Spain Itinerary 12 Days

Awaken to the allure of Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces as you embark on a guided tour of Park Güell, a UNESCO-listed wonder atop Carmel Hill. This whimsical park, a playground of vibrant mosaics and fantastical architecture, captivates both young and old. The journey continues to Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s magnum opus, an unfinished yet awe-inspiring basilica. Explore its intricate interiors, where sunlight filters through stained-glass windows, creating a kaleidoscope of colors.

After the tour, the afternoon unfolds at your leisure. Perhaps, indulge in a family picnic at Ciutadella Park or explore the sandy shores of Barceloneta Beach. The day concludes with a culinary adventure through Barcelona’s family-friendly eateries, where tapas delights both adventurous palates and discerning taste buds.

A family-friendly journey through Barcelona’s historic heart awaits on Day 3. Navigate the narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter, unveiling hidden gems like the Temple of Augustus and the Royal Plaza. A morning snack of churros con chocolate fuels your exploration, setting the stage for an interactive adventure through Casa dels Entremesos, home to larger-than-life papier-mâché figures.

The afternoon transports you to the heights of Mount Tibidabo, where a funicular ride unveils breathtaking views of Barcelona. The whimsical Temple of the Sacred Heart and an adjacent theme park promise an enchanting family experience. Conclude the day on Carrer de Blai, a tapas haven where local flavors take center stage.

Bid farewell to Barcelona and board a high-speed train bound for Valencia, a city brimming with historical charm on Spain’s east coast. Your family’s introduction to Valencia commences with a guided tour of the historic center, revealing architectural wonders such as Plaza Del Ayuntamiento and the Gothic fortress of Llotja de la Seda. Immerse in local flavors with an agua de Valencia, a zesty cocktail, and explore the UNESCO-listed Valencia Cathedral.

Evening beckons you to savor the city’s culinary delights, including the renowned paella, a Valencian specialty. With its mix of vibrant markets, historic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, Valencia unveils a unique facet of Spanish culture.

As the sun rises over Valencia, embrace a leisurely day of family-friendly exploration. The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences becomes your playground, featuring the Prince Philip Science Museum and the L’Oceanogràfic aquarium. Wander through Turia Gardens, an urban oasis, where the Gulliver Park presents a whimsical play area inspired by Jonathan Swift’s characters.

An afternoon siesta provides a moment of relaxation before a final exploration of Valencia’s Old Town. The day concludes with a culinary adventure, savoring the flavors of Spain in a local restaurant.

Your Spanish sojourn continues as you board a train to Madrid, the dynamic capital nestled at the heart of the Iberian Peninsula. As you arrive, the city invites you to unwind with a free afternoon. El Parque Retiro, a historic royal retreat turned public park, beckons for family-friendly escapades. Delight in the diverse entertainment offerings along Gran Vía, Madrid’s answer to Broadway, before savoring the culinary delights of this vibrant city.

Whether your family seeks cultural experiences, theatrical performances, or culinary adventures, Madrid ensures a diverse array of options to suit every taste.

Embark on a half-day tour delving into Madrid’s regal history and iconic landmarks. Plaza Mayor, a bustling square with a rich history, serves as the starting point. As you stroll through the grandeur of Puerto del Sol and the San Miguel Food Market, your guide regales the family with captivating stories of royalty, artists, and explorers.

The tour reaches its pinnacle at the 18th-century Royal Palace, a neoclassical marvel and the official residence of the Spanish royal family. Engage in a kid-friendly exploration of the Throne Room, Royal Armoury, and Hall of the Crown. As the day unfolds, the Sabatini Gardens beckon for leisurely strolls, providing a moment of tranquility amid the city’s vibrant energy.

Embark on a half-hour train journey south of Madrid to Toledo, a city steeped in history and renowned as the “city of the three cultures.” Explore the 15th-century Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, the Alcázar de Toledo, and the Moorish Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca. Immerse your family in the rich tapestry of this ancient city, where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities coexisted.

The day takes a creative turn as you visit a foundry to witness the forging of Zorro-worthy swords. Engage in a hands-on marzipan workshop, a Toledo specialty, where your family crafts this traditional Spanish treat. Return to Madrid with hearts full of Toledo’s history and hands adorned with your marzipan creations.

The journey south continues as you board a train to Seville, the sun-kissed jewel of Andalusia. Check into your hotel and embark on a half-day city tour, unraveling the layers of Seville’s rich heritage. The awe-inspiring Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic church globally, captivates with its grandeur. Ascend La Giralda, the cathedral’s bell tower, for panoramic city views.

Next, immerse in the intricate tile work and Mudéjar architecture of the Alcázar of Seville, a 14th-century royal palace. The palace’s lush gardens provide an ideal setting for exploration, offering fountains, courtyards, and captivating tales of the past. As you traverse Santa Cruz, the former Jewish Quarter, the vibrant streets unfold stories of Seville’s medieval legacy.

Embark on a scenic drive to an Andalusian olive oil estate, a testament to the region’s agricultural heritage. A warm welcome awaits, accompanied by a Spanish breakfast of churros, café con leche, and pan con tomate. Delve into the estate’s history, dating back to Christopher Columbus’ son Hernando and the exportation of olive oil to the New World.

While the kids frolic in the open fields and befriend purebred Spanish horses, explore the olive oil museum featuring over 150 olive varieties. A tasting session ensues, allowing your family to discern the subtleties and characteristics of this liquid gold. Bask in the tranquility of the Andalusian countryside before returning to Seville, hearts and palates enriched by this immersive experience.

Venture into the rugged landscapes of Andalusia as you embark on a family day trip to Ronda, one of the Pueblos Blancos (white villages). The journey through Zahara de la Sierra, crowned by a Moorish castle, sets the stage for exploration. Ronda, perched above the El Tajo gorge, unveils its medieval charm, separating the New Town and its famed Plaza de Toro from the Old Town.

A 4WD experience takes your family off the beaten path, exploring terrain inaccessible by other vehicles. Traverse the gorge, relishing the adrenaline of off-roading before concluding the adventure with a refreshment break. The day concludes with souvenir shopping along the Tagus River, creating lasting mementos of your family’s Andalusian escapade.

As your Spanish family odyssey draws to a close, board a train back to Madrid. The final day unfolds with a leisurely morning, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or indulging in last-minute exploration. Bid adieu to Spain with a private transfer to the airport or train station, cherishing the laughter, discoveries, and shared moments that defined your Spanish sojourn.