Brits – we are creatures of habit. Every year thousands of families jet off to Spain, Portugal, France and Italy in search of sunshine, sandy beaches and straightforward food options. And while there’s nothing wrong with sticking to what you know, relying on the same destinations year after year means missing out on some unusual European destinations for a family holiday that offer better value, fewer crowds and a more memorable experience overall.
I love visiting new places, but after years of multi-generational trips, I know how tricky travelling with children can be. From picky eaters to unfamiliar routines and the dreaded cries of “I’m bored”, family holidays often come with built-in challenges. But the exciting thing about exploring less obvious parts of Europe is that many of these destinations are not just affordable—they’re family-friendly in ways you might not expect.
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. If you’re looking for unusual European destinations for a family holiday, these underrated spots might be exactly what you need.
1. Croatia: Family-Friendly Beaches Without the Crowds
Croatia has quietly become one of Europe’s most attractive family holiday destinations. With crystal-clear waters, safe pebble beaches and charming old towns, it offers a relaxed Mediterranean feel without the price tags of Italy or the crowds of Spain.
Families love:
- Calm, shallow beaches around Istria
- Boat trips to small islands
- Beautiful national parks like Plitvice Lakes
- Excellent value for accommodation and dining
For children, Croatia’s seaside towns are exciting but not overwhelming. For parents, the combination of affordability and natural beauty is a refreshing change from the usual hotspots.
2. Slovenia: A Stress-Free Family Holiday in Nature
Slovenia often surprises British families who visit for the first time. Whether it’s the fairy-tale setting of Lake Bled, the dramatic scenery of Triglav National Park, or the charming capital Ljubljana, Slovenia is calm, clean and brilliantly organised.
Families love:
- Safe cities and compact travel distances
- Outdoor adventures: paddleboarding, cycling, lake swimming
- Affordable local restaurants with child-friendly dishes
- The famous Lake Bled cream cake
It’s the ideal destination for outdoorsy families who want a holiday that blends nature with comfort.
3. Montenegro: Affordable Coastal Fun With a Dramatic Backdrop
Montenegro delivers the Mediterranean feel families love but at prices still significantly lower than nearby Croatia. The Bay of Kotor offers gentle beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, while Budva is more lively with plenty for older kids.
Families love:
- Scenic coastal walks
- Warm, shallow waters for swimming
- Boat trips and water activities
- Very reasonable hotel and restaurant prices
It’s a strong alternative to Croatia for families looking to keep costs down while still enjoying incredible scenery.
4. Poland’s Baltic Coast: A Surprising Summer Gem
Poland might not be the first place you consider for a summer family holiday, but its northern coastline offers long sandy beaches, kid-friendly attractions and excellent food at prices far below Western Europe.
Families love:
- Wide, sandy beaches in Sopot, Gdansk and Hel
- Ice cream shops on every corner
- Beautiful seaside parks and cycle paths
- Great value accommodation
It’s a brilliant choice for families who want beaches without heatwaves or crowds.
5. Austria: A Summer Adventure for Families
While Austria is famous for winter ski trips, summer in the Alps is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets for families. Expect mountain lakes, adventure parks, cable cars and some of the cleanest air you’ll ever breathe.
Families love:
- Alpine playgrounds designed specifically for children
- Safe, scenic swimming lakes
- Easy hiking trails
- All-inclusive “family hotels” with childcare options
It’s ideal for families who prefer active holidays over lying on the beach.
6. Malta: Sunshine, Beauty and History
Malta is small, sunny and extremely easy to navigate. English is widely spoken, food feels familiar, and the island is packed with history that children genuinely enjoy.
Families love:
- Shallow beaches perfect for younger children
- The quiet island of Gozo for a slower pace
- Boat trips around Comino
- Family-friendly hotels and apartments
It’s a brilliant choice for families who want to try somewhere new without stepping too far out of their comfort zone.
7. Albania: The Best-Value Family Holiday in Europe Right Now
Albania’s Riviera is changing fast, and families are starting to notice. If you want turquoise water, warm weather and prices similar to Portugal twenty years ago, Albania might be the destination you didn’t realise you needed.
Families love:
- Beautiful beaches in Ksamil, Dhermi and Himare
- Fresh, Mediterranean-style food
- Remarkable value for money
- A welcoming atmosphere
For families on a budget, Albania is one of the most exciting emerging destinations in Europe.
Final Thoughts: Try These Unusual European Destinations for Your Next Family Holiday
It’s easy to fall back on familiar destinations, especially when you’re travelling with children. But stepping slightly off the beaten track doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, value or convenience. Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Poland, Austria, Malta and Albania all offer fantastic experiences, excellent food, safe environments and plenty of family-friendly activities.
If you’re planning your next break and want something refreshing, affordable and unforgettable, these unusual European destinations for a family holiday may surprise you. Sometimes the best family memories come from the places you weren’t expecting to love.
Joanne Brook-Smith is a writer and editor with two decades of publishing experience. She launched Crave Magazine during the Covid period to create a fresh, inspiring space for food, travel and lifestyle content.
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