The best multi-generational holiday ideas for big families

After the pandemic, you might be desperate to finally take that holiday. And with the pandemic keeping us distanced from many of our loved ones, either around the country, or further abroad, after all this time you might be desperate to see them too. So why not combine the two? 

A group family holiday is the perfect setting for a reunion, whether you fancy a a stint in the great outdoors, an enlightening city stay, or something entirely different. Moreover, multigenerational travel is an opportunity to gather the family, from far and wide, and turn your attentions to something positive: delicious food and wine, cultural immersion, and of course, uninterrupted time together. You know, all the things that come with holidays.

So, if you’re looking for the perfect group family holiday abroad, we've got you covered. Here’s where to head in 2022 and beyond:

On Safari in Africa

When it comes to the best holidays for large family groups, you cannot go past a safari. People of all ages will delight at the opportunity to spot one of the Big Five in the wild - lions, rhinos, elephants, leopards, and buffalo. On a safari to Kenya, South Africa, or Namibia, you and your family can expect each and every day to be filled with once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sightings and moments in some of the world’s best national parks, giving you plenty to chat about by the fire that night.

Many of our safari accommodations also have swimming pools, which is the perfect conclusion to a hot day outdoors. Of course, the kids will love it too! So be sure to pack your bathing suit. For a handy list of what else you and the family might need to pack on safari, check out our packing guide.

An Italian odyssey

Italy is one of the best multigenerational travel destinations because the country has something for everyone. Italy tours bring together delicious culinary delights from homemade gnocchi to fresh gelato, historic cities, a fascinating coastline, and depending on when you go, that Mediterranean warmth.

The older family members will never want to leave Northern Italy with the legendary canal city of Venice, the fishing villages of Cinque Terre and the famed wine-producing region of Piedmont. Plus there are the great Italian lakes, like Lake Garda, which is the perfect place for a large family group holiday as the kids will also love the water-based activities, and the grown-ups will delight in the picturesque village lining the shores.

The beach bums of the family might fancy a stint in the south, where the street food and perpetually sunny beaches of Sicily will welcome you with open arms. Plus Puglia offers similar opportunities for dips in the ocean, but with the added wonders that come with the UNESCO-listed wonders that are the Matera cave dwellings.

A winter’s day in Lapland

If you’re thrilled about a big family holiday abroad, but you’re a little short on time, our festive Lapland day trips are for you. While this experience is packed into one day, no impact is lost. From sun-up to sun-down, you get to journey to Sweden’s icy far north, where you and the family can immerse yourselves in a winter wonderland. Sip hot blueberry juice amidst thick pine forests, zip through vast snow-covered fields on a husky ride, or try your luck driving the snowmobile.

Our Lapland trips are highly popular with the little ones and their grown-ups, with many parents and grandparents coming along. The day offers a range of memorable activities for everyone - from meeting Santa in his cabin to enjoying traditional Swedish fare for lunch - and people of all ages can choose the pace of their day.