Half term is that time that throws every parent into confusion; how to keep kids amused, inspired and out of mischief? Thankfully the beauty and diversity of Europe means that there are exciting and educational adventures out there for all tastes and ages; from out-of-this-world space odysseys in London to arty escapades in Frankfurt. Whether you’re seeking leave-them-to-it activities or immersive experiences the whole family will enjoy, these incredible half term adventures will keep even the pickiest of kids entertained.

Be experimental in Frankfurt

There are science museums and then there is Experiminta. You’ll never find a sign saying, ‘do not touch’; moreover, children are encouraged to get stuck in at this entirely hands-on, immersive learning centre. Mashing up science, maths and technology with wild and wacky installations and experiments, Experiminta will have kids captivated. They can learn about optics with a six-foot eyeball, lie on a fakir’s bed of nails and lift themselves up and down on pulleys. Experiminta always hosts a range of interesting workshops over half term too.

Shark spotting in Mallorca

When kids have had their fill at the beach, show them the wonders of the deep at Palma Aquarium. This exciting marine park is home to over 8,000 aquatic species from the Mediterranean and beyond. Think; ethereal jellyfish, tropical clown fish and cute turtles. Hop aboard a glass-bottomed Shark Vision boat and watch the predators of the seas circle ominously below. After your aquarium visit, take the famous Orange Express from Palma to Soller. Your kids will love looking out the window as the vintage mahogany train rattles across soaring viaducts through stunning landscapes. Children staying at Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa can continue their maritime adventure playing pirates at Barbaroja Kids Club.

Go interstellar in London

Journey with your kids to the far-flung corners of the universe this half term at the Peter Harrison Planetarium in Greenwich. Its futuristic auditorium offers a sensory overload taking your family to distant galaxies and the heart of the sun. A truly inspirational experience for budding astronauts. Fully geared up for little ones, the Peter Harrison Planetarium has plenty of extracurricular fun like moon-themed activities and an expedition sending Ted into outer space.

maritime museum european half term adventure kids

Get creative in Frankfurt

Budding artists can get playfully creative at Frankfurt’s MINISCHIRN. Located in the ultra-hip Schirn Kunsthalle, MINISCHIRN is entirely geared up for kids to run riot. With its colourful geometric shapes, mirror panels and spherical orbs, the fun space resembles a piece of modernist art itself. Children are encouraged to discover aesthetic phenomena and the principles of composition – all through letting off some steam in its vast playroom. MINISCHIRN also host hourly workshops for kids to explore their creative skills at. Perhaps best of all, while your kids are having fun, you’re free to roam the world-class modern and contemporary exhibitions at the grown-up Schirn gallery.

Schirn european half term adventure kids

Start a career in London

As far as living out their ambitions goes, there’s no better place than the real-life role-play of KidZania. An entire city built just for children, KidZania lets kids channel their inner-adult in an incredible array of professions. From fixing teeth as a dentist to keeping law and order as a police officer, kids can fully immerse themselves in grown-up jobs. What’s more, there’s no adults allowed, letting them explore their very own city unleashed. For the full VIP experience, guests at Grosvenor House Suites by Jumeirah Living can be whisked to KidZania by private chauffeur.

kidZania european half term adventure kids