Fall Break with Kids: 8 Great Destinations with a Rental Car

An fall break with kids is a surprisingly great time to explore Europe. The peak summer crowds are gone, temperatures in Southern Europe are often pleasant, and a rental car gives you the freedom to plan your days flexibly. From snorkeling in Cyprus and boat trips around Malta to making pizza in Tuscany and exploring Roman ruins: there’s something for every age group.

A rental car makes a family vacation like this even more flexible: you set your own pace and aren’t dependent on bus or train schedules. Be sure to reserve a child safety seat in advance, though, as they sell out quickly during fall break.

On this page:

• Why take an fall break with kids?

• 8 kid-friendly destinations for fall break

• 8 Fall Destinations in the Spotlight

• Fall-specific tips for a family vacation

• Car rental tips for families during fall break

• Frequently Asked Questions About an Fall Break with Kids

Why take an fall break with the kids?

The only vacation time between summer and Christmas

For families with school-age children, the fall break is one of the few fixed times between summer vacation and Christmas break when you can travel together. Taking other weeks off usually isn’t possible without consulting the school. That makes this week especially valuable—so be sure to book it early.

Fewer crowds, more time for each other

After summer vacation, many European cities and tourist regions become significantly quieter. That doesn’t automatically mean every attraction has 30 to 50 percent fewer visitors—that varies greatly by destination. However, popular spots are generally more pleasant to visit than they are in the summer. You don’t have to wait as long, and it’s easier to spontaneously visit a museum, restaurant, or go on an excursion. That’s a big advantage for children. A morning spent not waiting endlessly in line for an attraction simply gives you more vacation time.

Pleasant Temperatures

Southern Europe, in particular, can still be exceptionally pleasant in October. In Seville, the average high temperature in October is around 27°C, while Rome averages around 22°C. In the Algarve region, average high temperatures in early October are still around 26°C and around 23°C later in the month. This makes walking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities more comfortable than during the hottest summer months. At the same time, the weather remains changeable: a warm, sunny day can be followed by rain or a cool morning.

Potentially More Affordable Travel

Outside the high season, prices for accommodations and some activities often drop, but a fixed savings of 30 to 40 percent doesn’t apply to every destination. Moreover, demand during fall break is relatively high. But for families, even a modest price difference can be worthwhile: with four people, savings on flights, accommodations, and rental cars add up quickly.

8 kid-friendly destinations for fall break

8 Fall Destinations in the Spotlight

Below, we’ve put together some tips for 8 fall destinations to visit with kids. You can find even more inspiration in our blog post on fall destinations by rental car. Or are you looking for a quiet destination? Then check out 12 alternatives to crowded hotspots.

1. Cyprus: A Warm Island Full of Myths and Salt Lakes

Cyprus combines pleasant fall weather with beaches, nature, and stories that appeal to kids.

A road trip in a rental car in Cyprus in October is one of the warmer options for a European fall vacation. The kids can still enjoy the beach and, with a little luck, do plenty of swimming and snorkeling. Around Cape Greco, you’ll find crystal-clear water and beautiful bays, while the salt lake near Larnaca is a major stopover for migratory birds and flamingos in the fall.

Greek mythology also comes to life here. Tell the story of Aphrodite along the way and turn the trip itself into a mini-treasure hunt for locations from the ancient tales. Rent a car in Cyprus, as it’s the ideal way to combine different parts of the island. Just keep in mind that they drive on the left in Cyprus.

Ideal for: families who want to combine the beach, nature, and short road trips.

2. Malta: Small Island, Big Adventures

Thanks to Malta’s compact size, you can see a surprising amount in just a few days without spending hours in the car.

Malta is perfect for fall break, because you can see everything on a 5-day tour. One of the best stops for kids is Popeye Village, the former movie set that has been converted into a tourist attraction. A boat tour of the Blue Grotto is also a great choice when the weather cooperates. In Marsaxlokk, the traditional, colorful fishing boats (luzzu) provide a completely different backdrop.

Malta generally has pleasant temperatures in October, though the chance of rain increases compared to summer. Renting a car in Malta gives you the freedom to visit busy spots early in the day and then drive to a quieter beach or village. Keep in mind: in Malta, they drive on the left.

Ideal for: families with young children who want to see a lot without long car rides.

3. Tuscany: agriturismo, the Tower of Pisa, and making pizza

Rural Italy with animals in the yard and a swimming pool: exactly what kids want after a day of sightseeing.

A stay at an agriturismo (farmstay) combines peace and quiet for parents with animals and a pool for the kids. From there, you can take day trips to Florence, Pisa, or Lucca. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is, of course, a classic, but a pizza or pasta-making class is just as suitable for kids. For parents, the hills and vineyards of Chianti are a nice bonus. Keep in mind, though, that many historic centers of Italian cities and towns have ZTL zones where you’re not allowed to drive a rental car.

Ideal for: families who want to combine culture and good food with peace and quiet and outdoor space.

4. Budapest: Castle, the Danube, and Kid-Friendly Baths

Budapest is a great fall destination, but the famous Széchenyi Baths aren’t suitable for young children.

The Hungarian capital is compact enough to combine various sights. Take the cable car to Buda Castle, stroll along the Danube, and take a boat ride when the weather permits. One of Budapest’s biggest attractions is the Széchenyi thermal bath complex, but children under 14 are not allowed there. For families with younger children, other baths are more suitable, such as Palatinus, Dagály, or Csillaghegy. You don’t need a car to get around the capital, but if you really want to explore Hungary, we recommend renting a car in Budapest.

In October, Budapest is noticeably cooler than Southern Europe: daytime temperatures range between 14 and 18°C.

Ideal for: families with children ages 6 and up who enjoy culture and urban activities.

5. Andalusia: sun, culture, and beaches

Southern Spain is still holding on to summer, with cities rich in Moorish history and beaches.

In Seville, the average high temperature in October is around 27°C, while it’s a bit cooler along the coast, though still quite mild. This makes it an ideal time to explore the region without the extreme summer heat. In Seville, the Alcázar and Metropol Parasol are great stops for families. In Málaga, you can combine a day in the city with a trip to the beach and activities related to Picasso. If you rent a car in Málaga, you can easily take day trips from the city.

Plan your sightseeing wisely: a full day of walking through Seville can be tiring for young children. So be sure to alternate cultural activities with a playground, swimming pool, beach, or ice cream.

Ideal for: families who want to combine culture, the beach, and warm fall weather.

6. Istria (Croatia): Roman ruins and truffles

Istria is compact enough for a short road trip and offers a delightful mix of beaches, history, and food.

Pula is a natural starting point for a road trip across the Istrian Peninsula, thanks to its impressive Roman amphitheater. It’s easier for kids to picture gladiators here than in a traditional museum. Afterward, drive to small hilltop towns like Motovun and Grožnjan, where the landscape changes completely. In this region, you can go truffle hunting. Turn it into a scavenger hunt for the kids.

Istria isn’t a guaranteed summer destination in October. In Pula, the average daytime temperature is around 19°C. A day at the beach on a sunny day can be wonderful, but it’s wise to have a Plan B for rainy days.

Ideal for: families looking for a short road trip combining culture, nature, and good food.

7. Algarve: cliffs, kid-friendly beaches, and Zoomarine

The Algarve combines impressive coastal landscapes with activities that are fun even when the weather isn’t great.

Take a drive along the coast between Faro and Lagos and stop at spectacular viewpoints and beaches. Praia da Marinha is one of the region’s most famous beaches. For a true family day out, combine the dolphin shows at Zoomarine theme park near Albufeira with a day at the beach. To reach the best spots, it’s best to rent a car in Faro. Also check out our tips for trips through the Algarve.

In October, the Algarve is often still sunny and warm. Average high temperatures are around 26°C at the beginning of the month and around 23°C at the end. At an average of 20°C, the sea is noticeably cooler than in the summer. Also keep in mind that the Atlantic coast in the west can be windier and cooler than the eastern part of the Algarve.

Ideal for: families looking to combine sun, nature, and attractions.

8. Rome: gladiators, ruins, and gelato

Rome turns a history lesson into an adventure when you let your kids go on their own quest to discover gladiators, emperors, and Roman ruins.

A child-friendly guided tour of the Colosseum brings history to life. For children ages 8 and up, an audio tour of the Vatican Museums is highly recommended. Ostia Antica is also worth a visit: this well-preserved Roman city offers a glimpse into the lives of ordinary Romans. If you’d like to combine a day at the beach with archaeology, the coast near Ostia is just a short drive away. And of course, no trip is complete without a daily gelato. Rent a car in Rome and take day trips to nearby gems in Lazio.

October is a great month to explore Rome on foot. The average high temperature is around 22 °C, which is more pleasant for long city walks than the hot summer months.

Ideal for: families with children who are interested in history and willing to do a lot of walking.

Fall-specific tips for a family vacation

Tip 1: Keep in mind that the days are getting shorter

In October, daylight hours get shorter quickly. Additionally, in Europe, the clocks are set back one hour on the last Sunday in October. As a result, it gets dark noticeably earlier afterward. Therefore, it’s best to plan longer car trips in the morning. That way, you’ll not only be driving in daylight but will also start out with children who are still well-rested.

Tip 2: Dress in layers

A sunny afternoon at 22°C can be followed by a chilly evening. This also applies to Southern Europe. The weather there is often pleasant in October, but it’s certainly not guaranteed to be summery. So be sure to pack several layers of clothing: a T-shirt, a cardigan or fleece, and a light rain jacket. For children, extra waterproof shoes are handy if you’re planning lots of outdoor activities.

Tip 3: Halloween and All Saints’ Day

Halloween (October 31) is becoming increasingly popular in Europe, but it’s not an event that has the same meaning or scale everywhere. So, just before you leave, look for local events in the place where you’ll be staying. For example, Luna Park in Ayia Napa (Cyprus) organizes family-friendly Halloween evenings with pumpkin carving and workshops; in Budapest and Seville, you’ll find pumpkin decorations and workshops for children.

In Catholic countries, November 1 is All Saints’ Day, which is often an official holiday and celebrated extensively, including in Italy (Ognissanti).

Tip 4: Prevent motion sickness on winding roads

Mountainous areas can be particularly challenging for children prone to motion sickness. This applies, for example, to the Troodos Mountains in Cyprus and the hilly regions of Tuscany and Istria.

It’s better to plan several short drives rather than one long stretch. Let children look out the window instead of reading or staring at a screen for long periods, and take regular breaks. For children who frequently suffer from motion sickness, you can ask your pharmacist or family doctor in advance about suitable remedies.

Tip 5: Plan a highlight for every day

A family road trip is more fun when it’s not just about sightseeing. So plan an ice cream stop after a museum visit, a trip to a playground after a long drive, or a visit to a swimming pool after seeing a historic site. The same applies to a rental car: driving less can mean more vacation time. For many families, two or three highlights a day are more manageable than a schedule packed from early morning until night.

Also, keep a Plan B on hand for rainy days. In the fall, the weather is more unpredictable than in the summer. Whenever possible, choose accommodations with an (indoor) pool or spa, and have a museum or indoor activity lined up in case it rains heavily one day.

Car Rental Tips for Families During Fall Break

A rental car gives you a lot of freedom, but with children, there are a few extra things to keep in mind.

Reserve a child safety seat in advance

If you want to rent a child safety seat or booster seat, always reserve it in advance when booking your rental car (expect an extra €5–10 per day) rather than waiting until you arrive. During fall break, child seats sell out quickly at many rental companies. The rules vary by country: the EU mandates that child seats are required for children shorter than 150 cm, but some countries, such as Spain and Portugal, have a lower limit of 135 cm. Be sure to check the rules for your destination before you leave.

Choose a rental car that’s spacious enough

It’s not always obvious which class of rental car to choose. For a family of four, a compact or midsize car isn’t automatically big enough. With child seats, suitcases, strollers, coats, and extra shoes, you’ll have more luggage in the fall than you might expect.

For five or six people, a 7-passenger car is often more practical. Be sure to consider not only the number of seats but also the available trunk space when all seats are in use.

An automatic transmission can offer extra comfort

An automatic transmission can be convenient for a family road trip, especially if you’ll be driving a lot in heavy city traffic or on winding roads. It takes one less thing off your hands while driving, allowing you to focus fully on the road. An automatic is usually a bit more expensive, but many car renters are happy to pay the extra cost.

Don’t wait too long to book your rental car

Fall break is a busy travel season for families. Popular destinations and larger family cars, in particular, can sell out quickly. Booking six to eight weeks in advance is a good rule of thumb. If you have specific requests—such as an automatic transmission, a 7-passenger car, or multiple child seats—it’s wise to compare rental cars sooner.

For more general tips, check out our guide to hassle-free car rentals with kids.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fall Break with Kids

What’s the best destination for a fall vacation with preschoolers?

For preschoolers, destinations with short distances, plenty of outdoor space, and a straightforward itinerary are particularly appealing. Malta, Cyprus, Tuscany, and the Algarve are good options. There, you can relatively easily combine the beach, a pool, nature, and short excursions.

Andalusia and Rome are also great options for young children, but they involve more walking and a slightly faster pace. For preschoolers, it’s best not to plan a long car ride or multiple major attractions every day. Instead, choose one main activity per day and leave room for spontaneous stops.

How many days of vacation do I have during fall break?

The fall break usually lasts nine days, from Saturday through Sunday. If you factor in a travel day at the beginning and end, you’ll have about a week at your destination. That makes compact destinations like Malta, Istria, and Tuscany particularly suitable.

Can I book a rental car with a child safety seat?

Yes, you can reserve a child safety seat right when you book your rental car. Don’t wait until you’re at the counter, because you’ll usually pay more then—or the seats might even be out of stock. They sell out quickly, especially during school breaks. In most EU countries, child seats are mandatory for children up to a height of 135 or 150 cm, depending on the country. Be sure to check the rules at your destination. You can find more information in our guide to renting a car with a child seat.

Is a rental car cheaper during fall break?

For most European destinations, rates are significantly lower than in the summer. Exceptions include Cyprus and Malta, where the fall break is a secondary peak season and the savings are more limited. Read more about the best time to rent a car.

Are there Halloween activities for children during fall break?

In various European cities and tourist areas, Halloween-themed activities are organized in late October, but the offerings vary from year to year. Note that Halloween isn’t a traditional holiday everywhere, so be sure to check your destination’s event calendar before booking. In some places, you’ll find special activities at amusement parks, zoos, museums, or shopping malls. In Catholic countries, All Saints’ Day around November 1 may be a more significant part of the calendar.

How can I prevent motion sickness in children during a fall road trip?

Keep car rides short if your child is prone to motion sickness. A practical guideline is to plan a break after about an hour and to take breaks during long, winding stretches of road.

Let children look out the window as much as possible and avoid reading or prolonged screen time during winding drives. Ensure they get fresh air and avoid a heavy meal right before departure. If you want to use motion sickness medication, ask a pharmacist or doctor in advance for advice on what’s appropriate for your child’s age.

Does it already snow in the Scottish Highlands in the fall?

It’s possible. In mountainous parts of Scotland, the weather can turn wintry as early as October, although snow certainly doesn’t fall everywhere or every year. Higher elevations, such as the Cairngorms, can be much colder than the lowlands of Scotland. For families with young children, it’s wiser to choose a milder route (for example, around Loch Lomond instead of the Cairngorms) or to avoid mountain roads. For teenagers aged twelve and up, a Highlands adventure can actually be extra exciting.

A rental car makes your fall break flexible

From a sunny day at the beach in Cyprus to a pizza-making workshop in Tuscany: a fall vacation with kids doesn’t have to mean settling for rain and cold. In October, in particular, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures across much of Europe, fewer summer crowds, and an itinerary that easily combines culture, nature, and relaxation.

A rental car makes that even easier. You decide when to leave, can squeeze in a day at the beach when the sun is shining, and don’t have to rely on public transportation for every outing. So be sure to compare rental cars for your fall vacation on EasyTerra well in advance and choose a car that offers enough space for the whole family and all your luggage. Don’t forget to reserve a child seat or infant seat if you’re traveling with young children.