Europe is a treasure trove of historic sites, outstanding museums, and, yes!, kid-friendly fun. If you're ready to leave behind the American beaches and theme parks this summer, consider seven of Europe's best cities for kids.
London. Of course London makes our list. This city is a great first-entry visit to Europe because there isn't a language barrier and kids are often well versed on British history. (A great chance to bring their history books to life!) From London's famed Tower to its giant merry-go-round Eye, there is a lot to see and do in the U.K.'s capital city.
Recommended Hotel: The Athenaeum
Paris. Sure Paris is for romance, but kids will also fall in love with this regal and park-filled capital of France. The Eiffel Tower alone may be enough to conquer their hearts -- after a heavy-duty climb or a smooth ride up its elevator. Beside its many museums and attractions, the kids will fall for the food. (Think chocolate and cheese fondue!)
Recommended Hotel: Hotel Plaza Athenee
Amsterdam. This Dutch city is great for kids who love to play outdoors, because biking and boating are key means of transportation in this intimate and picture-perfect destination. Biking tours, a skate park, and a tree-climbing adventure will keep the kids busy, but Amsterdam's museums, including the Anne Frank House, will also keep them enthralled.
Recommended Hotel: Wyndham Apollo Hotel
Vienna. A lesser-traveled gem is Austria's capital city, which is just as alive as its renowned Salzburg. Vienna was the birthplace of classical music and the Hapsburg royal family, which loved opulent decor and fineries still visible today in Vienna's palaces and museums. But the energetic city also welcomes children with special puppet museums and sand-filled city "beaches."
Recommended Hotel: Hotel Sacher
Edinburgh. Although Harry Potter is decidedly English, his start begin in a coffeehouse in Scotland's capital city, where JK Rowling penned her first book looking out at the fortress on the top of a steep rock of a mountain that overlooks the city. From the fort to Arthur's Seat to the underground closes (alleys), the kids will be enthralled with this magical city.
Recommended Hotel: The Howard
Dublin. Visit the land of leprechauns and fields of green to take in the beauty of
Ireland, but be sure to spend time in Dublin, where the kids can pick up the Irish history through its castle, museums and churches. But, they'll also enjoy one of the world's oldest zoos and its connection to the Vikings with an interactive Viking adventure.
Recommended Hotel: Fitzwilliam Hotel
Berlin. What was once a forbidden city for Westerners has become a fabulous destination for world travelers hoping to teach their kids a deeper world history. This summer, Berlin is home to the Women's World Cup soccer, which will be held in the stadium that hosted the 1936 Olympics. Kid-friendly museums, including a miniature world, will round out the sporty visit.
Recommended Hotel: Steigenberger Hotel Berlin
For more historic adventures check out
10 Best Historic U.S. Sites for Kids.
Other great U.S. spots filled with history include:
Philadelphia
Washington, D.C.
Boston