THE 10 BEST Spain Things to Do with Kids

Things to do in spain with kids.

  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Ciutat Vella (Old Town)
  • Barrio Gòtico (Barri Gòtic)
  • El Congrés i els Indians
  • Good for Kids
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Good for Couples
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Hidden Gems
  • Adventurous
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

family excursions spain

1. Parque del Retiro

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2. Plaza de España

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Recommended Experiences with Kids (19)

family excursions spain

3. Real Alcazar de Sevilla

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4. Siam Park

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5. Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic)

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6. Loro Parque

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7. Mercat de la Boqueria

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8. Central Market of Valencia

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9. Oceanogràfic València

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10. Timanfaya National Park

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11. Catedral de Mallorca

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12. Spotify Camp Nou

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13. Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

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14. Plaza Mayor

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15. The Magic Fountain

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16. Mirador de San Nicolas

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17. Gran Via

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18. Generalife

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19. PortAventura

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20. Cuevas del Drach

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21. Museo Molinos Mazonovo

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22. Museo Del Plátano Gran Canaria

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23. Chamber of Secrets Torremolinos

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24. Suntransfers

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25. Tierra Rapaz

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26. Museo Alien

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27. Taxi Pmi

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28. Colors by Experiencity Escape Room

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30. Casa Museo Arabe de Caceres Yussuf al Burch

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What travelers are saying

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  • Europe Tours
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Spain Family Vacation and Tour Packages

Home to beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, fun activities, and delicious food, a Spain trip is desirable any day, ever more so when you are traveling with your family. From exploring historic sites and cultural attractions in beautiful cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville to hiking the famous Camino de Santiago , there are many unforgettable experiences to gather on Spain family vacation. Whether you want to soak up some history, enjoy a beautiful hike, or sample incredible cuisine, our Spain family tours cover it all.

  • Things to Do in Spain
  • Best Time to Visit Spain

438 family trips in Spain

Best Of Southern Spain Tour

  • Starts Madrid, Spain
  • Ends Barcelona, Spain

Best of Southern Spain

  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Tour Type Small Group Tour
  • Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Concerts and shows 'data-more-tripid='10639'>+2 more
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • Transport Train, Bus & Private Vehicle
  • Age Range 12-95 yrs
  • Operated in English
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,099
  • Special Deal (20%): - US$ 420
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,679
  • May 11 Only 1 seat left
  • May 30 Only 3 seats left
  • View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Best Of Spain Tour

Best of Spain

  • Activities City sightseeing & Natural landmarks sightseeing City sightseeing , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Concerts and shows 'data-more-tripid='3772'>+3 more
  • Accommodation Guest House & Hotel
  • Transport Train, Bus, Ferry, Private Vehicle & Taxi
  • Age Range 15-99 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 4,105
  • Special Deal (10%): - US$ 411
  • Total Price from: US$ 3,694
  • May 18 Only 5 seats left

Andalusian Feelings Tour

  • Starts Malaga, Spain
  • Ends Malaga, Spain

Andalusian Feelings

  • Tour Type Group Tour
  • Activities Beach & Art and architecture
  • Transport Coach
  • Age Range 10-99 yrs
  • Operated in English, Spanish
  • Brochure Price: US$ 1,295
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 194
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,101
  • Jun 12 10+ seats left
  • Jun 19 10+ seats left

Walking The Picos De Europa Tour

  • Starts Arenas De Cabrales, Spain
  • Ends Arenas De Cabrales, Spain

Walking the Picos de Europa

  • Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours
  • Age Range 16-95 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 1,792
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 267
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,525
  • Jun 08 Only 1 seat left
  • Jun 29 Only 4 seats left

Spanish Wonder Tour

Spanish Wonder

  • Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='20850'>+1 more
  • Age Range 5-99 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,150
  • Special Deal (20%): - US$ 440
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,710
  • May 18 Only 8 seats left
  • May 25 Only 7 seats left

Sierra De Aitana Trek

  • Starts Guadalest, Spain
  • Ends Guadalest, Spain

Sierra de Aitana Trek

  • Activities Trekking and Hiking
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • Transport Minibus
  • May 26 Only 6 seats left
  • Sep 15 Only 8 seats left

Grand Tour Of Spain

  • Ends Madrid, Spain

Grand Tour Of Spain

  • Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Sightseeing Tours
  • Transport Ferry & Flight
  • Age Range 6-80 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,884
  • Special Deal (4%): - US$ 115
  • Total Price from: US$ 2,769
  • May 18 10+ seats left
  • May 25 10+ seats left

Best Of Spain Tour

  • Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Museum and gallery visits Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits , Art and architecture & Beach 'data-more-tripid='20914'>+2 more
  • Accommodation Hotel & Resort
  • Brochure Price: US$ 4,375
  • Special Deal (20%): - US$ 860
  • Total Price from: US$ 3,515
  • May 10 Only 8 seats left
  • May 17 Only 5 seats left

Classic Spain Tour

Classic Spain

  • Activities City sightseeing & Natural landmarks sightseeing City sightseeing , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Pub and bar crawl & Concerts and shows 'data-more-tripid='3766'>+4 more
  • Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
  • Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Ferry & Taxi
  • Brochure Price: US$ 6,385
  • Special Deal (10%): - US$ 639
  • Total Price from: US$ 5,746
  • Jul 06 Only 6 seats left

Best Of Northern Spain Tour

  • Starts Barcelona, Spain

Best of Northern Spain

  • Activities Local culture & Cultural, religious and historic sites Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Wine tasting tours 'data-more-tripid='4984'>+1 more
  • Transport Bus & Private Vehicle
  • May 11 Only 4 seats left
  • May 18 Only 2 seats left

Andalusia & Mediterranean Coast With Barcelona Tour

Andalusia & Mediterranean Coast With Barcelona

  • Activities Art and architecture
  • Brochure Price: US$ 1,519
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 228
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,291
  • Jun 03 10+ seats left
  • Jun 10 10+ seats left

Camino De Santiago Trek

  • Starts Samos, Spain
  • Ends Santiago De Compostela, Spain

Camino de Santiago Trek

  • Activities Trekking and Hiking & Adventure
  • Accommodation Hotel & Villa
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,317
  • Special Deal (10%): - US$ 222
  • Total Price from: US$ 2,095
  • May 11 Only 2 seats left
  • May 18 Only 1 seat left

North Spain Discovery Tour

North Spain Discovery

  • Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Museum and gallery visits Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits , Food tours , Beach & Wine tasting tours 'data-more-tripid='3778'>+3 more
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,475
  • Special Deal (20%): - US$ 495
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,980
  • May 11 Only 9 seats left
  • May 18 Only 6 seats left

Spanish Ring Tour

Spanish Ring

  • Activities Explorer
  • Transport Boat, Bus & Train
  • May 28 10+ seats left
  • Jun 04 10+ seats left

Chat with a local travel expert who can help design the perfect Spain family vacation package.

Sandro Pinheiro

Spain Family Vacation Reviews

  • Marie Leblanc

Best family vacations in Spain

Watch festivals being celebrated in the streets of Malaga in Spain in April.

Spain offers a plethora of excursion opportunities for travelers. Here are a few of our top tours for a family adventure around Spain:

  • Self-drive family tours in Spain :  A family self-drive tour is one of the best ways to explore Spain. Whether you are in Spain for one week or three, a road trip will allow you the freedom to decide where to go, how long to spend at each destination, and what to do. Explore the wine-producing region of La Mancha and the historic city of Toledo just south of Madrid. Venture into Andalusia and discover ancient Moorish cities and towns like Granada, Rondo, and Seville. Head north into the spectacular regions of the Basque Country and Galicia to see some spectacular natural scenery. 
  • City sightseeing family tours in Spain :  Spain is jam-packed with art, culture, and history. Hop on a city sightseeing tour in Madrid or take a city tour of Barcelona to explore some of the best art museums in the world. Admire the spectacular architecture and soak up the rich history of the Spanish Empire, and sip café con leches in a stately square. The country has plenty of destinations and fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.
  • Spain Family Tours for Food Lovers :  Spain is a hotspot for food aficionados from around the world. Take a 10-day family tour to get acquainted with the taste of the highlands, cosmopolitan, and the shores. Expand your family's culinary horizon as you experience fresh Galician mussels from the sea, snack on pintxos and tapas in Logrono’s Old Town, and sip on traditional Asturian cider near Oviedo. Get immersed in the sight, sound, and taste of Spain by embarking on a culinary adventure across the country. 

Family vacation in Spain based on budget

  • Luxury family tours in Spain : If budget is no worry for you, enjoy high-end hotels and restaurants, and all the bells and whistles that come with one of our luxury family tours in Spain . Private cars will whisk you and your family around as you explore the most popular attractions of Spain. In between your tour, enjoy a fine dining experience in the best family-friendly restaurants and savor the country’s incredible cuisine.
  • Budget family tours in Spain : Traveling with family can be expensive. However, our budget Spain family tours provide an affordable way to explore amazing Spain. Self-drive through the beautiful countryside of the Basque Country. Immerse yourself into the culture of the country on family stays and enjoy Spain’s incredible cuisine at local pintxos and tapas bars.

Family vacation in Spain based on popular travel themes

Spain Family Adventure Tours

Duration-based family vacation in Spain

Cannot decide how long to spend on a family vacation in Spain? Below we outline different group tours in Spain based on popular durations:

  • 7-day family tours in Spain
  • 10-day Family tours in Spain
  • 14-day Spain Family tours

Should you have custom requirements when it comes to designing the perfect group tour in Spain, you could submit a customized trip request for Spain .

Travel experience and benefits of a Spain family vacation

Spain Family Tours

  • Savor the taste of Spain: Spain is a melting pot of vast cultures. The influences are portrayed in the array of delicious cuisine found across the country. A Spain family tour introduces you to various new foods to expand your culinary horizons.
  • Travel on a budget: Spain is a highly affordable country to travel around with your family. Generally, the meal cost at a restaurant can be as low as USD 11, and drinks around USD 3. Accommodation is also fairly affordable. You can find family-friendly spots for under USD 100 a night.
  • Abundant activities: Hiking in the Pyrenees, visiting theme parks, and beach activities on the Mediterranean coast are some of the highlights of a Spain family tour. Create a lasting memory with your family through an enriching experience that provides a chance to learn about Spain's culture and have fun and adventure together.

Tips when on a family vacation in Spain

  • Embrace the daily siesta. It is a great chance for the whole family to have a rest during the hottest part of the day. The Spanish eat dinner late — most restaurants do not open for dinner until 8 pm. So, it is a good idea to get some sleep during the day to make it to dinner.
  • Instead of staying in chain hotels, consider renting a house or apartment where you will have more space and the ability to prepare your own meals. You could also stay in one of Spain’s government-run paradors, which are stylish accommodations in historic buildings such as castles, convents, and monasteries.
  • Spain has some fantastic markets where you can find delicious fresh produce and local foods. Pack picnic lunches for the day and enjoy them on the beach or in one of the many parks in and around the city.

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Home > Itineraries > 9 Day Family South Spain

Costa Del Sol & South Spain 9-Day Family Itinerary

Expert guides, luxury vehicles, your 9 day family tour in the south of spain.

Welcome to our 9-day family adventure through the sun-drenched landscapes of Andalucia, Spain!

This journey is tailored for your family to enjoy both history and leisure, featuring a deep exploration of cultural gems, coastal escapades, and hands-on, family-friendly activities.

From the historical wonder of Alhambra to the captivating wildlife of Doñana National Park, every day unveils a new facet of Andalucia’s rich heritage.

Day 1: Welcome to Costa del Sol: From Madrid to Estepona

estepona old town

Your unforgettable Andalusian family journey commences upon your arrival at Barajas Airport in Madrid. A dedicated driver will be eagerly waiting to escort you to Atocha, the heart of Madrid’s transportation network. Here, experience the thrilling ride on the high-speed AVE train heading south to the sun-kissed city of Málaga.

Upon disembarking in Málaga, a new face, yet another friendly driver, will be waiting to drive you to your final destination for the day – Estepona. Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant ambiance, Estepona is a delightful introduction to the charm of Costa del Sol. Check into your beachfront hotel, where comfortable accommodation awaits you.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore and acclimate. Feel the warmth of the sun, listen to the calming waves, or dip your toes in the Mediterranean as you start your Andalusian adventure. Enjoy your first Andalusian sunset and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Discovering Granada: Albaicin Quarters & Alhambra

guest on tour gazing at the alhambra palace with mountain range in background.

Welcome to the second day of your Andalucian adventure. Your family is about to embark on an exciting trip to Granada, a city resonating with history and culture. You’ll meet your driver in the hotel lobby for the drive east to Granada, the final stronghold of the Arabic kingdoms in Spain until 1492.

Our first activity is an electrifying bike tour up to the Albaicin Quarters. As you navigate the narrow, winding streets, prepare for an awe-inspiring view of the Sierra Nevada mountains from the picturesque Plaza San Nicolás. This old Muslim quarter of the city, with its labyrinthine streets and stunning vistas, is an ideal location to soak in Granada’s unique charm.

Post the bike tour, you’ll have some personal time to explore the local cuisine. Relish a leisurely lunch of regional specialties, immersing yourself further in the Granadian culture.

Our journey continues with a visit to the iconic Alhambra, an ancient palace complex rich with history. You’ll meet your guide beside a mural map at the entrance, the start of an enchanting voyage back 900 years. Step into the realms of the Gardens of Paradise, the formidable Alcazar Fortress, and the exquisite Nasrid Palaces, a journey through the grandeur and elegance of the Alhambra Forbidden City.

As the day culminates, your driver will escort you back to Estepona, where you can unwind and recap the unforgettable experiences of the day.

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Day 3: Family Fun & Exploration in Estepona

Estepona, renowned for its well-preserved old town, beautiful beaches, and delightful marina, offers an array of engaging activities for families.

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your beach hotel before setting off to explore the vibrant Old Town, awash with colorful flower pots and charming narrow streets. Here, you’ll come across an assortment of boutique shops, cafes, and historical landmarks. Enjoy an impromptu family photo session amidst the picturesque alleys – a keepsake of your memorable Andalucian adventure.

When you’re ready for some outdoor fun, head to one of Estepona’s sandy beaches. Whether building sandcastles, indulging in water sports or simply soaking in the sun, these pristine beaches provide a splendid backdrop for family bonding. You might also consider a leisurely boat trip from the marina, offering a different perspective on Estepona’s beautiful coastline.

Next, embark on an exciting culinary adventure by visiting a local market where you can discover and sample local delicacies and fresh produce before joining a private chef for an all-ages cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Andalucian dishes.

As the day winds down, treat yourself to a family dinner at one of the beachside restaurants, relishing the local cuisine while watching the mesmerizing sunset. Day 3 in Estepona is a relaxed day brimming with family bonding activities, offering the perfect blend of culture, leisure, and gastronomy.

Day 4: Nautical Adventure: Sailing to Gibraltar

Sailing Boat Trip, Estepona, Spain

Get ready for an exhilarating fourth day on the azure waters of the Mediterranean! Today’s family adventure will see you embarking on a journey from Estepona Port to Gibraltar aboard our exquisite Bénéteau Oceanis 351 sailing yacht, blending wildlife exploration, water sports, and enchanting sea views.

After a leisurely breakfast, make your way to Estepona Port. Here, your friendly captain will be ready to welcome you aboard the sailing yacht. It’s time to set sail once safety briefings are completed and you’re settled in. As the shore recedes, feel the salty breeze and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Andalusian coast.

Our first exciting activity of the day is dolphin watching. Keep your cameras ready, as playful dolphins may surprise you with their jumps and flips. The yacht will maintain a respectful distance to ensure we don’t disturb these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

If the weather permits, we’ll anchor in a secluded spot where you can indulge in deep-sea paddle surfing or snorkeling. With lifejackets and guidance provided, even first-timers can comfortably take part in these activities. You’ll be amazed by the marine life underneath the sea surface – a mesmerizing world that’s equally, if not more, vibrant than the one above.

Throughout the day, we’ll keep you refreshed with various drinks and snacks available onboard. The sight of the Strait of Gibraltar and the distant silhouette of Morocco adds a fascinating backdrop to your nautical adventure.

As we return to Estepona Port in the late afternoon, you’ll be left with unforgettable memories of a day spent sailing, exploring, and bonding on the serene Mediterranean Sea.

Day 5: Enchanting Exploration: White Villages & Ronda

family enjoying private tour in Ronda

Allow us to transport you to a scenic route filled with charming “White Villages,” mountainous landscapes, and a touch of Spanish tradition. This memorable trip will take you to Benalauria, the Genal Valley, a historic bakery, a family-run winery, and finally, the historic city of Ronda before reaching our final destination, Sevilla.

After breakfast, meet your driver in the hotel lobby for a picturesque drive through the mountains to the quaint village of Benalauria. Nestled in the heart of Andalusia, this village, with only 400 inhabitants, holds a sense of timeless tradition and beauty. Here, a 45-minute hike will reveal the picturesque Genal Valley with its panoramic views and an array of local flora and fauna.

After enjoying the tranquil landscapes, it’s time for a cultural immersion at the Ethnographic Museum, housed in an 18th-century building that once served as an olive oil mill. The preserved machinery and tools tell the tale of a bygone era, providing insights into the region’s agricultural history.

Adding a delicious touch to your day, you’ll visit a typical local bakery. Not just any visit, here you will get your hands doughy as you learn to bake your own bread using a traditional wood-fire oven – a rare and enjoyable experience.

Your culinary journey continues with a stop at a family-run winery for lunch. Savour the flavourful local cuisine paired with some of the finest wines from the region. This is an excellent opportunity to sample the delectable local produce while enjoying the hospitality of Andalusian winemaking families.

With your senses delighted and stomach full, the journey proceeds to Ronda, the historic city famed as the birthplace of bullfighting. Here, you’ll step into the hallowed grounds of the bullring and trace the footsteps of legendary matadors. Following this, a walk across the awe-inspiring New Bridge, which beautifully arches over a deep gorge, will take you from Ronda’s New Quarter to the Old Quarter.

Strolling down the cobblestone streets, your guide will lead you to the majestic Collegiate Church and the beautifully preserved Don Bosco’s Medieval Palace. As you soak in the historic charm, the sun will set on your exciting day of exploration, and your driver will escort you to Sevilla, preparing for the next leg of your Andalusian family adventure.

Day 6: A Family Adventure in Seville

external shot of Plaza De Espana, Seville,

Explore the wonders of Seville, a city steeped in history and brimming with vibrant culture. Throughout the day, we will be exploring a wide array of family-friendly activities that will not only engage and educate but also instill a sense of adventure and excitement.

Kickstart your day with a visit to the spectacular Seville Aquarium. A marvel of biodiversity, the aquarium offers an interactive experience that allows you to discover the rich marine life of the Guadalquivir River, the Atlantic Ocean, the Amazon River, and the Pacific Ocean. Watch your kids’ faces light up with awe as they encounter more than 7,000 sea creatures and learn about Christopher Columbus’s historic voyage.

Next, embark on a thrilling exploration of the Maria Luisa Park, one of the city’s most significant green spaces. Here, you can rent a rowboat to paddle around the park’s charming pond or take a family bike ride along the extensive network of trails. Don’t forget to visit the majestic Plaza de España located within the park, a magnificent semi-circular plaza renowned for its impressive ceramic tiles depicting the provinces of Spain.

In the afternoon, treat your family to a puppet show at the ‘La Casa del Títere,’ Seville’s Puppet Centre, which is always a hit with younger children. This charming theatre offers a variety of puppetry styles, from marionettes to shadow puppets, and serves as an engaging introduction to the art of puppetry.

Towards the evening, head to the iconic Isla Mágica Theme Park, where history and adrenaline-fueled fun merge. This theme park is based on the 16th-century Age of Discovery and features a variety of rides and shows suitable for all ages. From white-knuckle roller coasters to captivating magic shows, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Day 7: Savouring Sevilla: Historical Walks, Flamenco, & More

Flemenco Dance Show in Spain.

Today we explore the vibrant city of Sevilla, a place filled with stunning architecture, lively plazas, and the mesmerizing rhythms of flamenco. Your day will unfold with a guided walking tour featuring the city’s walls, the tranquil Murillo Gardens, a deep dive into the Barrio Santa Cruz, a royal visit to the Alcazar, and an evening filled with flamenco fun.

In the morning, meet your guide in the hotel lobby, who will escort you on a walking journey through the city’s historical charms. Start your exploration with a visit to the ancient city walls, a testament to Sevilla’s storied past, which bears silent witness to the city’s diverse cultural heritage.

Next, immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Murillo Gardens. This delightful green space, filled with the fragrance of orange trees and adorned with colorful flowerbeds, offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. You’ll then take a leisurely stroll through the narrow winding streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz, the city’s old Jewish quarter. This labyrinthine neighborhood, filled with quaint plazas, traditional tapas, bars, and picturesque patios, reveals the city’s old-world charm at every turn.

The next stop is a royal one – the Alcazar of Sevilla. Known as one of the most beautiful palaces in Spain, this UNESCO World Heritage Site serves as a perfect example of the Mudejar architecture. Your guide will lead you through the fortress and its lush gardens, offering historical insights into the lives of the Moorish and Christian monarchs who once resided here.

After the guided tour, it’s time for independent exploration. Visit the iconic Sevilla Cathedral, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, and its adjoining Giralda Tower. Ascend the tower for a panoramic view of the city that is truly breathtaking.

As the evening draws in, it’s time for a fiery flamenco dance lesson in the vibrant Macarena Quarters. Here, the whole family will get the chance to learn the basics of this passionate dance form, an essential part of Andalusian culture. This is not just a dance lesson, but a fun and interactive way to engage with the local culture, making this day in Sevilla a truly memorable one.

Day 8: Exploring the Majestic Doñana National Park

Pink Flamingos in Doñana, Spain

On the eighth day of our adventurous family itinerary, we will head towards the pristine waters of the Atlantic coast, nestled near the mouth of the Guadalquivir River. Here, you’ll meet your driver in your Sevilla hotel lobby for a pleasant drive towards Doñana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity.

Your day will commence with an invigorating kayaking tour guided by a local expert who will enrich your journey with insightful commentary about the park’s unique flora and fauna. This immersive, water-level perspective provides an extraordinary opportunity to spot the park’s many inhabitants, including pink flamingos, horses, cattle, hawks, and, if you’re lucky, the elusive Iberian Lynx.

After the tour, you’ll head to the quaint locale of Bajo de Guia, where you can enjoy a delightful lunch while admiring the serene seaside views. After a fulfilling meal, your afternoon is free for relaxing on the pristine beach, soaking in the warm sun, and building sandcastles.

We’ll return to Sevilla later in the afternoon, ensuring you’ll have ample time to board your AVE train back to Madrid, marking the end of a rewarding day spent amidst nature’s wonders.

Day 9: Farewell Andalucia: Homeward Bound

As we approach the final day of our unforgettable 9-day family itinerary in Andalucia, we prepare to bid adieu to the enchanting land that has been our home for the past week. A driver will be ready at your hotel to escort you to Barajas Airport for your flight home.

Emily owner of guided spain tours

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Concluding An Enriching Family Adventure In Andalucia

From exploring the architectural wonders of Granada and Sevilla, venturing through the serene landscapes of Doñana National Park, to engaging in exhilarating activities in Estepona, every day brought a new perspective to the soul of Andalucia for your family.

If you would like to discuss a family itinerary in the Costa Del Sol and Andalucia, or any other region of Spain, simply contact our team for a complimentary family itinerary today!

Eric S (US)

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The Family Voyage

Spain with kids: best family destinations in Spain

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Should you plan a family vacation to Spain? It’s never easy to decide whether to visit a new place or re-visit an old favorite. There’s the debate between the comforts of the familiar and the excitement of novelty, but also the pull between seeing all the “best things to do” in as many places as possible versus the desire to slow down and dig deeper.

For us, Spain is one of those countries that keeps begging us to return. We’ve traveled to Spain as a family with kids twice, including just last year, and I’ll admit that I’ve been scoping plane tickets to go back for months.

What’s the deal?

Here are just a few reasons why a family vacation to Spain is always a good idea:

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family excursions spain

-With so many amazing things to do with kids in Spain, you’ll never be able to see it all. You could spend a lifetime in Spain and still encounter surprises!

-There are things to do in Spain with kids that appeal to all types of traveling families. City exploration, mountain hiking, food touring, beach lounging… The diversity of experiences in Spain is incredible!

-The Spanish culture is so much more relaxed than just about anywhere else in Europe, and kids are expected to be a part of that. I’ll never forget strolling with our sleeping baby through one of the more local plazas in Seville and watching dozens of families relaxing and socializing even though it was 11pm. Or the time that our waitress took our son on a tour of the restaurant so that we could enjoy some quiet moments.

-It’s an extremely easy place to travel with kids. You can buy anything you need at El Corte Ingles. English is widely spoken, though it’s also a great opportunity to dust off that high school Spanish. The transportation infrastructure is efficient and easy to navigate. You can generally find food to satisfy picky eaters.

  • Book a photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in the photos since I’m always behind the camera. We use Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking with this link or using code FAMILYVOYAGE.

  • Best Place to Holiday in Spain for Families

Hopefully you’re as excited as I am about planning a trip to Spain! It truly is the best place for a family vacation. We have lots of resources to help you get started: tips for arranging your Spain itinerary with kids, getting around Spain with kids, Spain books for kids, what to bring to Spain for a great trip, and (of course) the best family destinations in Spain. If you’re just after places to go in Spain with kids, feel free to jump ahead.

Get started planning your trip to Spain with kids

Books about spain for kids, essentials to pack for your family trip to spain, best family destinations in spain.

Read more Spain articles or get Europe travel inspiration

How long is your family trip to Spain?

When you’re planning your family vacation in Spain, you’ll first want to figure out how much time you’ll have to explore. If you’re visiting from elsewhere in Europe it might make sense to pop down for quick family holidays in Spain, but for Americans it’s a much bigger commitment.

Flights from the east coast are 7 hours, while from the west coast you’re looking at 11 hours minimum. You may not be able to find non-stop flights to some of the most family-friendly places in Spain, so you’ll have plan for additional travel time either in the air or via train. Couple that with jet-lagged kids and abundance of things to do when you get there… let’s just say that we recommend at least 10 days to visit Spain with kids, but more if you can swing it.

Unpacking and repacking your stuff is one of the worst parts of travling with kids. You can make your life easier by packing light of course, but we still aim for at least 3-4 nights in each city where we stay. Every now and then we might only stop for two nights (as we did in Girona) but usually we aim to stay even longer and use a centrally located city as a base for day trips. There are lots of places like Barcelona, Madrid and Seville where a family can happily stay for a week and still find themselves busy!

Takeaway: If you only have 10 days in Spain, try to limit yourself to two or three destinations. If you’ll be visiting for two weeks, you can stretch that to four.

What’s the best time for visiting Spain with kids?

If your kids are school age, you might feel constrained to traveling during their breaks. That’s ok! Spain has the most diverse climate of any country in Europe, so you can always find somewhere to go that will have nice weather.

What does nice weather mean? That’s in the eye of the beholder. Many parts of Spain are extremely hot in the summer, so if your family doesn’t like that you could opt for more mountainous areas (or lean into it with a Mediterranean beach destination).

July and August are the busiest times of year in Spain – and the most expensive. But if you want to visit a place like Bilbao in the Basque country or Costa Brava summer could be a wonderful time with just-warm-enough weather.

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are perfect in terms of weather, but since Spain is the second most visited country in the world it won’t be a ghost town. When we visited Barcelona in spring during our family gap year we had to wait hours to get into Park Guell (since we didn’t know about the new ticketing requirements) and had a hard time getting train tickets to visit Girona for a day.

If you prefer low prices and thin crowds, consider visiting Spain in winter . While many visitors report long waits at places like the Alcazar palace in Seville, we had the entire place to ourselves when we visited in December!

It doesn’t have the balmy temperatures of the Caribbean or the snowy Christmas markets of central Europe, but it has charms all its own. If you’re coming from central Europe the winter in Madrid may seem mild. But if you’re afraid of the cold you’ll want to stay along the coast during Spain’s winter. As long as follow our advice for what to wear in Spain in winter , you’ll have an amazing time.

Getting around in Spain

Getting around in Spain these days couldn’t be easier!

Trains in Spain

The high-speed rail network in Spain uses Madrid as a hub, so many routes go through there. It can be very convenient for American tourists, as Madrid offers the most non-stop flights between the US and Spain. High-speed trains from Madrid can get you to most other cities in Spain in 3 hours or less!

Not only are trains fast, affordable and comfortable, but they also offer another major convenience for families: train stations are right in the city centers. You won’t have to worry about confusing public transit connections or long taxi rides to far-flung airports. You can often just walk or take easy connections from the train stations to your hotels. Check out Spain train routes here .

Flights in Spain

That said, in some cases it makes sense to leverage Spain’s network of discount airlines. When traveling to mountainous Bilbao or from Barcelona to some other coastal destinations, flying might be your best option. You can check prices and schedules for flights and compare them with prices and schedules for trains to see what makes sense for your itinerary.

Just be mindful of skimpy baggage limits on discount European airlines when you’re figuring out the cost differences! Read about my favorite strategy for minimizing my own luggage.

Also make sure to account for the cost of either public transportation or a taxi/car service to get from the city center to the airport. A bus may be cheap, but with a few kids and a few backpacks or suitcases, a taxi may be more appealing – and more expensive. You’ll also need a travel car seat to keep your kids secure in the taxi, or you can arrange for Welcome Pickups to transport your family with car seats included.

Read more: Must-Read Travel Tips for Spain

Before you visit Spain with kids, it’s a good idea to get them excited about the trip by grabbing a few books! Take a look at these options – there’s everything from picture books for toddlers to adventure stories and scavenger hunts for big kids!

You can find most things you’ll need anywhere in Spain, though maybe not the exact brand and price you were hoping for. Plan to pick up your consumables (baby food, diapers, wipes, snacks) at any El Corte Inlges; there are many of them throughout the country.

Funny note: baby food pouches in Spain are viewed more as a dessert and flavored accordingly. We normally served our 14 month old son pouches like squash and apple or quinoa and green beans… in Spain he ended up with orange cookie pudding! Whatever, it was his vacation too.

But you won’t want to buy everything abroad- that’ll get pricey. Make sure to bring these essentials from home to start your epic family vacation off on the right foot, especially if you are traveling to Spain with toddlers:

Stroller and baby carrier

If you’re visiting Spain with a toddler or younger, we recommend bringing both a travel stroller and a baby carrier (or toddler carrier if your kid is 3 or older). Why both? For long days trekking around the city you probably won’t want to carry your kid the whole time. However, there are some sites for which a stroller is either impractical (like Park Guell) or forbidden (like the Alhambra). Come prepared! The latest generation of travel strollers is so compact that you can fold it up and put it in a backpack when you don’t need it, which is pretty amazing to those of us whose kids were born even five years ago.

Portable high chair

One thing we were shocked not to find in Spain were high chairs in restaurants. It became a bit of a game for us, constantly walking in and asking “tienes trona?” , only to be rejected 9 times out of 10. The high chairs we did find were 50 year old wooden chairs without a bar between the legs… meaning there was nothing to prevent our kid from sliding right down if he felt like it. We did bring a fabric contraption that was supposed to attach to the chair and keep him upright, but it turned out to be such a safety hazard that it’s no longer for sale!

A better choice is to buy this folding booster seat , which we got after that trip. It works perfectly with almost any kind of chair and boosts kids nicely so that they can reach the table. The harness also keep older babies (9 months and up) and toddlers seated properly.

family excursions spain

Read more: Choosing the best baby gear for travel

Travel car seat

If you plan to ride in cars in Spain, you’ll need a way to keep your kids safe. We’ve heard of so many issues from fellow travelers with renting seats – from older-than-dirt seats to boosters being given for babies to reserved seats just not being there – that we prefer to bring our own travel car seats. That also gives us the flexibility to take a taxi from the airport when we’re jet lagged and loaded with bags. Find out everything you need to know about traveling with car seats or get help choosing the best convertible car seat for travel .

Europe-ready SIM card

Unless your cell phone from home offers unlimited global roaming, you’ll be best served by picking up a local SIM card for Europe. Most US cell phone carriers offer a $10 per day roaming plan, but that obviously adds up very quickly! We’ve used this European SIM card in multiple countries and it works great – if you’ll be in Europe for more than two weeks, just register it online to extend its life. It includes 10GB of data, 1000 texts and 120 minutes of talk time. Once you have it in your phone you can even top it up. Just make sure your phone is unlocked before you go, which can take a few days depending on the carrier.

family excursions spain

Great travel camera

You may not want to lug a huge DSLR on your relaxing vacation, but what if you want better photos than your cell phone can muster? The best solution these days is a so-called bridge camera . It has many of the features of high-end cameras like some manual controls (only if you want them!) and plenty of zoom, but comes in a compact package and doesn’t require swapping lenses.

family excursions spain

Best places in Spain for Families

It’s really hard to narrow down the best places in Spain for kids when the country is so huge and offers so many completely different experiences! Figuring out your Spain itinerary with kids will be a fine balance between figuring out what sounds perfect for your family in the descriptions below, how much time you have and the logistics of moving around the country.

Things to do in Spain for Kids

It is impossible to narrow down the best places to visit in Spain with kids, but I’ll give it a whirl. There are so many ways to explore whether you are planning a full Spain family vacation or taking Spain family trips for a day or two. Let’s begin with the city of Barcelona.

Barcelona with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Barcelona with kids? What are the best things to do in Barcelona with kids?

If I had to pick one can’t-miss place to take kids in Spain, it would be Barcelona. The city is a true feast for the senses and will fill your entire family with wonder – from Gaudi’s fantastical architecture to the smells of tapas wafting out of bars to the sounds of Catalan music and language drifting through the air. Even just wandering the streets at night is one of the best things to do in Spain with kids – for ours, it inspired their own love of travel.

Read more: Must-eats on your trip Barcelona

There’s no shortage of things to do in Barcelona with kids . Our tops picks are visiting Park Guell (but get your tickets in advance! ), wandering the varied and charming neighborhoods, venturing to the top of Montjuic and relaxing on the beach in Barceloneta on a nice day.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Barcelona?

While we’ve never felt at risk of violent crime as tourists in Barcelona, petty crime like pick pocketing is prevalent (especially in busy, popular areas like Las Ramblas). When traveling to Spain with kids, make sure they understand how to play it cool and avoid distracting you (and attracting attention!) when you’re in those places.

The other challenge for families with young kids is that the schedule in Barcelona is late . Often restaurants don’t begin their dinner service until 8 or even 9pm. If you have a little one who is likely to sleep in the stroller, it’s ok to grab a slice of pizza from a little shop while you stroll around – often it costs just 1 or 2 euros!

Barcelona’s major tourist sites are fairly spread out, so if you don’t want to lug a car seat everywhere you’ll need to either figure out the public transportation system or consider buying tickets for the Hop-On Ho-Off bus . While this Barcelona tourist bus wasn’t on our radar during our family’s visits, I’ll definitely consider it next time as it would have made getting around much easier!

How long should you stay in Barcelona?

I’d recommend at least four days in Barcelona to see the major sites and soak up the city’s energy without constantly rushing around. On our second visit to Barcelona with kids we stayed for a week and still could have had more to explore, especially with plenty of great day trip options like Girona, Sitges and Montserrat.

What’s the best way to get to Barcelona?

There are plenty of direct flights from the US to Barcelona, and often they can be as cheap as a few hundred dollars roundtrip! If you can find a better deal on a flight to Madrid, the train trip takes about 3 hours and costs $65-130. Even better, for the same price you can usually get a cheap flight from Madrid to Barcelona. Just be mindful of baggage allowances and make sure to only take carry-ons if you plan to book two separate flight itineraries.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Barcelona?

We’ve stayed in a few different neighborhoods, but next time we’ll stay in El Born. It’s a nice balance of walkability, charm and convenience. I have my eye on this wonderful apartment , which has laundry facilities, a balcony and a separate room for the kids. You can also read more details about where to stay in Barcelona with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Barcelona, Spain

Read more: What to do in Barcelona with kids

Girona with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Girona with kids? What are the best things to do in Girona with kids?

Girona is a small city north of Barcelona, but feels so different! The old part of the city retains its ancient charms and isn’t nearly as crowded with tourists. Girona is on the sleepy side compared to many bigger cities in Spain, but that’s part of what makes it a great counterpoint as a daytrip.

Our main reason for visiting Girona was to see the Museum of Jewish History, which chronicles the centuries-long Jewish community of Girona. It showcases the traditions and physical space of Spain’s Jews through years of tolerance as well as the 700 years of the Spanish Inquisition (that’s not a typo). In recent decades there’s been amazing archeological excavation and strong preservation efforts and it was fascinating to see up close.

If you plan to visit the museum, I highly recommend reading “The Mezuzah in the Madonna’s Foot” before you go. It includes some amazing storytelling spanning almost a millennium of Spanish history and will give you a new perspective on your trip to Spain. But skip the last chapter – it’s not that interesting and feels disconnected from the rest.

family excursions spain

Beyond the museum, Girona is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon strolling the windy cobbled streets, wondering at the beautiful Cathedral and its attached garden and soaking up some local Catalan culture. I’ll admit that we were surprised to meet an older gentleman who didn’t speak any Spanish, only Catalan! In that respect, Girona has retained the unique Catalan traditions even moreso than larger, more diverse Barcelona.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Girona?

The biggest challenge for families visiting Girona on a day trip is that it’s about a 1 mile walk from the train station (in the new section of the city) to the historic part of the city. But the old city isn’t ideal with a stroller, so young kids will either need to walk the entire distance (and back in the evening!) or ride in a carrier .

The train schedule can also be more limited than you might hope, depending on how long you want to visit. We went during Holy Week in the spring and some trains were completely booked because of a famous parade in Girona .

How long should you stay in Girona?

We visited on a day trip from Barcelona to Girona. If we’d been able to go on an earlier train as we had planned, the full day probably would have been enough time. For families who prefer a quieter pace or who have already visited Barcelona, staying a few nights in Girona in lieu of Barcelona might be a great option! That would also give you better access to the Dali Museum in Figueres, another 40 minutes north by train.

What’s the best way to get to Girona?

Girona is a quick train ride from Barcelona.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Girona?

Most families stay in Barcelona and take a day trip to Girona. If you want to stay in Girona, this hotel has been beautifully restored and offers an ideal balance of convenient location near the old city with traveler-friendly modern amenities.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Girona, Spain here

Valencia with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Valencia with kids? What are the best things to do in Valencia with kids?

Valencia is the best place in Spain for kids. It offers a variety of things to do for kids and the whole family. There’s a perfect mix of old and new here with plenty of things for families to do. You can check out the City of Sciences and Arts to experience a multi-block museum filled with hundreds of exhibits, bike the length of the inner city at Turia Park, or visit Valencia Bioparc to see the animals of Africa in one of the few zoo immersion sites in the world. If you visit in March, you can even experience the Las Fallas festival complete with larger than life puppets.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Valencia?

Valencia is a popular city with many seasonal festivals and events. Depending on the time of year you visit, the city (especially in the Old Town) can be very busy. However, we found everyone to be very accommodating to families with children – even in a crowd.

How long should you stay in Valencia?

Ideally, a week will allow you to truly explore everything that Valencia has to offer. But if you’re short on time, you can get a really good feel for the city in 3-4 days.

What’s the best way to get to Valencia?

The best way to get to Valencia is by car. Flights directly into Valencia from the United States can be pricey. Catch a deal to a nearby city and enjoy the scenic drive up the coast. If you happen to start in Barcelona and drive to Valencia, there are some “hidden” gems along the way like the town of Peniscola (with one of the castles featured in Game of Thrones). Check rental car prices here.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Valencia?

Valencia Flats Centro Cuidad is one of the best places for families to stay in Valencia. They feature apartments with family friendly amenities like a kitchen and multiple bedrooms – making it a perfect choice for families big and small. It’s also perfectly located in Old Town Valencia where many of the popular tourist attractions are. Click here to check prices and availability.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Valencia, Spain here

Plan your family trip to Valencia

Thanks to Montoya of The Spring Break Family. Find out more about visiting Valencia with kids .

Ibiza with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Ibiza with kids? What are the best things to do in Ibiza with kids?

Ibiza has a reputation as being a party island but there is so much more there for families to enjoy. The beaches are beautiful and there’s plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, cycling and water sports. Our favorite day out was to see the illuminated Can Marca caves in Puerto San Miguel. The original hippy market in San Carlos is also a must. Go there to buy handmade jewelry, art and textiles, or just to hang out.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Ibiza?

If you do choose to stay in one of the more built up and well connected resorts of Ibiza Town or San Antonio you have to expect them to get very busy with revelers in the peak summer season. If you have teens that might be just the type of atmosphere you’re looking for. But with younger children I’d recommend going off the beaten track to explore the north of the island.

How long should you stay in Ibiza?

We stayed for a week and I think this a good amount of time for families to make the most of the island.

What’s the best way to get to Ibiza?

Flying is the easiest option for families travelling from outside Spain. There is a ferry from the mainland which takes two hours, but with flight times from the UK about the same we’d only opt for the ferry if we were on a road trip to see more of the Spanish mainland. Once on the island I’d recommend you rent a car to make the most of the opportunity to explore.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Ibiza?

We stayed in the Santa Eulària region of Ibiza, which is in the North West of the Island. This is a sleepier part of the island, away from the main party zones of Ibiza Town and San Antonio. Here you’ll be much closer to the authentic Ibiza with cute towns like San Carlos which is where the hippy movement discovered the beauty of the island. We stayed in a luxury villa just outside San Carlos which was a wonderful retreat, but there are also hotels and campsites in the area.

Thanks to Claire of Tin Box Traveller. Find out more about visiting Ibiza with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Ibiza here

Granada with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Granada with kids? What are the best things to do in Granada with kids?

Granada is a fantastic destination in Andalusia. For one thing, it’s got the amazing Alhambra (most people’s reason for visiting the city) but it also has an authentic Moorish vibe. Think narrow streets with Moorish-influenced architecture, cafes selling Moroccan tea, and Islamic style craft shops. It’s more than a little like walking around Marrakech in places. Granada is a hilly town and so there are several breathtaking viewpoints over the city.

The Alhambra palace complex is Granada’s biggest draw and there’s a lot to interest kids in this incredible palace. There are beautiful gardens, pools and ponds filled with frogs, and former castles and palaces in this enormous complex. You will probably end up spending a whole day here – just remember to book your tickets in advance . Also note that you are not allowed to bring a stroller into the Alhambra. Bring a baby carrier instead if you don’t think your child can walk the whole time.

The food is fantastic (well, it is Spain!) and you’ll often be given free tapas along with any drinks you order. There are several tapas trails that you can follow. For more kid-friendly things to do, don’t miss the science museum and the nearby water park – perfect on hot summer days.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Granada?

Granada is a safe city and it’s easily walkable although it’s quite hilly. Temperatures can get very high in the summer and small kids might not cope. Getting tickets for the Alhambra might pose a challenge as they sell out very quickly. Book several months in advance , and don’t expect to pick them up on the door.

Note from Melissa: Learn from our mistakes. Do not bring your stroller to wander the Albaicín! It’s all hills and steps and cobbles. Only bring your carrier in that part of the city. Also note that many restaurants in the Albaicín are closed in the winter, as the thin tourist crowds don’t cover their high heating bills!

How long should you stay in Granada?

We’d recommend a minimum of two days; one to see the Alhambra properly and at least one to explore the city (two is better). We went in May and the temperature was perfect.

What’s the best way to get to Granada?

Although Granada has its own airport, nearby Malaga has far more flights and it will be much cheaper to fly into Malaga. From here you can either rent a car or take a train to Granada.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Granada?

We stayed slightly out of town, right by the Alhambra. This meant that we had to walk about a mile downhill into town. It was fine for us but you might want to stay in Granada at the foot of the Alhambra so you’re not walking up and down the hill all day, especially in the summer!

Thanks to Emily of Kids and Compass.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Granada here

Costa Tropical with kids – Wagoners Abroad

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Costa Tropical with kids? What are the best things to do in Costa Tropical with kids?

This area on the southern coast of Spain is ideal for nature lovers. You have the perfect combination of mountains, sun and the sea. It is perfect for those who love the outdoors to go hiking, biking, water sports, boating, kayaking, snorkeling and more. It is ideal to be in a smaller city and just absorb the culture and let the kids run around in a safe and welcoming environment.

The best part is Almuñécar is the 5th oldest city in Spain, with ruins dating back over 3000 years. There is a castle , Roman aqueducts, a Phoenicia fish salting factory and traditional Spanish charm. This area also has a Moorish influence with some of the architecture and names.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Costa Tropical?

The biggest challenge for a family would be finding a place to stay in the summer. July and August are high tourist season, but the fireworks every August 15th are an event to remember. If you have the time there are great 1-10 month rental deals from Sept – June. The best time to visit is in the Fall, after the tourists have gone and the weather is still sublime.

How long should you stay in Costa Tropical?

Ideally as long as you can, but a minimum of a week.

What’s the best way to get to Costa Tropical?

It is easiest to access Costa Tropical (Almuñécar, La Herradura, Motril, Salobreña) by car. It is located about 1 hour to the east of Málaga and 1 hour south of Granada city. There are also options via, bus, taxi, and shuttle from the Málaga Airport.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Costa Tropical?

Almuñécar & La Herradura are the locations with the traditional Spanish charm, with activities, sights to see, great places to eat and 19km of beautiful beaches.

Thanks to Heidi at Wagoners Abroad and Almunecar Info – they love the area so much that they now call it home! Find out more about Almunecar and the rest of Costa Tropical here .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Costa Tropical here

Gibraltar with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Gibraltar with kids? What are the best things to do in Gibraltar with kids?

Gibraltar is one of the most unique places to visit in Spain. This peninsula in the south of Spain is actually a British territory. It’s a fun place to explore with kids because almost everyone speaks English, and there are wild monkeys roaming near the top of “The Rock”, Gibraltar’s main attraction.

Most of what you want to visit can be reached by the Gibraltar Cable Car . Take ride from town to the Top of the Rock. This is where you will find the Barbary macaques (wild monkeys), St. Michael’s cave, the Great Siege and World War II tunnels, and The Rock of Gibraltar, which offers views of Gibraltar, Spain, and Morocco. In town, around the Main Street and Irish Town you will find plenty of shops and restaurants to explore when you need a rest.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Gibraltar?

The top of the mountain can be challenging. There is a lot of walking, but if you have a stroller, you should be ok. There are plenty of taxis waiting around to give tired families a ride if they need it. Make sure to bring a folding car seat in your day bag if your children are young.

How long should you stay in Gibraltar?

Gibraltar is the perfect day trip from elsewhere Southern Spain .

What’s the best way to get to Gibraltar?

We drove a rental car to the border. There is plenty of parking. We then walked across the border. You will need to bring your passports since it is a British territory.

What’s the best place for families to stay near Gibraltar?

We stayed in Estepona, Spain and made a day trip of it. We stayed in Marriott’s Playa Andaluza .

Thanks to Kirsten of Kids Are A Trip. Find out more about which beaches to visit in southern Spain on your trip.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Gibraltar here

Seville with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Seville with kids? What are the best things to do in Seville with kids?

I’ve never felt more safe in a ‘large’ city than I did in Seville. It was incredibly walkable, lots of pedestrian-only streets, kids everywhere, flamenco dancers on the streets, student bands playing in public squares and just overall a very happy friendly vibe. The architecture is incredible, such a cool mix of Moorish and Spanish buildings, lots of castles, churches – really a Photographer’s playground. It’s also incredibly affordable. Airbnbs were reasonable, food was cheaper compared to other areas of Spain.

You can also tack on a day trip to Ronda, since it’s only about 2 hours away and doesn’t really merit an overnight stay.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Seville?

Since it’s such a walkable city, I would find it a bit tough to navigate with a car due to all the one way and pedestrian-only streets. We didn’t have a car when we visited, so if accessibility is a concern, then it might be a bit difficult to get around.

Another thing to note is you need to book all sorts of tickets far in advance. The Alcazar can sell out or you might end up standing in line for hours. It’s best to buy tickets to the palace a few days to weeks in advance!

How long should you stay in Seville?

You can hit most of the city’s highlights in 3-5 days, though it also makes a great base for day trips.

What’s the best way to get to Seville?

I would highly recommend taking the high speed train here! A train from Madrid will take 2.5 hours vs 5 hours by car. There’s also a small airport, but I don’t see a need to fly in if it’s from another city within Spain.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Seville?

Anywhere within the city limits is a good choice. It’s so walkable that it doesn’t really matter too much. I would try and stay closer to the historic center just to minimize walking, but it’s most likely easier to find accommodation just outside of that area.

Thanks to Dalya from Sweet Little Journey. Find out more about visiting southern Spain with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Seville here

Córdoba with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Cordoba with kids? What are the best things to do in Cordoba with kids?

Cordoba is a charming Spanish City and is a great place to visit with kids.

The highlights include flamenco dancing, where all the little ones were busting out their best moves, and spotting the lovely patios which Cordoba is so famous for.

The Mezquita Cathedral is a Cordoba essential as is the Roman Bridge. The bridge featured as the Long Bridge of Volantis in Game of Thrones. For more Game of Thrones, the nearby Castillo Almodovar del Rio was the setting for the Highgarden, the residence of the House of Tyrell, and Casterly Rock.

The Aquasierra Water Park is a fun family day trip and is easily accessible from Cordoba.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Cordoba?

If you visit in summer be sure to reserve accommodation with air conditioning. We visited in the midst of an August heat wave and air conditioning was essential to keep cool.

How long should you stay in Cordoba?

2 or 3 nights will allow time to see all the major sights. It also makes an easy day trip from Seville, with just 45 minutes on the train.

What’s the best way to get to Cordoba?

Cordoba is also easy to reach by rental car from the surrounding airports. Seville is the closest airport and is a 2 hour drive from the city or 45 minutes by train. Granada and Malaga are also good options.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Cordoba?

The historic centre of Córdoba is our favorite place to stay. We stayed in Hotel Boutique Patio del Posadero and we loved it.

Thanks to Elaine of The Whole World is a Playground .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Córdoba here

Madrid with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Madrid with kids? What are the best things to do in Madrid with kids?

Madrid is certainly a more formal city than Barcelona and destinations in southern Spain, but has a lot to offer when it comes to Spanish history and culture – especially with older kids.

Even with just a few days in Madrid, you can see some sights that are truly unique. In nice weather, little kids will love running around in El Retiro park and even renting row boats to go our on the lake. The century-old Mercado San Miguel is the perfect place to wander and try some local snacks (while also picking up dinner ingredients). If your kids are interested in castles and knights, take them to see Spain’s royal palace in the center of the city, complete with a room full of suits of armor.

Of course, Madrid is also home of Spain’s most epic dessert: churros con chocolate . Let your kids indulge and maybe even line up a scavenger hunt to find the best ones in the city!

We also enjoyed a day trip from Madrid to Toledo. It has interesting churches and synagogues to visit amidst the well-maintained medieval city walls, plus it’s home to some of the world’s best marzipan.

If you’re visiting Madrid with kids who are interested in history and mature enough to understand, you can take them to Museo Reina Sofía to see Picasso’s evocative Guernica. It’s a good opportunity to discuss the Spanish Civil War and Franco’s dictatorship with older kids, who may be shocked (along with their parents) at just how new Spanish liberties are.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Madrid?

In contrast to laid-back Barcelona, Madrid can come across as a bit more serious. It’s the country’s capital for both government and business, so there’s lots of hustle and bustle.

Because it’s the national capital, there are often protests in Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. We inadvertently stumbled on one during our visit!

How long should you stay in Madrid?

We felt like 3 days was enough time to see the essentials, and there are also some great day trips like Toledo and Segovia if you want variety without moving around too much.

What’s the best way to get to Madrid?

There are abundant cheap flights from the US to Madrid , sometimes in the $200 range for a roundtrip! If you’re coming from elsewhere in Spain, the high speed rail network is incredibly fast. Madrid is in the center of the country and it takes about 2.5 hours to get anywhere on the coast by train (twice as fast as driving).

What’s the best place for families to stay in Madrid?

For a central location in Madrid, it’s hard to beat Salamanca! It’s just north of El Retiro and close to Puerta del Sol and is lovely for families. The downside is that the convenience and charm don’t come cheap. But if you plan to mostly spend your days out exploring, this studio apartment accommodates four people and is a real bargain.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Madrid here

Segovia with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Segovia with kids? What are the best things to do in Segovia with kids?

Segovia is a laid back, history filled town that has just enough attractions to fill up your day, while still being able to get lost in the winding streets. As you enter the city, you will pass under a Roman aqueduct and move up the main street towards the cathedral and the Alcazar, old fort. These three spots can fill up your day if you take it slow, and especially if you are traveling with young kids.

One thing you don’t want to miss, unless you are a vegetarian, is having lunch at one of the restaurants that serves cochinillo (roast suckling pig). Note that when you order this dish, the pig is all you will get. You need to order side dishes separately. Also don’t miss the chocolate and churros at the Alcazar café. We tried a lot of hot chocolate in Spain, and this was one of our favorites.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Segovia?

Getting to Segovia can be a bit of a pain, as it takes at least one train and a bus to get to Segovia from Madrid.

How long should you stay in Segovia?

1-2 days is fine, although we found one day to be more than enough time to explore the highlights.

What’s the best way to get to Segovia?

Rental car or a train plus bus is your best way to get to Segovia.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Segovia?

You can stay in Madrid and day trip to Segovia or you can stay at Hotel Real Segovia, which has family rooms and is centrally located in the old part of the city.

Thanks to Keryn of Walking on Travels. Find out more about taking a day trip from Madrid to Segovia .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Segovia here

Basque Country with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Basque Country with kids? What are the best things to do in Basque Country with kids?

Known to locals in Basque as Euskadi, The Basque country is the land of mountains, lakes and an abundance of lush greenery, nature and wildlife. A place that demands slow travel and family hikes. Rewards with spectacular unspoilt views and a quality of local food that is unlike anywhere else in the world. 

Families will be spoilt for choice from the rugged coastline and surf beaches to the mountain views or paddling in the river beaches. Cultural trips to the amazing Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao or eating out in the cosmopolitan coastal resorts of San Sebastian.

The Basque Country is all about getting off the beaten track, finding a quiet hideaway and exploring the charming nature of this region. Ullibarri-Gamboa Lake, near the North-west coast of Spain is our favourite stop for families. Pack a picnic and laze all day by the gently sloping gravel beach, perfect for little ones who want to take a dip. During summer months kayak and paddle board hire is available to entertain the older children.

Fans of Game of Thrones will love the day trip to the picturesque hermitage San Juan de Gatztelgutxe. Walk the winding path that connects this atmospheric island outcrop to the awe-inspiring landscape of the mainland. Scenes from Daenerys Targaryen’s home ‘Dragonstone’ were filmed here. It is roughly half an hour walk from the car park, so be sure to pack a carrier and snacks for little ones. Older children will love the sense of adventure if they pack up their own back pack with supplies, the views and sense of accomplishment on reaching the hermitage makes for a fun day out.

The Galleon Park will be high up on your children’s to-do list. Catch a metro and find this whimsical FREE children’s park in the Green Capital, Vitoria-Gasteiz. The park sprawls around a huge life-size wooden pirate ship, complete with crows nest and zip line. Shady benches and a separate area for under 5’s complete with water play stream, sand pit and bridges ensures there’s fun for all ages. Our children still talk about how much fun they had at this park, to this day!

What are potential challenges for families visiting Basque Country?

The Basque Country has a unique culture and climate compared to the rest of Spain. Do not expect flamenco dresses, endless sunshine or paella. This area is all about rugged landscapes, fairy tale villages and world class food and wine. Learn a couple of Basque greetings before you travel and pack rain jackets for Spring and Autumn visits, the weather is cooler and wetter here than other areas of Spain. 

How long should you stay in Basque Country?

A minimum of 1 week is necessary to really soak up the relaxed vibes and get lost in the stunning scenery of the Basque country. This family destination is all about disconnecting from the distractions of the modern world and reconnecting with each-other. The Basque region is not a whistle-stop tour to tick off a list of sites in a weekend. Time is needed to relax, unwind and discover.

What’s the best way to get to Basque Country?

Our favorite option (for travelers from the UK) is the overnight ferry to Santander, book a cabin and enjoy the on-board entertainment and food while the kids run around and have fun. The Basque Country can be reached in an hour from the port of Santander. Breath taking views will make you want to drive for longer though! The route to the Basque Country, from Santander is perfect for a family road trip .

For international travelers the main Basque region airport is Bilbao, flights can be purchased on Skyscanner . Car rental is available at the airport and highly recommended for taking that family road trip.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Basque Country?

Any of the rural local guesthouses that are available in the mountain villages make for a wonderful family stay. Locals are friendly and not at all tourist-weary, the area is still relatively undiscovered, so these rural boutique B&B’s are a great way to travel. 

We recommend this amazing guesthouse for rustic wooden beams & natural stone family rooms, indoor swimming pool. They offer fresh local breakfast options. You’ll love to cozy up and play family board games by the fire in the evening. Doubles from £80.00.

Thanks to Rachel of Undercover Hippy Bus.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Basque here

Costa Brava with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Costa Brava with kids? What are the best things to do in Costa Brava with kids?

Palafrugell carnival in early summer is a fantastic celebration with giant floats, live music and street parades. The beaches along the coast are a mix of sandy and rocky and the waters are calm: perfect for families.

What are potential challenges for families visiting Costa Brava?

The Costa Brava can be very hot and busy in July and August (but perfect in May and June).

How long should you stay in Costa Brava?

One to two weeks is perfect.

What’s the best way to get to Costa Brava?

Renting a car allows visitors flexibility to explore a different beach each day. Girona and Barcelona airports are both under two hours drive.

What’s the best place for families to stay in Costa Brava?

Hotel Aigua Blava is close to some of the best beaches. Otherwise, Vintage Travel features some great villas in the region.

Thanks to Annabel of Smudged Postcard. Find out more about visiting Costa Brava with kids .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Costa Brava here

Lanzarote with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Lanzarote with kids? What are the best things to do in Lanzarote with kids?

Often considered a great winter sun destination for package family holidays in Spain, the Canary Island of Lanzarote offers do much more. Hire a car and escape the resorts to explore a wild and barren island with secluded beaches, great surf, volcanic landscapes and whitewashed villages to stroll. It’s just a case of knowing where to go in Lanzarote with kids .

What are potential challenges for families visiting Lanzarote?

To escape the crowds, base yourself in the North of the island should you wish to experience a more authentic side of Lanzarote. Vegetarians and vegans will struggle to find something suitable at restaurants, so consider self catering accommodation.

How long should you stay in Lanzarote?

At least a week. Although I visited with just my three year old for almost two weeks, and that seemed perfect.

What’s the best way to get to Lanzarote?

There are lots of budget airlines that fly into Arrecife Airport. You can also catch a ferry from nearby Fuerteventura (though you’d need to fly there first).

What’s the best place for families to stay in Lanzarote?

We recommend staying at family-run Finca de Arrieta. This is an enclave of luxury yurts, just outside the sleepy village of Arietta, in the North of Lanzarote. This is an off-grid eco-resort running off wind and solar panel, with water fed from an underground well onsite. There are yurts for all budgets and there’s a playground, small pool and farm animals on site.

Thanks to Jenny of TraveLynn Family.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Lanzarote here

Tenerife with kids

family excursions spain

What’s great about visiting Tenerife with kids? What are the best things to do in Tenerife with kids?

Tenerife is a perfect destination for a family holiday. As a popular tourist location, there is fantastic infrastructure for visiting families such as a range of self-catering accommodation, good healthcare and public transportation. Most tourists choose to stay in the south or west of the sunny island but if you head to the cooler north coast you will find quieter villages and scenic landscapes with lush flora and fauna. 

Tenerife offers great beaches, dramatic landscapes, waterparks and theme parks but also excellent hiking and wildlife spotting. Families should make a trip to the interior of the island to visit the easily accessible active volcano, Mt Teide, the summit of which is the highest point in Spain. This area is a complete contrast to the built up busy coastline and has incredible hikes with spectacular views. You can take a cable car up the snowy slopes of Mt Teide; just go prepared for temperature and altitude changes!​

What are potential challenges for families visiting Tenerife?

If you choose to explore the island by car, some of the roads are steep, narrow and winding with sheer drops. ​

How long should you stay in Tenerife?

To fully explore all that Tenerife has to offer – with a bit of relaxing beach time thrown in – I would recommend a stay of one-two weeks.

What’s the best way to get to Tenerife?

Tenerife is an island so the only way to get there is by plane to one of the Canary Islands.​

What’s the best place for families to stay in Tenerife?

If you like beach culture, restaurants and tourist facilities on your doorstep stay in the sunny south west around Adeje. For a quieter family holiday, stay on the north coast around Puerto de la Cruz.

Thanks to Sinead of Map Made Memories .

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Tenerife here

Best Places to Visit in Spain with Family FAQs

Valencia is the most family friendly city in Spain, but you can’t go wrong with a family vacation anywhere in the country. Barcelona is a must-see for all ages.

Yes! Spain is one of the best countries to travel to with children. There is much to see and a great deal of kid-friendly tours and activities.

Absolutely! Barcelona is full of wonder for the whole family and easy to navigate with children.

Traveling to Spain during July and August are the most expensive. Winter months, such as December and January, are more affordable and less crowded.

Yes, Spain is extremely kid-friendly. Children are welcome throughout the country and it’s a safe place to visit with efficient transportation.

Where to go in Spain with family: planning your trip

Travel to Spain with kids is safe and enjoyable. There is much to explore from the beach to the mountains and everything in between. The locals love children and embrace kid friendly tours of Spain. I hope this guide helped you decide where to go in Spain with kids, and your family has a wonderful experience in one of our favorite countries to vacation.

Be sure to read these additional articles as you plan your visit to Spain with children:

  • Must-Read Travel Tips for Spain
  • 5 can’t miss things to do in Barcelona with kids (+ important tips for your trip)
  • Best Family Hotels in Barcelona: Where to Stay With Kids
  • Barcelona: What To Eat For A Delicious Experience
  • Why you should visit Spain in winter
  • What to wear in Spain in winter

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2 thoughts on “spain with kids: best family destinations in spain”.

One thing we love to do as a family is read about the place we are traveling to!

We love it too! Be sure to check out the childrens books about Spain I list above.

Safe travels,

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Spain Guides

Family Holidays In Spain

The Best Things To Do & See

Family holidays in Spain

Spain is a dream destination for families with children, offering a myriad of attractions and experiences that cater to all ages.

From bustling cities to idyllic coastal towns, this diverse country has something for everyone, making it the perfect choice for family holidays in Spain.

One of the reasons Spain is so appealing to families is the abundance of family-friendly attractions and activities.

Spain is home to a wealth of theme parks , water parks, and zoos, where kids can let their imaginations run wild and create lifelong memories.

From the thrilling roller coasters of PortAventura World to the engaging marine life at Loro Parque, there's no shortage of excitement and adventure.

Beyond the theme parks, Spain boasts beautiful beaches that provide endless opportunities for family fun.

Building sandcastles, playing in the surf, or simply soaking up the sun together are perfect ways to create special moments.

Along the coastline, you'll find charming seaside towns and resorts that offer a relaxed atmosphere and a range of family-friendly amenities.

Spain's rich cultural heritage also provides an educational aspect to family holidays. Kids can immerse themselves in history and art by exploring ancient castles, fascinating museums, and charming old towns .

From the magnificent Alhambra in Granada to the medieval streets of Toledo, there are countless opportunities for children to learn while having fun.

Furthermore, Spanish cuisine is a delight for both kids and adults. The country's culinary offerings include a wide variety of delicious dishes that cater to different tastes. From tapas to paella and churros, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Many restaurants also welcome children with open arms, providing high chairs, children's menus, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

In Spain, family is at the heart of society, and you'll find a warm and welcoming culture that embraces children.

With its combination of thrilling attractions, stunning beaches, rich culture, delectable cuisine, and a family-focused atmosphere, Spain truly offers an unforgettable experience for families with children.

Tours & Excursions

Here is our top pick of the best attractions for family holidays in Spain:

PortAventura World, Salou:

Portaventura Theme Park

PortAventura World in Salou, Spain, is a premier amusement park destination that guarantees a thrilling and immersive experience for family holidays in Spain.

Comprising PortAventura Park, Caribe Aquatic Park, and Ferrari Land, this expansive resort offers a wide range of attractions, rides, and shows to cater for all the family.

From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and water slides to live performances and themed areas, PortAventura World provides endless entertainment.

With its vibrant atmosphere, high-quality amenities, and attention to detail, it's the perfect place to create lasting memories and enjoy an action-packed adventure in the heart of Costa Dorada.

Park Guell, Barcelona:

Parc Guell family holidays in Spain

Parc Guell, located in Barcelona, Spain, is a masterpiece designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí.

This iconic park is a testament to Gaudí's distinctive architectural style and creativity. It features whimsical structures, colourful mosaic tiles, and organic shapes that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

Here, you can explore the park's terraced gardens, enjoy panoramic views of Barcelona, and marvel at the iconic mosaic lizard, known as "El Drac." Parc Guell offers a unique and enchanting experience, combining art, nature, and breathtaking vistas, making it a must-visit destination during your family holidays in Spain

Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid:

Sanitago Bernabeu Stadium Madrid

Visiting Santiago Bernabeu Football Stadium in Madrid is a dream come true for football enthusiasts. As the home ground of Real Madrid, this legendary stadium is steeped in history and prestige.

Walking through the players' tunnel, standing in the grandstands, and witnessing the iconic pitch creates an incredible sense of excitement and awe.

You can explore the club's museum, which showcases the team's trophies, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.

The stadium tour offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of football, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and passion of one of the most successful clubs in the sport.

City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia:

City Of Arts & Science family holidays in Spain

The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is a stunning architectural marvel that combines art, science, and entertainment.

This futuristic complex, designed by Santiago Calatrava and Felix Candela, features avant-garde structures that have become iconic symbols of the city.

Here, you can explore the interactive exhibits at the Science Museum, marvel at the breathtaking views from the Hemispheric Planetarium, and immerse yourself in the underwater world at the Oceanografic.

The avant-garde design, the harmony of the buildings with their surroundings, and the diverse range of cultural and educational experiences make the City of Arts and Sciences a must-visit destination in Valencia.

For family holidays in Spain, the City of Arts and Science should be near the top of your holiday itinerary.

Loro Parque, Tenerife:

Loro Park Tenerife

Visiting Loro Park in Tenerife is an unforgettable experience for all family members, young and old.

This world-renowned zoo and conservation park offers a captivating journey through various habitats and ecosystems.

Marvel at the colourful parrots and exotic bird species, witness the impressive shows featuring sea lions, dolphins, and orcas, and encounter a wide range of other animals, including gorillas, tigers, penguins, and more.

With a strong commitment to conservation and education, Loro Park provides a unique opportunity to learn about wildlife preservation efforts and witness the beauty of diverse species up close. It's a must-visit attraction for family holidays in Spain as it combines entertainment for the kids, education, and an appreciation for the natural world.

Siam Park, Tenerife:

Siam Park For Family Holidays in Spain

Visiting Siam Park in Tenerife promises an exhilarating and tropical adventure for water park enthusiasts.

Inspired by Thai architecture and set amidst lush surroundings, this award-winning water park offers a thrilling array of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

From the heart-pounding Tower of Power to the exhilarating Singha water coaster, visitors can experience a range of adrenaline-pumping attractions.

The park also provides a relaxing side with its sandy beaches, serene floating market, and tranquil Thai-themed gardens.

Whether seeking adrenaline-fueled excitement or a serene day under the sun, a visit to Siam Park guarantees a memorable and fun-filled aquatic experience in a tropical paradise.

The Alhambra, Granada:

Alhambra Palace Granada

for children as well. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases stunning architecture, intricate gardens, and rich history.

Children can be captivated by the palace's unique features, such as the Lion Fountain and the intricate carvings found throughout.

Exploring the gardens, like the Generalife, offers ample space to run and play.

The immersive environment can spark their imagination and curiosity, providing a chance to learn about different cultures and historical periods.

Oceanografic, Valencia:

Oceanographic Centre

Visiting the Oceanographic Centre in Valencia is an exciting and educational experience that is particularly great for families with children.

This state-of-the-art aquarium offers a fascinating journey through various marine ecosystems, showcasing a diverse range of marine life from around the world.

Children can marvel at the colourful fish, playful dolphins, majestic sharks, and adorable penguins. The interactive exhibits, shows, and feeding sessions provide an engaging and immersive learning experience.

With its child-friendly layout and informative displays, the Oceanographic Centre offers a chance for kids to discover and appreciate the wonders of the ocean in a fun and family-friendly environment.

Poble Espanyol, Barcelona:

Poble Espanyol

Visiting Poble Espanyol in Catalonia is a fantastic experience for families with children over 10 years of age. This open-air architectural museum offers a captivating journey through the diverse architecture and culture of Spain.

Children can explore the life-size replicas of streets, houses, and squares representing different regions of Spain. They can participate in hands-on workshops, where they can learn traditional crafts and engage in interactive activities.

The Poble Espanyol also hosts family-friendly events and performances, making it an enjoyable destination for all ages. With its immersive environment and educational opportunities, Poble Espanyol provides a unique and enriching experience for family holidays in Spain, fostering an appreciation for Spanish history, culture, and craftsmanship.

Aqualandia, Benidorm:

Aqualandia Benidorm

Aqualandia in Benidorm is a thrilling and fun-filled experience that is perfect for families with children. As one of Europe's largest water parks, it offers a wide range of water attractions, slides, and pools that cater to all ages.

Children can splash around in dedicated play areas, enjoy gentle slides, and engage in interactive water games. The park ensures safety with lifeguards and age-appropriate attractions. With its family-friendly environment, Aqualandia provides a day of excitement and laughter for kids and adults alike.

From thrilling slides to relaxing pools, it's an ideal destination for families seeking water-based entertainment and unforgettable memories on your family holidays in Spain.

Warner Bros Park, Madrid:

Warner Park Madrid

Warner Park Madrid is an incredible experience that offers a world of excitement and entertainment for families with children. This theme park brings beloved characters and stories from Warner Bros films to life.

Children can meet their favourite superheroes, explore themed areas like Gotham City and Cartoon Village, and enjoy thrilling rides and shows.

From Looney Tunes characters to Batman and Superman, there's something for every child's imagination to soar.

The park's family-friendly atmosphere, interactive experiences, and variety of attractions make it an ideal destination for families looking to create magical memories and immerse themselves in the world of Warner Bros.

Isla Magica, Seville:

Isla Magica Theme Park

Isla Magica in Seville is a fantastic adventure for families with children. This theme park takes visitors on a journey through time, offering a mix of history, excitement, and fun.

Kids can explore different themed areas, such as the Pirate's Den and the Amazonia, filled with thrilling rides, shows, and interactive attractions.  From roller coasters to water rides, there are plenty of age-appropriate options for every child's taste.

Isla Magica also hosts entertaining live performances and offers dining options to recharge and refuel.

With its family-oriented atmosphere and diverse attractions, Isla Magica ensures an unforgettable day of amusement and enjoyment for families visiting Seville.

Terra Mitica, Benidorm:

Terra Mitica Theme Park Alicante

Terra Mitica in Benidorm is an extraordinary theme park that offers a captivating blend of ancient civilizations, mythological themes, and thrilling rides.

Children can embark on exciting adventures through themed areas like Egypt, Greece, and Rome, encountering mythological creatures and iconic landmarks along the way. From exhilarating roller coasters to family-friendly attractions, there's something for every age and thrill level.

The park also hosts entertaining shows, interactive experiences, and a range of dining options.

Terra Mitica guarantees a day of excitement and entertainment for families.

Barcelona Zoo, Barcelona:

Bioparc Zoo Barcelona

Barcelona Zoo offers a diverse range of animal species from around the world, providing an opportunity for kids to learn about wildlife conservation and appreciate the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Children can observe magnificent elephants, playful dolphins, and fascinating reptiles up close. The zoo also features interactive exhibits, educational activities, and a children's farm where kids can interact with domestic animals.

With its family-friendly facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds, Barcelona Zoo ensures a memorable and enjoyable day during your family holidays in Spain as it combines education, recreation, along with magical animal encounters.

Terra Natura, Murcia:

Terra Natura Benidorm

Terra Natura Park in Benidorm is an immersive wildlife park that allows kids to connect with nature and learn about different animal species.

With its spacious and naturalistic enclosures, children can observe animals up close, including lions, elephants, and monkeys.

The park also offers interactive experiences like feeding sessions and shows that captivate young minds. Kids can explore themed areas like Pangea and America, engaging in educational activities and enjoying thrilling rides.

Terra Natura Park provides a day of discovery and excitement, making it an ideal destination for families seeking memorable experiences in Benidorm

Puy du Fou Spain, Toledo:

Toledo Spain

Visiting Puy du Fou Spain in Toledo is an extraordinary experience that immerses families with children in a world of captivating history and entertainment.

This unique theme park offers spectacular live shows, reenactments, and immersive experiences that bring different historical eras to life. From epic battles to stunning visual effects, kids can witness the magic of history unfold before their eyes.

The park also provides educational opportunities, allowing children to learn about the past in a fun and engaging way.

Puy du Fou Spain offers a day of wonder and excitement for families, creating cherished memories during your family holidays in Spain that will last forever.

Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos, Cordoba:

Alcazar de los Cristianos

The Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos in Cordoba is a captivating experience that offers rich historical and architectural wonders for families with children over the age of 10.

This majestic fortress palace showcases stunning gardens, impressive towers, and intricate mosaics. Kids can explore the fortified walls, climb the towers, and stroll through the beautiful gardens adorned with fountains and statues.

The history and legends of the Alcazar come to life through informative displays and guided tours, allowing children to learn about the region's fascinating past.

Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos offers a memorable and educational visit for families with kids, fostering an appreciation for history and Spanish culture.

Mini Hollywood, Almeria:

Tabernas Almeria

Mini Hollywood in Almeria is an exciting adventure that transports families with children to the Wild West. This theme park, set in a real film set, offers an immersive experience with cowboy shows, horseback riding, and live performances.

Kids can explore the replica Wild West town, complete with saloons, jailhouses, and shops. The park also features animal encounters, including a zoo with exotic species and a petting zoo.

With its thrilling attractions, interactive experiences, and stunning desert landscapes, Mini Hollywood provides a day of entertainment and imagination for families, creating memories of a Western adventure in the heart of Almeria.

Aventura Amazonia, Marbella:

Swing through the treetops and conquer challenging obstacle courses at this thrilling adventure park, suitable for both kids and adults.

Mundo Park, Seville:

Learn about different cultures and countries through immersive exhibits, cultural performances, and hands-on activities.

Bioparc Valencia, Valencia:

Immerse yourself in an immersive wildlife experience where animals roam freely in their natural habitats.

Bosc Animat, Costa Brava:

Enjoy a treetop adventure park with zip lines, rope courses, and challenges suitable for all ages.

Planetarium of Pamplona, Pamplona:

Explore the wonders of the universe with fascinating planetarium shows and educational exhibits.

Palma Aquarium, Mallorca:

Dive into an underwater world and marvel at the diverse marine life through interactive displays and immersive exhibits.

Costa Caribe Aquatic Park, Salou:

Cool off in the thrilling water slides and enjoy the wave pools and lazy river in this Caribbean-themed water park.

Aquopolis, Costa Dorada:

Enjoy a day of water-filled fun with thrilling slides, wave pools, and children's play areas at this water park located on the beautiful Costa Dorada.

Labyrinth Park of Horta, Barcelona:

Get lost in the maze and explore the stunning gardens of this historical park.

Travelling With Kids

Kids Boating Holiday

When planning a family holiday in Spain with young kids, there are several important considerations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Child-Friendly Accommodation: Look for accommodations that cater to families with young children. Consider hotels or resorts that offer amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and play areas. Additionally, check if the accommodation has a kid-friendly pool or easy access to nearby beaches where your little ones can safely splash around.
  • Safety: Prioritise the safety of your children by being vigilant and keeping an eye on them at all times, especially in crowded places. Ensure you have identification documents and emergency contact information readily available. It's also a good idea to establish a meeting point in case anyone gets separated.
  • Kid-Friendly Attractions: Research and choose attractions that are suitable for children. Spain offers a wide range of family-friendly destinations, including theme parks , amusement parks, water parks, zoos, and aquariums. Places like PortAventura, Loro Park, Siam Park and Terra Mítica are popular choices that provide entertainment and activities designed specifically for kids.
  • Entertainment and Activities: Look for activities that will engage and entertain your children. Seek out puppet shows, treasure hunts, or boat rides that are suitable for their age group. Parks, gardens, and beaches offer ample space for outdoor play and exploration. Take advantage of Spain's beautiful natural landscapes and encourage your kids to enjoy the outdoors.
  • Local Cuisine: Introduce your children to the local Spanish cuisine and encourage them to try new dishes. Spain is known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of kid-friendly options available such as paella, tapas, and churros. Look for restaurants with children's menus or those that offer flexible dining options to accommodate their tastes.
  • Plan Breaks and Rest: Keep in mind that young children may need regular breaks and nap times. Plan your itinerary with consideration for their energy levels and schedule downtime for rest and relaxation. Having a relaxed pace will allow everyone to enjoy the holiday at their own pace and avoid overtiredness or meltdowns.
  • Pack Essential Supplies: Make sure to pack essential items for your children, including sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, diapers, wipes, and a first aid kit. Familiar toys, books, and snacks can also help keep them comfortable and entertained during travel and downtime.
  • Language and Culture: Teach your children a few basic Spanish phrases to help them communicate and engage with the local culture. Encourage cultural experiences, such as visiting local markets or participating in traditional events. This can help broaden their horizons and create lasting memories.
  • Transportation: Consider the convenience and safety of transportation options. If you plan to rent a car, ensure that it meets child car seat requirements and availability. Public transportation can also be an adventure for children, but be sure to plan for stroller-friendly routes and take extra care when navigating crowded spaces.
  • Patience and Flexibility: Finally, remember to have patience and maintain a flexible mindset. Travelling with young kids can have its challenges, but try to embrace the journey and enjoy the precious moments with your family. Be prepared for unexpected situations, adapt to changing circumstances, and make the most of your time together.
  • About Author
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Matt Robson

Hey there! I'm Matt, your friendly neighbourhood explorer extraordinaire! For the past 15 years, I've been gallivanting around Spain, soaking up all its wonders and uncovering hidden gems like a modern-day Indiana Jones (minus the hat and whip, unfortunately). So, buckle up, amigos! It's time to dive straight into the heart and soul of Spain. Welcome to my world of Spanish wonders!

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The Best Family Vacations in Spain – Costa Brava, Costa Dorada & Costa Verde

Costa Brava for the best family vacations in Spain

Finding a destination that keeps everyone happy for a family vacation in Spain can be a complicated task.

What are the best places in Spain for families?

Spain has a lot to offer. With beautiful beaches, countless activities, good food , a rich culture, and incredible nature Spain is a great travel destination for a family vacation.

I have been traveling to Spain (and on and off living in Spain) for 15 years now. I have been lucky enough to see a lot of this diverse country and meet a wide range of Spanish people.

Because of its size and diverse offering, Spain really is a suitable country for any type of traveler. But, because it is such an easy country to travel in and offers a lot of facilities for families, it is especially suitable for family travel .

In fact, it’s often listed as one of the best countries to visit with kids .

In this article I want to share with you three popular and beautiful coastal regions that offer some of the best places in Spain for families: Costa Brava, Costa Dorada, and Costa Verde .

All three regions have great options for a family vacation in Spain, so let me share something about each of these.

3 Regions for a Family Vacation in Spain

3 Coastal regions for the best family vacation in Spain

1. The Best of The Costa Brava for Families

Costa Brava for the best family vacation in Spain

The Costa Brava is located in northeastern Spain, in the province of Girona. It is well-known for the many resort towns such as Lloret de Mar and Blanes.

Apart from those resort towns though there are also many hidden gems on the Costa Brava. Charming seaside towns, typical fishing villages, impressive cliffs, diverse beaches, and quaint coves.

The Costa Brava is a diverse and beautiful region with a very rich history.

The area boasts significant ruins, dating back to Roman, Greek, and even Palaeolithic times. Additionally, there are many medieval villages and castles on the Costa Brava.

The Costa Brava has long been a popular destination for family vacations in Spain and as a result offers great facilities for family travel.

A Selection of Towns Worth Visiting on the Costa Brava:

Roses , a historic town dating back to the 8th century BC, with a notable seafaring tradition.

Roses is the only coastal town on the Costa Brava that faces west, which means it offers great sunsets.

Pals , a medieval town on top of a hill, overlooking its main city beach, Platja de Pals.

It is not as well-known as most beach resorts but with its pretty cobbled streets, craft shops, and traditional bars and restaurants it is a lovely place to visit.

Begur , a medieval village with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses located below the ruins of a stone castle.

Begur is great for water sports such as snorkeling and kayaking, thanks to its many coves and its proximity to the Medes Islands, which are a marine reserve and a popular location for scuba diving.

Calella de Palafrugell , an attractive fishing village with beautiful whitewashed houses and narrow streets.

It is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages on the entire Mediterranean, offering rocky coves, sandy beaches, and excellent fish restaurants.

Tossa de Mar , a cute town with cobbled streets, constructed around an impressive medieval castle.

The surrounding countryside with its valleys and rivers is a great place to hike and cycle and the city beach is perfect for a day of relaxing with the family.

Blanes , one of the most popular seaside resorts on the Costa Brava.

Despite being so popular, Blanes still retains its original charm. Its harbor, sandy bays and small rocky coves, historical buildings, and the botanical gardens are well worth checking out.

Also Read: Fun & Interesting Facts About Spain You Should Know

Costa Brava’s Best Beaches

Costa Brava's many child friendly beaches makes it perfect for a family vacation to Spain

The Costa Brava’s coastline is almost 300 kilometers (186 miles) long and very varied, with wide bays, small coves, and high cliffs.

Whether you are looking for a beautiful stretch of golden sand or a tiny, hidden cove, you can find it here.

The whitewashed town of Tamariu boasts one of the most beautiful sandy beaches of the Costa Brava : Platja de Tamariu. It has great water sports facilities and connects to several smaller coves.

The village of Cadaqués is home to the Cap de Creus Nature Reserve which forms a series of beautiful, unspoilt coves.

Or, check out Empuriabrava, which offers some of the Costa Brava’s widest and longest beaches with excellent facilities.

La Cala del Golfet , in Calella de Palafrugell, is another stunning beach worth visiting.

But there are so many beautiful beaches that it is impossible for me to choose a favorite. I therefore highly recommend exploring as many different beaches as you can if you decide to take your family vacation in Spain to the Costa Brava!

Costa Brava’s Food

The Costa Brava is well known for its cuisine and boasts a surprising number of really high quality restaurants (including one of the best restaurants in the world ).

Costa Brava’s cuisine mainly consists of fish and seafood, olives, fresh vegetables, pasta, rice, and olive oil . But, since the north of the Costa Brava is close to the Pyrenees, there are also excellent meat and game dishes.

And, being such a popular tourist destination, you can find many international dishes here as well and enough variety to keep everyone in the family happy.

Family Fun on the Costa Brava

There are several waterparks on the Costa Brava which are renowned for their safety, comfort, and quality.

At many beaches, you will find all sorts of water sports and great boat trips. In the villages, you can find mini golf, go-karts, and many other activities for the whole family.

Tip: the Costa Brava is a beautiful destination for a summer vacation in Spain. But, that does mean it attracts a lot of tourists, especially in July and August.

If you are looking for a quieter family vacation in Spain you might want to avoid these months or stay in smaller towns slightly more inland.

Also Read: Best beach hotels on the Costa Brava

2. The Best of The Costa Dorada for Families

A perfect family vacation in Spain - Costa Dorada

Costa Dorada means Golden Coast which is a perfect name for this part of Spain’s Mediterranean coast filled with long stretches of golden sand beaches and numerous resort towns .

The Costa Dorada extends south and west from Barcelona and is a surprisingly multi-faceted destination. It offers a wide range of fun activities, culture, nature, and history in a tranquil setting.

If you want more than sun, sea and sand on your vacation to Spain then venture away from the beach to the Costa Dorada’s lowlands.

This area between the coast and the mountains boasts an expansive natural landscape with quiet villages and farms surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and almond trees. And check out the delta of the river Ebro with its labyrinth of lakes.

Many towns on the Costa Dorada are built around a castle or a fortress. And most are still small and traditional, not overdeveloped with tourism.

If you want to combine time at the beach with some culture and sightseeing , the Costa Dorada is a great choice for a comfortable family vacation in Spain.

A Selection of Towns Worth Visiting on the Costa Dorada

Tarragona , Costa Dorada’s largest city, which is as well-known for its Roman ruins as it is for inventive seafood.

The town has some of the best Roman remains in Spain and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage City .

Sitges , known as the gay-friendly party town with bustling nightlife and numerous festivals.

But despite being such a popular tourist destination it does retain much of its old-world charm, has a lovely old town and some good museums.

Reus , the birthplace of architect Antoni Gaudí. It’s a lovely town with gorgeous architecture.

Tortosa , an underrated inland town with an impressive fortress and some good museums.

El Perello , a charming agricultural village, famed for its honey. Check out the well-maintained center with its bustling market and town square.

Just outside of this town you can find La Cueva de la Mallada; a cave with prehistoric cave paintings.

Torredembarra with its beautiful stretch of fine, sandy beach. It combines an ultramodern harbor and excellent shopping, with a medieval influence in its architecture and a long maritime history.

Altafulla , a small fishing village that is quickly becoming a preferred tourist destination.

Situated on the banks of the river Gaia, the town has retained its ancient character, combined with excellent amenities and many cultural attractions.

Sant Carlos de la Rapita , a major fishing port and paradise for food lovers. The town is filled with excellent seafood restaurants. Water sports are also popular in the area.

The beautiful medieval monasteries of Poblet and Santes Creus .

Finally, take a day trip to Barcelona if you want to include some great museums, culture, and city vibes into your family vacation.

Also Read: Hot Air Ballooning in Barcelona – My Review & Tips and Easy Day Trips from Barcelona by Train

Costa Dorada’s Best Beaches

The Costa Dorada has a great offering of beautiful beaches.

Cunit beach , split into seven half-moon-shaped mini beaches is especially family friendly with its calm, shallow waters and great facilities including toilets, water sports rentals, and beachside restaurants.

Long, sandy Calafell Beach is another favorite during family vacations in Spain and a great place if you want to combine a trip to the beach with some sightseeing in the historic town of Calafell. There are children’s playgrounds at the beach and the water is calm and clean, making it perfect for younger children.

Other beautiful, family friendly sandy beaches include Altafulla Beach , Platja de Tamarit , Playa del Regueral , and Riumar Beach (with great sand dunes).

But the good thing about the Costa Dorada is that most beaches are suitable for kids of all ages so just check out a number of different beaches during your stay here!

Costa Dorada’s Food

The Costa Dorada offers typical Mediterranean food and is mainly known for its fish and seafood.

With its many traditional Spanish towns, you will have many opportunities to taste authentic Catalan dishes.

Family Fun on the Costa Dorada

The best family vacation in Spain on the on the Costa Dorada, - theme parks

Apart from perfect family-friendly beaches, the Costa Dorada is also home to PortAventura, a large theme park that is often named as one of the best in Europe.

Additionally there is a popular water park in Pineda, a fun magic show at the House of Illusion in Salou, and plenty of activities in each town to keep the entire family entertained.

3. The Best of The Costa Verde for Families

Best family vacation in Spain - Costa Verde

The Costa Verde, meaning Green Coast, is a lush, green coastal strip in the Asturias region, in northwest Spain. It is a more rugged coastline with spectacular cliffs, scattered sandy beaches, national parks, and dramatic mountain ranges.

If you love nature, hiking, mountain villages, great forests, and a view of snow-capped mountains , then the Costa Verde is for you.

The Costa Verde is wild and beautiful, with an abundance of caves to explore and breathtaking scenery to admire. Visit Somiedo National Park to try and catch a glimpse of a bear or a gray wolf.

And, the Costa Verde is also one of the only places in Western Europe where brown bears still roam.

If you are looking for a more active family vacation in Spain, the Costa Verde is perfect!

A Selection of Towns Worth Visiting on the Costa Verde

Cudillero , one of the most charming fishing villages on the Costa Verde.

The village offers colorful houses, a beautiful view as you climb up the hill and a traditional Asturian town feel. Additionally, Cudillero is close to one of Asturia’s most famous beaches: Playa del Silencio.

Gijon , which began as a fishing village nearly 3000 years ago. It is now considered the maritime capital of Asturias with one of Spain’s busiest shipping ports.

Gijon is a modern, energetic, and prosperous town but has managed to conserve that authentic fishing-village vibe.

The city has great opportunities for shopping, a beautiful seaside promenade, and a wide range of restaurants. It also offers plenty of squares, parks, and museums to keep the whole family entertained.

Ribadesella , a pretty town in a bay, surrounded by high mountains, beaches, and steep cliffs.

The town is known for the Tito Bustillo Cave, which is an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site. Prehistoric drawings of more than 14,000 years old have been found here – some of the oldest prehistoric art in the world.

Cangas de Onis , which forms the entrance to the Picos de Europa National Park. The most popular attraction here is a medieval bridge and a small chapel built in a small cave, high above the ground.

Llanes , a charming, historical village. It is one of the most visited villages on the Costa Verde boasting remains of a medieval wall, a 13th-century tower, and a 15th-century palace. It is also close to many great beaches.

What makes the Costa Verde such a great part of Spain though is its countless small fishing villages and mountain towns . Therefore take my suggestions merely as a guideline and definitely go on a road trip to explore some of the other adorable places this region has to offer.

Costa Verde’s Best Beaches

beaches to visit during a family vacation in Spain - Costa Verde

Costa Verde’s coastal area is both stunning and dramatic; with long sandy beaches, coves, cliffs, and hidden caves against a backdrop of rugged mountains.

Some of the most stunning beaches include the Playa de Cuevas del Mar (the Beach of Sea Caves), the hidden gem Playa de Xago, and the wild gem Playa Cobijeru .

Do check out Playa de Gulpiyuri , the “beach without a sea”: a small inland beach and one of Asturias best-kept secrets.

Long, sandy Playa de Rodiles makes a great beach for any family with kids and Playa de la Griega , with dinosaur footprints still present in the rock formations, is also a great recommendation.

But, similar to the other two Costas, this part of Spain offers a nearly endless number of beaches so do go out and explore!

Tip: Keep in mind that many of the beaches on the Costa Verde are fairly remote and offer limited facilities so do bring enough water, snacks and anything else you may need for a beach day.

Costa Verde’s Food

Asturian food is based on wholesome and hearty home cooking.

You will find a lot of meat and rich dishes here. The most famous regional dish is Fabada Asturiana , a rich stew made with large white beans ( fabes de la Granja ), pork shoulder (llacón), morcilla (black pudding), chorizo, and saffron.

Asturias is also famous for its cider , so do try that when traveling to the Costa Verde.

Family Fun on the Costa Verde

With so many outdoor adventures the Costa Verde is a great region to keep your kids active.

If your kids are into dinosaurs then check out the Jurassic Museum of Asturias – the building itself is a giant dinosaur’s footprint and it has exhibitions, workshops and play areas for all ages.

Traveling to the Costa Verde might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you are considering a family vacation in Spain. But that makes this area just that tiny bit extra special!

The Costa Verde is much more unspoilt than the other coastal areas of Spain. It is absolutely stunning, the people are friendly and it will show you a side of Spain you don’t see in every travel guide.

Family Vacations in Spain – Final Tips

tips for the best family vacations in Spain

Consider staying in one of EuroCamping’s family-friendly vacation homes, bungalows or tents. They have campsites in each of these 3 Spanish coastal regions and their campsites offer great amenities such as pools, waterslides, restaurants, and shops.

Or check out VRBO for a wide range of vacation homes throughout Spain.

If you’re struggling to decide on your next travel destination, Spain is a great choice to keep all the family happy!

With so much to see and do Spain is the type of destination you could easily visit every year and still have a completely different vacation each time.

So, take your kids on a family vacation to Spain! I am sure you will enjoy this diverse country as much as I do!

Also Read:  

  • Things to Know Before Going to Spain
  • Best Time to Visit Spain
  • 5 Crazy Spanish Festivals You Have to See to Believe
  • Fun, Crazy & Interesting Facts About Spain
  • The Benefits of Traveling as a Family
  • Flight Delayed? This is How to Get Compensations!

And check out my other articles about traveling in Spain & living in Spain

  Like this article about the best family vacation in Spain? Share it!

3 coastal regions for a family vacation in Spain

This blog about family vacations in Spain contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you.

6 thoughts on “The Best Family Vacations in Spain – Costa Brava, Costa Dorada & Costa Verde”

Thank you for sharing such an informative post. Spain is the most popular place to visit.

If you are coming to Spain for the weather then in March I would go to the south. Have you considered the area around Malaga? I am sure there are plenty of nice villas to rent there and the area offers a lot: – Malaga, a cute city with a good mix of history, tourism and beach culture. – Marbella, Fuengirola and Torremolinos: the touristy coastal towns. – Antequera and Ronda: my recommendations for day trips. – Enough nature for hikes

I would look into this area, see if you can find a villa or townhouse you like to rent, fly into Malaga, rent a car at the airport and explore the area during your trip.

I hope this helps and enjoy your family vaction in Spain! 🙂

We are trying to plan a family trip for March 2020 (12-20th). 4 adults and a 13 year old. It doesn’t seem that it’s warm enough at that time for a beach vacation, but I’m wondering if you could suggest another area in Spain that would work for us. We like to rent a place that is comfortable – maybe with a heated pool and places close by for day trips. Maybe a small village. My request is so general and I haven’t done any research on areas in Spain so please don’t hesitate to tell me to go someplace else!!

By just looking at these photos, Spain is incredibly one of the best family vacation destinations. Thank you so much for this article.

Me and my family will book a flight to Spain and go to the wonderful island of Fuerteventura. I’ve heard so many great things about this place and i’m just fascinated about the island. I’ve decided not to waste any minutes and booked a flight next month with my family. This will be the first time we will be going out of the country and I’m really excited as much as my family is.

There are so much things to explore in Spain. Once I thought I saw the most, I started reading blogs and found there is so much more to see. Those are lovely family destinations indeed!

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Traveling in Spain

Things To Do With Children In Spain

Matt

Spain has always loved children – everything aligns perfectly, from the beaches to the castles – which is probably why kids recommend Spain so highly too. It’s one of the best countries for a family vacation, allowing children of all ages to explore in a culture that warmly embraces them.

Spain is filled with active things to do with children such as biking, horse-riding, fresh-water fishing , canoeing, and even light hiking just to name a few. But our list doesn’t stop there, so keep reading to find out more!

take-the-kids-to-the-beach-barcelona

Family Trip To Spain

Spain is a family-friendly destination with amazing transport, accommodation, food options, and activities to satisfy the whole family. We’ve covered everything you need to know in order to plan the perfect family holiday to Spain. Let’s start with the best cities:

Best Cities In Spain For Kids

Here at Traveling In Spain, we’ve sussed out the best destinations in Spain for a family holiday – check them out:

Spain’s Coastline

Now, this may seem like the obvious choice to some, but it is definitely worth mentioning just in case! The Spanish coastline is a fabulous destination for a family holiday. From Catalonia in the north to Andalucía in the south, almost all of the beaches in Spain have calm waters (perfect for kids) and various attractions and activities that children will love.

Barcelona is one of Spain’s most child-friendly cities. From wax museums to famous  football stadiums , this is a buzzing city you won’t want to miss out on during your holiday to Spain.

Inland Spain

Inner Spain may not strike you as being great for a family holiday, however, its concentrations of castles, villages, and architecture make it a fantastic fit for children that are a little older and up for some really fascinating Spanish expeditions.

spanish-castle-for-kids

Where To Book The Night In Spain

In the past, most hotels in Spain weren’t offering very well-priced family rooms, and often families with small children struggled to find accommodation in one room. Luckily, that’s a thing of the past, and today most hotels have rooms for a family of 4 (these are called cuadruple rooms in Spanish).

It is advised to know exactly what your room arrangement is before confirming any booking – read everything you need to know about hotels in Spain here .

Where To Eat On A Family Holiday In Spain

Although many restaurants in Spain don’t have a “kiddies menu” or make special allowances, such as colouring crayons to keep children entertained, children are still welcome in all restaurants.

In the summer, it’s a good idea to find restaurants that offer tables on an outside terrace, as you’ll often see children playing in the streets until past midnight in the height of summer. It’s safe to say that dining out late can really be enjoyed by the whole family.

Spanish food is also so good! You can find foods bursting with flavor, or simple and well suited to children’s under-developed taste buds. So your kids can enjoy the food while you do too!

tapas-bar-in-spain

Things To Do In Spain For Kids

There is something for everyone in Spain and whichever city, coastal town or inner area you visit, there will always be options for all the entire family. Whether on foot, by bike or by segway – children can enjoy a tour catered to their interests.

Having an expert experienced guide leading the way is very helpful when you don’t want to spend your whole holiday planning the next day, and you don’t want to miss a thing! Here are just a few of the many tours and activities to do with your children in Spain:

Valencia Aquarium

Visit the largest aquarium in Europe with one of these amazing Valencia aquarium tickets and tours aimed at maximizing your time with the kids in Valencia! See the aquarium’s collection of more than 500 different species from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea – all at your own pace (and by that I mean the kids pace obviously).

valencia-aquarium-tickets

Flamenco Show

Why not spend an evening at a top flamenco show in Madrid and watch some of the best singers, guitarists, and dancers performing their art before you. The buzz is amazing and it’s definitely something the kids will love. And who knows, maybe it sparks an interest to join a Flamenco dance class for later on in the holiday too!

flamenco-dance-show

Visit Bernabeu Stadium

Experience the top sights that Madrid has on offer with a panoramic bus tour. Hopping off at the Bernabeu Stadium , you’ll be treated with access to all those parts of the stadium your aspiring football star has always dreamed of seeing!

Visit The Zoo

The zoo aquarium in Madrid is an extensive complex and is considered as one of the better zoos in the world, featuring sections dedicated to each continent. A dolphinarium, an aquarium, an aviary, and an area for sea lions can be found here too.

lions-in-the-barcelona-zoo

Facilities on offer at this zoo include electric cars, concierge, skates, binoculars and free parking. Excitement and conservation also go hand in hand at the Zoo Club in Barcelona , making this another great place one to visit with kids.

Museu de la Xocolata

Chocoholic parents and kids alike will love this one! During this experience, you’ll discover the history of cocoa, see some really cool chocolate sculptures and enjoy yummy chocolate in the cafe. Your kids will leave being mini chocolate experts!

Segway Tours Spain

Most of the major cities in Spain are now offering really fun segway tours – and yes, you guessed it, the kids love them!

segweay-tour-for-kids

So enjoy an alternative sightseeing experience on a sleek, self-balancing segway. Glide through the vibrant streets of various Spanish cities and see some of their most iconic landmarks on your futuristic machine. Segway travel Madrid is already a huge attraction for kids, so be sure to book your tickets early to avoid disappointment!

Where Is The Best Place For A Family Vacation?

Spain is, of course! So if you’re looking to be popular with the kids, while also having the vacation of a lifetime, then Spain is just the spot for you and your family. From aquariums and zoos to hanging houses and castles waiting to be discovered – Spain has it all.

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Marbella in October: Activities & Marbella’s Temperature

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Siam Park & Loro Parque Twin Ticket

From €74.00

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Aqualand & Jungle Park (2 Parks Ticket)

From €46.00

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Siam Park The Water Kingdom

From €42.00

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Aqualand Costa Adeje

From €32.00

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Jungle Park

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Submarine Safari

From €57.00

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Ragnarok Viking Cruise

From €30.00

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Karting Tenerife

From €10.00

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Medieval Night

From €47.50

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Teide at Night

From €55.00

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Light Park Tenerife

From €11.00

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Forestal Park Tenerife

From €24.00

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Tenerife Mini Golf

From €9.95

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Tuk Tuk Tour

From €18.00

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Touristic Train Tenerife

From €9.00

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Half-Day Tour of Teide National Park

From €27.50

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La Gomera Day Tour

From €93.00

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Flipper Uno Tenerife

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Shogun Tenerife

From €56.00

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Montecristo Catamaran

From €59.00

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Royal Delfin Tenerife

From €27.00

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White Catamaran

From €40.00

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Peterpan Gulet Boat Tenerife

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La Laguna Tour with trekking in Las Mercedes laurel forest

From €49.00

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Lago Martiánez Natural Pools

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Dragon Tree & Botanical Gardens

From €5.00

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Pyramids of Güímar

From €12.50

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Snorkeling With Turtles

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Aqualava Waterpark

From €23.00

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Aquapark Costa Teguise

From €26.00

Aquapark and Aquarium Double Ticket

From €38.95

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From €15.00

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Rancho Texas Park

From €36.00

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Rancho Texas Park Country Night

From €58.00

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From €39.00

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Fire Mountains Tour

From €31.00

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Catlanza Sailing Trip

From €75.00

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Aqualand Maspalomas

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16 Best Things To Do in Tenerife With Kids

things to do in tenerife with kids

Tenerife is a great holiday destination for almost any type of traveler: from solo travelers to people interested in sports and families looking for a bit of relaxation in the sun, this beautiful island has it all.

1. Siam Park

2. aqualand, 3. costa martianez, 4. loro parque, 5. jungle park, 6. monkey park, 7. whale watching trips, 8. submarine dive in tenerife, 9. quad adventure tour in teide national park, 10. pyramides de guimar, 11. palmetum, santa cruz de tenerife, 12. family beaches in tenerife, 13. go up mount teide, 14. forestal park, 15. mariposario del drago, 16. take your kids on a hike in tenerife, tips for a family holiday to tenerife.

  • Research a bit before booking a hotel and choose a place that has a pool and appropriate activities for your child's age
  • The south is the best in terms of weather and activities for you and the little ones as well. We really liked Los Cristianos as a resort for a family holiday, but you might think otherwise, so please read further about where to stay in Tenerife before making a final decision.
  • Don't forget about applying sun cream and maybe buy a sun-protective suit or T-shirt for the kids (read more about what to pack for a holiday to Tenerife )

What to do in Tenerife with kids - family-friendly activities and entertainment

Tenerife is the perfect destination for family holidays. It is safe, it has warm weather all year-round and you have access to many activities that are suited for children. And if you're traveling to Tenerife with a baby, you can still have a fun holiday, where you can combine sunbathing and relaxation, with day trips and activities for the entire family.

The waterparks in Tenerife

lost city siam park tenerife

Classed as the best water park in the world by Tripadvisor for several years in a row, Siam Park is a great family day out for everyone. The Lost City is a dedicated area for kids and the older children can also have a lot of fun at The Wave Palace. Their most recently opened area for families is Coco Beach, a space with a new wave pool, where kids can play and parents can relax at the beach.

And if you are traveling with teenagers, Siam Park is the absolute best choice for a day of family fun in Tenerife, since the park really has some amazing rides like Naga Racer or Mekong Rapids.

  • Full-day entrance ticket to Siam Park
  • Experience the biggest man-made wave in the world
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts

aqualand tenerife

Aqualand is great for families traveling with babies or toddlers to Tenerife. They also have a dolphin show that is included in the price of the ticket.

Aqualand does not have the amazing thrilling rides like Siam Park does, but some families with small kids consider Aqualand to be more adequate for babies. 

  • Entry into the park with use of all water rides
  • Dolphin show

lago martianes puerto de la cruz

If you're in Puerto de la Cruz , don't miss a visit to Costa Martianez, a complex of seawater pools designed by Cesar Manrique.  The place is an open-air swimming pool complex and if you are staying in Puerto de la Cruz, it's a fun way to spend the day. 

The animal parks & ZOOs in Tenerife

loro park tenerife

Loro Parque is a MUST SEE family attraction in Tenerife and we recommend the Discovery Tour, so you'll get to find out a lot of info about the work they do around the world through the Loro Parque Foundation and you'll also go behind the scenes in a lot of places, like the machine room for the Penguinarium, the sleeping place for the gorillas and so much more.

  •  Tenerife’s world-famous animal adventure park
  • One of the top attractions in the Canary Islands
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
  • You can also get a combined ticket for Siam Park and Loro Park if you plan to visit both parks during your trip and the price will be better this way.

jungle park tenerife

An alternative animal park in the south of Tenerife is Jungle Park , which is really easy to get to from Los Cristianos.

Jungle Park offers a free bus that takes you to the park from various resorts in the south of the island. Similar to Loro Parque, at Jungle Park you'll also see a variety of animal shows, including parrots, birds of prey and sea lions.

  • Entry to the park
  • Birds of prey in free flight show
  • Exotic birds in free flight show
  • Sea lion show
  • Penguin feeding time

If you want to visit an animal park but not spend an entire day there, then Monkey Park would be a good choice. Here you can get really close and personal with the animals and it's definitely a different vibe from the bigger parks, as they even name themselves "the smallest zoo in the world".

Teide tenerife 600 250

A trip out on the ocean could be a great excursion during your family trip to Tenerife. You can go on trips from Los Cristianos, Puerto Colon or Los Gigantes and the kids will love being out at sea and seeing these amazing marine mammals in their natural habitat. Tenerife is one of the best places in the world for whale watching.

  • Includes unlimited drinks
  • Champagne, Ham, cheese, and salad baguettes
  • Sonar equipment for listening to the dolphins and whales

For a unique underwater experience, you can go on a submarine safari in Marina San Miguel.

Climb on board the yellow submarine "Sub Fun Cinco" for a once-in-a-lifetime underwater experience in the Atlantic Ocean; during the tour, the submarine will actually sit on the ocean bed and you'' be able to look out at the abundant fish, such as flute fish, octopus, barracuda, parrot fish, and the pride of the seas, a family of sting rays.

This experience is one of the best things to do with kids in Tenerife as it is something unique and they'll get to see a lot of marine life in its natural habitat, the ocean.

  • Participants must be at least 2 years old or above
  • Spacious, airy, vessel, with 42 comfortable seats and 22 large screen windows
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts

quad trip tenerife

Enjoy a guided quad bike tour of Teide National Park and Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain.

This is a great thing to do with older kids in Tenerife, as teenagers will love the adrenaline of riding the quad through such a beautiful National Park. This experience is suitable for kids over 7, as you will travel 90 kilometers from Playa Las Americas to Las Cañadas del Teide through the heart of the national park up to an elevation of 2,400 meters.

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off from selected areas
  • Tour guide & Helmet included
  • Not suitable for Children under 7 years, Pregnant women, Wheelchair users
  • Free cancellation up to 24 h in advance for a full refund

guimar pyramides tenerife

This a different type of park and it's great if your child is a small explorer. At the Pyramids of Guimar he will learn about Thor Heyerdahl's expeditions, as well as see the pyramids in Tenerife and learn more about the mystery of their origins. 

Botanical Gardens in Tenerife

palmetum tenerife

If you and your children like Botanics and you enjoy looking at beautiful plants, then Palmetum is a great choice if you also decide to visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife , the island's capital. This is a 12ha garden that specializes in palm trees, with species from all around the world.

puerto colon tenerife

There are lots of great beaches in Tenerife, and some of them are more suitable than others for people traveling with kids to Tenerife.

Playa el Camison, Playa Las Vistas, Playa de Puerto Colon - all are great for a family holiday.

But there are plenty of more choices.

You can read further in our article about the best beaches in Tenerife .

Playa de las Teresitas is also a great beach to spend the day, even if it means traveling for more than an hour from the south (but if you have a car hire it is worth the drive). 

teide tenerife

Mt. Teide is Tenerife's no. 1 attraction and the highest peak in Spain.

Visiting the national park is a really interesting excursion, especially for teenagers and older children, who will get the chance to see a very unique landscape. 

There are numerous tours and day trips that will take you to see Mt. Teide and it all depends on how old your kids are and what are yours and their interests. The cable car might not be a good idea for small children, but if your kids are of school age already they will probably love this experience. 

  • Includes transport from the North and South of the island
  • Official guide
  • Includes Teide cable car ticket
  • Discover the most visited National Park in Spain

If you're looking for a bit more activity, then Forestal Park is the best choice. They actually have 2 briefing courses, 3 family courses and for the more adventurous even 6 sports courses. You'll get to go on zip lines and even swing like Tarzan, all adding up to a great experience and an amazing family excursion in Tenerife.

butterfly canary islands

In Icod de Los Vinos , next to the famous Millenary Dragon Tree, you will find this place called Mariposario del Drago . Here you can see 800 exotic butterflies from all over the world, flying in freedom. It is a fascinating place to see for kids in Tenerife and it can be interesting for adults as well.

tenerife hike with kids

If you're an outdoor person and you're looking for an active family holiday, Tenerife is the ideal island to visit, because you have so many options. 

You can try one of the easy Tenerife hikes , depending on what age your kids are. The good thing is that even in winter the weather will be on your side, but do check the weather prognosis before heading out in the mountains. 

  • Best Apartments in Tenerife: Kn Aparthotel Columbus (Playa de Las Americas) • Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur   (Puerto Santiago) 
  • Popular hotels in Tenerife: H10 Costa Adeje Palace 4* (Costa Adeje) • Iberostar Bouganville Playa 4* (Playa de Las Americas) • Barceló Santiago (Puerto Santiago)
  • Luxury 5* hotels in Tenerife: Adrián Hoteles Roca Nivaria (Adeje) • Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur (Adeje)
  • See our dedicated guide for the best places to stay in Tenerife .
  • Best Excursions & Tours: Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks & Snacks • Loro Parque Entry Ticket and Shows

FAQ - Tenerife with kids

Yes, Tenerife is the perfect island for family holidays, as you have lots of attractions and hotels that cater to families with kids.

If you'll be visiting Tenerife with a toddler, you can spend a day at either Siam Park or Aqualand.

16 Best Things To Do in Tenerife With Kids

Where To Stay in Tenerife - 10 Best Areas & Hotels 2024/2025

What to wear in Tenerife - Packing List Included

What to wear in Tenerife - Packing List Included

Siam Park, Tenerife - Impressions from the World's Best Water Park

Siam Park, Tenerife - Impressions from the World's Best Water Park

15 Best things to do in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife - Top attractions

15 Best things to do in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife - Top attractions

Loro Parque revisited - a MUST SEE while in Tenerife

Loro Parque revisited - a MUST SEE while in Tenerife

Jungle Park Tenerife - Our impressions, tickets and how to get there

Jungle Park Tenerife - Our impressions, tickets and how to get there

Woman's body found floating in the sea in Tenerife

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Spain

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Spain. There are 500 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 33 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time to visit Spain.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Spain with 5,313 reviews

Best of Southern Spain Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Sightseeing

Best of Southern Spain

Great guide and amazing food.The itinerary was covering all the places that we were expecting to see. Excellent experience on our first G adventure tour .

Andalucia & Toledo, 5 days on Thursdays Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Andalucia & Toledo, 5 days on Thursdays

Overcrowded bus with dodgy aircon but fantastic sites visited. Great tour guide and interesting local guides.
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Madrid and Barcelona Tour

Madrid and Barcelona

I enjoyed my time on the tour. I loved Juliana as a guide - she was patient and slow paced. The other guides were a little more difficult. They were not informed about the places we were visiting and when asked they were not able to share additional information. We were supposed to meet for a welcome dinner or meeting but that didn't happen. Other than that - this was my first time using Tour Radar and I was happy with my experience. I would travel through this company again.

Camino de Santiago Encompassed Tour

Camino de Santiago Encompassed

I had a wonderful time and Vincenzo was amazing.as a guide.

Madrid and Barcelona dept Saturday Tour

Madrid and Barcelona dept Saturday

The hotel we stayed in in Barcelona was not great! Very few amenities and quite far from town. I am glad they were full and could not accommodate us fir our extended stay!

Madrid and Andalusia (6 destinations) Tour

Madrid and Andalusia (6 destinations)

I would add one additional day in Granada.

Spanish Delights, 7 days Tour

Spanish Delights, 7 days

It was good generally but service of the guides should be improved. Many thanks for good package to introduce Spain!

Spanish Wonder (End Madrid, 9 Days) Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Spanish Wonder (End Madrid, 9 Days)

  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Andalusia with Cordoba, Costa del Sol and Toledo from Madrid Tour

Andalusia with Cordoba, Costa del Sol and Toledo from Madrid

Great Tour and we’ll organise by Julia Travel
  • €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Andalusia with Costa del Sol and Toledo from Madrid Tour

Andalusia with Costa del Sol and Toledo from Madrid

It was really rich and informative..

Discovery of Spain - 10 days Tour

Discovery of Spain - 10 days

The tour guides were great Most of hotels we didn't like except 2

Andalucia & Valencia Tour

Andalucia & Valencia

I had the most fun filled, action packed time touring the south of Spain and I loved every second of it! My guide was knowledgeable and she willingly joined in with the group making good connections with us all! The driver was safe and chatting away with the group and was part of the fun! Our accommodation was outstanding… I was shocked and surprised at the quality of all the hotels we stayed in! The day tours booked were fantastic… visually and intellectually stimulating! I honestly have to give credit to the organisers … They definitely know what they are doing! Thank you So Much for all the Happy Memories you have provided me with! In one word - WOW! Thanks, Jacinta O’Leary, Australia

Northern Spain Real Food Adventure Tour

  • Food & Culinary

Northern Spain Real Food Adventure

Above and beyond my expectations, and a very good guide,

Highlights of Spain (Classic, Summer, 9 Days) Tour

Highlights of Spain (Classic, Summer, 9 Days)

Wonderful trip! Tour guide was fabulous!

North Spain Discovery Tour

North Spain Discovery

Before I arrived on this tour I thought my highlights would be Barcelona and San Sebastian but honestly, I enjoyed every moment of the holiday! The food and drink in this region is excellent and relatively cheap compared to the UK. You don't spend much time on the tour at the start in Barcelona or at the end in Madrid so I would recommend booking at least an extra night pre/post tour to be able to both great cities. Pamplona has a nice historical old town with some nice walks. San Sebastian is just the place to go to for foodies but is also a nice place in its own right! Logrono is the capital of the La Rioja region so you know you'll get to taste some good wine. I will definitely be coming back to this region! For the tour overall, I felt that we didn't really need 2 nights in Logrono and could have done with either an extra night in San Sebastian to visit Bilbao or a night in Bilbao itself. And that's taking into account the included evening tour of Logrono and the winery tour activities. Beware the 4hr + coach journey from Logrono to Madrid. Our tour leader, Maria Christina did a great job considering that she had to take over at short notice. She organised all our public transport and organised the optional meals, selecting some very decent restaurants. I definitely think she made the trip more enjoyable! I had great fun on this trip and hopefully have made some good friends for life!

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Spain

The itinerary was good; liked the fact that we had a lot of time on our own and that we had the same hotel at least 2 nights in a row. Did not like the fact that we had to take a public bus to our hotel with luggage in tow, and that we had to drag our luggage to various pick-up stops. We have not experienced that on prior tours. The day in Cordoba was poorly planned, leaving us no time to tour the city on our own as was promised. Otherwise everything was fine.
Everything was great. Really loved it

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Snorkelling at Playa de las Canteras, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Four family destinations by the sea where it's easy to enjoy the beach with children

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When it comes to enjoying the sea, the North and South beaches can be found next to the old town and have views of the Templar castle of Peñíscola. In addition, they are fully equipped, have a play area and offer the option of water skates or quick excursions in canoe or sailboat. Peñíscola is very close to the Sierra de Irta Natural Park, perfect for a getaway in nature. In fact, the park has several easy walking trails. Where is Peñíscola : in Castellón , in the north of the Region of Valencia. The Benicarló-Peñíscola railway station is seven kilometres away and has connections to numerous destinations in Spain. The closest international airports are Reus , 130 kilometres away, and Valencia , 150 kilometres away.

Beach in Peñíscola

Things to do with your family in Alcossebre

In Alcossebre you can spend a perfect day on the beach and in the Mediterranean Sea. It has around 10 kilometres of coastline and wide, fully equipped beaches of fine white sand, such as Carregador , Romana and Las Fuentes . You can enjoy nautical activities such as kayak tours. If you’re there for a few days, a good option is to arrange a boat trip to visit the Columbretes Islands (regular routes usually run between April and September). You can also opt for an outing to the countryside following the easiest paths of the Sierra de Irta. It is also the perfect place for bicycle rides.

Playa de Alcossebre

Lastly, there is also a cultural visit that usually appeals to children: Xátiva Castle. Dramatised tours (in Spanish) are sometimes available, and on Sundays there is usually a guided tour about the Templars in the municipality (also in Spanish) Where is Alcossebre : in Castellón, in the north of the Region of Valencia, around 40 kilometres from Peñíscola. Its railway station has connections to numerous destinations in Spain. The closest international airports are Valencia, 125 kilometres away, and Reus, 150 kilometres away.

Castle of Alcalá de Xivert

Mojácar, a family destination in Andalusia

This is a small white village staggered on the slope of the mountains with two clearly differentiated areas: the one known as Mojácar town, inland, and the coastline running along some 20 kilometres featuring many family-friendly beaches. The most spacious and well-equipped beaches are Marina de la Torre , Descargador , Cantal , Cueva del Lobo, Ventanicas and Venta del Bancal . Among the many possibilities that they offer, you can enjoy children's areas and sports areas, the option of taking out a pedal boat or a short cruise on a catamaran along the coast. Besides enjoying the sea, we also highly recommend walking through Mojácar village. Many of its narrow streets are pedestrianised and perfect for strolling and enjoying the architecture of white houses typical of the Andalusian mountains, which make Mojacar so beautiful. A word of advice: go to the viewpoints of the Castle and the Plaza Nueva for splendid panoramic views of the sea and the mountains.

Panoramic view of Mojácar

While walking, you will notice a certain image keeps appearing on façades and in gift shops: the “mojaquero” or “índalo” doll. In the old days, it used to be placed at the entrance of homes as a protector. Today, people believe that it brings good luck. Among all the popular festivals that take place in Mojácar, there are two which children really love. One is the Fiesta de la Vieja (held on a Thursday in March or April), which consists of spending a picnic day in the countryside and making a piñata that the children break to get sweets. The other is Noche de las Velas (held in late July or early August). On this night, at sunset, the city is lit only by candlelight. Where is Mojácar: in the Mediterranean coast of Andalusia, in Almería. The nearest railway station and airport with international connections are located in the city of Almería, around 80 kilometres away. It is also easy to get there by bus from many destinations.

Typical street in Mojácar

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, where your children will want to return

There are many reasons why children fall in love with this city. For example, its urban beach, Las Canteras, turns into a huge natural swimming pool with calm waters during low tide. When snorkelling on this beach, you will see fish practically at the shore, and its calm waters are perfect to learn sailing or surfing. Nearby is the Poema del Mar aquarium, one of the most spectacular in Europe. In the same area you can visit the Elder Museum of Science and Technology, where your children can be surprised by everything they learn while playing. In addition, you will find large parks in the heart of the city such as Santa Catalina, San Telmo or Doramas Park. In short, the city is great for children because they will have a great time. The promenade on Las Canteras beach is very pleasant and has a wide range of restaurants spaced out along its three kilometres. Next to the shopping area of Mesa y López is another urban beach, Las Alcaravaneras, which also has very calm waters. Calle Mayor de Triana is the other large shopping area, which is mostly pedestrianised. It is part of the old town next to the nearby district of Vegueta, where we recommend going out for a walk.  

Las Canteras beach

If you stay several days, you will have time to plan numerous excursions. For example, you could learn about the rich diversity of flora on the Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo (about 10 kilometres from the city). If you would like to visit more beaches, you will find the impressive Maspalomas in the south of the island, an extensive beach of large dunes by the sea where you can also ride camels. The area also has organised boat trips to spot cetaceans, and there are theme parks such as Palmitos Park, Angry Birds Park, Holiday World, Sioux City Park, Crocodile Park, Aqualand, etc. Inland you’ll get the chance to have an original experience: you’ll be able to walk on a sea of clouds (you will see the clouds at your feet). This phenomenon is common in visits to the mountains, for example in the area of Tejeda. Where is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria : it is the capital of the island of Gran Canaria , one of the seven Canary Islands . Its airport , located around 25 kilometres away, has direct connections to a multitude of international destinations. Numerous cruises stop off at the city’s port.

Mas Palomas Nature Reserve

These destinations are accredited with the Family Tourism seal of the Spanish Large Family Federation.

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Sunset over the Andratx harbour. Majorca

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Exploring The Best Of Spain With Kids: Seasonal Hotspots You Don’t Want To Miss

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A young boy looks over the railings down to a beach in San Sebastian, Spain at sunset.

Spain is a renowned tourist destination for families with kids for a plethora of reasons; mainly its stunning weather, architecturally rich cities, Mediterranean atmosphere, and passionate culture! In fact, it offers travelers a range of activities, from exploring museums and ancient ruins to hitting the beach or hiking through stunning natural scenery. However, when it comes to choosing when to visit, there are certain seasons that are better suited to families than others. The summer months of June, July, and August see Spain at its busiest, with tourist numbers soaring. Families with young children may find the heat and crowds challenging, so opt instead for a spring or autumn break. Next time you’re wondering about the best places to visit in Spain with kids or the best time to go to Spain, we’ve covered it all. From winter skiing to summer beach vacations, keep reading! 

Best Places to Visit in Spain with Kids All Year Round

Ready to plan your next family vacation in Spain? There are plenty of places to visit in Spain that are suitable for kids all year round, whether you want to experience the summer heat or a milder spring. From Madrid to Barcelona, here are some of the best suggestions on where to go in Spain with kids , including the best time to travel to Spain! 

Madrid 

Boy with glasses rowing boat in water in Madrid.

Plan your next family vacation in Spain to the country’s capital city, Madrid ! From all the incredible food to world-class art, culture, and entertainment opportunities, there are plenty of things to do in Madrid with kids all year round. However, since its inland location offers little-to-no breeze in the summer months, temperatures tend to be extremely hot. Families prefer to visit in the shoulder seasons, like June (80-85 degrees) or September (75-80 degrees) , to take advantage of the sun without the sweltering heat. 

Fun Things to Do in Madrid with Kids

With works by masters like Velazquez, Goya, and El Greco on display, The Prado Museum is a must-see for art lovers of all ages. For a more hands-on experience, head to the Reina Sofia Museum to see Pablo Picasso’s Guernica up close. Or, step back in time at the Royal Palace of Madrid , a former residence of Spanish royalty.

Madrid is also home to the huge Retiro Park , perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic lunch. For even more outdoor fun, head to Casa de Campo – Madrid’s enormous city park – where you can ride the cable car, feed the ducks, or explore one of the many hiking trails. It also houses the Zoo Aquarium Madrid , home to over 4,000 different animals! Don’t forget to sample Spanish food at San Miguel Market, see a flamenco show, and visit the bustling Plaza Mayor . 

Save money on attractions with a Go City pass for Madrid. Get yours here!

Where to Stay in Madrid with Kids

The rooftop pool at Gran Meliá® Madrid, overlooking the city.

Looking for the best places to stay in Madrid with kids? For apartment-style accommodations, check out SmartRental Collection (Gran Vía Capital) . It offers a central location with a full kitchen, stove, dishwasher, washer/dryer, and large patios. Plus, a nice rooftop pool with marvelous views of Madrid! Petit Palace Lealtad Plaza is another great apartment-style hotel, located in the upscale Prado neighborhood, within walking distance of many attractions.

Other great hotels in Madrid for families include Gran Meliá® Madrid , as well as Hotel Catalonia Las Cortes , located near Plaza de Santa Ana. Plus, Hotel Palacio del Retiro , near the famous Retiro Park. 

Looking for a larger space? Book an exceptional homestay in Madrid with Plum Guide here!

Inside the Tibidabo, featuring the iconic funicular (carousel).

There’s no denying that Barcelona is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in the world. From world-famous museums and architecture to sandy beaches and fun parks, the city is incredibly kid-friendly, with plenty of great places to visit all year round. To avoid the summer rush of tourists and humid, hot temperatures, we suggest visiting between March and June. Early fall, around mid-September to October , is also fantastic. Catch the tail end of the city’s stunning summer weather without the high temperatures (around 70-75 degrees) !

Barcelona is also a fantastic place to visit during Semana Santa (Holy Week) in March or April. It features parades and other celebrations across the city, making it one of the best Easter destinations in the world for families !

Fun Things to Do in Barcelona with Kids

For some fun in the sun, head to Barceloneta Beach for relaxing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and swimming. Or take a stroll through one of Barcelona’s many lush parks, like Parc de la Ciutadella or Montjuïc Park. Plus, you can’t miss Parc Guell , home to some beautiful works of art by Antoni Gaudi!

With its stunning collection of Catalan paintings from the middle ages to the early 20th century, the world-renowned Museum of Catalan Art is also a must-see. Also, check out the Museu Picasso . It houses one of the largest collections of works in the world by the artist. Families can also sample tasty food at the Boqueria Market , stroll down La Rambla, or take a tour of the iconic Sagrada Familia . Don’t forget about spending a day at the Tibidabo Amusement Park !

Looking for more things to do in Barcelona with kids? Click here for the Best Things To Do In Barcelona With Kids !

Where to Stay in Barcelona with Kids

The rooftop pool at Hotel Arts, one of the best family Barcelona hotels, on a sunny day.

Looking for the best places to stay in Barcelona with kids? Families love the Renaissance Barcelona Hotel , located in the heart of Eixample. If you want to stay near the beach, try Hotel Arts Barcelona , which has a pool for kids. Leonardo Hotel Barcelona Las Ramblas has family rooms for 5 and 6 guests and an outdoor pool. Catalonia Ramblas also has a pool and rooms with a full bed plus bunk beds, ideal for a family of 4.

Other great hotels in Barcelona with kids are H10 Metropolitan , Mercer Barcelona , Kimpton Vividora Barcelona , and El Palace Hotel . You can find more places to stay in Barcelona on this list of the best family hotels In Barcelona by neighborhood ! 

Traveling with a large family? Look for an exceptional homestay in Barcelona with Plum Guide here!

Canary Islands

An aerial view of the coastline and beach of the Canary Islands.

Families who want mild weather all year round (especially in the winter!) will love a trip to one of Spain’s Canary Islands . Consisting of eight in total, each boasts its unique character and charm, from historical landmarks to stunning shorelines and outdoor adventures. They’re especially fantastic for escaping the cold weather. However, many families also like visiting in September or October when temperatures are still high (80 degrees).

Here’s a quick overview of the best Canary Islands to visit with kids! 

  • Tenerife, which we mention later in this article, is the largest of the Canary Islands. From the soaring peaks of Mount Teide to the white sand beaches of Las Teresitas, there’s so much to explore throughout the island and its capital city, Santa Cruz. And don’t forget to check out Loro Parque , one of the best animal parks in Europe!
  • Gran Canaria has something for everyone too, from beautiful sandy beaches to mountains and volcanoes. Highlights for families include visiting Palmitos Park , which is home to over 1,500 animals, and Las Canteras beach , where you can rent pedal boats and kayaks.
  • Lanzarote is an ideal destination for active families who love spending time outdoors. From hiking through volcanoes and exploring lava caves to snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters, don’t miss attractions like Timanfaya National Park . There are also plenty of shops and restaurants in the capital, Arrecife , as well as a charming old town area full of traditional Canarian architecture.
  • Fuerteventura is a more laid-back island that is perfect for families who want to relax and enjoy some quality time together. With its beautiful sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and picturesque fishing villages, some consider this a true slice of paradise! And for those who want a little more adventure, there’s windsurfing and kitesurfing on offer too.

Where to Stay on the Canary Islands with Kids

Planning a trip to the Canary Islands with kids and need somewhere to stay? In Gran Canaria , we recommend H10 Playa Meloneras Palace or Hotel Riu Gran Canaria .

In Tenerife , families can stay at Iberostar Selection Anthelia , which includes a kids’ club, a playground, and an outdoor pool with a water slide. 

Traveling with extended family? Search Plum Guide in the Canary Islands for gorgeous homestays!

Best Places to Visit in Spain with Kids in the Winter

As the cool winter months approach, what better way to spend quality time with the kids than by exploring all that Spain has to offer? From its stunning mountain landscapes to its vibrant cities, there are plenty of places to keep the whole family entertained. Keep reading to find out more! 

Sierra Nevada 

Ski slopes in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Spain covered in snow during the winter.

Spain has a rich history and diverse culture, and there are plenty of great places to visit with kids in the winter. Located in Andalusia in southern Spain, one of the best options is Sierra Nevada , where you can find plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained. From skiing and snowboarding to sledding and ice skating, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful mountain region near Granada. Ski season usually starts in late November and continues until May, depending on the snowfall and season. 

The Sierra Nevada rests on the northwestern slopes of Pico Veleta, one of the highest mountains in Europe. Snow-capped peaks rise majestically into the sky, beckoning adventurers from all over the world to come and explore its soaring summits and secret valleys. And what better way to experience all this winter wonderland has to offer than by strapping on a pair of skis and hitting the slopes? Luckily, Sierra Nevada boasts 9 different ski areas featuring 19 fun green runs! Of particular interest to families, there’s a children’s snow park for beginners called Dreamland . Plus, multiple magic carpet lifts. After skiing, families can also check out the Mirlo Blanco area . It features fun activities like ice skating, sledding, and so much more! 

Where to Stay in Sierra Nevada with Kids

In terms of places to stay, there’s a main village, Pradollano , which features restaurants, ski condos, and ski-in/ski-out hotels. Families who want a boutique hotel option will like Hotel Maribel , a quaint property adjacent to the ski slopes. Larger families can also use Booking.com to find ski condos, chalets, or apartment-style accommodations. 

Best Places to Visit in Spain with Kids in the Spring or Fall

There are many wonderful places to visit in Spain with kids. But if you want to avoid the heat, the best time to go is in the spring or fall. The weather is perfect for exploring and spending time outdoors. And there are plenty of activities and attractions that will keep your family entertained. 

Seville (Sevilla)

Two kids sit smiling on the steps within Alcazar Palace.

​​ Seville is a gorgeous city with a rich history and culture, making it the perfect place to visit with your family! Located in southern Spain’s Andalucia region, it’s known for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and vibrant culture. If you’re traveling with kids, the best time to visit Seville is in the spring or fall, when the weather is cooler and the days are shorter. April to June boasts sunny weather (70-85 degrees), while September to October is a bit cooler (around 80-85 degrees). This way, you can avoid the heat and still see everything the city has to offer! 

And, every year in late April following Semana Santa (Holy Week), Seville also celebrates Feria de Sevilla . This week-long festival features costumed dancers, rides for kids, and so much more!

Fun Things to Do in Seville with Kids

To start your family vacation in Spain, visit Plaza d e España . Kids will love the Andalusian tile work, fun water boats along the moat, and the Military Museum inside. Two more monuments you can’t miss are the Cathedral and the Royal Alcázar of Seville . At the Cathedral, families can check out Christopher Columbus’ tomb and climb up to the top of the Giralda tower for sweeping views over the city! Meanwhile, the Royal Alcázar of Seville features an intricate royal palace and surrounding gardens to stroll in.

Then, “ Las Setas ,” a building with a funky facade, also provides coveted views over old Seville. Within the complex, there’s the Antiquarium (a museum dedicated to the ruins discovered while digging for the project) and an open-air market. Then, head to Parque de María Luisa to enjoy playgrounds, fountains, and sculpture gardens for a few hours. Finally, families visiting Seville can’t leave without seeing a traditional Flamenco show ! 

Looking for more things to do in Seville with kids? Check out these Amazing Things to Do in Seville With Kids ! 

Where to Stay in Seville with Kids

A mom and her young daughter sit together in a beautiful Spanish doorway.

Looking for the best places to stay in Seville with kids? Just a short walk from the Cathedral and other major attractions, families love Petit Palace Marqués Santa Ana Hotel . It has a lovely courtyard and patio. Located in a historic building in the center of Seville , Petit Palace Santa Cruz Hotel is another great option with a stunning property.

Plus, kids will love the rooftop pool at Hotel Fernando III . It’s near the Cathedral, the Giralda, and more of the city’s most famous landmarks and shopping areas. Gran Meliá Colón also has a heated pool for kids to enjoy, plus a helpful concierge. Other fantastic places to stay in Seville with kids include the Hotel Doña María , Hotel Alfonso XIII ,   and Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza . 

Choose Plum Guide to book a homestay in Seville for larger and extended families!

Granada proudly sitting atop a hill in Southern Spain.

Families who have visited Spain all agree: there’s something remarkable about Granada! Maybe it’s the stunning architecture of the Alhambra or the idyllic setting at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Whatever the reason, this southern Spanish city is a firm favorite with families from all over the world. However, since it can become quite hot during the summer, we recommend visiting in the spring. Consider May and June (75-85 degrees) or September and October (70-85 degrees). 

Fun Things to Do in Granada with Kids

The Alhambra is a must-see for any first-time visitor to Granada. This vast palace complex was built by Moorish rulers in the 13th century and is now one of Spain’s most popular tourist attractions. Take a guided tour of the palace and marvel at the intricate Islamic art and architecture, then explore the beautiful gardens surrounding it, the Generalife . Afterward, stop by one of Granada’s many cafes for a refreshing break.

For some fun in the sun, head to Parque de las Ciencias . Here, kids can learn all about science and nature through interactive exhibits. Next, take a stroll through the maze-like streets of the Albaicin neighborhood, Granada’s Arabic Quarter. This is one of the oldest parts of the city, and it’s full of charming narrow alleyways and whitewashed buildings. Families can even take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the Old Town! 

Choose Booking.com here to book your stay in Granada!

Cordoba, Spain, lit up at night.

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Spain with kids that are both educational and fun, Cordoba is a great option! This Andalusian city was once the capital of Moorish Spain and is now one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, providing an ideal mix of culture, food, and history. Best of all, if you visit in the spring or fall, you’ll avoid the heat that can make traveling with children challenging. We recommend April or May (75-80 degrees) or September and October (75-85 degrees). 

Plus, if you’re visiting Cordoba in May, don’t forget to check out the Courtyard/Patio Festival , which celebrates the city’s various patios!

Fun Things to Do in Cordoba with Kids

Families can explore Cordoba’s rich history by visiting sites like the Great Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba , which was built in the 8th century; or Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos , a 14th-century castle located in the center of town. There are countless other historic landmarks worth a visit, including the Roman Bridge of Cordoba, Palacio de Viana , and Templo Romano.

Of course, animal lovers can’t miss the tigers, lions, elephants, and other interesting animals at the Cordoba Zoo ! If your kids are into art, be sure to visit the Museo de Bellas Artes de Cordoba . This museum houses a collection of Spanish art from the Middle Ages to the present day. Other kid-friendly activities in Cordoba include strolling through the Jardines de la Victoria (Victoria Gardens) , checking out Cordoba’s main city square, Plaza de la Corredera , and taking a boat ride down the Guadalquivir River.

Looking for a day trip outside of Cordoba? Head to the mountains for a day of hiking and picnicking in Parque Natural Sierra de Cardea! 

Ronda, sitting atop of hill in Spain.

There are few places in the world as exceptional as Ronda , Spain! Perched high atop a cliff overlooking the El Tajo gorge in southern Spain, this ancient city has been a draw for travelers for centuries. And while it may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip with kids, there are actually plenty of things to do in Ronda with kids that will make for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re interested in the local foodie scene or historic landmarks, we recommend visiting in the spring, like May or June (75-85 degrees) , or in September and October (70-80 degrees).

Fun Things to Do in Ronda with Kids

The Puente Nuevo is one of Ronda’s most iconic landmarks. The bridge spans a gorge that is over 100 meters deep, and offers breathtaking views of the city and countryside. Be sure to stop by the Visitors’ Center/on-site museum before exploring to learn more about the history of the area!

Plaza de Toros de Ronda is another must-see. It’s one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, and has hosted some of the country’s most famous bullfights over the years. Even if you’re not interested in bullfighting, it’s worth visiting for its architectural beauty and historical significance. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, there are plenty of parks and gardens to explore in Ronda. Jardines De Cuenca is a particularly lovely spot to relax, as is ​​ Alameda del Tajo , a historic park. 

Right outside the city, there’s La Cueva del Gato , a nearby cave that was once home to Neolithic humans. Kids will surely be impressed by the cave paintings, bats, and birds! 

Best Places to Visit in Northern Spain with Kids in the Summer

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Northern Spain with kids during the summer, you’ll want to check out these seasonal hotspots that are sure to please. From cool, refreshing mountain towns to lively coastal cities, there’s something for everyone in this stunning region. Here are some of our favorite suggestions on where to take family trips to Spain! 

A view of Bilbao lit up at night.

​​ Bilbao is a beautiful city in northern Spain full of culture, history, and plenty of things to do with kids! It’s particularly known for its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, and delicious food, which families can enjoy while on vacation. Plus, it’s one of the best cities in Spain to visit with kids in the summer months, particularly between June and September. While the rest of the country can get hot in July and August, Bilbao’s northern location near the water means temperatures rarely exceed 80 degrees! 

Fun Things to Do in Bilbao with Kids

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a must-see for any art lover visiting Bilbao, young or old! The museum’s unique architecture is sure to impress your little ones, and there’s plenty of fascinating artwork inside to explore. The Casco Viejo, or Old Town , is a must-see historic area full of narrow streets, charming cafes, and traditional Basque buildings. Kids will love exploring and stopping by Plaza Nueva , the neighborhood’s central and bustling square.

Of course, in the summer, don’t miss the many beaches along the coast near Bilbao. Sopelana is easily accessible by metro (around 30 minutes) and features a long stretch of sand for kids to play and relax! Families can also taste the local cuisine at ​​ ​​ Mercado de la Ribera , enjoy the greenery at Parque de Doña Casilda de Iturrizar , and take the funicular up Mount Artxanda for incredible views over the city.

Research stays in Bilbao here with Booking.com!

Santander 

A young girl stands in Plaza Porticada in Santander, Spain.

What better way to spend a summer vacation than by visiting Santander with your kids? This beautiful coastal city in northern Spain has so much to offer families, from its stunning beaches and seaside cliffs to its quaint streets and historic buildings. Plus, between June and October is the best time to take advantage of cooler temperatures – particularly the summer months of July and August, which are usually around 70-75 degrees. 

Fun Things to Do in Santander with Kids

Santander’s golden sand beaches and crystal-clear water make it a popular summer spot for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Families particularly love Sardinero Beach in the heart of the city.

For some of the best views in Santander, be sure to check out the Centro d e Arte Faro Cabo Mayor , where kids can stroll the seaside trails and see a lighthouse! Culture and history buffs can explore the picturesque property of the Palacio de la Magdalena and roam the gardens. Or, head to the Old Town, where you can walk winding streets and spot ancient buildings. Visit the Cathedral de Santander , which dates back to the 13th century, stop by Plaza Porticada, or step inside one of the many museums, such as Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico . 

For a family day trip, Parque Nacional de Los Picos de Europa is a national park located just outside of Santander. Families can explore its dramatic cliffs, caves, and waterfalls. Kids will love getting up close and personal with nature in this beautiful setting! 

Reserve your stay in Santand e r here with Booking.com!

Donostia-San Sebastian

Kids running along a beach in Donostia-San Sebastian.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable summer vacation with your kids, look no further than the beautiful city of Donostia-San Sebastian in northern Spain. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, this charming Basque resort town offers endless activities and attractions for families. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Spain with kids during the summer months, specifically between July and September. Families can soak up sunny temperatures of around 70-75 degrees and explore without getting too hot! Nights can get cooler, even in summer. However, remember that this is a popular time to visit because of the warm weather. So, consider visiting between May and July for fewer crowds and cooler weather . 

Fun Things to Do in Donostia-San Sebastian with Kids

One of the most popular beaches in Europe, Playa de la Concha is a must-visit when in Donostia-San Sebastian. Kids will love playing in the gentle waves and building sandcastles on the sand. For breathtaking views, take a walk or bike ride along the La Concha Promenade that runs along the beach. Zurriolako Hondartza beach and Zurriola beach are popular among surfers and for surf lessons. Families can also visit the quieter Playa de Ondarreta or go on a boat ride around the bay to see the impressive cliffs and coastline from the water.

Little ones will also love learning about marine life at Aquarium Donostia / San Sebastián . ​​Or, take a ride on the historic Funicular de Igueldo for stunning views of Donostia-San Sebastian and its surroundings. Kids will love the exciting ride, which makes its way up to Mount Igueldo Amusement Park ! 

If you’re looking for some culture, visit the Old Town , which is full of historic buildings, tapas bars, and interesting shops. Families can also visit some of the city’s museums, like the San Telmo Museum .

For more tours or things to do in San Sebastian, consider booking here through GetYourGuide!

Best Places to Visit in Southern/Southeastern Spain with Kids in the Summer

Southern Spain is a renowned summer destination, and for a good reason – the heat may be intense, but there are plenty of ways to cool off. From epic beach getaways to kid-friendly attractions to explore between swims, the weather is beautiful, the food is delicious, and there are so many interesting places to explore. Stay tuned to make sure you add southern Spain to your list of summer holiday destinations!

Two young kids splash in the surf along a beach in Marbella.

When the summertime comes around, and the weather gets hotter, everyone is looking for ways to cool off. One great way to do this in Spain is by visiting Marbella , a resort city in the country’s southern Costa Del Sol region. With its wide variety of things to do, its stunning scenery, and its Mediterranean atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to bring your family for an unforgettable vacation! Many families love visiting in July or August to soak up temperatures of around 90 degrees. However, anytime from April to November is a great time to visit if you want to enjoy everything this city has to offer! 

Fun Things to Do in Marbella with Kids

No trip to Marbella would be complete without a visit to Playa de la Fontanilla, one of the most popular beaches in the city for sunbathing and relaxing. If you’re looking for something more active to do, head over to Puerto Banus, where you can go jet skiing or parasailing.

For those who want to stay on land, there are plenty of shops and restaurants lining the port. Another place that should definitely be on your list is The Old Town. With its winding streets and beautiful architecture, it’s like stepping back in time. Explore Plaza de los Naranjos, where you’ll find an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, and local handicrafts. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy some traditional Spanish cuisine. Don’t forget to stroll down Avenida del Mar or enjoy some quality time at Alameda Park !

Book your stay in Marbella here with Booking.com!

A palm lined seaport in Alicante with the city in the background.

Alicante is a great place to take the kids for a family vacation in Spain! This beautiful port city in the Costa Blanca region offers everything you could want in a family-friendly destination, from stunning beaches to thrilling amusement parks. And with so many incredible things to do, you’ll never be bored – especially when visiting in the summer! April to October is generally considered a fantastic time to visit Alicante, but July and August boast warm weather (around 90 degrees ) and long summer days, perfect for exploring! 

Fun Things to Do in Alicante with Kids

With crystal-clear water and soft sand, Alicante’s beaches are perfect for a fun day out. Playa del Postiguet is located in the city center and features beautiful golden sand and crystal-clear water. Families can find plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops lining the nearby promenade too. For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, Platja de La Cala de Finestrat is a more secluded beach located just outside of Alicante. It offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Or, for some culture and history, Alicante has plenty to offer in its Old Town, aka El Barrio. Visit the imposing Castillo de Santa Barbara for breathtaking views of the city, or explore the Museum of Contemporary Art to see some world-renowned artworks. For a taste of local cuisine, remember to shop the various food stalls at Mercat Central d’Alacant .

Reserve your stay in Alicante with booking.com now!

An aerial view of the coastal town of Malaga.

Summertime in Spain is a magical time for kids! And what better place to enjoy it than in the south of the country where the sun shines brightly, and the temperatures are just perfect? From exploring charming old towns to lazing on the beach or learning to surf, there’s something for everyone in Malaga . This is especially true in June (80-85 degrees) and September (75-80 degrees) . Temperatures aren’t too hot, but still warm enough to explore. 

Fun Things to Do in Malaga with Kids

Spend your days on El Palo Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand for building sandcastles, swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, or just relaxing under the sun. There’s also a promenade lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for grabbing a bite after a long day.

If your kids love water slides, they’ll have a blast at Aqualandia Torremolinos outside the city . For a dose of culture, families should also check out one of Malaga’s many museums, such as the Picasso Museum or Carmen Thyssen Museum . Of course, The Alcazaba is a must-see for any history buff. This 11th-century Moorish fortification is one of the best-preserved in all of Spain, allowing families to wander through the winding corridors and explore the ancient chambers. Don’t leave Malaga without savoring some traditional Spanish food – tapas are a must!

Book your sunset sail or a Flamenco show in Malaga from GetYourGuide here!

The historic city of Valencia.

Valencia , located on the southeastern coast of Spain, is often overshadowed by its busier neighbors. Nevertheless, this historic city has plenty to offer visitors, from museums to delicious food, especially for those traveling with young children. One of the best times to visit Valencia, Spain, with kids is from May through October , particularly in July and August (85-90 degrees) if you want a warm beach vacation. 

And, if you’re visiting Valencia in the summer, don’t miss the Tomatina Festival in late August . This massive food fight takes place in the nearby town of Buñol and will be a ton of fun for the entire family!

Fun Things to Do in Valencia with Kids

Beachgoers will be in paradise on Valencia’s Malvarrosa Beach . It’s the most popular in the city and has a winding promenade to explore. Then, El Parque de Cabecera , one of the largest parks in the city, is a great spot to spend a lazy afternoon with the family. The park features ponds, playgrounds, gardens, and sports facilities. Nearby, there’s Bioparc Valencia , an interactive zoo that educates families about endangered species and their natural habitats.

Meanwhile, the City of Arts and Sciences , Valencia’s most famous landmark, is a must-see for any visitor, kids included. This massive complex features an oceanarium, a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and much more. Turia Gardens are another great spot to explore with kids. These lush gardens showcase a wonderful oasis of green space right in the heart of Valencia. 

Of course, families can’t visit Valencia without indulging in some delicious paella. This traditional Valencian dish is made with rice, seafood, vegetables, and spices cooked together in one big pan. It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Book your things to do and tours in Valencia here with GetYourGuide!

Best Islands to Visit in Spain with Kids

Spain is a land of great diversity, especially when it comes to its islands. Whether you’re looking for sun-soaked beaches, charming villages, or stunning natural landscapes, there’s an island in Spain that will fit the bill. And if you’re traveling with kids in tow, rest assured that there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep them entertained. Keep reading to learn more about the best places to visit in Spain with kids! 

Mallorca/Majorca

A young girl in a pink bathing suite wanders in the waves off-shore from a beach in Mallorca.

While there are many incredible places to visit in Spain with kids, Mallorca is truly one-of-a-kind. This island paradise offers everything from pristine beaches to towering mountains, making it the perfect place to explore with little ones. If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Mallorca with kids, we recommend the summer months (July or August) for soaking up the sun or the spring (April and May) for taking a road trip across the island and exploring its various towns. 

Fun Things to Do in Mallorca with Kids

Start with Palma de Mallorca , the capital city. Stop by landmarks like the Llotja de Palma, an iconic Gothic building, or La Seu Cathedral, a beautiful Romanesque cathedral. Just outside of Palma is Marineland Mallorca , a unique aquarium featuring dolphin and sea lion shows. Families who want to see the island’s unique scenery can explore the Cuevas del Drach , a series of caves located in Porto Cristo. The caves are home to an underground lake and offer stunning views. For something more relaxed in the summer, consider spending a day at one of Mallorca’s many gorgeous beaches. We recommend Cala Mondrago for something more secluded. Or, Platja de Palma for a bustling beach near the city of Palma and Aqualand Water Park in El Arenal .

Looking for more of the best things to do in Mallorca with kids? Try go-karting, go horseback riding, take a boat trip, and so much more! Some fantastic towns to consider for a family road trip in Mallorca include Soller, Alcudia, and Valdemossa. 

Where to Stay in Mallorca with Kids

Families looking for places to stay in Mallorca with kids have plenty of options. In particular, it’s perfect for an all-inclusive family vacation in Europe. Located in Cala Millor on Mallorca’s east coast, Protur Palmeras Playa Hotel offers magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea, two outdoor pools, a kids’ play area, and on-site restaurants.

Then, Zafiro Mallorca is another excellent option for families who want a studio or apartment-style accommodations. Located in the town of Alcudia, it showcases multiple outdoor pools (including a children’s pool with a pirate ship!), restaurants, and a wide variety of activities, including the Zafiro Kids Club.

For home rentals for larger families, reserve your stay in Mallorca with Plum Guide!

Three people hike along a path in Tenerife.

Tenerife is one of the best islands to visit in Spain with kids! As the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, it’s home to beautiful sandy beaches, exciting water parks, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Of course, the best time to visit Tenerife with kids is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, even during the off-seasons of April-May and September-October, there are plenty of things for families to do on the island! 

Fun Things to Do in Tenerife with Kids

For history buffs and those who appreciate beautiful scenery, a trip to the capital city of Santa Cruz is a must. The Plaza de España, Calle del Castillo , and Parque García Sanabria are a few of the captivating places families can visit.

Just outside of the city lies Teresitas Beach . Here, golden sand contrasts against blue waters; it’s no wonder this place was voted one of the top beaches in Europe! Nature lovers will be impressed by Mount Teide National Park , home to Spain’s tallest mountain and an otherworldly volcanic landscape. Be sure to take a cable car up the mountain for amazing views! And for animal lovers (big and small), there’s Loro Parque . It’s one of the largest zoos in Europe, featuring over 4000 animals from 400 different species.

For a more laidback beach experience, families can also visit the southern coast of Tenerife to check out Playa de las Americas or Los Gigantes. Don’t forget to visit Siam Park , a fun water park with rides for the entire family! 

Where to Stay on Tenerife with Kids

Tenerife has plenty of family-friendly accommodations to choose from! For an all-inclusive option, check out Iberostar Selection Anthelia . This stunning hotel in Costa Adeje has plenty of activities and amenities for families. This includes a kids’ club, a playground, and an outdoor pool with a water slide.

Book through Plum Guide for a homestay in Tenerife here!

Happy Travels!

family excursions spain

We hope you liked this guide to Exploring The Best Of Spain With Kids: Seasonal Hotspots You Don’t Want To Miss! Spain is a wonderful country with lots to offer families, from the beaches of Barcelona and Valencia to the museums of Madrid and beyond. Enjoy your next family vacation to Spain! 

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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  • Last Updated On
  • October 20, 2023

20 Fun Things to Do in Barcelona with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

Christina Rado

Going on a trip to Barcelona, Spain?

This city is world-famous for its vibrant culture, architectural marvels, and delectable cuisine.

But did you know it’s not just an adults’ playground but a wonderland for kids too?

Imagine a setting where Gaudi’s whimsical designs meet the sparkling Mediterranean.

It’s a place where intriguing museums are as abundant as sun-soaked beaches. 

A parent first and a travel writer second, I have journeyed through the lanes, the quirky corners, and the playful atmosphere of Barcelona’s many family-friendly spots. 

This review will untangle those knots, turning your trip planning from a chore to a joy. 

So, buckle up as we delve into an unforgettable journey, exploring the fun things to do in Barcelona with kids. 

Let’s spark that sense of adventure and make every moment count in this Spanish gem.

Fun Things To Do In Barcelona With Kids Compared

Looking for some thrill and fun in Barcelona with your little ones? 

Check out my top picks for the best kid-friendly activities in Barcelona.

Editor’s Choice

F.C. Barcelona Museum Immersive Tour

F.C. Barcelona Museum Immersive Tour

Opened in 2021, F.C. Barcelona Museum Immersive Tour is an audiovisual experience featuring a Stadium 360 Immersive Room, a Construction Viewpoint, and a Barça Virtual Dream.

  • Age Compatibility: Young Children (6-9 years old)
  • Educational Value: 4/5
  • Fun Factor: 4/5
  • Accessibility: 4/5
  • Affordability: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

Basílica La Sagrada Familia

Basílica La Sagrada Familia

The Basílica de la Sagrada Família, also known as the Sagrada Família, is a large, gorgeous and awe-inducing but unfinished Roman Catholic infrastructure nestled in the Eixample district of Barcelona.

  • Age Compatibility: Toddlers (1-3 years old)
  • Educational Value: 5/5
  • Accessibility: 3/5
  • Affordability: 2/5

#3rd Best Choice

Montserrat Mountain

Montserrat Mountain

If you’re looking for cheap family-fun that’s both entertaining and breathtaking, Montserrat Mountain is the place to be.

  • Fun Factor: 5/5

Here are fun activities in Barcelona with kids.

1. F.C. Barcelona Museum Immersive Tour (Editor’s Choice)

Carrer d’Alí Be, 80, Estació del Nord, Ground Flr, Platform 19  Barcelona, Spain 08013 (491) 559-9605 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

  • Educational experience: The tour offers a great opportunity for kids to gain insight into the club’s legacy, including interactive displays and memorabilia.
  • Inspiring atmosphere: It allows kids to soak up the atmosphere of the Camp Nou stadium, the home ground of F.C. Barcelona.
  • Limited appeal for non-football fans: The tour heavily focuses on football history and the club’s achievements, so children with different interests might not find it as engaging.
  • Crowded and busy: The popularity of F.C. Barcelona attracts a large number of visitors to the museum, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Why We Recommend This Activity

The F.C. Barcelona Museum Immersive Tour is the ultimate activity for soccer fans and culture enthusiasts.

The museum takes you on an unforgettable journey through the club’s remarkable past.

It showcases its triumphs, legends, and values that have shaped its legacy.

One of the highlights is the immersive audiovisual displays, which transport you right into the heart of the action. 

You’ll feel the thrill of a match as you watch historical footage on giant screens.

Relive memorable goals, and witness the incredible skills of Barcelona’s greatest players.

Recommended Ages

The F.C. Barcelona Museum Immersive Tour is suitable for all ages, making it a fun activity for the whole family to enjoy together.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ohla Barcelona

Related: Best Restaurants in Barcelona

2. Basílica La Sagrada Familia

Carrer de Mallorca, 401 Barcelona 08013 (493) 208-0414 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

  • Architectural marvel: Designed by Antoni Gaudí, The Basílica La Sagrada Familia is renowned for its breathtaking architecture that can be a fascinating experience for kids.
  • Cultural and historical significance: Visiting the Basílica La Sagrada Familia can allow kids to learn about the significance of the basilica within the city’s history.
  • Long waiting times: The popularity of the Basílica La Sagrada Familia attracts a large number of visitors, leading to long queues and waiting times.
  • Limited interactivity: The overall experience is primarily observational, so kids who prefer more interactive activities or hands-on experiences might find the visit less engaging.

The Sagrada Família is a one-of-a-kind temple with a rich history regarding its foundation and purpose, and when you visit you’ll be able to tour through more than a century’s worth of hard labor and dedication; a monument built by the people for the people.

Today, more than 135 years after the laying of the first cornerstone, the basilica continues to improve but one can already picture out its sheer beauty and meticulously orchestrated architecture.

Even though its final structure is expected to be finished in the year 2026, Basílica La Sagrada Familia is currently still one of the best places to take kids in Barcelona if you’re looking for a trip back in time and to cross off one of Barcelona’s most visited landmarks on your list.

Basílica La Sagrada Familia is open and welcomes families with children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Hotel Central

3. Montserrat Mountain

Montserrat Barcelona 08691 (493) 877-7701 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for cheap family-fun that’s both entertaining and breathtaking, Montserrat Mountain is the place to be.

  • Natural beauty and outdoor exploration: Montserrat Mountain offers a stunning natural landscape with breathtaking views, distinctive rock formations, and fun activities.
  • Cultural and spiritual experience: The mountain is also home to a Benedictine monastery, Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey.
  • Limited accessibility: Montserrat Mountain’s rugged terrain might pose challenges for families with very young children or individuals with mobility issues.
  • Time constraints: Visiting Montserrat Mountain usually requires dedicating a significant portion of the day and can pose a constraint for families with limited time in Barcelona.

The Montserrat Mountain is a dedicated Monastery, meaning on your climb you’ll be able to witness all the different quarters, buildings and infrastructures that are dedicated to the religious practitioners of Barcelona.

On your visit to Montserrat though, it will be very possible to view the mountain more than a Monastery; you can take a peaceful walk and stroll or take one of the funiculars and get up closer to the beautiful landscapes and fascinating rock formations the mountain has to offer.

Montserrat Mountain is an amazing place to visit for family families with kids aged 5 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Abat Cisneros Montserrat

4. Montjuic Cable Cars

Montjuic Cable Cars

Avinguda Miramar, 30 Barcelona 08038 (493) 465-5313 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Capturing and witnessing the perfect panoramic views Barcelona has to offer, Montjuic Cable Cars is perfect for families searching for breathtaking moments that’s shared with the whole tribe.

Riding a cable car is one of the best things to do in Barcelona with kids, aside from it providing you a comfortable birds-eye-view tour, it transports you to different picturesque locations within Barcelona as well.

Travelling across its linear 750-meter route where you’ll have a peaceful journey with the whole family towards the Montjüic Castle that’s nestled on the top of a mountain that symbolizes the living and breathing rich history of the city.

Riding the Montjuic Cable Cars is a terrific activity for tribes with youngsters of all ages to enjoy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel GL

Related: Best Family Hotels in Barcelona

Also See: Things to Do in London for Kids Kids Activities: Paris

5. CosmoCaixa Barcelona

CosmoCaixa Barcelona

Carrer d’Isaac Newton, 26 Barcelona 08022 (493) 212-6050 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

CosmoCaixa Barcelona is one of the most famous attractions for kids in the city with its wide array of interactive and immersive exhibits that’s bound to keep the ‘lil ones entertained for hours and hours.

CosmoCaixa offers visitors from far and wide a plethora of activities and exhibitions to give adults and kiddos a better understanding and appreciation for the different aspects of science in the world.

One exhibit you should definitely not miss is The Universe Gallery where visitors you’ll dive into the cosmos and while learning about the big bang through an interactive experience beginning with the creation of the cosmos and as you explore the evolution of life in the universe.

Don’t be fooled though, on the surface it may look like a children’s museum, but with its in-depth exhibits about the different aspects of science in the world, this museum can definitely be fun for teens and adults alike.

Stopping by the CosmoCaixa Barcelona is an amusing and educational trip for families with kiddos aged 3 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Casa Fuster G.L Monumento

Related: Best Things to Do in Barcelona

6. Museu de la Xocolata

Museu de la Xocolata

Carrer del Comerç, 36 Barcelona 08003 +34 932 68 78 78 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Unique to the city of Barcelona, Museu de la Xocolata, or the Chocolate Museum, is a private-owned museum by the Gremio de Pastelería de Barcelona that offers some of the best things to do in Barcelona with toddlers.

Get ready to go on a chocolate-filled wonderland as you tour around the Museu de la Xocolata where you’ll be able to find different chocolate sculptures, exhibits, and interactive attractions for a sweet and informative trip.

Visiting this museum is one of the most fascinating trips you’ll have in Barcelona as you learn how chocolate is made and how skilled chocolate sculptors master their craft.

Museu de la Xocolata is a sweet little adventure for tribes with tykes aged 3 and up.

7. L’aquarium Barcelona

L’aquarium Barcelona

Del Port Vell, Moll d’Espanya, s/n Barcelona 08039 (493) 221-7474 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Barcelona is filled with family things to do and places to go like an eventful and fascinating trip to the L’aquarium Barcelona where you’ll be able to witness the rich marine life the city has in store.

With 35 aquariums spanning across the whole area of this destination, you’ll get to encounter more than 11,000 animals with over 450 species in different interactive spaces along with tons of kids activities.

Puzzles, informative facts and trivias, and up close interactions with the largest marine animals, L’aquarium Barcelona is bound to be an educational and entertaining trip for the whole family.

Dropping by the L’aquarium Barcelona is highly recommended for families with children aged 5 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ohla Eixample

8. Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló

Passeig de Gràcia, 43 Barcelona 08007 (493) 216-0306 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Masterfully designed by Antoni Gaudí, and is considered one of his most well-known masterpieces, Casa Batlló is a famous landmark and infrastructure nestled in the heart of Barcelona.

Take an audio tour or a self-guided tour as you wander around the wide expanse of this gorgeous infrastructure with its enthralling interior design alongside bits and pieces that have stood against the test of time.

This is a must see for families who want to discover Gaudí’s work and modernism at its peak; people from far and wide visit this beautiful site just to get a glimpse of how architects were in the past.

Immersing yourselves in the rich and historical venue of Casa Batlló is perfect for families with kiddos aged 5 and up.

Also See: Things to Do in Rome with Kids Kid Friendly Things to Do in Tokyo

9. Park Güell

Park Güell

Park Güell Barcelona 08024 (493) 409-1831 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Park Güell is a large and wide park area consisting of 17 hectares that is home to a variety of gardens and architectural elements located on Carmel Hill.

If you’re still wondering what to do in Barcelona with kids, Park Güell will captivate you with its spacious areas for nature walks and relaxation, beautiful installations of architectural pieces scattered across the park and its well-maintained spaces that’s perfect for families.

Park Güell is a family-friendly spot where all families can just stroll around, wander and relax as you marveil in the different landscapes and beautiful pieces around you.

A peaceful trip to Park Güell is a worthwhile experience for families with kids of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona GL

10. Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

Plaça de Carles Buïgas, 1 Barcelona 08038 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a captivating and entertaining fountain located at the head of Avinguda Maria Cristina.

Gorgeous fountain installation by day, magnificent and breathtaking light and fountain show at night, Magic Fountain of Montjuïc will mesmerize you with its dancing waters illuminated by bright and vibrant colors for an experience you won’t forget.

Popular among locals and tourists alike, this magical experience immerses you with its sound-and-light shows with around 2,600 litres of water flowing every second through the fountain’s three concentric pools, driven by a water-recycling system.

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a unique and awe-inducing experience that’s perfect for families with youngsters of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hesperia Barcelona Fira Suites

Also See: Things for Kids to Do in Tahiti

11. Hotel Jazz

Hotel Jazz

Carrer de Pelai, 3 Barcelona 08001 (493) 552-9696 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Comfortably situated at the heart of the city, Hotel Jazz is an amazing place to stay with the whole family on your trip to Barcelona.

Barcelona is an amazing city with loads to offer, so we know that one day is not enough to capture every crook and crevice.

Which is why staying in places like Hotel Jazz with its accessible area is a must to enjoy your whole trip.

Packed with well-maintained amenities, this hotel is perfect for families travelling with kids.

On the 8th floor of this facility, you’ll be treated with a gorgeous panoramic view of the entire city as you plan your day ahead.

Staying at the Hotel Jazz is highly recommended for families with children of all ages.

12. Palau de la Música Catalana

Palau de la Música Catalana

C/ Palau de la Música, 4-6 Barcelona 08003 (493) 295-7200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

An interactive facility with activities concerning concerts and choirs while promoting musical practice and training, knowledge of heritage and the dissemination of culture, Palau de la Música Catalana offers an interesting trip for the whole family.

Designed in the Catalan modernista style by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, Palau de la Música Catalana is an amazing destination to visit for its mesmerizing infrastructure that’ll leave you and the whole family captivated.

Inside you’ll be able to witness different musical artists of Barcelona and hear the beautiful songs and melodies that have become deeply ingrained in the hearts and culture of the city’s people.

Going to Palau de la Música Catalana with the whole tribe is an amazing experience for children aged 5 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderon

13. Barceloneta Beach

Barceloneta Beach

La Barceloneta Barcelona 08003 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This weekend is the perfect time to take a cool and refreshing dip in the cerulean waters of Barceloneta Beach.

Enjoy this well-maintained beach packed and ready with all sorts of family-friendly activities like windsurfing, kayaking, paddle boarding as you enjoy the crisp and fresh air on a beach getaway like no other.

Equipped with a lovely promenade spanning across a length of approximately 1.25 km, you can definitely have a lovely walk around this beach and have your pick with the different bars and restaurants to complete the experience.

Spending a day in Barceloneta Beach is perfect for families with children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: W Barcelona

14. Barcelona Bus Turistic

Barcelona Bus Turistic

Ronda de la Universitat, 7 Barcelona 08007 (493) 465-5313 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re travelling with a baby, smaller children or a relatively large group, then roaming around the city with the Barcelona Bus Turistic is a convenient and amazing option for you.

Among the different landmarks and sites to see within Barcelona, you have the choice where to go and depart, as many times as you want.

All the while you can enjoy an audio guide available in 16 languages, free Wi-Fi, a map of the city and tourist information.

Enjoy the comfort and accessibility of the city as you choose among three route options that will take you through different areas on your journey and discovery of the city.

Travelling around the city with the Barcelona Bus Turistic is a convenient and highly recommended option for families with children of all ages.

15. Gothic Quarter

Gothic Quarter

Barri Gotic Barcelona 08002 Open in Google Maps

The charming and captivating Gothic Quarter, or Barri Gòtic, is lined with narrow medieval streets that’s packed with trendy bars, Catalan restaurants and offers some of the most fun things to do in Barcelona with kids.

Dating all the way back to 113 BC, the Gothic Quarter is still one of the most famous and visited places in Barcelona.

With its unique and enthralling buildings that immerses you in a whole different era altogether.

In this area, you’ll be able to scavenge your way through the rich history of the city.

Explore Pablo Picasso’s old stomping grounds, witness Antoni Gaudi’s very first project, dine at the oldest restaurants Barcelona has to offer or shop around the different stores and shops.

Gothic Quarter is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in the city that’ll serve you the best things Barcelona has to offer.

Experiencing the beauty and wonder of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is perfect for families with youngsters of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel DO Plaça Reial G.L.

16. Ciutadella Park

Ciutadella Park

Passeig de Picasso, 21 Barcelona, Catalonia, 08003 (638) 237-115 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Ciutadella Park is a vibrant green space in Barcelona that’s a hit with families.

With its life-size woolly mammoth sculpture and a pond for row boating, it’s more than just a park—it’s a community hub.

If you’re looking for things to do with kids, Barcelona has this gem of a park.

Ciutadella Park is a playground for the imagination.

Kids won’t get enough of the woolly mammoth sculpture, perfect for those Insta-worthy family photos.

The pond in the center offers rowboat rentals, making for a fun family competition.

Two playgrounds and street performers blowing giant bubbles keep the little ones entertained.

Seasonal events and food stalls add to the park’s allure, making it a must-visit any time of the year.

The park is ideal for all ages.

It has specific playgrounds for younger kids, while the pond and street performances can be enjoyed by older kids and adults alike.

17. Tibidabo Amusement Park

Tibidabo Amusement Park

Plaça del Tibidabo, 3-4 Barcelona, Catalonia, 08035 (932) 117-942 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Tibidabo Amusement Park is a retro wonderland with modern thrills.

Perched on a hill overlooking Barcelona, it combines vintage charm with rides for all ages and even a cathedral.

Tibidabo is a nostalgia trip with a twist.

It’s no overstatement to say it’s one of the most fun things to do in Barcelona for kids.

Kids will love the carousel, roller coasters, and Ferris wheel, while parents can appreciate the vintage aesthetic.

The panoramic views of Barcelona from the rides are a bonus.

Don’t miss the cathedral at the top—it’s a serene contrast to the amusement park buzz.

It’s great for kids aged 3 and up.

The park offers rides suitable for all age groups, making it a versatile family outing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gran Hotel La Florida G.L Monumento

18. Poble Espanyol

Poble Espanyol

Avinguda de Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13 Barcelona, Catalonia, 08038 (935) 086-300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Poble Espanyol is a living museum that showcases Spain’s architectural diversity.

It’s a full-size replica of streets and buildings from around Spain, complete with shops and regional-themed restaurants.

If you’re searching for kid friendly things to do in Barcelona, this is a cultural jackpot.

Kids can get hands-on with traditional Spanish handicrafts, while parents can appreciate the art galleries featuring works from Dali and Picasso.

The playground is a hit, but the real gem is the revolving exhibitions and events that keep the experience fresh.

It’s like a mini-vacation within the city, offering a taste of the entire country.

Plus, the restaurants serve up regional dishes that are a culinary adventure for the whole family.

It’s best for kids aged 6 and up, especially those who can participate in the handicraft activities.

Younger kids will still enjoy the playground and the visual feast of architecture.

19. Parc del Laberint d’Horta

Parc del Laberint d'Horta

Passeig dels Castanyers, 1 Barcelona, Catalonia, 08035 (931) 537-010 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Parc del Laberint d’Horta is home to Barcelona’s oldest garden and a classic hedge maze.

It’s a bit off the beaten path but offers a tranquil escape with a dash of adventure.

If you’re in Barcelona and searching for “things to do with kids near me”, this park is a great choice, offering a tranquil escape with a dash of adventure.

The hedge maze is the star here, offering a fun challenge for kids and adults alike.

It’s a game of wits and giggles as you navigate through, and the sense of accomplishment at the end is real.

The park itself is a peaceful haven, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.

It’s a bit of a trek from central Barcelona, but the serenity and unique maze experience make it worth the trip.

So, if it’s family fun you want, this has to be on your list of must-try Barcelona kids activities.

The museum is ideal for kids 5 and up.

The maze is fun but could be challenging for younger tots.

The park’s calm atmosphere is also well-suited for adults looking for a quiet escape.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Boutique Mirlo Barcelona

20. Museum of Natural Sciences of Barcelona

Museum of Natural Sciences of Barcelona

Plaça Leonardo da Vinci, 4-5 Barcelona, Catalonia, 08901 (932) 566-002 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Museum of Natural Sciences of Barcelona is a modern, dynamic space that spans two floors.

It’s a journey through Earth’s history, starting right at the entrance with a whale skeleton from 1862.

For indoor kids activities, Barcelona, Spain has a go-to spot.

The Museum of Natural Sciences of Barcelona isn’t your typical stuffy museum.

The interactive ‘Planet Life’ exhibition takes families on a time-traveling adventure through Earth’s history.

Kids up to age 6 can explore the Science Nest, a hands-on area filled with natural materials.

The museum’s layout is easy to navigate, making it stress-free for parents.

Plus, the geology and stone exhibits are a hit for budding scientists.

It’s educational but far from boring, with installations that captivate both young minds and adult curiosity.

The museum is a hit for all ages but shines for 4 to 12.

The Science Nest is specifically designed for children up to age 6, while older kids and adults will appreciate the more complex exhibits.

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

A kaleidoscope of family-friendly activities awaits you in the colorful city of Barcelona.

Let me share a few of my family’s favorites. 

An immersive tour of the F.C. Barcelona Museum was a real touchdown. 

My kids were awestruck, taking in the glorious history of their favorite football team.

Meanwhile, the architectural marvel of Basílica La Sagrada Familia left us speechless. 

The intricate designs and stained glass windows were captivating, although this might be a more pricey choice.

Lastly, the tranquility at Montserrat Mountain provided a serene contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle. 

The cable car ride up was a thrilling experience for me and my little ones. 

With that, Barcelona offers a heartwarming ensemble of laughter, excitement, and togetherness.

It’s a real treasure trove for families with young, adventurous kids.

How I Picked The Activities

As a travel writer, Barcelona is a city incredibly close to my heart. 

The task of choosing the best things to do there with kids was not an easy feat. 

The city overflows with cultural richness, architectural splendor, and delightful surprises at every corner. 

So, I balanced a blend of chit-chat with locals and meticulous research.

I did all this to offer you the most authentic, exciting, and budget-friendly experiences for a memorable family trip.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

  • Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. 
  • Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value. 
  • Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 
  • Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
  • Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some family-friendly beaches in barcelona.

Barceloneta Beach is famous for families with its golden sand, shallow waters, and various beachfront playgrounds. Nova Icaria Beach is another excellent option, offering amenities like volleyball courts and beachside cafes.

Are There Any Amusement Parks In Barcelona?

Yes, Tibidabo Amusement Park is a fantastic choice for a fun-filled day with kids in Barcelona. It features thrilling rides, a vintage roller coaster, and spectacular views of Barcelona from its hilltop location.

Can You Recommend Any Interactive Museums For Children In Barcelona?

The CosmoCaixa Science Museum is an excellent choice for kids, with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a flood room where they can learn about the force of water. The Barcelona Museum of Natural Sciences is also worth a visit, offering interactive displays on nature and biodiversity.

What Outdoor Activities Can We Do With Kids In Barcelona?

Parc de la Ciutadella is a great outdoor space for families, with a boating lake, playgrounds, and even a small zoo. You can rent bikes and cycle along the beachfront promenade or explore Montjuïc Park, which features gardens, viewpoints, and even a castle.

Are There Any Kid-Friendly Shows Or Performances In Barcelona?

The Poble Espanyol, an open-air architectural museum, often hosts puppet shows, magic performances, and other family-friendly events. Another notable option is the El Petit Liceu program at the Gran Teatre del Liceu, featuring opera and ballet performances specifically designed for children.

Fun Things to Do in Barcelona with Kids: Reddit User Recommendations

What are some of the best things to do with a 5 year old in Barcelona (we’ll be there on vacation in a couple of weeks) by u/cheverechiguire in Barcelona

Conclusion 

Soaking in Barcelona’s rich culture and enticing beauty, my family unearthed countless treasures that left my young explorers breathless.

As a mom of the biggest football fans, guess what is my top choice for the fun things to do in Barcelona with kids?

You got that right. 

It’s undoubtedly the F.C. Barcelona Museum Immersive Tour. 

The tour offers a magic that sweeps little fans into a thrilling vortex of football history and passion, leaving a permanent imprint on their young hearts. 

A mesmerizing contrast to other activities in the city, it stirs a mix of inspiration and awe that even Gaudi’s masterpieces and the serene Montserrat Mountain couldn’t quite match. 

This immersive experience was the cherry on top of my kids’ Barcelona escape.

I’m excited to hear what yours are.

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Water parks, dinosaurs & hidden caves: Best family cruise excursions in Spain

Spain cruise holidays are an ideal option for keeping everyone happy, whether you fancy sangria or sandcastles – here’s what to enjoy on your shore excursions to the Spanish islands.

Majorca coast

Cruises to Spain and Portugal are seriously cheap this summer. And when we say cheap, we quite literally mean next to nothing,

Ambassador Cruise Line still has spots left on its Multi-Generational Summer Balearics Getaway – and kids can sail for just £1!

While there’s enough to keep kids busy onboard (think pirate parties and scavenger hunts ) there’s also plenty of incentive to adventure ashore.

Ambassador – which cruises to Spain and Portugal from the UK – has an array of family-friendly shore excursions to pick from. Let’s check out which might suit your little ones…

view-of-porto-from-river-douro-portugal-nick-karvounis-unsplash-2022

Porto shore excursions – what to do with kids in Porto

Your first port of call on this family cruise from London Tilbury is Leixoes for Oporto in Portugal – so you’ll all be ready to stretch out those sea legs and explore.

The charming city is renowned for its rich history, exquisite architecture and yummy port wine. Nestled along the picturesque Douro River, Porto (as it’s otherwise known) is home to colourful, narrow streets lined with medieval buildings and Baroque churches while its UNESCO-listed historic centre, Ribeira, offers bustling cafes and scenic riverfront views.

To avoid the faff of public transport on your cruises to Spain and Portugal, the Oporto On Your Own Ambassador shore excursion is a good choice – you simply need to hop onboard your coach at Leixoes port and you’ll be whisked to Porto’s city centre easy as pie (or should that be pastel de nata?).

Another benefit of the stress-free trip into town is that an English-speaking escort will be on hand to offer advice and answer any questions, plus city maps will be provided.

Guests then have a full three hours at their disposal to explore the beauty of this Portuguese city. Children will enjoy Porto’s interactive museum World of Discoveries, iconic bookshop Livraria Lello (said to have helped inspire the Harry Potter books), a riverfront ride along Porto’s historic Tram Line 1 and the city park, to name a few of the city’s attractions.

Family in Palma Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca cathedral

Palma de Mallorca shore excursions – what to do with kids in Palma de Mallorca

Next up on this Spain cruise from the UK is Palma de Mallorca where there are plenty of family-friendly shore excursions.

Want to hit the beach? Ambassador offers a Beach Transfer to Palmanova trip which departs from the port on an approximate 30-minute unguided transfer along the south coast to Palmanova, a coastal gem on the southwest coast of Mallorca.

Expect fine golden sands and clear turquoise waters for relaxing and paddling, along with a host of water sports activities, from paddleboarding to jet-skiing.

Need to fuel up or take a break from the Spanish sun? There are plenty of restaurants, bars and shops along the promenade (perhaps it’s time for that sangria mums and dads?).

You’ll get four hours of free time on the beach with this Spain cruise excursion – and if that’s not enough time to beat granddad at beach volleyball we don’t know what is.

Aqualand Water Park mallorca slides

Aqualand Water Park

If you seek more active fun, then swing by Aqualand Water Park on your cruise to Spain. Ambassador’s shore excursion to the popular water park (just 30 minutes away from the port) makes a wet ‘n’ wild day out easy.

Race on the Multipista, feel the thrills on Grand Canyon or test your surfing skills at Surf Beach. Aqualand Water Park is also home to the biggest playground in Mallorca, with 12 thrilling slides specially made for kids!

There are plenty of areas for tots to have fun, while older adrenalin junkies will love such rides as Tsunami, Kamikaze, King Cobra or Banzai.

Don’t fancy getting wet? On this multi-generational Spain cruise , Ambassador shore excursion Hams Caves & Dinosaurland offers interesting history as well as Jurassic jollies (but sadly no ham).

Hams Caves, on the east coast of Mallorca, are millions of years old and are one of the island’s top tourist attractions. There are three caves to uncover, and visitors can learn about the island’s original inhabitants and enjoy an audio-visual timelapse.

Next, armed with new-found knowledge, you’ll head to Dinosaurland where the family can walk among more than 100 life-sized recreations of dinosaurs; prepare to be dwarfed by the towering 50m-long Titanosaurus replica – the beast is one of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered! Here kids can play at being palaeontologists, settle into games and puzzles, or try their hand at drawing.

Ibiza family cruise ambassador

Ibiza shore excursions – what to do with kids in Ibiza?

The next day your Ambassador family cruise calls at Ibiza. The Balearic island is a great choice for a family holiday thanks to its safety, beautiful beaches, water sports and more.

Ambassador offers a guided Caves of Can Marca shore excursion in Ibiza on this cruise to Spain from the UK . This impressive cave – it’s around 100,000 years old! – is tucked inside a cliff in Port de Sant Miquel de Balansat.

The ancient limestone caves are adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, creating an otherworldly spectacle. Your guide will take you deep into the heart of the caverns, where you’ll discover intriguing rock formations and learn about the caves’ storied past.

Kids will love the tales of the smugglers who once used the 14m-high caves as hiding places for contraband goods! And don’t miss the magical interplay of light and shadows as sunlight filters through openings in the cave ceiling; maybe you can come up with your own legends for what has happened here over the ages?

Summer Balearics Getaway

 12 August 2023 for 14-nights, aboard Ambience

Cruise itinerary

London Tilbury, UK; Leixoes, for Oporto, Portugal; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Ibiza, Spain; Cadiz, for Seville, Spain; Vigo, for Santiago de Compostela, Spain; London Tilbury, UK

Cruise prices

£999 pp – save up to £950 (kids sail from just £1pp)

Book your family cruise to the Med with Ambassador Cruise line

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