Visiting Madrid with kids? Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Spain’s capital is not just about art, history, and tapas—it’s also a fantastic playground for families. From magical museums and thrilling amusement parks to lush green spaces perfect for picnics and playtime, Madrid has something for every little explorer.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Madrid with kids, whether they’re future football stars, animal lovers, or tiny thrill-seekers.

Museums kids will love

Step into a world of imagination: museums kids will love

Not all museums are quiet halls filled with stuffy ancient artifacts—some are made for fun, creativity, and even a little mischief!

Casa Museo Ratón Pérez: Madrid’s very own tooth fairy
In Spain, when kids lose a tooth, they don’t wait for the Tooth Fairy. Instead, they leave it under their pillow for Ratón Pérez, a tiny mouse who takes their tooth and leaves a gift behind. At the Casa Museo Ratón Pérez, children can step into his whimsical world, see his tiny home, and hear enchanting stories about this beloved Spanish tradition.

Calle del Arenal, 8, 28013 Madrid
casamuseoratonperez.es

Museum of Illusions: where nothing is what it seems
Want to shrink your kids down to the size of an ant? Or watch them “float” in mid-air? The Museum of Illusions is packed with mind-bending exhibits that play tricks on the eyes and challenge perception. Perfect for some giggles and Instagram-worthy moments!

Calle del Doctor Cortezo, 8, 28012 Madrid
museumofillusions.es

Madrid Wax Museum: meet their favorite stars
Whether they want to snap a selfie with Cristiano Ronaldo or stand next to Harry Potter, the Museo de Cera is the place to be. It’s a fun, slightly quirky experience where kids can see lifelike wax figures of sports legends, pop stars, and even superheroes.

Paseo de Recoletos, 41, 28004 Madrid
museoceramadrid.com

madrid_wax_museum

Stadium tours and football fever

For little sports fans: stadium tours and football fever

If your child dreams of scoring the winning goal in a Champions League final, Madrid is the perfect city to visit.

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is the ultimate pilgrimage for Real Madrid fans, where visitors can walk through the locker rooms, step onto the pitch, and admire the club’s countless trophies, while Atlético Madrid supporters can get a behind-the-scenes look at their team’s home turf with a tour of the modern Cívitas Metropolitano; both stadiums offer guided tours, and tickets should be booked in advance.

You can book the Santiago Bernabéu tour here 

guided tour_santiago-bernabeu-stadium

Theme parks and adventure: thrills for all ages

Parque de Atracciones: Madrid’s classic amusement park

If roller coasters, splash rides, and cotton candy sound like a great day out, head to the Parque de Atracciones. With sections designed for toddlers, teens, and adrenaline junkies, it’s the perfect place for a family-friendly thrill.

Casa de Campo, s/n, 28011 Madrid

parquedeatracciones.es

Babylon Park: an indoor world of fun


Need a plan for a rainy day? Babylon Park is an indoor theme park filled with arcade games, bumper cars, and small rides—great for younger kids who want a taste of adventure.

Centro Comercial Islazul, Calle de la Calderilla, 1, 28054 Madrid
babylonpark.es

madrid amusement park

Wild encounters: zoos and animal parks

Faunia: an interactive animal experience

Not your typical zoo, Faunia is a mix of a botanical garden and a wildlife park where kids can see everything from penguins to lemurs. It’s divided into different ecosystems, making it a unique and educational experience.
Avenida de las Comunidades, 28, 28032 Madrid
faunia.es

Zoo Aquarium Madrid: pandas, dolphins, and more

Want to see giant pandas up close? Zoo Madrid is one of the few places in Europe where you can! From dolphin shows to reptile encounters, this zoo is always a hit with animal-loving kids.
Casa de Campo, s/n, 28011 Madrid
zoomadrid.com

madrid zoo panda eats bamboo

The perfect break: parks and playgrounds

El Retiro Park: boats, playgrounds, and magic shows

Madrid’s green oasis, El Retiro, is more than just a park—it’s an adventure waiting to happen. Rent a rowboat on the lake, watch street performers, or let the kids run wild in one of the many playgrounds. On weekends, you’ll even find puppet shows near the puppet theatre!
Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid

Best Playgrounds in Madrid

Looking for the coolest slides and swings? Check out:

Parque de la Cuña Verde de O’Donnell – A playground paradise with climbing structures, slides, and space to run.
Madrid Río Park – Home to the famous super-slide, a must for adventurous kids

Magical dining: themed restaurants for little foodies

Secretos de Lola: a Disney-style dining experience

If your kids are Disney fans, this is the restaurant for them! From princess-inspired decor to movie-themed dishes, it’s like stepping into a fairytale. But be warned—reservations are a must!
Calle de Hartzenbusch, 9, 28010 Madrid
secretoslola.com

Comic Planet: the ultimate superhero restaurant

For little Marvel and DC fans, Comic Planet is a dream come true. With walls covered in comic book art and superhero-themed food, it’s a fun and colorful spot to grab a burger or pizza.
Avenida de Alberto Alcocer, 5, 28036 Madrid
comicplanet.es

Madrid isn’t just a city for grown-ups—it’s a place where kids can step into fairy tales, run through giant parks, meet their favorite animals, and even explore the world of football. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full holiday, one thing’s for sure: your little ones will never get bored.

For more experienced foodies,  join us on our Madrid walking wine and food tour, where we’ll take you to the places we share with our own families and friends. Along the way, you’ll discover some of the iconic spots mentioned here, as well as hidden gems and authentic local flavors.

About the Author: Spain Food Sherpas

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