Family Adventures in Barcelona: A Journey Through Culture and Cuisine

A Day on High

Today was all about Montjuïc, a mountain offering a panoramic view of Barcelona. Jana, Maximilian, and I set out early, eager to explore the various attractions this iconic hill had to offer. From the enchanting Magic Fountain to the unique Poble Espanyol and a cozy evening at a bar, it was a day packed with diverse experiences.


Explore Montjuïc in Barcelona, a stunning hill with panoramic views, lush gardens, and rich cultural attractions for every traveler.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Picnic. The cafe was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their Sunday. Maximilian enjoyed his pancakes, while Jana and I opted for some traditional Spanish pastries. Fueled up, we were ready to tackle Montjuïc.

The first stop was Montjuïc itself. We decided to take the cable car up, which offered stunning views of the city stretching out before us. Maximilian was thrilled, pressing his face against the glass as we ascended, pointing out landmarks like the Sagrada Família and the port. I must admit, even I was captivated by the vista. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love traveling and sharing these experiences with my family.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

Once at the top, we explored the various attractions Montjuïc had to offer. We wandered through the Olympic Park, a testament to the 1992 Summer Olympics. Maximilian was particularly fascinated by the stadium, imagining himself as an Olympic athlete. I explained to him the history of the games and the significance of Barcelona hosting such a prestigious event. Jana, ever the historian, added interesting facts about the architecture and design of the park.

Next, we ventured to Poble Espanyol, an open-air architectural museum showcasing different styles of buildings from across Spain. It was like taking a tour of the entire country in just a few hours! Maximilian enjoyed running through the different sections, marveling at the unique designs. Jana and I appreciated the craftsmanship and the attention to detail in each building. It was a wonderful way to learn about the diverse cultural heritage of Spain.


Discover the essence of Spanish culture at Poble Espanyol, Barcelona's open-air museum showcasing architecture, art, and culinary delights.

We stopped for lunch at Cecconi's Barcelona, which provided a welcome break from our explorations. The restaurant had a lovely ambiance, and the Italian cuisine was a delightful change of pace. Maximilian devoured his pasta, while Jana and I savored some delicious seafood dishes. It was the perfect spot to recharge before continuing our Montjuïc adventure.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Cecconi's Barcelona - where tradition meets modern elegance in every dish.

As evening approached, we made our way to the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. I had heard so much about this spectacle, and I was eager to witness it firsthand. Unfortunately, it seems the Magic Fountain is currently closed due to drought restrictions, which was a bit of a disappointment. I learned that the city council is investing in upgrading the fountain’s systems, with plans to reopen it possibly by August 2025. While we couldn't see the show, we still admired the fountain's structure and the surrounding area, imagining what it must be like when the water dances to music and lights.


Experience the enchanting light and water displays of the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, a must-see attraction in Barcelona's vibrant Montjuïc area.

Instead, we decided to explore the area around the fountain. We strolled along Avinguda de Maria Cristina, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and the beautiful architecture. Even without the fountain show, the area was alive with energy and excitement. Maximilian was captivated by the street performers and the colorful lights.

For dinner, we chose Viana Barcelona, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Catalan cuisine. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was simply outstanding. I tried a local seafood dish, while Jana opted for a vegetarian option. Maximilian, as always, went for something familiar – a delicious chicken dish. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Discover Viana Barcelona: where authentic Spanish flavors meet Mediterranean charm in Ciutat Vella.

To cap off our evening, we ventured to Les Gens Que J'Aime, a bar known for its unique atmosphere. The name translates to The People That I Love, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. Stepping inside was like entering another world. The decor was bohemian and eclectic, with red velvet armchairs, antique furniture, and soft lighting. The bar staff were friendly and welcoming, and the cocktail menu was extensive.


Discover Les Gens Que J'Aime, Barcelona's premier cocktail bar, where creativity meets taste in a vibrant atmosphere.

As we settled into a cozy corner, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Jana and I sipped on our cocktails, while Maximilian enjoyed a non-alcoholic beverage. The bar was filled with a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and good company. It was the perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. I felt a connection to the place, perhaps because of its name. It reminded me of how important it is to surround yourself with the people you love, especially when traveling.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Montjuïc had to offer. From historical landmarks to cultural experiences and natural beauty, it was a microcosm of Barcelona itself. I was grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

As we headed back to the ME Barcelona, I couldn't help but feel excited about what tomorrow would bring. According to the itinerary, we’ll be visiting Ciutadella Park, the Arc de Triomf, and the Barcelona Zoo. I’m particularly looking forward to seeing Maximilian’s reaction to the zoo. I'm sure he'll be thrilled to see the animals. We also plan to do some shopping at UNUSUAL* Concept Store Barcelona. It’s supposed to be a unique shopping experience, and Jana is eager to check it out. And to end the day, we have a reservation at Lasarte for dinner, which I’ve heard is an exceptional dining experience. I have a feeling it will be another memorable day in Barcelona.


Experience the vibrant heart of Barcelona at ME Barcelona, a 5-star hotel offering exquisite amenities, local cuisine, and unparalleled service.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy a portable phone charger tomorrow. My phone almost died today, and it would have been a disaster without it. I also thought about how much Maximilian enjoyed the cable car ride. It reminded me of our trip to the mountains in the Czech Republic, where he also loved riding the ski lifts. Perhaps we should plan another mountain getaway soon.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb,” and today, Montjuïc certainly proved that. The day was a mix of highs and lows, but in the end, it was the shared experiences and the moments of joy that made it truly special. I am already looking forward to tomorrow and the adventures that await us in this beautiful city.

Until then, goodnight from Barcelona!