction is home to thousands of sea creatures from around the world, including sharks, turtles, and penguins. Children can get up close and personal with the animals and learn about their habitats and behaviors.

02. Tokyo, Japan:

If your children are fans of Disney, you should probably take them to Tokyo. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea is home to all the classic Disney rides and characters. Also, if your children are nature-lovers, they will love waterfalls, bamboo groves and mountains of Tokyo.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in Tokyo:

Disneyland and DisneySea: Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are two of the most popular attractions in Tokyo. Kids can meet their favorite Disney characters, enjoy thrilling rides, and experience the magic of Disney.
Pokemon Centre: This store is a must-visit for any Pokemon fan. Visitors can find a wide range of Pokemon merchandise, including toys, cards, and clothing.
Legoland Discovery Centre: Legoland Discovery Centre is a fun and educational attraction where children can explore different Lego-themed zones, build their own creations, and enjoy interactive rides and games.
Fire Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of firefighting in Tokyo. Children can learn about the tools and techniques used by firefighters and even see real fire trucks and equipment.
Ghibli Museum: This museum celebrates the work of Studio Ghibli, a Japanese animation studio famous for movies such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. Visitors can explore different exhibits and learn about the process of making animated films.

03. Miami, Florida, USA:

From child-friendly museums to adventurous rides and swimming pools, you will find everything in Miami that makes it a perfect travel destination for children. And when your kids are tired of having fun at the adventurous tourist spots, don’t forget to take them to Miami beach.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in Miami:

Venetian Pool: This historic pool is a unique attraction that is perfect for a hot day. Kids can swim and play in the crystal-clear waters and explore the caves and waterfalls.
Tidal Cove: This water park is a great place to cool off and have fun. With multiple slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, there's something for every member of the family.
Miami Children's Museum: This museum is designed for kids, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that encourage learning and creativity. Children can learn about science, art, and culture in a fun and engaging way.
FunDimension: This indoor play center is packed with fun activities, including laser tag, bumper cars, and a virtual reality arcade. Kids can burn off energy and have a blast in a safe and supervised environment.
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science: This museum features a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays that explore science and technology. Kids can learn about space, the human body, and the environment in a fun and engaging way.

04. Toronto, Canada:

Toronto is a popular travel destination for children for being home to a number of child-friendly places and activities. You can take your children to the largest aquarium of the world, walk in the beautiful gardens and castles, and have fun with your kids at the theme park in Toronto.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in Toronto:

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: This aquarium is home to over 20,000 aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Kids can learn about marine life through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
Casa Loma: This historic castle is a must-visit attraction in Toronto. Kids can explore the castle's secret passageways and tunnels, and learn about its history through interactive exhibits.
Centreville Amusement Park: Located on Toronto Island, this amusement park is a great place for kids to have fun and enjoy rides and attractions such as the carousel, bumper boats, and mini-golf.
Black Creek Pioneer Village: This historic village takes visitors back in time to the 19th century, with historic buildings, interactive exhibits, and demonstrations of traditional crafts and trades.
CN Tower: This iconic tower offers breathtaking views of Toronto from the observation deck. Kids can also experience the thrilling EdgeWalk, where they can walk around the outside of the tower at 1168 feet above ground.

05. Mexico City, Mexico:

Mexico City has many kid-focussed activities and tourist attractions that makes it a suitable travel destination for children. Here you can take your children to the 18th century castle or explore Mexican culture in museums, streets and plazas.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in Mexico City:

Acuario Inbursa: This modern aquarium is home to a wide range of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Kids can learn about ocean conservation and participate in interactive exhibits.
Castillo de Chapultepec: This historic castle is located on a hill in the heart of Mexico City and offers panoramic views of the city. Kids can explore the castle's history and learn about Mexico's past through interactive exhibits.
La Pista, San Jerónimo: This indoor go-karting facility is a great place for kids to have fun and burn off some energy. There are different types of tracks available for all ages and skill levels.
Six Flags: This amusement park is a popular attraction for families with children. There are plenty of rides and attractions to enjoy, from roller coasters to water rides and themed areas.
Xochimilco: This neighborhood in Mexico City is famous for its colorful boats, called trajineras, which float along the canals. Kids can enjoy a boat ride and see the floating gardens and lively atmosphere.

06. Monteverde, Costa Rica:

Monteverde, known as Costa Rica’s major ecotourism destination, is home to beautiful rain forests and has a diverse range of flora and fauna. Once in a while, you should take your children to such places of natural beauty instead of adventurous destinations so that they learn to love nature and work in the development of the environment.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in Monteverde:

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve: This nature reserve is home to a wide range of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies. Kids can explore the forest and learn about the importance of conservation.
Selvatura Park: This adventure park offers a variety of activities for families with children, including ziplining, hanging bridges, and a butterfly garden.
San Luis waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located in a lush forest and can be reached by hiking or horseback riding. Kids can enjoy the natural beauty of the area and cool off in the refreshing water.
Monteverde Orchid Garden: This botanical garden is home to over 400 species of orchids, as well as other plants and wildlife. Kids can learn about the importance of plants and their role in the ecosystem.
Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Monteverde, and there are many tours available for families with children. Kids can enjoy a scenic ride through the forest and learn about the local flora and fauna.

07. Edinburgh, Scotland:

If your children are Harry Potter fans, they would love to see the city where Harry Potter was born. Children can also explore mountains and dive deeper into the medieval history of Edinburgh.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in Edinburgh:

Edinburgh Castle: Children will enjoy exploring the castle's many rooms and learning about its rich history, including the famous One O'Clock Gun.
Dynamic Earth: An interactive science museum that takes visitors on a journey through the Earth's history and natural phenomena, including earthquakes and volcanoes.
National Museum of Scotland: A fantastic museum with plenty of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids, covering everything from Scottish history to dinosaurs and space exploration.
Edinburgh Zoo: Home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including pandas, penguins, and lions.
Gorgie City Farm: A community-run farm where children can see and interact with a variety of farm animals, including sheep, cows, and pigs.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: With over 70 acres of beautiful gardens and glasshouses, this is a great place to explore and learn about plants and wildlife.
Scottish Storytelling Centre: This centre offers a variety of storytelling events and workshops for children, as well as a chance to learn about Scotland's rich storytelling heritage.

08. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador:

If you and your children have never encountered a giant tortoise before, you should head to Galápagos Islands for a family vacation. By visiting this popular travel destination for children, you can teach your kids a lot about wildlife.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in Galápagos Islands:

Reserva El Chato: Reserva El Chato is a tortoise reserve located in the Santa Cruz Highlands. Here, visitors can see giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat. This reserve is home to more than 10,000 giant tortoises, making it one of the best places in the world to see these fascinating creatures up close. In addition to tortoises, visitors can also spot other wildlife, such as Darwin's finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, and lava lizards.
Galápagos Beach at Tortuga Bay: The Galápagos Beach at Tortuga Bay is a beautiful white sand beach that is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. This beach is located on the southern coast of Santa Cruz Island and is accessible by foot from the town of Puerto Ayora. The crystal-clear waters of the bay are home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and reef sharks. Visitors can also take a walk along the beach to see marine iguanas and seabirds.
Las Grietas: Las Grietas is a stunning natural swimming hole located on the island of Santa Cruz. This geological formation was created by volcanic activity and is surrounded by towering cliffs. The water in Las Grietas is a mix of freshwater and saltwater, creating a unique ecosystem where visitors can swim alongside fish and marine life. Visitors can also take a walk along the cliffs and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Lava Tunnel: The Lava Tunnel is a fascinating geological formation located on the island of Santa Cruz. This natural tunnel was created by lava flows and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tunnel, which is lined with stalactites and stalagmites. The tour takes visitors through a series of chambers, each with its own unique features and history.
Black Turtle Cove: Black Turtle Cove is a protected mangrove estuary located on the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. This cove is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and reef sharks. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cove in a small boat or kayak and enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife. The cove is also a popular spot for bird watching, with a variety of seabirds and shorebirds calling it home.

09. Reykjavík, Iceland:

The waterfronts, hot springs, botanical gardens, observation decks, and zoos are some of the notable reasons for Reykjavík being a great family-friendly travel destination. This city also stands out as a fun-filled travel destination for children for being home to numerous exciting museums, concerts halls, and whales.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in Reykjavík:

Harpa Concert Hall: The Harpa Concert Hall is an architectural wonder located in the heart of Reykjavík. This modern building is made of glass and steel and features a unique geometric design. The concert hall hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, concerts, and operas. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the building to learn about its history and design.
Whales of Iceland: Whales of Iceland is a museum that showcases the fascinating world of whales. The museum features life-size models of various whale species, as well as interactive exhibits and educational displays. Visitors can learn about the biology, behavior, and conservation of these majestic creatures, and even climb inside a life-size blue whale heart.
Perlan: Perlan is a museum and observation deck located on a hill overlooking Reykjavík. The museum features exhibits about Iceland's natural wonders, including glaciers, volcanoes, and geysers. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the museum's planetarium, which features a 360-degree screen and immersive sound. The observation deck offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Flyover Iceland: Flyover Iceland is an immersive flight simulation ride that takes visitors on a journey through Iceland's natural wonders. The ride features a giant screen, special effects, and motion seating, giving visitors the sensation of flying over Iceland's glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanoes. This thrilling experience is sure to be a hit with children and adults alike.
Bláfjöll Ski Resort: The Bláfjöll Ski Resort is located just outside of Reykjavík and is a great place to enjoy winter sports. The resort features 16 ski runs, ranging from beginner to advanced, as well as a snow park and cross-country skiing trails. Visitors can rent equipment and take lessons, making this a fun activity for the whole family.

10. Puglia, Italy:

Puglia, the region filled with pristine beaches, azure blue waters, architectural towns, and beautiful villages is the last one on our list of the 10 best travel destinations for children. However, its position on this list doesn’t define its priority and importance as a kid-friendly travel destination. If you want to provide a mesmerizing sightseeing experience to your little ones, Puglia is the place to go.

Major Tourist Attractions for Children in Puglia:

Scialara Beach: Scialara Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located in the town of Polignano a Mare. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and crystal-clear water, making it a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. There are also several restaurants and cafes along the beach where visitors can enjoy a meal or a snack.
Alberobello: Alberobello is a unique town located in the Valle d'Itria region of Puglia. The town is famous for its trulli, traditional stone houses with cone-shaped roofs. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and admire the trulli, many of which are now used as shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Aquapark Egnazia: Aquapark Egnazia is a water park located in the town of Fasano. The park features a variety of water slides, pools, and attractions, including a lazy river, wave pool, and children's play area. Visitors can also enjoy a snack or a meal at one of the park's restaurants.
Dinosaur Park: Dinosaur Park is a theme park located in the town of Castellana Grotte. The park features life-size models of various dinosaur species, as well as interactive exhibits and educational displays. Visitors can learn about the biology, behavior, and evolution of these fascinating creatures, and even take a ride on a dinosaur-themed roller coaster.
Jonian Dolphin Conservation: Jonian Dolphin Conservation is an organization that offers dolphin-watching tours in the Gulf of Taranto. Visitors can take a boat tour and observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. The organization also conducts research and educational activities to raise awareness about dolphin conservation.

Safety Measures for Travelling with Kids:

A fun-filled vacation might be entirely ruined if your child comes across any sort of problem. So, it's important for you to follow some safety tips to ensure a memorable trip for your family. Here are some of the most important safety measures that you should follow:

Choose child-friendly accommodation: Make sure to select a child-friendly hotel or vacation rental that offers amenities like a swimming pool with a lifeguard, kid's play area, and child-friendly meals.
Plan your itinerary carefully: Plan your itinerary keeping your child's interests in mind. Make sure to include activities that are safe and age-appropriate for them.
Keep an eye on your child at all times:
Keep your children close to you at all times. Avoid letting them wander alone, especially in crowded places or unfamiliar areas. If you're in a busy public place, consider using a child leash, or a GPS tracker to ensure that your child doesn't get lost.
Bring along entertainment: To keep your child occupied during long flights or car rides, bring along books, games, and toys.
Be mindful of food and water: When traveling with children, it's essential to be careful about what they eat and drink. Always opt for bottled water and avoid street food, which can cause upset stomachs.
Pack for emergencies: Be prepared for emergencies by packing a first aid kit, any necessary medications, and contact information for local doctors or hospitals.
Do your research on the destination you plan to visit. Learn about the local customs, laws and culture. Research the location to ensure that it's a safe place for children.
Pack essentials: Pack essentials like snacks, water bottles, a first aid kit, and hand sanitizer. Make sure that you bring any medications or items that your child needs. Don't forget to bring along child safety kit such as car seat, booster seats and baby carriers.
Contact information: Make sure that your child knows your contact number or a contact number of a responsible adult. You can put a note in their pocket or bag with the contact information.
Going to Beaches: If you are going to a beach or a pool, ensure that your child knows how to swim. If they don't know how to swim, consider enrolling them in swimming lessons before the trip. Always supervise your children when they are in or near water.

Fun Activities in the Top 10 Travel Destinations for Children:

Children want their lives to be full of fun, always! The travel destinations for children mentioned above offer many fun activities that you don’t want your child to miss. Let’s see what are those:

Enjoy rides and meet statues of their favorite fictional characters in different theme parks. Children love the fictional characters that they read about or see in movies. So, theme parks make them happy.
Be astonished by beautiful marine species in aquariums. Through aquariums children learn more about marine wildlife.
Swim in pools, waterfalls and beaches. Swimming keeps them physically healthy.
Snorkeling with children will be a fun experience. It is an enjoyable and easy sport through which children will get to see the breathtaking underwater.
Take your children on cruise. Cruising helps them to learn more above nature and its beauty.
Go to castles and age-old gardens. Children love to visit castles as it gives them a fairytale-like feeling.
Introduce your children to people of different classes, culture and religion. Through this they will learn to be respectful towards everyone.
Trek and hike low-lying mountains and hills. Children will be physically fit through trekking and hiking. They will also get to see some mesmerizing panoramic views from the top of the mountains.
Let your kids take part in fun games and sports held regularly in different travel destinations. This will make them confident and boost their competitive skills.
Skiing resorts are available in different travel destinations for children. Skiing is a fun and adventurous activity for both children and adults.
Enjoy family-friendly concerts. Through these concerts children will become attracted towards literature and fine arts.
Walk around the architectural and historical towns.Through this they can learn more about the history of the travel destination and witness the age-old architecture.
Observe cities from high towers. This can be an exciting experience for children.
Gain knowledge from different museums. Museums can teach them about the history and culture of a place.
ry different delicious cuisines of different countries. This improves their taste buds.

What to Pack While Travelling with Kids:

Pack clothes after researching about the weather of the destination you are travelling to.
Take cash money, credit/debit cards, etc. along.
Pack toys, books and snacks for children to keep them busy.
Take Passport, driver's license, travel insurance documents.
Keep a wearable GPS tracker for your child.
Take necessary toiletries and a first-aid kit.
Some countries still require proof of vaccination. So, keep a vaccination card/certificate in your bag.
Pack extra jackets and shoes for your children.
If you are taking your child on a trip alone without your partner, a consent letter signed by your partner must be taken along.

Planning a vacation with children can be a daunting task. But if it is done right, it becomes the most memorable vacation of a lifetime. Your children will learn about history, culture and different religions through travelling. They will learn many good qualities that you might not be able to teach them if they always remain confined within a boundary. Let your children face the challenges of travelling and see the world. So, when are you planning a trip with your children?