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Tips and Things to do in Barcelona with Family
November 20, 2019 | By: Jacob Randolph
Barcelona is one of the most popular cities to visit in the world, with millions of people coming to visit year on year. Unlike most other cities in Europe or even the world, it truly does have everything to offer. From everything a modern city has, with shopping districts, offices and very efficient transport links, it also has one of the nicest beaches in Europe right next to the city center, in Bogatell.
Barcelona is one of the leading cities in innovation and planning. Yet, by preserving its traditional and historic areas, mainly The Gothic Quarter, Barcelona finds the perfect balance between modernity and history. If you are considering traveling as a family, then Barcelona is an excellent option.
Where to Stay in Barcelona
Eixample
Designed with a grid-patterned format, Eixample is one of the largest neighborhoods in Barcelona. It is home to many monuments such as the Sagrada Família, Gaudí´s Casa Batlló and Milà, The Arc de Triomf and Plaça Catalunya. As you can see, with so many sights to see and places to discover, staying in Eixample gives you a full Barcelona experience. Whether you are looking for a tourist experience, designer shops or wonderful restaurants and cafés, you are certain to enjoy Barcelona with family if you stay here. Lastly, it is interesting to note that Eixample is the area that separated The Gothic Quarter and its old town, from the surrounding towns and other residential neighborhoods- with Gràcia being the main one. Meaning that the area was subject to gentrification and modernization that the old town remains without, in most aspects.
Gràcia
Gràcia is the main residential area of Barcelona and is reflected in the pace of life and things to do here. There are many properties here, with one main high street on Carrer d´Astúries that offers market stalls and independent shops. Making this area more relaxed then Eixample and ensuring that those who prefer a quieter location in Barcelona will enjoy this amazing city. In addition, there are many Plazas here such as La plaça de la Vila de Gràcia, which all have great bars and restaurants on offer. As for tourist attractions, the main place to visit in Gràcia is Park Güell, made by Gaudí and is an iconic landmark of this amazing city.
Poble Nou
For anyone looking to go to the beach and enjoy with family by the sea, then Poble Nou is ideal for you. With the locals´ favorite beach in Bogatell, you will be walking distance from some amazing beach days that await. However, this is not simply a beach area, as Poble Nou is home to some great restaurants, bars, and shops. In this laid-back neighborhood, you can just as easily spend a day wandering around La Rambla de Poble Nou, as you can at the beach. Also, with numerous transport links, you can easily get yourself to every corner of Barcelona in little time.
When looking for your accommodation in Barcelona, especially when traveling with family, we recommend booking an apartment. It is the perfect way to spend time as a family and feel at home, like how you can prepare your own food and organize your day in the city. If you want to rent an apartment in Barcelona for your family and yourself, we recommend using AB Apartment Barcelona, an expert in renting tourist apartments and seasonal apartments in Barcelona, with more than 600 apartments in the city that are located in the best residential areas for families. On their website, you can filter your search to see the apartments available in most residential areas in Barcelona, which are perfect for families.
Furthermore, they have a 24/7 central office, where you will be able to go to if you encounter any problems and they will help you out throughout your stay. All of their apartments are fully equipped, with basic kitchen products, as well as cleaning and hygiene products. In addition, they offer internet connection, air conditioning, and central heating, making it ideal to enjoy the city at any time of the year.
Things to do with babies, small children and grown-up kids in Barcelona
Aquarium
The aquarium in Barcelona is very popular with youngsters as it captures the imagination of the creatures that live in the deep blue. With flooring like a conveyer belt, you can pass through a glass tunnel with hundreds of fish swimming on the other side. At every stage of the museum, there are multiple information points for you and the kids to learn more about the animals that they keep. In addition, it is just next to the Maremagnum shopping center as well for a bit of retail therapy with older kids after visiting the aquarium!
Parc de Ciutadella
This park is simply wonderful. Situated next to the Zoo and not far from the Arc de Triomf, Parc de Ciutadella gives you a perfect chance to spend a full day surrounded by greenery! Built in 1877, the main feature is a large lake that leads to a marble staircase with golden features. Once you scale the steps there is a nice reception area and some great views over the park. In addition to this, there is a second, larger lake, where you can enjoy with your family by hiring a boat and rowing at your own pace.
Tibidabo Amusement Park
Constructed in 1889, the Tibidabo Amusement Park is among the oldest parks in the world still functioning. It is Spain's longest-running amusement park. Enjoy the thrill of roller coasters, flying over the city in a flight simulator, take a ride in the Aerial Railway, and admire the towering cathedral on the summit of Mount Tibidabo. All ages will love this historic and exciting amusement park.
Day Trips from Barcelona with Family
In a family, it is always exciting to explore new places, get away from the big city, and make your own memories. This is another reason why Barcelona is the perfect place to visit with family, as you have the Coastal areas of Sitges and Costa Brava very close by.
Sitges
The beautiful seaside town of Sitges is essential to see when visiting Barcelona. Accessible by train or by car, it takes around 1 hour to get there (35 minutes on a fast train) and provides unbelievable coastal views as you approach. Once there, you will find a very relaxed, laidback town that has plenty to offer, in addition to the 17 beautiful beaches! Try their traditional dish, Xató, a spicey fish salad that has been on menus since the late 19th century! In addition, being located near El Prat Airport gives it a great location, from which, anything is possible to get to.
Costa Brava
Finally, the Costa Brava is found in the province of Girona and close to the French border. It is very popular with tourists and locals who are looking to get some sun and experience some of the most beautiful beaches that the Mediterranean has to offer. With rock or sand beaches to choose from, you are sure to enjoy Barcelona with family on the coast! There are also three main provinces within the Costa Brava: Selva, Baix Empordà, and Alt Empordà. All of the three with their own identities, traditions and beautiful scenery.
In summary, Barcelona is a wonderful city that in itself has a range of things to do and see. From shopping to beaches, Barcelona offers everything you need if you visit the city with family. If you are traveling with a little one, check out our Safety Hacks for Traveling with a Baby.
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