City guide: our top addresses in Barcelona
Day 1 in Barcelona
Today, Gaudí's city awaits you! If your child isn't walking very well yet, don't forget the pushchair 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 the mood takes you, take a little gourmet break with an ice cream or some churros. Along the way, don't forget to admire the Church of Santa Maria del Mar, a symbol of the humility and faith of the fishermen who built it.
You could do a little shopping and head home with some Spanish treasures from Bobo Choses or Londji (see our addresses below) in the El Born neighbourhood. In this neighbourhood, you'll also find the Picasso Museum and the MOCO, Museum of Contemporary Art. Booking essential!
If you feel like it, the famous Rambla is not far away, but we'd better warn you — it's very touristy and crowded, not exactly our favourite street… At lunchtime, eat at La Plata or near Barceloneta at the restaurant El Xiringo de la Barceloneta. Arrive early to find space with your pushchair. Then take a little stroll around the neighbourhood while Junior has a nap in the pushchair. Afterwards, visit the aquarium and take a walk along the beach. End the day at a small restaurant with tapas, of course!
Day 2 in Barcelona
Today, let your children discover the works of a great architect: Gaudí. Head to the Sagrada Família. Still under construction, its interior is magnificent. With sunlight filtering through the stained-glass windows, you'll be left breathless. Again, booking is essential and be prepared to queue, but it's absolutely worth it. With young children, 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 to spot the turtles or fish… Remember to book your tickets.
Where to sleep?
The Barcelona Hotel Edition : a stunning kids-friendly hotel with a magnificent terrace.
Hostal Grau : welcome to this eco-friendly family guesthouse. The well-located hotel also offers pleasant rooms for the whole family. The décor is warm and welcoming, a bit like home — provided you live in a hotel!
Where to go shopping?
Bobo Choses
A stop at Bobo Choses, the pioneering brand, is a must. In this boutique, 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, 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 treated to a feast of colourful fashion. The boutique features The Animal Observatory, Maan, Bellerose…
> Dos Cuatro Ocho, Rosselló 248 local A, 08008 Barcelona
Tiny Cottons
In Spain, creativity is king. Proof of this: 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
Spanish super toys have their own dedicated shop. 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
This 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 covered markets and you'll find good tapas almost everywhere. Here are a few addresses:
Los Tortillez: delicious tortillas, a delightfully retro restaurant, a wonderful team, affordable prices. Perfect!
> Los Torillez, Consell de Cent 299, Barcelona
El Petit Príncep Brunch: brunch plates. Need we 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 truly beautiful with its colourful sculptures and mosaics. You'll also enjoy a wonderful view over the city. That said, visiting this park takes some effort… To get there, we recommend taking a bus; otherwise, you'll be pushing the pushchair uphill for a long time, which could be… rather tiring.
