Spain is one of the warmest places in Europe, home to endless stretches of sandy beaches and rocky coves. It’s a classic family holiday destination, especially its seaside resorts of Costa del Sol and Costa Brava, which attracts millions of holidaymakers each year. But beyond these scenic resort towns, you will find several other interesting places in Spain that offer exciting activities for families with children. If you’re thinking of going to Spain for a family holiday, here are some of the best things to do in the country.
Visit the Zoo Aquarium in Madrid
Madrid has so much more to offer than the usual nightlife and can also be a great destination for families with kids. Take your little ones to Madrid’s Zoo & Aquarium at Casa de Campo Park. Covering more than 1,700 hectares of land, it’s a stunning natural space and is Madrid’s largest public park.
There are plenty of things here to keep you and your kids entertained. You can stroll through the park, eat lots of ice cream, go on a picnic, or simply sit by the shade of trees. Casa de Campo is also home to one of the largest zoos in the world. The zoo is home to more than 2,000 different types of animal species. Your kids will enjoy interacting with the cute pandas, exploring a mini-farm, or witnessing fun shows with parrots or tropical birds!
There’s also an aquarium and dolphinarium within the park. But one of the most popular activities for kids at Casa de Campo is feeding the flamingos. After paying at the entrance, they will give you the food to feed these cute birds!
Take a Hot-Air Balloon Ride in Ronda
Ronda is one of the most charming towns in the Spanish region of Andalucía and the birthplace of bullfighting. It is best known for its spectacular setting, which sits atop a deep gorge connected by a stone bridge. One of the best ways to admire its magnificent panorama is to go on a hot air balloon ride.
During your balloon ride, you can marvel at the town’s historic old quarter and incredible Roman ruins from above. As your balloon glides over the Old Town, you will see its famous bull ring and the iconic canyon. Then the balloon will move past the ancient ruins of Acinipo and hover above the magnificent, wonderful Roman temple sitting at the head of the valley.
The combination of stunning Andalucian landscapes and clear blue skies will make your balloon ride even more unforgettable. And after getting off the hot air balloon, you will be treated to a sumptuous picnic with a view!
Go Horseback Riding in Ibiza
Because of its reputation as a party destination, many families often avoid going to Ibiza for a holiday. But this gorgeous Spanish island has plenty to offer for your little ones as well. Aside from playing at the beach, they can take up some fun activities, such as horseback riding!
The Ibiza Horse Valley is one place that offers horseback riding adventures for kids of all ages. This horse sanctuary is set in almost a hundred acres of land in a canyon within the Es Murta Natural Park. They offer plenty of options for horseback riding adventures. You can go for a half-day, five-hour ride or opt for a full-day ride that includes other fun activities such as swimming with the horses. Book overnight horseback riding adventure with camping for a more unforgettable adventure with your kids.
But if camping is not something you fancy, stay in a luxury Ibiza villa by the beach. You will find many luxury villas in Ibiza that are ideal for families with kids and come equipped with child-friendly amenities.
Check Out the Barbary Macaque Monkeys in Gibraltar
For families that love nature and wildlife, the best destination to visit in Spain is Gibraltar. Located on the south coast of Spain, Gibraltar is home to the only wild monkey population in entire Europe.
Some researchers believe that the Moors introduced these Barbary Macaque Monkeys to Gibraltar between 700 and 1492. They have kept the monkeys as pets, although there’s another theory that says these macaques were leftovers from a population that had spread all over Europe about five million years ago. Before Gibraltar became a British territory in the 1700s, the monkeys were already there.
You will find the Barbary macaque monkeys in Gibraltar at the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. The monkeys are very playful, and it is best to avoid carrying any food and keep all your belongings with you. There are instances where these curious animals would jump unto you and steal some of your stuff!
Go Camping in Catalonia
Located in the far north-eastern corner of the Iberian Peninsula, the autonomous region of Catalonia is famous for its Romanesque art masterpieces, creative culture, and stunning nature. You can find nature all over the region – from the mountains to the wetlands, beaches, and forests. In fact, it’s home to 18 natural parks, including the Estany de Sant Maurici National Park. The park has a rich and diverse flora and fauna, home to more than 5,000 species, including hundreds of lakes and magnificent cliffs. So, if you are looking for some fun, outdoor adventures, then take your kids to Catalonia.
The best way to experience Catalonia’s stunning nature is to go out camping. You will find a wide range of campsites in northern Spain, all equipped with amenities but some of the best are in Catalonia. Whether you prefer to camp in a tent, stay in a cabin or in a trailer. If you want to enjoy a bit of luxury, there are also campsites that come with a waterpark.
While camping in Catalonia, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep the entire family entertained. Home to Spain’s most stunning landscapes, it has plenty of scenic trails, ideal for hiking or cycling. Start with a stroll at the outskirts of the city, such as in Montjuïc and Carmel Bunkers. For the more adventurous families, head to La Carretera de Les Aigües and into Collserola, one of the largest nature parks in the world.
