Úbeda with children: family plans in winter

Travelling to Úbeda with children in winter may seem like a challenge, but this city in Jaén has surprises in store for the whole family. Beyond its Renaissance monuments, Úbeda offers experiences that combine culture, nature and fun adapted to the little ones. We tell you the best plans to enjoy with the family during the coldest months of the year.

The Hospital de Santiago: a fairytale castle

For children, the Hospital de Santiago is practically a castle. Its towers, its colonnaded courtyard and its wide spaces are perfect for letting your imagination run wild (in its Gardens you will find La Ciudad de los Niños). During the winter, this Renaissance building hosts exhibitions and cultural activities that often include children’s workshops. Asking at the tourist office for the scheduled activities can give you access to very entertaining educational proposals.

The Nativity Scene Route: A Christmas Treasure Hunt

If you travel in December or early January, the Route of the Nativity Scenes becomes a perfect family plan. Children enjoy looking for the different nativity scenes scattered around the city, each with its own unique style and details. You can turn it into a game: they find certain figures, count the animals or choose their favorite nativity scene. In addition, many of these nativity scenes are in emblematic places that they would not normally visit.

Parks and green areas to burn energy

Although Úbeda is a monumental city, it also has spaces where children can run and play. The Vandelvira Park, next to the Hospital de Santiago, is ideal for a break between visits. On sunny winter days, a picnic in this green area can be the perfect respite before exploring further.

Pottery workshops: getting your hands dirty

The pottery tradition of Úbeda goes back a long way, and some workshops offer experiences for families where children can model their own piece of clay. It is a very sensory activity that allows them to take away a souvenir made by themselves. Please check in advance, as these experiences usually require prior reservation.

Conventual sweets: a very sweet tradition

Visiting a convent to buy sweets made by the nuns is an experience for the little ones. The process of ringing the doorbell, speaking through the lathe and waiting for the delights to appear is fascinating to them. The mantecados, pestiños and roscos of the Poor Clare mothers are perfect for a snack after a day of walking.

Nearby excursions: nature just a stone’s throw away

If the kids need a change of pace, the Sierra de Cazorla is less than an hour away. In winter, the snowy landscapes are spectacular, and there are perfectly signposted short routes where you can see deer, mountain goats and birds of prey. The Vinegar Tower Interpretation Centre is very educational and entertaining for families.

The Three Kings Parade: pure magic

If your visit coincides with January 5, the Three Kings Parade of Úbeda is one of those memories that will be engraved forever. The parade runs through the historic center and the atmosphere is warm and familiar. Arrive in time to find a good place, because it is a very popular event.

Practical tips for travelling with children

Úbeda is a very walkable city, but its cobbled streets can be a challenge with baby carriages. If your child is young, consider bringing a baby carrier for the more monumental areas. Most restaurants are very welcoming to families and usually have children’s menus. And don’t forget that in winter it gets dark early, so organize outdoor visits for the central hours of the day, when the sun warms a little more.