The ideal holiday is one that rejuvenates you, recharges your body, and allows you to return relaxed, refreshed, and ready to go. With so many beautiful destinations around the world boasting sandy beaches, snow-capped mountains, and natural valley springs, the world is your oyster. We encourage you to explore as many of these wonderful places as you can. It’s even better when you travel with your family, so you can create and capture memories together.
However, travelling with little ones can be tedious if not planned properly. Some countries may also not be as child-friendly as we would like them to be. What we’re looking for are destinations that are convenient to travel around, especially since you’ll be carrying luggage, strollers, diaper bags, and plenty of extra weight. Simple conveniences, like having elevators or escalators instead of stairs, may seem minor to some but make a world of difference for parents travelling with toddlers.
In this story, we highlight countries that not only offer plenty of activities for children but are also easy and safe to explore. The goal is a stress-free holiday that keeps everyone happy and helps reduce any potential quarrels along the way.
Shanghai
Photo credit: Shanghai Disneyland website
China has changed over the years, and for the better. Shanghai, in particular, is a bustling city worth visiting any time of the year, and the level of convenience here is truly impressive.
Transport: With their popular taxi app, DiDi, getting around the city is fuss-free and affordable. Most rides arrive within five minutes of booking, making it easy to travel even with toddlers, whether you are braving the summer heat or the winter chill.
Attractions: The city is alive both day and night. With Shanghai Disneyland as one of its top attractions, you can be sure your children will have just as much fun as you do.
Safety and cleanliness: Shanghai is generally a safe and clean city. As most vehicles have been converted to electric, the streets are quieter and the air is noticeably cleaner. However, do note that Shanghai can get very crowded, especially in popular areas. We recommend keeping your child in a stroller or carrying them in your arms in such places to prevent them from getting lost.
Penang
Photo credit: Saanen Dairy Goat Farm on Facebook
Penang is a food paradise and just a short getaway from Singapore. A quick trip is always less stressful than a long one, making it perfect for families. This destination is especially great for children who are old enough to enjoy solid food, as there are plenty of delicious treats to try.
Transport: While there are public transport options in Penang, private hire rides are often a more convenient choice, especially for families. This makes travelling from place to place less tiring. With the unforgiving heat in Penang, it is also more comfortable for children to stay cool in a car as you explore the city.
Attractions: Rich in history and culture, Penang offers plenty of experiences for children. Let your little ones enjoy a trishaw ride and soak in the sights of the city. You can also visit goat farms or butterfly gardens to introduce them to animals and nature. For older children, the Escape Theme Park is a must-visit, featuring water slides, pools, and endless fun.
Safety and cleanliness: Penang is generally a safe destination, though it’s still important to stay alert and avoid loitering late at night. Since many of Penang’s most famous dishes are served at street stalls, we recommend bringing utensil wipes to clean cutlery before use, whether for your children or yourself.
Netherlands
Photo credit: Tulip Festival Amsterdam website
The Netherlands is one of the most child-friendly countries in Europe, with friendly locals who are always willing to lend a hand. Most importantly, it is a beautiful country filled with flowers and windmills, perfect for family portraits. It is especially great for families with young daughters who would love to see the colourful tulip fields, explore flower markets, and take in the charm of the countryside.
Transport: The Netherlands has an excellent public transport system that includes trains, buses, trams, metros, and ferries. If you are travelling with children above the age of 10, renting bicycles for short-distance travel is also a fun and popular option.
Attractions: The Netherlands is known for its scenic beauty and rich history, but it also offers fun, interactive experiences for children. Visit the NEMO Science Museum for hands-on learning or enjoy a family adventure at Beekse Bergen Safari Park and ARTIS Zoo. Don’t miss the chance to explore the country’s many historical castles, where your little ones can feel like royalty for a day.
Safety and cleanliness: As one of the safest and cleanest countries in Europe, the Netherlands is a great choice for families seeking a stress-free holiday. While serious crimes are rare, petty theft and pickpocketing can still occur, so it is important to stay alert and keep your belongings secure.
Hanoi
Photo credit: Trip.com
Hanoi is the kind of city where you can truly relax. With its many charming cafés and serene lakes, it’s the perfect place to slow down, ride a pedal boat, and watch your children enjoy nature while you unwind.
Transport: Public transport is limited in Hanoi, but private hire rides can be easily booked through apps. These rides are convenient and very affordable, making it simple to get around with children and strollers.
Attractions: While Hanoi may not have as many child-specific attractions, it offers plenty of cozy cafés where you can enjoy hearty meals together as a family while sipping on rich Vietnamese coffee. Be sure to catch the traditional Water Puppet Show, a unique cultural performance that both adults and children will love.
Safety and cleanliness: As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is generally safe and clean. However, it’s best to dine in restaurants or cafés rather than at street stalls, especially if you are travelling with young children. The only area of concern is the city’s traffic. Crossing the road can feel daunting as vehicles continue to move even when pedestrians are present. Always hold your children’s hands near roads shoulders or carry them in your arms for safety.
New Zealand
Photo credit: Hobbiton Tours website
Slow down your pace and travel to one of the most scenic countries in the world. New Zealand will open your children’s eyes to the wonders of nature. A road trip with toddlers can be challenging, but if planned well and with more family members, it can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Transport: We highly recommend driving if possible. Renting a large caravan and inviting your parents or relatives along makes for a fun family adventure. While it may seem stressful at first, especially when travelling with a toddler, having a car means you can easily stop by a nearby megamart for essentials whenever needed. Plus, having extra family members helps share the load of caring for your little ones while you plan your next destination.
Attractions: New Zealand offers endless attractions for families. The Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit for fans of The Lord of the Rings, while nature lovers will enjoy glowworm cave tours, dolphin watching, and whale spotting activities. These experiences not only entertain your children but also reconnect them with nature and reduce their screen time.
Safety and cleanliness: New Zealand is one of the safest countries to visit and is even popular among solo women travellers. Most of your time will be spent exploring nature, chasing waterfalls, and enjoying peaceful road trips with your family. The only tip we have is to pack enough insect repellent for your children, especially if you plan to go glamping, hiking, or exploring the great outdoors.
Greece
Photo credit: Klook website
If you love the beach, the sun, and stunning ancient landscapes, Greece is the perfect destination for your next family trip. Your little ones will love it too. While getting out in the sun can be uncomfortable in Singapore, Greece enjoys sunny weather most of the year, with spring and autumn offering pleasant temperatures. This makes it one of the best countries to relax and spend quality time with your children under the sun.
Transport: Although Greece has public transport such as buses, most travellers prefer to drive to avoid steep climbs and stairs, especially when travelling with children and heavy luggage. We highly recommend renting a car so you can easily get around and bring along beach essentials like towels, sandcastle tools, and other fun items for your family.
Attractions: Greece’s biggest draw is its beautiful beaches and fascinating ancient ruins that date back thousands of years. Families can also consider staying at resorts that offer child-friendly facilities and activities, such as boat rides and games by the sea. In addition, Greece is home to interactive museums like the Hellenic Children’s Museum, where kids can enjoy hands-on experiences such as grocery shopping, cooking, and other real-life simulations.
Safety and cleanliness: Greece has a low crime rate and a strong family-oriented culture, which means locals are generally warm and welcoming towards children. Most beaches are child-friendly and supervised by lifeguards, and food options are suitable for young ones. It is also a clean and comfortable country to visit. For extra peace of mind, booking a family resort is a great way to enjoy your stay, as many offer added safety measures and curated activities for all ages.
Switzerland
Photo credit: Switzerland on Facebook
Switzerland is the go-to family holiday destination for all ages. It is one of the safest and most family-friendly countries in the world, offering a high quality of life and a secure environment for both young and old.
Transport: Public transport in Switzerland is excellent, with trains, buses, trams, and ferries connecting cities and scenic towns seamlessly. The Swiss Travel Pass is especially convenient, allowing you to enjoy discounts on museums, cable cars, and more, while also serving as an all-in-one transport card. Travelling around is easy and pleasant, making it a great destination for families with children.
Attractions: Switzerland offers endless outdoor adventures for children to experience the beauty of nature. Enjoy gentle hikes, visit charming car-free towns, or explore indoor attractions such as playgrounds and museums. The country’s breathtaking landscapes mean your children can interact with farm animals like cows or simply admire the magnificent Alps.
Safety and cleanliness: Switzerland is renowned for its low crime rate and exceptional cleanliness. Many residents operate on trust, often selling farm-fresh eggs or produce at unmanned stalls with just a sign showing the price. The country also has many stroller-friendly attractions and alpine playgrounds designed with young children in mind, making it an ideal family destination.
If you’re planning for a trip this coming holiday season with your children, try these countries for a stress-free travel. We recommend inviting your siblings or parents along to such trips so that they can be additional hands and feet to take care of your children while you and your partner can have a breather! Most importantly, travelling is fun but it is also important to come back feeling like you’ve taken a good break. We hope this story helps and wish all of you a happy holiday!
If you’re planning a trip this coming holiday season with your children, consider visiting these countries for a stress-free getaway. We recommend inviting your siblings or parents along so they can lend a helping hand while you and your partner take some time to relax and recharge. Travelling is meant to be fun, but it’s just as important to return home feeling truly rested and refreshed. We hope this story helps you plan your next family adventure and wish you all a wonderful holiday ahead!