Spain Leads the Way: Top 10 Most Family-Friendly Destinations in Europe

Ahead of the start of the spring holiday season, easyJet and easyJet Holidays are publishing the new European Family Holiday Index, which ranks the top 10 destinations for a family holiday.

The index examines various parameters designed to make it easier for families to plan their vacation, including a flight time that is not particularly long, accessibility to beaches and pools, the number of family attractions such as water parks and mini golf, ease of arrival, daily costs, and ease of orientation at the airport.

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic island of Mallorca, tops the list. The destination combines wide beaches with a wide range of family-friendly activities, including aquariums, water parks and sailing along the island's coastline. Its proximity to the airport and the many options for family entertainment contributed to its position at the top of the list.

In second place is Portugal's Algarve region, known for its golden cliffs, Atlantic beaches, and a selection of resort towns. Activities in the area include dolphin watching, clifftop walks, and water parks.

Third place is taken by the Costa del Sol in southern Spain, a coastal region where resort towns such as Fuengirola and Benalmadena offer wide beaches alongside family-friendly attractions, including nature parks, aquariums, and coastal promenades.

The coast of Crete. Photo: Amit Cotler

Further down the list, island destinations in the Mediterranean also stand out: Sardinia, Italy, ranks sixth thanks to its clear waters and shallow beaches suitable for families with young children. Crete, Greece, is seventh, with a long coastline, resorts, and attractions such as water parks and boating along the beaches.

Full ranking