Take unforgettable day trips from Barcelona with kids as we examine three enchanting destinations within a two-hour radius of Catalonia’s vibrant capital. From the adrenaline-pumping rides of PortAventura to the tranquil vistas of Montserrat and the sun-kissed beaches of Sitges, there’s something for every family to enjoy. This post provides essential tips on travel logistics, engaging activities, and delightful dining options, ensuring a seamless and memorable adventure for all. So, gather your little explorers and discover the magic of Catalonia together.

Barcelona as a family destination

With its sunny Mediterranean climate, family-friendly attractions, and lively atmosphere, it’s no wonder Barcelona is one of Europe’s top destinations for families. The city has something to delight travelers of all ages, from sandy beaches and imaginative museums to amusement parks and cozy cafes perfect for relaxing.

Barcelona enjoys warm, sunny weather for much of the year, making outdoor activities possible even in the winter months. The famous promenade of Las Ramblas captivates kids with human statues, street performers, and buzzing public markets. The Gothic Quarter’s narrow cobblestone streets feel like something from a storybook.

The city also has no shortage of interactive museums to spark children’s creativity and imagination. CosmoCaixa offers hands-on science exhibits, planetarium shows, and an indoor Amazon rainforest. At the Museu de la Xocolata, everything from the displays to the cafe menu is made of chocolate! The Fundació Joan Miró features whimsical modern art that kids can interpret in their own way.

After museum hopping, families can unwind at Parc Güell’s whimsical mosaics, stroll the lively Barceloneta beach promenade, or dine at family-run tapas bars and patisseries. With its engaging mix of culture, nature, and family entertainment, it’s easy to see why Barcelona is a favorite destination for parents and children alike.

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Why take day trips?

Taking day trips from Barcelona with kids allows families to experience more of Catalonia beyond just the city. While Barcelona offers amazing museums, parks, beaches and more to keep kids entertained, day trips provide a nice change of pace and opportunity to see other parts of the region.

Here are some of the main benefits of taking day trips with kids from Barcelona:

• See more of Catalonia’s culture and landscapes. Barcelona is a vibrant coastal city, but visiting towns like Girona or Sitges provides a different view of Catalan culture. You can also experience mountains, beaches, or wineries in a day.
• Avoid tourist crowds. Heading just an hour or so outside of Barcelona means you’ll encounter far fewer tourists at major sights. Enjoy shorter lines and a more relaxed, authentic vibe.
• Try kid-friendly activities. Options like visiting Dali’s quirky museum in Figueres or riding a funicular train up Montserrat offer great family fun. Each day trip destination has unique activities.
• Take a break from big city life. As exciting as Barcelona is, spending a full week there with kids can be tiring. Day trips allow families to recharge while still experiencing the region’s highlights.
• Learn about Spain’s history. Many day trip destinations have historical sights from ancient or medieval times that bring Spain’s past to life for kids.
• Appreciate nature’s beauty. From Costa Brava beaches, to Montserrat’s mountain landscapes, day trips showcase Catalonia’s natural wonders that contrast with Barcelona’s urban environment.

Getting out of the city for a day or two allows families to appreciate the diversity of sights and activities in Catalonia beyond Barcelona. It’s an easy way to enrich your Spanish vacation.

Best places for day trips from Barcelona with kids

Barcelona makes a fantastic base for day trips with children. Within an hour or two of the city, you can be exploring quaint medieval towns, unique art museums, and spectacular natural scenery. Here are some of the top day trip destinations from Barcelona:

Sitges

Just 45 minutes south of Barcelona, Sitges boasts a lovely Mediterranean seaside setting. In addition to its beaches and coastal scenery, Sitges has an enchanting historic center with many examples of Modernisme (Catalan Art Nouveau) architecture. The Cau Ferrat Museum exhibits works by Santiago Rusiñol and other Sitges artists. Try this Barcelona: Tarragona & Sitges Guided Day Trip with Transfers.

Montserrat Monastery

Nestled dramatically in the mountains northwest of Barcelona, the Benedictine abbey of Montserrat makes for a scenic and spiritually uplifting day trip. Families can ride the funicular for breathtaking views over the rugged mountains. Then explore the basilica and museum at the monastery, and perhaps hear the famous boys’ choir sing. Try this Barcelona: Montserrat Half Day Guided Tour.

Figueres & Dali Museum

The picturesque town of Figueres makes for a perfect family day trip from Barcelona. It’s located about an hour and a half north of the city, and is best known as the birthplace of Salvador Dali.

The main highlight here is the Dali Museum in Figueres. This large complex was built on the remains of a 19th century theater, and was designed by Dali himself. Inside you’ll find a massive collection of the artist’s surrealist works, including paintings, sculptures, installations, graphics, photos and more.

Kids will love exploring the bizarre and whimsical exhibits at the museum.

Some of the highlights include:

• Large paintings like The Hallucinogenic Toreador and Galatea of the Spheres. The imagery and optical illusions are sure to capture kids’ attention.
• Surrealist objets d’art like the famous Lobster Telephone and Mae West Lips Sofa. Let kids’ imaginations run wild as they look at Dali’s unexpected creations.
• An outdoor exhibit featuring a towering statue called Gala’s Shipyard. It’s fun to walk around and under this monumental structure.
• The surrealist Jewels Room, lined with decorative pieces like the Royal Heart brooch.
• Quirky installations set up to look like different scenes, including a winding labyrinth and a re-creation of a Catalan village square.

After touring the museum, stroll through the historic center of Figueres. Stop for a snack at one of the cafes on the Rambla street before heading back to Barcelona. Try this From Barcelona: Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum Day Tour.

Sitges: A Family Beach Destination from Barcelona

On of the top destinations for a family beach day trip from Barcelona is Sitges. Located just 45 minutes southwest of the city by train, this coastal town has a beautiful sandy beach and plenty of family-friendly attractions. If you love beaches, this is one of the best day trips from Barcelona with kids to take in your time in Spain.

The main beach in Sitges is long, clean, and well-equipped with amenities like showers and restrooms. The Mediterranean waters provide gentle waves that are perfect for swimming with kids. Beachside vendors rent out sun loungers, umbrellas, paddleboards, and other water equipment. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season.

Away from the sand, Sitges has an enjoyable seafront promenade lined with palm trees, ice cream shops, restaurants, and beach stores. For a bite to eat, look for family-friendly tapas bars or try traditional paella at Restaurante El Cable. The area around Carrer Primer de Maig has plenty of casual eateries and terraces.

Top attractions for families include:

• Cau Ferrat Museum: See the home and art studio of Santiago Rusiñol, containing modernist paintings and decorative arts.
• Maricel Museum: Housed in a waterfront palace, this museum features art, architecture, and medieval remains.
• Beaches: In addition to the main beach, Sitges has over 17 beaches to explore along its coastline.

Between sun-filled beach days, historic sites, and leisurely seaside strolls, Sitges offers the ideal blend of seaside fun and culture for a family day trip from Barcelona. The ease of getting there by train and abundant family-friendly offerings make it a top choice for a day out of the city.

Montserrat Monastery

Day trips from Barcelona with kids to the majestic Montserrat Monastery is a highlight for many families visiting Barcelona. Located about 30 miles northwest of Barcelona, Montserrat is a multi-peaked mountain range that is home to a Benedictine abbey and sanctuary.

The journey itself is part of the experience. Take the train from Barcelona to the monastery, enjoying beautiful views of the striking rock formations and landscapes along the way. Listen for the famous 12 o’clock chant by the Montserrat boys’ choir when you arrive.

Tour the basilica and see the famous Black Madonna statue. Legend says the statue was carved in Jerusalem and brought to Montserrat in 718. Take the funiculars up to the mountain trails and enjoy hiking amongst the unique rock formations and peaceful vistas. There are trails suited for all levels, from gentle walks to more demanding climbs.

The kids will especially love the Santa Cova funicular down to the cave chapels. The cave is where the Black Madonna statue was discovered in 880 AD by shepherd children after they saw lights and heard angelic singing. The mysticism and natural beauty of Montserrat make it a magical day trip that families will always remember. Try the From Barcelona: Montserrat Half Day Guided Tour.

Girona and its Historic Sites

About an hour northeast of Barcelona lies the picturesque medieval city of Girona. With its ancient stone walls, soaring cathedral, and maze of narrow cobblestone streets, Girona transports visitors back in time. Beyond the historic architecture, Girona also provides a dose of pop culture as a filming location for the hit show Game of Thrones. This makes it one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona with kids.

Historic Center

Girona’s historic Jewish Quarter showcases the city’s multicultural past. This labyrinth of winding alleys contains the Museum of Jewish History, tracing Jewish life in the region back over 700 years. The 13th-century Banys Àrabs, or Arab Baths, offer another glimpse into the city’s diverse influences. Girona’s imposing cathedral stands at the highest point in the city. Dating back to the 11th century, this Romanesque and Gothic cathedral contains a 90 step climb up its bell tower, rewarding brave visitors with panoramic views. I give more information about Girona in this blog post: Why You Need to Visit Girona, Spain’s Fairytale City.

Game of Thrones

Fans of Game of Thrones can visit Girona’s Plaça dels Jurats, which served as a stand-in for Braavos and King’s Landing. Additional filming spots include the Girona Cathedral, Arab baths, and the grand Benedictine monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants. Beyond following in the footsteps of their favorite characters, families can also enjoy Girona’s museums, sample Catalan cuisine, and relax in picturesque plazas. With historic sites and modern pop culture locations, Girona makes for an engaging day trip from Barcelona. For more info check out this Girona and the Game of Thrones blog post.

Cardona

The medieval hilltop town of Cardona is less than an hour’s drive from Barcelona and makes for an excellent day trip from Barcelona with kids. The main highlight here is the imposing Cardona Castle that sits atop a hill overlooking the town.

The castle dates back to the 9th century and has been beautifully preserved. Kids will love exploring the various towers and dungeons, walking along the ramparts, and learning about the castle’s long history. Guided tours are available that bring the castle to life. Younger kids may especially enjoy dressing up in costumes from medieval times.

Below the castle hill is the main town center of Cardona with charming pedestrian streets, traditional houses, and a handful of tapas bars and restaurants to stop for lunch.

Another unique sight in Cardona is the salt mine located just outside of town. The Salt Mountain of Cardona has been mined for salt since Roman times. Today you can take a guided tour of the mines that involves boarding a small train that takes you deep inside the mountain. It’s a fascinating look at an ancient industry and kids will enjoy seeing the vast underground caverns and salt formations. Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves some walking.

Cardona makes for a varied day out with history, architecture, and geology covered. There’s enough to keep kids engaged without being overly packed. The small-town charm provides a relaxing counterpoint to bustling Barcelona. Try this From Barcelona: Montserrat, Cardona & Salt Mountain Day Trip.

Transportation & Logistics for Day Trips from Barcelona with Kids

Getting to these wonderful destinations from Barcelona is easy, thanks to the excellent public transportation infrastructure. Here are the main options for transportation:

Train

• High-speed and regional trains run regularly from Barcelona’s main train stations, Sants and Passeig de Gràcia, to destinations like Figueres and Girona.
• Trains are fast, comfortable, and avoid driving hassles.
• Travel times range from 30 minutes to Figueres up to 1-1.5 hours to Girona.
• Tickets can be purchased at stations, at ticket machines, or online in advance. Prices are reasonable.

Bus

• Buses connect Barcelona to Sitges, Montserrat, and other spots. Companies like Alsa run regular routes.
• Buses take a bit longer than trains but offer more economy and convenience for some destinations.
• Trip durations are 1-2 hours typically. Tickets can be bought on the bus or online.

Driving

• Having a rental car does provide maximum flexibility for day trips.
• The drive time from Barcelona is 30-40 minutes to Sitges, 45 minutes to Figueres, 1 hour to Montserrat, and 1.5 hours to Girona.
• Roads are well-maintained but traffic and parking should be factored in.
• Use GPS or apps for navigation and mapping.
• Safety gear like car seats are a must for kids.

Tours

Many tours offer transportation. Taking day trips with kids requires some extra planning and preparation. Utilizing tours for transportation to day trips from Barcelona with kids offers families a stress-free and enjoyable way to explore nearby attractions. With organized transportation, parents can relax and ensure their children’s safety while traveling to destinations like Montserrat or the Sitges. Tour operators may provide family-friendly amenities such as child seats – be sure to ask. Additionally, guided tours often offer educational experiences for children, allowing them to learn about the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders in a fun and engaging manner.

Here are my recommended day trip tours with transportation:

• Barcelona: Tarragona & Sitges Guided Day Trip with Transfers
• From Barcelona: Montserrat Half Day Guided Tour
• From Barcelona: Montserrat, Cardona & Salt Mountain Day Trip
• From Barcelona: Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum Day Tour

Top Tips for Day Trips from Barcelona with Kids

Here are some top tips for smooth, fun family day trips from Barcelona:

Pack snacks, water, and activities.

Long drives and waits can lead to bored, grumpy kids. Bring portable snacks to eat in the car, reusable water bottles, and activities like coloring books and tablet games.

Get an early start.

Leave early in the morning to avoid traffic getting out of Barcelona. This also allows you to maximize your time at the destination before kids get tired.

Check opening hours.

Some attractions like museums have limited hours. Make sure to check and plan your day accordingly.

Come prepared for the weather.

Bring layers, hats, sunglasses, umbrellas, etc. The weather can vary greatly depending on your destination. Check forecasts before heading out.

Research family-friendly restaurants.

Have a plan for where you’ll stop for lunch or snacks during the day. Kid-friendly places with quick bites make for happier families.

Pack a first aid kit.

Bring motion sickness tablets, pain/fever relievers, bandages, etc. Be prepared just in case.

Let kids pick an activity.

Give them something specific to look forward to like visiting an amusement park or seeing a castle. This builds excitement for the trip.

Schedule downtime.

Balance sightseeing with breaks to prevent over-tired kids. Have chill time at a park, cafe, or car.

Stay flexible.

Don’t try to over-schedule your day. Leave room for spontaneous stops and going with the flow when needed.

Make a game plan for the drive.

Load up on entertainment like tablets, books, coloring, car games. Consider stopping halfway for a leg-stretching break.

FAQ’s About Day Trips from Barcelona with Kids

Is Barcelona worth visiting with kids?

Absolutely! Barcelona offers a plethora of activities and attractions suitable for children of all ages. From the fascinating architecture of Antoni Gaudí, such as the iconic Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, to family-friendly beaches like Barceloneta, there’s something to capture the imagination of every youngster. Additionally, attractions like the Barcelona Zoo, Tibidabo Amusement Park, and the interactive CosmoCaixa Science Museum are sure to keep kids entertained and engaged throughout your visit.

Where is it worth to go on a day trip from Barcelona?

Barcelona’s proximity to various charming towns and natural wonders makes it an ideal hub for day trips. One popular option is Montserrat, a stunning mountain range with a Benedictine monastery perched atop. Another favorite is Sitges, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, the medieval town of Girona, the surreal landscapes of Montseny Natural Park, and the wine region of Penedès are all easily accessible from Barcelona and perfect for day excursions. There are many options for day trips from Barcelona with kids.

What cities are close to Barcelona by train?

Barcelona’s excellent rail network connects it to several nearby cities, making day trips or overnight stays convenient and enjoyable. Among the cities easily reachable by train are:

• Girona: Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the colorful houses along the Onyar River and the impressive Cathedral.
• Tarragona: Home to ancient Roman ruins, including a seaside amphitheater overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
• Figueres: Famous for the Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum, showcasing the works of the surrealist artist.
• Lleida: Offers historic sites like La Seu Vella, a Romanesque cathedral with panoramic views of the city.

Where else can you go from Barcelona?

Beyond day trips to nearby cities, Barcelona also serves as a gateway to explore other regions of Spain and even neighboring countries. High-speed trains from Barcelona-Sants station provide convenient access to major cities like Madrid, Valencia, and Seville. Additionally, international destinations like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille in France, as well as Milan and Geneva in Italy, are easily accessible by train or plane from Barcelona, offering endless possibilities for further exploration.

Further Reading

• Barcelona Travel Guide 2024
• Unlock Hidden Gems: A Guide to the Best Nightlife in Barcelona
• Bite-Size Barcelona: A Foodie’s Adventure into the World of Tapas
• the Ultimate Bucket List: Top Things to Do in Barcelona
• Girona and the Game of Thrones 
• Best Hotels in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter: Luxury to Budget
• How to Visit Valencia Like a Local
• Why You Need to Visit Girona, Spain’s Fairytale City
• Pack Like a Pro: The Ultimate Europe Packing List
• How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Europe: Tips and Tools
• Barcelona in February: A Guide to the City in Winter