Travel

Below, you’ll find a hand-picked list of alternative European destinations that may not have made your family holiday radar yet, but which tick the boxes for sunshine, good food, safe beaches and plenty to keep little ones entertained.

As the world’s first country to be prescribed for its health benefits, Sweden is now shining a light on one of its most awe-inducing wellness experiences. Aurora Borealis – the original arctic light therapy.

Before you even make it to the airport, you’re on alert. Travel time matters — massively. Many neurodivergent children struggle with sleep (like my son), so flying outside their usual rhythm can derail the day before it even starts. Not a peachy start to your jollies..

The festive season is here, and with it, the arrival of one of the most loved Christmas Markets in the country – York’s St Nicholas Fair, running from the 13th of November to the 21st of December, open 10am-7pm daily.

If social media decided the world’s wonders, some destinations would top bucket lists thanks to billions of views, iconic aesthetics and “must-post” backdrops. 

Fed up with elbowing your way along heaving National Trust paths every weekend? You’re not the only one.

More Brits are jetting off on far-flung escapes this Christmas, trading turkey dinners and traditional festivities for sun, sand and international celebrations. 

This winter, the trend is clear: quick flights, big wellbeing payoffs, and cities that fuse spa culture with proper festive magic.

This guide breaks down the best budget options for 2026, focusing on value, simplicity and the kinds of breaks that make life easier for parents during school holidays.

I can only imagine what planning a full-blown family holiday must look like, especially when school schedules, term times and peak-season crowds come into play.