11 Incredible Family Travel Experiences Worth Every Penny

Between Google and AI tools, anyone can search for the best things to see and do in places like Egypt, Croatia or Cambodia and get a long list of ideas within seconds. Here’s the thing: It’s the same list generated for virtually everyone else, comprised of surface-level experiences and generic itineraries that mean you’ll be sightseeing, dining and checking boxes alongside all the other travelers with those recommendations in hand. Truly immersive travel goes far deeper than what you can find online, and Ciao Bambino’s trusted (human) Travel Advisors are passionate about tapping into our local connections to bring families and destinations together in a meaningful way. While these 11 insider activities are a splurge, you’ll treasure the memories long after your suitcase is unpacked.

11 VIP Travel Experiences to Put on Your Bucket List

Sicily: A private lunch in the Secret Garden at the Valley of the Temples

After your guide leads you through the ancient Greek ruins that dot Sicily‘s Valley of the Temples, an important archaeological site on the island’s southern coast, follow him or her to a hidden garden setting for a culinary surprise. Savor an authentic Sicilian meal prepared with organic produce as you take in the botanical beauty of Kolymbetra, the site’s Secret Garden — built by the Greeks as a reservoir, then cultivated as farmland beginning in the 800s under Arab rule. Limited access to this tucked-away paradise ensures your family will enjoy every serene minute of your scenic repast.

Buenos Aires: Chef-prepared meals with local families

In a welcoming Buenos Aires neighborhood, join a host family for dinner prepared by an acclaimed chef. You’ll enjoy an interactive cooking demonstration and delicious Argentine flavors, as you spend the evening in fantastic company — the experience is equal parts outstanding food and warm hospitality. 

Egypt: An up-close visit to the Sphinx’s paws

Why settle for a basic look at the Great Sphinx of Giza when a VIP tour can take you straight to the base of the landmark’s enormous feet? For CB Travel Advisor Tori Shields, this specially curated opportunity was the highlight of her trip to the area. The guide escorted her group past the public viewing platform and straight to the paws. “It was incredible—a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Tori says, adding that she considers it a must-do for those visiting Egypt. “To be that close is simply amazing.”

Costa Rica: A guided horseback ride and culinary class

A knowledgeable sabanero, or local cowboy, leads you by horseback along Costa Rica‘s scenic trails teeming with wildlife and colorful plants. After your ride, you’ll stop at a traditional hacienda and learn to make regional delicacies like webbed tortillas and rosquillas, small pastries. Quench your thirst with freshly squeezed sugarcane juice or enjoy a coffee tasting from locally harvested beans. 

Paris: Behind the scenes at the ballet

Whether or not you have a dancer in the family, a backstage look at one of the world’s most legendary ballet companies is a Paris highlight. Go behind the curtain at the famed Palais Garnier opera house, where CB Travel Advisors can coordinate a personal visit with one of the 154 dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet Company along with a tour of the impressive costume department.

Tokyo: Interactive taiko drum workshop

Get immersed in Japanese music culture with a traditional taiko drum lesson, which starts by watching a skilled drummer’s performance and then joining your instructor for a hands-on workshop. You’ll learn about this 6th-century art form and its evolution as you practice taiko techniques on a variety of drums. Round out the experience by performing a whole song together — don’t forget to record the fun!

Finland: Private iceberg floating adventure

Ice floating in Finland is a must-try sensory experience for adventure seekers, even kids! Our travel partners connect your family with a survival-savvy guide who helps everyone dress in buoyant, insulated suits designed for the freezing water and safely break through the surface of the ice to float amid the icebergs. If the skies are clear, you may even see the Northern Lights flare overhead as you drift on your back.

Kenya: Culture and wildlife at a private safari lodge

Enrich an African safari with a few nights at an ultra-exclusive Kenya lodge that overlooks an elephant sanctuary — a gateway to unmatched cultural immersion. Our partners can arrange a stay at this special property, and in addition to helping bottle-feed baby elephants and giraffes, one of the many highlights is witnessing the melodic traditions of the Singing Wells, which are dug by local herding families for their livestock. Watch in appreciation as the animals come to drink from the wells according to each herder’s song

Siem Reap, Cambodia: A day with locals in the countryside

Glean deep insight into the lives of the people who call rural Cambodia home. With your friendly guide, leave the bustling city behind and explore the countryside by vespa. Stop at local markets, a beautiful Buddhist temple and a local family’s home for refreshments. Throughout the day, you’ll meet residents who epitomize the region’s hardworking ethics, from rattan weavers and sugar-palm harvesters to a traditional medicine man.

Northern Australia: Night sky tour with an expert astronomer

Superb stargazing awaits travelers in Australia‘s iconic desert expanse, the Red Centre. See the captivating colors of the ancient sandstone monolith Uluru at sunset and then take in utmost celestial splendor after dark. Your guided session with an astronomer includes high-powered telescopes to view planets, constellations and mesmerizing night sky phenomena.

Croatia: Sailing hidden islands by private yacht

Beyond the mainland, Croatia’s turquoise waters, secret beaches and enchanting caves are world-renowned for good reason. Hop aboard a private motor yacht for a day trip that includes several island stops, including sites like the famous Blue Cave (accessible only by boat). On sunny days, light filters through an underwater passage and creates a magical azure glow. Your crew will recommend a local restaurant for lunch, and in between you’ll have plenty of chances to swim, pick up artisan souvenirs and simply bask in the coastal beauty.

Relevant Links:

18 summer vacations to take before your kids grow up

The best travel destinations for every age and stage

Pick your passion: Family vacation ideas for every interest

Essential tips for taking an African safari with kids

One family, 20 trips: Priceless memories from two decades of vacation planning with Ciao Bambino

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.