10 Fun family-friendly activities in Barcelona

With its awesome history, museums, architecture, and nightlife, Barcelona may strike you as a sophisticated, grown-up travel destination, but it's also filled with great things to do with children. From family fun on the beach to exciting art workshops, there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions to keep little ones happy.

Kids of all ages will love the way that Barcelona’s landmarks spark their imagination. Whether they're dreaming of being a sports star, relishing the dramatic local legends, or learning to make art like Gaudí, they'll have a blast. Ready to plan the family trip the whole family will love? These 10 fun activities are probably the best things to do in Barcelona with kids.

1. Go dragon-hunting around the Gothic Quarter

According to local legend, dragons once ruled the streets and skies of Barcelona. Find out all about the mythical creatures on a family-friendly dragon tour of the Gothic Quarter. You'll have fun riddles and puzzles to solve along the way, which will keep the youngsters entertained.

Essential information:

This tour is recommended for kids aged six and up. All scavenger hunt materials are provided.

2. Make mosaics like Gaudí

Barcelona is famous for its artists, and now it's your turn to get in on the action. This hands-on mosaic class lets you make a masterpiece in the style of Gaudí. You even get to take your masterpiece home — the perfect souvenir.

Essential information:

Kids as young as five can take part, but they may need the help of a grown-up with a steady hand.

Address and opening hours:

Carrer dels Assaonadors 10, 08003 Barcelona. Class times vary.

3. Take unforgettable photos at the Magic World Museum

Looking for the perfect family snapshot? Head to the Magic World Museum, where you'll be able to pose in over 40 wild photo shoots. The kids will love the chance to pose as a surfer, an escape artist, or even a giant kitten's plaything.

Essential information:

This is suitable for all ages, and even toddlers will be able to join in with the posing fun.

Address and opening hours:

Carrer de Casp 50, 08010 Barcelona. Open Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

4. Score a penalty like Messi at Camp Nou

Is your kid a soccer fan? Then there's one truly unmissable stop on a trip to Barcelona. Get a ticket for the FC Barcelona museum at Camp Nou, home of the legendary local football team, you can live out your athletic dreams — score a penalty against the robotic goalkeeper, you'll win a prize.

Essential information:

Kids under four can enter for free. This is suitable for all ages, but it's really special for the soccer fans in the family.

Address and opening hours:

Carrer d'Arístides Maillol, 08028 Barcelona. Opening times vary depending on the team's schedule.

5. Nibble on churros as you explore the city

Kids and grown-ups all love churros, the deep-fried donuts that you dunk in thick hot chocolate. Enjoy them on a churros, hot chocolate, and games tour that takes you through the city's medieval areas. This is designed for all ages, so there are games and fun activities for kids to keep things lively.

Essential information:

Even very young kids will enjoy this tour. Keep in mind that it's three hours long, so you may want to bring a stroller.

6. Meet your favorite celebs at the Wax Museum

The Barcelona Wax Museum is the best place to go to rub shoulders with the rich and famous. You'll see cinema legends, sports stars, your favorite TV characters, and even historical figures like Picasso.

Essential information:

This is best for older kids aged eight and up, who will recognize the wax superstars.

Address and opening hours:

Passatge de la Banca 7, 08002 Barcelona. Open every day from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM.

7. Make family memories on the water with a kayaking trip

To the north of Barcelona, the Costa Brava is known for its beautiful, crystal-clear water, dramatic rocks, and tiny coves. Discover it for yourself on a Costa Brava hiking, sea kayaking, and lagoons trip that’s sure to satisfy any young adventurer.

Essential information:

Children over eight will have a good time. This trip is best for kids who are confident swimmers.

8. Ride the rollercoasters at PortAventura

Catalonia's most popular theme park, PortAventura is 90 minutes south from Barcelona. Take a day trip there to get your adrenaline pumping on the wild rollercoasters.

Essential information:

PortAventura has something for everyone, with intense rollercoasters for older kids and teens, and gentle rides and bird shows for the little ones. Very young children will enjoy the quiet fun of the Sesame Street zone.

9. Gawp at gravity-defying human towers

If you’re visiting Barcelona during one of the city's many festivals like La Merce and Sant Joan, you can see some castellers in action. These groups build huge human towers that have to be seen to be believed. If you can't make it then, castellers also give performances in parks around Barcelona throughout the year.

Essential information:

Kids of any age will be mesmerized by these dazzling spectacles.

10. Make friends with the city's Giants

Barcelona's Giants are the stars of every festa major, when they twirl and dance through the streets. When there's no festival taking place, you can get a closer look at them at the Casa dels Entremesos.

Essential information:

Kids aged four and up will enjoy taking a look at the Giants and the fire-breathing Beasts. Very sensitive children may find some Giants a little scary.

Address and opening hours:

Plaça de les Beates 2, 08003 Barcelona. Open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

FAQs

What are some other family-friendly attractions in Barcelona?

There's plenty in Barcelona to keep kids happy. From the Barceloneta beach to the Tibidabo amusement park, the city has a lot to offer family groups. Don't miss the Magic Fountain show in the evening, which will always impress youngsters.

What are the best museums for kids in Barcelona?

Many of Barcelona's best museums are art museums, which your kids may or may not like. Some more traditional family-oriented museums include the Magic World Museum, the Wax Museum, the Paradox Museum, and the Cosmocaixa science museum.

What are some fun outdoor activities for kids in Barcelona?

There are some great walking tours for kids in Barcelona. Look for tours that are aimed specifically at families, with guides who will use games, songs, and puzzles to make things fun.

What are some unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences to have in Barcelona with kids?

Try doing something hands-on, like a mosaic class with the kids. You can also enjoy trips in a hot air balloon, a boat, or even a helicopter. If your kids love adventure, try one of the family-friendly hikes and trails just outside the city.

What are some fun day trips from Barcelona that are suitable for families with kids?

You'll find lots of great family day trips from Barcelona around Catalonia. Head south to the theme park at PortAventura for an adrenaline-pumping day out, or go north for kayaking and snorkeling on the Costa Brava. There are also lots of beautiful natural zones, ideal for older kids who like hiking.