Barcelona has a lot to offer, but not all attractions are designed with little ones in mind.
If you don’t choose wisely, you might end up in places that are uninteresting for them or in overcrowded spots that make it hard to enjoy your visit.
To make your trip unforgettable, we’ve put together a selection of the best activities for visiting Barcelona with kids.
From theme parks and interactive museums to beaches and free shows, you’ll find options for all ages and interests.
Get ready for a family adventure in one of Spain’s most fascinating cities!
10 Fun activities for visiting Barcelona with kids
Traveling with kids can be a challenge.
You want them to have fun, learn, and enjoy themselves, but you also need activities that are comfortable and suitable for the whole family.
Sometimes, finding plans that truly capture their attention and avoid the dreaded “I’m bored” can feel like a tough mission.
To help your entire family have a great time, here are 10 fantastic things to do in Barcelona with kids.
1. Tibidabo Amusement Park
Tibidabo Amusement Park is one of the best things to do in Barcelona with kids.
This park is special because it blends history with entertainment. Opened in 1901, it is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world.
Its classic aesthetic makes it unique, featuring attractions that maintain their original charm alongside modern rides.
One of its must-visit attractions is the Red Airplane, a flight simulator that has been operating since 1928. Another highlight is Atalaya, a tower offering a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of Barcelona and the sea.
For younger children, Tibidabo Express features gentle and safe rides. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, don’t miss the Museum of Automata, where century-old mechanical figures are still in working condition.
Another great aspect of Tibidabo is its natural surroundings. Located in the Collserola mountain range, you can combine your visit with a light hike in the area.
There are short trails perfect for kids and picnic areas to enjoy an outdoor meal.
To avoid long wait times, it’s best to buy tickets online and arrive early. Also, if you visit in summer, bring sunscreen and a hat, as some areas of the park have limited shade.
2. Ciutadella Park
Ciutadella Park is one of the best outdoor options in Barcelona with kids.
This green oasis in the city offers plenty of space for running, playing, and discovering hidden gems.
One of its most exciting attractions is the large lake, where you can rent a rowboat. Kids love paddling among the ducks and turtles that live there.
Another must-see is the Monumental Cascade, a stunning fountain with sculptures reminiscent of grand European landmarks. Its design was inspired by Rome’s Trevi Fountain and was partially built with the help of a young Antoni Gaudí.
For younger visitors, there are multiple playgrounds with swings and slides. The park is also home to the famous Mammoth of Ciutadella, a giant sculpture of this prehistoric animal, making it a favorite spot for family photos.
If you’re looking for an educational experience, the park houses the Natural Science Museum, which has an impressive collection of fossils and preserved animals, perfect for sparking children’s curiosity.
Ciutadella Park is also a hub for street performers, puppet shows, and musicians who create a lively atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to have a picnic and take a break before continuing your exploration of the city.
3. Barcelona Aquarium
The Barcelona Aquarium is a must-visit if you’re looking for an educational yet thrilling experience.
It’s the largest aquarium in Europe dedicated to the Mediterranean marine ecosystem, home to over 11,000 animals from 450 different species.
The most impressive feature is its 80-meter underwater tunnel, where you can walk as sharks, rays, and other marine creatures swim overhead. It’s a unique experience that captivates both kids and adults alike.
In addition to its exhibits, the aquarium offers interactive experiences. In the Explora! zone, children can touch starfish and other small marine animals.
There are also educational activities focused on ocean conservation and the importance of protecting marine biodiversity.
For the more adventurous, the aquarium has a lesser-known activity called “Sleeping with Sharks,” where children can spend the night next to the shark tank, learning about their behavior and their role in the marine ecosystem.
The Aquarium is located in Port Vell, so after your visit, you can enjoy a stroll along the harbor or stop by Barceloneta Beach.
To avoid lines, it’s best to buy tickets online in advance.
4. CosmoCaixa Science Museum
CosmoCaixa Science Museum is one of the best places if you’re looking for an educational yet entertaining plan. This interactive museum offers a fun way to learn about science, technology, and nature.
One of its most fascinating spaces is the Flooded Forest, a recreation of the Amazon rainforest where kids can see caimans, exotic fish, and feel the ecosystem’s characteristic humidity.
It’s an immersive experience that makes them feel like they’re deep in the jungle.
Another highlight is the Geological Wall, where they can touch different types of rocks and learn how they were formed.
The Planetarium is also noteworthy, with documentaries and astronomy sessions adapted for all ages.
For younger children (up to 6 years old), the ¡Toca toca! zone allows them to interact with various ecosystems, touching animals like starfish, sea urchins, or reptiles, always under expert supervision.
What makes CosmoCaixa special is its hands-on approach. Here, kids can experiment with gravity, electricity, and other scientific phenomena through games and simulations.
To make the most of your visit, it’s ideal to check the program beforehand, as the museum hosts special workshops and activities.
5. Park Güell
Park Güell is a must-visit destination for families looking to explore a place full of magic and creativity.
Designed by Antoni Gaudí, this park blends architecture and nature into a unique setting where kids can let their imagination run wild.
One of its biggest highlights is the iconic mosaic salamander on the main staircase, perfect for photos. Another standout feature is Nature Square, with its famous wavy bench covered in colorful trencadís tiles, offering a great spot to sit and take in the panoramic city views.
Children love exploring the winding pathways and hidden corners of the Sala Hipóstila (Hypostyle Hall), with its tilted columns that look straight out of a fairy tale.
The park also has wooded areas where they can run freely and play.
A little-known fact is that Park Güell was originally designed as a private luxury housing development, but after the project failed, it became a public space.
Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited places in Barcelona.
To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, as access to the monumental zone is limited.
6. Poble Espanyol
Poble Espanyol is one of the best options for families looking for a unique cultural experience.
This open-air museum recreates the architecture of different regions of Spain in one place, allowing kids to travel across the country without leaving Barcelona.
What makes it special is its traditional village atmosphere, with cobblestone streets, charming plazas, and full-scale historic buildings.
Children can explore it like a storybook adventure, discovering corners inspired by Andalusia, Galicia, Castile, and other regions.
One of its main attractions is the artisan workshop area, where kids can watch potters, glassblowers, and other craftsmen at work and even take part in hands-on activities.
There’s also an interactive scavenger hunt to help families discover the site in a fun way.
On weekends and during peak seasons, Poble Espanyol hosts puppet shows, storytelling sessions, and family-friendly activities. During special occasions like Christmas or Halloween, the site is transformed with decorations and themed events.
Located on Montjuïc Hill, it’s a great plan to combine with nearby attractions like the Magic Fountain or the cable car.
To make the most of your visit, check the event schedule in advance.
7. Barcelona Zoo
Barcelona Zoo is a must-visit for families who want to discover wildlife from around the world without leaving the city.
Home to over 4,000 animals from 300 different species, this zoo offers an educational and entertaining experience right in the heart of Ciutadella Park.
One of the most fascinating areas is the primate gallery, where kids can observe gorillas, chimpanzees, and other monkeys up close in habitats designed for their well-being.
Another highlight is the native wildlife zone, which houses animals from the Iberian Peninsula, such as the Iberian lynx and the Spanish imperial eagle.
The zoo is famous for being the former home of Copito de Nieve, the only known albino gorilla.
Although he is no longer there, his legacy lives on through informational panels and interactive exhibits that tell his story.
For younger children, there’s a petting zoo, where they can get close to goats, sheep, and ponies, as well as a play area with structures inspired by the animal world.
The zoo also offers live workshops and exhibitions focused on species conservation.
A lesser-known advantage is that, since the zoo is located inside Ciutadella Park, you can combine your visit with a boat ride on the park’s lake or a relaxing break in its green spaces.
To make the most of your visit, check the feeding session schedule, as watching the animals during mealtime is a highlight of the experience.
8. Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
This iconic water, light, and music show is a breathtaking experience that captivates both kids and adults.
Built in 1929 for the Barcelona International Exposition, the Magic Fountain has become one of the city’s most popular attractions.
Its impressive size and dynamic water jets, which can create over 4,000 different shapes and color combinations, make each performance unique.
What makes it truly special is the perfect synchronization between the water movements and the music.
Depending on the day, the show features classical music, movie soundtracks, or pop songs.
During special events, the choreography is tailored to specific themes, making every visit a one-of-a-kind experience.
One of the best spots to watch the show is from the stairs of the National Palace, which offers a stunning panoramic view.
However, kids will have the most fun in the front rows, where they can feel the water mist and see the colors up close.
The show is free, but it’s important to check the schedule in advance, as times change depending on the season.
To avoid crowds, it’s best to arrive early, especially in summer and on holidays.
9. Barceloneta Beach
If you’re looking for a relaxed outdoor plan, Barceloneta Beach is an ideal option for a family day out.
Its proximity to the city center and the variety of activities available make it a special place. Besides swimming and building sandcastles, kids can enjoy playgrounds along the beachfront promenade.
One of the most exciting spots is Espai de Mar, a center that organizes water activities for all ages, including kayaking and paddleboarding.
There are also volleyball nets, skating areas, and bike paths, making it a great place for active families.
For a break without leaving the beach, the chiringuitos (beachside cafés) offer kid-friendly options like sandwiches and fresh juices.
It’s also a great place to try an authentic paella or enjoy delicious churros with chocolate.
If you’re looking for something different, you can visit the nearby Barcelona Aquarium or take a stroll through Port Vell, where kids can watch boats and play in the Maremàgnum’s children’s area.
To avoid the hottest hours and the crowds, it’s best to visit in the morning or at sunset.
Bringing sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water is essential for a worry-free day at the beach.
10. Chocolate Museum
The Chocolate Museum is a perfect stop for families looking for a fun and unique experience. Not only does it showcase the history of chocolate, but it also offers interactive activities that keep kids engaged while they learn.
Right from the entrance, the visit starts with a sweet surprise: the admission ticket is a chocolate bar that kids can eat!
From there, the tour takes you through the evolution of cacao, from its origins in the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations to its arrival in Europe.
One of the most fascinating exhibits is the chocolate sculpture collection, featuring impressive figures of fairytale characters, famous monuments, and even historical scenes.
Every year, master chocolatiers update some of the sculptures, making each visit a unique experience.
For younger visitors, the museum offers hands-on workshops where they can create their own chocolate treats, decorate bonbons, or even mold chocolate figures.
These activities have limited spots, so it’s best to book in advance.
The tour is short, making it easy to combine with nearby attractions like Ciutadella Park or the Born Centre for Culture and Memory.
Enjoy Unique Family Experiences in Barcelona with kids
Exploring the city with little ones is an opportunity to discover magical places and create unforgettable memories.
From historical parks to spectacular shows, every corner of Barcelona offers something special for families who want to have fun and learn at the same time.
For an authentic touch, why not enjoy a unique culinary experience with local hosts?
Try dining in a traditional Catalan farmhouse or savoring a delicious Catalan menu.
Book your experience and turn your visit into an adventure full of flavor and tradition.
We can’t wait to share the essence of Barcelona with you!
