Barcelona Zoo adheres to the World Zoo Conservation Strategy. Animals you can see that are part of the conservation programmes, include the giant anteater, the pygmy hippopotamus, the greater kudu, the bontebok, which is a type of antelope and the Gila monster, a two foot long venomous lizard. There is a daily dolphin show and pony rides.

Approx distance and means of transportation: 3.8km / 9 minutes by taxi

L’Aquàrium de Barcelona is the world centre of information on Mediterranean marine life. A series of 35 tanks and an 80 metres long underwater tunnel holds 450 different species. Activities include diving with sharks.

Approx distance and means of transportation: 2.3km/ 8 min-ride by car

Tibidabo is a family amusement park that has been open for over 100 years, which means the exhibits mix traditional, such as the 1928 airplane ride with state of the art. Views from the highest point of the city are fabulous and even more spectacular from the top of the ferris wheel.

Approx distance and means of transportation: 14-minute taxi ride

For the children an exciting part of the visit will be the eight minute cable car ride. At the top though the views are terrific. They may also enjoy a sense of history as this was the sight of the original fortification on Montjuïc Mountain built in 1640. Today the castle is under development as a place for leisure and learning and will include a museum. You take the cable car from near the marina.

Approx distance and means of transportation: 10 minute taxi ride to the cable car stop

This famous Gaudi park is a sight not to be missed and the children will find many aspects as fascinating as adults do, with grotto like structures and multi-coloured modernist tiling. The main terrace is edged by a long stone seat in the form of a colourful sea serpent. At the entrance you are greeted by a large mosaic dragon.

Approx distance and means of transportation: 3.5km/ 14 minute taxi ride

This is a very beautiful and large green space for a run about, not very far from our hotel. The zoo is located in the park and also the museum of geology with a collection of minerals. There are many interesting sculptures, including a fabulous dragon fountain by Gaudi. You can hire boats and row on the pond.

Approx distance and means of transportation: 3.4km/ 8 minute taxi ride

An advanced science museum, created for hands on interaction with science and natural history. The rainforest exhibit is filled with 30 metre high trees and it actually rains. Put your hand in the eye of a tornado or play with the wave simulator to understand how waves form our shores. This sophisticated museum occupies a modernist building.

Approx distance and means of transportation: 4.4km / 13 minute taxi ride