Top Five Destinations for Multi-Generational Travel

At a time when our lives seem to be getting busier by the minute, it can be hard to find the space for quality time with your family.

Whether it’s with your grandchildren, kids, parents, grandparents, aunt and uncle or siblings – escaping daily rituals and heading away on a multi-generational holiday is a great chance to reconnect. The excitement of shared discoveries, whether big or small, tends to bring out the best in family members of all ages.

Snorkelling with baby sea lions in the Galápagos, watching the bustling riverside life as you cruise down the Ganges, or that moment your grandchild sees a lion for the first time on a South African safari – these adventures create lasting, meaningful collective family memories.

But not all destinations are multi-generational-friendly, so we’ve put together a roundup of where to go for a holiday that has the perfect balance of activities, culture and relaxation to make it unforgettable for all generations.

1. Galápagos Islands

There are few other places on earth like it, and it fascinates old and young alike. From wandering with giant tortoises, snorkelling with sea lions and reef sharks, to nature walks with iguanas – you can get closer than ever before to extraordinary wildlife on the islands thanks to the lack of predators. Add in pristine water, sandy beaches and luxury cruises and it’s a clear win. Travelling by boat is an excellent option for multi-generational groups, particularly if you go all-out with a luxury charter.

For families interested in ancient civilisations or trekking, combine a trip to the Galápagos with a tour of Machu Picchu.

2. India

Travelling India with your family can be a daunting prospect, but it needn’t be. It’s a chance move beyond the traditional family holiday destinations and have an eye-opening, enthralling and extremely memorable family adventure.

Experience the frenetic streets of the country’s vibrant cities, discover ancient religious rituals on the banks of the Ganges, hear the stories of the Taj Mahal, wander through the country’s opulent palaces and sample some of the finest cuisine. A private guide will ensure everyone’s interests are looked after and that you have a unique family venture through this enthralling country.

3. Japan

Japan offers quirky, wonderful and distinctive experiences for all ages. Visit in spring to see the country cloaked in pink cherry blossom, a particularly striking experience for every generation.

Kyoto and Tokyo showcase some of the best blossom, and combined with ancient palaces and wooden bridges, quaint tree-lined parks and kooky playgrounds, narrow lanes lined with vending machines selling everything from sushi to mobile phones, buzzing game arcades filled with soft toys, and the famous Tsukiji fish market – it is a trip that is sure to be full of surprises. Be confounded, awe-struck and excited by every discovery shared with your family in this one-of-a-kind destination.

4. South Africa

The rise of multi-generational holidays is particularly evident in South Africa, and it is little wonder why with its mixture of luxury lodges, endlessly diverse landscapes to explore and of course, safari. The feeling of spotting rare and remarkable animals in their natural habitats is something that is profound and exhilarating for people of every age. A multi-generational trip to South Africa is one that everyone in the family will be talking about for years to come.

Family groups can book their own villa and head out on safari with a private guide who is experienced in hosting families, covering bird-watching, elephant herds, big cats and everything else in between.

5. Italy

Impressive buildings, fascinating history, picturesque beaches, world-famous cuisine and welcoming locals – Italy ticks all the boxes for a multi-generational family holiday.

Enjoy exclusive experiences, such as learning to make authentic pizza, early access to the Vatican to avoid the queues, exploring the Colosseum, gondola rides in Venice, and unwinding on the island of Capri. Every member of the family is bound to fall under Italy’s spell.

Luxury accommodation options that are suitable for families are plentiful, with terrace breakfasts, swimming pools and large, spacious suites for family groups.