As a mom who’s constantly traveling around Spain with her kids, these are my 10 favorite family holiday destinations in Spain for 2026 – personally tried and tested. Each one is perfect for building an itinerary that both parents and children can enjoy together on the same trip.

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Top 10 Destinations For Visiting Spain with Kids

Going on vacation in Spain with the family

While I always highlight that Spain is an incredibly child-friendly country – with no shortage of fun hotels and waterparks popular among families with younger children – there’s so much more to explore across the Iberian Peninsula and Spanish islands when planning a family vacation. And the best part? You don’t need to stay at an all-inclusive resort unless you want to. There are plenty of destinations where both kids and adults can enjoy meaningful, enriching experiences together.

From my own travels with my children, I’ve found that one of the keys to a successful trip – beyond theme parks and Mediterranean cruises – is sparking their excitement before we even leave. Exploring Spain’s culture and traditions through virtual tours, Spanish music, and kids’ books about Spain is a great way to build anticipation. For older kids and teens, share mysterious legends, romantic tales, or even delve into haunted places in Spain and travel documentaries that bring the country to life.

In this post, I’ll share some of the most popular family holiday destinations in Spain and how those trips turned out for us. You can also check out my full list of favorite places to visit in Spain with kids or follow this 10-day family road trip itinerary.

Tips for Family Holidays in Spain

Let me share a few tips and travel essentials for little ones, based on our own experiences exploring Spain with small children. If you’re planning a trip with a baby or toddler, these insights might come in handy. While Spain is generally a very child-friendly country, there are still a few helpful things to keep in mind to make your family holiday even smoother.

• Bring a portable high chair. While most restaurants in Spain do have high chairs (called trona in Spanish), they are often limited in number and not always available during busy times.
• Pack a small supply of essentials from home. It’s a lifesaver if you can’t immediately get to a local supermarket or pharmacy. Keep in mind that most shops in Spain are closed on Sundays. In case of emergencies, you can search online for an on-duty pharmacy (farmacia de guardia), or head to Supercor, DIA, or El Corte Inglés – some branches in touristy areas stay open on Sundays.
• Check for the nearest Tourist Information Office before your trip. These are great resources where you can ask about local playgrounds, kid-friendly attractions, and other helpful tips.
• Taxis usually don’t come with child seats. Unless you book in advance and request one specifically (Welcome Pickups is a great option), most Spanish taxis won’t have a child seat available. For safety and convenience, consider bringing your own compact travel car seat.
• Adjusting to Spain’s dining schedule can be tricky. Dinner in Spain typically starts around 8:30–9:00 p.m., which can be tough for little ones used to eating earlier. Always carry snacks just in case. That said, late dinners with kids are totally normal in Spain – don’t hesitate to bring them along to local bars or restaurants.
• Some restaurants offer coloring pages or small games, but I always pack a few of my kids’ favorite travel toys to keep them entertained on the go.

Our Favorite Destinations for Family Holidays in Spain

After 15+ years of traveling across Spain, here’s where I would take my kids to ensure a memorable trip for the whole family. These destinations offer plenty of activities for parents too, and all are popular with family travelers and well-equipped to accommodate visitors with kids.

1. Tenerife Family Holidays

Visiting Tenerife with kids

The Canary Islands are always at the top of my list when it comes to family holiday destinations in Spain. First, the weather is a major perk – even in winter, the islands enjoy mild temperatures averaging around 20–22°C (68–72°F), while summer stays comfortably warm, around 26–30°C (79–86°F). It’s the perfect year-round escape for families looking to combine sunshine with adventure.

Beyond the climate, the Canary Archipelago offers a wide variety of attractions for all ages – from stunning beaches and lush exotic gardens to fascinating landmarks and exciting theme parks. Kids will especially love Siam Park, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, Zoo Monkey Park, Aqualand, and Forestal Park.

For me, Tenerife stands out as one of the most versatile Spanish islands for families. You can check out my Tenerife itinerary for all the amazing experiences we enjoyed here, and read more about the best places to visit in Tenerife with kids in this post.

Unique experiences in Tenerife with kids:

• Puerto de la Cruz: Loro Parque Entry Ticket (check availability)
• Siam Park Entry Tickets (check availability)
• Eco-Yacht Whale Watching Cruise with Swim (check availability)

The best family-friendly places to stay in Tenerife

You can find the best family-friendly hotel deals in Tenerife on the map below. My two personal favorites are: Bahia Principe Fantasia and Landmar Costa los Gigantes Family Resort.

2. Mallorca Family Holidays

Visiting Mallorca with kids

Mallorca checks all the boxes for a perfect family holiday in Spain. While I personally prefer Tenerife, I’ve found that the choice between the two often depends on where you’re coming from – European travelers tend to favor Tenerife’s exotic volcanic landscapes, while Americans, familiar with places like Hawaii or Arizona, often appreciate the Mediterranean charm and whitewashed architecture of Mallorca. Within the island, you’ll find some of Spain’s best beaches, as well as charming towns like Sóller, Escorca, Pollença, Valldemossa, Deià, and Fornalutx. Don’t miss the stunning Cathedral of Palma, one of the most beautiful in Spain, and the unforgettable cliffs from Cap de Formentor.

For families, Mallorca is packed with kid-friendly attractions like Palma Aquarium (featuring Europe’s largest live coral collection), Jungle Park Junior, Western Water Park, Palma Jump, Aqualand El Arenal, Hidropark Alcudia, and Katmandu Park. You can even take the classic wooden Tren de Sóller for a scenic ride, or visit Ranxo Ses Roques if your little ones love pony rides. What makes Mallorca especially appealing is how it combines the best of a relaxing beach vacation with rich cultural experiences and plenty of fun for kids. While I’ve also visited Formentera and Ibiza, I find those islands more suited to adults than young children.

Unique experiences in Mallorca with kids:

• From Palma de Mallorca : Tramuntana Full-Day Tour with Sóller Train and Lunch (check availability)
• Entry Ticket for Marineland Mallorca (check availability)
• 3-Hour Afternoon Dolphin Watching Boat Tour (check availability)
• Palma Aquarium Entry Ticket with 3D Cinema (check availability)
• Mallorca Kids Buggy (check availability)
• Dinosaurland and Caves of Hams Combined Ticket (check availability)
• Family or Sports Course Adventure at Forestal Park (check availability)
• Mountain Horse Riding Experience w/ Brunch Option (check availability)
• Mallorca Multi-Experience Adventure – Kids 6+ (check availability)
• From Alcudia: Day Trip to Katmandu Adventure Park (check availability)

The best family-friendly places to stay in Mallorca

Check out the map below to discover top hotel options in Mallorca for families. I have two personal favorites that stand out: Sol Katmandu Park & Resort and Iberostar Pinos Park.

3. Alicante Family Holidays in Spain

Visiting Alicante with Kids

The province of Alicante, nestled in the heart of Spain’s famous Costa Blanca, is one of the top tourist destinations on the Iberian Peninsula. It’s a popular choice for group tour packages in Spain, with Benidorm as the main hub – often called the “city of non-stop vacations” and known for having the most skyscrapers in the country.

If you’re seeking quieter alternatives to Benidorm’s high-energy vibe, Alicante offers plenty of charming coastal towns worth exploring. Places like Altea, Calpe, Dénia, Jávea, and Santa Pola combine Mediterranean beauty with a more relaxed pace. One of my personal favorites is Villajoyosa, a town famous for its colorful seaside houses and for being Spain’s unofficial “chocolate capital” – perfect for picking up unique food souvenirs.

What I love most about Alicante is how it offers that classic Mediterranean experience – similar to the Greek Islands, Cyprus, or Malta – but with the added advantage of being on the mainland. This makes it ideal for combining your beach getaway with day trips and road trips across mainland Spain.

During our visit, the biggest hits with my kids were Terra Mítica theme park and Aitana Safari Park. On our next trip, we’re hoping to try snorkeling around Tabarca Island and explore Magic Robin Hood Park. If you’re planning a visit, check out my guide to the best things to do in Alicante and our one-week itinerary for more inspiration.

Cool things to do in Alicante with kids:

• Terra Natura Theme Park 1-Day Tickets (check availability)
• Mundomar Animal Park 1-Day Ticket (check availability)
• Dinner with Show at Magic Robin Hood (check availability)
• Aqualandia Entry with Optional Mundomar Combo Ticket (check availability)
• Motor Museum and Family Experience (check availability)
• Jetski Excursión to Tabarca Island with snacks (check availability)

The best family-friendly places to stay in Alicante

Browse the map below to explore the best family-friendly hotel deals in Alicante. I also have two top picks that I love the most: Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa and SH Villa Gadea.

4. Barcelona Family Holidays

Visiting Barcelona with kids

It’s no secret that Barcelona is one of Spain’s top draws for international visitors – thanks in large part to its iconic Gaudí landmarks like La Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell. And while the city is certainly bustling, I’ve found it to be incredibly enriching for children, offering a blend of creativity, history, and hands-on experiences that make it one of the top family holiday destinations in Spain.

There are countless places in Barcelona that both kids and adults will enjoy, from the CosmoCaixa Science Museum to Poble Espanyol, Tibidabo Amusement Park, and interactive exhibits at the Barcelona Maritime Museum.You can easily visit PortAventura Park as a day trip from Barcelona. Check out my full family-friendly Barcelona itinerary for more ideas.

Barcelona also makes a fantastic starting point for a child-focused road trip across Spain, combining coastal adventures with cultural highlights.

Unique tours in Barcelona for kids:

5. Valencia Family Holidays

Visiting Valencia with kids

Valencia holds a special place in my heart, as it’s been my home in Spain for over a decade. That’s why, under the #Valencia tag on my blog, you’ll find plenty of insider tips, hidden gems, and family-friendly recommendations based on years of local experience.

If you’re planning a Valencia getaway with kids, don’t miss my detailed guide to Valencia with children, where I cover everything from cultural highlights to outdoor fun.

What makes Valencia truly unique, in my opinion, is its perfect balance: set along the Mediterranean coast, it offers the charm of a beach city but without the overwhelming crowds of Barcelona. Some even say it’s one of the most underrated destinations in Spain – though I’d argue that in recent years, Valencia has definitely stepped into the spotlight. It’s now well-known for its stunning mix of historic and modern architecture, the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, the vibrant Las Fallas festival, and its beautiful urban beaches like Playa de la Malvarrosa.

Unique things to do in Valencia with kids:

• Hemisferic & Science Museum Combos (check availability)
• Caves of San José Guided Excursion and Ticket (check availability)

The best family-friendly places to stay in Valencia

For a family trip to Valencia, consider these family-friendly hotels that offer quadruple rooms or apartments: Valenciaflats Ciudad de las Ciencias, Petit Palace Plaza de la Reina, Voghe Premium Flats, Rooms Ciencias, Sercotel Valencia Alameda 41, and Ramirez Flats Valencia. You can find more options on the map below.

6. Tarragona or Salou Family Holidays

Visiting Tarragona with kids

Another fantastic region to consider for a family holiday in Spain is Tarragona, ideally located between Barcelona and Valencia. While it’s possible to visit on a day trip from Barcelona, the Tarragona area makes a great base for a longer break with kids – especially thanks to its charming seaside towns like Salou and Cambrils.

You can explore all the must-see landmarks in the region in this detailed Tarragona travel guide, and learn more about our vacation with kids in Cambrils here.

One of the biggest perks of choosing Tarragona for a family vacation is its proximity to the famous PortAventura World – one of Europe’s top theme parks. In summer, the complex includes PortAventura Caribe Water Park and several themed hotels located right next to the park, making it an exciting and convenient destination for families with kids of all ages.

Unique things to do in the Tarragona region with kids:

• Salou Kids Buggy (check availability)
• PortAventura and Ferrari Land 1, 2, or 3-Day Ticket (check availability)
• PortAventura Park: Direct Entrance (check availability)
• Caribe Aquatic Park: Direct Entrance (check availability)
• Ferrari Land: Direct Entrance (check availability)

You can use the ATC5 code for any PortAventura park entrance via this link to get an exclusive 5% discount (except bundles & day passes).

The best family-friendly places to stay in Tarragona

If you don’t want to stay within the PortAventura resort but still want to visit it on a day trip, other great hotels in the Tarragona region with pools that kids will enjoy include H10 Mediterranean Village, Alannia Salou, La Siesta Salou Resort & Camping, and Palas Pineda.

7. The Pyrenees Family Holidays

Visiting the Pyrenees with kids

If you and your kids enjoy nature and don’t mind a bit of hiking, the Pyrenees mountain range – stretching along the border between Spain and France – is a fantastic choice for an active, adventurous family holiday. While not every child may be thrilled by a nature-focused trip, mine genuinely love it. The first time we went hiking in the Pyrenees, my girls were just 3.5 and 5 years old, and we all enjoyed it so much that it’s become a tradition – we’ve returned almost every year since.

We especially love visiting the Pyrenees in the summer, when Spain’s coastal areas are hot and overcrowded. In contrast, the mountains are lush, green, and far less touristy, making it the perfect escape. For more inspiration, check out this guide to exploring the Pyrenees with kids, as well as two of our latest family itineraries: Pyrenees Road Trip with Kids and The Aragonese Pyrenees with Kids and Seniors. You can find all our adventures in the region under the #Pyrenees hashtag on the blog.

While I mostly love exploring the Spanish Pyrenees on both solo and family getaways, another incredibly popular destination in this mountain range for families is Andorra – a small independent state nestled between Spain and France. You can check out my full guide in this post.

The best family-friendly places to stay in the Pyrenees

Check out the map below to discover the best hotel options in the Pyrenees. My personal favorite is Barceló Monasterio de Boltaña – arguably the nicest hotel in the Pyrenees, aside from a few in Andorra. For camping, I recommend Camping Valle de Bujaruelo. You can find my detailed guide to the Pyrenees hotel in this post.

8. Northern Spain Family Holidays

Visiting Northern Spain with kids

Northern Spain is one of my favorite regions to explore in the summer, especially with kids. The area spans several different Spanish provinces, so it’s impossible to see it all in just a few weeks – which is why we’ve already returned multiple times. With vibrant cities like Bilbao and San Sebastián, it’s an ideal destination to plan a family road trip that combines cultural sightseeing with outdoor adventures. You can find all the details in my 10-Day Northern Spain Itinerary and discover even more ideas in this comprehensive post on Things to Do in Northern Spain.

Surprisingly, even Rioja’s famous wineries can work into a family-friendly weekend – yes, we’ve actually visited some with the kids during one of our getaways! Northern Spain’s lush green landscapes make it perfect for nature lovers, and there’s no shortage of adventure parks and wildlife experiences, including Terra Rapaz, Cabárceno, Irrisarri Land, and Sendaviva. Whether you’re into scenic drives, charming coastal towns, or active escapes, this region has something for every family.

The best family-friendly places to stay in Northern Spain

Explore the map below to discover the top family-friendly hotel options in Northern Spain. On our most recent family getaway in the region, we visited Rioja and Navarra, and I especially liked Palacio de Yrisarri and Casona Dos Lagos.

9. Malaga Family Holidays

Visiting Southern Spain with kids

Malaga and southern Spain are also popular destinations to visit with kids. While summers can be too hot for my taste, the region is full of stunning cities like Seville, Cordoba, and Cadiz. We’ve already enjoyed several family road trips across southern Spain in the fall and winter, when the weather is much more pleasant.

Although there are many beautiful cities and charming small towns to explore, Malaga is the easiest base for the region thanks to its international airport and excellent road connections to all the major southern Spain landmarks. Malaga is also one of the most popular Spanish destinations at Christmas, with festive decorations filling the city – you can get a sneak peek from our recent December visit here.

You can check out our full Malaga road trip itinerary with kids in this post.

The best family-friendly places to stay in Malaga

For any family itinerary in Málaga, you can choose to stay either in the city itself, ICON Malabar and Apartamento Paseo Marítimo Antonio Banderas, or just outside at Casa Jardín apartments or Hotel Apartamentos Bajondillo.

10. Gran Canaria Family Holidays

Visiting Gran Canaria with kids

While Gran Canaria is less famous than Tenerife for family travel in Spain, we absolutely loved visiting the island this summer on a family trip with both kids and seniors. A major advantage of Gran Canaria over other Spanish islands is its excellent bus network, making it easy to explore without a car. The island also offers plenty of family-friendly hotels and beautiful beaches, yet it isn’t as crowded with tourists as Tenerife.

You can find our family-friendly Gran Canaria itinerary in this post, and read more about all the great things to do in Gran Canaria with kids here.

The best family-friendly places to stay in Gran Canaria

You can find the best places to stay in Gran Canaria on the map below, or check out my complete guide to where to stay on the island here.

Packing & Planning Holidays with Kids in Spain

If you’re curious about what I pack for my travels, be sure to check out these helpful posts: Best Suitcase for Europe, Spain Packing List, What to Wear in Spain in Summer, Travel Beauty Essentials, Must-Have Hiking Gear, and Travel Essentials for Kids.

• A comfort toy for each of my girls – something familiar that makes them feel at home, no matter where we are.
• A new toy or activity – something fresh they’re curious to explore (and not already bored of).
• Sleep-time favorites – whether it’s a beloved T-shirt, soft PJs, their own blanket, or even familiar bed sheets. Nighttime can bring up a lot of emotions when away from home, so I try to make their sleep space feel extra cozy.
• A calming bedtime book – we often bring The Little Elephant Who Wants to Fall Asleep. Even though my youngest finds it “boring,” it works wonders for winding down overexcited kids after a full day of adventures.
• Compact travel games – our favorite travel-sized Spain-themed board games are perfect for relaxed family bonding in the evenings

Read more about exploring Spain with kids:

• 10-day Spain Itinerary for Families from Barcelona (read it)
• Our Favorite Travel Essentials for Kids +Toys On The Go (read it)
• Where to Enjoy Snow in Spain with Kids (read it)
• Cute Spain Books for Kids You´ll Love (read it)
• Barcelona Weekend with Kids: Top things to see and do (read it)
• Valencia With Kids: Top Places Your Children Will Love (read it)
• 5 Epic Reasons to Visit the Spanish Pyrenees with Kids (read it)
• My Favorite Cool Places to Visit in Spain with Kids (read it)
• Travel-themed Activities With Kids: Our Creative Playroom Tour (read it)
• Kids Bookish Inspiration: Favorite International Illustrators Around the World (read it)
• Gran Canaria with Kids: Best Places to Stay & Fun Things to Do (read it)

Pin it:

For more Spain travel tips check out my Pinterest board Spain Travel Collection and Flipboard Travel to Spain.

• Accommodation: For short stays, I usually book via Agoda and Booking
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• Museums&attractions: Get mobile tickets for attractions via Tiqets (use ATC5 code for a 5% discount via this link)
• Semi-private & private tours: LivTours is my favorite place for unique & crafted experiences in Europe
• For Foodies: Eatwith is a unique platform for finding culinary experiences with locals around the world
• Audio guides: Book audio excursions & tours in 35+ countries via WeGoTrip
• Flights: Find the best deals with Skyscanner and Kiwi
• Driving in a new country? – Check out Tripiamo guides (do not miss Tripiamo Driving in Spain Guide)
• Train&bus tickets: Currently, I book via Omio (10% off with code ATC10 for first-time customers)
• Car rental: To find the best deals, I use Discover Cars
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• Shop My Level8 Suitcase: get 15% off with the code ATC15 here
• Internet Security on the road: Connect safely to public Wi-Fi and bypass censorship with NordVPN
• Transfers: For individual transfer services, I like GetTransfer and Kiwitaxi
• Suitcases&Luggage: Discover where to store your luggage on the go with Radical Storage
• Travel Insurance: Find the best trip insurance plans via VisitorsCoverage and EKTA
• Compensation for delayed/canceled flights: Check out AirHelp and Compensair
• Renting Bikes: To find motorcycles, scooters, quads, and bicycles, I use BikesBooking
• Package Tours: Head to CheapOair and Expedia
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