20 Best International Family Destinations

Bali, simply put, is paradise. Renowned for its stunning beaches with golden sands and crystal-clear waters, families will love to swim, snorkel, sunbath, build sandcastles and enjoy watersports. Places like Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, and Sanur offer particularly family-friendly beaches. Bali has a vast number of family-friendly resorts -- like Club Med Bali, an all-inclusive resort -- that provide kid-friendly amenities like pools and play areas, kids' clubs and babysitting services. Many resorts also organize activities and excursions suitable for children. There are adventure activities -- like white-water rafting on the Ayung River, sunrise treks to Mount Batur, or trips to the Bali Treetop Adventure Park, which offers zip-lining and obstacle courses suitable for children. For cultural excursions, Bali's rich cultural heritage provides numerous opportunities for families to engage with Balinese history and tradition. You can visit ancient temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, witness traditional Balinese dance performances, participate in temple ceremonies, or even take a Balinese cooking class. The city of Ubud is the cultural hub of Bali. Surrounded by lush landscapes, this city is brimming with art, spiritual temples and a vibrant market. You will also want to visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the Ubud Monkey Forest, where monkeys roam freely among ancient temples. Visitors always receive a warm welcome in Bali, which is known for its extremely friendly hospitality. The island has a well-developed tourism infrastructure and safety measures in place to ensure a comfortable and secure experience for visitors.

Picture rocky beaches with secluded coves bordering endless turquoise waters, quaint villages with outdoor markets, friendly locals and ancient Mediterranean architecture. This is the essence of Crete, Greece -- a fantastic place to venture on your next family vacation. For history lovers, Crete is steeped in ancient history and mythology, providing educational opportunities for families. The archaeological site of Knossos is a must-visit, where kids can learn about the Minoan civilization and explore the labyrinthine palace ruins. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum showcases artifacts from ancient Crete, offering a glimpse into the island's past. The natural landscapes of Crete provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. Families can go hiking in the Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe, or explore the Imbros Gorge, which is shorter and more accessible for children. The island offers opportunities for horseback riding, cycling, and boat excursions to discover secluded beaches and coastal caves. For beach days -- one of the key draws of Crete -- visitors will delight in places like Elafonisi, Balos, Falassarna, and Stalis, with pristine water and beautiful bays. The island boasts more than 1,000 kilometers of coastline, providing ample options for beach exploration. CretAquarium is one of the largest aquariums in all of Europe. Families can explore its impressive displays of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish. Foodies will be floored by Cretan Cuisine, known for its delicious and healthy dishes, which emphasize fresh local ingredients. You will want to taste dakos (a local salad), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), and kalitsounia (sweet or savory pastries). There are many family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts in Greece, like Club Med Gregolimano. Located at the foot of the mountains, in the heart of a 19-hectare park that looks out over the Aegean Sea and its bay, Club Med Gregolimano is an all-inclusive resort which caters specifically to families.

Like many of the options on this list, Phuket, Thailand is renowned for its stunning beaches with turquoise waters and soft sands. Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach are popular choices for families. Beyond fantastic beaches, however, Phuket is a one-of-a-kind experience. Families can embrace Thai culture, with its unique temples and customs, engage with wildlife like elephants, and explore natural wonders. Appreciate Thailand's rich cultural heritage by visiting temples, such as Wat Chalong and Big Buddha. The Old Town of Phuket offers a glimpse into the island's history with its well-preserved colonial buildings and vibrant street art. The Phi Phi Islands, located near Phuket, are a must-visit destination. These stunning islands offer pristine beaches, ample snorkeling opportunities, and unforgettable boat trips. Maya Bay, made famous by the movie "The Beach," is a popular attraction in the Phi Phi Islands. Phang Nga Bay is also stunning --  limestone karsts rise out of the emerald-green waters. Here, families can enjoy boat tours, kayak through the caves and mangroves, and visit the iconic James Bond Island (Koh Tapu), featured in the movie "The Man with the Golden Gun." One iconic draw of Thailand is the chance to interact with elephants. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary and Elephant Jungle Sanctuary are dedicated to the welfare of elephants and provide excellent educational experiences for visitors. Of course you will want to savor Thai cuisine as much as possible. Phuket's culinary scene is diverse and delicious with flavorful street food like pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice. To make your Phuket vacation truly seamless, consider booking a stay at an all-inclusive resort in Phuket, like Club Med, which includes more than two dozen recreational activities, makes excursions easy, includes all-day dining, and has a kids' club and childcare services. 

This list of interesting things to do in Japan is endless. A family could be in Japan for months, jetting from place to place on Japan's high speed trains, and never run out of amazing new things to do. There are castles, amusement parks, historical landmarks, botanical gardens, culinary adventures and countless cultural opportunities. For amusement parks, families will want to visit Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. These world-renowned theme parks provide a magical experience with classic Disney characters and attractions. Tokyo DisneySea is a maritime-themed park. In Osaka, families can go to Universal Studios Japan, which offers a range of thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies and characters. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Park, and Jurassic Park are among the highlights. Kid-friendly museums are numerous across Japan. The National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo, the Children's Museum in Osaka, and the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo (dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli) are just a few examples. Himeji Castle, located in Himeji, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture. Families can explore the castle grounds, climb to the top of the main tower, and learn about Japan's feudal history. History lovers will also delight in Kyoto, known for its historical temples, traditional gardens, and geisha culture, Families can visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its famous torii gates, explore the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and participate in a traditional tea ceremony. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park provides an important educational opportunity to learn about the history and consequences of the atomic bombing during World War II. The Peace Memorial Park offers monuments, museums, and a chance to reflect on the importance of peace and nuclear disarmament. Exquisite gardens are everywhere in Japan. For example, Kenrokuen in Kanazawa, Kairakuen in Mito, and Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo, where children can run, play, and appreciate the beauty of nature. To get a Birdseye view of the urban landscapes, Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree are iconic landmarks that offer panoramic views of the city. Families can ascend to observation decks to enjoy Tokyo's skyline. Whatever you do, don't forget the Alps! The Japanese Alps are spectacular mountains where families can hike in the summer, or or go skiing and snowboarding in Hokkaido or Nagano during the winter. 

Like Japan, Brazil is another place with an endless list of things to do, places to see, history to learn and culture to explore. Rio de Janeiro is of course one of the most iconic areas to go. This bustling area has beaches, mountains, cities and forest. Visit the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, relax on Copacabana or Ipanema Beach, explore the lush Tijuca Forest, or enjoy panoramic views from Sugarloaf Mountain. Brazil is home to a significant portion of the Amazon Rainforest, one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems. Guided tours can include river cruises, jungle hikes, wildlife spotting, and visits to indigenous communities. Waterfalls are unforgettable in Brazil, in particular Iguazu Falls. Located on the border between Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder. Take a boat ride under the falls, and walk along trails in the surrounding national park. The Pantanal is a vast wetland area known for its incredible wildlife. Families can embark on safaris and boat tours to observe caimans, capybaras, jaguars, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. For a historical and cultural experience, the city of Salvador in Bahia features the historic Pelourinho neighborhood, where families can participate in drumming workshops, and enjoy traditional Afro-Brazilian music and dance performances. All of Brazil's diverse cultural heritage provides ample opportunities for families to immerse themselves in local traditions. From learning capoeira, a Brazilian martial art, to trying traditional Brazilian cuisine, families can engage in interactive experiences that celebrate Brazil's rich culture. If timing allows, your family might like to take part in Rio Carnival. This world-famous festival showcases colorful parades, vibrant costumes, samba music, and street parties. Don't forget about the beach, too. Brazil boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Families can relax, swim, and play in destinations like Praia do Forte, Porto de Galinhas, Jericoacoara, and Fernando de Noronha. These beaches often offer calm waters and a range of water sports.

Cancún, Mexico may be one of the most popular tropical paradises in the world for families to take a vacation. Cancún, of course, is known for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Beaches like Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas, or Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres are just a few notables. One of the world's largest barrier reefs beckons snorkelers and scuba divers to come explore marine life underwater. The Cancún Underwater Museum (MUSA) is an extraordinary attraction where visitors can explore a unique underwater art gallery. Families can snorkel or take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the submerged sculptures and marine life. Watersports, like kiteboarding, wind surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking and wakeboarding are all available in Cancún. The lush rainforests and diverse ecosystems, both on, and off, the coastline offer opportunities for exploration in nature. Xcaret Park is an eco-archaeological park that offers a blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Families can enjoy swimming in underground rivers, snorkeling with colorful fish, watching cultural performances, and learning about Mexico's rich history and traditions. Xel-Ha Park is a natural aquatic park where families can enjoy a range of water activities, including snorkeling, swimming in cenotes (natural sinkholes), and floating down a lazy river. Cancún's proximity to ancient Mayan ruins increases tourist appeal. The nearby archaeological sites of Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Coba add cultural and historical value to the region, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich Mayan heritage. Island hopping is fun for families. A short ferry ride from Cancún, Isla Mujeres is a charming island known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Families can rent golf carts to explore the island and visit the sea turtle sanctuary. Family-centric resorts in Cancún make traveling easy in Mexico. For example Club Med, an all-inclusive resort in Cancún, provides a children's club, pools with water slides, supervised activities and entertainment programs.

Morocco is a truly unique choice for your next family vacation, offering history, culture, desert landscapes, mountains and delicious food. Marrakech is the hub. This vibrant city is known for its bustling souks, stunning palaces, and lively atmosphere. Families can explore the historic Medina, visit the Bahia Palace, admire the intricate architecture of the Koutoubia Mosque, and experience the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where street performers and food stalls come alive in the evening. Chefchaouen is another city worth visiting. Known as the "Blue City," Chefchaouen is famous for its unique blue-washed buildings. Families can wander through the maze-like streets, enjoy the charming atmosphere, and browse local handicrafts and textiles. For a more village-centric experience, visit the High Atlas Berber Villages. Families can take a day trip or a multi-day trek to explore these towns high in the Atlas Mountains. This provides an opportunity to experience the local culture, interact with the Berber people, and learn about their traditional way of life. For a seaside village, visit Essaouira, a laid-back oceanside town with a charming medina and beautiful sandy beaches. Families can stroll along the fortified walls, visit the fishing port, try water sports like windsurfing or kiteboarding, and enjoy fresh seafood. Of course, one would never want to go to Morocco and not visit the most famous of all -- the Sahara Desert. Embark on a desert camel trek, ride on 4x4 vehicles through the dunes, witness breathtaking sunsets and starry nights, and stay in traditional desert camps. History buffs will want to visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a well-preserved mud-brick fortress located along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. Families can explore the ancient kasbah, which has served as a backdrop for many movies and TV shows. Don't forget to indulge in Moroccan Cuisine. Children can try delicious dishes such as tagine (slow-cooked stews), couscous, and pastries like msemen and chebakia. To end a long day, you'll most definitely want to relax at one of the many Hammams, traditional Moroccan bathhouses. Families can enjoy steam baths, massages, and traditional treatments, providing a glimpse into Moroccan wellness traditions. For a seamless travel experience, consider a stay at one of the many all-inclusive resorts in Morocco.

Mauritius is another beach paradise. Renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, families will want to sunbath, swim in warm water, and engage in various water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddle boarding. Popular beach destinations include Trou aux Biches, Belle Mare, and Le Morne. Colorful coral reefs, teeming with marine life, await under the sea. See sea turtles and dolphins. The Blue Bay Marine Park and the waters around Coin de Mire Island are particularly popular for marine adventures. Inland from the sea, visitors will find lush forests rich with adventure activities. Go zip-lining above the canopy, venture out on quad bikes or horseback ride through the trees. Adventure parks like Casela Nature and Leisure Park provide opportunities for even more unique experiences such as walking with lions or interacting with giant tortoises. Other nature reserves, like Black River Gorges National Park, have beautiful hiking trails. The Vallée de Ferney and La Vanille Nature Park offer opportunities to observe unique animals such as giant tortoises and exotic birds. Culturally, Mauritius is a melting pot. With influences from India, Africa, China, and Europe, there is no shortage of cultural experiences to be enjoyed. Families can visit sites like the Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin) sacred lake and various temples, mosques, and churches. Shopping is lively at local markets, such as the Central Market in Port Louis. There are many family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Mauritius that cater to the needs of all ages. These resorts often provide kids' clubs, swimming pools, water slides, and organized activities to keep children entertained while parents relax. 

There's no mountains quite like the Alps. And the Swiss Alps have some of the finest peaks in all of Europe. Towering mountains, pristine lakes, lush valleys and charming alpine villages will inspire wonder. Whether visiting in the wintertime to have a ski vacation, or traveling in any other season, the Swiss Alps are rich with adventures for people who love the great outdoors. In the wintertime, families can enjoy some of the world's best skiing and snowboarding at world-class ski resorts such as Zermatt, Verbier, or St. Moritz. Ice skating, dog sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are all available. During the summer months, the Swiss Alps transform into a playground for sunny-day adventures. Families can go hiking or mountain biking on well-marked trails, try paragliding for a thrilling aerial experience, or enjoy water sports like rafting and kayaking in the region's rivers and lakes. A cable car brings riders to the tops of high peaks to delight in panoramic views. Traveling by train is a Swiss tradition that allows visitors to truly appreciate the alpine scenery as they cruise. The Glacier Express and Bernina Express are two iconic trains that pass through breathtaking landscapes, crossing viaducts and tunnels, and winding through mountain valleys, lakes, forests and villages. Culturally, the Swiss have some wonderful traditions you won't want to miss. Wander through local festivals, indulge in some traditional Swiss cheese fondue and raclette, or witness the annual cow parades, where cows are adorned with fresh flowers and descend from the mountains. The Swiss Alps offer a wide range of family-friendly resorts and accommodations that cater to the needs of all ages. These resorts often provide amenities like kids' clubs, playgrounds, swimming pools, and organized activities to keep children entertained while parents relax and enjoy the mountain atmosphere. Some all-inclusive resorts in the Swiss Alps include group ski lessons and lift tickets in their wintertime package pricing, making planning a ski vacation effortless and seamless. 

Sicily his a fascinating place to explore ancient structures left behind by the Greeks, Romans, Normans, and Arabs. Families can explore impressive archaeological sites like the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the Roman theater in Taormina, and the ancient ruins of Segesta. These sites provide educational and immersive experiences for children. Sicily's unique culture is shaped by its diverse history. Wander through charming towns like Palermo, Catania, and Syracuse, discovering impressive architecture, vibrant markets, and local traditions. Sicily is also famous for its festivals, such as the lively Carnival of Acireale and the stunning Infiorata flower festival in Noto. Of course no Sicilian vacation would be the same without indulging in Italian culinary delights. Families can indulge in iconic dishes like arancini (fried rice balls), cannoli (sweet pastry filled with ricotta), and granita (a refreshing frozen dessert). Visiting local food markets and participating in cooking classes can be a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Beyond culture, Sicily is rich with natural wonders. There are beautiful beaches along its coastline with golden sands and clear waters. Popular beach destinations include Cefalù, San Vito Lo Capo, and Mondello. Then there are the volcanic ranges. Mount Etna is Europe's highest active volcano, and visitors can take a cable car ride to its summit for panoramic views. The Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another volcanic area that offers countless  opportunities for hiking, boat tours, and exploring volcanic landscapes. All-inclusive vacations in Sicily make planning a trip to Italy seamless. Many of these resorts include accommodations, all-day dining, more than two dozen recreational activities, childcare services and kids' clubs. 

Marbella, located on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain, is a wonderful destination for a family vacation centered on beautiful beaches and Spanish culture. Marbella is famous for its beaches, which have golden sands and clear waters. Families can enjoy sunbathing and swimming on popular beaches like Playa de la Fontanilla and Playa de Nagüeles. Some beaches offer water sports activities like jet skiing and paddle boarding. Inland, families can explore the Sierra de las Nieves, where they can go hiking in nature. For cyclists or families looking to cruise, biking along the seafront promenade is a fun way to admire the scenery. Boat trips to spot dolphins in the Mediterranean Sea is also a fun family outing. Marbella and its surroundings are home to several water parks and theme parks that provide entertainment for the whole family. Places like Aqualand, Funny Beach, and Selwo Marina offer thrilling water slides, go-karting, mini-golf, and opportunities to interact with marine life. Culturally, Marbella has many offerings, including the Bonsai Museum, the Contemporary Engravings Museum, or the Roman Villa of Rio Verde. The nearby city of Malaga also offers attractions such as the Picasso Museum and the Alcazaba fortress. Marbella's Old Town, also known as Casco Antiguo, is a charming area with narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and traditional Andalusian architecture. Families can wander through the picturesque streets, visit the Orange Square (Plaza de los Naranjos), and explore boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés. Foodies will delight in Marbella's local and international cuisine. Indulge in delicious Spanish tapas, fresh seafood, and traditional Andalusian dishes. If you are looking for an all-inclusive resort in Marbella, there are many to choose from. These resorts make family vacations easy. They have kids' clubs, swimming pools with slides, and organized activities to keep children entertained, giving parents a chance to enjoy their solitude. 

Québec City is a UNESCO World Heritage site and North America's only walled city. Families can explore the historic district of Old Québec, walk along the cobblestone streets, and visit iconic landmarks such as the Château Frontenac, Citadelle of Québec, and Place Royale. The city's rich history and preserved architecture provide an immersive experience for families. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, offering entertainment for the whole family. The Winter Carnival, held in January and February, features ice sculptures, parades, and winter activities. The summer brings festivals like the New France Festival and the Québec City Summer Festival, showcasing music, art, and cultural performances. Québec is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including the Laurentian Mountains, the Saguenay Fjord, and Montmorency Falls. Families can go hiking, kayaking, or canoeing in national parks like Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier or Parc national des Grands-Jardins, immersing themselves in the region's picturesque scenery. During the winter months, families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating in popular ski resorts like Mont-Tremblant and Stoneham Mountain Resort. Québec is unique in its French-Canadian culture. Families can experience Québecois cuisine, including poutine (a dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy) and maple syrup treats. As a bilingual province, with French being the predominant language, families can expose their children to a different language and culture, creating a valuable learning experience. The Musée de la Civilisation and Musée National des Beaux-Arts showcase Québec's art, history, and cultural heritage. Québec also offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including Village Vacances Valcartier, one of North America's largest water parks, or the Aquarium du Québec, home to diverse marine life. The Parc de la Chute-Montmorency provides a thrilling zipline experience and a suspension bridge with panoramic views. All-inclusive vacations in Canada are a fun and easy way to enjoy Québec. These all inclusive-resorts often include all-day dining, family-style accommodations, kids' clubs and childcare services.

Seychelles is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Families can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine creatures. Some popular snorkeling spots include Sainte Anne Marine National Park and Baie Ternay Marine National Park. The beaches of Seychelles are notable for their stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Visit Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue Island or Beau Vallon on Mahé Island to experience seaside tranquility. Seychelles is home to several nature reserves and national parks where families can immerse themselves in the island's unique flora and fauna. Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the rare coco de mer palm and various endemic bird species. Families can also visit the Aldabra Atoll, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest coral atolls, to spot giant tortoises and rare bird species. Eco-tourism opportunities are endless in Seychelles. Island hopping is another favorite tourist activity. Families can hop on a ferry or take a short domestic flight to discover different landscapes, cultures, and activities on islands like Praslin, La Digue, and Silhouette. Authentic Creole Cuisine is delicious in Seychelles. The cuisine reflects a fusion of African, European, and Asian influences. Try dishes such as grilled fish, octopus curry, and coconut-based desserts. Exploring local markets and trying authentic Creole cuisine can be an exciting culinary adventure for the whole family. Seychelles has a wide range of family-friendly resorts and accommodations. For example, Club Med's Seychelles resort, which offers spacious family suites, a kids' clubs, and activities tailored for children.