Family-Friendly Travel by Age
5 Tween-Approved City Getaways
Trips to big cities where tweens can lean into their interests are a great way to make travelling with parents less, as they might say, cringe.
March 19, 2026
Tweens have plenty of opinions and aren’t shy about sharing them. Savvy parents are taking note and letting their kids help shape the vacation itinerary. No wonder, as giving tweens a say can make them more engaged.
From centuries-old capitals to trend-setting urban hubs, these destinations tap into the passion points of many tweens and can help expand their worldview. Read on for our recommendations and learn about the benefits the whole family can enjoy when booking through American Express Travel on your Platinum Card®.
Platinum Cardmembers get access to exceptional benefits at over 3,000 hand-picked hotels around the world with Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection. Representative 685.3% APR variable. Annual fee and terms apply.
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Explore our series of family travel recommendations by age:
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a great intro to Europe for families with tweens – full of history, edge, and easy ways to get around. The city's walkable neighbourhoods, efficient public transit, and rich mix of museums, street art, and cultural sights keep things interesting without being overwhelming.
Grand Hyatt Berlin
This centrally located luxury hotel makes sightseeing easy; it’s walking distance from Tiergarten Park and the Spy Museum, ideal for curious tweens with energy to burn. Bonus: it’s also pet-friendly, in case your family travels with a four-legged sidekick. The hotel itself appeals with spacious suites, an indoor pool, and family-friendly restaurants.
Waldorf Astoria Berlin
In bustling City West, this upscale hotel has spacious family suites, a top-tier spa for parents, and easy access to the Berlin Zoo and the shopping of Kurfürstendamm and Museum Island. It’s a solid pick for families who want to balance culture and comfort. Don’t miss high tea service, paired with sweeping city views over Berlin, at the Library on the 15th floor — and the indoor pool, where children can enjoy dedicated swim hours.
Rome, Italy
For tweens obsessed with mythology, gladiators, ancient ruins – or all the above – Rome is essentially one giant field trip. From the Colosseum’s underground chambres to the Pantheon’s epic dome, every stroll feels like time travel. Bonus: authentic gelato and pasta-filled dinners are always within reach.
Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel
This elegant property near the Spanish Steps is known for its lush gardens and family programming. Expect spacious suites, kids age-appropriate amenities, and a concierge who can help tailor the Roman adventure to your crew’s interests.
Aleph Rome, Curio Collection by Hilton
This hotel is a great value, with a rooftop pool, roomy suites, and a prime location near historic landmarks. A Cardmember favourite hotel, its location makes it easy for families to dive into the city’s ancient wonders – without sacrificing modern comforts.
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens
Set on a quiet coastal stretch, this resort blends beachy downtime with access to the city centre, 30 minutes away. Suites are spacious, pools are family-friendly, and the setting gives kids room to unwind between cultural outings.
NEW Hotel
This design-forward art hotel near Constitution Square is a Cardmember favourite, offering select suites with separate living areas for families to spread out, a cool aesthetic, and proximity to the Acropolis and a number of top museums.
New York, USA
NYC is a dream for tweens. From Broadway musicals and iconic skyscrapers to thrift stores and street food tours, there’s something for every type of young explorer.
The Peninsula New York
If your tween appreciates the finer things, they’ll dig this refined sanctuary in Midtown. The landmark hotel offers residential-style rooms and suites, a heated indoor pool, and access to Central Park and the eye-catching designer windows of Fifth Avenue. Add the Camp Peninsula package for a scavenger hunt, in-room tent set up, and welcome amenities for up to two kids.
Lotte New York Palace
Lottie New York Palace is an excellent choice for families with tweens, offering spacious rooms and a prime Midtown location just steps from Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and Fifth Avenue shopping. Tweens love the Insta-worthy city views and treats from Pomme Palais, while parents appreciate the convenience and comfort. It’s the perfect blend of fun, ease, and NYC magic for all ages - the kind of stay that practically signs off with a little XOXO.
Tokyo, Japan
If your tween’s into anime, gaming, or neon cityscapes, Tokyo might be the ultimate destination. From cosplay-friendly shops in Harajuku to themed cafes and interactive museums, there’s no shortage of sensory overload (in the best way). Check out our 4-day Tokyo itinerary for an overview of neighbourhoods, temples, and local treats.
The Tokyo Station Hotel
A landmark with over a century of history, conveniently connected to JR Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. The hotel is also close to the Imperial Palace Gardens, and the Marunouchi area offers a wealth of shopping, cafés, and art museums. The hotel's breakfast buffet features over 100 items, you can enjoy an authentic Japanese dining experience without leaving the hotel as much as you like.
Grand Hyatt Tokyo
After a day of sightseeing, wind down as a family around the red granite pool at Nagomi Spa and Fitness or keep spirits high with an evening at the hotel’s 10 dynamic restaurants and bars. The connecting Roppongi Hills complex offers captivating entertainment options, with over 250 shops and restaurants, an observatory, and an art museum to explore.
Relax, Recline and Save
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Cardmembers enrolled in the American Express Membership Rewards® programme will earn one additional bonus Membership Rewards point in addition to their standard earn rate (for a total of 2 points) for every full £1 spent on flights, prepaid hotels, car hire and experiences booked through the American Express Travel website americanexpress.com/en-gb/travel/. Specific Card products or limited time promotions may offer additional Membership Rewards points, please see individual Card or promotion Terms and Conditions for more information. Additional Membership Rewards points cannot be earned on products which are not prepaid but are paid directly to the supplier, including cruise bookings and select hotel bookings. These bookings will not earn two Membership Rewards points for every £1 spent but will be earned at the normal rate of one point for every £1 spent. Full Terms and Conditions apply, please visit americanexpress.com/uk/travel/terms-and-conditions/.
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