EUROPE

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Sometimes you just need to wait for the oppressive heat of the summer to fade away before you can truly enjoy some of Europe’s best locations. With a family in tow, avoiding the heat can be even more important, especially with little ones. Even though the kids are back to school, plan on getting some quality family vacation time in before the weather turns cold at these incredible locations.

Rome, Italy

If your family hasn’t had the opportunity to visit Rome yet, now is the time! The overwhelming amount of things to see and do here is nothing short of astounding. The sheer amount of history pouring from almost every surface in Rome is incredible. The learning opportunity here for kids and adults alike is exceptional. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, there is so much to explore. And don’t forget the food! What kid doesn’t love having pizza for almost every meal? The best part about visiting in the fall is that you can avoid the massive tourist crowds and be moderately comfortable outside.

Vienna, Austria

This city is perfect for kids who play music. A stop at Vienna’s House of Music is a must, where kids can enjoy an interactive experience. Walking on musical stairs, playing an instrument or conducting the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra are just a few of the activities kids will love. Other family-friendly stops in Vienna include the Wiener Prater, the world's oldest amusement park and Schönbrunn Zoo, the world's oldest zoo. You can also stop for a swim at a beach along the Danube River if the weather is unseasonably warm.

London, England

Perhaps the best part about visiting London is that there is no language barrier! This lowers the stress for everyone. If your kids are “Harry Potter” fans, you simply must do a Warner Bros. studio tour. Experience the magic of Harry Potter’s world by visiting the sets of the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley and more. The London Eye is another great attraction that kids will love, as well as Sea Life London Aquarium.

Telemark, Norway

If your family is a little more outdoorsy, Norway is the perfect place to go. In Telemark you will find Høyt & Lavt climbing park. Here you can challenge your family to 70 different climbing activities. Once you’ve conquered all of the climbing challenges, head to Skien leisure park. Play frisbee golf and do some more outdoor climbing, or stay inside and swim in any of the six pools. Make a stop at Bjørneparken (the bear park) in Flå to see bears, elk, lynx and crocodiles! You can also zip line and stop at the waterpark.

Friedrichshafen, Germany

Nestled on the shore of Lake Constance, this little town is also great for outdoor-loving families. Swim, bike, hike or explore some of the museums in the city while visiting this beautiful town. Fall is the perfect time to stroll along the historically themed trails in the area. If your kids love airplanes, they may enjoy visiting The Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen, which houses the world's largest aviation collection. It also chronicles the history of the Zeppelin airships and combines technology and art.

Whether you want to wear your kids out by climbing a mountain or learn some important historical facts, there is plenty to do this fall! Pick a country and get planning before all the beautiful leaves have fallen to the ground. There’s no time like the present to start planning your next fantastic fall family adventure!

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