Should I bring a car seat?

If you plan on using taxis or rideshares, yes. However, if you are sticking to trains and subways, skip it to save yourself the hassle of carrying it.

How do we handle the jet lag?

Keep the kids awake until 7:00 PM local time on the first day. Natural sunlight and movement are the best cures for early wake-ups.

Planning your first family trip to Europe

Limit your itinerary to two cities maximum to avoid burnout and always book accommodation with kitchen access. Plan for one major activity per day, leaving afternoons free for downtime in local parks.

Pick a kid-friendly hub. Choose cities with excellent public transit and pedestrianized centers. London, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen are ideal for beginners because they are safe, stroller-friendly, and offer plenty of green space.
Book flights with sleep in mind. Opt for overnight flights for long-haul travel. Even if the kids don't sleep well, the cabin lights will be dimmed, which helps maintain a semblance of a nighttime routine.
Use the 'One Big Thing' rule. Schedule only one major museum or monument per day. Spend the rest of the time visiting local playgrounds or walking through neighborhoods so kids can burn off energy.
Ship your gear. Don't haul strollers or high chairs across the Atlantic. Rent baby gear locally or buy a cheap, lightweight 'umbrella' stroller upon arrival that you can leave behind if necessary.

Should I bring a car seat?: If you plan on using taxis or rideshares, yes. However, if you are sticking to trains and subways, skip it to save yourself the hassle of carrying it.
How do we handle the jet lag?: Keep the kids awake until 7:00 PM local time on the first day. Natural sunlight and movement are the best cures for early wake-ups.