jessicarn

We are thinking about a 10-14 day trip to either Italy or Greece. We have to go in march and have a 5 & 7 year old. They have gone on a 27 day trip to Australia and loved every second but we are not sure they would have as great of a time in Europe. I have read mixed reviews. So, #1 Are we crazy for thinking about taking our kids to either place. If not #2 Italy or Greece and #3 those are big countries so what cities are best for kids aged 5 & 7.
Thanks

Heimdall

There is nothing crazy about taking 5 & 7 year olds to Europe, but bear in mind that March is winter. What sort of activities do you have in mind?

dreamon

Definitely don't think you're crazy but if they were my kids, I wouldn't want to move around too much or take too many really long journeys. Also my kids have always preferred to use public transport rather than be trapped in a car.

It will be too cold in Greece to swim in March. That doesn't mean that you shouldn't go but you'll need to be selective about where you visit so there is enough activity for the kids.

I would think about what type of activities you'll want to do and that will help you decide between the two. For example, hiking, cycling. Do they like art? Most kids have a limited tolerance for museums, churches and archeological sites so you might want to plan to split up. You could all go for an hour and then one of you could take the kids for an ice cream/play in the park while the other lingers on. It's possible to make even boring(!) places interesting with treasure hunts and so on, but it does take some effort.

Give the kids a camera and you'll be surprised at what catches their eye.

I'd also mix up the city/country if you can.

One possible itinerary for Greece might be Athens/Santorini/Pelion/Meteora. Each has stuff which might appeal, depending on your children's interests.

For Italy, perhaps Venice/Lucca/Gubbio?

Of course, there are million options but I would try to stay at least 3 nights in each place.

Have fun planning.

txtree

I don't think you're crazy. We've taken our boys to Europe many times, including when they were 5 and 7. We weren't able to see many museums or churches, but we soaked up a lot of atmosphere and ate a lot of food!

At those ages and at that time of year (i.e., too cold for beaches and swimming), I would strongly advise Italy over Greece. I think your children would love Venice and Rome, and also agree that you might want to spend a week in the countryside (Umbria or Tuscany would be wonderful). You could fly into Rome and out of Venice (or other way round), and rent a car for the in between part.