Family trip in the works? These places will make the holiday fun for everyone

Easter break is a great time for a getaway with the family, but we know that planning a holiday that people of all ages will enjoy can often be hard – as can travelling with an infant. Whether it’s hassling over getting from one place to another or finding food the little tykes will enjoy, things always seem a little bit trickier with kids in tow.  

Thankfully, we’ve curated a list of fantastic child-friendly holiday destinations that will have you returning home feeling refreshed and happy about the new memories you’ve created together with your little ones. Read on for our top picks and get inspired for your next adventure. 

Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is a great city for family travel during Easter, for many reasons. The MRT, the city’s extensive subway system, is relatively easy to navigate, and it’s also a huge plus that children under six years old can ride for free. The only struggle with dining is deciding where to go – between themed cafes (we recommend checking out Modern Toilet Restaurant and Princess Land ) and dessert shops, you’ll find it hard to limit yourself to just one or two spots a day. 

There’s also no shortage of places to explore. Looking for an art or cultural gallery? The National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall features various exhibitions throughout the year. Meanwhile, spots such as Raohe Night Market don’t just appeal with the tempting aroma of sizzling sweet potato balls and beef cubes searing on the grill. Look hard enough and you’ll find stalls selling small souvenirs to take home, ranging from unique stickers of your kids’ favourite video game characters to clever phone gadgets. 

Parents of bookworms? Be sure to pay a visit to bookstore chain Eslite , which boasts a huge selection of books in both English and Chinese. Many of the stores feature a children’s area for your little ones to read, play or solve puzzles in. Particularly noteworthy is the Xinyi District’s Songyan store, which offers a range of eateries, large stationery section and more, making it a great day out for everyone. 

Osaka, Japan

From theme parks and shopping to dining, this city boasts many draws for the whole family. At Universal Studios’ Super Nintendo World , wander through the colourful land of the Mushroom Kingdom, laden with larger-than-life blocks and comical piranha plants straight from the game series and explore this year’s latest addition to the park – Donkey Kong Country. Find American-style dining nearby at Universal City Walk , which offers free entry and popular chain restaurants from the other side of the Pacific. 

If you’re looking to broaden your kid’s palate, bring them to Chibo to try okonomiyaki. Whether it’s watching the savoury pancakes sizzle on the grill, the decorative scribbling with the sauces and toppings after they’re cooked, or their delicious flavour, kids are sure to love this Osaka specialty. 

Kids will also love a day trip to Nara Park to see the free-roaming deer, while adults will find the nearby temple grounds just as impressive. You can also rest your feet and take a rickshaw tour to the Todaiji and Kofukuji temples, and, of course, if you’re visiting over Easter, cherry blossoms are also in bloom. 

Sydney, Australia

While there’s a multitude of things to do in Sydney whatever time of year you choose to visit, the Sydney Royal Easter Show , is a truly special experience. Running for 12 days this year, from the end of March to early April, it is packed full of excitement for the kids. From carnival rides to sheep shearing and dog shows, you’ve got hours of fun ahead. 

For more thrilling detours, visit Taronga Zoo to learn about animals from all over the world at the various exhibitions. You can even sleepover at the zoo in your own tent if your kids are ready for a deeper immersion in the wilderness. Need something even more electrifying for your little daredevils? Brave the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb together. 

For something a little more laidback, hit the beaches before the weather cools. Choose from an array of cuisines like crunchy fish and chips and juicy souvlaki at Manly’s promenade and picnic on the beachside wooden tables. On weekends, trinkets from the open-air arts and crafts market will surely catch your kids’ eyes. 

San Francisco, USA

This city offers diverse sights, eats and things to do for the whole family. Stop by the Cable Car Museum , which will likely occupy your kids for a while with its teachings about how these machines move. For a more suspenseful adventure, board a ferry to Alcatraz Island and learn about the former prison – including its infamous inmates and escape attempts that’ll both spook and fascinate the whole family.  

Meanwhile, Pier 39 has a little bit of everything to offer. Though your little ones will probably be most excited to see the resident wild sea lions lounging on the dock, the prospect of fresh seafood and clam chowder bread bowls may be attractive enough to divert their attention.  

No visit to San Francisco is complete without a visit to the Ferry Building , which hosts a farmers’ market a few days a week and houses a myriad of eateries. From crispy fish tacos and flaky empanadas to frosted almond-flavoured ice cream, there’s no shortage of delicious treats to satisfy every palate. 

Bali, Indonesia 

This Indonesian island has plenty to offer the whole family. Have dinner by the beach at one of the island’s many beach clubs, immerse yourself in the verdant jungle on a hike along the Campuhan Ridge Walk or shoot down waterslides all day at Waterbom .       

For a bit of all of the above without the hassle of planning and commuting, a stay at Padma Resort Ubud is your bet. This vast resort promises relaxation for the parents while balancing it with ample family time. Hang out in the infinity pool with a tropical fruit smoothie in hand, admire the forests blanketing the river valley, or go on a nature excursion together. Guided in-house activities include feeding rescued otters and turtles, archery, fishing, yoga and more. Alternatively, leave comfort behind for adventure with a sunrise hike to the top of Mount Batur, a jungle trek or a tour of the region’s waterfalls and more while under the experienced guidance of an English-speaking guide.  

In need of some “me time”? Let the children chill at the kids club , a supervised space for them to paint, plant flowers, watch movies or play at the pool, while you hit up the spa or beauty salon. Indulge yourself with a body scrub, milk bath or facial, among other treatments – you’re sure to leave feeling soothed and rejuvenated.