Final Up to date on March 26, 2025
Having lived in Spain for 8 years (and giving delivery to my child there), I’ve realized so much about exploring Spain with youngsters. Right here is my complete information that can assist you plan a Spain household journey.
From medieval church buildings to gorgeous seashores and fun-filled islands, Spain is brimming with spectacular sights and thrilling experiences for the entire household. There are many enjoyable adventures available in Spain with youngsters: frolic on picture-perfect seashores on the island of Mallorca, go on a tapas tour or take a cooking class in Madrid, wander the well-known Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona, or hike the well-known Caminito del Rey.
There are few international locations as kid-friendly as Spain. Kids of all ages are welcome in all places (even in bars at midnight!); most eating places serve child menus and provide excessive chairs; and there are many museums designed for teenagers. The nice infrastructure within the nation additionally means it’s simple to get round and discover with out worrying to your youngsters’ security.
Spain is a particular place for me: I lived in Spain for 8 years with my Spanish husband; our daughter was born there and we return to Spain virtually yearly to go to household. It’s most likely the nation I do know finest, subsequent to my house nation Singapore. For these planning to journey Spain with youngsters, I’m sharing particulars of our journey that can assist you plan your Spain household journey.
My Information to Touring Spain with Youngsters
How one can Get to Spain
Madrid is a properly related metropolis and caters to each low value and commonplace carriers. The principle worldwide airport in Madrid is Adolfo Suárez Madrid Barajas Airport and is located near town heart. Should you’re flying from different elements of Europe, you’ll be able to low cost Madrid flights for lower than $100. For instance, we obtained flights from London to Madrid as soon as for as low cost as $30 return.
Flights from main hubs like New York Metropolis and Chicago’s O’Hare Airport are normally fairly inexpensive. In the course of the low season, a direct flight can value as little as $350, whereas peak season fares hover round $1,000. A flight from New York goes for about $359.
When to Journey Spain with Youngsters
Many individuals assume Spain to be heat all year long, nevertheless it has a myriad of terrains and climates. Northern Spain (Bilbao, San Sebastian, Santander), for instance, has a wet and funky local weather for a lot of the yr. Typically, the summer season months have the perfect climate throughout the nation. However that’s additionally the time when Spain is most crowded and costly.
For my part, the perfect time to journey Spain is in spring (between March and Might) and autumn (September and October). You’ll nonetheless absorb the sunshine, the climate is usually fairly gentle, and also you’ll have the ability to soak up most museums and sights with out an excessive amount of crowd.
How Lengthy to Journey Spain with Youngsters?
Spain is an especially various nation with every province providing totally different cultures, cuisines and landscapes — it’s no marvel Spain is likely one of the most visited international locations on the planet. Within the seven years I spent residing in Spain, I traveled all through the nation at each probability I had and nonetheless haven’t seen all of it!
If that is your first journey to Spain, I like to recommend spending no less than two weeks in Spain. You’ll not solely get to go to essentially the most well-known elements of Spain, like Madrid and Barcelona, however you’ll additionally get to see the coast alongside Valencia, and the Andalusia area that’s the most conventional a part of the nation. Learn my advice for a 2-week Spain itinerary for particulars.
The Final 2-Week Spain Itinerary
- Days 1-3: Madrid
- Day 4: Day Journey to Toledo
- Day 5-7: Barcelona
- Day 8-9: Valencia
- Days 10-11: Granada
- Days 12-14: Malaga
- Day 15: Fly house!
Getting Round Spain with Youngsters
By Automotive Rental
The best and most handy option to journey by means of Spain is by automotive. Spain’s community of highways are in glorious situation and it’s simple to navigate even in the event you don’t learn Spanish. Small roads in previous cities might be tough although, as they’re slender and busy.
Automotive rental in Spain is extraordinarily inexpensive and you could find leases as low cost as 30 euros a day. We all the time use Uncover Vehicles as they’ve persistently given the perfect costs and customer support. For this Spain highway journey, we suggest selecting up your automotive rental in Barcelona and dropping it in Malaga.
Seek for automotive leases in Spain
By Practice & Bus
Should you don’t drive, it’s extraordinarily simple to get round Spain by prepare. Spain has a superb prepare system, with snug, high-speed trains connecting the foremost cities. The nationwide prepare operator in Spain is Renfe.
Touring by bus is the most cost effective choice. Among the foremost bus operators in Spain are Alsa, Comes, and Conda. To test bus routes and fares in Spain, plan your bus route utilizing Bookaway.
By Taxi or Uber
Uber works properly within the large cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Taxis are additionally dependable and can cost you primarily based on meters. An incredible different to buses and trains is Blablacar, a ride-sharing platform that lets you carpool with people who find themselves heading the identical means as you.
Spain with Youngsters: Which Ages Would Get pleasure from it Most?
Spain is a kind of international locations that may enchantment to youngsters of all ages. Touring Spain with infants or toddlers is simple and enjoyable, because the infrastructure in Spain is great for households. You’ll discover baby-changing amenities in bogs, highchairs and children’ menus at eating places, and loads of playgrounds, parks and kid-oriented museums.
My daughter was born in Spain – and regardless that we left when she was 2 years previous, we return to Spain virtually yearly to go to household. When she was little or no, we struggled with preserving to her sleep schedule as mealtimes are late there (lunch at is at 2pm and dinner is normally at 9-10pm) and issues go on until late particularly in summer season. However now that’s she is 9 years previous, she loves having the ability to keep out late and exit to bars and eating places with us.
Journey Spain Independently vs on A Tour?
Spain is likely one of the best international locations to journey; they’ve obtained glorious infrastructure, transport system, and kid-friendly facilities. There’s no scarcity of nice museums which are simple to go to by yourself, and cooking courses/meals excursions you’ll be able to join, in addition to nice public transport system that’s simple to navigate.
The one problem that I can see if the language barrier as many individuals in Spain don’t communicate a second language. Nonetheless, those that work in inns and airports will normally communicate some English. Plus, there’s nothing Google Translator can’t assist with lately.
Is it Secure to Journey Spain with Youngsters?
Spain is likely one of the most secure international locations on the planet. We lived in Spain for 8 years and our daughter was born there; we by no means as soon as had any issues of safety. I do know a few of you is likely to be anxious about security in Spain after studying about anti-tourist protests and the water gun confrontations in Barcelona. These aren’t violent and vacationers have by no means been damage. Maintain your self up to date and keep away from the protests. At all times preserve your youngsters shut and perhaps get them to put on an Airtag simply in case they get misplaced.
What I’d recommend is keep away from touring Spain in summer season, the height vacationer season, when many elements are packed to the brim with vacationers. Should you do, attempt to veer off the well-trodden path and go to lesser-visited locations as a substitute – final summer season we went again to Spain to go to household and took the possibility to go to Salamanca which was gloriously empty and completely stunning.
How one can Get Journey Insurance coverage for Youngsters
No matter how lengthy you’re touring in Spain, I like to recommend getting journey insurance coverage earlier than your journey. You’ll be coated in case of an accident, lack of baggage, or flight delay/cancellation.
Security Wing is the most well-liked journey insurance coverage firm for COVID19-coverage. I exploit their Nomad Insurance coverage plan, which covers COVID-19 as another sickness so long as it was not contracted earlier than your protection begin date. Check with my journey insurance coverage information for extra particulars.
Do You Must Converse Spanish to Journey Spain with Youngsters?
Most individuals communicate no less than slightly little bit of English in Madrid and Barcelona, nevertheless it isn’t generally spoken to the opposite elements. Studying some Spanish might help you get round so much simpler and join extra with locals. My husband is from Spain, so we by no means had an issue; however you actually do have to know some Spanish if you wish to get by.
Listed below are some helpful phrases to be taught:
- Good day = Hola!
- Thanks = Gracias
- Excuse me = Perdón
- Please = Por favor
- How are you? = Como estas?
- Are you able to assist? = Me puedes ayudar?
The place to Keep in Spain with Youngsters
Madrid: Cosy Flat in La Latina
We booked this spacious Airbnb close to el Rastro and actually loved our keep. The residence is kind of large and cozy, good for our household of three. It’s additionally steps from eating places, tapas bars and bakeries. The one draw back to it’s there are not any home windows, however that additionally means it stays cool even within the scorching summer season days. E-book right here.
Barcelona: El Avenida Palace
El Avenida Palace is a superb mid-range resort situated alongside gran Through, the primary artery of town. We love this place due to its worth for cash and 360-degree views from the rooftop bar. Examine charges right here.
Valencia: Barceló Valencia
Barceló Valencia has among the best rooftop bars in Valencia. The views of the Arts and Sciences advanced are unbeatable, and there’s a pleasant, albeit small, spa within the resort if you want to sneak away to chill out slightly. Examine charges right here.
Granada: Lodge Casa 1800 Granada
With astounding views of the Alhambra, this charismatic historic resort has a romantic ambiance and beautiful decor. We stayed right here on our wedding ceremony evening! Examine the charges right here.
Malaga: Gran Lodge Miramar
It doesn’t get extra extravagant than this. The luxurious Gran Lodge Miramar GL is about in a listed seventeenth century constructing overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Regal rooms with opulent furnishing and ocean views. Examine charges right here.
Issues to Do in Spain with Youngsters
Hang around at Puerta del Sol in Madrid
Puerta del Sol is the liveliest and most vibrant a part of Madrid. On the metropolis’s very core lies the “kilometer zero” marker, a humble but important image marking the epicenter of Spain’s expansive highway community. The statue of the bear devouring from a fruit tree is a permanent image of Madrid’s identification and an important spot to take a selfie.
Attempt Chocolate con Churros at San Gines
You’ll be able to’t come to Madrid and never go to this well-known churreria, El Pasadizo de San Gines, simply subsequent to Puerta del Sol. They’ve lengthy been a fixture in Madrid’s culinary scene, serving town’s finest crispy churros dipped in scorching, gooey chocolate. The café which opened its doorways in 1894, is one in every of Madrid’s most well-known breakfast spots.
Go to the Royal Palace in Madrid
One in all my daughter’s favourite recollections from Spain is visiting the Royal Palace, a testomony to the grandeur of Spanish royalty, charming guests with its imposing presence and wealthy historical past. Regardless of it now not serving as the first residence of Spain’s royal household, it’s a must-visit vacation spot in your Madrid itinerary.
It’s the largest royal palace in Western Europe, occupying a staggering 135,000 sq. meters and boasting an astounding 3,418 rooms. Initially commissioned by King Felipe V, its majestic facade adorned with intricate murals, carvings, and ceramics showcases the unparalleled craftsmanship of its period.
Let Your Youngsters Run Free in Parque Retiro, Madrid
Retiro Park is a superb spot to savor nature in Madrid and make fond recollections with youngsters. It was established as a non-public backyard and was unveiled to the general public in 1868. The centerpiece of the park is the Estanque del Retiro, a sprawling synthetic lake the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from a ship journey.
The majestic statue of King Alfonso VII on a horse is one other unmissable spotlight of the park. One other notable landmark is the Palacio del Cristal (Crystal Palace), an architectural marvel constructed solely of glass. E-book a guided strolling tour right here.
Go to the Balloon Museum in Madrid
If you’re touring Spain with youngsters, a visit to the Balloon Museum ought to completely be in your Spain itinerary. Situated throughout the sprawling Casa de Campo, the museum is a charming testomony to the whimsical world of inflatable artwork.
The immersive museum takes you on an exhilarating journey into the realm of creativity and playfulness. Inside, you’re greeted by a medley of colours and shapes, starting from towering inflatable buildings to inviting ball swimming pools, every inviting exploration and marvel. It’s a good way to awaken your interior youngster or bond along with your baby.
Admire the Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia is certainly one in every of Spain’s most well-known points of interest and for good purpose. The cathedral was designed by world-famous Spanish architect Gaudí and it really captures the tradition and architectural type of Catalonia, the area the place Barcelona is. It has been below development for over 100 years and is about to be accomplished in 2026.
Go to Parc Güell in Barcelona
My daughter’s favourite spot in Barcelona, Parc Güell is a whimsical park with colourful sculptures and tile work designed by Gaudí. It’s a playground for the thoughts: visible jokes, columns that simulate palm-tree trunks, rubble-surfaced arches that develop out of the bottom, and quilts of ceramic tiles. There’s a sleek gazebo manufactured from twisted angle iron formed like softly curved climbing vines. Should you’re planning a go to, take into account reserving entry tickets or a guided tour of Parc Güell right here.
Chill out at Parc de la Ciutadella
This is likely one of the largest public parks in Barcelona and it’s the right place to get pleasure from a day exterior. These touring with youngsters will love the large playgrounds, lush gardens and fountains right here. It’s additionally house to the Catalan Parliament and the Barcelona Zoo. It’s centrally situated within the metropolis, so it’s accessible irrespective of the place you’re staying in Barcelona. Examine this checklist of different free issues to do in Barcelona.
Stroll Alongside La Rambla
La Rambla is Barcelona’s most well-known pedestrianized road. Popping within the little retailers and eating places alongside La Rambla will present you what it’s prefer to be a neighborhood in Barcelona. On the finish of La Rambla, you’ll discover La Boqueria market, bursting with contemporary produce stalls, tapas stands and bars.
You’ll be able to even do a meals tour and cooking class as a household, and get your youngsters to learn to put together Spanish dishes. For extra insights into meals scene, remember to take a look at my suggestions for the finest locations to get pleasure from wine and tapas in Barcelona.
Go to Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias
A up to date landmark of Spain, the Science and Artwork Museum of Valencia is an effective sufficient purpose to go to town. The advanced really has 5 totally different elements, together with an IMAX theater, a restaurant, and museums. A part of the Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias, Oceanográfico is the biggest aquarium in Europe and has animals from all totally different elements of the world. It additionally has reside exhibits with dolphins.
Discover the Well-known Alhambra in Granada
Set towards the Sierra Nevada peaks, this fortified palace began life as a walled citadel earlier than changing into the opulent seat of Granada’s Nasrid emirs. The 14th-century Palacios Nazaríes listed here are among the many best Islamic buildings in Europe. You’ll be able to discover the sprawling advanced by yourself, however ebook the tickets early as they promote out particularly in summer season. Alternatively, get a quick monitor guided tour to go below the floor.
Watch a Flamenco Present in Granada
A wonderful option to immerse your youngsters in Spanish tradition is bringing them to see a flamenco present. The uncooked emotion emanating from voices full of anguish coupled with rhythms of pleasure in sevillanas and rumbas, will get them intrigued for positive!
Sacromonte is Granada’s gypsy quarter, on the hills above Albayzin. That is the birthplace of the zambra, an intense type of flamenco. Most caves within the space have nightly flamenco exhibits, although you may see road performances in the event you’re fortunate (although the true artists would sneer at them). I normally deliver associates from out of city to Cuevas los Tarantos, the place a dimly-lit environment and genuine beats set the scene for an unforgettable night. For extra methods to discover town, take a look at my information on the finest issues to do in Granada.
Hit the Seaside in Malaga
It’s not laborious to discover a seashore in Málaga. Just some minutes’ stroll from the previous city are miles and miles of seashores. Should you’re searching for a extra out-of-the-ordinary seashore expertise although, head to El Pedregalejo. It’s exterior of town heart and never as busy as the opposite close by seashores.
After you’ve soaked up sufficient solar, you may as well go to one of many chiringuitos (little meals huts) to take pleasure in some native seafood. For extra recommendations on having fun with Málaga to the fullest, take a look at my detailed information on issues to do in Malaga, in addition to my 3-Day Málaga Itinerary.
What to Eat in Spain with Youngsters
Spanish meals is likely one of the most vibrant and various meals on the planet. From the paella to gazpacho and every kind of cured meat, conventional Spanish meals is changing into well-known by means of the world. Some dishes like tortilla española might be so easy however tastes so good whenever you use the correct components. My daughter loves Spanish meals – after all she’s half-Spanish! – however I can see how Spanish meals might be such an enormous hit amongst youngsters. Listed below are some conventional Spanish dishes that youngsters will love:
- Churros – Presumably some of the well-known Spanish meals worldwide, churros are generally eaten for breakfast. These fried dough fritters are normally dipped in thick scorching chocolate and style like heaven!
- Jamón – Produced across the complete nation of Spain, cured ham is taken into account one of many prized gourmand meals within the nation. In reality, Spain is the most important producer and shopper of cured ham on the planet! My daughter is completely hooked on jamón.
- Tortilla Española – Spanish Omelette is certainly some of the standard Spanish tapas amongst each locals and vacationers. It’s an egg and potato dish that’s cooked in a skillet.
- Croquetas – Each Spaniard swears that their mom makes the perfect croquettes. These creamy fritters are a staple of the Spanish tapas scene, and also you’ll discover them provided all through the nation. They arrive with totally different fillings, however the ones with jamon serrano are simply the most well-liked!
- Paella – The nationwide dish of Spain is well-known everywhere in the world, and is certainly the primary hottest Spanish meals. This seafood rice dish is initially from Valencia, however is standard over the nation lately.
How one can Maintain Your Youngsters Wholesome in Spain
Spain, typically, has a excessive stage of meals hygiene no matter the place you go. Faucet water might be drunk and contemporary, natural produce are low cost and simply accessible in all places. Even tapas bars serve freshly cooked meals and supermarkets typically promote high-quality components.
Healthcare in Spain is great and hospital requirements are respectable – I gave delivery to my daughter in a public hospital in Spain and was extremely impressed by the service and care I acquired. It’s additionally free for residents and residents, however even foreigners shall be supplied with remedy at inexpensive costs. There’s a traveler’s clinic in each metropolis that gives vaccines and look after travel-related illnesses.
There are not any required vaccines to enter the nation however youngsters are suggested to have your polio and tetanus vaccines so as. Should you prefer to be as protected as doable, having the Typhoid and Hepatitis A (and even Hepatitis B) vaccines are beneficial.
How one can Keep Linked in Spain with Youngsters
To remain related in Spain, I like to recommend getting an eSIM earlier than arrival or a neighborhood SIM card on the airport upon arrival. We all the time purchase our eSIM on Airalo for Spain and it has labored rather well on each journey. We had limitless web knowledge, with reception even on high of the Sierra Nevada ski slopes. Get your eSIM right here.
We decrease the time our daughter spends on gadgets at house and solely give her entry to the iPad on lengthy drives and through flights. WiFi is definitely accessible in public areas in Spain (and each resort has it), so you’ll be able to simply obtain exhibits/books for offline use earlier than your journey.
Value of Journey in Spain with Kids
Spain is a comparatively inexpensive vacation spot, particularly when in comparison with the US, UK and different elements of Western Europe. You’ll find superb costs on lodging and meals throughout off-peak season. Count on to pay extra throughout excessive season, resembling summer season and Christmas time.
Lodging is quite low cost in Spain, notably exterior of Madrid and Barcelona. You’ll find 3-star resort rooms for $40-60 per evening and Airbnbs for round US$50-100 per evening. In summer season and Christmas, count on the costs to virtually double. Final summer season, we spent $150/evening on our Airbnb close to Parque Retiro in Madrid.
Eating places in Spain provide glorious worth. A lot of them provide menu del dia (lunch set menus) for $10-20 that features 3 programs (first dish, foremost course and dessert). You’ll be able to normally select from a salad or soup for the primary dish, and a meat or fish dish for the primary course. Tapas are normally fairly inexpensive too – in sure cities like Granada, most bars provide free tapas whenever you order a drink (so you find yourself simply spending $4-6 for a meal).
What to Pack for a Spain Household Journey
Sensible Suggestions for Touring Spain with Youngsters
- When planning your Spain itinerary, remember to think about some downtime and days the place you do nothing. The dry climate and late mealtimes can take some getting use to.
- Ensure that the kids are updated with routine vaccinations, and talk about doable journey vaccines properly earlier than departure, as some usually are not appropriate for kids aged lower than a yr.
- Bear in mind to pack rehydration powder in case your youngster vomits or experiences diarrhea. In Spain’s often-searing warmth, you’ll should be further cautious with warmth exhaustion and dehydration.
- Spain has a really wealthy culinary tradition; take the chance to introduce your youngsters to Spanish meals and allow them to strive every kind of tapas. Neglect about McDonalds or Pizza Hut, your youngsters will love typical Spanish dishes like tortilla española and croquetas. Learn my Spanish meals information.
Get pleasure from Your Journey to Spain with Youngsters!
Thanks for studying this far! On an ending be aware, I simply wish to remind you to not pack in an excessive amount of; the important thing to having fun with Spain with youngsters is to decelerate and take your time to discover. I hope this information has helped you to plan your Spain household journey. Be happy to go away me any questions or feedback you could have beneath.
Listed below are extra of my articles on Spain that can assist you along with your journey planning:
Disclaimer: This put up incorporates affiliate hyperlinks to corporations I exploit and belief. I get a small fee whenever you click on on my hyperlinks, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.
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