Top 5 Destinations for Family Holidays in Spain

Spain is one of Europe’s top destinations for family holidays thanks to its beautiful beaches, scenic islands and great choice of activities for families. If you’re planning a holiday in Spain, these five destinations guarantee an unforgettable family getaway with activities for all ages.

1. Tenerife (Canary Islands)

Tenerife is a paradise for families, with great beaches, a choice of adventure parks and year-round warm weather.

Nearest Airport: Tenerife South Airport (TFS) – 16 km from Los Cristianos 

Top Things to do with Kids:

  • Siam Park – One of the world’s best water parks, featuring thrilling slides and a giant wave pool.
  • Loro Parque – A renowned wildlife park with more than 400 species including dolphins, great apes, big cats and penguins.
  • Teide National Park – Take a cable car ride up Spain’s highest volcano for breathtaking views.
  • Playa de las Teresitas – A golden-sand beach with shallow waters and nearby cafés, ideal for a day out with young children.
  • Jungle Park – A zoo and adventure park with animal shows and treetop rope courses.

2. Mallorca (Balearic Islands)

This popular Mediterranean island is known for its stunning beaches, family-friendly resorts, watersports and outdoor activities.

Nearest Airport: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) – 8 km from Palma city centre

Top Things to do with Kids:

  • Palma Aquarium – A fascinating aquarium with a shark tunnel and interactive exhibits.
  • Katmandu Park – A fun amusement park with 4D rides, soft play areas and mini golf.
  • Cuevas del Drach – Impressive natural caves with an underground lake and regular live classical music performances.
  • Alcudia’s Old Town – An historic walled town with cobbled streets and a twice weekly market, great for buying souvenirs and food.
  • Playa de Muro – A beautiful, shallow-water beach, perfect for young children.

 


3. Valencia

Valencia combines beautiful beaches with great activities for children, making it an excellent family-friendly destination.

Nearest Airport: Valencia Airport (VLC) – 10 km from the city centre

Top Things to do with Kids:

  • City of Arts and Sciences – A futuristic complex with an interactive science museum, a planetarium and Europe’s largest aquarium.
  • Gulliver Park – A giant playground based on the story of Gulliver’s Travels, with slides and climbing areas where little ones become Lilliputians.
  • Turia Gardens – A vast park ideal for cycling, picnicking and exploring.
  • Bioparc Valencia – A zoo with an innovative ‘immersion’ design that allows visitors to feel closer to the animals and their habitats.
  • Malvarrosa Beach – A wide sandy beach with gentle waves and a lively promenade.

4. Costa del Sol (Málaga & Marbella)

With year-round sunshine, sandy beaches and lots for families to do, the Costa del Sol is an ideal destination for a relaxing beach holiday.

Nearest Airport: Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) – 8 km from Málaga city centre

Top Things to do with Kids:

  • Bioparc Fuengirola – An innovative zoo that mimics natural habitats and offers up-close animal encounters.
  • Aqualand Torremolinos – A massive water park with slides, wave pools and play areas for all ages.
  • Selwo Aventura – A safari park in Estepona where children can see giraffes, elephants, zebras and other animals.
  • Sea Life Benalmádena – An interactive aquarium with touch pools and a shark tunnel.
  • Marbella’s Old Town – A charming area to explore with family-friendly cafés and a buzzy atmosphere.

5. Barcelona

Barcelona is an exciting city that blends culture, beach life and a wide choice of attractions, making it perfect for families looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Nearest Airport: Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) – 15 km from central Barcelona

Top Things to do with Kids:

  • Park Güell – Gaudí’s whimsical park is a playground of colourful mosaics, winding paths and fantastic views.
  • Barcelona Aquarium – Home to thousands of marine species, including an impressive underwater tunnel.
  • La Barceloneta Beach – A family-friendly beach perfect for playing in the sand and swimming in calm waters.
  • Tibidabo Amusement Park – A historic theme park on a hilltop with stunning city views.
  • CosmoCaixa Science Museum – An interactive museum with hands-on experiments and a tropical rainforest, great for all ages.

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