Highlights
- See Gaudí's quirky architecture at Barcelona's Park Güell and La Sagrada Família
- Ride horses alongside gorgeous rivers and mountains in Montserrat Natural Park
- Traverse breathtaking ravines via suspension bridge in the Caminito del Rey
- Kayak, swim, and snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Málaga's La Herradura
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Barcelona, Family Tour of Gothic Quarter | Barcelona |
| Day 2 | Private Gaudí Architecture Tour, Ceramic Workshop | Barcelona |
| Day 3 | Monastery Visit & Horseback Riding Adventure in Montserrat Natural Park | Barcelona |
| Day 4 | Family Cooking Class, Explore Barcelona's Beaches | Barcelona |
| Day 5 | Fly to Málaga, La Herradura Kayaking & Snorkeling Excursion | Málaga |
| Day 6 | Guided Family Treasure Hunt, Málaga Beach Day | Málaga |
| Day 7 | Hike the Caminito del Rey | Málaga |
| Day 8 | Transfer to Granada, Guided Family Hike in the Sierra Nevadas | Granada |
| Day 9 | Alhambra Tour & Generalife Gardens, Evening Visit to Granada's Albaicín | Granada |
| Day 10 | Transfer to Seville, Family Flamenco Lesson & Show | Seville |
| Day 11 | Tour Seville's Cathedral & Alcázar, Triana Pottery Class | Seville |
| Day 12 | Day Trip to Doñana National Park & El Rocío Village | Seville |
| Day 13 | Fly to Madrid, Private Family City Tour | Madrid |
| Day 14 | Prado Museum Tour, Family-Friendly Royal Palace Visit | Madrid |
| Day 15 | Toledo Sword-Making Workshop & Zipline Adventure | Madrid |
| Day 16 | Depart Madrid |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona, Family Tour of Gothic Quarter
Welcome to Spain! Your flight lands in Barcelona, the capital of the Catalonia region. This cosmopolitan city is known for its art, culture, and history and is a perfect blend of modern amenities, ancient architecture, and colorful neighborhoods. Your driver will collect you from the airport, and after you've had a chance to check in at your hotel and regroup, start your exploration of the city with a kid-friendly guided tour of Barcelona's oldest district, the Gothic Quarter.
Meet with your private guide and begin with something that is sure to please the whole family: snacks! You'll visit several traditional shops, including the oldest in Barcelona, and once inside, you'll taste local treats, including candy and typical holiday desserts, as well as the Spanish staple, churros con chocolate. Once you've sated your sweet tooth, continue through the quarter, stopping at sights such as the remnants of Roman walls, built in the third century to protect the city, the Barcelona Cathedral with its impressive Gothic architecture, and the square of Plaça Sant Jaume.
Your guide will share entertaining stories of the city's history, with fun games for the kids and an activity book that they can complete as they go. See the Roman Temple, then head to the Giants Museum, where the traditional papier-mâché masks and costumes used during local festivals are kept. Enjoy a family-friendly theater performance that showcases the history of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, ending the tour at the medieval courtyards of Plaça del Rei, where the kids can run and play for a bit before returning to your hotel.
Day 2: Private Gaudí Architecture Tour, Ceramic Workshop
Discover the architecture of Antoni Gaudí through the eyes of your children on a private guided walking tour, an excellent way to learn more about this renowned architect and how his style impacted the city. The tour starts on the famous Passeig de Grácia boulevard, and your guide will take you by the Block of Discord, a set of three modernist buildings that include Gaudí's Casa Batlló. The casa tells the story of the legend of Saint George and the dragon, with quirky stairways, a mushroom fireplace, and turtle-shaped windows that the kids will love exploring.
Visit Park Güell and its gingerbread-like houses and colorful tile walls, benches, and walkways, and Casa Milà, which blends constructional and functional innovations with decorative design. After admiring the facade, you'll head inside, where each room works as an exhibition of how the interiors looked under the Milà family. End at Sagrada Família cathedral, watching the afternoon light pour through the many stained glass windows, and be sure to stop for photos at the reflective pond of Plaça de Gaudí.
Later today, get your own creative juices flowing with a hands-on family ceramics workshop. You'll start by meeting your instructor at the Taller Gingell Studio near Montjuïc Castle. After a fun introduction to sculpting and hand-building, you'll get to work creating your own masterpiece. The sky's the limit, and each family member can create a unique sculpture, plate, or bowl—or anything that comes to your imagination! Once your creation is complete, they'll be fired in the kiln, and you can pick them up later to take home as a memorable souvenir.
Day 3: Monastery Visit & Horseback Riding Adventure in Montserrat Natural Park
Get an early start with a guided horseback ride through Montserrat Natural Park. Home to the beautiful Montserrat Monastery, this region provides breathtaking views of the Catalan countryside, sitting along the Serralada Prelitoral Catalana mountain range and the massive Montserrat Mountain. Your private driver will collect you from your hotel, and you'll head out of town, arriving at a picturesque farm. Here you'll meet your hosts, and after the kids have a chance to get acquainted with the horses, your guides will conduct a safety briefing. All the horses are well-trained and calm, and there are friendly ponies for younger riders.
Follow your guide along the Llobregat River and enjoy the views of the looming mountains, oak trees, flowers, and singing birds. The kids might even catch a glimpse of a wild goat or boar! After the ride, you'll spend some time at the Montserrat Monastery. Originally founded in the 11th century, the still-functioning monastery is part of the Order of St. Benedict, with approximately 80 monks in residence.
See the historic Throne of the Virgin and walk through the open-air museum while your guide shares information about the area's history and art. The museum maintains several ongoing exhibits, showcasing some of the country's most important artwork. End your day back at the farm, where the family can relax with a traditional lunch of paella and other delicious local treats.
Day 4: Family Cooking Class, Explore Barcelona's Beaches
Dive into Spanish gastronomy with a fun family cooking class. The day starts with a visit to the Mercat de la Boqueria market. You'll meet with a guide, who will take you through the seemingly endless stalls, helping you gather your ingredients. Then, you'll head to a local kitchen, where professional chefs will instruct your family on how to make traditional Spanish dishes such as patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy sauce) or salmorejo (tomato and bread purée). The kids might even get to prepare desserts like crema catalana (burnt cream). Afterward, sit down with the chef and enjoy the meal you just created.
This afternoon, carve out some time to explore Barcelona's beaches. The city is just as much a beach town as its southern counterparts, with several beautiful stretches of sand along the sea. Visit Barceloneta Beach, located on the main promenade and a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike. Here, you'll find chair and umbrella rentals, restaurants, and volleyball courts. You can also visit Sant Sebastiàn Beach, which, like Barceloneta, is one of the oldest in the city and a popular spot for local families.
If you want something quieter, head to Llevant Beach, a newer beach located in the Diagonal Mar neighborhood, which still has plenty of amenities but often has fewer people! And if you don't mind a 30-minute train ride outside of the city, be sure to visit Ocata Beach, a lovely stretch of sand with clear blue waters and a gentle shoreline for the little ones. Ocata is also adjacent to a couple of sailing clubs, providing the added bonus of watching the boats cruise by.
Day 5: Fly to Málaga, La Herradura Kayaking & Snorkeling Excursion
Your next destination is the seaside town of Málaga. After you check out of your Barcelona hotel, you'll take a private transfer to the airport for the quick, two-hour flight. Upon arrival, your driver will take you to your accommodations, and once you've settled in, head out to explore the region's pristine waters and rich marine life via a kayak and snorkel tour!
The fun begins in La Herradura, a picturesque village located about one hour from Málaga. Surrounded by mountains and pristine marinas, the town's horseshoe-shaped bay is the perfect spot for swimming and kayaking, with clear, calm waters. You'll meet up with your expert kayaking guide at Activ8You Sports Club, which sits just down from the beach. After a safety briefing, your family will practice on your kayaks in the shallows, then head into Los Acantilados de Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park.
Paddle along the peaceful waters of the bay, taking in the dramatic cliffs and lush forests above, as the kids keep their eyes peeled for wild Iberian mountain goats. Your guide will stop at one of the area's prime snorkeling spots, where you can don goggles and fins and jump in. The seabed here has rare coral and tons of colorful tropical fish, so if you have an underwater camera, be sure to bring it with you. Enjoy an afternoon of snorkeling and swimming, then kayak back to shore, where you'll have time to explore the village and marina a bit before returning to Málaga.
Day 6: Guided Family Treasure Hunt, Málaga Beach Day
Learn all about Málaga in a unique and fun way with a family treasure hunt! Rather than your typical walking tour, you and the kids will enjoy fun activities, hidden clues, and puzzles to solve as you learn about the city's history, culture, and architecture. Meet your guide at the city center's Plaza de la Constitución, and you'll receive instructions, an adventure kit, a treasure book, and GPS to direct you.
The route takes you along some of the city's most important sites, including the Alcazaba Moorish Castle, the Picasso statue, Teatro Romano (Roman Theater), and the famed Atarazanas Market. At each location, the kids can use the adventure kit to look for hidden clues and solve puzzles while learning about the history of the city. At the end of the hunt, you'll reach the final station, the "magical gardens." Here you'll find a personalized treasure chest, which the kids can open using all the clues they solved.
Later today, get in some beach time on some of the gorgeous sandy beaches that make Málaga so famous. The beaches here are easily accessible, and you can walk to spots like the popular Playa de la Malagueta right from the city center. This is a large beach with plenty of amenities, with gentle waves that the kids will enjoy. Other beach options include Playa Peñon del Cuervo, which has picnic tables and a barbecue area, or you can rent a car and make the 30-minute drive to Torre del Marre, a beach resort area with a promenade, restaurants, and a kids' play area.
Day 7: Hike the Caminito del Rey
Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you hike the magnificent Caminito del Rey, a 5-mile (8 km) trail nestled in one of the world's most beautiful gorges. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel, taking your family on a scenic 50-minute drive through the lush Guadalhorce Valley, traveling through fields of fragrant citrus trees and quaint villages until you arrive at Ardales, where the trailhead begins.
From here, you'll head through a tunnel and enter a forest before arriving at Gaitanejos Gorge, walking through the ravine's vibrant orange limestone. Learn about the region's history, geology, and wildlife from your guide as you and the kids take in the breathtaking scenery, then continue through the valley to Los Gaitanes Gorge, where you'll stop for a picnic lunch in a small, lush forested area and the little ones can rest their legs.
After refueling, it's time to tackle the steep section known as The King's Walkway, which offers unparalleled vertical views. Traverse the suspension bridge, hovering nearly 400 feet (120 m) above the rushing river waters below. You'll then trek across El Chorro Reservoir, ending at El Chorro village, where your shuttle awaits to return you to the starting point and your transfer back to Málaga. The memories of this thrilling excursion will remain an experience that your family is sure to reminisce on for years to come!
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 8: Transfer to Granada, Guided Family Hike in the Sierra Nevadas
This morning, you'll be met by a driver who will transport you to the city of Granada, a comfortable 1.5-hour drive. Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is a city full of medieval architecture, peaceful plazas, and delicious tapas, and the Alhambra, one of Spain's most visited monuments. After you arrive at your hotel, it's time to let the kids burn some energy after the long car ride, exploring the mountain range that serves as a stunning backdrop to the city.
The Sierras are full of hidden vistas and hiking trails, making it the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors as a family. A quick, 30-minute transfer takes you to the village of Monachil, where you'll begin a guided hike. You'll pass through farms and olive groves (and even traverse some hanging bridges!) as your guide shares information on the rich traditions and history of the region. You're also likely to spot wildlife, such as mountain goats, so tell the kids to keep their eyes peeled. At the end of the hike, you'll be driven back to your hotel, where you can relax or head out to see some of the city on your own.
Day 9: Alhambra Tour & Generalife Gardens, Evening Visit to Granada's Albaicín
Start your day with a private tour of the Alhambra fortress and the Generalife Gardens. You'll meet your personal guide at the Alhambra, walking along the same paths as the kings who once lived here. See the architecture of the Palacios Nazaries, and visit the palaces, which include the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) and Palacio de los Leones (Palace of the Lions, once the sultan's private quarters). The kids will be fascinated by the intricate artwork here as your guide regales the family with unique facts and anecdotes about the fortress and its history.
Next, head to the Generalife Gardens, possibly the most photographed spot in Granada. You'll find that famous picture-perfect scene at the 13th-century Palacio del Generalife, the summer palace of Moorish kings, with its flower and fountain-lined pond. Then visit the Patio de los Cipreses (Patio of the Cypresses) and Patio de la Acequia (Patio of the Irrigation Ditch) with their fragrant orange trees and rose garden. Let the kids explore the gardens and ponds, and of course, take advantage of those amazing photo ops!
Tonight, take a guided excursion to the Albacín neighborhood, a former Moorish district filled with quiet lanes, hidden gardens, and historic sites. Meet your guide at the Plaza del Salvador, and make your way down the twisting streets for a relaxed walk. The kids can enjoy views from the Arab walls that once protected the city and see the Darro River, all enhanced by the evening light. Visit churches built atop mosques, traditional carmenes (houses), plazas, and streets lined with cafés and shops while your guide shares the history of the region. End with a stop at a local tavern for beverages and tapas.
Day 10: Transfer to Seville, Family Flamenco Lesson & Show
You're off to Seville today! This charming town sits on the shores of the Guadalquivir River and is a mix of Moorish, Christian, and Jewish architecture, with a rich history and phenomenal gastronomy. Your driver will collect you from your hotel in Granada, and you'll make the scenic 2.5-hour drive with plenty of time for the kids to stop and stretch their legs along the way. After hotel check-in, put on your dancing shoes because it's time to learn the art of flamenco!
Flamenco is believed to have originated in Southern Spain in the 18th century, making Seville one of the best places to learn about this elaborate and passionate dance. As a folkloric art form, flamenco combines influences from several other cultures, especially Romani and African. Your family will learn all about the dance's history and how these cultural influences shaped flamenco's music, song, and movement.
Visit Seville's famed Museo del Baile Flamenco, where, with some help from expert instructors and professional dancers, you and the kids will be shown the basic moves of the dance and practice with a real bailora (flamenco dancer). Then you'll tour the museum and discover the critical role flamenco has played throughout Spain's history. The day ends with a live show, where you'll see the dancers and guitarists display their amazing skills. Even if you're a family of total beginners when it comes to dance, you'll all enjoy this exploration of what is a vital part of Spanish culture.
Day 11: Tour Seville's Cathedral & Alcázar, Triana Pottery Class
Meet up with a private guide and see some of Seville's most important monuments: Seville Cathedral and the Royal Alcázar. You'll skip the long lines and enjoy a personalized experience that digs deep into the city's history and cultural heritage. Start by meeting your guide at the cathedral (the world's largest Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site), where you'll stroll through the Patio de los Naranjos (the orange courtyard) and climb the bell tower of La Giralda for incredible city views.
From here, make your way to the Alcázar, originally a royal palace commissioned for King Peter of Castile, where you'll find more than 17 acres (7 ha) of grounds that the kids will love exploring. Walk through gorgeous greenery, fountains, and courtyards, and visit the tapestry-filled Gothic Palace, Baths of Lady María de Padilla, and the fascinating Mercury Pond, home to a school of friendly fish! Your guide will leave you here to continue enjoying the gardens on your own, with time to relax on a quiet bench while the kids play among the trees and greenery.
Afterward, head to Seville's arts district, Triana, for a ceramics workshop. The Triana neighborhood is a culturally-rich neighborhood that sits somewhat off the beaten path from the usual tourist spots. Your family will have a chance to learn more about this historic area and the artists that live and work here. Meet a local teacher who will introduce you to the district's famed pottery through entertaining stories, facts, and unique anecdotes, then put your artistry to work and paint your own tiles—a perfect memento of Seville for each family member to take home.
Day 12: Day Trip to Doñana National Park & El Rocío Village
Escape the city and take a guided day trip into the wilderness of Doñana National Park, one of Europe's most important wetlands. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Seville, and you'll make the one-hour drive to the park. Along the way, your guide will explain how this region, which sits along the Gulf of Cádiz, offers a unique confluence of European and North African landscapes and is a strategic destination for many migratory birds.
Upon arrival, you'll meet with a park naturalist guide and start your hike, an easy trek that is suitable for all ages and athletic abilities. As you walk, notice the diverse landscapes, such as the Algaida Mediterranean pine forest and the marshes of Coto del Rey, and the kids should keep their eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife species that call the park home, including the imperial eagle, flamingoes, deer, wild boars, and the endangered Iberian lynx.
After your hike, make your way to the beach, where a horseback tour awaits! After the kids meet the horses and you all get instructions and safety briefings, you'll take a two-hour jaunt along the coast, an excellent way to experience the park's wild beauty. Enjoy lunch on your own at a local restaurant, then on the way back to Seville, make a stop in the pilgrimage town of El Rocío. Millions of visitors come here each year to see the Santuario de Nuestra Señora del Rocío and the Virgin of El Rocío icon. You'll have time to walk around on your own or grab a coffee before continuing back to Seville.
Day 13: Fly to Madrid, Private Family City Tour
Your family departs Seville today, heading to the airport via private transfer and catching a quick flight to Spain's capital city, Madrid. This vibrant metropolis is a hotbed for art, culture, and history. Your driver will collect you from the airport and transport you to your accommodations, and after your family has a chance to regroup, it's time to get out and explore with a guided walking tour.
Meet up with your expert local guide and walk to the Plaza Mayor, once the central marketplace of Old Madrid and still a major hub for locals and tourists alike. See the statue of King Philip III, check out the souvenir shops, or grab a snack and let the kids enjoy the many street performers you're likely to see here. Your guide will share interesting facts and stories, with games and activities that will entertain kids and adults alike. And depending on the season, you may even be lucky enough to be at the plaza during one of their holiday events and markets!
Visit Lope de Vega Museum to see where the famous Golden Age writer once lived and worked, then continue to Jardines de Lepanto with its manicured trees, lawns, and walking paths. Stop for some delicious churros con chocolate at one of Madrid's famous churrerías, then end your tour at El Retiro, one of the largest parks in Madrid. Here, you'll find an artificial lake where the kids can spot turtles and swans, or you can rent a rowboat if you want to cruise around a bit. The park is also home to Palacio de Cristal (The Crystal Palace), a 19th-century conservatory used for art exhibitions.
Day 14: Prado Museum Tour, Family-Friendly Royal Palace Visit
Gain a new appreciation for the art and culture of Spain with a family-friendly private tour of the Museo Nacional del Prado (Prado Museum). Designed for kids aged 6 to 12 years old, your guide will share little-known facts and anecdotes about the artists and their visions, and you'll have a chance to see works by artists like Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Rubens, and more. Throughout the tour, your kids will enjoy activities and games geared toward helping them learn about the art here. They might be so inspired that they'll use this newfound knowledge to create their own artistic masterpieces back home!
Afterward, let your little ones explore the life of royals with a family-friendly visit to the Madrid Royal Palace. Arguably the city's most significant monument, this is the official residence of the Spanish royal family. Enjoy skip-the-line tickets and head straight in with your professional guide, exploring the interior and exterior grounds with exciting stories and activities. The kids can imagine themselves as nobles and knights while viewing the crowns, swords, and jewels, saying hello to the palace peacocks in nearby Sabatini Gardens, and watching the changing of the guards.
You and your royal crew will find treasures in the Royal Armoury, the Royal Kitchen, and the Throne Room. Let your imagination go wild as you make your way through magnificent ballrooms and dining halls where kings and queens would throw lavish parties. You can also visit the Painting Gallery, which showcases works by some of Spain's most beloved artists. End your tour with a visit to the Cathedral of Madrid. The construction here didn't start until 1879 and wasn't completed until 1993, and as a result, the interior is relatively modern, bright, and refreshing, with contemporary pops of color.
Day 15: Toledo Sword-Making Workshop & Zipline Adventure
Enjoy a self-guided day trip to the historic city of Toledo, starting at the train station in the morning, where you'll take a quick and easy 30-minute ride. Set on a hill above the Castilla-La Mancha region, this ancient city is rich in history. Its old medieval quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with architecture that showcases the Moorish influence, and you'll also find examples of Arab, Jewish, and Christian history throughout the city. Upon arrival, take a walk through the city, which is often described as an open-air museum and an excellent place for energetic and curious kids to explore.
Toledo is known for the art of bladesmithing, and your family can learn more about this craft at a sword-making workshop. Observe a master swordsmith at work, and see the traditional techniques and production stages that make the Toledan blade so famous. Explore the history of Toledan steel, and view examples of blades from different regions. Then, it's time to create your own dagger, forging, tempering, and polishing steel with help from the experts. The kids can choose from a dagger, dirk, or sword and make it their own, and at the end, you'll each have a personalized (unsharpened!) dagger as a souvenir.
Before you make the return trip to Madrid this afternoon, appease any adrenaline junkies in the group with a thrilling zipline ride over the Tagus River! Considered Europe's longest urban zipline, you'll zoom along at more than 590 feet (180 m) of cable as you pass above a 13th-century bridge and the river, taking in views of Toledo's scenic Old Town and the surrounding countryside. All safety equipment and gear are provided on-site, and a souvenir digital photo that you can take home is also included. Tonight, make the most of your last evening in Spain with tapas at a local restaurant.
Day 16: Depart Madrid
It's time to bid farewell to Spain. After breakfast at your hotel, a driver will pick you up and transfer you to the airport as you begin the journey back home or to your next destination. Safe travels!
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