š¢ PortAventura World: 30 years of thrills, family fun and adventure in Spain
If you love theme parks, roller coasters, and family adventures, PortAventura World in Spain should be high on your travel list. Located just one hour south of Barcelona, this massive resort has been entertaining visitors for 30 years with an irresistible mix of adrenaline rides, themed worlds, and family-friendly attractions.
In our latest SideQ video, we spent a full day exploring PortAventura Park, discovering its most iconic areas and rides. From wild west towns to Mayan temples and dragon-shaped roller coasters, every corner feels like a trip around the world.
š Welcome to PortAventura World
First thing to note is that PortAventura World isnāt just one park, itās a resort complex that includes:
š” PortAventura Park, the main theme park (and focus of this post)
šļø Ferrari Land, home to the record-breaking Red Force roller coaster
š¦ Caribe Aquatic Park, a water park open during summer
šØ Themed Hotels, for those who want to stay right next to the park
Together, they make up one of Europeās biggest theme park destinations, welcoming millions of visitors each year.
āļø MediterrĆ nia ā The Gateway to Adventure
Our journey begins in MediterrĆ nia, a charming Spanish seaside village. Youāll find peaceful views, colorful facades, and the gentle sound of boats on the lake. Itās the perfect place to grab a coffee and plan your day.
But donāt let its calm deceive you, MediterrĆ nia is home to Furius Baco, one of the fastest roller coasters in Europe, launching you from 0 to 135 km/h in just a few seconds!
š¤ Far West ā Where Itās Always the 4th of July
In the Far West, itās always Independence Day in the town of Penitence. Wooden sidewalks, saloons and country music set the scene for both wild rides and family fun.
š¢ Must-do attractions:
Stampida ā a classic wooden dueling coaster thatās pure chaos (in a good way)
Uncharted ā a brand-new indoor coaster inspired by the adventure movie
Wild Buffalos and Carousel ā perfect for younger explorers
Everything here feels like a living movie set, complete with cowboys and can-can dancers. And if you have time, don't miss the "West Gold Frenzy" stunt show. It's a blast! You jsut need to plan for it and arrive a few minutes before the show.
This area blends Mayan ruins with a party atmosphere. For thrill-seekers, El Diablo ā Tren de la Mina offers a fun runaway mine experience, now with optional AR goggles for a next-level ride!
Looking for something more extreme? Hurakan Condor drops you 100 meters from the sky. It's one of the parkās most iconic towers.
When hunger strikes, head to La Cantina, our favorite restaurant in the park. Live mariachi music, tacos, and burritos make it the perfect pit stop. And the Chili con Carne is our top recommendation. š®
š China ā Legends of Speed and Height
China is home to two of PortAventuraās legendary roller coasters:
Dragon Khan, famous for its eight inversions and pure adrenaline.
Shambhala, a towering hypercoaster that combines height, smoothness, and breathtaking views.
These two giants dominate the park skyline and are a dream for coaster lovers.
Our daughter Maju loved this area, itās impossible not to smile here. The must-do attraction is Street Mission, but be prepared for longer wait times.
š“ Polynesia ā Shows and Tropical Energy
After so many rides, Polynesia is a great spot to relax. Watch a vibrant show with music, fire and dance. Or cool off on Tutuki Splash, a thrilling water ride through a tropical jungle setting.
š 30 Years of PortAventura Magic
Since opening in 1995, PortAventura has continued to evolve, adding new attractions, shows and technologies to keep visitors coming back. Whether youāre chasing record breaking thrills or just want to create family memories, itās a destination that truly has something for everyone.
š¬ Watch Our Full Video
See our complete day at PortAventura in this video on our YouTube channel SideQ š
Watch on YouTube
š§ Plan Your Visit
š Location: Salou, Costa Daurada (1h from Barcelona)
š Best time to visit: Spring or early autumn for fewer crowds
š« Tickets: You can buy online at portaventuraworld.com
š How to get there:
There are several easy ways to reach PortAventura from Barcelona:
By train: Mid-distance Renfe trains depart from Barcelona Sants station and stop directly at PortAventura station. The journey takes around 1 hour.
By bus: Several companies run daily buses from Barcelona city center or the airport straight to the park entrance.
By car: You can drive via the AP-7 highway; parking is available right next to the main gate.
š Final Thoughts
PortAventura is much more than a theme park, itās a full-day (or even multi-day) journey around the world, packed with rides, culture and emotions. Whether youāre visiting with kids, friends or as a couple, itās an unforgettable experience in Spainās sunny Costa Daurada.
If you enjoyed this post, donāt forget to: š Subscribe to our YouTube channel SideQfor more family travel adventures across Europe. š Follow us on Instagramfor behind-the-scenes photos and Reels!
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By Maxmiliano Franco Braga
October 17, 2025
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