Barcelona may be famous for its artistic, eclectic and romantic atmosphere, but in recent years, it has fast become a top destination for families.
With its colourful ambiance, charismatic people and vibrant sights, this Catalonian city is a must for any family that wants to visit somewhere a little different from the norm.
Here are just 10 of the great things you and your kids will enjoy while visiting Barcelona – ole!
1. La Rambla
Barcelona’s most famous road is a great place to while away an hour or so, with its lively street traders, live bird fair and street performers.
2. The Chocolate Museum
A visit to the Museo de la Xocolata (Museum of Chocolate) is obligatory for anyone visiting Barcelona with the children. The only downside? Trying to escape the gift shop without buying several sweet treats!
3. To the beach
Barcelona is close to some of the country’s finest beaches. Clever families base themselves at one of the more reasonably priced coastal camping resorts, such as the excellent Vilanova Park, which offers an ideal shore-side break, whilst being within easy reach of the city.
4. The strangest cathedral on the planet
If you think cathedrals are wholly unsuitable for small people, then you’ve obviously never encountered La Sagrada Familia. Barcelona’s most famous (and strangest) building is a bizarre, molten monument that needs to be seen to be believed.
5. MontjuÎc Castle
Take a cable car and explore this amazing castle and its beautiful surroundings. With an outdoor cinema during the summer, live music events and a barbeque lunch menu, the kids won’t want to leave! Oh and the castle has a drawbridge…
6. The friendly residents
Barcelona has a great reputation for being incredibly family friendly. Whether you’re enjoying tapas on a street-side café or experiencing the crowded markets, you’ll be sure to encounter the famously welcoming Catalonian spirit, which is refreshingly inclusive of children.
7. Visit the funfair
Kids of all ages will love the famous Parc d’Atraccions Tibidabo; a frenetic funfair on the top of a hillside, overlooking the city below.
8. The Land of the Mammoths
Young dinosaur fans will love visiting the Museum of the Mammoth, which has life-sized models of the hairy beasts, as well as bones that the children can handle freely.
9. Torre de les Aigües
The building of the Torre de les Aigües is over 100 years old and has been converted into a swimming pool and park, providing the perfect spot for splashing in the cool water and relaxing amidst pleasant scenery.
10. The Urban Jungle
If you’re a family who likes adventure, you’ll love the Urban Jungle (Bosc Urbà). Speedy zip lines, bungee ropes and rope swings are the order of the day, and all that you need to bring with you is a lot of energy – and maybe a little bravery!
