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From ancient history lessons in Rome (+35%) and Cairo (+10%) to cutting-edge technology in Tokyo (+50%), UAE families are seeking meaningful summer experiences
Summer in the UAE brings with it a unique opportunity for families: the chance to transform holiday memories into powerful lessons. While schools close their doors for the season, families seek destinations that keep learning alive and vibrant outside the traditional classroom.
From tracing the footsteps of literary giants in London to unearthing ancient history in Rome or pondering philosophical concepts in Athens, these journeys help spark curiosity and shape young minds. Expedia® lists some of the top destinations that empower young travellers to learn about our world, across literature, the natural sciences, technology, and more.
London: Learn about British literature
British literature has a long and storied lineage, influencing countless writers and readers, and London offers a gateway into its rich legacy. Searches for London have increased by 20%1 year-on-year, reflecting growing interest in this cultural haven. Families can visit the British Library, home to treasures like Shakespeare’s First Folio, Jane Austen’s handwritten letters, and even an iconic English rock band’s lyrics scribbled on scraps of paper. A trip to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre brings history to life with performances of the Bard’s timeless plays, while fans of a certain wizarding world can’t miss Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station.
Recommended Stay: The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton starting at AED 816 per night and Jumeirah Lowndes London, starting at AED 1,848 per night 2.
Rome and Cairo: Learn about ancient history
Step back in time in Rome, where ancient history comes alive around every corner. With a 35%1 increase in travel interest, the Eternal City is perfect for families looking to explore the past. Visit the Colosseum, an architectural marvel that once hosted gladiatorial games, or walk through the Roman Forum, the heart of political and social life in ancient Rome. For a deeper dive, the Vatican Museums house priceless artefacts, including Michelangelo’s iconic Sistine Chapel.
Recommended Stay: 9Hotel Cesari, starting at AED 1,464 per night and Starhotels Michelangelo, starting at AED 1,857 per night 2.
On the other side of the globe, Cairo’s rich historical heritage continues to draw families, with a 10%1 increase in travel searches. Explore the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, or visit the recently opened Grand Egyptian Museum, which houses the treasures of the Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun.
Recommended Stay: Marriott Mena House Cairo, starting at AED 777 per night and Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, starting at AED 771 per night 2.
Florence: Learn about art
Travellers are flocking to Florence, with searches up by an impressive 75%1. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance movement, Florence offers a unique array of ways to immerse yourself in creativity. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David sculpture at the Galleria dell’Accademia or take in Botticelli’s masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery. Families can also explore hands-on art workshops where kids can try fresco painting or sculpture, bringing their artistic spirits to life.
Recommended Stay: NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa, starting at AED 1,197 per night and Brunelleschi Hotel, starting at AED 1,335 per night 2.
Tokyo: Learn about technology
Tokyo’s cutting-edge innovation makes it a top destination for tech enthusiasts and beyond, with a 50%1 surge in travel searches on Expedia. Families can visit the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) to interact with robots and learn about space exploration. The teamLab Borderless Museum offers a futuristic experience with immersive digital art installations. Don’t forget to explore Akihabara, Tokyo’s hub for electronics and gaming culture and have a break at DAWN Avatar Robot Café, where you will be served by robots that are operated remotely.
Recommended Stay: Hilton Tokyo Bay, starting at AED 540 per night and Mimaru Tokyo Shinjuku West, starting at AED 1,148 per night 2.
Athens: Learn about philosophy
Athens, the cradle of Western philosophy, has seen a 5%1 uptick in searches on Expedia as families and curious culture-seekers look to engage with deep ideas. Visit the Ancient Agora, where Socrates once debated, or climb up to the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon and a symbol of democratic ideals. For younger visitors, interactive exhibits at the Hellenic Children’s Museum introduce philosophical concepts in a fun and accessible way.
Recommended Stay: COCO-MAT Athens BC, starting at AED 700 per night and Herodion Athens, starting at AED 795 per night 2.
Sydney: Learn about the environment
With a 65%1 rise in searches on Expedia, Sydney is becoming a hotspot for travellers, including families. For the environmentally conscious young generation, the city offers a crash course in biodiversity and climate change at the Australian Museum, the oldest natural history museum in the country and the fifth oldest natural history museum in the world. Another must-visit is the Royal Botanic Garden, which offers kid-friendly tours on sustainable gardening. A trip to the Great Barrier Reef, accessible via nearby Queensland, provides an unforgettable lesson in marine conservation.
Recommended Stay: Shangri-La Sydney, starting at AED 632 per night and Meriton Suites Kent St, starting at AED 442 per night 2.
Tanzania: Learn about zoology
Tanzania’s wildlife-rich landscapes have led to a 55%1 increase in searches on Expedia, making it a dream destination for budding zoologists. Embark on a safari in the Serengeti National Park to witness the Great Migration, or visit the Ngorongoro Crater, home to a dense population of lions, elephants, and rhinos. Families can also participate in conservation programmes to learn about protecting endangered species.
Recommended Stay: Gran Meliá Arusha, starting at AED 1,633 per night and Zanzibar Serena Hotel, starting at AED 1,104 per night 2.
Barcelona: Learn about architecture
Barcelona’s stunning architecture has sparked a 95%1 surge in travel interest on Expedia. Families can marvel at Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces, including the iconic Sagrada Família and the whimsical Park Guell. For hands-on learning, visit the Barcelona Design Museum, which showcases the evolution of architecture and design through interactive exhibits.
Recommended Stay: H10 Cubik, starting at AED 891 per night and Novotel Barcelona City, starting at AED 753 per night 2.
Iceland: Learn about geology
Searches for Iceland on Expedia have skyrocketed by 160%1, in part due to its dramatic and unique landscapes. It’s the ultimate destination for geology enthusiasts, who can explore a variety of fascinating locations, including the Golden Circle, which houses the Thingvellir National Park, where tectonic plates meet, and the geothermal wonders of Geysir and Gullfoss. Families can also venture inside a real glacier at Langjokull Ice Cave or witness volcanic activity at the Lava Centre.
Recommended Stay: Center Hotels Plaza, starting at AED 787 per night and Fosshotel Reykjavik, starting at AED 943 per night 2.
Expedia is the one-stop shop offering great value flights, hotels and packages. To book, please visit: https://www.expedia.ae/
[1] Data based on searches made between January 6, 2025 – May 25, 2024, compared to the same period the previous year. Search Dates: January 6, 2025, to May 25, 2025
2 The price is correct as of June 10, 2025, and it is based on family-friendly hotel options.
