Why are direct flights especially convenient for families?

When travelling with children, the journey matters just as much as the destination. Connections mean extra waiting, changing terminals and the risk of missing the next flight. A direct flight helps avoid these inconveniences.

Ryanair and Wizz Air offer many European routes, with other airlines providing additional options. Availability, operating airlines and flight frequency depend on the season and travel dates.

• Less time travelling. Many European destinations can be reached in around 2–4 hours.
• Easier with children. No waiting for a connecting flight or changing terminals.
• More choice. Comparing four departure airports can help you find more convenient dates and prices.

26 family holiday ideas — cities, beaches and adventures

In Barcelona you can combine Gaudí architecture with time at the beach, in Sicily discover volcanoes, and in Cyprus enjoy beaches and historical sights. Here are ideas from four departure airports.

These routes are travel ideas, not a guarantee of direct flights on every date. Check whether nonstop service is available for your chosen dates before buying tickets.

From Riga — Italy, Spain, Cyprus and Malta

Riga is a convenient departure point for both city breaks and Mediterranean holidays.

• Milan (Bergamo), Italy – Check prices for your dates

  Architecture, city walks and day trips to Lake Como.

• Barcelona, Spain – Check prices for your dates

  Gaudí architecture, city beaches, parks and activities for children.

• Rome, Italy – Check prices for your dates

  The Colosseum, ancient Roman landmarks, beautiful squares and gelato.

• Paphos, Cyprus – Check prices for your dates

  Mediterranean beaches, archaeological sites and relaxing holidays.

• Málaga, Spain – Check prices for your dates

  Costa del Sol beaches, the old town and trips around Andalusia.

• Malta – Check prices for your dates

  Warm sea, historic towns and small bays.

From Vilnius — Mediterranean islands, the Riviera and Georgia

From Vilnius, consider trips to Italy, Spain, Cyprus and Georgia.

• Milan (Malpensa), Italy – Check prices for your dates

  Northern Italian cities and lakes.

• Malta – Check prices for your dates

  Valletta, beaches and Mediterranean landscapes.

• Barcelona, Spain – Check prices for your dates

  Architecture and beaches in one holiday.

• Larnaca, Cyprus – Check prices for your dates

  Sandy beaches and resorts on the southern coast.

• Catania, Sicily – Check prices for your dates

  Sicilian coast, local cuisine and Mount Etna.

• Nice, France – Check prices for your dates

  The French Riviera and picturesque coastal towns.

• Kutaisi, Georgia – Check prices for your dates

  Mountains, caves, Georgian food and trips to the Black Sea.

From Kaunas — Greece, Croatia and Italy’s coast

Kaunas can be a good alternative for trips to Mediterranean and Adriatic resorts.

• Rimini, Italy – Check prices for your dates

  Long sandy beaches and Adriatic resorts.

• Málaga, Spain – Check prices for your dates

  Sunny beaches and the natural landscapes of Andalusia.

• Bari, Italy – Check prices for your dates

  Apulia’s coast and Italian cuisine.

• Paphos, Cyprus – Check prices for your dates

  The sea, historic sites and island excursions.

• Alicante, Spain – Check prices for your dates

  Costa Blanca beaches and seaside promenades.

• Rhodes, Greece – Check prices for your dates

  Island beaches, a medieval old town and natural beauty.

• Zadar, Croatia – Check prices for your dates

  The Adriatic Sea, nearby islands and beautiful sunsets.

From Warsaw — Spanish islands, Portugal and Crete

These six sunny destinations from Warsaw are appealing options for a family holiday.

• Málaga, Spain – Check prices for your dates

  Costa del Sol beaches, water parks and trips around Andalusia.

• Alicante, Spain – Check prices for your dates

  Sandy beaches, seafront promenades and family activities.

• Palma de Mallorca, Spain – Check prices for your dates

  Mallorca’s coves, beaches and mountain scenery.

• Faro, Portugal – Check prices for your dates

  Algarve beaches, coastal cliffs and boat trips.

• Chania, Crete, Greece – Check prices for your dates

  Cretan beaches, the historic harbour and island excursions.

• Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain – Check prices for your dates

  Volcanic landscapes, beaches and year-round family activities.

Why plan a family holiday in advance?

For a family of four or five, even a small difference in the price of each ticket can have a significant impact on the overall budget. If your holiday dates are known, you can start looking several months ahead.

Demand for popular destinations is usually higher during school holidays and summer. The lowest-priced seats on individual flights may sell out sooner.

Booking early does not guarantee the lowest fare, but often offers a wider choice of dates and seats, which is particularly useful for families.

What should you consider when flying with low-cost airlines?

Compare the total cost, not just the initial fare. Baggage and seat-selection rules can vary by airline and fare.

• Compare dates. Moving your trip by a day or two can sometimes save money.
• Check all four airports. Offers from Riga, Vilnius, Kaunas and Warsaw may differ.
• Check baggage. Find out which cabin bag is included and what extra baggage costs.
• Check children’s seating rules. Policies vary by airline and the child’s age.
• Calculate all costs. Include transfers, parking, baggage and accommodation.
• Choose convenient times. Very early or late flights can be tiring for young children.

Before booking, you can also explore airlines in the Airlines.

Frequently asked questions about family travel