For the first time in three years, families in the UK are more-or-less free to embark overseas for a summer holiday. There’s a lot of lost time to make up for, and no shortage of amazing destinations on the continent. If you’re employed as a key worker in an organisation like the NHS, you might even be entitled to cheaper travel, thanks to a TUI NHS discount.

So, where should you be booking a trip to?

Paris, France

The appeal of the French capital probably needs no explanation. Crammed with history, culture, and architectural beauty, it’s got a great deal to offer to families. There’s even a Disneyland resort nearby. While you won’t be able to visit the interior of the Notre Damme cathedral, the city is the same as it ever was – and you owe it to yourself to go there at least once.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The old town in Dubrovnik might feel familiar to fans of fantasy television and film: it’s been repeatedly used as a setting for Game of Thrones and Star Wars. There are plenty of sailing opportunities near to the city, and if you ever fancy a break, you can make the trip across to Split, the country’s second-largest city. If you’ve never tasted raw oysters, then there’s a restaurant that will cater to you, too.

Florence, Italy

You might think of Florence as a part of Italy that appeals only to adults. With its iconic town houses and cathedrals, you can easily spend and entire week just wondering around and watching the horses from the balconies. But children might enjoy themselves here, too, thanks to the abundance of amazing gelato shops. If you want to pay a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, then it’s worth looking into the special tours on offer designed especially for children.

Aix-en-Provence, France

This little French city can be found in the south of France, not too far from Marseille. The city itself is charming, with its cathedrals, fountains and squares, but if you’re visiting the region, it makes a lot of sense to venture outside. In summer, when the lavender is in full bloom, the purple fields are truly spectacular. You might also take the trip to nearby Avignon, where the incredible Palais des Papes is to be found.

Comporta, Portugal

If you’re looking for a beach holiday, then a visit to Comporta might well be in order. There are long stretches of beach which you’ll be able to navigate on horseback. But it’s the nature on display in this part of the world that make it so worthwhile – especially if you’re travelling with small children. There may even be opportunities to spot a few dolphins in the Sado Estuary.