Where to begin in the city when you have young children? Though we have visited Barcelona many times, I was keen to do something new with the kids. I found a walking tour that caters to families and it was such a great experience! Runner Bean Tours does a great job with their family tour and I highly recommend it. Our guide, Ann Marie, kept all of the children incredibly engaged and the three-hour tour flew by quickly. I learned several new things about Barcelona and it would be a great starting point for any family visiting the city. Eston loved our guide and the tour and asked to do it again.
The port area opposite the Barri Gotic neighborhood is also a fun place for kids. On the weekend there is an artisan market and my children loved wandering around the port and looking at magnificent yachts and sailboats. There are street musicians everywhere and on a sunny day it is the perfect spot to sit and enjoy some live music. Kids can run around the large sidewalk a bit and get out some energy while parents enjoy the views.
The Barcelona Aquarium is located in the same Port Vell neighborhood. I have mixed feelings about this aquarium, probably due to the fact that we have been to some of the best aquariums in the world. I think this aquarium is a nice option for a rainy or extremely hot day, but I probably would not go otherwise. I think it is a bit expensive and small, so don't feel compelled to go to this aquarium when visiting Barcelona.
The Parc de la Ciutadella is a gorgeous park where kids can roam around and expend a bit more energy. The Barcelona Zoo is also located in this park and is worth a visit if you have an extra morning or afternoon. I struggle with zoos at times, but this one is not half bad. The kids love the dolphin show and there are lots of grassy areas to enjoy a nice picnic. Wear the kids out at the zoo and then take a walk in the El Born neighborhood!
The last stage of Volta Catalunya was in the Montjuic area. This is another fun area where kids can roam freely. The magic fountain is here and my kids watched it for ages. It is particularly lovely at night if you have the time. The Montjuic Castle dates back to the 1600's and kids will love climbing the various steps near it.
We spent the entire day in Montjuic. The kids were thrilled when Rory arrived on the team bus and then we spent some time wandering around as we waited for the race to come back to Montjuic. We watched the urban downhill and walked around the castle before settling in by the fountain to cheer for Rory. Thankfully the race ended early and we were back in Girona by 5pm. Bike racing makes for long days with children, but it is always easier when it is in a nice area with things for the kids to see and do.
I have really only scratched the surface of things to see and do in Barcelona, but hopefully this post gives visitors a few suggestions for planning!
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