Top Family Holiday Destinations for 2025

Whether you are looking to return to old places and experience them in new ways or be introduced to new destinations we help you to look beyond the ordinary when planning your itinerary.

It is our preference to work with smaller boutique owner-run properties as we think this gives you a much more authentic experience and no shortage of quality. It is these properties that often get booked in advance so planning ahead is key.

Where will you be travelling?

Here we share some of the destinations that we think are going to be big in 2025.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica has long been a popular destination for family holidays. It is not hard to see why, with wildlife encounters, jungle trails and a focus on outdoor activities it is perfect for children of all ages. The Costa Rican phrase Pura Vida or ‘Pure life’ celebrates the simpler things in life and this is something that you will experience throughout your trip as you embrace the natural environment.

Costa Rica is the great pioneer of eco - tourism and has it all. Unique volcanic and jungle landscapes; exquisite tropical beaches; bustling historic towns and an almost limitless range of adventurous activities, so it is like a real life geography lesson.

With more direct flights from the UK to both Guanacaste and San Jose for 2025 it is easier to reach. Or, the indirect flight might be your preference as they offer more flexibility for dates and times enabling you to better fit them around your family.

Here we share some of our favourite things to experience in the country with young children.

Galapagos

This is a new destination for us at Little People Big Adventures, but it’s already proving very popular. The Galapagos Islands are home to many endangered species, with some of their most famous inhabitants being marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and the blue-footed booby. The Galapagos National Park regulates immigration and tourism across the entire archipelago, so this really is a place to plan for in advance.

Imagine snorkelling alongside playful sea lions, kayaking through crystal-clear waters past lava rock formations, or walking in the footsteps of Charles Darwin as you explore volcanic landscapes. Each island has its own unique charm and wildlife, from the colourful Sally Lightfoot crabs scuttling along the shorelines to the curious Galapagos penguins darting through the waves.

Choosing the best time to visit will depend on what you want to see, but Easter offers warm weather and excellent visibility in the water.

For more inspiration you can view our sample itineraries here.

Iceland

The Northern Lights are high on the ‘bucket list’ for most families. Your family holiday to Iceland offers this and many other unique experiences. From volcanoes, geysers, lava flows, lakes and waterfalls to whale watching and the chance to ride a skidoo.

The choice of accommodation is varied, from staying in the tiny but nonetheless welcoming, and interesting Viking city of Reykjavik and it’s great family friendly hotels, to more remote properties with the opportunity to stargaze.

For families that are looking for flexibility you can easily explore this amazing country on your own or with a private guide. Allowing you to do things at your own pace. With more flights from the UK to Northern Iceland if you have already been to Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, maybe now there is an opportunity to explore the country in a new way. For some holiday inspiration you can view our example itineraries here.

South Africa

South Africa is a destination that truly has it all – from dramatic coastlines and vibrant cities to breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. One of its standout attractions is the opportunity to experience a malaria-free safari in the Eastern Cape, making it an ideal choice for families with young children or anyone seeking peace of mind. Imagine watching elephants roam freely in their natural habitat, tracking lions on a game drive, or spotting zebras grazing against the backdrop of rolling hills, all without the need for anti-malarial precautions.

Beyond the safari, South Africa offers a wealth of experiences, from exploring the lush vineyards of the Cape Winelands to hiking up Table Mountain or enjoying the pristine beaches of the Garden Route. With its rich culture, incredible wildlife, and diverse activities, South Africa promises an unforgettable adventure tailored to every traveller.

For this year, we’ve added new and exciting experiences and properties to our portfolio. Get in touch if you’d like to find out more and discover the latest offerings for your South African adventure.

Egypt

From the ancient wonders of the pyramids and the Sphinx to the grandeur of the Nile, Egypt offers an unforgettable experience for family holidays.

A must-visit on any trip is the Great Pyramids of Giza, where these ancient marvels stand proudly against the desert backdrop. And now, with the opening of the new Egyptian Museum at the end of 2024, located on the same site, there’s even more reason to visit this year.

For a unique twist on your experience, explore the temples of Luxor or take a family cruise down the Nile, where you can learn about Egypt’s fascinating history while enjoying the stunning landscape. We also offer exclusive experiences such as out-of-hours access to the museum, a visit to the Valley of the Kings with a local archaeologist, or a private family dinner at the pyramids—ideal for creating lasting memories.

For those seeking adventure, a desert safari or stargazing in the Sinai Peninsula provides a thrilling contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life.

Having visited countless times ourselves, we’d be more than happy to inspire you with off-the-beaten-track experiences and help you design a holiday that’s as unique as your family. You can view our example itineraries here.

Montenegro

From the medieval charm of Kotor to the luxurious beaches of Budva, Montenegro offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Growing in popularity as a family holiday destination, now is the perfect time to visit and experience it in its unspoilt state.

The stunning Adriatic coastline, with its crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs, provides the ideal setting for family adventures. Whether you're exploring ancient towns, hiking through dramatic landscapes, or taking a boat trip along the Bay of Kotor, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained.

For an unforgettable experience, consider combining your Montenegro adventure with a visit to its neighbouring countries—explore the charming city of Dubrovnik in Croatia or discover the castles of Slovenia. Montenegro’s compact size makes it easy to pair with these beautiful regions for a truly enriching family holiday.

Sri Lanka

A family holiday to Sri Lanka has so much to offer, balancing outdoor adventurous activities with heritage and relaxation on beautiful beaches. It is truly one of the most stunning and diverse destinations for a memorable family trip. The national parks also provide fantastic opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Whilst Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination with plenty of sunshine and high temperatures, many of the hotels are boutique properties with a limited number of rooms. Therefore, we recommend booking early to secure the places you want to stay. Get in touch with us to discuss the latest availability and start planning your trip.

There’s even more reason to visit now, as many of our favourite hotels across the island have undergone upgrades and renovations, ensuring an even higher level of comfort and luxury for your stay.

For inspiration on what else you could do while you’re there, from spotting elephants in one of the national parks to taking the iconic Ella to Kandy train ride, you can find a link to some of our example itineraries here.

Japan

Japan makes for a truly rewarding family holiday, with its distinct culture, striking landscapes, and futuristic cities. Whilst it is a year-round destination, many of the best hotels and ryokans are boutique properties with limited availability. To secure the places you want to stay, we recommend booking early—get in touch to discuss the latest availability and start planning your adventure.

The Setouchi Prefecture is just one of the regions that have invested heavily in increasing accessibility, with new high-speed connections from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. This makes it easier than ever to combine so many of Japan’s diverse regions in a single trip, from historic Kyoto and the tranquil Japanese Alps to the bright lights of Tokyo and the serene islands of the Inland Sea.

We’ll use our first-hand knowledge and your preferences to design a trip that perfectly matches your family’s interests, encompassing the best festivals, activities, and regions for the time of year you wish to travel.

Whatever you hope to experience in Japan, our suggested itinerary is a fantastic starting point to see what’s possible. View our Japanese Family Adventure here.

Whatever your holiday preferences or desires, we would be happy to suggest destinations that are perfect for your family, using our first-hand knowledge. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural experiences, or wildlife encounters, we can tailor suggestions to suit your needs.

Talk to us about designing the holiday that best suits your family. You can call us on 0118 336 0363 or email us at info@littlepeoplebigadventures.com, and we would be delighted to help you create the perfect family getaway.