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A Guide to Family-Friendly Spanish Holidays
Written by Sabina Sobczak
From kid-friendly beach resorts to activity-packed adventure holidays, here is why Spain is your next family destination.
Whether you prefer being in the city, close to the beach or in nature with your nearest and dearest, Spain has it all along with family-focused facilities and attractions to make your holiday one to remember. From the cities that make the best destinations for your troop to tips for how much to budget for your holiday, explore this essential guide to discover why you need to add Spain to your list for your upcoming family trip.
Is Spain a good family destination?
While Spain is known for fiestas and its vibrant nightlife, it has a lot to offer for those planning a more relaxed escape. With a family-oriented culture, children are usually welcome in most restaurants and bars, and many attractions offer discounted rates or free admission for kids. Check out this Madrid Museums Tour or Park Güell & Sagrada Familia Guided Tour, both free for children under five, or opt for this Kayaking & Snorkelling Tour to Costa Brava for older kids looking for something more active. Family-friendly accommodation is also not hard to come by, with many hotels and resorts such as Atzavara Hotel & Spa, Royal Hideaway Corales Suites or Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa offering kids’ clubs and facilities to allow both you and the little ones to make the most of your stay. In terms of entertainment, Spain has something for all ages and interests, from culture-packed city breaks or relaxing beach retreats, to nature and adventure holidays.
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Where in Spain is best for family holidays?
Families come in all shapes and sizes, and whether you’re looking for a kid-friendly destination or something for older children, we’re here to guide you on the ideal Spanish escape.
For resorts with kids’ clubs and facilities, Spain’s islands are a great option. The Canary Islands, Ibiza and Mallorca offer fun for the whole family with a vitamin sea focus. To add some culture into your retreat, opt for a city break, with Madrid, Barcelona and Malaga all offering something different. From a Gran Gala Flamenco experience to a Half-Day Toledo Guided Tour, there’s something for everyone. As the country’s capital, there is no better place than Madrid to immerse yourself in Spanish tradition and history. For world-famous architecture and a unique blend of Spanish and Catalan culture, Barcelona is your go-to, while Malaga bodes well for those seeking a vibrant mix of art, cuisine, and sun-soaked adventure on the Mediterranean coast.
Is Madrid or Barcelona better for kids?
While both cities boast a rich history and culture, there are some distinctions between Madrid and Barcelona that may sway your decision. Madrid can be better for families due to its laidback atmosphere and a deeper insight into Spanish food, museums, and culture. Barcelona is a lively coastal city, promising ample outdoor fun and beach time alongside discovering the city’s heritage. Another fun perk is the unique architecture throughout the city, with Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and Casa Batlló embodying whimsical and colourful designs that a younger audience will love. Have a look at Villa Real Hotel or Hotel Granados 83 and decide for yourself.
Which Spanish island is the most family friendly?
Spain’s islands stand out as a top choice for families. Despite its reputation as a party destination, Ibiza’s Eastern coast also has family-focused hotels and resorts with kids’ clubs, playgrounds and kid-friendly dining options. The island also boasts pristine beaches and scenic countryside perfect for both land and water activities. Discover the magic of Ibiza yourself with a retreat to Aguas de Ibiza or Hyde Ibiza, both complete with kids’ clubs. The island of Mallorca is another great choice, with safe beaches, water parks and even more family-friendly resorts, with the city of Palma also offering a city break vibe. For something extra special, treat your family to a lavish stay at Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa. Tenerife and Lanzarote islands provide a quieter, more tranquil atmosphere with a stronger focus on outdoor adventure and exploration.
How much to budget for a family holiday in Spain?
The best news is that Spain is a relatively affordable destination compared to other European countries, and with a family-oriented culture, many accommodation options will include discounts and kid-friendly facilities to help stretch the budget. Depending on preferences, a ballpark figure of €2000 to €6000 for a week-long escape could cover accommodation, meals, transport and activities for a family of four. You can keep the price down by prioritising historic sites, beaches, and nature reserves with affordable or free admission, and opting for resorts or hotels with dining inclusions.
What is the best way to travel to Spain with kids?
With international airports in all major cities in Spain and its popular islands, each above-mentioned destination is easily accessible by plane. Flights are direct, regular and reasonably priced, taking the stress out of travelling with little ones. Main cities like Madrid and Barcelona are walkable and offer easy public transport, although renting a car could be a good idea if you’re planning day trips out of the city. For the islands, keep an eye out for family-friendly resorts that offer onsite activities and entertainment for all ages, or consider renting a car to explore each island’s natural treasures.
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Looking for more inspiration? Check out San Sebastian, Ibiza & Beyond: A Guide to Spain’s Most Beautiful Beaches.
