Can you travel to Spain with babies and toddlers?

Spain, the country famous for its vibrant festivals, soulful flamenco, delicious tapas, and artistic heritage, warmly welcomes the youngest travelers along with their parents. This guide will provide you with comprehensive information about how approachable and entertaining Spain can be when you’re embarking on an adventure with your babies and toddlers.

A Family-Friendly Destination

Spain proudly offers an array of child-friendly attractions, and it is generally considered to be extremely family-oriented. The locals cherish children, and families are welcomed in hotels, restaurants, and even late-night fiestas. So ample opportunities abound for your little ones to interact with new faces and experience a different culture.

Accommodation

Spain offers a wide range of family-oriented accommodations, from apartments equipped with baby essentials to inclusive resorts. Utilize highchairs at dinner tables, cribs for a sound sleep, and babysitting services to enjoy some time alone. While in popular tourist areas like Costa Brava, Costa Dorada, and Costa del Sol, you can find resorts offering kid's clubs, playgrounds, and even splash pools, making it a fun-filled stay on your Spanish vacation.

Getting Around

Public transportation in Spain is well-structured, reliable, and remarkably friendly for families with little ones. While many Spaniards generally travel with strollers (known as 'carritos'), buses and metro stations in major cities are equipped with ramps for easy access. However, cobbled streets in some old towns can be tricky with a stroller.

Activities & Attractions

Zoo Aquarium Madrid

This animal kingdom in Madrid houses over 6,000 creatures from around the world. The dolphin show is a big hit amongst the little ones as they clap and giggle at the playful dolphin tricks.

Parque de Atracciones, Madrid

A popular amusement park that provides kiddie rides and play areas, perfect for toddlers. Not to mention the colourful Nickland area, a paradise for Nickelodeon fans.

Tibidabo Amusement Park, Barcelona

A century-old amusement park located on Tibidabo mountain, offering fairy tale-themed attractions and mesmerizing views of Barcelona, a unique and unforgettable experience for the entire family.

The Chocolate Museum, Barcelona

Who doesn’t love chocolate, especially when you can learn, make, and eat it! This delightful museum is a great place for toddlers where they can explore their creativity and taste buds equally.

Bioparc, Valencia

An impressive zoo that takes you on an expedition to the Savanna, Madagascar, and Equatorial Africa to witness wild animals in their naturalistic habitats. An amazing learning adventure for kids.

Dining

Spain is truly a gastronomic paradise accommodating everyone’s tastes, including the little ones. You will spot a wide range of child-friendly restaurants and cafes that serve 'menu infantil’, a children’s menu often featuring pasta, hamburgers, and fries. Also, don't miss out on the omnipresent ‘churros con chocolate’, a kids' favorite treat.Baby-friendly facilities like highchairs and changing facilities can be found in most places.

Emergency Services & Healthcare

In an unfortunate situation of a medical emergency, Spain provides excellent healthcare services. It's beneficial to have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If you are outside the EU, it is recommended to have comprehensive medical insurance.

Tips and Suggestions

• Decide your mode of transport: Depending on the age and temperament of your child, weigh the pros and cons of a stroller vs a carrier.
• Car seat and booster seat: It's mandatory in Spain to use these when traveling in a car with children. In taxis, however, it's not enforced.
• Siesta Time: Remember that many shops close for 'siesta' (nap time) in the early afternoon, usually from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Beach Safety: Always keep an eye on your little ones near water. Most Spanish beaches have lifeguards, but it's best to stay vigilant.
• Slip, Slop, Slap: The Spanish sun can be intense, so don't forget to slip on a shirt, slop on the sunscreen, and slap on a hat!

In summary, traveling to Spain with babies and toddlers can be an enchanting experience. From strolling around the child-friendly cities to spending exciting days at the beaches, and reveling in the heartfelt welcome from the locals, Spain promises a memorable vacation for the entire family.