8-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Spain

  • Day 1: Park Guell
    20 minutes (4.8 km) from Barcelona city center

    Designed by Antoni Gaudi, Park Guell offers panoramic views of Barcelona and a unique opportunity to explore a park full of modernist architectural elements. Kids will love the colorful tile structures and vibrant gardens. Be sure to book tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

  • Day 2: Sagrada Familia
    15 minutes (4.4 km) from Park Guell

    This stunning basilica has been under construction for over 100 years and features ornate facades and towering spires. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and symbolism behind its design. The stained glass windows provide a colorful spectacle and kids will enjoy spotting the different animals throughout the church.

  • Day 3: PortAventura World
    1 hour 30 minutes (100 km) from Barcelona city center

    This amusement park has everything from thrilling roller coasters to water rides and live shows. It’s a must-visit for families, and there are plenty of options for dining and shopping. Be prepared for a long day, as the park is huge and there’s a lot to experience.

  • Day 4: Prado Museum
    10 minutes (2 km) from Madrid city center

    The Prado Museum is home to some of Spain’s most treasured masterpieces. From Velazquez’s Las Meninas to Goya’s The Third of May, there is something for everyone to appreciate. To avoid crowds, plan to visit early or late in the day.

  • Day 5: Retiro Park
    15 minutes (4.4 km) from Prado Museum

    This sprawling urban park is a great spot to relax and unwind. It features gardens, sculptures, a boating lake, and even a puppet theater. Rent bikes or bring a picnic for a lovely afternoon with the family.

  • Day 6: Alhambra
    15 minutes (4.6 km) from Granada city center

    This stunning palace and fortress complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important relic of Spain’s Islamic history. Guided tours are recommended to learn about the intricate architecture and historical significance. Book tickets in advance, as the Alhambra can sell out quickly.

  • Day 7: Parque de Atracciones Madrid
    25 minutes (10 km) from Madrid city center

    This amusement park is a great alternative to PortAventura if you’re not able to travel out of Madrid. It has a variety of rides and attractions, including a roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 80 km/h. There are also plenty of options for dining and shopping.

  • Day 8: Magic Fountain of Montjuic
    25 minutes (5 km) from Barcelona city center

    This iconic fountain puts on a spectacular light and water show set to music in the evenings. It’s a great way to end your trip to Spain on a high note. Arrive early to secure a good spot, as it can get crowded quickly.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Park Guell (2 hours, €10 per adult)
  • Sagrada Familia (2 hours, €20 per adult)
  • PortAventura World (1 full day, €55 per adult)
  • Prado Museum (2-3 hours, €15 per adult)
  • Retiro Park (3-4 hours, free)
  • Alhambra (3-4 hours, €15 per adult)
  • Parque de Atracciones Madrid (1 full day, €25 per adult)
  • Magic Fountain of Montjuic (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €140 per adult

Transportation

Travelers to Spain should consider renting a car, as public transportation can be unreliable and crowded. Rental cars can cost around €25-€50 per day, depending on the type of car and the time of year. However, be aware that driving in big cities like Barcelona and Madrid can be hectic and stressful. Travelers can also consider hiring private drivers, which can be more expensive but offer more comfort and convenience. For longer distances, trains and buses are available, but travelers should book tickets in advance to ensure availability.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other cities in Spain such as Valencia or Seville. These cities offer unique cultural experiences and attractions worth exploring. If you have less time, prioritize the attractions that most interest you and your family. Finally, keep in mind that Spain can get very hot in the summer, so be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Airports

Spain has many international airports, but the most popular ones are Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) and Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). Madrid-Barajas is located 12 km northeast of the city center and offers plenty of transportation options to get into the city, including taxis, buses, and a metro line. Barcelona-El Prat is located 15 km southwest of the city center and offers similar transportation options.

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