The Best European Cities for Long Term Family Travel to Visit during a Family Gap
Europe is such a wonderful place to visit during long term family travel or traveling during a gap year. The cities are generally very easy to explore. Most places are so pedestrian friendly and kid friendly. The atmosphere and lifestyle is relaxing. Europeans know how to enjoy the simple things. Europe is also thick with history, beautiful landscapes and amazing architecture.
There are a few things to consider when spending time in Europe. If you are coming from the US, you can only stay 90 days or less in the Schengen zone. Time in the UK and Ireland does not count towards the 90 days. Europe can be expensive. Finding ways to save money on long term travel can be really helpful. Lodging, flights, transportation and language barriers are useful to research before you go. Public transportation in Europe is generally excellent but traveling with kids can make thing a little trickier especially if you are traveling by car and you need a car seat. Even getting kids to eat generally fabulous European food is not always easy. In some areas internet is very reliable and strong but in others it’s very spotty and not so dependable
So where is the best place in Europe to visit during a gap year? There are so many excellent choices so we asked around to other frequent travelers. We got some fabulous answers including many that we are quickly going to add to our wish list for the next time that we go.
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Northern Europe
Northern Europe can make a wonderful place for long term family travel. There are sophisticated cities with numerous cultural activities, amazing landscapes like Iceland and Norway and winter wonderlands. The atmosphere in the North is generally laid back and low key. Most areas are family friendly and safe. Traveling during the winter would take some additional planning but otherwise many northern European cities are set up to explore.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is the capital of Sweden with a rich history and unique charm. Separated by rivers and connected by bridges, it’s nicknamed the “Venice of the North”, and it’s a wonderful place for a family gap year as there are so much to see and do that’s suitable for all types of travelers.
The best time to visit Stockholm is in summer from June and August, as the city enjoys a long time of sunlight with pleasant weather for both outdoor and indoor activities. For accommodations, the city has a wide range of Airbnb choices from the city center to the suburb, most of them are at a very reasonable price; to easily explore the city, select a cozy, Scandinavian-style apartment that’s close to a subway station, where the family could cook and also do laundry, enjoy privacies in separate bedrooms. It’s easy to get around Stockholm by subway, tram, or buses; in fact, the very first activity a family can enjoy is to design its own Stockholm subway art tour, for which Stockholm subway is famous for its uniqueness and designs – each station has its own aesthetics and theme.
Stockholm is also filled with art and history museums that are perfect for a family trip. The Djurgården is a museum cluster that includes a number of museums from the Vasa Museum, Nordic Museum, to the ABBA Museum. This is also where the historic Grona Lund’s Amusement Park is located.
For those who enjoy the water, take a scenic trip because no trip to Stockholm is complete without hopping on a boat and see the city from the water. Take a day to soak in the royalty of the Royal Palace, and Drottningholm Palace. Learn all about the Nobel Prize at the City Hall. Lastly, the city has a vibrant café and dining scene that makes a gap year so exciting.
Thanks to Knycx Journeying
Tromso, Norway
Some folks may not think twice about Tromso, located in the north of Norway, assuming it is on the colder side, but this city is warmer than most others at the same altitude and is perfect if your family likes nature.
Tromso is urban and has a reasonably sized population, yet it doesn’t seem crowded and has almost all essentials readily available.
One interesting trivia about Tromso is that it has the highest number of wooden houses in Northern Norway and many activities on offer. It also has many festivals that take place over here, making it a family-friendly place to keep the kids occupied.
The easiest way to get here is to fly here, and if direct flights aren’t available, you will have to pick a connecting flight via Oslo to get here. Public transport buses connect the city quite well and even run on certain nights in the city. The roads are in good shape, so you could even drive around yourself.
Renting out Airbnb’s for a longer duration is currently the best option to spend a more extended period here on a budget; shopping for your groceries and cooking helps save a lot.
There are many free activities for families and kids, including playgrounds and museums, like the Science centre and Planetarium. Numerous hiking routes make for a great day out with the family if your family likes nature.
People are friendly, and it is easy to mingle, especially for the kids.
Tromso has a lot to offer; however, the amount of time you spend here totally depends on how much you can spend in terms of the budget you have.
Ideally, about 2-4 months is a reasonable time frame.
Do keep in mind that days tend to get gloomy in winter, so be well prepared with many layers and the probability to spend more time indoors if you visit during winter.
Contribution from Continent Hop
Central Europe
Central Europe is a must stop for any avid traveler. There is so much to see and do. Visit amazing city centers, study some of the areas rich cultural history, or just take a stroll and soak in the atmosphere. A long term stay in central Europe is easy to plan and very family friendly.
Aix-en-Provence, France
The southern city of Aix-en-Provence is at the heart of the beautiful Provence region. With its cultural and distinguished past, it has an upmarket feel, yet it’s a friendly city with a young population. It’s a fabulous place for families as it’s not an overly large city, has plenty of lovely gardens and parks, lots of children’s activities, and you’re surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of France – perfect for hikes, exploring abandoned castles, or hitting the beach. There’s also a large expat scene, so it’s easy to meet other families in the city on a gap-year or who have moved from abroad.
Getting to Aix-en-Provence is easiest via flying into Marseille airport, or taking the TGV from Paris. Once you arrive however, having a car is pretty essential if you want to explore further than the city boundaries.
Accommodation can be expensive if you’re looking in the more popular areas, i.e. the central city, or near the international schools in the South. However, if you’re ok to live outside of Aix, there are several lovely villages nearby and your housing costs will decrease considerably. It’s normally easiest to rent short-term or holiday lets, as France has a minimum 3-year lease on unfurnished rentals as standard.
English is widely spoken in Aix, and it’s a city with a multicultural feel. As there is so much to do, see and experience in the city, and its surroundings, that it’s recommended to stay at least 6 months to be able to experience as much as you possibly can!
“We moved to Aix-en-Provence for what was supposed to be a 3-month project. But we loved it so much, we’re still here more than 4 years later!”
Contribution from Nadine Maffre from Le Long Weekend.
Nantes, France
Nantes, in Western France, is a fantastic place for a family gap year in Europe. Located 380 km west of Paris, Nantes is the capital of the French region Pays de la Loire.
Nantes is a young and vibrant city with many things to see and do, perfect for extended stays. Lesser known than its neighbors Bordeaux or Paris, Nantes is cheaper and less crowded with tourists.
In medieval times, Nantes was the capital of the Dukes of Brittany, and you can still see the dukes’ impressive castle. The gothic cathedral is also from this period.
Nantes is also Jules Verne’s birthplace, and the museum dedicated to his life and works is a must of any trip to Nantes with kids.
However, Nantes’ top attraction is the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, a group of unusual and quirky machines located on an island in the middle of the Loire River. Amongst these machines, there is a giant elephant who likes to wander around the island with 50 people on his back or a giant carousel populated by intriguing creatures from the seven seas.
Nantes is well connected with the French capital by many fast trains (2 hrs 9 min). Also, it has direct train connections to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG).
For extended stays in Nantes, the best option is to rent a furnished apartment in one of Nantes’ central districts.
Article thanks from France Travel Bucketlist
Brussels, Belgium
The beautiful city of Brussels holds three titles: Capital of Europe, capital of Belgium and capital of the Flanders region in Belgium. Perhaps Belgium is not the first country that comes to mind when thinking of places to visit during your European family gap year but skipping it would be a downright shame. Brussels is one of the safest cities to travel to and the layout of the city combined with the small size make it easily accessible on foot for all ages. Even better news is that there is so much to see that you could easily spend a couple of weeks exploring Brussels.
The best time to visit Brussels is in the summer when your chances of full days of sunshine are the highest. Make sure to wander around the Grand Place and gaze upon the intricately adorned golden guild houses, try a beer at the Guild of Brewers on the square before going on the hunt for the little peeing man (Manneke Pis) and his female counterpart (Jeanneke-Pis). Next take the comic strip mural walk, a self-guided walk that takes you through the city in search of the best comic strip murals. If your feet get weary jump on the metro towards the Atomium – a remnant of the 1958 World Expo. Go all the way to the top for the best views over the city!
It does tend to rain a fair amount in Belgium, but even then there are plenty of fun activities to do like visiting interactive museums (The national history museum, the Magritte museum and the comic book museum). Alternatively you could spruce up your cooking skills and partake in a chocolate or waffle-making workshops. Plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy!
Have a blast! –Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer
Utrecht, Netherlands
Utrecht is located in the identically named province of Utrecht and the 4th largest city in the Netherlands. Utrecht is a great city to visit with kids because of its walk-able city center and the abundance of
kid-friendly museums.
There is a direct train from Schiphol Airport to Utrecht Central, the train ride only takes 30 minutes. Once in Utrecht, you can easily explore the city center on foot. When traveling a bit further afield you can either use the extensive bus system as well as the tram line.
If you are looking for family-friendly accommodation, opt for the family attic room at the Eye Hotel. Amenities include a changing table, a baby cot, and even a toddler toilet seat.
Some of the best things to do in Utrecht with kids are:
- Climb the Dom Tower: admire the view from the top of the iconic Dom Tower. If you intend to climb the Dom with young kids, note that you will have to park your stroller at the information center and carry
your kids up the 465 steps (so bring a baby carrier). - Ice skating at the Spoorwegmuseum: kids of 4 to 12 years old who are interested in trains will love the Spoorwegmuseum. Here they can learn lots of interesting facts about the history of train travel in the
Netherlands and admire several historic trains. - Visit the Miffy Museum: the Miffy Museum is a perfect place to visit with kids aged 2-6. Within the museum, kids can explore a zoo, a traffic area, Miffy’s home, and much more.
As a mom of two young kids and someone who has lived in Utrecht for eight years, I can say from personal experience: spend at least a week in Utrecht but if you can, stay a bit longer. It’s a beautiful city with historic buildings and due to its super central location, it’s an excellent place to base yourself when you want to explore other parts of the Netherlands as well.
Contribution thanks to Eschbach Consulting
Copenhagen, Denmark
One of the most exciting cities in Europe for a family gap year is the Danish capital, Copenhagen. It’s well-connected through Copenhagen International Airport and the country of Denmark has one of the most modern transportation networks in Europe.
Copenhagen is known as an expensive city, but short-term leases can make lodging budget-friendly. Using Facebook housing groups or searching Copenhagen Airbnb listings should offer tremendous options for short-term rental agreements in and around the city. Staying outside of the city center or in the nearby suburbs will be even cheaper and offer more space and even a yard for families.
Copenhagen is well-known for its plentiful playgrounds, harbor pools, and some of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Kids theatres, community centers, and city activity planners provide even more for families to do and see throughout the year. There’s also a large expat community in Copenhagen for connecting with other families and organizations like The International House that provide programming for foreigners in the city. Making friends with Danish locals can be challenging and some unique cultural differences can give a false impression that Danes are not friendly. This is not the case at all, but Danes take more time to get to know and they don’t enjoy superficial niceties.
Staying in Copenhagen for 10 months gives a family the opportunity to experience each distinct season in the city. It’s hard to pick the best time to visit Copenhagen, as there weather, daylight balance and range of activities evolves so quickly.
Thanks to Everything Copenhagen
Photo from Canva
Fitz 5 in Copenhagen:
Fitz 5 had Copenhagen as our winter base during our travel year. It was a great choice and we can’t wait to go back. To read more on our time in Copenhagen start here
Iberian Peninsula
The Iberian Peninsula area of Europe contains Spain, Portugal and Gibraltar. The area has a different and distinct style of architecture from the rest of Europe. Cities are very family friendly and can be more affordable than central Europe. Most cities are full of playgrounds and walk-able streets.
Andalusia Spain
The Andalusia area of Spain has multiple great options to make a base for a travel year. Seville, Cordoba, and Grenada are larger historical cities with a depth of activities. There are fabulous old walled cities with winding streets, amazing cathedrals and beautiful palaces.
Andalusia also has many smaller cities including the white villages or pueblo blancos. The most popular of these cities is Ronda with its famous new bridge. Many of these cities are very walk-able with playgrounds, local grocery stores and small town events.
Malaga and the beach areas are also good bases for a gap year travel. Malaga and the Andalusia area make such a great base that there is a worldschool group that has regular meet-ups and activities.
Monthly rentals in the area can be very affordable through AirBnb or VRBO. Our rental in Olvera was $700 for the month. A car may be needed to get around between cities but once you are in a city then you’ll be able to walk most places. This area of Spain is perfect for a month stay or even longer.
Learn more about Fitz 5’s month in Andalusia Spain here
Cadiz, Spain
Cadiz is a perfect family destination, with plenty of attractions that would please even the pickiest member. Cadiz is the oldest city in Europe, founded by Phoenicians sometimes around 3000 years ago. The old city of Cadiz has many remains of the ancient times, such as gates, walls and fortresses. Getting to Cadiz is very easy, with direct buses and trains from the main airports and cities in Andalucia. The closest airport is in Jerez de la Frontera.
Families with small children will love exploring Park Genoves. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this beautiful park is a great place to find shade, especially in summer when the temperatures are as high as 40 degrees. The park is decorated with topiaries and, on the lake, with dinosaur statues.
Cadiz, being an island, is surrounded by gorgeous, sandy, child friendly beaches, which have a lifeguard service in season. No matter if you choose to stay in the old town or in the new part of the city, there is a beach no further than 15 minutes walk away.
The locals love to go out with their families for tapas at the numerous bars and restaurants along the narrow streets of the old city. This is a perfect time for children to make friends, whilst the parents enjoy some good local food.
Being outside of the beaten path in the Southern Spain, the prices in Cadiz are so much cheaper than in Malaga for example, both for food and accommodation.
You can visit Cadiz for a weekend or for a week, you will never run out of things to do.
Contribution from the Andalusia in my Pocket
Porto, Portugal
Porto is a great city for the entire family. Not only is there plenty to see and do but the city is actually quite affordable which makes this a fantastic place for a family gap year even if you’re on a budget. Located in northern Portugal, Porto sits by the Douro River and only a short drive away from the coast. That means you’ll get to enjoy weekend trips to the beach and boat tours whenever you feel like it. Porto has a great public transport system so getting around will be easy even with kids. If you’re staying a bit further away from the city centre having a car might still be advisable though to make grocery shopping or school runs easier. There are plenty of apartments available to rent around the city for reasonable prices. If outdoor space is important to you you should look at renting somewhere in the outskirts or even close to the coast where you’ll find larger properties. Porto has a great expat community so making connections will bee a breeze. Due to the high standards of living many families come to Porto and then explore the rest of Portugal afterwards. Learning Portuguese is definitely recommended if you plan to stay in Porto for longer. While a large number of people speak English you’ll be able to communicate a lot better with at least basic knowledge of the language.
Thanks to Guide Your Travel
h2>Mediterranean
The beautiful Mediterranean areas of Europe areas of Europe make wonderful towns and cities for gap year travel. The atmosphere is laid back, beaches are generally very kid and family friendly and there is so much to do from great dining options to playground to just taking an evening walk. Many area can be more expensive but there are cheaper options as well.
Athens, Greece
Athens is a gorgeous European city and one of the best places to visit in Greece. The city is a cultural gem, full of superb history, beautiful scenery, delicious restaurants and plenty of attractions for all the family to enjoy. There are plenty of flights to Athens from various locations all over Europe and the rest of the world – the city’s main airport is pretty well connected and you can arrive in Athens on both a local and an international flight.
There’s plenty to do in Athens for families and you could technically stay in Athens for much longer than a year. Of course, the obvious choices are the vast amounts of historical monuments in the city. The Acropolis of Athens is a must-see when visiting the Greek capital, but there’s also the Acropolis Museum, the Panathenaic Stadium, the Changing of the Guard at the main square, and the city’s funky little red street train, which is a great family activity.
It’s relatively easy to meet other travellers in Athens, because of all the great tours and activities there.
You can go on tours and workshops that cater to families – bicycle tours of the city or food tasting tours are both great options. There are also plenty of great day trips from Athens to nearby historical wonders like Delphi and Meteora. Exploring neighbourhoods like Plaka is also a great thing to do on a family gap year because it’s such a beautiful and easy place to stroll around – it also has some great ice cream parlours, so perfect for treating the kids after a long day.
Recommended by Alice from Adventures of Alice
Korcula, Croatia
Korcula is a small, medieval era walled city lying on Korcula Island, the sixth largest island in Croatia. The city is commonly known as Korcula Town due to its old town which is often called ‘mini Dubrovnik.’ It is easy to access by a short 30-minute car ferry from Orebic or by foot passenger catamaran from Split or Dubrovnik.
Korcula offers visitors a taste of Croatian life away from the big cities and busy resorts of the mainland. Island life is slower and more relaxed but with useful tourist infrastructure. There is a reliable local bus network, taxis are cheap plus car hire is available. Visit the churches and cathedral of the old town, the Marco Polo museum or happily get lost in the maze of honey coloured car free lanes. Korcula Town gets busy in peak season with day trippers so a good accommodation base is Lumbarda, just 5 kilometres from Korcula Town. Lumbarda offers gap year families sandy beaches (a great place to meet local families after working hours), watersports, car free bike and walking trails and Grk vineyards to explore. The village meets every Friday night in summer for the Fisherman’s Market to buy and eat locally grown food and drink and to listen to local music. You could easily spend a few weeks relaxing and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters around Korcula Island. Our time in Korcula was our favourite part of our family’s backpacking trip around the Balkans and we would not hesitate to return.
Enjoy your stay, from Sinead from Map Made Memories
Montpellier, France
Montpellier, the perfect location for a family gap year. In the heart of southern France, this beautiful city, regularly overshadowed by its larger coastal neighbours Marseille and Nice, is a young and vibrant student hub.
The average age of Montpellier residents is between 15 and 29. Although the 8th largest city in France, Montpellier is one of the most popular for attracting a growing population of people from all across the globe.
Montpellier has the perfect mix of culture, city-life, nature, activities, beaches, shopping and more. From rock climbing and indoor skydiving at Odysseum to scenic walks around Lac du Cres and Park Meredic, you’re sure to find something in this city to adore.
It’s not touristy, but more of a student and ex-pats city. However, you get the odd tourist travelling there to see the stunning sights at Peyrou and the Montpellier Arc du Triomphe. Some tourists even choose to visit the city to admire the artistic graffiti. Finding somewhere to stay in Montpellier is easy; from family-friendly campsites on the beach to pet/house sitting or Airbnb-ing, there are many accommodation opportunities to explore.
Over the last few years, Montpellier has grown into a hub for Télétravail (French for distance-working), and consequently, there are now over 13 different co-working spaces in the city centre. They’re a fantastic option for families choosing to explore whilst online working.
Travelling to and around Montpellier couldn’t be easier. Not only is there a massive train station with regular routes throughout France, but there’s also an airport, European bus services, and the city even has its tram service (which is so convenient).
Our 11 months in Montpellier has by far been the best adventure of our time in France. A city that will always have a piece of my heart, the only difficulty we ever had with this city was saying goodbye to it.
Breanne from Family Camping Europe
Rome, Italy
The Eternal City of Rome has an incredible amount of activities to offer families, from a wide range of museums and galleries to green parks and playgrounds. It’s also very easy to get to from almost anywhere in the world; whether it’s via air to the Rome Fiumicino airport or via train to the Roma Termini station (from other Italian cities).
Some of the best places for families to visit include the Villa Borghese park, the Vatican Museums, and the Galleria Borghese. If you stay in the city center, you can easily reach all the best spots on foot. With that said, you can still get around quite easily with the Metro if you live a bit further away. In fact, the further you get from the historic center, the lower the accommodation and food prices get.
Meeting other families and kids in Rome is easy; simply head to Villa Borghese, Piazza Navona, or Parco degli Acquedotti and you’ll find plenty of local families around. While it’s possible to see most of the attractions in Rome in 3 days, consider spending a week or a month to fully relax and enjoy the experience. If you do plan to visit for 3 days, though, there are several great 3-day passes you can get that can give you free entrance to museums and historical attractions.
One thing to keep in mind is that traffic can be very busy in Rome, so it’s not advised to drive or take a bus in the city if you want to get somewhere quickly. Using the Metro or regional trains is generally a more reliable option.
“Growing up in Rome with my family was an unforgettable experience that we’ll always reminisce about.” – Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad
The Mountains
European mountain towns are post card perfect. These cities and towns have a lot to offer for a stay during a gap year. Ski, sip hot chocolate, enjoy the scenery or find ways to hand out with the locals. This area is a great addition to a family gap year.
Bern, Switzerland
The capital of Switzerland, Bern is a charming town with rich history and incredible architecture. Bern is famous for its fountains (there are over 500 of them) some of which take origin in the Swiss folklore.
While Bern is not as famous as other popular destinations in Switzerland such as Zurich, Lucerne or Zermatt, Bern is a perfect place for a day trip, due to its compact size and plethora of activities. It also offers a quick access to some of the most incredible mountains in Europe since its located near Bernese Oberland.
You can easily get to Bern by train, as trains are the best way to travel around Switzerland due to their quick speed. To explore the city, you can simply walk around, as it is very compact.
And although Bern is not a cheap place, you don’t have to spend money on accommodations. To do that, you can book a place away from the city center, so you don’t have to overpay for location. Booking in advance is also a good way to avoid high prices, especially if you travel in summer.
Families will find plenty of activities here: from the Bear Park to Rosengarten and Old City Bern, and even swimming in the Aare river in summer, this city offers plenty of exciting activities.
Contribution from The Discovery Nut
Graz, Austria
The Austrian city of Graz acts as a secret in plain sight. It’s one of the largest cities in the country, second only to Vienna, yet retains a walkable city centre and feeling of community. It has a great mix of medieval architecture and quaint cobbled lanes but then jazzes that up with design awards, stunning contemporary museums and the Murinsel, an art installation set in the centre of the river.
And it’s fantastic for families. Coffee shops and cafes abound with changing facilities and places to meet up. The children’s museum is designed entirely to stimulate young minds and the botanical gardens on the outskirts of the city make for a great place to return to time and again. There are so many unusual things to do in Graz.
Many people speak English, making it easier for international families to fit in and make friends. The only real snags are the central cobbled streets for pushchairs and the lack of direct flights back to the UK or US. While Graz has its own airport, flights often connect via Germany or Switzerland. Train connections are good and Vienna is only two and a half hours away.
Outside the city lies the beautiful Styrian countryside, home to Europe’s highest vineyards where local artisans create handmade deli platters with style.
While Graz works well as a two day city break, it’s a fantastic place for families to live for a month or two to get a better sense of life in Austria.
I loved my time in Graz with baby Lab when she was a toddler (and a bump on the trip before that) because of the wide range of child-friendly activities that weren’t all about soft play. Read more about unusual places around the world on Inside the Travel Lab.<
Les Gets, France
Without doubt one of the best places to base yourself for a Family Gap Year is the Portes du Soleil region in the French Alps. Numerous villages dot the area – including both purpose-built resorts and traditional farming villages – but one of the best places to stay has to be Les Gets.
Lets Gets and neighbouring Morzine are the perfect place to call home for a week, month or even longer. In fact, lots of families end up moving here permanently after a summer or winter stay. Both villages are just 1 – 1.5 hours from Geneva Airport, which make them popular with British families in particular. Although transfer buses run from the airport, you’ll want a car while you are in Les Gets to get around.
In winter months the slopes are busy with skiers and boarders while during summer in Les Gets you’ll find mountain bikers racing along downhill tracks. The village is home to 128km of marked trails, 13 downhill tracks, 1 Freeride track as well as a jump park and a kids’ zone.
Of course, you may choose to explore the mountains on two feet instead and Les Gets offers plenty of marked walking trails ranging from pushchair-friendly to serious hikes.
Other popular summer activities include the Lac des Ecoles, a swimming lake that has the excellent Wibit Water Park, a giant inflatable obstacle course. There are lifeguards at the lake, a marked area for little kids and even a waterslide.
Whether you choose to stay during winter or summer you’ll find an ever-growing international community. Local Facebook groups advertise accommodation to rent. These groups are also a good way to meet other families. If you’re looking to save money then you will want to find a chalet on the outskirts of town rather than in the centre.
We usually spend a month in Alps every summer and would love to move there permanently one day! – Katja, globetotting
Eastern Europe
Eastern Europe can offer many of the same experiences as Central Europe in a less touristy way and for less money. Many Eastern European cities have very well preserved city centers with historical areas to explore. Eastern Europe makes a great choice for longer stays.
Brasov, Romania
When you think of the perfect European city for a family gapyear, your mind might immediately jump to a western European city like Paris or Barcelona. While those are nice, families looking to get off the beaten path should consider a city in the less-popular Eastern Europe, such as Brasov in Romania.
Brasov is a city in Transylvania, a region known for its mysterious castles, beautiful landscapes, gorgeous alpine peaks and rich history. As one of the seven historic Saxon walled citadels, Brasov is a place that is rich in culture. Stroll around the historic center and you will see many of the best attractions in Brasov, such as the Black Church and White Tower.
In the summer months, Brasov is lively and you will see numerous tourists wandering down the charming streets and lounging in outdoor cafes. In spring or autumn, the weather is mild and families can take advantage of this to explore some of the best hiking trails around Romania. The autumn foliage in Romania is truly magical. During the winter months, enjoy some family time in the nearby ski town Poiana Brasov.
If you plan on staying for a long time (which you should), then you must stay in the historic center. The walkable historic center is filled with international amenities and English-speaking residents. It is not going to be difficult if you want to meet other families or kids here.
A car is not a necessity in Brasov. However, if you wish to explore more of Romania, consider renting a car for weekend trips. Car rental is very affordable in Romania.
Contribution thanks to Living Out Lau.
Budapest, Hungary
If you want to base yourself in a larger city for part of your family gap year, Budapest is a wonderful choice. With beautiful architecture, lots of green spaces and castles across the river, just walking through streets can feel like an adventure.
Budapest is on regular train routes from other European cities and has an international airport, so it’s very accessible. The city centre itself is walkable with a good metro system. It’s also a relatively affordable city and it’s possible to rent an apartment in the city centre on a budget. Budapest also has a range of good activities for families, including both indoor and outdoor thermal baths and pools, castles and museums to explore and lots of parks. Margaret Island in middle of the Danube is a favourite. The island is essentially a huge park, with historical ruins, a swimming pool, an outdoor theater, a petting zoo and Japanese garden, among other activities.
There is also a huge range of food in Budapest, with good, affordable restaurants serving everything from Hungarian dishes to Asian food and pizza. The lemonade in Budapest is especially good and the local markets are great places for the family to explore. There is enough to keep you busy in Budapest for a long time, so if you enjoy slow travel, consider basing yourself here for a month to truly experience life in this beautiful city. We especially enjoyed Budapest because we found the city really accessible and people approachable – everyday transactions were easy and we always felt welcome there.
Contribution from Far Away Worlds
Krakow, Poland
Krakow is a wonderful city to stay in and explore especially for families on a gap year.
The city is easy to get around with public transport being reliable and easy to use. Locals are more than happy to help if you get a little stuck as well. You can find a great hotel to stay in Krakow or you can find a central Air Bnb so your family can spread out. Many of the hostels, hostels and Air BnB’s are really visitor-friendly and you can end up paying less if you stay longer. There is plenty of playground for families with younger children to play in and there are so many activities for families travelling with older kids.
As Poland still has its own currency, The Zloty, you will find that the cost of living there is significantly less than in some other European cities. Supermarkets like Biedronka and Lidl will have plenty of the things you need as well as small local shops. Local butchers and fruit shops will have some great bargains too especially if you are taking a day trip from Krakow into rural Poland. If you want a good cheap meal you can find a ‘milk bar’ which is a restaurant that is leftover from Soviet times. Women would make dishes there to help the poor who could not afford food with whatever was in season or readily available. Now many people eat there for a good, traditional and hearty Polish meal.
Once you are out of the city you will find things are cheaper but if you are driving the roads can be pretty rough in sections. Google maps may give you the estimated time but with the road conditions you may end up needing much longer than you expect.
Krakow is a gorgeous city in any season but it is in winter and around Christmas time that it really comes alive. Many of the town squares are decorated with lights and most will have a small Christmas market where you can get food and some hot mulled wine to warm up. Kids activities are there as well with skating and carol singing to name a few.
Poland is one of our favorite destinations and we chose to spend some time in Krakow on our family gap year as the location was great, the cost was low and we had easy access to getting out of the cities in Poland to see more of the country.
Recommended by Mark from Poland Travel Expert
Photo from Canva
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, Ljyubljana is a city filled with culture, beauty and vibrance. The city market is the perfect place to get fresh fruits, berries, vegetables and the incredibly delicious porcini mushrooms hand picked from the local forest for dirt cheap. Rent a bike and ride around the historic town or take a stroll along the stunning riverfront. Walk up the steps to the historic castle that has sweeping views of the city and the surrounding area. In the evenings, people of all ages gather by the river to enjoy scenic views and conversations amongst friends. It is very easy to meet people and make friends as the locals are very welcoming and open. This city truly has something to do for families with children of all ages.
The city is served by various bus companies and is easily accessible by car. While in Europe, Ljyubljana is one of the cheapest cities on the continent with a 3-room apartment starting at 650 euros/month. The area has many opportunities for day and weekend trips with gorgeous mountains and national parks perfect for hiking. You can spend months in this city and not get bored. There is a reason why Ljyubljana has been voted one of Europe’s greenest and most livable cities. Did we mention that it is super clean?
Lina – BucketListPlaces.com
Prague, Czech Republic
The fascinating city of Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, located in Central Europe. Prague is a very family-friendly city, safe in terms of criminality, welcoming and friendly locals, offering affordable living costs and an abundance of activities that excite both kids and adults. Kids will be enchanted by the fairytale-like Prague Castle, the wide-open green spaces and well-equipped playgrounds, the world-class kids-friendly museums, the shop-window marionettes, and wooden toys and the candy-colored Baroque buildings. Among the top attractions for kids is the Prague Zoo, the National Theater, a boat tour in Prague’s canals, the Lego amusement park Czech Repubrick, the Kampa Island, and the Petrin Park in Vitezna.
Prague is a number one destination for short European breaks, however, it is also a popular destination for digital nomads and students taking a gap year, as there is an abundance of things to be discovered in this political, economic and cultural center.
Families seeking to relocate for a month or more in Prague should consider looking for accommodation in the neighborhoods of Vinohrady or Karlín, which although are located in the heart of the city, the first is popular amongst expats and the second is a trendy residential area, ideal for families, wishing to escape the hassle of the center. Public transportation in Prague is safe, cheap, easy to comprehend and clean. It would be wise for families who are relocating to Prague to learn the basics of the Czech language.
Thanks Passion for Hospitality for the article.
Wroclaw, Poland
Wroclaw is a 1000 years old UNSECO protected city in southwestern Poland. The main attraction is the old town with a market square and town hall and Swindicka – the oldest inn in Europe. Here you can enjoy street performers, fairs or festivals. With many rivers has lots of bridges and island. Firs settled was Ostrow Tumski with Cathedral and other religious buildings. Next to it is the Botanical garden where you can relax. Also, Centinell hall is a great architectural monument andvenue of many concerts and sporting events. The Wrocław Zoo and Afrykarium and modern multimedia Hydropolis Museum should be interesting for kids. While walking around the city you can search for small Gnomes, 400 bronze statues in the streets. While it is a University city it has a youthful vibe. People are kind and the majority speak English, older people can be a problem. Here costs are lower than in neighboring countries. It is perfectly located and can serve as a starting point to explore with car Poland (4 hours to Warsaw), Germany (4 hours to Berlin), Czach Republic (4 hours to Pague). 2 weeks is enough to get a feel of this town. But if you use it for exploration of surrounding more expensive countries I would suggest staying for a month or more. Picking accommodation depends on the length of your stay, 1 week in a hotel, up to 1-month Airbnb, more than month rent directly from owners.
Article by Dr. Jam Travels
United Kingdom and Ireland
The UK and Ireland are very popular for gap years. There are several reasons it’s such a popular area. One, the language is the same and is most of the time easy to understand if traveling from the States. Two – it’s not considered part of the Schengen Zone. If you are coming near your 90 day tourist limit in mainland Europe then you can jump over to the UK for up to 90 days and even spend time in Ireland up to 90 days. Three – it’s really pretty and full of culture.
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast has not been the most desirable destinations in the past, but, since the millennium, the city has gone from strength to strength as a youthful and exciting destination with plenty for all ages. It is also ranked as the 3rd cheapest city (of 69) in the U.K. when it comes to hospitality, transport and travel and boasts a unique cultural backdrop with its Irish connections. It is also fairly close-knit with all tourist attractions in Belfast city centre within easy walking distance of each other and cheap and efficient public transport connects the outer areas to the centre. Some of the better areas to stay, albeit slightly studenty nearer the centre, are the Lisburn and Ormeau Road areas. Or for more scenic and family-friendly areas just follow down the train lines along the Gold Coast towards Bangor. The city centre is otherwise a great destination for families and kids with central parks at Belfast City Hall and Belfast Botanical Gardens as well as free museums with the Belfast Museum and the old shipyards where the Titanic was built (Titanic Quarter). Despite being a somewhat small and sleepy city, where tourist attractions can easily be covered in a week, there are otherwise lots of cafes, restaurants, and just great local life with traditional bars and pubs strung through the centre. So it is easy to get immersed for a month or more. The Belfast City Airport is also just a handful of stops on the train line which has cheap car rental for exploring the scenic reaches of Northern Ireland.
Contribution by It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor
Bristol, England
Bristol is a wonderful city to spend time in as a family, a real southwest gem and perfect for exploring the region from. There are so many things to do in Bristol with kids from the amazing interactive science museum, We the Curious to the city aquarium. On the outskirts of Bristol the Wild Place takes animal conservation to a new level and within the centre the M Shed gives everyone a unique overview of the city and its residents through the years. The city is packed full of great playgrounds so there are plenty of opportunities to blow off steam too and these can be a great place to meet other families. It’s easy to get to with its own international airport and train stations with direct links to London. There are lots of places to stay really centrally and the Radisson Blu is a really well priced choice with a fantastic breakfast to set you all up for a day exploring.
We lived in Bristol for a number of years and it still ranks as my favorite city around the world. It’s friendly and welcoming and there’s so much fun to be had here that I would urge everyone who has an opportunity to visit to do so.
Contribution from Globalmouse Travels
Friendly faces, rich history, and walkable cobblestone streets greet visitors to Dublin with open arms. It’s not as overwhelming as bigger cities like London or Berlin making it ideal for a family gap year in Europe. There are plenty of things to do in Ireland that will interest all members of the family!
Dublin airport is located only 10 km from the city center, making it easy to get to the city. While the city of Dublin is very walkable, renting a car to explore the rest of Ireland would provide flexibility and freedom. For city-loving families, O’Connell Street neighborhood is in the heart of the city on the River Liffey. Families who prefer the suburbs can stay in Howth, the picturesque seaside town just outside Dublin.
Start your time in Ireland with an extended stay, a few weeks, in Dublin before venturing to the countryside. Dublin is home to plenty of parks to play in, museums like The Little Museum of Dublin, and even Dublin Castle to explore. Wonder in magic together at the Leprechaun Museum. For families with older kids, there are plenty of restaurants with live music to enjoy seven days a week!
The friendliness of the locals mixed with a variety of things to do makes Dublin a wonderful city for a family gap year! .
Thanks From The Directionally Challenged Traveler
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in Scotland. With its postcard perfect buildings and breathtaking panoramic views, this capital city of Scotland has captured the attention of many travellers and have inspired many artists for decades.
Edinburgh is a compact city, but it is packed with plethora of things to do and experience. One of the best thing about Edinburgh is how there’s variety to its attractions making it ideal for all age of travellers.
Punctuated with plenty of open green space, free attractions, museums and intriguing historical sites, Edinburgh is an ideal choice for family travellers. Not to forget the excellent public transport network that connects you to all the tourist attractions effortlessly.
Some of the top most attractions for family travellers are Camera Obscura, Dynamic Earth and Edinburgh Castle. You can also visit the museums and open parks which are free. Holyrood park is one of the biggest open space, where you can hike up the Arthur’s seat or Salisbury Crags and find stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh. If you want to experience the festivals in Edinburgh, July and August are the best months. Although you must note that these are the most busiest months and are usually flooded with tourists.
Edinburgh can be seen as a weekend holiday destination or you can stay here for a month, and never get bored. There are also myriad places to visit around Edinburgh and further away that makes for perfect day trips and weekend getaways. Public transport is very good, and for a £4.50 adult day ticket, you can do unlimited train and tram rides within the city. Children under age 5 go free on the buses. The city is very safe and child friendly in general.
Contributed by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple
Killarney, Ireland
Killarney Ireland and the surrounding towns are great areas to make a base for a stop during a family gap year. The city of Killarney is a vibrate and walk-able city full of Irish charm. Family friendly activities include exploring castles and abby ruins, driving the very scenic Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula, visiting pubs, shopping for local clothing or just enjoying the atmosphere. The scenery is amazing.
Renting a car is the easiest way to travel around this area but there is train from Dublin and there are some local transportation options if you stay in town.
Small hotels are popular in Killarney. There are also several popular bed and breakfast options. For longer stays a rental through AirBnb or VRBO would be better. Look in to nearby towns like Killorglin.
We stayed outside of Killorglin for 3 weeks and Ballyhack on Ireland’s Ancient East Coast for 3 weeks. It was a wonderful stay and we can’t wait to go back – Fitz 5 on the go
Wales, UK
When people think of a holiday in the UK many do not consider Wales and there are so many wonderful things to do in Wales.
For some families, it will be the perfect location. From Towyn you can easily travel back to England for day trips to see friends or some of the sites that are close to the Welsh border. Going on day trips from Towyn you could see some of the most beautiful countryside that Wales has to offer.
As Towyn is a seaside town there are carnivals for the kids to enjoy, walks along the beach and plenty of fabulous day trips to be had. Having a car, you are able to venture out to see the Mount Snowdon Rail Way, The Great Orme, Llandudno, so many castles, some National Trust sites and you can even go glamping at the Llechwedd Slate mines. For us, it had everything that we needed but the internet was not that great. In hindsight, this was actually great as it can give you some time to just stop and chill.
Your budget can be helped here if you are able to hire a caravan from one of the local parks. Many are hired out to people when the owners are not using them and you can find that they are quite cheap in the cooler months. The caravans are large and in some cases have up to 3 bedrooms in them. This will give families room to spread out. The park facilities also allow kids to have some outside space as well, They can walk around the park and have a play in the playground some times. Many caravan parks are within walking distance to some shops for basic items and a short drive to Tesco and Asda. You can save money here by cooking at home and taking leftovers out for the day when you do day trips.
Towyn is an amazing place for families to stay during a gap year but some may not need as long as we did. Due to us having friends in the area it was the perfect place for us to stay.
We spent 5 weeks in a caravan in a small seaside town called Towyn on our family gap year in 2019. It was one of our favourite places as it was so relaxing and quiet. The people were wonderful to us and we got to see so much while we were there.
Thanks to Wyld Family Travel
York, England
A small cathedral city in the North of England, York is charming and full of history. The city is also very well located for exploring the north of England and southern Scotland. York has both a Roman and Viking heritage as well as winding medieval streets from a later era. York was an important administrative center for the area because London was so far south. The city walls for York are extensive. Traitors’ heads decapitated at the Tower of London were hung on the York walls so that everyone in North of England knew not to test the king’s power even though he was not immediately present.
There are plenty of family things to do in York and its vicinity. Families can enjoy spending time outdoors and even learning without technically being in school. From York, it is easy to visit such important English heritage destinations like Hadrian’s Wall or British national parks like the Yorkshire Dales and the Yorkshire moors. York itself is home to the famous Jorvik Viking Festival held every February celebrating the city’s viking past over a week of fun activities and events.
York is a major city and has good transportation links to everywhere in the UK. For example there are 50+ direct trains from London to York every day. Yet, York is a much cheaper city than London. Renting a house in York would be the best option for a family. Hotels in the city center tend to be small because historic buildings were not very big. As home to the well-regarded University of York, the city has a young, vibrant feel in addition to its historic setting. Local Yorkshire people are known for being friendly and down to earth.
Thanks to Epic England Travel
Europe is a great choice to spend significant time during a family gap year. The weather is enjoyable, cities are very family friendly and generally walk-able and easy to explorer, there is so much to learn about the history and culture and it’s just so beautiful. Regardless if you spend a few days in each of these wonderful cities or even a few years. You and your family will love Europe.
Are you looking for more gap year travel and family planning advice then click here.
We’re a family of 5 (Physician Assistant mom, IT project manager dad and 3 kids ages 3,6,10) taking a gap year from normal life to travel. For blog posts, locations, and more information on how we did it and how you can to click here.
