What NOT to do in Europe with Kids

While traveling to Europe with Kids can unlock magical experiences, there are more than a few adults-only areas and experiences that you should avoid with kids in tow.

From fairy tale castles to toy museums, every corner of Europe has amazing activities and kid-friendly fun. However, it's easy to overdo it and in the quest to "do it all" you can run your kids ragged. Make the most of your vacation with our guide to what NOT to do in Europe with kids.

1. Too Many Museums

Sometimes the hardest part of European travel is figuring out what not to do. Adventurous Americans with a go-go attitude will try and pack in "everything" treating the top sites as a checklist. Travel FOMO is alive and well and too many of us try to leave no cultural stone unturned. Just consider Paris. It would feel weird to not go to the Louvre. Then you have to check out the Orsay and while you there hit up the Orangeries. The Musee de l'Aree des Invalides is cool for boys and then suddenly you find yourself as the 6th museum in two days with grumpy kids on the verge of meltdown and a spouse who might murder you in the next gallery of ancient weapons.

Keep it simple. No more than one museum every two days. Pick out ones with something compelling for the kids, pop for a guided tour so an expert can tell the kids what they are seeing and then build in time for running around outside afterwards.

2. Dachau

Walking the open spaces at Dachau is a haunting experience that can even be emotionally painful. It is such a solemn space that one feels pangs of guilt and sorrow for even talking above a whisper. All you can do is look around, say a silent prayer for those that were there, and try to not cry. Definitely not a place to take even the most well-behaved children. The historical context will be lost on them and even a little jumpy kiddish ness would seem disrespectful.

While European attitudes are welcoming and the site of kids in bars is very common, there is a point in a night our where kids aren't welcome and you probably wouldn't want them out anyhow

3. Ibiza

Ibiza is know as the unofficial capital of the Mediterranean all-night party. Legendary raves are a near nightly occurance with throbbing EDM, rivers of alcohol and just about every mind and mood altering substance known to man. During the day, it is a cute but forgettable Spanish island. With kids in tow, Mallorca is a much better bet.

Your kids might be up all night, but clubbing in Ibiza shouldn't be why.

4. Pubs in Ireland After 9:00

The pub is a centerpiece of Irish culture. In most towns, they are much more than a watering hole, serving up the best local food and doubling as the main gathering space for the community. From Sligo to Cork, pubs are family friendly and many even feature kids menus. But in accordance with Irish law, no one under 18 is allowed in pubs after 9:00 pm and many won't even seat families after 8 to ensure that they stay in compliance. We learned this the hard way when we rolled into Dublin late and couldn't find a pub for a late bite with weary little ones.

5. Amsterdam's Red Light District

This one is obvious, but it is easy to accidentally stumble into Amsterdam's Red Light District. Located in a heavily touristed part of town and just off a very pretty square, you can make a seemingly innocuous turn and find yourself amidst storefront windows featuring scantily clad professionals. Steer clear of signs that say, "Der Wallen" and De Oude Kerk.