This blog post was originally posted on September 16, 2014 and was updated on August 6, 2017.

So you’ve bravely ventured away from your child’s dream vacation (Disney World) and are trying to fill their curious minds with history and culture instead. There are so many wonderful activities to try in Barcelona with kids and families. Here’s a few of our favorites!

Photo Credit: Misty Barker Text Overlay: Devour Barcelona Food Tours

It’s not an easy task, but you are willing and ready, and luckily, you’ve come to the right place. A magical and captivating city, Barcelona with kids is an easy and exciting destination. There’s also a plethora of family-friendly options that will leave even the adults begging for more. However, with so many things to do in Barcelona for kids it can be hard to decide which are must-sees and which are definitely not! Check out our guide for our favorite things to do and see in Barcelona with kids!

Parc d’Atraccions del Tibidabo

You could spend a few hours each day at a different and unique museum, or you could surprise your kids with an enchanting, 100-year-old amusement park high above Barcelona. With fantastic views and of course tons of attractions, nobody will get bored at Tibidabo. Furthermore, with your ticket to Tibidabo, you also have access to the Barcelona Zoo in Parc de La Cuitadella. Bonus!

Address: Plaça Tibidabo, 3-4

Montjuic Cable Cars

Kids will love the excitement of boarding the cable cars—not to mention the incredible views once you reach the top! There are two cable car rides from Montjüic—one which crosses the sea over to Barceloneta and the beach, and the second which transports you up to the old castle. Both of them have equally incredible views of Barcelona and are a sure-fire hit with the kids. Their website has a full list of daily times, maps and meeting point details. Which direction will your day take you?

Magic Fountains Montjüic

This incredible nightly show features a beautiful water fountain display, timed to perfection in sync with a music and lights show. Lot’s of new and old music is fused together and it is a true spectacle that kids will love. This is definitely one not to miss out on. Kids will be enthralled and adults will be mesmerised! You’ll find the fountains just next to Plaça Espanya—which has great connections to the city’s public transport links. Each night there are two shows, 9.30 p.m. and 10.00 p.m. It’s the perfect place to have a late evening picnic, sit back, relax and enjoy the show.

Address: Plaça de Carles Buïgas, 1

Museu de la Xocolata

Whether or not you’re a chocolate fan, this quirky museum will most definitely make you smile. It is a wonderland of life-size chocolate figurines and monument replicas. It’s also the perfect place to find fun souvenirs for your favorite chocolate lover. Learn all about the history and the making of chocolate in beautiful surroundings. There are also a selection of kid-friendly workshops and activities on offer throughout the day! Definitely one to check out if you’re in Barcelona with kids!

Address: Carrer del Comerç, 36

Local’s Tip: There really is nothing better than chocolate for breakfast, whether you are a child or an adult! Watch the video below to find out some things you just can’t miss trying while you’re here!

La Casa dels Entremesos

La Casa dels Entremesos is a true hidden gem right in the city center. This is possibly the most authentic cultural experience your kids will have without even realizing it! This display of a very Catalan tradition, els gegants i els capsgrossos (giants and fat-heads) will leave them awestruck as they set eyes on these enormous, shockingly realistic dolls that parade around the city during festivals and special holidays.

Address: Plaça Beates, 2

L’aquarium de Barcelona

Right in the city center between the beach and the port lies Mare Magnum, a playground of sorts for adults and kids alike. It’s one of the best places to go in Barcelona with kids. From shopping to playgrounds, to wonderful views of the port, you could spend a whole day here without even realizing it. Of course best of of all, it also has an impressive Mediterranean-themed aquarium, in fact the biggest one of its kind.

Address: Moll d’Espanya del Port Vell

Jardines de la Torre de las Aigues

If you’re visiting in the warmer months, check out one of the most historical (and hidden) swimming pools and gardens in Spain. Built inside the inner patio of one of the first residential constructions of the Eixample district, this impressive water tower, swimming pool, garden area and artificial beach is a fantastic (as well as unique!) way to cool off in the heat.

Address: Carrer Roger de Llúria, 56