Planning family holidays often requires balancing different needs, as parents seek relaxation while children look for entertainment and activities. A new study by TUI examined more than 150 seaside destinations in Europe to identify locations that best combine both.
The analysis ranked destinations based on criteria including the number of theme parks, aquariums, ice cream shops, entertainment venues, water parks and zoos, as well as local weather conditions.
Lisbon leads the ranking
At the top of the 2026 ranking is Lisbon, with a score of 9.16/10. The Portuguese capital stands out for offering strong performance across all evaluated categories. It combines 17 parks per 10 km² with 37 family-friendly hotels per 10 km², one of the highest densities in the ranking.
The city also benefits from mild weather, with average temperatures around 23°C, while its entertainment score reaches 7.36/10, reflecting the variety of activities available for families.
Naples and Porto follow
Naples ranks second with 9.12/10, combining culture, sunshine and a wide range of activities. The city records six parks per 10 km² and offers more than 150 excursions and organised activities, alongside seaside walks and historical landmarks.
In third place, Porto stands out for the concentration of attractions and accommodation within a compact coastal area. The city hosts 13 parks and 32 family-friendly hotels per 10 km², providing numerous options within short distances.
Mediterranean destinations in the top ten
Catania takes fourth place, notable for its average temperature of 26.73°C, along with three parks and eight family-friendly hotels per 10 km².
Barcelona ranks fifth, offering the largest number of excursions in the study and a mix of urban and outdoor experiences. Landmarks such as Park Güell and Sagrada Família contribute to its appeal for families.
In sixth place, Rhodes combines high summer temperatures of 27.64°C with beaches and activities suitable for family travel.
Cyprus destinations recognised
Paphos and Limassol occupy the seventh and eighth positions respectively in the ranking.
Paphos stands out for its large number of family-friendly hotels and favourable weather conditions for summer holidays. Limassol has gained popularity in recent years due to its warm climate and growing range of activities for children.
The Turkish resort of Side ranks ninth, while Marmaris completes the top ten, offering beaches, accommodation options and parks suitable for families.
Source: iefimerida.gr