Where are some places you suggest taking two 15 and 16 girls and a 7 year old boy in Europe? My husband and I would like to travel with our kids somewhere exciting where everyone can enjoy themselves, but also a bit off the beaten track.

Hi T,

Your question is much much too too broad.

We know nothing about you and your family, or even when you want to go.

When you have a draft itinerary, we will be happy to help you improve it.

Hi Travelerette. That sounds great that you & your family are planning a trip to Europe. Have any of you been to Europe before? How many days/weeks are you planning?

What kind of activities does your family like - outside/nature, museums, ancient ruins, skiing, bike riding, mountains, beach, relaxing? Do you prefer the active buzz of cities or the quiet of countryside?

Also, what time of year are you planning? Weather, crowds, prices, local holidays, etc. would make a difference.

It's not Europe, but have you considered an African safari? That sounds like fun if you like the outdoors. Many of them are fairly plush, not roughing it.

Also, cruise ships provide an easy & very plush way for a family to see some of Europe. Obviously only a sample, but an easy way to go.

Lastly, I've seen several posts like this on these boards, & most families have chosen between Italy & UK. But it really depends on your family's interests, the time of year, & your budget(which determines trip length).

Julie

Have you thought about Iceland?

(Sorry, couldn't resist)!

Julie - Yes, my husband and I have both been to Europe, and would like the vacation to last around 2 weeks. We'd like to visit somewhere with beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, (biking, horseback riding, swimming, etc) and perhaps a few museums. Both cities and smaller towns are fine. We plan on traveling in July, hopefully visiting a place without too many crowds, temperatures which aren't in the 90's, and lots of open space. As for our budget, we don't have one set at the moment, but we'd prefer experiencing the local culture. Four star hotels and dining at restaurants for every meal are completely out of the question.

Switzerland, Austria, or Bavaria would fit what you're looking for.

I traveled at those ages and last year took my 9 year old to Europe, my suggestions would be Germany, Austria, but the small towns ( depending on what you like to do...), the Netherlands, Belgium....the small towns are tons of fun and yet you could be close to a larger city to do a day or two in them. Have a wonderful time.

Hi,
I have to agree with yk here. Austria, Bavaria and Switzerland (depending on your budget). I'd go with Austria and Bavaria though.

Jimingso, I thought of Iceland too! Not necessarily a bad idea.

Travelerette, I realize you said Europe, but your description perfectly fits Alaska - dog sledding, kayaking, eagles, bear watching (from a secure spot!) hiking (even on hardened lava beds), glaciers (before they disappear!), whale watching, local culture, museums, wild life reserves, & great temps - wonderful place!

Anyway, regarding Europe, I am definitely not an expert, but I would think that anywhere in July will have crowds. That's definitely primetime.

However, your description did narrow down your possibilities. Since your family, like mine, does not like the hi temps, you will probably want to focus on Northern Europe & UK.

So, would your family like the lots of biking & the canals of Amsterdam with trips to the flower auction, windmills, Anne Frank house, art, WWII history, & more? We were there in April & absolutely loved Amsterdam - but not everyone does. Also, it wasn't crowded then. We stayed in the Joordan area, more residential with some lower priced accommodations (high ones too). No car needed; rent bikes, walk, or public transport. Or, to avoid the crowds at times, you could stay outside of Amsterdam since some of your activities would not be in Amsterdam.

Or, how about Germany - castles, lots of WWII history but interesting for young ones, Black Forest, cuckoo clocks, biking, museums, art, day cruise on the Rhine. You could go by train between cities, which the kids might enjoy, or rent a car.

In France, you could enjoy the gorgeous Normandy area beaches & inspiring WWII history. We were there in April & many children were into the WWII history. Then Paris, of course. Sitesee yourselves silly, & then relax in the countryside. Maybe everyone take a short-hours hands-on cooking class or take a cooking or wine tour. I've seen some France bike tours - your family would probably enjoy that.

How about Harry Potter? You could go to the UK. I saw someone describe some HP places, but I don't remember the title of the post. You could go look for Nessie in Scotland. Stay overnite in a castle. Kiss the blarney stone in Ireland. Enjoy the beaches of Cornwall. Take the kids on the London Eye & let them tour the Queen's palace!

So wonderful isn't it to have the world await you & your family! Hopefully, we'll see many posts from you as you make your decisions & plan your trip!

Julie

Iceland is pretty expensive. And while we and our teenage daughters albsolutely love the Swiss alps for our hiking vacations, it too is pretty expensive.

But Austria and the Dolomite region of Italy are less expensive, and offer wonder scenery, hiking, cycling, and even horseback riding.

What about a guest ranch with Western riding in Austria?

http://hiddentrails.com/europe/austria/zillertal.htm

Or, I cannot imagine a more beautiful place to ride than the alpe di Siusi in the Dolomites:

http://tinyurl.com/27qxcf

To avoid hot weather in July you really need to look at Switzerland (and surrounding mountains in France, Germany) - or Scandinavia. Or perhaps Ireland and Scotland. Don;t know anyplace that won;t be crowded in July.