portaventura

Science school trips to Barcelona

A city that’s buzzing with energy and plenty of science and mathematical connections to test your students’ problem-solving skills, Barcelona is a great choice for a STEM-based school trip. Investigate links between nature and geometry in the city’s Modernist architecture, or examine Gaudi’s transformations, shapes, and the benefits of his signature parabolic arch. Excursions can include pioneering science museums, wildlife rehabilitation centres, and visits to water or waste treatment plants to explore how science in action plays a part in our day-to-day lives. Whether your primary focus is physics, chemistry, biology, or another STEM topic, there's something for everyone on our science school trips to Barcelona.

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES


Day 1
  • Depart the UK and travel to Barcelona
  • Walking tour of Barcelona
  • Evening meal at local restaurant

Day 2
  • Cosmo Caixa Museum
  • Barcelona Super Computing Centre
  • Evening Flamenco show & tapas

Day 3
  • Full day at Port Aventura

Day 4
  • La Sagrada Familia
  • Las Ramblas
  • Camp Nou Stadium
  • Return to the UK
sagrada familia

Features

ACCOMMODATION

Urbany Go

A modern, friendly hostel located close to Plaza Catlunya, Urbany Go is well-equipped for all your group's needs while away. The hostel is also close to several of Barcelona's sights and, for those a little further afield, Universitat metro station is just 300m away.

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Close to public transport
  • Terrace
  • 24-hour reception

Roma Reial

A well-established hotel in the heart of Barcelona, Roma Reial is an ideal base for school groups looking to explore the city with minimal fuss. The nearest metro station (Liceu) is a 100m walk from the hotel, and there are several bus stops nearby.

  • Central location
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • Restaurant

TOC Hostel

For sleek rooms and shared dorms in central Barcelona, look no further than TOC Hostel. Days can be spent easily getting around from the hostel's Central Ciutat Vella (Eixample district), while the outdoor pool and screening room will keep your students entertained in the evening.

  • Wi-Fi
  • Luggage lockers
  • Air conditioning

Urbany Go

A modern, friendly hostel located close to Plaza Catlunya, Urbany Go is well-equipped for all your group's needs while away. The hostel is also close to several of Barcelona's sights and, for those a little further afield, Universitat metro station is just 300m away.

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Close to public transport
  • Terrace
  • 24-hour reception

Roma Reial

A well-established hotel in the heart of Barcelona, Roma Reial is an ideal base for school groups looking to explore the city with minimal fuss. The nearest metro station (Liceu) is a 100m walk from the hotel, and there are several bus stops nearby.

  • Central location
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • Restaurant

TOC Hostel

For sleek rooms and shared dorms in central Barcelona, look no further than TOC Hostel. Days can be spent easily getting around from the hostel's Central Ciutat Vella (Eixample district), while the outdoor pool and screening room will keep your students entertained in the evening.

  • Wi-Fi
  • Luggage lockers
  • Air conditioning

Excursions

Cosmo Caixa Museum

Students can delve into learning about the environment, nature and science around the world at this amazing science museum, which also features a planetarium alongside its plentiful permanent and temporary exhibitions. With interactive elements based around all five senses, your school group will be captivated as they journey through the Amazon rainforest, geological formations, and even the Big Bang.

CRARC Amphibian Rehabilitation Centre

Dedicated to the rehabilitation of amphibians and reptiles, with the goal of returning them to their natural habitat, the CRARC promotes scientific research and environmental education, making it an excellent option for science-focused school groups.

CRAM (Recovery of Marine Animals)

During this excursion, students walk around the foundation's facilities and visit different areas of the centre, discovering the problems affecting the marine environment and the efforts being made to solve them.

Fabra Observatory

With its incredible telescope dating from 1904, the Fabra Observatory is the world's fourth-oldest astronomical observatory still in operation. Here, students will learn about astronomy, meteorology, and seismology, from the observatory's vantage point at the top of Tibidao – with wonderful views of the city. 

Water Treatment Plant

One of the largest and most modern wastewater treatment plants in Europe, the Prat Llobregat plant treats 420 million litres per day, equivalent to the water use of two million inhabitants.

Waste Treatment Plant

Learn all about how science applications contribute to daily life on this excursion, where groups will tour a plant for mechanical and biological treatment of municipal waste.

IDEAL Digital Culture Centre

A pioneering space that experiments with virtual reality, IDEAL gives students the opportunity to explore science and technology through its large-format exhibitions, offering immersive experiences for all ages.

Tech Barcelona

Explore the association that supports Barcelona's digital and technological industries. On this excursion, school groups will discover Tech Barcelona's mission, and tour the various offices where projects by both local and multinational corporations are being developed.

Aquarium

Europe’s most important recreational and educational marine centre, the Barcelona Aquarium is home to more than 11,000 animals of 450 different species across 21 large aquariums. We know students will love learning about Mediterranean aquatic life in this colourful and sensory visit.

Barcelona Zoo

With a diverse collection of more than 2,000 animals from around the world, Barcelona Zoo offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique characteristics and behaviours of incredible creatures such as the pygmy hippopotamus and red panda. The zoo’s attractions also include a primate house, a ‘Land of Dragons’ which features Komodo dragons and more large reptiles, and an Aquarama where they can watch dolphin shows.

Camp Nou Experience

Immerse your students in the atmosphere of the phenomenal Camp Nou football stadium – home of Barcelona Football Club since its construction in 1957. With a capacity of 98,787, making it the largest stadium in Europe, we’ve seen school groups amazed by both its size and energy.

Port Aventura

One of Europe’s most exciting theme parks, Port Aventura captures the culture and atmosphere of regions around the world, with themed areas based on the Mediterranean, Polynesia, China, Mexico and the Wild West. A fun and relaxing excursion one hour outside of Barcelona, we know students recharge during a day spent here, readying them for more sights back in the city.

La Sagrada Familia

The symbol of Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia is a must-visit when staying in this Catalan city. Arguably one of the most spectacular basilicas in the world, Gaudi’s original design is still unfinished to this day. Though breathtaking from the outside, the inside of the church doesn’t disappoint either – we’ve seen students gaze in awe at the colourful stained glass windows and towering columns.

Montjuic

Boasting a vast history dating back several thousand years, the 213-metre hill of Montjuic features several attractions, from its Spanish Village and Magic Fountain to the MNAC (Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya) – one of the city's most important museums. Explore the beauty of the local botanical gardens or exhibition rooms – excursions we know have been popular with student groups.

Garrotxa Volcanic Park Girona

Explore the natural landscape of Garrotxa Volcanic Park, which spans over 15,000 hectares, comprising 38 volcanic cones, with the remains of more than 20 lava outflows, and an abundance of flora and fauna. Located around two hours from central Barcelona, we’ve found the park to be the best example of volcanic terrain on the Iberian Peninsula. A must for Geography students.

Barcelona Teleferic De Montjuic

Teleferic de Montjuic

Catch a ride up to the top of Montjuïc hill on this gondola lift, which offers unbeatable panoramic views across Barcelona. The cable car has been the favoured way of travelling the hill since the 1970s, providing riders with a unique perspective of the most emblematic symbols of Barcelona’s skyline. The journey culminates at Montjuïc Castle – another attraction we know your students will love.

Olympic Stadium

Stand amid the colossal size of the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on this excursion, where Olympic greats once competed in the Summer Olympics of 1992. Now a site for European football matches and large music concerts, the stadium remains a key part of Barcelona’s culture, and offers a nice quick stop for students on any journey around Montjuïc.

Las Ramblas

One of the best-known features of Barcelona, this magnificent mile-long boulevard was originally a mountain stream that ran alongside the 13th century second wall of the city. Now, flower stalls and street art line the pavement, between dozens of shops, restaurants and human statues that we know your students will love exploring.

Flamenco Show & Tapas

It may take years to perfect the dance form of flamenco, the folkloric music tradition of southern Spain, but students can learn the basics with an evening of culture in a welcoming Barcelona dance centre. We’ve seen student groups immerse themselves in the spirit of the dance, encouraged by friendly flamenco musicians and their atmospheric guitar accompaniment.

Waterworld Lloret de Mar

One of the best water parks in Western Europe, Water World is a sprawling leisure complex of pools which include wave machines, waterslides and chutes – perfect for cooling off in the Spanish summer heat. With several restaurants and pancake houses to re-energise, we know your students will love a day to let loose here.

Casa Museu Gaudi

With its intricately framed windows and bright green shutters, Casa Museu Gaudi is instantly recognisable as the architect’s home for 20 years. Located in Park Güell, the house is full of furniture designed by Gaudi, as well as objects and documents relating to him and his life.

Barcelona Seafront

There’s no end of things to do on Barcelona’s vast waterfront, which stretches across more than five kilometres of the eastern Spanish coast. Join the local joggers as you stroll along this beautiful palm lined promenade, taking in the street art, sculptures, and laid back atmosphere along the way.

Cosmo Caixa Museum

Students can delve into learning about the environment, nature and science around the world at this amazing science museum, which also features a planetarium alongside its plentiful permanent and temporary exhibitions. With interactive elements based around all five senses, your school group will be captivated as they journey through the Amazon rainforest, geological formations, and even the Big Bang.

CRARC Amphibian Rehabilitation Centre

Dedicated to the rehabilitation of amphibians and reptiles, with the goal of returning them to their natural habitat, the CRARC promotes scientific research and environmental education, making it an excellent option for science-focused school groups.

CRAM (Recovery of Marine Animals)

During this excursion, students walk around the foundation's facilities and visit different areas of the centre, discovering the problems affecting the marine environment and the efforts being made to solve them.

Fabra Observatory

With its incredible telescope dating from 1904, the Fabra Observatory is the world's fourth-oldest astronomical observatory still in operation. Here, students will learn about astronomy, meteorology, and seismology, from the observatory's vantage point at the top of Tibidao – with wonderful views of the city. 

Water Treatment Plant

One of the largest and most modern wastewater treatment plants in Europe, the Prat Llobregat plant treats 420 million litres per day, equivalent to the water use of two million inhabitants.

Waste Treatment Plant

Learn all about how science applications contribute to daily life on this excursion, where groups will tour a plant for mechanical and biological treatment of municipal waste.

IDEAL Digital Culture Centre

A pioneering space that experiments with virtual reality, IDEAL gives students the opportunity to explore science and technology through its large-format exhibitions, offering immersive experiences for all ages.

Tech Barcelona

Explore the association that supports Barcelona's digital and technological industries. On this excursion, school groups will discover Tech Barcelona's mission, and tour the various offices where projects by both local and multinational corporations are being developed.

Aquarium

Europe’s most important recreational and educational marine centre, the Barcelona Aquarium is home to more than 11,000 animals of 450 different species across 21 large aquariums. We know students will love learning about Mediterranean aquatic life in this colourful and sensory visit.

Barcelona Zoo

With a diverse collection of more than 2,000 animals from around the world, Barcelona Zoo offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique characteristics and behaviours of incredible creatures such as the pygmy hippopotamus and red panda. The zoo’s attractions also include a primate house, a ‘Land of Dragons’ which features Komodo dragons and more large reptiles, and an Aquarama where they can watch dolphin shows.

Camp Nou Experience

Immerse your students in the atmosphere of the phenomenal Camp Nou football stadium – home of Barcelona Football Club since its construction in 1957. With a capacity of 98,787, making it the largest stadium in Europe, we’ve seen school groups amazed by both its size and energy.

Port Aventura

One of Europe’s most exciting theme parks, Port Aventura captures the culture and atmosphere of regions around the world, with themed areas based on the Mediterranean, Polynesia, China, Mexico and the Wild West. A fun and relaxing excursion one hour outside of Barcelona, we know students recharge during a day spent here, readying them for more sights back in the city.

La Sagrada Familia

The symbol of Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia is a must-visit when staying in this Catalan city. Arguably one of the most spectacular basilicas in the world, Gaudi’s original design is still unfinished to this day. Though breathtaking from the outside, the inside of the church doesn’t disappoint either – we’ve seen students gaze in awe at the colourful stained glass windows and towering columns.

Montjuic

Boasting a vast history dating back several thousand years, the 213-metre hill of Montjuic features several attractions, from its Spanish Village and Magic Fountain to the MNAC (Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya) – one of the city's most important museums. Explore the beauty of the local botanical gardens or exhibition rooms – excursions we know have been popular with student groups.

Garrotxa Volcanic Park Girona

Explore the natural landscape of Garrotxa Volcanic Park, which spans over 15,000 hectares, comprising 38 volcanic cones, with the remains of more than 20 lava outflows, and an abundance of flora and fauna. Located around two hours from central Barcelona, we’ve found the park to be the best example of volcanic terrain on the Iberian Peninsula. A must for Geography students.

Barcelona Teleferic De Montjuic

Teleferic de Montjuic

Catch a ride up to the top of Montjuïc hill on this gondola lift, which offers unbeatable panoramic views across Barcelona. The cable car has been the favoured way of travelling the hill since the 1970s, providing riders with a unique perspective of the most emblematic symbols of Barcelona’s skyline. The journey culminates at Montjuïc Castle – another attraction we know your students will love.

Olympic Stadium

Stand amid the colossal size of the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on this excursion, where Olympic greats once competed in the Summer Olympics of 1992. Now a site for European football matches and large music concerts, the stadium remains a key part of Barcelona’s culture, and offers a nice quick stop for students on any journey around Montjuïc.

Las Ramblas

One of the best-known features of Barcelona, this magnificent mile-long boulevard was originally a mountain stream that ran alongside the 13th century second wall of the city. Now, flower stalls and street art line the pavement, between dozens of shops, restaurants and human statues that we know your students will love exploring.

Flamenco Show & Tapas

It may take years to perfect the dance form of flamenco, the folkloric music tradition of southern Spain, but students can learn the basics with an evening of culture in a welcoming Barcelona dance centre. We’ve seen student groups immerse themselves in the spirit of the dance, encouraged by friendly flamenco musicians and their atmospheric guitar accompaniment.

Waterworld Lloret de Mar

One of the best water parks in Western Europe, Water World is a sprawling leisure complex of pools which include wave machines, waterslides and chutes – perfect for cooling off in the Spanish summer heat. With several restaurants and pancake houses to re-energise, we know your students will love a day to let loose here.

Casa Museu Gaudi

With its intricately framed windows and bright green shutters, Casa Museu Gaudi is instantly recognisable as the architect’s home for 20 years. Located in Park Güell, the house is full of furniture designed by Gaudi, as well as objects and documents relating to him and his life.

Barcelona Seafront

There’s no end of things to do on Barcelona’s vast waterfront, which stretches across more than five kilometres of the eastern Spanish coast. Join the local joggers as you stroll along this beautiful palm lined promenade, taking in the street art, sculptures, and laid back atmosphere along the way.

Trip details

All Equity packages are tailor-made to suit the needs of our groups. Here are our standard package inclusions:

  • Return travel by air or coach (air packages include overseas airport transfer. Coach to UK airport from school is available as an optional extra)
  • All security charges, airport and local taxes
  • 1 free staff place for every 10 full paying passengers by air OR 1 free staff place for every 8 full paying passengers by coach
  • Half-board accommodation
  • Excursions
  • Full use of your coach in resort (this applies to coach groups only and is subject to EU drivers hours regulations)
  • 24-hour emergency service support
  • All travel documentation, luggage labels and resort information
  • Lunches 
  • Meals en-route. While travelling to and from your destination you need to consider meals. These are not included in the package prices
  • Air passenger duty. Any paying passengers over the age of 16 at time of travel will be charged a small tax fee
  • Tourist tax 
  • Damage deposit

Prices are subject to change based on intended dates of travel and final numbers, the Equity team are here to offer you advice and guidance from start to finish, ensuring your school trip runs smoothly and is a great success.

Travel by: Coach / air

Nearest airport: Barcelona El Prat (BCN) 

Transfer time from airport: 30mins

Coach transfer time from Calais: Around 19.5hrs by coach

Best times to travel: April – October

Suggested tour length: 4 days, 3 nights / 3 days, 2 nights