Barcelona is a dynamic city brimming with exciting activities for families, making it an ideal destination for visitors traveling with kids. Whether your little ones love exploring nature, discovering history, or experiencing hands-on adventures, there’s something for everyone. Here are ten fantastic things to do in Barcelona with children:
1. Discover the Magic of Park Güell
One of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous creations, Park Güell is like stepping into a fairytale. The colorful mosaics, whimsical architecture, and stunning gardens make it an enchanting place for kids to roam and explore. Highlights include the vibrant “El Drac” salamander sculpture and the serpentine bench that winds its way around the terrace.
📍 Location: Carrer d’Olot, 08024 Barcelona
🎟️ Admission: Around €10 per adult; free for children under 7
Tip: Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
2. Experience the Wonders of Barcelona Aquarium
A trip to the Barcelona Aquarium is a must for families who love marine life. Kids will be fascinated by the massive Oceanarium, where they can walk through an 80-meter underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and other sea creatures.
📍 Location: Moll d’Espanya del Port Vell, s/n, 08039 Barcelona
🎟️ Admission: Adults €21, children (5-10 years) €16, children (3-4 years) €8
Tip: Check the schedule for feeding times and interactive exhibits for an even more engaging experience.
3. Get Hands-On at CosmoCaixa Science Museum
This interactive science museum is perfect for curious kids who love to experiment and explore. With a replica of an Amazon rainforest, a planetarium, and a variety of hands-on exhibits, CosmoCaixa makes learning fun for the whole family.
📍 Location: Carrer d’Isaac Newton, 26, 08022 Barcelona
🎟️ Admission: €6 per adult; free for children under 16
Tip: Plan for a few hours here—it’s easy to lose track of time with so many interactive exhibits.
4. Enjoy Classic Fun at Tibidabo Amusement Park
Sitting atop Mount Tibidabo, this charming amusement park offers a mix of classic rides and breathtaking views of the city. From vintage carousels to roller coasters, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained.
📍 Location: Plaça del Tibidabo, 3-4, 08035 Barcelona
🎟️ Admission: Around €28.50 for adults, €10.30 for kids under 1.2 meters tall
Tip: For an extra adventure, take the historic Tramvia Blau and funicular railway up the mountain.
5. Stroll Through the Gothic Quarter
Barcelona’s historic Gothic Quarter is like an open-air museum, filled with narrow medieval streets, hidden courtyards, and ancient Roman ruins. Many tour companies offer kid-friendly walking tours that bring history to life with fun stories and interactive elements.
📍 Location: Ciutat Vella district, Barcelona
🎟️ Admission: Free to explore; guided tours vary in price
Tip: Stop by Plaça Sant Felip Neri, a picturesque square with a fascinating history.
6. Unwind at Barceloneta Beach
Sometimes, kids just need to run around and play in the sand. Barceloneta Beach offers plenty of space for building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, and enjoying a seaside snack.
📍 Location: Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, 08003 Barcelona
🎟️ Admission: Free
Tip: Arrive early to claim a good spot, especially during the summer months.
7. Meet the Animals at Barcelona Zoo
Located within Parc de la Ciutadella, the Barcelona Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, from elephants and lions to reptiles and exotic birds. Interactive exhibits and feeding demonstrations make it a great stop for young animal lovers.
📍 Location: Parc de la Ciutadella, 08003 Barcelona
🎟️ Admission: Adults €21.40, children (3-12 years) €12.95
Tip: Check the zoo’s event calendar for special kids’ activities and guided tours.
8. Step Into Spain’s Past at Poble Espanyol
This open-air museum replicates villages from different regions of Spain, giving families a chance to wander through charming streets, watch artisans at work, and even participate in craft workshops.
📍 Location: Av. de Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13, 08038 Barcelona
🎟️ Admission: Adults €14, children (4-12 years) €7
Tip: Keep an eye out for live performances and family-friendly events throughout the year.
9. Take a Ride on the Montjuïc Cable Car
For a different perspective of Barcelona, hop on the Montjuïc Cable Car. The ride offers spectacular views of the city and the coastline, making it an exciting experience for kids and parents alike.
📍 Location: Avinguda Miramar, 30, 08038 Barcelona
🎟️ Admission: Round-trip tickets are approximately €12.70 for adults, €9.20 for children (4-12 years)
Tip: Pair the cable car ride with a visit to Montjuïc Castle for a fun history lesson.
10. Get Creative at a Mosaic Workshop
Inspired by Gaudí’s famous mosaic designs, these hands-on workshops allow kids to create their own colorful ceramic art pieces. It’s a fun way to introduce them to Catalan culture while making a unique souvenir to take home.
📍 Location: Various studios across Barcelona, including Mosaiccos (Carrer dels Assaonadors, 10, 08003 Barcelona)
🎟️ Admission: Prices range from €20-€40 per person, depending on the workshop
Tip: Booking in advance is a good idea, especially on weekends when classes fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Barcelona is a fantastic city for families, offering a perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re marveling at Gaudí’s masterpieces, exploring the deep sea at the aquarium, or riding the Montjuïc cable car, there’s no shortage of exciting experiences for kids. With so many options, you can tailor your trip to suit your family’s interests and create unforgettable memories together.