A Guide to Visiting Barcelona with Kids

With its colorful landscapes, mild weather, friendly locals, and finger foods (i.e. tapas) galore, Barcelona is an ideal destination for families with kids. Otherworldly attractions like Parc Güell and the Sagrada Familia are fascinating for visitors of all ages, but you might have just as much fun lounging in a xiringuito (beach bar) with a cocktail while your kids run circles in the sand. Here’s how to make the most of your visit to Barcelona with kids.

The Basics: Navigating Barcelona with Kids

Most visitors to Barcelona arrive by way of the city’s airport, which is located about 15 kilometers from the city center. Free baggage trolleys equipped with child seats are available in the terminals, making it easy to grab your luggage and be on your way.

There are several ways to get to Barcelona from the airport, a taxi or Uber being the easiest and fastest — this should cost around 15€ to 20€, depending on traffic. You can also take the Aerobús, which offers rides between Barcelona Airport and Plaça de Catalunya every five to 10 minutes. You can also take a train, metro, or bus to and from the city.

Once in Barcelona, the city is very pedestrian-family but also sprawling, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the fast and efficient public transportation system that includes metro, tram, and even funicular services.

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Barcelona

Barcelona is a big city, and it’s important to find a home base for your family that’s central, safe, and easy to navigate. Here are a few of our favorites:

El Born

Located in Barcelona’s medieval Ciutat Vella (old town), El Born is one of the city’s oldest barrios. There are narrow, pedestrian-only streets and tree-lined squares that are ideal for energetic kids. It borders Ciutadella Park, Barcelona’s “green lung” that features a zoo, fountains, and playgrounds. El Born is also one of the trendier districts, which can equal a higher price tag. If tons of character and a central location are important to you, it may be worth paying a little more to stay in this area. Stay here: Catalonia Born

L’Eixample

One of Barcelona’s biggest, most densely populated neighborhoods, L’Eixample is also one of its most popular with families. Here you’ll find lots of green space, striking architecture, and wide, stroller-friendly sidewalks. There are plenty of hotels and apartment rentals in the area, and easy transport links to the rest of the city. Stay here: El Palace Hotel

Gràcia

Though it’s not as central as some other barrios, Gràcia (home to Parc Güell) has an authentic, boho vibe that may be more attractive to some families. The neighborhood has its share of quiet pedestrian streets and plazas where your kids can safely run wild while you enjoy an aperitivo or two. Stay here: Hotel Casa Fuster

What to Do in Barcelona with Kids

There is so much to do in Barcelona, but you could — and should! — set aside some time to simply wander the streets, explore markets, and hang out in shady pedestrian plazas. That said, some local attractions definitely deserve a spot on your family-friendly itinerary:

Parc Güell

There’s a reason this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Barcelona’s top attractions. The city’s largest park, designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, is truly magnificent. Be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time.

Sagrada Familia

Even the most cathedral-averse kids will be awed by this Gaudi-designed basilica, which has been under construction since 1882.

CosmoCaixa

This enormous science museum offers tons of fascinating interactive exhibits spread over five stories.

Tibidabo

Dating back to 1889, this historic amusement park is perched high above the city. Visitors can enjoy both antique and newer, state-of-the-art rides.

Museu de la Xocolata

A museum dedicated to chocolate. Need we say more?

El Poble Espanol 

This open-air museum located on Montjuïc Mountain invites visitors to explore what life is like in different regions of Spain, complete with workshops, demonstrations, and performances throughout the day.

Bosc Urbà

Located right beside the sea, this massive covered adventure park has zip lines, high-altitude jumping, and adventure circuits for the entire family.

Bogatell Beach

With five kilometers of shoreline, you’re never far from a beach in Barcelona. One of the most family-friendly is Bogatell, thanks to a laid-back vibe and easy proximity to anything you might need for an easy beach day (like a playground and beachfront cafes). 

Barcelona makes it easy to have an unforgettable vacation with kids, if you’ll simply embrace the fun-loving Catalan lifestyle. Loosen up about sleep schedules, sample new flavors, and soak up the sun — you might just find yourself having the best family vacation ever.