Spain Family Travel

Spain offers plenty of fun for the whole family. The myriad beaches, beautiful cities and towns, and opportunities for outdoor excursions mean there are enough family group activities to suit every taste. Bring the brood to the Mediterranean coast and laze on the beaches of the Costa del Sol. Discover kid-friendly locales like Barcelona’s colorful Park Güell and the City of Arts and Sciences aquarium in Valencia. Or make it an active adventure by heading to Spain’s southern Andalusia region for off-roading near Ronda before finishing the trip on the coast.

Plan your trip to Spain
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Planning your family trip to Spain

Row the family on Plaza de España in Seville
Map of 10 Days in Spain - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Spain - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Grab your kids and head to Spain for 10 days of fun activities, like beach trips near Málaga and on the Costa Brava; citywide treasure hunts; kayaking, catamaran, and sailing excursions; museum visits; and food tours. These five different itineraries take you all over the country, from north to south, as you witness Spain through your kids' eager eyes and explore places like the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the Royal Palace in Madrid, the Alhambra, the Mezquita, and Seville's Royal Alcázar.

Eat churros and play at Retiro Park in Madrid with your family
Map of 1 Week in Spain - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Spain - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With kid-friendly activities like exploring Gaudí's whimsical Park Güell, expressing your creativity at mosaic workshops, and stretching your legs on easy-yet-stunning hikes in the southern hills, Spain is an excellent family destination. These top picks for family-friendly itineraries in Spain let you and your crew hop from Barcelona to Madrid to Granada and more with comfort, ease, and plenty of entertainment. Watch those faces light up as you channel your inner royal for the day, taste all the Spanish goodies (tapas are naturally kid-approved), and play at the beach!

Hiking with the family in the Canary Islands
Map of 2 Weeks in Spain - 3 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Spain - 3 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Spain with your family is an ideal length of time for exploring more of the country, enjoying memorable experiences, and/or visiting unique places. Our three recommended itineraries give you options like active excursions across the Canary Islands, combining Spain and Portugal into one epic trip, or traversing the country from north to south.

Family-friendly hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid)
The 6 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Madrid

Madrid is an excellent city for family trips, with so many activities that kids will love, such as rowing boats in Retiro Park, exploring the royal palace, and eating churros at Chocolatería San Ginés. At the end of the day, you'll find several hotels that support families with amenities like pools, restaurants with kid-friendly grub, and spacious rooms (some with bunk beds).

Family-friendly hotels in Barcelona (Photo courtesy of Casa Luz)
The 6 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Barcelona

Barcelona is an ideal location when traveling with kids. The city never seems to get old for families, with gondolas and funiculars, large sweeping parks packed with entertainment, and beaches right in the city. But when traveling with the little ones in tow, it helps to choose a family-friendly hotel in Barcelona, too, of which there are plenty of options.

Luxury family-friendly hotels in Barcelona (Photo courtesy of Serras Barcelona‎)
The 3 Best Luxury Family-Friendly Hotels in Barcelona

When traveling with family—especially with young kiddos in tow—you might want accommodation with larger rooms, bunk beds, a swimming pool, kid-friendly restaurants, and entertaining attractions within walking distance. Sometimes, luxury hotels are the way to go because they offer many amenities that appeal to kids and adults alike. Plus, the cushy feel and elegant vibe don't hurt!

Family-friendly hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of Hotel Alhambra Palace)
The 7 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Granada

As a city filled with history, Granada is an excellent destination for a family trip. Adults and kids alike love exploring the streets of the Albaicín, walking the grounds of the Alhambra, and discovering the city's unique history. On top of excellent locations, the best family-friendly hotels in Granada offer perks that kids love, such as extravagant breakfast buffets, spacious rooms, on-site restaurants, and rooftop terraces.

Luxury family-friendly hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of URSO Hotel & Spa)
The 3 Best Luxury, Family-Friendly Hotels in Madrid

Some of the best luxury family-friendly hotels in Madrid offer those necessary perks that make it a little easier to travel with your brood. With these amenities, you can explore the city, then return to your comfy hotel for plenty of entertainment, like splashing around in the pool, eating conveniently at on-site restaurants, and hanging out on a rooftop terrace.

Mid-range family-friendly hotels (photo courtesy of (Photo courtesy of CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha)
The 3 Best Mid-Range Family-Friendly Hotels in Madrid

When traveling with family, those kid-friendly perks that make the trip a little easier can be worth it, such as convenient restaurants right on the property and a swimming pool to keep everyone entertained. Some of Madrid's best mid-range family-friendly hotels offer those amenities, plus an excellent location.

Mid-range family-friendly hotels in Barcelona (Photo courtesy of Casa Bonay)
The 4 Best Mid-Range Family-Friendly Hotels in Barcelona

What can make a family trip a little more manageable is the accommodation, but you don't necessarily need a posh 5-star hotel to stay comfy. Barcelona has several mid-range family-friendly hotels that offer kid-friendly perks that parents and the little ones will appreciate, like swimming pools, convenient on-site restaurants, and central locations next to the main sites.

Mid-range hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of Only YOU Boutique Hotel)
The 3 Best Standard Family-Friendly Hotels in Madrid

Madrid is an excellent choice for a family trip, as this diverse city offers plenty to see and do, plus a few accommodation options that don't require a splurge. Some of the best standard family-friendly hotels in Madrid are in our favorite walkable neighborhoods, meaning even shorter legs can enjoy all the sites. Our top picks are affordable, keep you centrally located, and still provide family-friendly amenities like breakfast buffets and cozy lounges.

Standard hotels in Barcelona (Photo courtesy of Sonder Casa Luz)
The 3 Best Standard, Family-Friendly Hotels in Barcelona

Barcelona's historic center is the perfect place for families to stay, with so much to do in the Gothic Quarter, Eixample, and El Born neighborhoods. These areas also offer family-friendly accommodation for any budget. Some of the best standard hotels in Barcelona still provide those fun amenities that kids love, like rooftop terraces, convenient (and tasty) on-site restaurants, and cozy lounges for reading or playing board games.

Mid-range family-friendly hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of La Bella Granada)
The 4 Best Mid-Range Family-Friendly Hotels in Granada

Spain is an excellent destination for families who love to explore historical monuments, and Granada has one of the most famous sites: the majestic Alhambra Palace. But the city's unique history goes beyond its Nasrid palace, including the streets of the Albaicín neighborhood. You'll find plenty of the best mid-range family-friendly hotels within walking distance of all these famous sites.

Standard family-friendly hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of Palacio de Santa Ines)
The 3 Best Standard Family-Friendly Hotels in Granada

If you're planning a family trip to Spain and have your sights set on Granada, know that you can find some of the best standard family-friendly hotels within walking distance of all the historical sites. Some of our top picks sit perfectly between Alhambra and the city center, making it easier for kids to explore the city.

Spain family-friendly itineraries

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Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia & Madrid - 9 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia & Madrid - 9 Days

This nine-day excursion allows you to enjoy the highlights of Spain with the entire family. It begins in the most famous coastal city in the country, Barcelona, and continues down to Valencia, a historic metropolis home to a science and oceanographic center the kids will love. The journey ends in Madrid with a tour of the local palaces as well as plenty of opportunities to indulge in Spain's world-class cuisine. 

Let the kids play on Barcelona's beach
Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona & Madrid - 7 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona & Madrid - 7 Days

In just one week, you can enjoy the perfect family holiday in Spain by visiting the two most iconic cities in the nation: Madrid and Barcelona. You and your family will enjoy the highlights of each and have plenty of opportunities to try Spain's world-famous (and inherently kid-friendly) cuisine and even take a day trip to the always entertaining medieval fortress city of Toledo.

Spain for Families: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Costa del Sol - 16 Days
Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Costa del Sol - 14 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Costa del Sol - 14 Days

Beyond the Ibiza beach parties and Barcelona nightclubs is a whole other Spain perfect for both adults and kids. This comprehensive 14-day tour celebrates the old and the new, from historic cities like Madrid and Seville to modern centers of art, culture, and science. Plus you'll enjoy day trips into the countryside and visit mountaintop amusement parks.

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Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona & Madrid - 6 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona & Madrid - 6 Days

Who says you can't enjoy the perfect European holiday in less than a week? This brisk six-day itinerary dispells that myth as you and the family enjoy a great adventure in Spain. It begins on the sun-kissed boulevards of Barcelona and ends at the historic plazas and royal palaces in Madrid—and includes plenty of time for food, fun, and family bonding.

Explore the parks of Barcelona with your family
Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid & Seville - 10 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid & Seville - 10 Days

Spain is famous for many things, including its beautiful beaches, world-class gastronomy, royal palaces, and ancient cathedrals. Over 10 days, you and the family will discover it all on an unforgettable journey from Barcelona to Madrid and, finally, to Andalusia. This last region offers unique cultural elements that kids love, such as Moorish fortresses and flamenco rhythms.

Enjoy a road trip with your family in southern's Spain Andalusia
Map of Family Adventure in Southern Spain: Málaga, Granada, Seville & More - 10 Days
Family Adventure in Southern Spain: Málaga, Granada, Seville & More - 10 Days

During this fun, family-friendly 10-day tour, you'll experience the natural beauty of southern Spain and its cultural highlights. Activities like treasure hunts and canyon walks suit families with kids who want a combination of action and downtime. You'll start in Málaga and end in Seville, visiting Ronda, Granada, and Córdoba along the way—all home to a wealth of Spanish culture and history.

Spain for Families: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Costa del Sol - 16 Days
Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Costa del Sol - 15 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Costa del Sol - 15 Days

Sure, Spain is famous for its food, fiestas, and great wine, but this European hotspot isn't merely for the adults. Besides the world-class beaches, there are historic castles, palaces and ample opportunities for adventure perfect for kids. You'll experience just that on a 15-day itinerary that covers not only Madrid and Andalusia but Barcelona and the Costa del Sol.

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Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid & Andalusia - 12 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid & Andalusia - 12 Days

Spain's world-renowned culture and historic sights are such that they can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages. It's the perfect country for a family vacation, and over 12 fun-filled days you'll experience the best Spain has to offer, from the Mediterranean coast down into the Andalusia region. Along the way, there will be day trips and adventures in unforgettable cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville.

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Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona & Madrid - 8 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona & Madrid - 8 Days

This eight-day vacation is just long enough for you to get to the heart of Spain's two most famous cities: Barcelona and Madrid. Perfect for families, it involves a nice mix of fun activities as well as an exciting day trip. These include visits to ancient cathedrals and palaces, stops at an amusement park, and a tour of the historic city of Toledo.

Spain for Families: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Costa del Sol - 16 Days
Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Costa del Sol - 16 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Costa del Sol - 16 Days

For every nightclub and beach party in Spain, there are 10 options for culture and family fun. This 16-day itinerary allows you and the brood to visit the nation's most iconic cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. Ancient castles, gothic churches, Mediterannean beaches, mountain villages, and even 4x4 off-roading make up some of the locales and activities you'll enjoy on this unforgettable vacation.

Take the kids to Plaza de España, a historical landmark in Seville
Map of Family Adventure in Southern Spain: Granada, Málaga & Seville - 7 Days
Family Adventure in Southern Spain: Granada, Málaga & Seville - 7 Days

Take your family on a trip through memorable southern Spain, where you'll explore three incredible cities: Granada, Málaga, and Seville. Highlights of this itinerary include touring the Alhambra with a kid-friendly focus, exploring Málaga with an exciting treasure hunt, enjoying a day playing at the beach, and rowing boats at Plaza de España in Seville.

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Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Andalusia - 13 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Andalusia - 13 Days

Spain's welcoming culture, abundance of beautiful nature, and historic sights make any family trip here an exciting proposition. This 13-day itinerary is the perfect amount of time to get to know some of the major regions, including Catalonia and southern Andalusia. Naturally, this vacation includes stops in some of the most incredible cities in the country, including Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and Málaga.

Have fun exploring the Canary Islands
Map of Active Family Vacation in the Canary Islands - 14 Days
Active Family Vacation in the Canary Islands - 14 Days

Enjoy this epic family vacation to Spain's Canary Islands, where 14 days of kid-friendly outdoor adventures await. Explore mountain peaks and volcanoes, spend time playing at the beach, hike through tropical forests, kayak in the ocean, visit a banana plantation, and more. These action-packed two weeks will keep the little ones entertained, with plenty of memories to bring home.

Valencia's historic Plaza de la Virgen
Family-friendly Spain: Barcelona & Valencia - 6 Days

There's fun for the whole family on this relaxed 6-day tour of eastern Spain. Starting in Barcelona, you'll ascend Mount Montjuic via cable cars, take a sunset sail around the harbor, and wander the cobbled streets of the Gothic Quarter. After a day trip exploring the wonders of surrounding Catalonia, you’ll head down the coast to finish your trip in Valencia, where all ages can marvel at underwater wonders in Europe’s largest aquarium and sample the city’s signature dish of paella.

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Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Andalusia - 11 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, & Andalusia - 11 Days

Who hasn't dreamed of a family vacation to Europe? This 11-day tour of Spain allows you and the kids to live that dream as you visit sunkissed Barcelona, the capital of Madrid, and the ancient Andalusia region. Along the way, you'll marvel at hillside castles, sample some of the finest cuisine in the world, visit royal palaces, and even enjoy a 4x4 offroading adventure.

Enjoy the beaches of Costa Brava with your family
Map of Family Summer Vacation in Spain: Madrid, Barcelona & the Costa Brava - 10 Days
Family Summer Vacation in Spain: Madrid, Barcelona & the Costa Brava - 10 Days

Summer is the perfect time to visit sunny Spain and take advantage of the country's kid-friendly outdoor activities. This 10-day adventure is all about family time outside, with visits to Barcelona's colorful and quirky Park Güell, food adventures in Madrid with kid-approved grub, beach days on the Costa Brava, catamaran cruises, and more.

Let the children play in the surf of one of Costa Brava's many beaches
Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona & the Costa Brava - 7 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona & the Costa Brava - 7 Days

From Barcelona's outdoor playground to the incredible beaches of the Costa Brava, Spain's Catalonia region is perfect for a family trip. Visit iconic sites with a kid-friendly twist, such as the quirky Park Güell and amusement park atop Tibidabo, then make memories on the coast with museum visits, beach days, and kayaking excursions.

Explore Barcelona's sites with the kids in tow
Map of Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid & Andalusia - 14 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid & Andalusia - 14 Days

Explore some of Spain's biggest and most culturally rich cities through your kids' eyes as this two-week adventure takes you to Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, Seville, and Málaga. Enjoy family-friendly and kid-approved activities, like scavenger hunts in museums, city food tours, romping through parks and gardens, being royalty for the day, and playing at mountaintop theme parks.

Enjoy the Andalusian coast with the kids in tow
Map of Spain Family Trip: Madrid to Málaga - 10 Days
Spain Family Trip: Madrid to Málaga - 10 Days

Enjoy 10 unforgettable days exploring Spain with your family, starting in the royal city of Madrid and ending in the culturally rich Andalusia in southern Spain. Kids love trying all the different Spanish snacks and tapas (churros con chocolate and croquettes seem to be a favorite), spending all day at the beach, cruising the coast in a catamaran, and discovering exciting cities like Toledo, Seville, and Granada.

Take the family to Madrid and check out Retiro Park
Map of Family Trip to Spain: Madrid & Granada - 7 Days
Family Trip to Spain: Madrid & Granada - 7 Days

The royal city of Madrid and historical adventures in Granada create the perfect combination for a family trip to Spain. Kids love viewing Madrid from its cable car, strolling its ancient streets, and eating all the goodies, like tapas and churros with chocolate. In Granada, the historic Alhambra steals the show, and you'll make many everlasting memories while exploring the Andalusian countryside.

Play on the beaches near Málaga
Map of Southern Spain Family Aventure from Madrid - 10 Days
Southern Spain Family Aventure from Madrid - 10 Days

Experience all the kid-friendly highlights of Spain with this 10-day excursion pairing the royal heritage of Madrid with the unique culture of southern Spain. Kids love trying all the treats (like churros dipped in chocolate), touring iconic sights like the Alhambra, walking in the countryside of Andalusia, and spending an entire day on the beach.

Visit Plaza Mayor in Madrid
Map of Spain Family Trip: Madrid to Málaga - 7 Days
Spain Family Trip: Madrid to Málaga - 7 Days

Pair Madrid's historic and royal city with Spain's sunny southern coastline for the perfect family-friendly combination. Kids love all the sites in Madrid's Old Town (and all its delicious snacks, like churros and chocolate), and nothing beats a little time on the coast, with a playful beach day and fun day trips to historic villages, exciting sea cliffs, and incredible caves.