Things to do with kids in Madrid
Madrid has endless fun and entertainment to offer kids on holiday. While it's a bustling city that's famous for its art galleries and nightlife, it's also very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy many of the main sightseeing attractions, and will revel in the many fiestas and events held in the streets. The variety of attractions aimed specifically at children is impressive as well, and should keep the whole family happy.
Attractions range from palaces and markets to parks and playgrounds. One of the favourite palaces to visit is Palacio Real, with its vast treasure collection (kids always seem to love castles and treasures), and certain little boys and girls will also love seeing Santiago Bernabéu stadium, home to another of Spain's 'treasures': the Real Madrid football team.
The Teleférico, a cable car from Paseo del Pintor Rosales to the Casa de Campo, is another exciting Madrid adventure for children. The Madrid Zoo and Aquarium are perennial favourites and there's a Safari Park for additional animal viewing. One of the other highlights for children (and many adults!) is the Parque de Atracciones amusement park, which is large and modern and offers plenty of thrills as well as amusements for younger children.
Safari Madrid
Kids will enjoy a trip to Safari Madrid, which is set in an African-style savannah landscape and is home to giraffe, camels, zebras, elephants, hippos, bison, bears, baboons, monke…
Safari Madrid
Kids will enjoy a trip to Safari Madrid, which is set in an African-style savannah landscape and is home to giraffe, camels, zebras, elephants, hippos, bison, bears, baboons, monkeys, and rhino. The main wildlife attractions are the big cats, including lions, tigers and cougars. Many of the animals are allowed to roam free, simulating an African safari experience that lets visitors view game from their vehicles. Small kids will be delighted with the selection of meek, cuddly animals that they are allowed to interact with. Those who have been on real safaris will find the park disappointing, however.
Madrid Zoo and Aquarium
Home to nearly 3,000 animals from all over the world and an impressive aquarium, the Madrid Zoo is a great attraction for kids on holiday in the city. Highlights of the zoo include…
Madrid Zoo and Aquarium
Home to nearly 3,000 animals from all over the world and an impressive aquarium, the Madrid Zoo is a great attraction for kids on holiday in the city. Highlights of the zoo include koala bears, pandas, zebras, raccoons, bears, reindeers, rhinos, otters, lions, chimpanzees, hippos, lemurs, lynx, buffalo, elephants, wolves, orangutans, baboons, gorillas, giraffes and tigers. The zoo also boasts a good variety of reptiles and birds. Marine animals include the ever-popular dolphins, seals, penguins, and sharks. There are dolphin and sea lion shows. The zoo carries out different conservation and breeding programmes for species in serious danger of extinction.
Website www.zoomadrid.com
Parque de Atracciones
Parque de Atracciones is a fantastic amusement park in Madrid, and a particularly good option for those travelling with kids. The park is big and modern and offers a number of ride…
Parque de Atracciones
Parque de Atracciones is a fantastic amusement park in Madrid, and a particularly good option for those travelling with kids. The park is big and modern and offers a number of rides and attractions for all ages. There's plenty for thrill-seekers to enjoy, but there are also some more relaxed rides. The park is divided into five large sections: Maquinismo (machinery), where many large rides can be found; the Gran Avenida (main avenue), which boasts shops, restaurants, shows and street performers; Naturaleza (nature); Tranquilidad (relaxation); and Infantile, an area designed for young kids. There are a number of shows, games and spectacles to keep everybody entertained.
Website www.parquedeatracciones.es