I’m happy to share this wonderful post from my friend and fellow Hilton Mom Voyage writer, Lisa Grabelle, on things to do in Barcelona with teens.
Welcome to teenage paradise! Temperate weather all year, beautiful beaches, churros and chocolate, otherworldly Gaudi architecture, colorful markets filled with tasty delights, trendy shopping, and a palpable electric buzz!
With an efficient and inexpensive metro system, a festive atmosphere, and streets made for wandering, this walkable city is a treat for your entire family. Here is our family’s top ten experiences in this European gem.
1. EAT! AND EAT SOME MORE!
We literally ate our way through Barcelona. Here are our family’s gastronomical highlights:
- Milk Bar & Bistro (hankering for a piece of home, stop in for American-style brunch)
- La Tasqueta de Blai (how fun and delicious! pay by how many tapas toothpicks are left on your plate)
- Tapeo (delicious tapas in a hip spot)
- El Nacional La Taperia (you’ll laugh your way through this dinner…waiters loudly belt out the names of the tapas to recognizable tunes as they serve you)
- Casa Rafols (bistro-like modern setting with creative tapas)
- Pez Vela (beachside chic spot with our gang’s favorite paella)
- Bo De B (overstuffed Mediterranean cheaply-priced sandwiches and platters).
2. GAUGE ON GAUDI
Book in advance at two of our top Antoni Gaudi experiences – both UNESCO World Heritage sites! Time your visit to watch the sunset at Barcelona’s most celebrated architect, the one and only Gaudí’s outdoor wonder, the Park Güell.
Exploring this trippy park includes wandering through multi-colored mosaics, archways, gardens and best of all the breathtaking panoramas of the skyline. Another highlight for us was taking pictures on the elaborate facade and rooftop of Gaudi’s masterpiece, Casa Mila.
The unique and dramatic stairwells, ventilation towers and chimneys are straight out of a Dr. Seuss storybook. Instagram worthy at every angle!
3. SHOP FOR PRICELESS SOUVENIRS
A family photoshoot in a magical architecturally stunning city tops any gift shop souvenir. A stand out from our trip was exploring Barcelona’s hidden sights and stunning gems with Localgrapher photographer, Katia.
Forget tiresome selfies — our Localgrapher photo shoot created precious memories to last a lifetime! Our experience not only captured the excitement of this vibrant new city, but also was so much fun (and easy!) to do. Available in over 400 cities, Localgrapher provides professional photographers that have the best insight on photo locations.
Together, you and the photographer will decide on the backdrop for your professional photos. And teens will love the perfect shots to post on Instagram!
4. EXPLORE MONTJUIC
Head up to the top of the mountain at the Castell De Montjuic and then work your way down by foot stopping at the romantic botanic gardens, the beautiful Joan Miro Museum, the grand 1992 Olympic Stadium and the Font Magica (otherwise known as the magic fountain which at various times during the year entertains all ages with its light and sound show). Fit families can opt to hike Montjuic (or cruise into a more leisure-filled day, like ours, can hop the cable car)!
5. SHOP TIL YOU DROP
From one-of-a-kind shops to international high-end chains, Barcelona has stores for every taste. Be sure to add high-end Passeig de Gracia to your list (It’s fun to window shop) and Born’s charming boutiques (vintage furniture, handmade items).
Stop for a kid-friendly tasty treat at Chok! Explore the basement of El Cortes Ingles’ delectable delights in the food hall’s basement.
6. BUM AROUND THE BEACH
Soak in the sun one one of seven beaches in the city! We loved Barceloneta, a mile-long stretch where you can rent a bike, stroll along the wide promenade, take a dip in the ocean, and kick back at one of the many outdoor cafes.
7. GET TRIPPY IN FIGUERES
Day Trip to the quaint town of Figueres where you will find the Salvador Dali Theatre-Museum …this fantasy inspired building decorated with mannequins, eggs and loaves of crusty bread (you have to see it to believe it!) and filled with Dali masterpieces.
Teens will enjoy the optical illusion in the over-the-top Mae West Room. Check out the Rainy Cadillac and the trippy Gala Nude Watching the Sea which which hides a secret famous face you will all be sure to recognize.
8. GET YOUR GAME OF THRONES ON IN GIRONA
Not far away from Figueres sits the romantic city of Girona. Delight in the stunning medieval narrow streets, gorgeous views, interesting museums, a bridge designed by Eiffel himself….and Games of Thrones filming locations at every turn.
9. BASK IN THE LIGHT OF LA SAGRADA FAMILIA
Yes, Gaudi deserves two spots on my top ten list since he dominates this city’s architectural scene. A “must-see” – this towering famously unfinished Gaudí church, La Sagrada Familia (begun way back in 1882).
Book in advance and give yourself time to just sit and watch the light shine through the fabulous glass windows. My kids have been to a lot of churches around the world, and both agreed this one “wowed” them the most! Check out the mini-museum downstairs that explains interesting background about the construction for the structure.
10. RAMBLE ALONG LAS RAMBLAS
People watch, laugh at the buskers, and snack your way through the world famous La Boqueria Market (head deep into the stalls where the locals eat)!
Whatever combination of experiences you choose for your family, make time to wander the quaint neighborhoods and taste local delights along the way. Barcelona will charm your whole family…and keep your teens smiling!
*Have you visited Barcelona?
Lisa Grabelle is a family travel writer for Hilton Mom Voyage. You can follow Lisa on Twitter or Instagram.
Disclosure: Lisa received a complimentary photoshoot with Localgrapher so she could use their service to review for your information.
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