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The Best Family Summer Holiday Destinations 2025
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The best summer holiday destinations for families
Need inspiration for your next getaway? Here are the best holiday destinations for families this summer:
The top holiday destinations for families
- Orlando, USA 🇺🇸
- Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩
- Crete, Greece 🇬🇷
- The Canary Islands, Spain 🇪🇸
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪
- Reykjavik, Iceland 🇮🇸
- Cancún, Mexico 🇲🇽
- Antalya, Turkey 🇹🇷
- Santa Theresa, Costa Rica 🇨🇷
- Sri Lanka 🇱🇰
So, what makes these places the best for families? Good question, you’re in the right place! Keep reading for family-friendly attractions, travel tips, and the best airlines to fly with to each of these top destinations. 👇
Tips for choosing your next family holiday
Travelling with family can be a challenge, we get it. Whether it’s little ones counting down to pool time, teens on the hunt for nightlife, or older relatives who want a dose of culture and history, keeping everyone happy can feel like a full-time job.
But here’s the good news: it’s totally possible. In fact, there are plenty of destinations that tick all the boxes - fun, relaxing, and family-friendly, whether you're flying as a single parent and child or travelling as a big group. Let’s find your next unforgettable family escape.
Our top 5 tops for choosing your next family holiday
- Go for variety ✅ - Destinations with a mix of beaches, culture, nature, and entertainment are perfect for keeping everyone in the family happy.
- Keep travel time manageable ✈️ - Shorter flights and minimal jet lag mean fewer tired faces (and less meltdowns).
- Pick family-friendly options 🏨 - Choose hotels or rentals with kid-friendly perks and enough space to actually relax.
- Don't overpack your itinerary 📋 - Balance busy days with chill time so no one gets overwhelmed or bored
- Check the weather before you book 🌦️ - The right season can make all the difference. (Rainy beach day? No thanks.)
Family holidays to Orlando, USA 🇺🇸
Why should families visit Orlando?
Located in Florida, Orlando is one of the most family friendly destinations in the world and is packed with things to do:
- Family-friendly atmosphere - Over the years Orlando has been designed with families in mind, with many hotels, restaurants, and attractions catering for children. On top of that the consistently warm temperatures and sunshine make Orlando great for families looking to head outdoors this summer.
- Walt Disney World & Universal Orlando Resort - No family holiday to Orlando would be complete without visiting Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort! Filled to the brim with thrills and excitement, Disney and Universal have a wider range of rides and experiences for little ones, all the way to adults. These parks are so big you and your family could spend a whole holiday exploring them.
- Attractions for everyone - Orlando isn't just theme parks. From the Kennedy Space Centre and Gatorland to the Blue Spring State Park and Lake Eola, there are plenty of good spots to relax, unwind, and learn whilst you're in Orlando.
The best airlines flying to Orlando, Florida
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the easiest airport in the city to fly into. It's the most convenient option for most travellers, as it's closest to Orlando's theme parks and main hotels. The best airlines to fly with to Orlando include:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- British Airways
- Virgin Atlantic
- Southwest Airlines (for those travelling within the USA)
Family holidays to Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩
Why should families visit Bali?
- Perfect for beach lovers - Bali has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand, clear turquoise waters, and world-class surfing. It's the perfect spot to do some swimming with the family, sunbathe or get a drink at one of the lovely beach bars.
- The Island of the Gods - Bali is known as the "Island of the Gods" for a reason. There are thousands of temples scattered all over the island, each with its own unique architecture and significance.
- Outdoor adventures - There are tons of other activities to enjoy in Bali, such as hiking Mount Batur for a sunrise view or visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary to get up close and personal with the cheekiest primates of them all: Balinese long-tailed macaques!
- A family friendly environment - People in Bali are well known for their welcoming and warm culture, making it a great destination for families. On top of this Bali is quite easy to navigate and doesn't have long travel times between attractions.
The best airlines flying to Bali, Indonesia
The best airport to fly into to get to Bali is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), also known as Denpasar International Airport. It is the only international airport on the island of Bali. The most popular airlines to get to Bali include:
If you are flying from nearby destinations in Oceania or Asia, direct flights will be available. Families from Europe and America will need to get a connecting flight when flying to Bali.
Its important to note that you will need a visa to enter Indonesia. Most visitors can apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) which will allow you to stay in Indonesia for up to 30 days.
Family holidays to Crete, Greece 🇬🇷
Why should families visit Crete?
- Perfect for beach holidays - Crete has some of Greece's most spectacular beaches, with crystal-clear waters and soft sand. This even includes Elafonissi Beach, which perplexingly has pink sand and was named the best beach in the world by Tripadvisor.
- History and culture - Did you know the Palace of Knossos on Crete is said to have once housed the legendary labyrinth? This Minoan archaeological site is a fascinating ruin. Kids will love exploring the ruins of the palace, and older crowds can appreciate its throne room and colourful frescoes.
- Aquatic attractions - Watercity Waterpark near Heraklion offers a fun-filled day trip with the kids. It has a variety of state of the art water slides, pools that help you cool off in the heat, and lazy rivers for a relaxing tour of the park by waterway.
The best airlines flying to Crete, Greece
To get to Crete you will want to fly into either Heraklion International Airport (HER) in the central part of the island or Chania International Airport (CHQ) in the west. The top airlines to choose from include:
- Aegean Airlines (the best choice if travelling domestically within Greece)
- EasyJet & Ryanair - Great budget airline option operating throughout Europe
- Delta & American Airlines - Fly directly from the USA
- Wizz Air - offers flights from as far as Abu Dhabi. Alternative Airlines can help you find the best prices on flights to Crete.
Family holidays to the Canary Islands, Spain 🇪🇸
Why should families visit the Canary Islands?
- Beach days all year round - With a sub-tropical climate the Canary Islands are warm all year round. Paired with loads of beaches, the Canaries are perfect for soaking up the sun no matter the time of year. Head to Tenerife, Gran Canaria, or Fuerteventura for golden sands, calm lagoons, and water activities that kids will love.
- Relax and Explore - These volcanic islands are full of natural surprises. Ride a cable car up Mount Teide (Spain’s highest peak), or explore the breathtaking landscapes of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote.
- More than just a beach holiday - From camel rides in Gran Canaria to dolphin-spotting boat trips, and even a day at Siam Park (one of the world’s best waterparks), there’s a day out for every type of family.
- Simple, safe, and easy to get around - The Canary Islands are part of Spain and the EU, so you can expect high safety standards and easy travel, especially for families. Public transport and shuttle buses make getting around simple, and you’ll find plenty of family-friendly spots everywhere you go, from restaurants and resorts to beachside hotels.
Best airlines to get to the Canary Islands
Flying to the Canaries is easy, especially if you're coming from Europe. The most popular airports across The Canary Islands are Tenerife South (TFS), Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), and Lanzarote Airport (ACE) Many European low-cost and major airlines offer direct flights to the Canaries, including:
- Ryanair & easyjet - The largest low-cost airlines that will get you to the Canary Islands.
- Iberia Airlines - Spain's biggest airline that flys to the Canaries from across Europe.
- Jet2 - A popular option for travellers from the UK.
- British Airways - A full service option for UK travellers.
- Lufthansa - A great choice for families travelling from continental Europe.
Direct flights from major cities across Europe make it a stress-free destination for families. For travellers from the U.S. or other continents, a connecting flight via Madrid or another European hub is usually required.
Family holidays to Dubai, United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪
Why should families visit Dubai?
- Safety and cleanliness - Did you know that Dubai is the second safest city in the world and is also the cleanest city making it ideal for families, especially those with little ones.
- World-class attractions for all ages - Dubai has something for every member of the family. For the kids look no further than IMG Worlds of Adventure and Dubai Parks and Resorts for fun filled rides and excitement that will keep them entertained all day long. For mum and dad you can't go wrong at Dubai Mall for a complete shopping experience like no other.
- Indoor escapes from the heat - It's no secret that Dubai can get pretty hot, especially during the summer. Thats why Dubai offers a variety of indoor attractions ,like Ski Dubai, an indoor rainforest called The Green Planet, and an interactive children's museum called OliOli. So whether your inside or out, you will never be stuck for something to do.
- Attractive summer deals - In Dubai summer is the off-season for tourism, so families can benefit from discounted hotel rates, kids-go-free promotions, and deals on attractions and dining.
Best airlines to get to Dubai
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the main hub for travellers heading to the city. It’s one of the busiest and best-connected airports in the world, with a wide range of airlines flying in from all over the globe, including:
- Emirates - Dubai's flagship carrier with direct flight from major cities in Europe, Asia, North America, and more
- Etihad Airways - Like Emirates, Etihad offers direct flights across the world with its state of the art aircraft.
- British Airways - A trusted choice for UK travellers.
- AirAsia - Perfect for budget travellers coming from Asian destinations
Other family-friendly holiday destinations
Family city breaks
- Barcelona, Spain 🇪🇸 - Barcelona is a hit with families across the world. Kids will love exploring Park Güell, riding the cable cars up Montjuïc, and visiting FC Barcelona's Camp Nou stadium. With a relaxed pace, walkable streets, and lots of kid-friendly places to eat, Barcelona is great city break option for parents looking for somewhere warm and relaxing.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands 🇳🇱 - Amsterdam is a small, easy-going city that’s great for exploring with kids. You can rent bikes with child seats, cruise along the canals, or spend hours at the NEMO Science Museum and Artis Zoo. With plenty of green space and a calm vibe, it’s a city that works for the whole family.
- Washington D.C., USA 🇺🇸 - Washington is packed with free attractions, spaces to walk, child-friendly restaurants to dine in. Families can explore the National Air and Space Museum, spot animals at the National Zoo, or picnic on the lawns of the National Mall. The city is stroller-friendly, and the Metro makes getting around simple, even with little ones.
Family beach holidays
- Cancun, Mexico 🇲🇽 - With calm Caribbean waters and soft white sand, Cancun is perfect for those looking for a beach holiday or a truly relaxing experience. Many resorts offer all inclusive family suites, splash zones, and activities just for kids. And when you're ready to explore, day trips to places like Xcaret Park or Mexicos many cenotes add a bit of adventure to your beach break.
- Santa Theresa, Costa Rica 🇨🇷 - If your family’s into nature and slower paced travel, Santa Teresa is a peaceful beach town with wide, quiet shores, great for beach relaxation, sunset walks, and fun in the water. Stay in a cosy eco-lodge, and keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, and other local wildlife. It's laid-back, unplugged, and will leave you feeling recharged.
- Antalya, Turkey 🇹🇷 - Antalya mixes Mediterranean beach vibes with plenty for families to do. Lara Beach is shallow and great for little ones, while older kids will love boat rides, cable cars, and exploring ancient ruins nearby. Many resorts are all-inclusive and super welcoming, so parents can relax while not having to worry about entertaining the kids.
Adventure holiday's for families
- Reykjavik, Iceland 🇮🇸 - Reykjavik is perfect for families who love a bit of adventure. Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon near Keflavík or try the quieter Sky Lagoon just outside the city. Join a Golden Circle tour to see geysers, waterfalls, and Thingvellir National Park, or head out from the Old Harbour for a whale watching trip. With safe roads and lots of guided tours, it’s easy to explore, even with little ones!
- Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 - Sri Lanka is an up and coming destination packed with nature, wildlife, and wow-factor views, great for families after something different. Hop in a jeep for a safari in Yala National Park, spot elephants and leopards, or visit the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya. The Kandy to Ella train ride is famously scenic, and there are tea plantations and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage along the way, which is a huge hit with kids and adults alike.
- Cameron Highlands, Malaysia 🇲🇾 - If you're looking to explore scenic landscapes with slightly cooler weather, the Cameron Highlands are ideal. Pick your own strawberries at Big Red Strawberry Farm, walk through the misty trails of the Mossy Forest, or enjoy some tea with a view at the BOH Tea Plantation. Kids will love the colourful Cameron Lavender Garden and the Butterfly Garden, which are both full of interactive activities and fun photo opportunities.
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How to make summer holidays more affordable
Book your flights and pay later ✌️
One of the best ways to make your next family holiday more affordable is to spread your flight costs over time with a buy now, pay later plan. With buy now, pay later options, you can lock in the best fares without the big upfront payment. The best part? You can finish paying after you’re home from your trip. No stress. No fuss. Just more flexibility and peace of mind.
Book your family flights in advance 📆
It’s usually cheaper to book flights 3–6 months in advance, especially for peak travel periods. Prices tend to rise closer to departure, so booking early can help you get a better deal. That said, if you’re flying on a less popular route and are flexible with your travel dates, you might also find some last-minute bargains.
Budget your holiday 💰
Flight payment plans help but there are more ways to keep your trip affordable. Plan in some low-cost activities, like beach days, parks, or exploring natural sights. Choosing self-catering or half-board stays instead of an all-inclusive resort can also help stretch your budget further.
Check out our affordable travel guide for easy ways to keep your holiday on budget 👇👇👇
Pay later for family flights
Fly now, pay later ✈️
At Alternative Airlines, you can book flights with over 600 airlines worldwide and spread the cost over time. Instead of paying everything upfront, you can choose weekly or monthly instalments that make budgeting easier and travel more accessible. We’ve partnered with 20+ flexible payment providers to give you more ways to book flights, your way. Some of our most popular payment providers include:
- Klarna - Available to residents of 26 countries, many of which are in Europe.
- Cash App Afterpay - Available to residents of the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and UK (Clearpay)
- Snap Finance - Available to residents of the UK
Our complete list of fly now pay later partners.
Reserve now, pay later with a deposit
Want to reserve your flights without paying everything upfront? When you use Slice Pay at Alternative Airlines, you can secure your next family trip at today’s prices, starting from just a 10% deposit. You’ll then spread the rest over 26 weekly instalments, with your final payment due just 7 days before you fly. No hidden fees, no surprises.
👉 Slice Pay is not a form of credit.
- Perfect for families booking their flights in advance.
- Friendly reminders before each payment.
- No credit checks, there is no loan involved.
- No interest and no fees for missed payments.
Family holiday FAQs
How far in advance should you book your trip?
We usually recommend booking your flights a few months in advance, especially if you're travelling as a family or in a group. It helps you stay organised, lock in the best options, and avoid last-minute stress. Flight prices can jump closer to departure, especially for popular routes, so the earlier you book, the better your chances of getting a good deal.
What type of accommodation is best for families?
Around the world you will find different types of accommodation available. Typically, if you are planning to vacation as a family most hotels will offer 2 bed or 3 bed rooms, as well as offering travel cots for young children. If you are travelling in a larger party, such as with extended family it may be more economical to rent an apartment or villa to share, either through hoteliers which offer such properties, or through apps like AirBnB.
Which destinations have family friendly airports?
Finding an airport which is designed for travelling families makes life easier when you travel as a group. It means simplified navigation, extra amenities and a generally more comfortable experience. Check out our list of the top family friendly airports for more details.
What else can you do to prepare for a family holiday?
Staying on top of your holiday organisation is key to a relaxing and stress free time away. This can be an uphill battle when booking in groups, especially in families with children. If you are looking to keep on top of your plans, check out our Family Travel Checklist for all the details you can sort out early then get into the relaxing holiday mood.
What are the most family-friendly airlines?
There are many family-friendly airlines, some of the most family inclusive airlines include:
- Emirates - Provides family check-in areas, complimentary strollers at some airpors, infant kits and more. On top of that Emirates is very efficient, ensuring a smooth flight.
- Singapore Airlines - Offers a variety of family-friendly services including a dedicated family check-in, priority boarding, and amenities for kids. Singapore Airlines is amongst the best airlines in the world, making them a great choice for families.
- Air Canada - Offers a family seating guarantee and child-friendly in-flight entertainment.
- British Airways - BA offer infant fares, special infant seating, and the option to arrange children's meals in advance (if included on your flight).
- Frontier Airlines - Guarantees fee-free seating for families.
- Lufthansa - This German airline is recognised for its efficient service but also offers family-friendly check-in, priority boarding and generous baggage policies for children.
Can I book family flights now and pay later?
Yes, when you book your flights at Alternative Airlines, you can! To pay later for your family's next flight all you've got to do is:
- Head to the flight search bar at the top of the page and enter your desired route, flight dates, number of passengers and cabin class. After that hit the search icon.
- Select your desired flight(s) with your preferred airline. Make sure to use the filters to help you find your perfect flight. For example, if you don't want to fly on a Boeing aircraft, use our aircraft type filter.
- Once you have selected your flight, enter your passenger information, select any add-ons and head to checkout.
- From here you can choose to pay later from 20+ finance providers. The options available to you will depend on your country of residence. Once you have selected your preferred payment plan, follow the on-screen instructions to begin the approval process.
- If you are approved, your flight will be confirmed and e-tickets will be sent to your email within 24 hours.