Keeping teens happy on holiday can be a challenge, but there are plenty of activities that can help make the experience enjoyable for both parents and kids.
Are you looking for the best countries to visit with your teen in 2023? If so, you’ve come to the right place!
Today I have a guest post from fellow blogger Becki,
Becki is a self-confessed travel addict and ‘experience connoisseur‘ who knows a thing or two about traveling the world in search of the most bucket-list-worthy things to do and places to see.
She’s visited over 56 countries and documents these on her blog, Meet Me In Departures. She’s an adventure addict with a real passion for spotting wildlife and exploring ruins.
In this blog post, we share five great holiday destinations for families with teenagers. So whether you’re looking for a country with plenty of activities and adventure or a relaxing beach vacation, we’ve got you covered. Read on and discover where to travel next.
Best Types Of Holidays To Keep Teens Happy
You’ll know your teen better than anyone. One thing that teens need on vacation is to be stimulated by something that interests them. Here are some holiday ideas that teens typically enjoy:
- Adventure trips – Give teens an adrenaline rush with a trip full of adventure activities like rock climbing or white water rafting
- Sightseeing tours – Take in some amazing sightseeing spots with a tour customized to their interests such as landmarks used in films
- City breaks – Explore big cities with lots of shopping, sightseeing, and cultural attractions.
- Beach vacations – A classic relaxation holiday on the beach, just make sure there are options for them to do activities while you enjoy the sun, sea, and sand!
- Road trips – Hit the road and explore new places and get off the beaten track, this is perfect for teens who enjoy outdoor activities like camping and hiking
Spain – with its stunning architecture, delicious food, and rich culture, Spain is a great choice for families with teens
Spain is an ideal destination for families with teens thanks to its diversity. From the striking architecture of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to the stunning beaches in Andalucia, Spain has something to offer everyone in the family.
If your teen is the adventurous type, then they will love exploring the Caminito del Rey’s path through limestone gorges. Are they fussy eaters? No problem, the whole family can enjoy sampling a whole range of delicious Spanish tapas until they find what they like.
One of the best ways to explore the country is by doing a road trip around Spain to get a real feel for the diversity the country offers. With its many attractions, it’s no wonder why Spain is a top choice for a family holiday.
3 Teen Friendly Things To Do In Spain
- Visit the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona: This awe-inspiring architectural wonder is a must-see for any family looking to explore Spain’s rich culture and history.
- Visit the theme parks of Costa Dorada – From Aquopolis waterpark to PortAventura theme park, there’s something for everyone in this area near Barcelona.
- Road Trip through Andalusia – Take in a mixture of adventure activities, beaches, national parks, and historic monuments.
Costa Rica – adventure awaits in Costa Rica, where families can go zip-lining, hiking, and rafting
Costa Rica is an ideal destination for families who are looking to have an action-packed vacation together. You can zip line through the jungle canopies, hike up volcanos, and white water raft in with routes perfect for beginners to the sport.
This is also a great destination if your teen loves nature and wildlife. Costa Rica is home to an incredible 28 national parks, 58 wildlife refuges, 32 protected zones, 15 wetland areas/mangroves, and 11 forest reserves. Plus, with 8 biological reserves and 12 other conservation regions.
3 Teen Friendly Things To Do In Costa Rica
- Explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve: Spot wildlife from the canopy-level swingbridges
- Watch turtles lay eggs and hatch in Tortuguero
- Hike up Arenal Volcano and swim in the crater of an extinct volcano
Morocco – explore the vibrant city of Marrakech or take a 4×4 ride through the desert in Morocco
If your teen enjoys getting immersed in cultural experiences, then they will love a trip to Morocco. The country offers a plethora of opportunities for parents and teens to explore the history, culture, and stunning scenery together.
Marrakech is a vibrant city filled with history, part of the fun is getting lost in the winding streets while experiencing the unique markets, haggling for souvenirs at Jemaa el-Fnaa square, or exploring ancient gardens and palaces. If you’ve had enough of the city, then escape to nearby Essauaira, the nation’s top surf spot.
One of the most unforgettable experiences that will give memories for a lifetime is a trip to the Sahara Desert. Experience 4×4 dune buggy rides at sunrise across Saharan dunes or a sunset stroll through the gigantic dunes before staying overnight in a traditional Beduin camp
3 Teen Friendly Things To Do In Morocco
- Stay overnight in the Sahara Desert
- Explore the winding streets of Marrakech
- Learn to surf in Essauaira
Croatia – beautiful beaches and historic towns make Croatia a perfect destination for families with teens
Croatia has a unique balance that ranges from island hopping and sailing to exploring medieval cities, as well as plenty of adventure sports. There’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy in this popular destination.
Spend days relaxing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and snorkel in the pristine waters, or take part in thrilling outdoor sports such as canyoning or rafting down the Cetina River.
One of the most popular cities in Croatia is Dubrovnik, which was used as the backdrop for the popular series Game of Thrones. With its colourful culture, vibrant history, and mix of activities, Croatia is the perfect destination for a great holiday with teens.
3 Teen Friendly Things To Do In Croatia
- Walk the city walls in Dubrovnik
- Island hop and snorkel along the Dalmatian coast
- Explore Plitvice Lakes, National Park
Thailand – from exploring crumbling ruins to Thai cooking classes, there’s something for everyone in Thailand
If exploring ancient ruins is something that interests your family, then you’ll find plenty to discover in Thailand. As the former home of the Khmer Empire, there are plenty of breathtaking ruin sites to discover in Thailand’s jungles and rolling hills including Sukhothai and Ayutthaya.
Beyond exploring ruins, Bangkok is a vibrant and bustling city for families where you can enjoy exploring the many markets and indulging in delicious street food!
If relaxation and beautiful beaches are more your thing, then Thailand boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world as well as plenty of snorkelling and scuba diving options.
If you have a kid that loves to cook, then this is also a great place to get into Thai culture and join an authentic Thai cooking class as a family.
3 Teen Friendly Things To Do In Thailand
- Explore Chatuchak Weekend Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Bangkok
- Snorkel and learn to scuba dive on Koh Tao island
- Have an ethical Elephant encounter at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai
Where Are You Going On Your Next Family Vacation?
Spain, Costa Rica, Morocco, Croatia, and Thailand are all great destinations for families with teens.
Each of these destinations offers enough variety for the whole family to enjoy. So what are you waiting for? What destination are you going to pick for your next family vacation?
