Spain with Kids: Tips from an Expat

Last Updated on November 15, 2024

Having lived in Spain for 8 years (and giving birth to my kid there), I’ve learned a lot about exploring Spain with kids. Here is my comprehensive guide to help you plan a Spain family trip.

From medieval churches to stunning beaches and fun-filled islands, Spain is brimming with impressive sights and exciting experiences for the whole family. There are plenty of fun adventures to be had in Spain with kids: frolic on picture-perfect beaches on the island of Mallorca, go on a tapas tour or take a cooking class in Madrid, wander the famous Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona, or hike the famous Caminito del Rey.

There are few countries as kid-friendly as Spain. Children of all ages are welcome everywhere (even in bars at midnight!); most restaurants serve kid menus and offer high chairs; and there are plenty of museums designed for kids. The great infrastructure in the country also means it’s easy to get around and explore without worrying for your kids’ safety. 

Spain is a special place for me: I lived in Spain for 8 years with my Spanish husband; our daughter was born there and we go back to Spain almost every year to visit family. It’s probably the country I know best, next to my home country Singapore. For those planning to travel Spain with kids, I’m sharing details of our trip to help you plan your Spain family trip.

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My Guide to Traveling Spain with Kids

How to Get to Spain 

Madrid is a well connected city and caters to both low cost and standard carriers. The main international airport in Madrid is Adolfo Suárez Madrid Barajas Airport and is situated close to the city center. If you’re flying from other parts of Europe, you can cheap Madrid flights for less than $100. For example, we got flights from London to Madrid once for as cheap as $30 return.

Flights from major hubs like New York City and Chicago’s O’Hare Airport are usually quite affordable. During the off-season, a direct flight can cost as little as $350, while peak season fares hover around $1,000. A flight from New York goes for about $359.

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When to Travel Spain with Kids

Many people assume Spain to be warm throughout the year, but it has a myriad of terrains and climates. Northern Spain (Bilbao, San Sebastian, Santander), for example, has a rainy and cool climate for most of the year. In general, the summer months have the best weather across the country. But that’s also the time when Spain is most crowded and expensive.

In my opinion, the best time to travel Spain is in spring (between March and May) and autumn (September and October). You’ll still soak up the sunshine, the weather is generally quite mild, and you’ll be able to take in most museums and sights without too much crowd.

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How Long to Travel Spain with Kids?

Spain is an extremely diverse country with each province offering different cultures, cuisines and landscapes — it’s no wonder Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. In the seven years I spent living in Spain, I traveled throughout the country at every chance I had and still have not seen it all!

If this is your first trip to Spain, I recommend spending at least two weeks in Spain. You’ll not only get to visit the most famous parts of Spain, like Madrid and Barcelona, but you’ll also get to see the coast along Valencia, and the Andalusia region that is the most traditional part of the country. Read my recommendation for a 2-week Spain itinerary for details.

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The Ultimate 2-Week Spain Itinerary

• Days 1-3: Madrid
• Day 4: Day Trip to Toledo
• Day 5-7: Barcelona
• Day 8-9: Valencia
• Days 10-11: Granada
• Days 12-14: Malaga
• Day 15: Fly home!

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Getting Around Spain with Kids

By Car Rental

The easiest and most convenient way to travel through Spain is by car. Spain’s network of highways are in excellent condition and it’s easy to navigate even if you don’t read Spanish. Small roads in old towns can be tricky though, as they’re narrow and busy.

Car rental in Spain is extremely affordable and you can find rentals as cheap as 30 euros a day. We always use Discover Cars as they’ve consistently given the best prices and customer service. For this Spain road trip, we recommend picking up your car rental in Barcelona and dropping it in Malaga.

Search for car rentals in Spain

By Train & Bus

If you don’t drive, it’s extremely easy to get around Spain by train. Spain has an excellent train system, with comfortable, high-speed trains connecting the major cities. The national train operator in Spain is Renfe. 

Traveling by bus is the cheapest option. Some of the main bus operators in Spain are Alsa, Comes, and Conda. To check bus routes and fares in Spain, plan your bus route using Bookaway.

By Taxi or Uber

Uber works well in the big cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Taxis are also reliable and will charge you based on meters. A great alternative to buses and trains is Blablacar, a ride-sharing platform that allows you to carpool with people who are heading the same way as you.

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Spain with Kids: Which Ages Would Enjoy it Most?

Spain is one of those countries that will appeal to kids of every age. Traveling Spain with babies or toddlers is easy and fun, as the infrastructure in Spain is excellent for families. You’ll find baby-changing facilities in bathrooms, highchairs and kids’ menus at restaurants, and plenty of playgrounds, parks and kid-oriented museums.

My daughter was born in Spain – and even though we left when she was 2 years old, we go back to Spain almost every year to visit family. When she was very little, we struggled with keeping to her sleep schedule as mealtimes are late there (lunch at is at 2pm and dinner is usually at 9-10pm) and things go on till late especially in summer. But now that’s she is 9 years old, she loves being able to stay out late and go out to bars and restaurants with us.

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Travel Spain Independently vs on A Tour?

Spain is one of the easiest countries to travel; they’ve got excellent infrastructure, transport system, and kid-friendly amenities. There’s no shortage of great museums that are easy to visit on your own, and cooking classes/food tours you can sign up for, as well as great public transport system that is easy to navigate.

The only issue that I can see if the language barrier as many people in Spain don’t speak a second language. Still, those who work in hotels and airports will usually speak some English. Plus, there’s nothing Google Translator can’t help with these days.

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Is it Safe to Travel Spain with Kids?

Spain is one of the safest countries in the world. We lived in Spain for 8 years and our daughter was born there; we never once had any safety issues. I know some of you might be worried about safety in Spain after reading about anti-tourist protests and the water gun confrontations in Barcelona. Those aren’t violent and tourists have never been hurt. Keep yourself updated and stay away from the protests. Always keep your kids close and maybe get them to wear an Airtag just in case they get lost.

What I would suggest is avoid traveling Spain in summer, the peak tourist season, when many parts are packed to the brim with tourists. If you do, try to veer off the well-trodden path and visit lesser-visited places instead – last summer we went back to Spain to visit family and took the chance to visit Salamanca which was gloriously empty and absolutely beautiful.

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How to Get Travel Insurance for Kids

Regardless of how long you are traveling in Spain, I recommend getting travel insurance before your trip. You’ll be covered in case of an accident, loss of baggage, or flight delay/cancellation.

Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan, which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.

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Do You Need to Speak Spanish to Travel Spain with Kids?

Most people speak at least a little bit of English in Madrid and Barcelona, but it isn’t commonly spoken to the other parts. Learning some Spanish can help you get around a lot easier and connect more with locals. My husband is from Spain, so we never had a problem; but you really do need to know some Spanish if you want to get by.

Here are some useful words to learn:

• Hello = Hola!
• Thank you =  Gracias
• Excuse me = Perdón
• Please = Por favor
• How are you? = Como estas?
• Can you help? = Me puedes ayudar? 

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Where to Stay in Spain with Kids

Madrid: Cosy Flat in La Latina

We booked this spacious Airbnb near el Rastro and really enjoyed our stay. The apartment is quite big and comfortable, perfect for our family of three. It’s also steps from restaurants, tapas bars and bakeries. The only downside to it is there are no windows, but that also means it stays cool even in the sizzling summer days. Book here.

Barcelona: El Avenida Palace

El Avenida Palace is an excellent mid-range hotel located along gran Via, the main artery of the city. We love this place because of its value for money and 360-degree views from the rooftop bar. Check rates here.

Valencia: Barceló Valencia

Barceló Valencia has one of the best rooftop bars in Valencia. The views of the Arts and Sciences complex are unbeatable, and there’s a nice, albeit small, spa in the hotel if you need to sneak away to relax a little. Check rates here.

Granada: Hotel Casa 1800 Granada

With astounding views of the Alhambra, this charismatic historical hotel has a romantic ambiance and gorgeous decor. We stayed here on our wedding night! Check the rates here.

Malaga: Gran Hotel Miramar

It doesn’t get more extravagant than this. The luxurious Gran Hotel Miramar GL is set in a listed 17th century building overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Regal rooms with opulent furnishing and ocean views. Check rates here.

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Things to Do in Spain with Kids

Hang out at Puerta del Sol in Madrid

Puerta del Sol is the liveliest and most vibrant part of Madrid. At the city’s very core lies the “kilometer zero” marker, a humble yet significant symbol marking the epicenter of Spain’s expansive road network. The statue of the bear devouring from a fruit tree is an enduring symbol of Madrid’s identity and a great spot to take a selfie.

Try Chocolate con Churros at San Gines

You can’t come to Madrid and not visit this famous churreria, El Pasadizo de San Gines, just next to Puerta del Sol. They have long been a fixture in Madrid’s culinary scene, serving the city’s best crispy churros dipped in hot, gooey chocolate. The café which opened its doors in 1894, is one of Madrid’s most famous breakfast spots.

Visit the Royal Palace in Madrid

One of my daughter’s favorite memories from Spain is visiting the Royal Palace, a testament to the grandeur of Spanish royalty, captivating visitors with its imposing presence and rich history. Despite it no longer serving as the primary residence of Spain’s royal family, it is a must-visit destination on your Madrid itinerary.

It is the largest royal palace in Western Europe, occupying a staggering 135,000 square meters and boasting an astounding 3,418 rooms. Originally commissioned by King Felipe V, its majestic facade adorned with intricate murals, carvings, and ceramics showcases the unparalleled craftsmanship of its era.

Let Your Kids Run Free in Parque Retiro, Madrid

Retiro Park is a wonderful spot to savor nature in Madrid and make fond memories with kids. It was established as a private garden and was unveiled to the public in 1868. The centerpiece of the park is the Estanque del Retiro, a sprawling artificial lake where you can enjoy a boat ride.

The majestic statue of King Alfonso VII on a horse is another unmissable highlight of the park. Another notable landmark is the Palacio del Cristal (Crystal Palace), an architectural marvel constructed entirely of glass. Book a guided walking tour here.

Visit the Balloon Museum in Madrid

If you are traveling Spain with children, a trip to the Balloon Museum should absolutely be on your Spain itinerary. Located within the sprawling Casa de Campo, the museum is a captivating testament to the whimsical world of inflatable art.

The immersive museum takes you on an exhilarating journey into the realm of creativity and playfulness. Inside, you are greeted by a medley of colors and shapes, ranging from towering inflatable structures to inviting ball pools, each inviting exploration and wonder. It is a great way to rouse your inner child or bond with your little one.

Admire the Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia is definitely one of Spain’s most famous attractions and for good reason. The cathedral was designed by world-famous Spanish architect Gaudí and it truly captures the culture and architectural style of Catalonia, the region where Barcelona is. It has been under construction for over 100 years and is set to be completed in 2026. 

Visit Parc Güell in Barcelona

My daughter’s favorite spot in Barcelona, Parc Güell is a whimsical park with colorful sculptures and tile work designed by Gaudí. It’s a playground for the mind: visual jokes, columns that simulate palm-tree trunks, rubble-surfaced arches that grow out of the ground, and quilts of ceramic tiles. There’s a graceful gazebo made of twisted angle iron shaped like softly curved climbing vines. If you’re planning a visit, consider booking entry tickets or a guided tour of Parc Güell here.

Relax at Parc de la Ciutadella

This is one of the biggest public parks in Barcelona and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a day outside. Those traveling with kids will love the huge playgrounds, lush gardens and fountains here. It’s also home to the Catalan Parliament and the Barcelona Zoo. It’s centrally located in the city, so it’s accessible no matter where you’re staying in Barcelona. Check this list of other free things to do in Barcelona.

Stroll Along La Rambla

La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous pedestrianized street. Popping in the little shops and restaurants along La Rambla will show you what it’s like to be a local in Barcelona. At the end of La Rambla, you’ll find La Boqueria market, bursting with fresh produce stalls, tapas stands and bars.

You can even do a food tour and cooking class as a family, and get your kids to learn how to prepare Spanish dishes. For more insights into food scene, be sure to check out my recommendations for the best places to enjoy wine and tapas in Barcelona.

Visit Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias

A contemporary landmark of Spain, the Science and Art Museum of Valencia is a good enough reason to visit the city. The complex actually has 5 different parts, including an IMAX theater, a restaurant, and museums. Part of the Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias, Oceanográfico is the largest aquarium in Europe and has animals from all different parts of the world. It also has live shows with dolphins.

Explore the Famous Alhambra in Granada

Set against the Sierra Nevada peaks, this fortified palace started life as a walled citadel before becoming the opulent seat of Granada’s Nasrid emirs. The 14th-century Palacios Nazaríes here are among the finest Islamic buildings in Europe. You can explore the sprawling complex on your own, but book the tickets early as they sell out especially in summer. Alternatively, get a fast track guided tour to go under the surface.

Watch a Flamenco Show in Granada

An excellent way to immerse your kids in Spanish culture is bringing them to see a flamenco show. The raw emotion emanating from voices filled with anguish coupled with rhythms of joy in sevillanas and rumbas, will get them intrigued for sure!

Sacromonte is Granada’s gypsy quarter, on the hills above Albayzin. This is the birthplace of the zambra, an intense form of flamenco. Most caves in the area have nightly flamenco shows, though you might see street performances if you’re lucky (though the real artists would sneer at them). I usually bring friends from out of town to Cuevas los Tarantos, where a dimly-lit atmosphere and authentic beats set the scene for an unforgettable evening. For more ways to explore the city, check out my guide on the best things to do in Granada.

Hit the Beach in Malaga

It’s not hard to find a beach in Málaga. Just a few minutes’ walk from the old town are miles and miles of beaches. If you’re looking for a more out-of-the-ordinary beach experience though, head to El Pedregalejo. It’s outside of the city center and not as busy as the other nearby beaches.

After you’ve soaked up enough sun, you can also visit one of the chiringuitos (little food huts) to indulge in some local seafood. For more tips on enjoying Málaga to the fullest, check out my detailed guide on things to do in Malaga, as well as my 3-Day Málaga Itinerary.

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What to Eat in Spain with Kids

Spanish food is one of the most vibrant and diverse foods in the world. From the paella to gazpacho and all kinds of cured meat, traditional Spanish food is becoming well-known through the world. Some dishes like tortilla española can be so simple but tastes so good when you use the right ingredients. My daughter loves Spanish food – of course she’s half-Spanish! – but I can see how Spanish food can be such a big hit among kids. Here are some traditional Spanish dishes that kids will love:

• Churros – Possibly one of the most famous Spanish foods worldwide, churros are commonly eaten for breakfast. These fried dough fritters are usually dipped in thick hot chocolate and taste like heaven! 
• Jamón – Produced around the entire country of Spain, cured ham is considered one of the prized gourmet foods in the country. In fact, Spain is the biggest producer and consumer of cured ham in the world! My daughter is absolutely addicted to jamón.
• Tortilla Española – Spanish Omelette is definitely one of the most popular Spanish tapas among both locals and tourists. It’s an egg and potato dish that is  cooked in a skillet. 
• Croquetas – Every Spaniard swears that their mother makes the best croquettes. These creamy fritters are a staple of the Spanish tapas scene, and you’ll find them offered throughout the country. They come with different fillings, but the ones with jamon serrano are easily the most popular!
• Paella – The national dish of Spain is well known all over the world, and is definitely the number one most popular Spanish food. This seafood rice dish is originally from Valencia, but is popular over the country these days.  

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How to Keep Your Kids Healthy in Spain

Spain, in general, has a high level of food hygiene regardless of where you go. Tap water can be drunk and fresh, organic produce are cheap and easily available everywhere. Even tapas bars serve freshly cooked food and supermarkets generally sell high-quality ingredients. 

Healthcare in Spain is excellent and hospital standards are decent – I gave birth to my daughter in a public hospital in Spain and was highly impressed by the service and care I received. It’s also free for residents and citizens, but even foreigners will be provided with treatment at affordable prices. There’s a traveler’s clinic in every city that provides vaccines and care for travel-related diseases.

There are no required vaccines to enter the country but kids are advised to have your polio and tetanus vaccines in order. If you like to be as safe as possible, having the Typhoid and Hepatitis A (and even Hepatitis B) vaccines are recommended.

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How to Stay Connected in Spain with Kids

To stay connected in Spain, I recommend getting an eSIM before arrival or a local SIM card at the airport upon arrival. We always buy our eSIM on Airalo for Spain and it has worked really well on every trip. We had unlimited internet data, with reception even on top of the Sierra Nevada ski slopes. Get your eSIM here.

We minimize the time our daughter spends on devices at home and only give her access to the iPad on long drives and during flights. WiFi is easily available in public spaces in Spain (and every hotel has it), so you can easily download shows/books for offline use before your trip.

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Cost of Travel in Spain with Children

Spain is a relatively affordable destination, especially when compared to the US, UK and other parts of Western Europe. You can find amazing prices on accommodation and food during off-peak season. Expect to pay more during high season, such as summer and Christmas time.

Accommodation is rather cheap in Spain, particularly outside of Madrid and Barcelona. You can find 3-star hotel rooms for $40-60 per night and Airbnbs for around US$50-100 per night. In summer and Christmas, expect the prices to almost double. Last summer, we spent $150/night on our Airbnb near Parque Retiro in Madrid.

Restaurants in Spain offer excellent value. Many of them offer menu del dia (lunch set menus) for $10-20 that includes 3 courses (first dish, main course and dessert). You can usually choose from a salad or soup for the first dish, and a meat or fish dish for the main course. Tapas are usually quite affordable too – in certain cities like Granada, most bars offer free tapas when you order a drink (so you end up just spending $4-6 for a meal).

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What to Pack for a Spain Family Trip

• Kids’ hiking shoes
• Kids’ sandals or Keen water shoes
• Kids’ wide-rimmed hat
• Kids’ down jacket
• Kids’ fleece
• Kids’ zip-off convertible pants
• Long-sleeved pajamas to protect from mosquitos
• Kids’ underwear
• Kids swimsuit
• Kids’ breathable socks
• Kids’ polarized sunglasses with strap
• SPF 50 Sunscreen
• Insect repellant with DEET
• World travel kit stocked with medication 
• Head torch or flashlight
• Kids’ binoculars
• Kids digital camera
• Canon EOS 60D camera
• RAVPower portable power bank
• 70-300mm Tamron lens
• International plug converter
• iPad or Kindle with headphones for long car rides

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Practical Tips for Traveling Spain with Kids

• When planning your Spain itinerary, be sure to factor in some downtime and days where you do nothing. The dry weather and late mealtimes can take some getting use to.
• Make sure the children are up to date with routine vaccinations, and discuss possible travel vaccines well before departure, as some are not suitable for children aged less than a year. 
• Remember to pack rehydration powder in case your child vomits or experiences diarrhea. In Spain’s often-searing heat, you’ll need to be extra careful with heat exhaustion and dehydration. 
• Spain has a very rich culinary culture; take the opportunity to introduce your kids to Spanish food and let them try all kinds of tapas. Forget about McDonalds or Pizza Hut, your kids will love typical Spanish dishes like tortilla española and croquetas. Read my Spanish food guide.

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Enjoy Your Trip to Spain with Kids!

Thank you for reading this far! On an ending note, I just want to remind you not to pack in too much; the key to enjoying Spain with kids is to slow down and take your time to explore. I hope this guide has helped you to plan your Spain family trip. Feel free to leave me any questions or comments you may have below.

Here are more of my articles on Spain to help you with your trip planning:

• My Detailed Guide to Spanish Cuisine
• Living in Spain: Pros & Cons
• Where to Find the Best Tapas in Barcelona
• Spanish Swear Words
• Weekend in Madrid
• Weekend in Malaga
• 20 Things to Do in Málaga
• Best Things to Do in Granada
• Is Granada the Best Place to Live in Spain?
• Things to Do in Mallorca Beyond the Resorts
• My Guide to Hiking the Camino de Santiago

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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