Many Spaniards and Catalonians struggle to understand why northern Europeans regard children as a potential problem or ‘issue’ on holiday. They consider it to be an incomprehensible cultural difference between northern and southern Europe – and they may have a point! As a result, in Barcelona on a weekend in Spain break, everything is designed to cater for families including those who travel with young children. Starting at arrival Most visitors fly to Barcelona. The local public transport system is largely modern, efficient and easily accessed. That’s great news because just about all of the big crowd-pulling attractions are easily accessible by road or metro. Unlike in some cities elsewhere, pushchair and prams are usually not a problem. Family accommodation Unusually, a number of city centre hotels offer family rooms – including those accommodating three or four people. They’re also typically very flexible about providing cots and extra beds as well. Although these things are always debateable, most people regard the tariffs in Barcelona’s hotels to be relatively low when compared to other major western European towns. Alternatively, you could opt for an apartment. They usually have several bedrooms and of course, they’re great for self-catering holidays including a weekend in Spain. Having said that, restaurants here are incredibly family friendly and children are always welcome. Babysitting As elsewhere in the world, if you require babysitting services then there are plenty of agencies providing such professionals. You shouldn’t have any trouble in finding an English-speaking babysitter to look after your children at the hotel. Discounts The good news here is that kids under three are typically admitted into attractions free of charge and children up to and including the age of sixteen usually benefit from price reductions. Most museums also offer family tickets – a potential big saving on a typical weekend in Spain break. Travelling to Barcelona Barcelona Airport is served by flights from many of the major cities around the globe. European airlines including Ryanair, Iberia, easyjet, Monarch and BA, fly directly from London, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to do so. You can easily book a Barcelona airport shuttle to deliver you and your family to your hotel or apartment. Depending upon your final destination, that journey will take around 30 minutes. Hotels Violeta Boutique – This is budget accommodation but in a great location and with all the basic conveniences. It’s a charming hotel contained within a 19th century building and has air-conditioning with most rooms having a balcony. There is an attractive terrace and plenty of bars and restaurants nearby. Catelonia Avinyo – Perfect if you have a slightly larger budget. The hotel has a rooftop pool plus hot tub and gym. The rooms aren’t ostentatious but they’re modern and contain a TV, free Wi-Fi, minibar and safe. Hotel Palace GL – An excellent choice for a touch of indulgent accommodation in Barcelona! A good start is the restaurant with a Michelin star and the hotel has its own spa. The rooms are light, airy and spacious, featuring TV and minibar. The staff are helpful, dedicated and readily available to offer all required help. This establishment is an excellent selection for those looking to treat themselves to a little extra luxury on their weekend in Spain city break. Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct, the number one provider of shared and private airport transfers all over Europe and northern Africa. If you’re heading off for a weekend in Spain Lukas and his colleagues can make sure that you and your luggage get to and from the airport swiftly and safely.
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