Ten Best Things to do with Kids in Barcelona

October 27, 2016 Margalit Sturm Francus

Barcelona is a beautiful city inundated with life and culture. Tourists come from all over the world to see its famous attractions and enjoy the relaxing pace. Most travelers do not realize that Barcelona is very kid friendly as well. Below are the ten best things to see and do with kids when traveling to this great city.

Parc Guell

This park is extremely colorful and vibrant. Antonio Gaudi, a late 19th-century architect, created this park as one of this many love letters to his city. What is significant about Gaudi is that, unlike the other creators of his age who preferred geometrical straight lines, Gaudi built his structures with curved lines. Although the artist never finished Parc Guell, it has become a mainstay in the city for tourists and locals alike. Children cannot resist the bright colors and vibrant landscape. It is one of the most whimsical places in the city.

Autism Travel Tips:

Pack some closed toe walking shoes for the kids, as there are many steps to traverse. Try accessing the park from the escalators in the back to save your feet!
Bring a water bottle because just like in any tourist landmark, the water will be expensive.
Pack some bandaids, sunscreen, and insect repellant.

Segrada Familia Cathedral

This famous cathedral, also created by Gaudi, has been under construction since the late 1800s. Construction on this and several other works by Gaudi stopped suddenly after he was unexpectedly struck by a horse pulled tram and, after being confused for a beggar, received subpar treatment and subsequently died.

Touring the Segrada Familia is a real treat. Kids will marvel at the model makers at work inside and can also view plans for the finished product. This is a truly spectacular sight and is a must see during any traveler’s visit.

Autism Travel Tips:

Encourage kids to explore and ask questions. Segrada Familia is one of the few rare living church history lessons in progress.

La Pedrera

The last creation of Gaudi, La Pedrera has become a tourist attraction mainstay in the city. At its first creation, the building was the subject of controversy because of the unusual twisting construction of the windows and balconies. The distinct lines and forms always intrigue children. Admission is free for children up to 13 years of age. This place is a must see during your visit.

Autism Travel Tips:

Be sure to visit the attic where the works of Gaudi are housed. Children always find this part particularly interesting.
Prepare kids by reading a little bit and introducing them to the work of Gaudi before visiting.

Picasso Museum

This museum houses some of Picasso’s most famous works. The Picasso Museum building consists of five former medieval palaces. Fans of the artist can see his most obscure paintings in chronological order, tracking his artistic development. It also has an area that is exclusively dedicated to children. The sights and sounds will delight kids and immerse in a culture as they meander through the museum.

Autism Travel Tips:

This would be a great place to visit on a rainy day. Staying indoors would be much preferred to fighting the weather outside with the kids under an umbrella.

Bari Gotic (Gothic Quarter)

This is one of the quiet neighborhoods of the city with a historical essence. If you are looking for a pedestrian/family-friendly environment, then Bari Gotic is your destination. Quiet strolls and simple café eating are the order of the day here.

Autism Travel Tips:

Parents who forgot to pack a lunch for the day should not worry. The many cafés and restaurants offer ample food choices that are easy for tight budgets.
Don’t leave without trying the Spanish hot chocolate and churros.

Olympic Village

Designed for the Olympics held in Barcelona in 1992, parts of the village dominate the skyline. Kids will certainly enjoy the beach that is located in the village, and there are many playgrounds for them to explore and enjoy.

Autism Travel Tips:

Make sure kids wear bright colored shirts or bathing suits so they will be easy to spot in the crowd. The Barcelona coastline can get quite crowded and this is a handy way to make sure to keep an eye on the kids at all times.

La Rambla

This is perhaps one of the most colorful and vibrant boulevards in the world. La Rambla is truly a one-of-a-kind street with street performers such as magicians, balloon artists, and mimes. A must see stop is La Boqueria, mentioned in the next segment, to help with hunger pangs and sensory overload.

Autism Travel Tips:

Plan this trip on a day that is slightly overcast. This makes for a much more enjoyable stroll down the street, especially with kids who have light sensitivities or are prone to migraines.
Pickpocketing is prevalent, so don’t let the kids carry valuables of any sort and keep an eye on them.

La Boqueria

The La Boqueria is a massive market located in the heart of the city. The history of this market dates all the way back to the early 13th century! However, it was not legally recognized in its current form until 1835. All of the colors and smells will delight children, and all that food in one place certainly makes for an impressive display.

Autism Travel Tips:

Let kids pick out a few items that they would like to eat or cook later. Involving them in the process is an excellent way to bond as a family and expose kids to new foods, textures, and cultures.

Font Màgica de Montjuïc

From its very first performance in 1929, this fountain show accompanied by music has been delighting audiences of all ages for almost a century now. Children are always captivated by the many different colors and sounds that the fountain features.

Autism Travel Tips:

This attraction is best viewed at night. Make sure to let it get good and dark so the kids will get the full impact of the display.
The best part is the fact that it’s only twenty minutes, which even kids with the shortest attention spans can sit through.

Columbus Monument

This monument, opened in 1888, is located directly in the center of the city. Parents can take children for a ride in the elevator to the top where they can enjoy a spectacular view of the city. The Columbus Monument is an excellent way to enjoy a part of Spain’s history, introducing your kids to the impact that Spain left on the world.

Autism Travel Tips:

The inside of the monument’s column has an elevator. Here you can take the kids to the top of the monument at night for a different scene. Check to make sure it is open beforehand.
Buy tickets ahead of time to avoid lines for the elevator.

Overall, families will find Barcelona very kid friendly and have a great time. Parents should introduce children to the art of Gaudi and Picasso ahead of time, so they will understand and appreciate the vibe of the city better.