Planning a family vacation can be overwhelming, but DRIFT Travel Magazine has put together some of the top and most family-friendly destinations across the world for summer 2025. From beach vacations to cultural trips, the following are the best destinations to make your family vacation unforgettable.
London, England
London’s abundance of history, cultural diversity, and numerous sites make it ideal for families who wish to balance education with entertainment. The city’s globally acclaimed landmarks and interactive museums provide children and adults with educational and fun experiences.
Things to Do:
• Buckingham Palace: Watch the Changing of the Guard.
• Tower of London: Discover centuries of British history and see the Crown Jewels.
• Natural History Museum: Interactive displays that fascinate young minds.
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter: The ultimate magical experience for the whole family.
• West End productions: Family-oriented musicals like Frozen and The Lion King.
• Hyde Park: Rent a paddleboat or have a picnic.
Where to Stay:
• The Rubens at the Palace: Family suites and children’s menus are available.
• The Resident Kensington: Located near key attractions with spacious family rooms.
Cancun, Mexico
Cancun’s white sand beaches, warm waters, and top-notch resorts have established it as the top destination for families seeking sun and adventure. From swimming with dolphins to exploring ancient Mayan ruins, there is something for everyone here.
Things to Do:
• Xcaret Park: Massive eco-archeological park featuring snorkeling, cultural performances, and an underground river.
• Isla Mujeres: Just a short ferry trip from Cancun, perfect for snorkeling and discovering the local sea life.
• Interactive Aquarium Cancun: Get face to face with sea creatures and swim alongside dolphins.
• Cancun Mayan Museum: Get children involved with hands-on exhibits regarding ancient cultures.
• Cenote Tours: Explore natural sinkholes and clear waters perfect for swimming.
Where to Stay:
• Moon Palace Cancun: All-inclusive resort with children’s club, water park, and spacious family suites.
• Hyatt Ziva Cancun: Offers multiple pools, kids’ menus, and planned activities.
Maldives
The Maldives isn’t merely a romantic destination—it’s also a luxurious family experience. With luxury resorts catering to families and snorkeling and sea adventures, it’s the perfect place for sun-kissed families.
Things to Do:
• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Discover the vibrant sea life of the coral reefs.
• Kids’ clubs: Most resorts provide children with supervised activities, arts and crafts, and marine biology classes.
• Dolphin Watching Tours: Observe pods of dolphins frolicking in the open sea.
• Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Experience the ocean without getting wet.
• Cooking Classes: Learn to make traditional Maldivian cuisine with your family.
Where to Stay:
• Soneva Fushi: Luxury resort with spacious villas and private children’s facilities.
• CROSSROADS Maldives: Offers family villas, water sports, and one of the largest kids’ clubs in the Maldives.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto seamlessly weaves together old and modern charm, making it not only an educational but also exciting destination for families. From temples and gardens to interactive museums, it’s a cultural experience children will never forget.
Things to Do:
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Hike through the thousands of vibrant red torii gates.
• Kyoto Railway Museum: Interactive exhibits and realistic train simulations.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Walk through the lofty bamboo forests and visit the monkey park.
• Nijo Castle: Stroll through samurai history with guided tours.
• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Lovely temple perfectly reflected in the pond.
Where to Stay:
• The Westin Miyako Kyoto: Easy access to the city and family rooms are available.
• Hotel Granvia Kyoto: Located above the railway station, with easy and hassle-free access.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town’s beautiful scenery and varied wildlife encounters make it the perfect destination for families who are looking for adventure. From hiking Table Mountain to penguin spotting at Boulders Beach, the city has in store for you an unforgettable mix of culture and nature.
Things to Do:
• Table Mountain Cableway: Take the cableway for the most spectacular views.
• Boulders Beach: Walk through the famous African penguin colony.
• Two Oceans Aquarium: Hands-on exhibits and the ability to dive with sharks.
• Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: Explore local flora and family picnic spots.
• Robben Island Museum: Discover the place where Nelson Mandela spent years in confinement.
Where to Stay:
• The Bay Hotel: Upscale suites with family-oriented facilities and views of the ocean.
• One&Only Cape Town: Features its own KidsOnly club, offering organized activities under supervision.
Montréal, Canada
Montréal is a cultural destination where families can immerse themselves in diverse traditions and colorful festivals. From science museums to historic neighborhoods, it’s a city that both entertains and teaches.
Things to Do:
• Biodome de Montréal: A one-of-a-kind ecosystem experience where children get to view wildlife from around the world.
• Old Port: Try zip-lining, paddle-boating, or visit the science center.
• La Ronde Amusement Park: Roller coasters and family rides.
• Mont-Royal Park: Hike to the top for city views in all directions.
• Jean-Talon Market: Taste fresh produce and local specialties.
Where to Stay:
• Hotel Le Crystal: Family suites with pool access and proximity to the top attractions.
• Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth: Connected to the Underground City near the train station.
These are one-of-a-kind family destinations with experiences that will give you memories to remember for years to come. From getting immersed in culture in London or swimming in the Maldives’ sparkling waters, this summer of 2025 will surely be the ultimate family experience.
