Spain is a popular destination for families seeking a relaxing holiday and adventure. With its Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Spain has something to offer for everyone. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the tranquil countryside of Andalusia, Spain is a country full of surprises.
There are many options for finding the best hotels for a family holiday in Spain. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a budget-friendly hotel, plenty of options suit your needs. Some of the best family-friendly hotels in Spain include the Bahia Principe Fantasia in Tenerife, the PortAventura Hotel El Paso in Costa Dorada, and the Royal Son Bou Family Club in Menorca. These hotels offer a range of amenities and activities for children and adults alike, making them the perfect choice for a family holiday.
In addition to its world-class hotels, Spain is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. From traditional tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants, Spain offers diverse dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Some of the best restaurants in Spain include Tickets in Barcelona, El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, and Asador Etxebarri in Biscay. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a family-friendly meal, Spain has something to offer everyone.
Planning Your Family Holiday to Spain
Spain is a popular holiday destination for families, offering various activities and attractions for all ages. When planning your family holiday to Spain, it’s essential to consider the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit to ensure everyone has an enjoyable and memorable trip.
Best Hotels
Spain has a variety of family-friendly hotels that offer excellent facilities and amenities. Some of the best hotels include the Holiday Village Seaview Ibiza, Gloria Palace Amadores Thalasso & Hotel in Gran Canaria, and PortAventura Hotel El Paso in Costa Dorada. These hotels offer a range of activities for children and adults, including kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and theme park fun.
Best Restaurants
Spain is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are many family-friendly restaurants. Some of the best restaurants include La Pepita in Barcelona, El Pescadito in Malaga, and La Pepica in Valencia. These restaurants offer a range of traditional Spanish dishes and international cuisine to suit all tastes.
Sightseeing
Spain has many remarkable places to visit, including the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Alhambra Palace in Granada, and the Prado Museum in Madrid. These attractions offer a unique insight into Spain’s history and culture and will indeed be enjoyed by the whole family.
Barcelona
Barcelona is a popular destination for families, offering a range of activities and attractions to suit all ages. Barcelona’s best places include Park Guell, the Gothic Quarter, and the Picasso Museum. Barcelona also has many family-friendly restaurants and hotels, making it the perfect destination for a family holiday in Spain.
When planning your family holiday to Spain, it’s essential to consider your budget, the time of year you are travelling, and the interests of your family members. With some research and planning, you can ensure that your family holiday to Spain is an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone.
Top Hotels for Families in Spain
Spain is a popular destination for families looking to spend quality time together while enjoying the beautiful scenery, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Many family-friendly hotels in Spain cater to the needs of parents and children alike. This section will examine some of the best hotels for families in Spain.
Luxury Family Resorts
If you’re looking for a luxurious family holiday in Spain, many high-end resorts offer a range of amenities and activities for children and parents. One of Spain’s best luxury family resorts is the Marbella Club Hotel Golf Resort & Spa. This 5-star resort is located on the Costa del Sol and features a kids’ club, a children’s pool, and a range of activities for kids, including cooking classes and horse riding. Parents can relax and unwind at the spa or on the golf course.
Another excellent luxury family resort is the Abama Golf & Spa Resort in Tenerife. This 5-star resort offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and features a kids’ club, a children’s pool, and a range of activities for kids, including tennis lessons and movie nights. Parents can indulge in a spa treatment or a round of golf while the kids are entertained.
Budget-Friendly Family Hotels
If you’re on a budget, plenty of family-friendly hotels in Spain won’t break the bank. One of the best budget-friendly family hotels is the Best Tritón in Benalmádena. This 4-star hotel is located on the Costa del Sol and features a kids’ club, a children’s pool, and a range of activities for kids, including mini-golf and water polo. Parents can enjoy the hotel’s spa or stroll along the nearby beach.
Another tremendous budget-friendly family hotel is the Palma Bay Club Resort in Mallorca. This 3-star hotel is located in the famous resort town of El Arenal and features a kids’ club, a children’s pool, and a range of activities for kids, including face painting and treasure hunts. Parents can relax by the pool or walk to the nearby beach.
Spain has plenty of family options, whether you’re looking for a luxurious family holiday or a budget-friendly getaway. From high-end resorts to affordable hotels, there’s something for everyone.
Best Family Restaurants in Spain
Spain is famous for its delicious cuisine and excellent restaurants. When it comes to family dining, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best family restaurants in Spain that offer delicious food and an excellent atmosphere for all ages.
Spanish Cuisine for Kids
One of the best things about Spanish cuisine is that it is very family-friendly. Kids will love the delicious tapas, paella, and churros at many restaurants. Some of the best restaurants for Spanish cuisine for kids include:
- Cervecería Catalana, Barcelona: This restaurant is famous for its tapas and is a great place to take the family. Kids will love the patatas bravas, croquettes, and Spanish omelette.
- La Cuchara de San Telmo, San Sebastian: This restaurant serves delicious Basque cuisine and is a great place to take the family. Kids will love the pintxos, which are small snacks perfect for sharing.
Family Dining with a View
Spain is home to many restaurants that offer stunning views of the city or the sea. Here are some of the best family restaurants in Spain that provide great views:
- La Terraza del Casino, Madrid: This restaurant is located on the top floor of a casino and offers stunning views of the city. The food is also excellent, with a menu that includes dishes like roast suckling pig and lobster.
- El Mirador de la Barra, Marbella: This restaurant is on the beach and offers stunning sea views. The food is also delicious, with a grilled octopus and seafood paella menu.
In conclusion, Spain has many amazing family restaurants that offer delicious food and an excellent atmosphere for all ages. Whether you’re looking for Spanish cuisine for kids or family dining with a view, there is something for everyone in Spain.
Spain Sightseeing Guide for Families
Spain is rich in culture and history, with plenty of natural wonders to explore. Whether you’re looking to take your family on a historical journey or to enjoy the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit in Spain with your family.
Historical Sites and Museums
Spain is home to many historical sites and museums perfect for families. The following are some of the most popular:
- The Alhambra in Granada is one of Spain’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fortress and palace complex are must-sees for families interested in history and architecture.
- The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is a stunning basilica designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi. It’s a must-see for families interested in art and architecture.
- The Prado Museum in Madrid is one of the most important art museums in the world, with a collection that includes works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. It’s a great place to introduce your family to the world of art.
Natural Wonders and Parks
Spain is also home to many natural wonders and parks perfect for families. Some of the best include:
- The Pyrenees Mountains offer stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. It’s a great place to take your family if you’re looking for an adventure.
- The Canary Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Africa that offer beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for water sports like snorkelling and scuba diving. It’s a great place to take your family if you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday.
- The Montserrat Monastery is a stunning monastery located in the mountains near Barcelona. It’s a great place to take your family if you’re interested in history and religion.
Overall, Spain offers a wide variety of sights and activities for families. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone.
Must-Visit Places in Spain
Spain is a country that is rich in culture and history, offering a wide range of attractions for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the must-visit places in Spain that you should consider adding to your itinerary:
Cultural Hotspots
Spain has many cultural hotspots perfect for history buffs and art enthusiasts. Here are some of the best cultural attractions that you should visit:
- The Alhambra: Located in Granada, the Alhambra is a stunning palace complex that dates back to the 13th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its intricate Islamic architecture and beautiful gardens.
- The Prado Museum: Located in Madrid, the Prado Museum is one of the world’s most famous art museums. It houses an impressive Spanish and European art collection, including works by Goya, Velazquez, and El Greco.
- The Sagrada Familia: Located in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia is a breathtaking basilica designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi. It is known for its unique and intricate design, which combines Gothic and Art Nouveau styles.
Fun Activities for Children
Spain is an excellent destination for families with children, offering many fun activities that kids will love. Here are some of the best family-friendly attractions in Spain:
- PortAventura World: Located in Salou, PortAventura World is a popular theme park offering various rides and attractions for all ages. It is home to Europe’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, a water park and multiple shows and performances.
- Barcelona Aquarium: Located in Barcelona, the Barcelona Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. It is home to a wide range of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles, as well as interactive exhibits and activities for children.
- Tibidabo Amusement Park: Located in Barcelona, Tibidabo Amusement Park is a charming park that offers a variety of rides and attractions for children. It is known for its stunning views of the city and its vintage rides, including a Ferris wheel and a carousel.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or family-friendly fun, Spain has something for everyone. Add these must-visit places to your itinerary to make the most of your trip.
Exploring Barcelona with Your Family
Barcelona is a city that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and fun activities for the whole family. From Gaudí’s architectural marvels to the city’s beaches and parks, there is something for everyone in Barcelona.
Gaudí’s Architectural Marvels
Antoni Gaudí’s unique architectural style is one of the main attractions in Barcelona. Families can visit his famous works, including the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. The Sagrada Familia is a must-see for anyone visiting Barcelona. Its towering spires and intricate façade are a sight to behold. Families can take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of this iconic building.
Park Güell is another popular attraction for families. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning city views. Kids will love exploring the whimsical structures and colourful mosaics that make up this park. Casa Batlló is another of Gaudí’s masterpieces that families should not miss. The building’s unique façade is covered in colourful tiles and features a dragon’s back as its roof.
Barcelona’s Beaches and Parks
Barcelona is home to some of the best beaches in Europe, making it an ideal destination for families who love the sun, sand, and sea. Barceloneta Beach is the most popular beach in the city and is perfect for families with children. The beach is easily accessible by public transport and has plenty of facilities, including showers, changing rooms, and restaurants.
Families who prefer to spend time in nature can visit some of the city’s beautiful parks. The Parc de la Ciutadella is the largest park in Barcelona and features a lake, a zoo, and plenty of green spaces for picnics and relaxation. The park also has a beautiful fountain, a popular spot for taking family photos.
In conclusion, Barcelona is a city that offers endless possibilities for families. From Gaudí’s architectural marvels to the city’s beaches and parks, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and exciting city.
Remarkable Places in Barcelona
Barcelona is a city that boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture. Many remarkable places to visit in Barcelona will leave you in awe. Here are two of the most unusual places to visit in Barcelona:
The Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is the heart of the old city of Barcelona. It is a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with medieval buildings. The Gothic Quarter has many historical landmarks, such as the Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça del Rei, and the Plaça Sant Jaume. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets and enjoy the Gothic architecture of the buildings. The Gothic Quarter is also home to many restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy a meal or coffee.
Montjuïc Hill and Poble Espanyol
Montjuïc Hill is a hill that overlooks the city of Barcelona. It has many attractions, such as the Montjuïc Castle, the Joan Miró Foundation, and the Olympic Stadium. Visitors can take a cable car ride to the top of the hill and enjoy the stunning city views. Poble Espanyol is a Spanish village built in 1929 for the Barcelona International Exhibition. It is a replica of a typical Spanish town and is home to many shops, restaurants, and museums. Visitors can stroll through the city and enjoy the Spanish architecture and culture.
Barcelona is a city that offers a lot to its visitors. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or culture, Barcelona has something for everyone. The Gothic Quarter, Montjuïc Hill, and Poble Espanyol are just two of the many remarkable places to visit in Barcelona.
Shopping in Spain for Families
Spain is a vibrant and colourful country with a rich history and culture, and it is also an excellent destination for families who love to shop. Whether you are looking for local markets, boutiques, souvenir shops, or department stores, Spain has something for everyone.
Local Markets and Boutiques
One of the best ways to experience the local culture and find unique souvenirs is to visit the local markets and boutiques. In Barcelona, the Mercat de la Boqueria is a must-see for foodies and anyone who loves to shop. This bustling market is located in the heart of the city and is home to over 200 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to local delicacies.
Another great market to visit is Mercado Central in Valencia. This beautiful, Art Nouveau-style market is one of the oldest in Europe and is home to over 1,000 stalls selling everything from fresh seafood to handmade crafts.
If you are looking for unique boutiques, head to the El Born neighbourhood in Barcelona. This trendy area is home to various independent shops selling everything from handmade jewellery to designer clothing.
Souvenir Shops and Department Stores
There are plenty of souvenir shops and department stores for those looking for more traditional souvenirs. El Corte Inglés is a famous department store in Madrid that sells everything from clothing to home goods. They also have a great selection of souvenirs, including traditional Spanish fans and bullfighting memorabilia.
If you want something unique, head to La Manual Alpargatera in Barcelona. This iconic shop has been selling handmade espadrilles since 1940 and is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Spanish souvenir.
Overall, Spain is an excellent destination for families who love to shop. Whether you are looking for local markets, boutiques, souvenir shops, or department stores, there is something for everyone.
Practical Tips for Travelling in Spain
Transportation Advice
Spain has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trains, and metros. The best way to get around Spain is by train, which is fast, efficient, and comfortable. Renfe operates the Spanish rail network, covering most of the country. The high-speed AVE trains are the quickest and most convenient way to travel between major cities.
Buying a tourist pass is a good idea if you plan to visit many tourist attractions. The Barcelona Card, for example, offers unlimited public transport travel and discounts on museums, attractions, and restaurants.
Taxis are also widely available in Spain but can be expensive, especially in tourist areas. Agreeing on a fare with the driver before getting in the cab is a good idea.
Health and Safety Tips
Spain is a safe country to visit, but taking some precautions is always a good idea. Pickpocketing is a common problem in tourist areas, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
Spain has a sound healthcare system, but medical treatment can be expensive for tourists. It’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
The tap water in Spain is safe to drink, but it has a high mineral content that can cause stomach upset in some people. Bottled water is widely available and is relatively cheap.
If you plan to drive in Spain, remember that driving is on the right-hand side of the road. It’s also essential to always carry your driver’s license, passport, and insurance documents with you.
