Planning a family trip to Barcelona

This is a sponsored post in association with Avis Car Hire UK.

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Barcelona is a place we can’t wait to take our daughter too.

Like many Brits, I have taken our close proximity to continental Europe a bit for granted. It wasn’t until I got together with my Kiwi wife that I started to take trips there more often. New Zealand is a fairly isolated country, and Kiwis often come to live in London just to take advantage of having all these countries on their doorstep.

But Barcelona (as well as Spain) is still a place I have never been to. I don’t know why – I love the food & what I know of the culture, and I even have a soft spot for the football team. So I can’t wait for us all to head there for a family trip.

City breaks are my favoured kind of holiday. I find the beach too boring (and sandy!) – I would much rather be eating terrific food, admiring the architecture, checking out local attractions, and the like. But I guess one of the great things about Barcelona is that you can have both.

City guides are vital for a newcomer to make the most of their trip, whether it’s for a matter of weeks, days, or even hours. While helping you out with the headline attractions, the best ones will also alert you to hidden gems – to enable you to have an experience to cherish.

Avis have put together a handy & informative Barcelona Guide, and here are some of the recommendations that caught my eye.

1. Tibidabo Amusement Park

This place sounds great, a vintage theme park – over 100 years old – located on the outskirts of the city (so hiring a car probably the best option). Many of the rides are still the original ones, and it also offers great views of the city.

2. Parc de la Ciutadella

Barcelona is blessed with many parks and open spaces. The Parc de la Ciutadella opened 140 years ago, and includes the beautiful Font de la Cascada (pictured).

3. La Monroe tapas

I couldn’t possibly imagine a trip to Spain without indulging in some Tapas. La Monroe is less rustic more hipster, but the food looks delicious.

4. Churros at Xurreria Trebol

More food, the guide recommends indulging in churros (or ‘xurros’ in Catalan) at Xurreria Trebol. These sweet treats are essentially Spain’s doughnuts that you dip into melted chocolate sauce. There are available all over the city but this is their top pick. I know, I want one right now too…!

5. Kiss of Freedom street art

Located in the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is this vibrant piece of street art. From a distance it’s a large (8m x 4m) close up of two mouths kissing – but on closer inspection you see it’s a photomosaic mural – individual images of people enjoying a self-defined moment of freedom.

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For lots more on the above and other great Barcelona travel tips, check out the Avis  Barcelona Guide. Avis also offer car hire in Barcelona.