5 Queer Secrets to the Perfect Spanish Family Vacation

05.09.2023 - 18:05 / travelpulse.com

1. Save money on attractions. When my husband and I took our two older sons (16 and 22) to Spain for summer vacation, we knew we had to be smart about finances. Taking four “adults” to dinner or a museum can get expensive very quickly. So we opted for Go City’s All-Inclusive Passes in both Madrid and Barcelona. These passes allow you to visit as many attractions as you want within a one to seven consecutive day period.  

We found it to be perfect for us, as we wanted to cram a lot into our Madrid sightseeing in particular. We used our passes for everything from a silly-to-teens wax museum to a guided tour of The Prado, one of Europe’s great art museums. We also discovered things we probably wouldn’t have otherwise thought to do, such as a e-bike tour (a true highlight of the trip!) to a relaxing hour-long boat cruise of the Barcelona waterfront. 

There’s also a Go City Explorer Pass, where you have the option to choose a two- to seven-day pass that can be used anytime within a 60-day period—ideal for visitors who want to explore at a more leisurely pace. 

2. Stay gay. While we’d occasionally used Airbnb for trips, until this vacation, we had never tried Misterb&b. This queer booking site allows travelers to reserve homes, apartments, even hotels that are queer-owned or -friendly. We were impressed with the options available while searching, from things like a shared space or an entire condo to being family friendly or having a gym or hot tub. Interestingly, the site was founded by a couple who’d had trouble finding the right type of accommodations in Barcelona years ago. 

We used the site to book our Madrid stay, and ended up with an entire apartment owned by a gay couple from Washington, D.C. It was everything we needed and located quite close to the queer neighborhood of Chueca. It was so convenient to text with our hosts leading up to the trip, and they gave us some incredible local restaurant recommendations, as well as what gay bars and clubs were their favorites. By the time the vacation rolled around, it felt like we were staying at a friend’s house! 

3. Don’t forget hotel restaurant options. We had plenty of wonderful meals throughout our trip, but two of the best were at rooftop restaurants in hotels. While in the U.S., my family tends to avoid hotel restaurants, the quality and service (and incredible chefs) you often find in many European countries is off the charts. 

Gorgeous architecture at the Four Seasons Madrid (Photo Credit: Paul Heney)

In Madrid, the Four Seasons’ Dani restaurant is located on the rooftop, with plenty of shade under enormous umbrellas. The space is uniquely beautiful, with the hotel’s historic cupola standing guard over the diners. And the view in every direction is