Family Vacation to Spain: Madrid, Allariz & Nearby Countries (June 15 - June 28, 2026)

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid & Evening Stroll

Morning: Depart from LAX, SJC, or SBP Airport flying with United or American Airlines to Madrid-Barajas Airport. Relax during the flight and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Afternoon: Arrive in Madrid and check into your family-friendly hotel. Take some time to settle in and enjoy lunch featuring traditional Spanish tapas.

Evening: Experience an informal stroll through Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, two iconic historic squares bustling with street performers and cafes. Dine at a cozy local restaurant serving authentic Spanish cuisine.

Day 2: Madrid Historic Landmarks & Flamenco Show

Morning: Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid and explore the lavish interiors and gardens. Then, head to the Almudena Cathedral nearby.

Afternoon: Lunch at the Mercado de San Miguel sampling fresh local delicacies. Walk to Plaza de Cibeles and visit the Prado Museum featuring world-famous art collections.

Evening: Attend a traditional Flamenco show at one of Madrid’s famed tablaos to experience passionate Spanish dancing and live music. Dinner is included at the venue.

Day 3: Cooking Class & Retiro Park

Morning: Join a family-friendly Spanish cooking class where you’ll learn to cook the classic dish Paella Valenciana. Enjoy eating your creations afterward.

Afternoon: Relax and explore Retiro Park with its beautiful gardens and boating lake. Visit the Crystal Palace within the park for a photo opportunity.

Evening: Stroll along the Gran Via for some shopping or pick a local restaurant to try jamón ibérico and seafood dishes.

Day 4: Travel to Allariz & Meet Friends

Morning: Take the high-speed train or subway from Madrid to Allariz, enjoying scenic views of the Spanish countryside during the trip.

Afternoon: Meet up with friends in Allariz and explore the charming old town with its medieval streets, historic buildings, and artisan shops.

Evening: Share a relaxed dinner at a local eatery featuring Galician specialties like pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus).

Day 5: Exploring Allariz & Outdoor Activities

Morning: Visit the Allariz Medieval Bridge and the beautiful Santa Clara Convent. Enjoy a morning walk along the Arnoia River.

Afternoon: Participate in an outdoor family activity such as hiking or cycling around the tranquil nature reserves near Allariz.

Evening: Attend a local cultural event or live music if available, soaking in the atmosphere of this quaint town.

Day 6: Day Trip to Porto, Portugal

Morning: Take a scenic day trip by train or private transport to Porto, Portugal, located just a few hours from Allariz.

Afternoon: Explore Ribeira District, famous for its riverside views and historic architecture, and sample the region’s renowned Port wine.

Evening: Return to Allariz for a quiet evening dinner and share stories from the day’s adventures.

Day 7: Travel to Barcelona

Morning: Journey by train or flight from Allariz to Barcelona, a vibrant city along Spain’s Mediterranean coast.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic Sagrada Familia basilica and stroll through the colorful Park Güell designed by Gaudí.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter), followed by attending a lively Flamenco or Catalan Sardana dance performance.

Day 8: Barcelona Markets & Beach Time

Morning: Explore the La Boqueria Market, a bustling food market, perfect for tasting fresh local fruits and snacks.

Afternoon: Spend relaxing time at Barceloneta Beach swimming or enjoying watersports accessible to the family.

Evening: Dine at a seaside restaurant serving paella and fresh seafood and soak in the lively beach atmosphere.

Day 9: Day Trip to Andorra

Morning: Take a day excursion to Andorra, a cool mountain country nearby known for its hiking trails and shopping.

Afternoon: Explore the capital Andorra la Vella, visit historic sites, and enjoy family-friendly outdoor activities.

Evening: Return to Barcelona for a relaxed dinner and prepare for departure.

Day 10: Departure Day

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and last walk around Barcelona’s city center, picking up souvenirs.

Afternoon: Head to Barcelona-El Prat Airport for your flight back to California with United or American Airlines.

Evening: Arrive home, completing a memorable family vacation through Spain and nearby countries.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Roundtrip Flights (6 passengers): Approx. 13-15 hours total travel time, cost around $7,800 - $9,000
• Madrid Accommodation (4 nights): 4 nights x 2 rooms x $200/night = $1,600
• Allariz Accommodation (3 nights): 3 nights x 2 rooms x $120/night = $720
• Barcelona Accommodation (3 nights): 3 nights x 2 rooms x $220/night = $1,320
• Madrid Excursions & Museum Entries: 4-6 hours per day, approx. $100 per person total = $600
• Cooking Class in Madrid: 3 hours, approx. $75 per person = $450
• Flamenco Shows (2 shows): 2 x $60 per person = $720
• Train/Subway between cities & Portugal/Andorra trips: Approx. 6-8 hours total travel, $150 per person = $900
• Food & Dining (average): $50 per person per day x 14 days = $4,200
• Local transportation & incidentals: Approx. $500 total
• Total Estimated Cost: $17,810 - $19,010

Tips

If you want to extend your trip, consider spending extra days in Barcelona and adding a visit to nearby Valencia for its arts and beaches. For a shorter trip, focus on Madrid and Allariz, skipping the extra countries to maximize relaxation and cultural immersion without extensive travel time.