My family is looking to embark on its first international trip with our 6 and 8 year olds this summer. We're looking at a trip in the June and July timeframe and will be coming from DC.
We are deciding between France, Spain, and Italy -- or some combination of the two. Our interests include: outdoor activities (swimming, kayaking, hiking, exploring parks, riding bikes, boating, surfing), food and culture, museums and sightseeing (a limited number that would appeal to young kids, like the Eiffel Tower). We are open to renting a car so we have the flexibility to get around and find that Airbnbs and rentals suit our family best at this stage of life with access to multiple bedrooms, a kitchen and washer/dryer.
I've been thinking about a few itineraries, like:
San Sebastian to Paris with stops in between
Coastal Provence to Paris with stops in between (we prefer to stay away from the really busy spots like Nice and instead explore smaller town like Sanary-sur-Mer). Our own tour de France of sorts!
Northern Italy - Venice into Lake Garda
Thanks for any suggestions, including specific itineraries you would recommend for a 2 week visit.