Travel Expert Reveals the Ultimate Family Vacation Spots for Kids and Teens (Sorted by Age)

May 30, 2025

Travelling with kids
Isn’t suitable for those who are easily intimidated – however, it can turn into an exhilarating (admit it, somewhat tiring) experience if you pick a location that matches your child’s age.

Regardless of whether your little one is just starting their adventures, you have a school-aged kid, or you’re traveling with teenagers, Maria Belfort has some insights for you.
Rickshaw Travel
She has shared her insights on ideal locations tailored for various age brackets.

You could be astonished by some of her favorite selections.

Shall we jump in, then?


For kids aged 1-5


Top picks: Greece, Portugal, Italy, Thailand, Malaysia.

“This age is all about balance,” said Belfort, “you’ll want easy logistics, short travel distances, and plenty of time to simply splash in a pool or dig sandcastles on the beach. But that doesn’t mean skipping out on culture.”

She said
Greece is an excellent choice
for families with little ones as it offers “a dreamy blend of clear, shallow waters and picturesque villages”.

“She mentioned that on the Cyclades islands like Naxos and Paros, you can immerse yourself in local culture through activities such as boat tours, donkey rides, and dining at traditional tavernas.”

Another welcoming choice for families is Portugal.
As it offers sun-drenched beaches along with cozy cities such as Lisbon and Porto, “complete with tram rides, castles, and abundant gelato.”

And another ideal European getaway spot
Young families looking to visit can consider Italy.
Ponder “strolls energized by gelato through ancient piazzas, picturesque rural retreats on farms, and kid-friendly dining options around every corner.”

Although Thailand and Malaysia may seem like daring choices, Belfort assured that they’re “unexpectedly manageable with kids” since you can mix sand-and-sea relaxation with easy jungle explorations, visits to floating markets, and elephant watching. Don’t forget to bring along lots of treats for the flight though!


For kids aged 5-10


Leading choices: Thailand, Costa Rica, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Borneo, Canada

When primary school-aged kids grow more inquisitive and competent, Belfort recommends choosing extended journeys filled with excitement.

Belfort stated: “These locations provide an ideal blend of fauna, flora, and fresh activities — complete with plenty of familial enjoyment.”

She suggested the “wildlife paradise.”
Borneo
— particularly focusing on river safaris in Sarawak and encountering orangutans in their natural environment. She also mentioned activities like kayaking, firefly watching, and jungle hikes, calling it an “incomparable adventure zone.”

Similarly,
Costa Rica
It’s akin to diving into a David Attenborough documentary and is sure to captivate children. “Observe sloths clinging to tree tops, investigate volcanoes, and soar above the rainforest canopy via zipline,” stated Belfort.

Canada is also a great shout for slightly older adventurers. “Explore the Rockies, paddle crystal lakes, and spot bears from a safe distance,” said Belfort. “The
west coast route
is especially suitable for children who enjoy spending time in nature.

For a bit of a relaxed vibe,
Bali
provides beaches suitable for families, rice paddies ideal for cycling, and traditional crafts to experiment with, maintaining a laid-back pace. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka and Thailand present tuk-tuk rides, historical temples, and mild wildlife adventures that are both informative and thrilling.


For kids aged 10-15


Leading choices include: Vietnam, Thailand, Costa Rica, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Borneo, Canada, Peru, India

Belford suggests that these locations provide “an ideal mix of learning and exploration — ranging from historical sites and rainforest treks to interactive engagements with local populations.”

In Vietnam, she recommends sailing through Halong Bay, wandering around Hanoi’s vibrant thoroughfares, and gaining insight into everyday life in the Mekong Delta.

India offers dynamic urban centers, grandiose fortresses, and thrilling tiger tours, whereas Peru presents an electrifying adventure through the Sacred Valley culminating at Machu Picchu. “This extraordinary experience of exploring historic sites and vast terrains makes it a once-in-a-lifetime journey for children captivated by these elements,” she noted.

“Borneo, Sri Lanka, and Costa Rica remain exceptional choices for travellers of this age group, offering an array of physically engaging activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and short hikes, along with captivating ecosystems waiting to be explored,” she stated.

In the meantime, Canada and Indonesia offer breathtaking natural landscapes for multiday expeditions.


For teens aged 15+


Highlighted choices: Vietnam, Peru, India, Borneo, Indonesia

Teenagers are eager for a genuine adventure – an expert suggested that traveling can serve as an excellent means for boosting self-assurance and broadening one’s viewpoint.

She suggested
Vietnam
suits teenagers perfectly with its vibrant cities, countryside stays, and stunning shores, “providing a rite-of-passage adventure that will stay with them for many years”.

The Inca Trail in Peru or alternative routes such as the Lares Trek can offer a significant feeling of achievement, while the nation’s native cultures may “broaden teenagers’ perspectives on alternate lifestyles.”

She went on: “India provides a complete sensory adventure – ranging from excursions through street food stalls to visits at spice bazaars and historical landmarks. This makes it perfect for older teenagers to start contemplating their role as global citizens and their responsibilities.”

And in
Borneo
Older children have the opportunity to explore more deeply into conservation efforts, embark on jungle hikes, and learn about the delicate ecological systems within the rainforest.

Last of all,
Indonesia’s Sumatran rainforests
Bali’s lesser-known areas provide the perfect balance of escape and substance, offering chances for independent and mindful exploration.

Happy holidays!

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