The Costa Dorada is steeped in history, so there are lots of museums, archaeological sights and iconic monuments to visit in the area – perfect if you have a rainy day or just fancy a change from the beach. Children are well catered for at most popular tourist attractions, there are often specialised tours, audio guides or activities to keep them engaged and entertained. The Costa Dorada in Catalonia is loved by families for its calm, shallow waters and child-friendly activities. Firstly, you will find numerous theme parks and water parks to entertain the kids. Likewise, there’s plenty of culture for grown ups such as Tarragona’s Roman Amphitheatre and Reus’ Gaudí Centre which exhibits the famed architect’s work.
Read on to discover our top family friendly things to do in Costa Dorada.
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1. Gaudi Centre, Reus
Dedicated to the architect Antoni Gaudí, who was born in the city of Reus in 1852, this modern museum (opened 2007) takes the visitor on a journey through the artist’s life and works. You will see for example impressive exhibits and audiovisual technology. The kids will love the interactive displays which makes visitors to engage with Gaudi’s work through touch, sound and sight.
Opening Hours: Open daily 10am – 7pm
2. Tourist Train, Tarragona
The ancient city of Tarragona is a ‘must visit’ for any history buffs. The whole city is like an open air museum, brimming with ancient sites like the Roman Amphitheatre. If you have little ones whose legs tire easily, the tourist train is a great way to explore. Furthermore, the entire loop visits 12 important sites across the city.
The visit takes around 50 minutes in total, but you can board and disembark as many times as you like in a day. Your ticket includes headphones with an audio guide so you can learn all about the city’s chequered past.
3. House of illusion, Salou
Fancy an evening show with your dinner? The House of Illusion is an award winning venue where a team of professional magicians will entertain your whole brood. Expect some great tricks, stunts and performances of course.
Tickets to the early show include a two course dinner with unlimited drinks . There’s a lovely sea view terrace and bar for drinks before and after the show too.
The House of Illusion Theatre Show is on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday at 6:30pm & 10pm.
The Salou Big Show (cabaret / variety show) is on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9pm.
4. Sirenas Mediterranean Academy, Tarragona
A really unique experience for any kids who dream of becoming a mermaid. In addition, this academy offers indoor swimming classes where they will learn about the history and mythology of mermaids. Your child will also be given a mermaid outfit in order to learn how to swim like one! They will receive a certificate at the end, as well as a photo of them to remember this amazing experience.
In addition, the mermaid classes are held at various locations across Tarragona and Salou.
5. Tarragona National Archaeological Museum, Tarragona
With so much ancient heritage in this city, it’s no surprise that some of Catalonia’s best museums can be found in Tarragona. This museum is the perfect place to take the family and learn all about its Roman past.
There are lots of children’s activities and events at the museum throughout the year, especially in summer. Including special guided tours, theatre acts, games, cinema showings, workshops and educational talks. Therefore, a great idea among the great activities to do in Costa Dorada.
Opening Hours: 9:30am-8:30 pm Tuesday to Saturday. 10am-2pm on Sundays. Closed on Mondays.
6. Port Aventura Theme Park
One of Europe’s biggest and most popular theme parks, Port Aventura is a must visit for any family visiting the Costa Dorada. The park is divided into six worlds, including a Polynesian jungle and Seseame Street area that little ones will love. In addition to state of the art rollercoasters and rides, there are loads of restaurants and shops, and even six hotels and a camper van area on site.
Most importantly, if you want to save money and plan to visit several times, you can buy a combined ticket to the theme park, adjoining water park and Ferrari Land.
Address: Avinguda del Batlle Pere Molas, km 2, 43840 Vila-seca, Tarragona, Spain
Opening Hours: Open daily from April – October. Times vary, check the website for more info.
7. Beaches
Costa Dorada translates as “The Golden Coast”, thanks to its large number of large sandy beaches. The area is therefore loved by both Spanish residents and tourists alike. For instance, Salou is the most popular tourist spot, but if you’re after something a little quieter, head to Cap Salou, La Pineda or Cambrils, where 9km of sandy beach awaits.
8. Aquopolis Water Park
The Aquopolis franchise has popular water parks all over Spain, and the one in La Pineda is a firm favourite with visiting families. For example, it boasts high adrenaline rides like the black hole, but also plenty of attractions for younger children like slides and splash zones. In addition, there’s also a relaxing hydrotherapy pool and a mini golf course .
Address: Passeig de Pau Casals, 65, 43480 Platja de la Pineda, Tarragona, Spain
Opening Hours: Open from April to October, days and times vary according to the season. Check the website for more information.
9. Parc Sama
If you fancy a change from the beach, this beautiful botanic park in Salou is a green oasis where you can escape the crowds. You can let the kids loose around the fountains, lakes and play areas, so they can burn off some energy. You can also spot plenty of wildlife- peacocks, parrots, terrapins, deer and ducks, for instance. However, there is an entry fee to consider, which is 10 Euros for adults and 6 Euros for children over seven.
Address: Carretera de Vinyols, s/n, 43850 Cambrils, T, Spain
Opening Hours: Open daily at 10am each day. Closing times vary depending on season.
10. Bosc Aventura
A multi-activity adventure park in Salou’s centre with fun activities for all ages, even for children as young as three years old. Firstly test your balance on obstacles and zip wires in the forest, and after that have a go at ‘soft’ paintball, archery tag and minigolf. In addition, there’s also a pleasant picnic area where you can refuel afterwards.
Address: Carrer de Barbastre, 15, 43840 Salou, Spain
Opening Hours: Open daily from April to October. Timings vary depending on the season, check the website for more info.
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