In this post, I will help you to find Where to stay in Barcelona with family, the best areas to stay in Barcelona with kids and the best family-friendly hotels in Barcelona for all budgets.
Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, offers a plethora of attractions and activities for families seeking an unforgettable holiday. Whether you’re looking for a bustling city center or a more tranquil residential area, Barcelona’s diverse neighborhoods promise a delightful experience for the entire family.
Where to Stay in Barcelona with Family?
The best areas to stay in Barcelona with family are Barceloneta, Barri Gòtic, Plaza de Catalunya, Eixample, Gracia, Poblenou due to its family-friendly atmosphere, convenient amenities, and proximity to key attractions.
When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as the size of your family, budget, and the amenities you need. Renting a vacation apartment can be a good choice for families, as it provides more space and a kitchen for preparing meals.
Overviews of best areas to stay in Barcelona with kids
Here is an overview of recommended areas in Barcelona for family with kids:
| Best areas in Barcelona with family | Why should you stay in this area? |
|---|---|
| Barceloneta | Best overall area for families seeking a mix of city exploration and beach relaxation. The area has numerous seafood restaurants, beachfront bars, and easy access to popular attractions like Port Vell and Gothic Quarter. |
| Barri Gòtic | an excellent area for a family holiday in Barcelona. It offers a vibrant atmosphere, historical landmarks like the Gothic Quarter and the Picasso Museum, and convenient access to popular attractions, restaurants, and shops. |
| Plaza de Catalunya | a central location with easy access to attractions, parks, shopping, and transportation, ensuring convenience and diverse activities for all family members. |
| Eixample | known for its beautiful architecture, wide boulevards, and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers plenty of hotels and apartments suitable for families, and it’s conveniently located within walking distance of many major attractions like Sagrada Familia and Passeig de Gracia. |
| Gracia | a charming and bohemian neighborhood that has a relaxed and family-friendly vibe. It offers narrow streets, picturesque squares, and numerous parks. It’s a bit removed from the bustling tourist areas, which can make it a peaceful retreat for families. |
| Poblenou | an up-and-coming neighborhood that offers a mix of modern and industrial architecture. It has a laid-back atmosphere and is popular with families due to its proximity to the beach and wide range of family-friendly amenities. |
Map of Best areas where to Stay in Barcelona with Family:
6 Best areas to Stay in Barcelona with Family
1. Barceloneta
Barceloneta is the best overall area to stay in Barcelona for families due to its prime location, close to the beaches and the historic center of the city. The area is known for its vibrant beach scene, seafood restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
There are several sandy beaches in the neighborhoods including Barceloneta Beach, Sant Miquel Beach, Somorrostro Beach, and San Sebastian Beach.
Families can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles along the shoreline. There are water sports activities such as paddleboarding, jet skiing, and sailing. You can rent equipment or book lessons from the beachfront vendors.
The beaches are well-maintained and offer various amenities, such as beach bars, showers, and lifeguard services.
The neighborhood features a scenic waterfront promenade, known as the Passeig Marítim. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or bike ride with your family. Along the promenade, you’ll find restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops where you can stop for a snack or refreshment.
Originally a fishing village, the area is home to many seafood restaurants, serving fresh catches of the day. You can savor traditional dishes like paella, grilled fish, and tapas. Many restaurants offer child-friendly menus and provide a lively atmosphere suitable for families.
Barceloneta is adjacent to Port Vell, Barcelona’s old harbor, where you can find Barcelona Aquarium, Museu d’Història de Catalunya, and Maremagnum shopping center. Families can explore the aquarium’s diverse marine life, learn about the region’s history together, or enjoy shopping and dining experiences at Maremagnum.
Your family and children can access the viewing platform at the Mirador de Colom, a monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus, and admire the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
With well-connected public transportation, including buses and metro lines, you can easily explore attractions such as the Gothic Quarter, the La Rambla, the El Born neighborhood, the Picasso Museum, the Ciutadella Park, the Sagrada Familia, or the Park Güell.
Barceloneta is an enjoyable area to stay if being close to the beach and the vibrant beach scene is a priority for your family. Itcan get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, you might want to consider other areas like Eixample or Gràcia.
There are plenty of choices in hotels, guest houses, and apartments, ranging from budget to luxury options.
Best places to stay in Barcelona in Barceloneta for family:
- luxury ($$$): W Barcelona
- mid-range ($$): Barcelona Beach Apartments
- budget ($): Hotel 54 Barceloneta
2. Barri Gòtic
The Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, characterized by narrow streets, medieval architecture, and a rich historical atmosphere. By staying in this area, families can immerse themselves in the rich history and cultural heritage of the city.
The Gothic Quarter is situated in the heart of Barcelona and is within walking distance of popular landmarks like the Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça de Catalunya, and La Rambla. Families can save time and transportation costs by staying in a central location.
The Gothic Quarter is primarily a pedestrian zone, with limited vehicular access. This makes it safer and more enjoyable for families with children to explore the area on foot. Parents can relax knowing that their kids can freely roam around without the worry of heavy traffic.
The neighborhood is steeped in history and boasts beautiful Gothic and Romanesque buildings, picturesque squares, and charming alleyways. It offers a unique ambiance that attracts tourists and locals alike.
The Barri Gòtic is home to numerous art galleries, museums, and cultural centers, making it an ideal base for art enthusiasts and history buffs. You can visit the Picasso Museum, the Museum of the History of Barcelona, or explore the archaeological remains in the area.
The Gothic Quarter is renowned for its vibrant food and nightlife scene. You’ll find a wide range of restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs offering a variety of cuisines and atmospheres. Families can savor delicious Spanish food while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the neighborhood.
The area has a diverse selection of shops, from trendy boutiques to traditional craft stores. You can browse through unique clothing, jewelry, and souvenir shops, as well as local markets such as Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria.
While the Barri Gòtic has its advantages, it’s worth noting that the area can get crowded, and noisy, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The Gothic Quarter provides a range of accommodations suitable for families, including boutique hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. The prices might be higher compared to other neighborhoods due to its popularity.
Best Places to Stay in Barcelona in Barri Gòtic for family:
- luxury ($$$): Serras Barcelona
- mid-range ($$): Aparthotel Arai 4 Superior
- budget ($): Hotel Rialto
3. Plaza de Catalunya
Plaza de Catalunya is one of the most important and well-known squares in Barcelona. It serves as the city’s transportation hub, with excellent access to buses, trains, and metro lines. This makes it convenient for families to explore the city and reach various attractions quickly and easily.
Many of Barcelona’s popular attractions are located within walking distance or a short metro ride from Plaza de Catalunya. Families can save time and energy by staying close to these points of interest.
For example, the famous pedestrian street of La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, and the lively Passeig de Gracia with its luxury shops and Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, are all nearby.
The Plaza is surrounded by several shopping districts, including the upscale Passeig de Gracia and the popular shopping street Portal de l’Angel. Families can enjoy a variety of shops, boutiques, department stores such as El Corte Inglés and FNAC, catering to different tastes and budgets.
It has a diverse range of dining options suitable for families with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and tapas bars. Whether you prefer traditional Spanish cuisine or international dishes, you’ll find plenty of choices nearby.
There are several green spaces nearby where families can relax and enjoy outdoor activities. The famous Park Guell, designed by Gaudi, and the sprawling Ciutadella Park, with its playgrounds, boating lake, and the Barcelona Zoo, are within reach from the Plaza.
The Plaza de Catalunya area can be busy and crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, its central location and convenient access to attractions make it an attractive choice for families who want to make the most of their time in Barcelona.
The area offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for families. You can find family-friendly hotels, serviced apartments, and vacation rentals in the vicinity.
Best places to stay in Placa De Catalunya for families:
- luxury ($$$): Ohla Barcelona
- mid-range ($$): Olivia Plaza Hotel
- budget ($): Boutique Hotel H10 Catalunya Plaza
4. Eixample
Eixample is considered one of the best areas to stay in Barcelona for families due to its central location, safety, family-friendly infrastructure, architectural beauty, and easy access to public transportation.
Eixample is divided into two parts: Eixample Esquerra (Left Eixample) and Eixample Dreta (Right Eixample), which are separated by Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona’s main avenues.
Eixample is centrally located and well-connected to other parts of the city. This makes it convenient for families to access various amenities, such as schools, parks, medical facilities, and shopping centers.
Eixample is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Barcelona. It has a lower crime rate compared to some other areas, providing families with a sense of security and peace of mind.
There is a range of family-oriented infrastructure. There are numerous parks, playgrounds, and green spaces where children can play and families can relax.
Eixample is home to some of Barcelona’s iconic landmarks, including the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà (La Pedrera). The area offers a vibrant cultural scene with museums, theaters, and art galleries, providing enriching experiences for families.
Eixample provides a variety of accommodation options suitable for families, including hotels, serviced apartments, and guest houses. Many of these accommodations offer spacious rooms or apartments with amenities like kitchenettes or separate living areas.
Best Places to stay in Barcelona in Eixample with family:
- luxury ($$$): Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona GL
- mid-range ($$): ICON BCN by Petit Palace
- budget ($): Praktik Èssens
5. Gracia
Gràcia has a reputation for being one of the most family-friendly areas in Barcelona. It is a vibrant neighborhood located just a few kilometers north of the city center and is famous for its bohemian and artistic atmosphere.
Gràcia has its own unique charm and character, with narrow streets, small squares, and a village-like feel. It has a more relaxed and residential feel compared to the bustling city center, which can be appealing for families seeking a quieter environment.
The neighborhood is filled with cozy cafes, trendy bars, and boutique shops. Plaça de la Vila de Gracia, Plaça del Sol, and Plaça de la Virreina, are popular squares where locals and visitors gather to enjoy outdoor terraces and socialize.
Gracia is known for its cultural events and festivals. The neighborhood hosts the famous Festa Major de Gràcia, a week-long celebration where the streets are decorated by local residents. It’s a fun-filled event for the whole family to enjoy.
Gracia is surrounded by beautiful parks and green spaces, such as Park Güell and Parc de la Creueta del Coll. These areas offer plenty of outdoor activities for families, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.
Gracia has excellent public transportation connections, including metro and bus lines, making it easy to access other parts of the city. This accessibility is beneficial for families, allowing them to explore Barcelona’s attractions and amenities without hassle.
Gracia boasts a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of restaurants and cafes. This variety ensures that you’ll find something to suit everyone’s tastes, including kid-friendly options.
Gracia offers a range of accommodation options, including apartments and hotels that can cater to families. However, it’s worth noting that the neighborhood mainly consists of residential buildings, so there might be fewer hotels compared to more tourist-oriented areas.
Best Places to Stay in Barcelona in Gràcia:
- mid-range ($$): Hotel Barcelona 1882
- mid-range ($$): Casagrand Luxury Suites
- budget ($): Be Mate Paseo de Gracia
6. Poblenou
Poblenou is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with parks, playgrounds, and a more residential vibe. If you prefer a quieter neighborhood away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, Poblenou can be a good choice.
Poblenou is located in the northeastern part of Barcelona, near the coastline, which can be a major attraction for families. Being close to the beach means you can easily enjoy beach activities and spend quality time by the sea.
The most well-known beaches in the neighborhood are the Nova Icaria beach, Playa de Bogatell Beach, and Platja de la Mar Bella, which are great places to enjoy sun, sand, and watersports.
There are several parks and green spaces, such as the Parc del Centre del Poblenou and the Parc de Diagonal Mar, where families can enjoy outdoor activities.
The Rambla del Poblenou, a lively pedestrian street, is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, creating a bustling atmosphere. It’s a great place to stroll, enjoy a meal, or simply soak in the local atmosphere.
Poblenou has good public transportation connections, including metro and bus lines, which can make it easier to explore other parts of Barcelona. This can be especially convenient if you plan to visit popular tourist attractions or other family-friendly areas.
Poblenou has undergone significant transformation in recent years, evolving from an industrial area to a thriving hub of innovation and creativity.
Poblenou offers a range of accommodation options suitable for families, including hotels, serviced apartments, and vacation rentals. You can find accommodations with multiple bedrooms, kitchen facilities, and other family-friendly amenities.
Best places to stay in Barcelona in Poblenou with family:
- luxury ($$$): The Level at Melia Barcelona Sky
- mid-range ($$): Rambla Beach Barcelonastuff Apartments
- budget ($): Acta Voraport
See more:
- Where to Stay in Barcelona First Time
- 9 Safest Areas to stay in Barcelona for tourists
- Where to Stay in Barcelona on a Budget
- Where to Stay in Barcelona near Beach
- How Many Days in Barcelona is Enough?
Summary – Where to stay in Barcelona with kids?
In conclusion, Barceloneta, Barri Gòtic, Plaza de Catalunya, Eixample, Gracia, Poblenou are some of the best places to stay in Barcelona for family with kids. They offer a wide range of family-friendly accommodations and acitvities for children of all ages.
Overall, Barceloneta is the best overall area to stay in Barcelona with family because it offers a perfect blend of vibrant beachfront atmosphere, diverse culinary experiences, rich cultural heritage, and easy access to the city center.
If your family wants to stay in the middle of the action, Barri Gòtic and Plaza de Catalunya are the best choices. If you prefer a quieter neighborhood with easy access to other parts of the city, you might want to explore areas Eixample, Gracia, and Poblenou, which also offer family-friendly amenities and accommodations.