Last year, I struggled to walk my toddler through the uneven cobble-stone pathways of a historic site; that’s when I realized that not every destination is toddler-friendly. You must be very careful when picking the best places to travel with toddlers. One wrong decision can ruin the entire traveling experience with kids.
So, I’ve curated a list of travel destinations with toddlers for fellow parents like me who want to take their kids to safe yet enjoyable places.
How I Chose These Destinations: I checked the safety, toddler-friendly amenities, ease of navigation, and affordability criteria to pick the finest vacation spots to travel with kids.
Where to Travel With a Toddler? 6 Best Places to Vacation With Kids in 2025
1. Costa Del Sol, Spain | Shallow Water Beaches + Stroller-Friendly Walks
Costa Del Sol is a region in south Spain where waves are gentle on the seaside and have a warm climate. You will also find parks and zoos like Biopark Zoo and Sealife Aquarium. It is a great opportunity to teach them to swim at an early age in these water parks.
Many restaurants have high chairs and cool snacks to engage the toddler while you have the meal.
Fun activities to do with toddlers:
- Visit kiddie parks like Torremolinos.
- Take a ride on a tourist train in Fuengirola.
- Go to the MIMA Interactive Music Museum, where kids can actually touch the artwork.
2. Legoland, New York | Magical + Fun Vibe
You might be skeptical to see NY on this list, but let me tell you: it is one of the best places to visit with a toddler if you are prepared for it the right way.
Legoland is nothing less than heaven for your kid. Since it is designed for ages 3-10, there are cool rides like gentle rides like DUPLO Farm and Fairy Tale Brook. Toddlers will surely be amazed by the life-sized LEGO models, themed areas, and interactive play zones. As responsible parents, you can relax as they have family-friendly restaurants, shaded rest areas, and stroller-friendly pathways.
Fun activities to do with toddlers:
Leoland is the place where kids belong. So, there are tons of activities for them to enjoy.
- Greet friendly LEGO figures.
- Take a slow-paced train ride around DUPLO Valley.
- Create simple LEGO models in creative workshops.
3. Algarve, Portugal | Family-friendly resorts + Warm Weather
Beaches like Praia da Rocha and Praia de Alvor have gentle, shallow waters ideal for paddling for kids. Hiking, which is generally considered an adventure for grown-up kids, is also suitable for toddlers in Algarve.
You will also find several historic sites like Sillyes Castle that are easy to explore with a stroller. So, if your kids are energetic and strong-willed, maybe Portugal has the right vibe for them.
Fun activities to do with toddlers:
- take a tour inside the caves /grottos the ponta da piedade -lagos
- Spend a day tour with a jeep safari in the Algarve mountains
- Visit indoor play areas like Krazy World and Aquashow Park to play mini-golf and gentle slides.
4. Fethiye, Turkey
You can easily keep your kids happy and engaged in Turkey because the restaurants and cafes have a family-friendly environment. For adventure-loving kids, there are short boat rides to see waterfalls and colorful butterflies.
Fathiye, specifically, has green hills and calm beaches that are safe for kids. The designated bike tracks, aqua parks, and local food is something they will remember for years to come.
Fun activities to do with toddlers:
- Visit Fethi Bey Park, which is well-equipped with facilities, reading areas, and safe rides.
- Go to the local Fethiye market to get fruits, toys, and snacks from colorful stalls.
- Jiva Beach Resort has kids’ clubs, splash pools, and babysitting facilities.
5. Gold Coast, Australia | Kid-approved Menus + Free Activities
Gold Coast is another best places to travel with kids because it offers massive playgrounds where they can safely walk and play. There are play areas themed with Bluey, Peppa Pig, and gentle rides and mini water slides to keep them entertained.
The most unique experience is the Tropical Fruit World. It is a working farm with more than 500 tropical fruits that your kids will love eating.
Fun activities to do with toddlers:
- Travel to Tallebudgera Creek for safe paddling and sandcastle-building.
- Gold Coast Botanic Gardens for sensory gardens and duck-feeding ponds.
- Lollipops Playland has ball pits and mini slides.
6. Disney World, Orlando, Florida
As a mum of a toddler, I highly recommend taking your kids to Disney World at least once in their lives. It’s an experience they’ll never forget! It really reignites their imagination and wonders at their eye level.
Meet-and-greets, parades, and rides of Disney/Pixar characters are famous. But that’s not all. They also have wide paths, shaded areas, baby care centers, and other facilities.
Undoubtedly, Disney World makes the US one of the best countries to visit with toddlers.
Fun activities to do with toddlers:
- Dance with Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, and Mickey.
- Cruise the ocean in a “clamobile,” and get ready to be amazed by the real fish encounters.
- See dinosaur fossils in a shaded playground.
Common Challenges Parents Face When Traveling With a Toddler
It can be challenging for you to handle your kids on vacations.
Are they cranky from a messed-up sleep schedule or just missing their favorite toy? Who knows!
Here are some challenges that you should be prepared for:
- Limited space and stimulation while traveling may result in fussiness or meltdowns in kids.
- Navigating strollers, car seats, and carriers in transit or unfamiliar environments.
- Installing seats in taxis or rental cars can be time-consuming.
- Picky eating, irregular meals, and limited access to preferred foods may lead to hunger-related outbursts.
Conclusion
Traveling with kids is different from traveling solo or in a group. You must be mindful when choosing the best places to travel with toddlers because they need some extra safety and care. Look into the details of facilities the resort or hotel provides, check if the water park slides are short and safe, etc., before booking tickets.