Family-Friendly Spain: Barcelona & Valencia - 6 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Spain, Discover Barcelona with the Kids

Welcome to Spain! Upon arrival at Barcelona's El Prat Airport, a private driver will take you and your family into the city. Settle in, and when you're ready, head out with the kids to explore. For a fabulous view of the area, take the Montjuïc Cable Car from the metro station near Olympic Park to the summit of Montjuïc—a 1,988-foot (606 m) high hill with a 17th-century castle at the top. It's a fun ride for the little ones, and the castle is a great place for a post-flight stretch of the legs, with plenty of features and history to capture the kids' imaginations. 

Afterward, immerse yourselves in Spanish heritage with a visit to Poble Espanyol, an open-air museum featuring over 100 recreated buildings in the style of traditional Spanish villages. Wander the craft stalls, grab a bite to eat at one of the cafés, and don't miss the Picasso drawings and ceramics at the site's modern-art museum. As the sun dips, make your way to the nearby Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, named for the dazzling display of water and colored lights that occur after dark. End your evening sampling delicious tapas at one of the city's many family-friendly restaurants. 

Day 2: Family-Friendly Tour of the Gothic Quarter, Optional Sunset Cruise 

After breakfast, meet your guide and head out to explore the city's famous Gothic Quarter and trendy El Born neighborhood with a fun, family-friendly tour designed to captivate the little ones. Stroll the narrow cobbled streets and soak up the rich history as you pass Roman ruins, wander the grand palm-tree-lined Plaça Reial (Royal Plaza), and marvel at the spectacular Sagrada Família cathedral. 

Kids will have a blast as they take part in a "dragon hun,t" learn about Spanish legends, visit candy stores, and see the enormous papier-mâché figures and animals at the Casa dels Entremesos (Museum of Giants). Part ways with your guide and either continue exploring on your own or relax with a cool drink at one of the nearby cafés while the kids practice a few words of their newly acquired Spanish!

In the afternoon, you and your family can board your own private sailboat and relax as your captain steers you out into the blissful Mediterranean Sea for an enchanting two hours on the water. Sit back and enjoy the stunning coast views or use the onboard fishing equipment with guidance from your skipper. The kids will love trying to land the catch of the day while you enjoy a sundowner on deck. Return to the port, and your captain will share his recommendations on where the locals head for dinner. 

Day 3:  Barcelona Leisure Day

Spend today exploring Barcelona at your own pace, or opt for one of several family-friendly day trips from the city. Glimpse Catalan life beyond the metropolis with a visit to the historic city of Girona, around an hour northeast of the capital. Lying next to the Onyar River, the town is known for its atmospheric streets, grand churches, and medieval Old Quarter hemmed in by stone walls. There's plenty of history and tales here to enthrall the kids as you walk the ancient ramparts, explore the 12th-century Banys Àrabs and visit the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia.

For a day of adventure, history, and spectacular views, catch a train to Montserrat and scale the famous mountain by cable car to reach the 16th-century Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat. Located 28 miles (45 km) northeast of Barcelona, the views from the abbey over the serrated mountains are spectacular. If the kids are into art, the Museum of Montserrat has works by Caravaggio, Dalí, and Picasso. Stop for lunch and gelato at one of the on-site cafés or restaurants before catching the funicular to the mountain cave of Santa Cova, an important pilgrimage destination.

If the kids are clamoring for a beach day, then either stay local with a visit to Barceloneta Beach or travel 45 minutes southwest to the pretty coastal town of Sitges. Embrace the laid-back vibe, enjoy some family fun on one of the wide sandy beaches, and take a dip in the warm sea. As dusk falls, either dine at one of Sitges' world-class seafood restaurants or return to Barcelona and feast on family-friendly tapas.

Day 4: Train to Valencia, Family Tour of the City

Bid farewell to Barcelona this morning as you pack snacks, rally the kids, and hop on a train bound for Valencia. Relax on the three-hour journey down the coast and check in at your hotel before meeting your guide for a family tour of the city. Stretch your legs after the trip and stroll the town's historic center. You'll visit the major highlights, including the Plaza Del Ayuntamiento (the Baroque City Hall), the historic Mercado Central, and the 15th-century Gothic fortress of Llotja de la Seda. 

Break for refreshments and enjoy an agua de Valencia, a fruity citrus cocktail, while the kids try the local horchata (a sweet and creamy refreshing drink made with tiger nuts). End your tour with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Valencia Cathedral, a wonderful 13th-century Gothic basilica in the heart of the Old Town. If the kids are hungry, you'll be spoilt for choice with options. Valencia is the undisputed home of paella, and your guide will be happy to recommend some of the best local spots. 

Day 5: Explore Valencia with the Kids

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with the family and spend your last day in Valencia discovering the city's many attractions. Top of your list should be the City of Arts and Sciences, a unique leisure complex home to the interactive Prince Philip Science Museum and the world-famous L'Oceanogràfic aquarium. Stroll through the longest underwater tunnel in Europe and marvel with the kids at its various denizens of the deep, including mantas, sharks, and even beluga whales.

After lunch, relax in nature with a wander through the vast Turia Gardens, one of Spain's largest urban parks. It's a delightful place for kids of all ages, and the impressive Gulliver Park play area features massive structures inspired by the characters of Jonathan Swift. Little ones will love channeling their inner Lilliputian as they climb onto the park's giant reclining figure's fingers, legs, and hair! In the evening, savor the city's sights with one last stroll around the old town before dining out in style at one of the local restaurants. 

Day 6: Train to Barcelona, Depart

It's time to say goodbye this morning as you and your family take a private transfer to the train station for your return journey to Barcelona in time to catch your flight home or continue your European adventure. Safe travels!

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