Everything you want to know about a family river holiday
Are you also already dreaming about the summer holiday? About warm days, children playing and endless fun? Maybe you immediately think of the sea or a big lake, but have you ever considered holidaying on the banks of a river? Exactly! A river holiday offers a surprisingly different, but equally beautiful experience for the whole family.
Sounds good, right? Get ready for safe beaches, endless fun, quiet in nature and plenty of trips in the area. Want to bet that you will soon feel like packing your bags?
Why choose to holiday by a river?
A river may sound less obvious than a sea or a lake, but that is precisely where the charm lies. We list the best advantages for you:
✔ Safe and clear
At a river you often find small beaches and quiet banks. This immediately feels a lot safer for you as a parent than an endless beach or a crowded pool. You always have the kids in sight and the water usually slopes slowly, so they can splash around peacefully without you worrying. Little ones play safely with a scoop or bucket near the water's edge. Older children explore a little further, but still stay within calling distance. That's carefree enjoyment, right?
✔ In the middle of nature
Looking for a holiday that exudes tranquillity, yet is full of adventure? Then you'll find your perfect riverside spot. Our holidays are in idyllic, tucked-away locations. You wake up to the sound of birds singing and the gentle lapping of the water. Lean back in your chair and watch your children explore nature. This is where you truly unwind. This is where you create quality time away from all the hustle and bustle.
✔ The ultimate play paradise
A river is so much more than just water. It invites action! Building dams, making rafts, canoeing and fishing ... the river turns into a giant playground. No sand between your toes and still that wonderful water fun. Even the smallest water rats have fun for hours in the shallow water along the shore, while the teenagers go on an exciting canoe trip. Bet they fall asleep exhausted but overjoyed in the evening.
✔ Always something to do in the area
The river leads you to the most beautiful places in the area. Today, a market in a charming village, tomorrow a walk to a castle and the day after cycling through a valley. You will discover the surroundings in a unique way, creating the most diverse vacation. The area around the river lends itself perfectly to a day out with the whole family.
Checklist: here's how to make the most of your riverfront holiday
A river vacation requires slightly different gear than a trip to the sea or a pool. With these essentials in your luggage, playing, swimming and exploring will be a lot easier and more fun for everyone.
✅ Water shoes: Ideal for kids who want to run everywhere. No worries about slippery rocks or sharp pebbles.
✅ Picnic blanket: Because nothing is more fun than unexpected lunch on the shore with sandwiches, fruit and a cool drink.
✅ Fishing nets and buckets: Guaranteed hours of entertainment. From fish to tadpoles, kids won't get bored.
✅ Sun hats and sunscreen: Kids often play in the sun for hours, so protection is essential.
✅ Waterproof bag: Ideal for keeping phones, keys and snacks dry during a canoe or sup trip.
✅ Insect spray: Along water and trees are mosquitoes and other small critters; nice to be prepared.
Our favourite riverfront destinations
The Moselle in Germany
Bike tours along vineyards
Boat rides with stunning views
Atmospheric campsites along the river
The Gudenå in Denmark
The canoe river of Denmark.
Plenty of play opportunities for kids
Surrounded by forests and villages
The Soča River in Slovenia
Fairytale turquoise water
Rafting and canyoneering for adventurers
Beautiful nature in the Julian Alps
The Dordogne in France
Safe splashing in shallow water
Castles and medieval villages
Cosy family campsites
The Mrežnica in Croatia
Beautiful, clear, teal blue water
A hidden gem in the middle of nature
Quiet places to swim and play
The Salza in Austria
Beautiful natural valley
Crystal clear mountain water for swimming
Rafting and canoeing for adventurers
Time to hit the water? Book your family holiday now with VacanceSelect!
You can see it all before you, right? Your children getting into a canoe for the first time, the joy of building a dam that proudly stands for an afternoon, or the simple happiness of eating ice cream by the water's edge. At VacanceSelect, you will find your ideal match. Whether you choose a cozy campsite, a complete vacation park or a luxury resort hotel by the river. Book your family vacation by the river now with VacanceSelect!