In Spain, May represents the last month of the spring low season before the tourist hordes descend on the country for the summer. This is the time to enjoy the beaches before they get too crowded and tour the streets of Madrid before it gets too hot. There are also some unique events and festivals during this month that range from controversial to pure party fun.
Madrid is an excellent choice for a family trip, as this diverse city offers plenty to see and do, plus a few accommodation options that don't require a splurge. Some of the best standard family-friendly hotels in Madrid are in our favorite walkable neighborhoods, meaning even shorter legs can enjoy all the sites. Our top picks are affordable, keep you centrally located, and still provide family-friendly amenities like breakfast buffets and cozy lounges.
Madrid is a city filled with a fascinating and varied history. To make your travels into Spain's past a bit more unique, you can stay at one of Madrid's historic hotels. We love this lodging category because you'll find several options for mid-range budgets while still getting those unique perks, like historical buildings, boutique properties, on-site eateries, and outdoor pools.
Some of the best mid-range boutique hotels in Granada repurpose buildings like 16th-century Arabic houses, 19th-century palaces, and those with facades covered in Neo-Pompeian. The city's history runs deep, and you can enjoy it starting with your accommodation.
With an impressive skyline mixing old and new, a rooftop terrace in Madrid allows you to view the city's history from above. Some of the best rooftop hotels in Madrid offer those incredible views with a few other perks, such as bars, lounges, sundecks, events, and even swimming pools.
Even smaller budgets can enjoy the appeal of Ronda's boutique accommodations, which give you a more personal experience in this truly charming city. The best standard boutique hotels provide perks like unique history, central locations, onsite restaurants, and terraces to enjoy the area's famous views.
Barcelona is an ideal location when traveling with kids. The city never seems to get old for families, with gondolas and funiculars, large sweeping parks packed with entertainment, and beaches right in the city. But when traveling with the little ones in tow, it helps to choose a family-friendly hotel in Barcelona, too, of which there are plenty of options.
As the calendar edges into autumn, Spain offers one last defiant burst of sunshine through October. This is the final month for travelers to do some sunbathing before the rains take over, yet the lighter weather means it's also great for walking tours of Spain's famous cities. Come, then, to Madrid, the Mediterranean coast, and the northern Basque country, and drink deeply of Spain's bottomless cup.
One of the best places to stay in Madrid is near the city's historic and central Plaza Mayor. There are many perks to the area around this 16th-century square, including beautiful architecture, plenty of shops and eateries, and regular events and activities. You'll be within walking distance to nearly all the main city sites and find plenty of accommodation options that fit any budget.
When traveling with family, those kid-friendly perks that make the trip a little easier can be worth it, such as convenient restaurants right on the property and a swimming pool to keep everyone entertained. Some of Madrid's best mid-range family-friendly hotels offer those amenities, plus an excellent location.