Family Vacations in Spain

Spain boasts a rich history and vibrant culture for travelers of all kinds to enjoy. Together as a family, you can experience the splendor of Spanish tradition as you step into the grand palace entrance of La Alhambra in Granada or clap your hands to the stuccato beats of flamenco dancers in Seville.

Walk the opulent halls of Granada's famed La Alhambra palace, which dates back to the year 889 AD. As you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can pose for photos in front of beautiful mosaic walls, smell the flowers in the courtyards, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Clap your hands and stomp your feet to the rhythm of authentic flamenco music. You can attend a live dinner and dance that allows your kids to get an up-close look at the intricate footwork of the performers. Soulful guitarists typically accompany the dancers during this cultural delight.

Discover the incredible imagination of Antoni Gaudi at La Sagrada Familia. You will step inside this fairytale-like masterpiece as colorful streams of light pour in from massive stained-glass windows. For families with children over the age of 11, you can climb the winding staircase to the top of the basilica's iconic towers.

When traveling to Spain as a family, it's important to consider factors like weather and transportation to ensure a fun, stress-free getaway for all. Take a look at these easy tips to make the most of your visit.

Spain is marked by mild spring and fall weather. In southern Spain, summers can be extremely hot, but the rest of the year is generally marked by mild weather. In northern Spain, summers are ideal, andwinters can be rainy. Therefore, families who want to visit La Alhambra or La Mezquita should plan to travel during spring or fall for the best experience. Families who hope to visit cities like Bilbao and San Sebastian should travel during the summer months.

In the case of rainy or cool weather, families can enjoy a range of indoor activities, including museums, indoor markets, live music, dance shows, and tapas restaurants.

Spain is a modern country that offers a variety of transportation options. Within major metropolitan areas, subways and taxis are the premier method of transportation. Most cities are also walkable, although families traveling with young children and strollers should take extra precaution because many historic downtown areas have unpaved or cobbled streets.

When traveling between cities, families can opt for bus services or a private car service. Spain's high-speed train service, also known as AVE, offers efficient and reliable service. Passengers can travel between Madrid and Barcelona in just three hours.

Zicasso travel specialists will always include private transfers to and from the airport or between destinations for your best stress-free Spain tour. This circumvents possible taxi service charges or miscommunications.

No major clothing modifications are needed for your visit to Spain. While shorts and a t-shirt will suffice for most of your visit, you may choose to bring more conservative clothing on days that you plan to visit a mosque, temple, or cathedral. Major department stores are located in all mid to large-sized cities for last-minute clothing, grocery, or toiletry needs. Small cities may be more limited in this aspect, but most essentials can be purchased at local convenience shops.

Weather Considerations

If your family is traveling to Spain during summer months, plan to bring breathable tops, pants or shorts, and sandals. During winter months in Northern Spain, make sure you pack an umbrella, a light rain jacket, and light sweaters or long-sleeved shirts.

Electrical Considerations

Spain's outlets conform to most European standards: a two-prong, round plug, which will require an adapter. Spain operates on a 230 V supply. A separate electrical converter may be needed for items like flat irons or blow dryers but is not needed for most electronics like laptop and cell phone chargers.

Pharmaceutical Considerations

Families can visit local pharmacies for all pharmaceutical needs. It's important to note that most pharmacies will have limited hours or will close entirely on Sundays and other holidays.

Spain is a very inviting, hospitable country that welcomes tourists from around the world. In general, you will find fewer English speakers than in other European countries. Although you can find many English speakers in large cities, it's also helpful to learn a few words or phrases in Spanish before traveling to ease communication.

Spanish culture is very relaxed and welcoming when it comes to children and families. Children have plenty of space to play in parks and open plazas. They may even pick up a game of soccer with the locals. Children are a regular part of restaurant and tapas bar culture, even into the late-night hours. Spain does not usually offer kids' menus specifically, but families can choose from a variety of tapas, including fried croquetas and lightly-seasoned seafood to suit their children's appetite.

It's important to consider that stores and other public places often have limited hours on Sundays or are closed entirely. In southern Spain especially, stores and restaurants may also be closed during siesta time, which is roughly between the hours of 2 pm and 6 pm.

Families who are visiting Spain during Semana Santa should be aware of locals that participate in the traditional processions are often dressed in cloaks, robes, and hoods. This customary clothing is not to be confused with other groups or organizations outside of Spain.

You’ve booked your dream vacation, now protect it with travel insurance. A wide range of factors can leave your vacation in limbo. Medical emergencies, inclement weather, and unexpected cancellations can cause turmoil for your trip. Therefore, in the unlikely event of a disaster, get the travel insurance coverage that provides peace of mind. To get a quote, visit our travel insurance page.

Zicasso Air Desk is an international air ticketing service that eliminates the stress of finding and booking the right flights for your upcoming vacation by employing the same personalized service you can expect from planning a trip with Zicasso. Our competitive flight pricing, 24X7 Service & Support, and Complimentary Consultation of Routing vs. Pricing with an Expert Flight Specialist make finding the perfect flight for your trip effortless.

Making sure that you are carrying the appropriate travel documents is essential for any traveler when visiting Spain. For this reason, you should be sure to pack the proper paperwork to ensure the most pleasant and problem-free travel experience. Listed below are some of the most important documents to have on you while traveling in Spain:

• Personal medical information (either on paper or on a smartphone app)
• If you have a specific medical issue, you should carry pertinent information regarding your condition from your doctor, especially including any medication that you are currently taking
• Emergency contact information
• Passport
• Visa, if necessary
• Proof of airline tickets and reservations
• Customs forms and documents
• Hotel or accommodation reservations
• Travel and medical insurance (see above section regarding this)

Your Zicasso travel specialist will be able to provide requirements specific to your trip, although responsibility always lies with the traveler to ensure that all is in order. Travel requirements can and do change often with little to no notice. Therefore, it is wise to stay updated as your trip nears.

Compared to other countries in Europe, Spain still operates largely on a cash economy. While your cards will be accepted at major museums or in large cities, it's a good idea to carry cash with you at all times, especially when visiting small towns or local bars and cafes. This includes small bills and coins. ATMs are easy to spot and locate throughout Spain.

Tipping is not common in Spain. Patrons often round up to the nearest euro when paying the bill.

When it comes to other finance and tipping questions in Spain, you can speak with a Zicasso specialist for the most up-to-date and detailed information to ease any concerns.

Families traveling to Spain should feel safe during their day-to-day activities. Just like in any major metropolitan area, families should be aware of their personal belongings, especially backpacks, purses, and wallets at all times. When navigating the city via public transportation, families should limit large bags and conceal credit cards, cash, and passports in a hard-to-reach pocket.

Statistically, Spain has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. The majority of crimes are limited to petty thefts.

For nearly 40 years, the northeastern region of Catalonia has asserted its independence from the rest of Spain. Consequently, Barcelona has occasional periods of unrest but remains safe for international visitors. Public transportation and major landmarks remain unaffected.

The following information is not intended as a substitute for personalized guidance from a doctor:

Should you be in need of medical assistance or first aid, you can seek out the local hospital or visit a pharmacy.

It is recommended that all international travelers consult with their primary care physician prior to traveling.

Families visiting Spain can drink tap water and do not need to exercise precaution when it comes to water and food safety. Travelers who are vegetarians or vegans should be specific about their dietary needs when eating because these diets are less prevalent in some parts of Spain.

When planning a luxury vacation, every detail matters, which is why our approach is different. We will match you with leading travel specialists who are the most qualified to make your dream trip happen because they know their country better than anyone. Each travel specialist in Zicasso’s network is among the finest travel agents and tour operators, comprising the top tier of the industry. Experience the wonder of an exceptional itinerary crafted just for you.