10 Magical Places in Spain Your Kids Will Love in 2026

1. PortAventura World, Salou and Vila-seca

Address: Av. de l'Alcalde Pere Molas, s/n, 43480 Vila-seca, Tarragona

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (varies by season; check the official website for updates)

PortAventura World is where dreams come to life. This sprawling theme park, just an hour’s drive from Barcelona, is divided into six themed areas, each offering a unique adventure. From the adrenaline-pumping rides of Ferrari Land to the whimsical charm of SésamoAventura (a Sesame Street-themed area perfect for younger kids), there’s something for every age.

One of my favorite memories here was watching my daughter’s face light up as she met her favorite Sesame Street characters in SésamoAventura. The area is designed with little ones in mind, featuring gentle rides like El Saltamontes (a jumping grasshopper ride) and La Granja de Elmo (Elmo’s Farm), where kids can interact with animals and play in a colorful, safe environment. Meanwhile, older kids and thrill-seekers can head to Ferrari Land to experience Red Force, one of Europe’s tallest and fastest roller coasters.

But PortAventura isn’t just about rides. The park hosts seasonal events, like the Halloween Horror Nights in autumn and the Christmas Festival in winter, which transform the park into a magical wonderland. In 2026, keep an eye out for new attractions and shows that are sure to delight.

Pro Tip: Stay at one of the on-site hotels, like Hotel PortAventura or Hotel Gold River, for early park access and themed rooms that will make your kids feel like they’re part of the adventure.

2. The Alhambra, Granada

Address: C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada

Hours: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM (varies by season; book tickets in advance)

The Alhambra is a place where history and fairy tales collide. This stunning palace and fortress complex, perched atop a hill overlooking Granada, is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its intricate carvings, lush gardens, and cascading fountains make it feel like something out of One Thousand and One Nights.

For kids, the Alhambra is a real-life castle where they can imagine themselves as princes, princesses, or brave knights. The Palacio de Comares and Palacio de los Leones are particularly magical, with their ornate ceilings and reflecting pools. Don’t miss the Generalife Gardens, where hidden pathways and trickling water features create a sense of enchantment.

To make the visit even more engaging for kids, consider booking a family-friendly guided tour. Many tours include storytelling elements that bring the history of the Alhambra to life. My son was particularly captivated by the tales of the Nasrid dynasty and the legends of hidden treasures within the palace walls.

Pro Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat. And don’t forget to stop by the Albaicín neighborhood afterward for a treat at one of the local heladerías (ice cream shops)—a perfect reward for young explorers.

3. Tívoli World, Benalmádena

Address: Av. Tívoli, s/n, 29630 Benalmádena, Málaga

Hours: Open seasonally (typically from April to October); check the official website for exact dates and hours

Tívoli World is a charming, old-school amusement park that feels like stepping into a vintage storybook. Located in the heart of the Costa del Sol, this park is a favorite among families for its nostalgic vibe and kid-friendly attractions.

The park is divided into different themed areas, each with its own unique charm. El Bosque (The Forest) is a hit with younger kids, featuring gentle rides like the Caterpillar Train and Dragon Boat. Meanwhile, La Plaza offers classic carnival games and live performances, including flamenco shows and magic acts.

One of the highlights of Tívoli World is its Night Shows, which take place in the park’s open-air theater. These performances often include acrobatics, music, and storytelling, making them a magical way to end the day. My kids especially loved the Pirate Adventure Show, where they got to cheer for their favorite swashbucklers.

Pro Tip: Visit in the evening when the park is lit up with thousands of twinkling lights—it’s pure magic. And if you’re visiting in 2026, keep an eye out for special events like the Halloween Festival or Christmas Market, which add an extra layer of enchantment.

4. The Hanging Houses of Cuenca

Address: C. Canonigos, s/n, 16001 Cuenca

Hours: Open 24/7 (best visited during daylight hours)

The Hanging Houses of Cuenca (Casas Colgadas) are one of Spain’s most iconic and surreal sights. Perched precariously on the edge of a cliff, these medieval houses appear to defy gravity, making them feel like something out of a fantasy novel.

For kids, the Hanging Houses are a thrilling adventure. The views from the San Pablo Bridge are breathtaking, and the Abstract Art Museum inside one of the houses offers a fun, interactive experience for young visitors. My daughter loved the optical illusions and colorful exhibits, which sparked her imagination in ways I hadn’t expected.

But the real magic happens when you explore the surrounding area. The Hoz del Huécar gorge is a natural playground, with hiking trails that lead to hidden viewpoints and secret spots perfect for a family picnic. And if your kids are fans of knights and castles, the nearby Cuenca Castle ruins are a must-visit.

Pro Tip: Visit during the San Mateo Festival in September, when the city comes alive with parades, music, and medieval reenactments. It’s a fantastic way to immerse your family in local culture and history.

5. Pueblo Inglés, La Granja de San Ildefonso

Address: C. del Rey, 2, 40100 La Granja de San Ildefonso, Segovia

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Pueblo Inglés is a whimsical, storybook village located in the heart of the La Granja de San Ildefonso royal estate. This charming hamlet was built in the 18th century as a retreat for Spanish royalty, and today it’s a delightful escape for families.

The village is designed to look like an English countryside hamlet, complete with thatched-roof cottages, cobblestone streets, and a picturesque pond. Kids will love exploring the tiny houses, which are filled with antique toys, dolls, and miniature furniture. It’s like stepping into a dollhouse come to life!

Nearby, the Palacio Real de La Granja offers another layer of magic. The palace’s opulent rooms and sprawling gardens are straight out of a fairy tale, and the Fountain Show (held on select weekends) is a spectacle your kids won’t forget. Watch as the fountains dance to music, creating a mesmerizing display of water and light.

Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy it by the pond in Pueblo Inglés. The peaceful setting is perfect for a family break, and the kids will love feeding the ducks.

6. The Dragon Cave of Cueva del Drach, Mallorca

Address: Ctra. Cuevas s/n, 07680 Porto Cristo, Mallorca

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (varies by season)

The Cueva del Drach (Dragon Cave) on the island of Mallorca is one of the most magical natural wonders in Spain. This underground cave system is filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and an enormous subterranean lake.

The highlight of the visit is the classical music concert held on the lake. As the lights dim, musicians perform on a small boat, and the cave is illuminated in a dazzling display of colors. It’s a surreal, almost otherworldly experience that will leave your kids in awe.

My son was particularly fascinated by the cave’s legends, which tell of dragons and hidden treasures. The guided tours often include these stories, making the visit even more engaging for young visitors.

Pro Tip: Combine your visit to the Dragon Cave with a trip to the nearby Cala Millor Beach for a day of adventure and relaxation.

7. The Park Güell, Barcelona

Address: 08024 Barcelona

Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM (varies by season)

Park Güell is one of Barcelona’s most enchanting attractions, and it’s a place where kids can let their imaginations run wild. Designed by the legendary Antoni Gaudí, this park is a riot of color, whimsy, and fantasy.

The Dragon Fountain at the park’s entrance is a favorite among kids, who love to pose for photos with the iconic mosaic lizard. The Gingerbread House (officially known as the Casa del Guardià) looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, and the Serpentine Bench offers a fun, winding path to explore.

But the real magic of Park Güell lies in its hidden corners. The Austrian Gardens provide a peaceful retreat, while the Nature Square offers panoramic views of Barcelona. My kids loved playing hide-and-seek among the park’s twisted columns and colorful mosaics.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, and bring a sketchbook—your kids will love drawing the park’s surreal landscapes.

8. The Witches’ Forest of Zugarramurdi, Navarre

Address: C. de las Cuevas de las Brujas, 31710 Zugarramurdi, Navarre

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Zugarramurdi is a small village in Navarre with a big reputation—it’s known as the Witches’ Village of Spain. The Cuevas de las Brujas (Witches’ Caves) are the main attraction, and they’re a spooky, fascinating place for kids to explore.

The caves are part of a larger complex that includes a museum dedicated to the history of witchcraft in the region. The exhibits are kid-friendly, with interactive displays and storytelling elements that bring the legends to life. My daughter was particularly captivated by the tales of the Akelarre (witches’ sabbath) and the village’s infamous witch trials.

Outside the caves, the village itself is charming, with narrow streets and traditional stone houses. The Witches’ Festival, held in August, is a must-visit if you’re in the area. The festival includes parades, costume contests, and reenactments of the witch trials—all in good fun, of course.

Pro Tip: Combine your visit to Zugarramurdi with a trip to the nearby Baztán Valley, which is said to be the inspiration for the Baztán Trilogy by Dolores Redondo.

9. The Enchanted Forest of Oma, Basque Country

Address: 48289 Kortezubi, Biscay, Basque Country

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

The Bosque Animado de Oma (Enchanted Forest of Oma) is a hidden gem in the Basque Country. This forest is filled with sculptures and installations created by the artist Agustín Ibarrola, who transformed the trees into a living work of art.

The forest is a magical place for kids to explore. The sculptures are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, creating a sense of discovery at every turn. My kids loved searching for the hidden faces and shapes in the trees, and the forest’s peaceful atmosphere made it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—the forest is best explored on foot, and the trails can be uneven.

10. The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, Barcelona

Address: Pl. de Carles Buïgas, 1, 08038 Barcelona

Hours: Shows typically run Thursday to Sunday, 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM (check the official website for updates)

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is one of Barcelona’s most iconic attractions, and it’s a must-visit for families. This spectacular fountain show combines water, light, and music to create a dazzling display that will leave your kids spellbound.

The fountain was designed for the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition, and it’s been delighting visitors ever since. The shows are held in the evenings, and the fountain is illuminated in a rainbow of colors, with jets of water dancing in time to the music.

My kids loved the Disney-themed shows, which feature songs from their favorite movies. The fountain’s grand finale, with its towering jets and explosive bursts of light, is a moment they’ll never forget.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, and bring a blanket to sit on—the shows can last up to 30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Spain is a country that knows how to captivate the imagination, and these 10 magical places are just the beginning. Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, riding roller coasters, or wandering through enchanted forests, Spain in 2026 is a playground for families who love adventure.

As a travel writer and a parent, I’ve found that the best family vacations are the ones that create lasting memories. These destinations aren’t just places to visit—they’re places where your kids can let their imaginations soar, where they can be knights, explorers, and dreamers. So pack your bags, grab your little ones, and get ready for a journey that will leave your family with stories to tell for years to come.