Yes, Czechia boasts more castles per capita than anywhere else in the world—but even the most enchanting turret or fairytale tower can lose its charm when you’re dragging tired toddlers or screen-glued teens from moat to drawbridge.
Not every family member dreams of back-to-back castle tours, so why not opt for a getaway that blends child-friendly fun with a bit of grown-up serenity? Avoid fortress fatigue this summer break with some unexpected destinations across Central and Eastern Europe packed with adventure parks, spa soaks, and more.
Forest hikes and family spa days in Czechia
The stunning Slavkovský Les nature preserve in western Czechia is the perfect starting point for your castle-less family vacation. A region that effortlessly blends outdoor adventure and gentle relaxation, kids can explore the nature trail through Geological Park and get the lay of the land at the Hamelika Lookout Tower.
For a balanced family stay, check in at Ensana Hvězda. Located on Mariánské Lázně’s picturesque Goethe Square, the property features the town’s largest indoor pool with whirlpools, massage showers, and a vast sauna complex for parents to unwind. Meanwhile, children can enjoy a well-equipped playroom and a trip to the hotel’s artificial salt cave.
The hotel also offers e-bike rentals and complimentary access to nearby attractions like tennis courts and disc golf. Pop into town and explore Miniature Boheminium Park, where tiny models of Czech landmarks are on display.
Pirate ships, mineral pools, and seaside bliss in Bulgaria
If the only castles you want to see are sand castles on the beach, head to Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. Here, families can set sail on a pirate-themed cruise with Varna Party Boats, including a mock sea battle, games, and a pizza party.
On land, attractions like the Butterfly House and the surreal Stone Forest—an open-air collection of towering stone columns—deliver an experience that’s part fairytale, part nature walk. If your kids love dinosaurs or outer space, swing by the Varna Planetarium and the Retro Museum, which houses vintage Ladas, wax figures, and socialist-era toys.
Wind down with family-friendly accommodations at Ensana’s Aquahouse in Sts. Constantine and Helena, just 10 km from Varna. Little ones can frolick in shallow mineral pools, zoom down water slides, or sign up for kids aqua-Zumba, while parents unwind with a cocktail at the poolside bar. They also offer a “Mommy and Me” massage, a spa treatment designed for parent-child bonding. The on-site kids’ clubs, creative workshops, and playgrounds are designed to give parents a break while keeping kids busy.
Dino parks, thermal lakes, and splash-friendly pools in Hungary
From the shores of Lake Balaton to shady forest trails, Hungary is full of places where kids can let off steam while parents (literally) cool down. Attractions like the Rezi Dinosaur Park offer a unique look into the prehistoric past, while medieval ruins in the Balaton region help families connect with local legends.
One of the country’s most unique spots is Hévíz, about 200 km from Budapest and home to the largest swimmable thermal lake in the world. The warm, mineral-rich waters feel like an open-air spa where almost everyone, from children over 14 to grandparents, can float and relax.
Leave the rest of the vacation planning to Ensana Thermal Aqua, the only all-inclusive wellness hotel in Hévíz where all meals, family amenities, and summer programming are taken care of. Kids can dive into themed animation programs, splash in shallow pools, or join treasure hunts at the Bubbles Club, while adults can soak in quieter thermal areas, spend time in a sauna, or book a well-earned massage.
Adventure quests, animal encounters, and soothing waters in Slovakia
For a swashbuckling escape from castle tours that the whole family will love, visit Pirate Island near Bratislava. Slovakia’s biggest indoor pirate-themed adventure park is where kids can dress up, explore caves and jungle zones, and hunt for hidden treasure.
Animal lovers won’t be disappointed with a visit to Eco Park Piešťany, a unique contact zoo where guests can walk among and feed more than 180 animals (including kangaroos, emus, parrots and goats). The park also has playgrounds, trampolines, and interactive zones.
Families can balance all of that excitement with relaxation at Ensana Esplanade, with indoor and outdoor pools catering to every age. Tired guests can unwind with thermal waters, whirlpools, and safe paddling areas for little ones, while families with more energy to burn can rent bikes, try mini golf, or go kayaking on the Váh River.