Family Trip to Spain: Madrid & Granada - 7 Days

Day 3: Family Day Trip to Toledo

A half-hour train ride south of Madrid lies Toledo, a historic city once Spain's capital in the 16th century. It enjoys a scenic location atop a gorge overlooking the Río Tajo, an impressive sight for even the youngest travelers.

In the Middle Ages, Toledo was the "city of the three cultures," a place where—legend has it—Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities peacefully coexisted. You can see remnants of this in the old Arab, Muslim, and Christian monuments that still stand. These include the 15th-century Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, the former Roman palace Alcázar de Toledo, and the Moorish Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, which dates to the 12th century.

Enjoy visiting these historic landmarks and more in this incredible city that many describe as an open-air museum—perfect for curious kids—and listening to exciting stories and tales of Toledo's history. Then, take part in two kid-friendly activities. You'll first explore the world of Toledo steel and visit a foundry where ancient blacksmiths forged unique swords. Lastly, visit a cigarral, a manor estate, to learn how to make the city's famed (and perfectly sweet) marzipan.

Day 4: Travel to Granada & Explore The City Through Its Scents

After a leisurely breakfast, make your way to the train station in Madrid with your pre-booked tickets to board a 3.5-hour train service to Granada. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel before enjoying an afternoon exploring this incredible city through its signature blend of scents.

This unique, family-friendly guided tour of Granada will submerge you in an authentic experience, transporting you to different eras in the city's history through scents tied to every age and locale. Discover the fragrances of sites like The Bañuelo, a hammam (Arab bath) from the Ziri period, the grand Granada Cathedral, built in the 16th century and constructed over the site of a mosque, and the colorful Alcaicería, once the traditional Moorish bazaar that's now full of Andalusian treats, trinkets, and souvenirs—a kid favorite.

You won't leave the scents of Granada behind; at the end of the tour, you'll receive a little box of the fragrances you've discovered during the guided route. Smells can bring you back to an experience or place, so you and your family can re-live this dynamic memory of your stay in Granada as often as you like!

Day 5: Family Tour of the Alhambra & Flamenco Show

No visit to Granada is complete without exploring the Alhambra, the city's most iconic landmark. Dating back to the 9th century, this famous palace/fortress complex was home to rulers of the Moorish/Muslim Nasrid Dynasty and the Royal Court of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. Your local expert guide will explain all you need to know about the Alhambra in a fun and energetic way, keeping the little ones entertained as you move from room to room. The charming Generalife Gardens, filled with colorful flowers and fountains, highlight the tour.

Next, immerse yourself in one of the most distinct elements of Spanish culture, as the Andalusian region is the birthplace of the Flamenco dance. You'll get a fascinating overview of this culturally distinct musical genre, from its origins to its current global renown. You'll experience authentic Flamenco's power, passion, and drama during the evening's dance performance. Tip: Choose a seat near the back so the kiddos can have a little fun dancing themselves!

Day 7: Depart Spain

Your family adventure in Spain has come to an end! You'll make your way back to Madrid via the 3.5-hour train service, then head to the airport to catch your flight home. Safe travels! Adiós!