Travelling with kids as a solo mum

[SallySooo]

I have some unexpected time off work and would like to take my kids (12, 6 and 3) abroad somewhere safe but also fun and exciting. It’s a bonus if it is culturally rich but doesn’t have to be. Budget is hard to say - probably can do £4K if needed - ideally that would be for 2 weeks. Any ideas for where to go and what to do? Thank you

When?

Can do May or July / August

DS11 and I are going interrailing in France - nothing too complicated or far away, but I'm hoping the train travel is going to be part of the fun and also allow me to arrive with more energy than if I'd had to drive all the way there.

Then a couple of family friendly hotels in contrasting locations, one busy town and one beach.

Bonus is that I only have to pay for me, he travels free...which has allowed extra nights in nicer hotels.

It'll depend how chilled your three year old is...so maybe an idea for a few years' time?

@amoamasthank you, how comes he travels free? Are children free for the trains?

Go on a cruise! I posted a similar question on here a few months back and lots of people suggested a cruise, something I’d never considered before. But have now booked a Greek island cruise for me & my 6 yo this summer. I wanted to be able to visit lots of places without the stress of public transport/constantly changing hotels/car hire etc, so this seemed like a perfect option. Loads to do for kids on the cruise too - swimming pools, kids club, theatre shows. Plus buffet meals every night is so much easier than going to restaurants with limited food options where DS won’t like anything on the menu

@SallySooo children aged 4-11 get a free Interrail Pass and 12 and over get a discounted youth pass, so financially it is really helpful!

Yes, we have taken full advantage of the free child pass for DS2! (Annoyingly I heard about them during the Covid lockdown, and by the time it was lifted DS1 had turned 12 :( )

A simple Interrail trip could work with a 3 year old- the magic trick is of course unlimited screen time while on board trains 😆. In general, less stressful than airports and flying at the same age I'd say!

You could do a little circuit of the Netherlands, Western Germany and France, possibly?

I would suggest a cruise too - great to wake up in a new destination.
You can all share a balcony room (if in budget), lots of food options. As well as the buffet use the main restaurant, nice to get dressed up and have an evening out. Lots of entertainment on board. Just get off and go to the beach when in port.
Though inter railing sounds fabulous fun but will take more organisation.

I'd also recommend a cruise. Fun and exciting, but also easy(ish) and relaxing(ish) for you as the sole adult.

Thanks!! Good suggestions appreciate it