31 bucket list travel experiences for families

Need some inspiration for the top experiences for families?

Every family has a list. You know, the travel bucket list that gets referenced every time you start talking holidays. Whether your crew thrives on beachside bliss, stargazing under desert skies, diving into vibrant festivals, or unravelling the mysteries of ancient civilisations, this collection of once-in-a-lifetime experiences is your passport to epic fun.

1. Ancient history on the Nile

Cairo, Egypt

A family cruise along the historic Nile in Egypt is one of the top adventure experiences for families. It tops this travel bucket list as it’s a unique opportunity for kids to witness history come to life. Ignite imagination and curiosity as you explore networks of sandstone-coloured streets and take in the smell of coffee and spice. Marvel at the timeless treasures of Luxor and Karnak Temples, the iconic Valley of the Kings and the grandeur of the Great Pyramids of Giza. You’ll learn about ancient civilisations as you explore the heart of this historic land

2. Orangutan spotting in Sabah

Malaysian Borneo

Adventurous families will love the natural attractions on offer in the wilds of Sabah. The Malaysian state is located on the northern tip of the island of Borneo. Sabah’s biggest drawcard is its population of orangutans. The most famous place to encounter an orangutan is at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in East Sabah, where visitors can stroll between viewing platforms to observe the great orange-hued apes do their thing. Or lace up your hiking boots and trek through the lush jungles of Danum Valley, keeping your eyes peeled for these amazing apes swinging from the trees.

Read: 16 things to do in Sabah

3. Celebrate the Day of the Dead in Mexico

Prepare for a whirlwind of colour, warmth and wide-eyed wonder in Mexico on Dia de Muertos, the Day of the Dead. The air thrums with a quiet joy, unseen hands brushing away the cobwebs of grief. Cemeteries, usually hushed and sombre, are filled with swirls of marigolds, their sweet scent guiding souls’ home, just like in the movie Coco. Parades burst with music and fantastical creatures straight out of a vibrant spirit world. It’s a celebration – not of death but of enduring love – and it will leave you and your children captivated.

4. Get lost in the world’s most populated city

Tokyo

There’s no city in the world that deserves the title ‘epic’ quite as much as Tokyo. A mesmerising blend of tradition and neon, the city is an extraordinary playground for families. Wander through ancient shrines and bustling streets, where the scent of incense mingles with the buzz of modern life. Dive into a culinary adventure, from melt-in-yourmouth sushi to sizzling yakitori in smoky alleys and colourful meals in candy-hued cafes.

Read: The best things to do in Tokyo with kids

5. Explore the desert in Abu Dhabi

Escape the ordinary with your family at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort. Located just outside Abu Dhabi, families can embark on adventures that traverse the world’s largest sand desert – by camelback, 4×4 buggy or fat bikes. Witness falconry demonstrations, delve into stargazing talks, dine under the vast desert sky and, finally, retreat to your luxurious accommodation for a restful night. While parents unwind at the spa, kids can have a blast at the supervised kids’ club with games, activities and a dedicated splash pool.

6. Ride a hot air balloon at Cappadocia

Türkiye

It’s an adventure that rivals even Carl Fredricksen’s wildest dreams (remember the grumpy old man from Up who flew his house away with balloons?). In Cappadocia, hundreds of hot air balloons in every shade imaginable inflate and rise gently into the sky every single day. But that won’t dash your kids’ delight as they drift majestically over a landscape sculpted by time, ancient pigeon houses carved into cliffs, and sprawling green orchards and vineyards. After the morning spectacle, journey into Derinkuyu, a real-life underground city that was once home to 20,000 people, for a history lesson that will ignite imaginations

7. New York, New York

USA

New York, New York, it’s a wonderful town! Bursting with life and brimming with possibilities, New York is a place like no other. From the iconic dazzle of Times Square to the peaceful sprawl of Central Park, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. Families can enjoy views from towering observatories or embark on thrilling adventures like the City Climb at The Edge, the world’s highest outdoor building ascent. Or explore the museums and catch a toe-tapping Broadway show. And in winter, the city transforms into a wonderland with ice skating at Wollman Rink and dazzling holiday lights.

8. Family fun in Singapore

In the heart of Southeast Asia lies a city unlike any other, where the pulse of modernity dances to the beat of tradition. Singapore is a city of cultural gems, spice-filled streets, majestic mosques and temples, hawker markets, mega malls, and so much more. Unleash your inner movie star at Universal Studios Singapore, play in the interactive water features at Singapore Botanic Gardens, have an ethical animal encounter at Mandai Wildlife Reserve and enjoy the pristine beaches of Sentosa Island.

Get up close to majestic creatures at the Singapore Zoo, journey to the underwater world at River Wonders, embark on a Night Safari, or be dazzled by the colourful birds at Bird Paradise, where you can even sleep over on a unique Glamping with the Penguins experience.

While there’s no shortage of epic accommodation in Singapore, Pan Pacific Singapore has upped the stakes with its Urban Jungle Village, a haven for kids of all ages. With seven activity zones, including animal-themed slides and a Safari Trail, little ones will find endless fun. Meanwhile, parents can relax in the Forest Library, complete with cosy reading nooks and board games. Then retreat to an Urban Jungle Suite, a nature-themed room with a treehouse bunk bed for kids.

9. Find the world’s largest and most accessible population of polar bears

Churchill, Canada

Experience autumn in the remote town of Churchill, on Canada’s Hudson Bay, the gathering place of the largest and most accessible population of polar bears on Earth. Frontiers North offers guided Family Learning Adventures, designed for families with children aged eight to 12. Embark on tours to spot polar bears, experience the thrill of dog sledding, and spend a cosy night in a yurt. Plus, you’ll meet the friendly locals and learn about wildlife conservation efforts crucial to protecting these iconic animals.

10. Play Tomb Raider at Siem Reap

Cambodia

Forget boring museums. Cambodia’s Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap is the real deal. One of the most important archaeological sites in the world, this network of ancient temples provides a glimpse into the rich history of the Khmer civilisation and offers kids an opportunity to unleash their inner Indiana Jones or Lara Croft, deciphering ancient puzzles, racing up towers, and uncovering hidden carvings like lost treasure. Zip between temples by tuk-tuk, from the colossal Angkor Wat to the 200 giant stone faces, of The Bayon and jungle-clad Ta Prohm.

11. Discover Sri Lanka

For a tiny island Sri Lanka has so many diverse experiences on offer. Build sandcastles on the golden beaches of Negombo with your kids, then dive into the turquoise waters at the beach town of Mirissa. Explore intricate murals and centuries-old statues that whisper tales of devotion and spirituality in the ancient cave temples of Dambulla. Climb the Sigiriya rock fortress, a king’s seat from long ago and a testament to ancient engineering. Spot wild elephants on a jeep safari in Yala National Park or learn to surf together on stunning beaches such as Hikkaduwa Beach. Sri Lanka offers delicious food too, with amazing spices and sweet jaggery candies to tantalise young taste buds.

12. The world’s best snorkelling destination

Indonesia

Indonesia beckons with experiences for families to explore its diverse natural wonders and rich underwater realm. The enchanting world of Wakatobi Resort on Pulau Tolandona is a conservation-focused UNESCO Marine Biosphere Reserve. This pristine paradise offers more than 50 dive sites, teeming with 1,000 fish species and 500 coral varieties. The resort caters to families with luxurious ocean-view villas, private pools and a range of children’s facilities, including a kids’ club with activities ranging from snorkelling to nature walks. Families can give back by participating in the Collaborative Reef Conservation Program, or explore deeper on their luxury dive yacht, Pelagian. Add exceptional dining and tailored services, and Wakatobi offers an inclusive, unforgettable experience for all ages that blends adventure with sustainability.

13. Disney Magic

Disney Parks and Resorts

The Circle of Life works in mysterious ways. Your parents made peace with the constant singing of ‘Hakuna Matata’ and reruns of ‘Aladdin’, so it’s only poetic that the cycle repeats for you – this time with ‘Let It Go’ (I wish) and ‘Moana’. Yet at some point, the whole family has to pack up their storybooks and explore the living testaments of Walt Disney’s fantastic imagination in person.

The success of Disneyland Park, California, which opened in 1955, spurred such a huge demand that a whole new subsidiary, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, had to be created to cater for the crowds clamouring for more parks, hotels, resorts and, eventually, a cruise line. It’s easy to see why; aside from the lust-worthy locations such as Paris, Tokyo, Florida, Shanghai and Hong Kong, the attractions themselves have a certain magical air about them.

Perhaps the fact that you can’t go longer than two minutes without collapsing into a round of infectious laughter or seeing a child’s dream of meeting Cinderella come true has something to do with it. Complete your holiday by enjoying the tailored hospitality of a Disney Resort or 24-hour entertainment on the high seas aboard a Disney Cruise.

14. Delve in Dubai

In Dubai, futuristic skyscrapers meet ancient traditions. It’s a playground of wonder for kids of all ages. Scale the heights of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, for breathtaking views of the city below. But Dubai isn’t just skyscrapers and shopping malls! Soak up the colours and fragrant spices of bustling souks. Take your kids on a desert adventure in a jeep, bouncing over dunes and meeting camels. Carve fresh powder at Ski Dubai, a one-of-a-kind experience with skiing, penguin encounters and snow play. Or beat the desert heat at IMG Worlds of Adventure, the largest indoor theme park on Earth. At Atlantis, The Palm, families can explore a lost underwater civilisation at the Ambassador Lagoon. Or cool off at the world’s biggest waterpark, Aquaventure, where 105 slides, attractions, and a dedicated kids’ zone await.

15. Meet monarchs in London

For kids with dreams as big as castles, England offers a treasure trove of royal adventures. Take your little princes and princesses on a guided walking tour of royal London, exploring legendary landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and St James’s and learning about the city’s regal history. Or experience the grandeur of the official residence of the King, Buckingham Palace. Explore State Rooms and Royal Mews, and witness the Changing of the Guard. Indulge in a royal tradition with afternoon tea at The Orangery in Kensington Palace. Savour delicious treats like Queen Victoria’s famed sponge in elegant Kensington Palace gardens, then let the kids run wild at the enchanting Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground.

16. Visit Santa and his reindeer in Finnish Lapland

Rovaniemi, northern Finland

Prove Santa is real with a visit to the land of the midnight sun and close encounters with Santa Clause himself at Finnish Lapland in Rovaniemi, northern Finland. While an audience with the jolly, red-suited fave at the Santa Claus Village is a highlight of any visit for young kids, a side trip to a traditional reindeer farm for an exhilarating sleigh ride guided by Dasher, Dancer and the rest of the crew comes in a very close second.

Keep reading:

• Top locations for wildlife encounters with kids
• 27 unique places to stay
• 31 real Disney movie locations you can visit with kids

17. Unravel myths and legends in Greece

What kid wouldn’t want to enter the world of Greek gods and mythical quests? Pack your bags for Greece, the real-life stomping ground of your favourite heroes. Imagine exploring the same temples where the mighty Zeus reigned or the very battlefields where epic clashes unfolded. Climb the Acropolis, where Athena’s wisdom might have guided ancient Athenians. Stand in the shadow of Mount Olympus, the playground of the gods, and picture epic duels. Fans of Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson adventures can head on a Percy-inspired tour with Greek Travel Tellers, taking in locations from the books.

But there’s more to Greece than history lessons. Indulge in fresh-from-the-sea local cuisine, visit islands adorned with buildings that resemble stacked cubes of feta and splashes of pink bougainvillaea, and swim in crystal-clear waters. Then spend quiet evenings under the starry skies, re-reading ancient tales that were born right here.

18. Glaciers in NZ

New Zealand’s Glacier Country offers a raft of free outdoor activities for families including kid-friendly exploration of its mesmerising blue and white ice fields. Located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Westland Tai Poutini National Park is the heart of Glacier Country. Extending from the peaks of the Southern Alps to the rugged and remote beaches of the wild coastline, it’s ripe for exploration by foot or helicopter. An easy walk to the foot of Franz Josef Glacier along the river valley boasts striking crevasses and ice caves, or take the 30-minute Glacier Valley Walk to the Fox Glacier viewpoint. Either way, young Frozen fans will be inspired to live their best Elsa lives.

19. Move it, move it in Madagascar

Madagascar, the wild island off Africa’s coast, is a real-life version of the movies your kids adore. And while the lemurs here may not sing and dance or get into half as much mischief as their celluloid counterparts, you can spot more than 110 species of the tree-dwelling critters across the island. Head to southwest Madagascar for the chance to see brown lemurs at Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique limestone ‘forest’. Don’t miss the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs nearby, a mesmerising stretch of road lined with gigantic baobab trees that looks like it’s been painted in place, offering a unique driving experience for families.

20. Cruise with Royal Caribbean

Does your family have a cruise on its travel bucket list? Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas has made its long-awaited debut after more than seven years of planning and 900 days of construction. Cruising out of Miami, the world’s largest cruise ship is the very definition of epic, with unprecedented features including the AquaDome, the largest glass and steel structure on a cruise ship, and seven pools with six record-breaking waterslides. Icon of the Seas also offers eight neighbourhoods with diverse experiences, from the adrenaline-pumping Thrill Island to the family-friendly Surfside. Plus, there are 28 different accommodation options, including the new three-level Ultimate Family Townhouse, cutting-edge entertainment across four stages, and more than 40 ways to dine and drink.

21. Holi Festival

India

While India, with its incredible history, culture, and cuisine, should always be on your holiday bucket list, it’s even better when it’s exploding with colour during Holi. The crazy-cool spring celebration is held on the final full moon of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna (typically late February or early March). First, there’s a giant bonfire to scare away any grumpy winter feelings. Then the real fun begins when clouds of blue, green, pink, and red powder start flying everywhere. It’s a vibrant fiesta where nobody minds getting messy – after all, that’s the whole point! Just remember to pack spare clothes for this psychedelic free-for-all.

22. Go surfing in Waikīkī

Hawaii

Waikīkī Beach stretches along a dazzling strip of golden sand on Oahu. It is a perfect playground where palm trees sway and shave ice cools sun-kissed visitors. Pay a visit to the bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing and Hawai’i’s Ambassador of Aloha. Kids can learn to glide along Waikīkī’s warm waves with local surf schools. For experienced surfers, spots like Ala Moana Bowls and Queen’s offer thrilling waves, while families will enjoy the gentle shores of Ko Olina and Lanikai.

Keep reading:

• 46 things to do with kids in Hawaii
• Hawaii’s Best Family Resorts

23. Seek ancient adventures in Jordan

Imagine an adventure where you become explorers in an ancient city. Travel back in time to Petra, the once-great capital of the Nabataean Kingdom that dates all the way back to the fourth century BC. Today, what remains is a maze of ancient tunnels, tombs and mighty temples. Ride a friendly donkey through a secret passage (the Siq) to The Treasury, a 45-metre-high temple carved from pink rock. Or hike deeper to see enormous carved faces on the Royal Tombs and climb to the top for breathtaking mountain views. For the ultimate immersion, snuggle up with your crew under the stars in a Bedouin camp, listening to stories by a crackling fire.

24. Spot the big five in South Africa

The golden savannah stretches endlessly beneath a cloudless sky. Your heart thrums with anticipation as the open-air jeep navigates the dusty track. You’ve encountered herds of zebras and springboks, a lumbering rhinoceros, and a hippo wallowing in a muddy lake. But the ultimate safari quest remains: spotting the big five – lions, elephants, leopards, cape buffalos and rhinos. Witnessing these amazing animals in their natural habitat is a humbling experience and one that will stay with kids for a lifetime.

It’s a common misconception that kids and safaris do not mix well; there are plenty of game lodges that welcome them with open arms. Read: The best African safari lodges for families

25. Paris oh la la

France

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the tantalising scent of freshly baked French croissants and baguettes, something that can only be fully appreciated in Paris. Visit magnifique museums and galleries and see celebrated artworks such as ‘Mona Lisa’ at the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay’s ‘Blue Water Lilies’. Grab a blanket and enjoy a picnic in one of the city’s pretty parks where children can sail toy boats, ride ponies, watch puppet shows and ride carousels. Make your way towards the Arc de Triomphe along the Champs-Élysée. Scaling the Eiffel Tower is a must, whether you wait for the lift or climb the 704 steps to the second floor, 115 metres above the city.

26. The Great Wall of China

Huairou, China

The Great Wall of China is arguably the oldest and greatest relic of Chinese history. Its origins are commonly said to date back to the seventh century BCE. Despite the fact that the wall was last estimated to be more than 21,000 kilometres long and crosses over mountains, into rivers and across deserts, making some parts of it off limits to visitors, its magnificence is not hard to experience.

The wall is most accessible from Beijing, with the more popular sections being towards Beijing’s north and east. Located about 73 kilometres north of Beijing, Mutianyu is a favourite among foreign tourists and is a notably family-friendly section of the wall, due to the fact that it only takes half a day to tour. Mutianyu, as one of the only fully restored sections of the wall, is also the ultimate example of ancient Chinese fortifications, with 23 uniquely designed watchtowers and fortresses spread evenly along its length. And the best bit? Tired little feet can rest easy on cable cars, which run up and down the wall.

27. Do a ‘big lap’ of Australia

It’s time to stop talking the talk, and start driving the drive – that is, the year-long ‘Big Lap’ road trip that every Australian and their dog aspires to complete. Pack the kids into your 4WD (or low-range gearing equivalent) and hit the road to drive the 40,000-kilometre circumference of our sunburnt country. Of course, if you’ve never been off-road or outback driving before, we suggest getting ready by doing a 4WD training course. Believe us, you’ll be grateful when you can successfully manoeuvre yourself out of that tight spot that could delay the completion of your trip. Once you’ve got your fast and furious skills down-pat, purchase a satellite phone, map and extra drinking water and you’re all set.

Now the only question left is… clockwise or anticlockwise to tick off this travel bucket list item? If you start your trip in Cairns in summer, head south and avoid the Red Centre because temps are fiery. Once the southerly winds turn from pleasantly cool to chilly, venture back up north, to explore the tropics and the land of orange dust.

28. The National Cherry Blossom Festival

Washington DC

As winter fades, Washington, DC transforms into a magical wonderland with cherry blossoms painting the city with hues of pink and white. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, a fleeting masterpiece of candy floss pink and marshmallow white, creates a fairytale-like setting for families to explore. Take a stroll along the tranquil Tidal Basin and catch the blooms unfurling against a backdrop of stoic monuments, memorials and some of the world’s greatest museums. Your kids will feel like they’ve stepped into a real-life fairytale.

29. Iceland

Iceland is a year-round wonderland that has been steadily rising as a trending family holiday destination. The country is known for its dramatic landscape of sweeping glaciers, volcanoes, lava fields and hot springs,  Explore the natural surrounds that this Viking land is famous for in Vatnajökull National Park, it covers more than 13% of Iceland. This diverse landscape is the epitome of a song of fire and ice; although a majority of the park is under the icecap of the Vatnajökull Glacier, subglacial volcanic activity combined with the icy waters makes for spectacular viewing.

The pretty harbour capital of Reykjavik, surrounded by stunning volcanic fields, boasts myriad museums and easily accessible family activities such as playgrounds and kid-friendly spas. Visit the Laugardalur Valley for the Family Park and Zoo, ice-skating, roller-skating, an outdoor sculpture garden and enomous thermal pool. If you’re not here during summer’s midnight sun, spend a night sleeping in an insulated, inflatable Bubble Lodge, which allows you to spend a protected night under the stars and colourful northern lights.

30. See the out-of-this-world landscapes of Bolivia

The Southern Hemisphere’s highest and most isolated nation, Bolivia has been at the top of many bucket lists for years. Home to some of the coldest, warmest, windiest and steamiest spots in the world, Bolivia boasts everything from bone-dry deserts to high alpine lakes, in addition to incredible art, music and cuisine.

31. Escape to paradise in Bora Bora

Floating in its own lagoon, protected from the ocean by a garden of coral, Bora Bora is the postcard-perfect tropical holiday. While often labelled as a couple’s paradise, the island’s luxury resorts also cater to families with plenty of water sports, cultural experiences and kid’s activities. Not to mention the world-class snorkelling, lagoon swimming, jungle expeditions and the fact that getting about pretty much always involves boats or bikes. Paradise!