Aside from fostering unique bonds, travelling with your teens encourages open communication and mutual respect. Exposing them to new places, cultures, and cuisines ignites curiosity and broadens their worldview. As a result, they will gain independence, decision-making skills, and adaptability, preparing them for life's challenges.
But with plenty of incredible places to visit, it can be daunting to decide where to go. If you need ideas, here are five destinations you should travel with teenagers.
1. Vancouver, Canada
Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver is a fantastic place to visit for families with teens, especially those who love outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and vibrant city life.
If you and your teens are outdoor enthusiasts, you'll find endless opportunities in Vancouver for hiking, biking, and water sports. Explore Stanley Park's scenic trails, rent bikes to cruise along the seawall, or venture into Grouse Mountain for skiing, snowboarding, and breathtaking views.
The best way to immerse your teens in the local culture is to visit places like Granville Island, where they can browse artisan shops, sample local food at the public market, and enjoy street performances. Check out the Vancouver Art Gallery, which showcases contemporary and indigenous art, and the Museum of Anthropology, offering insights into First Nations cultures.
For thrill-seeking teens, take them to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where they can walk among the treetops on suspension bridges and explore the Cliffwalk. Wildlife lovers can visit the Vancouver Aquarium in Stanley Park, where you can see marine life up close.
Vancouver's laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural surroundings, and wealth of activities make it an exciting destination to travel for families with teenagers seeking adventure, culture, and memorable experiences.
Additionally, Canada offers escorted golf tours, which can be an unforgettable activity for families with teenagers. While parents indulge in rounds of golf on exclusive courses, teenagers can explore the surrounding areas, engage in leisure activities, or even participate in golf lessons themselves. This ensures that everyone in the family can find something enjoyable to do, catering to diverse interests and preferences.
2. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt offers the perfect setting for parents to bond with their teens, thanks to its enchanting mix of outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery, and charming alpine village ambiance. Nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt caters to your teens' diverse interests and energy levels.
Your adventurous teens will love Zermatt's world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the winter months, with access to over 360 kilometres of pistes and breathtaking off-piste terrain.
During the summer, why not enroll them in an English summer camp in Europe? It provides a unique blend of cultural diversity, outdoor activities, and enriching experiences that will impact their personal development and global viewpoint. Teens can embark on thrilling hikes amidst stunning mountain vistas or try their hand at mountain biking along scenic cycling trails.
The Gornergrat Railway offers a memorable journey to one of the highest railway stations in Europe, providing panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. You and your teens should experience Glacier Paradise, where you can explore ice caves, ride a snow tube, and even ski year-round on the glacier.
Zermatt's pedestrianized village center makes it a haven for scenic strolls with your teens. Shop for Swiss chocolates and souvenirs and sample traditional Swiss cuisine in cozy mountain restaurants. For cultural enrichment, visit the Matterhorn Museum. It provides insights into Zermatt's history and mountaineering heritage.
3. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is an ideal destination to travel with teenagers, offering a captivating blend of rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant city life. You and your teens can immerse in the imperial grandeur of Vienna by enjoying a variety of activities that cater to your teens' varied interests.
Take your teens to explore the city's architectural wonders, such as Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace. These places offer opportunities to marvel at opulent interiors, stroll through manicured gardens, and learn about Austria's royal history. Check out the interactive exhibits at the Haus der Musik, which offer an engaging exploration of sound and music, perfect for music-loving teens.
Vienna's diverse culinary scene ensures that families can indulge in delectable Austrian pastries at traditional coffeehouses, savour authentic schnitzel and strudel, and explore international cuisines at bustling food markets like Naschmarkt.
The city's cultural institutions, such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Albertina, feature world-class art collections and rotating exhibitions that appeal to teenagers interested in art and history.
4. Florida, USA
Florida provides everything you and your teens could want from a family getaway, with a wealth of activities and attractions to suit various interests. Consider package holidays in Florida for a stress-free and comprehensive travel experience. These packages frequently include accommodation, transportation, and a carefully curated selection of activities, allowing you to enjoy your holiday without having to manage every aspect, meaning you can focus on making fond memories.
The Sunshine State is home to world-renowned theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, where teens can immerse themselves in thrilling rides, interactive experiences, and captivating shows.
While the teens are busy at the theme parks, parents can visit Florida's pristine beaches, providing ample opportunities for sun-soaked relaxation. These beaches are also perfect for bonding with your teens over fun water sports like surfing and jet skiing. After all the fun adventures, relax on the sandy shores of destinations like Miami Beach, Clearwater Beach, or Daytona Beach.
Florida's diverse ecosystems make it a haven for nature lovers. Enjoy fun boat rides through the Everglades, where you can encounter alligators and exotic bird species in their natural habitat. Explore Florida's numerous state parks and nature reserves for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
Explore Florida's vibrant cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. Visit their trendy shopping districts and indulge in delicious dining experiences that appeal to teenage interests.
5. The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands, teeming with wildlife, are the ideal destination for more extraordinary getaways for families with teens. Renowned for their unparalleled biodiversity and pristine ecosystems, the Galapagos Islands provide an immersive experience that appeals to young explorers and nature enthusiasts.
Enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters, such as snorkeling alongside playful sea lions, swimming with sea turtles, and observing marine iguanas basking in the sun. Join guided tours led by knowledgeable naturalists offering insightful experiences, where teens can learn about evolutionary processes and conservation efforts.
Exploring the volcanic landscapes of the Galapagos on thrilling hikes offers opportunities to witness dramatic vistas, lava tunnels, and unique geological formations. Trekking to volcanic peaks like Sierra Negra on Isabela Island provides panoramic views of the archipelago, fostering a sense of adventure.
Take your teens to the Galapagos Marine Reserve, home to abundant marine life. Your adventurous teens can snorkel or dive among colourful reefs home to tropical fish, eagle rays, and hammerhead sharks. Encounters with iconic species such as giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies provide educational experiences that inspire curiosity amongst curious teenagers.