Taking the grandchildren on holiday is a fantastic opportunity to bond and bridge that generational gap

You can introduce them to new experiences, and create lasting memories that mean the world as they get older. The key to a successful grandparent holiday with your grandchildren lies in choosing the right destination; somewhere accessible, enjoyable, and ideally educational.

Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect spot for a family adventure.

1. Choose the right destination

Finding the perfect spot for family holidays depends on what suits your grandkids’ interests, energy levels and age group. Younger children may need destinations that offer shorter travel times and gentler activities, while teens want to be thrilled with culturally immersive or hands-on experiences.

Accessibility and budget are also primary concerns. Research family-friendly amenities with kid-friendly accommodations, transfer services and medical facilities. This just streamlines the entire holiday and covers every base in the case of emergencies.

2. Family-friendly destinations

Beach resorts, city getaways, countryside ambling – there are so many great family-friendly locations that support your vision for an ideal getaway.

Portugal’s Algarve has gentle beaches that offer a laid-back atmosphere. Here, children can play in the sea while grandparents relax on the sand.

The Costa del Sol in Spain blends beach life and family-friendly attractions like waterparks and animal safaris that keep everyone entertained.

At Disneyland Paris, magic awaits children of all ages. Fun and excitement await around every corner with its rollercoasters, themed restaurants and character interactions.

3. Adventure holidays

More active grandparents can kick things up a notch with high-energy adventure trips. Iceland offers exhilarating pursuits with whale-watching tours, volcano visits and glacier hikes.

Closer to home, the Lake District in the UK is a haven for hiking, paddleboarding and camping, all set in some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery.

For those keen on water sports, Croatia’s Adriatic coast has everything from snorkelling to sea kayaking in a setting filled with mini-islands and crystal-clear waters.

4. Educational holidays

Combining fun with learning is best suited for curious grandchildren eager to know more about the world. A trip to Rome, for instance, offers an enriching experience of historical landmarks, from the Colosseum to the Vatican.

Animal lovers will adore visiting Europe’s renowned zoos or wildlife sanctuaries such as Triglav National Park and Edinburgh Zoo.

Many cities also offer “child-friendly” museum tours or interactive exhibits that bring history, science, and art to life in ways that engage children and adults alike.

Tips for planning a successful grandparent-grandchild holiday

• Involve your grandchildren in the planning process to enhance their excitement
• Don’t overlook practicalities like travel insurance, especially if you’re venturing into nature
• Family travel experts recommend booking tickets to popular attractions in advance to secure discounts and avoid long queues