Thomas Cook shares 6 of the best family travel destinations
If you’re looking to escape with your young family, you’re in the right place! Thomas Cook travel expert, Lucy, shares her top toddler-friendly holiday destinations with The Edit.
Cyprus
A year-round holiday favourite, Cyprus boasts beautiful beaches, pretty fishing villages and the warmest Mediterranean sunshine. It’s perfect for everyone – including tiny toddlers!
Toddlers will love...
– Twirling in the teacups and exploring the kiddy rides at Luna Park fairground.
– Visiting the Aphrodite Waterpark in Paphos, where there’s plenty for older kids too.
– The Black Pearl cruise and all things ‘pirate’ from Ayia Napa.
Parents and caregivers will love...
– The delicious food that comes with the destination – think mezzes of halloumi, houmous, barbecued chicken and moussaka – yum!
– Strolling Limasssol’s old town (plan in a pit stop for little legs at the public gardens nearby).
– Gazing at the amazing harbour views from Paphos Castle – a great place to explore with the kids!
Where to stay…
Aphrodite Hills resort in Paphos – the villas are perfect for young families with safety features including stair gates and private pool barriers in place. Just 20 minutes from the airport, there’s plenty to do with kids nearby including beach visits and on-site activities. Check out Thomas Cook’s Tots + Toddlers package which will guide you on exactly what to expect, including a kit of handy essentials to help you and your little ones have the best time.
Majorca, Balearic Islands
Looking for a short flight, gorgeous beaches and a family-friendly way of life? Then Majorca’s the place for you. Just an hour ahead of the UK, it’s a top choice for a last-minute toddler holiday from April to October.
Toddlers will love...
– All the amazing beaches, including Calvia, Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa to name just a few!
– Exploring the playgrounds at Safari Zoo in Sa Coma and riding the fun safari train.
– Tucking into the local almond sponge cake, ‘gato de almendras’ – wet wipes at the ready!
Parents and caregivers will love...
– Wandering around around medieval Pollensa with its Roman bridge and abundance of quaint streets.
– Riding the Orange Express train from Palma to the idyllic port of Soller – which will give your toddler plenty to look at too!
– Kicking back at one of the many family-focused bars and restaurants around the island, such as Sanddancers Bar in Cala Bona.
Where to stay…
At the two-bedroom suite at Sol Katmandu Park & Resort, Magaluf you’ll be moments from the nearest beach on the Calvia coastline. There’s plenty of fun to be had at the hotel too, including visiting the waterpark, joining kids’ clubs, exploring the play area and hiring bikes – perfect for all ages. Take the pressure off mealtimes with the option to go all-inclusive during your stay.
Algarve, Portugal
Known for its long stretches of soft sand, wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, Portugal’s Algarve region is a dream for toddler beach holidays. Plus, there’s everything from rockpool minibeasts to wild dolphins to keep animal-mad kiddies happy.
Toddlers will love...
– Playing and sandcastle building on the beach – Praia do Burgau, Dona Ana and Praia da Rocha are among the best for tiny tykes, though you can’t really go wrong in the Algarve.
– Watching the animals, paddling in the pool and riding the mini train at Zoomarine park.
– Spotting flamingos in the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve.
Parents and caregivers will love...
– Day tripping to the tiny Tavira Island, home to a huge (and stunning!) Blue Flag beach, shady pine trees and a lovely choice of restaurants.
– Tucking into fresh seafood, such as Cataplana de Marisco (shellfish stew).
– Exploring the ancient town of Silves with its Moorish fortress and open-air cafes.
Where to stay…
Alma Verde resort near Lagos. Just five minutes away from Burgau beach, the toddler-friendly villa is a family holiday winner. You’ll get your own pool and terrace, amazing views and an eco-friendly holiday home. All the details for a fantastic family getaway are covered, like 20+ essentials for your little one and the reassurance of Thomas Cook’s Tots + Toddlers safety checks. With an on-site spa, fitness and sports facilities, there’s also the chance for some chill time.
Turkey
Children are so welcome in Turkey, were families will always get a warm reception. There’s lots to do too - whether its family-friendly dining or exciting attractions like caves, waterparks and boat trips - so you’re guaranteed to have a great time.
Toddlers will love:
– Helping themselves to one of Turkey’s impressive all-inclusive hotel buffets – you might be surprised what they end up trying!
– Tootling around Antalya’s SandLand, the home of extreme sandcastle building with gigantic sculptures everywhere.
– Turtle spotting on the riverbank by Manavgat Waterfall before a dino adventure at Thematic Park.
Parents and caregivers will love:
– Relaxing at the gorgeous beaches, including the 8km Lara, heavenly Cleopatra and snorkelling paradise Camel.
– Tucking into rich Turkish coffee, sticky baklava and filled savoury pancakes (gozleme).
– Stepping back in time at the Greek amphitheatre in Side, and even further back to the Stone Age at Beldibi Cave.
Where to stay…
Aska Lara Resort & Spa. This stunning hotel is a dream for families looking for an all-inclusive holiday – and even has its own private beach. With a family room you’ll get two bedrooms – ideal for a movie night and raiding the minibar whilst the kids sleep! There’s also a kids’ club for ages 4 up, babysitting services, waterslides, a toddler-safe water playground and a luxury spa.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
If you’re looking for some winter sun, then the Canaries are for you! Jet off to Lanzarote where the sun is shining 300 days a year! There’s lots of holiday attractions to suit toddler families, from the Pirate Museum in Teguise to submarine trips.
Toddlers will love...
– Panning for gold at Rancho Texas. It’s the ultimate toddler day out in Lanzarote, with a Wild West waterpark to play in and lots of animals to see.
– Spotting fish in the shallow waters of El Jablillo beach.
– Watching the yachts bobbing on the water at Puerto Calero Marina, where you can also hop on a glass-bottomed boat for a seafaring adventure!
Parents and caregivers will love...
– The buzz of Puerto del Carmen with its beaches and restaurants for fussy toddlers
– Catching the ferry from Playa Blanca to Fuerteventura, docking in the bustling seaside town of Corralejo – don’t forget your bucket and spades!
– Nature walks on the unspoilt Papagayo peninsula, much loved by alfresco families.
Where to stay…
A private villa at Hyde Park Lane resort, Puerto del Carmen. Based in one of the quietest areas of Lanzarote, this is an amazing home away from home. Just a buggy-push from the nearby beach, the two bedroom villa has everything you need for a stress-free break, including the Thomas Cook Tots + Toddlers perks. And if you love chilling in your own hot tub, check out the deluxe option!
Disneyland Paris
Without doubt the most exciting toddler-friendly trip that France could offer! With rides and attractions for all ages, it’s the ultimate in family destinations and it’s right on our doorstep.
Toddlers will love...
– Firing space cannons on the Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast attraction or soaring on a magic carpet like Aladdin and Princess Jasmine.
– Disney’s enchanting 4D animated show – Philharmagic – and you’ll be blown away too!
– Stepping through the White Rabbit’s Hole to look through Alice’s Curious Labyrinth all the way to Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Parents and caregivers will love...
– Disney’s fab queue-jumping, Rider Switch and pushchair rental services – they make visiting with a toddler so much easier.
– Getting caught up in the dazzling parades and just feeling like a kid again.
– Hitching a lift on the old cars of Main Street USA or riding in a horse-drawn tram. It’s enough to put a huge smile on anyone’s face!
Where to stay…
The child-orientated Magic Circus Paris hotel in Marne la Vallee Chessy. Jump on the free shuttle bus straight to Disneyland Paris from the hotel, then after a long day of adventures, catch some sleep in the magical connecting themed rooms. There’s bunkbeds, children’s TV channels and an indoor swimming pool – plus, if you fancy a day trip to Paris, it’s just an hour by train from the local station.
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