Curator’s statement
Barcelona isn’t just for foodies and architecture lovers—it’s also an absolute playground for kids. Between cable cars, sandy beaches, flamenco shows, and colorful buildings that look straight out of a storybook, it’s the kind of city that delights both little ones and grown-ups.
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Day 1: Taps Bar and a walk to Plaça Espanya
After a long flight, you’ll be tempted to crash, but we found it’s best to stay awake until bedtime. That first day is all about keeping things low-key but moving.
Hotel check-in
We stayed near Montjuïc, which is just far enough from the busy center to feel calm but close to everything. Look for hotels with a rooftop pool to give the kids a reset while the adults caffeinate.
Coffee and pool break
Order a flat white at the rooftop bar, let the kids jump in the pool, and take in the city’s views.
Dinner at Taps Bar
A super casual spot. Tapas are perfect for kids because they can try a bit of everything. The patatas bravas, Spanish Tortilla, and Pan de Tomate were a hit at our table.
Evening walk to Plaça Espanya
Even if the Magic Fountain show is under construction (July 2025), the walk is worth it. Stroll past fountains, climb the steps to the Palau Nacional, and enjoy golden hour views over the city.
Tip: Add a pit stop, like a small gelato shop on the walk to keep morale high.
Day 2: Corgis and tuk-tuks
Morning brunch at Sec Brunch
Bright, modern, and easygoing. The kids went straight for the pancakes with Nutella and fruit. We appreciated the fresh juices and avocado toast.
Coffee and corgi stop
Yes, Corgi Café is a real place. Yes, it’s the cutest thing ever. If you need a reason to keep kids walking after brunch, this is it. You sip your cappuccino, they pet a few short-legged fluffballs, and everyone wins.
Late Morning Tuk-Tuk Tour
The Tuk-Tuk Welcome Tour was easily one of our favorite activities. You get a private, breezy ride around the city with a personal guide who points out all the Gaudí sights and tells stories the kids actually listened to.
We saw:
Arc de Triomf
Sagrada Familia
Casa Batlló and Casa Milà
Ciutadella Park
Montjuïc viewpoints
It’s a great way to cover a lot without exhausting little legs.
Midday pool and lunch break
After the tuk-tuk tour, we took a pool break and grabbed lunch at the pool.
Afternoon at Barceloneta Beach
This beach is a little chaotic in the best way. Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, and water. The kids loved the rope climbing structure and collecting shells. There’s space to run and plenty of cafes nearby if you need snacks.
Optional stop: Aquarium Barcelona
It’s close to the beach and a good way to cool off.
Dinner (walkable options)
La Tasqueta de Blai: Let the kids grab their own pinchos (snacks on skewers). You pay by the stick.
Casa de Tapes Cañota: Seafood tapas with fun decor.
Day 3: One last day of exploration
Morning croissants and coffee
Start with a morning walk and pop into a cafe for coffee and croissants.
Montjuïc Funicular Ride
The funicular from Paral·lel station is short, smooth, and exciting enough to feel like a ride.
Montjuïc adventure
There’s a ton to explore up here, so tailor your morning to your energy level. Our highlights:
Montjuïc Castle Grounds: Great views and wide open space to roam
Jardins de Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer: Colorful flower garden perfect for a snack break
Montjuïc Playground near Miramar: Swings, slides, and shade
Telefèric de Montjuïc: A splurge, but the views are incredible and the ride is a thrill
Lunch options
Poble Sec: Ride the funicular down and try.
Croq & Roll for croquettes and grilled sandwiches.
Evening Flamenco at Los Tarantos
This show was just 30 minutes long, but the energy was huge. It’s located in Plaça Reial, an easy walk from La Rambla. The dancers were passionate and the venue was small enough to feel immersive but not overwhelming for kids.
Dinner in Gràcia
After the show, we went to Gràcia for a low-key, end-of-trip dinner at Macchina—great pasta, relaxed atmosphere, and very kid-friendly. Grab a drink in a nearby plaza while the kids run around, then treat everyone to one last gelato.
Need to know
Barcelona is a stunning city year-round, but summer is peak tourist season, and it can get very crowded!
Since we were traveling with younger kids, we made a conscious choice to skip the long lines and overcrowded hotspots. Instead, we focused on soaking up the feel of the city, finding shady plazas, exploring quieter neighborhoods, and lots of gelato stops.
Things like tuk-tuk tours, beach afternoons, and local playgrounds in Gràcia gave us a much more relaxed, enjoyable experience. We still saw the highlights—just from a distance or in a way that didn’t require standing in line for hours.
Travel Advisor
Leah Coover
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