Family breaks
Family Holidays
Plan memorable family holidays with sunshine, space, flexible stays and easy access to hotels, package holidays and travel deals. This holiday style remains popular with UK travellers because it suits school breaks, multi-generational trips and parents who want a balance of relaxation, activities and practical value. Whether you are looking for beach resorts, city escapes with child-friendly attractions or all inclusive options that make budgeting easier, family holidays offer something for almost every age group. Use this guide to compare destinations, understand what to expect and start planning a smoother, more enjoyable trip for everyone.
Why Choose This Holiday
Family holidays suit parents travelling with babies, toddlers, school-age children and teenagers, as well as grandparents joining a wider family trip. The appeal is simple: one break can combine rest for adults with entertainment for children, while giving everyone time together away from daily routines. For many UK travellers, this type of holiday works best when flights, transfers, accommodation and meal options are easy to compare in one place.
The best time to travel depends on your priorities. School summer holidays remain the most popular for guaranteed heat in Europe, while Easter, May half term and October half term can offer a better balance of weather and crowd levels. Winter sun destinations are often attractive for families wanting to swap grey skies for warmth, and city breaks can work well during shorter school holidays when beach weather is less important. Budget expectations vary widely by destination, board basis, flight timing and room type, so it is better to compare options early rather than rely on fixed price assumptions.
Popular destinations for family holidays include Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Greece and the Canary Islands for reliable sunshine and resort infrastructure, while Dubai and Thailand appeal to travellers looking for a more long-haul experience. Families should expect a holiday style that rewards planning: check transfer times, room layouts, kids’ clubs, pool rules, dining flexibility and nearby attractions before booking. It is also worth considering travel insurance, airport parking and car hire if you want a smoother journey from start to finish.
Another reason family holidays remain in demand is the variety of accommodation available. Some families want self-catering apartments with kitchen space and freedom, while others prefer all inclusive resorts where meals, snacks and entertainment are easier to manage. Multi-generational groups may need interconnecting rooms or larger suites, and parents travelling with younger children often value short transfers, splash pools and shaded outdoor areas. Teen-focused families may prefer destinations with waterparks, boat trips, sports and lively promenades.
Travellers should also expect some compromise, because the best family holiday is rarely about one person’s wish list. A successful trip usually blends convenience, comfort and enough activities to keep different age groups happy. Choosing the right destination, travel month and hotel style can make a major difference to the overall experience.
Image ALT suggestion: Family enjoying a sunny beach resort holiday with pool and sea views
Best Destinations
These destinations are consistently popular with UK families because they combine practical flight options, family-friendly hotels and plenty to do on and off the beach.
Spain
Spain is a reliable choice for beach resorts, family apartments and easy package holiday planning. Best for: first-time family holidays. Best months: May to October. Typical duration: 7 to 10 nights.
Portugal
Portugal offers scenic coastlines, good-value resorts and relaxed family dining. Best for: beach breaks with younger children. Best months: April to October. Typical duration: 7 nights.
Turkey
Turkey is known for large resorts, all inclusive options and strong family facilities. Best for: resort-based holidays. Best months: May to October. Typical duration: 7 to 10 nights.
Greece
Greece combines island scenery, warm hospitality and family-friendly seaside stays. Best for: relaxed summer escapes. Best months: May to September. Typical duration: 7 to 10 nights.
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are ideal for year-round sunshine and shorter winter sun trips. Best for: school holiday sun. Best months: all year, especially October to April. Typical duration: 7 nights.
Dubai
Dubai offers polished resorts, waterparks and winter sunshine with a premium feel. Best for: luxury family breaks. Best months: November to March. Typical duration: 5 to 7 nights.
France
France suits families wanting beach time, countryside stays or theme park add-ons. Best for: flexible short and mid-length breaks. Best months: May to September. Typical duration: 4 to 7 nights.
Thailand
Thailand is a longer-haul option with beaches, culture and excellent hospitality. Best for: extended family adventures. Best months: November to April. Typical duration: 10 to 14 nights.
Stay options
Accommodation
Choosing the right accommodation can shape the whole trip. Think about room space, meal plans, child-friendly facilities and how much time you expect to spend at the hotel.
Budget hotels
Budget hotels and simple apartments can work well for families who plan to spend most of the day exploring. They often suit shorter trips, self-catering stays and travellers who prioritise location over extras.
Mid-range hotels
Mid-range hotels are often the sweet spot for many UK families, offering pools, breakfast options, family rooms and easy access to beaches or resort centres without moving into a fully premium price bracket.
Luxury hotels
Luxury hotels are ideal for families who want more space, polished service, better dining and premium facilities such as kids’ clubs, private beach access or larger suites. They can be especially appealing for milestone trips and school holiday upgrades.
All inclusive options
All inclusive family holidays can make budgeting simpler and reduce day-to-day planning. They are especially useful in destinations such as Turkey, Spain, Greece and the Canary Islands, where resort infrastructure is strong and families want meals, drinks and entertainment in one place.
Top Things To Do
Family holidays are easier to enjoy when you mix downtime with activities that suit different ages.
Beach days
Choose calm beaches with nearby cafés, toilets and shade for easier family days out.
Waterparks
Waterparks are a favourite for school-age children and teenagers in many resort destinations.
Boat trips
Short coastal cruises can add variety and are often a highlight for families.
Wildlife parks
Zoos, aquariums and wildlife parks work well for mixed-age groups.
Old town walks
Gentle sightseeing adds culture without overloading the itinerary.
Hotel kids’ clubs
Kids’ clubs can give children entertainment and adults a little downtime.
Local food stops
Try family-friendly restaurants and markets for a more rounded travel experience.
Evening promenades
Seafront walks, mini trains and casual evening entertainment are often easy wins.
Money Saving Tips
Practical ways to keep family holidays better value without losing the quality that matters most.
Book early
Compare options early for school holiday dates, especially if you need family rooms or specific airports.
Travel off-peak
Shoulder season dates can bring better availability, milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Compare meal plans
Look beyond the headline rate and assess whether self-catering, half board or all inclusive suits your family best.
Check transfer times
A cheaper deal may be less appealing if the transfer is long after a flight with children.
Review baggage costs
Hold luggage, seats and airport extras can change the overall value of a booking.
Use package comparisons
Comparing flights and hotels together can sometimes reveal better overall value and convenience.
Plan key activities
Choose one or two standout experiences rather than overspending on daily excursions.
Add essentials early
Sort travel insurance, airport parking and car hire in advance to avoid rushed decisions later.
Need to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful answers for UK travellers planning family holidays.
Ready to plan your next family holiday?
Compare hotels, browse holiday options, check the latest deals and explore travel guides before you book.
Hotels widget placeholder: add family hotel comparison widget here. For tailored help, visit BFM Travel Planner or contact us for support. Image ALT suggestion: Family-friendly beach resort with pool, sun loungers and sea view