If you have 4 or more days in Barcelona, then a day trip to Port Aventura World Parks should feature in your itinerary.
The amusement park is 85 km southwest of Barcelona and the train journey takes about 3 hours. Busses take about 1.5 hours.
Let me start by saying that when we planned a visit to Port Aventura, we came across a multitude of conflicting and in some cases, very strong reviews about Port Aventura on a variety of online forums and its constant comparison with Disneyland and Disney World.
We had also been to Disneyland Hong Kong just two years prior to this trip, so these reviews just ended up confusing us even more. I believe, if you've been to any Disneyland anywhere, then a comparison of any amusement park with the former is obvious due to its very family-friendly-park image that we've all grown up with.
Now, after having visited both of these parks, I think I can resolve this dilemma by trying to put things in perspective for you.
Top 3 reasons why you should visit Park Aventura
One, If you're itching for some real heavy-duty excitement, then go for it. The kind of adrenaline-pumping thrill you will get on some crazy rides like Shambhala, Dragon Khan and Hurakan Condor is priceless.
Dragon Khan has 8 loops that swing you upside down so many times that I lost count after the second loop. By the end of our day, we'd been twisted, turned, sideways and upside down, made to travel to dizzying heights and then made to fall mercilessly!
If this sounds exciting to you, then Park Aventura awaits you.
Basically, to say, these rides have really very steep falls and they're certainly not for the timid. But take your pick carefully so that you don't chicken out at the last moment just before the ride.
But there are rides for families with young kids too. The conventional teacup rides and small roller coasters will keep your young ones occupied.
Two, The park is divided into 6 different theme areas - China, Polynesia, The Mediterranean, Sesamo Aventura, Mexico and the Far West. Each theme area has its own theme-based roller coasters. Walking up to the ride is part of the entertainment.
For example, Shambhala is located in China. The theme is based on the mythical land called Shambhala that is now lost in the Himalayan Region. The way to board the roller coaster takes you through the theme-based area.
Hurakan Condor in the theme area of Mexico is one of the most exciting rides in the park. As a sacrifice to God Hurakan, riders are taken to the top of the Aztec Tower. What awaits them there are 100 meters of free fall.
Apart from the rides, there are many stunning performances too. So, research their website well, so as to make optimum use of your time in the park.
Three, Park Aventura has great dining options that include a variety of cuisines, so you can enjoy a hearty meal on your day out.
More on PortAventura World Parks
- The park is divided into 3 zones namely Port Aventura, Caribe Aquatic Park and Ferrari Land.
- Research well before you go because going to all 3 zones in one day would not be possible.
- There are many combinations of tickets that should suit your itinerary and your pocket. If you plan to stay there overnight, then you might want to buy tickets for all three since they are very different experiences.
- Ferrari Land also offers some very exciting rides like Red Force. But if you are on a day trip, then it is wiser to choose just one of the three zones. In my opinion, clubbing even two of them is going to be very exhausting although there are ticket combos available for two zones together.
- Please check their website for more details regarding tickets and packages.
Although Park Aventura has not been portrayed as a fun park for kids, there are a lot of fun activities for them too. But those rides are limited. Some rides like Mine Train and Grand Canyon Rapids are okay for kids but they have a minimum height requirement. Please check their website for more details.
- If you're travelling with small kids and you're looking for their day out, then I think you can give this park a miss, especially if you have already been to Disneyland.
And finally, the inevitable comparison with Disneyland....
Well, Disneyland is an overdose of cuteness. Their theme rides, the absolutely delightful parade, the overall ambience of the park, everything is cute. Their audience is kids along with their families.
Port Aventura, on the other hand, is exhilarating. Their rides are cool. Their target audience is teenagers and youngsters raring to go the extra mile to get a shot of adrenaline.
No wonder, my teenage boys couldn't stop raving about the thrilling rides they had at the park.
To sum up, I would say, Disneyland exudes an old-world charm and warmth that I believe is impossible to replicate.
Port Aventura, on the other hand, offers the new-age, high-octane thrill and excitement. So, make your choice!
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