Is it better to rent a car or take the train?

In most major European hubs, a car is a liability due to parking costs and narrow streets. Stick to high-speed rail unless you are specifically visiting rural areas like the French countryside.

How do I handle the stroller issue?

Cobblestones are everywhere. If you bring a stroller, make sure it has sturdy wheels, not the flimsy plastic kind, or you will struggle to navigate historic city centers.

Planning a Two-Week European Trip with Kids

Limit your itinerary to two, maximum three, base cities to avoid burnout from constant packing and transit. Focus on a mix of one kid-centric activity and one sightseeing goal per day to keep everyone engaged without hitting sensory overload.

Pick a single region. Don't try to cover London, Paris, and Rome in 14 days. Choose one region like the Netherlands and Belgium, or the Bavarian region of Germany and Austria. This keeps travel times under 3 hours via train.
Book trains over planes. Avoid the airport hassle. Europe’s rail network is superior for families. Book tickets 90 days out to get significant discounts and seat reservations, which are essential for families who want to sit together.
Prioritize apartments over hotels. Book Airbnbs or serviced apartments with a kitchen and laundry. Having a separate bedroom allows parents to stay up after the kids go to bed, and access to a washing machine means you can pack 50% less.
Build in 'downtime' days. Schedule every 4th day as a non-agenda day. Spend it at a local playground, a public park, or just relaxing at your rental. This prevents the 'museum fatigue' that kills family trips.

Is it better to rent a car or take the train?: In most major European hubs, a car is a liability due to parking costs and narrow streets. Stick to high-speed rail unless you are specifically visiting rural areas like the French countryside.
How do I handle the stroller issue?: Cobblestones are everywhere. If you bring a stroller, make sure it has sturdy wheels, not the flimsy plastic kind, or you will struggle to navigate historic city centers.