City guide: our top addresses in Barcelona
1st day in Barcelona
Today, Gaudí's city awaits you! If your child isn't walking very well yet, don't forget the stroller or your baby carrier. Start by exploring the Gothic Quarter. Admire its medieval streets. Walk past the Cathedral of the Holy Cross of Barcelona. As you please, take a little sweet break with ice cream or churros. Along the way, don't forget to look at the Church of Santa Maria del Mar, a symbol of the humility and faith of the fishermen who built it.
You could do a bit of shopping and head home with Spanish treasures from Bobo Choses or Londji (see our addresses below) in the El Born neighborhood. In this neighborhood, you'll also find the Picasso Museum and the MOCO, the Museum of Contemporary Art. Reservations required!
If you feel like it, the famous Rambla is not far, but we should warn you — it's very touristy and crowded, not necessarily our favorite street… At noon, have lunch at La Plata or near Barceloneta at the restaurant El Xiringo de la Barceloneta. Arrive early to find room for your stroller. Then, take a short stroll around the neighborhood while Junior naps in the stroller. Afterward, visit the aquarium and walk along the beach. End the day at a little tapas restaurant, obviously!
2nd day in Barcelona
Today, introduce your children to the works of a great architect: Gaudí. Head to the Sagrada Familia. Still under construction, its interior is magnificent. With the sun reflecting through the stained glass windows, you'll be left breathless. Again, reservations are mandatory and be prepared for a long queue, but it's well worth it a thousand times over. With little ones, there's no need to take the option to see the spires. After this visit that will leave you awestruck, take a break for lunch. Then, head to Casa Batlló, another marvel by the architect. He drew his inspiration from the ocean. You can play with your children spotting turtles or fish… Remember to book your tickets.
Where to stay?
The Barcelona Hotel Edition : a very beautiful kids-friendly hotel with a stunning terrace.
Hostal Grau : welcome to this eco-friendly family guesthouse. The hotel, well located, also offers pleasant rooms for the whole family. The decor is warm and homey — as long as you live in a hotel!
Where to shop?
Bobo Choses
A stop at Bobo Choses is a must — the pioneering brand. In this shop, you'll find the baby, children's and women's collection, as well as small accessories.
> Bobo Choses, Carrer de la Ribera, 1, 08003 Barcelona
Little Creative Factory
If you love flowing and poetic fashion, head to Little Creative Factory.
> Little Creative Factory, Carrer Princesa 15, Pral 1a, 08003 Barcelona
Dos Cuatro Ocho
Once again, you'll be dazzled by colorful fashion. The store features The Animal Observatory, Maan, Bellerose…
> Dos Cuatro Ocho, Rosselló 248 local A, 08008 Barcelona
Tiny Cottons
In Spain, creativity is everywhere. Proof of that: there are many ethical children's fashion labels. This brand is one of them, and you'll also love their collection for grown-ups!
> Tiny Cottons, Via Augusta, 25, 08006 Barcelona
Londji
These amazing Spanish toys have their own dedicated store. We love the design, the illustrations, and the range that spans from 3 to 103 years old!
> Londji, Carrer de la Princesa, 49, 08003 Barcelona
Little Label Lovers
The little boutique offers a selection of Dutch brands, the home country of its founder.
> Little Label Lovers, Carrer de l'Esparteria, 5, 08003 Barcelona
Where to eat?
Generally speaking, the food in Barcelona is excellent. Think about the covered markets, and you'll find good tapas almost everywhere. Here are a few addresses:
Los Tortillez: delicious tortillas, a delightfully retro restaurant, a lovely team, and low prices. Perfect!
> Los Torillez, Consell de Cent 299, Barcelona
El Petit Príncep Brunch: brunch plates. Do we need to say more?
> Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 677, 08013 Barcelona
Cresta Colorado: if you're tired of tapas, head to this delicious Mexican restaurant.
> C/ de Còrsega, 244, 08036 Barcelona
We're not sure…
Parc Güell: this other work by Gaudí is very beautiful with its colorful sculptures and mosaics. You'll also enjoy a lovely view of the city. However, visiting this park takes some effort… To get there, we recommend taking a bus; otherwise, you'll be pushing your stroller for a long time and it could be… exhausting.
