The Best 2 Weeks Europe Road Trip with Kids

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Take the most perfect Europe road trip from the UK. Travelling to Reims, Chamonix, Peschiera del Garda, Venice, Salsomaggiore Terme, Cinque Terre, Mâcon, and Paris.

Embarking on a family road trip through Europe is an adventure filled with unforgettable experiences, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. This guide to ‘The Best 2 weeks Europe Road trip’ will take you through an epic journey from the UK to many iconic destinations in Europe; Reims, Chamonix, Peschiera del Garda, Venice, Salsomaggiore Terme, Cinque Terre, Mâcon, and Paris. Get ready for a trip that will create lifelong memories for your family.

Starting from Dover in the UK

Preparing for the Europe Road trip of a lifetime!

Before setting off on your grand adventure, always ensure your vehicle is in top condition by checking the oil, tires, brakes, and coolant levels, plus pack essentials such as snacks, water, a first-aid kit, and entertainment for the kids. We take our Caravan Make sure you have all necessary documents, including passports, travel insurance, and vehicle registration.

Day 1: Reims, France

Our journey begins in Dover boarding the ferry across to Calais and driving down to Reims, France, from an overnight stay. If you have time this region is definitely worth exploring. The city is renowned for its champagne production and stunning Gothic architecture.

Exploring Reims

• Reims Cathedral: Visit the Notre-Dame de Reims, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral’s intricate facade and beautiful stained glass windows are awe-inspiring.
• Champagne Tasting: Reims is famous for champagne, Plus some tours are family-friendly, offering grape juice tastings for the kids.
• Palace of Tau: Explore this historic palace, which houses treasures from the cathedral and offers insight into the coronation ceremonies of French kings.

Next, head to the picturesque town of Chamonix, nestled in the French Alps. This destination is perfect for outdoor adventures and breathtaking mountain views.

Activities in Chamonix

• Aiguille du Midi: Take the cable car up to Aiguille du Midi for spectacular views of Mont Blanc. The experience is thrilling for both adults and children but do check minimum ages. It is advised that very young children do not reach these heights for safety reasons, therefore, we skipped this part, but I hear it has an incredible view from the top.
• Mer de Glace: Visit France’s largest glacier. The Montenvers Railway offers a scenic ride up to the glacier, where you can explore ice caves. The kids will love the bright red train and the ice sculptures.
• Parc de Merlet: This wildlife park offers a chance to see alpine animals in their natural habitat. It’s an educational and fun experience for kids.

Day 5-7: Peschiera del Garda, Italy

Continuing our best Europe Road Trip into Italy, drive to Peschiera del Garda, located on the shores of Lake Garda in Italy. This charming town is perfect for relaxation and family-friendly activities.

Exploring Peschiera del Garda

• Lake Garda: Enjoy the beauty of Lake Garda with a boat trip or a swim in its clear waters. There are also numerous water sports activities available.
• Gardaland: Italy’s largest amusement park is nearby and offers a variety of rides and shows for all ages.
• Historic Center: Stroll through the town’s historic center, exploring its fortifications and quaint streets. Don’t miss the local gelato!

Day 8-9: Venice, Italy

From Peschiera del Garda, we recommend leaving the car behind and taking a train ride to Venice. We stayed overnight in a small hotel to soak up the atmosphere. It is extremely easy to book and the trains are very quick. Known for its canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture, Venice is a unique destination.

Highlights of Venice

• St. Mark’s Basilica: Marvel at the basilica’s intricate mosaics and beautiful architecture. The views from the top are worth the climb.
• Grand Canal: Take a gondola ride or a vaporetto (water bus) along the Grand Canal. It’s a wonderful way to see the city from the water.
• Doge’s Palace: Explore this historic palace, which offers insights into Venice’s political history and stunning views from the Bridge of Sighs.
• Rialto Bridge: One of Venice’s most famous landmarks, the Rialto Bridge offers beautiful views and is surrounded by shops and markets.

Day 10-11: Salsomaggiore Terme, Italy

Your next stop is Salsomaggiore Terme, a spa town known for its thermal baths and Art Nouveau architecture.

Relaxing in Salsomaggiore Terme

• Thermal Baths: Enjoy a relaxing day at one of the thermal spas. Many facilities offer family-friendly sections and pools for children.
• Parco Mazzini: This beautiful park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. It’s a great place for kids to play and explore.
• Castello di Scipione: Visit this medieval castle located nearby. It offers guided tours that are both educational and entertaining for children.

Day 12-13: Cinque Terre, Italy

Drive to the stunning Cinque Terre, a collection of five picturesque villages along the Italian Riviera. The colorful houses and breathtaking views make it a highlight of the trip. You can take a boat ride around to the cities, however, we found the train to be the most enjoyable.

Exploring Cinque Terre

• Hiking Trails: Cinque Terre is famous for its scenic hiking trails that connect the villages. The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) offers stunning coastal views.
• Monterosso al Mare: The largest of the five villages, Monterosso has a beautiful beach that’s perfect for swimming and relaxing. Definitely take swimwear and stop to cool down in the beautifully clear water
• Vernazza: Explore the charming streets of Vernazza and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
• Boat Tours: Take a boat tour along the coast for a different perspective of the villages and the rugged coastline.

Day 14-15: Mâcon, France

Leaving Italy, head to Mâcon in the Burgundy region of France. This town is known for its wine production and scenic beauty.

Discovering Mâcon

• Wine Tasting: Although primarily for adults, some vineyards offer grape juice tastings and tours that explain the wine-making process in a family-friendly way.
• La Roche de Solutré: Hike up this iconic limestone escarpment for panoramic views of the region. It’s a fun and educational activity for the whole family.
• Hôtel-Dieu Museum: Learn about the history of Mâcon and its wine production at this informative museum.

Day 16-18: Paris, France

The final stop on your European road trip is Paris, the City of Light. With its world-renowned attractions and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers endless opportunities for family fun.

Highlights of Paris

• Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. Take the elevator to the top for breathtaking views of the city.
• Louvre Museum: Explore the world’s largest art museum. The Louvre offers family-friendly tours and activities that make art appreciation fun for kids.
• Disneyland Paris: If you have time take the train out of the city and spend a magical day at Disneyland Paris. With its rides, shows, and parades, it’s a dream destination for children and adults alike.
• Montmartre: Wander through the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and enjoy street performances and local artists.
• Seine River Cruise: End your trip with a relaxing cruise along the Seine River. It’s a perfect way to see some of Paris’s most famous landmarks from the water.

Tips for a Successful Europe Road Trip with Kids

1. Plan Your Route: Use a reliable GPS and map out your route in advance. Include rest stops, meal breaks, and overnight stays to ensure a comfortable journey. Take your time with everything. We now stay extra days in each location for having a rest day by the pool or trying out kid focused activities.
2. Pack Smart: Bring essentials like snacks, water, entertainment for the kids, and a first-aid kit. Pack for varying weather conditions and have extra clothing on hand.
3. Stay Flexible: While it’s important to have a plan, be prepared for unexpected detours and delays. We have now added Lego stores to our route plan. Totally worth the extra detour to help keep the trip memorable for the kids too. We discovered very quickly that flexibility and including the kids in planning can make the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
4. Keep Kids Entertained: Bring along movies, games, books, and toys to keep kids occupied during long drives. Plan interactive activities like car bingo or I Spy.
5. Safety First: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before you leave. Keep a roadside emergency kit in your car and have a list of emergency contacts readily available.
6. Two weeks: Make the most of your two weeks holiday by leaving on the Friday and returning on the Sunday evening. This will help you to make the most of your time.

Conclusion

A family Europe road trip offers a unique and enriching experience. From the historic landmarks of London to the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, each destination provides its own charm and adventure. By planning ahead and keeping these tips in mind, you can create a memorable journey that your family will cherish for years to come. Safe travels and happy adventuring! For more Europe Road trip ideas and top tips have a look at ‘How to have the Best road Trip in Europe’.