Episode Details

Planning a family trip to Europe but not sure where to start? In this episode Melissa breaks down everything you need to know to plan your first family trip to Europe — from choosing the right destination for your family to getting around once you're there without losing your mind.

With nine trips to Europe across more than a decade of family travel, Melissa has done it every way imaginable: road trips, trains, ferries, budget flights, and everything in between. She shares which countries work best for first-timers and why, what to expect logistically, and how to use points and miles to bring the cost of a family trip to Europe within reach.

In this episode:

• The single most important mindset shift for a first Europe trip with kids
• What you need to know about passports and travel authorizations before you book
• A destination-by-destination breakdown of the best countries for first-time Europe families - including Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Greece, France, and Iceland
• How to get around Europe with kids
• How to use points and miles to significantly reduce your costs
• Practical on-the-ground tips: adapters, eSIMs, travel insurance, and more

00:00 Welcome 
02:11 Big picture planning
05:35 Best destinations for a first family trip to Europe 
17:57 Getting around Europe with kids 
22:30 Europe on a budget 
24:27 Logistical tips for your family trip to Europe 
26:08 Do you need travel insurance?
27:11 Final thoughts and where to go from here

Articles
Europe with Kids — Complete Destination Hub
Should you bring your car seat to Europe?
Ireland with Kids Travel Guide
Where to Go in Italy with Kids
Spring Portugal with Kids Itinerary, Recap and (Slight) Regrets
Greece with Kids: Where Should You Go?
Athens with Kids in One Day (or Two)
Naxos with Kids
Visiting Crete with Kids
Paris with Kids
Best Iceland Tours

Travel Insurance & Gear
Squaremouth (compare insurance plans)
Universal travel power adapter
Airalo eSIM (use code MELISS0517)

Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone.

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