If youโre relocating to Spain with family or buying a home with children in mind, this guide explores the places that stand out โ with clear guidance on visas, schooling, healthcare and safety.
Spain remains an attractive option for families and holiday-home buyers, not just for its climate but for practical reasons, like good schooling options, a high standard of healthcare and day-to-day living costs that are often lower than elsewhere in Europe.
Since Brexit, relocation rules have changed, but there are still clear and well-established routes for families to settle in Spain or buy a home there. This guide outlines the top 10 family-friendly places in Spain, what you need to know about visas, international schools and settling children.
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Contents
Why families choose Spain after Brexit
Spain offers a lifestyle many parents value โ outdoor living, a slower pace, strong community feel and access to good education and healthcare. However, since the UK left the EU, British citizens no longer have automatic freedom of movement, and relocation now requires visas. Families with Irish passports still enjoy EU rights, meaning they can live, work and study in Spain and bring dependents with them under EU freedom of movement rules. Other families will generally need to explore visa routes such as non-lucrative residence visas, work visas or student visas.
Visa options for relocating families
- Irish passport holders: EU rights allow residence and schooling in Spain for dependents.
- Non-lucrative visa: For those who want to live in Spain without working locally โ suitable for retirees or parents with income from abroad.
- Digital nomad visa: A route for remote workers employed outside Spain, with the option to include dependent children.
- Work visas: For parents with Spanish employment contracts.
- Student visas: For those enrolling in programmes longer than 3 months.
Itโs also important to be clear that buying property in Spain does not, on its own, give you the right to live there. Spainโs golden visa scheme closed to new applicants in 2025, meaning families now need to qualify through routes such as the Non-Lucrative Visa or Digital Nomad Visa, rather than relying on property ownership alone.
Immigration rules can change, so it’s important to consult a lawyer who specialises in visas and residency before making any big decisions.
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International schooling and settling children
Spain has a mix of public, concertado (semi-private) and private international schools. Public schools teach in Spanish (and often Catalan, Valenciano or Basque in certain regions) and are free or low cost for residents. International schools follow UK, American or International Baccalaureate curriculums and are popular with relocating families and second-home buyers who divide time between countries.
Which age is best for settling? Many families find that children between primary and early secondary school (ages 6-14) adapt quickly socially and educationally when enrolled in Spanish or international schools. Younger children adapt rapidly but require more parental involvement in language support, while older teens may prefer international curriculums to align with future university plans.
Top 10 family places in Spain
1. Valencia
Valencia ticks many boxes for families seeking culture, outdoor spaces and education. It offers top public and international schools, safe neighbourhoods, green spaces like Turia Gardens and calm beaches. Healthcare services are excellent and costs tend to be lower than in Madrid or Barcelona. Areas such as Campanar and Ruzafa are popular with families for community feel and accessibility.
2. Malaga
Malaga on the Costa del Sol is ideal for families wanting sunshine, beaches and strong schooling choices, including several international schools. Healthcare is well-equipped, and neighbourhoods like El Limonar and Pedregalejo provide community atmospheres with easy access to the sea. Its popularity with expats means active family networks, making settling easier.
3. Girona
Girona is near the Costa Brava but offers a quieter inland base with good schools and an international community. Families can enjoy easy trips to beaches like Platja dโAro while living in a town with manageable size and strong healthcare. There are international schools and bilingual options, and the city feels safe and walkable for families.
4. Alicante
Alicante on the Costa Blanca offers beachside living with great schools and healthcare. Areas such as San Juan and Cabo de las Huertas are especially family-oriented, with safe streets and local amenities. Property costs are generally more affordable compared with larger Spanish cities, making Alicante attractive for both second homes and permanent relocation.
5. Madrid
Spainโs capital provides a wide range of schooling options, including many international schools with UK and IB curriculums โ key for families wanting consistency in education. Madrid also boasts world-class healthcare, plenty of parks and strong transport links. While living costs are higher, the cityโs conveniences appeal to many relocating families.
6. San Sebastiรกn
San Sebastiรกn offers family-friendly beaches and a reputation for safety and outdoor living. It has good local schools and access to international options within the Basque region. Healthcare services are strong, and the city offers a calmer pace while maintaining cultural richness. Families prioritising safety and accessible outdoor activities often choose this area.
7. Seville
Seville combines Andalusian culture with practical family living. Popular neighbourhoods like Los Remedios and Nerviรณn provide safe streets, parks and schooling options. Healthcare is well established, and living costs are more affordable than in bigger cities. Seville suits families looking for immersion in Spanish life and outdoor community spaces.
8. Palma de Mallorca
Palma provides Mediterranean island living combined with good educational options, including international schools. Housing in areas like Son Vida and Portixol attracts families looking for seaside views and safe environments. Although property prices can be higher, Palma delivers lifestyle appeal for both full-time and part-time residents.
9. Bilbao
Bilbaoโs combination of culture, accessible parks and strong schooling makes it a good base for relocating families. International schools, comprehensive healthcare and moderate living costs contribute to its appeal. Green spaces such as Doรฑa Casilda Park and riverfront areas encourage family activity and community engagement.
10. Altea
Altea on the Costa Blanca is ideal for families seeking a slower pace of life with beach access, good schools nearby and healthcare within reach. Itโs especially popular with retirees and second-home buyers who want a supportive environment for grandchildren visiting during holidays. Property tends to be more affordable than in larger resorts.
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Second homes and retirees with grandchildren in mind
For retirees or second-home buyers, choosing a place that works for grandchildren means prioritising easy travel (airports with frequent flights), access to schools with vacation activities and safe, walkable towns. Places like Valencia, Malaga, Alicante and Palma are excellent because they balance amenities with lifestyle and provide year-round appeal for all ages.
Summary
Spain offers a wide range of family-friendly places where schooling, safety, healthcare and lifestyle come together โ whether youโre relocating after Brexit or buying a holiday home that suits visiting grandchildren. From Costa del Sol and Costa Brava areas to city options with strong international schools, there are choices for every familyโs needs.
