A Guide to Planning a Multi-Generational Family Trip to Europe

The pandemic changed how people live, work, and play. Nowhere is that more evident than in travel, where a desire to spend more quality time with family—sparked during the lockdown—has evolved into a boom in multi-generational journeys. 

More than half the parents who responded to a 2023 survey by the Family Travel Association (FTA) reported plans for future trips that include both children and grandparents. An even more recent survey by IMG found that more than one-third of travelers placed multi-generational travel on their bucket lists. The same IMG survey also revealed that Europe stands out as one of the most popular destinations for these multi-generational adventures. 

So, how can one ensure they plan the perfect family trip—from the grandparents down to the one- or two-year-old grandchild? Here are some tips to make your clients’ bucket list multi-generational family trip a journey that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Getting Everyone Involved

Once a family agrees to embark on a multi-generational trip, it is important that everyone—regardless of age—participates in the planning process. Basic questions can help guide early discussions: 

• Which European destinations are at the top of everyone’s wish lists? 

• Does the group prefer big cities, beach retreats, the countryside, or a combination of all three? 

• Are certain family members especially interested in art, history, cuisine, adventure sports, or other specialties? 

• Is summer the only viable time for travel, or do work and school schedules allow for a shoulder-season trip? 

Unexpected insights often emerge during this stage. Grandparents might express a desire to trek up Italy’s Mount Etna, while children could reveal a deeper interest in Michelangelo than in Super Mario. Understanding each traveler’s likes and dislikes from the start is essential for crafting a journey that everyone will enjoy. 

Choosing a Destination

With more than 40 countries, hundreds of regions, and thousands of cities to consider, selecting a destination in Europe can feel like a thrilling but daunting task. 

First-time visitors often gravitate toward the “Trifecta” of London, Paris, and Rome. From Big Ben and the Mona Lisa to the Sistine Chapel and the Eiffel Tower, these iconic sites explain why these cities consistently rank among the world’s top travel destinations. For families traveling during the peak summer season, booking “fast pass” experiences—such as a Private 7-hour London Tour with a Driver-Guide or a Private Tour in the Heart of Rome—can make navigating the crowds far easier and more enjoyable. However, we recommend picking one country or a more manageable cross-country journey by limiting the exploration to just two countries which are easily accessible to the other for your clients to truly gain all they can out of this experience with multiple family members with varying levels of mobility and energy.

For those who have already explored the big three (and collected the T-shirts to prove it), other countries offer just as much excitement, with a wide range of family-friendly activities. A customized tour of the Netherlands, for example, might feature visits to world-renowned art museums in Amsterdam, bike rides through the countryside, and the chance to literally stop and smell the tulips during a springtime trip. 

Spain could provide a mix of city life and coastal relaxation, with vibrant Barcelona offering architecture tours, flamenco shows, and family cooking classes, balanced by lazy days along the Mediterranean beaches. 

Italy, beyond Rome, tempts travelers with medieval towns in Tuscany, a gondola ride through Venice, or pizza-making workshops in Naples. In Ireland, families can explore ancient castles, hike through breathtaking national parks, and enjoy storytelling sessions in cozy pubs. 

For something even more off-the-beaten-path, Eastern Europe invites travelers to uncover hidden gems. Cities like Prague, Budapest, and Krakow offer rich histories, beautiful architecture, and fewer crowds, along with plenty of activities suited for multiple generations. 

Tips for a Smooth Multi-Generational Journey

Traveling with a large, age-diverse group can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires thoughtful planning. Here are a few tips to keep the trip running smoothly: 

• Balance group time and personal time. Not everyone needs to participate in every activity. Building in free time allows travelers to explore on their own interests or simply relax. 

• Plan for different energy levels. Younger travelers may want action-packed days, while older family members might prefer a slower pace. A mix of activities ensures that everyone enjoys the experience. 

• Choose accommodations wisely. Rental homes, connecting hotel rooms, or family suites can offer more space and flexibility than standard hotel rooms. 

• Keep communication open. Regular check-ins during the trip help address any issues before they become bigger problems. 

• Capture the memories. Assign someone the role of trip photographer—or better yet, rotate it among family members—to ensure plenty of photos are taken along the way. 

Multi-generational travel is not just about seeing famous sights—it’s about creating unforgettable memories together. Whether it’s sharing gelato under the Roman sun, laughing through a family bike ride in Amsterdam, or discovering a shared love of history in Prague, Europe offers the perfect backdrop for families to reconnect, celebrate, and explore together. 

About the Author

Joe Yogerst is a freelance writer with wide experience exploring and writing about Europe. Born and raised in Southern California, he spent seven years editing travel magazines in London and Hong Kong before striking out on his own. Assignment for the likes of National Geographic, CNN Travel, Forbes Travel, Islands Magazine, and Los Angeles Times ETA travel magazine have taken him to more than 40 European countries to write about everything from Icelandic witches and Cypriot wine to whitewater rafting Bosnia’s wild Tara River and Spain’s Moorish architecture. Nowadays he’s based in one of those little beach towns between LA and San Diego.