Tips for traveling Europe with small children

My spouse and I are planning a two-week trip to Europe this coming fall with our 3-year-old and 5-year-old. We want to make sure we don't overschedule ourselves, but we also want to see the main sights without driving the kids (and ourselves) crazy. What are your best strategies for navigating public transit with strollers, finding kid-friendly dining, and keeping the little ones entertained during museum visits?

First off, good luck! With a 3 and 5-year-old, ditch the massive traditional stroller if you can and get a lightweight travel umbrella stroller that folds with one hand. Navigating stairs in the metro can be a nightmare otherwise. Definitely check out this guide on public transport systems before you leave so you know which stations have elevators.

For museums, we always played 'I Spy' or gave our kids a scavenger hunt with picture cards of famous paintings before going in. It keeps them engaged for at least an hour without meltdowns. Also, always book the earliest morning slot available!

When it comes to dining in Europe, don't stress about finding places with kid's menus because most places don't have them. Kids are welcome in almost all casual restaurants, and you can easily order a side of plain pasta, fries, or share a pizza. Also, dinner starts much later there, so going right when they open at 7 PM usually means you get the best service.

If you want to escape the massive crowds and keep the little ones from getting overwhelmed by tourist traps, I highly recommend reading up on how to actually avoid tourist traps. Wandering into local neighborhood parks instead of the main crowded squares saved our sanity.

A lightweight baby carrier was honestly a lifesaver for us, even with a 3-year-old who occasionally wanted to walk. Cobblestones will destroy stroller wheels real quick, especially in older historic cities like Rome or Paris.

Limit yourselves to one major sightseeing activity per day, max. If you try to do a museum in the morning and a landmark in the afternoon, everyone will be crying by 2 PM. Spend the afternoons in a local playground where the kids can burn off energy and you can actually sit down with a coffee.

If you are thinking about mixing things up with some outdoor adventure, make sure to read planning a summer cycling tour for some great ideas on family-friendly paths outside the major urban centers.

Pack way fewer clothes than you think you need and just do laundry halfway through the trip. Lugging heavy suitcases plus a stroller and two kids onto trains and buses is the ultimate recipe for travel burnout. Keep your luggage as minimal as humanly possible!