Top family destinations for the school holidays
Whisk the family away with flights from Manchester Airport
Holiday inspiration for all ages
School holidays don't have to mean soggy sandwiches on windswept British beaches. Instead, why not get a great deal and turn your dream destinations into an affordable reality?
Our travel experts have curated a selection of must-visit places you can fly to from Manchester Airport that promise excitement, sunshine, and lasting memories. It’s time to explore new cultures and break free from the predictable school holiday routine.
Atlanta , USA
A city packed with countless attractions and days out for the whole family. At Zoo Atlanta, you can see over 200 species of 100 animals. Explore 60 different habitats at Georgia Aquarium and meet marine creatures swimming in 11 million gallons of water. Art galleries and museums aren't stuffy here. You can meet your favourite muppet at the Center for Puppetry Arts, and get creative at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta.
Walk, skate or cycle your way around the Atlanta Beltline, a 22-mile trail which loops the city. Head downtown to the birthplace of civil rights leader Martin Luther King and walk in the National Historical Park. Atlanta is also the home of Coca-Cola so you can learn all about the iconic global brand, sample some fizzy drinks and pick up a souvenir at World of Coca-Cola.
Barbados
There’s so much more to this tropical Caribbean Island than lying on a beach. How about an underwater adventure with Atlantis Submarine tours to watch marine life in their natural environment at depths of 150 feet ? Walk the plank, climb ropes and even swim with the turtles aboard the Jolly Roger. Head to the Folkestone Marine Park and burn off some energy in the playground, pools and museum.
Dubai, UAE
Indoor activities include Bounce Dubai, with 100 interconnected trampolines, Air Maniax, a huge inflatable adventure park and Illusion City, where you won’t believe your eyes. Take part in family desert activities like a safari in an open air jeep, or on a camel - and you can even sleep beneath the stars. The Dubai Fountain Show is an iconic spectacle where music, light and water jets synchronise in front of the Burj Khalifa every evening.
Lisbon, Portugal
Start in Alfama where picturesque alleyways will lead you up to São Jorge Castle. Climb the castle walls and enjoy great views of the city. Amble back down and you’ll discover secret squares, ancient churches, and of Lisbon’s main tourist attractions. It’s easy to get around on foot but if little legs get tired, you can find hop-on hop-off bus tours, take the tram or even hire a tuk tuk.
Vienna, Austria
There’s a lot to see in Austria’s grand Imperial capital. The Zoom Children’s Museum (Kindermuseum) has been designed for kids with fun exhibitions and activity areas. Celebrate Vienna’s rich musical heritage, at the House of Music (Haus der Musik) where you can even conduct a virtual orchestra. Book to see the white Lipizzaner ponies ‘dancing’ at the Spanish Riding School and take a ride across the city in a Fiaker (horse-drawn carriage) .
Orlando, USA
Look down on Orlando from above with a helicopter tour, or from the Orlando Eye. Enjoy an airboat experience through the Florida Everglades to see alligators and turtles in their natural environment. It’s free entry at Harry P Leu Gardens with 50 acres of tropical and sub-tropical plant life and butterflies.
Thailand
Phuket's family-friendly resorts offer lots of kid-friendly activities from team sports to dance classes. The beaches are glorious and it would be easy to spend the whole trip paddling in the sea and lying on the sand. But don’t miss out on great days out including Andamanda and Splash Jungle water parks, the Upside Down Museum, boat trips, and activities like mini golf and go karting.
The school holidays are a great opportunity to create lasting memories together. Remember to book your airport parking, as well as FastTrack and Lounge passes to make sure your journey is seamless.
Useful links
FastTrack
Save time and use the Express Lane at Security
Airport parking
Accessible parking, close to every terminal
Escape Lounge
Travel in style and relax at our exclusive airport lounge
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