How Can You Plan an 11-Day Family Trip to Europe Without Catering to the Kids?

This family adventure across Europe highlights how exploring historical cities and cultural landmarks can capture the excitement of children, even in the absence of traditional attractions like beaches and theme parks. By engaging their interests through interactive experiences, the trip became a memorable journey for all.

Last updated: 21 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from Our European Adventure

• Interactive experiences can engage children in history and culture.
• Every city offered unique activities that appealed to our children's interests.
• Well-chosen accommodations enhanced the experience with amenities for kids.
• Traveling by train kept the journey exciting and manageable.
• Trusting kids to engage with adult activities can lead to surprising results.

Day One: Arriving in Amsterdam

Our European journey began in Amsterdam, a city that effortlessly blends history with modernity. We stayed at the Conservatorium Hotel, renowned for its chic design and family-friendly amenities, including a morning indoor pool session that quickly became a favourite for our twins.

Exploring the Canals

Amsterdam's iconic canals became our playground. Renting a paddle boat allowed the twins to take the helm, navigating through bustling waterways while avoiding larger tour boats. This hands-on activity not only provided fun but also a unique perspective of the city.

A Taste of Dutch Culture

We ventured to Zaanse Schans, a nearby village famed for its historic windmills. The twins eagerly climbed inside these wooden giants, fascinated by the mechanics that powered their sails. The trip concluded with a surprise for their 11th birthday; the hotel arranged a delightful celebration with cakes and balloons, followed by an Indonesian rice table dinner, showcasing the vibrant culinary diversity of Amsterdam.

Reflecting on History: The Anne Frank House

One of the most poignant moments of our trip was our visit to the Anne Frank House. Admittedly, I was uncertain how my children would react to such a heavy historical site. However, they engaged thoughtfully with the exhibits, asking questions and reflecting on the significance of Anne Frank's story. This experience underscored the potential of travel to impart valuable lessons.

From Amsterdam to Bruges: A Medieval Journey

Our next destination was Bruges, a city reminiscent of a fairytale, where we checked into the Relais & Châteaux Hotel Heritage, a charming mansion converted into a hotel. I had initially worried that Bruges' medieval atmosphere might not resonate with the kids, but it became one of the highlights of our trip.

Immersive Experiences at the Historium

The Historium Bruges offered an engaging way to delve into the city's past. The immersive exhibits and virtual reality tour transported us back to Bruges' heyday as a major trading port. The kids adored climbing the Belfry Tower, counting each step as they ascended to breathtaking views of the city.

Chocolate-Making Bliss

No visit to Bruges would be complete without indulging in its famous chocolate. We participated in a chocolate-making class, which was both hands-on and delicious. By the end, we were so full that we swore off sweets, though the allure of Bruges' confectionery was hard to resist.

Short but Sweet: Luxembourg

Our time in Luxembourg was brief but impactful. We settled into the Place d'Armes, a boutique hotel located right in the heart of the old town, making it easy to explore on foot. Our highlight was the Casemates du Bock, an extensive network of underground fortifications that felt like a real-life maze. The kids loved navigating the tunnels, and we emerged above ground to stunning views of the city.

Wrapping Up in London

Our final stop was London, where we checked into a spacious family suite at The Stafford London. While we had all been here before, the city still offered surprises. We attended a performance of Matilda in the West End, the children's first major theatre experience, which they absolutely adored.

Themed Treats and London Classics

We indulged in an afternoon tea themed around Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at One Aldwych, complete with whimsical desserts. This experience proved that we had not exhausted our love for chocolate after Belgium! In addition to these themed delights, we visited classic attractions such as the Tower of London and enjoyed leisurely walks through Hyde Park.

Conclusions: A Successful Family Trip

Reflecting on our ambitious itinerary, I believe our success lay in the fact that we did not overly tailor the trip to be 'kid-friendly.' Instead, we crafted an itinerary that piqued our interests as adults—history, culture, and gastronomy. We trusted our kids to engage with the experience, and they exceeded our expectations.

Each destination offered unique experiences that captivated them: paddling through canals, climbing towers, crafting chocolates, and exploring ancient tunnels. The novelty of train rides added an element of excitement, and the absence of sweltering summer heat allowed us to maintain our energy throughout the trip.

In the end, this journey across Europe demonstrated that enriching cultural experiences can be just as thrilling for children as traditional holiday attractions. What adventures await your family in the world beyond the beach? #FamilyTravel #CulturalExploration #EuropeanAdventure

FAQs

What cities did you visit on your trip?

We visited Amsterdam, Bruges, Luxembourg, and London, each offering unique experiences and attractions that appealed to our family.

How did the kids enjoy the historical sites?

The kids were surprisingly engaged with the historical sites, participating in hands-on activities and asking questions that demonstrated their interest in the stories behind each location.

What was the highlight of the trip for the children?

Highlights included climbing the Belfry Tower in Bruges, participating in a chocolate-making class, and enjoying their first West End show in London.

How did you choose accommodations for your trip?

We selected accommodations based on their family-friendly amenities, central locations, and unique character to enhance our overall experience.

What tips do you have for travelling with children?

Engage children with interactive experiences, maintain a flexible itinerary, and choose locations that offer a variety of activities to keep them interested and entertained.