7 Must-See Attractions in Barcelona for Educational School Trips
There is no place quite like Barcelona! As the official capital of Catalonia in Northern Spain, it is one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in Europe, attracting visitors from across the globe.
More than just a tourist hotspot, it also offers numerous educational opportunities for students of all ages. Whether you are studying art, languages, music, history, or geography, there’s something to spark curiosity and inspire learning at every turn during Barcelona school trips.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven of the top educational attractions in Barcelona. Each destination gives students a deeper understanding of both the subject matter and the culture that shapes it.
So, if you’re planning school trips to Barcelona, keep reading to explore the very best the city has to offer.
Five fun facts about Barcelona
First, let’s share a few fun facts about Barcelona you may (or may not) have heard. These quirky bits of trivia not only showcase the city's rich heritage and unique character, but they’ll also get students curious, engaged, and excited about visiting before taking flight!
1. Barcelona has its own language: While Spanish is widely spoken, Barcelona is a region with its own distinct dialect. Street signs, public announcements, and even school lessons are often in Catalan. It offers a fascinating glimpse into how language shapes communities, not to mention a great way to hear and learn a few Catalan phrases while exploring the city.
2. The Eiffel Tower was almost built in Barcelona: Hard to imagine an iconic French monument in Spain, but it’s true! Gustave Eiffel initially proposed his tower for the 1888 Universal Exposition in Barcelona, but local officials rejected it, deeming it too strange and expensive. Thankfully, Paris gave it the green light a year later, and it makes for a good conversation starter!
3. Barcelona’s beaches are all artificial: Before the 1992 Olympic Games, the city's coastline was more industrial than idyllic. As part of a massive urban regeneration project, Barcelona imported sand (some even from Egypt!) to transform its coastline into golden beaches, promenades, and leisure spaces.
4. World Book Day originated here: The idea came from local publisher Vicente Clavel in 1922. It's now celebrated on April 23rd, which also coincides with Sant Jordi's Day in Catalonia – a beautiful tradition where people exchange books and roses. It's often called the "Catalan Valentine's Day."
5. Barcelona might be older than Rome: Legend has it that Barcelona was founded by the mythological Hercules, 400 years before Rome was built. While historical evidence suggests its Roman roots (it was once known as Barcino), this ancient myth undoubtedly adds a layer of mystery to the city's origins.
Top educational attractions in Barcelona
From Gaudí’s world-renowned architecture and Picasso’s surreal art to the lively streets of Las Ramblas, Barcelona is bursting with unforgettable attractions that both educate and entertain. Here are some of the very best to include on your next Barcelona school trip itinerary.
1. La Sagrada Família
Location: Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona
Opening times: Daily from 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (times may vary by season)
How to get there: Take the Metro Line 2 or 5 to “Sagrada Família” station. School groups can enter through the entrance on c/ de la Marina.
What to see and do:
No educational trip to Barcelona is complete without marvelling at Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece, La Sagrada Família. Still under construction more than 140 years after it began, this iconic basilica is a testament to architectural genius and a symbol of Catalan modernism.
Here, students can explore the towering spires, intricate facades, and stunning stained glass windows, which are rich in religious iconography, while learning about Gaudí’s use of organic forms and natural light in his technique. Choirs on Catalonia music school trips may also perform a short sacred programme inside the basilica, experiencing its remarkable acoustics and spiritual atmosphere firsthand.
2. Park Güell
Location: Carrer d'Olot, 08024 Barcelona
Opening times: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM (subject to change)
How to get there: Take the Metro Line 3 to “Lesseps” or “Vallcarca”, followed by a 15-minute walk. Buses H6, D40 lines are also available, and coaches for groups have their own entrance on Carretera del Carmel.
What to see and do:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Park Güell is another one of Gaudí’s extraordinary creations and a staple attraction on many school trips to Barcelona. First built in 1900, this whimsical public park offers panoramic views of the city and showcases the architect’s playful style.
Wander through mosaic-covered pathways, encounter the famous mosaic lizard (El Drac) and explore the gatehouse topped with fly agaric mushrooms. Be sure to visit the Gaudí House Museum, where maths students can explore symmetry, tessellations, and geometric patterns. Meanwhile, groups on cultural trips can discover more about his life, inspirations, and lasting impact on Catalan identity.
3. PortAventura
Location: Avinguda Alcalde Pere Molas, km 2, 43480 Vila-seca, Tarragona
Opening times: Typically 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM or later (check calendar for details)
How to get there: A 1-hour train from Barcelona Sants Station is the fastest way to “PortAventura” station. It is also accessible by car directly from the A-7, or is just 15 minutes from Reus Airport.
What to see and do:
For a day of fun and adrenaline, head to PortAventura World, located on Tarragona's Costa Daurada, just over an hour outside Barcelona. This award-winning theme park is a firm favourite for educational trips to Barcelona. Students can enjoy six distinct themed lands (Mediterrània, Polynesia, China, Mexico, the Far West, and SésamoAventura), each inspired by different cultures around the world.
Thrill-seekers can take on rides like Shambhala, one of Europe’s tallest roller coasters, while younger primary pupils can enjoy gentler attractions and interactive play zones. Beyond the rides, PortAventura offers live shows, from Chinese acrobatics to Mexican folklore that bring global cultures to life. It’s a fun, memorable way for students to unwind after busy days of sightseeing.
4. Picasso Museum
Location: Carrer Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona
Opening times: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (seasons may vary)
How to get there: The closest metro station is “Jaume I” station on the L4 - Yellow Line, situated just a short walk away. Then, follow the signs for Carrer Jaume I or Carrer de l'Argenteria, which will lead you directly to the museum.
What to see and do:
Located in the historic Gothic Quarter, the Picasso Museum is a must-visit for groups studying fine arts and 20th-century history. Home to over 4,000 works, the museum offers a rare and in-depth look at Picasso’s formative years, many of which were spent in Barcelona.
Art students can trace Picasso’s development from classical academic works like Science and Charity (1897) to his emotionally charged “Blue Period”, where darker tones reflect personal and social struggles. A dedicated gallery explores his reinterpretations of Las Meninas by Velázquez, highlighting his analytical approach to breaking down traditional forms and reshaping them through Cubism.
5. Las Ramblas
Location: Stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to Port Vell
Opening times: Open 24/7 as a public space
How to get there: Take the metro Line 3 to “Liceu” or “Drassanes”.
What to see and do:
A stroll along Las Ramblas is an essential experience and ranks among the top educational attractions in Barcelona. This bustling tree-lined street stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to the waterfront, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with street performers, flower stalls, and outdoor cafes.
Students on language school trips practise their Spanish, observe local life, and learn about the street’s cultural significance as a hub of activity. Don’t forget to visit the Maritime Museum (open from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM) and Gran Teatre del Liceu (open Monday–Friday 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM), a breathtaking opera house with origins dating back to the mid-nineteenth century.
6. L'Aquarium Barcelona
Location: Moll d'Espanya del Port Vell, s/n, 08039 Barcelona
Opening times: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (varies seasonally)
How to get there: You can reach the aquarium by taking the L3 (green line) and getting off at the Drassanes station.
What to see and do:
L’Aquàrium Barcelona is a must-visit. With over 11,000 animals and 450 species, it’s one of the most important marine centres in Europe. On educational trips to Barcelona, students can walk through the 80-metre underwater tunnel for a 360° view of sharks, rays and other colourful fish from both the Mediterranean and tropical seas.
Educational workshops and interactive exhibits tailored for school groups bring marine biology to life in a hands-on and engaging way. Students can take part in guided sessions led by marine experts, exploring topics such as ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation, and the importance of ocean sustainability.
7. Nou Camp Stadium
Location: C. d'Arístides Maillol, 12, 08028 Barcelona
Opening times: The FC Barcelona Museum is open from 9:30 AM - 7:00 PM
How to get there: Take either the metro Line 3 to “Palau Reial” or “Les Corts” or Line 5 to “Collblanc” or “Badal”.
What to see and do:
Cultural students and sports enthusiasts alike will be thrilled to visit the iconic Nou Camp Stadium, home to FC Barcelona. Officially opened on 24 September 1957, the stadium boasts a capacity of 99,354, making it the largest in Europe. While it’s currently undergoing major renovations, visitors can still enjoy an unforgettable experience through the FC Barcelona Immersive Tour & Museum.
Highlights include a panoramic room with a 360º audiovisual experience that brings the atmosphere of match day to life, interactive touchscreens detailing the team’s achievements, and a hall dedicated to legendary players like Johan Cruyff, Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, and Xavi. With trophies on display, historic kits, and behind-the-scenes content, it’s no surprise this is one of the top attractions in Barcelona.
Plan your next educational adventure in Barcelona with NST!
Whether you’re exploring Gaudí’s architectural wonders, immersing yourself in Picasso’s art, or enjoying the thrill of PortAventura, there’s something for every student to discover and learn!
At NST, we’ve been organising unforgettable school trips to Barcelona for decades. Our expert team handles every detail, from flights and accommodation to itinerary planning and guided tours, ensuring a safe, educational, and exciting experience for both students and teachers.
Why Choose Us?
- A dedicated Trip Co-ordinator to plan your trip from start to finish
- 24/7 support whilst you’re away
- On-tour subject & destination experts to elevate your experience
- Smart online tools and travel app for easy access on-the-go
- Trusted by hundreds of teachers every year
- FEEFO approval rating of 4.8/5
Ready to bring learning to life in one of Europe’s most inspiring cities? Request a quote or get in touch, and start planning your school’s next educational trip to Barcelona!