Vacations for the Whole Family in Barcelona

Visitors journey to Barcelona every year to soak in the Mediterranean beaches, stunning views, and rich history. Drenched in sunlight and cooled by mountain breezes, the city is a scenic playground of adventure and intrigue. With so many things to do in Barcelona, what better way to explore them than as a family?

Whether you're old, young, or somewhere in between, there’s something for everyone here. In this city, adventure lurks behind every corner. History appears at every turn, and natural splendors take your breath away. A space so spectacular makes for family bonding at its finest. Here’s what you can’t miss on your family vacation to Barcelona.

Cultural Experiences

Unearth the secrets of an ancient city at these cultural hotspots.

1. Sagrada Família

Barcelona is filled with architectural marvels. For many of these, Antoni Gaudí is the man behind the masterpiece. Despite his impressive portfolio, the Sagrada Familía is a crowning achievement.

The ethereal church is the epitome of Gaudí’s genius. Every spire and etching flaunts his distinct style, a breathtaking blend of Gothic drama and curvy art nouveau. The building’s splendor is grand enough for even the youngest visitors to appreciate.

A castle in its own right, the skyward expanse summons "oohs" and "aahs" from spectators. The surrounding gardens make for a pleasant pond-side walk with a historic view.

2. Museu Picasso

Pablo Picasso was born in Málaga. However, his lifelong relationship with Barcelona shaped some of his most famous works. That’s why it’s only fitting that the Gothic streets of this city house the premier museum dedicated to the artist.

Since 1963, the Museu Picasso has curated one of the world’s most extensive Picasso collections, and it's on full display for art-curious visitors. This collection is so extensive that five medieval palaces are reserved to display it. Each burst of color on canvas interrupts the clean white gallery walls.

From cubism to college, all periods of his career are represented here. Younger visitors delight in the strangely stunning brushstrokes, while older visitors immerse themselves in the artist’s rich history.

Outdoor Adventures

Mediterranean air casts a dreamy glow over these outdoor exploits.

3. Park Güell

Just like the Sagrada Família, Park Güell comes straight from the mind of Antoni Gaudí. This masterpiece belongs to his naturalist phase, keenly defined by his use of natural curves and shapes.

The entrance is nestled between two cozy brick houses and looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale. Just ahead, a mosaic terrace sparkles in the sun, guarded by a similarly dressed salamander.

Gaudí’s architecture in Barcelona is strengthened further by the natural wonders around it, including the far-off sea and mountain range. Stop here for hours of awe-filled wandering, and be sure to bring your camera.

4. Telefèric de Montjuïc

Barcelona stuns from the ground, but an aerial view can’t be missed, either. To look out across the skyline is to glimpse the city in all its glory. Past and present architectural feats rise above the streets like beacons of artistic majesty. And the nearby sea crowns the shore in an expansive arch.

To see it all, you need a panoramic perspective. Luckily, the Telefèric de Montjuïc can help with that. This cable car offers a whimsical skyward trip to a mountaintop for the best views of this unbelievable city.

On the way up, make a detour to an ancient castle complete with botanical gardens. And for sports fans, the trip offers an irresistible chance to glimpse a football game at Camp Nou.

Educational and Fun

Learning has never been more thrilling. When your family is in Barcelona, expand your knowledge with these spots.

5. Museo de la Ciencia CosmoCaixa

The Museo de la Ciencia CosmoCaixa wears an ancient face, its facade a stunning relic of architectural history. But just inside is a powerful display of modern advancement. All who love science are welcome here.

Exhibits cover every inch of our delicate universe. From microscopic particles to faraway galaxies, no field is too insignificant for careful observation. Step into a recreation of the Amazon rainforest and gaze into the jaws of a Tyrannosaurus Rex.

Adults find themselves struck by the depth of information held within the halls. For younger guests, the interactive exhibits double as gates to a hidden world.

6. L'Aquàrium de Barcelona

Barcelona revolves around the sea and its bounty, and there's no better way to explore the city than through its aquatic wonders. L'Aquàrium de Barcelona sits right on the water, a beacon to lovers of marine life. Education and awe come together, where research is gleaned and shared with visitors eager to uncover the unknown.

If the knowledge doesn’t attract you, the fish will. More than 450 species are represented in the aquarium, each of them vital ecosystem members. L'Aquàrium de Barcelona has everything, from tropical ponds and arctic cliffs to Mediterranean shores and tide pools. Once you step into the shark tunnel, you won’t want to walk back out.

Beaches and Nature

Barcelona’s nearby natural wonders make for fabulous day trips.

7. Barceloneta Beach

Of all the beaches in Barcelona, few compare to the sun-kissed sands of Barceloneta Beach. Entwined with the famed fishing district, the smell of freshly made tapas drifts across the coastline, and the golden sand glows against the horizon. Allegedly, Barceloneta is the muse behind Don Quixote’s epic quest.

Literary landmarks aside, there’s no better place to plant your towels for a midday lounge. With playgrounds, volleyball nets, tennis courts, and more, beachgoers of all sorts will find a way to unwind.

Tasty morsels are at every turn and plenty of goodies to take to your spot on the sand for a seaside picnic. Stay until sunset to watch the sky paint colors over the city.

8. Parque de la Ciutadella

Nestled within the charming maze of Barcelona’s streets is a true oasis. Parque de la Ciutadella sits just off the Gothic Quarter and is one of the city’s oldest green spaces, brimming with flowing palms and bubbling fountains.

The centuries-old park embraces Barcelona’s medieval background. Stone-carved dragons guard its entrance, and a sturdy brick castle stands proud with its battlements. There’s no better place to find peace amidst the city’s bustle.

Bring your family for a picnic on the lush lawn or an afternoon of learning at the Zoological Museum. It even has a lake, and boating is popular. Grab an oar, and row your family through the park for an unforgettable afternoon.

Amusement and Theme Parks

If thrills and screams unite your family, these spots are worth a trip.

9. Tibidabo Amusement Park

We love high-flying fun, so trust us when we say that in Barcelona, you'll find it on the side of a mountain — specifically, at the Tibidabo Amusement Park. It's one of the oldest fairgrounds in the world. It supplies visitors with healthy doses of laughter and exhilaration.

As carousels spin and coasters race, the surrounding trees rustle in the cool mountain air. There’s an option for everyone here. Young and old visitors find childlike joy in the bumper cars and flying swings. It also has a twirling Ferris wheel that offers an unparalleled view of the city below.

For a dash of culture, head to the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor and get another look at some fabulous architecture. As it so happens, Tibidabo is also one of the best spots for hiking in Barcelona.

10. PortAventura World

If it’s amusement you’re looking for, you’ll find it just outside of Barcelona. A day trip to PortAventura World promises endless thrills, sweetened by a dash of escapism. You and your family will journey to worlds far and wide for a taste of adventure.

Take your pick of the lands tucked within each corner of the park. Adrenaline-seekers might feel a pull toward Ferrari Land and its speedy racetracks. But if you find yourself called to the water, head to the Caribe Aquatic Park.

PortAventura’s titular realm takes you through time to lands that might wear a familiar face beneath the enchantment. It's chock-full of rides and attractions, and the temptation to extend your stay is hard to ignore.

Unique Experiences

Get outside the box with these family-friendly destinations.

11. Poble Espanyol

Poble Espanyol is an open-air adventure filled with knowledge. This architectural museum looks young but was built for the International Exposition in 1929. Inside, you’ll find full-scale replicas of over 100 historic buildings.

The result is a city frozen in time. Modeled after an Iberian village, you’ll question what year it is as you browse market stalls and pause to watch flamenco dancers flaunt their skills. Awash with color and careful craftsmanship, this museum is a cultural hotbed and a portal to another age.

12. Museu de la Xocolata

Sweet tooths rejoice at the sight of this cozy museum. Tucked near quaint La Ribera, Museu de la Xocolata is a chocolate lover’s dream.

This dense gallery is packed with the rich history of the beloved treat. Its cultural and economic significance is thoroughly explored, uncovering a hidden chronicle that will have you pondering each decadent bite.

Sculpture art is fully displayed, with some of Barcelona’s famed landmarks molded from cacao and sugar. Visitors delight at the mini Sagrada Família, which outranks its muse in deliciousness. If you feel the urge to take chocolate home with you, bonbons sit ready for the taking, a unique range of flavors stowed within them.

Shopping and Leisure

13. Maremagnum

Of all the things to do in Barcelona, shopping is one of the most irresistible. With lively markets and skilled artisans around every corner, few can resist bringing home some trinkets. But while there are plenty of places to spend your souvenir money, the Maremagnum reigns supreme.

This famed shopping structure is perched on the coast and intricately designed as any of Barcelona’s finest buildings. Inside, you’ll find your favorite brands just waiting to reveal their spoils.

Whether you splurge or simply window-shop, the restaurants are worth a visit. Before you leave, head to Sweet Terraza, where panoramic sea-and-skyline views await.

14. La Rambla

The hum of Barcelona’s busy city life converges upon La Rambla. As one of Barcelona’s most famous streets, the road has restaurants, shops, and theaters.

La Rambla is built for pedestrians only. It’s an entire tree-lined kilometer just waiting to be explored leisurely. Dressed in Barcelona’s trademark Gothic flair, this street is as pleasant to look at as it is to dive into. Dappled with bright colors, it reminds us of our own shows' visual splendors.

You and your crew can fawn over the fruits and florals at La Boqueria market, snap photos at the Museum of Illusions, and delight over dainty ice cream cones at Rocambolesc. For a taste of musical culture, head to the Gran Teatre del Liceu, where the opera singers croon.

Making Memories in Barcelona: A Family Adventure Awaits

Days spent exploring the dreamy streets of Barcelona create memories that last a lifetime. There’s always one more mystery to unravel and another site to see. Adventure isn’t just for storybooks; age is no barrier to enchantments awaiting you down every avenue.

More delights awaken when evening falls. Tucked inside a regal theater lies our flock of fantastical figures, readying themselves for the performance of a lifetime. Onlookers gape in awe at every flip, twirl, and flawless landing, and through every movement, a story emerges.

Out stories are filled with emotion, peril, and heroic bravery -universal and wholly captivating. When the music swells, so do the spirits. We won't mind if you tear your eyes away from the spectacle before you. The look on your family’s faces will be one you’ll never forget.

The best time for family fun is now. Nab tickets to our shows in Barcelona today.