There is nothing quite like the feeling of taking the whole family on holiday. It is an incredible way for parents and their children to spend time together and create memories that will last a lifetime for both you and the kids– which is so important, particularly if you have another one on the way. The sunshine, the sand, the sea and the fantastic variety of new experiences all make it such a special time. But where do you start? Choosing the right holiday destinations can mean the difference between a wonderful trip and a frustrating one. The first piece of advice is to do your research. Look at reviews from families who have traveled to that destination previously and try and get a sense of their experience.

But I will also do my best to point you in the right direction, of course. So, here are four great holiday destinations for young children. Enjoy!

1. Crete, Greece

This delightful Greek island has long been a favoured destination for families, with a combination of history and relaxation marking it out as a favoured place to go. The beaches are wonderful, the antiquities and ancient landmarks are plentiful, and the island caters for families with its wide variety of restaurants. Many of the major hotel companies have built resorts around Crete in recent years, with all-inclusive beach-front breaks now an option for this destination.

2. Majorca, Spain

The largest of the Balearic Islands, Majorca has long held a reputation for being a fantastic place for families to go on holiday. Resorts such as Puerto Alcudia, Santa Ponsa, Palma Nova and Cala D’or combine a delightful blend of beaches, entertainment, activities and excellent hotels. No surprise then, that those resorts take the majority of family holidaymakers during the season. The weather is good between March and October and the variety of restaurants mean there is always something for everyone.

3. The Algarve, Portugal

The delightful Algarve has always been a mecca for families in search of memorable holidays. The beaches along the stretch between Alvor and Lagos are as beautiful as any in Europe and away from the coastline, there is plenty to do with waterparks, entertainment and fun attractions for children to enjoy. The climate is warm, but never gets too hot, and the locals are welcoming and warm towards families too.

4. The Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Italians love children, perhaps more than any other country in Europe. They are never hidden away in restaurants or in public places; instead, the Italians celebrate kids and always make a fuss of them. At first glance, the Amalfi Coast, with its steep villages and winding roads, may not seem like an obvious choice for a family holiday. But the town of Sorrento and the beaches of the island of Capri are truly spectacular and perfect for the children to play on. The food is world-famous, of course, and you can eat cheaply in most good restaurants. Having been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the Amalfi Coast is guaranteed to be an amazing getaway.

Looking for more recommendations on holiday destinations to take your kids? Read more about Bintan, Indonesia in a blogpost I wrote here.