21 Epic Places to Travel in Europe with Teens (2025)
When it comes to where to travel in Europe with teens, the options are overwhelming! As a family of world travelers and a mother of a teen and two young adults, I have my short list of different countries offering something for every family member. We have been fortunate to explore 20 countries in Europe with teens, and these are some of our favorites!
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Unforgettable Places to Visit in Europe with Teens
Whether you’re seeking new cultures to share with your kids or somewhere to enjoy the great outdoors with a view, consider one of these unique European destinations.
1. Edinburgh
If you do nothing else while in Edinburgh, spend a day exploring the city’s many historical sites, including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile! Search for hidden and historic closes along High Street for a step back in time.
Harry Potter fans will love this city, which inspired the much-beloved books! Check out Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery to search character names and then head to Victoria Street, which inspired Diagon Alley. If you want the full experience, be sure to book a Harry Potter walking tour.
Book a ghost tour for spooky stories of the city or visit Camera Obscura for mind-bending exhibits. Plus, a lot of day trips to the Scottish Highlands leave from Edinburgh, like this Outlander film locations day trip!
2. London
London is another city that offers something for everyone in the family, both young and old! Everyone who visits should plan a visit to the Tower of London and explore one of the city markets (we like the Borough Market with teens).
The city also boasts many stunning parks perfect for a sunny day outdoors. Hyde Park offers paddle boats and bike rentals, and the Serpentine Gallery and Regent’s Park are perfect for picnics and a visit to ZSL London Zoo. Greenwich Park has amazing city views and the Royal Observatory.
On rainy days, hit up a London museum, like The Natural History Museum or Science Museum. Harry Potter fans can enjoy the Warner Bros. Studio Tour or seek out filming locations around the city.
To see the city from a different perspective, consider a boat trip along the River Thames! You’ll enjoy stunning views of landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.
3. Paris
Looking for a beautiful city where you can spend your days playing classic tourist? Paris is one of the best places to travel in Europe with teens!
A must-do is walking the Champs-Elysées, with its upscale shops, theaters, and cafes. You can spend your days exploring iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Luxembourg Gardens, and the beautiful Seine River.
There are many Paris museums to choose from, covering history, culture, modern art, fashion, and more. Spend hours just at the Louvre, where you can see the Mona Lisa, or visit the La Galerie Dior to see original pieces by the world-famous designer.
For an incredible experience, visit the viewing deck at Paris Montparnasse Tower for amazing views of the entire city.
4. Barcelona
If you’re traveling in Europe with teens for the first time, I suggest Barcelona. It’s a city with layers of history, a prestigious food culture, and fun tourist attractions!
We highly recommend exploring the city’s vibrant local markets, like La Boqueria, where you can sample fresh regional fruit, tapas, and sweet treats. A food tour is always great with teens. You can expect stops for churros, paella, and unique Catalan dishes.
One of the most unique landmarks in Barcelona is Park Güell, where Gaudí’s whimsical designs blend with natural landscapes. For more adventurous fun, Tibidabo Amusement Park offers rides and spectacular city views.
Don’t miss strolling along Las Ramblas or exploring the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets and quirky shops. During the summer, one of the best things to do in the city is to visit Barceloneta Beach!
5. Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal’s colorful capital city, is another amazing destination for families. Don’t miss a chance to ride on the iconic Tram 28, which takes you through the city’s most charming neighborhoods (just watch out for pickpockets).
Lisbon is also an excellent destination for history lovers, being one of the oldest cities in the world! Don’t miss the city’s unique Manueline architecture, including the breathtaking Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Or spend a day exploring São Jorge Castle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Stroll through the narrow streets of Alfama, with its colorful tiles and live Fado music. Don’t forget to try Pasteis de Nata, Lisbon’s famous custard tarts!
You will love the dramatic displays at the Lisboa Story Centre, a history museum that’s truly one of a kind. Another fun spot is Oceanário de Lisboa, one of Europe’s largest aquariums.
6. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a coastal Croatian city known for its medieval Old Town, crystal-clear Adriatic waters, and historic city walls.
Spend a day walking along the ancient city walls for incredible views of red-roofed buildings and the sparkling sea. Then explore the cobblestone streets of Old Town, with landmarks like the Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace showcasing the city’s rich history.
Take a cable car ride up Mount Srđ for breathtaking panoramas or enjoy a day at Banje Beach. For an unforgettable experience, hop on a ferry to Lokrum Island, home to peacocks, botanical gardens, and scenic walking trails.
Plus, Dubrovnik is the perfect family holiday for film buffs, being a major film location for many famous shows and movies, including Game of Thrones! You can find great tours that bring the show’s filming locations to life.
7. Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a great place to visit if you’re craving a mix of modern charm and history.
You can start with a visit to Tivoli Gardens, a world-famous amusement park full of classic rides, games, and other entertainment for all ages. Then, head to Rosenborg Castle and its surrounding gardens and a glimpse into royal history.
A quintessential Copenhagen experience is a bike tour! You can rent bikes and pedal through the city’s wide lanes, stopping at landmarks like the iconic Little Mermaid statue. Don’t miss Nyhavn, where colorful townhouses line a lively harbor filled with cafes and boat tours.
Shopping in Copenhagen is also top-notch. Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, is packed with everything from luxury brands to boutiques.
8. Reykjavik
The capital of Iceland is a great place to travel in Europe with teens, whether you want to explore the city of Reykjavik itself or use it as your base for experiencing all of the unique landscapes across this stunning island country.
Art lovers can enjoy the city’s vibrant arts scene with galleries, art museums, music venues, and street art. Don’t miss the striking Hallgrímskirkja church and climbing the tower for stunning city views.
Start your outdoor adventures by visiting the nearby geothermal pools like Sky Lagoon or hiking local trails to waterfalls and volcanic landscapes. Day trips along the Golden Circle are your chance to see geysers, glaciers, and black-sand beaches!
9. Bucharest
Located in the heart of Eastern Europe, Bucharest is packed with a wide range of family-friendly activities, whether you’re interested in regional history or local culture.
Book a tour of the majestic Palace of the Parliament and learn about the Communist-era building. Or take a walk through the Old Town, filled with charming streets, stunning French-influenced architecture, and great cafes.
The Romanian capital city also has a variety of excellent museums, like the Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. For a peak into Romania’s past, I suggest both the Village Museum and the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant.
When you need a break from sightseeing, head to Herăstrău Park for the day. This is essentially the Central Park of Bucharest!
As a bonus, a day trip to Transylvania is a must in Bucharest! You’ll visit Bran Castle, dubbed the “Dracula Castle,” and the picturesque town of Brașov, surrounded by the stunning Carpathian Mountains. We had a fabulous tour with Ride2Ro.
10. Budapest
Budapest is the perfect place for families with kids who are a bit older. The city’s vibrant culture comes to life in its ruin bars, busy streets, and interesting landmarks that can be appreciated by young adults!
Check out the Great Market Hall and sample local dishes like chimney cakes and lángos. Better yet, book a food tour and they can take you to all the best spots! This was one of the highlights of Budapest for us.
See a musical at the historic Madách Színház Theater or head to the House of Terror Museum which offers a powerful glimpse into Hungary’s past.
You can enjoy Budapest’s famous thermal baths at local spas and bathhouses, each one is unique. The city also delivers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, from a hike up Gellért Hill for panoramic city views to exploring Margaret Island, with its bike paths and medieval ruins.
11. Munich
We’ve always loved how family-friendly Munich is! Whether you have young kids or older teens, you will find endless fun combined with Bavarian charm and activities for all ages.
I suggest purchasing the local city pass and hitting up all the fabulous museums! For the car lovers in the family, there’s the BMW Museum and the Deutsches Museum is a massive technology museum that will be a hit with the whole family.
Experience Old Town Munich by heading to Marienplatz, watching the Glockenspiel’s colorful performance, and hunting down all the fascinating medieval touches. Then, visit the Nymphenburg Palace to see the Rococo interiors and sprawling gardens.
For outdoor fun, head to the expansive English Garden, where you can rent paddle boats or watch surfers ride the Eisbach wave!
12. Florence
Florence is made for art lovers and teens. Featuring some of Italy’s most iconic attractions, they won’t know where to begin when it comes to taking photos!
Start by climbing the steps to the top of the Duomo Bell Tower for breathtaking city views that make the effort worthwhile! Then visit Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery and see Botticelli’s masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery. If you want the full Florence experience, we highly recommend booking a tour with LivTours. They know the city inside and out!
The food scene in Florence can’t be beat. Try street food like Lampredotto and Schiacciata Farcita. Or take a pizza-making or gelato workshop with a local!
Strolling across the ancient Ponte Vecchio is another must. This living piece of history is a bridge on the Danube River dating back to the Romans features a bustling market of jewelry and souvenir shops.
For a change of pace, head to the Boboli Gardens. It features manicured gardens, modern art installations, and Renaissance-era statues, all laid out before the majestic Palazzo Pitti art museum.
You can also add a day trip to the Tuscan countryside for a change of scenery with its charming villages and rolling hills.
13. Rome
Rome is a city known for its ancient history as well as its modern charm, making it a great time for both teens and parents. Check all the big tourist attractions off your list, with tours of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and more!
A visit to Vatican City is a must, with highlights like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, showcasing jaw-dropping art and architecture. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain.
When it comes to food, Rome’s street food scene is unbeatable. Grab a slice of Pizza al Taglio, some golden Supplì, or a gelato as you wander the city.
For a unique experience, head to Testaccio Market to explore modern takes on Roman street food, like gourmet panini or creative gelato flavors. Better yet, take a food tour of Trastevere at night. It’s incredible!
If you have the time, a day trip to Pompeii is an unforgettable addition to any itinerary. This ancient city frozen in time offers an incredible look at Roman life nearly 2,000 years ago. Walking through the preserved streets, homes, and amphitheaters feels like stepping back in history. We recommend booking a tour and traveling by high-speed train for efficiency.
14. Prague
Prague is a top pick for where to travel in Europe with teens, thanks to the history, culture, and fun activities found in one place. Plan a visit to the Old Town Square and you’ll see why the capital city of the Czech Republic has been nicknamed City of a Hundred Spires!
In the heart of the Old Town Square, you’ll see the stunning Astronomical Clock put on its famous show, surrounded by street performers. Then make your way across the Charles Bridge, with its statues and artists, which connects Prague’s New and Old Towns. Be sure to save time to explore Prague Castle.
For something more casual, take the kids to the Museum of Illusions. Or go shopping in Wenceslas Square, where you can peruse shops, street vendors, and cafes while enjoying more Prague landmarks.
15. Krakow
If you’re looking at Poland, Krakow is a beautiful old city that’s pedestrian-friendly with tons of history.
You can explore the charming Old Town, home to Rynek Główny, one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, and watch street performers from open-air cafes.
Krakow is also one of the top destinations for those interested in the history of the Jewish Holocaust, as it isn’t too far from the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial.
A guided walking tour of Krakow’s Jewish Quarter offers even more context with visits to places like the Old Synagogue and the factory of Oskar Schindler.
For a lighter day, stroll through Wawel Castle and hear about its dragon legend or visit the fascinating Wieliczka Salt Mine.
16. Porto
There’s no place quite like the coastal Portuguese city of Porto, with its breathtaking architecture, medieval history, and rich culture that will keep visitors of all ages engaged.
Plan at least half a day in the Ribeira District, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of colorful buildings and narrow streets that create an unforgettable experience by the Douro River. Teens will love walking the cobblestone streets and exploring shops and cafes, or snapping Instagram-worthy photos.
An essential stop for anyone visiting Porto is Livraria Lello, often called one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Nearby, São Bento Train Station is absolutely stunning, with its azulejo tiles depicting Portugal’s rich history.
Also, take the time to walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for more breathtaking views of one of the most picturesque European cities! Or end the day with a Douro River boat tour to see the city and bridge from a different perspective.
17. Istanbul
Istanbul is known for its rich history, vibrant markets, and its location bridging Europe and Asia. It’s one of the more unique destinations on my list, as a European city packed with Roman history and chances to experience Muslim culture.
Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are both captivating with their stunning architecture and long history. Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the historic Galata Tower for great views of the city below, then head below the city to see the fascinating Underground Basilica Cistern.
The Spice Bazaar is a must-visit for anyone visiting Istanbul with its endless spices and Turkish delicacies. Teens will love exploring the Grand Bazaar, with hundreds of stalls, perfect for shopping or haggling for unique souvenirs!
When the kids get bored, take them to Istiklal Street for modern shops, fast food, and street performers.
18. Killarney
Whether you’re making Killarney a stop on a road trip of Ireland or making it your base in County Kerry, the town of Killarney is great for families. You will find classic Irish tourism and a ton of outdoor activities within walking distance.
Downtown Killarney is warm and welcoming with cute shops, cafés, pubs, and every modern amenity. You might want to check out a game at the local football club.
Killarney National Park is a main attraction here, full of waterfalls and breathtaking landscapes. You can take on a range of hiking and bike trails for all skill levels, rent kayaks and explore the lakes, or go horseback riding.
This is a popular starting point for the Ring of Kerry, a scenic day drive around the Iveragh Peninsula with stunning coastal views and charming seaside villages to explore.
19. Seville
As one of the oldest cities in Spain, Seville is a cultural experience all on its own. It’s famous as the birthplace of flamenco dancing. The city is also known for its food culture and features stunning architecture that covers centuries.
With a dramatic history dating back over 2000 years, you could spend your entire time in Seville just touring historical sites and visiting museums. Be sure to tour the Royal Alcázar of Seville and the striking Catedral de Sevilla.
You can visit a different food market every day of the week in Seville! This is where you’ll find Seville’s best dishes, including paella, tapas, churros, and more.
If you come in the summer, paddleboarding the Guadalquivir River is perfect for teenagers. The city also boasts two fantastic water parks inside the city limits.
20. Crete
The Greek island of Crete has a rich and long history going back over 2000 years, but it’s the welcoming culture and warm-weather activities that make this one of my family’s favorite travel destinations!
I suggest booking a local guided tour if you really want to understand the rich history of Crete. Be sure to visit the Minoan Palace of Knossos and the Psychro Cave, famous for being the birthplace of Zeus.
Be sure to visit small towns like Rethymno and Chania (our favorite). Wander cobblestone streets lined with pastel buildings, archeological sites, local restaurants, and great local shops.
Crete is also home to dozens of sandy beaches with turquoise waters that are great for beach days. Or you can enjoy all kinds of amazing outdoor activities across the island, including snorkeling and sailing tours, ATV tours, rock climbing, and day hikes.
21. Dordogne Region, France
If you’re looking for a less touristy spot, consider the Dordogne region of France. It’s a lesser-known destination outside of Europe but still offers a variety of tourist-friendly activities and unique experiences.
When it comes to prehistoric history, you have options. Visit Grotte de Rouffinac, the largest painted prehistoric cave in Europe. Or there’s La Roque de Christophe, a massive prehistoric town of rock dwellings built into the side of limestone cliffs!
The area also has plenty of opportunities to head underground and tour breathtaking cave systems or go kayaking along the Dordogne River as another way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
You can also see some of the most beautiful medieval castles in Europe or simply walk around charming medieval villages like Sarlat-la-Canéda, La Roque-Gageac, and Domme.