Madrid Family City Breaks

The Spanish capital still retains its position as one of the nightlife hotspots of Europe but offers so much more besides. What it lacks in architecture and history it makes up for in atmosphere and energy and a feast of fun for all ages. Madrid is a city filled with eccentric contrasts, humming with life and colourful street fiestas and quite possibly the most vibrant cafe culture in Europe. There is no need for compromise with kids in tow during a Madrid family city break. Youngsters are welcome everywhere - even in bars and eating out is always a highlight. It is normal to see young children dining with parents late into the night and offers a great social atmosphere. Even the fussiest little appetite will find plenty of tasty tapas to sample.

 

 

A family city break to Madrid should definitely explore the major city highlights such as the sumptuous Palacio Real where everything is on a mammoth scale and then let the children’s imagination run wild in the world famous Prado art gallery - the city's no 1 visitor attraction. A visit to Micropolix proves beyond any doubt that learning can be so much fun in Madrid. It is basically a miniature town where kids play at being grownups - they can learn how to fly a plane, become a fireman and almost 100 other occupations. It is all fully supervised and provides a wonderful experience that could easily last all day long. Exotarium is another fun filled educational project that will delight nature and wildlife lovers - it is filled with dozens of fascinating reptile species, creepy crawlies and exotic mammals. Younger visitors will certainly be captivated by the Houdini Magic theatre or the thrilling Aquopolis water park which is sure to be a big hit with all the family.

 

 

Pure undiluted thrills and spills are sure to be on the agenda during a long weekend in Madrid. There are several spectacular theme parks all within 1 hour drive of the city such as the Warner Brothers Park which offers full on high velocity rollercoaster action and the centrally located Parque de Attraciones, more suited to younger children. Madrid family city breaks can surprisingly get their fill of snow sports fun at the Xanadu Snowpark. It is open year round and also boasts go carting, mini golf and a cinema. If all this energy sapping fun gets a little too much, there is ample opportunity to slow down the pace and simply relax for an afternoon in the sunshine. There is an urban beach located by the river Manzanares featuring golden sand, promenades and children's play areas. Retiro Park is another haven away from the bustle of city life where you can picnic among rose gardens, go boating on its lake or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of eccentric buskers and weekend puppet shows.