I'm going to Vienna for a conference in Mid July 2010. I will be traveling with my husband, my aunt and three children 6y,2y and 1y. We wanted to spend an additional week and travel to another region of Europe . Because of the young ages of the children, My husband and I tought the best way may be a cruise.maybe around Italy? Any other suggestions? Any cruise ideas or other ideas for this unusual Family trip?
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
There are some nice cruises up the Danube or in the Rhine River area. French river cruises, too. Or fly to the UK and do a narrow boat cruise on the river/canal system.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
Many cruises, particularly river cruises, discourage children. If you are interested in a river cruise, check out some of the cruiselines to see what their rules are.
Posted by
Vienna, Austria
517 posts
Take it from one who knows: traveling with kids + relatives = traveling circus. It can be high stress. What we often do is rent a small house in our target area. That way, you have flexibility to go out and explore or just stay put and relax. Even the most travel-savy kids sometimes need time to just play in their room and have a little peace and quiet. Last Easter we rented a farmhouse in Burgundy and had a fabulous week. Good luck!
Posted by
Vicenza, Italy
319 posts
Viennia may get pretty dull for young kids. They will probably like the Royal Palace. There is a zoo and gardens there plus the 'Sissy' exhibit is pretty flashy if you have any princess lovers in your kid group.
After a week in a city, I would take the kids to the country where they can run free. We stayed at a tourist farm near on the Romantic Road. my 2 year old loved it. She got to play with farm animals and just take some time to chill between seeing tourist sites. In your situation I would look for a place in Southern Bavaria so you can see the castles and Alps. I found a farm by just searching 'Bavaria Farm Holiday'. The farms are really geared towrad families. Many have playgrounds, petting zoo, pony rides. Plus you can help the farmers if you want. You'll want to rent a car for your stay because the farm will likely be off the beaten path.
Posted by
Tampa, FL, USA
417 posts
River cruises are great, but not exactly kid friendly (though they are there). I do not think you would enjoy it with young children. An ocean cruise around Italy would be lots of fun. The ships are big enough if you need time away from extended family or kids, you can do that. Plus there are fun kids programs. Some leave from Venice, which would be easy to get to from Vienna, but you could also consider Rome (Civitavecchia). Personally, I would look at Venice. That way you are able to see an amazing city, and a cruise. Plus, many of those ships go to Dubrovnik, Croatia, which is REALLY cool!