In the heart of the rejuvenated Port Vel (Old Port), the Maritime Museum is a great museum for kids that tells the story of Catalonia's long and successful history as a sea-faring kingdom.


Once parts of Sardinia were under Catalan control and the Mediterranean was criss-crossed by Barcelonan ships trading with far flung countries such as Turkey and Greece.


Housed in the medieval shipyard, the soaring gothic arches create a dramatic backdrop for an impressive story told through sound effects and plenty of hands-on exhibits.


Presiding over a fleet of traditional shipping and fishing vessels is a life-size replica of the Royal Gallery, Don Juan de Austria, which was the flagship vessel of the "Holy League" that vanquished the Turks at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.


The museum Marítim is open daily from 10am-7pm and is situated in:
Avenida de les Drassanes, 08001 Barcelona.


The entrance cost is only €5,40 for adults and € 2.70 for children.

Great value and it should keep the kids entertained for an hour or two! Good idea if it's going to be raining too...check out the 5 day weather forecast here