Travel Picks: Top 10 cities to visit with children

SINGAPORE (Reuters Life!) - Many cities can be overwhelming for young travelers, but some are as much fun for the kids as the grown-ups.

Lonely Planet's "Travel With Children" guide lists the top 10 cities around the world that are ideal to visit with children. This list is not endorsed by Reuters:

1. OAXACA, MEXICO

This colorful Mexican city is pint-sized, charming and fun to explore on foot. A central plaza provides plenty of run-around space for kids and there's a vibrant market. www.visitmexico.com

2. ISTANBUL, TURKEY

With its mosques, palaces, museums, bazaars, multicolored carpets, food markets, Bosphorus cruises and sweet apple tea, the children will be fascinated and enchanted at every turn. www.tourismturkey.org

3. LONDON, BRITAIN

You could stay in London for a whole year and find interesting things to do with the children every day. In summer don't miss out on playing in the fountains at Somerset House where there's an outdoor ice-skating rink in the winter. www.visitlondon.com

4. LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES

A good destination for teenagers -- choose between the original Disneyland, Universal Studios and Santa Monica. There's heaps to see and do in this sprawling city that encapsulates the American Dream. www.discoverlosangeles.com

5. VANCOUVER, CANADA

Vancouver is frequently named the most liveable city in the world. There's lots of water as well as beaches, a huge urban park (Stanley Park) and numerous hiking and biking trails. In addition, all the attractions of the Rocky Mountains are just over 100 km (62 miles) away. vancouver.ca/visitors.htm

6. LISBON, PORTUGAL

With trams trundling up to a castle, a state-of-the-art aquarium and a fascinating museum that explores Portugal's great seafaring past, this city captivates kids. The fairy-tale town of Sintra, too, is a just a short train ride away. www.lisbon-guide.info

7. COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

Oozes old-world charm, with a compact city center, a lively waterfront and pedestrian-only zones. Thrilling rides at Tivoli Gardens and Bakken, a royal palace and museums designed especially for children will keep you busy. www.visitcopenhagen.com