family travel in spain

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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-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

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• 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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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The best family destinations in Spain

Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations for families. It’s easy to get to with warm weather, delicious food and superb beaches. In fact, there are so many places in Spain that are ideal for a family holiday that it’s hard to narrow it down. We’ve rounded up the best family destinations in Spain so you can pick your favourite.

9/9 Barcelona, Catalonia

Barcelona is not just a fantastic city break for adults. It’s made for kids too. For easy exploration of the city try the Montjuic cable car. It will take you either over the sea to Barceloneta and the beach or up to the old castle. A walk to Gaudi’s Park Guell and Casa Batlló with its fantastical characters and colours should spark imaginations (plus it’s free). If you’re feeling flash with the cash go for a 360° skywalk which includes a boat ride around the coastline, a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter and a helicopter ride over the city. If you want to explore under your own steam, first head to the Gothic Quarter followed by a stroll up the infamous La Rambla to watch the street performers. Olympic Village beach is the best beach for families and even has a playground. To get closer to marine life visit the aquarium which boasts Europe’s largest underwater walkway. Finally, football fans shouldn’t miss a day trip to Camp Nou, the home of legendary club FC Barcelona.

Check out our curated list of the perfect family stays in Barcelona

8/9 Costa Brava, Catalonia

Stretching 124 miles along Spain’s northeastern coastline from the French border down to Blanes, the Costa Brava, or ‘rugged coast’ is one of the best family destinations in Spain. Most of the beaches are perfect for kids, with clean and calm water and sandy beaches. Blanes, Lloret de Mar, Sant Sant Feliu de Guíxols, Sant Antoni de Calonge, Platja d’Aro, L’Estartit and Roses are considered the best family beaches, though there are many more. There’s plenty to do in the region apart from laze in the sand. Snorkel off the Medes Islands, one mile from L’Estartit beach, for outstanding marine life, or stroll round the Jardí Botànic Marimurtra Botanical Gardens, near Blanes, for exotic plant life . The waymarked coastal trail is also well suited to families. The walking is easy and the views should keep little ones occupied. However if little legs do not want to cooperate, you could take the Roses Express train instead up into the Cap de Creus nature park.

Check out our curated list of the perfect family stays in Costa Brava

7/9   Cantabria region

Cantabria, a region in the north of Spain, consists of Atlantic coastline and glorious mountain ranges. Like the Pyrenees, it’s a fabulous destination for outdoorsy families. The Picos de Europa National Park is a highlight in Cantabria. There are miles of magical walks in the fresh air to enjoy, many of which are suitable for youngsters. If you can peel yourself away from the high ranges, there’s Argüeso Castle, a network of caves complete with prehistoric art at Altamira, the Maritime Museum and Cabárceno Natural Wildlife Park to keep everyone amused.

Check out our curated list of the perfect family stays in Cantabria

6/9 Costa Dorada, Catalonia 

The Costa Dorada follows the coastline south after Barcelona down the eastern coast of Spain from Cunit to Alcanar. One of the main draws for families here is a visit to PortAventura, a huge amusement park close the Tarragona. It’s also a great place for active families. Cycling is excellent here. The town of Cambrils has miles of bike lanes, with many along the coast. Inland, the Montsant Massif and the Prades Mountains cater for hiking enthusiasts as does the ‘The Castle and Monastery of Cornu Bovis’ Trail’, which rises to an old Roman castle. The Costa Dorada is not called the ‘golden coast’ for nothing. Miles after miles of long golden beaches stretch out offering families watersports galore. For something completely different though you may want to head to L’Ametlla de Mar, south of Tarragona to snorkel amongst hundreds of silvery Bluefin tuna.

Check out our curated list of the perfect family stays in Costa Dorada

5/9 The Spanish Pyrenees, Catalonia

Spain’s beaches are so popular as a family holiday destination that the country’s interior is often overlooked. But head inland in the north of the country to the Spanish Pyrenees and you’ll be rewarded with a wildly overlooked part of the country with stunning mountain vistas and all the action-packed activities that come with it such as hiking and mountain biking. Visit the fertile volcanic landscape of Garrotxa or dramatic and grand Aigüestortes and stay in Sort, a charming, historic town which is set up to organise all your outdoor fun. Should you want a bit more of a city fix, Barcelona is three hours away so could be combined as a weekend add-on.

Check out our curated list of the perfect family stays in The Spanish Pyrenees

4/9 San Sebastian, Basque Country 

Foodie paradise San Sebastián is another fabulous city geared up for families. It’s a very green city with plenty of parks and playgrounds. Kids should love the thrilling ride up the funicular to the top of Igueldo for the views out over La Concha Bay and the Monte Igueldo theme park for classic fairground rides. There are three gorgeous beaches to relax in, Playa de la Concha, Playa de Zurriola and Playa de Ondarreta, plus an aquarium to learn more about the watery world nearby. If you want to head out of the city, try a day trip to Santa Clara island or hiking up into the hills. The city of Bilbao is only an hour away too should you want to check out the Museo Guggenheim Bilbao.

Check out our curated list of the perfect family stays in San Sebastian

3/9 Tenerife, Canary Islands 

Tenerife’s subtropical climate means it’s a top destination to visit during spring and autumn as well as over the summer months. The island boasts spectacular landscapes as well as lava and sand beaches and lively seaside resorts. You will find most beaches have all sorts of watersports attractions from kayaking to banana boats, sailing trips and snorkelling, though head northwest to the lava beaches should you want a quieter feel. A holiday in Tenerife will not be complete without a trip to Mount Teide, the world’s third-largest volcano. Little legs should have no fear as there is a cable car that travels up to the snow-capped peak. Within the National Park there are also miles of wild hiking and biking trails if you have older children.

Check out our curated list of the perfect family stays in Tenerife

2/9 Costa de la Luz, Andulucia

Spain’s ‘coast of light’ faces out to the Atlantic and runs along the southwest of the country from Tarifa to the mouth of the Guadiana River. As the region is far south, temperatures are much warmer, so it’s a great choice outside of the peak season. Expect upmarket towns here plus lovely dune-backed beaches. The Zahara de los Atunes is a family favourite beach. Family attractions in the region apart from the beaches include an animal rescue centre, the Zoo de Castellar in Castellar de la Frontera, the adventure park Entre Ramas Aventura and Doñana Natural Park, a massive nature reserve that hosts wetlands, migratory birds, pine forests and shifting coastal dunes.

Check out our curated list of the perfect family stays in Costa de la Luz

1/9 Menorca, Balearic Islands 

The island of Menorca may be no larger than the Isle of Wight but it contains much for families to enjoy. Clear, shallow waters and sandy beaches are found all around the island, and are often much quieter than its louder neighbours, Majorca and Ibiza. The island’s calm waters mean it’s the ideal spot for first timers to try sea kayaking. Cala Galdana is one of the island’s best beaches for families. Despite it being popular it still manages to retain a feeling of tranquillity. Es Grau beach and nature reserve is another top spot for children, with a long stretch of shallow water to paddle in. Other good spots include Santo Tomás beach and the beaches of Son Saura. The Cami de Cavalls coastal path is great for families who want to admire the water from dry land. It’s well marked and easy to follow. Another gem for families is the S’Albufera des Grau nature reserve backs onto the beach, a wetland area around a lake and the reason Menorca is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Check out our curated list of the perfect family stays in Menorca

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Spain Family Tours & Vacation Packages

Let TourRadar take the hassle out of finding a trip for the whole family. With 414 tours of Spain lasting from 2 days up to 22 days, you're sure to find a great family-friendly adventure. Looking beyond Spain? See all family trips .

250+ Spain Family trips with 4,464 reviews

Family Pyrenees Multi-Activity Adventure

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Spanish Wonder (End Barcelona, 9 Days)

I really appreciated Kassie's cheerfulness at all times, her great organizational skills and her memory of all the requests the tour members were making all the time. Kassie assembled a series of pictures into a video with music at a short notice and put it out for us all to remember our shared experience. A great service. My special thanks. I would like to be in a tour where she is the Travel Director.

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

Spanish Experience (End Barcelona, 9 Days)

I had a great time! The director and driver were excellent people, very friendly and ready to serve! Would have preferred more options for pool at the hotels or to stay at least half a day at the beach in the middle of the week to break from all the walking and sightseeing

Highlights of Spain (Classic, Summer, 9 Days)

Came home with wonderful memories of Spain. Looking forward to our next insight vacation!

Spanish Wonder (End Madrid, 9 Days)

Northern Spain (Classic, End Barcelona, 11 Days)

Northern Spain was a great experience. Beautiful countryside. Diverse people. Interesting and wonderful food experience. We totally appreciated how different the North Spain is from the south.

Spanish Experience (End Madrid, 9 Days)

It was amazing. Loved the tour director Rachel a Thomson and the wonderful people we met. Tour was nicely planned and I enjoyed it very much .

• River Cruise

Family Club - Andalusia: Traditions, Gastronomy and Flamenco (port-to-port cruise)

Madrid and Barcelona

Basically very good.

Madrid and Barcelona dept Saturday

Too much time wasted changing people from one bus/tour to another. Didn't get to meet travel group as it constantly changed.

Spanish Delights, 7 days

Very impressive tour. Well organised and well coordinated. Tour guides were really good with the Spanish/English translation. They were also ready to give personal support. The drivers were also good. They drove safely. The Alhambra tour was too long considering the hilly nature of the place. Even the young ones were struggling with breath. The free time after the cathedral/mosque tour was too long. A two hour free time is enough to go back to check into the hotel. Those interested can continue their free time after that.

Cycling the Camino de Santiago - Roncesvalles to Santiago

Completely enjoyed every aspect of this trip. The route was incredibly scenic and diverse, giving us an excellent appreciation of northern Spain. The ExperiencePlus! model of marking the roads with a chalk-type substance every morning made navigating through the countryside and towns very easy and enjoyable - I don't think I had to pull out a map once to find my way. Our nightly accommodations included a variety of old castles, refurbished monasteries, country B and Bs, and 4-5 star hotels; each one was unique and superb. Our guides truly enhanced the experience; all were well versed in the historical significance of the areas we traversed and the Camino itself, and between them I think they spoke 6 languages. They did a fantastic job accommodating the individual requirements of each guest - from special dietary considerations to suggestions for additional biking miles or points of interest. The restaurants for our group meals all served traditional dishes and local wines that were fantastic! What a very special trip!!

Andalucia & Toledo, 5 days on Tuesdays

Most of the hotels were good with the exception of the Sol Principe in Costa del Sol. That one was too big and dining was overwhelming with the amount of people. The tours were interesting, especially in Cordoba and Sevilla. The tour of Alhambra was misleading on the brochure. It was only an outdoor tour (in the rain) and we did not get to see the palace. We should have been informed of this before we booked the tour as that was to be one of the highlights. There was a good balance between guided tours and free time. That was appreciated.

• Sightseeing

Andalusia with Cordoba, Costa del Sol and Toledo from Madrid

We enjoyed the trip. All the arrangements were done well. Marina was an excellent tour escort.

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Bicycling Catalonia's Costa Brava

Reviews of spain family tours.

About as expected. Lydia did a great job

This was the best tour I have done. Our host guide was amazing and put so much energy into every second she spent with us. We saw so many extras because she went above and beyond to give us the full Spanish experience. Fully recommend this tour to any one wanting to get the most out of their time in Spain.

Wonderful trip! Tour guide was fabulous!

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The Best Family-friendly Vacation Destinations in Spain

From sun-drenched beaches to volcanic parks.

By Irenie Forshaw

When it comes to family vacations, Spain has it all. From sun-drenched beaches to volcanic parks, it’s the type of place you can visit countless times – and still find somewhere new to explore. To help plan your next trip, we’ve compiled a list of the very best family vacation destinations in Spain.

Whether you’re traveling with little ones or teens, our carefully curated list is ideal for families who love exploring the great outdoors and connecting with nature. Each entry is packed with ideas to keep the entire clan entertained from rock climbing and hiking to windsurfing and whale watching .

Our list features off-the-beaten-track locations that are quieter than the bustling resort towns and popular tourist spots. These idyllic destinations are perfect for reconnecting with family and embarking on an adventure to create memories to last a lifetime.

[See also: The Best Traditional Festivals in Spain ]

Costa de la Luz

Kicking off our list of the best family vacation destinations in Spain is Costa de la Luz – a picture-perfect stretch of the Andalusian coast that extends from the Province of Cadiz and the Province of Huelva all the way to the mouth of the Guadiana River.

With its lush pine forests, unspoiled beaches and hidden coves, it’s a wonderful spot for avoiding the crowds. The coast is peppered with whitewashed villages threaded with narrow cobblestone streets and pretty churches.

Situated on the southernmost tip of Spain’s Iberian Peninsula, Tarifa is a must-visit. Famed for being one of the country’s best windsurfing destinations thanks to its blustery location on the Strait of Gibraltar, it’s ideal for those who love water sports. Among the windiest spots is Playa de Valdevaqueros – a golden sandy beach popular with kite surfers. There are several windsurfing schools with special courses available for kids.

Tarifa is also a great spot for whale watching; starting in spring, pods of killer whales begin arriving at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea to hunt bluefin tuna. Consider booking one of Firmm’s excursions with a marine biologist for the chance to spot bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales and sperm whales.  

Las Médulas

Next, we head to Las Médulas – a historic gold mining site located between Leon and Ponferrada in the region of El Bierzo, Leon. Be sure to visit at sunset: the striking red cliffs lined with wildflowers and chestnut trees are especially beautiful at golden hour.

Once the largest open-pit goldmine of the Roman Empire, today Las Médulas is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The breathtaking landscape is the result of ruina montium (wrecking of the mountains), an ancient Roman mining technique that used water pressure to crumble down the soil revealing the gold hidden below.

Ideal for adventurous families, there is so much to do here from exploring the natural caves to hiking and horse riding through the area’s trails. It’s also well worth driving to the nearby city of Ponferrada to visit the Templar Castle – a sprawling fortress constructed by Ferdinand II in 178 AD to protect pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago.

Matarraña 

Our list of the best family vacation destinations in Spain would not be complete without mentioning Matarraña. Situated in a remote corner of Aragon bordering Valencia and Catalonia, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking an off-the-beaten-track location away from the tourists.

Often compared with Tuscany due to its charming medieval villages and impeccably manicured vineyards, it’s a tranquil spot ideal for a laid-back family holiday. Spend a few days discovering the towns of Valderrobres, Calaceite and Cretas before venturing out by bike or horseback to explore the Puertos de Beceite National Park.

Around a ten-minute drive from Valderrobres, you’ll find the Observatorio de Aves Mas de Bunyol . In this vulture observatory, visitors can watch Jose Ramon and his wife feeding their birds each day. Matarraña is also home to an array of secluded ponds including an idyllic natural pool just outside the Beceite village.

As for dining , foodies are in for a real treat. The Matarraña region is known for its exceptionally good olive oil, cured ham and peaches, and there are plenty of traditional eateries to visit, dotted throughout the hilltop villages.

If you really want to immerse yourself in nature, Garrotxa is a safe bet. Set among the foothills of the Pyrenees in northern Spain, this ruggedly beautiful region of Catalonia is famed for its stunning volcanic landscapes.

The entire family will love exploring La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park – the best-preserved volcanic region on the Iberian Peninsula that features 40 volcanic cones. You’ll be relieved to hear none of them are active any longer with the last eruption, Volca de Croscat, occurring around 11,000 years ago.

Keep an eye out for the incredible wildlife ; the park is home to an array of creatures including wild boar, foxes, short-toed eagles, woodpeckers, marsh tits and peregrine falcons. For sweeping views of the landscape, consider climbing the slopes of Montsacopa volcano (be warned it is rather steep so this is best for teens and more experienced hikers).

Last but by no means least on our list is Tenerife. The largest of Spain’s Canary Islands , it’s one of the best places in the country for soaking up nature with the family. At the center of the island is Mount Teide – a striking volcano that at 12,100 ft is the highest peak in Spain, and the third tallest volcano in the world.

Explore the Teide National Park by bike or foot, looking out for the island’s unique lizards and geckos. Be sure to bring your binoculars too; bird lovers can spot kestrels, grey herons and the endemic blue chaffinch.

Elsewhere, you’re spoilt for choice with family-friendly activities. Consider spending an afternoon at the island’s gorgeous botanical gardens or drop by the monkey park for the chance to see ring-tailed lemurs, Cuban crocodiles and giant tortoises.

[See also: The Best Eco-Friendly Hotels in Spain ]

Irenie Forshaw

Latest in luxury, the explorer.

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Copy my trip: A family trip through Spain with Elsewhere by Lonely Planet

Sep 30, 2023 • 4 min read

Exploring the beaches of Nerja, Andalucía was one of many unforgettable experiences from one family’s Spain itinerary © Melinda Anderson / Lonely Planet

Despite my love of travel – and travel-planning – organizing a stellar family vacation is a quagmire for me.

Our brood includes Bella, an 18-year-old rising first-year college athlete (go Wisconsin Badgers!); Sophie, a 16-year-old almost high school junior whose bent for art and style runs deep; and Anderson (his first name is my last name), an eight-year-old soccer (and all sports) fanatic who is always up for an adventure (except when it comes to trying new foods). And then there’s John and me, who have been to enough places and done enough things that our personal checklist on family getaways usually includes one crucial item: a super-special meal just for us.

To celebrate Bella’s high-school graduation and all of our back-to-back spring birthdays, we chose Spain ,  where we knew we had a great shot at meeting the needs of all our mixy-matchy family members. The smartest thing I did was enlist help from genius local expert Laura Guillen Olavide from Elsewhere by Lonely Planet to help me plan and make it happen. The itinerary she created for us was exactly what I'd hoped for but didn't have the time or local expertise to pull off on my own. Our June trip more than met everyone’s expectations. 

Where did you stay? What was the vibe?

We stayed in three different cities: Madrid , Málaga and Barcelona . The three hotels Laura found had both of my essential family vacation amenities: a pool for post-activity chill-out time and room service for when one (or more) of us might be too pooped to pop out. We had a family-style room for three and a double for the teenagers at each spot. 

In Madrid, we slept at super centrally located Catalonia Gran Via on the main shopping drag and a short walk from the art triangle. The girls loved the city-boutique feel, and we appreciated the extra proper bed in our room instead of the usual pull-out. 

The palatial building at Gran Hotel Miramar in Málaga has over its 100-year history been a hospital and a municipal building. A recent top-to-bottom renovation has brought it back to its original purpose as an upscale seaside haven. With the luxurious almost-entirely white decor dotted with glittery mirrors and sparkling Moorish touches, we all felt a little like movie stars. With its two pools, multiple dining options, spa and seaside views for days, we might never have checked out had the pull of Barcelona not been so strong. 

Located steps from two Gaudí must-sees on window-shopping mecca Passeig de Gracia , Hotel Condes de Barcelona is teeming with so many helpful staff members it felt like we had private butlers every time we entered the fully modernized 19th -century former mansion. 

Best thing you ate?

John and I left all three kids behind for Michelin-starred Restaurante Jose Carlos Garcia in Málaga. It’s a strictly multiple-course malagueño -inspired tasting menu (70% of the ingredients are sourced locally) served up in a super stylish contemporary space that manages to be upscale but unfussy. 

That – and ham, ham, ham, anywhere and everywhere. 

What did you book in advance of your trip?

We booked just enough to give us structure but not so much for us to feel like we were on a pack-it-all-in commercial tour. Hotels, transportation and key activities like golf, sailing, a cooking class, special dinners and an out-of-town excursion were all set in in advance. It worked out to be roughly one planned activity a day with plenty of free time around it. 

Favorite activity from the trip? 

If we had to vote as a bloc, we might collectively agree that the half-day sail off of Costa del Sol was aces. Individually, from oldest to youngest: John loved golfing with Anderson at the insanely beautiful Torrequebrada .  I was in even more awe at La Sagrada Familia (nearly finished!) than 20 years ago, on my first trip to Barcelona. Bella nearly died from the homemade croquetas at our mom-and-stepdaughter cooking class with Bernardita, but also did not hate the lower drinking age and thoroughly acquainted herself with the refreshing Tinto de Verano wherever possible. Sophie fell hard for Madrid, especially her namesake, the Reina Sofia , while  Anderson has not stopped telling all his friends about his tour of Camp Nou home of FC Barcelona ,  where he scored against the RoboKeeper and took home some serious swag.

What’s your favorite photo from the trip and where was it taken?  

I love this picture of my son framing up one of the best views of Madrid from the rooftop restaurant Azotea del Circulo , paired with his own shot of the Gran Via. Giving Anderson a camera and assigning pictures kept him engaged even during the activities an eight-year-old might not otherwise enjoy. Plus...hi, Madrid sunset. 

What was the most touristy thing you did?

We went on guided walking tours in each city, which felt like the right thing to do with our three first-timers to Spain . Luckily, Laura booked us dynamic guides, particularly in Madrid, where US-born Margit designed our whole excursion around snacks and libations along the way. 

Best tip for someone who wants to plan the same trip?

Contact Laura today. Just mosey on over to Elsewhere's Spain page and make a request. 

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

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

1. The Best of The Costa Brava for Families

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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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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16 of the Best Family Resorts in Spain

posted by Charmaine Cortes on August 24, 2023 // last updated on August 24, 2023

Between its consistently sunny weather, outstanding beaches, and tourist-friendly policies, Spain has been a great place to visit for years. Here are some of the best family resorts in Spain.

Hotel Fariones

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Hotel Fariones is easily one of the best family resorts in Spain, functioning as a full five-star facility. It’s also quite shiny and new after a renovation that finished in 2020. Amenities include plenty of pools, access to activities like boating and windsurfing, easy access to several beaches, and an on-site ATM if you need cash.

Room features include extra-long beds, soundproof walls that mitigate the noise from being close to the airport, whirlpool bathtubs, and special safes for laptops. It has over one hundred restaurants within 0.3 miles and is friendly for walking around, so you don’t need to rent a car to have plenty of fun.

Despite its quality, Hotel Fariones is a little better for families with older children. It doesn’t have child-focused services like babysitting, though you may be able to arrange for something through the concierge if necessary. It’s a great resort by every regular metric, but the lack of support for the youngest guests means it’s not quite perfect.

Hotel del Juguete is a child-focused resort destination, which is immediately obvious from the first moment you step inside. The walls are covered in kid-friendly art, and rooms come with a selection of thematic toys to support different interests. There’s a slightly frightening amount of variety here.

In many ways, Hotel del Juguete is a single large playground for active children. It’s best for families whose kids are energetic and want to play all the time. Quieter children may not enjoy things as much, so they’ll do better at a regular resort.

It’s almost impossible to overstate how much this hotel caters to children, but it doesn’t entirely ignore adults. The restaurant offers Mediterranean food for all ages, and there are plenty of activities outside the resort to enjoy.

One thing to keep in mind here is that Hotel del Juguete caters a little more to Spanish-speaking visitors. Toys are universal and don’t require any language skills, but being a little more fluent in Spanish will help here.

Playa Mar & Spa is a comfortable and kid-friendly resort just 50 meters from a beach. It has indoor and outdoor pools, but also a section with water slides to ensure more entertainment. Every room comes with either an extra bed or a sofa bed, which makes it much easier to fit the whole family in one room. Floor plans are generally bright, open, and inviting.

Playa Mar & Spa is disability-friendly, with the Premium Junior Suites on the ground floor suitable for guests with reduced mobility. There are only six of these, but that’s usually enough to ensure there’s always one available.

The food is neat, too, with a buffet-style restaurant featuring show cooking. Playa Mar & Spa is particularly good for visitors who love food because it has themed dinners during the week that can let you taste things from all over the world. A snack bar and a theater bar provide additional options for adults.

Although not quite as kid-focused as Hotel del Juguete, Mar Hotels’ Playa Mar & Spa location is easily one of the best family resorts in Spain and suitable for visitors with children of any age.

Hotel Don Pepe , from Gran Melia, is a five-star resort in Marabella. Just a few steps from the beach, it features luxurious lounge areas around its outdoor pools and several room levels for different experiences. 

However, what makes it one of the best family resorts in Spain is its Kids Club program. This club includes several children-specific services, including access to a babysitter who can keep an eye on things and a games room where kids can have fun. One outdoor pool is specifically for children, while the heated indoor pool is adults-only.

Hotel Don Pepe is also suitable for guests with disabilities, all wrapped up in outstanding personal service. Together, these details make Hotel Don Pepe a fantastic choice for families and easily one of the best options in the country.

It’s worth noting here that babysitting services are what usually take resorts to the next level. Traveling with a child is hard enough, but when you may have some language barriers on top of that, it gets even harder. Having someone who can take care of a kid while you’re doing other things gives you far more freedom and flexibility.

Don Carlos is another five-star resort in Marbella. If you’re noticing a pattern in the locations here, that’s because Marbella is a particularly tourist-friendly destination and one of the best areas in the country to visit on vacation.

Don Carlos has a gorgeous on-site tropical garden, close to the pools, as well as a restaurant offering Thai cuisine in the evenings. Thai food is quite popular in Spain thanks to some overlap in tastes, so the restaurant adds an extra touch of internationalism to your dining opportunities.

While this hotel caters to older guests, it is kid-friendly with things like child-focused games and activities. Rooms feature air conditioning and private refrigerators to help beat the heat, while the overall hotel is quiet and offers excellent views of the ocean.

Club Hotel Aguamarina is much bigger than it may look at first. Although not as luxurious as some of the other family resorts in Spain, only reaching three stars, it has a wide selection of activities for guests to enjoy. These include mini-golf, children’s areas, themed swimming pools, water slides, a games room, and more.

In short, rather than emphasizing service and decorations, this resort focuses on creating things for guests to do. Children often have a hard time at luxury-focused resorts, which discourage being too loud, so in some ways, this hotel is much better for children than most of the competition.

Services at Club Hotel Aguamarina include currency exchange, stroller rentals, an on-site supermarket for meals, free cots, daily room cleaning, and even medical service. International television is available, while the dining areas have snacks like chicken nuggets, onion rings, and fruit.

As if all this wasn’t enough reason to choose Club Hotel Aguamarina, it’s set on a quiet beach with fewer visitors and priced competitively. This hotel has many options and entertainments that aren’t available at more luxury-focused resorts, so if you’re looking for fun more than pure comfort, this is an excellent place to start looking.

Iberostar’s Lanzarote Park location is an affordable five-star resort with a wide selection of different rooms to meet different needs. Families will want to focus on the aptly-named Family Rooms, which have two twin beds and two sofa beds. These rooms come with several view options, and the unlimited purified water is a nice touch.

The Lanzarote Park resort is also great for food lovers, with two on-site restaurants and five bars. Entertainment for children includes a special park, an activities program, waterslides, a miniature disco area, a games room, and more. Few resorts can boast the same number or quality of kid-friendly options as Lanzarote Park.

Iberostar is actively working to support a circular economy, in part by removing all single-use plastics and replacing them with either compostable or reusable options. They also use renewable energy sources and have electric-car charging stations if you happen to have one of those.

This resort has a full array of luxury options at different price points, so it’s available even to budget-focused travelers. Most five-star resorts focus on the wealthiest travelers, so Lanzarote Park’s wider spread and huge array of services make it a solid contender for any list of destinations.

The Grand Palladium Palace may not look too much like a castle, but this five-star family-friendly location is a great place on the coast of Ibiza. Family visits start with the Superior rooms, which can hold two adults and one child, though suites sleeping up to six guests are available if needed.

Services here include several pools, each of which has child-friendly areas to ensure even younger visitors can enjoy them. The pool in the Mini Club is particularly appropriate for younger swimmers, while older guests can enjoy massages and umbrellas that help block out the sun.

The Baby Club is an extra service for children starting from one year old. Run by nannies with experience in childcare, this service provides recreational and educational activities for up to two hours at a time, giving you a chance to relax elsewhere. 

Dining options at the Grand Palladium Palace include Italian, Mexican, and Mediterranean dishes as the highlights, with a few international selections at La Sal. That last restaurant has opportunities for chefs to cook right in front of you, providing added entertainment with your meal. A large selection of bars, including some with American fare, complete the list.

Overall, the Grand Palladium Palace has an excellent selection of food, rooms, and child-friendly entertainment. With those factors in mind, it ranks comfortably among the best family resorts in Spain.

If that name sounds a little unusual for a resort, it’s not just you. The Magic in the name is the resort brand, while Robin Hood is the specific location.

Magic Robin Hood is a medieval-themed destination based on the classic stories of Robin Hood. A combination of luxury hotel and water park, this location features numerous large slides, a huge pool, zip lines, a climbing wall, archery, mini-golf, a wooden castle, and even electronic entertainment.

Kids will have plenty to keep them occupied here, so you can spend the entire vacation without leaving the resort. Adults aren’t ignored, though, and can enjoy a spa, a lounge, and several special theme bars.

Magic Robin Hood knows its clientele, and its options cater heavily to travelers with children. It has some options for large families, but it also has services that cater to single parents. Many hotels focus exclusively on families with both parents present, so Magic Robin Hood’s thoughtfulness here sets them apart from the crowd.

All of the resorts on this list are excellent destinations, but Magic Robin Hood stands out as an exceptionally good option. Its mix of large play areas, modern entertainment, and family-friendly atmosphere mean it’s safe and affordable.

Many children love dinosaurs, and if that’s true of your kid, consider picking Spa Hotel Ciudad de Teruel as your destination. It’s only a few minutes away from Dinopolis , one of the world’s largest museums of paleontology. The hotel itself has a dinosaur-themed children’s water park, complete with pools, slides, and a games room.

Cinema and disco rooms offer more fun for adults, while a large free buffet ensures you have food at any time. A thermal circuit and massage services help complete the experience.

Spa Hotel Ciudad de Teruel isn’t quite as large or luxurious as some of the other options on this list, but luxury isn’t what most kids want. Rather, it’s easier to judge this resort on its kid-friendly services, which are heavily dinosaur-themed and the primary reason to pick this over any other destination.

Hotel Rosamar Garden Resort is a four-star location in Lloret de Mar. Like Magic Robin Hood, this resort heavily emphasizes the outdoor waterpark and entertainment area. This area includes a child-friendly pool, water slides, outdoor sports, and even a multi-lane racing slide.

As the outdoor entertainments imply, this is a family-focused resort, with relevant rooms starting at sizes for one adult and one child. Although not as luxurious as some other locations, these rooms are extraordinarily affordable per night while offering access to extensive on-site entertainment options.

Most families will want to start with the double standard rooms (two adults and one child), but larger apartments are available if you want to live at the resort for a little while. Hotel Rosamar Garden Resort doesn’t have any truly luxurious furnishings, but that’s fine because it’s not a resort where you’ll want to stay inside.

This location is relatively disability-friendly. Visitors with mobility challenges may not be able to enjoy the water park to the fullest, but room features like walk-in showers provide a lot of help and support.

Fuerte Conil-Resort is a four-star location right on La Fontanilla Beach, one of the largest and best in Spain. The resort and its surrounding area emphasize classic Spanish architecture and cuisine, allowing you to enjoy Spain’s culture to the fullest while you’re there.

Rooms are spacious here, with the smallest rooms available with sofa beds on request. The family rooms fit four people normally, with an option for an extra cot if needed. The family rooms also have two separate bedrooms, allowing some extra privacy while you’re there.

One thing this resort includes that many others don’t is your choice of pillow styles. Fuerte Conil-Resort has four pillows for different sleeping styles, including those who prefer sleeping sideways, anyone who changes position a lot, and anyone who wants ergonomic pillows to support their neck.

The overall resort has six pools and a jacuzzi area. It doesn’t have an on-site golf course, but it does have discounts to nearby courses if you want to head that way. El Buche, the on-site restaurant by the pool, has a selection of tuna and rice dishes to enjoy.

The Gran Castillo Tagoro in Lanzarote is a child-friendly destination, featuring a large playground suitable for younger visitors and elaborately-lit trees that brighten up the night. The facility features six pools, including one for kids, and a dedicated playground known as Castleland. Notably, this area includes a babysitting service so you can drop kids off for a while.

Several on-site restaurants offer Italian and international fare, while an adults-only restaurant offers a space away from kids if you want to take advantage of that. It also has four bars, and many rooms have hydromassage showers to help you relax. Even better, there’s a movie theater where you can catch some of the latest releases.

Other activities include archery, bike tours, stand-up comedy shows, a game room, themed dinners, a kid-friendly buffet, free parking on-site with reservations, and a steam room. The largest rooms can hold up to four adults and two children in reasonable comfort.

The Gran Castillo Tagoro offers a solid balance of size and services at a competitive price. The base room rates are acceptable on almost any budget, though some of the activities at the resort have additional charges and that can push the pricing up.

If the name isn’t enough of a hint, Servatur’s Waikiki resort is a Hawaiian-themed four-star resort offering all-inclusive services for guests. The general rooms fit three to five people, with traditional amenities like wi-fi internet, air conditioning, and flat-screen televisions.

Food is mainly available through a buffet-style restaurant, which has three theme days each week showcasing meals from around the world. Lunch starts at 1 and dinner at 6:30, both of which are a little later than some guests are used to, so keep that in mind.

Other entertainment available here includes a movie room, a lounge specifically for teenagers, several game consoles, a stage, and several bars. Resort services include currency exchange, cleaning service, late check-out options, and baby cots available on request.

One thing to note is that this resort is a little further from the beach than some others. The water is still within comfortable walking distance for most people, but this isn’t a resort that’s immediately adjacent to the coastline. That’s an important detail if you want to relax on the sand instead of by a pool.

Best Lloret Splash is an accessible resort in Lloret de Mar with a large pool area and a respectable water park. Although not on the scale of some other resorts, the multiple slides and pirate ship playground offer a lot of space to move around and have fun.

Rooms here are also family-friendly, with many sleeping four to five people with no difficulty. Limited parking is available on-site, but you can reserve a spot if you need to park a vehicle there. Best Lloret Splash also has a paid games room with some added entertainment.

Two other details make this hotel stand out from many other resorts on this list. First, it has some gluten-free products and can cater to guests with that dietary restriction. It’s also a Heart Safety Hotel, with an AED on-site to help address medical emergencies.

Landmar’s Costa Los Gigantes is one of the best family resorts in Spain’s Canary Islands area, serving as an all-inclusive destination. Dining options are quite flexible here, with the buffet-style Tiede Restaurant including Mediterranean, Hindu, and Mexican options. The Nautilus Bar next to one of the pools offers barbecue-style lunch, while several bars offer drinks.

In the evening, children can enjoy a mini-disco area with great views. The children’s area includes a large, covered play area to explore, while plenty of seats and umbrellas give you space to relax. A luxurious spa offers another place to unwind while you’re in the area.

Room options are flexible, but visitors with younger children should consider the Landi Village room. These feature some kid-friendly gifts and activities featuring the resort’s mascot, plus reserved hammocks, extra play equipment, and more. It’s a great touch for families who want to give their kids the best experience at a resort.

Unsurprisingly, Spanish is the most-common language when you’re traveling to Spain, and you’re going to have an easier time if you’re at least modestly fluent. However, travel resorts cater to people from outside the country, so many staff members are at least passingly fluent in English.

If you’re not confident in your Spanish, consider buying a travel phrasebook. These books can help you get around and ask for help if necessary. Some people use digital phrasebooks or live translation systems, and those work, but they rely on having a charged smartphone or another device available. Physical books don’t require power and are a reliable backup.

Like many countries in Europe, Spain currently uses the Euro as its primary currency. Most upscale resorts can handle currency conversions on-site. If they can’t, they probably know several nearby places that can. Spanish resorts tend to be quite affordable, especially compared to places like Hawaii, so they’re popular among budget-focused travelers.

Most family resorts in Spain are close to the beaches, especially on its western coast. It may be a little harder to find something inland, but such resorts do exist.

Children may have a slightly tougher time going to family resorts in Spain than in some other places. They won’t be able to communicate with all employees or some other guests as easily, especially if they’re not old enough to use phrasebooks. If you’re traveling with particularly young kids, look for resorts that are specifically English-friendly.

Finally, Spain is mostly disability-friendly, with many resorts and beaches featuring flat paths or ramps to help any mobility-impaired visitors. There are still some resorts that aren’t disability-friendly, though, so make sure you check each location’s information if this is relevant to your trip.

Here are some common questions people have about visiting family resorts in Spain.

Is Spain a good place to visit with kids?

Yes. Whether you’re staying entirely within a family resort or going to explore the countryside, Spain has plenty of entertainment and activities for kids.

Make sure to double-check sleeping arrangements before you reserve a room at a hotel. Some hotels need to bring in sofa beds or child cots before you arrive.

What should I know about eating in Spain?

Eating in Spain isn’t quite like dining in some other countries. Some resorts may serve meals at times and sizes that visitors may be more familiar with, but others will maintain Spanish traditions.

In traditional areas, most people eat lunch as the largest meal of the day, and it can take as long as an hour and a half to get through it. Breakfast and dinner are much lighter, with dinner often coming past 9 PM.

Much of the country shuts down to rest after lunch, and people will often take a brief nap known as a siesta. Resorts will often continue providing services during this time, but anywhere outside the resort may shut down during the time after lunch and you should plan your activities accordingly.

Will it be too hot in Spain?

Spain is a relatively hot country, to the point that people take a siesta to help avoid working in the intense mid-afternoon heat. However, air conditioning is universal at upscale resorts, so rooms tend to stay cool. Most resorts also benefit from some cooling from their pools and water features, which makes them even more comfortable.

If you’re worried about temperatures, you can look up the average seasonal temperatures at any resort you want to visit and start planning your vacation around that.

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

Italy Family Vacations

Spain family vacations, japan family vacations, australia family vacations, 52 essential tips for a family vacation in spain.

• By CB Staff
• April 13, 2024
• 11 Min Read

Spain has always been a favorite with traveling families, and there’s no sign of a slowdown … in fact, it’s become one of our most requested destinations, on par with standbys like Italy  and France . And for good reason: Spain is as kid-friendly as it gets! Locals adore children and go out of their way to accommodate them. Pair that with the fact that so many of the country’s marquee sights — wide golden beaches, fairytale Moorish palaces, the Dr. Seuss-style works of Antonio Gaudí — seem tailor-made for kids, and the love affair becomes easy to understand. Here’s our best parent-tested advice for a magical family vacation in Spain.

Top Things to Know for a Family Vacation in Spain

General tips.

• Except in Barcelona and Madrid , the siesta is very much a part of daily life and most shops and businesses shut down from 2 to 5pm (restaurants close later, from roughly 4:30 to 8 or 9pm). Go with it! This is a built-in chance to rest or catnap (particularly when visiting Spain with toddlers who nap anyway), especially in light of the typical late dinner hours. If you’d rather stay active on your family trip to Spain, use the time to see an attraction that remains open or take a tour of outdoor sites.
• Spanish is actually a second language for those in many parts of the country — the first is the regional tongue, like Catalan or Basque. That said, most people will switch to Spanish intuitively when talking to international visitors. English is widely spoken in big cities, less so in smaller cities and towns. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases goes a long way.
• Many mom and pop stores, market vendors and food stalls don’t take credit cards, so carry cash in a variety of denominations. ATMs are plentiful and easy to find.
• You’re expected to have knees and shoulders covered when entering cathedrals or other places of worship. In the summer heat, we like to bring a light scarf or shawl to throw on over a sleeveless top.
• Babysitters are practically unheard of among locals as kids are warmly welcomed everywhere and at all hours. It’s common to see toddlers and preschoolers in restaurants or playing in city squares at 10 or 11pm.

When and Where to Go

• Andalucia , home of flamenco, orange blossoms and bullfighting, represents the Spain that most people picture, but it’s just one facet of this complex and diverse country — there are 17 regions that differ greatly in culture and character. Though some have more big-name sights than others, getting off the beaten path can be rewarding; we’ve arranged immersive experiences like surf lessons and sheep herding in out-of-the-way locations.
• The classic two-week itinerary for first-timers offers a taste of three major regions: Catalunya, Andalucia and Madrid (synonymous with the capital). Consider flying into Barcelona and taking the train to Sevilla , then on to Madrid, from which you’ll eventually fly home. You can also reverse the order and do Madrid first. All three cities make excellent home bases for a variety of day trips.
• Alternatively, with two weeks you could pair one or two places in Spain with Morocco — easy to reach by air — for an engaging cultural contrast. You could also combine Spain and Portugal , but their train systems don’t link up well; plane or car is a much easier way to get to a base like Lisbon or Porto.
• Andalucia is blazing hot from May through September. That doesn’t mean you have to skip it if summer is the only time you can travel; just do your exploring early in the day before the heat spikes and take the afternoon to cool off.
• With an unbelievable number of Michelin-starred restaurants in a small radius, San Sebastian is a magnet for foodie families. In warmer months, the beaches in this part of Basque country are a draw as well.
• The famous Running of the Bulls in Pamplona takes place each July. It’s a full week of celebrations and the streets are absolute chaos day and night. If you want to watch, we suggest doing it from the safety of a balcony (contact us for help booking this). There are plenty of kids’ events during the festival that allow families to get in on the fun.
• Semana Santa, or Holy Week, spans the week leading up to Easter. This is the biggest religious holiday of the year, with elaborate processions and more. Availability is at its lowest and prices at their highest; plan accordingly. Certain shops, restaurants and attractions may shut down for part or all of the week as well.
• Spanish beaches differ greatly among the various coasts, from seasonality and crowd levels to facilities. Use our guide to help you figure out the best fit for a seaside escape.
• Mallorca is our favorite of Spain’s islands for kids. With a wide range of family accommodations, clear and calm blue water, and a wealth of beautiful beaches, what’s not to love? It also belongs on a list of the b est Spain holidays for toddlers, particularly compared to European beaches that are less safe for young kids.
• Active families with older children might consider traversing the Camino de Santiago , the ancient pilgrims’ walk that attracts people of all ages and stages from around the world. There are many different starting points from which you can get a taste of the experience, depending on your time and stamina. The walk ends at the famous Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, reputed burial place of Saint James the Great.

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Accommodations

• Instead of purpose-built hotels, consider staying in one of Spain’s many government-run paradors, upscale accommodations in historic buildings such as convents, monasteries and castles. There’s even a parador on the grounds of the Alhambra .
• There is no “best” neighborhood to stay in Barcelona; it comes down to personal preference and where you plan to spend the bulk of your time. We have favorite properties on the water, such as Hotel Arts , a modern skyscraper-style hotel with gorgeous sea views; and Hotel Majestic , in the tony Eixample district farther inland. If you want to be a little farther off the beaten path, consider Gràcia, a family-friendly district with a very local feel near Gaudí’s Park Guell.
• In Madrid, our top neighborhood pick is Salamanca, a leafy, upscale area that sits near must-sees like El Retiro Park and the Palacio Real (Royal Palace). Consider Hotel Palacio del Retiro , well positioned for exploring the best of the city.
• Hotels in major cities can be expensive, especially in desirable neighborhoods. Standalone apartments are well priced and give you a taste of living like a local. Always book through a reputable agency; we maintain a list of vetted apartment rental companies all over Spain as part of our trip planning service.
• If you are headed to southern Spain in the hot months, prioritize accommodations with air conditioning and a pool. Trust us on this!

Activities and Sightseeing

• Planning to tour Park Guell, La Sagrada Familia, the Alhambra or other huge attractions? Check ticket requirements and book online to save time. Both La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell require timed entry tickets bought in advance. The Alhambra issues tickets in three batches (a year out, three months out, and one month out); these are in high demand, so book as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
• Hire a family-friendly guide for the Alhambra to maximize the experience. The palace is rich with history and symbolism that would otherwise be lost on kids.
• Madrid’s top two art museums, the Prado and the Reina Sofia, are free to enter most evenings and during certain weekend hours and holidays (kids under 18 are always free). You still have to wait in line for a ticket, so arrive early.
• Almost all cities and towns have wonderful parks and plazas where kids can run and play. Bonus: Bring a soccer ball to kick around and you’ll have instant companions.
• If your schedule in Barcelona allows, see the local castells — a Catalan tradition that goes back at least 200 years. Skilled participants called castellers arrange themselves into human towers several tiers high, often with young kids at the very top. The action happens right on the street with the crowd cheering them on … not to be missed!
• Flamenco was born in Andalucia, and this is the region in which to see a show. Quality can vary, so ask your concierge for recommendations or work with your Family Travel Advisor to book.
• Our favorite place for a bike tour is Sevilla due to the reliably good weather and the flat terrain. Barcelona is a close second.

Food and Drink

• The Spanish dine late. Most restaurants don’t open for dinner until 8 or 8:30pm; even then, locals will not start coming in until 9pm. Lunch, eaten between 1:30 and 4:30pm, is typically the main meal of the day.
• Restaurants usually offer a midday menu del dia, or prix fixe lunch menu, that includes several choices each for a first course, main course with side, and dessert, plus coffee and wine or a soft drink. For about 13€ to 14€ per person, it’s one of the best food deals in Europe.
• Tapas, Spain’s version of bar snacks, stave off hunger until dinnertime and can easily make a meal for kids who need to eat early. It’s fine to bring kids into busy tapas bars, though jostling amid the crowds may intimidate novices. One strategy is to book a tapas-hopping tour and let a guide show you the ropes.
• Pintxos (pronounced “pinchos”) are the Basque cousin to tapas; they usually consist of a slice of bread and toppings secured with a toothpick. Local culture dictates moving from bar to bar and sampling one or two at each, rather than staying put at a single venue.
• For many visitors, paella is synonymous with Spain. It’s native to Valencia on the southern coast, and that is far and away the best place — some would say the only place — to sample it. Although it appears on menus elsewhere in the country, the quality can be subpar. Instead, go with the specialties of the region you are visiting; Spain’s cuisine is wonderfully nuanced and varied.
• Children’s menus are rare, but ubiquitous dishes like tortilla española (egg and potato omelet), patatas bravas (crisp potatoes with creamy dipping sauce), ham and cheese croquetas (fritters), pan con tomate (fresh bread rubbed with garlic and tomatoes) and bocadillos (simple baguette sandwiches) are perfect for picky eaters.
• Spain’s cities have fabulous markets that are ideal for grazing or putting together a picnic. La Boqueria in Barcelona, Mercado San Miguel in Madrid and Mercado de Feria in Sevilla are the best known and well worth a visit, but check out smaller, less touristed markets too. Or take a cooking class that incorporates a market shopping trip — always a hit with kids.
• Menus often list the same dish multiple ways: as a tapa, a racion (full portion) or a media racion (half portion). Be sure to indicate clearly which one you want.
• Jamon, or specially cured and dry-aged ham, is a source of national pride and a cornerstone of the Spanish diet. It is freshly cut at the venue where it’s served, and you’ll see giant legs of jamon hung in restaurants, cones filled with paper-thin slices on display at markets, slivers served as tapas and tucked into bocadillos … in short, everywhere. You can find ample vegetarian and vegan dining in the larger cities, but choices are limited elsewhere, so it’s smart to research your options ahead of time.
• The quintessential Spanish dessert is churros con chocolate: sugary strips of fried dough dipped in hot chocolate as thick as pudding. Indulge freely!
• Most restaurants serve sangria, but locals consider it a tourist drink. Instead, ask for tinto de verano (red wine and lemon soda on ice) or try one of the many excellent Spanish wines and beers.
• Brush up on coffee lingo: cafe solo is straight espresso; cafe cortado is espresso with a dash of milk; cafe con leche is half milk and half espresso. If you usually take sugar, try a cafe bombon, made with sweetened condensed milk. And if you want a paper cup to go, say “para llevar.”
• Madrid has some of the best tap water in the world. Request agua del grifo in restaurants to avoid paying for bottled water.

Getting Around

• Spain’s national rail system, called Renfe, is modern, well-maintained and efficient. High-speed AVE trains can zip you across the country in a blink — it takes just 2 1/2 hours to get from Madrid to Barcelona.
• In major cities, there’s no need for a car as public transport is convenient and inexpensive, and driving and parking are a nightmare. For exploring the countryside, it’s helpful to have your own wheels, especially if you want to visit places like the Costa Brava in Catalunya, the Galicia region on the northwest coast, or the villages of Andalucia.
• Advance train reservations are a smart idea, especially for long-distance AVE routes that tend to sell out.
• Children under 6 can travel for free by rail, though they still require a reservation. Kids age 7 to 14 usually pay 60 percent of the adult fare, and there are lesser discounts available for 14- to 25-year-olds.
• Gas stations can be few and far between along the highways. Fill your tank and stock up on snacks before you get beyond city limits, and plan meal breaks around the siesta schedule.

For Babies and Toddlers

• Spanish pharmacies and supermarkets carry essentials like diapers, formula, baby food and sunscreen, though not with the same variety you may be used to. If you need a specific brand, bring it with you. Make note of store hours too, since many are closed on Sundays.
• While it’s always worth asking, many restaurants lack high chairs, even in the cities. Just tuck the stroller next to the table and let your baby lounge or nap while (with luck) you eat in peace.
• Baby changing facilities are hard to come by, so it’s smart to pack a changing mat. The good news is that no one will look askance at a parent discreetly changing a diaper in public.
• Servers in bars and restaurants will generally be happy to heat a bottle or warm up baby food for you.
• Bring or buy a lightweight umbrella stroller for ease of navigating subway stations, museums and crowded sidewalks. If you are visiting a place with cobbled streets or lots of hills, like Toledo, a backpack carrier will come in handy too.
• Most car rental offices will supply car seats, but there is no way to vouch for the quality — we always suggest traveling with your own.

Relevant Links:

Browse all accommodations and activities in Spain on Ciao Bambino

10 amazing things to do in Spain with kids

Andalucia: The best of iconic Spain with kids

Tips for planning a family road trip through southern Spain

How to choose the right Spain beach vacation with kids

Start a Discussion

I love the traditional Spanish culture in Andalusia, the energy in Madrid and the magical vibes in Barcelona. My next stop in Spain is San Sebastian- a heaven for foodies and I’ve heard they have blue wine there?!?

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Home > Itineraries > 7 Day Family Tour

7-Day Family Tour in Spain

Expert guides, luxury vehicles, your 7-day family tour of spain.

Are you looking to experience the best of Spain while keeping kids both young and old entertained and engaged? Our 7-day Family tour itinerary is for you.

Whether you are looking to explore the bustling city of Barcelona, the Royal touch of Madrid, or visit ancient historical sites, we have something for every member of your family to enjoy. 

With our personalized approach and expert knowledge of the region, we will help you plan the perfect family vacation in Spain. Contact us today to start planning your dream family tour .

Highlights Include:

• Madrid With Kids Tour
• Toledo Day Trip
• Tapas & Market tour
• Barcelona City & Chocolate Museum
• Helicopter Ride

What’s Included?

• Exclusive skip-the-line access to all major sites
• English-Speaking Expert Local Guides
• Private tours and luxury vehicles for transfers
• Select Central Luxury Accommodations
• 24-7 Emergency Help

Day 1: Arrival & Evening Meal in Madrid

As you arrive at Madrid airport, you and your family will be greeted by your friendly chauffeur holding a sign with your name on it, so you’ll easily be able to spot them in the crowd! 

After introductions, your driver will take you to your Madrid-based accommodation.

The drive to your accommodation will give you and your family the chance to take in the sights and sounds of Madrid. You’ll see the bustling city streets and maybe even catch a glimpse of some of the city’s famous landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and the Puerta del Sol.

Once you arrive at your accommodation, your guide will help you get settled and answer any questions you may have about the city and your upcoming tour. You’ll have some time to relax and unwind before setting off for a stroll around the town and enjoying your evening meal.

Dinner With The Family in Madrid

Enjoy some delicious Spanish food at one of Madrid’s many child-friendly restaurants. 

Casa Mingo, La Mallorquina, and La Bella Easo are all popular options that are known for their kid-friendly atmosphere and tasty menu options.

Casa Mingo is a particularly great option for families with young children. The restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. In addition, the staff at Casa Mingo are known for their friendly and accommodating attitude, making the dining experience enjoyable for the whole family. 

La Mallorquina is another excellent choice, with its fun and colorful decor and a menu that features a variety of tasty Spanish dishes. And at La Bella Easo, families can enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 

Whether you’re in the mood for tapas, paella, or something else entirely, these restaurants are sure to have something to satisfy everyone’s tastes.

Stay overnight in Madrid

Day 2: Exploring Madrid With The Kids

Exploring Madrid with kids can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. The city is filled with fascinating sights and attractions that are sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. Some popular destinations for families with kids include the Parque del Retiro, the Museo Nacional del Prado, and the Royal Palace. In addition to these attractions, Madrid is also home to several theme parks, such as Parque Warner Madrid, which offer exciting rides and shows for kids.

Prado Museum

The Museo Nacional del Prado is a fantastic destination for families with children. The museum has an incredible collection of art, including works by some of Spain’s most famous artists such as Diego Velázquez and Francisco de Goya. The museum’s collection is not only fascinating, but it is also beautifully presented, making it a joy to explore.

In addition to its impressive art collection, the Museo Nacional del Prado also offers a range of family-friendly activities and tours. These activities and tours are designed to make the museum experience fun and engaging for kids, while also teaching them about the art and the artists who created it. For example, the museum offers scavenger hunts, hands-on art workshops, and even virtual reality tours that let kids explore the museum in a whole new way. With so much to see and do, the Museo Nacional del Prado is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

Retiro Park

The Parque del Retiro is a beautiful park in the center of Madrid that is perfect for families with kids. The park has a wide range of fun and exciting activities that are sure to keep kids entertained for hours. For example, there is a large playground where kids can run, climb, and play to their hearts’ content. There are also paddle boats available for rent, so kids can take a leisurely ride on the park’s picturesque lake.

In addition to these activities, the Parque del Retiro also has some fascinating sights to see. One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Palacio de Cristal, a stunning glass palace that was built in the 19th century. The palace is surrounded by a beautiful garden, making it the perfect spot for a picnic or a peaceful stroll.

Royal Palace Tour or Parque Warner Theme Park

Depending on the age of your kids, you may choose either a private guided tour of The Royal Palace, or take the family for a fun day out to the Parque Warner Theme Park.

The Royal Palace is one of Madrid’s most popular attractions, and a private tour would make it a great destination for families with children with the guide tailoring the experience to the children’s interests. The palace is filled with stunning works of art and architectural features, making it a fascinating and educational place to visit.

Alternatively, Parque Warner is a fantastic theme park that offers a wide range of rides, shows, and attractions for kids of all ages. At the park, kids can experience the thrill of the roller coasters, see their favorite characters come to life in the live shows, and explore the many themed areas of the park. Some of the park’s most popular attractions include Superman: Escape, Batman: The Ride, and the Looney Tunes River Adventure.

Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo

Join your private driver in the morning as you make the short 50-minute scenic drive to the historic town of Toledo.

We will meet our private guide at the entrance of Toledo to begin our exploration of this historic city. 

As the first capital of the Spanish Empire, Toledo is filled with impressive monuments and landmarks. During our tour, we will discover the magnificent Cathedral (from the outside), the old Palace of Justice, the Town Hall, and the old Jewish quarter. 

We will be blown away by the stunning views of the city from over the Tagus River, and we will start our tour with a nice walk through Toledo with our expert local guide. We will continue our walk through the old Jewish quarter, with its narrow streets and fascinating history. By the end of the tour, we will have gained a deep understanding and appreciation of Toledo’s rich history and culture.

Toledo Sword Factory

For centuries, Toledo has been known for its high-quality swords, which were praised throughout Europe during the Middle Ages. 

At the Toledo Sword Factory, visitors can watch local craftsmen transform steel into impressive swords, helmets, and other weaponry. This is a truly unique and fascinating experience, and it is sure to be a hit with kids who are interested in history and medieval weapons!

Zip-line in Toledo

At the Puente San Martin, you will have the opportunity to experience the longest zip line in Europe. 

This thrilling jump will take you soaring high above the landscape, providing breathtaking views and an unforgettable rush of excitement. And to make the experience even more memorable, you will receive a photo of your jump to cherish and share with your friends and family.

Return to Madrid with your private driver to stay overnight.

Day 4: Transfer to Barcelona & Tapas Tour

In the morning, meet your private driver at your Madrid-based accommodation and get transferred to the railway station. From there, hop on a high-speed train to Barcelona. The train ride will take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, during which you will be able to sit back and relax, enjoying the beautiful Spanish countryside as you travel. 

Upon arrival in Barcelona, your driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel, where you can check in and begin exploring the city.

Tapas & Barcelona Market Tour

On this Tapas Tour, you will be able to experience the rich culinary traditions of Spain and Catalonia in a delicious and unforgettable way. 

You will meet your knowledgeable guide and begin your tour of the best tapas bars and restaurants in Barcelona, where you will have the opportunity to taste some of the most delicious local specialties. As you explore the city’s vibrant local markets and amazing food scene, your guide will provide insights into the flavors of the cuisine, the wines (soft drinks for the kids!), and the Spanish culture.

During the tour, you will visit three different bars, where you will be treated to a selection of three delicious tapas paired with drinks. Your guide will help you choose the best dishes and show you how to order tapas, so you can experience the true flavors of Spain.

Day 5: Barcelona City Tour & Chocolate Museum

During your 4-hour city tour of Barcelona, you will have the comfort and convenience of a private driver at your disposal. 

You will start by visiting Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, a monumental masterpiece of architecture that is still under construction more than 100 years after it began. Next, you will head to Paseo de Gracia, an elegant avenue in the heart of the city, where you will see the four jewels of modernist architecture: the Casa Lleó Morera, the Casa Amatller, the Casa Batlló, and the Casa Milá (La Pedrera).

On your way to the port, you will have the opportunity to admire either the Colon Monument or the long beach of Barceloneta. You will end your tour at the top of Montjuic Hill, where you will find parks, museums, the 1992 Olympic Ring, and spectacular views of the city.

Barcelona Chocolate Museum Tour

The Chocolate Museum is the perfect destination for families who may have a bit of a sweet tooth! During your visit, you will be able to explore the history of cocoa and learn about its journey from cultivation to the delicious treat that it is today. 

The museum preserves some truly unique artwork made with chocolate, and it also offers an interactive experience where you can see the manufacturing process firsthand.

One of the highlights of the Chocolate Museum is taking the opportunity to make your own chocolate sweets, which you can take home as a tasty souvenir. 

Stay overnight in Barcelona.

Day 6: Barcelona By Air & Sea!

Time for the family to enjoy spectacular views of Barcelona in a couple of unusual ways!

Start the morning by stepping into a helicopter to enjoy sweeping views of the city before stepping onto a private boat to sail along the coast.

Before settling down for the evening the kids will have the opportunity to design their own mosaic as an extraordinary keepsake of their family holiday in Spain.

Barcelona Helicopter Trip

A helicopter experience in Barcelona is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the city from above. As you soar through the skies, you will be treated to stunning aerial views of Barcelona’s famous landmarks and breathtaking landscapes.

During the helicopter experience, you will have the chance to fly over the city’s iconic sights, such as the Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, and the Montjuïc Castle. You will also have the opportunity to see the city’s beautiful beaches and stunning coastline from a unique perspective.

In addition to the breathtaking views, you will also have the chance to experience the thrill of flying in a helicopter. As you glide through the air, you will feel the rush of the wind and the exhilaration of soaring above the city.

Private Boat Experience

A boat experience in Barcelona is a wonderful way to explore the city from a unique perspective. As you glide along the Mediterranean Sea, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the city’s iconic skyline, including the Sagrada Familia, the Torre Agbar, and the Colón Tower. You will also have the chance to see some of the city’s beautiful beaches and charming waterfront neighborhoods.

During the boat experience, you will have the option to sit back and relax, soaking up the sun and taking in the sights, or you may choose to participate in fun and engaging activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. You can even enjoy a delicious meal or refreshing drink onboard as you take in the beautiful surroundings.

Trencadis Mosaic Workshop

In the Trencadis Workshop, kids will be introduced to the fascinating world of mosaic art. With a history dating back over 5000 years, a mosaic is a unique form of “stone painting” that involves breaking ceramic tiles or other materials into small pieces and arranging them to form a pattern or image.

Antoni Gaudi, a famous Catalan architect, used this technique in a new and innovative way, giving his buildings colorful and artistic facades. In the workshop, kids will have the opportunity to learn about Gaudi’s work and the trencadís technique he popularized.

Under the guidance of their private teacher, kids will be shown how to use glass and enameled pottery to create their own mosaic masterpieces. They will have the chance to experiment with different colors and patterns, and their teacher will provide assistance and support throughout the process.

At the end of the workshop, kids will have their own unique piece of mosaic art to take home and display proudly.

Overnight in Barcelona

Day 7: Airport Transfer or Onto Costa Brava

Today your family tour of Spain itinerary draws to a close.

You have the option of your private chauffeur delivering you and your baggage to the airport for the flight home, or you may wish to make the 1.5 hr journey to the sunkissed, golden sand beaches of the Costa Brava for some well-deserved R&R on the coast.

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Contact Us About A Custom Family Tour in Spain

Our team of experienced tour guides will work with you to create a personalized itinerary that meets the unique needs and interests of your family. 

From exploring the vibrant streets of Barcelona to hiking in the beautiful Spanish countryside, we have something for all ages to enjoy. Contact us today to start planning your dream family vacation in Spain.

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13 Best Family Holiday Destinations in Spain

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: June 13, 2023

Planning to visit Spain with your family? Here are the 13 best family holiday destinations in Spain that you must not miss visiting during your stay! 

For many reasons, including its stunningly well-preserved architecture and historical landmarks, Mediterranean climate, diversified landscape, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant culture, Spain is a top destination choice for tourists.

Therefore, this blog post discusses the thirteen best family holiday destinations in Spain that are sure to make your vacation in Spain unforgettable. These are some of the well-liked tourist attractions that people have long admired.

So if you want to experience Spain’s distinctive culture and lifestyle and learn about its heritage, include these tourist sites in your bucket list.

Best Family Holiday Destinations in Spain

1. La Malvarrosa Beach

La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the best family holiday destinations in Spain, among many other Valencia beaches.

Visitors are drawn to this beach primarily for its gorgeous golden sand and because of its easy accessibility and convenient location.

So, if you are looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun with your family, you must not miss this fantastic beach destination.

It’s also an excellent spot for swimming, windsurfing, and other water sports. There are numerous restaurants and cafés located lining the shore. So you can have a refreshing drink or get a bite to eat in between having fun at the beach! 

2. Costa Brava

Do you have a limited amount of time to explore Spain? Then you must experience the breathtaking views of Costa Brava.

The Costa Brava region, located in the northeastern part of the country on the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the most beautiful and popular areas to visit.

The resort town makes for a fun day excursion because it is close to Barcelona, the Salvador Dali museum, and vineyards.

Plus, with its clear turquoise waters, rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and sandy beaches, the place is a nature lover’s paradise that you can count on for a day trip with your family if you are staying in Barcelona!

3. Puerto de Mogán, Gran Canaria

Puerto de Mogán is a must-see when visiting Gran Canaria in Spain. This picturesque port town is located on the southwest coast of Gran Canaria, a short drive from the capital, Las Palmas.

And surprisingly, due to its sophisticated network of canals and bridges, this place is often referred to as “Little Venice.”

While strolling through the town’s charming streets, you can take in breathtaking views of the mountains and the sea surrounding them.

The town has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, so finding the perfect place to stay will be no big deal. Plus, they offer some of the best fresh seafood that you must taste during your stay there.

4. Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain , and that’s no surprise considering its incredible Gaudi architecture, Mediterranean climate, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife.

Among the most well-known sights in the city are the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. There are also several opportunities to engage in the local culture, from cuisine and drinks to music and dance.

So it comes as no surprise as to why Barcelona is one of the most well-liked and Instagrammable destinations in Europe .

You’ll also find Barcelona an excellent base for exploring other parts of Spain, with easy access to the rest of the country by train or plane.

Cordoba is a city in southern Spain that was once the capital of an Islamic caliphate. The city’s architecture reflects its diverse history, with Roman, Moorish, and Renaissance influences.

The Mezquita, a mosque that was eventually transformed into a cathedral, is the most well-known structure in Cordoba.

Other notable sights include the Alcazar, a palace built by the Moorish rulers, and the Casa de Sefarad, a museum dedicated to the city’s Jewish history.

Cordoba is also known for its traditional Spanish cuisine, particularly its dishes made with Cordoba ham. If you are visiting Cordoba, don’t forget to try out the famous cuisines they offer.

Calonge, a municipality in the Costa Brava region, has all the hallmarks of a classic Spain vacation. The city includes some stunning architectural pieces and the villages of Calonge, Sant Antoni de Calonge, and Platja d’Aro.

In addition to its beautiful natural surroundings, Calonge has a wide range of entertainment options for tourists of all ages.

So, regardless of whether you are traveling with just your partner or your little kids, or even your older parents, everyone can find exciting activities to engage in, from hiking and surfing to shopping.

Therefore, Calonge is the ideal place to have a memorable family vacation.

7. La Palma

One of the best family holiday destinations in Spain is La Palma. With its black sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and stunningly clear starry nights, La Palma is a true paradise.

This island is also great for enjoying traditional Spanish food and wine and participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and surfing.

So to explore a unique Spanish holiday destination that offers adventure and relaxation, don’t forget to add La Palma to your list!

The best times to visit La Palma are often during the lean season in the spring and fall. Unlike the summer, there are fewer tourists, and the weather usually stays pleasant and sunny.

What could be more magical than spending the holidays in Madrid? The Spanish capital is renowned for its festive atmosphere, and there is no shortage of activities to enjoy.

From watching the iconic holiday parade to admiring the beautiful Christmas markets , there is something for everyone in Madrid. And, of course, a trip to Madrid wouldn’t be complete without trying some authentic Spanish food.

So whether you’re looking for a festive escape or a cultural adventure to explore with your family, be sure to add Madrid to your list of holiday destinations this year.

However, be mindful that Madrid can be very busy during the holidays. Therefore, try to plan your trips ahead of time. By doing so, you’ll be able to escape the crowds and make the most of your time in the city.

Situated in the country’s beautiful Andalusia region, Ronda city is definitely worth visiting!

One of Ronda’s most iconic and popular attractions is Puente Nuevo New Bridge. This structure spans a whopping 120 meters (nearly 390 feet) across El Tajo gorge and offers breathtaking views of the cityscape below.

There is also a chamber beneath the central arch, once used as a prison. It can be accessed through a square building that initially served as the guardhouse.

Holiday visitors can stroll along the bridge’s pathways, snap photos, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The island of Ibiza is a renowned destination for night owls, as its nightlife is unrivaled. So, you will undoubtedly appreciate the town if you have a large family of cousins.

From world-famous clubs to smaller, intimate venues, Ibiza has it all. You can even enjoy cocktails by the beach and gossip here in the middle of the night.

In addition, here, you will get lovely weather all year round, the perfect destination for a sunny getaway.

During the summer months, temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celsius, so you can enjoy days spent lounging on the beach or by the pool. Even in the winter, it’s comfortable enough outside to enjoy it without layering up.

11. El Teide

El Teide is an awe-inspiring natural wonder and ranks among the best family holiday destinations in Spain, and it’s easy to see why.

With its dramatic volcanic landscape and stunning views, this popular destination is a must-see for anyone visiting the country.

This majestic mountain stands over 12,000 feet tall and yet is surprisingly easy to reach! You can take a cable car to the top of the hill, where several restaurants and observation decks exist.

You can also take advantage of numerous hiking trails, picnicking areas, and even climbing routes to the summit. So don’t miss out – book your trip to El Teide if you visit Spain!

Toledo is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Spain. It is located in the central part of the country and is known for its medieval architecture and winding streets.

The city has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire, and several different cultures over the centuries have occupied it.

UNESCO designated Toledo as a World Heritage Site in 1986. Toledo is, therefore, worth visiting if you are interested in Spanish history or culture.

13. Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world. It is located in Seville, in the south of Spain. The Cathedral was built to honor the city’s patron saint, Santa Maria de la Sede, and showcase the power and wealth of the town.

This massive Gothic Cathedral is a true architectural masterpiece. It’s home to numerous works of art, including a famous painting by Diego Velázquez, and its bell tower is the tallest in all of Europe.

Thus, if you’re in Seville during your Spanish family holiday, don’t forget to take them to this fantastic architectural destination. It’s really worthwhile to stop by!

Depending on your interests, there are many of the best family holiday destinations in Spain to choose from. For example, if you’re looking for a beach holiday, La Malvarrosa beach and the Canary Islands are both excellent choices.

If you wish to take in the country’s exciting nightlife, Barcelona and Ibiza are definitely the places to be.

And if you’re interested in Spanish history and culture, cities like Madrid, Seville, and Toledo are worth a visit.

No matter what kind of holiday you’re looking for, Spain has something to offer. So why not start making travel plans right away?

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The Best Family Resorts in Spain for Holidays with Kids 2024

Plan the best family holidays in Spain! Find all the information and advice for your next family trip to Spain – the best destinations, beaches, family resorts, and things to do! Check out the best family resorts in Spain and take your kids on an unforgettable family vacation!

Top 30 best family hotels in Spain

We have selected the 30 best family resorts in Spain that have waterparks, playgrounds, babysitting services, and much more! These kid-friendly hotels in Spain are ideal whether you are traveling with babies, toddlers, or even teenagers, as they have multiple installations for kids of all ages! However, if you have a particular destination you want to go to, scroll down to see family hotels in different parts of Spain!

1. Royal Son Bou Family Club – The best family hotel in Spain

Location – Menorca, Spain

• Kids’ club
• Water slides
• Indoor and outdoor play areas
• Free cots available
• All-inclusive option

Royal Son Bou Family Club is a family resort in Spain located three minutes from the beach in Menorca. The hotel has two swimming pools, one of which has water slides and is suitable for kids.

The hotel has an animation team that organizes activities for the whole family and a kids’ club. There is also a tennis court, a games room and a large playground that the kids will love.

2. L’Azure Hotel 4* Sup

Location – Lloret de Mar, Spain

• Entertainment
• Full-board option

Family hotel L’Azure Hotel 4* Sup is located just a few minutes’ walk from Lloret de Mar beach. This family resort has two outdoor swimming pools and a water park for children.

L’Azure Hotel 4* Sup offers various activities for families. There is a games room, an outdoor play area, and a kids’ club. The animation team organizes daily activities for the whole family. Parents can also enjoy beauty treatments and massages at the SPA.

3. Fantasia Bahia Principe – Hotel for family holidays all year round

Location – Tenerife, Spain

• Opción todo incluido

The Bahia Principe Fantasia, one of the most renowned all-inclusive family hotels in Spain, has landed in Tenerife to bring the best of its renowned complex. The hotel offers quality services and comfort for its guests.

It is ideal for families, as it has activities and spaces to accommodate all ages. Their Kids Club has a variety of activities, from crafts and games to costume workshops, while teenagers have the Teen Club. The older ones can enjoy the gym and multisport court. The complex has five swimming pools, one of them heated, another two pools for children with waterslides, and an infinity pool for adults (+18).

4. PortAventur Hotels – Hotels with free access to the PortAventura theme park

Location – Salou, Spain

• Free and unlimited access to PortAventura park
• Free access to Ferrari Land park
• All-inclusive options

PortAventura Theme Park is a perfect place to spend your holidays with kids in Spain. And what could be better than staying inside the park?

PortAventura hotels offer free unlimited access to the PortAventura theme park, as well as one access per person to Ferrari Land. All the hotels have swimming pools and some of the hotels have SPA.

You can choose between all-inclusive, full-board, or breakfast-only options in different hotels. Here is the list of all PortAventura hotels:

• Ver PortAventura® Hotel Colorado Creek ★★★★
• Ver PortAventura Lucy’s Mansion ★★★★★
• Ver PortAventura® Hotel PortAventura ★★★★
• Ver PortAventura® Hotel El Paso ★★★★
• Ver PortAventura® Hotel Gold River ★★★★
• Ver PortAventura® Resort ★★★★
• Ver PortAventura® Hotel Caribe ★★★★

5. Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife

• Accept pets

Located in front of the beach in Costa Adeje, in a quiet area, is the Hard Rock Hotel in Tenerife. The family-friendly hotel has all the comforts to create the best travel experience. Its rooms are spacious and have air conditioning, a terrace, and a private bathroom.

The Hard Rock Hotel has a saltwater lagoon and 3 swimming pools that guests can enjoy, as well as a SPA with a thermal circuit and a wide range of treatments. In addition, you can find activities for all ages in its different facilities, as well as a variety of places to eat.

6. Hipotels Barrosa Garden

Location – Novo Sancti Petri, Spain

The Hipotels Barrosa Garden hotel offers the ideal environment for family holidays in Spain. It is located in Chiclana de la Frontera next to the Playa la Barrosa. You can also find the Novocenter shopping center and a golf course nearby.

The hotel offers everything you need to enjoy a family vacation. It has activities for both adults and children. Its pools are the ideal environment to enjoy a dream vacation: one has slides and games for children, as well as entertainment, and the other is a quiet pool perfect for relaxing.

7. Hotel RH Princesa

Location – Benidorm, Spain

• Kids’ club (high season)
• Babysitting services

Just a few minutes’ walk from Levante Beach in Benidorm, you will find the RH Princesa family resort. It is located near the L’Aigüera park and 3km from Aqualandia. Guests can enjoy the swimming pool with slides, a whirlpool, and a splash pool for the little ones.

The hotel’s playground has dozens of options, such as mini-golf, trampolines, a soccer field, a kids go-kart, and the Mini-Club with costumes, crafts, and a variety of activities for kids.

For adults, the RH Princesa fitness center and SPA will be the perfect place to relax. In addition, the hotel has a cafeteria, buffet restaurant, and private terrace in most of the rooms.

8. HD Parque Cristobal Gran Canaria

Location – Gran Canaria, Spain

HD Parque Cristóbal Gran Canaria is a holiday complex for families with kids in Spain. The hotel is a short walk from the beach in Gran Canaria and has two large swimming pools for adults and two supervised kids’ pools that have water slides.

The hotel offers a list of family activities, such as an outdoor playground or a mini club. There is also an animation team that organizes daily entertainment for adults and kids.

9. Aparthotel Costa Encantada

The Aparthotel Costa Encantada is a perfect place for a holiday with children. It is located between the sea and the mountains, just a few minutes from Lloret de Mar beach. The hotel has outdoor and indoor pools, a water park with slides, and a splash pool for toddlers.

Families can play tennis, and table tennis or try archery. There are indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as a kids’ club.

10. Gran Castillo Tagoro Family & Fun Playa Blanca

Location – Lanzarote, Spain

Located in Lanzarote, the Gran Castillo Tagoro Family & Fun Playa Blanca is a perfect place for a family vacation in Spain. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with all the necessary services to have an ideal stay, as well as beautiful views of the sea and surroundings. In addition, it is one of the best family resorts in Spain for the winter holidays, since the weather is good all year round in Lanzarote.

The complex has six swimming pools, one of which is designed for kids, and Castleland, a children’s club with different activities for the little ones. Adults can visit the VitaNova Spa and its wide selection of treatments. For dining both day and night, the resort is home to a variety of restaurants and bars, including an international buffet, a sports bar, and an adults-only restaurant and bar.

11. Gloria Palace Amadores Thalasso & Hotel

Gloria Palace Amadores Thalasso & Hotel in Gran Canaria is a perfect place for holidays with kids in Spain. This family hotel is just a 6-minute walk from the beach and has several swimming pools, one of which has water slides.

Families can play tennis, and table tennis or try archery. There is a children’s playground, a games room and a mini club. The animation team will make sure the whole family has fun!

12. Iberostar Málaga Playa

Location – Torrox Costa, Spain

Iberostar Málaga Playa is a family resort in Spain that is located on the first line of Santa Rosa beach and has direct access to the beach. This complex, surrounded by extensive gardens, has 3 swimming pools and a water park with slides and water games.

The hotel also has an indoor pool, a SPA and a gym.

There are many facilities for children, such as a playground, a mini club, a children’s disco, and other activities.

13. VIVA Cala Mesquida

Location – Majorca, Spain

The family aparthotel in Spain Viva Cala Mesquida Resort is located on the beach of Cala Mesquida in Majorca. The hotel is surrounded by gardens and has stunning views of the sea. The resort has several swimming pools and a children’s pool with a pirate ship and water slides.

Viva Cala Mesquida Resort offers many activities for families. You can play football, basketball, and mini golf or rent a bike. Children can also play in the games room or on the outdoor playground. The animation team organizes activities for the whole family.

14. Holiday World RIWO Hotel

Location – Benalmádena, Spain

Located in the heart of the Costa del Sol, the Holiday World RIWO Hotel is designed to be enjoyed by the family in Spain. The complex has a buffet restaurant and 3 bars, one by the pool, another sports bar, and one at night.

The family resort has swimming pools, both outdoor and indoor, as well as a SPA that offers a wide range of services. For the little ones, in addition to the pool designed for them, the hotel has a leisure area, where there will be entertainers. Adults can also enjoy a recreational area for them.

15. Magic Robin Hood – Family resort in Spain for an adventurous holiday

Location – El Albir, Spain

• Themed hotel

If you are looking to immerse yourself in a different world, go ahead and enjoy the first medieval resort in Europe: Magic Robin Hood. It is located in Alfaz del Pi and is ideal for those looking for family vacations in Spain.

For the adventurous, the water park, with its variety of pools and slides and the multi-adventure area, will be the most entertaining part of the trip. For those who prefer technology, the Game Experience room will allow you to access the latest gaming technologies. While the children have fun, the exclusive areas for adults are available: themed bars, the Lady Marian SPA, or the Crusades Chill Out.

16. Hotel del Juguete – Best themed hotel in Spain

Location – Ibi, Spain

• Kids’ pool

Located in Ibi, the Hotel del Juguete is a perfect place to live a unique experience. With colorful interiors and toy themes, children and adults alike will be able to enjoy this environment designed specifically for them. It is the ideal hotel to spend time with the family and enjoy with the little ones.

Hotel del Juguete is a hotel designed by and for children, full of entertainment on every corner and activities for all ages. It has a 24-hour reception and a restaurant that serves typical dishes from the area, made with regional products. In our opinion, it is one of the best-themed hotels for kids in Spain.

17. Grand Palladium Palace

Location – Ibiza, Spain

Grand Palladium Palace family resort in Spain is located in Playa d’en Bossa, Ibiza. It is a paradise to enjoy with the family. The hotel has a SPA with all services, as well as bars and buffets distributed throughout the complex.

For the little ones, there are activities in the pools, with entertainment for kids during the day and at night. It has a mini-club and a junior club, where children are guaranteed to have fun. For adults, there are activities such as Zumba and aerobics, among other water and land sports.

18. Elba Lanzarote Royal Village

The Elba Lanzarote Royal Village family resort in Spain is located on the island of Lanzarote, in Playa Blanca. Its location is ideal to enjoy everything the island has to offer, from the beauty of its towns to its beaches. Just 5 minutes from the hotel, you can find Playa Dorada and about 15 minutes on foot Playa Flamingo.

The complex has all the services to make your stay comfortable so that you can enjoy your days to the fullest. Furthermore, it has swimming pools and a children’s area, perfect for those traveling as a family. You can enjoy its SPA, as well as take yoga, Zumba, as well as Pilates classes at the gym.

19. Sol Principe

Location – Torremolinos, Spain

The Sol Principe family-friendly hotel is perfect for those looking to stay with their kids. The children’s pool, the playground, and the innovative Katmandu Adventures promise to keep the little ones entertained, while adults enjoy the pools and jacuzzis.

The hotel’s buffet restaurant has an impressive view of the sea and a terrace, as well as a buffet in the pool area in summer. The hotel is located in Torremolinos and has direct access to the promenade and Playamar beach, where you will find numerous options of beach bars to enjoy.

20. Globales Los Patos Park

The Globales Los Patos Park family-friendly hotel in Spain. It’s a 4-star hotel located a few steps from the Benalmádena promenade. This hotel is an ideal place for those seeking the comfort of a hotel with the fun of a water park. It has four swimming pools, of which two have slides, a children’s playground, and a mini-club. The hotel also has entertainment both during the day and at night. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a full bathroom, so you can rest comfortably after a day of activities. In our opinion, it is one of the best family hotels in Spain.

21. Pirates Village

Location – Mallorca, Spain

• Themed aparthotel

Pirates Village is a pirate-themed holiday resort for families with children in Spain. It is located just a few minutes from the Santa Ponsa beach in Majorca and has several swimming pools with slides and water games.

The toddler-friendly hotel has many activities for the little ones, such as a mini club, a games room, and a cinema room. The entertainment staff organizes activities for all ages including magic shows, live music, and much more.

22. Sol Katmandu Park & Resort

Sol Katmandu Park & Resort is a family complex in Majorca within a theme park. This child-friendly hotel has two swimming pools, including one for children.

The whole family will have free access to the wide range of attractions at the Katmandu theme park, including a water park, a soft play adventure area, and a 4D cinema. There is also an entertainment program for children, a kids’ club, and play areas.

You can choose the all-inclusive option and enjoy delicious meals at the resort’s restaurant.

23. Mediterraneo Bay Hotel & Resort

Location – Roquetas de Mar, Spain

Mediterraneo Bay Hotel & Resort is the perfect resort for a family vacation in Spain! It is located on the beachfront and also has a water park with water slides and games for children.

The hotel has an entertainment team that organizes activities for the whole family, as well as a kids’ club.

You can choose the all-inclusive option and enjoy delicious meals in several of the hotel’s restaurants and bars.

24. Magic Tropical Splash

Location – Cala de Finestrat, Spain

• Accepts pets

Finestrat’s Magic Tropical Splash is the perfect option for those who want to travel as a family in Spain. The aparthotel is located 3 minutes from Playa de la Cala and 6 km from Benidorm.

Its All Inclusive and Ultra All Inclusive options are for those who want to fully enjoy all the hotel’s amenities: the buffets and food trucks, the ice cream cart, and the iconic Pirate’s Tavern.

The complex has a state-of-the-art water park, ideal for enjoying with the family. With slides, a Children’s Splash area, and a pirate ship of more than 10 meters, the little ones are guaranteed fun on vacation.

25. Carema Club Resort

• Inside and outside play areas
• Half-board option

In the north of Menorca is located the Carema Club Resort. Its two outdoor pools and the water park with slides and games are ideal for families to enjoy. You can also enjoy other water activities at the center located in the complex.

The family complex has Vistamar, a buffet restaurant with shows and a children’s menu, and Marlet Playa restaurant, which offers Mediterranean dishes.

26. Hotel Colonial Mar

Hotel Colonial Mar is a family friendly resort in Spain that has a large pool with water slides and a small toddlers’ pool with water games.

There is an entertainment team that performs shows and live music, and a mini-club for children. The little ones can also play on the indoor or outdoor playgrounds.

27. Hotel THe Lago Taurito

The Lago Taurito is one of the best family resorts in Spain! This kid-friendly hotel is located one minute from Taurito beach in Gran Canaria. The hotel has several swimming pools and a water park that your children will love.

The Lago Taurito offers a wide range of activities for families, including mini golf, bowling, tennis, archery, and much more. There is a kids’ club and a playground. The animation team organizes daily entertainment for all ages.

28. Hotel Best Cap Salou

Best Cap Salou is a kid-friendly hotel in Spain a few steps from the beach in Salou. The hotel offers several swimming pools and a water park with water slides and water games.

Your kids will love the activities at the kids’ club, and there’s also a game room where the whole family can play. Parents can enjoy massages and beauty procedures at the SPA.

29. Magic Aqua Rock Gardens – Best waterpark hotel in Spain

The Magic Aqua Rock Garden hotel is one of the best places for family vacations in Spain. It is located in Benidorm, just 2 minutes from Levante beach, on the outskirts of the city center. It has two pools, waterslides, and a wet bar to order something to drink without having to get out of the water. You can relax by the pool, even at lunch, since it has an informal buffet, open during the day. You can also enjoy the spa (+16), and for those interested in technology and gaming, the Game Experience room is available.

30. Ohtels Carabela Beach & Golf – Family-friendly resort in Spain

Ohtels Carabela Beach & Golf is a family resort in Spain just a few minutes from the beach of Matalascañas in Andalusia. The hotel has a water park with large water slides for adults and older children and smaller slides for toddlers.

In addition to the kids’ and adult pools, there are many other activities for families. The hotel has mini-golf, bowling, and table tennis. There is also an outdoor playground and a games room. Furthemore, the animation team has a daily entertainment program.

All-inclusive family resorts in Spain

The best way to enjoy your holidays is to forget all your worries at home! Not having to think about where and what to eat every day will make your holidays stress-free and even more relaxing.

We have marked the family resorts in Spain that offer the all-inclusive option. Just take a look at the main features next to each hotel.

Why should you choose family resorts in Spain?

Spain is well known for its good weather, amazing beaches, and cities full of culture! Whether you are looking for beach holidays in Spain or a city break with the family it is an ideal country for that.

It can also offer multiple activities for families, such as water parks, theme parks, and much more. In addition, there are family resorts in Spain that have all that in the hotels’ territory, and what can be better than that?

What are the prices of family hotels in Spain?

The prices of family-friendly hotels in Spain can vary depending on the season, destination, and meal options. All-inclusive hotels tend to be the most expensive. However, choosing this option can help you save money, as it includes all drinks and food, so you know exactly how much you are spending on your trip.

The best family holiday destinations in Spain

Do you want to go on family vacations in Spain but don’t know where? There are many amazing family hotels in Spain, and we have collected all the information about the different locations!

Take a look at the best holiday destinations in Spain.

The Best Family Hotels and Resorts in Benidorm 2024

Best Family Hotels in Madrid for Holidays with Kids in 2024

Best Family Hotels in Valencia for Holidays with Kids in 2024

Best Family Hotels in Salou for Holidays with Kids in 2024

Best Family Hotels in Alicante for Holidays with Kids in 2024

The Best Family Resorts in Costa Brava

Best Family Hotels in Barcelona for Holidays with Kids in 2024

Best Family Hotels in Fuerteventura for Holidays with Kids

Best Family Hotels in Tenerife for Holidays with Kids in 2024

Best Family Hotels in Lanzarote for Holidays with Kids in 2024

Best Family Hotels in Gran Canaria for Holidays with kids in 2024

Best Family Hotels in the Canary Islands for Holidays with Kids

Best Family Hotels in Menorca for Holidays with Kids in 2024

Best Family Hotels in Majorca for Holidays with Kids in 2024

15 Best Family Hotels in Ibiza for Holidays with Kids in 2024

Best Family Hotels in the Balearic Islands for Holidays in 2024

Best Family Hotels in Costa del Sol for Holidays with Kids

The Best Family Resorts in Malaga for Holidays with Kids 2024

Different types of family resorts in spain.

Are you looking for something different for your family holidays in Spain? We have created lists of family hotels that have different features, like waterpark hotels, themed hotels and etc., to make it easier for you to plan special family trips!

The Best Waterpark Hotels in Spain in 2024

Things to do for a fun family vacation in spain.

Booking a family hotel is only the first step in planning your holidays. Go a step further and plan activities that your kids will love! This way, you will be able to relax as everything will be ready for unforgettable family time!

Theme Parks in Spain

Waterparks in Spain

Things to do in Spain

Want to make these holidays with kids extra special? Plan some unforgettable activities for the whole family!

The best family holiday packages in Spain

Don’t want to worry about the details of your family vacation in Spain? Purchase a family vacation package that includes flights and hotels! 

Where to go on vacation with kids in Spain?

Choosing the right destination depends on what you are looking for this year! If you want to travel with kids in summer, it is a good idea to book beach holidays in Spain! Some of the most popular destinations are the Balearic islands – Menorca, Mallorca, Ibiza. If you prefer the mainland Spain, you can check out the south of Spain – Andalusia has some excellent beach vacation spots like Roquetas de Mar and the whole Costa del Sol area.

If you prefer to travel in winter, autumn, spring, or even summer, you can also choose family holiday destinations in Spain that are warm during the whole year! Choose one of the Canary Islands, and you will be able to enjoy the beach even in December! The most popular islands are Tenerife and Gran Canaria, but Fuerteventura has some great beaches, and Lanzarote has an extraordinary landscape.

Spain is also a great destination for ski holidays in winter, with the Sierra Nevada being the most popular skiing resort.

When to go on family holidays in Spain?

If you want to travel with your children in summer, during the Holy Week, Christmas, or other long weekends and bank holidays, you have to bear in mind that it is necessary to book the accommodation in advance because many families are traveling during these days. For the same reason, the prices are higher and if you book before you can get a discount. On the other hand, there are more activities for families at this time; all the attractions, places of interest, and tourist spots are open.

However, if you want to save a little money, it is better to choose a lower season, for example, holidays in May or September in Spain will still be warm but a little cheaper.

Plan your family vacation in Spain

• Find the cheapest flights to Spain
• Book the best hotels in Spain
• Get a reliable travel insurance
• Plan the best tours and excursions
• Rent a car in Spain
• The best card for travel
• Airport transfers
• The best travel guides

A quick guide to the best family hotels in Spain

Choosing among the best family hotels in Spain might be a hard task! Here is a quick guide that will help you choose a resort that meets your family’s needs!

What are the best baby and toddler-friendly hotels in Spain?

If you are traveling with a baby or a toddler, we recommend choosing family hotels in Spain that offer free baby cots. Here are a few options:

• Carema Club Resort
• Playaballena Aquapark & Spa Hotel
• Estival Islantilla

Do any family hotels in Spain have a water park?

Popular family resorts in Spain that have a water park include:

• Hotel THe Lago Taurito
• Golden Taurus Aquapark Resort
• Hotel Sur Menorca, Suites & Waterpark

Which family hotels in Spain have a pool for kids?

All the hotels on our list of the best kid-friendly hotels in Spain have a kids´ pool.

Are there resorts that offer all-inclusive family holidays in Spain?

If you want to choose the all-inclusive option for your family holidays in Spain, take a look at these hotels:

• Magic Aqua Rock Gardens
• Evenia Zoraida Garden
• Gran Castillo Tagoro Family & Fun

Which family hotels in Spain have a SPA?

If you are looking for a spa in the hotel for your family holidays in Spain, check these out:

• Playacartaya Aquapark & Spa
• Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife
• Mar Hotels Playa Mar & Spa

Are there luxury family resorts in Spain?

If you are looking for a luxury family hotel in Spain for your holidays, take a look at these 5-star hotels:

• GF Victoria
• Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza
• Royal Hideaway Sancti Petri

What are the best cheap family hotels in Spain?

If you are planning family holidays on a budget, we recommend you check out cheap family hotels in Spain:

• Hipotels Cala Bona Club
• Hotel Fuerte El Rompido
• Ohtels Belvedere

What are the best pet-friendly family hotels in Spain?

If you are traveling on family holidays in Spain and want to take your pets, check out these hotels that accept animals:

• Hotel Colonial Mar
• PLAYABALLENA SPA HOTEL

Which kid-friendly hotels in Spain have family rooms?

Most of the hotels on our website offer family rooms!

Do family hotels in Spain have free parking?

There are a lot of family-friendly resorts in Spain that offer free parking. Here are some options:

Are there family-friendly resorts in Spain that offer transport to/from the airport?

Of course, if you are looking for a kid-friendly hotel with airport transfers (paid), you can check these options:

• Grand Palladium Palace

Are golf courses close to family resorts in Spain?

If you want to play golf during your family vacation in Spain, check out these hotels that are close to golf courses:

• Holiday World RIWO Hotel
• Ho tel Best Cap Salou
• Globales Los Patos Park

Which are the best themed hotels in Spain?

If you are looking for themed hotels in Spain for your trip with kids to Spain, check out these themed family hotels:

• Hotel del Juguete
• Magic Robin Hood
• Fantasia Bahia Principe

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

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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 

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

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!

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

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

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 

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)

​​ 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

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!

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!

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! 

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! 

​​ 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 

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

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!

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!

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!

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!

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

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!

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!

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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Spain Itinerary: A 14 Days Family Adventure

Spain is a great country to visit with kids, but there are so many amazing places to see that it can quickly become overwhelming when planning a family road trip in Spain. To help you out planning your family road trip in Spain, we created this Spain itinerary for a 14 days family adventure.

This is a Barcelona to Seville road trip filled with fun things to do. It’s a detailed itinerary that will help you plan your family trip to Spain.

But first, why should you ever consider Spain for your next family road trip?

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

Why Visiting Spain With Your Family

Spain is a beautiful country with a wide range of attractions for families. From parks and museums to beaches and other entertainment activities, your children will love discovering Spain. And so will you. We can’t also forget about the amazing weather in Spain as pretty much all year round and the food. Tapas, Pintxos, Rioja and so much more.

A few things to know when planning your Spain family vacation itinerary

Here are a few things to know when planning a road trip to Spain with kids.

Book your flight to Barcelona (and/or Seville)

Find cheap flights to Barcelon-El Prat Airport (BCN) using Google Flights or  Skyscanner . Those two search engine searches for different airlines deserving BCN, including some low-cost ones.

You can also book a return flight from Seville where our itinerary ends, or fly back from Barcelona.

Rent your car or campervan

If you flew into Barcelona to start your epic road trip in Spain, you must rent a car or  rent a campervan .

If you wish to rent a car,  DiscoverCars  is a good search engine for car rentals in Barcelona and all across Spain. You can also rent a campervan from Barcelona. Indie Campervans or Anywhere Campers are good options. You can compare pricing on Auto Europe for motorhome rentals .

»» Download our 14-Day Spain Itinerary with Kids

How to get around Spain

The best way to get around Spain with your family is by car. Although public transport is good, it doesn’t provide you with the comfort and flexibility that a rental car does . You’ll want to be renting a car to make sure you enjoy Spain as much as you can.

Renting a campervan can also be another great way to discover Spain with your family. In addition to this, you’ll be able to access less known cities and towns with a car, something that can be harder or more time-consuming when using public transportation across Spain, especially with only a 14 days trip.

Spain itinerary: 14 days road trip

There are many different road trip opportunities across Spain . Flying in Barcelona is a good idea as there are many flights coming into Barcelona. It’s also a good starting point, especially if flying internationally.

Our Spain Itinerary for your 14 days road trip starts in Barcelona and will end in Seville, in Southern Spain . The driving distance from Barcelona to Tarifa is about 1,600 km one-way.

There are many things to see along the way, so planning a road trip to Spain for at least 14 days is ideal to enjoy it .

Summary of your Spain itinerary for 14 days from Barcelona:

Day 1: barcelona, day 2: barcelona.

• Day 3: Barcelona to Valencia

Day 4: Valencia

Day 5: valencia to madrid, day 6: madrid.

• Day 7: Madrid to Granada

Day 8: Granada

• Day 9: Nerja
• Day 10: Malaga

Day 11: Malaga to Tarifa

Day 12: tarifa, day 13: tarifa to seville, day 14: seville.

Start your day by visiting the famous Sagrada Familia , one of the most beautiful architectural buildings in Spain. The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is a huge unfinished basilica in Barcelona that is now part of the UNESCO World.

While you enjoy contemplating Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece (that is honestly simply amazing), older kids can share an audio guide and explore this building too. Kids will love visiting this basilica as it feels like walking in an unreal forest and wonderland. The architecture is unique and everyone will enjoy the beauty of Sagrada Familia.

»» Get your entrance tickets to Sagrada Familia

After visiting Sagrada Familia, go on a 20-minute walk to Alsur Café Llúria to enjoy a delicious lunch. We highly recommend the fresh juices and churronets, a sweet that consists of a churro in form of a bird’s nest.

Not too far from the cafe, you can visit Parc de la Ciutadella , an incredible park with rowboats, fountains, and play areas where kids can burn off energy.

Finally, you can spend the rest of the day visiting Barcelona Zoo or the Chocolate museum where children can learn about the history behind chocolate and take part in creating their own chocolate bar. That is a great way to end the first day of the Spain itinerary.

»» Get your entrance tickets to Barcelona Zoo

Get ready early morning to visit Park Güell , another must-see Gaudí attraction in Barcelona. Children will love discovering the park and the “Hansel and Gretel” style houses. We recommend visiting the park early and on weekdays if possible as it can get very busy at other times.

»» Get your skip-the-line entrance tickets to Park Güel

Take the underground and head to Las Ramblas, where you can stop at La Boqueria Market for a picnic lunch. 

Then head to the Gothic Quarter to explore its streets. You can also see the beautiful Barcelona Cathedral . Here you might want to surprise your kids with a visit of the Aquarium of Barcelona . Your children will be fascinated by the sea animals. The Aquarium offers plenty of interactive and fun spaces.

»» Get your entrance tickets to Barcelona Aquarium

Want to add a day in Barcelona? If you decide to stay longer in Barcelona, your children will love visiting Parc del Laberint d’Horta , a hidden gem park that has many green spaces as well as a fun labyrinth where kids can play.

Day 3: Barcelona to Valencia via Tarragona

Travelling from Barcelona to Valencia by car takes about 4 hours , so you may want to break up the journey with a quick visit to Tarragona for some food and sightseeing. 

Some of the things you and your family can do in Tarragona are:

• explore Tarragona’s monuments like the Roman amphitheatre and circus
• visit the Tarragona National Archaeological Museum (MNAT ) which has educational projects for kids that involve theatre acts, games and workshops.

Valencia is a very family-friendly destination with many activities to do with children.

The City of Arts and Sciences , as well as the Valencia Oceanogràfic , are must-see museums for kids and adults. You can easily spend half-day visiting these two parts of the museum. There is also a movie theatre where kids can watch films and documentaries.

»» Get your entrance tickets to Valencia Oceanagràfic

If you visit Valencia during the summer, you can also rent out zorb water walking balls right at the City of Arts and Science . The kids love climbing into these balls and walking on the water! Canoes can also be rented.

Other things you can do with kids in Valencia are visiting the LEGO Fun Factory, or having a fun day at the Patacona Beach which also has a playground.

The car journey from Valencia to Madrid is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes long (356 kilometres). There are no big cities or popular towns to visit during this drive car. We recommend stopping for a food break.

Maybe pack a lunch and snacks and stop for a picnic on the way.

Once you arrive in Madrid, check in to your accommodation and head to El Retiro Park for a relaxing afternoon. The kids can play in the playground and green spaces.

First head to Prado Museum , where you’ll spend approximately 4 hours. When visiting with kids, we highly suggest booking a kid’s tour in which children can learn about the museum while having fun painting and playing games.

»» Get your entrance tickets to Prado Museum

Next to El Prado, you’ll also find a few great playgrounds for kids to run and burn off energy and have a snack too.

Spend the rest of your afternoon visiting one of the many incredible museums for kids such as the Railway Museum or the Robot Museum .

Day 7: Madrid to Granada , via Toledo

This is a travel day as Madrid is about 4 hours and 30 drive from Granada (419 kilometres). You can stop in Toledo and Jaen for a few hours if you want to break up the trip.

In Toledo, you’ll want to explore the Toledo Botanical Garden . There are many different gardens to discover such as the Herb Garden, Rose Garden, and Green Garden. And there are some Secret Forest playgrounds for the kids to play.

In Jaen, you can admire the Jaen Cathedral .

During this day in Granada, we highly recommend visiting the Alhambra , an UNESCO World Site Heritage with plenty of history, outstanding architecture and green spaces for kids to run and have fun.

We recommend waking up early to ensure you get into the Alhambra .

»» Get your skip-the-line entrance tickets to Alhambra

A visit to The Alhambra will take you approximately 3 or 4 hours , so you can spend the rest of the day exploring the old town and having some food in one of the delicious tapas bars across the city.

Day 9: Granada to Nerja

The drive from Granada to Nerja is 98 kilometres.

Nerja is a small town near Malaga, which is perfect for having a more relaxing day with your family. Despite being small, you can do a good range of activities with children.

First, take an educational tour for kids in Nerja Caves where they can learn about the first cave paintings in the Iberian Peninsula. The caves may not be suitable for all young kids as there are steps and small paths.

Then head to the beautiful Nerja town center to enjoy lunch in a traditional restaurant or tapas bar, and see Balcón de Europa , the most picturesque views in Costa del Sol.

Finally, spend the rest of your day relaxing at the beach located underneath the viewpoint. Or if you´re visiting in winter, you can take the tourist train or let children play at Verano Azul playground.

Day 10: Nerja to Malaga 

The drive from Nerja to Malaga is only 67 kilometres.

Once in Malaga, start your day by having hot chocolate with churros in Casa Aranda, located in the city’s heart, before a full day packed with activities.

Then head to La Alcazaba , a beautiful Moorish fortress palace where kids can learn about the history of Malaga or roam freely in the many green spaces. 

»» Get your skip-the-line entrance tickets to Alcazaba

From here, head to Gibralfaro Castle , another must-see attraction in Malaga. For tired kids, there is a bus that will take you to Gibralfaro Castle which is located at the top of a hill.

After visiting these two historic buildings, go to Muelle Uno, Malaga’s port to have lunch in one of the main outdoor restaurants perfect for families. Here you find free events for kids on certain occasions such as Christmas and a great playground.

Lastly, you can visit one of the many kid-friendly museums such as:

• Picasso Museum Malaga ,
• Automobile and Fashion Museum of Malaga or
• Interactive Music Museum .

El Caminito del Rey is another great activity for older kids in Malaga. It’s not suitable for kids under 8 years old, but highly recommended if your kids are old enough. It’s a walkway along the narrow gorge of El Chorro.

»» Get your guided tour tickets to El Caminito del Rey

The drive from Malaga to Tarifa is 161 kilometres. All of the drive is along the ocean , so take your time and stop in a few little coastal towns. Torremolinos, Marbella and Estapona are nice stops. You’ll find beautiful beaches and little shops and restaurants.

You can also detour via Ronda and its famous El Tajo gorge . The gorge separates the Old town from the New Town.

If time allows, you might want to visit Gibraltar , a British Overseas Territory.

Tarifa is the perfect place to relax at the beach and explore a few historic buildings such as the Roman Ruins Of Baelo Claudia . In addition, the town has numerous playgrounds and a close-by water park.

Plus, Tarifa is on the tip of Spain, facing Tanger in Morroco. You can easily book a guided tour to spend the day in Tanger, Morroco.

»» Book you day trip guided tour tickets to Tanger

The drive from Tarifa and Seville is 206 kilometres. There are a few quaint towns to stop at on the way, such as Cadiz and Jerez de la Frontera .

When you arrive in Seville, check in at your hotel, have some food and explore Plaza De España and María Luisa Park . It’s the perfect place to rent a boat and spend the afternoon playing with your children.

Start your day with a Hop-on Hop-Off bus . It’s the perfect way to explore the city. With 14 stops all around Seville, you’ll be able to discover the city and stop along the way. The ticket for the hop-on-hop-off bus is valid for 24 hours.

»» Get your tickets for the Seville Hop-on Hop-off bus

During the second day in Seville, you can opt for visiting Isla Mágica , a theme park that your kids will love, or exploring other important monuments and buildings in the city such as Royal Alcázar and the Cathedral.

Final Thoughts: Spain Itinerary – 14 Days Road Trip

Spain is a beautiful country to visit and there are many things for your kids to do. From beaches to museum, no ones will be bored in Spain.

If you have more time, you’ll want to head to Northern Spain and visit the Basque Country. San Sebastian is a great town to visit with kids with the beaches, the aquarium, and the Old Town. If you make your way to the Basque Country, make sure to eat some Pintxos, a Northern Spain traditional snack. It’s similar to tapas but usually served on top of a slide of bread.

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• The Ultimate Family Bucket List
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Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

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Best places to visit in spain.

Spain's dynamic metropolises, breathtaking beaches and cultural offerings are second to none, making the country an undisputed stop on many travelers' European vacation itineraries. With so many varied destinations, each with its own celebrated sites and unique hidden gems, it may be hard deciding which cities are worth visiting. U.S. News factored in sights, culture, seasonality and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Spain for all types of travelers – from city slickers to beach bums to outdoorsy types. Have an opinion? Vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Santiago de Compostela

Costa brava, san sebastian, canary islands.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations , Barcelona is without a doubt Spain's cultural capital. The Catalonian city's urban sprawl is dotted with Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as museums carrying world-renowned artists, such as the Picasso Museum. You can also explore centuries-old neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic, which dates back to the Roman Empire. Don't forget to take advantage of the city's equally magnificent outdoor offerings, too, including La Barceloneta beach.

The final stop on an ancient pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago (or Saint James' Way), this medieval city in northwestern Spain attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year. With centuries-old architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Santiago de Compostela is an ideal destination for history buffs and culture hounds. First up on your to-do list should be a tour of the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a massive Romanesque structure said to house the remains of Saint James the apostle. Then, take advantage of the city's number of beautiful parks, museums, restaurants and nightlife.

You won't want to skip this romantic Spanish city about 55 miles northwest of Madrid on your next trip to Spain. See for yourself what makes Segovia special while you stroll through the enchanting Plaza Mayor, home to a mix of restaurants and shops, or soar high above the city on a hot air balloon ride. Can't-miss sights include the two-tiered Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the world's best-preserved Roman aqueducts, and Alcázar De Segovia, a massive, fairy-tale fortress dating back to the 12th century.

Stretching from the idyllic resort town of Blanes all the way to the French border, this coastal region in northeastern Spain offers miles of shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea. After spending the day with your toes in the sand at one of Costa Brava's gorgeous cove beaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the region's many seaside restaurants. But Costa Brava is not just for beach bums. Whether you're touring the unique Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres or exploring the Santa Clotilde Gardens in Lloret de Mar, Costa Brava is a can't-miss destination on any Spain itinerary.

The UNESCO-listed historic center of Cordoba is the stuff of Spanish dreams. Its winding, compact cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed inns, shops, restaurants and homes that feature stunning Andalusian accents, including wrought-iron balconies, bright blue planters and painted archways. Visitors can also enjoy all of the city's famous historical sites, such as the Castle of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, commonly referred to as the Great Mosque, which is one of the best-preserved structures in Spain.

Mallorca's smaller sister island is a solid option for travelers wanting to visit the Balearic Islands without the crowds of Ibiza and Mallorca. Menorca offers the same kind of jaw-dropping beaches (think: white sands overlooking clear turquoise waters) you'd expect to find on other Balearic Islands – travelers say Cala Mitjana, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Turqueta and Cala Pregonda are some of the island’s most popular shorelines. You'll also discover several architectural marvels throughout Menorca. Head to Ciutadella (the island's original capital) to see old-world structures like the Catedral de Menorca and the Convent of Sant Agusti, which houses the Diocesan Museum.

Travelers who want to experience small-town Spain without venturing far from a big city will love visiting Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, which sits 45 miles southwest of Madrid, is breathtaking thanks to its location on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus River and its historical architecture. For the best views, visit Mirador del Valle, a scenic overlook boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, get a sense of Toledo's rich history by checking out attractions like Catedral Primada and San Juan de los Reyes Monasterio. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous marzipan before you leave.

Of all the cities in Spain, Madrid is the one that knows how to show travelers the best time. The city's party-hard reputation is really all it's cracked up to be, but that's not all Spain's capital has going for it. Madrid is filled with varied, vibrant neighborhoods, plus stunning parks, enviable shopping and some of the best art institutions in Europe, including the world-renowned Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Not to mention, the city’s grandiose architecture – showcased by structures like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor – makes the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Mallorca is easily one of Spain's greatest assets. This dreamy island getaway features sun-kissed beaches, picturesque small towns and outdoor pursuits that draw tourists and lovebirds in droves. Revel in the see-through blue waters of Playa de Muro and Cala Llombards, then hop in a car and drive around the striking mountains that make up Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure you spend your downtime taking leisurely strolls along the darling streets of Alcúdia's old town and by the water to admire the awe-inspiring Palma Cathedral (La Seu).

This beautiful Andalusian city in southern Spain is awash with romantic allure. During the day, you'll find outdoor cafes along cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages meandering through pastel-colored plazas. And when night falls, flamenco dancing comes out in full force. Seville is the kind of place you should allow yourself to get lost in, but don’t forget to carve out time for must-see sites such as the Plaza de España, the Real Alcázar and the Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic cathedral of its kind in the world.

Situated along Spain’s northern coast in Basque Country, San Sebastian is one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. Locals understand its majesty and every summer flock to this beach destination for its breathtaking shorelines, hiker-friendly mountains and unmatched foodie scene. For a quintessentially Basque experience, travelers suggest pintxo bar hopping in San Sebastian’s city center, Parte Vieja, or signing up for a pintxos (Basque tapas) food tour. Don’t leave without taste testing San Sebastian’s world-famous anchovies and txuleta, a specialty steak that is made from aged grass-fed beef.

Granada's Arabic influence makes this destination different from the rest of Spain. Thanks to its history as part of the Moorish Empire, Granada is home to tapas bars and flamenco venues that rub elbows with Moroccan tea cafes and Arab bathhouses. This confluence allows you to experience two cultures simultaneously. And you must make time to behold the breathtaking local treasures, including the Alhambra, the white-washed caves of the Sacromonte district and the snow-capped mountains of Sierra Nevada National Park.

A popular daytrip destination for travelers visiting Barcelona, Girona stands out for its medieval architecture and wealth of attractions. From the magnificent Girona Cathedral to the city's famous 12th century Arab baths, travelers are sure to find something to suit their interests in this Spanish city. Spend some time in La Devesa Park, one of the largest green spaces in Catalonia. Don't forget to pack your walking shoes – whether you're exploring the winding, cobblestone streets of Girona's Jewish Quarter or strolling the Passeig de la Muralla path atop Girona's ancient city walls, the best way to enjoy this historic city is on foot.

Rioja is Spain's wine country. Like France's Champagne, winemakers can't label a wine "Rioja" unless it is produced and distributed from the Spanish region of La Rioja. As such, you'll want to sample plenty of vino while you visit, which will be pretty easy to do since there are more than 500 wineries plus many restaurants that serve large selections of Rioja wine. If you're looking for other things to do, take advantage of Rioja's Michelin-starred restaurants and lively tapas bars when you're not hiking or skiing its surrounding mountains.

This northern city in Spain’s Basque Country sits in the middle of a beautiful valley, affording incredible views of the city and its rolling hills. Visit Casco Viejo (the city's old town) for authentic pintxos and to explore Parque Etxebarria, where you'll find some of Bilbao's best vistas. Or, ride the Funicular de Artxanda for even more spectacular panoramas. No visit would be complete without checking out the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and other local cultural institutions, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao.

Plan a trip to this small Andalusian town if you enjoy visiting destinations with unique geography and stunning architecture. Ronda sits atop a striking gorge that separates the town. To cross the gorge, walk across the Puente Nuevo, a beautiful bridge built in the 18th century. Below, you'll get an eyeful of El Tajo canyon and the Guadalevín River. After admiring your surroundings from the Puente Nuevo, visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the historic old town and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved 13th- and 14th-century Arab baths.

Spain’s third-largest city stands out for offering a little taste of both the old and the new. You'll get to experience classic architecture at the Gothic-style Valencia Cathedral and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, as well as modern sites like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Valencia Institute of Modern Art. After you've gotten your fill of city life, take a detour to breathe in some fresh air at the Albufera Natural Park or unwind at nearby beaches. What's more, with plenty of free attractions to choose from, Valencia is one of Europe's most affordable travel destinations . 

If you live to party, Ibiza is a great place to dust off your dancing shoes. This Spanish island is known worldwide for its nightlife scene, so much so that people often say you must visit during the peak summer months. However, one look at Ibiza's natural offerings and you'll understand how this island stands on its own outside of its party-hardy reputation. Beaches here are so clear that you can see your feet touch the sand as they enter the ocean. Plus, the historical charm found in Dalt Vila, Ibiza's old town, will certainly stop you in your tracks.

This cluster of Spanish islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa is one of Spain's premier beach destinations. In addition to picturesque shorelines, the Canary Islands are also teeming with outdoor attractions that will make any adventurer swoon, including four national parks. In between hiking and relaxing on the beach, take some time to stroll the neighborhoods of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located on the largest of the Canary Islands, or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the archipelago's most populated city, to get a taste of local life.

Situated in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is one of the country's most underrated travel destinations. As one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe, travelers can expect a bevy of historic attractions, from the Torre Tavira watchtower to the grandiose Cádiz Cathedral. Plus, there are several beautiful outdoor spaces to explore, including Genovés Park and the laid-back beaches of La Victoria and La Caleta. When you want to wind down, Plaza de España and Plaza de San Juan de Dios are excellent places to people-watch.

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A world of wonder is waiting to be unraveled in the family-friendly destination of Spain. Adults can savor excellent food and wine while kids can marvel at fantastic architecture and enchanting stories. From the beaches of Barcelona to the colors of Seville, a family vacation to Spain allows discovery and escape for all ages when you plan your trip with Zicasso.

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10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,115

Take your family on an unforgettable, 10-day adventure to the vivacious cities of Barcelona and Madrid. Live like kings and queens in the Royal Palace of the nation’s capital before rediscovering your artistic side amongst the whimsical architecture of Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona. Treat your taste buds to an explosion of flavor as you sample authentic paella in the coastal city of Valencia, and then, take off on a thrilling zipline adventure across Toledo’s Tagus River. Along the way, you will stop in small towns where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, history, and charm.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,739

Spain's al fresco atmosphere of a fiesta is captivating for the whole family and this unique kid-friendly vacation Spain tour slowly reveals it all. Barcelona and Seville are ideal for youngsters, their interactive museums and unique style bringing the best of Spain to life. Then a 4-day beach break in Sitges ensures siesta without the crowds. With minimal travel time and tailored activities for kids, this vacation exudes the spirit of Spain without the stress of modern Europe.

7  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,179

Barcelona excites and enthralls, and it is a city that makes cultural adventure accessible for all ages. These seven handcrafted days offer the best of Barcelona for your family. Think a treasure hunt through Spanish eras, an art nouveau swimming pool next to Gaudi’s casas, riding the tram to a charming amusement park, and a zipline through an urban jungle park. Beaches and parks provide space for children to let off some steam before historical neighborhoods envelop you in the city’s atmosphere.

9  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,803

Instead of settling for a beach vacation or a journey through the mountains, you can have it all on this custom tailored Spain family vacation to Madrid and Barcelona. Give the entire family a chance to indulge in the golden sands of Barcelona. Let them wander around the lavish décor of the Royal Palace. The kids will delight in the artistry and learn about history without ever knowing. Spend your time enjoying the scenery and indulging in your family’s excitement. Taste traditional dishes and stroll along medieval cobblestone streets. Let this unique family getaway give you luxury and landscape, culture, and memories.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $10,005

The best education is the kind that children don’t even know they are receiving. Capture the beauty of Spain on this vacation tailored to your family’s desires and the wealth of history that sweeps across the landscape. Witness the charming white villages of Andalusia and stroll along the hilly cobblestone streets of Toledo. Admire the fairytale architecture of Gaudi and explore the storybook castle in Segovia. The wonders of Spain will captivate the entire family, filled with treasured palaces and prancing horses, historic battles and fabulous flavors.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,275

Spain is the country of Flamenco and paella, Picasso and Columbus. Medieval cities are lined with cobblestoned streets. Large towers create the skyline and watch over the old stone ramparts. On this custom-tailored family tour of Spain, you will find enchanting culture and fairytale architecture. The family will delight in the beauty of the hills, the majesty of history, and the animated atmosphere of big cities overflowing with spirit.

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Top 10 Vacation Destinations for Families

Posted: March 8, 2024 | Last updated: March 8, 2024

When you’re looking for a great destination for a family vacation, some cities have more for families to do than others. When a city isn’t priced too high, has plenty that kids want to do, and has plenty of places to go that are family-friendly, the city will score high.

Not everywhere has the right activities for a family vacation, but some certainly do. According to Your Baby Club , these are the best places to take the fam on your next vacation.

Madrid, Spain

Scoring the best, this is a city that has an enormous amount of things for kids to do. It has 299 attractions that are perfectly kid-friendly, more than 1,000 places for accommodations, and a low pollution score.

London, United Kingdom

There’s plenty to see and do in London and an enormous number of parks and other kid-friendly areas. It has 316 nature spots and more than 8,000 restaurants that are perfect for families.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a great place for families because of its many beach activities and other things to do within this sprawling city. The city has plenty of natural spots to visit as well as museums and other sights to see.

Tokyo, Japan

This enormous city has no end to its things to do, and it’s quite safe for a major city. It has plenty of fun restaurants that kids will love, including its cat cafes and theme restaurants. Its pricing is a bit high, but its array of kid-friendly activities is hard to beat.

Paris, France

Seeing the Eiffel Tower and traveling to the top is just one of the things families can do in this romantic and artistic city. You can consider a river cruise and the many restaurants and cafes that allow dogs.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The warm weather and amazing buildings make this a draw for visitors from around the world. It isn’t priced too high, and it has the tallest building in the world for kids to experience.

Rome, Italy

A trip to Rome can be incredibly educational and interesting for people of all ages. The many ruins and architectural marvels around this city make it worth a visit for the whole family.

Las Vegas, United States

Want to see a show? There’s a lot more in Las Vegas than just gambling. The city features world-class shows and a lot of kid-friendly places to visit. Seeing the Sphere alone is worth the trip.

Athens, Greece

Situated in a picture-perfect setting, this ancient city has a lot to experience from both its past and its present. Everyone in the family will enjoy the sights it has to offer.

Orlando, United States

There’s no end to the amazing attractions that can be found in Orlando. From Universal Studios Florida to Walt Disney World, there are places to go that a family will always remember.

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According to Insider Monkey, these countries have the most visitors every year.

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6 ways to travel fearlessly as a solo female traveller

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Solo travel can give globetrotters a sense of empowerment and exposure they cannot experience by staying in their comfort zone.

However, for female travellers going solo, personal safety is a top priority.

When Singaporean Ms Audrey Fang travelled to Spain alone, she did not share her flight and hotel details with her family .

Her body was later found with over 30 stab wounds near a parking area for lorries in the town of Albania.

A 42-year-old Singaporean man named Mitchell Ong was arrested in Alicante on April 16.

When travel enthusiast Ms Mastari read news of what happened to Ms Fang, she told TNP: "It was very upsetting to think of how scared she must have been in her final moments."

Things I (should not) have done as a solo female traveller

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But the 33-year-old business development professional said the incident has not put her off solo travelling.

She has travelled to 10 countries on her own and plans to visit more.

"As Singaporeans, we can be obsessed with safety but the reality is you cannot predict what is going to happen to you," she said.

"Solo travelling is a great experience but like everything in life, there is always a risk."

TNP also spoke to Ms Syaza Amirah, who travelled around New Zealand alone for five months while on sabbatical last year.

"Such news serves as a reminder to always take necessary precautions while travelling especially if you’re alone," the 29-year-old said. 

"For me, Singaporeans are fortunate to live in a country known for its safety and low crime rates. However, this security can lead to complacency while travelling abroad, as we may overlook that not all countries offer the same level of safety, and we should take precautions accordingly while travelling overseas."

Both ladies shared tips on how to travel safely as a female solo traveller:

1. Keep at least one family member aware of your whereabouts

While some women may not feel the need to keep their loved ones informed on their every move, it may not hurt to keep at least one person in the loop.

For Ms Syaza, keeping her mum updated on her whereabouts was important.

"I used the Life360 app for my mum to track my live location," she shared.

2. Don't meet men alone (and don't get drunk if you do)

Although people often travel to meet others from different backgrounds, Ms Mastari chooses not to deal with men at all.

"As Asian women, we can be so easily overpowered," she said.

She advises women who do meet men to not get pulled or pressured into bad situations.

"There are so many horror stories of women getting their drinks spiked so watch out for that as well," she added.

3. Walk with confidence

Most female travellers are cautious about not appearing too much like a tourist.

When Ms Mastari was in Spain, a woman drew a line on her sweater with chalk.

"I felt like I was being marked so I quickly Ubered out of the area," she said.

"Typically, I would familiarise myself with the area I'm staying in and memorise how to get back to my accommodation."

She added: "If I need directions, I would listen rather than take out my phone to scrutinise a map.

"Don't look lost and always check if anyone's following you."

4. Stay in a good neighbourhood

Research is paramount when planning a solo trip. It's useful to check out reviews on travel sites to find out from other visitors whether the area you intend to stay in is brightly lit and safe.

Even then, you may encounter some startling situations.

Ms Mastari shared that when she was staying in Paris, two men banged on her door and told her they were her neighbours.

"They asked if we could chat about the noise on the street even though the street was quiet," she recalled.

"I did not open the door and asked them to go away."

Ms Syaza advises travellers to invest in travel door locks.

"It's a form of added security and it gives you peace of mind while you rest at night," she said.

5. Limit the cash you have in hand

Anyone, not just female travellers, can fall victim to pickpockets while overseas.

Hence, it makes sense to travel with as little cash as possible.

Ms Syaza prefers to use multi-currency cards from companies such as Revolut, YouTrip and Wise.

"The exchange rates are very good too," she added.

6. Learn the language

You don't have to be fluent but learning a bit of the local language might help you in your travels.

For Ms Mastari, she used language app Duolingo to learn some basic Spanish for her trip to Spain.

"It helped to reduce my anxiety and things are easier when you can read signboards, understand how to buy your tickets and talk to drivers, for example," she said.

"People are also more friendly to you and willing to help."

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Farah Daley

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