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December 6, 2022

Luxury Family Vacations to European Islands

For jet-setting families thinking of going to Europe to unwind and relax, there are numerous family-friendly islands you can visit. Some islands can be found a few metres from the shore, giving you direct access to the beach, while others are home to charming towns and villages, offering a wealth of attractions to explore. But for families looking to indulge in some luxury, here are the perfect European islands for your family vacation.

Crete, Greece

Offering numerous fun things to do with the family, Crete is one of the most family-friendly islands in Greece. It has a rich culture, gorgeous beaches, incredible scenery, and outdoor activities for adults and kids. Families who are into culture and history will also find Crete a fantastic place to visit, as it has fascinating ancient ruins.

Chania, the island’s capital city, is an ideal base for your holiday in Crete. It’s fun to stroll around, especially in the harbour area, where you’ll find several restaurants and cosy cafes. Crete is home to some amusement parks, which is why it’s an ideal place to have fun with the kids. Your little ones will have a blast exploring the Amazonas Park, Dinosauria Park, and Watercity Waterpark.

The beaches of Crete are some of the most popular in Greece. For families who prefer to spend the day hanging out at the beach, check out Chrissi Akti Beach, which has soft white sands where your little ones can play around. Crete is also home to some high-end villas and resorts with direct access to the beach and comes with family-friendly amenities, perfect for your luxury family vacation.

Ibiza, Spain

With its gorgeous landscapes and Bohemian vibe, Ibiza can be a fun place to visit with the family. In fact, despite its reputation as a party island, it has renewed itself in the past few years and attracts jet-setting families looking to enjoy ultimate relaxation. When holidaying in Ibiza with the family, consider staying in the quietest areas, such as Santa Eulalia, which lies on the island’s eastern coast. It is also home to loads of Ibiza luxury villas, many of which cater to families with kids.

Ibiza has over 200 km of coastline dotted with gorgeous beaches, where you can spend the entire day with the kids. Cala Llonga is a family favourite. With its vast beach of white sand, you will have plenty of space to run around with your little ones. Cala Gracio, which lies on the tranquil part of the island, is another lovely beach suitable for families looking to escape the crowds.

If you fancy a relaxing escape to the nearby island of Formentera, consider hiring a luxury yacht. The island is another jewel of the Balearics, which you can only access by sea. On your way, stop at some hidden beaches and coves where you can enjoy water sports, such as kayaking and snorkelling.

Hvar, Croatia

For family vacations to Croatia, the sophisticated island of Hvar often tops the list. It’s a gorgeous island that has become a favourite of celebrities and those looking for luxurious experiences on their holiday. While many would come here to party, you will find numerous attractions and activities geared towards families.

One of Hvar’s biggest draws is its charming port town. Stroll around the square, where you will find a beautifully preserved cathedral, monasteries, museums, fortresses, and other historical sites. After a day of strolling around, treat the family to a fancy seafood dinner at one of Hvar’s top restaurants.

Hvar also has its share of great beaches. For somewhere less crowded, head to the picturesque seaside village of Jelsa. It is home to Bay Mina, a spectacular beach with soft powdery white sands, making it very popular among families, especially those with little kids who love to play in the sand. After a day at the beach, stroll through the picturesque port of Jelsa and check out the small alleyways lined with restaurants and cafes.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini may not be the first island that comes to mind when going for a family holiday to Greece. However, there are some excellent travel guides for Greece that help families pick the best island for their trip to Santorini. The island offers numerous things for families, especially those who love adventures. It offers many fun activities geared towards adults and kids.

The best way to get around Santorini with the family is to rent a car, allowing you to drive to its beautiful villages and even visit secluded beaches. Booking a luxury cruise to the Caldera is also recommended for families. It’s a fun way to discover the island’s craters, gorgeous cliffs, and hot springs. These cruises can also take you to nearby islands if you want to go island hopping with the family.

For fun days at the beach, visit Monolithos, one of the most family-friendly beaches on the island. It’s clean and has facilities like umbrellas, beach chairs, and showers. Being a volcanic island, the beaches of Santorini have black sands, which makes for a unique experience.

Tenerife, Spain

Tenerife is one of Spain’s most family-friendly destinations for many reasons. The island boasts balmy weather, several miles of beautiful beaches with soft white sands, and loads of outdoor activities geared towards active families.

Families who are fond of nature and adventures will love exploring Teide National Park, home to the highest mountain of pain. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular spot for hiking, with many trails taking you through incredible landscapes of unique lava formations and volcanic craters. Another fun place to visit for adventurous families is Loro Park, which has a massive collection of parrots.

Of course, your family holiday to Tenerife won’t be complete without visiting the beach. Check out Playa Las Teresitas, a tranquil beach with seafood restaurants and cafes. Other beaches you should visit are Playa de Los Cristianos and El Medano, which offer tons of water sports, including windsurfing and kite surfing.

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