Kids and adults alike love adventure. However, seeking out adventures that are suitable for all ages can be a tough task. Luckily Europe has some fantastic destinations that cater for families in search of awe-inspiring experiences, adrenaline pumping fun and lifelong memories
Here are our Top 5 suggestions for European adventure destinations.
1. PARIS, FRANCE
While Paris is often recognised as a romantic destination suitable for young love-stricken couples, there is much more to the city than meets the eye.
The views from the top of the Eiffel Tower are awe inspiring for both parents and kids alike. If your kids are old enough then take the stairs to the 2nd level for some added sense of adventure before finishing your journey to the top by lift.
The Notre Dame Cathedral is a marvelous experience for kids who are familiar with Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame. Climb the almost 400 steps to the top to come face to face with fierce Gargoyles and fantastic views over the city.
The Natural History Museum is a must see for animal lovers. The Grande Galerie de l’Evolution is a firm favorite among kids with over 7000 specimens on display.
Football fans will love a tour of the world famous Stade De France. The 80,000 seater stadium has been host to Champions League and World Cup finals.
For those who want some more adrenaline pumping activities, Disneyland Paris is just over 30km from Paris and is easily accessed by train. Visitors can choose from an endless array of amusement rides such as the Pirates of the Caribbean, Phantom Manor and Big Thunder Mountain.
2. BARCELONA, SPAIN
The Catalan city of Barcelona is a super destination for sun loving families with a wide range of attractions, beautiful architecture and amazing food.
Park Guell is a public park that was built in the early 20th century by Antoni Gaudi and is known for its unique architecture and stunning views of Barcelona.
Parc de la Ciutadella (Ciutadella Park) is on the site of the former citadel, close to the sea and next to the Born neighborhood. It occupies 17 hectares, with formal gardens, a grand waterfall, a boating lake, historic architecture, and a zoological park.
La Rambla, the world famous boulevard, begins at Plaça Catalunya and stretches all the way down to the port. Children and adults alike are treated to flower sellers, animal stalls, painters, artists, human statues and street performers.
Barcelona is also home to some stunning stretches of golden sandy beaches, one area of which (Barceloneta) is accessible via cable car for some added adventure.
Port Aventura, Europe's 3rd largest theme park, is only a short 1hr 15min train journey from Barcelona. It is divided into six themed areas (the Mediterranean, Polynesia, China, Mexico, the Far West and Sésamo Aventura) so beware, one day may not be enough!
A trip to Barcelona would not be complete without a nighttime visit to Font Màgica de Montjuïc. This magic fountain comes alive at night with a spectacular display of colour, light, motion, music and water acrobatics
3. London, England
A city full of history and culture, London has so much to offer both kids and adults alike.
Take a spin on the London Eye for amazing views across the city or visit London Bridge during one of its scheduled open and closing times. You can visit the inside working of the bridge and see the steam driven machinery that once powered the mechanism.
The Tower of London is London's most popular tourist attraction. You can learn about its fascinating history with kid friendly interactive exhibits and you can check out the world famous Crown Jewels too.
For those who love a trip to a theme park then visitors to London can choose from either (or both) Legoland Windsor and Harry Potter World London. Both of which are fascinating and entertaining experiences whether or not they are a Lego or Harry Potter fan.
Lastly, no trip to London would be complete without a family photo with the stunning Buckingham Palace as the backdrop.
4. LAKE GARDA, ITALY
Lake Garda is the perfect destination for parents who want a sophisticated destination with amazing food and stunning views while still having enough activities to entertain the kids.
There is an ample amount of family friendly walks and hikes along the lake’s short or in the mountains surrounding the lake. If the kids are a little bit older (and braver) then Via Ferrata is another option.
The lake shore is dotted with beautiful family friendly beaches with numerous water sports on offer such as Kayaking and Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Take a guided boat tour of the lake to get a different perspective with stunning views up into the surrounding mountains.
A day trip to Venice is another must do for visitors with the city being accessible by train from the southern tip of the lake. Verona is another beautiful city worth visiting which is a little closer to Lake Garda. This charming city is home to stunning architecture and the Arena Di Verona which hosts world famous Opera performances
Gardaland Resort, Italy's largest theme park, is the perfect destination for adrenaline junkies with over 32 attractions to choose from.Sea Life aquarium is also part of the Gardaland resort and is a fascinating attraction for kids of all ages.
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is the perfect location to use as a base for exploring Iceland. Visitors to Iceland are spoiled with amazing scenery, waterfalls, glaciers and volcanoes.
An overnight bus tour from Reyljavik is the best way to experience the countryside and travelers will get up close to world famous attractions such as Gullfoss Waterfall, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and the Katla Ice Cave. Kids are sure to be blown away by the natural beauty of these attractions. Travelers also get to stay in a traditional Icelandic Lodge and sample local cuisine.
The world famous Blue Lagoon is located just outside Reykjavik and is accessible by a regular bus service from the city centre. Kids will love the experience of swimming in the gorgeous warm waters while gazing up at the snow topped hills surrounding the pools.
No trip to Iceland would be complete without a trip outside the city to experience the Northern Lights in the dark calm skies of the Icelandic countryside. An experience that is sure to stick in the minds of your kids for the rest of their lives.