Sydney has four classic seasons with hot summers and cool winters. It doesn’t get the cold and wet extremes in winter though, making it a fairly pleasant city for year-round travel.

You will also find plenty of family-friendly activities occurring year-round, though there’s a lot more happening over the local school holiday periods (you’ll also find it busier – and hotel prices significantly higher).

• New South Wales school holidays can be found here

If you are looking to avoid the peak crowds and extremes of summer and winter, the best time to visit is September to November (Spring) and March to May (Autumn).

Summer in Sydney (December to February)

Summers in Sydney can be hot, humid and crowded but also the best time for catching the amazing Carols in the Domain for Christmas, New Year fireworks, Australia Day and the Sydney Festival that all occur over the warmer months. Daytime temperatures average around 26 – 30c, making it perfect for hitting the beach and the extensive waterways that surround the city.

Don’t be surprised though as it can still rain during the summer months.  You can see our full guide here on what to prepare for and pack for a trip to Sydney.

Summer in Sydney is also the most expensive time of year for hotels. If you are visiting in the summer you will want to book your hotel well in advance.

Autumn in Sydney (March to May)

The warm weather in Sydney can certainly still roll into March and April. You’ll probably need a sweater by evening but without stifling daytime temperatures and crowds, it makes it much more pleasant for getting around town. The Royal Easter show is one of the local highlights in March.

Another fun time of year to visit is in the late Autumn when the Vivid Festival is held. Sydney becomes spectacularly lit up at night and there are options from boat cruises to zoo nights to see the city from a new perspective.

Winter in Sydney (June to August)

In contrast, winters can be a bit chilly and wet, which can come as a surprise to some visitors who think Australia is basked in year-round sunshine and beaches!

It may not be as cold and damp as some of the more southerly parts of Australia in the winter, but you can get some pretty icy mornings! Winter in Sydney is when you are likely to pick up the cheapest airfares and hotel deals though and there’s still plenty of indoor activities if the rain does come in to spoil your day. Click here to see our top things to do in Sydney with kids for some ideas.

Spring in Sydney (September to November)

Similar to autumn, Spring daytime temperatures are mild while evenings are cool. Spring in Sydney is a great time for outdoor activities. As you edge toward summer you can definitely get some brilliant beach weather days and beach patrols tend to start around late October. In September the Sydney Fringe Festival is held, bringing a wonderfully colourful showcase to the city.

Take me back to the Sydney Family Guide.

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The glimmering gateway to the South East, Singapore is a tried and tested family favourite city in Asia.

The country houses a unique blend of modern skyscrapers and glittering architecture, with a backdrop of lush parks, rainforests and hidden beaches. A small but mighty and multicultural nation, Singapore should be seen as far more than just a stopover city, it is worthy of a complete family vacation.   

As borders continue to open and the prospect of international family vacations in the tropics become more than just dreams, here’s how you go about planning a Singapore family retreat.

Visa rules and entry requirements for Singapore

As you’d expect, exact requirements and permitted entry to Singapore is a constantly changing situation since March 2020.

Most nationalities are eligible to apply for the electronic SG Arrival Card at least 3 days before arrival. Other nationalities will need to apply for an eVisa in advance – the rules are explained here.

“Green Lanes” have opened since September 2021 requiring passengers from permitted countries to apply for an Air Travel Pass online in advance of their arrival.

Timing your trip to Singapore

Sitting almost on the equator, Singapore is really a year-round destination. Expect hot and humid weather with average temperatures around 27°C throughout the year.

There are no real seasons per se, but you will find it slightly cooler in January and February and slightly hotter in the traditional northern hemisphere summer June to August. There is a short rainy season though it shouldn’t dampen travel plans too much from November to January.  

Read more about the best time to visit Singapore

How long do I need in Singapore?

In the past, Singapore has very much been seen as a fly through city. With one of the world’s best airports, Changi Airport – some travelers feel they don’t even need to come into town!

We’ve always recommended as a minimum families spend 3-days to explore the highlights of the city. This will be long enough to get a taster of what Singapore is about, but not really long enough to relax and enjoy all that the city has to offer.

For a longer family break in the tropics, we’d recommend allowing 7 to 10 days, splitting your time between the city highlights then spending some time relaxing and enjoying the warmth (and the food, did we forget to mention the food?!).

Where to stay in Singapore

So, assuming we have 10 days to spend in Singapore, where is it best to stay with kids?

The good news is, Singapore is an easy to navigate city. You can base yourself somewhere central, close to an MRT station and easily get around even with a stroller.

The downside to accommodation, Singapore is far from one of the cheapest cities to stay in southeast Asia, and doesn’t always cater well to the larger family. Those with 3 kids+ will need to consider getting adjoining rooms or paying more for a serviced apartment.

Around Clarke Quay, a good mid-range choice is Holiday Inn. If budget will stretch the Shangri-La Singapore is truly one of our all-time favourite family hotels offering themed rooms through to baby sitting and bottle warming services.

For a true tropical escape for the family in Singapore, we recommend you head to one of the country’s beautiful islands.  Sentosa is an obvious choice, being home to Resorts World and a plethora of family entertainment venues.

However, don’t forget some of the smaller nearby islands to extend your trip. These make an ideal choice if you’ll be traveling as a larger family group and want to rent your own private villa.  Most can be reached by ferry within just a few hours.

What can families do on a Singapore holiday?

An incredibly family-friendly city, there’s a great range of activities and attractions for families to enjoy. Our top choices include:

• Explore Gardens by the Bay
• Plan a day trip to Singapore Zoo
• Visit the hawkers markets and try the amazing street foods
• Spend a day on Sentosa including Universal Studios and Adventure Cove Waterpark

If this isn’t your first trip, a few more attractions and places to add to your Singapore bucket list include:

• Jurong Bird Park
• Night Safari
• Lazarus Island
• MacRitchie reservoir and treetop walk

You can see a more detailed guide to family things to do in Singapore here. 

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Stuck in the northern hemisphere winter, again, and looking for that perfect sunny escape?

Our city experts have put their heads together to help you find the best city destinations to head to December through February to beat those winter blues and enjoy (almost) guaranteed sunshine on a city break.

Please check international travel rules before you plan your family trip. Your destination city and country of origin may have quarantine rules and PCR testing requirements at present.

Visit Singapore in Winter

A city of year-round tropical weather, heading to Singapore from December to February you should expect day time temperatures of around 31°Cc/88°F. The later you travel in winter, the less likelihood or rain but being tropical, you never quite know!

You can check out more about the best time to visit Singapore here.

What to do in Singapore

Once you are in Singapore, get set to enjoy all the amazing parks, wildlife experiences and family attractions of Sentosa – including Universal Studios Singapore, SEA Aquarium and Adventure Cove Water Park.

Some of the top must see attractions include: Gardens by the Bay, a trip to the Singapore Zoo, Jurong Bird Park and set aside a special night to enjoy the Night Safari.

You may find our 3-day itinerary for Singapore helpful to plan out the perfect city break, but if you have longer, check out our Singapore attractions guide.

Where to stay in Singapore

We recommend staying either on Sentosa or near to Clarke Quay to be close to the action.

Our favourites on Sentosa for families include Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa, Festive Hotel Singapore and Hard Rock Hotel Singapore.

In town, we love the Holiday Inn Express Singapore as a great budget-friendly option, or for one of our all-time favourite family city hotels, the Shangri-La Singapore is just sensational!

You can see all our Singapore accommodation recommendations here.

Visit Dubai in Winter

Winter is the perfect time to visit the bustling city of Dubai. You may just catch weather warm enough still to jump in the water (psst, always double-check your accommodation has a temperature-controlled pool, just in case!)

Day time temperatures should bring you 25°C/77°F in December, but still clear blue skies are *almost* guaranteed. You can learn more about Dubai’s seasons here.

What to do in Dubai in Winter

There is so much to do, this is one of the ultimate family vacation playgrounds where you’re spoilt for choice on indoor and outdoor activities.

Most visitors start with the obvious such as the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai, exploring the Dubai Mall area. In winter you can expand your travels beyond the city to spend more time in the desert, or take on one of these amazing day trips to see more of the UAE.

The weather may be on the cooler side for enjoying the city’s plentiful water and splash parks, but perfect for heading to the outdoor theme parks at Dubai Parks and Resorts, enjoying the world’s largest flower garden Dubai Miracle Garden and the stunning seasonal display at Dubai Garden Glow.

Evenings are great for strolling outside in the winter. We love the new Al Seef waterfront, connecting you to the historic Al Fahidi Neighbourhood as well as the beautiful beach fronts of La Mer, Kite Beach, The Walk, JBR, Dubai Marina and Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

You can see all our top recommended family attractions in Dubai here.

Where to stay in Dubai

Dubai has almost endless family accommodation choices. We recommend staying in an are such as JBR and the Dubai Marina to enjoy the glorious winter sunshine. Why not try Jumeirah Al Naseem, part of the Madinat Jumeirah complex or the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi is an absolute family winner with it’s new water park.

For more budget-priced accommodation you need to look at areas around “Old Dubai”- Bur Dubai and Deira, over the Dubai Creek such as Savoy Park Hotel Apartments.

You can see all our Dubai accommodation recommendations here.

Visit Cape Town in Winter

Ah glorious Cape Town, we would argue there is almost no city as beautiful as Cape Town on a sunny summers day. From the V&A Waterfront looking back to the stunning Table Mountain backdrop.

Heading beneath the equator will bring with it glorious summer days to enjoy away from the bleak northern winters – and you can’t get much further south from Europe than heading in a direct line to Cape Town!

Daytime temperatures are around 27 to 29°C/ 80-85°F, and expect water temperatures around 22°C/70°F. The Atlantic Ocean has a serious nip to it no matter what time of year but January is the best time to enjoy the beautiful beach suburbs such as Clifton and Camps Bay.

You can read more about the best time to visit Cape Town here.

What to do in Cape Town

An outdoor playground, this city is one of the best for your nature lovers wanting some fresh air. Hike around Table Mountain and Signal Hill, or (slightly!) less strenuous visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. Take a boat out to historic Robben Island or simply enjoy a day sailing from the harbour.

Cape Town is a great place to grab a car for the day and take in the sights of the Cape Peninsular. The penguins at Boulders Beach are probably your biggest drawcard, but also take your self all the way to the Cape of Good Hope. Kids will love the Cape Point Funicular, you will truly feel like you are at the end of the world!

You can see our Cape Town family attractions guide here.

Where to stay in Cape Town

Do note that as it’s the most popular time of year, prices can jump up on accommodation and especially between Christmas to New Year expect to pay top dollar and options will be limited – book early!

You can’t beat the convenience of staying at the V&A Waterfront, The Table Bay Hotel for a luxurious touch or Radisson Red for a more mid-range option.

For a totally luxurious retreat, we love the Belmond Mount Nelson.

You can see all our Cape Town accommodation recommendations here.

Visiting Melbourne in Winter

Melbourne is another city that likes to display its full glory from about January through to March – summer Downunder.

Although it is the city of four seasons in one day! You can expect day time tops of around 26°/79°F – BUT don’t be surprised if there are some scorchers thrown in there too, upwards of 40°C/104°F. Followed by a rainstorm!!

We love our Melbourne though (and ssshhh don’t tell Sydney, but we think it’s nicer Aussie city to visit in the peak of summer, less crowded!!)

You can read about the best times to visit Melbourne here.

What to do in Melbourne

A hot sunny day will bring locals to the beaches around Port Phillip Bay in absolute droves, but there are plenty of other ways to keep your cool and places worthy of exploring in this city built for both indoor and outdoor fun.

We love exploring the city’s vast Royal Botanical Gardens, as well as the adjacent National Gallery of Victoria which always runs incredible family programs. The Melbourne Zoo is always a winner, and you will never be short of an amazing adventure playground around the city.

Build in some day trips to the Yarra Valley, Healesville Sanctuary, Puffing Billy and the picture-perfect Mornington Peninsular. If time permits, head west and drive the famous Great Ocean Road for a true touch of Australiana.

It is imperative to be sun smart in Melbourne at this time of year. The sun’s UV rays (at any time of year) are far stronger in southern Australia than elsewhere in the world. You can see a packing list here for suggested sun protection items.

If you are sticking around until the end of January you will get to catch the action and excitement around town of the Australian Tennis Open.

You can see our full guide to things to do in Melbourne here.

Where to stay in Melbourne

If you’re only spending a short time in Melbourne before heading on further around the country, we recommend basing yourself as close as possible to the CBD. Here you will be close to the major sites and benefit from the free inner-city tram.

With kids, we recommend a serviced apartment such as Melbourne Short Stay Apartments on Lonsdale works really well. A hidden gem for families is the Ovolo Laneways, or for a great family package deal check out Holiday Inn on Flinders.

A budget choice especially over the summer months when Universities are out is to stay at Mel Uni Village, superb little apartments walking distance to the city.

For longer stays in Melbourne, an AirBnB in a beachside suburb would make sense in Summer. Look at areas such as Brighton or Elwood.

You can see all our Melbourne accommodation recommendations here.

Visiting Bangkok in Winter

Another city that benefits from being close to the equator, so January brings with it warmer climates.

November through until about April is considered dry season in Bangkok so you should find less humidity and rain showers, making it perfect city exploration weather. January temperatures expect an average of around 32°C/90°F.

You can read more about the best time to visit Bangkok here.

What to do in Bangkok

This is a great city for those who love bustle and adventure in their city break, ideal for foodies, culture-lovers and shoppers.

Getting into one of the markets is a must, and don’t miss the most important cultural sites. Most will start at the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple, and we’d also add to this a day trip to Ayutthaya.

A wonderful way to get the kids involved in a Bangkok adventure is to take a Thai Cooking Class, followed by a boat through the floating markets, a truly unique family experience!

You can read more fun family things to do with kids in Bangkok here.

Where to stay in Bangkok

There is a real range of accommodation choices in Bangkok from luxurious through to backpackers. There’s no one city centre, so it depends if you prefer the modern side of Bangkok such as Sukhumvit for it’s convenience to transport, malls and restaurants or perhaps one of the luxurious resorts that line the river.

For a luxury inner-city resort, the Peninsula Bangkok on the Chao Phraya River is one of a kind. Perhaps more budget=friendly and central the Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok, or a great budget choice Ibis Styles Khaosan Viengtai close to the action of Bangkok’s famous Khaosan Road.

You can see all our Bangkok accommodation recommendations here.

Do you have a great city break destination for beating those winter blues? Pop over to our City Travel with Kids Facebook and join the conversation.

And don’t worry if you think you will miss out on important seasonal celebrations travelling in the winter – we have got you covered on the City Travel With Kids Christmas special episode with wintery markets through to Middle East brunches and tropical escapes that all make perfect winter destinations.

We also have a great guide here to cities that like to shine at their best through the winter months.

Take me back to the Little City Insider Guides

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Practical travel guide with all you need to know to pick the best time to visit Lisbon with kids.

Lisbon sees 4 distinct seasons: a hot summer, pleasant spring and autumn months and unpredictable, albeit usually mild winters. The summer months are the busiest, in terms of tourism, but the most pleasant time to visit the city with kids is the spring. At this time, the weather is sunny but not overly hot and sightseeing is at its best.

Click here to read all our tips for packing for Lisbon no matter what time of year you visit.

Before travelling to Lisbon, make sure you check official travel rules and regulations that might affect your stay.

SPRING IN LISBON

Lisbon is a delight in spring. At this time, the weather sees glorious sunny days bathing the city in diffused light but the temperatures are still mild enough to allow pleasant sightseeing.

April sees occasional downpours of rain so while overall dry, pack for possible rain showers if visiting at this time.

May is usually warm enough to mark the beginning of beach season.

SUMMER IN LISBON

Summer in Lisbon is a hot and sticky season. From June on, temperatures rise steadily reaching well over 30 degrees in July and August: this makes the weather unpleasant for sightseeing but perfect to enjoy the city parks and nearby beaches.

July and August are the months when Lisbon residents take their summer holiday. Especially in August, be prepared to see city life slowing down and the beaches fill up!

 AUTUMN IN LISBON

Autumn is a lovely time to visit Lisbon. September is still very much a summer month in the Portuguese capital and you can enjoy great weather and smaller crowds.

October sees a first drop in temperatures and more frequent rainy days. This is a great time to visit Lisbon if you are interested in museums and food. The second half of October and November start to have a more wintery feel and see lower numbers of tourists.

WINTER IN LISBON

Winter is low tourism season in Lisbon. Lisbon weather are mild compared to many other European cities but rain and overcast days are frequent: this season is mostly suited to budget visitors who can easily find affordable Lisbon accommodation and cheaper inbound flights.

Take me back to the Family Guide to Lisbon

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Rome is a big, sprawling city.

The city centre, where most of Rome’s attractions are located, is best explored on foot while longer distances can be tackled by the city’s extensive public transport network made of metro lines, buses and trams.

How to get around Rome by bus

Rome has an extensive bus network covering most of the city.

Bus stops are marked by yellow and black signs and can easily be spotted around the city.

Each bus stop reports the buses stopping there as well and their itineraries. You may notice that they do not give a timetable and think there is a reason for this: there isn’t!

With the exception of some bus stops on the wider roads, a bus schedule is not available to the public: always factor in extra time if you need to move by bus.

Bus tickets can be bought at metro stations and newsagents. Strollers and buggies must be folded but kids under 10 go free.

Main bus ticket types:

• B.I.T. standard ticket, valid for one Metro ride or 100 minutes on all buses
• 24 hour ticket – valid for unlimited metro, bus, and train travel within Rome for 24h
• 48 hour ticket – valid for unlimited metro, bus, and train travel within Rome for 48h
• 72 hour ticket – valid for unlimited metro, bus, and train travel within Rome for 72h
• C.I.S. Weekly ticket – valid for 7 calendar days

Tickets must be purchased in advance and must be validated when first boarding the bus.

Getting around Rome by metro

Rome has a limited metro system consisting of two lines (A and B): they intersect at one stop only, Termini (the main railways station) and are useful to cover large distances quickly.

Metro stations are equipped with ticketing machines and tickets must be validated a the electronic gates allowing access to the trains.

The metro is not hugely accessible by strollers so we recommend using a baby carrier instead whenever possible.

Click here for more tips on what to bring to Rome.

Rome public transport operates an integrated ticketing system and the same ticket is valid on metro, buses and trams. Kids under 10 go free.

Getting around Rome by tram

Trams are part of Rome’s integrated public transport system.

They are a convenient way to get around but are slower than buses so always plan for extra time should you choose this option.

How to get around Rome by taxi

Taxis are few and far between in Rome.

The best way to get hold of one is to use apps such as ‘FreeNow’ or ring one of the automated taxi booking services such as 06 3570. Flagging them on the street is possible, but unlikely to work due to the sheer volume of demand vs supply.

Taxis cannot be booked in advance except for going to the airport.

Taxis are most useful in Rome after dark, when public transport is less frequent, or if you have limited time in the city and need to pack sightseeing into one of 2 days in Rome only.

How to get from Rome airport to the city centre

Rome has two main airports: Leonardo da Vinci (aka Fiumicino, FCO) and Ciampino (CIA).

From Fiumicino to Rome city centre you have 3 options:

Train: The Leonardo Express is a fast train connecting Fiumicino Airport to Termini train station in about 30 to 40 minutes. Tickets can be bought at the many machines and vendors available at the station and must be validated before boarding the train. Checks are frequent so make sure you buy your tickets!

Bus: Shuttle buses connect Fiumicino with Rome city centre. Tickets can be bought in the main airport terminal or in advance via the links at the bottom of this page.

Taxi: Taxis are available immediately outside the arrival terminal and are the easiest transport option to take you directly to your Rome accommodation, budget permitting. They operate on a flat fare system (currently 50 Euro) to Rome city centre: additional cost apply for different locations. Taxis do not offer child seats and a car seat is not compulsory in taxis in Rome: make sure you have your own.

From Ciampino to Rome city centre

Taxi: A limited number of taxis is usually stationed outside the small airport of Ciampino. They operate on a flat fare system to Rome city centre (currently 30 Euro): additional fees apply for longer distance. Taxis do not offer child seats and a car seat is not compulsory in taxis in Rome: make sure you have your own.

Bus: Shuttle buses are a convenient way to go from Ciampino airport to Rome Termini, the city’s main train station in the city centre. Tickets can be purchased on arrival at one of the counters inside the airport terminal

You can find more info about Rome’s location and how the city is connected to the rest of Italy and to Europe on this helpful free guide ‘Where is Rome‘?

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Rome has four distinct seasons: a hot summer, pleasant spring and autumn months and cold, albeit not freezing winters.

Spring and Autumn are the most pleasant times to visit Rome but summer and winter also see a high number of tourists flocking to the Eternal City.

To visit Rome with kids, there is really no bad time to visit Rome, except the height of the summer.

In August in particular the temperatures are unbearably hot and humid and many services shut down for the local summer break making Rome sightseeing tiring and frustrating.

Before travelling to Rome, check official travel rules and regulations that may affect your trip.

SPRING IN ROME

Rome is a delight in spring.

Rome is a leafy city and this time of the year sees flowers starting to appear in its many parks and along its tree-lined streets, painting the town yellow and pink with mimosa and plum blossoms.

Rome in spring sees mild temperatures and a relatively low number of rainy days: the temperatures rise steadily between March and the end of May when summer starts making an appearance.

If school and work allow, we highly recommend you visit Rome in May – it’s a delight!

SUMMER IN ROME

Summer in Rome is hot and humid.

June is still a pleasant time to visit Rome: hot but not overly so, this is the time for al fresco dining and picnics in Rome parks. It is also the last time to visit the Forum and Colosseum before full on summer temperatures hit the city.

July is hot and busy in Rome: sightseeing is still possible but especially with young kids it is advisable to avoid being out during the hottest hours of the day. The city, at this time, comes to life mostly in the evening with many music festivals and outdoor events.

August in Rome is to be avoided. Very hot and very humid, this is the time of the year when locals escape the city. Many businesses and attractions have shorter opening hours and local life is put on hold, meaning the city loses most of its charm despite prices being at a premium.

AUTUMN IN ROME

Autumn is a lovely time to visit Rome. September is still very much a summer month in the Italian capital and you can enjoy great weather up until mid-October.

The weather starts to turn colder in November.

The crowds are still significant at this time of the year but city life is in full swing, meaning you are able to get a glimpse of local life and enjoy some of Rome’s restaurants without excessive queuing.

Autumn is our favourite time to visit Rome and one of the best for kids.

WINTER IN ROME

Winters in Rome are cold. The city experiences milder temperatures than many others in Europe but it is very humid and this means you feel much colder than the temperature reported on the thermometer seems to suggest.

A good winter jacket, sensible shoes and an umbrella are a must and babies and toddlers should be wrapped up accordingly.

Winter is low tourism season in Rome with the exception of the weeks around Christmas and New Year: this time is very popular with international tourists and Rome accommodation is at a premium.

If you plan to visit Rome during the holidays, check this local guide to Rome at Christmas.

Want to learn more about how to tackle Rome with kids? Check out our City Travel with Kids podcast where we interviewed local mum Marta for all her very best Rome travel tips

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When is the best time to visit Singapore?

There isn’t really a bad time or a good time to visit Singapore as the tropical climate brings similar temperatures all year round.

You will find it slightly cooler in January and February and there is a distinct rainy season from November to January, but really it can rain at anytime of year in Singapore – and frequently does!

The multi-ethnic make up of the Singapore population means that there is usually some kind of festival or festival build-up going on in Singapore. Whether it is Christmas, Chinese New Year, Deepavali or Hari Raya, you will find the Singaporeans gearing up to celebrate alongside one another.

Need help with what to pack for Singapore? Click here to read our Singapore packing list.

Before planning a trip to Singapore, check official travel requirements and regulations that may affect your stay.

Climate in Singapore

Singapore is hot and humid all year round, with average temperatures of 26-27 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

While there is not much variation in the seasons, you will find that temperatures are slightly cooler with a more pronounced breeze in January and February, and temperatures are slightly hotter in the months of June, July and August.

It can rain anytime of year in Singapore, and you should always be prepared with an umbrella in your bag.

Usually a downpour will last an hour or two, after which the sun comes back out to play. However, there is a distinct rainy season from November to January, and you can get days on end of rain during this period, particularly during the month of November.

Whatever time of year you are visiting Singapore, be prepared with a bottle of water, sunscreen and an umbrella.

• Singapore is hot and humid all year round.
• Temperatures are slightly cooler in January & February.
• Temperatures are slightly hotter from June – August.
• There is a rainy season from November – January.

Festivals in Singapore

Singapore’s multi-ethnic culture means that there is always a celebration or festival taking place, thanks to the country’s four official religions.

So every year you can expect to celebrate Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Adilfitri, Holi, Christmas, Easter and Deepavali amongst other festivals.

Singapore sees the New Year in with a bang, with celebrations taking place all around the city and an impressive fireworks display over Marina Bay.

This is followed by the biggest celebration in the Chinese calendar – Chinese New Year, which takes place in January or February each year.

This is a fun time to be in Singapore, with lots of fun festivities taking place around the city, including festive markets, lion dances and the annual Chingay Parade.

Note that many businesses may close during this period though.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri (also known as Hari Raya Puasa or the Festival of Eid) marks the end of Ramadan and is the biggest festival in the Muslim calendar. It is a fun time of year to head to the Arab Quarter to partake in some Middle Eastern cuisine. The timing of this festival changes according to the Islamic calendar.

The last few months of the calendar year are always fun in Singapore, kicking off with the Singapore Grand Prix in September every year.

Formula 1’s only night race sees not only lots of fast racing cars, but also some of the world’s most popular bands taking to the stage in one of Asia’s biggest music festivals.

The Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival is always a sight to behold, with many beautiful lanterns taking over Chinatown and the Chinese Gardens.

More colourful lights and celebrations follow closely behind with the Hindu festival of Deepavali, which is always a fun time to visit Little India.

The final festival of the year is Christmas, which commercially-minded Singapore takes to in a big way.

Orchard Road is the place to head to at this time of year, with its colourful street lights and shopping malls all lit up for the festive season.

Click here to find more fun things to do in Singapore.

Take me back to the Singapore City Guide

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What is the best time to visit Amsterdam? There is never a bad time to visit Amsterdam, but the most popular tourist season is from April to September, when the weather is warmer.

Weather in Amsterdam is unpredictable at any time of year, so you should be prepared for rain no matter what time of year you visit.

Before travelling to Amsterdam, check out official travel rules and regulations that may affect your trip.

The cheapest time to visit Amsterdam is during the off-season, from late October to early March (except during the festive season: Amsterdam in December is fun and very popular).

The Summer during the European school holidays in July and August is the most popular time to visit Amsterdam. Prices will be higher and queues at Amsterdam tourist attractions and restaurants will be longer.

Tulip season from mid-March to early May is another popular time to visit Amsterdam when prices will be higher.

• Spring in Amsterdam is March to May
• Summer in Amsterdam is June to August
• Autumn in Amsterdam is September to November
• Winter in Amsterdam is December to February

Need help packing for your Amsterdam trip? Click here to read our Amsterdam packing list.

Spring in Amsterdam (March – May)

Spring in Amsterdam sees the beginning of the tourist season when the weather turns warmer and the days grow longer. With tulip season starting in mid-March and continuing through to early May, this is a beautiful time of year to visit Amsterdam.

April is statistically the driest month, but Amsterdam’s weather is notoriously fickle, so be sure to carry your umbrella or rain mac with you at all times.

27^th April is Amsterdam’s most famous national holiday – King’s Day. This festival celebrates the King’s birthday and sees the whole of Amsterdam turn out to celebrate in a citywide street party.

Summer in Amsterdam (June – August)

July and August is peak tourist season in Amsterdam, meaning bigger crowds, longer queues and more expensive Amsterdam hotel rooms.

But there is a reason everyone flocks to Amsterdam at this time of year: the long summer days, al-fresco dining, open-air concerts and cultural festivals all combine to make what many believe to be the best time of year to visit Amsterdam.

While the weather is warmer at this time of year, temperatures rarely go above 24°C making it a pleasant climate for sightseeing.

Autumn in Amsterdam (September – November)

If you are looking to avoid the crowds in Amsterdam, then Autumn is a great choice.

Lines will be shorter at the attractions, restaurant bookings easier to secure and hotel rooms cheaper. As a leafy city, Amsterdam is full of colour in the autumn, with the fiery coloured trees lining the canals and filling the city’s parks.

If you are in Amsterdam in mid-November, make sure you don’t miss the Sinterklaas Parade, where St Nicholas, the patron saint of children and Holland’s answer to Santa Claus arrives in the city to mark the beginning of the festive season.

Winter in Amsterdam (December – February)

Visiting Amsterdam in winter is another good time to escape the crowds and benefit from cheaper hotel rooms.

The exception to this is during the festive period in December and New Year.

While the weather is colder at this time of year, temperatures rarely dip below freezing – although frequent fog and mist patches and rain can make it feel colder than it actually is, so be prepared to wrap up warm.

Take me back to the Amsterdam Family Guide

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Central Amsterdam is easily explored on foot, or doing as the locals do and hiring a bike.

With over 400km of dedicated cycle lanes, Amsterdam is one of the easiest and safest cities to explore by bike with kids.

Be sure to take a bicycle lock with you, as bicycle theft is extremely common in Amsterdam.

Click here for more ideas for your Amsterdam packing list. 

Amsterdam also has an impressive public transport system, with an extensive network of trams, buses, metros, ferries and trains.

Before travelling to Amsterdam, check out official travel rules and regulations that may affect your trip.

For visitors, the most commonly used form of public transport is the trams, which are quick, frequent and efficient and will take you to most points of interest in Amsterdam.

• Children under the age of 4 travel for free
• Children aged 4-11 can buy a child ticket

Read on for our full guide to public transport in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Trams

Trams are one of the quickest and easiest ways to get around Amsterdam.

Trams are the transport of choice for most tourists as they will take you to most attractions and Amsterdam points of interest.

While most Amsterdam attractions are concentrated in the city centre, you are likely to get on the tram at least once during you visit to the city, whether you are staying one day in Amsterdam or planning a longer stay

Most tram lines operate from Amsterdam Central Station.

Outside you will find two tram stations, one on the East side, which has trams running East and South, and one on the West, with trams running West and North.

Trams run from 6am on weekdays (7am at weekends) until around midnight.

Each tram stop has line maps and timetables, with many having real time electronic information screens.

Strollers are allowed on the tram, but you will need to enter the tram at the back.

There are designated stroller parking areas on the tram, marked with lines on the floor.

If this spot is already occupied, the tram driver may ask you to wait for the next tram. Note also that the stroller space is also the wheelchair space, and understand that wheelchairs should take precedence.

Tip: Tram 2 is one of the most beautiful tram routes in the world, as voted by National Geographic Traveler magazine. This popular sightseeing route takes you past many of Amsterdam’s top attractions, including Vondelpark, the canals, the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.

Amsterdam Metro

The Amsterdam Metro is quicker than the tram, but does not have as many stops. The metro is the best option if you plan on visiting the outlying suburbs, while the tram remains the easiest and most efficient for getting around the city centre.

Amsterdam Ferries

There are several free local ferry services that cross the IJ River, connecting the city centre with Amsterdam Noord.

The most popular route is the 5-minute journey to Buiksloterweg, with ferries running every few minutes. A countdown clock displaying the destination and remaining time to departure is above each docking bay.

Amsterdam Taxis

Taxis in Amsterdam are expensive and therefore not hugely popular.

You cannot flag a taxi down on the street so you will need to either call one or go to an official taxi rank. You will often find taxis outside major Amsterdam hotels too. Licensed taxis have blue licence plates. Taxi fares are according to the meter.

Tickets for Public Transport in Amsterdam

There are several options for public transport tickets in Amsterdam, which can be a bit confusing for the first-time visitor. Here we outline the different options:

OV-chipkaart

These rechargeable public transport cards can be bought at public transport counters, station ticket machines, convenience stores, supermarkets and select newsstands. They are bought with no credit so you will need to add credit before you can travel.

Locals have personalized OV-chipkaarts but tourists will need to opt for an anonymous (suitable for several days) or disposable card (suitable for one trip or one day). These are valid on all public transport and can be topped up at the public transport counter or ticket machines.

GVB Day Ticket

This ticket provides you with unlimited travel throughout Amsterdam, day and night, on the bus, tram, and metro.

The day ticket is valid for 24 hours after you first check in. These tickets are only valid in GVB metros, trams, and buses, not on regional buses of Connexxion and EBS or on the train. It is also not valid on travel to/from Schipol Airport.

You can buy the GVB day ticket from GVB ticket offices, ticket machines on metro platforms, some hotels, tourist information centres and from the driver or conductor on the tram. Children aged 4-11 can purchase a very economical children’s ticket (around 1/3 of the price of an adult ticket).

GVB Multi-day Ticket

As above, you can also buy a multi-day ticket. This works in the same way as the day ticket, but is sold in increments of 24-hours (eg. 48 hours, 72 hours, 96 hours – up to 7 days).

The day ticket is valid for the appropriate number of hours from when you first check in.

The main difference between the day ticket and the multi-day ticket is that it cannot be bought on the tram.

You can purchase it from GVB ticket offices, ticket machines on metro platforms, some hotels and tourist information centres. You can also buy your multi-day ticket online before you go using the link below.

Click here to buy your GVB Multi-Day Ticket online

Amsterdam Travel Ticket

The Amsterdam travel ticket is valid for 1, 2 or 3 days and includes travel on all public transport, including Schipol airport transfer by train or bus.

However, note that the Amsterdam travel ticket is valid per day, not per 24-hours, and so if you first use it in the evening, it will expire that night.

Therefore this is of best value if first used in the morning, and for example an airport transfer in the evening.

I Amsterdam City Card

If you are planning to do a lot of sightseeing and tourist attractions in Amsterdam, then the I Amsterdam city card can be a very economical option.

This card is valid for 24, 48, 72 or 96 hours and includes entrance to over 40 Amsterdam tourist attractions and museums in addition to unlimited public transport, a free canal cruise and discounts on restaurants, theatre tickets and more.

Click here to buy your I Amsterdam City Card online

Tip: Make sure you tap your ticket when you enter and leave the tram/bus/metro

Getting from the airport in Amsterdam

Amsterdam Schipol is located around 20km south-west of Amsterdam. There are various options for getting from the airport into Amsterdam: train, bus, hotel shuttle and taxi.

Train from Schipol to Amsterdam

The train is the quickest way to get from the airport into Amsterdam. The Schipol train station is located underneath the airport.

Travel time from Schipol to Amsterdam Central Station is around 15-20 minutes.

There are around 10 trains per hour between 6am and 1am, and trains run every hour throughout the night.

Tickets for the train can be purchased at the ticket office in the arrivals hall, and from the yellow ticket machines in both the baggage reclaim area and on the train platform.

Top tip: Travelling with a stroller? You can take the elevator from the arrivals hall directly to the train platform.”]

Bus from Schipol to Amsterdam

The Amsterdam Airport Express bus 197 departs every 15 minutes from 5am – 00.30am. Buses leave from bus stop B9 outside the arrivals hall. Travel time into the city is around 30 minutes.

The Amsterdam Airport Express bus goes to Elandsgracht Station (not to Amsterdam Central Station). This is a good option if you are staying in the Museum Quarter.

Schipol Hotel Shuttle

The Schipol hotel shuttle takes passengers directly to their hotel door. The 8-seater shuttle leaves every 30-minutes between 6am and 9.30pm from bus stop A7 outside the arrivals hall.

Travel time from the airport to Amsterdam is around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of hotel stops required. This is a good option for groups staying at the same hotel, as groups are offered a discount.

Taxi from Airport into Amsterdam

A taxi into Amsterdam from the airport will cost around €45-50. Travel time will be approximately 25-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The taxi stand is located directly outside the arrivals hall.

Alternatively, you can call and Uber to collect you from the airport. Or click here to pre-book a private transfer from the airport into Amsterdam.

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Tokyo is a big bustling city full of excitement and colour, but how easy is it to tackle with kids?

With the help of Anne Sutherland-Smith from Pre-Traveller, we have put together this fabulous 3 day Tokyo Itinerary for Families to make sure you get all the very best out of a short trip to Tokyo, Japan

You can listen to an interview between our editor Marianne and Anne on our City Travel with Kids Podcast below – full show notes can be found here.

Day 1 Tokyo with Kids Itinerary

Morning

Spend the morning indulging in the art of Sumo in the Ryogoku area. This can be watching a sumo tournament, or watching a sumo training session if your children are old enough (they need to be able to sit still and quiet).

Afternoon

Explore the Asakusa area of Tokyo, here you will find the Senso-Ji Temple, the oldest Buddhist Temple in Toyko.

You can also head into the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Centre. Not only a fabulously designed building with great city views, but you can also arrange city walking views from here as well as enquire (in English) on local sightseeing, cooking classes and kimomo-wearing experiences.

Evening

Look for some unique foodies experiences – from the convenience stores to the street stalls, get to know your local streets and sample local delicacies.

Where to stay in Tokyo with Kids

There are many places for families to stay in Tokyo, depending just how deep into the action you want to be, or if you’d prefer a suburban experience away from the crowds which can be a little overwhelming with little ones.

Top areas to stay in for families include:

• Asakusa: An atmospheric older part of town has a lot of good cheap Tokyo hotel options including larger rooms in triples and quads.
• Shinjuku: Close to one of Tokyo’s main transport hubs and is on the Yamanote line, making it easy to get everywhere from here.
• Shibuya: Also has easy transport options, a huge choice of restaurants and good shopping options. A fun option for families with older kids and teenagers.
• Hilton Tokyo Bay: If your primary aim is the Disney theme parks

It’s important to check out exactly how much space you will actually get; even if advertised as a family room there may be an exceptation that children share with an adult which does not work with older kids Family rooms at a hostel can be a good budget alternative.

Some top Tokyo family-sized hotel rooms include:

• Ryokan Kamogawa Tokyo – for an authentic Japanese experience
• Park Hyatt Tokyo – for a luxury stay in the heart of the action
• Asakusa View Hotel – A modern western-style hotel in the heart of Asakusa, just a 5-minute walk to Senso-ji temple

Check out our complete selection of Tokyo hotel rooms to suit all budgets here.

Day 2 Tokyo with Kids Itinerary

Morning

Try one of the teamLab Experiences – Digital Art Museums. There is one in Odaiba (Teamlab Borderless) and in Toyosu (TeamLab Planets).

Afternoon

Afterwards, explore the Odaiba Area. See the big Gundam Statue, a small version of the Statue of Liberty, a giant Ghibli Clock and even squeeze in a riverboat cruise from here.

Evening

Do a Harajuku food tour! A great taster of Tokyo’s Pop Culture, exploring and tasting your way around Harajuku.

Day 3 Tokyo with Kids Itinerary

Morning

Head on an early morning train out west of the city to visit the Ghibli Museum and Hayao Miyazaki Movies Tour.

Afternoon

Arrive back into Shinjuku Station on the western side of Tokyo

• See the Big Godzilla towering over the Toho Building.
• Catch a show at the Robot Restaurant.
• With younger children, explore the Tokyo Toy Museum – including indoor and outdoor play areas.

Further family activities in Tokyo

If you have more than 3 days to spend in Tokyo and surrounding areas, you could add these activities:

• Disneyland Tokyo if you have younger children or love the original themed Disney Parks.
• DisneySea Tokyo is more thrill rides, better for older kids and a more unique Tokyo experience
• Attend a baseball match
• A day trip west to Mount Fuji
• Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park
• Oshino Ninja Village

• Kyoto also makes a good add-on to a Tokyo trip, though with kids we’d recommend you allow an extra two days for everything that Kyoto has to offer in addition to Tokyo, including:
  • Foodie Tours through Nishiki Market
  • Family-friendly tour through the most famous temples and Kyoto Railway Museum
  • Nara Deer Park

You can catch all our suggested Tokyo highlights with kids here.

How to get around in Tokyo

Tokyo is a very large city to navigate so you are best to base yourself near to a Metro line and avoid travelling with kids during peak commuter rush hour times.

You only need to invest in a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) if you are intending to travel beyond Tokyo, otherwise, you will only need a Tokyo Metro Pass.

You can read our complete guide on how to get around in Tokyo here.

What to pack for Tokyo

We suggest packing light so you are not dragging too much luggage around with you, but you do need to pack appropriately for the seasons with summers being very hot and winters cold.

Our full guide on what to pack for Tokyo can be found here.

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Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about all the places we mention from Anne & the Little City team.

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Melbourne makes for a fabulous introduction to travelling around Australia. It’s an amazing family-friendly city that always has something exciting going on for all members of the family.

With the help of our city expert Katy from Untold Morsels, we have put together this fabulous 3 day Melbourne Itinerary to make sure you capture all the best Melbourne has to offer on a short trip to Victoria, Australia.

You can listen to an interview between our editor Marianne and Katy on our City Travel with Kids Podcast below – full show notes for the podcast can be found here.

Day 1 Melbourne Itinerary with Kids

Morning

Start your day with the FREE City Circle Talking Tram (Route 35) that takes you on a loop around the city’s CBD and past many of the city’s famous buildings. It’s a great way to get your bearings and enjoy an iconic Melbourne experience.

Next up, pay a visit to the State Library Victoria (extensive renovation works are due to complete on 5 December 2019 – check if things will be open if visiting before this time). One of the city’s most iconic and beautiful buildings, and can you believe also very family-friendly, check out the Play Pod for under 8’s.

Top Tip: Katy recommends grabbing one of Melbourne’s best coffees from nearby Mr Tulk!

Before lunch, take a stroll through Melbourne’s famous Laneways. Otherwise drab corners of the city have been transformed over the years by street art and are now an Instagram heaven! Try Hosier Lane and Manchester Lane for some iconic shots.

You can join an informative laneways tour, but with kids, you may prefer to move at your own pace.

Lunch

There is so much variety in Melbourne, and honestly, it’s hard to find a bad meal in the foodie capital of Australia! Even if a restaurant doesn’t have a specific kids menu, you’ll find most cafes and restaurants willing to adapt dishes to suit.

As you are already in the centre of town, wander down Little Burke Street – aka Chinatown. There’s a huge range of choice, Katy recommends Hutong for dumplings!

Afternoon

If you have a good head for heights, head to the Southbank and the Eureka Tower Skydeck. Melbourne’s tallest tower gives you brilliant birds-eye views over the entire city skyline.

The more daring of you may want to take on the glass-cubed “The Edge” for a genuine birds-eye view over the city, a lookout sitting 300m above street level on the 88th floor.

Alternatively, spend the afternoon exploring the extensive Royal Botanical Gardens. The Melbourne gardens really are amongst the best you’ll find in the world. With kids, the Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden is a must.

This is a long walking and exploring day, but do take advantage of the free CBD trams when you can.

For dinner, try the Emporium Melbourne. An upmarket food court with plenty of cuisines available to keep everyone in the family happy!

Where to stay in Melbourne with kids

The best place to stay in Melbourne is in or close the CBD. From here you have great access to transport, as well as parks, playgrounds, cafes and restaurants. It’s a relatively easy city centre to navigate. Chose from hotels or self-catering apartments on longer stays:

Some top Melbourne CBD picks include:

• Ovolo Laneways
• Somerset on Elizabeth
• Victoria Hotel

A good alternative is staying on the South Bank. There are options attached to the Crown Casino complex and nearby Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, as well as easy walking distance to the Arts Centre Melbourne, NGV and the Royal Botanical Gardens. You can try:

• Crown Metropol
• Crown Promenade

Check out our full selection of hand-picked Melbourne hotels for families as chosen by our Little City team of experts here.

Day 2 Melbourne itinerary with kids

Morning

We’re starting Day 2 just north of the CBD in Carlton. The Melbourne Museum is a brilliant place to explore for all ages. For younger kids especially they will enjoy the Children’s Gallery, then head outside to enjoy the Carlton Gardens playground.

Lunch

You are nearby here to Melbourne’s famous Lygon Street, packed full of restaurants with a particular focus on Italian cuisine. There are plentiful family-friendly choices, let your nose pick a favourite spot!

Afternoon

Heading back into the CBD now, we will explore the Melbourne SEA Life Aquarium, one of the better inner-city Aquariums you’ll find with lots of funny activities for kids. The extremely brave in your group may want to try the Shark Dive Xtreme Experience!

Sporting fans in your group will love a tour of the MCG. Sports memorable and many memorable events from the 1956 Olympics to the Ashes and Aussie Rules football. Great engaging tours, through the Museum, change rooms and on to the turf. Best suited to your tweens+.

You can arrange your MCG Tour tickets in advance here.

Evening

For dinner, we’re heading to a Melbourne institution, Brunetti! A family-run Roman Pasticceria for some of the best pasta, pizza and desserts outside of Italy!

Planning to See several Melbourne attractions? We recommend the iVenture Pass as a great way to save! Includes Eureka Skydeck, Melbourne Zoo, SEA Life Auquairum, Healesville Sanctuary and many more Melbourne favourite family attractions. Check out the 3, 5 & 7 day options here.

Day 3 Melbourne itinerary with kids

Morning

We’ll start our final day exploring the giant Queen Victoria Market, just north of the CBD. The markets open very early in the day so you can grab some brekkie here and experience the hustle and bustle before doing your shopping.

It is a great place to pick up your Aussie souvenirs (from quality sheepskin products through to tourist tat!), as well as fresh food – why not grab a picnic for later in the day?

Next, we’re going to explore the Old Melbourne Gaol. Old and spooky but the staff go out of their way to make it a fun and educational experience for the kids. They will dress you up in convict uniforms, or walk around the goal and hear re-enacted stories. They have lots of interactive experiences.

There are also nighttime ghost tours for your over 16’s!

An alternate way to spend the morning, and especially good on those rainy days in the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). Not only do they have excellent permanent exhibits, but they also have brilliant rotating exhibits, which always include a kids section.

The water wall outside the NGV is also a great attraction for kids, it’s a very welcoming space, targetted at all different age groups.

Afternoon

Head to the seaside suburb of St Kilda. It’s a nice wide sandy beach sitting on Port Phillip Bay. The water is calm making it excellent for children, it’s a popular seaside escape for Melbournians, especially on a hot sunny day!

Luna Park is a fun stop for kids, a family fun fair it’s free to enter then you just pay as you go for rides. (Open weekends and Victorian school holidays).

Evening

Head out to the St Kilda Pier for great views back to Melbourne and stay until evening to see the Fairy Penguins make their way to shore.

Have dinner in one of the trendy nearby restaurants – yes even with the kids! Just pick your spot carefully as it can become a younger rowdy crowd at some venues later into the evening.

Further family activities from Melbourne

If you have more than 3 days in Melbourne, it’s time to go exploring on some day trips. You are best to hire a car if you want to head beyond the transport network of the CBD.

Theses trips can make for a great full day, or even better arrange to stay a night or two to enjoy the best the state of Victoria has to offer:

• The Yarra Valley: Renowned for its’amazing family-friendly wineries and fresh produce. You can also make a full day out of a stop at Healesville Sanctuary.

• Mornington Peninsula: A great day road trip down the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay with wineries to rope courses.
• The Great Ocean Road: One of Australia’s most iconic drives from Torquay, south-west of Melbourne all the way to Warrnambool.
• Phillip Island: a great natural wildlife spotting place close to Melbourne.

You can check out our full guide of things to do in Melbourne here.

How to get around Melbourne

Melbourne’s inner-city public transport network is excellent, and within the CBD – FREE. There is a good network of trains, buses, and trams that operate across the city to outer suburbs too.

Download the Public Transport Victoria app to navigate Melbourne.

You will find footpaths are wide and transport stops have all been designed to allow stroller & disabled access.

You can read our complete guide on how to get around Melbourne here.

What to pack for Melbourne

• The weather can change quickly in Melbourne and whilst you might set out with umbrellas and coats in the morning, you could need hats and sunnies in the afternoon!
• Sun protection in Australia is essential. You will want sunscreen and a hat whenever you are out during the day, and if you’re heading to the beach a Rashy to protect your skin out playing in the water.
• Bring a cardigan or pullover for everyone whatever the season, and in the cooler winter months thick puffer coats along with beanies and scarves will be needed.
• Kids will want their own small backpacks and bring your reusable water bottles (free refills available) as well as your reusable coffee cup!

Our full guide on what to pack for Melbourne can be found here.

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Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about all the places we mention from Katy & the Little City team.

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The Little City experts handpicked selection of the best cities to visit in winter with family!

Winter can be a wonderful time of the year for a city trip.

At this time, you will find yourself wrapping up in cozy scarves and woolen hats to go explore the busy city streets of the Northern hemisphere but if you do, you will be rewarded with magical atmospheres, buzzing restaurants and wonderful museums visits!

This is our selection of the best cities to visit in winter with your family.

New York City, USA

New York is a wonderful city to visit most times of the year but it is never as magical as over the Christmas season.

NYC in December is an extravaganza of lights, window displays, shopping opportunities and music. The cheer fills the air and even the most jaded travellers feels transported into a Christmas movie: the city is just that magical!

For kids, the city is like an immense playground.

Bring them skating at the Rockfeller Center for the quintessential NYC winter experience,  treat them to a trip one of NYC’s most incredible toy shops and make sure you get to the top of one of the city’s iconic skyscrapers.

The Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock will treat them to a view over the city they will never forget.

For a special Christmas stay, consider staying at the wonderful Ritz Carlton Central Park.

If you can’t make it to NY for Christmas, don’t despair,  the city has much to offer also outside the festive seasons. In January and February, NYC is cold but its many museums offer entertainment for all ages: get hold of the New York Pass for significant savings.

Reykjavik, Iceland

The capital of Iceland may not seem an obvious choice for a winter trip, but Reykjavik is surprisingly pleasant to visit in winter.

It is not nearly as cold as many people imagine and it offers something truly spectacular: the option of seeing the Northern lights and their magical shows!

The best way to explore Iceland in the winter months is to get a home base in Reykjavik centre and take your time to explore the city itself and its surrounding area.

If you have kids, make sure you visit the Perlan museum, the city’s most child-friendly attraction,  and climb to the top of the Hallgrímskirkja, a wonderful vantage points for views over the city.

For a bucket list item, add a day trip along the Golden Circle and then wrap up very warm for an evening adventure chasing the northern lights. None in the family will ever forget them!

For a special stay, consider the Icelandair Reykjavik Marina hotel, in the perfect location for both city exploring and day trips

London, UK

London is lots of fun any time of the year but we are particularly fond of London during the Christmas season. In December, lights illuminate the city’s long evenings and cozy interiors invite you to warming cups of tea accompanies by deliciously buttery biscuits.

London at Christmas will spoil you with an endless list of actives on offer.

The city has several Christmas markets, ice rinks and of course glorious shopping opportunities for all budgets. Treat your kids with a trip to the food and toy hall in Harrods for the most extravagant findings.

Outside of the Christmas season, London has a lot to offer too.

January/February see the celebrations of Chinese New Year, the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside Asia and these are also great months to visit the city’s world-class museums, more accessible at these times thanks to the thinner crowds.

With so many options, London truly is one of the best cities to visit in winter with kids!

Geneva, Switzerland

If you are looking for a winter escape that mixes city exploring with a skiing adventure, then look no further than the lakeside city of Geneva, Switzerland.

Located in a wonderful natural position on Lac Leman and at the footsteps of gorgeous Alpine peaks, Geneva has much to offer to those braving its chilly winters.

City explorer will love the city old town dating back to medieval times, an extravaganza of small streets and the ancient building now hosting private homes, interesting museums and gorgeous boutiques.

Christmas lovers will enjoy its small yet pretty Christmas market where they will find a small ice rink and treats for all ages.

Generous servings of delicious Swiss hot chocolate will keep children of all ages happy and help keep you warm!

If you love skiing, Geneva offers many options and day trip opportunities to beautiful slopes just outside the city limits

Paris, France

Paris is always a good idea but Paris in winter is a great one especially if you want to mix traditional city exploring with a trip to magical Disneyland Paris.

During the Christmas season, festivities are in full swing in Paris and the city dresses up with decorations and even Christmas markets in many beautiful neighbourhoods.  

Shopping and window-shopping opportunities abound in this season and the famous Parisian galleries flaunt decorations so extravagant they become a must-see as much as the city’s famous museums!

If you are planning a trip to Disneyland Paris, this is a wonderful time of the year too.

The land of magic becomes even more magical during the festivities but January and February are also great for a family visit: with fewer crowds, enjoying Disneyland is even easier at this time of year, and this is when you get the best deals too!

For more ideas on where to travel at Christmas time, don’t forget to check out our City Travel with Kids Podcast Christmas special. Or if you prefer some winter sun, check out these perfect family-friendly city break ideas that are a little bit warmer!

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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Whilst there’s plenty to keep the family busy in Dubai for at least a week, there’s also much more to see and do in the rest of the United Arab Emirates.

Our city experts guide you through the top 5 Dubai Day Trips and experiences that we know visiting families to Dubai (and expat families that live in Dubai!) absolutely love and will really make your Dubai family trip complete.

Abu Dhabi cultural tour

What to expect: Neighbouring Abu Dhabi is only 160km away, and when you’re whisking along the freeway at 140kms an hour – doesn’t take long!

In Abu Dhabi you will find the UAE’s biggest architectural and cultural sites (we just think Abu Dhabi doesn’t brag as much as Dubai!!) Come to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr al Watan Presidential Place and Qasr al Hosn for a touch more Bedouin history brought to life.

Will the kids get bored on a “culture tour”? Although these are more grown-up activities, we still think this is a highly engaging day for the kids. You won’t get a super in-depth look at Abu Dhabi if you try and fit all the highlights in on one day, but these architectual wonders will wow kids as much as adults, definitely don’t dismiss a cultural as uninteresting for the kids.

You can tune in to our interview with co-editor Keri talking all about Abu Dhabi with kids here on our City Travel with Kids podcast.

How to book it: You can choose to either self-drive to Abu Dhabi (see a detailed guide to how this is done here), or book with an organised tour group or private driver.

Top Tip: Look carefully at inclusions when comparing Abu Dhabi tour packages from Dubai. You ideally want a door-to-door service and not all will include a designated meal stop or all 4 of the “top Abu Dhabi cultural attractions” that we mention here. It’s a lot for one day so you may want to prioritise your favourites.

Looking to spend a little longer in Abu Dhabi? Look at these transit options for getting between the two cities and staying in Abu Dhabi.

• Dubai to Abu Dhabi private transfers (max 7 people)
• One Way transfer DXB to Abu Dhabi

Where should I stay in Abu Dhabi? Family hotel ideas to suit all budgets.

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Theme Park Day

What to expect: There are now 3 spectacular theme parks to choose from on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, just off the freeway between the two cities so expect it to take about a one hour drive from Dubai.

(Tackle this as a separate day trip to the Abu Dhabi cultural attractions above, you won’t get time for both)

Yas Waterworld is home to over 40 water-based rides and attractions. The water park is beautifully set out with an Emirati theme and includes all the classic experiences you’d want from a water park that suits all age groups from tots to adults. The Cinesplash 5D theatre is a great new touch.

Warner Bros World opened in 2018, here you can find all your favourites from Gotham City through to Cartoon Junction brought to life with 29 rides and attractions. It’s a highly interactive theme park, entirely indoors to beat the heat and unless you hit it on a peak holiday, very limited queuing for such a spectacular day out.

Ferrari World, of course, is full of the extremes you would expect from the UAE including the World’s fastest roller coaster! Based mostly indoors, except for the coasters that escape outside, this is the place for your teens and adrenaline junkies.

How to book it: You definitely get the best value by booking a multi-park pass, however, on a day trip from Dubai you should realistically look to pick a favourite or you’ll be too rushed.

• Ferrari World Tickets with Dubai Shuttle
• Yas Waterworld with Dubai shuttle
• Warner Bros. World with Dubai Shuttle

Top Tip: fitting all 3 theme parks in one day simply won’t do it justice. We recommend you stay in one of the nearby Yas Plaza hotels or the beautiful Yas Hotel that straddles the Yas Marina Grand Prix Circuit if you wish to visit all 3 and spread your time out.

Looking for transfers to get you to Yas but have your theme park tickets already?

• Try this Dubai to Yas Island Shared Transfer Service.
• Private Transfers to Yas Island From Dubai, best for groups

A road trip to the Musandam Peninsular

What to expect: pack your passport you heading over the border to Oman! Yes, still manageable as a day trip from Dubai, the tiny Omani enclave of Musandam sits on the very north-eastern-most tip of the Arabian Peninsula, jutting into the Strait of Hormuz.

Here you can take a traditional dhow boat cruise from regional capital Khasab out into the azure waters and experience “the Norway of Arabia” – stunning khors that mark the end of the Hajar Mountains plunge to the ocean beneath.

The waters are home to much sea life, including pods of dolphins who love to play with the boats. Enjoy a traditional Omani meal on board and soak in one of the most unique Arabian experiences.

Check out this great detailed experience in Musandam with kids

How to book it: get ready for an early start! Although it can be a self-drive trip, if you are unfamiliar with the windy roads and border crossing process it’s best to go with a registered tour operator who can pick you up from your Dubai hotel and take care of all the details.

Top Tip: Trips described as being to Dibba will still take you on a spectacular journey over the mountains and through the khors but will not involve a border crossing which can save time. We do recommend getting all the way to Khasab though for that true Omani flavour!

A trip to the Hajar Mountains

What to expect: Head to the Northern Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, and up into the mountains (yes, it’s not all desertscape, the UAE has mountains!) you will find the country’s tallest peak Jebal Jais where you can take on the world’s longest zipline Via Ferrata.

How to book it: If you’re not keen on the self drive through UAE traffic and the hilly roads (driving in the Dubai and beyond has its moments!), it’s definitely one to take a tour guide and driver with you. Why not try these options:

• RAK Zipline Adventure from Dubai
• RAK Mountain picnic (if you’d prefer to skip the zipline but love the views!)

A morning desert safari in Dubai

What to expect: If dune bashing and outdoor sports in the sand don’t sound like quite your thing but you are still keen to experience the Dubai desert, why not try a more sedate morning desert safari experience.

Escape the city pre-dawn so you can catch the desert at its quietest and avoid the heat of the day.

How to book it: You will most definitely need guides to take you out into the Dubai desert. The local Emirati’s are familiar with the dunes and will provide you with the best desert experiences. We love Platinum Heritage for their focus on sustainability and desert conservation in vintage open-top Land Rovers. For a unique experience, why not also try:

If you’d still like the motorsports experience in the desert but can’t fit it into an evening itinerary, these tours now all operate morning slots too, ideal in the cooler winter months.

• Morning Quad Biking Experience
• Morning Desert Safari with Camel rides, sandboarding & brunch
• Morning Desert Safari with Orient Tours

Top Tip: Not everything will operate in the desert during the hottest part of the year May to October, check what exactly is on the program when booking. Also, check out our guide for appropriate dress code taking on a desert safari in Dubai.

Still want to self-tour? Check out car hire pricing & options

We hope you’ve enjoyed this taster of Dubai Day Tour ideas. Don’t forget to check out our complete guide to family things to do in Dubai.

Take me back to the Dubai Family Guide home page

Please note: This page contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Looking for the best Christmas markets for families, to immerse yourself and the kids in the magic of Christmas?

We have got you covered!

Today, we have reached out to our community of travel-loving parents and family travel writers to get the inside scoop on the best Christmas markets they ever experienced, and they delivered!

With some traditional and some less than expected suggestions, this is our roundup of the most magical Christmas markets in the world for families.

The best Christmas markets to visit with family – our top choices

Tallinn, Estonia

by Bron of Smithsholidayroad.com

The capital city of Estonia, Tallinn is the perfect mix of old and new.

It is easily accessible via ferry from Helsinki and worlds away when you enter the old town.

The town is walled with huge towers and cobblestone underfoot. In the old town centre square over the Christmas period there are the markets. Each night as the sun sets around 5pm the fairy lights start to twinkle and the market square comes alive.

Some nights they have concerts with children singing traditional songs while the adults try the variety of gloggi on offer across different little stalls. Meals can be shared right off the hot grill with delights such as sauerkraut, potatoes and sausages.

A little train can take you for a little explore of the town while a small merry go round is great for younger kids.

The kids would love the special sweets stall too full of so many lollies to choose from!

To finish the night the perfect adventure would be to ice skate at the rink just by the market square.

Helsinki, Finland

By Thassia of Familyoffduty.com

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a fantastic destination to visit during the month of December.

Also known as the Christmas city, Helsinki hosts each year one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

The market at the Senate Square is famous for its relaxing atmosphere, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The location is very central and the White Cathedral at the back gives the opportunity for many beautiful images.

It is the perfect place for getting into the holiday mood, enjoying delicious food and drinks and spending quality time with your family. Also the kids enjoy the rides on the old-fashioned carousel that is set in the heart of the market area.

The square is organized with over a hundred beautifully lit and decorated wooden huts  where vendors sell a variety of products from traditional food items and local produce, to handcrafted gifts, design items and more. In 2019 the market will be open from the 1st to the 22nd of December.

The market is only one of the highlights though. The city has many other attractions that will keep tourists visiting Helsinki during Christmas time busy and entertained.

Vienna, Austria

by Melissa, Thriftyfamilytravels.com

If you’re in Vienna at Christmas time, then you are in for a real treat!  The streets are full of beautiful decorations and lights and it seems there is a Christmas Market and Christmas tree on every corner!  However if you only have time to see one Christmas Market in Vienna make sure it’s the Vienna Christmas World at Rathausplatz.

The setting alone of the Rathausplatz is stunning.  With the lit up Gothic Revival City Hall in the background and the various little stalls in the foreground, with Christmas decorations galore, the scene is just magical! 

Throughout the stalls, you will smell delicious aromas from the delightful traditional foods, baked goods and mulled wine that is served.  Not to mention the numerous stalls selling gorgeous little handicrafts perfect for souvenirs to take home or for Christmas gifts. 

But one of the most unique things about the Rathausplatz is they have a massive ice-skating rink there too.  Apparently this is the largest artificial ice skating rink in the world!  For the little non skaters there is even a little practice area where they can wizz around safely with the aid of penguins.

The Vienna Christmas World is open from mid November to 26 December and is well recommended for families visiting Vienna.

Budapest Christmas Market – Hungary

by Chelsea of Packmoreintolife.com

Christmas markets in Europe are amazing!

After living in Germany for a few years and exploring dozens of markets in France, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, I can honestly say that the Christmas markets in Budapest were one of our favorites.

Budapest itself is an incredible place to visit with many family attraction such as Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Central Market Hall, the Thermal Baths and taking a night cruise down the Danube to see Parliament, Liberty Bridge and many other must-see attractions all lit up. 

There are two major markets in Budapest.

The oldest and our personal favorite is located at Vorosmarty Square. Here you will find handcrafted items, food stalls and a large area with tables at the center. Don’t miss the dried fruit and spice garland as well as the chimney cakes (kürtőskalács). 

A short walk away is another market at St Stephen’s Sq. This market is located right around the Basilica and delights its visitors with a laser light show projected onto the Basilica at intervals throughout the night.

In addition, there are a few other smaller markets with various themes that pop up and are worth a peek. 

Leavenworth, USA

by Mel, from Travelingmel.com

For a Bavarian-style Christmas market in the United States, Leavenworth, Washington is the place to be.

Leavenworth is on the east side of the Cascade Mountains, Bavarian themed, and an outdoor recreation destination.

The streets are lined with alpine style buildings, the restaurants serve German beer and sausages (and a whole lot more), and the Nutcracker Museum displays hundreds of nutcrackers. It’s one of our favorite stops along Highway 2 in Washington.

Already an adorable village, the town bubbles with Christmas cheer and 500,000 lights during the holidays. The lights shine from Thanksgiving through Valentine’s Day, but the heart of the festivities occurs in December. The Christkindlemarkt kicks off with the lighting festival in early December and includes food, drink, and crafts booths in the town park and a festival hall.

In addition to enjoying the holiday festivities, families will want to take advantage of the great downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding and tubing, and sleigh rides.

You’ll find authentic Bavarian food, handmade arts and crafts, and family-friendly Bavarian-themed entertainment. Kids and adults love the live music and sledding in town. The celebrations continue throughout the winter with the Bavarian Ice Festival and the Timbrr Music Festival in January.

There are a lot of places to stay in Leavenworth, so you’ll find something for every budget.

Lisbon, Portugal

By Jenny of TraveLynnfamily.com

Have you considered a little sunshine and warmth with your mulled wine and Christmas shopping?

Lisbon is perhaps not an obvious choice for Christmas markets, but the city is in full crimbo swing throughout December.

We visited Lisbon with kids (aged 3 and 5) in the second week of December and there were Christmas markets at seemingly every main square.

Or your can head to Wonderland Lisboa at Parque Eduardo VII (which generally runs from the 1st December to 1st January) to go ice-skating, meet Father Christmas, ride the Ferris Wheel and peruse even more Christmas markets.

Entry is free, but you pay individually for the attractions. Arrive early to avoid the queues. 

You will also find the main shopping streets decorated with twinkling lights, and we absolutely loved the conical tree in the main square of Comércio Plaza, which you can sit inside and looks magical when lit up at night.

Editor’s note: if you are heading to Lisbon with kids, check also our handpicked selection of the best hotels in Lisbon for families here!

Geneva, Switzerland

by Marta, Littlecitytrips.com co-editor

Geneva hasn’t got a strong tradition of Christmas markets. However, when we visited last year in December, we had the lovely surprise of finding a brand new one opened right in Geneva’s city center, and what a delightful surprise it was!

The market is hosted in Parc des bastions, a lovely flat green area right beside the medieval town and it is a great place for a lunchtime walk or an afternoon out with kids.

The market is small but well laid out.

At its entrance, you find a carousel, light displays and Christmas trees and immediately after them you have the Christmas village, a series of wooden chalets selling Christmas crafts and an abundance of expected and less expected food: here you find everything from mulled wine to falafel!

This is a great Christmas market to visit with small kids especially: the location in the park makes is easy to mix time at the stalls with free play and the size of the market makes it pleasant and not overwhelming.

Older kids are sure to like the ice rinks that pop us here too! This is a good place to explore if you find yourself in Geneva in winter.

We hope you enjoyed this selection of family-friendly Christmas markets in Europe and beyond.

We have a great discussion about Christmas Season travel – covering Christmas markets to visiting Finnish Lapland over on the City Travel with Kids Podcast.

We’ve also got you covered with our favourite cities for enjoying the best of winter, and which cities are perfect for catching a family break with some winter sun!

Don’t forget you can join us and chat all things family travel in our City Travel with kids facebook group: it’s free!

The post The best Christmas markets for families: handpicked selection from travel loving families appeared first on Little City Trips.

Often overshadowed by its glitzy neighbour Dubai, Abu Dhabi is here to share the limelight with its stunning azure waters & blue skies, cultural attractions, amazing architecture, theme parks and majestic desert.

With the help of our Little City expert Keri, an Abu Dhabi-based expat and Editor of Family Travel in the Middle East, we’ve picked out the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi in 3 days.

You can listen to an interview between our editor Marianne and Keri on our City Travel with Kids Podcast below – full show notes for the podcast can be found here.

Day 1 Abu Dhabi Itinerary with Kids

Morning

Start your trip with a visit to the simply superb Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is free to enter, and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Try to get in before the crowds with opening at 9am. Grab yourself an eGuide or join a guided tour at 10am or 11am.

After the Mosque, head over the road to Wahat al Karama, a war memorial to read about the country’s martyrs, and also spectacular views back to the mosque.

Have lunch at the Venetian Village, in the Ritz Carlton complex opposite the Mosque. There’s a selection of restaurants here to choose from, overlooking the Grand Canal.

Afternoon

Head to Umm al Emarat Park to let the kids run around in Abu Dhabi’s largest park. It includes botanical gardens, playparks, a petting zoo and a wadi where kids can cool off.

Next, we’re headed to the far end of the city to take in some amazing views at Observation Deck at 300, part of the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel complex. Look over the Emirates Palace hotel beneath, and admire the new Presidential Place, Qasr al Watan (now open to the public for tours).

Advance purchase your observation deck tickets here.

Evening

We’re headed to the Eastern Mangroves for sunset and dinner. There is a natural wetlands reserve here which you can observe up close by hiring a kayak or an eco donut boat, before enjoying dinner on the Eastern Mangroves Promenade.

Where to Stay – Family Hotels in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi doesn’t exactly do budget family hotels, but they do luxury extremely well, and often very reasonably priced for what you get. Almost all accommodation comes with a pool for cooling off after a long day of sightseeing.

There’s no ideal place to stay as attractions are dotted around over the city, so Keri recommends you could try:

Yas Island – if you are after a theme park based holiday, and think you will be daytripping to Dubai.

• Luxury Pick: Yas Hotel
• Budget Pick: Centro Yas

Saadiyat Island if you are blending in beach and relaxation. All are luxury picks! Best for families try:

• Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas
• The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

Grand Canal if sightseeing and convenient location are your priority:

• Luxury Pick: The Ritz Carlton
• Budget Pick: Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri by Shangri-La

As a budget pick in town, we recommend the very reasonably priced Holiday Inn Downtown Abu Dhabi

We have a detailed guide to Abu Dhabi family hotels for all budgets here

Day 2 Abu Dhabi Itinerary with Kids

Morning

Start the day at the Louvre Museum on Saadiyat Island, one of the city’s most spectacular buildings. The Louvre takes you on a journey through the history of humanity. At the end, children will be rewarded for their patience with a dedicated children’s museum, as well as experiencing the spectacular domed roof of the Museum that musically groans in the breeze.

Late morning, head to Qasr al Hosn, the oldest building in the city. The old fort has been refurbished and this central site takes visitors on a journey from humble beginnings as a fishing village through to present-day Abu Dhabi.

Afternoon

For a truly unique UAE experience, next, we’re headed to the Falcon Hospital on the outskirts of the city. You will get a two hour guided tour of the facilities and a fascinating insight into Emirati heritage – not just falconry but the Bedouin way of life (pre-booking required by phone, no advance online tickets).

Evening

In the late afternoon, head off into the desert sands beyond the city for a desert safari. Most operators will offer a pickup service from your city hoel and drive approximately an hour into the desert.

Abu Dhabi Desert Safaris can involve dune bashing (not for you under 6’s or pregnant), camel rides, quad bikes, henna painting, fat bikes and sandboarding through the dunes. (Beware the sand will get everywhere for days!!!)

Your evening will be completed with a traditional Bedouin meal under the stars and live entertainment.

Some desert camps give the option to spend the night (for example Arabian Nights Village is worth the splurge on a Bayt – traditional house), but most tours will head back and take you to your city-based hotel.

Day 3 Abu Dhabi Itinerary with Kids

Theme Park Day! Spend all day on Yas Island

We’re heading to Yas Island for a full day dedicated to theme park fun. You can enjoy the choice of Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World (the later two are both entirely indoors).

We recommend you choose only 2 per day. Yas Waterworld and then choose which indoor park you’d like best. Younger kids are probably better of at Warner Bros World – kids over 110cm can do almost every ride.

Ferrari World suits more your teens and adrenaline junkies – with the world’s fastest roller coaster the Formula Rossa, you will see why!.

Evening

Enjoy open track nights at Yas Marina circuit on a Sunday or Tuesday (Wed ladies only). Free to enter, just register and you can do laps of the track by foot or by bike; perfect for wannabe Grand Prix champions or just to claim you’ve done a lap of a real GP circuit!

Alternatively, on any other night of the week head around to Yas Marina for dinner, enjoy overlooking the yachts of the rich and famous and the lit-up dome roof of Yas Hotel over the Grand Prix track.

Further Family Activities in Abu Dhabi

If you have a little longer to stay in Abu Dhabi (ideally allow a week if you want to see the whole Emirate) then you could add on one of these ideas:

• Day Trip to Al Ain – the country’s historic centre and known as the Oasis City.
• Visit the large open plan Al Ain Zoo and the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, really great educational and fun place – for all ages!

• Day trip to Dubai Parks & Resorts, just over the Dubai border
• Take a city highlights tour of Dubai, pick up from your Abu Dhabi hotel and a guided tour around the famous sites of the glitzy neighbour (or you can follow our detailed guide here how to self-drive or take the Intercity bus).

• Head into the Empty Quarter – enjoy the vastness of the Liwa Desert, and stay in the luxury resort Qasr al Sarab, a serious spoil yourself desert resort.

• Head west of Abu Dhabi city to the remote Sir Bani Yas Island. A short ferry takes you to this nature reserve, stay overnight in the luxurious Anantara Resort.

You can see our complete guide to family things to do in Abu Dhabi here.

How to get around in Abu Dhabi

As a visitor to Abu Dhabi, you are most likely to get around by taxi – they are quite reasonably priced. You could also use a Careem or Uber.

There is really not much in the way of public transport, only a small network of local buses. There’s no train or Metro system.

Keri only recommends self-driving if you are a confident driver as the traffic is very fast-moving, and although better than many other Middle Eastern countries, can be erratic.

We have a full guide on how to get around in Abu Dhabi here.

What to pack for Abu Dhabi

It is hot but you need to dress modestly. We have a detailed guide here to help understand the dress code in Abu Dhabi.

Our top packing suggestions include long loose cotton clothing, and ladies may want to consider a scarf or a wrap. A pullover or cardigan may be handy too even in the peak of summer to deal with the airconditioning. Sandals or flipflops for your feet is fine.

We have a complete packing list for Abu Dhabi here.

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Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about all the places we mention from Keri & the Little City team.

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Family Guide

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post 3 days in Abu Dhabi: A family itinerary appeared first on Little City Trips.

Looking to tackle both Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the same trip? It can be done! In this City Insider Guide, we share with you all the transport options for getting between these two bustling Middle East cities, that sit just 160kms apart in the UAE.

To get between Abu Dhabi and Dubai – and vice versa – you can:

• Drive your own car or hire a car
• Take a public bus
• Hire a driver or taxi
• Use a free airline bus
• Join a guided tour

What you cannot do is take a train, there is no passenger train line (yet) between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Let’s look at each of these transport options between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in more detail.

Driving your own car between Abu Dhabi and Dubai

This is by far the easiest and quickest way between the two cities, allowing you flexibility and to get to the exact location you want without needing to navigate the public transport systems.

Driving in the UAE can be challenging though if you are not used to right-hand driving, nor the speed traffic moves at! The freeways can be 4 to 8 lanes wide and move at incredibly high speed so only choose this option if you have a confident driver.

Check out rental car options here:

How to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai by bus

There is only one government-owned bus service, the Intercity Bus. It costs 25AED one way per person.

There are now three routes.

• Route 100 leaves from Abu Dhabi Central Bus station, it makes two stops on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi and terminates at Al Ghubaiba in Bur Dubai where you can connect to the Dubai Metro and Dubai local bus services. This service runs every 10-20 minutes and takes about 2 hours.
• The 101 will take you from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to Ibn Batutta Mall, this is on the Jebel Ali side of Dubai where you can connect to the start of the Dubai Metro System. Runs every 20 to 30 minutes and takes about 110 minutes.
• Route 102 (new) takes you from the Abu Dhabi suburb of Mussafah, Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station to Ibn Battuta. It runs once per hour on the half-hour and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.

You can pay for the intercity bus using cash or a Nol card, but Nol does not work on the Abu Dhabi bus system. Not sure how to get around within Abu Dhabi? Check out this guide.

All the routes stated above also run in reverse from Dubai back to Abu Dhabi.

Hire a Driver from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

If you don’t want to drive in the UAE traffic but like the convenience of door-to-door (believe me with kids, in the heat, it’s certainly preferable) then you can hire a private driver or a taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai. This option works best if you have a group.

• A taxi from Abu Dhabi island to Dubai International Airport will cost you approximately 350AED ($95USD). Pre-ordering and larger taxies for groups will cost more.

In comparison, a private hire company may charge you 400AED ($110USD), or much more depending on the size of the vehicle – up to 550AED ($150USD) for a 7 passenger vehicle with luggage. Check out these options:

• One Way Transfer to/from DXB to Abu Dhabi
• Private Transfers One Way for up to 7 passengers
• Private Transfers AUH to Dubai City

You can also use popular ride-sharing apps Uber and Careem. Their rates are generally higher for this journey than a public taxi.

Free Airline buses Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Now before you get too excited, this service is ONLY for passengers in transit. Either passengers arriving on Etihad who ultimately want to be in Dubai straight after their flight, OR passengers departing Abu Dhabi going straight to the airport and flying Emirates or code share.

Etihad Free Transfer Service to Dubai

After arriving at Abu Dhabi airport, head to the Etihad Luxury Coach in arrivals (you can see the timetable here). Your journey to Etihad’s Downtown Dubai office (NB not to DXB) will take about 1.5 hours. You will need to make onward connections then from Downtown Dubai – refer to our Dubai transport guide. This service must be pre-book with Etihad at least 24 hours in advance.

Emirates Free Transfer service from Abu Dhabi

If you are departing the UAE from Dubai, then you can catch the Emirates free transfer coach from the Emirates office on the Abu Dhabi Corniche.

The coach will depart 6 times per day and will drop you to Terminal 3 at DXB. You must have a pre-booked ticket and allow a minimum connection time of 2 hours.

A great trick if you are out in the UAE for a while and want the best of both worlds squeezing in a Dubai & Abu Dhabi city break is to pay your bus fare or taxi/driver one way between the two cities, but use the free transit bus at the end to get you directly to your airport.

Only want to spend one day in Dubai?

Based in Abu Dhabi but just want to see the highlights of Dubai? There are several companies that will offer you a combo of tours and tickets:

• Full day tour of Dubai from Abu Dhabi with coach transfer & live guide
• Full day in Dubai with coach from Abu Dhabi, audio guide
• Full Day tour of Dubai with hotel pick up and live guide(best priced with Klook)

See more city insider guides for Abu Dhabi

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post How to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai appeared first on Little City Trips.

Only got a one-day stopover in Dubai?  Let us take you on a lightning tour of our favourite Dubai attractions that you mustn’t miss on a short stopover.

Got a little longer? Check out our complete family guide to visiting Dubai here

Morning: One Day in Dubai

Start your Dubai itinerary with a trip to Old Dubai. Visit the Dubai Museum (entry only 3dhs!), then take a wander through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood for a taste of what Dubai used to be like before the mass tourism and skyscrapers.

Keep on the move and take a traditional dhow boat from Bur Dubai across to the Deira side of Dubai to visit the Gold and Spice Souks.  They won’t be as busy in the mornings but this will give you a great taster. 

Then take a short taxi to Zabeel Park and the Dubai Frame, the perfect way to transition yourself from Dubai’s past to it’s present. The Frame takes you on a visual journey with interactive displays on the ground floor, before launching you to the frame’s top and taking you over a glass bridge with commanding views of the city.

Don’t fancy tackling this one alone? This half-day Dubai heritage tour will pick you up from the airport/your hotel and cover the same highlights.

Lunch: One Day in Dubai

Head in a taxi over to Downtown Dubai.  Here you’ll find Dubai Mall and the spectacular Burj Khalifa.  Take a walk around and admire the size of this place – from the giant indoor aquarium to the Olympic-sized ice rink and the life-like kids’ city of Kidzania.

Grab yourself a front-row seat at one of the Dubai Mall restaurants that face out on to the water to catch the 1pm and 1.30pm water fountain extravaganza outside.  Those on a budget in Dubai will find plenty of food options in the giant food court.

Is it worth goint to At The Top Burj Khalifa? Yes and no.  It is iconic for sure, but only got 1 day? You don’t want to spend the entire time queuing. If you do want to visit the Burj on a tight itinerary, make sure you pre-book your time slot and select a FAST TRACK ticket – tickets cost a lot more to buy at the door!

Afternoon: One day in Dubai

We’re going to divide the afternoon into two choices, depending on your groups ages and interests (and the weather! If you’re visiting Dubai in Summer, you’ll want to stick to indoor choices).

Option 1: Extend your time at Dubai Mall by taking on the Burj Khalifa and/or the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Then skip straight down to the evening activity below – it starts early so you won’t have time to squeeze in another location.

Top Tip: If you combine a ticket to At The Top (levels 124/125) and an aquarium day pass it’s much cheaper – here’s how you book it)

Option 2: Enjoy one of Dubai’s amazing theme parks or water parks!

There are A LOT to choose from! You need to consider your kid’s ages and the weather a lot in making this choice.

• In the very peak of summer (July/August), we recommend the entirely indoor IMG World of Adventures.

• In Dubai’s shoulder seasons (May/June & September/October) it’s best to take on one of the water parks. The big three to try:
  • Aquaventure at Atlantis & the Lost Chambers Aquarium
  • Wild Wadi at Jumeirah Beach for your thrill-seekers
  • Legoland Dubai Water Park with under 10’s

• In the cooler months (November through to April), our favourite place to be is at Dubai Parks & Resort. Here you will find Legoland Dubai, Motiongate Dubai and Bollywood theme park. A 2-park pass is the best value, but with only an afternoon, you’ll likely only fit in one park.

Evening: One day in Dubai

If you took option 1 above, your evening activity is one of Dubai’s iconic desert safaris! They come in all shapes and sizes but normally involve some sort of dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, henna tattoos, followed by and an evening of entertainment and traditional Bedouin hospitality to enjoy under the stars.

If you have under 6’s, the dune bashing isn’t appropriate but there will still be experiences you can enjoy on a modified program. Most operate throughout the year but we’d recommend against this with small children during the hottest months June to September – take itinerary option 2.

If you took option 2 above for your afternoon, we suggest enjoying one of Dubai’s waterfront entertainment areas for your evening:

• At Dubai Parks and Resorts, you can stay on and enjoy the evening entertainment at Riverland.
• Closer to town, we recommend you check out JBR The Beach and The Walk, you may just catch a sunset camel ride or enjoy all the plentiful restaurants and street stalls.
• Le Mer is a great new outdoor area in the cooler months with funky street eats and entertainment.
• If you didn’t spend long at Dubai Mall, you can head back for the evening fountains and sound and light show beneath Burj Khalifa.

Where to stay one night in Dubai

A lot of people recommend Atlantis the Palm, especially for families, but if you’ve only got one day, you’re more likely to be out and about then relishing in the facilities. So unless Aquaventure & The Lost Chambers was your afternoon stop, we’d stay somewhere more convenient to the airport – it’s quite a drive from the end of the Palm.

In the JBR area, we love Doubletree by Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Beach if you like a bit of space and a great location, or enjoy the fabulous beach facilities at Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi.

Wonderful and central, as well as kind to the pocket, we recommend Rove Downtown Dubai (or any of the Rove Hotels in Dubai represent exceptional value and funky fun – like a very upmarket backpackers!).

If you want to be super close to the airport and ready to go, try Le Meridien Dubai where you’re only minutes away from the airport (and the most scrumptious morning breakfast offering to prepare you for your onward flight!!)

You can find all the best Dubai family hotels here

24 hours will only give you a taster of Dubai but this one day in Dubai itinerary will help you narrow down the choices.

Staying longer? Then check out our Top 10 things to do in Dubai.

Our City Insider: Keri Hedrick

Keri is a long-time UAE resident with 3 children. You can read more about Keri and all our City Insiders here.

Want to be our next city insider? We all recruiting insiders from around the globe to help provide details from the best place to eat to where to pick up bargains or the best way to avoid the crowds! You can apply to be a Little City Insider here.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post How to see the best of Dubai in One Day appeared first on Little City Trips.

It’s known as the Garden City and the Gateway to Southeast Asia.

It’s renowned for its incredible architecture, diverse food scene and that building – the Marina Bay Sands.

But just how much can you fit in if you only have 3 days in Singapore?

Our 3 day Singapore itinerary will talk you through what to do, where to eat and where to stay, making it easy to plan your Singapore family vacation.

Before traveling to Singapore, check official travel requirements and restrictions that may affect your trip.

With the help of our Little City expert Marianne from Mum on the Move, a former Singapore resident and author of Singapore with Kids, we’ve picked out the best places to visit in Singapore in 3 days.

You can listen to an interview between our editor Keri & Marianne on our City Travel with Kids Podcast below – full show notes for the podcast can be found here.

Day 1 Singapore Itinerary with Kids

Morning

Start your trip with a visit to the Singapore Zoo, one of the best urban zoos in the world.

A natural rainforest setting about 20 minutes north of the city centre, easy to reach by taxi/Grab.

It can get really hot, so recommended you spend the morning there from opening time to beat the crowds and take your bathers to cool off at the end in the splash park.

Buy your advance tickets to Singapore Zoo here

Lunch & Afternoon

From Singapore Zoo it is easiest to take a taxi back to town for lunch. Marianne recommends Dim Sum in Chinatown.

After lunch, explore around Chinatown including the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, Chinatown Heritage Centre and, of course, shopping!

Evening

Have dinner at one of the city’s famous hawkers markets.

The two most accessible in the city centre are Lau Pa Sat Food Centre and Gluttons Bay Food Centre.

Alternatively, try One Fullerton or Clifford Pier for al fresco dinner with views of the Marina Bay Sands and catch the nighttime light show at 8pm.

Where to Stay – Family Hotels in Singapore

There are a huge number of family-friendly hotels in Singapore, it’s down to budget and which part of the city you want to stay in.

Sentosa Island or Marina Bay area the best area’s for families to base themselves close to attractions. Recommended Singapore hotels for families include:

• Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa
• Sofitel Sentosa Resort & Spa
• Hard Rock Resorts World Sentosa
• Festive Hotel Resorts World Sentosa
• The Ritz Carlton Millenia
• The Westin Singapore
• Sofitel Singapore City Centre
• Top budget pick: Holiday Inn Express Clarke Quay
• Spoil yourself: Shangri-La Singapore

We have a detailed guide on best areas to stay in Singapore here

Day 2 Singapore itinerary with kids

The whole day on Sentosa – Singapore’s Playground.

Note you pay to get onto Sentosa by car or public transport. Transport, once you are on the island, is free.

Start early in the day with Universal Studios, rides and attractions themed around kiddy favourites such as Madagascar, Shrek, Seasame Street.

It is worth investing in an Express Pass as no one wants to be stuck queuing with kids on a hot day. The park is pretty consistently busy year-round.

Buy your Universal Studios Singapore tickets here with Express Pass.

Lunch you can get a pass out of Universal to Resorts World Sentosa, here there are plenty of dining options.

Afternoon & Evening

Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying what’s on offer on Sentosa. 

There are 3 beaches on Sentosa, all pretty family-friendly.

Stay here until evening and have dinner at one of the plentiful waterfront bars

There are several free attractions on Sentosa too:

• The beaches are free to access
• Fort Siloso war museum – self-guided walk
• Fort Siloso skywalk

Day 3 Singapore Itinerary with Kids

Morning

Start the day with a self-guided walking tour of Little India.

Marianne’s book Singapore with kids includes a great walking trail you can take.

Lunch & Afternoon

SEA Aquarium on Sentosa is a good way to escape the heat in the peak of the day.

Late afternoon & evening

Finish our trip with visiting the iconic Gardens by The Bay.

See the Supertrees (there is a walkway between them), and the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest – well worth the extra money to visit these giant domes.

Skip the lines and get your Gardens by the Bay tickets here

Don’t miss the Far East Asia Organizations Children’s Garden – a great splash park and playground.

Stick around for the evening light show and see the supertrees at their best.

Further family activities in Singapore

3 days is great for a stopover, but it’s definitely worth staying longer if you want to fit in everything Singapore has to offer.  Top suggestions you could add to this itinerary include:

• Singapore Night Safari
• River Safari (part of the zoo)
• Jurong Bird Park
• Singapore Flyer – big observation wheel
• Adventure Cove – water park
• Singapore Botanical Gardens
• Plenty of great museums including the National Museum of Singapore, and the Arts Science Museum, part of Marina Bay Sands.
• Legoland (a day trip across the border in Malaysia)

You can see our full guide on Things to do in Singapore here.

How to get around Singapore

The airport is only about 20 minutes from the city centre and unless it’s heavy rain in peak hour, easy to get around by taxi/Grab or public transport. The MRT is easy to use (stroller friendly) and free for under 5’s. 

Have the Grab App downloaded to your phone as well as the Singapore taxi App – during peak times you may want to try both.

A full guide to getting around Singapore can be found here

What to pack for Singapore

• Marianne’s book –Singapore with Kids!
• Stroller and a baby carrier
• Bring a refillable water bottle – tap water is drinkable
• Bring an umbrella! For rain or sun
• Lightweight cotton clothing for the weather

Our full guide on what to pack for Singapore can be found here.

Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about these places.

Sign up to receive the Little City Newsletter

Visit our Singapore with Kids homepage

Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about all the places we mention from Marianne & the Little City team.

Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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Dubai might be best known as a glamorous city, with its glitzy hotels and high-end shopping malls.

But is it possible to visit Dubai on a budget?

Our City Insiders have been on the case looking at how you can save your dirhams in the United Arab Emirates largest city, but still enjoy your Dubai family holidays.

We look at where to find the best affordable hotels in Dubai, our pick of the best budget hotels in Dubai for families, how to get around Dubai on the cheap, cheap attractions in Dubai… and even some free things to do in Dubai.

So if you are looking for ways to save on your Dubai vacation cost, read on for all our insider tips.

Where to find the best Dubai budget hotels

There is always going to be a compromise when you are looking for cheap accommodation in Dubai.  Yes, you can stay at some glamorous hotels here, but if the beach is not your priority, or you’ll be busy sightseeing rather than sitting by the pool, why pay extra to stay at a resort?

• The closer you are to the beach, or the major shopping malls, generally speaking, the more you pay.
• The older areas of the city nearer to the airport such as Deira and Bur Dubai have the best choice of cheap rooms in Dubai.
• To save money off your Dubai trip cost, we recommend you look for accommodation that is well located to the Metro.  This will mean saving money on taxis and having the city easily within your reach (you can learn more on how to get around Dubai here).
• We recommend comparing the best Dubai hotel deals on Hotelscombined.

Our top picks for the best budget family hotels in Dubai

Here we share our pick of where to stay in Dubai on a budget. All of these hotels are well suited to families, with plenty of space, good locations and family-friendly facilities. You can read our full pick of the best family hotels in Dubai here.

Ramada Chelsea Al Barsha

Not too far from the Mall of the Emirates in an area called Al Barsha, this hotel accommodation in Dubai includes a rooftop pool, family-sized suites or interconnecting rooms and on-site dining options.

Check prices here or read our full review of this hotel.

Premier Inn Dubai IBN Battuta

This low price hotel in Dubai has great sized rooms and offers immediate access to Ibn Battuta Mall. It is located to the west of the Jumeirah area of Dubai, so quite far from the airport but accessible by Metro. It’s a great location if you also want to visit Dubai Parks & Resorts and Abu Dhabi as part of your trip.

Check prices here or read our full review of this hotel.

Savoy Park Hotel Apartments

Based in the Bur Dubai part of town these cheap hotel apartments in Dubai represent really good value. They include a small kitchenette for self-catering, as well as being nearby to the green line of the Metro.

Check prices here or read our full review of this hotel.

Things to look out for with Dubai hotel prices

Don’t let your Dubai budget suddenly turn out more than you expected. Keep your eye out for extra TAXES!

Be warned that not just your actual hotel room, but any services you buy within a hotel are subject to extra tax in Dubai.  Check before booking your hotel whether the quoted Dubai hotel rates include:

• Municipality fee 7%
• Property service fee 10%
• VAT 5% (should be included by law)
• Per night room fee 10dhs (getting a room with multiple beds rather than two connecting rooms will reduce this charge)

These taxes are correct as of July 2018

You can save on these added hotel costs in Dubai by either self-catering or dining out at restaurants that are not attached to a hotel.

You can see all our Dubai Family Hotel recommendations to suit every budget here.

Getting around Dubai on a budget

The days of ultra-cheap fuel and taxis in Dubai is well and truly gone, but we still have some top tips for saving money on your Dubai trip budget.

Taxis are still a convenient way to get across town if you have a group and luggage, but consider your distances. Catching the Metro may well be the cheapest way to travel in Dubai, although note that you have to pay for all people in your group aged 5 and up.

If you know you will be taking several Metro or bus journeys during your stay in Dubai, get a NOL Silver instead of NOL Red the first time you buy a ticket at a Metro station.

This will cost you 25dhs but comes come pre-loaded with 19dhs in fares. Every fare you pay will then be cheaper than buying a single ticket NOL Red (fares per journey vary from 3AED to 7.50AED on NOL Silver).

You can see our complete guide on using the Metro, NOL cards and how to get around Dubai here.

Other ways you can save on your Dubai travel budget include taking a traditional dhow or Abra to cross Dubai Creek rather than paying for an expensive cruise, and taking advantage of FREE airport transit buses if you are transferring between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Free and cheap things to do in Dubai

It’s undeniable there is A LOT to do in Dubai! And while some of it is glamorous and expensive, there is still a good selection of things to do in Dubai on a budget. Here are just a few suggestions of cheap fun things to do in Dubai:

Seeing the Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa

While it’s costly to head up the Burj Khalifa (and can involve extensive queueing at times), it’s totally free to see it from outside and enjoy the nightly light and sound show that occurs in Downtown Dubai, outside Dubai Mall.

Timings for the sound and light show are currently 1pm & 1.30pm, then every 30 minutes between 6pm and midnight. There are many great restaurants where you can grab a bite in the Dubai Mall and adjacent Souk al Bahar with brilliant views.

However if you are on a Dubai budget trip you can always grab yourself a takeaway from the food court and set yourself up with your own picnic outside to enjoy the show.

Enjoy the Beaches

Whilst hiring deck chairs and taking camel rides along the beach might cost, most beachfronts in Dubai outside of the resorts themselves are completely FREE.

You can try Sunset Beach (Jumeirah Public Beach) for the famous views of the Burj Al Arab, or why not try The Beach in JBR, or the fairly newly open La Mer in Jumeirah 1.

Bathroom and change facilities are free but of course, there are plenty of cafes and vendors along these stretches of beach vying for your attention. Come prepared with towels from your hotel and a picnic lunch or dinner to avoid the temptation to spend more.

Explore Old Dubai

Enjoy the historic al Fahidi neighbourhood, the Dubai Museum and take an abra ride over Dubai Creek to Deira “Old Dubai” to see the spice souk and the gold souk.

Stroll the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk

In the cooler months, explore one of the cities newer outdoor spaces.

Take a taxi (avoiding the obscenely expensive Monorail) out to the end of Palm Jumeirah, marvel at the amazing Atlantis the Palm (you can sneak a peek at the start of the giant aquarium, The Lost Chambers, for free) then set out to explore the new boardwalk that curves around 11kms of the outer crescent of the Palm.

You can see our full list of Dubai family activity suggestions here.

What you should splurge on in Dubai

A trip to Dubai is not complete without getting beyond the big city and seeing some of the UAE Desert. So although there are plenty of cheap places to visit in Dubai, if you are going to splurge your budget on one thing, we would recommend a desert safari.

There are A LOT of Dubai desert tours on offer these days of varying quality and mixture of experiences. Our favourite providers include:

Bedouin Culture Safari with Platinum Heritage

Taking you on a morning safari to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve in the back of old-school Land Rovers, these programs are more focused at the desert itself and the wildlife than dune bashing and desert sports.

Evening Sunset Dune Bashing and Desert Camp

With several pick up locations across town and flexible itineraries to suit your interests, the Al Khayam Camp takes you through the Lehbab desert. Run by OceanAir, they have a strong reputation for providing excellent service.

When to Visit Dubai

The busiest time to visit Dubai is during the cooler winter months, however, this is also when Dubai hotel prices are at their most expensive and there are few discounts to be had.

If you are prepared to put up with the heat, you will find the best Dubai accommodation deals over the hotter summer months and during Ramadan when hotel occupancy can be much lower.

Check out our full guide on when it’s best to visit Dubai here.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Take me back to the Dubai Family Guide Homepage

By City Insider Keri Hedrick

Keri is a long-time UAE resident with 3 children and a passion for all things Middle East!  You can read more about Keri and all our City Insiders here.

Want to be our next City Insider? We all recruiting insiders from around the globe to help provide details from the best place to eat to where to pick up bargains or best way to avoid the crowds! You can apply to be a Little City Insider here or visit our Little City Insiders Facebook Group to join the conversation.

The post Can you really see Dubai on a budget? appeared first on Little City Trips.

With only 3 days to see London, it’s really a case of what would you have to leave out rather than include as there really is so much to see and do in one of the world’s biggest and most historic cities.

Our city experts with the help of Katja, founder of Globetotting family travel blog have put together this 3-day London itinerary for families to make sure you capture the best the city of London has to offer.

You can find our podcast show notes about London here or click below to listen to Katja and Marta discuss everything from afternoon teas to specialised tours and fabulous free things you can do in the capital!

Day 1 London Itinerary with Kids

Morning

We’re going to start our journey around London with an iconic bus ride.

There are lots of tourist bus operators with guided commentary, however, they can be quite pricey for a family.  A great alternative is to catch a regular London double-decker bus (make sure you get a spot at the front of the top deck for the full experience!). 

A great route that passes many popular London landmarks is the number 9 from Aldwych.  It will take you past Trafalgar Square, Green Park, Knightsbridge and on to Kensington.

Once in Kensington, there are some great free museums to explore including the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum.  Most of the museums in London are free and make for a great family day out (though can also be incredibly busy with long queues in peak holiday periods).

Lunch

You can find plenty of dining options in the Kensington area, or head to one of London’s popular parks such as Hyde Park for a picnic lunch. Convenience stores are a great place to pick up a pre-packaged picnic, but you will find most restaurants and pubs most welcoming of children too.   

Afternoon

You may still have more museums to tackle or take the kids for a run around at the Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens.

If little legs will last, stroll back through Hyde Park and Green Park to catch a glimpse of Buckingham Palace. Whilst the Changing the Guard ceremony happens in the morning, you can still catch some action by continuing your stroll through St James’s Park to the Horse Guards Parade (close to Downing Street) where you can catch the 4pm Dismounting Ceremony for a bit of Royal pomp and pageantry!

Catch a look at Westminster while you are in this corner of town (though note the famous clock tower Big Ben is currently being renovated).

Evening

Finish the day in the West End for an early dinner where there is a huge range of dining options from chain restaurants to pubs to choose from.

Note the West End can be busy pre-evening show time so dine early if you want to miss the crowds, or after 7.30 when a lot of the shows have started.

Where to stay in London with kids

There are plenty of options for accommodation in London, all very dependent on budget. The closer you are to Public Transport Zone 1 (Central London), the more it’ll cost!

Some great inner-city options include Park Plaza Westminster Bridge which puts you really close to the action of Southbank, or The Nadler in Kensington is a wonderful luxury boutique family option.

We like the Premier Inn chain as a budget family option. They have several handy locations including near Tower of London, or slightly further out in Clapham Junction is also a good option withing zone 2 on the overland train network.

Longer-term visitors may want to stay further out of town and commute in (out of peak hours) where there are a lot more AirBnB and rental options.

You can check out our full selection of hand-picked Sydney hotels for families as chosen by our Little City team of experts here.

Day 2 London itinerary with kids

Morning

Start your day with one of the major sites of London – the Tower of London. It is a popular attraction so definitely worth getting in early and book skip the line tickets.

From the Tower of London, you can walk on to explore Tower Bridge (often mistakenly called London Bridge).  If you time it right and you might just get to see the Bridge open to let tall ships past (see timetable here). 

Lunch

Walk across to the south bank of the river and head to Borough Markets for lunch.

If you are looking for a run around space for the kids, there’s some wonderful lawns and fountains in the summer months in front of the Town Hall.

Afternoon

Take up a trip up the tallest building in London, the Shard.  Come just for the sightseeing or stay for the Mary Poppins-themed afternoon tea. 

Alternatively, there are some wonderful themed afternoon teas that are welcoming of children across the city including Alice and Wonderland Mad Hatter Afternoon Tea at the Sanderson or Charlie & the Chocolate Factory at One Aldwych. 

Evening

Continue your stroll along Southbank and enjoy street entertainment, the Tate Modern and roaming exhibits along the Thames.

Day 3 London itinerary with kids

Morning

Start your day taking in some fabulous views across the city from the London Eye, before stepping aboard a Thames cruise to Greenwich.

The is plenty to explore in Greenwich, including a visit to the Royal Observatory Greenwich to see where Greenwich Mean Time is recorded and step across the Meridian line.

A visit to the Cutty Sark is also a must for kids. The “Crew” are on hand to explain the ship’s history and bring the story to life.

Lunch

On a sunny day, arrange a picnic in Greenwich Park.

Afternoon

Take a boat, tube or Docklands light rail (DLR) back to central London and try a speciality tour of one of London’s neighbourhoods.

For those with younger children, we recommend you try the London Transport Museum.

Evening

Finish with dinner in Covent Garden and enjoy the street entertainers Alternatively, in the winter head to Somerset House for ice skating for a magical finish to your London trip.

Further family activities in London

If you have more than 3 days in London  Some day trip ideas include:

• See a show West End show.
• Head out the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour
• Take the train south-west to explore Hampton Court Palace
• Train out to another town, some favourite day trip locations include Brighton on the beach or the University towns of Oxford and Cambridge
• Check out this comprehensive 7-day London Itinerary.

You can check out our full guide of things to do in London here.

How to get around London

London’s public transport system is effective but not always child family. The best tip is to travel out of peak time and study the map for step-free access. Once you know where you are headed a lot can actually be covered on foot far easier than making your way up and down the underground, and don’t be afraid to use the buses too.

You can read our complete guide on how to get around London and using public transport here.

What to pack for London

• A raincoat or umbrella is always a good idea in London, no matter the season!
• A good compact stroller for easy getting on and off transport
• Good walking shoes you’ll cover a lot of ground
• It’s an easy town to buy anything you might need!

Our full guide on what to pack for  London can be found here.

Sign up to receive the Little City Newsletter

Visit our London with Kids homepage

Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about these places in our interview with Katja Gaskell.

Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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Looking for the best shoes for Disney parks to be comfortable and cute during those long days of fun? Look no further: this is out list of tried and tested best shoes for Disney theme parks around the world.

A trip to Disney makes for very long hours on your feet, no matter where in the world you are.

Whether you are going to Disney as a day trip from Paris or have a full vacation planned in Orlando, with multi day fun, you know walking will be a large part of your day and having footwear that is up for the job will be paramount.

Blisters are one of the quickest ways to kill family fun and considering how much tickets to Disney cost and the anticipation your kids (and yourself) have built over the day, you really don’t want to these nasty sores to ruin your day!

What to look for when choosing the best shoes for a Disney park visit

Depending on the trip you have planned and your personal style, you may or may not need to buy shoes for Disney parks.

The best shoes for Disney all have some characteristics in common. Here are the things to look for when packing shoes for Disney theme parks.

Broken in – this is the first rule for all shoes for travel: never ever buy a pair of shoes and set off for long hours of walking without breaking them in fist.

Depending on the style, some need more time to settle around your feet while others can be worn straight away. In doubt, always buy new shoes a good bit before your Disney trip and wear them around the house and outside for short times until you are sure they are comfortable

With foot/ankle support – walking long hours can get very painful and even cause long term damage if you don’t choose shoes that offer some plantar and ankle support.

This does not mean you need to style! Many good quality shoes now and even sandals offer well made soles that support the arch of your foot and make walking less hard on your joints. Our list below has some good brands, it is one of the criteria we used for this selection

Breathable – breathable shoes are essential when walking long hours especially if you find yourself in a hot climate, which may well be the case when visiting Disney.

Whether you are visiting in winter of summer, choose shoes that allow your foot to stay healthy and pick breathable and/or natural materials that will prevent unpleasant overheating and sweating

With ankle strap – you can wear flip flops at Disney but we highly recommend you choose models with an ankle strap rather than the traditional backless ones.

These type of sandals usually offer better support to your feet and also come in handy on those rides that see your feet dangling: on these, traditional flip flops are not allowed and while you can take them off when needed, having strappy sandals will make everything just easier.

Cute and/or themed – so that we can all love those Disney family photos even more!

The best shoes for Disney – babies and pre-walkers

Baby shoes are among the cutest family paraphrenalia and a trip to Disney is a perfect opportunity to to theme up your little explored with cute pre-walker shoes.

Here are some super cute ones we love, chosen for softness and cuteness factor. With several options to choose from in terms of colors and character, we are sure you little Disney fan will find the perfect pair!

Best shoes for a day at Disney – toddlers and older kids

For toddlers and older kids, we recommend:

New Balance Kids

New balance is a great brand for walking and fashionable shoes for both adults and kids.

You can choose between a variety of materials (summer /winter), colours and they tend to be lightweight which is important on long days out.

A pair we love is this one Minnie Mouse inspired one, which hit the perfect balance between cute and fashionable with the subtle Minnie silhouette and the black and red motive.

Vans kids – Micky’s classic slip on

For children who prefer a slip on model, consider a classic Vans with a Disney theme. These Mickey Mouse ones are perfect to look the part at Disney and they offer good foot protection, without the hassle of worrying endlessly about laces coming undone

Vans makes slip on Disney shoes for kids with several characters, some of the other options available are Toy Story and Alice!

Superga Kids Unisex

If you like the classic looks of Superga, you will be delighted to know they make adorable kids shoes with handy velcro straps. For a day at Disney, we love these cute black, white and fuchsia ones for toddlers and little kids.

Toms Disney Cinderella slip on shoes

For cool princesses, we like these Toms slip on with a Cinderella theme. They look cute and stylish at the same time, they are themed but not overly so and have a rubber sole that provides excellent traction

Kids’ Crocs – best shoes for Disney water rides and adventures

Most children find Crocs exceptionally comfortable and for Disney, they are an excellent choice. While they may not be to everyone taste, they come in so many colors and themes, so many shapes and so perfect when water is involved, we just have to recommend them!

The images below are only some of the many options available: click for more!

The best shoes for Disney parks for mum and dad

Once you have geared up your children with Disney shoes, we recommend you do the same for yourself and invest in some good walking shoes that can accompany you at the Disney Park and city adventures.

Some of the best sandals for a day at Disney are:

Teva Walking sandals

Teva are an excellent brand for walking sandals and they are the perfect companion for a hot day at Disney.

They are among those rare shoes that you can buy and wear straight away: we prefer those with ankle strap and textile material for water games!

New balance sneakers for women and men

If season or style make you prefer trainers to sandals, consider a pair of fashion sneakers from New Balance. They come in a huge variety of colours and styles.

The ones we recommend for a day at Disney are those made for walking rather than running: they have a slightly lower heel than running shoes and help having a good walking posture

Sketchers walking shoes for men and women

Another reliable brand for comfort and style is Sketchers and for a day (or several!) at Disney you can choose between many models, laced or slip on

Other Disney shoes accessories you will love

Other cute accessories we recommend for a Disney visit are

We hope you enjoyed our selection of the best shoes for Disney! Don’t forget to also check our full packing lists for several Disney cities in our family packing lists section

Disclaimer: Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

Please note: This page contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The post The best shoes for Disney parks: top picks 2022 appeared first on Little City Trips.

Sydney is a frequent starting point for many travellers coming to Australia.

It’s a city that uniquely balances nature experiences, including beaches, parks, zoos and river cruises with stunning architecture including the famous Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

But how do you tackle the best of Sydney if you only have 3 days?

Our city experts with the help of Seana, founder of Hello Sydney Kids have put together this 3-day Sydney itinerary for families to make sure you capture the best the city of Sydney has to offer, especially for newcomers to Australia.

You can listen to an interview between our editor Marianne and Seana on our City Travel with Kids Podcast below – full show notes for the podcast can be found here.

Day 1 Sydney Itinerary with Kids

Morning

Start your Sydney with kids itinerary with a walk through the historic Rocks area of Sydney and visit the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, both in the Circular Quay area of the city.

Older children may want to try the iconic Bridge Climb for stunning views atop Sydney Harbor Bridge.  

With younger kids, you can easily walk across the bridge to Milsons Point (about a 1.4km walk), and stop to see the Pylon Lookout to learn more about the bridge’s history.

Walk or train back to Circular Quay to then explore the Sydney Opera House. It is great fun, even from the outside kids can enjoy playing on the stairs. Older kids and grownups may be interested in a behind-the-scenes tour, or check out their extensive program of family-friendly events.

Lunch

Grab a picnic and head to the Royal Botanical Gardens beyond the Opera House, or for one of the best city viewing spots of the city, walk around to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.

Afternoon

Head back to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to Taronga Zoo (the Ferry is half the fun for kids!).

This will give you a full afternoon of entertainment at one of the world’s most spectacular zoos with amazing city views and a huge interactive program of events for kids. 

Click here to buy your Taronga Zoo tickets online before you go.

Where to stay in Sydney with kids

There are plenty of options both within the city and staying further out in the suburbs and nearby beaches, depending on how long you have.  If you are just on a 3-day break we recommend you stay within the city.

The best areas include Darling Harbour and around the Rocks, but anywhere within the CBD you will be walking distance to most attractions. Accommodation in Sydney does not come cheap!

• At the luxury end with spectacular views and convenience to top attractions try Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour or Swissôtel Sydney.

• There are lots of self-catering hotel-apartment options around Darling Harbour, we like Adina Apartment Hotel, or try Fraser Suites in the CBD.

• Budget and inner Sydney do not go hand and hand but one of the more affordable options to try is staying at a youth hostel in a family room. You can try Sydney Harbour YHA or Sydney Central YHA

You can check out our full selection of hand-picked Sydney hotels for families as chosen by our Little City team of experts here.

Day 2 Sydney itinerary with kids

We’re going to spend the whole of Day 2 in the Darling Harbour area of Sydney. There’s plenty to see both outdoors and indoors, which will give you some hot and rainy-day options too.

Morning

Visit the highly acclaimed Australian National Maritime Museum – with real ships and submarines to explore.

Wild Life Zoo & the Sea Life Aquarium sit here side by side.  There’s also a Madam Tussauds for indoor entertainment .

Lunch

The Darling Harbour playground is the perfect spot for a quick bite. There is a large McDonalds here as well as many other café choices, all with a great view of the playground.

There’s also a coffee shop in the middle of the playground for a coffee for the parents and snacks for the kids.

Afternoon/Evening

Head to the Chinese Garden of Friendship for some inner-city tranquility.

If you missed any of the attractions mentioned in the morning, catch up on these in the afternoon.

Evening

There are plentiful dining options all around Darling Harbour. We recommend Fratelli Fresh (kids eat free!), Hard Rock Cafe, Casa or Nick’s Seafood.

Day 3 Sydney itinerary with kids

We’re going to head out of the city centre for the final day of your Sydney with kids itinerary and explore one of the city’s exciting beaches. 

You will only really be able to fit in one of these areas in a day as they are quite far apart. You can choose between Manly & the Northern Beaches, or Bondi & the Eastern Beaches!

Eastern beaches of Sydney

You can take a combination of trains and the bus to get to the famous Bondi Beach. Here you will find the iconic Icebergs swimming pool and the starting point of the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk.

Little legs may only make it around the first couple of bays as far as Bronte, but this is the perfect stop for lunch and fish and chips at the beach.

There is a large park and playground here, and the beach is perfect for kids with shallow rock pools.

From either Bronte or Coogee you can take the bus back to the centre of Sydney.

Northern Beaches – Manly

Take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly.  You can spend a full day exploring the promenade, walking as far north as Queenscliff then back to the sheltered waters of Shelly Beach.

A hidden gem is the Little Manly Beach, a protected cove on the harbourside of Manly, not far from the ferry.

Further family activities in Sydney

If you have more than 3 days in Sydney (which we highly recommend, this is a city difficult to cover well in just a few days), then some suggested day trips include:

• Head to some of the further away beaches including Palm Beach (get set Home and Away fans) and La Perouse.
• Take an organised trip out to the Blue Mountains (or hire a car if you prefer to self-drive). There are many tour operators though that will help you with a full day package including a stop at Jenolan Caves.
• Visit the Featherdale Wildlife Park. If time allows this would be our top choice for taking in a wildlife experience in Sydney.
• Those with teenagers will love some of Seana’s suggestions in our podcast including taking a kayak out on to Sydney Harbour or heading out into the Blue Mountains for a canyoning experience.

You can check out our full guide of things to do in Sydney here.

How to get around Sydney

It is definitely preferable for tourists to get around by public transport rather than attempting to hire a car in central Sydney. There is a good network of trains, buses, light rail and ferries that operate across the city.

(And top tip – many public ferries cover similar routes to the paid tours, a much cheaper way to see the harbour!)

Download the Tripview App for journey planning. If you are taking a stroller, the Navibaby app will help.

You can read our complete guide on how to get around Sydney and using public transport here

What to pack for Sydney

• Sun protection in Australia is essential. The most important thing you will want to pack is a kids’ (and grownups) Rashy to protect your skin out playing in the water, as well as a water hat.
• Taking a compact stroller with you that can easily hop on and off transport is helpful as you will still want the stroller for long walks. The city is very stroller-friendly.
• Kids will want their own small backpacks as there are lots of walks you can take.

Our full guide on what to pack for Sydney can be found here.

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Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about all the places we mention from Seana & the Little City team.

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This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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In this article, we share the best car seats for travel, looking at seats suitable for infants all the way to toddler and older children.

Keeping your kids safe on the road is a priority at home and stays one when traveling. Choosing a great child seat for travel, however, is no easy fit, second only to the minefield that is picking a great travel stroller.

The search for the perfect car seat was hard enough when picking one for everyday use, but the reality of travel needs adds stress to the whole process.

When choosing a car seat for when we are away, we need not just to make sure it is safe, but also consider practical elements such as how portable it is, how heavy and how resistant to the inevitable bumps it will get while going from plane, to car to taxi and hotel.

We know the stress of travel well and we put in a lot of research to come up with a good list of portable car seats.

This is our selection of car seats best buys.

The Best Travel Car Seats for 2022

Chicco Keyfit 30: best for infants

We open this guide with a car seat we like for many reasons, including its portability.

While the weight of a car seat is something you may not need to consider at home, when the seat stays in the car most of the time, this becomes priority when traveling by plane or taxi, when you want to make sure you can move swiftly while keeping you back safe.

One of the best lightweight car seats for infants is the Chicco Keyfit 30, which is an excellent rear facing car seats for babies. The seat weighs 17 lbs, but meets all safety standard and is therefore an item we recommend to families on the go.

The maximum weigh the seat can hols is 30 lbs, which means you are likely to get good use of of this seat if traveling often.

Another element that makes the Chicco Keyfit and excellent car seat for travel is that is is FAA approved for on board use. This means that if you are flying with a toddler, you can have them safely on board with you, securely strapped in their car seat and not have to worry about sending the seat as checked luggage.

Cosco Scenera: best convertible car seat

If you are looking for a versatile car seat that can accompany you on many trips, you may want to consider a convertible style such as the Cosco Scenera.

This car seats starts off having your baby facing backwards and then converts to a forward facing seat as their age and size allows.

Like the Chicco seat above, this is a lightweight car seat as it weights only 11lb, while having a capacity to hold a baby up to 40lbs in weight.

Evenflo Chase: best seat to booster option

The safety needs of children change as they  grow and if the Evenflo Chase car seat caters exceptionally well with growing children as it starts off as a car seat (up to 40lbs) but can then be used a booster seat too (up to 100 lbs)

This is an excellent choice of travel car seat as it is versatile enough to last you a long time and can also easily be used at home

Mifold Travel Booster seat

One your kids are old enough to use booster seats you can move onto much smaller items that you can carry on your travels without extra bulk or weight.

One booster seat that scores really high in terms of portability is the Mifold travel booster, an item so small it actually fits in your handbag!

The Mifold falls under the category of booster seats but it is not really a booster in the common sense of the word. Rather than lifting your child up on the seat and giving them a boost in height, the Mifold works as an adapter for standard car seat belts, making them fit around the small frame of a child body.

This is an excellent travel products and one that families with older children can easily carry on all travel, no matter how light you pack.

Bubble Bum inflatable booster seat

If your child still needs a little bit of a boost in height to look out of the car window on long car journeys, then you may want to look in a ore traditional car seat such as the bubble bum.

This is a super portable item that older kids can use in the car with standard seat belts and is excellent for travel as it is super lightweight and compact.

This booster seat is inflatable, so it weights very little and folds up super flat when deflated!

Please note: This page contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Disclaimer: Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

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Hong Kong is an ideal city stopover when crossing between Australia and Europe, as well as a great long weekend getaway, but can you see the best of Hong Kong in only 3 days?

Little City Trips recently interviewed on our City Travel with Kids podcast the Editor of Hong Kong Family Traveller Carolynne Dear, who along with our co-founder Marianne, a former Hong Kong resident herself have helped us put together this perfect 3-day itinerary for exploring Hong Kong on a short city trip.

You can see our full show notes for the podcast here or click below to listen to Carolynne and Marianne discuss favourite Hong Kong attractions, beaches, restaurants and hotels!

Day 1 Hong Kong itinerary with kids

Morning: The Peak

Start your Hong Kong family trip with a ride on the iconic Peak Tram. Travelling 428m above sea level on the world’s steepest funicular, you will be spoilt with views over Hong Kong’s dramatic city skyline.

The tram ride while very steep is actually quite short, so you will have plenty of time to explore around the top of the peak. There is a Trick-Eye Museum, Madam Tussauds as well as plentiful shops and cafes to be found.

From the Peak, there’s the Lugard Road walk, an easy gradient 3.5km walk if you are with strollers or little legs, and a stop at the Mt Austin playground is a must.

You can purchase your Peak Tram tickets here to avoid queuing, along with combinations of other top Hong Kong attractions including the Observation Wheel.

(Note the Peak Tram is presently shut for renovations, a grand re-opening is expected later in 2019. Until then your ticket will give you a replacement service on the uphill bus ride or a round-trip bus instead).

Lunch/afternoon: Stanley

Head to the family-friendly area of Stanley on Hong Kong island for the afternoon. Here, as well as the Stanley Market you will find a pirate ship play area and lots of family-friendly restaurants so it’s a great area for a little run around.

If you are visiting on a weekend, you can add to the fun by taking a tour on the Aqua Luna – a traditional Chinese Junk to get to Stanley.

If the weather is nice, as an alternative you can head to Shek O, a gorgeous beach also on the south side of Hong Kong Island and have lunch at a Little City favourite restaurant, Cococabana.

Dinner: Soho Area

In Soho you will find a lot of restaurants in this area but most will not take bookings. If you go early enough with the kids you should have no problem getting tables.

Where to stay in Hong Kong with Kids

There are plenty of family-friendly options to choose from big brand names through to boutique hotel offerings.  Most hotels are in high rises, and the higher up you go with better views, the more expensive the room!

• The main areas are Central on Hong Kong island or Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) on the other side of the harbour. 
• At the high end, you can try The Ritz on TST side, or the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong and Island Shangri-La Hong Kong on Hong Kong Island.
• Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong is surprisingly great with children, probably one of the city’s best pool decks.
• On the budget end of the scale try the new Hotel Purple Hong Kong or Butterfly on Prat Hong Kong great value for groups.
• Ocean Park Marriott Hotel brand new with 4 pools and restaurants and weekend brunch, child gifts and activities, close to MTR station.
• Staying at Disney there are three great choices. If budget allows we recommend Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel.

You can check out our full selection of hand-picked family-friendly hotels for all budgets, chosen by our local family experts here.

Day 2 Hong Kong itinerary with kids

Morning: Big Buddha

Get an early start and head to Lantau Island to see one of the city’s most famous landmarks, Big Buddha. Half the fun is getting there as you take the Ngong Ping Cable Car from Tung Chung Town Centre – easy to reach by MTR.

You will arrive in to Ngong Ping Village. Take the time to explore the Po Lin Monastery before making your way to Big Buddha itself, a 34m high statue and a mere 268 steps to reach the base!

As a side trip, you can also add on visiting Tai O fishing village, a short bus ride from Ngong Ping Village or take a taxi. You can find more tips on visiting Big Buddha and Tai O Fishing village here.

Lunch: Maxims City Hall

Come back into the city for lunch at famous Dim Sum restaurant Maxim’s.

Afternoon: Explore Kowloon

Take the Star Ferry from Central and head across to Kowloon on the main land to explore the markets. There is the Ladies Market during the day as well as the Jade Market in Yau Ma Tei to explore.

Dinner: Temple Street Night Markets or Hutong at One Peking

Staying on Kowloon side, there are two eating options at either end of the budget scale! You will get an authentic street food experience at Temple Street Night Markets, but if you’d like a special treat, perhaps see if you can get a baby sitter for the night and check out the phenomenal views and culinary experience of Hutong at One Peking.

Evening: Star Ferry

Enjoy taking the Star Ferry back to Central and the simply magical night-time lights of the Hong Kong city skyline

Day 3 Hong Kong Itinerary with Kids

All Day: Disneyland Hong Kong or Ocean Park

Today is all about the kids and visiting one of the city’s exciting theme parks. Normally on a short break, we prefer not to shift hotels but on this occasion, we’re going to recommend you stay at one of the parks for an extra something special, and convenience!

Disneyland Hong Kong

Hong Kong Disneyland is smaller than other Disney parks around the world, but for this reason, it is easier to tackle in one day with small kids, and generally less crowded – although it can still get very busy at weekends!

The park consists of seven themed lands to enjoy including favourites Fantasyland, Toy Story Land, Tomorrowland (Star Wars fans!) & Adventureland, along with some unique Hong Kong rides.

We recommend you get there well before opening time and have an advanced booked ticket.

If you’ve taken our advice on not taking a stroller around Hong Kong, you may want to hire one at the park just for the day. You can get more Disney Hong Kong tips from Marianne here.

Disneyland Hong Kong is located on the same island as the airport, Lantau Island so for ease of departure, you may want to stay at one of our suggested Disney Hotels, such as Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel or Disney’s Explorer Lodge.

Ocean Park Hong Kong

Alternatively, many Hong Kong residents & visitors actually prefer Ocean Park Hong Kong to Disneyland (but if you have the time, do both!!).

Ocean Park is part aquarium, part zoo, part amusement park! At the waterfront level, the Grand Aquarium is a favorite, but the stars of the show are definitely the two resident pandas, Ling Ling and Le Le.

It does get super busy, especially at weekends so advance purchase your tickets here (No ticket collection needed, just scan the QR Code).

When the kids are finished with the animal attractions, jump on the cable car which will take you to the park summit and amusement rides (or head straight here if you want to beat the ride queues!)

Although arguably the amusement rides are slightly better suited to older kids due to height restrictions, your little ones will love it too for the variety on offer. You can find a great guide to tackling Ocean Park with younger kids here.

We recommend staying at the new Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel – listen to our podcast to find out more from Carolynne about this spectacular new family offering.

Further family activities in Hong Kong

If you have more than 3 days in Hong Kong, the best thing to do is explore more of Hong Kong’s “backyard” and get to the outer islands. Some day trip ideas include:

• Take the free ferry from Central over to Lamma Island, famous for its strip of seafood restaurants in Sok Kwu Wan. here there are also calm beaches good for small children.

• Visit Discovery Bay where there are plenty of parks and beaches.
• Hike Devil’s Peak an easy grade track and Explore Lei Yue Mun Village
• Hike the Dragon’s Back, a 2-hour hike offering spectacular views of Hong Kong’s Southside and ending at Big Wave Bay Beach.
• Head to the “New Territories” closer to the Chinese border for hiking and Clear Water Bay 1 & 2 beaches.

You can check out our guide to the best things to do in Hong Kong here.

How to get around Hong Kong

There is an excellent public transport system called the MTR which is clean, efficient and punctual. You will need to get all members of your family an Octopus card. Taxis are also a cheap and easy way to get about when little legs will walk no further. It is really not a stroller friendly city!

You can read our complete guide on how to get around in Hong Kong here.

What to pack for Hong Kong

• A good pair of walking shoes will be essential any time of year.
• For younger children, look to bring a stroller-alternative for tackling the main parts of the city.
• In summer pack loose clothing to deal with the heat, but also a cardigan to deal with the air conditioning
• Don’t be surprised by how cold the winters can be, you’ll need to pack enough layers.

Our full guide on what to pack for Hong Kong can be found here.

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Visit our Hong Kong with Kids homepage

Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about all of the places mentioned.

Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post 3 days in Hong Kong: a family itinerary appeared first on Little City Trips.

How do you cram in all the best the city of Rome has to offer if you’ve only got three days?

Little City Trips recently interviewed our co-founder and author behind Mama Loves Rome, Marta Correale. On our City Travel with Kids Podcast, Marta shared with us her favourite Rome itinerary for seeing the highlights of the Eternal City on a short city trip.

You can see our full show notes for the podcast here or click below to listen to Marta’s itinerary!

Before travelling to Rome, make sure you check official travel rules and regulations that may affect your trip.

Day 1 Rome itinerary with Kids

Morning: The Colosseum & Roman Forum

An attention grabber from first sight, the Colosseum is undeniably the reason so many head to Rome with their kids; a Modern Wonder of the World and the most famous legacy from the Roman Empire

The Colosseum and Roman Forum are large sites to conquer for little legs so it is best that you pre-book your tickets with a time slot.

Marta recommends you sign up for a specialized Rome tour for children to get the most out of the experience as signage is poor. She also suggests making sure your ticket includes the underground areas and the top tier of the Colosseum, as especially the underground holds interesting areas for kids.

You can see just the Colosseum in 1.5 to 2 hours or add the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill and make a full morning 3 to 4 hours. This is one of the best archaeological sites in Italy for kids and one you can be sure your kids will love.

The Palatine Hill is one of the seven hills of Rome and the place where the city was born: an exciting one to see for school-age kids especially!

Book family tour tickets for the Colosseum here:

• Family Tour Rome For Kids
• From Coopculture.it (official ticket seller – use the flag on the top right of the screen to select your preferred language for the site)

Lunch: Café Café

Found beside the Colosseum on Via dei Santi Quattro, Café Café offers an informal family-friendly lunch offering a buffet with a great selection of dishes that will please even the fussiest of palates.

Afternoon/Evening: Trevi Fountain area

One of the most beautiful areas of Rome, it is a great tradition to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain but do be warned, it gets very busy!

You may want to wait for the crowds to thin, grab a gelato in the streets nearby and take a stroll through the cobbled streets first.

Return to Trevi as the sun goes down and the lights start to sparkle for the most magical of experiences.

There are plentiful restaurants and cafes to dine in this area – why not try Piccolo Arancio – then get an early night as you’re bound to have tired legs after all that walking.

Where to stay in Rome with Kids

There are plenty of family accommodation options in Rome to suit all budgets, however, there will always be a playoff though between location and cost.

If you only have three days in Rome with kids, it is worth paying more for location over amenities.

Some of Marta’s top recommendations include:

• NH Collection Rome Palazzo Cinquecento (Luxury)
• Le Clarisse al Pantheon (mid-range)
• Hotel Condotti Rome (budget)

Check out our fabulous listing of hand-selected family hotels in Rome to suit all budgets.

Day 2 Rome itinerary with kids

Morning: Pantheon area of Rome

One of Rome’s most famous sites, after the Colosseum! Not only is the Pantheon a beautiful building, but it is also full of fun facts for kids. Nearby, if attention will hold, you can also see the church of San Luigi dei Francesi, Piazza della Minerva and Piazza di Pietra.

If your children love cats, you can take a break from pure sightseeing in the nearby Cat Sanctuary in Largo di Torre Argentina, one of the best things to do in Rome with kids who love animals.

Set among ancient Roman ruins, it is a great way to break up a morning of walking through the famous cobbled streets and hidden courtyards of this part of Rome

Lunch:   Piazza del Pantheon area

There are plenty of cafés to find in this corner of Rome. One to try is Enoteca Cul de Sac, which is a wine bar welcoming to children and serving nice home made meals and some kids favourite such as lasagna.

Col de sac does offer high chairs for kids however, many restaurants in this area do not.

We recommend you bring your own: you can find a selection of the best portable high chairs for travel here.

Afternoon: Explora il Museo Dei Bambini Di Roma

Rome’s children’s museum is a great place to see and learn.

Not necessarily Rome-specific but plenty of kid-friendly activities and extensive hands-on programs run throughout the week. Most are in Italian but you can check out the timetable for English sessions.

The Museum also includes a soft play area for toddlers, making it an ideal indoor escape for hot and rainy days (good to know if you are heading to Rome in October – November or February – April, when rain does happen!).

Dinner: Explora

You can stay and eat at the museum; they have great pizza slices here!

Day 3 Rome Itinerary with Kids

Morning: Vatican City & the Vatican Museums

What could be more exciting for kids than crossing to another country during your city trip?!

This is the part of your trip you will need to plan most carefully with your family’s needs and interests in mind.

If you decide that you will tackle the famous Vatican Museums with kids, you must be prepared for the crowds. Marta strongly suggested that you book a family-specific guided tour. 

It is otherwise a very challenging place to see with kids. Family tour guides know the rooms and exhibits that are of most interest to children and will keep you moving at the right pace, adding in fun activities.

Recommended Vatican Tour: Rome For Kids

Expect a visit to the Vatican Musuems will take a full morning.

If you decide to skip seeing inside the museums, kids will still enjoy “crossing the border” into St Peter’s Square and seeing St Peter’s Basilica.   

As an alternative to the Vatican Museums, you can add a visit to Castel Sant’Angelo (kids may love to know that it is attached to the Vatican by a secret passageway!)  If queues are long here, simply enjoy the views and gardens outside instead.

Lunch: Plenty to find in the area of Borgo

The area between St Peter’s and the river Tiber is called Borgo. Here you can grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants (Marta recommends Borghiciana Pastifico Artiginale), or even sit outside Castel Sant’Angelo with a picnic lunch enjoying the views.

Afternoon: Villa Borghese Gardens

One of Rome’s most beautiful parks this is a great opportunity for kids to run around.  As well as many playgrounds and kiosks, you can also rent bikes, boats and visit the zoo, Bioparco di Roma.

Evening: Piazza de Popolo

Near to Villa Borghese, you will find the beautiful Piazza del Popolo. Here you will find plentiful family dining options.

Further family activities in Rome

3 days is great for a stopover, but you won’t be able to dig much below the surface and would be quite rushed through some of these activities.

Top suggestions you could add to make this a longer itinerary and explore deeper into Rome include:

• Ostia Antica – a beautiful archaeological site just outside of Rome, including a historic town and some of the best mosaics in Rome, very impressive even for very young kids
• Sperlonga, perfect for a day on the beach very close to the city
• Lake Bracciano, a great day trip from Rome for lunch in historical village and lake views

How to get around

There is an extensive public transport system although it is not overly tourist friendly, you will likely find you spend a lot of time on foot. 

You can read our complete guide how to get around in Rome here.

What to pack for Rome

Due to all the walking you will be doing, trainers are an essential item! See what else Marta recommends in our complete packing guide for Rome here or her full family packing list for Italy, should Rome be part of a longer trip.

Sign up to receive the Little City Newsletter

Visit our Rome with Kids homepage

Remember to pop on over and listen to the podcast if you would like to learn more about all of the places mentioned.

Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post 3 days in Rome: a family itinerary appeared first on Little City Trips.

Getting children their own kids’ luggage is a great way to build excitement about a trip and a habit here at Little City Trips we embraced with all our kids since a very young age.

Having their own bag teaches children to be in charge of their own things, allows them to always have their most precious possessions handy and leaves mum and dad’s hands free, something that can never be underestimated, especially when also lugging a stroller and your own bags around foreign lands!

However, choosing the right kids luggage requires a little bit of research.

When picking the right bag for kids, you want to make sure you get a good quality item that is appropriate for their age, one they will actually use and won’t just end up as an extra piece on your own shoulders and one that can withstand the inevitable battering luggage gets on family trips.

If you are trying to decide what kids luggage bag to buy, here is our selection of the best children’s travel bags, including ride on suitcases for toddlers and small kids, kids suitcases with wheels and day packs for kids

You can also catch the Little City Trips team discussing the pros and cons of each luggage type on our City Travel With Kids Podcast products episode.

Our expert roundup of the best luggage for kids

Kids Ride On Suitcase by Trunki

A very popular type of kids’ luggage is the cute ride on suitcase by Trunki.

This is a very popular brand for children travel accessories and their ride on suitcase is probably the best known of all their offerings.

It is a hard side children bag on wheels and children can pull it along or ride on it, something you may have seen many doing in long airport corridors, usually with great pride!

Trunki tends to divide opinions and while some parents love, it, others are not quite sure about it.

You can get a good idea of the two extreme reactions in this two posts, this one by a Trunki lover (me, we used it for years and love if for international travel especially) and here, in this piece by my co-editor Keri who was less than impressed with the bag.

Indeed, an item like Trunki comes with pros and cons:

Among the pros, Trunki boasts:

• A very cute look, which include bags looking like ladybirds, zebras, tigers and more
• A long strap for kids to pull it along, making them feel like they are out with a little pet
• A good capacity, which allows to pack a full packing cube of children clothes or many toys
• A good carry on size for the plane
• The ability to get your child to sit on it, which Is handy in airports

On the cons side, Trunki is met with resistance by some parents who find it too bulky to carry.

Indeed, if your children are likely to quickly lose interest in pulling it, Trunki can be a bit of a nuisance. However and despite this downside, overall Trunki gets our vote as it is fun, durable and a much loved by kids.

Jet Kids Bed Box

Another very interesting type of ride on suitcase for young children is the one by jet kids bed box, a piece of travel gear that works double duty both as a ride on suitcase and a leg rest for kids on the plane.

The Jet Kids BedBox is designed as a bag with the same height as airline seat and has a top that lifts off to washable mattress – the idea is that you carry it on with you on board and you can have at the same time a children bag and a flat bed for them.

Like Trunki, this is an excellent solution if your kids are happy to pull it and a little less ideal one if you are the person doing all the carrying. However, the ability to turn it into a bed for the plane makes it exceptionally attractive for families who expect to travel long haul and this is why we include it in our list of best buys.

We highly recommend you click on the link below to see the exact specs before buying so you can be sure it fits your family needs.

Kids Rolling Luggage

If you are after a more traditional shaped children bag and don’t need a ride on suitcase, we recommend you check out the cute rolling luggage by Skip Hop.

Their bags are really sweet and strike a great balance between a grown up type of bag, which you pull along like mum and dad, and a kids one, decorated with the cute animal characters.

The Skip Hop bags are made of lightweight material and they have a front zip pocket to easily reach snacks and toys, as well as a side mesh pocket for water bottles.

These bags are great to carry on plane journeys as they are big enough to carry everyday items but small enough to fit comfortably under the seat and stay within easy reach.

American Tourister Disney suitcase

If you prefer rolling luggage with hard sides, a good name to check out is American Tourister, a brand traveling parents regularly rate very highly.

American Tourister has a good selection of Disney luggage so your kids can pick their favourite character and they are all made of durable materials and good wheels.

The ones we love the most are the hard side model which has 4 wheels, a durable dual tube pull-handle and an internal mesh pocket to organise your children belonging’s in the internal compartment

Best small kids backpack with leash

Backpacks are great for family travels and make for excellent kids bags to carry on planes or on day outing.

You can choose between several styles, catering for needs ranging from small day bags to hiking needs, but the one we like most for city trips with young kids is the one by Skip Hop, which comes in several shapes and colours.

Children love Skip Hop backpacks because of their cute animal looks and parents are fond of them too as they are large enough to accommodate daily essentials and they come with a harness, which makes it easy to give a little freedom to your little one without worrying they may rush ahead of you in an unknown city!

Please note: This page contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Disclaimer: Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

The post The best luggage for kids: tops picks 2022 appeared first on Little City Trips.

A good quality baby carrier is an essential piece of gear for families travelling with babies or toddlers. They complement perfectly a great travel stroller and are invaluable for city trips, when museums, public transport rides and sightseeing opportunities create accessibility challenges.

Over the course of the years, we  have tested several types of baby carriers and experienced first hand how, when it comes to baby wearing, there is no one size fits all solution.

Different styles work for different ages and even siblings may have specific preferences for one style of carrier over the other.

However, all good baby carriers share some characteristics and have elements in common. In this guide to the best baby carriers for city travel, we share why we believe a baby carrier is a family travel essential worth getting, what to look for when choosing a baby carrier for city trips and some of our favourite brands.

Please note: this guide has been put together on the basis of our experience as traveling parents. If you have any doubts baby wearing is suitable for you and your baby, we do recommend you check with your practitioner and also learn about baby wearing to make an informed decision.

Please note: This page contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Do you need a baby carrier for city travel?

There are several advantages to having your baby carrier on your travels.

Before you even arrive at your destination, baby carriers are exceptionally handy in airports and on the plane, when you may find yourself pacing the aisle to settle your baby.

Wearing your baby allows you to have free hands (so having your coffee, holding your older child hand or handing over an entrance ticket is easier).

You don’t need to worry about site accessibility while sightseeing in historical cities.

Catching public transport is easier if you don’t have to lug around a stroller.

You baby might find it easier to nap (especially if they are used to being carried at home).

If visiting a historical town center with charming cobbled streets, a baby carrier will save your child and your back from a very bumpy ride!

What to look for when choosing a baby carrier for city travel

If you have been looking at buying baby carriers for travel you have probably noticed they come in a huge variety of shapes and materials.

The choice out there is indeed overwhelming and even just figuring out what to look for can be a challenge.

Based on our experience, these are the main things to look for when choosing a baby carrier for urban travel

You can hear the Little City Trips team discussing the benefits of babywearing while travelling and the brands that have worked best for them on our City Travel with Kids Podcast products episode here.

Age / weight of your child

Age of your child: different baby carriers cater for different ages. Some are excellent for babies, some cater specifically for toddlers and some have the versatility to adapt to your baby’s changing needs.

When picking the best baby carrier for your child, take into account how long you are hoping to use it for and how big your child is.

While a versatile baby carrier might seem the best solution, I found switching between a baby one and a more structured one worked best for my children, who were a little small and ‘got lost’ in some of the bigger carriers.

Carrying position

Depending on your personal preference and that of your child, you may opt for a front carrier, a back carrier or one that allows your child to sit over your hip.

Within the front carrying option, you also want to consider if you want your child to face you, face outside or have a choice of both.

These decisions are personal to you and depend on how your back feels when carrying a weight. A hip carrier works wonders for many but can pose an issue if you have a slight postural imbalance left over from pregnancy, for instance.

If you never owned a carrier before, you can gauge what may work or not for you even just paying attention at how you usually carry your child: that will quickly tell you what position is likely to be most suitable when baby wearing.

Structured vs Unstructured baby carriers

One of the biggest decision when it comes to picking a great baby carrier for city travel is whether you go for a structured or unstructured carrier.

An unstructured carrier, or a wrap carrier, is the simplest type of carrier and is effectively a purpose made piece of good quality material that you wrap around you and your baby in whatever position you prefer.

They are excellent for infants and very young babies although they can grow with your child, if you choose one that is make of good material and of long enough strength. The advantage of a wrap carrier is takes very little space and can easily be put in the wash.

A structured carrier, as the name suggest, is a carrier that has a shape of its own: this can simply mean several parts are sawn together or may involve an actual metal structure framing your child seat.

Structured carrier usually are more long lasting when it comes to age suitability and have a great advantage: many dads are willing to share the carrying duty with them, something that doesn’t always happen with a wrap, often considered more feminine item.

For city travel, both types of carrier car work although if you opt for a very structured carrier with a frame, you may find some museums and attraction challenging as the metal of the frame might trigger additional security  screenings and the extra bulk of the carrier may exceed attractions rules on allowed bags and backpacks.

The best baby carriers for city travel: comparison chart

The best baby carriers for city travel: top picks 2022

Boba Baby Wrap carriers

The Boba wrap is an excellent choice if you are looking for a wrap carrier thanks to its slight stretchy good quality material.

The wrap is made of 95% French Terry cotton with a touch of that makes it adapt nicely to your body and it comes in several colours, so you can pick one that suits your individual style

This is an excellent baby carrier for city travel as it allows you to move comfortably with your baby while sightseeing or on public transport and can even help you when breastfeeding on the go, since it allows your baby to latch on while still in the carriers

Baby Bjorn Baby Carrier One Air

The Baby Bjorn was the first carrier I used for my son and we both loved it. This is a soft structured carrier with 3 different position and it is very easy to put on and off thanks to the easy-to-use buckles.

This carrier is the best seller in the Baby Bjorn series and it is easy to see why: it is ergonomic, soft and of adjustable size which means it grows with your baby and can last you for the toddler years too.

What we loved about this carrier is that is has nice padded shoulder straps and a sturdy hip strap that helps relieve the pressure on your back and helps keeping your posture safe.

Ergobaby Original

The Ergo Baby organic is another excellent baby carrier for city travel. The carrier has 3 different positions (front, back and hip) and can be used from birth to toddler years: for new-borns, we highly recommend you get the infant insert too.

While not strictly necessary (many parents find rolling a towel at the bottom of the carrier provides sufficient extra height), we find it is essential to keep your baby high enough tin the carrier and in correct hip position.

The carrier has a large front pocket with is really handy for you city essentials and is fully machine washable too.

Phil & Teds Parade Carrier

Another great choice for city travellers is the Phil & Teds parade carrier, a backpack carrier made for ‘everyday adventure’ according to the manufacturer which includes city living.

This carrier is different from the ones above as it has a full frame and this means that it is bulkier but also very sturdy. It wears like a good quality backpack and it is built with backpack specs in mind, including breathable material for your back and adjustable harnesses.

The Phil and Teds backpack carrier is free standing and is suitable especially for toddlers, who can get in easily themselves while the carrier is standing. The carrier also comes with a detachable toddler backpack which is handy for everyday essentials your children want to easy access to.

This is one of the best carriers for city travel and work great also for walks in nature and day trips.

Lillebaby The Complete Airflow 360

If you are looking for even more position options for carrying your baby, then you will love the Lillebaby complete airflow carrier that offers no less than 6 of them!

These include several positions for front, back and hip carrying and also front facing carrying options, with your baby facing forwards rather than you.  

These several positions make this one of the best carriers for city travel as it is comfortable for you and your baby even when wore for long hours.

They also mean the carrier adapts to your growing baby, so you don’t need to worry about having yo get a new one your baby gets bigger.

We hope you found this buying guide useful and it helped you pick the best baby carrier for city travel to come with you on your next adventure!

Please note: This page contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Disclaimer: Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

The post The best baby carriers for city travel: top picks 2022 appeared first on Little City Trips.

A travel high chair is a great piece of gear to bring on a family city trip.

Eating out with a toddler is often one of the most tiring parts of traveling as a young family and while a high chair will not make all the difficulties go away, it can without a doubt help making meal times a little less stressful.

Over the course of the many city trips we have taken with our children, we noticed that a potable highchair can:

Make the choice of restaurant easier, allowing you to focus on menu and atmosphere rather than availability of baby gear.

Help your child relax, the familiar piece of equipment helping them settle into a mealtime routine, not matter where you are

Give you free hands to enjoy your meal, something much harder when you are balancing an active toddler on your knees!

Because of this, a good travel high chair a piece of travel gear we highly recommend getting. This is our selection of the best highchairs for travel 2019.

Portable high chairs for travel: best styles

There are 3 main styles of portable high chair you should consider when travelling:

Wrap: A wrap-style high chair is an exceptionally lightweight and portable solution consisting of a piece of fabric that wraps around the back of a chair and around your baby, effectively creating a harness.

They are great for travel as very easy to add to your luggage without creating bulk and they can easily be washed, a definite plus for any piece of gear used at toddlers mealtime!

They are a very versatile piece of gear and the only issue you may encounter is that they are not suitable to all type of chairs, either because of the shape of the back or general design.

Hook-on high chair: Hook on high chairs attach to the side of the table and they are an excellent solution as they offer a structured seat without the need for chair legs, too awkward to travel with.

Hook on high chairs are usually easy to carry as they fold pretty small and many parents notice kids love them so much on travels they then end up using them at home too, which is always a plus.

The only drawback with chairs of this type is that they do not work with all types of tables so you may find they are not great in a cafe in Paris or a street side trattoria in Rome, where tables are on the smaller and flimsier side.

They do however work great in booth-style restaurants and they can come very handy in holiday rentals.

Booster seats: booster seats do just what they promise to do: they create extra height to allow your child to seat the table with you, no matter what type of table you are at.

These are excellent for travel as super versatile and the only issue with them is that they tend to be a little bulkier than other styles.

You can hear the Little City Trips team discuss the topic of high chairs further on the City Travel with Kids Podcast here.

Best high chairs for travel 2022

This is our selection of the best brands of high chairs for travel in 2019

My little seat travel high chair

My Little Seat Travel high chair is a lightweight and easy to carry solution suitable for children who can sit unassisted (up to about 35 lb).

This is a wrap style chair harness that works with most seats and we like it for travel as it folds really small and can easily fit in the basket of your travel stroller.

The ‘My Little Seat’ chair boasts:

• Ultra portable design
• Machine washable materials
• 5 point harness

Inglesina fast table chair

If you prefer a hook on style high chair, we love the clip on seat made by Inglesina, suitable to clip on to most types of tables (and therefore a good companion on many travels!)

The Inglesina clip on chair is:

• Easy to carry thanks to compact design and carry bag
• Suitable for babies who can sit unassisted (up to about 37 lbs)
• made with washable materials
• Equipped with a storage pocket for wipes and meal essentials

Brica GoBoost

If you prefer the idea of a booster seat type of high chair, we recommend the ‘Brica GoBoost’ booster seat, a handy booster suitable for kids who can seat independently and of a weight to up to 50 lbs.

The Brica GoBoost has a solid structure, gives ice extra height to your child and has a very handy storage compartment too, for all you meal essentials.

The Brica Go boost boasts:

• Ultra portable design but with solid frame
• A handy storage space for bottles, bibs etc
• Durable and easy to clean materials
• Extra-Grip traction pads for no-slip grip on chairs
• Includes handy carrying strap

First years on the go booster seat

Another great solution for parents who love the idea of a booster seat type of chair is the First Years on the go booster seat.

This booster seat is handy for travel as it can easily be used on most chairs and has some great travel- friendly characteristics:

• Compact design, which makes it easy to carry even with limited space in your luggage
• Self inflate mechanism makes it easy to set up anywhere
• Safety belt help keep your child in place, minimising the risk of falls

Summer infant Pop and Sit portable booster

A very different type of booster seat but one many parents love because of its versatility and ease of use is the Summer Infant Pop and Sit Portable Booster.

This booster is a real chair for kids that can be used on its own for picnics in the park or can sit on top of a restaurant chair to give your child extra height.

The Summer infant booster boasts:

• Lightweight frame, very easy to fold and unfold
• Detachable, dishwasher safe tray (BPA free)
• Handy carrying case perfect for families on the go
• 3-point safety harness and chair safety straps for use on adult chair

We hope you enjoyed this overview of the best high chairs for travel and we helped you pick the best portable booster seat for your city trip with kids!

Please note: This page contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Disclaimer: Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

The post Best high chairs for travel: top picks 2022 appeared first on Little City Trips.

A great travel stroller is a wonderful companion on any family city trip. A good stroller for travel helps you covering long distances when your children are too little or too tired to walk, they allow great naps on the go and they can be a life saver in airports, when easy of movement is often key.

Picking the best compact stroller for travel, however, is no easy feat. The market is full of lightweight strollers designed for travel and they all come with different characteristics and selling points that make selecting the best stroller for you an overwhelming experience.

What should you look for when choosing the best stroller for a family trip? How much are lightweight umbrella strollers and should you look for anything specific when bringing a stroller on a city break? 

In this guide, we share our favourite brands of travel strollers, handpicked on the basis of our experienced the many international trips and city breaks we took with our 7 (combined) kids.

If you are looking for the best compact travel stroller to keep your little one comfortable and your back safe, keep reading!

Stroller	Name	Weight	Min Age
	GB Pockit	4.8 Kg	6 months
	Uppa Baby Minu	6.7 kg	6 months
	Baby Zen Yoyo+	5.8 Kg	6 months
	Baby Jogger City Tour	6.4 Kg	6 months
	Mountain Buggy Nano	5.9 Kg	6 months

Do you need a stroller for travel?

Buying a stroller just for travel may seem like an extravagant expense. After all, you have spent long hours looking for the best stroller for your new baby so, surely, that will work on your travels too. Right? Well, maybe.

Depending on the type of stroller you have at home, you may already be ready to tackle international destinations.

However, often the main stroller or travel system you have at home may turn out to be too bulky to hop on a plane with you and too heavy to lug onto a car.

In this case, investing in a compact, easy to fold and lightweight stroller can be an excellent investment.

What to look for when choosing a compact stroller for travel

The best travel stroller for city exploring is lightweight, compact, easy to fold and sturdy. The brands we have selected for this round up all score high under all these respects.

They are lightweight, so you won’t hurt your back lugging them up and down trains, planes, escalators and public transport.

They are compact, some to the point of fitting inside the plane overhead bin, so you don’t have to worry about the stroller getting damaged in the plane hold or worse, lost!

They are easy to fold so you can move quickly should you board a taxi or leave them beside your restaurant table.

You can hear the Little City team discussing this topic further along with their favourite product recommendations on our City Travel with Kids podcast here.

The best compact strollers for city travel

This is our selection of the best lightweight strollers for city travel in 2019

GB Pockit

The GB Pocki is a super light, easy to fold travel stroller suitable for kids from 6 months up to 17 kg, approx. 4 years. Their creators describe it as the world’s smallest foldable stroller (indeed, it has its proud spot in the Guinness World record!) and at 4.8 kg is indeed light and easy to carry.

This stroller is designed with travel and in particular city travel in mind. Easy to fold, it is designed to stand on its own when closed and can fit easily in small spaces such as your restaurant of choice: no more leaving the stroller near the door or worrying the next patron will trip onto your child’s chart!

The GB Pockit is available in several colours: check options, availability and specs clicking on the ‘buy now’ button below.

Uppa Baby Minu

Uppa baby makes great strollers and the one we love for city travel is the Minu. Built with convenience in mind, this strollers is perfect for navigating busy pavements and shopping malls and folds really small, making it easy to park when visiting a museum or sitting down for a meal.

The Minu comes with a roomy seat and a large basket, excellent when out and about all day and has its own bag to protect it when on the move, something we highly recommend you get especially if bringing your stroller on the plane.

With several reclined positions, a good sun canopy and easy to operate breaks, this is a versatile stroller with great advantages for city exploring.

Baby Zen Yoyo+

Baby Zen Yoyo made a name for itself as an excellent travel stroller for one important reason: it was the first cabin approved stroller for plane travel.

The Yoyo+ follows in its footsteps and packs all the characteristics of the original Yoyo but adds some impressive functionality, namely the ability to convert into a travel system thanks to car seat compatibility, an element that makes it exceptionally attractive for parents of very young children who need a car seat for car journeys and taxi rides.

The Baby Zen Yoyo travel stroller is compact and lightweight and works well in busy city environments. Compared with others, it has a folding mechanism that requites some getting used to (and two hands, especially at the beginning) but it is highly maneuverable and versatile, which is why we have it onto the list of our favourite compact strollers for city exploring.

Baby Jogger City Tour

The City Tour by Baby Jogger is another great compact stroller for city travel, praised by parents for being lightweight and compact. The City Tour is easy to fold and gets so small to be cabin approved, something that makes it an excellent travel companion for longer journeys.

The City Tour is super easy to fold and designed with holidays and busy city living in mind and works well even when negotiating public transport and steps in a new city.

Mountain Buggy Nano

We close this list with one more compact stroller we know well and love, the Mountain Buggy Nano.

Suitable from 6 months on (max load 20Kg) the Nano is excellent for city travels since it is easy to manouvre, lightweight and easy to fold. The Nano weights less than 6kg and measuring just 54 x 31 x 51cm when folded matched the regulations for carry on gear for most airlines.

The Nano is car seat compatible, making it an excellent option if you are traveling with a full size car seat for your baby or young toddler.

Little City Trips is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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Introducing you to the team behind Little City Trips.

We speak to one of our editors and founders of Little City Trips, Marta Correale to find out a little more about her life as an expatriate. Marta is from Rome but has lived in several cities around the world, including London, Brussels and Dublin, where she lives with her husband and 2 children.

When did you start your life of travel?

I trace my passion for travel back to my early childhood.

My parents are a curious, adventurous couple and every time they had a break in their work schedule, they would pack the car up with supplies and books and would take off somewhere that took their fancy.

We covered pretty impressive distances this way: from Rome, I remember we drove all the way to the UK once (my dad never liked to fly!), another time we went to Turkey and when I was about 9 even to Morocco: by land, that is quite a long journey!

As I grew older I kept up the habit of travelling.

In my late 20’s I moved to Brussels and used it as a base to discover Europe. Brussels is where I met my now husband and travel is one of the things we share: together we went to Central America, India and the Far East and now that we have the kids we are trying to pass this same passion onto them.

So far, I can see that they like travelling: they love our short breaks in Europe (Amsterdam is a favourite of theirs!) but they are also fond of our road trips in the USA. We recently came back from a trip in the South West that brought us to the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley – magical places at all ages!

How do you find living in Dublin with kids?

Dublin is a great city for a family. It is small and well served and I like how easy it is to reach the mountains and the coast nearby.

The city is really young and you can see kids everywhere: parks abound and while the weather doesn’t’ always cooperate, there are lots of green spaces that are great especially for younger kids.

There are several things to do in Dublin with kids although to be fully honest I find it more enjoyable as an expat than a visitor: the beauty of Dublin is in the people and everyday interactions and it is not easy to get a sense of that as a tourist.

Do you go to Rome with the kids often?

I do. I love Rome and my kids have developed a huge attachment to the city as well.

We go to visit my family there whenever school allows and I always make a point of showing them the city, as well as spending quality time with the grandparents.

I love showing them the main landmarks of the city and tell them the stories behind them and I find myself learning more about my hometown thanks to these trips with them.

I would be lying however if I didn’t say that Rome gets overwhelming sometimes.

It is a nightmare to visit with a buggy for instance and I often wondered if I wasn’t from there how I would react to the chaotic traffic and sometimes crazy crowds!

This is why when I talk about Rome I usually give ideas on where to go but even more than that I give tips about public transport: it can truly make or break a holiday and it’s a shame as Rome is so beautiful I want everyone to fall in love with it and have an amazing experience!

What are the highlights of Rome people shouldn’t miss?

My kids favourite places in Rome are the Colosseum, the children museum and the many city parks.

The Colosseum is crowded and touristy but it is hard to beat in terms of the impression it makes on the visitors, no matter your ages.

The children museum is something that didn’t exist when I was little and my two adore it: we have to go every time we are in town! It has interactive displays and role play areas such as a kitchen, supermarket etc. It is a great place if you want to have a break from sightseeing and a great refuge during rainy days (yes, Rome gets a lot of rain, more than people expect!)

Rome has some fabulous parks, dotting the city.

Compared with parks elsewhere in the world, the playgrounds are not great (Rome is not exactly well maintained…) but they do the job and they are excellent to get the kids to let off steam when art and culture fatigue sets in!

They are also great places for gelato, something that I suspect has a huge impact on how popular Rome is with the younger crowd…

Do you have a favourite city with kids?

I am what you could call an enthusiastic traveller, and this means most of the cities we visit at some stage make the list of ‘favourite city ever!’.

In Europe, the latest one we explored extensively and adored is Amsterdam. I have a friend there so I had the chance of visiting it with the eye of a local and wow, it is such a family friendly place!

The first thing you notice about it is how beautiful it is: the canals criss-cross the city and are so scenic, with the bikes crossing the bridges and the pretty trees along the banks.

The architecture is stunning and while you may think this is not something kids will notice, in Amsterdam they do! The houses have a  distinctive fairy-tale air about them and my kids spent hours fantasizing which one they would pick if we were to live there.

In terms of kids activities, Amsterdam offers many: my kids favourite is the Nemo Museum (science) but the zoo is a big contender as well and a canal tour is always a hit too!

Outside of Europe, our favourite city is San Francisco. We spent a summer there and loved every minute: the beautiful bay, the amazing children activities, the surrounding area… We are obsessed with that part of the worked and we have already been twice in 3 years!

Is there anywhere you have visited that you haven’t loved or hasn’t worked well with kids?

Not really, although if I am honest we did not like Nice, France, when we visited with my then 4-month-old and 2-year-old.

The city is stunning and maybe had I researched the destination better it would have been different.

However, we found it so hard with a buggy and so hard to find a place to eat that would accommodation them that we left thinking it was a lot of work more than a pleasant break!

I do put this experience down to lack of planning though: this was an impromptu day trip from Liguria and I didn’t study the lay of the land in advance, so I am sure Nice with kids can be done!

What’s the one Bucket List city you want to visit with kids?

New York is my son’s obsession and I would love to have the chance to bring him there. I have visited several times and it is a city I love, but we haven’t had the chance to experience visiting together as a family yet.

I know my son wants to see the skyscrapers and Central Park and I also want to bring him to see the Statue of Liberty and take a ferry trip around Manhattan. Oh, and tasty hot dogs of course!

Now the all-important question, what’s in your travel bag?

Surprisingly little!

I like to travel light and I pride myself in always having with me only what we really need. In practice, this usually means documents, credit card and my phone, which is I also use as a camera. I used to have a separate camera that I constantly had around my neck but honestly, smartphones are so good for photos now, I don’t need anything else. Mine is a Huawei and I highly recommend it!

Where can we learn more about your adventures?

As well as co-editing the Little City Trips website, I have a personal blog for our family trips and cultural tourism with kids which you can find here  Learning Escapes  | Instagram | Facebook.  I have two more destination sites, MamaLovesRome and MamaLovesItaly and I also run a community specifically for visitors looking to visit Italy with kids with a lot of practical tips, addresses and ideas for families– Italy with kids – Travel Tips and Advice 

WANT TO PICK MARTA’S BRAIN ON HER FAVOURITE CITIES? JOIN THE CONVERSATION OVER ON OUR LITTLE CITY INSIDERS FACEBOOK PAGE.

The post Little City Insider Marta Correale appeared first on Little City Trips.

Introducing you to the team behind Little City Trips.

We speak to one of our editors and founders of Little City Trips, Marianne Rogerson to find out a little more about her life as an expatriate. Marianne has lived in several cities around the world, including Singapore, Hong Kong and now Sydney, where she lives with her husband and 2 children.

When did you start your life of travel?

I was pretty much born into a life of travel. My parents were British expats living in Vanuatu at the time. Much of my early travel involved traveling back to the UK to visit family during the holidays. My parents were very adventurous and would take us all over the world on our trips back home.

One trip they visited Tahiti, Mexico City, Florida, Dublin, England, Los Angeles and Honolulu – with a 7-month old baby (that’s me!), a 4-year old and a 7-year old. This was in the 1970s before internet, inflight entertainment or even Lonely Planet books. That’s impressive and a real inspiration to me.

We moved to Papua New Guinea when I was 8 and from there I travelled back to the UK to boarding school and then on to university in Scotland. I studied languages at university that allowed me to travel in the pursuit of perfecting my language skills! So during university I lived in Spain, Costa Rica and Portugal.

We moved to Singapore in 2007 and both my kids were born there. We lived there for 7 years before moving to Hong Kong, where we lived for 4 years. We moved to Sydney, Australia 3 months ago, where we now live.

How did you find living in Singapore with kids?

Singapore is an awesome city to live in with kids. Everywhere is hugely family friendly. There are so many great family attractions in Singapore, plus it is buggy friendly, easy to get around and most of the time has great weather!

A lot of expats live in apartment complexes with facilities such as swimming pools and BBQ pits, and so it is easy to entertain the kids at home too. Sometimes you feel like you are living in a holiday resort!

If you are a travel lover, Singapore is an amazing place to base yourself, as it is the gateway to the whole of Southeast Asia. You can be in so many different countries within a two-hour flight: Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos…

How did you find living in Hong Kong with kids?

Hong Kong is slightly more challenging with kids. It is a very hilly city and hugely busy so it is not at all easy to get around with a buggy. In general it is way less family friendly than Singapore, but it is still a fun place to live with kids.

A lot of people don’t realize but Hong Kong has a lot of beaches and these are popular with families at weekends, also water sports for older kids. There are some fun family attractions in Hong Kong too – such as Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park.

Again if you want to travel, Hong Kong is a great hub to base yourself for exploring Eastern Asia – on the doorstep of China and with easy access to the Philippines, Japan, Korea, Taiwan. Even Thailand and Borneo are only a 3 ½ hour flight away.

What are the highlights people shouldn’t miss in these cities?

In Singapore you have so much to choose from! The Singapore Zoo is awesome for families, as is Universal Studios and the SEA Aquarium.

I always say that visitors should not miss eating in a hawker centre, the city’s version of street food. The food is delicious and it’s a quintessential Singapore experience.

In Hong Kong, families will obviously want to go to Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park.

Beyond those obvious ones though, I would encourage you to explore some of the cultural and fun side of Hong Kong, such as visiting the Big Buddha, browsing the markets, taking a ride on the star ferry and going up the Peak for the views.

What brings you to now live in Sydney?

The same thing that took us to Singapore and Hong Kong – my husband’s job! It has been quite a transition after 11 years in Asia, but we are loving Sydney so far.

We love the local beaches, the amazing coastal walks, the food and the fresh air (one downside to living in Hong Kong was the pollution, so we love the Sydney blue skies!).

And what are the highlights in Sydney for families?

There are loads of fun things to do in Sydney with kids. Taronga Zoo should definitely be on everyone’s list. Also the Botanical Gardens, the Aquarium and the museums – my kids love visiting the dinosaurs at the Australia Museum.

The coastal walk from Bronte to Bondi is an easy one to do with kids and is just stunning. Also there is whale watching at certain times of year, or just take the ferry to Manly or Watson’s Bay for fish & chips.

Do you have a favourite city with kids so far?

I have to say Singapore takes some beating. We still visit regularly even though we no longer live there, and it is always so easy and with so much to do. The kids love it.

We visited New York at Christmas time last year and that was awesome too. So much to do there, endless fun! Visiting at Christmas time was really magical with all the Christmas lights and ice skating rinks.

But it was too cold to do a lot of the things you would normally do in New York with kids, so I would love to go back again at another time of year.

Is there anywhere you have visited that you haven’t loved or hasn’t worked well with kids?

Honestly, not really. I just love visiting new places and always try to find the positive in every place!

My kids are pretty good travellers and are fairly adaptable to new experiences. As a travel writer, I usually research a lot ahead of time too.

What’s the one bucket list city you want to visit with kids?

I haven’t been to Tokyo with the kids yet. We went before they were born and absolutely loved it. I love the food and all the cool experiences and would love to go back.

My kids are desperate to visit Paris and go up the Eiffel Tower. We went when my 7-year old was a baby, and my 5-year old is very disgruntled that he is the only one in the family that hasn’t been!

Now the all-important question: What’s always in your travel bag?

My iPhone is my most important travel gadget. I use it for Google Maps, as my camera, for social media… I also love my multiple passport holder for keeping all the family’s passports together – and multiple charger to make sure everyone’s phones and ipads can be charged at once!

Where can we learn more about your adventures?

As well as co-editing the Little City Trips website, I also run family travel blog Mum on the Move. Here I focus on luxury and adventure travel, predominantly in Asia and Australia. Mum on the Move | Instagram | Facebook.

I also run a community for families looking for tips and advice for traveling in Asia with kids: Asia Travel with Kids.

The post Little City Insider Marianne Rogerson appeared first on Little City Trips.

Introducing you to the team behind Little City Trips.

We speak to one of our editors and founders of Little City Trips, Keri Hedrick to find out a little more about her life as an expatriate in Abu Dhabi, where she lives with her husband and 3 children.

When did you start your life of travel?

Being born overseas, it’s pretty much been since birth! My parents expatriated Britain to New Zealand back in the ‘70’s, then we permanently immigrated to Australia in the early 80’s.  Most of my childhood I remember traversing country Australia in the back of a Ford Falcon!  We lived in both Perth and Melbourne which were great bases for exploring Australia.

My overseas travel bug only really hit when I made my first solo mission to Europe at age 20. Then I was hooked!  It made me realise there was so much big wide world out there. I was determined to take on a career that would allow me to travel. I did work experience at a travel agency, but I knew this was unlikely to be a lasting career to pay the bills…. So I did the sensible thing and became a Chartered Accountant!

 

I met my now husband on a rugby weekend in Wales, while he was on leave from his job in Afghanistan – he is certainly where I get my sense of adventure for more far-flung places!

How did you find your time in London with kids?

When I lived there it was just everyday life.  We’d strap the baby on and just head out for the day. When our second child arrived it became more challenging but still do-able….

Revisiting a couple of years later when I had three kids with me on my own plus a stroller, I realised just how daunting newcomers can find a city like London.  We didn’t achieve half of what I had on my bucket list, as fighting through the summer crowds was just exhausting.

The kids did get to see where the Queen lives though, and they loved being shown back to all the parks we used to enjoy. We were blessed with sunny weather, but this certainly isn’t always the case in London!

Fun times in London visiting “the Queen’s House”

What would you recommend for London newbies?

Plan your travels outside of London peak commuter times where possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and keep some sort of name tag or phone number on your kids when you get to very busy crowded places. (You can see more of our tips for getting around London with kids here).

We didn’t get time to revisit the Kensington museums on our last trip – but they are a must! And I always recommend first-timers to take a river cruise down the Thames to Greenwich – have your photo standing on GMT!!  Getting an open top bus (weather dependent!) is a great way to get your orientation of the city.

See our guide to the top 10 things to do in London with kids

How have you come to now live in the Middle East?

My husband was offered a job in Abu Dhabi immediately after we had our second baby in London. We knew it was going to be near impossible to continue our inner city London life with two kids and holding down two full-time jobs with a commute. So we made the bold decision at that point to start our expatriate lives!

It helped immensely that we had family living in Abu Dhabi who were able to show us the ropes and get us settled in quickly.  We had visited Dubai on a few occasions before (and seen it grow immensely over the previous decade!) so had a rough idea what to expect.

We are warm weather lovers which really helps – though we still disappear back to Australia every summer when it gets too hot!

Weekend fun living in Abu Dhabi – Aqua Fun on the Corniche

The location in the world for a travel-lover couldn’t be better though. We have great access to both Abu Dhabi and Dubai International Airports which cover flights to most countries in the world. We love that we’re now closer to Asia, but equally can still do long weekends in Europe, or fly back home to Australia on a direct flight.

Do you have a favourite city with kids so far?

Some are special for their own reasons – and it honestly changes based on every age and stage we are at!

Ho Chi Minh City was one of the first really spontaneous, adventurous trips we took and gave us that all important boost “we really can do this with kids” – we’ve been back through HCMC three times now transiting to other parts of Asia!

Keri & kids in front of Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Our kids truly loved Sydney, I think mostly for its famous landmarks they could relate to! And Singapore was a city stop they really enjoyed, just so many activities to keep them busy. Singapore is so clean and easy to get around, so we’ll definitely be using that as a hub city again.

Visiting the famous Gardens by the Bay in Singapore

Personally, I think Cape Town was one of my all time favourite trips though. After living in the desert, we just found it so lush! It’s a beautiful and dramatic city with many sides to it. Definitely hire a car and get down to the Cape Peninsular. We also had a wonderful time in the Stellenbosch wine region. It was one of those truly wonderful family breaks – albeit it’s a long way to fly!

View over Cape Town and Table Mountain from Signal Hill

And what about in your home city Abu Dhabi, what are highlights visitors mustn’t miss?

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is always a must – it really is beautiful but won’t hold the kids’ attention for too long.  We suggest staying at Yas Island which is in the heart of the cities entertainment zone – you have Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World and the newly opened Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi.  We have a few more suggestions of our favourite Abu Dhabi places with kids here.

Is there anywhere you’ve visited that you haven’t loved, or didn’t work well with kids?

It wasn’t lack of love – I desperately wanted to love Phnom Penh in Cambodia. But we had a nasty bag snatching incident there that soured our experience and made us nervous travellers. We did stay in one of the nicest little inner-city haven hotels there that saved the trip – the Kabiki.  In comparison, Siem Reap which I’d read some negative reviews about was wonderful, a very different vibe.  We could have explored there much longer, beyond just the Angkor Temples. All up Cambodia is great, but hard work with small children.

What’s the one big bucket list city you want to visit with kids?

I think we would all love to visit New York City. The US always feels that little bit too far away from the Middle East, but we are eyeing up cashing in some frequent flyer points if this route goes on sale again soon! My kids are suckers for the big famous sites so will want to see the Statue of Liberty and Central Park, and my daughter would love to see a Broadway Musical.

On the bucket list for Keri & family – New York City

Now the all-important question, what’s always in your travel bag?

My camera!! Well, my smartphone these days – the camera on the new Samsung Galaxy 9 is insanely good.  And a spare battery pack.  And wet-wipes.  You always need wet wipes travelling with kids!

Where can we learn more about your adventures?

As well as co-editing the Little City Trips website, I have a personal blog for my families travel and expat adventures Our Globetrotters | Instagram | Facebook.  I also run a community specifically for visitors looking to visit the Middle East, as we know it can be daunting and a bit of an unknown for new travellers – Family Travel in the Middle East.

Want to pick Keri’s brain on her favourite cities? Join the conversation over on our Little City Insiders facebook page.

Meet the rest of the Little City Team here.

The post Little City Insider Keri Hedrick appeared first on Little City Trips.

San Francisco is an easy and fun city to explore with kids. Its steep, often winding streets may look daunting at first but the excellent city public transport system makes getting around easy and fun. here are our top tips to get around San Francisco with kids.

Getting around San Francisco by bus, metro and street cars

The company running San Francisco public transport system is called Muni and operated buses, metro lines and street cars (trams).

The bus and metro system is extensive and easy to use: tickets can be bought at all metro stations where both cash and cards are accepted or on the buses themselves, all equipped with ticket machines (cash only).

You can buy individual tickets but the cheapest way to negotiate San Francisco’s public transport is to buy a Clipper Card. These are rechargeable, must be scanned when entering/leaving the bus /metro and offer significant savings compared with standard single journey fares.

San Francisco by cable car

Cable cars are San Francisco’s historic public transit cars. Cable cars are located downtown and run on several lines serving what are now some of the city’s main landmarks.

They are a fun way to explore the city and albeit touristy one of the best ways to mix transport with a travel experience! Tickets can be bought in advance from the kiosks beside the main stops or on board (on board purchases require cash only).

San Francisco by BART

The wider San Francisco area is served by BART, the Bay Area Rapid Transport system. This is an excellent system for visitors with accommodation outside the city centre and also connects the city centre with SFO airport.

Tickets can be bought at the many BART stations or you can access BART with the convenient Clipper Card.

San Francisco Visitor Passport & CityPASS

Depending on the length of your stay you may want to invest in a San Francisco city pass. These allow for unlimited rides on Muni, Muni Metro, historic streetcars and cable cars for three consecutive days. At the time of writing the following options are available

• 1-Day Visitor Passport
• 3-Day Visitor Passport
• 7-Day Visitor Passport
• Adult CityPASS
• Children ages 5-11 CityPASS

How to get from San Francisco Airport SFO to Downtown

San Francisco International Airport is located 13 miles south of downtown.

BART

The easiest way to get to downtown from San Francisco is go by BART. The BART station is well signposted inside the airport and the train will bring you to many locations in the Bay Area.

Ticket machines are available in the station. Fares are based on distance covered.

Private transfers /Uber

Private transfers and Uber/Lyft vehicles can be booked in advance via relevant apps. They usually pick up passengers at the curb just outside the arrival terminal.

These services can be a convenient way to get to your San Francisco accommodation but not all cars are equipped with car seats, compulsory in private vehicles: make sure you bring your own.

Click here to go to our Family Guide to San Francisco.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Family guide to the best way to get around San Francisco when visiting with kids

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City trips can be hard going with kids. The bright lights, buzzing crowds and innovative restaurants so enticing for adults and couples can be overwhelming for kids.  So much so that some parents decide city breaks should be avoided for most of the childhood years.

We respectfully disagree! Indeed, city trips require planning and some work but they can be great fun with kids and a fantastic way to have a holiday together that is fun for all ages, varied and even educational!

Here you’ll find our tips for planning a perfect city trip for kids: Our do’s and don’ts of city travel with children.

Pick accommodation wisely

Your choice of accommodation can make or break a city break. Pick the right hotel or apartment and you visit the city like a local, with all the comfort and amenities your family needs. Pick the wrong one and you find yourself far from everything and stuck on public transport for ages, wishing you could have a holiday to recover from your family holiday.

We have all been there but don’t worry, help is at hand! All you need to do to find the perfect accommodation is to ask people you trust: you can start with this site (we have an amazing selection of hotels), scout trustworthy family travel blogs and you can check prices straight away on sites such as Booking.Com and HotelsCombined.

Avoid rush hour

Especially on weekdays, remember normal folk live in busy cities, going about their daily business. Your need for a double stroller to be traipsed up the Metro steps, or stopping for the 17th time to photograph your kid in that beautiful but bustling location is probably a bit of nuisance, to be honest.

If you’re nearing dinner time and want to avoid the late afternoon meltdowns, plan ahead to beat the crush with an early dinner or snack stop. Likewise, you might not want to start your day’s excursions until the business day is already underway and traffic has eased.

Seek Museums

Gone are the days when museums were the realm of adults, places where kids had to be dragged to screaming and kicking. Nowadays, many museums around the world offer tours and areas specific for families rethinking the way they present themselves to a younger audience with interactive displays, even live shows and activity rooms.

Science museums and discovery centres are usually a hit with younger kids but many traditional spaces can be hugely appealing for little explorers.

Do not try to do it all

Only got a day to see the highlights of a city? Please remember when kids are in tow, you have nowhere near the leg speed, attention span or stamina that you had travelling solo. Don’t try to be a superhero and squeeze it all in, there’s no medal for completing everything on the “10 things to do in” list.

Remember, you’re visiting a city not conducting an audit. You will all get far more from the city break experience by choosing only a few key places and events per day.

Seek Animals

What kids doesn’t love animals! Of any shape and size. Zoos are absolutely perfect, be it big world-class zoos, or small local community petting zoos (often found inside large city parks). Indoor aquariums also make great rainy day activities to keep little ones amused. Famous ones include the Oceanarium in Lisbon, L’Aquarium de Barcelona and a world renown Taronga Zoo Sydney, in a fantastic location too.

Don’t miscalculate distances

It’s so easy to look on a map and assume you can easily get from A to B – and as grown adults you probably can. When tired little legs are involved though, don’t expect them to be so keen on the idea of walking everywhere. Some cities offer fabulous tuk-tuk or taxi services that are cheap and easy for short hops, otherwise look at how easy it is to jump on and off public transport just to preserve some leg power.

Bring a city stroller

When visiting a city it is tempting to leave the stroller at home. The idea of dragging a stroller down the stairs of a metro station or museum is sufficient to turn many parents off the idea of travelling with wheels but here at little city trips we believe a stroller can be a life saver!

You know the moment when your child is tired and needs to sleep, while all you want to do is to sit in café and people watch? At that moment, a stroller is your best friend. All you need to do is to pick the right one for city travel, one that is light enough to move easily around busy streets but comfortable enough for your child to nap. If you are unsure about what the best stroller for city travel is, you can see our top pick here.

Seek out heights

Tall buildings and sweeping views are often a hit with kids. Whether it’s taking a trip up an observation tower, a cable car up a hill or even a Ferris Wheel, getting up above a city is a great idea to keep kids engaged with their travels.

We love to point out where we’re staying, where we’ve walked or going to next – you may even find something new and exciting places to go and explore.

Don’t skip downtime

Making time for a rest and a trip to the park may sound like a waste of time: after all, you are in the city for sightseeing, right? However, planning quiet moments and playground stops is invaluable to lift the spirit of a bored child and can also turn into a cultural experience.

Encourage your kids to play with local children, hang around where the locals go and simply allow yourself to rest: is half an hour in the hotel such a waste, if it leaves you all energized for a fun evening activity or a meal out?

Look for things that go

We have taken trams to tuk-tuks, buses and boats – not just to get from A to B, but it’s a great opportunity for tired little legs to catch up on themselves. Different modes of transport also provide you with a new way of seeing your city. Things like talking buses can also be the best way to cover a lot of ground quickly, as well as getting some great commentary on your city.

But most of all, don’t let a big city intimidate you! If you love city life and all the wonders big cities have to offer, don’t believe those who say you should leave the kids home. Plan your days accepting you will probably see less than you would on your own but don’t assume less means less exciting or less fulfilling.

Some of our most beautiful family memories were made in big cities, we hope our tips will help you create your own!

Take me back to your city destination guides

The post The do’s and don’ts of a perfect city trip with kids appeared first on Little City Trips.

San Francisco enjoys four different seasons, making it a  pleasure to visit pretty much any time of the year. The best time to visit is the Autumn, followed by the spring. To the surprise of many, summers are cool in San Francisco and so are the winters, when the city also experiences frequent rain.

The weather in San Francisco is incredibly changeable and it is not unusual to experience four seasons in one day!

• Spring in San Francisco is March to June
• Summer in San Francisco is end of June to end of September
• Autumn in San Francisco is end of September to December
• Winter San Francisco is December to Mid March

Click here to read all our packing tips for San Francisco, no matter what time of year you are visiting.

SPRING IN SAN FRANCISCO (MARCH – JUNE)

Spring is a fabulous time to visit San Francisco. At this time of the year the days are usually warm, dry, and clear and the views over the bay are at their best.

SUMMER IN SAN FRANCISCO (JUNE – SEPTEMBER)

Summer is a popular time to visit San Francisco but temperatures often catch visitors by surprise. San Francisco’s summers are cold and look nothing like the ‘California summers’ many Europeans expect (you need to head farther South for those).

Summer in San Francisco tends to be bright and dry but the fog often falls onto the city and you will find yourself wanting to wrap up often.

 AUTUMN IN SAN FRANCISCO (SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER)

Autumn in San Francisco is wonderful. This is the time of the year when the weather is warmest and the days tend to be bright and crisp.

This is a great time to enjoy San Francisco’s wonderful parks and outdoor scene, since the rain and fog tend to fall more rarely than in other seasons. Rain starts being more frequent in December when the true winter begins

WINTER IN SAN FRANCISCO (DECEMBER – MARCH)

Winter is rainy and grey in San Francisco. During winter months the city experiences frequent fog and precipitation making San Francisco sightseeing often frustrating although on clear days the views get remarkably crisp and bright.

If visiting San Francisco in winter, make sure you wrap up especially on foggy days.

Click here to go to our Family Guide to San Francisco.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Tips for choosing the best time for visiting San Francisco and what to expect in each season

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Barcelona is an easy city to explore. Its beautiful centre can be discovered on foot and a good network of buses, metro and trains help tackle longer distances.

Getting around Barcelona by metro and FGC

Barcelona has a good rail system made of  metro lines and the FGC (Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat) rail network. The system is fast and efficient and easy to use even with kids: tickets are available for purchase in all stations where usually both cash and cards are accepted.

Children under 4 go free while kids 5+pay full fare. ID may be required and must be shown on demand.

Barcelona by tram

Barcelona is served by 6 tram lines and connect the city centre to the outskirts.

Single tram tickets can be bought at the tram stations, equipped with vending machines while integrated tickets allowing you to transfer on buses and metro are available in metro stations.

Barcelona by taxi

Taxis are an easy and fairly inexpensive way to get around Barcelona. They are a convenient option inside the city and to/from the airport: they do not usually cay child seats to do make sure you travel with your own.

How to get from Barcelona airport to Barcelona city centre

Taxis are stationed outside Barcelona airport and are a convenient way to get downtown. At the time of writing they operate with a flat fee of 3o Euro from Terminal 1 and 35 Euro from terminal 2.

Bus transport is offered by Aerobus, which connects the airport too Placa de Espana and Placa de Catalunya, in Barcelona city centre.

Barcelona airport is also connected to the city centre by metro. There are two stops at Barcelona airport which are called: Aeroport T1 and Aeroport T2: tickets can be bought at the vending machines in the main station hall.

Take me back to the Barcelona Family Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post How to get around Barcelona appeared first on Little City Trips.

Barcelona enjoys wonderful Mediterranean weather and is a pleasure to visit pretty much in all seasons. The best time to go to Barcelona is early Summer and early Autumn when the city is sunny but not overly hot.

Summer sees the highest concentration of tourists while winter tends to be quieter, due to the lower temperatures.

For families, the best time to visit Barcelona is May to June and September to October,  when the weather is perfect for sightseeing and city life is in full swing.

Click here to read our Barcelona Packing List, no matter what time of year you are visiting.

SPRING IN BARCELONA (MARCH – JUNE)

Barcelona is a delight in spring. Sunny and bright, this is the perfect time for exploring the city’s many sightseeing spots and beautiful outdoor spaces.

April sees some significant rainfall but from May onwards the temperatures rise steadily along with humidity, giving the city a summery feel.

SUMMER IN BARCELONA (JUNE – AUGUST)

Summer in Barcelona is hot and humid.

June is still a pleasant time to visit: hot but not overly so, this is the time for al fresco dining and picnic in Barcelona’s parks and also the time to enjoy the city’s most famous beach, Barceloneta.

July and August are high tourist season in Barcelona but they can be hard to handle, especially if travelling with young kids. The days are hot and humid and many locals leave to enjoy their summer holiday, making the city feel less authentic.

AUTUMN IN BARCELONA (SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER)

Autumn is a lovely time to visit Barcelona. September is still very much a summer month and you can enjoy great weather up until mid-October. The weather starts to turn colder in November.

City life is in full swing at this time meaning you are able to get a glimpse of local life.

WINTER IN BARCELONA (DECEMBER – FEBRUARY)

Barcelona has mild winters. Even at the height of the cold season, the city experiences bright sunny days, with temperatures always above freezing. Winter is a great time to visit Barcelona if you want to avoid the crowds: accommodation prices tend to be lower than in summer and Barcelona hotel deals are frequent.

You can find a list of our favourite family-friendly hotels in Barcelona here.

Take me back to the Barcelona Family Guide.

Save this to Pinterest to inspire your travel planning for Barcelona!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post When is the best time to visit Barcelona? appeared first on Little City Trips.

The best way to discover Reykjavik is to walk. The city has a compact and pleasant city centre and its main tourist attractions are mostly close enough to one another that you can reach them on foot.

Reykjavik has good pavements and is stroller friendly: traffic is limited and it is therefore an easy city to visit with kids.

Getting around Reykjavik by car or taxi

If your Reykjavik hotel is outside of the city centre yo may want to consider renting a car to get you closer to the action. There are several parking areas in Reykjavik both on street (pay and display) and in covered parking lots.

The city is organised in 4 different parking zones and different fees apply for each of them. Pay and display machines are available in all areas and have full details of the exact location and fee required.

Taxis are easy to find in Reykjavik and offer 24 hour service. While convenient, it is worth noticing that they are however an expensive form of transport: for longer distances in particular, shuttle bus services are usually significantly cheaper.

Car seats are compulsory in Iceland and the rules state that  children cannot ride in a booster until at least 18 kg (40 lbs.) and should be in a booster until 36 kg (80 lbs.). Child seats should be placed on the back seat: children cannot seat in the front seat in Iceland until they are at least 140cm tall.

Click here to read more about what to bring to Iceland.

Getting around Reykjavik by bus

Buses are the only form of public transportation in Reykjavik. The company operating it is called Strætó and the buses connect the several cities constituting the Greater Reykjavik area. The buses are a bright yellow colour.

Buses have a special designated space for strollers, bikes and wheelchairs. Tickets must be purchased in advance in several shops in town. Children under 6 go free and children age 12-17 enjoy a reduced fare. You can find all the updated information here.

How to get to and from Reykjavik airport

Keflavik airport is located about 45 minutes outside of the city. It is well connected with the centre by frequent buses operating a shuttle service connected to flights arrivals/departures. These shuttle buses bring passengers up to Reykjavik city centre and selected hotels.

Reykjavik city centre is a no-bus area and several bus pick up/drop off points are scattered around the city, to serve the main landmarks. Some companies offer a combined pick up/drop off service of bus + mini van to drive passengers to their hotel door, should their accommodation fall within the no entry zone.

Click here to go to our Reykjavik City Guide. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Practical guide about getting around Reykjavik with kids in tow

The post How to get around Reykjavik appeared first on Little City Trips.

Europe’s most Northerly capital evokes images of endless winters and cold days. However, Reykjavik has a much more varied weather pattern than many expect and in fact sees 4 different seasons: A cold winter with short, dark days, cold but brighter autumn and spring months, and mild summer months when the midnight sun bathes the city in light at almost all hours.

For families, the best time to visit Reykjavik is the summer. The midnight sun can play havoc with the kids’ sleeping patterns but the mild temperatures and the many outdoor activities available make Iceland the perfect playground for both adults and kids.

• Spring in Reykjavik is end of March to June
• Summer in Reykjavik is end of June to end of September
• Autumn in Reykjavik is end of September to December
• Winter in Reykjavik is December to Mid March

Click here for tips on what to pack for Reykjavik, no matter what time of year you visit.

SPRING IN REYKJAVIK (MARCH – JUNE)

Spring in Reykjavik is chilly but nonetheless a pleasant time to visit. At this time, you get a good amount of daylight and the country slowly comes back to life with blossoms and green lawns after the long winter.

This is a good time for excursions: Reykjavik is a good base for many wildlife tours (whale watching etc) and for day trips to the famous Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon, among others. Click here for more ideas of things to do in Reykjavik.

SUMMER IN REYKJAVIK (JUNE – SEPTEMBER)

Summer is a great time to visit Reykjavik. While  never hot as such, this is the time of the year when Reykjavik experiences its driest weather and when most outdoors activities are available.

This is the height of the tourist season and Reykjavik accommodation books out fast: some hotels have higher rates in summer, making this time potentially heavy on the budget. Book well in advance (up to 6 months before) to get the best price.

 AUTUMN IN REYKJAVIK (SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER)

Autumn marks very much the start of the cold season in Reykjavik. At this time, the days get shorter and darker and precipitations intensify.

Reykjavik’s city life is rich with cultural events and this time and the Northern Lights make their first appearance (they cannot be seen during summer because of daylight). If visiting with kids, this can be a hard time since outdoor opportunities are scarce.

WINTER IN REYKJAVIK (DECEMBER – MARCH)

Winter is Reykjavik are cold and dark, with frequent precipitation and few hours of daylight. however, the city is not as cold as the name ‘Iceland’ suggest: temperatures in winter average -0.5°C /31°F.

Winter, especially from late February, is a good time for winter activities and, weather permitting, is prime season for Northern Light watching.

Click here to go to our Family Guide to Reykjavik.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Discover the best time for visiting Reykjavik and what to expect in each season in our guide

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How to get around Lisbon: a practical travel guide to Lisbon public transport, best tickets, need to know.

Lisbon is a fun and easy city to explore with kids. Lisbon city centre can be easily explored on foot and an efficient public transport system of metro, buses and trams makes longer distances easy to cover even if you are sightseeing with kids in tow.

Before travelling to Lisbon, make sure you check official travel rules and regulations that might affect your stay.

How to use the metro in Lisbon

Lisbon metro is fast, clean and easy to navigate.

Tickets are available for purchase in all stations: both cash and cards are usually accepted.

Lisbon metro is an excellent means of transport for families:  as well as being fast and efficient, kids under 4 go free.

How to use Lisbon’s bus, trams and elevators

As well as the metro, Lisbon has 3 means of transport: bus, trams and elevators (cable cars), the latter a peculiarity of the city and necessary to climb its steep hills!

The company operating Lisbon overland transport options is called Carris and it operated with an integrated ticket system that makes it easy to move from one means of transport to the other.

While standard tickets do not allow to transfer onto the metro, passes such as the Lisbon Card do, making it a handy choice.

How to use taxis in Lisbon

Taxis are inexpensive in Lisbon and a good, easy way to get around: rides are metered.

Lisbon taxis have a maximum of 4 passengers rule that can be tricky for larger families and do not usually carry car seats so we recommend you always travel with your own.

How to get from Lisbon airport to the city centre

The easiest way to get from Lisbon airport to the city centre is the metro. Clean and convenient, the station is located immediately below the airport and the trains connect you to the town centre in no time.

You can buy tickets in the station itself or you can get hold of the Lisbon card form the Visit Lisbon Kiosk in the arrival hall.

If you prefer to travel by bus, Lisbon offers 3 options: Aerobus 1,2 &3, City buses and night bus. Aerobus services have space for large luggage racks inside and is the best good option for travellers.

Taxis are stationed outside of the airport. The ride into town is metered but extra fees apply if you are travelling with a lot of luggage so if in doubt, agree potential extras with the driver before boarding. The obvious advantage of taking a Lisbon airport taxi is that it will take you directly to the front door of your Lisbon hotel or holiday apartment.

Click here to go to our Lisbon City Guide.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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Paris is a big, sprawling city with beautiful, important attractions in various locations, often far from each other. This can make the city daunting to visit with kids but we have good news! Paris has an excellent public transport system made of buses, metro lines and trains (RER) and here you have all the information you need to plan your trip easily.

Getting around Paris by metro

Paris has an excellent metro system serving pretty much the whole city. The stations are marked by distinctive ‘metro’ signs and the network is intricate and well laid out.

You can purchase metro tickets in all metro stations, equipped with either machines or machines and ticket counters and you have a choice of several types:

• Single ticket
• Carnet of 10 single-journey tickets
• Multi day travel cards

A single ticket takes you anywhere within the city of Paris on the Métro and RER networks, and you can transfer between lines. At the time of writing, children under 4 go free and children under 10 enjoy a special discount.

The metro is a fast and convenient way to get around Paris but it does pose challenges to families with kids. Paris metro is not particularly stroller friendly and you may find yourself having to lift your stroller to get beyond the turnstiles…. not the best option if you have a sleeping baby in it! For days when you plan on taking public transport extensively, we recommend you bring a baby carrier instead.

Paris offers several option for city passes that include access to public transport and selected attraction. You can find a good selection here

Getting around Paris by bus

Buses are a great option for families visiting Paris. The network is well laid out and efficient: the tickets are the same for bus and metro and they are available for purchase on the bus as well as metro stations.

Getting around Paris by RER

The RER is an efficient system of suburban trains connecting Paris city centre with farther away areas. Visitors usually use the trains to and from the airport.

In the centre of Paris, you can board the RER with the same tickets as metro and buses but you do need to purchase separate RER tickets for longer distances.

How to get around Paris by taxi

Taxis are easy to find in Paris and relatively inexpensive. Taxi stands are easy to spot in several location around the city and you can also flag passing cabs on the street. Taxis don’t usually carry car seats so it is a good idea to travel with your own.

How to get from Paris airports to Paris city centre

Paris has two airports, Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to the North and Orly (ORY) to the South.

Charles de Gaulle airport (CDG) is the main international airport for Paris, and the second busiest airport in Europe after London Heathrow. The two main terminals are Terminal 1, used by most foreign airlines, and Terminal 2, used by Air France, its partners, and some other European flights.

CDG airport is connected to Paris city centre by train (RER), bus or taxi.

• RER trains have two stations at Charles de Gaulle airport, one called “Terminal 1” which is between the terminals and another under Terminal 2.
• Bus Roissybus (run by the Paris bus company) travels from CDG directly to Place de l’Opéra, Departures every 15 – 20 minutes 6 am – 11 pm and Air France also runs a bus service into the city that travellers with all airlines can avail of. Tickets can be purchased in the airport terminal before boarding the bus.
• Taxis are available outside the main arrival area:a ride into Paris costs around 50 Euro but the price increases significantly during rush hour and at busy times. Taxis are a comfortable option to get into the city but the ride can take very long if traffic doesn’t cooperate: do factor in up to one hour if travelling at busy times.

Orly airport is connected to the Paris metro system by RER lines. Orly has two terminals, connected by a dedicated airport train link called OrlyVal. This connects Orly with the RER station at ‘Antony’ where you can board the RER up to the station at Chatelet, near to the Louvre, in the heart of Paris.

Orly is also connected with the Paris Metro system by two bus services, Orlybus and Le Bus Direct.

Click here to go to our Family Guide to Paris.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Top tips for getting around Paris with kids in tow

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What is the best time to visit Paris? As Audrey Hepburn says ‘Paris is always a good idea’. However, while there  is never a bad time to visit Paris, some seasons are better than others. The most pleasant time to visit Paris are the spring and the autumn, when the weather is mild and the crowds not excessive.

The Summer during European school holidays in July and August is the most popular time to visit Paris for families. Prices will be higher and queues at tourist attractions and restaurants will longer but on the positive side, this is the time of the year when weather is more reliable.

• Spring in Paris is March to May
• Summer in Paris is June to August
• Autumn in Paris is September to November
• Winter in Paris is December to February

SPRING IN PARIS (MARCH – MAY)

Spring in Paris is a delight. Weather is March is hit and miss and you may get grey, rainy days. However, spring sees the city slowly come back to life after the cold winter, Paris gorgeous gardens fill up with blossoms and the city’s numerous terrace cafes start filling up with locals and tourists alike.

SUMMER IN PARIS (JUNE – AUGUST)

July and August is peak tourist season in Paris, meaning bigger crowds, longer queues and more expensive hotel rooms. But there is a reason everyone flocks to Paris at this time of year: the long summer days, al fresco dining and open-air cultural events make the city appealing for travellers of all ages. The fireworks on the 14th of July, France’s National day, are a sight to behold.

June and July are the most dynamic months in terms of cultural events and offers. August is, on the other hand, quieter: many Parisians leave the city at this time of the year leaving the city mostly to tourists. Don’t be surprised to see some restaurants closed at this time of year for this reason.

AUTUMN IN PARIS (SEPTEMBER – NOVEMBER)

If you are looking to avoid the crowds in Paris, then Autumn is a great choice. Lines will be shorter at the top Paris attractions, restaurant bookings easier to secure and hotel rooms cheaper.

In terms of weather, there is a significant difference between temperatures in September, and November. September is still very much a summer month in Paris, with the temperatures just starting to turn colder. November, on the other hand, sees shorter and colder days, better suited to sipping red wine in its Bohemian interiors than having a picnic in the park.

Overall, autumn is a great time to visit Paris and one of the best times if you want to enjoy the city’s wonderful museums.

WINTER IN PARIS (DECEMBER – FEBRUARY)

Winter is Paris is cold. The days tend to be short and grey and rain and fog are frequent. However, there are great reasons to visit Paris at time of the year.
December is the time of Christmas celebrations and the city takes its decorations very seriously: the city of lights stays true to its name! Prices are at a premium for hotels but the shops flaunt amazing window displays and concerts and food events abound.

January and February are slower tourist seasons in Paris but with some notable exceptions: January is the month when the sales happen and February sees crowds flocking to Paris to celebrate Valentine’s day in the city of love. If travelling to Paris in winter, do expect higher prices and possibly a shortage of suitable accommodation during these events.

Click here to go to the Paris City Guide. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The best time for visiting Paris and tips on how to enjoy the visit in each season

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New York City is a surprisingly easy city to navigate. It is easily explored on foot and has an affordable and efficient public transport system. The majority of tourists to the city choose to get around New York by using a combination of walking, subway and taxi.

Exploring New York on foot

New York is an easy city to explore on foot. It is mostly flat, with wide pavements making it easy even for small children or parents with strollers. Most of Manhattan, particularly uptown has an easily navigable grid system, with avenues running north to south, and streets running east to west.

Note that this numbered grid system only exists north of Houston Street on the east side of Manhattan and above 14^th Street on the west side. The lower into Manhattan you go, the less uniform in nature the streets are, and you will notice streets have actual names rather than numbers.

When exploring Manhattan on foot, it is useful to know that the distance between streets is shorter than the distance between avenues. So walking time for blocks between streets is around one minute at a brisk pace, whereas walking time between avenues can be between three and five minutes. (This means that walking five blocks from 52^nd Street to 57^th Street will take around 5 minutes, whereas walking two blocks from 5^th Avenue to 7^th Avenue could take around 8 minutes.)

Addresses in Manhattan are often described as being, for example, ‘on the corner of 58^th and 2^nd (meaning 58^th Street and 2^nd Avenue), or ‘on 57^th between 5^th and 6^th (57^th Street between 5^th Avenue and 6^th Avenue).

Another useful fact to remember when navigating Manhattan is that 5^th Avenue divides the city between east and west. This means that street names change either side of 5^th Avenue to, for example, East 57^th Street and West 57^th Street. From an address point of view, these are treated as separate streets – eg. Number 75 East 57^th Street is a different address from 75 West 57^th Street.

To recap:

• Avenues run north to south, streets run east to west.
• The distance between streets is shorter than the distance between avenues.
• The grid system does not exist in lower Manhattan.
• 5^th Avenue divides the city between east and west.
• Street names change either side of 5^th Avenue.

Getting around New York by Subway

The New York subway is the most popular form of transport for visitors to New York City. The New York subway map may look daunting at first but it is actually very easy to use. That being said, here are a few tips to help make riding the New York subway easier.

• Check the subway map inside the station or look at the map online before you travel.
• Subway lines are named by a letter or number. When looking at the map, be sure to follow the letter or number you want to take, and not the colour.
• There are two types of train: local and express. Express trains do not stop at every station, whereas local trains do. When looking at the map, local stations have black dots and express stations have white dots. If you need to get to a station with a black dot, make sure you take a local train.
• The letter or number of the train you need will be noted under the station name on the map.
• Trains head either uptown (north) or downtown (south). Note that some stations have separate entrances for platforms heading uptown and downtown.
• Download either of the following apps to help you navigate the subway more easily: Transit or Citymapper.

New York Subway Tickets

Public transport tickets in New York are known as MetroCards. There are two types of MetroCard for the subway: Pay-per-ride tickets and Unlimited ride tickets.

Tickets can be bought at the machines in the subway stations. You can pay cash or use a credit card. Note that the machines only give a maximum of $9 in change. The smaller top-up machines only accept credit cards.

Pay-per-ride MetroCard: You can buy a SingleRide card, which cost $3 per ride, or a multi-ride ticket, which works out at $2.75 per ride. Multi-ride tickets can be purchased with anything from $5.50 to $80 in credit. These tickets can be topped up at the ticket machines when credit is low.

Unlimited ticket. If you plan on riding the subway a lot (more than 12 times in a week), it will be cheaper to purchase an unlimited ticket, which gives you unlimited rides for 7 days for $32. Note: The unlimited ticket cannot be shared. Once you have swiped the card, it cannot be used again for 18 minutes, to prevent people sharing cards.

Getting around New York by Taxi

The yellow New York taxicabs are one of the iconic sights of New York City. New York taxis are plentiful and relatively cheap. Here are some tips for riding a New York taxi.

• You can hail a New York taxi in the street.
• New York taxis run on a meter.
• If the centre number on top of the cab is illuminated, the taxi is available.
• If no lights on top are illuminated, the taxi is occupied.
• If the whole top light illuminated (taxi number and ‘off duty’ light), the taxi is off duty.
• If you are not traveling to a well known landmark, you can just tell the driver an intersection eg. ‘corner of 57^th and 6^th’ or ‘75^th street between 5^th and 6^th’.
• New York taxis accept cash and credit cards. All taxis have a credit card machine in the back making it easy to pay this way.
• Don’t forget to tip. Credit card machines give you the option to add a tip, or you can tip in cash. Officially the tip should be around 18% – just be sure to add at least at $2 tip to each ride.

Uber in New York

As in other cities in the world, Uber is a popular alternative to taking a taxi. There are always plenty of Uber drivers hovering around Manhattan, so they are never usually more than a few minutes away.

Beyond New York City

If you want to see some of the highlights beyond New York City, there are plentiful places an easy day trip away from NYC.

Some parts of New York State can be reached easily by public transport such as Long Island by the hourly Long Island Rail Road and the Hudson Valley on Metro-North Railroad from Grand Central Station.

Heading to upstate New York or off to the Catskills or the Adirondacks, you may find it easier to hire a car for a family adventure.

Click here to read our New York Family Guide. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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London is a huge sprawling city that has grown over 2,000 years, so it’s not surprising that it can be a bit of a monster to get around with kids! The great news though, is that it is so easy to incorporate “things that go” as part of your adventure, with London having some of the most unique public transport in the world!

Navigating London can be a challenge. London streets don’t move in any sort of straight line, and nor does the Tube. The city can also be very crowded and anti-stroller; but please don’t let this put you off. London is just one of those cities that needs a little more planning and consideration and you’re sure to still enjoy it.

We have loads of great tips for navigating London with kids on our City Travel With Kids Podcast. 

Public Transport

By far the easiest way to get around London is using the expansive public transport network, managed by Transport for London (TfL). Before you get to London we recommend you familiarise yourself with maps of the various public transport networks.

Oyster cards

These can be used as travel cards on all public transport services in central London and some National Rail (outer suburban and regional) services. You will need to load a pre-paid balance to use your Oyster card.

It helps to have the free Oyster app downloaded on your phone to manage your balance. Remember you must tap in and out on the yellow card readers every time to make sure you’re paying the correct fare.

Under 11’s travel for free on the Tube, DLR, Overground, buses and trams when travelling with an adult. 11-15-year-old visitors can get a Young Visitor discount to pay half the adult rate for 14 days. If visiting for any longer you can get them a Zip from Oyster photocard. 

London Underground

The London Underground, affectionately called “The Tube” is one of the oldest and most famous in the world. When it works well, its brilliant! When it doesn’t…

Services run frequently on all lines, some only minutes apart so you’ll never be waiting terribly long. Take care making your way through underground stations – we talk more about navigating stations with young children below.

Top Tip: The distance between stations on the tube map can be deceiving, often it is quicker to walk above ground.

Trains, Trams and Light Rail services

You name it, London has probably got it! Sometimes people don’t think beyond the Tube, but the extensive overground network should also be used in your travel plans. The best FREE app for calculating the quickest routes across town is Citymapper.

Double Decker Buses & London Bus Network

The iconic red double-decker London buses can be the perfect way to whizz about town with kids. London buses also use the Oyster card system where you must tap on.

Buses can be easier to navigate than the Tube when travelling with small children and strollers, although if the stroller parking area on the bus is full you may have to wait for the next service.

You can check London Bus maps here and a handy app to have on your phone is the London Bus Checker.

Learn more about the best public bus routes to take for sightseeing in our 3-day London itinerary. 

London Cabs and Private Hire Vehicles

The most famous of London taxis are Black Cabs, also called a Hackney or Hackney Carriage. They are renowned for their well-trained drivers who know every street in London! They are not cheap but you are guaranteed a safe and reliable service and run on a meter.

There are also a plethora of private hire cars licensed and regulated through TfL. Popular service Uber at the time of writing continues to operate in London, and there are plenty of other app-based private cab services you could try such as Addison Lee.

Using Strollers in London

London is far from the easiest city to navigate with small children. Remember whilst train stations might look like they are connected on a map, they can be vast places. Many sets of steps and escalators may need to be navigated to get from one platform to the next.

While an increasing number of refurbished tube and overland stations do have lifts installed, many do not. You will likely need to rely on the kindness of strangers to get up and down stairs at some point (note TfL staff are not permitted to help you carry a pram or stroller with a baby in it).

There is a great app parents should download before hitting the tube with a stroller called GoBaby (You can get it on iTunes UK store here).

Once you are above ground though and pounding the streets with your kids, you will be grateful for having a stroller with you.

Our best suggestion is to take something that can be folded quick and compact with one hand so you can easily jump on and off transport and fold it into a bus or cab if necessary. Don’t go too small and cheap though or you will find issues with navigating cobbled paths and high curbs. We recommend the Baby Jogger City Tour stroller for city travel.

You can see our full list of suggestions on baby accessories and what to pack for London here

Getting From London’s Airports to the City with Kids

The city of Greater London is massive, so it should come as no surprise that there are 5 major airports that service London. Most visitors’ journeys will likely start from one of the major airports at Heathrow or Gatwick, but there is also City Airport in east London, Stansted Airport in Cambridge and Luton Airport to the north. As there are many complex options you could take, we have given this subject it’s own page.

Click here to see our best advice for getting from London’s airports to central London.

Arriving in London by Rail

The city is also connected to mainland Europe by the Eurorail which arrives into St Pancras Station in the north of London. This is a great connection point through to the north of England as well as the rest of the city.

Take me back to the London Family Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Insider guide on the best way to get around London with kids in tow

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The best time to visit Cape Town is in the southern hemisphere summer months when there are glorious hours of sunshine and the best beach weather.

Cape Town and its surrounds are pleasant year-round if you are visiting out of season but you will get the most out of the outdoor lifestyle and the least chance of rain in the summer months November to March.

Here we highlight what to expect at different times of year in Cape Town.

Summer in Cape Town

As well as experiencing the best weather in December and January, it’s also the busiest time of year so hotel prices are likely to be higher. (See more of our tips on picking a family-friendly Cape Town hotel here). If you visit in February-March you can avoid local school holiday times, meaning good weather and fewer crowds.

Click Here for the official South African Government school holiday calendar 

Note that although it is warm in December to January, you may also be treated to the notorious south-easterly winds.  When the winds are strong, the beaches can be unbearable and the Table Mountain cable car is closed. This weather clears from February through to April and you should get mild pleasant days.

Beach Weather?

The Atlantic Coast beaches are indeed beautiful, but make no mistake even for the hardiest they can still be on the cool side even in mid-summer! Families may prefer the Indian Ocean beaches in False Bay where waters are much warmer – sometimes by as much as 10c!.

For more on Cape Towns best beaches see our things to do in Cape Town guide.

Winter in Cape Town

Although the winter months bring with them more wind, rain and cooler temperatures, there are still some perks to visiting Cape Town and the Western Cape in the winter.

• Whales can be spotted in False Bay from late August to early September.
• Those looking to connect through to Kruger will find, although cool overnight, its an excellent time of year for game spotting after the dry winter.
• The later you come into the winter the better, from early September you will be treated to a wildflower spectacular throughout the Cape peninsular.

Daytime temperatures are usually between 10-20c, so you will need to come wrapped up warm. At this time of year there’s still a good chance you will get some great views and clear visibility at popular locations such as Table Mountain and Cape Point.

Cape Town is one of those cities though like Melbourne, Australia that can be known to experience 4 seasons in one day!

Be sure to pack all the right things you will need to cope with the Cape Town weather, see our Cape Town Packing List 

Click here to go to the Cape town family visitors guide 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

What is the weather like in Cape Town, what is the best time to visit? Find all the answers in this guide to the best time to visit Cape Town as a family

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How to dress in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

If you are visiting the Middle East for the first time it can certainly be confusing knowing what information to follow on the Abu Dhabi and Dubai dress code.

Our Insider Guide is here to help you make the right packing decisions for you and your family and understand what to wear in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

What to wear in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for women and men

The United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country, but not as conservative as some of its Middle East counterparts. There are, however, minimum standards expected of tourists, and the Emirates dress code can vary depending on what situation you are in.

Private resort settings are treated differently to public spaces like malls or the theatre. Likewise the Dubai mall dress code is going to be very different to the dress code for an Abu Dhbai mosque, for example.

Read on for all our tips for dealing with the dress code in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Dressing in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for religion and the heat

Although daytime temperatures are warm to hot (to stinking hot!) for most of the year (see our guide to the best time to visit), it’s important to remember that you are in a Muslim country.

You will see that most locals dress in a traditional regional outfit – that is a long white kandurah and gutrah (headpiece) for men and a long black abaya with a Shayla (head covering) for women. Some women will wear the burka, but these days it’s not as common.

However the Abu Dhabi and Dubai dress code for female tourists is by no means expected to be the same, nor are you expected to have your head covered.

We do however suggest at a minimum you should look to cover from shoulders down to your knees and avoid over revealing or clingy clothes, especially during Ramadan.

For women, carrying a shawl or pashmina with you is always a good idea to cover up if you feel awkward – and for a bit of sun and dust protection! If you are entering the Grand Mosque or any religious or government building you will need to hire a full-length abaya and cover your head.

Women can wear leggings under a dress – a great solution if your dress is a little short, but avoid tight, revealing bottoms and showing too much cleavage. Cut off shorts, midriff tops and spaghetti straps are all wardrobe no-nos when it comes to clothes to wear in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

For men, you will find that despite the heat nearly all gents wear full-length trousers. Bringing some light chinos is a good idea, or if you do wear shorts, try and make them knee length.

The best thing to bear in mind is “am I dressed with modesty?” If in doubt, a helpful hotel concierge may be able to guide you.

What should I wear to the beach in Dubai?

If you are at the beach or waterpark in the UAE some women will wear full-length burkinis, while others will strip down to fairly skimpy bathers.

To be comfortable and not offend those around you, we suggest you stick somewhere in the middle for your Dubai beach dress code – a one-piece or bikini that fully covers your bottom.

Some beaches or pools will explicitly state the minimum standard of dress needed – such as t-shirts on adults, and this is strictly enforced (such as Jumeirah family beach).

If you are asked by security to cover up a little, do so without argument. Security are well within their right to call the police if you do not cooperate when it comes to clothing rules.

Topless bathing is strictly not allowed – in fact, it’s illegal! Equally avoid wearing thongs, even at a resort. As soon as you leave a pool or beach area, make sure you are covered up again.

What are children expected to wear?

Prepubescent children should feel free to wear what they please when it comes to dressing in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Once they are teenagers however, they have the same dress requirements as adults.

For more ideas on what you should be packing for the UAE, don’t forget to check out our Abu Dhabi Packing List and our Dubai Packing List.

Our City Insider: Keri Hedrick

Keri is a long-time UAE resident with 3 children. You can read more about Keri and all our City Insiders here.

Want to be our next city insider? We all recruiting insiders from around the globe to help provide details from the best place to eat to where to pick up bargains or best way to avoid the crowds! You can apply to be a Little City Insider here.

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Bangkok has notoriously bad traffic jams. So if you are wondering how to get around Bangkok, there are plenty of public transport options to help you avoid the traffic.

Public transport in Bangkok includes the BTS Skytrain, MRT (underground/subway) and River Taxis. Taxis are also cheap and abundant, and for fun, you will still find tuk tuks around the city.

Read on for more details in tackling Bangkok’s public transport system.

BTS Skytrain

The BTS Skytrain is the most efficient way to get around the inner city of Bangkok. The trains run from 6am-midnight daily, and with just two lines it is easy to navigate. Most bars, restaurants, attractions and hotels in Bangkok are within a short walk of a BTS Skytrain station. Many of the city’s shopping malls have direct access to the Skytrain via a skywalk.

You can buy single BTS Skytrain tickets or a 1-day pass if you are planning on using the Skytrain a lot in one day. A 3-day ‘Rabbit’ card is also available.

MRT (underground/subway)

Similar to the Skytrain, but underground, the MRT will connect you with most places you want to go in the city. The MRT runs from 6am-midnight.

Bangkok River Taxis

Another great way to avoid the traffic jams of Bangkok is to take to the Chao Praya River, as many of the main tourist attractions in Bangkok are easily accessible from the river. Run by the Chao Praya Express Boat Company, there are various routes, indicated by the colour of flag they display.

The most popular boat with visitors to Bangkok is the Chao Praya Tourist Boat (blue flag). These are less crowded than local boats, and quicker as they only stop at select piers that are close to tourist attractions. The tourist boats run every 30 minutes from 9am to around 6pm. Tickets cost 50B for a single journey or 180B for a 1-day pass.

Bangkok Taxis

Thanks to the terrible traffic in Bangkok, taking a taxi should be a last resort when it comes to getting around. Bangkok taxi drivers do have a reputation for trying to rip off tourists, so if you do need to take one, make sure the driver switches on the meter.

An alternative to taxis in Bangkok is Grab, which is similar to Uber. Download the app to your phone and you can order a car at the touch of a button.

Tuk Tuk

A ride in a tuk tuk is always fun, and every visitor to Thailand should take at least one ride in one. They are a good option for short distances. The kids will love it too! There are no meters in tuk tuks, so be sure to negotiate before you set off.

Getting from Bangkok Airport to City Centre

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport is around 30km from the city. You have the choice of train, taxi or public bus/van to get into the city from Bangkok airport. Bangkok Airport is renowned for having long queues at immigration. Click here to arrange a VIP fast-track service!

Airport Rail Link

The quickest and easiest way to get into the city is via the Airport Rail Link. Trains run every 15 minutes and take approximately 30 minutes into the city, calling at six stops along the way. Trains run from 6am – midnight. You can buy tokens from the machines in the train station. Note that commuters use these trains too, so they can get busy at peak times.

If you are taking the train from Bangkok airport to the city, you have two best choices:

• Connect with the MRT at Makkasan City interchange station.
• Connect to the BTS Skytrain or pick up a taxi at Phaya Thai station.

Taxi from Bangkok airport to city

If you have a lot of luggage, you may prefer to take a taxi into Bangkok city centre from the airport. This will take anywhere between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on traffic.

Taxis leave from level 1 of the arrivals terminal. English speaking officials man the taxi desk and will give you a piece of paper with your taxi driver registration details on it, for use in case of a complaint. Make sure the taxi driver uses the meter.

The taxi fare will cost anywhere from 250B-400B depending on final destination and traffic. An airport surcharge of 50B will be added to your fare, plus an expressway toll of 25B.

Alternatively, click here to arrange a private transfer to your hotel

Public Bus / Public Van

The Bangkok airport rail link is cheap, but you can also take the bus from Bangkok airport to the city. First, you need to take the airport shuttle bus to the Public Transport Centre and from here you can pick up a bus or van to the city.

Take me back to the Bangkok City Guide

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Thanks to its location on Australia’s south coast, Melbourne is the country’s most seasonal city, experiencing hot summers through to cold winters and everything in between!

You can visit Melbourne throughout the year but Spring (October to December) and Autumn (March through to May) are definitely the best months when you’re most likely to encounter sunshine, but not stifling heat.

Be warned that Melbourne has a BIG reputation for experiencing 4 seasons in one day. You might have a heatwave followed by a cold front that drops the temperature by 10 degrees followed by a downpour!

When the sun comes out though, there is nowhere more glorious to be. But always pack an umbrella year-round! 

Click here to read more tips for packing for Melbourne.

Melbourne is really a city of culture and nature lovers, so finding out when events are on is a great way to plan your trip (do note however that hotels can book up and be more expensive during popular events).

It can also be a little busier over the school holidays, though not as extreme as other cities (Melbournians have a tendency to head to the northern states during school holidays).

Melbourne in Summer

January and February are Melbourne’s hottest months but are also a hub of activity. It’s not unusual for the city to experience extremely hot days in excess of 40c (104f) and you’ll find locals and visitors alike flocking to any patch of water they can to cool down. Popular places near to the city are St Kilda and Brighton Beach, and all the way along the Mornington Peninsular (to the east) and Bellarine Peninsular (to the west).

The Australian Open tennis is held in January which brings a great multicultural feel to the city. With local kids being on school holidays too, there are normally a lot of family-friendly activities going on all over town for the little ones to join in.

With the heat can also come high fire danger. If you are taking day trips out into the bush, please be careful to heed warnings. Also, remember your sun safety. Even on a cloudy day the UV rays are particularly strong here and can burn fair skin in minutes.

Melbourne in Autumn

March is the absolute perfect time to visit Melbourne. You can still get some long mild to warm days and enjoy the great outdoors.  The Australian Grand Prix in Albert Park always brings a hub of activity, as does the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. The delightful Moomba Festival on the banks of the Yarra has been entertaining Melbourne families over labour day long weekend for decades.

Heading to Melbourne for a long weekend? Find a great guide on how to spend 3 days in Melbourne here

Kids are back at school from the end of January through until Easter time, so it can be less crowded to get around and the weather is a little more predictable. The many parks and avenues around Melbourne are planted with deciduous trees so you will get a glorious display of colour.

By May it can be getting pretty crisp and cool and the rainy days start to set in.

Melbourne in Winter

It’s fair to say that winter is not Melbourne’s finest season! It is a great time to enjoy local sports though, like Aussie Rules, and enjoy other cultural, shopping and indoor options… but I would hold off on planning your BBQ!

There is plenty of indoor exploring to do though in a city used to rainy day alternatives! You’ll find lots going on at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) particularly over the July school holidays, as well as the ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Images) at Fed Square and the Melbourne Museum.

See more Melbourne indoor activity ideas here

Pop-up skate rinks are also increasingly popular attractions or visit the O’Brien Group Arena in Docklands for indoor skating action year-round.

Melbourne in Spring

The entrance of Spring is marked by the end of the Aussie Rules footy season, with the AFL Grand Final being played in the last weekend of September. This is swiftly followed by the captivating Spring Racing Carnival. Even if horse racing isn’t really your thing, the floral and fashion are unmissable and there’s a great vibe around town.

Although the rain tends to ease towards year-end, it can still be quite cool all the way through to the end of December.

Check Victorian State Holidays here

Take me back to the Melbourne City Guide

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The city of Cape Town is relatively easy to navigate with several options, from walking in the daytime to reliable public transport and shuttle services in the evening.

Do note that although Cape Town is considered a relatively safe South African city to visit, there are basic safety precautions we recommend you take. See advice in our Cape Town family travel guide for recommended precautions that apply to all travellers.

Public Transport in Cape Town

My Citi

Cape Town’s public bus system is reliable and cheap. Every passenger needs their own myconnect card loaded with money, except for children under four years old and less than one metre tall, who travel free. Cash is not accepted on the buses.

Always remember to swipe on and off to get charged the right amount. You can find out more about fares and routes here.

Cape Town Taxis

Taxis are the most expensive way to get around Cape Town, but are still a lot cheaper than you would expect to pay in many other major cities. Metro taxis can be either flagged down, taken from a taxi stand (popular spots in town include Greenmarket Square or either end of Adderley Street) or pre-booked with numerous different taxi companies.

Although taxies are metered, it is recommended that you always ask for an estimated price before you go. The meter rate varies between R10-R20 per kilometre. From the city centre to the V&A Waterfront, expect to pay approximately R50-R70.

Uber

Uber is an increasingly popular way to get around Cape Town, and by all reports is a safe and easy option. Using the app you can order uberBlack and uberX to your exact location with fares taken from your credit card, and you are able to track the driver’s movements on the app.

Other Transport Options in Cape Town

City Sightseeing Bus

A city sightseeing bus is a tourist favourite in cities worldwide, and Cape Town is no exception. These open top buses can be a great way to get orientated with the city, with commentary provided. See more on how to book City Sightseeing Bus tickets and save money on our Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Cape Town page.

Hotel Shuttle

Many hotels will offer a free shuttle service, particularly those hotels located outside of the main tourist areas and hotels will often insist you take their free hotel shuttle rather than walking at night. You may be restricted in your timings, but it will save you a few rand on a taxi!

Hotels may also have recommended drivers that they trust and be able to book a private car service for you. Always enquire at your hotel as to the best and safest way to get about; your hosts will know current safety conditions and reputable companies.

Hiring a Car in Cape Town

Hiring a car is our best suggestion for getting around Cape Town and the Western Cape with a family. It will give you flexibility for taking day trips as many of Cape Towns top attractions are not centrally located and many hotels include parking for free.

It’s the perfect option if you’re heading onwards from Cape Town to explore the Garden route, you can pay a one-way fee to leave the car in Port Elizabeth.

A few things to note/be aware of:

• South Africa is a left-hand drive country (so the steering wheel is on the right!).
• Distance and speed are marked in kilometres.
• Petrol stations are full service. You should have a few rand spare for your ‘petrol jockey’.
• Parking in the centre of Cape Town can be notoriously difficult. There are official and unofficial traffic wardens/guards – and it’s not always easy to tell. Many will expect a tip to ‘look after your car’, which given the small cost involved, even when it’s free parking, is normally your easiest option. Keep a few rand in your pocket for this too.

Getting from Cape Town Airport to the city

The most common way to arrive in the city is via Cape Town International Airport (CPT), located 20 kilometres from the city centre.

The cheapest way to get from the airport into Cape Town is using the My CitiBus service, which costs around 90 rand. The bus will drop you at the Civic Centre on Hertzog Boulevard in central Cape Town. Services run from between 05:00 until midnight, and travel time is approximately 30 minutes.

The Public Transport Plaza is directly opposite the Central Terminal Building entrance and can be accessed using the subway under the main road. Tickets can be purchased here.

If you are travelling with a family, you may prefer the convenience of taking shuttle services offered by your accommodation (pre-booking is advised) or hire a car.

Take me back to the Cape Town City Guide

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Insiders’ tips on how to get around Cape Town and discover the city with ease

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Being in the heart of the Middle East, expect long hot summers and mild winters. This means that the best time to visit Dubai is from late October through to late April. The UAE doesn’t really follow regular seasons of the year – just mild, hot, very hot and OMG!!!

What to expect during Summer in Dubai

Peak summer temperatures can be as high as 50c (122F). Life really moves indoors over the hot summer months as daytime temperatures can be unbearable – even too hot to sit by your hotel pool or beachside (July/August).  You’ll find there is more life and activity late in the evenings where temperatures drop to the low 30’s and its bearable (just!) to be outside.

The heat really starts to kick in from early April and this lasts through until late October, depending on your tolerance levels! The end of summer brings more humidity too.

What to expect during Winter in Dubai

Dubai in the winter is full of festivity. A sign it is getting cooler is when the outdoor Ripe Markets return to Dubai’s popular parks and a number of seasonal attractions open their doors again, such as Global Village, Dubai Garden Glow and Dubai Miracle Garden. (You can read more about them here).

National Day Celebrations occur on 2 December and the weeks leading up to this are full of festivity. You will likely see a lot of UAE flags draped over buildings, shopping malls, and even cars! This colour and excitement continues through to Christmas. Although a Muslim country, the retailers and hoteliers certainly don’t miss a trick with the captive tourist audience and you’re bound to find loads of Christmas Markets, Santas and Christmas trees wherever you turn!

Whilst the middle of winter (December/January) may not be the best time of year for visiting the beach, make the most of the cooler weather to try a number of outdoor activities. Favourite outdoor activities include desert safaris, sandboarding, zip lining – you name it, Dubai has probably got it!

Common questions about visiting Dubai

Does it rain in Dubai?

It is not unusual for it to occasionally rain over the cooler winter months – or it could stay dry all winter. We wouldn’t recommend packing an umbrella “just in case” as you will find if it does rain everyone hunkers down indoors – and the roads become utter chaos!

You may experience other atmospheric conditions though like fog (can play havoc on the airports especially during the cooler months) and sand storms are not an uncommon occurrence. On a windy day, you will notice a fine coat of sand on pretty much everything!

What should I wear in Dubai?

This can be an understandably confusing topic if you are new to the Middle East. There are different rules for different places and unfortunately, many tourists flaunt the rules. Jump over to our dress code in Dubai post to understand more about accepted standards for family dress.

If you are heading inland on a desert safari you will get cooler overnights in winter but probably no need for more than an extra wrap or sweater.

Click here for a full guide on what to wear and what to pack for Dubai

An important note on Ramadan in Dubai

It’s important to observe each year when the Holy Month of Ramadan will occur. The 9th month in the Hijri calendar (the start date changes by approximately 10 days on the Gregorian calendar each year) is a period of deep religious reflection for Muslims and is strictly observed.

The most important thing to observe is fasting with no eating in public allowed, but also no public displays of affection and ensure the modest dress code is strictly followed. It can be a little confusing for visitors to know exactly what to expect. We wouldn’t entirely advise against visiting at this time but you will have quite a different experience, joining in with iftar (the evening breaking of the fast) and overnight festivities.

The other thing you may observe is that many businesses and attractions are closed during the day and only open in the evening. If you are only in Dubai for a short stopover you need to be conscious of this or you may find yourself stranded in the heat with little to do!

Our Globetrotters have a detailed guide on what to expect during the Holy Month if you are looking for more guidance on the do’s and don’ts.

In 2018 Ramadan started on 17 May, and will end with Eid al Fitr celebrations (breaking of the fast) on approximately 15 June.  Exact dates are determined by moon sightings and confirmed only 24 hours beforehand.

Back to our Family Guide to Dubai

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What is the weather like in Dubai and what should you expect? This guide reveals all you need to know to pick the best time to visit Dubai with kids

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Hong Kong is an easy city to explore using public transport. However, note that it is a very busy city with lots of steep hills and steps. For this reason it is one of the least stroller-friendly cities in the world. If you have a baby, consider using a baby carrier instead of stroller. With toddlers and young kids, plan your day accordingly so you don’t need to walk too far.

If you are planning to do a lot of exploring by public transport, it makes sense to purchase an Octopus card when you arrive in the city. You can use these on all forms of public transport (not taxis) and it saves you from having to search around for small change and buy tickets every time you want to travel.

You can top up your Octopus cards in MTR stations and some convenience stores and supermarkets. You can also use them to pay for items in some convenience stores and supermarkets.

Hong Kong Public Transport Tips

• Children under 3 travel free and children aged 3-11 travel half price.
• Most MTR stations have disability access, making it easy to take a stroller.
• Download the MTR Mobile app for help with MTR route planning.
• Buy an Octopus card to save searching for coins and buying tickets each time you travel.

MTR (underground/subway)

The MTR is the public transport of choice for most visitors to Hong Kong. It is clean, cheap and efficient and will take you to most places you want to go. Over 90% of MTR stations have disability access, meaning taking a stroller on the MTR is relatively easy. You will find that you have to queue for a lift usually though.

The MTR is easy to navigate and you will find an MTR map in all stations. You will also find surrounding area maps with exit information in most MTR stations. This is important for stations with multiple exits, which can often be quite far apart.

Hong Kong Trams

The Hong Kong trams are the most atmospheric mode of transport in Hong Kong. They are rickety and old but great fun for sightseeing with the kids. They are also super-cheap (less than .30c USD per ticket). The tramlines run the length of Hong Kong Island and your ticket allows you to travel as far as you want. Enter from the back, and pay as you leave from the front. Take a seat at the front upstairs for the best views.

Hong Kong Public Bus

There is a comprehensive public bus network that covers the whole of Hong Kong. Each bus stop is clearly marked with the bus number and timetable and stops. A popular bus with tourists is the number 6, which runs from Central to Stanley over the top of the mountain, giving fantastic views.

Green Minibuses operate on fixed routes and fixed fares. These can be flagged down and will stop wherever you want them to along the route – just shout to the driver! There are also designated stops if you don’t feel comfortable shouting out to the driver.

Hong Kong Taxis

Hong Kong taxis are plentiful and cheap. You can flag them down on the street or go to a designated taxi stand. Available taxis have a round light glowing on their dashboard. Most taxi drivers have a basic understanding of English and know most addresses.  However, if you are unsure, either have your address written in Chinese characters or download the Hong Kong Taxi Translator app.

Note that some taxi stands are specifically for taxis crossing the harbour to either Kowloon or Hong Kong Island. You will also sometimes find if you pick up a Kowloon taxi on Hong Kong Island (or vice versa), that the driver won’t know his way around very well.

Hong Kong taxi drivers aren’t officially allowed to refuse to take you to your chosen destination. However, if they are about to change shift, they may refuse to take you if it is too far out of their way. Likewise they may refuse to take you across the harbour too.

Hong Kong taxis are metred and it is illegal for taxi drivers to overcharge you or ask for a fixed fare. Your metred fare will have any bridge and tunnel tolls added to it, and you will be charged per item of luggage in the boot of the car also.

You may like to get the HK Taxi App as recommended by our city expert in the Hong Kong with Kids episode of our City Travel with Kids Podcast.

Getting from Hong Kong Airport to the City

Hong Kong International Airport is around 30km from the city. You have various options to get into Hong Kong from the airport: the Airport Express train, taxi, hotel shuttle bus or public bus.

Airport Express Hong Kong

The quickest and easiest way to get from Hong Kong airport into the city is via the Airport Express train. Trains are clean and air-conditioned with free Wi-Fi and journey time is just 22 minutes to Kowloon station and 24 minutes to Central Station. There are always plenty of taxis waiting at the Airport Express stations in town to transfer you to your Hong Kong accommodation.

Insider Tip: In-town check-in at the Airport Express

When returning to the airport, with most airlines you can check in for your flight at the Airport Express station in Central or Kowloon. This is particularly handy if you have a few hours between hotel check-out and going to the airport. You then travel to the airport on the train with just your hand luggage and proceed straight to security when you get there.

* This service is currently not available for flights to the USA.

Taxi from Hong Kong Airport to City

If there are four of you in the family (with children over the age of 3), a taxi into town will be a similar cost as four train tickets and has the benefit of taking you directly to your hotel front door. Travel time will be around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Note that bridge and tunnel tolls will be added to your taxi fare.

Hotel Shuttle Bus

Another option to get from Hong Kong airport to the city is to take the Airport Shuttle bus, which stops at many hotels both in Kowloon and on Hong Kong Island. The bus takes between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on your destination and buses depart from the airport every 30 minutes.

Save time at the airport and click here to pre-book your Hotel Shuttle bus tickets 

Public Bus from Hong Kong Airport to City

If you are on a budget, the public bus will cost you just $40 HKD into town and takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. Citybus A11 is the most popular with tourists and will take you to Central, Admiralty, Wan Chai and Causeway Bay in downtown Hong Kong island. These double-decker buses are air-conditioned with large luggage racks.

Take me back to the Hong Kong city guide.

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Our insider guide to the best way to get around Hong Kong and use Hong Kong public transport with kids in tow

The post How to get around Hong Kong appeared first on Little City Trips.

Tokyo enjoys four distinct seasons. If you visiting Japan with kids, the best time to visit Tokyo is in the Spring or Autumn seasons, when temperatures are pleasant, humidity is low and there is less chance of rain. It is also shoulder season for tourists so you should be able to get some good deals on accommodation.

Summertime in Tokyo can be very hot and humid, and also busy with tourists, so prices will be higher and Tokyo’s most popular attractions will busier.

• Best time for Spring visits is late March – early May.
• Best time for Autumn visits is October – early December.
• Cherry Blossom season in Tokyo is usually end of March – early April.
• Fall Foliage peak period is usually mid-November – early December.
• Try to avoid Golden Week at end April-early May when much of Japan takes holidays.

Need help packing for Japan? Click here to read our Tokyo packing list.

Spring in Tokyo

Spring is a great time to visit Japan, running from March to May. Weather is usually pleasant at this time of year with plenty of sunshine and little rain. You will enjoy warm days, with a sweater or light jacket required for chillier evenings.

Do bear in mind that Cherry Blossom season is a hugely popular time to visit Japan. In Tokyo, peak cherry blossom viewing time is usually end of March to beginning of April. If you are not particularly fussed about viewing the blossoms, you should avoid this time as hotel prices will be higher and attractions will be busier.

Also be aware of Japan’s Golden Week. This is peak vacation time of the year for many Japanese, and you will find attractions busier, hotel rooms more expensive and some businesses closed. Golden Week takes place at the end of April/beginning of May.

Either side of both Cherry Blossom peak season and Golden Week, you should be able to find some good hotel deals in Tokyo.

Summer in Tokyo

Summer in Japan is hot (up to 40 degrees) and extremely humid. June is also the rainiest month for most of Japan. Despite the oppressive heat and humidity, summer is peak season in Japan, so it is also the busiest and most expensive season to visit.

Autumn in Tokyo

After the typhoon season in September, the weather becomes very pleasant in Tokyo for the rest of the autumn from October to the beginning of December. Humidity is low and temperatures are usually warm and pleasant, although it can get a little chilly towards the end of November and in the evenings.

You can pick up a great itinerary for tackling Tokyo in the fall here.

Fall foliage is a huge attraction in Japan, so you may see an increase in hotel room prices around peak foliage season – usually mid-November to early December.

Winter in Tokyo

If you don’t mind colder temperatures, Tokyo usually enjoys crisp, clear weather in winter, with little or no snow. Temperatures rarely fall below 0 degrees.

Take me back to the Tokyo City Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Our guide to the best time to visit Tokyo and tips for visiting in all seasons

The post The Best Time to Visit Tokyo appeared first on Little City Trips.

Melbourne is a city that has very much grown from the centre and sprawled outwards. Public transport in the city centre of Melbourne is good but not so much once you head out of town.

If you are planning any day trips with a family, it might pay to hire a car – just be warned if you are parking it in town, parking costs can be steep!

Click here to read more advice on where to stay in Melbourne

Public Transport in Melbourne

Most visitors stay in and around Melbourne’s city centre. The grid layout makes the city easy to navigate, although it’s often hillier than you expect if you are sightseeing with little ones!

Get yourself a myki card

A myki card is needed for travel on all of Melbourne’s trains, trams and buses. You pre-pay money onto this plastic smart card, which is then deducted each time its used. You can top up your myki card online, over the phone or in person at various shops (including 7-Eleven) and at top-up machines in train stations and selected tram stops.

Myki cards can be purchased online in advance for a small amount $6/$3 AUD (only for Australian credit card holders), or pick them up from premium train stations or any retail stores advertising myki.

Do kids need a myki?

Yes, children aged 5- 17 will need their own myki and will receive concessional fares, as well students and seniors. Children 4 and under do not need one.

Do I get any extras with my myki?

Not with a standard myki, but a myki Explorer Pack (available from the Melbourne Visitor Center in Federation Square, Southern Cross Stations or SkyBus terminals) will get you transport in zone 1-2 for one day, plus discounted entry to 18 attractions across the city – you can see the full listing of attractions included here.

The myki card is only valid for one day of transport use, but can then be topped up like a normal myki – well worth taking this option for the ongoing discounts.

Melbourne Trams

One of the most popular ways to get around the inner city is on Melbourne’s iconic trams. Most of the traditional old trams have been replaced by sleek, light rail versions in all but the city circle route, where you can catch a heritage tram with commentary

You can find a complete 3-day itinerary for seeing all of Melbourne’s famous sites here.

Note trams within and around the CBD only are FREE to use. If you head into Zone 1 or 2, you will need to tap in with your myki (and inspectors show no mercy or ignorance that you’re a tourist, you’ll get an on the spot fine).

Metro Trains Melbourne

How to get from Melbourne Airport to the City

From Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL), there are surprisingly limited public transport choices. The SkyBus or taxis are pretty much your only options unless you hire a car or driver.

SkyBus is about a third of the cost of a taxi, and they have thoughtfully got family fares. A single fare, which includes one adult and up to 4 children is $19 AUD, whilst 2 adults and up to 4 children is $38 AUD (you can save a little buying online in advance).

SkyBus City Center operates 24 hours a day and drops off at the corner of Spencer & Bourke Streets in the CBD. Services to St Kilda and Frankston have restricted operating hours.

The airport is between 25-45 minutes from the CBD, but this can be highly dependent on traffic conditions. If you are travelling in peak morning and evening times, allow yourself plenty of extra time. SkyBus recommend you leave up to 1.5 hours for the journey back to the airport.

How much is a taxi from Melbourne Airport to the city?

You can expect a taxi to cost around $55- $65 AUD, including the airport taxi surcharge. They are in plentiful supply at the airport and do not need to be advance booked.

Hiring a Car in Melbourne

Melbourne is one of those cities you may benefit from having a car if you’d like to take day trips beyond the city centre. If you will be parking in the city, download the PayStay app for cashless street parking.

If you are new to Melbourne driving, make sure you give way to trams and study up on how to do a hook turn! (a special road layout in the CBD, designed for right-hand turns that won’t block the tram lines). Speeding is also scrupulously monitored, so make sure you don’t veer over the signposted limit or expect hefty fines.

Melbourne has a number of tollway systems. These are all electronic, no cash pay booths. If you’re hiring a car, your etag will be included in the vehicle and payment system explained.

Want to know more about Melbourne with kids? Where are the best areas to stay? What to do?

Head to our Melbourne City Guide homepage

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Family guide on howt o get around Melbourne with kids in tow

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What is the best time to visit Hong Kong? It really depends on whether you like the weather hot and humid or prefer cooler temperatures. People think of Hong Kong as being very hot and humid, but in reality it enjoys mild weather for half the year.

Hong Kong’s heat and humidity drops from October onwards until around April and so this is the most pleasant time of year for sightseeing. Autumn is the optimal time to visit, when both humidity and temperatures have dropped off after a hot and humid summer. Spring temperatures and humidity are also pleasant, but the weather is more unpredictable with heavy downpours common.

The summer in Hong Kong is very hot and humid, and it is also typhoon season at this time of year, so it is not such a popular time with visitors. If you don’t like heat and humidity, avoid the summer months in Hong Kong. January and February can get quite cold, though rarely much below 10 degrees Celsius.

• Summer months are very hot and humid, particularly June-August.
• Winter months January & February are the coldest.
• Spring weather is unpredictable with heavy downpours common.
• Fall is usually pleasant temperatures and lower humidity.
• Typhoon season runs June to October, although can start as early as April.
• Public holidays in China, particularly Chinese New Year and Golden Week, are busy times for tourists in Hong Kong.

Need help packing for your Hong Kong trip? Click here to read our Hong Kong packing list.

Spring in Hong Kong

Although temperatures and humidity are pleasant in the Spring, the weather is unpredictable and so you could be lucky or unlucky during a Spring visit to Hong Kong. Heavy downpours are common, but these rarely last longer than a few hours.

Summer in Hong Kong

Summer in Hong Kong can be unbearably hot and humid. This is not a good time to be sightseeing in Hong Kong with kids. Summer is also typhoon season in Hong Kong, and even if there are no typhoon warnings, there are often typhoons in the vicinity, which result in inclement weather in Hong Kong as well as higher levels of pollution. You can expect more rain, wind and thunderstorms at this time of year.

Autumn in Hong Kong

After a hot and steamy summer, the humidity and temperatures drop from October onwards. October to December is a pleasant time of year, with the city enjoying low humidity, cooler temperatures and low rainfall. This is a great time of year for sightseeing in Hong Kong.

Note that the first week of October is Golden Week in China, when they enjoy an entire week of public holidays. Given that much of Hong Kong’s tourism comes from China, this can be a busy time at tourist attractions and for Hong Kong hotel bookings.

Winter in Hong Kong

Winter, particularly in January and February, can be surprisingly cold in Hong Kong. You will definitely need to pack a sweater and jacket at this time of year. Temperatures rarely drop much below 10 degrees Celsius though.

Chinese New Year is celebrated every year in January or February. While this can be a fun time to visit Hong Kong, it can also be a busy time for hotel bookings and will also affect restaurant bookings, and how busy attractions are. Some businesses are closed during this period.

Take me back to the Hong Kong City Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Insider guide to the best time to visit Hong Kong

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Although getting around Abu Dhabi is relatively easy, most visitors choose to take taxis rather than hire a car or take public transport when sightseeing in Abu Dhabi.

Here we share our top insider tips to help you figure out how to get around Abu Dhabi.

We also have a 3-day family-friendly itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi Public Transport

Abu Dhabi Taxi – TransAD

Taxi is often considered the best way to get around Abu Dhabi for visitors.

Although there are many different taxi companies, they are all regulated and booked via TransAD.

Taxis are in plentiful supply out the front of hotels and malls, although at large events can be more difficult to come by. Should you find yourself stranded or need to make an Abu Dhabi taxi booking, call this Abu Dhabi taxi number: 600 53 53 53 or use the TransAD Abu Dhabi taxi app.

Abu Dhabi taxi fares are relatively cheap, taxis are metered and (most) drivers understand the city’s grid system.

The ever-changing street names and numbering system can cause confusion, so if you’re taking a taxi in Abu Dhabi, it’s best to go by describing the landmark you are looking for and specify any preferred route, if known, rather than just giving the address.

Note that Uber is currently banned in Abu Dhabi, but the Careem ride-hailing app continues to operate.

Abu Dhabi Bus Service

There is a public Abu Dhabi bus service and many bus stops have air conditioning.

The Abu Dhabi bus system is cheap to use with most inner-city fares only costing 2AED. However, you will need to get each person a temporary Hafilat card, issued from the central Abu Dhabi bus station for 5 AED. Note though that getting this Abu Dhabi bus card can often be more hassle than its worth for a short visit.

You can see more on the Abu Dhabi bus timings and routes on the Department of Transport website.

Driving in Abu Dhabi – Hiring a Car

Driving in Abu Dhabi can be challenging for newcomers. Although the roads are wide and in good condition, traffic moves very fast and there are a lot of one-way systems as well as constant road works and trucks to contend with.

Only confident drivers should look to hire and self-drive in Abu Dhabi.

There are plentiful car hire companies at Abu Dhabi airport to choose from. Vehicles are left-hand drive and car seats for children under 4 in private vehicles were made compulsory on 1 July 2017.

To hire a car in Abu Dhabi, all you will need is a drivers licence from your home country written in English or Arabic.

Note that tolls are added to Abu Dhabi roads leading on and off the main island from October 2019. Your hire car will come fitted with a tag for tolls.

Walking in Abu Dhabi – Is Abu Dhabi Stroller friendly?

Sadly, in many places, Abu Dhabi it is not stroller friendly. Nor is it particularly accessible for wheelchair users.

There are lots of parks and long stretches, like the Corniche, where you can walk with a stroller uninterrupted. However, as soon as you head into downtown parts of Abu Dhabi, you’ll frustratingly find pavements to be high and inconsistent; down ramps with no connecting up ramps; lampposts or signage in the middle of footpaths; or even no sidewalk at all!

With the heat and these obstacles, its often easier to catch a taxi in Abu Dhabi, even if you are only going a few short blocks.

You can check out our full list of suggested items to pack for Abu Dhabi here.

Getting from Abu Dhabi Airport to the City

From the airport, the easiest way to get to town or your Abu Dhabi accommodation is with an Abu Dhabi airport taxi. (Please don’t take a limousine tout in the terminal – 99% of the time they are trying to rip you off, yet somehow still seem to be operating!)

• The official airport taxis in Abu Dhabi are well signposted at the exit and easy to identify black Mercedes vans.
• Abu Dhabi airport to city taxis charge an initial flag-fall of 25AED. To Yas Island, the total fare is only around 45AED ($12USD) and takes 10 minutes.
• To the Corniche your fare could be up to 100AED ($27USD) and take 30-40 minutes, maybe a little longer if you hit peak hour traffic on the freeway.
• If you download the taxi app there is an Abu Dhabi taxi fare calculator to work out approximate costs.

Another option for an Abu Dhabi airport transfer is the bus. This leaves from outside the lower level of Terminals 1 and 3.

Look for the Green and White A1 Abu Dhabi airport bus, which will take you past the main bus station (corner of Muroor Road and 11th) all the way to the Old Fish Market on Al Nasr Street.

Returning to the airport, you can catch any cab from the street, or arrange a transfer with a private airport transfer company.

Travelling with young children in Abu Dhabi

Taxis are not fitted with any sort of car seat. You will need to bring your own or book a private pick up service such as Careem Kids.

How to get from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Looking to head to Dubai? Currently, the only public transport from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is Intercity Buses.

You can catch this Abu Dhabi to Dubai bus at the Abu Dhabi bus station, and alight at either the IBN Battuta Mall or Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai. The cost is 25AED each way.

These services run fairly regularly throughout the day, but just be mindful that you will need to catch another bus or taxi to connect at either end.

With a family group, you may be better off getting a taxi to drive the Abu Dhabi to Dubai distance. This way you can get dropped directly at your destination. Another option to taking a taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is hiring a private driver who can come with you for the day.

Expect the Abu Dhabi to Dubai taxi fare to be approximately 300AED ($80USD) for a standard taxi to Downtown Dubai, or 400AED+ ($110USD+) for a privately hired people mover.

You can read a comprehensive guide for getting between Abu Dhabi and Dubai here

If you are flying with Emirates there is a complimentary Emirates bus service from outside their Khalidiya office (near the Corniche) in Abu Dhabi to Dubai Airport. Note this only applies to passengers holding an Emirates ticket for that day of travel.

If you have arrived into Abu Dhabi International Airport with Etihad economy and connect straight to Dubai you can arrange a seat on the Etihad Coach for free, which will take you to the Etihad Travel Mall (Downtown Dubai) – see timetable here.

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Family Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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Dubai has become a large, sprawling city. Whilst in some ways it is easy to get around, you’ll find other times it can be a little unfriendly for families. Luckily, there are lots of different transport options that you can build in to be part of the Dubai experience.

You name a transportation type and Dubai has probably got it! The Hyperloop to Abu Dhabi is still a distant dream but in the meantime, here is a run through of all the different types of transport you can catch in Dubai, and what they are likely to cost.

Public Transport in Dubai

Note: the RTA (Roads and Traffic Authority) manages the overall public transport network in Dubai, but there are many different private providers. A “Nol” (Arabic for fare) card is required for many forms of transport. We explain this in detail below.

Dubai Taxi

The easiest way to travel in Dubai is by taxi. They don’t cost too much and they are in fairly plentiful supply at Dubai hotels, malls and attractions. The disadvantage of taking a taxi in Dubai is that it may take you longer than other forms of transport if you get stuck in Dubai’s gruelling traffic jams.

You can advance call a Dubai taxi on 04 2080808 or hail one from the street, as well as picking up from a taxi rank. A yellow light means the taxi is free and a red light means it is booked or occupied. The minimum Dubai taxi fare is 12 AED.

There are also ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem.  They will cost you more but may be quicker and more convenient if you are calling for a pickup or have a larger group.

Dubai Metro

The Dubai metro is by far one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get across town (assuming your destination is near a metro stop). These driver-less trains run every few minutes across the network, which consists of seven zones. Note though that queues for tickets can be lengthy, and the stations themselves a little cumbersome to get to.

Before your first ride, you will need to buy a Nol Card. You can pre-load it with an amount if you want to avoid queuing every time or just pay per ride.

• Short-term visitors should purchase the Nol Red Ticket (2 AED + fare), whilst longer-term visitors and residents should purchase the NOL Silver Pass (25 AED – includes 19 AED in fares; best for 10 trips+).
• Fares on Nol Red are 4 AED to 8.50 AED depending on Zones travelled, or 20AED for a day pass. On Nol Silver, fares are from 3AED to 7.50 AED.
• There’s also a Nol Gold option (first class travel) which is the best option if you hate crowds!
• Everyone aged 5 and up must have their own NOL card.
• There is one carriage on each train set aside for women and children only.

Note in peak times it can be VERY busy. We advise against travelling with small children in these times as they can easily get lost in the crowd.

Dubai Tram

Currently, tram coverage is not extensive and is only really useful around the Dubai Marina area running from Al Souf to JBR. The Dubai tram is good for the novelty, but not one of the most useful parts of Dubai’s transport system.

Tip: Using your Nol card on a tram to complete your metro journey costs you no extra, but will you will pay for a standalone tram journey.

Dubai Buses

Dubai also has an extensive bus system that operates on the Nol card. The Dubai bus service is used more by locals than visitors but might come in handy for some of those harder to reach areas of town. You can use the RTA’s app Wojhati to work out your best routes around town.

Palm Jumeirah Monorail

The monorail connects the mainland to the palm from Palm Jumeirah station and has 3 stops. Currently, the monorail is still operating its own fare system and payment is only in cash. At the time of writing a single trip per person is 20 AED or return 30 AED (which makes a taxi from the station to the end of the Palm significantly cheaper if travelling in a group).

Water Bus, Water Taxis and Abras

A water bus operates within the Dubai Marina complex with 4 stops. It is a pleasant journey but not necessarily the fastest way to get around, though kids will no doubt love the experience! Tickets must be purchased for all passengers aged 5 and up and are between 3AED to 11AED depending how many stops you make.

If you are looking to cross the Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira or vice versa, you have a couple of options: to take a water taxi or sightseeing waterbus, or a traditional abra. At only 1AED per person per crossing, abras are an absolute steal and a lot of fun for the kids! You may also be able to rent one for sightseeing – expect to pay around 100 AED.

The latest addition to Dubai’s water transportation network is the Dubai Canal. You can take the Dubai Ferry from the Business Bay area to the Dubai Marina – currently operating 3 times a day at 10am, 12pm and 5.30pm.

Getting from Dubai Airport to the City

It is very straightforward to get a taxi from Dubai Aiport to any destination in the city. The taxi fare from Dubai Airport to the city is highly variable depending which part of town you are heading to. Dubai Airport to JBR area or hotels on the Palm, for example, might cost 100AED.

Alternatively, your hotel may offer a transfer service, which may be economical if you have more than 4 passengers and a lot of luggage that won’t fit in a standard taxi (a lot of taxis are fitted with LPG tanks, so have limited luggage space).

Parents with car seats in Dubai

A standard taxi leaving from Dubai International Airport is permitted to borrow car seats from the airport, which they later return. These come at no extra charge to you, but you may need to insist on asking for them. Careem also offers a family service that includes one car seat and larger vehicles to fit all your gear.

If you are planning on travelling extensively around town, you may need to bring your own car seats. You can see our full list of recommended kiddy gear to bring with you in our packing list for Dubai.

Getting from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Looking to head to Abu Dhabi? Currently, the only public transport system between the two cities is Intercity Buses which you catch from IBN Battuta Mall or Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Bur Dubai to the Abu Dhabi bus station (next to Al Whadha mall). It costs 25AED each way.

These services run fairly regularly throughout the day, but just be mindful that you need to catch a further bus or taxi to connect at either end.

With a family group, you may be better off getting dropped directly at your destination with a taxi or hiring a private driver who can come with you for the day. Expect to pay approximately 300AED ($85USD) for a standard taxi from Dubai airport to Abu Dhabi, or 400AED+ ($108USD+) for a people mover.

You can see a detailed guide on how to transit between Dubai and Abu Dhabi here

If you are flying with Emirates, they offer a complimentary transfer service to Abu Dhabi Corniche where you can then catch an onward connection. This only applies to passengers flying on Emirates presenting a valid ticket for that day. If you are connecting directly to an Etihad flight they offer a similar service.

Want to learn more about visiting Dubai with kids?  Click here to visit our Family Guide to Dubai

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Insider tips on how to get around Dubai with kids

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As Abu Dhabi is located in the heart of the Middle East, you can expect long hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Abu Dhabi is from late October through to late April.

Abu Dhabi’s Corniche beach is a favourite with tourists and locals alike

What to expect during Summer in Abu Dhabi

Peak summer temperatures in Abu Dhabi can be as high as 50c (122F). Life really moves indoors over the hot summer months as daytime temperatures can be unbearable – even too hot to sit pool or beachside. This is worth remembering when you are planning what to do in Abu Dhabi.

You’ll find there is more life and activity later in the evenings when temperatures drop to the low 30’s. Late summer can be humid as well.

The advantage of visiting Abu Dhabi in the summer is you may find many hotels with great special offers to attract customers – just check that swimming pools are temperature controlled!

Click here to see our pick of the best family hotels in Abu Dhabi.

The shoulder seasons of February to April and October to November are best for beach weather.

What to expect during Winter in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi really springs back to life over the cooler months. A great festive time to visit is around the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in late November when the city is full of concerts, markets and sporting events. This is closely followed by National Day celebrations on 2 December when the city becomes painted in the colours of its flag.

Festivities and decorations remain until around Christmas. Although not officially recognized in a Muslim country, retailers and hotels still get into the Christmas spirit.

It is not unusual for it to rain occasionally in Abu Dhabi over the cooler winter months. In fact, this has become a more common occurrence in recent years as offshore cloud seeding occurs. Don’t bother packing an umbrella, but do try and check forecasts a few days out. (You can see our full list of Abu Dhabi packing suggestions here).

Sandstorms and fog are also not unheard of in Abu Dhabi, but nothing you can really plan for. Fog can play havoc with flights landing into Abu Dhabi International Airport at times too.

If you are heading inland on a desert safari, you will get cooler overnights in winter but probably no need for more than an extra wrap or sweater. You will likely find that it’s too cold for ocean swimming in December to January but resorts should have heated swimming pools.

Our co-Editor Keri shares her favourite tips for exploring Abu Dhabi in the different seasons in this City Travel with Kids Podcast episode.

An important note on Ramadan in Abu Dhabi

It’s important to observe each year when the Holy Month of Ramadan will occur. The 9th month in the Hijri calendar (the start date changes by approximately 10 days on the Gregorian calendar each year) is a period of deep religious reflection for Muslims and is strictly observed.

The most important thing to observe is fasting, with no eating in public allowed. Also, ensure no public displays of affection and that the modest dress code is strictly followed. It can be a little confusing for visitors to know exactly what to expect. The advantage of visiting at this time of year is that you will experience joining in with iftar (the evening breaking of the fast) and overnight festivities.

Note during Ramadan, restaurant, shop and attraction times are likely to change, and these aren’t always well advertised. Most shopping malls now have a sectioned-off area where daytime eating is permitted and hotels will always have at least one of their restaurants open for guests’ convenience.

Our Globetrotters have a detailed guide on what to expect during the Holy Month if you are looking for more guidance on the do’s and don’ts.

In 2020 Ramadan will start on approximately 23 April, ending with Eid al Fitr celebrations (breaking of the fast) on approximately 23 May. Exact dates are determined by moon sightings and confirmed only in the 24 hours before Ramadan is due to start.

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Family Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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There are 5 major airports serving Greater London. Here we walk you through the fastest and most cost-effective options for getting from the airports to Central London when travelling as a family.

For more on how to get around within Central London please head over to see our “How to get around London” guide.

How to get from Heathrow to Central London

There are many options to get from Heathrow to Central London with kids. Heathrow is situated to the South West of London and has five terminals.

• The quickest and easiest is the Heathrow Express train. If you are transporting a group, however, the costs can add up. Arriving into Paddington Station, you will still have to make the connection to your hotel.
• The cheapest way is to catch the Tube. The Piccadilly Line runs through popular tourist areas such as Kensington and the West End through to Covent Garden. Getting suitcases and kids up and down the escalators and lifts isn’t always straightforward.
• Catch a black cab from the taxi rank. The most convenient door to door service but not the cheapest.
• Arrange a private hire transfer. Probably the best option for travelling with kids and luggage. Drivers will wait in the arrivals hall for you and deliver you door-to-door.

How to get from Gatwick to central London

Gatwick is actually quite far south of London, outside of the M25 (generally used as the marker for Greater London). There are two terminals, North and South connected by a free Monorail. The train station is connected to the South Terminal.

• The Gatwick Express train takes approximately 30 minutes and is the quickest and most effective way to Victoria station in Central London, but not necessarily the cheapest. Trains leave every 15 minutes and run non-stop. You can book tickets and check train times using the Gatwick Express App. Note Oyster Cards are now accepted on the Gatwick Express.
• A cheaper but often equally speedy option is to use Southern trains. These are ordinary commuter trains so could be crowded at peak times, but otherwise, run on the same train line at the Gatwick Express with pretty much the same frequency. They take about 5 to 15 minutes longer as they make a few stops, though you can get lucky as some services only make two stops at East Croydon and Clapham Junction.
• There is also a train service called Thameslink that runs from Gatwick via London’s business district, stopping at London Bridge and Blackfriars, through to St Pancras, even as far as Luton Airport. You can use your Oyster Card on this service too.
• National Express run a bus service to Victoria Station. It is cheaper than the train but takes longer (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes).
• A black cab from Gatwick is exceptionally expensive. For a door-to-door service, use a pre-booking private hire vehicle.

(NB if you are only transitting from one London airport to another, National Express bus is your best direct option with several services per hour between Gatwick and Heathrow).

How to get from Luton Airport to Central London

London Luton Airport is around 55km north of Central London. Many budget airlines use this smaller airport as their London base.

• Train services don’t connect directly to the airport but a shuttle bus runs frequently to take passengers to Luton Parkway station (approximately a 10-minute journey), where trains operate several times an hour to St Pancras Station. After a 25-minute journey, you can connect to the Tube or Eurostar services.
• There are 3 different bus services from Luton into Central London. They are cheaper than the train but can take 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. These are National Express, Terravision and EasyBus.
• With a group, a private transfer service may be the cheaper option.

How to get from Stansted Airport to Central London

Stansted Airport is located 64km north-east of London. Again this is a popular choice for mostly European budget airlines.

• The Stansted Express train is the quickest route to Central London leaving every 15 minutes and arriving into Liverpool Street Station. The journey takes 47 minutes. Children under 5 travel free and 5-15 year olds pay a child fare.
• National Express buses run a couple of different routes into Central London via both Liverpool Street and Victoria Station.
• Terravision runs bus services to Victoria Station, Liverpool and Stratford.
• EasyBus runs a service terminating at Baker Street.
• Buses run the risk of being delayed by London’s heavy congestion but are cheaper per person than the train.
• Black cabs do not run from the airport but can be caught from the city. The cheaper alternative though is to group book a private hire vehicle. 

How to get from City Airport to Central London

City Airport, situated only 10km east of the city, is a popular choice for many business travellers. As the runway here is only short, it only supports smaller jets on European routes.

• Docklands Light Rail (DLR) is the easiest way into town. Regular services run every hour throughout the day. It’s only 7 minutes to Canning Town station where you can transfer to the Tube system, or the DLR terminates at Bank in the heart of the City.
• Local bus services operate to Stratford where you can connect with the Tube and overland train services.
• Black cabs operate from a cab rank. You can expect a journey to the West End to cost 35-45 GBP.

So now we’ve got you from the Airport to Central London, what are you going to do?  Dive into our Top Things to Do in London with Kids or check out our 3-day family itinerary for London.

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Although Sydney is a large sprawling city, many of the city’s major attractions are walking distance or easily reached on public transport.

The city can be incredibly busy though around peak commuter times in the mornings and evenings though so take care travelling with small children.

Getting around Sydney

Walking around Sydney

The CBD is mostly flat and easily walkable. Central Station to Circular Quay will take you 30-40 minutes on foot.

**Note the free shuttle bus that used to operate on a loop from Central Station to Circular Quay via Elizabeth and George Streets is now closed due to the extensive light rail project works – see more below!**

Walking distance from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour is approximately 30 minutes down Pitt Street.

Hop-On-Hop-Off-Bus Tour

Big Bus Sydney offers commentary tours of the CBD and to Bondi at 34 different stops including all the major Sydney attractions. The Sydney hop-on-hop-off bus is a great way to get from A to B and learn some more about the city as you’re going.

You can pre-order your tickets here (cheaper than buying them on the day).

Sydney Public Transport

Sydney has a very comprehensive network of buses, trains and ferries which are complemented by light rail services, taxis, water taxis and private hire companies.

Opal Card

Visitors to Sydney should get themselves set up with an Opal Card –  a Smart Card you top up for use on trains, buses, ferries and light rail around Sydney. The card is free to order online or you can buy one from a station or convenience store in Sydney when you arrive. You will need to top it up in advance then tap in/out every time you use public transport.

Tickets are needed for children aged 4 to 15 years. 16+ can get a concession rate with a student card. Fares are calculated on distance travelled for all modes of transport.

Sydney City Rail Trains

The City Circle loop will take you around the CBD area with stops at Central, Town Hall, Wynyard, Circular Quay, St James and Museum.

Sydney Light Rail

Transdev operates the light rail network connecting Central Station, Capitol Square, Paddy’s Market, Exhibition Centre, Convention, Pyrmont Bay, The Star, John Street Square, Sydney Fish Market, Wentworth Park, Glebe, Jubilee Park, Rozelle Bay and Lilyfield. Central to Lilyfield travel time is around 25 minutes, with services every 15 minutes.

New Sydney Light Rail (Tram)

Due to open in 2018, the city has seen a huge overhaul and disruption to its normal public transport systems over the past three years during construction. The new tram line will take passengers from Circular Quay to Randwick and Kensington. We will update this section once the tram is up and running!

Harbour City Ferries

A unique part of Sydney is its comprehensive ferry network. Ferries leave from the terminal at Circular Quay and travel to many of the city’s popular tourist destinations including Taronga Zoo, Kirribilli, Neutral Bay, Mosman and Rose Bay. Longer services also run north to Manly and west along the Parramatta River – these cost a little more. Ferries use the Opal Card.

There is also a private service, the Manly Fast Ferry, that operates from Circular Quay to Manly in just 18 minutes!

Sydney Taxis

Metered taxis can be hailed from the street, taken from predesignated taxi stands throughout the city or pre-booked. Download the 13Cabs app to be able to easily book a taxi from your phone.

Getting from Sydney International Airport to the city centre

Most overseas visitors arrive into Sydney via Sydney International Airport (SYD) located 8km south of the city.  To get from Sydney airport to central Sydney:

• Take the Sydney Airport Link Train which takes less than 15 minutes, running every 10 minutes. Adults are $17.90; Child/Youth (4 to 15 years) $14.40; Under 4 free. You can pay for the Airport Link using your Opal Card.
• Catch an Uber – By the time you’ve paid for the whole family this could well be your cheaper option than Airport Link.
• You may prefer the comfort and convenience when travelling as a family of using a pre-paid airport service like Go Sydney Shuttle.

Hiring a Car in Sydney

Due to the extortionate cost and lack of available parking in the CBD, including at many Sydney hotels, we’d recommend only hiring a car if you are planning on doing day trips out of central Sydney. Cars are easy to hire from the airport or there are several depots spotted throughout the city.

Driving in Australia is on the left side of the road, right-hand drive vehicles. Hire cars may be manual or automatic transmission, so check this when booking. Sydney has a number of tollways to be aware of; your hire car company will explain how these are charged to you.

Take me back to the Sydney City Guide.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Practical guide to getting around Sydney with kids and how to use the city public transport

The post How to get around Sydney appeared first on Little City Trips.

What is the best time to visit Bangkok? There really isn’t a bad or good time to visit Bangkok, thanks to its tropical climate making it hot and humid all year round.

Bearing this in mind, Bangkok does have three slightly differing seasons: rainy, cool and hot. Note that the months that most people consider to be the best time to visit Bangkok are often the most expensive for booking hotel rooms, and the busiest time to visit the popular tourist attractions.

Bangkok Climate

• Bangkok is hot and humid all year round
• The Peak Season is November – March
• March, April and May are the hottest months
• December – February are the coolest months
• The rainy season lasts from late May to October

Need help packing for your Bangkok trip? Click here to read our Bangkok packing list.

Rainy Season in Bangkok: late May to October

Rainy Season runs from late May to October. The days during rainy season will likely be overcast and you can expect heavy afternoon downpours, often accompanied by dramatic thunderstorms. Carry an umbrella with you at all times and be prepared to take shelter and wait it out for a couple of hours.

Although it is the rainy season, you will still hopefully enjoy enough pleasant weather to enable sightseeing. The upside of the rainy season is cheaper Bangkok hotel rooms and less crowds.

Cool Season in Bangkok: December to Feburary

Although locals refer to this time of year as the cool season, it is somewhat misleading as temperatures are far from cool. But relatively speaking, this time of year enjoys lower temperatures and less humidity, making it the best time of year for sightseeing in Bangkok.

Due to the pleasant climate at this time of year, you can expect prices for hotel rooms to be higher and tours and tourist attractions to be busier, as this is peak season in Bangkok.

Hot Season in Bangkok: March to May

The months of March, April and May are the hottest and most humid months to visit Bangkok. Temperatures can soar as high as 35-40 degrees Celsius. Couple this with very high humidity and if you are not used to a tropical climate, you could find this weather somewhat stifling and unpleasant for sightseeing. If you visit at this time of year, be prepared to sweat!

Songkran, the Thai New Year is celebrated in April every year. This fun 3-day festival sees the city turned into a giant water fight; so if you are visiting over Songkran, prepare to get wet!

If you and the kids want to join in the fun and enjoy some cooling off in the heat, head on down to Khao San Road or Silom Road. Come armed with water guns, buckets, sponges and anything else you can get your hands on to give your fellow revellers a good soaking! Note that many local businesses will be closed during Songkran.

Take me back to the Bangkok Family Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

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Tokyo is a big city and one of the biggest concerns of visitors to Japan is how to get around Tokyo. But you need not be daunted.

Tokyo has one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world, and it’s really not that hard to figure out once you have a few pointers. You will always find people willing to help you out if you get stuck.

Most visitors to Tokyo choose to explore the city by a combination of Tokyo Metro and taxi as the easiest way to get around Tokyo. Here we give you tips for both, and also advice about how to get to and from the airport in Tokyo.

If you are sightseeing in Tokyo, the easiest way to get around the city is by Tokyo Metro. It is cheap and efficient but is also renowned as being one of the biggest and most complex in the World. Read on for all our tips for using the Tokyo Metro.

How to use the Tokyo metro:

Click here to buy your Tokyo Metro Pass online: 24h, 48h & 72h options available

• Download the Tokyo Subway Navigation for Tourist app. (available for iOS & Android) to help plan your journey.
• You can buy pre-paid IC card (eg. Suica and Pasmo) for use on trains, subways and buses in most Japanese cities. This saves you having to buy individual tickets every time you take a journey. They can also be used in vending machines and certain shops and restaurants.
• These IC cards can be bought in subway stations at ticket machines and counters, and you will find recharging machines in stations. Return your cards to the ticket counter to claim back your 500 yen deposit and any unused credit before you leave the country (there is a 220 yen charge for returning your unused credit).
• 1-, 2- and 3- day passes are also available.
• Under 6s travel for free. Ages 6-11 travel half price.
• Avoid rush hour from 8am-10am and 5-7pm on public transport.

Top Tip! Not all metro stations have elevators. Use this link to check:

http://www.japan-accessible.com/transport/metro/tokyo

Taking a Tokyo Taxi

There are loads of taxis in Tokyo and you should never have to wait more than a few minutes to get one. Here are some tips for getting around Tokyo by taxi:

• Tokyo taxis can be hailed on the street. You can tell if a Tokyo taxi is available by the red light in the front of the car, and the light on top of the car will be off. If it is showing a green light and the light on top of the car is illuminated, then the taxi is occupied.
• Not many taxi drivers in Tokyo speak good English, so it is always a good idea to have the address you wish to go to written down in Japanese. Ask your Tokyo hotel concierge to help you, if you have one, and keep a hotel card in your wallet.
• Taxis in Tokyo accept cash and credit cards, and some also accept the Suica and Pasmo cards mentioned above.
• Taxis are metred and tipping is not encouraged.

Getting from Tokyo Airport to the city:

There are two airports in Tokyo: Tokyo Narita and Tokyo Haneda. Both airports have options for travelling into the city via train or airport limousine bus.

Tokyo Narita:

There are several options to get into Tokyo from Narita. The two fastest options are the JR Narita Express and the Keisei Skyliner. Both trains run every 30 minutes and arrive in Tokyo Station in less than an hour. Tickets for both can be bought in the airport.

The Airport Limousine bus runs from Narita Airport directly to several major hotels in Tokyo. Check on the website: http://www.limousinebus.co.jp/en/ to see if your hotel is listed as a destination. A cheaper options is the Keisei Express Bus, which goes to Tokyo Station.

Tokyo Haneda:

The cheapest way to get to Tokyo from Haneda Aiport is by monorail to Hamamatsucho station, and then take the subway from here. There are three levels of train on the monorail: Local, rapid and express. Trains leave every 3-5 minutes and can take as little as 20 minutes.

The Airport Limousine bus runs from Haneda Airport directly to Tokyo Station. A taxi could set you back more than 10,000 yen but may be your only option if you arrive late at night.

Take me back to the Tokyo City Guide.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Tips and insider notes on the best way to get around Tokyo with kids in tow

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The best time to visit New York City is any time!

The city that never sleeps puts on a good show for tourists at any time of year. The most comfortable seasons weather-wise for sightseeing are Spring (April – June) and Fall (September – early November), when you can enjoy mild and pleasant temperatures.

The Festive period between Thanksgiving and New Year is hugely popular with visitors to New York thanks to its magical Christmas atmosphere. If you visit New York at this time of year, you can expect higher prices at New York hotels and longer queues at popular restaurants and attractions.

The summer months of July and August are another peak period for tourists to New York.

January and February are generally the quietest months thanks to the bitterly cold winter temperatures at this time of year and the lull after the festive season. If you are visiting at this time of year you can hope to find some good hotel deals and enjoy shorter queues at restaurants and attractions.

• Spring in New York is March to May.
• Summer in New York is June to August.
• Autumn in New York is September to November.
• Winter in New York is December to February.

Need help with packing for your New York trip? Click here to read our New York packing list.

Spring in New York (March – May)

Spring blossoms in March, bringing warmer weather – and with it lots of rain. By May the sun begins to put in a more consistent appearance and the city ramps up its energy in anticipation of the coming summer. Spring is a colourful month in New York thanks to the spring flowers, particularly notable in Central Park and the celebrated cherry blossom of the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens.

If you are in New York on 17^th March, be sure to dress in green and try to catch the St Patrick’s Day parade, or join in a street party somewhere.

Although not peak season in New York, spring is a popular time to visit and you can expect corresponding high prices and queues for popular attractions.

Memorial Day at the end of May marks the unofficial beginning of Summer.

Summer in New York (June – August)

Summer is a great time to be in New York. There are exciting events taking place all over the city, including free outdoor concerts, festivals and movies and everyone enjoys the warm weather and sunshine. Summer in New York is time for picnics in the park, taking in a ball game or Shakespeare in the Park, and walking the High Line with an ice cream in hand.

Many locals leave the city during the school holiday months of July and August. Don’t expect this to make the city any quieter though as these summer months are peak season for tourists from Europe and other parts of the world. If you are visiting New York in the summer, you can expect high hotel rates and long queues at the popular tourist attractions.

Click here to read some of our favourite things to do in New York with kids.

Fall in New York (September – November)

Labor Day marks the end of the summer season and the beginning of Fall. New Yorkers return to the city, discard their summer clothes and head back to work and school.

Although the temperatures dip, they remain pleasant and Fall weather in New York usually consists of crisp days and blue skies, making this a popular time of year for sightseeing. Visitors will also get to enjoy the stunning fall foliage in Central Park and the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens.

Notable celebrations to look out for in the Fall in New York include Oktoberfest in Central Park, Halloween and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade.

Winter in New York (December – February)

Nowhere does Christmas quite like New York City and the lead up to Christmas is a magical time to visit New York. All the department stores compete to produce the most impressive window displays. There are Christmas markets, Christmas trees, Christmas carollers and the opportunity to meet Santa at every turn.

And let’s not forget the Rockefeller Centre Christmas tree and the Central Park skating rink that are on every Christmas visitor to New York’s bucket list.

New York attracts a huge number of visitors during the festive season, so expect high prices, and be prepared to book ahead for restaurants and join long queues for popular tourist attractions.

January and February can be bitterly cold in New York, and the city hunkers down after the extravagances of the holiday season. For tourists, this can mean cheaper hotel rates, shorter lines at tourist attractions and a better chance of getting into those hard-to-book restaurants.

If you are planning on being in New York in the winter, plan on spending a lot of time indoors.

Take me back to the New York City Family Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Family guide to the best times to visit New York City with children and what to expect in each season

The post The Best Time to Visit New York appeared first on Little City Trips.

As spectacular as London is to visit, it does have one big downfall and that’s its weather! When London turns on a sunny day it’s truly spectacular but there can be a lot of long grey cloud in between and winters can border on downright miserable!

Fear not though, we’ll guide you through the seasons and help you figure out the best time to visit London.

Click here for all our tips on packing for London, no matter what time of year you visit.

Spring in London (March to May)

London is slow to emerge from the winter fog but when it does, those sunny spring days are just brilliant. Vast blue skies and none of the crowds of summer make for fabulous city exploring. The start of Queens and then Wimbledon is a sure-fire sign summer is on its way. But do be prepared with an umbrella!

Summer in London (June to August)

Summer is when London really shines at its best. Days can be incredibly long with its quite northern position in Europe, and if the weather is playing nice, spectacular mild days with top temperatures about 20c can be expected. That said, still pack your woollies just in case.

Summer is the busiest time of year with worldwide visitors flocking to the historic capital. Naturally, London hotel prices rise at this time and all the popular attractions are incredibly busy. Advance bookings at this time for both hotels and activities are essential to prevent lengthy queuing.

See our favourite London hotels to stay with kids

Autumn in London (September to November)

London is renowned for having a late summer. Often some of the best of the summer sun makes a late appearance after the European schools return. You can, in fact, find London at its best when daylight hours are still reasonable and the crowds have vanished in September.

Check out our bumper 3-day itinerary for enjoying the best of London with kids. 

Heading into October the temperature significantly drops but you can be treated to the array of amazing colours across the city, still making for an enjoyable experience. Guy Fawkes Night on 5 November is celebrated across the country with bonfires and fireworks, always some festivities for the kids to join in.

Winter in London (December to February)

The most magical thing about winter in London is most certainly Christmas. Like many European cities, you will find an amazing vibe and activities all over town from ice skating at iconic Somerset House to the Hyde Park Festival.

January and February though can be long and cold. Snowfall is not uncommon, disruption to train services, chilliness and damp foggy mornings. You can no doubt nab flights and hotel rooms at a much cheaper price but your London sightseeing is likely to be impaired – we’d recommend holding your travels until those bright sunny Spring days return.

Take me back to the London Family Travel Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

Family guide to the best time to visit London with kids

The post When is it best to visit London? appeared first on Little City Trips.

Singapore is a flat city with wide pavements, making it an easy city to explore on foot and with a stroller.

For travelling around the island, Singapore’s public transport system is cheap, clean and efficient.

Most visitors to Singapore favour the MRT (underground/subway) as their transport method of choice and it will connect you to most popular tourist destinations in Singapore.

If you are planning to do a lot of exploring by public transport, it makes sense to purchase an EZ Link card when you arrive in the city.

You can use these on all forms of public transport (including some taxis) and it saves you from having to search around for small change and buy tickets every time you want to travel.

When planning your trip to Singapore, make sure you also check official travel rules and regulations that may affect your stay.

You can also use your EZ Link card to pay in many fast-food restaurants and several shops including supermarkets and convenience stores.

You can return your EZ-link card to obtain a refund of any remaining travel value on the card.

MRT (underground/subway)

The MRT is safe, efficient, clean, cheap and air-conditioned.

The MRT links most major parts of the city and is favoured by most visitors as the easiest, quickest and most comfortable way to explore the island.

Trains run from 05.30am to around midnight, with last trains varying with each station.

Standard tickets for the MRT can be bought from the ticket machines in the train stations.

You can also top-up your EZ Link at these machines. Note that machines only give a maximum of $10.00 change so you will need to change larger notes at the ticket office. 

Public Bus

The bus system is equally as efficient as the MRT and you rarely have to wait more than a few minutes for a bus.

Route and timing information is available at each bus stop.

Every bus-stop is numbered – starting with a letter B followed by a number (eg. B01), with even numbered bus-stops on one side of the road and odd numbers on the other, with numbering starting from the beginning with each street name.

Many bus stops have real-time bus schedule information on electronic screens, or you can download the MyTransport app for real-time information on your phone.

You can buy bus tickets on the bus, but exact money is required as no change is given.

If you are using an EZ Link card on the bus, be sure to tap it on the machine when you get on and off the bus, or the maximum fare for that bus route will be deducted from your card.

Singapore Taxis

Singapore taxis are plentiful. Note that fares can vary significantly depending on the time of day, as peak hour surcharges apply.

You can flag a taxi down on the street or pick one up at a designated taxi rank outside most major shopping malls, Singapore hotels and tourist attractions.

Note that at peak times, or if it is raining, it can be tricky to get a taxi and you will find long queues at taxi ranks.

For these occasions, you can book a taxi over the phone or using an app.

Both Comfort DelGro Taxis and SMRT taxis have their own apps for booking taxis. Additionally, there is the Grab taxi app (similar to Uber in other cities).

Getting from Singapore Airport to the City

Taxi from airport to Singapore

The quickest and easiest way to get into the city from Singapore’s Changi Airport is to take a taxi.

There is a well-managed taxi queue at the airport. The taxi ride will take around 20 to 30 minutes depending on the time of day and traffic.

A taxi can cost anywhere from $20-40 depending on the time of day, as peak surcharges apply. An airport surcharge will also be added to your metered fare.

Click here to check prices for a private airport transfer

MRT from Singapore Airport

If you are on a budget, you can also take the MRT (underground/subway) or a public bus.

There is an MRT station in the airport, and you will need to change at Tanah Merah station to get into the city.

Note that trains do not run all night, so this is not an option if you arrive very late at night.

The first train leaves Changi Airport at 5.31am (5.59am on Sundays and public holidays) and the last train departs at 11.18pm.

Bus from Singapore airport

You can also take the public bus into Singapore from the airport. Bus bays are located in the basement of terminals 1, 2 and 3. You will need exact change to ride the bus as no change is given.

If you are planning to use public transport during your stay in Singapore then you should buy an EZ Link card in the airport (see above). The no. 36 bus will take you to the East Coast, Marina Bay and Orchard Road areas.

Take me back to the Singapore Family Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a booking or purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you.

The post How to get around Singapore appeared first on Little City Trips.

All our hotels have been hand selected as family-friendly by our dedicated team of City Insiders who know the city well or have actually stayed in the hotels. We value the following criteria when making our selections:

• Ability to fit 3+ people in a room or interconnecting rooms
• Location – close to amenities such as shops, parks
• Service that goes above and beyond

Festive Hotel Family Suite in the heart of Sentosa Island, Singapore

As parents, we know an ordinary hotel search doesn’t always bring up the results you need when searching for something family friendly.

Simply having a larger room or handing out a kids pack won’t cut it these days. Discerning parents look for something that goes above and beyond to enjoy there stay. While resorts have the family market fairly well nailed, many city hotels have a long way to go in understanding this market.

What features do our Little City parents love?

We have worked extensively with the family travel community to determine what factors are most important to them.

All the hotels we recommend here on Little City Trips have been recommended by families and we have researched them for the features we know matter most. Parents value the following hotel amenities:

• Cots provided
• Rollaway beds
• Stroller access
• Kids amenities (such as bottle steriliser, baby bath, toiletries)
• Pool/Beach Towels included
• Beachfront
• 24-hour room service
• Onsite restaurant
• Kids menus
• Self-service laundry
• Onsite parking
• Kitchenette
• Nearby mini market

Not every hotel will match all the criteria we are looking for, but on Little City Trips we have tried to make it easy for parents to identify which hotels have the most important amenities to them. Location, convenience and those little extra touches can make a big difference too.

We have also done our best to find the very best family hotels in every budget bracket of the market: Luxury, mid-range and budget.

All our hotels come with coded icons to help guide you to the facilities that matter most for families.

Family Room at Grand Nikko Tokyo giving families the space they need in a city known for small hotel rooms

What do we really mean by family-friendly hotel?

5 star luxury conjures up images of seamless service, elegance and a relaxed atmosphere. This doesn’t always go hand in hand with family-friendliness but doesn’t mean with a few adjustments it can’t be achieved.

Let’s be clear being “family-friendly” does not necessarily mean plastering your walls in bright colours and introducing kids clubs either. Quite the opposite, it’s about keeping up seamless service without raising an eyebrow to the fact your little ones are there.

And a family-friendly hotel definitely doesn’t need to be a luxury hotel either. A more basic hotel with family-friendly amenities such as a self-service laundry and kitchenette will suit some families far more than a high-price 5-star hotel.

What parents are looking for is anything that can help make life easier, and make it feel like a home away from home.

Added touches to make families feel at home at Omni Berkshire Place New York

What hotels can do to make booking a hotel easier for parents

• Have a choice of rooms that can fit 2, 3, 4 extra people.
• If two rooms are needed, ensure they are interconnecting and offer this at a discount.
• Make more room – even if just for the duration of a stay, remove extra furniture to ensure more beds can fit.
• If the room has been booked for a certain number, make sure there are enough beds, towelling and water bottles ready on arrival for the appropriate number of guests.
• Be ready for the booked arrival time, especially if a cot has been ordered.  After a long journey parents want to be able to feed and settle children immediately.

Helpful service extras that can make a big difference

• Provide a small gift bag to children on arrival to make the check-in process more enjoyable.
• Suggest quieter times for attending meals so families won’t be kept waiting, or offer to make table reservations in advance if you know dining can be limited at peak times.
• Offer discounted in-room dining for kids.
• Even if there is no kids club, suggest itineraries and nearby attractions that are popular with kids.
• Provide discounts for nearby venues by partnering with local attractions.
• Make parents aware of any babysitting services. Make it clear how it can be booked, how much notice is needed and how payment is made.
• Provide kid-sized amenities such as robes and slippers and toiletries. These little touches can absolutely make their day.

Rubens at the Palace in London has a Director of Fun and Adventure to make sure junior guests are happy

When it comes to hotels, people tend to be quite brand loyal.  Make the right impression and they’ll be back!

Remember happy kids = happy parents = return customers!

See our favourite City hotels for families

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