Curb the chaos with these tried-and-tested tips. If your kids can ride or fit in a child seat they may prefer to whizz through the streets on a bike tour. Either way, getting your bearings on arrival makes navigating your destination during the rest of your stay a lot simpler.
You also have a bit more space to spread out and relax when you need to take a breather. That said, staying in a hotel is often fun too; you can take a break from chores and children will relish it as a novelty — just watch their eyes light up when you order room service.
Whichever lodgings you choose, location is key. Long commutes into the city eat into precious sightseeing time, so choose somewhere central or find a nearby bolthole with decent transport links. With kids in tow you may not be able to walk as far or as fast as you would on your own — slowing down and staying flexible should minimise moaning and prevent burn out.
Keep kids engaged at museums and galleries with audio guides — many attractions provide narration specifically aimed at younger visitors. If your little ones are prone to museum fatigue, you may find that castles, palaces and monuments hold their attention for longer. Kids also love squares with fountains, sculptures, street stalls and entertainers. Head to these pedestrianised areas to relax, browse stalls and people watch when you feel the need to slow down.
Think about the weather when timing your visit. Cold temperatures are manageable with the right clothing but being out all day in the rain can be miserable, and getting stuck indoors away from home may not be much fun.
