Madrid with the Family

Galleries, museums and monuments

Madrid makes an ideal city break for the family. As you explore the city, keep count of the numerous equestrian statues: Carlos III in Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor's King Felipe III, the legendary Don Quixote and Sancho Panza on his donkey at the Plaza de Espana, Alfonso XII in the Retiro Park plus scores of others. Take a picture at the geographical centre of Spain, known as Kilometre Zero and marked in the pavement.
The world famous Prado Museum organises special family tours, where children can discover the brave knights, princesses and monsters of yore. A special audio guide is available too. The National Museum of Natural Sciences and the quirky Museo de Cera Wax Museum – with its Horror Train, Virtual Reality Simulator and Multivision show – are highly recommended for teenagers on holiday. Reina Sofia's sculpture gardens and high-speed glass elevators score highly with young visitors, too.

Amusement parks and zoos

After a few galleries and museums, it's time to turn to nature and enjoy some tranquility on your family holiday in Madrid. The Parque de Atracciones offers 30 attractions such as rollercoasters, tornado rides, vacuum drops and water attractions. Nearby in Casa de Campo are a zoo and aquarium that house 6000 stunning species, many separated from visitors by small moats which allow for spectacular close-up views. Look out for dolphins, sea lions, anteaters and pandas. Casa de Campo lies on the city's outskirts and is easily reachable by metro.
Faunia is another popular natural area where visitors can interact with animals. The central El Retiro Park packs a punch with its attractive water spaces, rowing boats, historic exhibits, puppet shows and friendly buskers. As the cobblestones start to heat up, why not partake of some skiing on the indoor pistes of Madrid Xanadú – enjoy a winter family holiday in Madrid even during summer!

Transport, shopping and food

A great transport option for your family holiday is Madrid Vision, a comprehensive city tour in an open-topped double-decker bus. Operating on a hop-on, hop-off basis, these tours cover all the main attractions and retail areas.
Shopaholics will love Madrid's high street shopping options as well as the unique street vendors. Take home souvenirs including Spanish shawls, headpieces worn by Flamenco dancers, Real Madrid memorabilia, bullfighting T-shirts and cocktail glasses.
Madrid's cuisine is second to none. Energise the family with rounds of tapas in any of the quaint local bars. Mercado de San Miguel, near Plaza Mayor, is perfect for Spanish croquettes, sausages and arancini. For gigantic lollies and caramels, head to Caramelos Paco. The city's culinary options and street stalls are always top attractions for children.

Culture, music and dance

Internationally reputed theatre companies are often found performing at the Teatro Circo Price, a wonderful way to imbibe in kids a love for mime, juggling, vaudeville and other old-school forms of entertainment that need to to be kept alive. The true spirit of Madrid is best experienced on the plazas and squares, where a carnivalesque atmosphere prevails into the night. Witness the lively mariachi bands and street artists at the Puerta del Sol, but do make sure your wallet is secured. While the myriad street musicians certainly liven up the atmosphere with their accordians and mime antics, a formal flamenco recital is a must in order to fully comprehend Spain's musical legacy and top off your family holiday in Madrid. 

Planning your trip to Madrid? Check out our favorite downtown hotels in Madrid.