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Taking the family to one of Europe's greatest cities presents more chances for kid-friendly culture, recreation, shopping, and fine dining than most families dream of.

Surprising Barcelona is filled with so many unusual sights and attractions that families often find it to be the highlight of a Europe tour with the kids. Young ones delight in the city’s exotic array of architectural monuments, teens adore the shopping and street life, and all ages will appreciate the fine cuisine and laid back lifestyle. Barcelona (or BCN) is the proud capital of Catalunya province, where the colorful Catalan language and culture set it apart from any other city in Spain. A temperate Mediterranean climate makes it a pleasant destination year round, though a chilly, damp winter spell and some summer scorchers are not unknown. The "Barcelona City Card" offers unlimited entry to several museums (though not our favorites), free public transportation, and discounts to many attractions; it starts at about US$35 for two days but may not be good value for those traveling with younger children. For more information about it and the city in general, visit the Barcelona Tourist Information website.

Great Fun For The Kids

(Toddler to Age 8)

Barceloneta and Port Olimpic
Capitanía Port Olimpic
08005 Barcelona
34/93 225 9220
Those who knew Barcelona in the pre-Olympics days (prior to 1992) will be interested in seeing the city's extensive waterfront development known as Port Olímpic. Busiest from March to September when the city's climate is best for beach-going and sitting at oceanfront cafes, the Olympic area includes some major hotels (Hotel Arts is one of the best), a 700-berth marina, the Forum shopping and entertainment complex, Diagonal Mar shopping center with cushy nurseries for shopping moms, the attractive Parc Diagonal Mar (ideal with a stroller), the Casino de Barcelona for gaming, and some wonderful public sculpture. Allow time to pause at one of the many beach bars for a cool drink and some tapas before playing at the beach. Cristoforo Colon departed from Barcelona on his voyage to the New World from a pier at the foot of Las Ramblas; he would not recognize the port of Barcelona today.

Parc de la Ciutadella - Barcelona Zoo
Parc de la Ciutadella s/n
08003 Barcelona
34/93 225 67 80
This is a large, full service zoo with exotic animals such as lions, camels, elephants and reptiles, plus a crowd favorite, Snowflake, an albino lowland gorilla. The mobility challenged can tour the zoo aboard a small train, and pony rides and dolphin shows give everyone brief opportunities to sit down. Hours vary according to season; check their website for multilingual guided tours and Catalan language workshops for children.

Parc d'atraccions Tibidabo – Tibidabo Amusement Park
Pl. del Tibidabo 3-4
08035 Barcelona
34/93 211 79 42
This is a classic amusement park built high on a hill in the northern part of the city. Founded in 1899, it offers panoramic views, puppet shows in Catalan, a variety of rides, a robot museum and more. The brave should check out El Pndo, a 38-meter-tall tower with four articulated arms that swing passengers in circles, delivering an estimated G force of 4. Open daily with extended hours on weekends; check before going for their seasonal operating times.

Museu de la Xocolata
C/. Comerc, 36
08003 Barcelona
34/93 268 78 78
The Barcelona Confectionary Guild runs this small, modern museum devoted to the study of chocolate. In addition to its uses and history, visitors can learn how chocolate is made into candy, or stay for baking workshops devoted to local recipes. Said to be suitable for all ages.