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Barcelona is a stunning city that you can explore from the stunning alleyways and narrow streets to the magnificent beaches.
The city is kid-friendly and also among the most vibrant and gorgeous places to visit, as it is full of hidden gems and top tourist attractions waiting for you to explore them. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Barcelona with kids, you’re in the right place.
Things to Know About Barcelona
- Currency: The currency in Spain is the Euro, and 1 United States dollar is equivalent to about 0.88 euros as of July 2026 (rates fluctuate, so check current conversion before your trip).
- Language: There are two official languages in Barcelona,na whareh is Catalan and Spanish.
You will also be able to find people who speak English in tourist areas. Download a translator or learn a few words in Spanish before your trip. - Visa: There are no visa requirements for American citizens visiting Spain.
- Car Seats: Car seats are required when riding in cars or taxis. We took the kids’ Mifold Travel Booster Seat. Click to read more about Traveling With Car Seats.
- Stroller: Keep in mind that some roads have cobblestone when traveling with a stroller. We traveled with thekids’s scooters.
Now that you know the basics, let’s get into the best things to do in Barcelona with kids.
Best Time to Travel to Barcelona with Kids
The best time to visit Barcelona is from June to October. July and August are quite hot,ot but it is also the perfect time for you if you want to lie on the beach.
If you are on a budget, then the perfect time to go is in January or February, as it is off-season and you will get the lowest prices on hotels.
My husband and I have traveled to Barcelona with kids twice. The first time we visited Barcelona with kids was in August, and the second time was in October. Both times, the weather, as well as the average temperatures, were perfect!
Barcelona Weather
- May – Early September (High Season) – This is the season when Barcelona is the hottest, with huge numbers of tourists and the highest accommodation rates.
This is the best time to go to Barcelona’s stunning beaches, and you will get to experience some major festivals like Musica. If you want to come during this period, you should try to book a hotel in advance and also travel with sunscreen and sunglasses. - Late March to April and Late September to October (Shoulder Season) – This is the spring season,n and it is when the prices start going up. They also start dropping around September when the kids start going to school. The crowds are less during this season.
- November to Early March (Low Season) – This is the season when prices drop exponentially, ly and it is the perfect time to enjoy Barcelona as you will not have to wait in line.
You will also get to experience the city at a slower pace as you will not have to rush from one attraction to another.
How Many Days Do You Need in Barcelona With Kids?
- 3 days minimum
- 4-5 days is ideal
- Day 1-2: Gaudí sites and the Gothic Quarter
- Day 3: Beach and waterfront
- Extra time: day trip to Montserrat
How To Get To Barcelona with Kids
Train:
On our first trip to Barcelona with kids, we took the train from Paris to Barcelona, and that took about 6 hours total. It was an amazing ride with great scenery;ery, however, it was expensive.
It cost us $198 each for the train ride – kids 3 and under are free if sitting on anadult’ss lap. There were plenty of seats, so this wasn’t an issue.
Pro Tip: Book your train ticket far in advance to get a much better rate.
Air:
We flew to Barcelona with kids, from Morocco, on Ryanair. I purchased our tickets on Skyscanner for $15.95 each. Make sure to download the Free Skyscanner App also for amazing flight deals like this. After our trip ended in Barcelona, we flew from Barcelona to LAX on Norwegian Air.
On this trip to Europe, we visited Copenhagen & Billund, Denmark, Pisa & Volterra, Italy, Fez & the Sahara Desert, Morocco, and ended our trip in Barcelona.
Transportation Options in Barcelona with Kids
Taxi:
Taking a taxi is quite simple in Barcelona; you will rarely wait for more than a minute on the main street before you get one. Barcelona taxis are black and yellow; a green light means they are available, while a yellow light means they are taken.
The taxi fares are cheaper, and every driver must use a meter. You can also use the FREE NOW app (formerly MyTaxi) to save you time by booking taxis.
It works the same as Uber, and it is much quicker and more efficient. I also like that it gives you an idea of how much to expect to pay so that you can plan accordingly.
Uber/Lyft:
There is Uber in Barcelona, which is quick and easy to use. There is no Lyft in Barcelona.
Rental Car:
This is a good option if you plan to tour some areas of Spain. This is also a perfect option if you are with your kids, as you will save money and time.
You will be able to hire a car straight away from the airport, as there are many car rental companies that you will find at the airport. You can also book your car online using RentalCars.com, Car Rental 8, or Skyscanner Car Rentals before you come to the city.
Public Transportation:
There are many public transportation options that you can choose from in Barcelona. You can take the metro, which is fast, air-conditioned, and efficient,t and you will easily find a station near your home rental or hotel.
You can also take the bus, which is a perfect way to explore the city as you will get to see the city’s top tourist attractions up close;ose, however, it is slower than the metro. Barcelona’s red buses run from8 to 155 minutes from 5 am to 10 pm, while the night bus runs every 20-30 minutes.
Hop-on Hop-off
Hop On Hop Off Bus:
Another perfect option for you while in Barcelona with kids is to explore the city through the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus. Your kids will surely love the view from this bus.
Where to Stay in Barcelona with Kids
Barcelona is one of the best cities to visit with children, and one of the crucial things to do is to pick the right accommodation for you and your kids. There are numerous hotel options for you in Barcelona that will fit your budget.
Best Neighborhoods in Barcelona
Sarrià- Sant Gervasi
This is among the most prestigious areas of Barcelona, and it is located in the North-west corner of the city. The area is quite expensive, but your kids will love its peaceful streets with many parks where they can play.
There are plenty of restaurants and shops in the area, with the best clinic and medical centers in the area.
Les Corts
This is a more affordable alternative to Sarria Sant Gerva, si but more central. There are many international schools, shops, restaurants, and parks in this district.
The area is also close to Barcelona’s financial district, and it is also close to Camp Nou,u which is the home of the FC Barcelona Soccer/Football team.
Gràcia
This is the most central part of Barcelona, and it is well connected with public transportation and has easy access to the highway. Your children will love the serene and tranquil environment of the neighborhood.
Sant Just Desvern
This is an excellent neighborhood, and it is just 10 minutes from the city. There are many active and outdoor activities that you can do here, which range from hiking to just spending time outdoors.
Top Family Friendly Hotels in Barcelona
Aparthotel Arai
This is a luxury hotel in the heart of Barcelona’s historic Gothic Quarter,r which features stunning amenities like minibars, fully equipped kitchens, balconies, and many more.
The hotel also has a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, and is close to key attractions in the city.
Eurostars Grand Marina
This hotel looks like a transatlantic cruise ship, and it can be found in Port Vell. The hotel is situated at a great location as it is close to many tourist destinations, and a hop on/hop off bus stop can be found outside the hotel.
The hotel rooms are equipped with Jacuzzi bathtubs, living and dining areas, private terraces, and many more for your comfort.
Hotel colon
This hotel is built across the square from the Barcelona Cathedral,l and it is close to the Gothic Quarter.
The hotel is within walking distance of many tourist destinations, markets, restaurants, etc. The hotel rooms feature sitting areas, bathtubs, balconies, minibars, and many more amenities.
Turin Hotel
This hotel is a good value for money, and it can be found in the city center. The hotel features small, quadruple family rooms with bathtubs.
The hotel is also within walking distance of many tourist attractions and museums.
Hotel Regina
This boutique hotel can be found just after Plaça Catalunya and Portal de l’Angel which is Barcelona’s main shopping area.
The hotel has double beds with two additional beds in the adjoining room, and it is the best for families with younger children. The hotel also has a breakfast room and a downstairs lobby area.
Hotel Novotel Barcelona City
This can be found just off the Avenida Diagonal in the Poblenou neighborhood of Barcelona.
One of the best things about this hotel is its outdoor pool, which can be found on the 19th floor of the hotel,l where you will get scenic views of the city. The hotel is kid friendly with the hotel restaurant also has a specially designed kids’ menu.
Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona
This is one of my favorite hotels in Barcelona with kids. It is very close to the Diagonal Mar mall,l which has an awesome shopping center with plenty of restaurants to choose fr, om as well as a fun playground.
This hotel is also just a short walk to the beach,ach which makes it my top pick
What Are the Best Things to Do in Barcelona With Kids?
- Sagrada Família with kids
- Park Güell mosaic playground
- La Boqueria market snacks
- Barceloneta Beach afternoon
- Magic Fountain night show
Top Things to Do in Barcelona with Kids
Cable Cars
The cable car is flanked by two mountains, ins and you should ensure that your kids experience this ride to the summit of Montjuic,uic where they will get to see magnificent panoramas over the sea.
Go sightseeing at the Barcelona Aquarium.
This is a stunning aquarium with the largest sea tunnel in Europe,e and your kids will love it as the rays, moon-fish, sharks, and so on swim above and around you. There are so many things to enjoy at this attraction, and your kids will not want to leave.
Barcelona Beaches
This is one of the top things to do in Barcelona, as the city has a long stretch of coastline, and you should not miss out on the adventure at the beach. It’s consistently one of the most memorable things to do in Barcelona with kids, especially at Port Olímpic.
One of the perfect beaches for children is the Port Olympic / Olympic Village beach, where your kids will be mesmerized and have a lot of fun. There is also a cool spider web climbing structure and playground for kids to enjoy.
Other Things To Do in Barcelona with Kids:
Park Güell:
A fairy tale destination for your kids with stunning creations like ornamental dragons, Hansel and Gretel houses, and many other things to do.
Visit the magic fountain:
The best time to come here during the night, with many shows to enjoy.
Have fun at Cosmo Caixa:
This is a perfect way to spend your day with kids,s as many activities and exhibitions will captivate you and your kids.
Visit the chocolate museum:
This is the best way that you can give your kids a treat, as they will enjoy and also love that they get to choose the flavors that they like.
Explore La Rambla:
This is a wonderful stroll down the popular boulevard where you get to experience the city in a way you do not expect.
Sagrada Familia:
Enjoy Gaudí’s stunning masterpiece. Make sure to get skip-the-line tickets as it gets crowded.
Have fun riding the cable car:
This is a perfect way to get mind-blowing views of the city.
Placa de Catlunya:
Walk around this central square lined with shops and cafes.
Parc de la Ciutadella:
Enjoy the scenery, zoo, walking trails, and boating lake at this park.
La Boqueria:
Try new foods at this indoor food market.
Visit the zoo:
Kids will love this place as they will get to see different kinds of animals.
Jet Ski:
You can enjoy jet skiing with your kids at the beach. We loved it so much we did it twice!
Casa Batllo:
One oGaudí’s worksrk which is not a museum.
Tibidabo:
Take a ride up and have fun at this mini amusement park.
Parasailing:
Parasailing at the beach is also a great way to see everything from up above.
Camp Nou: If you are a football (soccer) fan and love the Barcelona team, the stadium will be mid-renovation in 2026. The classic full tour is on hold, but the Barça Immersive Tour still offers the FC Barcelona Museum, a 360° show, and a construction viewpoint over the rebuild.
Best Barcelona Parks and Playgrounds for Kids
- Parc Guell
- Parc de la Ciutadella
- Parque del Laberinto de Horta
- Nova Mar Bella Beach
- El Puerto de Barcelona
- Mossen Costa i Llobera Garden
- Jardín Botánico de Barcelona
- Jardins Joan Maragall- Palauet Albeniz
- Parc Diagonal Mar
- Jardins de Laribal
- Diagonal Mar Mall
Top Family Friendly Restaurants In Barcelona
Barcelona is one of my favorite cities in Europe when it’s time to eat. They have the best food and drinks; from tapas, to paella, to sangria – you can’t go wrong.
We had no problems finding good food for the kids to enjoy while in Barcelona.
- Manna Gelats
- La Fonda Del Port Olímpic
- OGGI Officina Gelato Gusto Italia
- Gelarto Rosa
- BelleBuon
- Com a Italia
- Swiit
- Parallelo
- Teoric Taverna Gastronomica
- Gelaaati Di Marco
- La Come Dia
- If you head over to Las Ramblas or Port Olimpic, you’ll find tons of restaurants ans cafe’s that you and your family will enjoy.
How To Visit Barcelona On A Budget
Budget planning is part of doing the things to do in Barcelona with kids, right? So here’s how to save.
Invest in Barcelona Pass
This is a comprehensive sightseeing package that gives tourists in Barcelona a chance to experience the best that Barcelona has to offer while also saving time and money.
With the pass, you will get free entry to 20+ attractions, monuments, and museums,s and will also allow you to skip the lines.
Free walking tours
Don’t be afraid to take the free walking tours and explore various parts of the city. Walking tours are a great way to kill time, as well as learn something new about your surrounding area. Tipping is expected on free walking tours.
Skip the line
There are many famous sites in Barcelona that you don’t want to miss,iss but since it is a tourist hot spot, it is always full to the brim. You can easily skip the lines if you buy your ticket online using Viator or GetYourGuide.
Carry cash on you
Some places in Barcelona don’t accept credit or debit card payments, and it is best if you carry with you a bit of cash in your pocket.
You should also know thatan ATM charges you a fee between €3 and €5 anytime you use a foreign bank card, so it is advisable to avoid making many small withdrawals.
Sim Card
Get a SIM card when you get to Barcelona so you don’t run up your phone bill. SIM cards are very cheap and easy to find at any shop or mall.
With these things to do in Barcelona with kids, you’ll be ready to plan a trip your whole family will love. If you’re building out a bigger international itinerary, my Ultimate Guide to Traveling Internationally With Kids covers everything from passports to packing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Barcelona with Kids
1. Is Barcelona safe for families with kids?
Yes, Barcelona is generally very safe for families, with low rates of violent crime and a walkable city center. The main risk for tourists is pickpocketing in crowded areas like La Rambla and the metro, so keep bags zipped and valuables out of back pockets while exploring the city’s top things to do in Barcelona with kids.
2. When is the best time to visit Barcelona with kids?
Late spring and early fall offer warm weather without the peak summer crowds and heat, making them ideal for families. Winter is the cheapest and least crowded option, while July and August bring the hottest temperatures alongside the best beach days.
3. How expensive is Barcelona for a family?
Barcelona is moderately priced compared to other major European capitals, with budget to mid-range family trips typically running $150-$250 per day for lodging, food, and activities. Costs rise with peak-season rates, so booking early helps families afford more things to do in Barcelona with kids.
4. What age is best for visiting Barcelona?
Barcelona works well for almost any age, but kids around 5 and up get the most from Gaudí’s architecture and walking-heavy sightseeing. Toddlers can still enjoy the parks and beaches, though families may want to pace the day around naps. There’s no shortage of things to do in Barcelona with kids at any age.
What other countries did we visit on this trip?
- Denmark
- United Kingdom
- Italy
- Italy Family Travel: Florence With Kids
- Visiting The Leaning Tower Of Pisa With Kids
- Agriturismo: Our Experience At A Farmstay In Tuscany, Italy With Kids
- Morocco
- Spain
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find the best flight deals with Skyscanner. It searches airlines and travel sites around the world so you can compare routes, schedules, and prices in one place.
Book Your Accommodation
Book family-friendly hotels, apartments, resorts, and vacation rentals with Booking.com. It’s an easy way to compare accommodations and find the right fit for your family and budget.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can help protect your trip in case of unexpected delays, cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Before your next international trip, check Nomad Insurance for coverage options.
Want to Travel for Free?
Travel credit cards can help you earn points and miles that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. Check out my recommended travel credit card resources to start making your travel budget go further.
Need a Rental Car?
Use Discover Cars to compare rental car options and find competitive rates worldwide. It’s a simple way to compare prices and find the best option for your trip.
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip?
Viator makes it easy to discover tours, attractions, day trips, and local experiences. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or unique adventures, you’ll find plenty of options to enhance your trip.
Shopping for Travel Essentials?
From packing organizers and travel gear to family travel must-haves, you can find many of my favorite travel essentials on Amazon.
Ready to Book Your Trip?
If you’d like extra support planning your next adventure, explore curated travel experiences through Rooted Journeys, where we help families discover meaningful and memorable travel experiences around the world.
