Quick Tips for Your Europe Family Vacation
Want to see the world on a family cruise? Is Europe calling your name? Whether you want to explore castles and fjords in Northern Europe, or build castles of your own on Mediterranean beaches, there’s a lot to enjoy on a Europe cruise. Here are some cruise tips to help you make the most of a Europe family vacation:
Choose a destination that excites the whole family.
Europe has a lot to offer from incredible museums and historic landmarks to breathtaking landscapes and charming coastal towns. What kind of Europe family vacation excites your crew the most? Do you want to tour castles in the British Isles, travel the path of the Vikings in Norway, or play in the sand on sun-kissed beaches in Portugal, Greece and Italy? Also consider anticipated weather conditions for the destinations based on when you want to travel.
Connect with a Personal Cruise Consultant at Holland America Line.
As members of the team, Personal Cruise Consultants have unique expertise on the Holland America Line experience and in-depth knowledge about destinations around the world. They’re here to help you plan every detail of your family cruise at no extra cost to you, as this is a complimentary service for guests.
Explore medieval castles on a British Isles cruise, like Dover Castle in England.
Make the most of special offers.
Explore available cruise deals to help you make a great vacation even greater, including our Have It All Premium Package.
Book shore excursions early.
Spots can fill up quickly for shore excursions, so it’s important to book early. Traveling to Norway with little ones? Consider Alesund Highlights & Atlantic Ocean Park, which features the largest aquarium in Scandinavia. Going to Greece? Enjoy a day at the beach in Athens with a Yabanaki Beach Break. Consider the many different shore excursions you could go on in Europe, consulting with a Personal Cruise Consultant about the best ones for families.
Pack according to the weather and activities.
If traveling in cooler temperatures, ensure everyone has warm clothing to keep them comfortable. Planning to soak up the sun? Don’t forget the sunscreen. If hiking is part of the plan, or if you’re climbing steep steps like those of the Acropolis in Athens, comfortable shoes are key.
Cruise the Mediterranean and embark on adventures in breathtaking locations like the Amalfi Coast.
Dive deep into destinations.
Don’t just revel at breathtaking sights – experience them by going deeper into destinations and immersing yourself in the culture. Explore more than 100 World Heritage sites across all of our Europe itineraries – sites that represent the best of human heritage and the natural world. Use this as an opportunity for teaching moments, taking a guided tour in ancient cities to learn about their history and influence on civilizations around the globe. Venture out on the best hiking trails through the fjords. Explore cities full of art, music and dancing.
Give kids fun roles to play.
Though you may have dreamt of visiting the Louvre in Paris, or the Vatican Museums near Rome, your youngest travelers may not share the same excitement. How do you keep kids engaged in activities at some of the most sought-after landmarks in Europe? Try giving them a fun role to play, from reading museum maps to being the photographer for the day, using easy-to-operate disposable cameras.
Enjoy onboard family fun.
There’s a lot to enjoy on board with Holland America Line. Soak up the sun poolside. Bring the family along for pickleball lessons. Enjoy shows on the World Stage. Plus, there’s the Kids Club for those 3-17 years of age. Activities include arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts and more. Note: Though Kids Club is not offered on cruises 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages, a selection of children’s activities will be offered throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be on board.
Take breaks.
Europe is a big adventure for anyone, and any adventure can be a lot for little attention spans. Consider booking a stateroom or suite with a verandah so you can take in the views and have all your comforts right there, including treasured stuffed animals. If anyone gets antsy, switch it up and have a bite at the kid-approved Dive-In or a sweet treat at the Lido Market. And if you’re looking for some “me time,” check out the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® while the kids have fun at the Kids Club.
Explore more Europe travel tips as you prepare for your great adventure. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
