Traveling to Spain with kids is sure to create unforgettable memories amidst the country’s Old World backdrop and vibrant culture. Of course, some destinations are a little more family-friendly than others. Here are 10 of our favorite places in Spain to visit with the kiddos.
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First, some tips for visiting Spain with kids
Before we get to our family-friendly destinations, here are a few tips for visiting Spain with kids.
Is Spain actually a family-friendly destination?
Spain’s nightlife is exceptional, and as exciting as that is for adults, you might be wondering if visiting Spain with impressionable young minds is the best idea.
In fact, there’s so much to see and do in Spain that’s perfectly family-friendly. From dining on authentic Spanish cuisine to checking out some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean, visiting Spain with kids is super safe, with plenty to see and do for all ages.
When’s the best time to visit Spain with kids?
Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. There’s no true off-season, but fall and spring aren’t as busy as summer and winter.
Weather-wise, Spain is hot in summer, but pretty mild throughout the rest of the year. The only exceptions would be the coastal areas, which are temperate all year long, and the mountainous regions, which can get frigid from fall to early spring.
Need help figuring out what makes the most sense for your vacation? Connect with Fora.
What’s the best way to get around Spain with families?
If you’re planning on sticking to a single region, renting a car is probably the best way to get around Spain with kids. That said, a train ride through the Spanish countryside or along the coast can be a lot of fun, too.
Alternatively, domestic flights can be a practical option in some instances.
Our recommendation: connect with Fora — we can work out the details so you don’t miss a thing.
The 10 most family-friendly places to visit in Spain
From Barcelona to Ibiza (yep, you read that right!), here are a few of our favorite places to visit in Spain with kids.
1. Barcelona: the best place to visit in Spain with kids and first-timers
Visiting Barcelona with kids is a blast. Vibrant streets and cathedrals showcase a unique blend of Roman, Catalan, European and Islamic influences. Many buildings were designed by the famed Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. This Barcelona itinerary covers the must-sees, but if you’re looking specifically for family fun, you have options.
Park Guell, which also features the Works of Antoni Gaudí (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is another architectural marvel that blends naturism with actual nature. The park’s mosaics and gardens are the main attraction, but there are also a lot of fun things for little ones to burn some energy on, like playgrounds and exhibits.
On the coast, the beaches of the La Barceloneta neighborhood consistently rank among the best in Europe. Sample seafood tapas, bask under the Mediterranean sun and enjoy the waves. Or, if you get tired of the big city altogether, you and the kiddos can enjoy a day trip from Barcelona to Mallorca, the capital of the island of Palma.
Our family-friendly guide to Mallorca will give you a good idea of where to start (there are also plenty of adult things to do in Mallorca, too). Either way, the island’s gorgeous climate and scenery have made it one of the top destinations in Europe since the 1950s.
Not sure where to start? Connect with Fora to plan and book your dream trip to Spain. We can help you decide which places to visit and which to skip. We can also help you find the best places to stay in Barcelona (including some lavish Barcelona boutique hotels).
2. Seville: the fairytale-like, kid-friendly birthplace of flamenco
One of the top 15 destinations in Spain belonging on any Spain bucket list, the culturally rich city of Seville is a lively and family-friendly place to visit. The birthplace of flamenco, it’s not uncommon to see the city’s walkable streets filled with dancers and live music.
One of the best things to do in Seville: tapas crawls. Seville’s culinary scene is among the best in Europe, and millions of visitors travel to the city every year to sample the snack-sized dishes, most of which feature local seafood and grilled meats. Oh, and don’t worry, while “crawls” are usually associated with pubs and bars, tapas crawls are a kid-friendly tradition in Spain.
Seville is also one of the more unique places to visit in Spain with kids because of its fusion of Gothic and Moorish influences. Most kids aren’t too enthralled by architecture, we know, but the grand cathedrals, palaces (especially the lush and colorful Royal Alcázar) and all-around vibrant and friendly vibe will make you and your kids feel like you’re walking through a fairytale.
And remember, Fora can help you immerse yourself in the local culture with pro tips and recommendations (as, for instance, part of an express tour of the Iberian Peninsula).
3. Granada: a great place to visit in Spain with kids for mesmerizing architecture & outdoor adventures
What kid doesn’t love castles? Granada is the perfect place to go on a Moorish adventure in the south of Spain with kids because of its artfully constructed mosques and palaces. Alhambra Palace, in particular, is one of Granada’s top attractions, but the city is also full of gorgeous architecture, delicious foods and plenty to do for kids and families.
And if you want to get out of the city, Granada is located at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, so there are plenty of opportunities for skiing, hiking and other outdoorsy activities kids are sure to love.
4. Madrid: one of the coolest Spanish cities to visit with kids
Next, we have Madrid, Spain’s capital and the second-largest city in the European Union.
Arguably the best place to visit in Spain with kids because of its diverse range of options, Madrid is a little bit sleepier than some of the other destinations we’ve mentioned. But don’t let that fool you into thinking there’s not much to do here.
To narrow it down, the top attractions include Spain’s beautiful Royal Palace, the magnificent El Retiro Park and, for foodies especially, the Mercado San Miguel, which boasts a range of tapas and desserts from all over Spain and abroad. (Our local’s itinerary to the best of Madrid showcases some of the coolest restaurants, hotels and things to do if you want to know more.)
Still not sure how to narrow down your list? Connect with Fora to customize your dream Spain trip. We’ll also help you figure out where to stay in Madrid.
Whether you’re looking for the best boutique hotels in Madrid or something simpler, we’re here to help.
5. Ibiza: Spain’s most famous party island (but a relaxing place to visit with the whole family)
Ibiza might be better known as the top Spain bachelorette party destination (or the top party destination, in general), but the island brings a lot of family-friendly fun to the table, too.
Ibiza is one of the best places to visit in Spain for first-timers because it offers a condensed version of most of what Spain has to offer, including incredible culinary options, a rich culture and gorgeous coastlines.
While most visit the island for the parties, visiting Ibiza with kids can be a surprisingly relaxing affair. In addition to the many clubs and amazing bars, there are many great places to shop, eat and otherwise unwind, far from the more risqué elements you might encounter on the island. (Also: check out our three-day detox itinerary to exploring Formentera).
6. Valencia: the home of Spain’s awesome, massive City of Arts and Sciences complex
While the city of Valencia is absolutely worth visiting in its own right, the City of Arts and Sciences makes this Mediterranean city a uniquely awesome place in Spain to visit with children. The complex, for lack of a better term (it feels like so much more than that), hosts a series of futuristic and interactive museums, including Europe’s largest aquarium, for all-ages fun.
Beyond the complex, Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city and just as vibrant and welcoming as Madrid and Barcelona.
Connect with Fora for intel on all the best places to stay in Valencia, and to plan and book your accommodations.
7. Segovia: one of the coolest places to visit in Spain for kids who love Old-World architecture
As we said earlier, not every young kid appreciates architecture — but for those that do, Segovia is a real treat. The city is a masterclass in Old-World styles from the Roman Occupation through the late Renaissance era. That’s over 1,000 years of architectural history to explore.
The influences of past cultures aren’t the only thing worth enjoying in Segovia, though. Like anywhere in Spain, travelers to the ancient city can enjoy fantastic local cuisine and a range of unique experiences, like hot-air-balloon rides over Segovia’s famous Roman aqueduct and castles.
8. Málaga: a gorgeous city to explore in Spain with kids who love the beach
Málaga is a gorgeous coastal city found along Spain’s southern coast. If you’re visiting Spain with kids that love the beach, Málaga should be near the top of your list. The city isn’t quite as busy as some of Spain’s other major coastal areas like Valencia or Ibiza, so it’s a great choice for families prioritizing relaxation.
In many ways, Málaga offers a sample of many of the things that make Spain such an appealing destination: a vibrant culture, delicious gastronomy, beautiful architecture…you get the idea.
9. San Sebastián: a unique and exciting Spanish city along the country’s northern coast
San Sebastián feels dramatically different from Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid, but that’s what makes it so fun to explore. Found in Basque Country, the small resort town sits on Spain’s northern coast, not far from the French border.
The vibe is a little different here. San Sebastián’s smaller size and picturesque beaches lend it an intimate and laid-back feel compared to Spain’s lively southern cities. However, areas like Parte Vieja, or Old Town San Sebastián, are a favorite among discerning travelers — with or without kids — because of the upscale boutiques and elevated gastronomy.
Curious about visiting San Sebastián? Connect with Fora to plan and book your getaway.
10. Toledo: a fun, Medieval city to explore in Spain with kids
Like Segovia, Toledo’s appeal is based on its storied history and culture. Unlike Segovia, there’s a much greater emphasis placed on the Medieval era, particularly when it comes to experiences. In Toledo, kids can enjoy learning about knights, sword crafting (seriously), traditional puppet shows and more.
If there’s only one place you visit here, make it the Alcazar of Toledo. Kids will love exploring the castle’s many halls, towers and walls. Better yet, the castle regularly hosts fun exhibits and interactive shows for children.
Pro tip: if you don’t want to stay in Toledo, it can be a fun day-trip destination from Madrid, which is only about an hour away.
Connect with Fora to start planning a trip to Spain with kids today
Ready to travel to Spain with kids? Connect with Fora to get started. And remember: when you book and plan your trip with us, you’ll get access to awesome hotel perks and upgrades at no extra cost.
Not sure the best places to stay in Spain are what you’re looking for in a family vacation? Check out these awesome family destinations, too: