Algarve

A long-time family favourite, the Algarve ticks every box for travelling with a toddler. From great-value, family friendly hotels to wide sandy beaches with gentle shorelines, it's an easy place to relax and enjoy quality time together. Add in the laidback pace of life, welcoming locals, and a warm climate - all just a short flight from the UK - and it's easy to see why families return year after year.

Where to stay:

Tivoli Alvor Algarve Resort

Domes Lake Algarve, Autograph Collection

Dubai, UAE

Famed for its glitz and glamour, Dubai offers far more than a playground for luxury lovers - it’s also an ideal destination for some winter sun with a toddler. From the mesmerising dancing fountains and sun-kissed beaches to aquariums, and world-class malls with excellent family facilities, Dubai makes travelling with little ones both fun and effortless.

With direct flights from a wide range of UK airports and an abundance of family friendly hotels, Dubai promises a stress-free escape with a diverse selection of activities to keep even the most energetic toddlers entertained.

Where to stay:

Atlantis, The Palm

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

A city break might not seem like the obvious choice for a holiday with a toddler, but it doesn’t have to be ruled out entirely. With a little extra thought put into choosing the right destination, city breaks can work surprisingly well for young families.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is safe, clean and wonderfully flat, making it a breeze to explore with a buggy. It’s packed with bakeries serving irresistible treats and family attractions. From the fairytale charm of Tivoli Gardens and the Changing of the Guard to plenty of green spaces for outdoor play, the city offers a relaxed and toddler-friendly pace. Add in a short flight time from the UK, and it becomes an ideal choice for a city break with children.

Where to stay:

Absalon Hotel

Mauritius

If you’re dreaming of a tropical island escape with your toddler, Mauritius deserves a spot at the top of your list. Think postcard-perfect beaches, soft white sand, and calm, shallow lagoons - ideal for tiny toes to splash and play.

The island is immaculate, the locals are wonderfully welcoming, and with excellent healthcare and plenty of family friendly resorts, Mauritius is an excellent choice for your next escape. And the best part? Direct overnight flights from the UK, combined with a manageable three to four hour time difference, make Mauritius far more achievable than you might expect.

Where to stay:

Zilwa Attitude

Constance Belle Mare Plage, Mauritius

It’s no surprise that villa holidays are ideal for families with toddlers. With plenty of space, all the comforts of home, and the convenience of having everything to hand, they make travelling with little ones feel refreshingly easy. Kitchen facilities allow you to prepare early meals, separate bedrooms help everyone enjoy a good night’s sleep, and washing facilities take care of inevitable spills. Villas are also well suited to multigenerational holidays, great if you’re planning to bring an extra pair of hands along.

Cyprus

Cyprus, in particular, is a wonderful choice for young families, with affordable villas, beautiful beaches, and a warm Mediterranean welcome. For added peace of mind, many properties offer gated swimming pools, and if you’re travelling early or late in the season, heated pools are often available too. When it comes to comfort and convenience, it’s hard to beat a villa holiday in Cyprus.

Although perhaps not an obvious choice, family cruise holidays offer a fantastic opportunity for families with toddlers to explore multiple locations with ease. No need to worry about hauling all the extra toddler gear from place to place, and you only need to unpack once. Beyond the convenience, family friendly ships provide dedicated children’s areas, early dining options, and a wide range of entertainment designed to keep the whole family happy.