Tips for traveling to Spain for the first time

Traveling to Spain for the first time? You’re in for an unforgettable experience, from the vibrant energy of Madrid’s plazas to the dreamy Moorish palaces of Andalusia and the sun-soaked beaches of Costa Brava. But like any new country, Spain has its own rhythm, and knowing a few practical tips can make a huge difference in how smooth (and fun) your trip feels.

Here’s everything I wish I knew before visiting Spain for the first time, from how to stay online, handle money, navigate food culture, and book must-see sites before they sell out.

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10 best things to do in Barcelona with kids

Planning a family trip to Barcelona, Spain? This vibrant city is rich in history, art, architecture, and offers a variety of kid-friendly activities. If you’re searching for the best things to do in Barcelona with kids, we’ve got you covered.

This April, we spent almost two weeks in Spain, starting with a road trip from Madrid to Andalusia, and finishing in Barcelona. From Gaudí’s masterpieces like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell to open plazas where kids can run free, Barcelona quickly became one of our favorite family destinations in Spain.

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Best things to do in Granada with kids: a family guide

Granada is one of those Spanish cities that feels both ancient and alive at the same time. It is home to grand palaces, narrow cobblestone streets, and flamenco echoing through cave homes. Tucked into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in southern Spain, Granada is rich in culture, history, and family-friendly experiences.

We spent a few days here on our Spain road trip with kids and loved how walkable and compact the city is. Here’s our full Granada with kids guide, where to stay, what to see, and the best things to do with children, from exploring the famous Alhambra to discovering Roma cave homes in Sacromonte.

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Thompson Madrid review: a stylish stay in the heart of Spain

Madrid is one of those cities that feels instantly alive the moment you arrive: buzzing streets, late dinners, golden-hour walks, and churros at midnight. If you’re searching for a Thompson Madrid review with a family-friendly perspective, you’re in the right place. 

We recently spent three nights here with our kids, and the location couldn’t have been better. Thompson Madrid in Spain is a centrally located boutique hotel that can be booked with Hyatt points. It’s sophisticated, modern, and surprisingly perfect for families.

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10 best things to do in Madrid, Spain with kids

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a beautiful mix of culture, history, and energy, with wide boulevards, majestic architecture, and a laid-back lifestyle that’s easy to enjoy as a family. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Madrid with kids, the city offers a perfect blend of hands-on museums, lively parks, royal landmarks, and sweet treats.

We spent three days exploring Madrid with our 10-year-old and 4-year-old and loved how walkable and welcoming it felt. From puppet shows in the park to chocolate-dipped churros, here are 10 kid-friendly activities in Madrid that combine fun, culture, and local flavor.

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La Zambra hotel review: a family-friendly Hyatt hotel in Andalusia, Spain

After a week of exploring Spain on a road trip from Madrid to Granada with kids, we were craving a slower pace, and La Zambra delivered. In this La Zambra hotel review, I’m sharing our experience at this stunning 5-star family hotel in Mijas, located between Málaga and Marbella on Spain’s southern coast.

Once known as the iconic Byblos Hotel (yes, Princess Diana and the Rolling Stones stayed here!), it’s been reimagined into a tranquil, design-forward resort that blends Andalusian charm with modern comfort.

Whether you’re doing a Spain road trip with kids, looking for a luxury resort near Málaga, or just want a relaxing base to recharge, La Zambra is a peaceful stop that worked perfectly for our family.

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