Tantalising European city breaks with teens
Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon makes for an incredibly dynamic teen-friendly getaway, seamlessly blending old-world European charm with a modern, artsy edge. Explore the atmospheric Alfama district's maze-like lanes and historic plazas and ride the iconic funiculars up Lisbon's seven hills. Don't miss the 16th-century maritime marvels in Belem like the ornate Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower. Teens will love hunting down Lisbon's vivid street art, checking out the buzzy food and music scenes, and indulging in iconic pastries like the custard tarts at Pasteis de Belem. The beach resort town of Cascais provides a convenient escape, with its scenic promenades, coves, and lively dining and nightlife. With its rich tapestry of history, culture, coastal beauty and youthful energy, Lisbon offers an engaging mix to entertain teenagers. The affordable prices are another perk for families. This charismatic Portuguese capital seamlessly blends old and new for an unforgettable city break.
Barcelona, Spain Barcelona pulses with an energy and spirit that resonates brilliantly with teenage travellers. The Catalan capital's quirky architecture, lively social scene, and superb food culture make it a huge hit with the young adult set. Exploring Barcelona's mind-bending modernist masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí is a must. The fanciful Sagrada Familia basilica and the whimsical Park Güell are two prime examples that beg hours of wandering and pondering their genius. When feet get tired from pounding Barcelona's walkable streets, make a beach break on the city's sunny Mediterranean coastline. Or wander the famous Las Ramblas for world-class people-watching amid street performers and cafes. Staying at a hotel with a pool offers a refreshing perk - the perfect way to cool off after long days taking in Barcelona's dazzling architecture and lively ambiance. Come evening, set off on a tapas crawl to refuel on small bites like patatas bravas at local haunts. With its vibrant street life, artistic flair, thriving food scene, and laid-back beach culture, Barcelona effortlessly blends culture and youthful energy for an unforgettable getaway with teens.
Berlin, Germany Berlin provides a fascinating living history lesson for teenage travellers. This ever-evolving city allows visitors to vividly experience its rich, complex past through immersive tours and attractions. Take a cycling tour past Cold War landmarks like Checkpoint Charlie and the powerful Berlin Wall Memorial - interacting with these tangible remnants makes the tumultuous era feel viscerally real. The city's multitude of excellent museums, from the Topography of Terror to the Jewish Museum, further bring Berlin's 20th century upheavals to life. But Berlin is much more than just its historical weight. The city thrums with a youthful, artistic energy that teens will instantly vibe with. Explore the cutting-edge street art and hip enclaves like Kreuzberg. Refuel at Charlottenburg Palace's lively biergarten over currywurst or check out Berlin's booming street food scene. Between its layered history and effortlessly cool factor, Berlin provides an endlessly engaging, eye-opening experience for young adults.
Reykjavik, Iceland Packed with natural wonders and offbeat culture, the world's northernmost capital is about as cool as destinations come for young travellers. Walk the coastal trail winding beside volcanic beaches, soak in natural hot springs, or join a whale watching cruise. In town, kid-friendly attractions like the Icelandic Phallological Museum and Reykjavik Park's rollicking rides are delightfully offbeat. And you're just a bus ride from the dramatic lava fields and waterfalls of the Golden Circle.
Rome, Italy It may be an ancient city, but Rome has plenty for 21st-century teenagers. Ultra-hip neighbourhoods like Monti and Prati offer cafe-hopping amidst street art and vintage shops. Take an Instagram-worthy selfie in front of the Colosseum, where you can also do a gladiator tour to learn about its brutal history. Visit the Leonardo da Vinci Museum to see innovative inventions and artwork by the Renaissance genius. Or splurge on pizza, gelato, and other iconic Roman treats. If shopping is their game, the city's boutiques won't disappoint either. And of course, you're surrounded by thousands of years of world history to absorb together around every corner in Rome.
No matter which path you take across Europe, letting teens experience other cultures is an enriching way to broaden their horizons and make lifelong memories together as a family. With its dynamic mix of history, cuisine, nature, and countercultural edge, the continent is full of destinations to captivate young travellers' wanderlust.
