The Best Family Road Trips That Will Make Your Kids Beg for More!

These routes are so fun that your kids will never want to go home!

There’s nothing like the joy of traveling together with your loved one. Every family road trip creates new memories and bonds between family members, especially when traveling with the kids.

The family road trip gives you an opportunity to teach your children how to deal with a lot of new things and experience the whole sector of emotions from the questions “Are we there yet?” every 10 minutes to “I want to eat, pee, sleep, play… add yours” during road trip.

Keeping kids entertained on a long-distance trip can be a huge challenge. That’s why choosing the right route is key to a successful family road trip.

That’s why, exactly for you, we’ve created a list of seven of the most exciting and kid-friendly road trips in the world that will leave your little ones begging for more.

From exploring magical castles in Germany to discovering the natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies, these routes are packed with fun, adventure, and unforgettable experiences for the whole family.

What Make Any Family Road Trip Kids-friendly?

Before we explore the Top 7 family road trips, let’s first think about what makes any road trip comfortable and suitable for your children.

Planning the perfect family road trip is more than just picking a pretty route. It’s about making sure the whole family, especially the kids, have a good time and a memorable experience. Here’s what makes a family road trip truly kid-friendly.

Fun Destinations and Activities

A kid-friendly road trip is all about the destinations and activities that will keep your kids busy and engaged. Look for family road trip routes that go through or end at places with lots of things to do for kids.

It can be waterfalls and hiking tracks of a national park like Yosemite or a sunny day at the beach along California’s Pacific Coast Highway. Make sure to include stops with plenty of outdoor activities.

In Europe, for example, an epic family road trip through the Scottish Highlands might include ancient ruins and pretty landscapes. In contrast, the Garden Route in South Africa might involve animal encounters at a wildlife reserve.

Letting the kids help plan the trip by choosing a few stops or activities will keep them excited and engaged throughout the journey.

Scenic Routes with Frequent Stops

Kids need to get out of the car to stretch their legs, explore and burn off energy more often than adult person. So scenic routes with frequent stops are a key part of a kid-friendly family road trip.

Whether you’re driving through the countryside of Central Italy or the roads of the South Island in New Zealand, plan your road trip route to include regular stops at charming towns, seaside villages, or stunning natural landmarks.

A road trip along Northern Ireland’s North Coast, for example, has plenty of opportunities to stop at sea grottoes, ancient castles, and charming villages. These stops give you a break from driving and allow your family to visit interesting places and create lasting memories.

Fun and Educational Experiences

Combining fun with education is a great way to make road trips more enriching for kids. For example, the Junior Ranger programs in U.S. national parks like Monument Valley allow kids to learn about nature and conservation in an interactive way.

In European road trips, visiting historical sites like the antique ruins of Northern France or taking a train ride through the Swiss countryside can be fun and educational.

These experiences will keep the kids entertained and offer learning opportunities.

Kid-Friendly Accommodation and Amenities

Comfort is your friend when road-tripping with kids. Choose accommodation that is family-friendly with amenities like:

• Swimming pools,
• Playgrounds
• Big rooms

Self-catering options in small towns or seaside resorts can save you money and give you the flexibility to cook meals that suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs.

Avoid Major Traffic and Long Stretches

Nothing kills the fun of a family road trip faster than getting stuck in major traffic or having to drive long stretches without a break.

Planning your trip outside peak times and choosing routes that avoid busy areas will make the journey much easier. For example:

• In the U.S., while the Pacific Coast Highway is a beautiful drive, planning to drive through cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles outside of rush hour will save you time and stress.
• Also, avoid planning too much in your itinerary and driving long hours without a break.
• Focus on routes that have plenty of stops to visit, explore, and rest so your kids stay happy and entertained.

To the Family’s Interests

For sure we know that every family is different so the best family road trips are the ones that cater to your family member’s interests. Maybe your kids are fascinated by nature reserves and historical sites or just love the beach, plan your family road trip around activities and destinations that match their passions.

For example:

• If your family loves outdoor adventures a road tripping through the South Island of New Zealand’s mountainous interior with hot springs and hiking trails would be perfect match with your little ones.
• If your family is more into cultural experiences, a journey through the villages and ancient ruins of mainland Europe would be a good choice.

By considering your family member’s interests during the planning process, you’ll ensure everyone has a great time, and your road trip will be one to remember.

Road Trip 1: Magical Castles and Fairytales Route, Germany

It’s time to explore the top 7 fantastic road trips worldwide. We will share with you the most mesmerizing and kids-oriented family road trip ideas. And the first destination will be Germany’s Magical Castles and Fairytales Route.

These are a dream come true for families with young children who love stories of knights, princesses, and castles.

This European road trip takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes and retro villages in Germany. It is a road trip for the entire family, with history, castles, and lots of outdoor activities.

Neuschwanstein Castle:

• The famous castle, often referred to as the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle, is the highlight of the trip.
• Located in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle looks like it was plucked from a fairytale. All members of your family will be in awe of its magnificence and surroundings.
• Spend at least half a day here, exploring the castle’s interior and taking in the views of the mountains and lakes.

Hohenzollern Castle:

• This medieval fortress on top of a mountain offers a more rugged experience.
• The kids will love the dungeons, towers, and secret passages.
• The views from the ramparts are some of the best in Germany, perfect for family photos.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber:

• A visit to this medieval town is like going back in time.
• With its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and ancient city walls, Rothenburg is one of the most beautiful towns in Germany.
• The whole family can stroll through the streets, visit the Christmas Museum, and even take a night watchman’s tour to learn about the town’s history.

Linderhof Palace:

• Another gem in Bavaria, Linderhof Palace, is a smaller but equally lovely royal residence.
• The gardens with fountains and grottos are perfect for a family walk.
• The palace itself offers a glimpse into the life of King Ludwig II, who built it as his private retreat.

Travel Tips:

• Avoid Major Traffic:
  • The Bavarian countryside is beautiful but also has narrow and winding roads.
  • Start your day early and visit popular attractions like Neuschwanstein Castle during off-peak hours to avoid major traffic jams.
  • Book tickets in advance to save time.
• Stay in Lovely Villages:
  • Instead of staying in big cities, stay overnight in small towns or villages along the route.
  • These charming accommodations offer a more intimate experience and allow your family to experience the local culture.
  • Self-service options are available, so you can save money by cooking with fresh products from local supermarkets.
• Plan Your Trip Around Festivals:
  • Germany is famous for its local festivals, many of which take place in the towns along this route.
  • Whether it’s a medieval festival, a Christmas market, or a local fair, time your trip to coincide with one of these events and add an extra layer of fun for the kids.
• Involve the Kids in the Planning:
  • Let the children choose which castles and towns to visit.
  • This will make the trip more fun for them and build their excitement as they look forward to visiting the places they’ve chosen.

Road Trip 2: Scottish Highlands, U.K.

The Scottish Highlands is an epic road trip with dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and charming wee towns on the North Coast of the U.K. and one of the finest family road trips in Europe.

This road trip takes you through some of Scotland’s most beautiful and remote areas, a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences and scenery to keep the family entertained.

Loch Ness

• Start your journey at Loch Ness, where the kids can try to spot Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.
• The area is full of age-old ruins and scenic walks, so it is a great place for a family hike.
• The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition is also a great place to learn more about the myths and history of the area.

Isle of Skye

• Crossing to the Isle of Skye, you’ll find one of the most beautiful landscapes in the U.K.
• The Island is full of wee villages, rugged mountains, and stunning sea cliffs.
• Take the family on a hike through the Fairy Pools, where crystal clear waters and natural waterfalls create a fairy tale setting.
• Don’t miss the Old Man of Storr, an iconic rock formation with panoramic views of the Island.

Cairngorms National Park

As one of the largest national parks in the U.K., Cairngorms is a must-see on this road trip.

• The park has a range of outdoor adventures for all ages, from wildlife safaris to scenic train rides on the Strathspey Steam Railway.
• The family will love the scenic drive through the park, which is full of beautiful landscapes and animal encounters, such as red deer and golden eagles.

Inverness

• Known as the capital of the Highlands, Inverness is a lovely town with a mix of history and modern attractions.
• Visit Inverness Castle and take a walk along the River Ness, or take a boat trip on the Moray Firth to see dolphins.
• The town is also a great base to visit nearby attractions like Culloden Battlefield where the kids can learn about one of Scotland’s most important historical events.

Travel Tips

• Be Prepared for All Weather:
  • The weather in the Scottish Highlands can be mad, so pack layers and waterproof gear so everyone is comfortable.
  • Even in summer, be prepared for the weather to change suddenly.
• Avoid the Traffic:
  • The Highlands are less busy than other European road trip destinations, but popular spots like Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye can get busy during peak season.
  • Visit these places early in the day to avoid the traffic and have a more peaceful time.
• Stay in Small Towns:
  • Consider staying in one of the small cities or villages along your route, like Fort William or Portree.
  • These places have lovely accommodations and are close to local attractions, so they are perfect for exploring the surrounding areas.

Road Trip 3: Garden Route, South Africa

The Garden Route in South Africa is one of the most beautiful and craziest road trips in the world. Along the south eastern coast of the country, this route has it all – sun-kissed beaches, lush forests, quaint towns and wildlife galore. It’s a great road trip for the family with something for everyone and every age.

Knysna

• Start your Garden Route adventure in the lovely town of Knysna, famous for its lagoon and surrounding forests.
• This seaside town is family friendly with loads of activities for all ages – boat trips on the lagoon, exploring the Knysna Heads, or hiking in the nearby Knysna Forest.
• The kids will love the Knysna Elephant Park, where they can interact with rescued elephants.

Tsitsikamma National Park

• One of the highlights of the Garden Route, Tsitsikamma N.P. is a nature lover’s paradise.
• The park has beautiful hiking routes, including the famous Otter Trail and the Storms River Mouth, where you can take a thrilling walk across the suspension bridge.
• Your family can also kayak, zip line through the forest canopy, or simply relax on the stunning coastline.

Plettenberg Bay

• This coastal town is another great stop on the Garden Route with beautiful beaches and family-friendly activities.
• Whether you’re building sandcastles on the sun-kissed beaches or exploring the nearby Robberg Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay is a great spot for families who want to have both sea and mountain.

Oudtshoorn

• As you head inland, make sure to visit Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world.
• Here, the kids can learn about ostrich farming and even ride an ostrich at one of the local farms.
• Oudtshoorn is also home to the Cango Caves, a great educational and adventurous family outing.

Travel Tips:

• Hold Money with Self-servicing:
  • Many of the accommodations along the Garden Route offer self-serving options that can help you reduce your spending when traveling with a family.
  • Stopping at local markets to pick up meal supplies is not only cost-effective but also part of the fun of road-tripping through South Africa.
• Plan Your Stops:
  • The Garden Route is full of interesting places to visit, so good planning is key.
  • Make sure to include plenty of stops along the way to experience the best of this route – from waterfalls to seaside towns.
• Avoid Traffic Bottlenecks:
  • While this route is generally a relaxed drive, some areas can get congested during peak holiday seasons.
  • To avoid traffic jams, consider traveling during off-peak season or plan your travel days to avoid weekends.
• Integrate Outdoors:
  • This destination is perfect for families who love the outdoors adventure.
  • Whether it’s hiking through forests, exploring sea caves, or having animal meetings at a wildlife reserve, there’s something for everyone.
  • Plan your activities according to your family member’s interests and physical abilities.

Road Trip 4: Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most incredible routes in Europe, over 2,500 km along Ireland’s west coast. This road trip is a great way to see Northern Ireland’s landscapes, villages and culture.

The route has it all, from cliffs and sea caves to green hills and beaches. Perfect family road trip for those who love the outdoors, culture and the simple Irish countryside.

Giant’s Causeway

• Start your trip in Northern Ireland with a visit to the Giant’s Causeway, one of Europe’s most famous natural attractions.
• This UNESCO World Heritage site has thousands of interlocking basalt columns created by volcanic activity.
• The kids will love the rock formations and the myths. Be sure to visit the visitor center for an educational experience that explains the science and folklore of the Giant’s Causeway.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

• Just a short drive from the Giant’s Causeway is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a great family experience.
• Suspended 30 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, this narrow bridge connects the mainland to the tiny Island of Carrick-a-Rede.
• Crossing the bridge is an adventure in itself, with great views of the cliffs and sea. Once across, the Island is a great spot for a picnic with a view.

Slieve League Cliffs

• Further along the Wild Atlantic Way, the Slieve League Cliffs are one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and they have amazing views of the Atlantic.
• The road to the cliffs is windy, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.
• If your family has an adventurous spirit, a hike along the cliff’s edge is a must, but even a short walk will reward you with great views.

Galway City

• No trip along the Wild Atlantic Way would be complete without a stop in Galway, a city famous for its arts scene, colorful streets, and warm atmosphere.
• The kids will love exploring the city’s shops and street performers and maybe even catching a traditional Irish music session in one of the local pubs.
• Galway is also close to Connemara National Park so it’s a great base to explore more of Ireland’s natural beauty.

Travel Tips

• Plan for a Night Stay:
  • The Wild Atlantic Way is a long route, so you’ll need to plan for several night stays along the way.
  • Consider staying in small, family-friendly B&Bs or self-servicing cottages in towns like Derry or Sligo.
  • These will give you a comfortable place to rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
• Check Road Signs and Maps:
  • While the Wild Atlantic Way is well-signposted, some of the rural roads can be narrow and windy.
  • Pay attention to road signs and consider downloading maps or using a GPS system to navigate these areas more easily.
• Ferry Port Access:
  • If you’re coming from abroad and arriving in Ireland via a ferry port such as Dublin or Belfast, the Wild Atlantic Way is easily accessible from these ports.
  • Starting your journey here allows you to drive along the scenic route and avoid the busier inland roads.
• Engage the Kids:
  • Get the kids involved in the trip-planning process, and they’ll be more excited and engaged.
  • Let them choose some of the stops along the way, whether it’s a hike to a waterfall or a visit to a historic castle.

Road Trip 5: Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany, with its hills, landscapes, and historic towns, is one of Europe’s most beautiful family road trips among other European countries.

This European road trip through the heart of Italy is perfect for you if you want to discover charming countryside, taste local food and immerse yourself in the region’s culture.

Tuscany is a perfect place for a relaxing yet fulfilling family road trip.

Florence City

• It starts in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance and a city full of art, history, and culture.
• Visit the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery and the Ponte Vecchio.
• Florence is a cultural hub and a great place to explore with the family. After the art and architecture, head to a local gelateria for a sweet treat the kids will love.

Chianti Region

• Drive through the Chianti roads, which are famous for their vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages.
• This is a great place for a scenic drive with stunning views of the countryside.
• Stop at a local winery for a family tour. Some vineyards even offer grape juice tastings for the kids.
• The region is full of small, nice towns like Greve in Chianti, where you can have a relaxing lunch in a piazza surrounded by medieval architecture.

San Gimignano

• Nicknamed the “Medieval Manhattan” for its skyscraping stone towers, San Gimignano is a great place to go back in time.
• This is another UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its medieval towers and cobblestone streets.
• You and the family can visit the town’s historic sites, the 13th-century city walls, and the Collegiate Church with its stunning frescoes.

Siena City

• Continue to Siena, a city famous for its medieval architecture, and the Piazza del Campo.
• The roads to Siena are some of the most beautiful in Tuscany.
• Once there, explore the historic center and climb to the top of the Torre del Mangia for a stunning view of the countryside.

Pisa City

• No trip to Tuscany is complete without visiting Pisa to see the Leaning Tower.
• The kids will love taking funny photos trying to hold up the tower.
• After visiting the Piazza dei Miracoli, where the tower is located, stroll through the charming streets of Pisa and taste some local Tuscan food.

Travel Tips

• Plan Your Trip Around Festivals:
  • Tuscany is famous for its local festivals, which are a great addition to your family road trip.
  • Time your visit to coincide with events like the Palio di Siena, a historic horse race that takes place twice a year in Siena, or the Chianti Wine Festival in Greve.
• Stay in Agriturismos:
  • For a real Tuscan experience, stay in an agriturismo, a farm stay in the countryside.
  • This way, you can enjoy the beautiful countryside, which will give you a taste of rural Italian life.
  • Many agriturismos have home-cooked meals made from their own produce, such as a real local dinner.
• Use Your Own Car:
  • Renting a car in Italy gives you the freedom to drive at your own pace and stop whenever you see a beautiful view or a charming village.
  • Make sure to get familiar with local highway signs and driving habits before hitting the road.
• Take It Slow:
  • Tuscany is all about enjoying the moment, whether it’s a slow lunch, the views, or a historic town.
  • Don’t rush from one place to another; instead, allow time to fully experience each fantastic place along the route.

Road Trip 6: The South Island, New Zealand

The South Island of New Zealand is a dream destination. This Island is a road-trippers paradise, with rugged coastlines and sun-soaked beaches, snow-capped mountains, and stunning waterfalls.

Whether you’re driving along the Pacific Coast Highway or exploring the mountains, this place is a must for road-tripping families.

Fiordland National Park

• Start your trip in Fiordland, N.P., where you’ll find some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery.
• The stunning waterfalls, fjords, and mountains will blow your family’s mind.
• Take a boat cruise through Milford Sound and see the stunning beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The kids will love spotting seals, dolphins, and even penguins along the way.

Queenstown

• Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown is a great place for families who love the outdoors.
• From bungee jumping and zip-lining to more family-friendly options like the Skyline luge and gondola, there’s something for everyone.

The surrounding area also has some amazing hiking routes, like the Ben Lomond Track, which has picturesque landscapes of the town, and Lake Wakatipu.

Lake Tekapo:

• The next destination is Lake Tekapo, a beautiful turquoise lake surrounded by mountains.
• This is a great spot for stargazing as the area is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
• During the day, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, a small stone church that perfectly frames the lake and mountains.

Mount Cook National Park

• For families who love hiking and exploring, Mount Cook NP is a must-see.
• The park has New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook, and hiking tracks at all levels.
• The Hooker Valley Track is the most popular destination, with stunning views of glaciers, rivers and Mount Cook itself.

Abel Tasman National Park

• Finish your trip to Abel Tasman NP, which is famous for its golden beaches, clear waters, and forests.
• This is the perfect place for kayaking, hiking, and relaxing by the sea.
• Take a guided kayak tour to explore the coast or hike the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, with stunning coast views and native wildlife.

Travel Tips

• Plan for All Weather:
  • The weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable, especially on the Island.
  • Pack layers and be prepared for a sunny day on the beach or winding road in the mountain area.
• Stay in Holiday Parks:
  • New Zealand has many accommodations, including holiday parks that cater to road-tripping families.
  • These parks have playgrounds, communal kitchens, and easy access to hiking tracks and other outdoor adventures.
• Avoid Peak Traffic:
  • While the South Island is less populated than the North Island, popular spots can still get busy during peak season.
  • Plan your travel days around weekends and public holidays to avoid peak traffic and have a more relaxed trip.
• Use Your Own Car:
  • When traveling abroad, renting a car or campervan in New Zealand is the best way to see the places at your own speed.
  • The winding roads and scenery make for a great driving experience, but make sure you familiarise yourself with New Zealand’s road signs and rules before you start.
• Include Family Road Trip Ideas:
  • To keep the children entertained during long drives, include family road trip ideas like creating a travel journal, playing car games, or making frequent stops along the way.
  • This will make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Are You Ready for the New Adventure?

In this article we tried to explore and share with you the top road trips for you and your beloved ones with idea to help you to create an unforgettable moments in the sircule of the most valuable and closest people in your life.

We hope that our work was not in vain and you were able to take something useful with you! Happy travelling abroad and new experiences for your family!