Places
What to see with a toddler
A child has no need for a famous cathedral: goats, fountains, a slide and a wide flight of steps by the river are far more interesting. We have gathered the types of places children under seven love, with tips on visiting them so the day doesn't end in tears.
An hour in the park with the ducks is sometimes remembered better than a whole guided tour. That's perfectly fine, for your child and for you.
How this section works: a place is included if there is something to touch, see or try for yourself, somewhere to sit down and change your little one, and the visit can be cut short without feeling the day is wasted.
What your child will love
Five types of places where a toddler has plenty to do.
A large city park
Where: Usually in the centre or by the river, with a pond, paths and playgrounds
Open space to run around, watch birds and ride a scooter. A good park is a ready-made plan for half a day.
Tip: Find the toilets and cafés on the park map before you need them.
A zoo or petting farm
Where: On the edge of town or in the suburbs, often near woodland
Live animals make the biggest impression on a preschooler. At a farm you can stroke a rabbit or watch the goats being fed.
Tip: Don't try to see everything: pick a few enclosures and a place to rest.
An unusual playground
Where: In parks, in courtyards of new neighbourhoods, along waterfronts
A playground shaped like a ship or a castle can become the highlight of the trip. Here your child takes a break from new impressions and meets other children.
Tip: Bring wet wipes and a change of clothes: you'll need them after the sandpit.
A waterfront
Where: Along a river, lake or sea
A smooth path for the pushchair, boats, bridges and seagulls. A waterfront is especially lovely in the evening, when the heat eases and the lamps come on.
Tip: Hold your child's hand near the edge and choose stretches with railings.
A museum with a children's programme
Where: Local history, natural history and science museums
Many museums run activities, quests and interactive rooms for the very youngest. Your child can touch, build or draw something themselves.
Tip: Check the museum's website for children's programmes and age ranges, and plan to stay for an hour, not the whole day.
How to visit with a toddler
When to go, where to take a break and how to leave at the right moment.
The first hour after opening
Where: By the entrance, in the nearest rooms or paths
In the morning there are fewer people, the air is fresher and your child is livelier. This is the best time to see the most interesting things.
Tip: Arrive at opening time and start with what your little one is most looking forward to.
A snack break
Where: A bench in the shade, a café or a rest area
After an hour or so, even an engrossed child gets tired. A short pause with water and a snack restores energy better than any amount of persuasion.
Tip: Mark places to sit down on the map in advance.
A quiet corner for a nap
Where: A shady path, a bench away from the playgrounds
If your toddler naps in the pushchair during the day, find a quiet part of the grounds and walk there while they rest.
Tip: Bring a light cover to shield them from sun and wind.
Leaving on time
Where: The nearest exit and the way to transport
It's better to leave while your child is still in a good mood than to wait for tears at the exit. That way they will look forward to the next outing.
Tip: Agree with your child in advance: one more go on the slide and then home.
Related sections
- Routes
Three hypothetical routes: a town with a pushchair, a weekend in nature and a week by the sea with a child.
- On the spot
Routine, breaks, food, a plan in case your child gets lost and rest for parents in a new place.
- Destinations
Nature close to home, a quiet town, the seaside out of season, a country cottage, and how to choose a place for a trip with a toddler.
Sources
- Paediatricians' advice for travelling families (in general terms)
Information is correct as of the date of preparation. Carriers' rules and requirements for travelling with children may change, so check with your carrier and official sources before each trip.