We ask a lot of Christmas, but one thing that is non-negotiable is being able to enjoy it with our children and watch their excitement grow with every activity that brings a little magic. Travel at this time of year? Absolutely, but always to destinations where plans filled with lights, Christmas carols and fantasy await. Here are our five must-visit destinations.

If you are looking for hotels in Madrid, you can round off your stay with countless Christmas activities. You will especially love the idea of lacing up your skates and taking to the ice at the Matadero ice rink. Do not forget to head to Plaza del Celenque to see the traditional Cortylandia show, and set aside a day to experience the festive season at Parque Warner, where everything — including your favourite characters — gets dressed up for Christmas. The celebrations continue right up to the Three Kings Parade, when the Three Wise Men arrive in the city.

Our hotels in Barcelona are an excellent starting point for enjoying a Christmas that takes over the city, from the heights of Tibidabo Amusement Park all the way down to the sea. If you fancy taking in the views from above, check out its Christmas programme: recent editions have featured a sustainable ice rink where you can skate with the city at your feet. It is the perfect place to decide where to visit next. With its beautiful Art Nouveau setting and illuminated trail, we think you will also be drawn to Els Llums de Sant Pau, whose theme and installations change with every edition. And if you fancy a day trip, we recommend visiting PortAventura World: it is fun and exciting at any time of year, but at Christmas it gains an extra festive sparkle that will stay with you. On 5 January, head down to the harbour — it is not every day you see the Three Kings arrive by boat.

If you are looking for hotels in Granada for a family getaway, you should know that the city is a wonderful destination for children all year round. Its appeal lies in the mysteries hidden within its monuments, the narrow streets of its most iconic neighbourhoods where little ones can have fun running up and down, and the countless activities at the Science Park. Just imagine what happens when Christmas arrives and the city becomes even more magical thanks to the lights illuminating its historic centre. Take your time wandering around and discovering markets selling sweet treats and handmade products, as well as — depending on each year’s programme — ice rinks, Christmas villages and slides where children can enjoy the thrill of speeding downhill.

Choosing one of our hotels in Zaragoza will give you the chance to see how magic fills every corner of the city at Christmas. It is not just that Plaza del Pilar brings together attractions such as an ice rink, snow tubing and a giant Nativity scene, or that its Amusement Park fills with elves putting on shows as they await the arrival of Father Christmas; even the light itself seems to come alive. Do not believe us? Take a look at the programme for José Antonio Labordeta Park, which in recent years has hosted immersive light and music experiences designed for the whole family to enjoy.

From our hotels in Córdoba, you can discover how the city brings the Christmas spirit to life. It does so with festive parades and by opening the doors to its traditional courtyards, decorated with seasonal touches that remind you what time of year it is. Each edition brings different attractions, including light shows, video mapping and drone displays, so it is worth checking the official programme. Children’s activities are held at various locations around the city and, to make the wait for the Three Kings feel a little shorter for younger visitors, there is also usually a visit from the Royal Messenger.

Cover photo credit: Parque Warner.