Barcelona with kids
Barcelona is a classic destination for a trip with children. at any age
It doesn’t matter if they are really small and even in a stroller (the city is mostly flat and also incredibly accessible), if they are young or growing up – everyone will find an interesting activity and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Beach, parks, museums, varied food – or just wandering the streets, if you haven’t visited yet, mark this destination for an upcoming visit.
The public transportation here (metro, bus, tram) is very efficient and comfortable, so there is no need for a car. If you are a taxi type, download the Cabify app.
So what do you do in Barcelona with children in 2023? Here are my 23 best .recommendations
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Tibidabo
Tibidabo Amusement Park is a magical haven nestled atop Mount Tibidabo, the highest point on the Collserola Ridge in Barcelona. Its prime position offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city throughout your visit. Let me paint a more enchanting picture for you:
Location and Setting:
- Imagine a place where the sky kisses the earth, and the Temple de Sagrat Cor church perches majestically on the mountain’s summit, reminiscent of a fairytale castle.
- The park nestles in the heart of Colserolla Park, a verdant oasis not far from your own abode. It’s a delightful escape from the bustling city below.
Views Beyond Imagination:
- As you step into Tibidabo, the vista unfolds: a 360-degree canvas showcasing Barcelona’s architectural wonders, azure coastline, and rolling hills.
- The cityscape stretches out like a mosaic of dreams, inviting you to lose yourself in its beauty.
A Symphony of Fun and Relaxation:
- Tibidabo isn’t just an amusement park; it’s a harmonious blend of excitement and tranquility.
- No ticket required for the awe-inspiring view—sip a cup of rich chocolate and savor churros by the Ferris wheel. The city sparkles below, and time slows down.
Attractions for All Ages:
- Over 30 captivating rides await: roller coasters, gravity-defying thrills, and gentle spins.
- Children giggle on the merry-go-round, while mini-roller coasters whisk them away on whimsical adventures.
Hidden Gems:
- Venture into the Lego room, a secret treasure trove. Here, small hands create wonders with colorful bricks, and older ones assemble robotic Legos.
- Amidst the soft rectangular buildings, find solace—a quiet retreat from the sun-drenched heights.
The Theater of Magic:
- Tibidabo’s Park Theater hosts enchanting shows: musicals, circus acts, and feats of wonder.
- Applause echoes through the pines as performers weave their spells.
Practical Tips:
- Comfortable shoes are your companions—explore every nook and cranny.
- Sunscreen becomes armor against the sun’s embrace.
- Hydrate—the mountain air whispers secrets, and water keeps you refreshed.
- The elevator shuttles between floors, a busy lifeline during the lunchtime rush.
Picnics and Nourishment:
- Pack a basket of delights—snacks or a picnic lunch. Tibidabo’s picnic areas invite you to linger, surrounded by nature’s embrace.
Tibidabo: where joy dances with the wind, and memories etch themselves against the sky. 🎡🌟🌆
For more details and to plan your visit, explore the official Tibidabo website. 🎢🌲🌞
Cosmo Caixa - science museum
I really can’t think of a place we’ve visited more times in the five and a half years we’ve lived here.
In any vehicle, on vacations, with guests from anywhere, the Science Museum is a place that is always fun to go to.
The permanent exhibition – Universe – is impressive, interesting and we always discover another new corner in it. It is very interactive, so it is suitable for all ages.
The tropical forest – truly magical. Looking forward to seeing all the house plants that we struggle to prolong their lives, growing here in ideal conditions, in their natural habitat, lots of indirect light and plenty of moisture 🙂
Outside, of course, there is an Archimedes screw and a variety of facilities and a yard where you can run around.
Pay attention to Creactivity – a complex with four workshops – wood / aviation / stop motion / electricity on the 4th floor – (God knows why they call the floors in reverse order). Sometimes the topic is predetermined (once we were here in a space rocket building workshop) and sometimes it is free. An hour and a half of creativity, a ticket must be bought separately – for both children and parents (must be accompanied by an adult with child/children). If you come to the workshop, you must also buy a ticket to the museum.
It is usually in Catalan, you can ask for explanations in Spanish.
The structure of the museum is very interesting in itself and worth going out and seeing it.
The location – not in the city center, requires a special arrival, but as mentioned – worth the effort.
There is a lovely shop on the ground floor.
The food is a kind of culinary wasteland. There is a cafeteria and there is a restaurant, but I highly recommend getting delicious food from home. There are micro devices where you can heat up.
For La Caisha bank account holders – free entry and 50% discount on the workshops.
The museum website
Address – C/ d’Isaac Newton, 26, 08022 Barcelona
Have some churros
Churros is generally breakfast here, but there is no doubt that it pleases at any time of the day.
Only with sugar, or with a cup of thick and sweet chocolate, or maybe filled with milk jam – everyone will find the churros they like, because what else can only be a warm, fried and sweet carbohydrate.
In fact, since the topic is so close to my heart, I dedicated an entire post to it – yes, an entire post just about churros. It is very worthwhile to read what is the most important guiding rule in everything related to the Spanish doughnut.
Where to go?
Google maps “xurreria” and navigate to the one closest to you.
Lego flagship store
Well, this is not just any store. This is the regular place my kids go with their grandparents. And besides, there are crazy Lego displays of key sites from the city (I won’t spoil the surprise for you), the possibility to assemble a Lego man according to your preference, including printing your name on it and also – lots of “seasonal” and special models that you can’t get anywhere else.
For investors – it’s worth getting a club card because you get a lot of gifts when buying over 100 euros. One who knows.
It’s worth following their publications, on special occasions they give out particularly valuable gifts (requires standing in line).
Pg. de Gràcia, 9, 08007 Barcelona
Stroll in the Ciutadella Park
There is nothing more relaxing than a walk in nature.
This is true at any age, even more so for small children who need air, spaces and sunlight.
Ciutadella Park (the citadel) is an excellent place to release energy, have a picnic with a beautiful view, or just a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Its central location can be perfectly combined with a visit to the zoo / El Born neighborhood / Barcelona or even Poblenou.
One of the most popular attractions in the park is the fountain, one of the largest fountains in Barcelona.
At Little Adam you can rent a small rowing boat or a pedal boat and go for a leisurely cruise around the lake.
For the more active children, there is a playground area with swings, slides and climbing structures. There is also plenty of open green space for running around, playing ball or having a picnic.
If you’re interested in culture and history, the park is home to some interesting buildings and monuments, including the Catalan Parliament, the Zoological Museum, and the Castel del Terres Dragons.
A bit of history
The Ciutadella is a fortress built in the middle of the 17th century by King Philip IV of Spain. It was built to help suppress the Catalan rebellion and demonstrate the power of the Spanish monarchy. The Ciutadella served as a military garrison for more than 200 years, and it was the site of several important historical events, including the Siege of Barcelona in 1714.
In 1868 the Spanish government decided to destroy the Ciutadella and turn the land into a park. The demolition process was slow and difficult, but in the early 1970s, the fort was mostly dismantled. The land was then landscaped to create a beautiful park, which was officially opened in 1878.
The park was designed by Josep Fontserè, who also designed the Arc de Triomphe in Barcelona. It was inspired by the English gardening style, with winding paths, artificial lakes and diverse vegetation. The park’s most iconic feature is the Cascade, or fountain, which was also designed by Fontesra and his apprentice, Antoni Gaudi.
Over the years Ciutadella Park has undergone several renovations and expansions. In the early 20th century, the park was home to the Barcelona International Exhibition, which brought new buildings and attractions to the area. In the 1980s, the park was renovated once more to create greener areas and improve accessibility.
Today, Ciutadella Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and remains an important part of Barcelona’s history and cultural heritage.
Address – Passeig de Picasso, 21, 08003 Barcelona
Visit the zoo
Barcelona Zoo is located in Ciutadella Park and is home to over 4,000 animals from 400 different species. It is a great place to spend a day and see a variety of animals from around the world, including flamingos, big cats, elephants and reptiles.
The garden is mostly flat and suitable for moving around with strollers (even with tiny children who you forgot to bring a stroller for. One who knows).
If you find it difficult to see animals in a cage, give up.
See the famous lizard in Park Güell
Park Guell is a public park designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi. The park is located on a hill in the García neighborhood in Barcelona and offers spectacular views of the city. Entrance to the park is free, but there is a charge for the Gaudí Monumental Area, which includes some of the park’s most famous attractions.
One of the highlights of Park Goel is the Dragon Stairs, which includes a dragon statue made of colorful tiles. Another popular attraction is the Hypostyle Room, which features 86 columns supporting a balcony above. Children will enjoy playing hide and seek between the columns while the adults will admire the beautiful architecture.
The park also has a playground for younger children, which includes a slide, swings and climbing structures. There are also plenty of benches throughout the park where parents can sit and relax while watching their children play.
For families who want to learn more about the park and its history, there are guided tours. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insight into the design of the park and the life of Antoni Gaudi.
One of the best times to visit Park Goel with children is during the summer months when the park hosts a series of concerts and events. The park’s outdoor amphitheater is a perfect venue for live music and theater performances, and there are often special events for children.
For a post that deals entirely with Gaudí’s buildings in Barcelona, click here
Bosc Urbà
Bosc Urbà is an adventure park and offers a wide range of activities suitable for children of all ages. One of the main attractions at Bosc Urbà is the high ropes course, which is actually a series of hanging obstacles and omegas that will challenge both children and adults.
In addition to the high ropes course, Bosc Urbà also offers a variety of other activities such as a climbing wall, a giant slide and a trampoline area. There are even mini courses for younger kids so they can join in the fun too.
All participants receive safety equipment and are supervised by trained staff members. The park also has a cozy cafe and picnic area where families can relax and enjoy a snack or meal.
The location by the sea allows you to combine the park with a trip on the beach or in the sea and/or with a museum of natural sciences (here you can purchase a combined ticket with free entry to 25 museums and sites throughout the city, including public transportation)
The site of the place
Address -Parc del Forum, s/n, 08019 Barcelona
Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is a unique attraction aimed at children of all ages (and their parents too, of course). It is located in the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and features a variety of interactive exhibits that play with perspective, gravitation and optical illusions. He will provide you with many photos for Instagram.
Keep in mind that they can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Another tip is to buy tickets online in advance to avoid the long lines at the ticket booth.
Big Fun Museum
Another fun museum for kids in Barcelona that features a variety of interactive exhibits, including a giant ball pit, a mirror maze, and a digital graffiti wall. Kids will love jumping into the ball pit and getting lost in the mirror maze. The Digital Graffiti Wall is a unique feature that allows kids to create their own digital graffiti art.
Chocolate museum
Located in the Gothic Quarter, the Chocolate Museum is a fun and educational attraction that offers visitors an insight into the history of chocolate. Visitors can learn about the production process, see chocolate sculptures and participate in chocolate making workshops.
My children are less connected.
Casa Batlló
If you only want to visit one of Gaudi’s buildings when traveling with children, this is the most appropriate and interactive one in my opinion.
Click here to read more about all of Gaudi’s buildings in the city, including food recommendations near them
Casa Batlló was designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi and is known for its amazing colors, unusual shapes and intricate details.
Upon entering the house, you get a mobile device that allows you to scan each room and see on the screen how it used to be, in a layer of augmented reality.
Besides, there is a relatively new room for an immersive multi-sensory experience.
Children up to the age of 12 enter for free 🙂
Address – Pg. de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona
Visit the coolest shops - Les Galeries Maldà
It is just a passage located in a very central place, but it is very difficult to miss it, because the entrance to it is hidden.
There are two alleys of shops, of the cool-cute-sometimes creepy variety.
According to the sign, it has been around since 1943 (!), long before Harry Potter was even planned.
You will find there a variety of special costumes, an impressive collection of Ponko dolls, chocolates and sweets that are not found elsewhere, manga and more.
Les Galeries Maldà
Carrer del Pi, 5, local 4A, 08002 Barcelona
Drink fresh juice and fruits at the market
There are no less than 39 markets throughout Barcelona, but La Boqueria market has only one.
As a role model for many markets around the world, you have the opportunity to experience the original here, in the heart of the Ramblas.
This vibrant market is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.
It is a colorful and lively place, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to seafood, meat, cheeses and sweets. Children will love exploring the different stalls and trying new foods, such as the famous Spanish ham, fresh fruit smoothies and sweet treats like churros and chocolate.
In addition to the food stalls, La Boqueria market also offers a variety of other products, such as handicrafts, spices and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to pick up some unique locally made gifts for friends and family back home.
Many of the vendors have been running their stands for generations, and are happy to share their knowledge and stories with visitors. If you live in an apartment, this is a great place to buy fresh local produce for your cooking.
Being busy and tiringly touristy, it is also a known hotspot for pickpockets, so watch your valuables. This is true everywhere in the city center.
Address La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona
Additional markets in the city center
Mercado de Santa Caterina – Avinguda de Francesc Cambó, 16, 08003 Barcelona
Mercado de Sant Antoni – Carrer del Comte d’Urgell, 1, 08011 Barcelona
Mercado del Ninot – Carrer de Mallorca, 133, 08036 Barcelona
Mercado de la Concepción – Carrer d’Aragó, 313, 08009 Barcelona
Mercado de La Llibertat – Plaça de la Llibertat, 27, 08012 Barcelona
Mercado de la Barceloneta – Plaça Poeta Boscà, s/n, 08003 Barcelona
Get lost at the Labyrinth
Apart from the main attraction here, which, not surprisingly, is the labyrinth, this park is beautiful and pastoral and also a background for photos of couples getting married 🙂
The maze is not very big, but nice and you can look at it from stone steps that lead to a small lake with fountains.
You can bring a light meal here and enjoy an intimate corner of nature while watching peacocks and turtles.
Address – Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, 08035 Barcelona
In the summer months, it is open from 10:00-20:00
In the winter months between 10:00 and 18:00
Entrance – 2.23 euros
Children aged 5-14 – 1.42 euros
Children under 5 – free
the official website
Watch the magic fountains show
Yesterday my neighbor, whose age is exactly the same as mine + 11 years, told me that one of the three things she likes most in Barcelona is the magic fountains…
The Magic Fountain, or Font Màgica, is a spectacular fountain that combines a display of lights, water and music.
Like many sites in the city, the fountain was first built for the World Exhibition in Barcelona in 1929 and renovated in the 1980s. Today, the fountain has become an iconic symbol of the city and attracts visitors from around the world.
The fountain is located in the Montjuic neighborhood of Barcelona, near many other popular tourist destinations, such as the National Art Museum of Catalonia (which is very impressive!) and the Olympic Stadium.
On normal days, it operates in the summer months on weekends, in the evening.
I am sorry to inform you that the fountain is not working at the moment, due to the severe drought here.
You are welcome to check the official website if the situation has changed.
Address -Plaça de Carles Buïgas, 1, El Poble-sec (Sants-Montjuïc)
Ride the old trains of L'orneta
This park is not central by any means, but the miniature trains here are really cool and I really enjoyed taking the kids here when they were a little smaller.
Scattered throughout the park are play corners with swings, small omegas, wooden structures that combine the play of several children (something I was very impressed by when I just passed by – what a beauty to teach cooperation!) and more. If you come in the summer, the whole forest is full of pines and oaks and there are many shady corners. The picnic area at the top will allow you to eat something while the children continue to play.
The park is located on a hill and you have to climb to get to the biggest attraction (the little train). You should come here with comfortable clothing and suitable shoes.
The Orenta train has been open to the public since 1978. There are several types of locomotives here, including steam ones. They make a turn of more than 600 meters and pass through tunnels and bridges.
There is literally a station, a conductor, a driver, a whistle and even a bell that no child can resist when getting off the train.
The price is reasonable, 3 euros for adults and children over one year old (be sure to bring cash because you cannot pay by card)
Rumor has it that there is a similar train at both Can Mercader Park in Cornella and Catalunya Park in Sabadell.
The train is only open on Sundays and holidays, from 10:30-13:30 only.
Address – The park should be reached from the entrance on Calle del Esports, as the road up from Gaspar Cassadó is unpaved and has a steep slope.
How to get to Parc de l’Orente
It can be reached by train (Reina Elisenda station) or by bus (V3 Sports- Ronda de dalt) or by bus 75/H4 at Pg. Reyna Alisanda Av. JV Foix stop.
to the train site
Ride the Hop on Hop Off bus
An attraction that is 2 in 1 – both a guided tour and a means of transportation.
It is highly recommended to get on it when you are already tired from a strenuous walk around the city, are looking for a light respite and rest for your feet, when the weather starts to become inclement or when you just want someone to take you somewhere.
The bus, as much as it is a super tourist attraction, is very comfortable, especially when there are children in the picture. They will be happy to hear explanations in Hebrew with headphones and to go up to the top floor for a high view of the city.
It can be nice as an introductory tour of the city or as a farewell tour, to all the places you didn’t get to visit.
There are two routes, each of which takes about two hours.
You can buy a ticket for one or two days (24 or 48 hours). You can get on and off as many times as you want, at any of the stations.
There is Wi-Fi on the bus.
Natural Science Museum
An unknown museum located in Forum Park, close to Bosc Urba and the Diagonal Mar mall. It has a very impressive permanent exhibition that deals with biological diversity. Personally, I was surprised to find out how many types of mushrooms exist in nature, including some that I really didn’t think existed…
When we visited there was a temporary exhibition about the oceans, worth checking out when you are in the area.
Recommended for those who have already visited the Science Museum and come to the city not for the first time.
Go to the beach
There is nothing like the sea! Just like the park, the combination of the spaces and the open air do the children (not to mention their parents) only good.
It doesn’t take much to keep kids busy at sea. The little ones can sit for hours in the sand with a small spoon or even without anything, build castles, bridges and dig holes in search of water.
In my eyes, the sea is an attraction regardless of the season – we like to go to the sea even in winter. If there’s no wind, it’s great fun for the whole family.
The beaches of Barcelona are usually busy, but if you are staying in the city center, you can quickly reach one of the beaches that are close to Barcelona.
It’s also very fun to walk along the boardwalk, see the marina with the luxurious yachts (make a contest who can find the biggest yacht), eat ice cream or ride a bike.
If you are interested in swimming and have a car, I recommend one of the southern beaches, such as Gava or Castelldelfs or even as far as Garraf, a lovely bay that I particularly like (which can also be reached by train).
A tip from locals – at the UnLugar restaurant in Castelldefels you can find a branch of the best ice cream in Barcelona –
Delecrem. Pg. Marítim, 74, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona
Watch the amazing Palau de la Musica
Palau de la Musica Catalana This amazing concert hall, located in the heart of Barcelona, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a recommended attraction for anyone visiting the city.
The building was designed by the renowned Catalan architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner and is a perfect example of the Catalan modernist style. The intricate details of the concert hall and the amazing stained glass windows of the concert hall will surely leave you with the conclusion that everything here is simply exaggerated 🙂 As colorful and ornate as it is – inside and out – that’s exactly its charm
In addition to its amazing architecture, there are a variety of family-friendly activities here. In the concert hall there are regular concerts specially designed for children and their parents. This is a great way to introduce children to classical music and the performing arts.
There are also guided tours, which are a great way to learn more about the history and architecture of the building. During the tour you can tour the various halls of the building and learn about the many musicians who have performed there over the years.
Its central location near Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods, allows you to continue exploring its narrow streets and discover its many historic buildings and charming cafes.
Address – C/ Palau de la Música, 4-6, 08003 Barcelona
Miss Messi - visit Camp Nou
If you are into football, you probably know this is an interesting station. Even for a non-enthusiast (like me), a football match at Camp Nou is an unforgettable experience, because of everything around (one who knows and has been twice).
Even if there is no game in sight, you can enter FC Barcelona’s home stadium and take a guided tour of the stadium, including the dressing rooms, pitch and museum.
Hike the Collserola Park
Many of the tourists who come to Barcelona, for some reason, miss this rich park, the vast green lung that surrounds the city. The park has a very large variety of hiking trails of all levels of difficulty.
In this post you can read about my favorite ones.
To make it easier, I’ve also included nearby dining recommendations.
So what is your favorite place to be with children in Barcelona? Tell me in the comments!
