What do families want on their holidays? Loads of fun and food, world-class restaurants, unlimited sites to discover, and some great shopping venues! Well, Spain seems to have it all, and it is affordable too. It is time to make some interesting and different experiences for you and your children.
Get ready to explore a country full of natural beauty and a fascinating mix of history and culture. Spain is a family-friendly destination with excellent infrastructure for transport and accommodation. This is the reason why an increasing number of people are looking for cost-effective family holidays in Spain to enjoy the beautiful coastline and the sparkling islands. All you need to do is to go with careful planning and make the most of your trip.
Here is a brief, but useful guide for family travel in Spain:
When to go?
The best time for a family trip to Spain is spring and fall when the weather is perfect. One should avoid the summers, especially July and August, as they can be very hot. However, Spring and fall months are a lot cooler and more comfortable. One should evade winters in Spain as it can be bitterly cold.
Where to stay?
Accommodation is not a problem in Spain as there are plenty of kid-friendly hotels that suit the budget and needs of every kind of family. You can ask for larger rooms, cots for children sometimes at extra cost, and other facilities. There are high-end hotels and resorts that offer childcare facilities and children’s playgrounds plus swimming pools.
How to move about?
Cities and towns in Spain are easy to navigate, thanks to well-designed Spain’s transport system. You can travel on the high-speed trains between many major cities, and there are handsome discount offers for kids on public transport, and if they are under four, travel is free for them. One can also use buses and even hire taxis or cars, based on their need and convenience.
Where to eat?
When you look at the local Spanish kids, you will find that they eat whatever their parents eat, and there is no such thing as “kid food.” Still, food would be a special gourmet experience for your family and especially kids. They would love to taste anything with pasta and try out the most exotic meals. You should be aware of some kid-friendly restaurants with menus that are always a hit with them. These restaurants are great options, as kids can enjoy the food to their hearts’ content. Some good options are Mamafante y Papaposa that serves delicious breakfast or lunch and has a supervised play area for kids. Kiosko Bar Príncipe is a gorgeous green space and La Escaloná brings something new and fresh to the table every time.
What to do and see?
Spain is a land of fiestas and ferias, flamenco shows, and processions. And there are a lot of adventure activities too for the whole family like rafting, kayaking, canyoning, and mountain-biking. There is plenty to do and see in Spain, and it is impossible to cover all the areas or regions. So, it is best to focus on one region and enjoy one place at a time.
- Costa Blanca: Enjoy sea kayaking and snorkeling near Javea, and you must visit the Mythology-themed amusement park, Terra Mítica. Other spots of interest include Algar Waterfalls, Terra Natura zoo theme park, Aqua Natura waterpark, and Rio safari park. Swim with dolphins in Mundomar and do visit the Toy Museum.
- Barcelona: Barcelona is perfect for a family with teens and soccer fans. See Salvador Dalí’s grave, and there is no shortage of great culture here in Barcelona with plenty of World heritage sites. Enjoy the city beaches and the cable cars. Visit Tibidabo Amusement Park, Magic Fountains, and Ciutadella Park with your children.
- Northern Spain: Plan a road trip in Northern Spain and enjoy those wonderful spots and cities that come on the way. You can stop in Toledo, Salamanca, Léon, and Ourense. Asturias region of Spain.
- Asturias Region of Spain: There is plenty of indoor activities to enjoy in the Asturias region. The unspoiled nature, great food, and warm locals indeed make the place alluring. Enjoy the nature in Xurbeo Waterfall and lakes of Covadonga. The famous museums include the Jurassic Museum of Asturias and the Museum of Mining and Industry.
- South Coast of Andalusia: If your family is the adventurous type, then head towards the south coast of Andalusia to brave the colder waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The region is well known for its fabulous climate and glorious beaches. There are good-sized children’s playground in every town and one can enjoy riding bikes and boat rides and loads of ice cream here.
- Salamanca: Explore the little Rome of Spain, Salamanca, which is famed for its magnificent scenery. There is plenty to do and explore near La Alberca and Camino de Agua. Enjoy swimming in the Riomalo de Abajo. The main Salamanca attractions are located in the city itself and the ambiance of the town.
- Lanzarote: Lanzarote is the ultimate spot for kids, and there is plenty to do in the town of Teguise. You can camp out or cruise with the kids and enroll for scuba lessons with Lanzarote Nonstop Divers. You must take a dive in a submarine and enjoy some watersports at Playa Chica. Visit the Pirate Museum and Rancho Texas with your kids who would love the experience.
- Valencia: Another family-friendly city is Valencia, which is bursting with fun things to do for the whole family. The city is relaxed and perfect for kids to enjoy. Explore the beautiful Central Market and look at the fresh produce. Walk in the area around El Carmen and take leisurely walks on the streets. The highly recommended spots include Turia Garden Park and with bike paths, lakes, and playgrounds for the kids.
- Santiago de Compostela: Santiago de Compostela is another great Spanish city that is fun and interesting to explore and is a UNESCO world heritage site. Enjoy delicious pastries and desserts at local bakeries and look at the main city attraction, the stunning cathedral. Hike on the walking trails through the parks in the hills and forest that surround the city. Take the tourist train that runs through the city center and halts at the major city attractions.
Some advice when traveling with children
If you are holidaying for the first time in Spain with your children and family, well there are some aspects that you should be aware of. Expect your children to be ruffled and kissed and even offered sweets. Spanish people love families and kids. You can always ask for extra bread, olives, and tapas. Learn about the nearest children’s playgrounds from the local tourist office.
