Kids in Madrid

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Full Guide to Hiking with Kids in Madrid

Full Guide to Hiking with Kids In Madrid Facebook Instagram Family Hiking Adventures Around Madrid Are you new to Madrid and looking for easy day trips to escape the buzz of the city? Or have you lived here for years but never explored the many stunning walks available around the region? With the help of Hiking Madrid, Kids in Madrid has compiled a selection of family-friendly hikes accessible by public transport, ideal for families with kids of all ages. Madrid is surrounded by natural beauty. To the north, the region is crowned by mountains; to the south, wilderness plains stretch across the land; the east and west offer rolling hills dotted with lakes, rivers, and forests. There’s something for every family looking for adventure outdoors. Practical Tips for Hiking with Kids in Madrid Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for hiking in Madrid with children, but summer walks are also possible if you head out early in the morning. Several routes are close to cafés offering air conditioning and refreshments. In winter, most routes remain accessible as they are below the usual snow line, making hiking a year-round possibility. Top Family-Friendly Hiking Routes Embalse de Pinilla This flat circular trail around the Pinilla reservoir offers forested paths and scenic views, making it ideal for families with older children. Though not suitable for buggies, it features accessible picnic areas, playgrounds, and cafés in nearby villages. Access: Bus 194 from Plaza Castilla; parking available Distance: Full route 14.5 km; recommended stretch between Lozoya and Pinilla del Valle Highlights: Beach-like reservoir shore for splashing, prehistoric settlement ruins Patones de Arriba This picturesque slate village is steeped in history and surrounded by walking routes that are perfect for families. Easy routes are available between Patones de Abajo and Patones de Arriba, suitable for buggies and small children. Access: Bus 197 from Plaza Castilla or by car via A1 and M102 Distance: Less than 1 km between villages; optional longer routes for older children Highlights: Slate architecture, panoramic views, excellent dining options Los Cerros de Alcalá Ideal for cycling, scootering, and hiking, Los Cerros de Alcalá is a huge nature reserve with wide open spaces. Color-coded hiking trails cater to different levels of difficulty. Access: Train (C2, C7, C8) to Alcalá de Henares, then local bus 232; free parking available Distance: Trails vary from 2.5 km to 8 km Highlights: Archaeological sites, birdwatching, visitors’ center Parks of Aranjuez Aranjuez offers historical walks through beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the Royal Palace. Families can also enjoy river boat trips and rides on the famous Strawberry Train. Access: Bus 442 from Mendez Alvaro or train C3 Distance: Jardin del Principe circuit takes around 1.5 hours Highlights: Palaces, fountains, shaded gardens, cultural heritage Las Barrancas de Burujón Located in the neighboring region of Toledo, Las Barrancas de Burujón offers breathtaking canyon views. It’s a lesser-known destination but highly rewarding for adventurous families. Access: Only by car via CM4000 road; parking available Distance: 4 km roundtrip to panoramic viewpoint Highlights: Impressive canyon landscapes, picnic areas Valdemaqueda and Río Cofio West of Madrid, Valdemaqueda offers peaceful riverside walks and pine forests. It’s ideal for families seeking safe zones for kids to play and explore. Access: Bus 645 from Moncloa or car via A6 and M505 Distance: 3 km flat path to the medieval bridge and picnic area Highlights: River paddling, forest walks, picnic spots Parks Along the Río Manzanares Madrid’s city center also offers amazing family walks along the Manzanares River, covering 15 km of uninterrupted parkland. Access: Metro stations along Madrid Río (e.g., Legazpi, Principe Pío) Distance: Flexible, depending on the route chosen Highlights: Water play areas, iconic bridges, Campo del Moro gardens, modern sculptures Practical Advice for Hiking with Kids When hiking with kids around Madrid, always: Start early to avoid midday heat Pack plenty of water and snacks Choose shaded routes in summer Wear suitable footwear and sunscreen Let kids set the pace to enjoy the day Final Thoughts Madrid and its surrounding areas offer incredible opportunities for family hikes, from river walks to mountainous trails. With so many kid-friendly routes available, exploring nature together can become a regular part of your family life in Madrid. Have you discovered a favorite hiking route in Madrid? Share your tips with us on Facebook or Instagram – we would love to try them out on our next sunny weekend! For more outdoor family adventures, check out our other activity guides.To join Hiking Madrid on one of their guided tours, follow them on Facebook or contact them directly by email. See more blogs like this one Crafty Ideas for Kids in Madrid Crafty ideas for kids in Madrid We’ve put together some… Learn more What are the best parks in Madrid for family picnics? The best parks in Madrid Parks for families with kid… Learn more Back to School: Tips for a Smooth Transition into Madrid’s… Understanding the Spanish School System Parks for families with kid… Learn more LAE Kids – The top language school for children in Madrid FIND OUT MORE

craft for kids in Madrid
Activities, Day-to-day life, Uncategorised

Crafty Ideas for Kids in Madrid

Crafty ideas for kids in Madrid We’ve put together some great craft ideas that will keep your children engaged and active – and you sane! 😉 Facebook Instagram Why Craft Activities Are Perfect for Kids in Madrid Spending time indoors can be challenging for children and parents alike. Whether it’s a rainy day, school holiday, or a period of staying at home, creative craft activities can transform your day. At Kids in Madrid, we have compiled a selection of simple and fun projects that can be done with everyday materials, along with ideas for hands-on workshops and camps in Madrid when normal life resumes. Easter Crafts for Kids Easter crafts are a great way to add a festive touch to your home. We recommend focusing on simple activities, such as easy Easter egg dyeing or creating fun food crafts like Easter Bunny pancakes. These projects are enjoyable and realistic for families, even without special supplies. Why Craft Activities Are Perfect for Kids in Madrid Spending time indoors can be challenging for children and parents alike. Whether it’s a rainy day, school holiday, or a period of staying at home, creative craft activities can transform your day. At Kids in Madrid, we have compiled a selection of simple and fun projects that can be done with everyday materials, along with ideas for hands-on workshops and camps in Madrid when normal life resumes. Easter Crafts for Kids Easter crafts are a great way to add a festive touch to your home. We recommend focusing on simple activities, such as easy Easter egg dyeing or creating fun food crafts like Easter Bunny pancakes. These projects are enjoyable and realistic for families, even without special supplies. DIY Projects for Different Ages For toddlers, sensory balloons are a fun and safe project. Young children can try cardboard loom weaving, while older kids will love building their own kaleidoscopes. Tweens and teens can move beyond macaroni necklaces and explore stained glass pasta crafts to create colorful, artistic designs. Creative LEGO Projects Almost every household has a LEGO box ready for rainy days. Beyond free play, LEGO can be used for educational activities like building words with lettered bricks, practicing math with multiplication arrays, and conducting simple science experiments like float or sink tests. Children can also create marble mazes, utensil holders, and other useful crafts with random LEGO pieces, making it both educational and entertaining. For older children, investing in more advanced LEGO sets can be highly rewarding. Robotix Hands-on Learning, which offers LEGO Education products in Spain, provides kits and resources to develop STEM skills through play, along with an inspiring online community for young builders. YouTube Craft Channels for Kids YouTube can be a valuable educational tool when carefully selected. There are excellent YouTube channels offering craft tutorials, science experiments, and DIY activities for children. With a bit of guidance, children can find inspiration and new hobbies online. Craft Workshops for Kids in Madrid When life returns to normal, several spaces in Madrid offer wonderful opportunities for children to get hands-on with crafts. Alopeke Family Space hosts weekly English craft sessions, combining creativity with language learning. Dolores Gage offers pottery workshops in Spanish, English, and French at her studio in Ciudalcampo, welcoming children aged 10 and up. Pinta en Copas is another fun option, where children can paint ceramics while parents relax nearby. Craft Activities at Easter Camps During the Easter holidays, camps like Iberenglish and Hello! English offer a mix of craft activities and English immersion. Iberenglish focuses on STEAM projects where children can create and learn at the same time, while Hello! English incorporates crafts alongside dance, music, and drama, encouraging kids to use English naturally. Keeping Kids Entertained at Home Until workshops and camps fully return, structuring home life with a variety of activities remains essential. Experts recommend creating a daily schedule, mixing playtime with reading, encouraging independent activities, and limiting adult intervention during free play. Finding a balance between guided learning and free exploration helps children thrive at home. Final Thoughts Craft activities not only entertain but also foster creativity, confidence, and independence in children. Whether at home or out in Madrid’s vibrant community, arts and crafts provide valuable moments for families to connect and grow together. Stay safe and stay creative. #YomeQuedoEnCasa See more blogs like this one Elementor #23938 Crafty ideas for kids in Madrid We’ve put together some… Learn more Crafty ideas for kids in Madrid Crafty Ideas for Kids in Madrid: Fun Indoor Activities Parks… Learn more What are the best parks in Madrid for family picnics? The best parks in Madrid Parks for families with kid… Learn more LAE Kids – The top language school for children in Madrid FIND OUT MORE

Hiking with kids in Parques de Aranjuez
Activities, Day-to-day life

What are the best parks in Madrid for family picnics?

The best parks in Madrid Parks for families with kid zones, historical monuments and more Facebook Twitter Youtube El Retiro Park Description: This expansive 19th-century park is one of Madrid’s most famous green spaces. It features a boating lake, rose gardens, numerous fountains, and statues, making it an ideal spot for families. Activities: Rent rowboats on the lake, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, or simply relax on the grass with a picnic. Rating: 4.8 (191,466 reviews) Address: Retiro, 28009 Madrid, Spain Opening Hours: Open daily from 6 AM to 12 AM. Website: El Retiro Park Parque Madrid Río Description: A modern park that runs alongside the Manzanares River, offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths. It’s designed with families in mind and has plenty of green space for relaxation. Activities: Kids can enjoy various playgrounds, while parents can set up a picnic and take in the scenic views. Rating: 4.7 (2,799 reviews) Address: Autop. de Circunvalación M-30, 28005 Madrid, Spain Opening Hours: Open 24 hours. Parque de la Fuente del Berro Description: A serene park located in the Salamanca district, featuring beautiful gardens and a charming fountain. It’s less crowded than some other parks, making it a peaceful spot for families. Activities: Enjoy picnicking in the lush green surroundings and let the kids explore the playgrounds. Rating: 4.7 (3,355 reviews) Address: C/ del Alcalde Sainz de Baranda, 94, Salamanca, 28028 Madrid, Spain Opening Hours: Open daily from 6:30 AM to 10 PM. Website: Parque de la Fuente del Berro Las Vistillas Garden Description: Situated atop a hill, this park offers lovely lawns and stunning views of the city. It’s perfect for picnics with a view and often hosts cultural events. Activities: Set up a picnic while enjoying panoramic views of Madrid; it’s especially beautiful at sunset. Rating: 4.3 (5,548 reviews) Address: Jardín de las Vistillas, Pl. de Gabriel Miró, 2, Centro, 28005 Madrid, Spain Opening Hours: Open 24 hours. Rose Garden (La Rosaleda) Description: Located within El Retiro Park, this landscaped garden features thousands of rose bushes and serene ponds. It’s a picturesque setting for family outings. Activities: Enjoy a picnic among the roses and take photos in this beautifully maintained garden. Rating: 4.7 (4,398 reviews) Address: P.º de Fernán Núñez, 4, Retiro, 28009 Madrid, Spain Opening Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. Website: Rose Garden These parks not only provide ample space for picnics but also offer various activities to keep children entertained while you relax and enjoy family time outdoors. Do you know any other options when it comes to giving your children’s clothes away to people who need it? Tell us! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, leave your comment! Find more in our blog. Activities: Kids can enjoy various playgrounds, while parents can set up a picnic and take in the scenic views. Rating: 4.7 (2,799 reviews) Address: Autop. de Circunvalación M-30, 28005 Madrid, Spain Opening Hours: Open 24 hours. See more blogs like this one What are the best parks in Madrid for family picnics? The best parks in Madrid Parks for families with kid… Learn more Back to School: Tips for a Smooth Transition into Madrid’s… [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As the summer sun begins to wane and the crisp… Learn more Crafty ideas for kids in Madrid We've put together some great craft ideas that will keep… Learn more LAE Kids – The top language school for children in Madrid FIND OUT MORE

Thanksgiving in Madrid
Activities, Upcoming Events

A different Family Thanksgiving in Madrid

Are you staying in Madrid for Thanksgiving? Despite not being a well-known celebration in the Spanish capital, you will be able to enjoy the holiday doing different activities, as Madrid holds a wide variety of plans to enjoy with your family! We have already talked about some more traditional Thanksgiving activities in Madrid, so in this blog post we will share with you more recommendations to spend the day with your kids and make the most of the city at the same time. This is how a different family Thanksgiving in Madrid looks like: Ice Circus On a frozen planet between glaciers, igloos and northern lights, we find ourselves in a hidden place where Eskimo people, the Inuits, are surprised by the arrival of a magical being… This year IFEMA – Feria de Madrid will be hosting this winter show created by Productores de Sonrisas, a company that has produced different successful shows such as Circlassica, Magic Circus or Christmas Circus Price. This unique show will surprise children and adults! A circus will be transformed into an ice skating rink under a large white tent, in which artists from the best circus schools in the world will perform a magical tale. Storytelling sessions In the library “Dragón Lector”, located in Calle Fernández de la Hoz 72, and in Calle Sagunto 20 your children will be able to enjoy an exhilarating story reading! They have storytelling activities for babies and older children during the whole month. And they also offer some bilingual activities so that kids get to discover literature in a fun way while improving their language skills. For more information, check out their website. Science Week This unique place offers entertainment both for parents and for children. If you’ve always dreamt of bringing out your scientific side, then this is definitely the right place for you. Madrid Science and Innovation Week is an event about scientific dissemination and citizen participation whose main objective is to involve the youngest generations in science, technology and innovation. From November 4 to 17, you and your family will be able to participate in more than 1000 free activities around Madrid. Cortylandia From November 16 to January 6, El Corte Inglés de Preciados presents Cortylandia, one of the most famous attractions in the heart of Madrid. A free lively outdoor mural that changes themes every year. This year Cortylandia will include a train with animated characters singing and telling a Christmas tale. Since you are in the center of Madrid you can take advantage, go for a walk with your family through the Plaza Mayor and enjoy a hot Chocolate with churros at the mythical San Ginés. If you want to know more about outdoor activities in Madrid, take a look at this link. Alice in Wonderland What would happen if the Queen of Hearts wanted to change all the happily ever after tales? Discover a reinvention of the Lewis Carrol classic Alice in Wonderland in a musical format. A unique experience for the whole family with various innovative theatrical and audiovisual techniques. The Musical will be in Madrid from November 1 to December 8, at the Cofidis Alcázar Theater and you can get your tickets here. Children’s Book Fair ‘A sun of books’ is the motto of this new edition that commemorates 150 years of friendship and cultural collaboration between Japan and Spain. Books, adventures, imagination and creation are the sun that illuminates and warms collaboration and fraternity among all people. The fair, located at Conde Duque will host free activities aimed at all family members: storytelling, theater, workshops, concerts … Come and learn everything that unites Spain with the East and discover that, even the greatest distances can be narrowed by reading a good book! Music and architecture workshops for families Also located in Conde Duque, the project deals with the relationship between music and architecture. It has been created for children between 4 and 12 years old and their families! Workshops will have live music and recycled materials so kids can learn about geometry, space and volume while playing. History Museum of Madrid Why not spending Thanksgiving in Madrid while learning about life in the city through games? The History Museum of Madrid welcomes kids to learn how people in Madrid lived, worked and had fun in other periods of time. Every Sunday, except during December, you can get in for free, although you might want to make a reservation so as to not be disappointed!   Have a different Thanksgiving dinner in Madrid: Kilómetros de Pizza Instead of the traditional turkey, mash potatoes and pie, you can take your family to a different and fun restaurant. As you can probably guess from its name, this restaurant offers this Italian typical dish, loved both by children and adults. But that is not the best part… The pizzas are up to two meters long! Can you imagine your child’s face when they see a pizza that is bigger than them? Another good thing is that they have a terrace where children can play and just across the street there’s also a park.   La Almazara This restaurant, located in the South of Madrid, is perfect to take the kids out for lunch. Not only they have a game zone in which the children will be able to enjoy themselves, but they also have a person in charge that will be helping your children and making sure they are well taken care of while you enjoy a glass of wine. When it comes to the menu, they offer Spanish dishes and they have amazing desserts such as rice pudding or custard. There’s a special menu for kids that includes dessert and a drink.   Pim Pam This cozy and casual gastrobar in the Chamberi neighborhood, is perfect to eat, drink and spend some time with your family. Its menu is newly updated and includes braised octopus, spicy tuna tartar, scallops and some of the tastiest burgers in Madrid. The kids’ menu has a

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