Where can I take my kids in Barcelona?
Barcelona is a remarkably child friendly city where people love children and make them feel welcome everwhere. In some parts of the UK you can see signs outside pubs saying “no dogs, no children”. This mentality is thankfully lost on Spaniards who enjoy the company of children. The only disadvantge here is that shops and restaurants do not have as many facilities for babies and children as they do in most northern European countries.
Including children in activities on a city break can be challenging, and it can be hard for you to find time to relax as well as take in the galleries, museums and sites you wish to see. Here are some top recommendations for what to do with your kids in Barcelona.
The Beach
A perennial favourite with wee ones. Barcelona has some 3.6km of clean, golden, sandy beaches. A beach is popular with all ages, offering relaxation for all.
Barcelona’s beaches are clean and safe. There are life guards on duty all along the shore and the water is warm, free of strong currents and shallow.
Mum and Dad can enjoy a cold beer at one of the many Chiringuito beach bars that line the beach.
Gracia Village
Gracia is a village that once was situated outside the city limits and that s perfect for children and very popular with young families.
During Barcelona’s rapid 19th century expansion Gracia was swallowed up by the city, leaving an island of narrow pedestrian streets and small pedestrian squares lined with orange trees, where your kids can safely play while you sit and relax in the knowledge that they are ok.
Gracia has a very bohemian and international vibe that is popular with the international community and many foreigners live and work here.
There are many child friendly bars and restaurants in Gràcia as well as small shops selling children’s toys that are not plastic and pink or blue, and fashionable children’s clothes.
Despite being an oasis of calm, Gracia is right on the edge of Passeig de Gracia, Barcelona’s main central shopping street, where two of Gaudí’s most famous works are found.
The Old Port and Maremagnum
Enjoy the sea breeze in the city…
The port makes an interesting stroll and outing, located at the bottom of Las Ramblas. A place to enjoy a sea breeze, the port has a wonderful relaxed feel, there are lots of small yachts moored here, often you will see street musicians playing jazz, and there bars and restaurants with terraces. With the sun shining and the blue sea and the old town behind, the old port has a very special atmosphere and laid back feel. Nearby is the Barceloneta, the former fisherman’s district, a great area for eating seafood.
You can complete a circuit by heading out along the Rambla del Mar, a pontoon bridge that connects with the ample harbour wall, which has been extended to include the aquarium and the maremagnum shopping centre. If the day is too hot you can always dive into the full air conditioned maremagnum shopping centre and do some shopping.
These recommendations are brought to you by Feelathomeinbarcelona.com
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