After the initial demanding weeks or months of new parenthood, it’s an exciting time when you decide to experience a holiday as a family with a new baby. Of course, it won’t be the same kind of holiday that you may have booked before you became a parent, but it doesn’t have to be boring, either. Taking a holiday with your baby is a great way to bond with them while having a change of scenery.

When planning your trip, it’s important to be prepared, as you want your baby to be as comfortable as possible during the journey. When you think of sightseeing and activities to do when you get there, consider quiet places like museums and galleries, which are an ideal way for your baby to get some sleep in a body sling while you do your thing and explore. Just make sure you add in some extra time on your itinerary for feeds and nappy changes.

Here are some of the best places to go on holiday with a baby, along with handy travel tips to help you prepare.

What to consider when booking a holiday with a baby

You’ll need to do some meticulous planning before your holiday, to ensure that everything goes as smoothly and enjoyably as possible. Here are a few things to think about when planning your trip.

Flights and flight timings

If you’re travelling with a baby, they will likely need naps at certain times, so consider scheduling your departure and arrival times to coincide as closely as possible with their current bedtime routine.

If this isn’t possible, consider a night flight in which your baby can (hopefully) sleep right through, or leave for your car trip later in the evening when they’re due to sleep. Also consider direct flights or destinations that aren’t too far away, with minimal layovers, as this will also prevent disruption to their circadian rhythm.

After the initial demanding weeks or months of new parenthood, it's an exciting time when you decide to experience a holiday as a family with a new baby. Of course, it won't be the same kind of holiday that you may have booked before you became a parent, but it doesn't have to be boring, either. Taking a holiday with your baby is a great way to bond with them while having a change of scenery. When planning your trip, it's important to be prepared, as you want your baby to be as comfortable as possible during the journey. When you think of sightseeing and activities to do when you get there, consider quiet places like museums and galleries, which are an ideal way for your baby to get some sleep in a body sling while you do your thing and explore. Just make sure you add in some extra time on your itinerary for feeds and nappy changes. Here are some of the best places to go on holiday with a baby, along with handy travel tips to help you prepare. What to consider when booking a holiday with a baby You'll need to do some meticulous planning before your holiday, to ensure that everything goes as smoothly and enjoyably as possible. Here are a few things to think about when planning your trip. Flights and flight timings If you're travelling with a baby, they will likely need naps at certain times, so consider scheduling your departure and arrival times to coincide as closely as possible with their current bedtime routine. If this isn't possible, consider a night flight in which your baby can (hopefully) sleep right through, or leave for your car trip later in the evening when they're due to sleep. Also consider direct flights or destinations that aren't too far away, with minimal layovers, as this will also prevent disruption to their circadian rhythm. Check weather conditions Always check the weather for your destination and pack accordingly. If you're heading to warmer climes, pack hats to protect your baby's skin, as well as sunscreen and lightweight, cotton clothing. If it'll be cold where you're heading, think hats, ear muffs and mittens, and plenty of layers that will retain body heat. Choose child-friendly accommodation When you plan your accommodation, choose hotels and rentals that will have the equipment you need, such as a cot or crib, a baby-proofed space for them to sleep in and a safe space for them to play in. Call or message ahead if you're unsure of the services your accommodation has. Baby-friendly catering Check that the restaurants you'll be going to (or hotel you're staying in), have eateries that are baby-friendly and offer the flexibility to create meals for kids. If your baby has to follow a specific diet due to allergies or intolerances, make sure the restaurants know of this in advance. Locate the nearest medical facilities In case of emergencies, especially when travelling with a young baby, make sure you're aware of the nearest hospital and medical facilities. Carry a first aid kit with you while travelling, with baby essentials and medications. Airport/travel bag essentials Pack plenty of baby food and snacks for the trip, as well as nappies, baby wipes and extra clothing for your baby (and for you, should accidents and spillages happen). See our baby holiday packing list for a full guide on items to bring. Take into consideration whether or not you'll be able to stock up on these items at your destination. Also think about ways to keep your baby entertained, including familiar items like toys and blankets. Getting around at your destination Make sure your destination has good public transport links to get around easily with a buggy. If not, it may be worth hiring a car or driving your own so that you can transport a buggy and everything your baby needs safely and easily. Family-friendly activities Consider how to keep your little one entertained once you reach your destination. Water parks, museums, beaches, play centres, farms and zoos are all great ways to keep a very young child entertained. Research attractions you plan to visit ahead of your departure and make sure they are suitable for your baby's age. Best places to go on holiday with a baby There are plenty of beautiful destinations you can visit with a baby Tuscany, Italy Best time to visit: February – May, and October – November Flight time from UK: 2-3 hours With its historical charm, cobbled streets, year-round sunshine and delicious food, the region of Tuscany is ideal for a holiday with a young baby. Family is at the heart of Italian culture, so you'll typically find that many restaurants and facilities are baby-friendly. Take a day trip to explore Pistoia Zoo, relax on a scenic drive through the wine region and have a family lunch al-fresco, or spend time exploring the many museums and art galleries on offer in the heart of Florence. Barcelona, Spain Best time to visit: February – April, and September – November Flight time from UK: 2 hours Barcelona offers something for everyone – with large parks for little ones to explore, as well as art galleries, shopping and museums. Visit Barcelona's Aquarium for a great family-friendly day out, stroll along Park Güell and take in the sights, or ride the Tibidabo funicular railway for panoramic views of the city. You'll also find plenty of hotels in Barcelona offering family-friendly rooms and cuisine. Orlando, USA Best time to visit: November – March (for milder weather) Flight time from UK: 9 hours Famous for its family-friendly resorts, water parks, rides and attractions, Orlando is sure to be a winner for any family with small children and babies. Walt Disney World provides excellent amenities for families, including Disney hotels located close to theme parks, making getting around with small children much easier. Families can also enjoy Universal Studios and the ICON Park entertainment complex. It's recommended to hire a car so that you drive around the region and to and from the airport with ease. Algarve, Portugal Best time to visit: March – June, and September – November Flight time from UK: 3 hours The Algarve is well known for its pristine beaches and family-focused activities. Spend a day on the sand paddling and building sandcastles, or take a trip to one of the three waterparks on offer in the region. Zoomarine marine park offers dolphin shows, water rides and sensory adventures for kids of all ages. Beach clubs and restaurants will typically have children's menus, making mealtime a breeze. Cornwall, England, UK Best time to visit: May – September This corner of the UK is best explored in the spring and summer when temperatures are warmer. St Ives and Falmouth are popular choices, with beautiful beaches to walk and play on, and plenty of family-oriented activities. Take a scenic walk up St Michael's Mount and marvel at the views, or explore the iconic biomes of the Eden Project, which has plenty of sensory-rich activities for very young children. A family road trip in the UK gives you a bit more flexibility when it comes to travelling, You can stop anywhere, take as many breaks as you like, and do everything on your own schedule. Copenhagen, Denmark Best time to visit: May – September (for outdoor activities), and December for Christmas markets Flight time from UK: 1 hour and 30 minutes Copenhagen is a great choice for a first family holiday if you're new to holidaying with a baby. It's a short flight time, which makes travelling easier, and you'll find plenty of child-friendly restaurants and cafes willing to accommodate your needs as a parent. Explore Tivoli gardens, which features attractions all year round, or introduce your little one to some animal friends at Copenhagen Zoo. Dublin, Ireland Best time to visit: May – September Flight time from UK: 1 hour Ireland is known for its warm hospitality, so travelling to Dublin with a baby means that you're sure to find plenty of helpful amenities during your trip. Tram and train services make getting around easy and cheap to do. Enjoy a family pub lunch and a pint of Guinness (For Guinness fans, you can also take a family-friendly tour of the Guinness Storehouse Brewery). Other options include meeting furry friends on a day trip to Dublin Zoo, or exploring the National Museum of Ireland. Mauritius Best time to visit: May – December Flight time from UK: 11 hours If you're up for a long-haul trip and a warmer climate, the beautiful island of Mauritius offers plenty of family-friendly activities. Relax and enjoy the soft sands of the pristine beaches on offer. You'll typically find that many family-friendly hotels are all-inclusive, and right on the beach for convenience. Explore the diverse plant life at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, or enjoy a safari ride at Casela Nature Parks. Activities to do with babies and toddlers on holiday Just because you have a baby in tow doesn't mean you have to sacrifice activities or enjoying yourself. Going on holiday with a baby just means tweaking activities you'd usually do so that their needs are accommodated, too. When you first arrive at your destination, start with slow and gentle walks in your local area or resort, so they become familiar with the area and can recover from any time differences. Take a stroll along the beach, in a scenic park, or nature reserve. When planning your itinerary, choose baby-friendly places like museums, zoos and wildlife sanctuaries, or local parks with activities for babies and very small children. If you're heading on a walk, consider how you'll transport your child, and use items such as slings and baby harnesses. Water-based activities like paddling on the beach or splashing in a baby pool can help your baby to cool down in hot locations, while providing stimulation. When it comes to eating, plan to eat in quiet places where you'll have access to toilet facilities. Gardens, parks and water parks will usually have baby changing facilities and toilets. Most of all, balance your activities with your baby's routine to ensure a happy holiday you'll treasure for years to come.

Check weather conditions

Always check the weather for your destination and pack accordingly. If you’re heading to warmer climes, pack hats to protect your baby’s skin, as well as sunscreen and lightweight, cotton clothing. If it’ll be cold where you’re heading, think hats, ear muffs and mittens, and plenty of layers that will retain body heat.

Choose child-friendly accommodation

When you plan your accommodation, choose hotels and rentals that will have the equipment you need, such as a cot or crib, a baby-proofed space for them to sleep in and a safe space for them to play in. Call or message ahead if you’re unsure of the services your accommodation has.

Baby-friendly catering

Check that the restaurants you’ll be going to (or hotel you’re staying in), have eateries that are baby-friendly and offer the flexibility to create meals for kids. If your baby has to follow a specific diet due to allergies or intolerances, make sure the restaurants know of this in advance.

Locate the nearest medical facilities

In case of emergencies, especially when travelling with a young baby, make sure you’re aware of the nearest hospital and medical facilities. Carry a first aid kit with you while travelling, with baby essentials and medications.

Airport/travel bag essentials

Pack plenty of baby food and snacks for the trip, as well as nappies, baby wipes and extra clothing for your baby (and for you, should accidents and spillages happen). See our baby holiday packing list for a full guide on items to bring. 

Take into consideration whether or not you’ll be able to stock up on these items at your destination. Also think about ways to keep your baby entertained, including familiar items like toys and blankets.

Getting around at your destination

Make sure your destination has good public transport links to get around easily with a buggy. If not, it may be worth hiring a car or driving your own so that you can transport a buggy and everything your baby needs safely and easily.

Family-friendly activities


Consider how to keep your little one entertained once you reach your destination. Water parks, museums, beaches, play centres, farms and zoos are all great ways to keep a very young child entertained. Research attractions you plan to visit ahead of your departure and make sure they are suitable for your baby’s age.

Best places to go on holiday with a baby

There are plenty of beautiful destinations you can visit with a baby 

Tuscany, Italy

Best time to visit: February – May, and October – November

Flight time from UK: 2-3 hours

With its historical charm, cobbled streets, year-round sunshine and delicious food, the region of Tuscany is ideal for a holiday with a young baby. Family is at the heart of Italian culture, so you’ll typically find that many restaurants and facilities are baby-friendly. Take a day trip to explore Pistoia Zoo, relax on a scenic drive through the wine region and have a family lunch al-fresco, or spend time exploring the many museums and art galleries on offer in the heart of Florence.

Barcelona, Spain

Best time to visit: February – April, and September – November

Flight time from UK: 2 hours

Barcelona offers something for everyone – with large parks for little ones to explore, as well as art galleries, shopping and museums. Visit Barcelona’s Aquarium for a great family-friendly day out, stroll along Park Güell and take in the sights, or ride the Tibidabo funicular railway for panoramic views of the city. You’ll also find plenty of hotels in Barcelona offering family-friendly rooms and cuisine.

Orlando, USA

Best time to visit: November – March (for milder weather)

Flight time from UK: 9 hours

Famous for its family-friendly resorts, water parks, rides and attractions, Orlando is sure to be a winner for any family with small children and babies. Walt Disney World provides excellent amenities for families, including Disney hotels located close to theme parks, making getting around with small children much easier.

Families can also enjoy Universal Studios and the ICON Park entertainment complex. It’s recommended to hire a car so that you drive around the region and to and from the airport with ease.

Algarve, Portugal

Best time to visit: March – June, and September – November

Flight time from UK: 3 hours

The Algarve is well known for its pristine beaches and family-focused activities. Spend a day on the sand paddling and building sandcastles, or take a trip to one of the three waterparks on offer in the region. Zoomarine marine park offers dolphin shows, water rides and sensory adventures for kids of all ages. Beach clubs and restaurants will typically have children’s menus, making mealtime a breeze.

Cornwall, England, UK

Best time to visit: May – September


This corner of the UK is best explored in the spring and summer when temperatures are warmer. St Ives and Falmouth are popular choices, with beautiful beaches to walk and play on, and plenty of family-oriented activities. Take a scenic walk up St Michael’s Mount and marvel at the views, or explore the iconic biomes of the Eden Project, which has plenty of sensory-rich activities for very young children.

A family road trip in the UK gives you a bit more flexibility when it comes to travelling. You can stop anywhere, take as many breaks as you like, and do everything on your own schedule.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Best time to visit: May – September (for outdoor activities), and December for Christmas markets

Flight time from UK: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Copenhagen is a great choice for a first family holiday if you’re new to holidaying with a baby. It’s a short flight time, which makes travelling easier, and you’ll find plenty of child-friendly restaurants and cafes willing to accommodate your needs as a parent. Explore Tivoli gardens, which features attractions all year round, or introduce your little one to some animal friends at Copenhagen Zoo.

Dublin, Ireland

Best time to visit: May – September

Flight time from UK: 1 hour

Ireland is known for its warm hospitality, so travelling to Dublin with a baby means that you’re sure to find plenty of helpful amenities during your trip. Tram and train services make getting around easy and cheap to do. Enjoy a family pub lunch and a pint of Guinness (For Guinness fans, you can also take a family-friendly tour of the Guinness Storehouse Brewery). Other options include meeting furry friends on a day trip to Dublin Zoo, or exploring the National Museum of Ireland.

Mauritius

Best time to visit: May – December

Flight time from UK: 11 hours

If you’re up for a long-haul trip and a warmer climate, the beautiful island of Mauritius offers plenty of family-friendly activities. Relax and enjoy the soft sands of the pristine beaches on offer. You’ll typically find that many family-friendly hotels are all-inclusive, and right on the beach for convenience. Explore the diverse plant life at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, or enjoy a safari ride at Casela Nature Parks.

Activities to do with babies and toddlers on holiday

Just because you have a baby in tow doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice activities or enjoying yourself. Going on holiday with a baby just means tweaking activities you’d usually do so that their needs are accommodated, too. When you first arrive at your destination, start with slow and gentle walks in your local area or resort, so they become familiar with the area and can recover from any time differences. Take a stroll along the beach, in a scenic park, or nature reserve.

When planning your itinerary, choose baby-friendly places like museums, zoos and wildlife sanctuaries, or local parks with activities for babies and very small children. If you’re heading on a walk, consider how you’ll transport your child, and use items such as slings and baby harnesses. Water-based activities like paddling on the beach or splashing in a baby pool can help your baby to cool down in hot locations, while providing stimulation.

When it comes to eating, plan to eat in quiet places where you’ll have access to toilet facilities. Gardens, parks and water parks will usually have baby changing facilities and toilets.Most of all, balance your activities with your baby’s routine to ensure a happy holiday you’ll treasure for years to come.

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