When you think of Spain, you probably picture sunny weather, delicious tapas, and beautiful beaches. You might also imagine women in colourful dresses dancing flamenco to the sound of guitar music and castanets. Although northern Spain has its own beautiful charm, you will find all of the above in southern region of Andalusia. Although we adore entire country, Andalusia is for sure one of the most iconic and picturesque regions of Spain. With its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm climate it is an perfect destination for family vacation.
Map of Andalusia (Designed by Freepik)
Main cities in Andalusia are:
- Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is one of the liveliest cities in Spain. Famous for its vibrant flamenco culture, the stunning Alcázar (royal palace), and the Gothic Cathedral (the burial place of Christopher Columbus), Seville is a true jewel.
- Granada is home to the breathtaking Alhambra, an architectural masterpiece that reflects the region’s rich Moorish past.
- Córdoba, magical town with the most UNSECO World Heritage Sites worldwide, among them the Mezquita, a former mosque-turned-cathedral, showcasing one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture.
- Málaga, a coastal city and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, is famous for its art museums, beautiful beaches, and Mediterranean charm.
When is the best time to visit Andalusia with children
Due to its warm Mediterranean climate winters in Andalusia are mild, while summers can be extremely hot with temperatures above 40°C (104°F), especially inland. If you want to explore region and go for a road trip, we recommend visiting it between October and May (We were there in September and some days in Seville were still extremely hot, which made it impossible to explore during the day – we have acted like locals, doing long siestas and stayed out later at the evenings). If you will stay by the sea, you can visit Andalusia with children at any time of the year. Maybe this is not the first thing that crosses your mind, but you can also visit Sierra Nevada Mountains for skiing holidays during winter.
What to do in Andalusia with children
Andalusia offers a stunning range of landscapes, from the sun-kissed beaches of the Costa del Sol, offering relaxing holidays by the seaside, to the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, where you can ski during winter. You will also find national parks like Doñana and Sierra de Grazalema, perfect for hiking, bird watching, and discovering the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
Region will surprise you with its rich mixture of history and culture, since it has been a crossroads of different civilizations, including the Romans and the Moors, who ruled the region for almost 800 years (711-1492). The Moorish influence is still deeply evident in the region’s architecture, art, and cuisine, offering you plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, museum visiting, enjoying local dishes and flamenco performances. We can assure you that you will feel the passion of the region only by wandering around its charming streets; all the rest is just the cherry on top.
Here are few recommendations of activities when travelling to Andalusia with children:
1. Swim on the beaches of Málaga and Cádiz
Málaga offers a mix of relaxing and educational activities for families. You can visit the Málaga Aquarium (Sea life Benalmádena), which is home to a wide range of marine life. Then, spend some time on the city’s beaches, where children can enjoy swimming, playing in the sand, and taking part in water sports. Another charming place for beach days is Cádiz, Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, founded by the Phoenician’s, dates back an incredible 3500 years.
2. Enjoy Theme Parks
In addition to beaches and sights Costa de la Luz offers also family-friendly park Aqualand Bahía de Cádiz in El Puerto de Santa María where children can enjoy water slides, rides, and other fun activities. Another fun theme park is Isla Mágica in Seville.
3. Meet wild animals in Doñana National Park in Huelva
Take the family on a safari tour through Doñana National Park, one of Europe’s most great natural wonders. The park is home to many species of animals, including wild boar, deer, and the endangered Iberian lynx. The tour takes 3-4 hours and it is a fun and educational way for children to learn about nature and wildlife conservation.
4. Visit Flamenco show in Seville
In general, children who enjoy music, dance, or theatre will likely find flamenco shows exciting and fun. If your children are too young to enjoy entire show, you can head to La Carboneria in Seville, which is one of the best places to watch flamenco free. This is a former coal factory, located in old Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz, host live flamenco performances every night. If you will be around Plaza de España in the afternoon, you will probably hear flamenco music – just follow the sound and you will have another free performance.
5. Admire patios in Córdoba
The Patios of Córdoba are one of the city’s most enchanting features. The patios are often filled with vibrant plants, colourful flowers, fountains, and tiled walls, creating a serene and picturesque environment and providing cool and peaceful escape from the hot Andalusian summers. Every 12 days of May you can presence Fiesta de los Patios, when many private courtyards open their door to visitors and there is also a competition for the most beautiful patio. An event is on Intangible Heritage of Humanity List of UNESCO since 2012.
6. Try traditional Andalusian food
Andalusian cuisine is truly a delight, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Just to name a few local dishes:
- Gazpacho (a refreshing cold tomato soup, perfect for summer)
- Salmorejo (a thicker, richer version of gazpacho)
- Jamón Ibérico (delicious cured ham)
- Pez espada (swordfish), a popular dish along the coast.
7. Visit Bioparc Fuengirola
This zoo recreates natural habitats for the animals, allowing children to see exotic creatures like gorillas, tigers, and lemurs up close. Bioparc Fuengirola is smaller sister to Bioparc Valencia, so if you already visit it, you know what to expect – zoo that respects nature and preservation of the species, that is why we like it.
What to see in Andalusia with children
Andalusia has so many interesting sights that you have to except you will not be able to see all at one single trip, unless you move there for couple of months. To help you out, we are sharing a list of some of our favourites sights to explore when you are spending your holidays in Andalusia with children.
1. Alhambra, Granada (for families with older children)
The Alhambra is one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks, and children will probably like exploring its stunning gardens, fountains, and intricate architecture. The complex offers a fascinating mix of history and beauty but guided tours are approximately 4 hours long, so it might not be suitable for younger children. It is also worth to mention that you cannot enter with stroller. It is very busy; therefore, you have to purchase tickets in advance.
2. Plaza de España, Seville
Plaza de España in Seville This is probably the most beautiful public square in Spain. You can just enjoy the views or row the boat and add something extra to the experience. Right across the square there is a park with playground (we love the fact that in Spain children’s’ playgrounds are almost everywhere, even in the smallest town – it is very family friendly destination)
3. Roman ruins Itálica, Seville
The Itálica Roman ruins in Seville are a fun and educational experience for children. The site includes well-preserved ruins, like a large amphitheatre and intricate mosaics, making it a great way for children to learn about ancient history.
4. Nerja caves, Nerja
The Nerja Caves are one of the most impressive natural attractions in Andalusia. Children will love exploring the vast, underground chambers with their stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The caves also feature prehistoric cave paintings, adding an educational element to the visit.
5. Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, Córdoba and Alcazar Real, Seville
This historic palaces offer beautiful gardens, and fountains to explore, making it a great spot for children. In Alcázar Real de Seville you will also find maze garden and even peacocks, therefore we prefer it to Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, when going with children.
6. Castillo de Colomares
This interesting structure is actually not a castle, but monument dedicated to the life of explorer and navigator of Christopher Columbus. It is spreading through 1.500 square meters, which makes it quite large monument but contains the smallest church in the world, covering less than two square meters.
7. Puente Nuevo, Ronda
If you are on a road trip across Andalusia, Ronda makes it perfect day stop on your way. Puente Nuevo (new bridge) and its dramatic height will fascinate children (and parents). You can explore Ronda’s old town or even visit Baños Arabes, well-preserved baths will give you a glimpse into town’s Moorish past.
In our opinion Andalusia is a fantastic place to visit with children, offering a variety of fun, but also educational, and family-friendly activities. It is a perfect (almost) all year destination for family travels.
