If you’re a parent, it’s likely you’ll be gearing up for the half term holidays and thinking up new ways to keep the kids entertained for the first official holiday of the new school year. Why not escape for a few nights, surprise them with a last-minute getaway and get ready to enjoy some quality family time? 

City breaks really are a wonderful way to spend time with the kids; you’ll never be short of something to see and do and exploring a new place together will create amazing memories you’ll all treasure forever. From Disneyland Paris to Dublin, look no further this half term as we’ve rounded up the very best city breaks with kids.

KIDS WILL LOVE PARIS, FRANCE

If you’ve got little ones, then one of the first city breaks that will likely spring to mind is Paris. After all, it’s home to the happiest place on earth: Disneyland, a destination promising a magical experience the whole family will enjoy! 

From mingling with Mickey and Minnie and marvelling at colourful parades to experiencing thrilling rides and watching spectacular shows, Disneyland Paris is a fantasyland like no other. A place for both children and the young at heart, you’ll find fun at every turn. Prepare to embrace the enchantment of the park as you wander around the Magic Kingdom!

Of course, holidays to Disneyland Paris aren’t the only reason to visit the capital - although they’re a great place to start! Whether you’re thinking of combining your trip with some culture or you’ve got older children to entertain, Paris certainly won’t disappoint. Stroll around the streets and spot iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, say bon appétit and indulge in French delicacies like macaroons or sail along the picturesque Seine for a river cruise. The options really are endless and, with flight times just over an hour from most UK airports, why not make half term the time to say bonjour to Paris?

A FAMILY TRIP TO DUBLIN, IRELAND

If you’re searching for a friendly city full of spirit, Dublin should definitely be on your radar. The Irish destination is loved by families and friends alike and a trip across the Irish Sea for a couple of nights this half term couldn’t be easier.   

With a true treasure trove of things to experience, from historic castles and pretty parks to delicious dining options and a medley of museums, exploring Dublin and the charm of the Irish will have your family hooked. For adventurous types, take a trip to Glendalough, the Valley of Two Lakes, where you’ll be greeted with enchanting scenery from one of the most beautiful spots in Ireland. If you’re keen on history, Dublin Castle sits in the heart of the city and animal lovers will enjoy Dublin Zoo, which is home to over 400 spectacular species.

Dublin holidays aren’t complete without sampling some Irish cuisine and you’ll be spoilt for choice with cafes, restaurants and street food stalls peppered around the city. If you’re hiring a car when you visit, then a quick road trip to the coast simply can’t be missed for some good old-fashioned fun on the beach whatever the weather. Go rock pooling, build sandcastles together or paddle in the sea. However you and your family spend your time in Dublin, we bet you’ll want to return again very soon!

THE SURPRISINGLY CHILD-FRIENDLY NEW YORK CITY, USA

Thinking of travelling somewhere a little further afield and taking the kids on a long haul holiday? The Big Apple is brimming with things to see and do and children will love the Americans’ approach to Halloween, the very exciting calendar event on 31 October!

Autumn is certainly one of the most captivating times to visit New York as the leaves change to a canopy of reds and oranges in Central Park. The milder temperature makes getting around easier too, so you and the kids can experience the city with ease. Of course, you can’t visit NYC without a spot of sightseeing. From the bright lights of Times Square to the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, the mesmerising city is full of iconic spots and monuments that will take your breath away. 

Children will love exploring Central Park and the Zoo, not to mention kid-friendly attractions like the American Museum of Natural History – especially if they’ve seen Night at the Museum! Simply strolling the streets is sure to impress too, as the city is decorated with pumpkins and some of the most impressive Halloween scenes imaginable. Finally, when it comes to food, you’ll be spoilt for choice with American classics like hamburgers and hotdogs on offer, alongside sensational sweet treats served up at venues like Serendipity and Dylan’s Candy Bar. It’s easy to see why holidays to New York capture the hearts of so many families.

ENJOY A FAMILY BREAK IN BARCELONA, SPAIN

A half term break to vibrant, bustling Barcelona is a savvy choice if you’re travelling with teens. Not only is the city beautiful, you also have the beach within easy reach and, although the temperature may be milder in the autumn, you’ll still benefit from the best of both culture and coast in October.

Barcelona holidays blend history, culture, shopping and food. Climb the steps of the Sagrada Familia Cathedral and say hello to some Instagram-worthy views of the city, explore the colourful Park Guell or take a relaxed bike ride through the Spanish streets. 

Make sure to stop by lively La Ramblas, the beating heart of the city. Admire street performers, allow your taste buds to be tempted by the aromas of authentic Spanish cuisine and wander past open-air markets to pick up a souvenir or two. With excellent bus and metro services all over the city, hopping on and off public transport as you make your way around the city is a breeze whether you have tiny tots or teens accompanying you.

Has our blog post got you feeling inspired to holiday with the kids this half term? With just a couple of weeks left to book, discover the latest cheap city break deals at Teletext Holidays and prepare for a trip full of fun!