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Traveling with small kids can be both exciting and challenging, so choosing the right destination is key. This list highlights our top five favorite family-friendly spots in Asia, based on criteria like kid-friendly activities, accessibility, and overall enjoyment. Of course, every family is different, and what works for us may not work for everyone, so consider this a personal, subjective take.

Surprisingly, some places I expected to rank higher didn’t make it to the top five, but here’s our final list:

1. Bangkok, Thailand
2. Singapore
3. Seoul, South Korea
4. Taipei, Taiwan
5. Bali, Indonesia

Honorable Mentions: While these destinations didn’t make the top five, they’re still fantastic:

• ✔️ Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• ✔️ Chiang Mai, Thailand
• ✔️ Da Nang, Vietnam
• ✔️ Con Dao, Vietnam

This list is based on places we’ve personally explored with our family. Since we haven’t visited destinations like Japan or Cambodia recently, or ventured to places like the Philippines, Laos, or Myanmar, we couldn’t include them—though I’m sure they’d rank highly for many families.

Scoring System and Criteria

To rank our top family-friendly destinations in Asia, we developed a scoring system based on key criteria that reflect the needs and preferences of traveling families. Each destination was evaluated on the following categories:

• ✔️ Ease of Access: This category examines how simple it is to navigate the destination. We looked at factors such as public transportation options, the convenience of airport commutes, availability of connecting flights, visa and entry requirements, and whether the destination offers family-friendly services or accommodations at key transit points.

• ✔️ Accommodation Options: We considered the variety of places to stay, from budget-friendly Airbnbs to luxurious hotels. A wide range of options ensures that families with different budgets and preferences can find a comfortable and suitable place to stay.

• ✔️ Activities: This category focuses on the variety and quality of family-friendly attractions. Destinations were scored on offerings such as beaches, museums, educational centers, cultural festivals, zoos, aquariums, parks, and other activities that provide entertainment and enrichment for children and adults alike.

• ✔️ Food Scene: Food plays a significant role in travel enjoyment, especially for families. We assessed the diversity, accessibility, and quality of the local food scene, from street food to family-friendly dining options.

While the scoring system is subjective, it reflects our experiences and priorities when traveling with kids. Ultimately, the list aims to highlight destinations that offer a balance of convenience, fun, and memorable experiences for families.

1. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is one of our favorite family destinations, and for good reason. We've visited more than a half-dozen times, and each trip uncovers something new to explore. The city is lively and welcoming, offering a good balance between cultural activities and modern attractions. From awe-inspiring temples to kid-friendly spots like aquariums and interactive museums, Bangkok has something for everyone.

While the city itself doesn't have a beach, it’s just a short flight away from some of Asia's most stunning coastal destinations. For foodies, Bangkok is nothing short of paradise, with countless street food vendors, bustling night markets, and world-class restaurants catering to all tastes.

Getting around Bangkok is a breeze, thanks to its efficient and accessible public transportation, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT, and river ferries. Accommodation options are plentiful, ranging from luxurious five-star hotels to budget-friendly family apartments.

Special Memory: One of our favorite times to visit Bangkok is during Songkran, the Thai New Year festival. The city transforms into a giant water fight, and the energy is contagious. (Check out our post about Songkran here.)

2. Singapore

To be honest, Singapore wasn’t one of my top destinations as a solo traveler. It felt a bit too familiar to the West, and I was seeking a change of surroundings. But with kids? Singapore is fantastic! It’s a city that balances modernity and family-friendly experiences beautifully.

Singapore offers plenty of great activities for kids, from the world-famous Singapore Zoo to interactive spots like Kidzania. The city is also filled with great places to walk around, vibrant temples to visit, and plenty of green spaces to explore. For food lovers, the bustling hawker stalls and the incredible variety of cuisines make it a must-visit destination.

While accommodations in Singapore aren’t the cheapest, there’s a good range of options to suit different budgets. Even better, there’s a beach within a 30-minute ride, making it easy to escape the urban vibe for some sand and sea.

Traveling with kids? Make sure to bring your car seat booster—something portable like the mifold booster works well. Alternatively, Grab (the local ride-hailing app) offers a special ride type that allows you to book drivers equipped with baby seats.

Special Memory: A family favorite is Gardens by the Bay. Walking through the lush gardens, especially under the futuristic Supertrees, is such a magical and enjoyable experience for all ages.

3. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is a city I always love visiting, and it has become even more enjoyable with kids. To make the most of your trip, plan to go during autumn or spring—the weather is perfect, and the scenery is stunning. Avoid winter unless you're prepared for the freezing cold.

Seoul is a paradise for food lovers, and it's hard to go wrong when dining out. Our absolute favorite is the classic Korean BBQ—a must-try at any restaurant you visit. The food scene is vibrant, diverse, and always satisfying.

Finding accommodations in Seoul is easy, with plenty of options to suit different needs. Getting around is also a breeze with the city’s efficient metro system and the Kakao T app for ridesharing.

The city itself is great for leisurely walks. Some of our favorite spots include Seoul Forest Park, a peaceful retreat in the bustling city, and the scenic campus of Yonsei University. If shopping is your thing, Seoul won’t disappoint, with countless stores spread across districts like Myeongdong and Hongdae.

For family-friendly activities, Seoul offers a great zoo and not one but two incredible aquariums. These spots are perfect for keeping kids entertained while you enjoy the city.

Special Memory: One of our most memorable experiences was dressing up our kid in a traditional hanbok and visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace. Exploring the nearby Hanok Village was like stepping back in time—a truly unforgettable experience.

4. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is a fantastic destination, especially during autumn and early winter. The cooler weather makes it perfect for strolling around the city and enjoying cozy meals like hot pot. The city is incredibly walkable and safe, making it ideal for families.

One of our favorite activities is visiting Taipei’s night markets. They’re a treasure trove of culinary delights, offering the chance to discover new dishes at the many food stalls. Food lovers will find Taipei to be a paradise, with a mix of traditional and modern culinary options throughout the city.

Getting around Taipei is effortless, thanks to its efficient transportation system. The combination of old-world charm and modern attractions ensures there’s always something interesting to explore.

Special Memory: One of our most memorable experiences was exploring Taipei 101 with friends and their kids, taking in the city’s vibrant energy. The kids especially loved spending time at the Taipei Zoo, a must-visit for families.

5. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a destination we recently rediscovered, having returned after nine years. You can read more about recent trip It’s a place that exudes a chill and relaxed vibe, making it perfect for families looking to unwind. While the traffic can sometimes be overwhelming, the island’s beauty and atmosphere more than make up for it.

Bali offers a stunning mix of mountains and beaches, providing picturesque sceneries wherever you go. The people are incredibly friendly, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. The food scene is equally diverse, with delicious local dishes as well as plenty of international options to suit every palate.

Although Bali isn’t as dense with attractions as some other destinations, it has everything you need for a memorable family trip. Transportation is mainly through taxis, which are widely available. The island is rich in cultural spots, offering great opportunities for kids to learn about local traditions and history.

Special Memory: One of our favorite experiences was spending a relaxing day at the beach in South Kuta. The kids loved playing by the water, and ending the day with an early seafood dinner made for some truly special family moments.

Conclusion

This list reflects our personal experiences and preferences as a family traveling through Asia. Each destination offers its own unique charm, and while our top five highlights the ones we loved the most, we know that every family’s ideal travel spots may look a little different.

We’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite family-friendly destinations in Asia? Do you have a special spot or unforgettable memory to share? Let us know and inspire others to explore new places.

Wherever your travels take you, may they be filled with adventure, laughter, and wonderful family memories. Happy traveling!