Three-Day Family Itinerary in ANY Country

There's so much to do and see when traveling to a new place. When traveling with children, it's usually not possible to do it all.

So how should you plan your time? How do you get the most out of your trip, see the essentials, experience the culture, and still fit in naps (or at least rest) and solid meals?

I'm going to share with you our travel itinerary in any country. We get an overall feel of the city, explore the must-see sights, and experience the aspects of the country and culture that make it unique, even if we only have a few days!

Overview of Our Days

I usually plan one big activity or two small activities in the AM. We either eat sandwiches or a snack lunch on the go or return to the rental for lunch. Then my youngest takes a nap and the rest of us have quiet time. In the late afternoon we do one more activity and then go out for dinner.

THREE-DAY ITINERARY

Day One

AM

If we're flying in this morning, we're going to take the morning slow. We're going to get to our hotel or vacation rental and get settled. Chances are it's been an early flight.

After we're settled, we go to the grocery store and get the essentials (usually yogurt, eggs, coffee, milk, bread, peanut butter, jelly, fruit & nut bars). Remember, even something as simple as going to the grocery store in another country is a cultural experience. Point out to your children the things that are familiar and the things that are new or different. Allow your child help you find the items you're looking for. Point out the written language if it's different than your own.

If we have time, we'll check out an outdoor museum or cultural center so the kids aren't necessarily expected to keep voices low and they can move their bodies.

PM

After naps, we explore the city center and pick a restaurant to try some of the popular local food.

Day Two

AM

We always plan our walking tour for the second day after a good night sleep. We love these FREE walking tours. They offer them in most major cities in the world and it's a great way to see all the major sights, hear the history of the city, and get recommendations from a local. Make sure to book ahead of time. Even though they are free they can fill up. Bring water and snacks and use the bathroom before, although usually they schedule a bathroom break.

We also bring our travel stroller and usually our children take shifts walking, riding on the stroller, and riding on our backs.

Read this post for our recommended travel essentials.

PM

After naps, we attend a cooking class. This is such a great way to learn about the local cuisine and engage in a hands-on cultural experience. The kids enjoy it and trying new foods is always easier for kids if they've been involved in preparing it!

Day Three

AM

Visit a museum or two that came recommended by your tour guide. Maybe it’s the national museum so you can go deeper into the history and culture or maybe it’s a morning trip out of the city to tour an iconic castle!

PM

Get your souvenirs. We keep it simple. We buy handmade, locally made Christmas ornaments to represent our trip and a country flag to add to our collection.

Eat an early dinner, then take family photos in the city center at sunset so you have those memories forever. Take them yourself with this tripod and remote or hire a local professional photographer anywhere in the world!

Next, read Tried and True Travel Activities or Our Travel Must-Haves.