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The tiniest feet can go on the biggest adventures in this Catalonian city. Find out the best things to do in Barcelona with kids and where to stay for a memorable family vacation.
For Children & Children-At-Heart
Bursting with fascinating architecture, bewitching parks, and a kid-friendly atmosphere, Barcelona proudly stands as a city that wholeheartedly embraces its young visitors. There are countless things to do in Barcelona with kids, each promising a unique experience that blends fun and learning!
Here’s a fun fact for the bookworms in your family: Barcelona created National Book Day back in 1926. Instead of Valentine’s Day, Barcelonians express their love through the exchange of books and flowers every April 23rd. The streets come alive with bookstalls and florists, marking the start of a global celebration of literature.
No matter the day, this city is a playground for adventurers who are young or young at heart. So, keep reading to find out the best things to do in Barcelona with kids as well as the top spots to rest, bond, and make memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Places to Visit & Things to Do in Barcelona With Kids
This spellbinding city is a treasure trove of family-friendly adventures. Here are ten unmissable experiences in Barcelona that are sure to be a hit with your kids:
EXPERIENCE MARINE WONDERS AT AQUARIUM BARCELONA
The Aquarium Barcelona is a must-visit for kids who love the enigmatic world under the sea. Home to over 11,000 sea creatures, this aquarium provides an immersive experience, complete with a transparent tunnel with sharks swimming above. For a more seamless visit, you can check their official website for opening hours and ticket prices.
EMBRACE THE MAGIC AT PARK GÜELL
Immerse yourselves in a real-life fairy tale at Park Güell, a mesmerizing park conceived by the internationally acclaimed architect Antoni Gaudí. Filled with vibrant mosaics, captivating stone formations, and breathtaking views of the city, this park is a dreamland that ignites children’s creativity. Don’t forget to check out the iconic dragon stairway for an encounter with a glistening giant lizard!
ENJOY A LIGHT SHOW AT THE MAGIC FOUNTAIN OF MONTJUÏC
Capping off an exhilarating day of exploration with an evening visit to the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a memory in the making. The fountain awakens at sundown, putting on a breathtaking display of lights, water, and music that fascinates kids and adults alike. The cherry on top? You’re within a stone’s throw of delicious tapas bars and eateries for a post-show meal.
TURN SCIENCE INTO AN ADVENTURE AT COSMOCAIXA
CosmoCaixa, a museum teeming with hands-on exhibits, transforms science into an interactive journey. Children can learn about the Amazon rainforest, astronomy, geology, and beyond. The Planetarium is also a hit as it transports visitors on a mesmerizing exploration of the universe. Coordinate your visit with their workshops and special events to maximize an educational trip.
GET CLOSE TO WILDLIFE AT BARCELONA ZOO
Zoos are an enduring favorite when scouting for things to do in Barcelona with kids. A haven for animal enthusiasts, Barcelona Zoo is home to over 300 species, ranging from primates to predators. In addition to observing these creatures, kids can engage in workshops and interactive activities that foster wildlife conservation awareness.
SPARK A PASSION FOR ART AT THE PICASSO MUSEUM
Introduce your children to the world of art at the Picasso Museum. Hosting over 4,000 pieces by the iconic artist, this museum offers a unique insight into Picasso’s early artistic journey. With specially designed children’s tours and workshops, kids can interactively discover art history – potentially igniting their own creative interests!
INDULGE YOUR SWEET TOOTH AT THE CHOCOLATE MUSEUM
For families who love sweets, the Chocolate Museum is a must-visit when considering things to do in Barcelona with kids. A visit here is a feast for all senses. Learn about the captivating history of chocolate, its roots, and how it has influenced cultures globally. Kids can participate in engaging hands-on activities like chocolate-making workshops, making this visit an indelibly tasty one.
FEEL LIKE A GIANT CATALUNYA EN MINIATURA
Stride through a landscape of miniature wonders at Catalunya en Miniatura. This theme park lets your kids tower over scaled replicas of famous Catalonian landmarks, providing an interactive and fun way to learn about the region’s history and architecture. Though it’s a bit of a journey from Barcelona, it’s a valuable addition to your family-friendly itinerary.
LEARN ABOUT HISTORY AND NATURE AT MUSEU BLAU
Museu Blau is the perfect choice for an informative day out. This natural history and science museum allows children to discover the evolution of life and our planet. With an abundance of interactive exhibits, it’s an excellent place to fuel their curiosity and inspire a love for the natural world. After all, vacation doesn’t mean putting learning on hold!
HAVE A BEACH DAY AT BARCELONETA BEACH
When the sun’s out, there’s no better family activity than a trip to Barceloneta Beach. Renowned for its golden sand and gentle waves, it’s the ideal place for splashing about, building sandcastles, savoring some seaside snacks and drinks, or simply taking in the vista.
Where to Find All-Ages-Friendly Hotels in Barcelona
Securing the ideal accommodation is a crucial step when mapping out things to do in Barcelona with kids. Here are five family-oriented districts in close proximity to kid-approved attractions where you can establish your home away from home:
EIXAMPLE
Nestled in Barcelona’s historic center, Eixample hosts two of Gaudí’s gems, Casa Batlló and La Sagrada Familia. Families will love the abundant playgrounds, shopping options, and a mix of fusion food joints like the La Pasta Lab and Padam.
GRACIA
Exuding a quaint, village-like charm, Gràcia is famous for its alfresco cafes and independent boutiques. Plus, Park Güell is just a short stroll away! If you choose to lodge here, dropping by Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia is one of the first things to do in Barcelona with kids. There’s plenty of space for running around and no shortage of architectural marvels to behold.
BARCELONETA
For families who can’t get enough of the beach, Barceloneta is the perfect fit. A hop, a skip, and a jump from Barceloneta Beach, this district has an authentic local vibe, complete with a variety of seafood dining spots like Can Maño. The nearby Aquarium Barcelona is also a prime spot for an underwater escapade.
POBLENOU
Poblenou strikes the right balance between relaxation and sightseeing, being close to both the beach and the city center. Indulge in family dining at restaurants like Els Pescadors, and immerse yourselves in contemporary art at Museu Can Framis.
CIUTAT VELLA
Plunge your family into Barcelona’s rich history and culture in Ciutat Vella, the old city. With a maze of narrow streets, concealed courtyards, and ancient architecture like Plaça Reial’s, it will enchant both kids and adults who adore fairytales. If your little ones lean more toward modern art, the Picasso Museum is just around the corner.
There Is No Age Limit for Wonder With Hotala
With an endless array of sights and things to do in Barcelona with kids, it’s undeniable that this city stimulates creativity and cultivates familial bonds. As with all family vacations, we recommend having contingency plans, as kid-friendly policies can shift without warning at various locales.
Remember, the bonding truly starts at “home” — your holiday home, that is! With Hotala, you can easily find the safest and chicest hotels and resorts in and out of Barcelona. Plus, with our continuous feed of travel ideas, you’ll never run out of ideas for your family getaways! Kick off your Barcelona trip today with Hotala.
