Many parents fear that travel to Europe will be terribly expensive. In fact, you can easily spend more per day at an all-inclusive resort; and if you can buy airfares from eastern US cities --or better still, use frequent flyer rewards-- even airfare isn't prohibitive.
Two budget-minded ideas for summer:
Eurocamp "camping resorts"-- no tents needed! Stay in a bungalow; enjoy pools, waterslides, restaurants, many sports on-site, kids programs; resort-style amenities at reasonable prices. Better still, your family will have a home base, from which to explore surrounding areas.
Similarly, Center Parcs family resorts can provide a great home base, with spacious cottages, outdoor recreation, and an indoor domed area with waterpark, restaurants, spa, and more.
And don't be afraid to stay in "pensions" in Italy or modest hotels in Paris: your trip's about having fun in Europe, not room decor. Even hostels can be an excellent option: many have family rooms and are located in centuries-old castles and character buildings.
See also:- Summer Travel Ideas In Europe - barging, biking, medieval festivals, horse-drawn caravans, Adventures by Disney, and more....
- Great Destinations for Summer Travel in Europe - London; Paris and more France (including, yes, Euro Disney); Greece; Venice; Visiting Hill Towns in Tuscany and Umbria....
*photo (c) Teresa Plowright
