Best places to travel with toddlers: Top 4 Amazing Trips

Why Traveling with Toddlers Is Easier Than You Think

Best places to travel with toddlers are real destinations where families create incredible memories. If you’re wondering where to go, these top international spots tick all the boxes:

Destination	Why It Works	Flight Time (from US)
Japan	Exceptional safety, cleanliness, and public transport	12-14 hours (West Coast)
Portugal	Affordable, welcoming, stroller-friendly cities	7-8 hours (East Coast)
Mexico (Riviera Maya)	Short flights, all-inclusive resorts, warm weather	2-4 hours
Denmark (Copenhagen)	Ultra-walkable, playground-filled, family-focused	8-9 hours (East Coast)

In fact, 70% of parents traveled with children under 5 in 2023. This isn’t a coincidence; travel has become more accessible, and the right destination makes all the difference.

Fears of tantrums at 30,000 feet or navigating strollers through foreign cities keep many families home. These concerns fade when you choose destinations with family-friendly infrastructure, welcoming cultures, and engaging activities.

Your toddler won’t remember every detail, but they will absorb the joy of exploration and family togetherness. One parent who took her 2.5-year-old on an 88-day, 14-country trip was constantly asked, “Are you nuts?!” and “Is there anywhere closer to home you recommend for toddlers?”

The answer is yes—and some of the best places to travel with toddlers are surprisingly manageable international destinations.

I’m Ramy Saber, founder of GoTravelHunt. I’ve spent years helping families find destinations that balance adventure with practicality. I identify the best places to travel with toddlers by focusing on safety, ease of navigation, and genuine family-friendly experiences.

Learn more about best places to travel with toddlers:

• expense savings tips for traveling with your family out west
• family travel tips
• travel insurance for children

Decoding “Toddler-Friendly”: What to Look for in a Destination

When planning a trip with a toddler, practical questions about meltdowns and stroller access take priority over beautiful beaches. The best places to travel with toddlers work with your family’s needs, not against them.

Safety comes first, always. We prioritize destinations with low crime rates, clean environments, and accessible healthcare. Knowing a good hospital or pharmacy is nearby provides peace of mind, allowing you to relax and enjoy the trip.

Infrastructure matters more than you’d think. Pushing a stroller over cobblestones is no fun. We prioritize cities with smooth sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and reliable public transport. Copenhagen, for example, is exceptionally stroller-friendly, making exploration feel like a breeze, not an obstacle course.

Flight time is a big consideration, especially for a first international trip. Long-haul flights can be stressful, so minimizing travel time is ideal. If a long flight is unavoidable, choosing destinations with minimal time differences helps reduce jet lag.

Where you stay can make or break your trip. We recommend apartments with kitchens for preparing familiar meals, which is a lifesaver for picky eaters. Family-friendly resorts are also great, often offering splash pads, kids’ clubs, and complimentary baby gear. Some even provide free meals for children under 5.

Finally, activities must match a toddler’s energy and attention span. Think playgrounds, calm beaches for splashing, and interactive museums. The key is a slow travel pace, allowing for naps and spontaneous fun. A toddler doesn’t need a packed itinerary. The best trips let their curiosity lead, which is what makes a destination truly toddler-friendly.

The Ultimate List of the Best Places to Travel with Toddlers Internationally

After years of helping families plan their adventures, I can confidently say these destinations are the real deal. These are the best places to travel with toddlers because they combine safety, convenience, and genuine family-friendly experiences.

1. Japan: The Pinnacle of Cleanliness and Courtesy

Japan is a magical destination for families with young children. The culture is genuinely welcoming, with locals often greeting toddlers with warm smiles.

Japan’s reputation for best safety and impeccable cleanliness is well-deserved. Spotless streets, pristine public restrooms, and a culture of respect make navigation stress-free. The efficient public transport, including bullet trains, is punctual, comfortable, and stroller-friendly.

Japan offers unique toddler activities. In Tokyo, teamLab Borderless provides a mesmerizing interactive art experience, while the Ghibli Museum (book well in advance) is enchanting. Ueno Park & Zoo offers green space for running, and Nara Deer Park is a showstopper, where friendly deer gently take crackers from your toddler’s hand.

The best time to visit is spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms or autumn (September-November) for comfortable weather and fall foliage.

For accommodation, serviced apartments offer kitchens, while family-friendly hotels like the Four Seasons Tokyo at Otemachi provide excellent amenities. Toddler-friendly food includes udon noodles, rice balls (onigiri), and bento boxes. A practical tip: carry cash (yen) for smaller establishments.

2. Portugal: Sun, Sand, and Stroller-Friendly Cities

Portugal is a fantastic first international trip for families with toddlers. The culture is incredibly child-friendly, with a warmth that makes you feel instantly at home. The country offers stunning coastlines, charming cities, and great food at affordable prices. Plus, it’s a relatively short flight from the US East Coast (7-8 hours).

Cities like Lisbon and Porto are increasingly stroller-friendly, and the welcoming culture means locals genuinely enjoy having children around.

The Algarve region is perfect for toddlers, with beautiful beaches featuring calm, shallow waters. In Lisbon, the Oceanarium captivates young minds, and the iconic yellow tram rides are an adventure. While Sintra’s fairytale castles may be brief stops, the surrounding gardens are great for exploration.

Plan your visit for spring (May-June) or fall (September) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

For accommodation, consider family-friendly apartments with kitchens or resorts like Vila Vita Parc. Portuguese food is fresh and flavorful. The sweet pastel de nata (custard tarts) are a hit, and you’ll find kid-friendly cafes throughout the country.

3. Mexico (Riviera Maya): All-Inclusive Ease and Tropical Bliss

For an easy international getaway, the Riviera Maya is a top choice. This stretch of Mexican Caribbean coastline has perfected family travel, and short flights from the US (2-4 hours) minimize travel stress.

The area’s family-friendly all-inclusive resorts remove the stress from planning. With meals, activities, and childcare handled, you can relax. Many resorts offer toddler-specific amenities like splash pads, kids’ clubs, and in-room baby gear.

The beautiful beaches are toddler paradise with soft sand and warm, gentle waves. Activities include building sandcastles, splashing in resort splash pads, or visiting kids’ clubs. For a unique experience, visit a gentle cenote—a natural swimming hole with crystal-clear water.

The best time to visit is from November to April for warm, dry weather, avoiding the summer heat and hurricane season.

When choosing accommodation, focus on all-inclusive resorts with strong family programs. Finest Playa Mujeres and The Azul Beach Hotel by Karisma are excellent choices with their toddler-focused amenities. All visitors need a tourist card (FMM) for entry.

The food at resorts is ideal for families, with buffets offering variety for picky eaters, fresh tropical fruits, and simple favorites like quesadillas.

4. Denmark (Copenhagen): Fairytale Charm and Urban Playgrounds

Copenhagen is arguably the most thoughtfully designed city for families. It’s extremely walkable and stroller-friendly, with smooth sidewalks and pedestrian zones that make navigation effortless. The city is remarkably safe and clean, but its true highlight is the pervasive focus on play, with fantastic playgrounds dotting the city.

With its parks, canals, and colorful houses, Copenhagen is a must-visit with kids. The Nyhavn harbor, in particular, creates a storybook backdrop.

Tivoli Gardens, the historic amusement park that inspired Walt Disney, is the crown jewel, with gentle rides perfect for young children. The Blue Planet Aquarium (Den Blå Planet) offers a captivating underwater journey, and relaxing canal tours are a great way to see the city.

Family-friendly hotels like Villa Copenhagen make a big difference, providing amenities like cribs and even child-sized robes for the pool.

Visit during summer (May-September) when the weather is warm and the city is alive with outdoor activities.

For accommodation, apartment rentals with kitchenettes offer flexibility. Centrally located family hotels are also a great choice. Danish food can be an adventure; try Smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), Danish pastries, and explore the city’s food markets.

Your Toddler Travel Toolkit: Pro Tips for a Smooth Journey

Even the best places to travel with toddlers require extra planning. Here are our top tips for a smooth journey.

Packing Smart for One of the best places to travel with toddlers

Packing effectively is crucial. While less is often more, some essentials are non-negotiable.

• Pack layers: Versatile clothing is a lifesaver for unpredictable weather.
• Don’t forget loveys and comfort items: A favorite blanket or stuffed animal provides comfort in unfamiliar surroundings.
• Essential medicines and a first-aid kit: Include pain relievers, allergy medication, bandages, and any necessary prescriptions. Consult your pediatrician before you go.
• The “snackle box” concept: Organize various snacks in a [portable storage case with a handle from Harbor Freight](https://fave.co/3AnNaDY), [small organizational box](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=snackle+box+container&crid=9UJFQREJUEME&sprefix=snackle+box%2Caps%2C96&linkCode=ll2&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=50b76cf0787b5807afe81dbdabd77f8f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl), or a [snack spinner like this one by GoBe](https://www.amazon.com/GoBe-Kids-Snack-Spinner-Compartment/dp/B08N1F8L85?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=gRiEu&content-id=amzn1.sym.8cf3b8ef-6a74-45dc-9f0d-6409eb523603&pf_rd_p=8cf3b8ef-6a74-45dc-9f0d-6409eb523603&pf_rd_r=S7X07RZNNC82VBFK2X1A&pd_rd_wg=BwBhV&pd_rd_r=cf0425ef-0709-4f39-b71c-129d17886042&linkCode=ll1&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=6188f10a663c0f8b4b745855d54032d4&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl). This saves space and makes snacks exciting.
• Favorite snacks from home: Familiar foods can be a lifesaver when new options are rejected.
• Prepare for messes: Pack an extra outfit for you and your toddler, [sanitizing wipes](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=sanitizing+travel+wipes&crid=14E4AI7RSJP5S&sprefix=sanitizing+travel+wipes%2Caps%2C89&linkCode=ll2&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=959731215b23557c4e29c31278afd9f9&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl), and [dog waste bags](https://www.amazon.com/Earth-Rated-Unscented-Completely-Inches/dp/B00LAI9OM6?crid=2RSPASX038139&keywords=dog%2Bwaste%2Bbags&qid=1668807830&sprefix=dog%2Bwaste%2Bbags%2Caps%2C149&sr=8-6&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=405424390b3ea1aef21d017b821fe015&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl) for soiled diapers or trash.
• Bring the essentials, rent or ship the rest: For bulky items like cribs or carriers, use a reputable local baby-gear rental service. Consider shipping smaller items like diapers to your destination via [Amazon Prime](https://www.amazon.com/amazonprime?&linkCode=ll2&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=d2f74775a1769aba70c175c53e9589d7&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl).

We encourage you to check out our great places for family vacations for more detailed packing advice.

Conquering the Skies: Flying with a Toddler

Flying with a toddler is manageable with the right strategies.

• Book direct flights: Minimize transitions and potential delays whenever possible.
• Choose flight times wisely: Consider your toddler’s sleep schedule. Overnight flights may work for some, while others prefer daytime travel.
• Buy a toddler their own seat: Using an [FAA-approved car seat](https://amzn.to/4an7OD4) on their own seat increases safety and comfort.
• Bag of new toys: Pack small, new toys to keep them engaged. Consider [Wikki Stix](https://www.amazon.com/WikkiStix-Non-Toxic-Reusable-Sculpting-American/dp/B00TF7ZZM2?crid=35WVWEJR9OW4C&keywords=wikki+stix&qid=1668704317&sprefix=wikkistix%2Caps%2C64&sr=8-4-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=f1bac245193484251fe5f315aed3a16b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl), [Melissa & Doug Water Wow!](https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/4B0F33F8-CB44-4B94-AB1A-A2434A78D674?_encoding=UTF8&store_ref=SB_A098420316FIB84B6EN05&pd_rd_plhdr=t&aaxitk=a2d458975096629eff6d2db3a4bcca94&hsa_cr_id=1819473220501&lp_asins=B0815Q8HSW%2CB07VNB8BV9%2CB00MC7TC6M&lp_query=doug+and+melissa+water+wow&lp_slot=auto-sparkle-hsa-tetris&pd_rd_w=dQSXg&content-id=amzn1.sym.552bcbb2-81a1-4e8b-b868-3fba7d5af42a%3Aamzn1.sym.552bcbb2-81a1-4e8b-b868-3fba7d5af42a&pf_rd_p=552bcbb2-81a1-4e8b-b868-3fba7d5af42a&pf_rd_r=TGQ70EXAXVM81TACQH9J&pd_rd_wg=GgX4X&pd_rd_r=d07bc729-7ede-41a5-a1b3-855ca65edc7c&linkCode=ll2&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=202021dd8c73507da9420ad2130c5aef&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl), [Squigz](https://www.amazon.com/Fat-Brain-Toys-Squigz-Starter/dp/B00DEBB3N0?crid=K7BG58UJ5HZQ&keywords=squigz&qid=1668806987&sprefix=squigz%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1&smid=A154Z3BZB2CCWS&linkCode=ll1&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=c043be566151c95b69d862815e233f0b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl), [lift-and-look board books](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=lift+and+look+books&i=stripbooks&crid=3N9Z9SKM3ITPW&sprefix=lift+and+look+books%2Cstripbooks%2C129&linkCode=ll2&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=3723a7e2f754a5aec4ad3b0caf69f8d3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl), or a [packable busy board](https://www.amazon.com/Esjay-Toddler-Montessori-Activities-Airplane/dp/B089GGQBF4?crid=1WVSTE9HP747B&keywords=montessori%2Bbusy%2Bboard%2Bfor%2Btoddlers&qid=1668704420&sprefix=montessori%2Bbusy%2Caps%2C71&sr=8-3-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=fc33106bfc79048c78797928c3ead958&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl).
• Screen time is okay: Many pediatricians agree that screen time rules can be relaxed when traveling. Download shows onto a [kids tablet](https://www.amazon.com/Fire-7-Kids-Tablet/dp/B099HDR2Y6?crid=2ZBD04LCJIZCP&keywords=kids+tablet&qid=1668705663&sprefix=kids+tablet%2Caps%2C119&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=2c0fe026749a32926c725691cfc9ce7e&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl) and bring [kids headphones](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=kids+headphones&crid=2ND6JXRG03E43&sprefix=kids+headphones%2Caps%2C111&linkCode=ll2&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=2fc59d3f2d8211c0ec68b4a1465b8253&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl) like [CozyPhones](https://www.amazon.com/stores/CozyPhones/page/F8652417-F45A-49D9-A4CE-9AD353CC3BAB?&linkCode=ll2&tag=travel_100-20&linkId=7bb03c7d8a3ae2878363a63fe45dbfd8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl).
• Snacks for ear pressure: Offer a snack or drink during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure.

An [affordable eSIM for your trip with GoTravelHunt partners](https://go.saily.site/aff_c?offer_id=101&aff_id=8710) can save hassle and money on international phone service.

Beating Jet Lag and Managing Meltdowns on your trip to one of the best places to travel with toddlers

Jet lag and tantrums are common challenges. Here’s how to tackle them:

• Adjust to local time immediately: Switch to the local time zone for meals and sleep as soon as you land.
• Get morning sunlight: Natural light helps reset circadian rhythms. Get outside soon after waking.
• Maintain nap routines: A well-rested toddler is a happier toddler. Try to stick to their nap schedule.
• Don’t overschedule: This is critical. Plan one or two activities per day with plenty of downtime.
• Balance adult and toddler activities: Alternate between activities for you and activities for them.
• Stay calm during tantrums: Meltdowns are normal. Take a deep breath, find a quiet spot, and remember this too shall pass.

Frequently Asked Questions About Toddler Travel

We’ve heard countless questions from parents considering international travel with little ones. Here are honest answers to the most common concerns.

Is it safe to travel internationally with a toddler?

Yes, it can be very safe to travel internationally with a toddler, especially if you choose your destination wisely and take precautions.

The best places to travel with toddlers that we’ve highlighted—Japan, Portugal, Mexico’s resort areas, and Denmark—all have strong safety records and are welcoming to families.

Before you go, visit your pediatrician to discuss your plans, get advice on vaccinations, and prepare for common travel illnesses. This is an essential step.

We also strongly encourage comprehensive travel insurance for the entire family. It provides peace of mind for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Learn about travel insurance options with GoTravelHunt partners to find coverage that fits your family.

How do I handle picky eaters in a foreign country?

The picky eater challenge continues abroad, but with preparation and flexibility, you can manage it without every meal becoming a battle.

Bring familiar snacks from home. A supply of your toddler’s favorite non-perishable treats is your secret weapon for moments between meals or when local food is rejected.

Visit local grocery stores. This is a great way to find toddler-friendly staples like yogurt, fruit, bread, cheese, and plain pasta or rice, often more affordably than restaurants.

When dining out, ask for simple preparations. Most restaurants can accommodate requests for plain rice, pasta with butter, or bread.

Most importantly, don’t stress about perfect nutrition for a short trip. Focus on hydration and calories to keep mealtimes relaxed. This allows everyone to enjoy the experience, and you’ll have more energy to explore the best places to travel with toddlers.

Will my toddler even remember the trip?

Parents often wonder if their toddler will remember the trip. The truth is, it doesn’t matter as much as you think.

Focus on the present moment. The joy on your toddler’s face as they find new things is happening right now, regardless of future recall. These moments of pure wonder are the real reward.

Travel is also about family bonding. Without the distractions of home, you’re fully present, exploring and laughing together. These shared experiences build a deep connection.

Furthermore, the experience shapes their development. Travel stimulates their senses, exposes them to new cultures, and teaches adaptability, shaping their curiosity for years to come.

Most importantly, you will create lifelong memories. These stories—the funny, the challenging, the wonderful—become part of your family’s narrative for years to come.

The global family tourism market was valued at USD 1,490.1 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 3,151.1 billion by 2032. This shows that families worldwide recognize the immense value of traveling together.

Conclusion: Your Adventure Awaits

Traveling with toddlers isn’t just possible—it’s one of the most meaningful things you can do as a family. There will be chaotic moments, but the magic of watching your little one find the world is irreplaceable.

The best places to travel with toddlers are about exploring at a toddler’s pace and enjoying time together. Whether it’s feeding deer in Japan, building sandcastles in Portugal, splashing in a Mexican resort, or riding canal boats in Copenhagen, these shared experiences become your family’s story.

Not every moment will be perfect. Meltdowns and picky eating happen, and that’s okay. Those challenges become funny stories later, while the joy and closeness you felt will remain.

At GoTravelHunt, we’re passionate about making travel planning easy and affordable so more families can experience these journeys. We understand that planning international travel with a toddler can feel overwhelming, which is why our guides and resources support you every step of the way.

Your adventure is waiting, and your little explorer is ready. All you need to do is take that first step. Explore our family travel guides and deals to start planning your next trip! The world is bigger and more beautiful than you can imagine, and there’s no better time to show it to your toddler than right now.