Summer 2026 is on the horizon, and it's time to start planning the family holiday that everyone will be talking about for years. Whether you're after sun-soaked beaches, thrilling outdoor adventures, fascinating cultural experiences, or a mix of everything, we've got you covered.
The trick to a great family summer holiday is matching the destination to your family's personality. Beach lovers, culture vultures, adventure seekers, and those who just want to switch off and relax — there's a perfect summer destination out there for every family. Here are our top picks for where to go this summer with kids.
1🇬🇷 Greek Islands (Corfu & Zakynthos)
The Greek islands are the dream summer destination for families. Corfu offers lush green landscapes and sheltered east-coast beaches, while Zakynthos has the world-famous Navagio shipwreck beach and loggerhead turtle spotting. Both islands have excellent family accommodation and tavernas where kids eat like royalty for very little.
- ✓ Warm, crystal-clear swimming from June to September
- ✓ Fresh Greek food kids love — souvlaki, feta, watermelon
- ✓ Zakynthos turtle-spotting boat trips are magical
2🇭🇷 Croatian Coastline
Croatia's Adriatic coast is perfect for summer families who want more than just beach time. Split and Dubrovnik offer incredible history, the islands of Brač and Hvar have gorgeous swimming spots, and Plitvice Lakes National Park is a natural wonder with cascading turquoise lakes and waterfalls that kids find mesmerising.
- ✓ Plitvice Lakes — one of Europe's greatest natural wonders
- ✓ Island-hopping by ferry is a brilliant family adventure
- ✓ Game of Thrones fans will love Dubrovnik
3🇫🇷 Provence, France
Provence in summer is pure magic — endless lavender fields, charming village markets, and the sparkling Mediterranean coast of the Côte d'Azur. Rent a gîte (country house) with a pool, explore the Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct, float down the Ardèche river, and let the kids run through fields of sunflowers.
- ✓ Lavender fields bloom spectacularly in June-July
- ✓ Pont du Gard is a jaw-dropping Roman aqueduct
- ✓ Gîtes with pools offer perfect family bases
4🇵🇹 Algarve, Portugal
Portugal's Algarve delivers reliably gorgeous summer weather with some of Europe's most beautiful beaches. The sheltered coves around Lagos and Carvoeiro are perfect for families, boat trips to sea caves are thrilling for all ages, and the region remains more affordable than comparable Mediterranean destinations.
- ✓ Dramatic sea caves and grottos to explore by boat
- ✓ Sheltered coves with calm, warm swimming
- ✓ Excellent value compared to Spain and France
5🇸🇮 Lake Bled & Slovenia
Slovenia is Europe's hidden gem for active summer families. Lake Bled is straight from a fairytale — swim in the lake, row to the island church, and eat the famous cream cake. The Julian Alps offer family hiking, Postojna Cave is spectacular, and Ljubljana is one of Europe's most charming small capitals. All at exceptional value.
- ✓ Lake Bled is a bucket-list summer destination
- ✓ Family-friendly hiking in the Julian Alps
- ✓ Outstanding value for money
6🇮🇹 Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia in summer is a family paradise. The beaches are jaw-droppingly beautiful — La Pelosa near Stintino could be in the Maldives. The island has a relaxed pace, incredible Italian food, and enough variety (beaches, mountains, ancient ruins, water parks) to keep families entertained for weeks.
- ✓ La Pelosa beach is one of Europe's most stunning
- ✓ Italian food at its most relaxed and family-friendly
- ✓ Less crowded than mainland Italian beach resorts
7🇳🇴 Norwegian Fjords
For families who prefer cool adventures over beach heat, Norway's fjords in summer are spectacular. Nearly 24 hours of daylight means maximum adventure time — kayak through mirror-still fjords, ride the famous Flåm Railway, hike to waterfalls, and spot seals and porpoises. A completely different but utterly magical summer experience.
- ✓ Nearly 24 hours of daylight in summer
- ✓ Fjord kayaking is suitable for families
- ✓ Cool temperatures — perfect if you dislike heat
8🇫🇷 The Dordogne, France
The Dordogne is France's best-kept secret for family summers. Medieval castles dot every hilltop, the Lascaux cave replica brings prehistoric art to life, and the Dordogne river is perfect for gentle canoeing. Rent a house with a pool, visit the markets, and enjoy long lazy French summer evenings.
- ✓ Castle-hopping is a real-life adventure story
- ✓ Lascaux cave art — prehistoric wonders for kids
- ✓ River canoeing suitable for all ages
🌍 Want personalized recommendations for your family?
Take our free 2-minute quiz →The best family summer holidays combine relaxation with just enough adventure to keep everyone engaged. Whether you choose a beach destination, a cultural city, or an outdoor adventure, the key is building in flexibility — some structured activities and some free time for spontaneous exploration.
Summer booking tip: For the best availability and prices, book summer holidays by February or March. School holiday weeks fill up fast, especially in popular destinations like Greece, Croatia, and the Algarve. Consider the last week of August or first week of September for better value with similar weather.
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