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The 51 best attractions and places to visit in Barcelona

From massive museums and picture-perfect parks to modernista buildings and beaches galore, these are the best things to see and do in Barcelona

This epicentre of Catalan culture has enough must-see attractions to fill a lifetime. Barcelona is simply packed with excellent museums , restaurants and beautiful sights. No matter your tastes, you’ll easily find something to love here, you just have to find it.

Helpfully, we've whittled it down to the bucket list items for those short on time. From the world-famous to the decidedly local, our pick of the best attractions and places to visit in Barcelona covers a lot of ground. You’ll be pushed to do all of them in one trip, but there's no harm in trying – or you'll just have to come back again, and again, and again…

RECOMMENDED:  Barcelona's best Airbnbs RECOMMENDED:  The best hotels in Barcelona

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Best Barcelona attractions

1.  Sagrada Família

• Attractions
• Religious buildings and sites
• Sagrada Família

Soaring above Barcelona’s cityscape, the Sagrada Família will be the world’s tallest church upon completion (estimated, finally, for 2026). This 130-year labour of love, dreamt up by Antoni Gaudí, is one of the world’s most controversial basilicas, but also one of the most visited. Three million tourists flock here each year to gawk at the architectural achievement that has brought nature, light and religion together into one stunning ensemble. The interior is like a giant jigsaw puzzle, with each new style blending into the rest of Gaudí’s visionary design.

Time Out tip: Don't forget to explore the basement. Admission also gives visitors access to the subterranean museum, which provides the chance to watch sculptors working at plaster-cast models IRL through a large window.

2.  La Rambla

This is undoubtedly the most famous street in Barcelona. Stretching from Port Vell to Plaça de Catalunya in the centre, La Rambla offers a bevvy of shops, flower stands, artworks and attractions. Don’t miss the ornate Canaletes fountain, Boqueria market, Liceu opera house and Teatre Principal.

Time Out tip: Think the opera is for fancy people? Think again. A night at Gran Teatre del Liceu can cost less than tickets to see the ‘in’ band of the moment. Plus, it's not just opera, they host ballet and concerts too.

3.  Barcelona Cathedral

• Ciutat Vella

It’s always worth checking out an inner-city cathedral and Barcelona is no exception. Its cathedral is an impressive example of Gothic architecture that’s now a Cultural Heritage Site and, since 1929, a National Historic Monument. It’s dedicated to the Holy Cross and to Saint Eulalia, patron saint of Barcelona, who was martyred by the Romans and whose remains lie in the crypt. Aside from the artistic and architectural riches of the interior, you should also visit the cloister with its 13 white geese (one for each year of Saint Eulalia’s life) and the well-worn engravings on the floor detailing which guild paid for each part of the chapel.

Time Out tip: If you visit on a Saturday or Sunday morning, you may get to witness the Catalan tradition known as the Sardana dance, performed in the square in front of the cathedral.

4.  Picasso Museum

If the quality of a museum is measured by the number of people queuing to get in, the Picasso Museum takes first place. The museum was created by the cubist painter and his friend and secretary Jaime Sabartès, who donated his collection to the cause. More than 3,800 works make up the permanent collection, and it also hosts an array of temporary exhibitions. 

Time Out tip: Queues can be punishingly long. Visit at lunch or shortly before the last entry in an attempt to avoid them (or book ahead of time online).

5.  La Boqueria Market

• Markets and fairs

Its stallholders have had to learn languages and indulge in public relations because as well as being the main food market in Barcelona, La Boqueria is now a major tourist destination. Just off La Rambla, this is the biggest market in Catalonia, with more than 300 stalls and a surface area of 2,583 square metres. That is a lot of bits to buy. Think of some obscure delicacy, and you’re almost guaranteed to find it here. Artisanal produce is, naturally, in abundance.

Time Out tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid heaving crowds. Your aptitude will be rewarded by the best produce – but remember to shop around, as prices vary hugely.

6.  Barceloneta

Barcelona has miles of beaches, from Sant Sebastià to Llevant. Many can be found in Barceloneta, the famous maritime and workers’ neighbourhood that sprung up on the island of Maians in the 17th century. It’s worth wandering through the streets of Barceloneta to admire its modest yet charming two-storey houses. Another draw is the area’s excellent and varied cuisine, ranging from tapas and vermouth to paella and seafood. You can also spend a few hours checking out the glitzy yachts lining the marinas, such as the Port Olympic complex. 

Time Out tip: Stop in at Can Solé. Founded in 1903, it's one of the city’s classic seafood restaurants, with possibly the most extensive selection of rice and fideuà dishes in the neighbourhood.

7.  Casa Milà

• Sightseeing
• Dreta de l'Eixample

It has been described as looking like rising dough, molten lava or a stone lung. Let's just say you can make up your own description of this weird and wonderful bit of modernism. Casa Milà is a daring example of Gaudí’s use of stone. When La Pedrera, his last civic project, was first commissioned in 1906, the building became a laughing stock for its undulating façade, wrought-iron balconies and vast windows. Today, of course, it is viewed quite differently and Gaudí’s innovative self-supporting stone exterior has won it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. 

Time Out tip: Make a beeline for the roof. Its mosaic-tiled ventilation shafts are topped with what looks like the helmets of medieval knights, which led the poet Pere Gimferrer to dub the spot 'the garden of warriors'.

8.  Botanical Garden

• Sants - Montjuïc

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through 14 hectares of beautiful greenery from around the globe without leaving Barcelona. This botanical garden is split into five areas, with Australian, Californian, Mediterranean, South African and Chilean plants grouped neatly into each. Plus, if you look past the fauna, you’ll get a cracking view of the city. There are about 1500 species in the Jardí Botànic, so start ticking them off.

Time Out tip: On the other side of the park you’ll find a typical farmhouse, where volunteers help to organise public activities.

9.  Park Güell

• Historic buildings and sites
• price 1 of 4

Up in Barcelona’s Horta-Guinardó neighbourhood, is this maze of walls and walkways consisting of gardens, little architectural displays and more, all boasting breathtaking hillside views of the whole city. Highlights include the Hall of One Hundred Columns (though it actually has 86), the mosaic serpent bench and the salamander on the main steps. 

Time Out tip: Entry to the park is free, but if you have €10 to spare, enter the Monumental Zone, where you'll see the iconic mosaic bench and dragon (and more).

10.  Montjuïc Magic Fountain

Most locals will only see this light, music and water show when they are little kids or have to act as tour guides for visitors. But whether you’ve got your own offspring in tow or not, the show brings out childlike wonder in us all. After all, it is magic . Designed by Carles Buïgas, it is one of the last remaining attractions made for the 1929 International Exposition.

Time Out tip: For that little extra je ne sais quoi, go down on New Year's Eve for Festa de Cap d'Any. It's one of the biggest party nights in town and the fountain display is even more spectacular than usual.

11.  Olympic Ring

In 1992, Barcelona captivated the world with the Olympic Games and the Olympic Ring was built on Montjuïc hill. Covering more than 400 hectares, it includes the Calatrava communications tower,  Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium ,  Palau Sant Jordi  sports hall, Picornell swimming pools, and the head office of the Catalan Institute for Physical Education, as well as the Joan Antoni Samaranch Olympic and Sports Museum, which opened in 2007. The ring looks more like a sewing needle to us, but that's fine too. 

Time Out tip: When you book your vaycay, check bookings for Palau Sant Jordi and its adjoining Club. They host major sporting and music events, with anyone from the Back Street Boys and Lenny Kravitz to the basketball world championships held here.

12.  CaixaForum

• Art and design
• La Font de la Guatlla

Another example of a brilliantly restored building. Puig i Cadafalch built this former textile factory at the foot of Montjuïc for the entrepreneur Casimir Casaramona. After being abandoned for years, the Fundació La Caixa bought it and turned it into a cultural, social and educational centre. As well as permanent collections of contemporary art, there are three spaces for temporary exhibitions and a programme that includes concerts, lectures, screenings, guided tours and child-friendly activities. So yes, it might sound like a pharma company, but it is a wonderful place to visit, with scenery like no other. And the art is pretty good too.

Time Out tip: Scale one (or both) of its two towers. The 'water tower' culminates in a wonderful conical pinnacle covered in blue mosaic. The other is the 'clock tower' and, although it's clockless, it contains beautiful ironwork.

13.  Plaça de Sant Felip Neri

For many in Barcelona, Sant Felip Neri is the prettiest square in the city – perhaps because of its sheer simplicity. The square is built over the old medieval cemetery of Montjuïc del Bisbe and features a church and school of the same name, some Renaissance buildings and the former head offices of the tinker and shoemaker guilds. If you look closely at the façade of the Sant Felip Neri church, you might notice shrapnel from a bomb thrown by Franco’s forces during the Civil War, tragically killing 42 people, most of them children.

Time Out tip: You'll find the Museu del Calçat (Shoe Museum) here, which is a delightfully quirky place detailing the cobbler’s craft, from Roman sandals to ’70s platform boots.

14.  Maritime Museum

Barcelona’s dockyards (declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1976) look better than ever. The Maritime Museum is responsible for preserving, studying and publicising one of the most important collections of maritime heritage in the Mediterranean. They are worth a look simply for their architecture, the museum hosts a variety of exhibitions, and the garden and café make for a thoroughly pleasant pit stop.

Time Out tip: Your ticket also allows you aboard the beautiful 1917 'Santa Eulàlia' schooner docked nearby in the Moll de la Fusta. The old ship was one of the last sail-driven boats to transport goods across the Mediterranean.

15.  Illa de la Discòrdia

In just one block in Barcelona, the section of Passeig de Gràcia between C/Aragó and C/Consell de Cent, there are five major buildings from the Catalan modernist era:  Casa Lleó Morera  by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, Casa Mulleras by Enric Sagnier, Casa Bonet by Marcel·lià Coquillat,  Casa Amatller  by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, and  Casa Batlló  by Antoni Gaudí. It was named the Block of Discord because of the rivalries between the five architects, and who doesn't love some good juicy architecture drama? Go with some mates, and battle it out for your faves. 

Time Out tip: Venture inside the Dutch-inspired Casa Amatller to see the vast photographic collection that once belonged to the chocolate baron for after whom the building is named.

16.  Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site

Not far from the Sagrada Família is another modernista gem, the spectacular hospital by Domènech i Montaner. The architect was inspired by hygiene ideals and state-of-the-art hospitals in Europe at the time, so he designed a centre with isolation wards (each for a particular speciality), surrounded by gardens and connected by underground passages. Montaner believed that aesthetic harmony and a welcoming atmosphere were good for health. After more than 80 years of service, the hospital moved to a more modern building and renovation of the old building began. You can now visit with or without a tour guide to discover the history of one of the oldest hospitals in Europe. It is, and was, a city within a city.

Time Out tip: Visit over the Christmas period to see the spectacular light show projected onto the exterior of Sant Pau. It usually kicks off on the winter solstice for a few weeks.

17.  The Carmel Bunkers

The Carmel Bunkers never feature on the standard city tours, which is a shame because if you don’t visit them, you’ll miss some of the  best views of Barcelona . The anti-aircraft guns were built in 1937, during the Civil War, when Barcelona was hit by almost 200 bombings a day. From the 1950s, with the boom in immigration, people moved in. A shantytown sprung up and the residents fought for improvements (electricity, water, bins) and were later rehoused in buildings with better conditions. When Barcelona hosted the Olympic Games in 1992, the city demolished the shacks and abandoned the space. Locals later fought for its recognition as a place of historical importance.

Time Out tip: Get there just before sunset to catch some stellar lighting for your photos.

18.  Estació de França

The ‘French Station’ is a product of the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition and is the second largest station in Barcelona ​​after Sants. Comparable in elegance and grandeur to Paris’s former Orsay station, its vast metal arches are a fine example of cast-iron architecture.

Time Out tip: The lobby, designed by Duran i Reynals in the Noucentisme style, today hosts events, including vintage fairs.

19.  Bellesguard Tower

• Sant Gervasi - La Bonanova

In September 2013, the Bellesguard Tower, one of the lesser-known works by Gaudí, opened its doors to the public. The architect was commissioned by Jaume Figueras, and the building is influenced by Gothic and Modernisme styles. Five centuries earlier, in 1409, Martin the Humane, the last king of the House of Barcelona, built his residence in the same spot at the foot of Tibidabo. 

Time Out tip: Join one of the guided tours of the attic area, which also allows access to the roof. Here you can take in stunning views of the city and peep Gaudí's cross, as well as an eye-catching face of a dragon.

20.  Born Centre of Culture and Remembrance

• Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera

After years of excavations, renovations and more than one dispute with the neighbours, the El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria finally opened in 2013 as a multipurpose cultural centre in the former El Born marketplace. The iron-and-glass structure was designed by Josep Fontserè in 1876 and was the city’s first market to be built in a Parisian style. Today visitors can see the archaeological remains of the Vilanova de Mar neighbourhood from 1700 and better understand the siege the city suffered in 1714. Huge walkways now criss-cross this impressive cultural centre, which also features exhibition spaces, a bookshop and a food hall. 

Time Out tip: Come for the history, stay for the copious amounts of food, drink, things to buy and things to see in the area.

21.  Colònia Güell

Jump on the train or car and head to Santa Coloma de Cervelló, in the Baix Llobregat area, to visit the Colonia Güell. The textile industrialist Eusebi Güell moved his facilities from the Sants neighbourhood to this small town to escape social unrest. Gaudí and his team were commissioned for the project, which included a hospital, food hall, school, theatre, shops, co-operative and chapel, plus factories and housing for the workers. Gaudí built the church crypt after Güell’s death and the project was abandoned halfway through.

Time Out tip: Go on a Saturday morning for the Colònia Güell farmers' market.

22.  Botero’s Cat

This is the most famous cat in the Raval – in fact, in Barcelona. Since the Council bought it from Colombian artist Fernando Botero in 1987, the poor cat has been moved several times. First, it was in Parc de la Ciutadella, near the zoo; then, to coincide with the 1992 Olympic Games, it was moved to the Olympic Stadium; several years later, it was moved again to a square behind Drassanes. Now it seems very happy in its home in the Rambla del Raval, and the neighbours love it.

Time Out tip: While you're here, head ten minutes west to La Rambla de les Flors, which has maintained the spirit of the 19th century. You’ll find 100-year-old stands, like Flors María, as well as other colourful shops.

23.  Parc del Laberint d’Horta

• Horta - Guinardó

This vast and incredibly well-manicured maze sits within the oldest park in the city. You’ll find it in the Horta neighbourhood, where, if you ever make it out of the labyrinth, you can mooch around a Neoclassical 18th-century garden and a 19th-century romantic one, plus the Desvalls mansion and an array of fountains and sculptures of mythical Greek characters.

Time Out tip: Bring a picnic. There are stone tables that make for the perfect pit-stop spot.

24.  Cemeteries

Cemetery visits help cultivate an appreciation for those who came before us. Graveyards don’t have to be gloomy – instead, consider their artistic value. In Poblenou and Montjuïc, the largest cemeteries in Barcelona, you can find examples of a marvellous array of architectural styles, funerary art and permanent works by renowned artists. Plus, they are generally free, surrounded by nature, and full of benches.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss the popular nighttime excursions ( Montjuïc  in March and  Poblenou  in October).

25.  Museu Nacional (MNAC)

Catalonia’s national art museum offers a complete overview of Catalan art from the 12th to the 20th centuries. The highlight is its Romanesque collection, featuring one of the oldest and biggest collections of paintings on wood in Europe. The museum’s modern art floor boasts pieces from an array of media up to the 1950s, including sculpture, painting, photography, posters, cinema, architecture and decorative arts.

Time Out tip: The climb from Plaça d’Espanya up to the museum is just as worthwhile as the museum.

26.  Palau de la Música Catalana

• Music venues

When you visit the Palau de la Música, all your senses sit up and take notice because every inch tells a story of modernisme, music and Catalonia. It was built in 1908 by Lluís Domènech i Montaner and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Muses watch over the main concert hall, and on the façade, you’ll find busts of Palestrina, Bach, Beethoven and Wagner. The programme, predictably, is stellar.

Time Out tip: If you take a guided tour, be sure to ask questions, as they tend to concentrate mainly on the triumphs of the renovation.

27.  Camp Nou

• Sport and fitness

FC Barcelona’s home ground, or Lionel Messi’s former stomping ground as it is now (un)officially known. Camp Nou is one of the most visited places in the city and is high up on the bucket list of any big football fan (or fan of stadiums), but it is still incredibly impressive to laypeople. And tall. Standing at the top and looking down is something else. 

Time Out tip: Die-hard fans must check out the Camp Nou Experience, which offers a peek inside various players-only areas. 

28.  Tibidabo Funfair

• Theme parks
• Vallvidrera, el Tibidabo i les Planes

This is possibly the coolest location for a theme park – on top of a mountain. It’s the only one in the city and you take the steep funicular to get there. There’s a good mix of classic and modern rides, with many suitable for all ages.

Time Out tip: If you don't mind heights, climb Sagrat Cor next door. You can reach the feet of the massive Jesus that sits up top – almost 600 metres from the base of the mountain.

29.  Casa Planells

In the middle of Avinguda Diagonal stands Casa Planells, a building by Josep Maria Jujol – another of the great Catalan modernists, but more discreet than his contemporaries. In a tiny area, he managed to design an impressive building without overdoing the embellishments and with a rounded façade. Inside, the most striking aspects are the staircase and wrought iron railing. It doesn't look boring from the outside, either. It's small and quirky, unlike La Sagrada Família (just up the road), which is massive (and quirky).

Time Out tip: Get your fill of Catalan modernism with a trip to nearby Casa Vicens. It was the first major architectural assignment Antoni Gaudí got and it only opened its doors to the public for the first time in 2017.

30.  Montjuïc

It’s hard to imagine a hill with more things to see and do. If you fancy a day’s walk through parks and gardens, Montjuïc is a good option. You can visit the  castle  (originally a fortress and, after the Civil War, a military museum) , and then explore some of the most beautiful landscaped gardens in Europe. Among the very best are the  Gardens of Laribal  (with a lovely waterfall), the  Albéniz Mansion , the Gardens of  Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer  (dedicated to bulbs, rhizomes and aquatic plants), and the  Gardens of Joan Brossa  (a brilliant example of land restoration; for more than 30 years this was the Montjuïc amusement park).

Time Out tip: Hungry? Eat al fresco at Caseta del Migdia with Barcelona at your feet. Their BBQ combination plate is a particular highlight.

31.  Joan Miró Foundation

The Miró Foundation has it all. First, the collection of more than 104,000 Miró works, including paintings, sculptures and tapestries, plus almost all of his drawings. Second, the setting, with its spectacular gardens and views of Barcelona from the top of Montjuïc. Third, the building was designed by Josep Lluís Sert, architect, co-founder of GATCPAC (Catalan Architects and Technicians for Progress in Contemporary Architecture) and a great friend of Miró. Fourth, the events they put on, many of which are for families. You can’t afford to miss it!

Time Out tip:  Photography fan? The foundation also houses the Joaquim Gomis Archive, which is a collection of 70,000 photos and documents.

32.  Barcelona University

The most important building in Plaça de la Universitat is, obviously, the historic home of Barcelona University. It became a centre for education in 1871 and housed Barcelona’s main faculties and departments for an entire century, divided into arts and science quadrangles. It now houses the maths and philology departments. 

Time Out tip: Want to nosey inside? Join a guided tour. You'll get to see the most impressive areas of the building: main lobby, assembly hall, staircase of honour and the cloisters.

33.  Mercat de les Flors / Teatre Lliure

• El Poble-sec

British theatre director Peter Brook is credited with transforming this former flower market into a venue for the performing arts in 1985 when he was looking for a place to stage his legendary production of The Mahabharata. After decades of relatively diffuse programming, the Mercat has finally focused on national and international contemporary dance and offers a strong programme that experiments with unusual formats and mixes in new technologies and live music.

Time Out tip: No hablo Español? No problem. Many of the productions in the main space have English surtitles on Saturday evenings.

34.  Ciutadella Park

• Parks and gardens

Ciutadella Park is close to the city centre and is the green space most frequented by locals. There’s much to see across its 17 hectares; the  zoo , the  Catalan Parliament  buildings, the church, lake, bandstand and more. 

Time Out tip: Before you go, check their available activities, which regularly include markets and fairs, sporting events, concerts, DJ sessions, children’s parties, charity events and much more.

35.  Palau Güell

Palau Güell may not be Gaudí’s most well-known work, but it was his first major project for the Catalan capital. A perfect combination of old-fashioned opulence and stylised modernism, this UNESCO World Heritage mansion will have you picturing yourself rolling up in a horse-drawn carriage. Tucked down a narrow street in the Raval, Palau Güell, designed by Gaudí for his patron Count Güell, stands today as a symbol of Catalan nationalism. 

Time Out tip: As you explore the house, notice how the rising levels (from the modest basement to the ostentatiously colourful roof with 20 mosaic chimneys) reflect the motif of wealth.

36.  Santa Maria del Mar

One of the best surviving examples of the Catalan Gothic style, this graceful basilica stands out for its characteristic horizontal lines, plain surfaces, square buttresses and flat-topped octagonal towers. Its superb unity of style is down to the fact that it was built relatively quickly, with construction taking just 55 years (1329 to 1384). There’s also some stunning stained glass, especially the great 15th-century rose window above the main door. The original window fell down during an earthquake, killing 25. The incongruous modern window at the other end was a 1997 addition, belatedly celebrating the Olympics.

Time Out tip: Santa Maria del Mar is a traditional venue for concerts: look out for a Requiem Mass at Easter and Handel's Messiah at Christmas.

37.  The Jewish Quarter (El Call)

The  ancient synagogue  of Barcelona – the oldest in Europe – can be found in the Old Jewish Quarter between C/ del Call, Plaça Sant Jaume, C/ Banys Nous and C/ Sant Sever. The narrow streets are a joy to wander and contain an array of Jewish cultural institutions. 

Time Out tip: Head to MUHBA El Call to see ritual lamps, headstones and some great temporary exhibitions.

38.  Plaça de la Virreina

Gràcia is full of beautiful squares and great bars; this  plaça , however, has the most appeal for us. For its friendly, cosmopolitan atmosphere, for the church that overlooks it, for being a meeting place for locals and the rest of Barcelona, and for the healthy rivalry between the three main bars. Try them all!

Time Out tip: If you have the kids with you, head to Bateau Lune at number 7 – one of the most loveable toy shops in the city, thanks to the warmth of the owners and their incredible inventory.

39.  CCCB

Spain’s largest cultural centre was opened in 1994 at the Casa de la Caritat, a former almshouse constructed on the site of a medieval monastery. The massive façade and part of the courtyard remain from the original building; the rest was rebuilt in dramatic contrast, all tilting glass and steel, by architects Piñón and Viaplana, known for the Maremagnum shopping centre at the Barcelona port. Most of the building is given over to exhibitions, but it also hosts music festivals, films, lectures and debates. 

Time Out tip: Want to save some cash? Visit on a Sunday (3-8pm) for free entry or, alterntively, International Museum Day, Museums Night and La Mercè Holidays, when entry is also nada.

40.  Plaça Reial

• Ships and boats

If you head towards the ocean, you’ll probably stumble through Plaça Reial. It contains a handful of palm trees and has a fountain in the middle known as Three Graces. This Neoclassical water feature was designed by Antoni Rovira i Trias, while the chunky lampposts are Gaudí’s. Restaurants and bars surround the square, making for a lively evening hub. And yes, it’s worth keeping a keen eye on your belongings as you pass through.

Time Out tip: Music lovers should step into Jamboree. This long-serving jazz club has been putting on live blues, jazz, hip-hop and dance music twice a day since the 1960s.

41.  Sant Antoni Market

After almost a decade of renovations, the traders of the provisional market of Sant Antoni returned to the impressive Rovira i Trias building in 2018. The octagonal dome is the crown that structures the market’s cross-shaped corridors. In those closest to the market façade, you’ll find the Encants market. Each part can be visited since they have different schedules. 

Time Out tip: On Sundays, stop by the book market just outside the market on Urgell Street.

42.  Plaça dels Àngels and MACBA

Slowly the skaters are taking over this square, but they cannot take away from the imposing Museum of Contemporary Art in Barcelona ( MACBA) . It’s an impressive building, designed by the American architect Richard Meier, with a large glass façade and a combination of straight lines and cylindrical shapes. Since its opening in 1995, the MACBA has become the city’s top institution for contemporary art in all its forms.

Time Out tip: La Capella, a former medieval convent on the other side of the square, is free to enter and provides a project space for specially commissioned works.

43.  Plaça de Sant Jaume

This square is the administrative centre of Barcelona, housing the Catalan Autonomous Government and City Hall. It’s named after the church that once stood here in medieval times and was the site of the main crossroads in the Roman settlement of Barcino. The Roman Forum and Temple of Augustus were also located here, and four columns can still be seen in C/Paradís. Today, most major protests and demonstrations pass through the square.

Time Out tip: Check out the nativity scene at Christmas – it's mightily impressive.

44.  Monestir de Sant Pere de les Puel·les

Sant Pere de les Puel·les may not be one of the better-known churches in Barcelona, though it should be. It was formerly a Benedictine monastery, but only the church remains from the original building, which was rebuilt after a fire in 1909. Along with its pretty square, packed with restaurants and terraces, this little-known gem is more than worth a visit.

Time Out tip: For a nice lunch spot after the monastery, walk ten minutes over to Parc de Joan Reventós – named for the former president of the Parliament of Catalonia – where there are tree-lined walks and a kids' play area.

45.  Santa Maria del Pi

The main façade of this Catalan Gothic-style church in Plaça del Pi features a large rosette of 12 branches from the 14th century. It was destroyed in the fire of 1936 and rebuilt between 1939 and 1943 by architect Josep Maria Jujol. As well as admiring the two octagonal towers that flank it, the enormous bell tower and the image of the Virgin Mary with a child on the tympanum, visitors can catch classical guitar concerts and exhibitions here.

Time Out tip: Visiting in August? Try and time it with the Festes de Sant Roc. This festa major (street festival) in the Gothic Quarter is the oldest in Barcelona, dating back to 1589. There will be dancing, singing, puppets, DJs and more.

46.  Temple of Augustus

Four stunning fluted Corinthian columns dating from the first century BC soar out of their podium in the most unlikely of places: a back patio of the Mountaineering Centre of Catalonia. Part of the rear corner is devoted to the Roman emperor Augustus, and the columns were discovered and isolated from the structure of a medieval building in 1835. The current layout is a slight fudging of the original, as the right-hand column resided separately in  Plaça del Rei  until it was slotted next to the other three in 1956.

Time Out tip: Got the kids in tow? Take them on a tour, Time Machine: From the Romans to the Middle Ages. Exploring the historic quarters at street level and underground, the guide will reveal secrets of the ancient architecture and what the Temple of Augustus must have been like.

47.  Plaça de Prim

Poblenou’s most emblematic square is also home to some of its oldest residences. The humble, white 19th-century buildings that line the square were home to fishermen when Poblenou was a fishing village. Plaça de Prim doesn’t need a lot of frills to seduce passers-by. Three fantastic ombú trees, a less-than-spectacular fountain, a few benches and a single restaurant – but what a restaurant!  Els Pescadors  has the privilege of exclusive terrace rights.

Time Out tip: If you do eat at the Mediterranean joint Els Pescadors, you must get stuck into a selection of their fresh seafood dishes.

48.  Torre Glòries

All around Plaça de las Glòries, you’ll find quite a few of Barcelona’s architectural and cultural landmarks. On one side, you’ve got the  Torre Glòries  (formerly Torre Agbar), the work of architect Jean Nouvel that changed the city’s skyline. On the other is the  Mercat de Bellcaire  (aka ‘Encants’) flea market with its impressive wavy roof designed by Fermín Vázquez. But there’s also the  Disseny Hub Barcelona , home to the city’s design museum; the  Teatre Nacional de Catalunya , by Ricardo Bofill; and  L’Auditori , by Rafael Moneo.

Time Out tip: Get a great view of Barcelona from the 125-metre high observation deck of Mirador torre Glòries. Designed by Jean Nouvel in 2005, it looks somewhat like an irridescent version of London's 'Gherkin'.

49.  Santa Caterina Market

Opened in 1846, the Mercat de Santa Caterina is the city’s second oldest market. The renovation project was carried out by a team of architects led by Enric Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabue, its most distinctive feature probably being the gorgeous mosaic roof made with 325,000 pieces whose colours echo the fruit and vegetable stands beneath.

Time Out tip: If wandering among so much fresh produce makes you hungry, you can eat at Cuines de Santa Caterina, a bustling restaurant with international dishes available from its various bars.

50.  Parc de Cervantes

You can explore Cervantes Park by walking up from Avinguda Diagonal, where the main entrance is, or down from the Ronda de Dalt for a more relaxed stroll. This vast green space is much appreciated by walkers and athletes for its wide paths and (both) sunny and shady spots. But if anything, it’s known for its rose garden. From the beginning of spring through autumn, more than 10,000 roses fill four hectares of just one small part of the park.

Time Out tip: Since 2001, the garden has been hosting Barcelona’s International New Rose Competition, which takes place in early May and often features never-before-seen hybrid species of roses.

51.  Street art in the Gothic Quarter and surrounding areas

Barcelona has tons of great graffiti and mural spots, but sniffing them out isn't easy if you don't know oyur way around. Thankfully, they have guides for things like that and you can enlist one to take you round the best areas to see unique, contemporary graffiti. Head round Raval, Gótico and Born, where urban art abounds.

Time Out tip : Want tosee some artists in action? Head to the Jardins de les Tres Xemeneies in Poble-sec, where spray artists tend to meet up.

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Barcelona   Travel Guide

17 Best Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona has some of the most unique and inspiring architecture in the world, so a small-group tour to get behind-the-scenes at the city's parks, museums and churches is a must-do. Kick off your stay with tours of Antoni Gaudí's whimsical

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

La Sagrada Família (Church of the Sacred Family) La Sagrada Família (Church of the Sacred Family)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander 20 minutes north to reach Hospital de Sant Pau. This elaborate, UNESCO-listed former hospital was the brainchild of architect Lluis Domènech i Montaner and is a beautiful example of Catalan art nouveau architecture. – Laura French

From 1883 up until his death in 1926, Catalan art nouveau master Antoni Gaudí devoted himself to the construction of La Sagrada Família , a towering, Gothic-style-with-a-twist church. But even then, he was unable to finish it; Gaudí was known for saying "My client (God) is not in a hurry."

Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)

The Barri Gòtic, or Gothic Quarter, sits at the heart of the Ciutat Vella – the oldest part of Barcelona – and, considering its location next to the city center, is one of its liveliest neighborhoods. Here you'll find beautiful examples of Roman and Medieval-era architecture rubbing elbows with the many shops, restaurants, alfresco cafes, bars and clubs that line its narrow roads and picturesque plazas – and there are so many plazas to explore. Aside from Plaça de la Seu, which you'll no doubt end up in if you visit the Barcelona Cathedral , make sure you stop in the smaller Plaça Sant Felip Neri, which was bombed by Spanish dictator Francisco Franco during the Spanish Civil War (you can see scars from the attack on the church in the square). The palm tree-clad Plaça Reial is meanwhile much more energetic and usually buzzes until the wee hours of the morning. Another notable plaza is Plaça Sant Jaume, where the Catalan seat of government has been since the Middle Ages.

No matter where you end up in the Gothic Quarter, travelers say its Spanish splendor will leave you charmed long after you leave. Many enjoyed strolling its narrow alleys and admiring its atmospheric, back-in-time architecture, and several said it was the highlight of their stay. Some suggested taking part in a walking tour if you're interested in learning more about the history behind the neighborhood. 

Casa Batlló Casa Batlló

U.S. News Insider Tip: From spring through fall, Casa Batlló hosts "Magic Nights" – a series of open-air concerts on the dragon roof terrace, with romantic views of the city. Tickets start at 59 euros (around $62) and include entry to Casa Batlló and a drink. – Laura French

The details highlighted in Casa Batlló show famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí at his best. Of all the Gaudí apartments in Barcelona, this is probably the most recognized (it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Sitting down the street from Casa Milà, Casa Batlló is known for its vibrant colors, intricate tile work and skeletal terraces. The unconventional façade is inspired by the legend of St. George, the patron saint of Catalonia, who is said to have slayed a dragon to save the king’s daughter. The roof depicts the dragon's scaly back, while the skeletal balconies and boney windows are said to represent the dragon's previous victims (the legend goes that someone would be sacrificed every day so the dragon wouldn't take the whole town).

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Park Güell Park Güell

U.S. News Insider Tip: For more sweeping city views and fewer tourists, grab a five-minute taxi or walk 20 minutes uphill to reach Bunkers del Carmel – a viewpoint popular with locals, especially at sunset, when the lighting over the city is spectacular. – Laura French

Antoni Gaudí's Park Güell is as whimsical as parks can get. The park was originally supposed to be a housing community for the rich, commissioned by Eusebi Güell. Güell hired Gaudí but the project eventually folded due to the land's incompatible building conditions. Gaudí continued on, modeling the park after gardens he had seen in England (Güell means English in Catalan) and building around the natural elements of the land instead of tearing them down.

Las Ramblas Las Ramblas free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Keep your hands on your bags and keep an eye out for pickpockets on this notoriously busy thoroughfare. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

This wide, tree-lined boulevard is one of the city's major tourist hubs – so much so that if you're visiting Barcelona, you're bound to end up here eventually. Las Ramblas is a pedestrian-friendly pathway situated right smack dab in the middle of the city, so expect it to be busy all hours of the day and night. During the day, you can peruse souvenir stands, watch buskers and street performers, pick up some local art from artists selling on the street, or sit down and enjoy a light snack at one of the many alfresco cafes found here. When the sun sets, head here to start your night out – many bars and clubs can be found in the surrounding area.

Barceloneta Beach Barceloneta Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While Barceloneta is a must-see with its lively bars and restaurants, it can get crowded, so if you're looking for a quieter alternative, wander 20 minutes up the coast to Playa de Bogatell (it attracts more locals and fewer tourists). – Laura French

In between all the cultural and artistic attractions Barcelona has up its sleeves, it's easy to forget that the city is situated right along the brilliantly blue waters of the Mediterranean. The city's swathes of sand are broken up into several different beaches – among them Barceloneta and the quieter Nova Icària. Both are separated by the Port Olímpic harbor, easily recognized by the two seafront skyscrapers and giant golden fish sculpture by artist Frank Gehry.

Casa Milà (La Pedrera) Casa Milà (La Pedrera)

The nickname, La Pedrera (meaning "the Quarry"), is appropriate for Antoni Gaudí's stately, fortress-like Casa Milà. Bobbing around the corner of Passeig de Gràcia and Carrer de Provença , this eclectic Catalan-style art nouveau building rubs elbows with the more classic architecture usually found in its neighborhood, Eixample. It is known for its wavy stone façades and intricate carvings that can only be attributed to Gaudí's quirky style. Casa Milà was originally constructed as a home for the commissioners of the building (Pere Milà i Camps and his wife), who also requested the complex included apartments for rent. Casa Milà was not only Gaudí's last work on Passeig de Gracia ( Casa Batlló is just a few blocks south), but his last civil work as well. Since then, Casa Milà has been designated as a National Monument of Interest by the Spanish government and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Today, La Pedrera is a cultural center managed by the Catalunya La Pedrera Foundation. Come here to admire the architecture: there are few single straight walls or right-angled corners in the entire building. Also head to the roof to get a good look at Gaudí's whimsical chimneys (many designed to look like guardian warriors in armor), then work your way down through the exhibits to learn more about Casa Milà and Gaudí himself.

Mercat de la Boqueria (Boqueria Market) Mercat de la Boqueria (Boqueria Market) free

Even if you're not keen on visiting the touristy Las Ramblas , it's worth making the trek to this tree-lined thoroughfare to reach the foodie heaven that is the Boqueria Market. This was Barcelona's oldest local market, having opened in 1840 – but its foodie history spans much earlier than that. The first food vendors were said to have been around as early as the 13th century, selling meat on the streets. The market you see today wasn't around back then; it took four years to construct, once Saint Joseph's convent left the area (hence the name of the market). 

Today, that tradition of hawking goodies lives on, and the covered marketplace treats visitors to the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of everything from fruit juices and wines to fresh fish, meats, produce and desserts. Make sure to grab Spanish specialties while you're there, including jamón ibérico, manchego cheese and salted cod (or bacalao ). Bars and restaurants can also be found in and around the market, so food options truly abound here. 

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Palau de la Musica Catalana (Palace of Catalan Music) Palau de la Musica Catalana (Palace of Catalan Music)

Barcelona's Palau de la Música Catalana is considered to be a masterpiece of Catalan art nouveau. Built by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the palace earned the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its striking architectural features. Outside, make sure to snap a few photos of the intricate mosaic pillars and the busts nestled atop some of them, which depict famous musicians, such as Bach and Beethoven. The interior of the palace is even more of an eyeful, complete with mosaic pillars and intricate sculpture work of its own, as well as stained glass windows and beautiful motifs of flowers spread throughout. And you won't be able to miss the massive stained-glass central skylight – it protrudes from the ceiling, treating the concert auditorium to plenty of natural light. Aesthetics aside, the Palace of Catalan Music is a hub for classical and choral music and of course, Catalan musical arts. It also acts as a concert venue for local, national and international acts.

Travelers agree with the experts: the Palau de la Musica Catalana is an architectural marvel. Visitors thoroughly enjoyed admiring the many intricate details found throughout the music venue, saying even if you can't get tickets to a show, it's worth a visit just to see its magnificence in person. Some weren't crazy about the admission price, but many enjoyed the guided tour, and those who did attend a show said the experience was quite magical. 

Museu Picasso (Picasso Museum) Museu Picasso (Picasso Museum)

U.S. News Insider Tip: You can visit for free on Thursday evenings (from 5 to 7 p.m.), all day on the first Sunday of the month and on special Open Door days; check here for details. – Laura French

When you feel like you've hit your Gaudí limit, head to the Picasso Museum ( Museu Picasso ) for a change of pace. While most people know Pablo Picasso for his distorted portraits, this museum displays his work on a timeline of sorts, allowing you to follow his progression from the more controlled works of his early years to the very whimsical paintings and sculptures from the end of his career. Make sure you dedicate plenty of time to Picasso: the museum itself holds around 5,000 pieces by him, including works from his famous Blue Period. The museum also explores the artist's lifelong relationship with Barcelona, explaining why he chose the city for his museum before he died. 

Montjuïc Castle Montjuïc Castle

If you have even the slightest interest in history, make sure to add Montjuïc Castle to your Barcelona itinerary – the stone structure is teeming with history dating all the way back to the 11th century. The castle started out as a single watchtower that was occupied by a sailor looking out for enemy ships. During the Revolt of Catalonia during the mid-1600s, the government decided to add walls surrounding the watch tower when the threat of invasion from Spanish King Philip IV's fleet became imminent. Montjuïc Castle ended up defending the city from many attacks moving forward, including those carried out during the War of the Spanish Succession. It also served as a prison during the War of the Pyrenees and was occupied by Napoleon's troops in the early 1800s.

Montjuïc continued to serve as a prison under multiple political leaderships over the course of the 18th and 19th centuries, including during the Spanish Civil War. Francisco Franco, Spain's dictator from 1939 to 1975, took over Montjuïc and it became an internment camp for Republican soldiers (Franco was part of the Nationalist party that overthrew the democratic Republic of Spain at the time). It was here that the President of the Catalan Government, Lluís Companys, was executed at Franco's orders. 

Catedral de Barcelona (Barcelona Cathedral) Catedral de Barcelona (Barcelona Cathedral)

Towering above the center of the Barri Gòtic district is Barcelona's principal cathedral. The Gothic cathedral's construction began in the late 13th century, though it wasn't completed until the mid-15th century. While you're here, take time to explore the numerous examples of artisanship that went into completing the cathedral – from its exterior details to the many gold furnishings within, including its elaborate baroque altarpieces, as well as the 140-plus statues of saints that call the cathedral home. While you're here, make sure to stroll over to the cloister, which features a verdant tropical garden. 

Recent travelers found the Catedral de Barcelona to be stunning both inside and out, commenting on the elaborate altarpieces, stained-glass windows and impressive statues. Many recommended a stroll through the cloisters to see its pond, home to several geese, and climbing to the roof of the cathedral to get an eyeful of the spire up close, as well as prime city views. Make sure to wear the proper attire; according to recent visitors, the dress code here is strict and knees and shoulders should be covered. Shawls are said to be for sale for those who need to cover up. 

Gràcia Gràcia free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in late August for the free Festa Major de Gràcia (Gràcia Festival). During the weeklong celebration, streets come alive with colorful lanterns and other creations, competing to be the best decorated; expect live music, food, parades and Catalan correfoc fire displays. – Laura French

If you've already seen the bucket list sites and want to escape the crowds, amble north of the city to explore the charming, bohemian streets of Gràcia. Once its own separate town, this elegant, colorful neighborhood has kept its independent village feel, with cobbled streets, lively plazas and laid-back cafes aplenty. At its heart is Calle Verdi, lined with trendy boutiques, vintage stores, bookshops and restaurants, and Plaça de la Virreina, where locals gather on outdoor cafe terraces in the shadows of the Church of Saint Joan. While you're here, pay a visit to the UNESCO-listed Casa Vicens – Gaudí's first home in Barcelona, now a museum – and the Mercat de la Llibertat, a large food market where stalls overflow with fresh produce between brick-and-iron architecture.

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Parc de la Ciutadella Parc de la Ciutadella free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A five-minute walk from the park will take you to El Born – one of the city's trendiest neighborhoods, with tapas bars, indie boutiques and bistros lining cobbled lanes. Head to the Bormuth tapas bar for great food in a lively atmosphere. – Laura French

Built in the late 19th century on the grounds of a former citadel, Parc de la Ciutadella is one of Barcelona's most popular green spaces. At its heart you'll find an elaborate fountain, surrounded by sculptures and designed by architect Josep Fontserè i Mestre – who asked Gaudí, then still at university, to help out (visitors might recognize Gaudí's iconic style in the winged dragons guarding the fountain).

Mount Tibidabo Mount Tibidabo free

The highest mountain in the Serra de Collserola range, pine-forested Mount Tibidabo peers over the city, crowned by its neo-Gothic basilica, the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor (or Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus). Built in the early 20th century in the northwest of the city, this elaborate, Catalan art nouveau-style masterpiece can be seen from almost anywhere in Barcelona and is well worth a visit in itself – but it's the views over the city that really astound here. A lift and several steps take you up to the tower, where a viewing platform offers a full panorama of the skyline and sea below.

It's not just the church that lures visitors to the mountain, though; it's also home to Tibidabo Amusement Park, one of the oldest theme parks in the world and the oldest in Spain, with a carrousel, bumper cars, Ferris wheel and several other attractions drawing families. Hiking trails are on the doorstep too, with much of the area protected under the Parc Natural de Collserola – the largest green space in Barcelona and the city's green lung.

Mercat de Sant Antoni Mercat de Sant Antoni free

There are ample reasons to visit the impressive Boqueria Market , but if you're after a less-touristy alternative, put Mercat de Sant Antoni on your list too. Located in the up-and-coming Sant Antoni neighborhood, the market originally opened in 1882 in an art nouveau, wrought-iron and glass building; neglected, it closed in 2009, but reopened nine years later following an 80 million euro refurbishment. Today, the market is home to a whole range of fresh products, from Spanish cured meats to fresh cheeses, fruit and vegetables, which sit beneath its striking, original octagonal domed ceiling. You'll also find stalls selling clothes, shoes, homeware and more. And on Sundays, the surrounding streets (which have been semi-pedestrianized under one of the city's traffic-free "superblocks") turn into one of Europe's largest outdoor book fairs.

Beyond the market, there's plenty to explore in the area, too; its opening helped revamp the neighborhood, turning it into something of a foodie paradise with tapas bars, bodegas and restaurants on almost every corner.

Museo de la Ciencia CosmoCaixa Museo de la Ciencia CosmoCaixa

Whether you're coming with kids or just want to embrace your inner child, Barcelona's science museum is well worth a visit. Housed in a modernist glass-and-steel building, it's home to an array of interactive exhibits ranging from the "Flooded Forest" – an Amazonian-style glasshouse home to piranhas, crocodiles and exotic plant species – to "The Universe Gallery," which focuses on all things space, from the creation of the cosmos to evolution and the human brain. Families can get hands-on with different experiments, from creating sandstorms and tornadoes to learning how soundwaves are transmitted, and there are some impressive design features too – don't miss the Foucault pendulum, a heavy iron ball used to demonstrate the earth's rotation; and the spiral staircase, which winds around a towering Amazonian Acariquara tree.

Recent visitors were highly impressed by the CosmoCaixa and enjoyed the interactive exhibits, especially the Amazonian rainforest section. Several said it was the best science museum they'd been to, with state-of-the-art facilities and plenty to see, and many recommended spending a few hours here. Others were surprised at how reasonably priced it was. A few said there wasn't much for very young children, but for many it provided a welcome escape from the heat and an impressive alternative to the better-known Barcelona sites.

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The 17 best things to do in Barcelona in 2024

Feb 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Here are Barcelona's unmissable experiences © Jordi Salas / Getty Images

Barcelona is Spain 's most visited city, and it's not hard to see why – the historic capital of Catalonia is packed with galleries, museums, attractions and an incredible food scene.

Set between the mountains and sea, the city is celebrated for its unique architecture , thriving nightlife and urban beaches . With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Start your travel to-do list now with our guide to the best things to do in Barcelona .

1. Visit the Sagrada Família

Almost every city has at least one landmark that you simply can’t miss, and the  Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s. Antoni Gaudí’s magnificent masterpiece has been under construction for more than 130 years, and it’s still not finished.

Far from a construction site, however, the church features two grand facades studded with intricate stone carvings, towers that gleam with gem-like tiles and an interior filled with tree-like columns soaring up toward the canopy ceiling. Construction work paused during the pandemic but has resumed and the building is expected to be completed in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death in 2026.

Planning tip:  The Sagrada Família is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain, and it can get  very  busy. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning (it opens at 9am) on a weekday.

2. See more of Gaudí’s designs

The Sagrada Família may be the most famous of Gaudí’s buildings, but all his wonderful, whimsical designs are worth visiting. The most well known are  Casa Batlló , with its iridescent dragon-like scales and skull-and-bone-effect balconies, and  La Pedrera , with its undulating stone facade and fanciful chimneys. Some of his lesser-known but equally beautiful buildings include  Casa Vicens , the first house he ever designed;  Palau Güell , which he designed for his patron Eusebi Güell; and the  Torre Bellesguard .

3. Wander through the Gothic Quarter

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter ( Barri Gòtic ) is the oldest and most atmospheric part of the city. Characterized by small alleyways, hidden plazas and historic buildings, it lies to the east of La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street that runs through the center of the old town.

The neighborhood is scattered with century-old shops, small bars and charming cafes. Some highlights include the striking Plaça Reial, fringed by cafes and palm trees; Plaça Sant Jaume, home to the grand Palau de la Generalitat; and the impressive  La Catedral .

Planning tip:  Many parts of the Gothic Quarter are known for late-night bars and clubs that are still going well into the morning. Perfect if you want to dance until dawn, but not the best neighborhood to stay in if you're traveling with young kids or those who appreciate an early night.

4. Explore Barcelona's food markets

La Boqueria might be the most famous of Barcelona’s food markets, but each neighborhood has its own, and there are several excellent ones to choose from. La Boqueria is the oldest and one of the most atmospheric, but in recent years, more stalls have given over to things such as tropical fruit shakes and novelty candy rather than traditional produce.

For a more authentic vibe, visit the modern  Mercat de Santa Caterina with its multicolored wavy roof or the grand  Mercat de Sant Antoni  with 250 stalls.

5. Soak up the sun on Barcelona's city beaches

Whatever time of year you visit Barcelona , the beaches won’t disappoint. Even in winter, it can be sunny enough to sit outside and enjoy a meal at one of the seaside restaurants, while summer offers everything from sunbathing and swimming to water sports.

The city boasts a 5km (3-mile) stretch of coastline, home to nine different beaches. There’s  Sant Sebastià with its range of upscale restaurants, Somorrostro lined with hip nightclubs and Nova Icària with a watersports center and beach volleyball.

6. Venture up Montjuïc

Montjuïc is the green hill to the south of the city, home to the Olympic Park, as well as numerous museums and gardens. Rising from Plaza d’Espanya, you'll first see the grand sets of stairs and fountains cascading down from the magnificent palace housing the  Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya . Behind that is the huge Olympic Stadium and the rest of the Olympic Park. 

Planning tip:  The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya has a terrace that offers spectacular views of the city and is a popular spot to watch the sunset. The open-air bar means you can enjoy a few drinks while taking in the view.

Explore Montjuic effortlessly with  GetYourGuide . Book your tour today.

7. Snack on some tapas

When hunger pangs arrive in the afternoon or early evening, take advantage of the pre-dinner tapa. This means heading to the local favorite for a bite of anchovies, sausage, squid, wild mushrooms, roasted peppers or dozens of other tempting morsels. Wine, cava and beer all make fine accompaniments.

Planning tip: Many tapas spots are lively stand-around-the-bar affairs. When it's time for a change of scenery, barcelonins  make their way to dinner or just head to another tapas bar and skip the sit-down formality altogether.

8. Learn about an icon at the Museu Picasso

Picasso lived in Barcelona between the ages of 15 and 23, and elements of the city undoubtedly influenced his pieces, from the colorful but simply painted frescoes hanging in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya to the imaginative trencadís -style mosaics (pre-Cubist some say) of Gaudí. The Museu Picasso 's setting adds to the appeal, as do the buzzy, history-rich surrounding streets of El Born.

Explore Museu Picasso effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

9. Catch a game at Camp Nou

FC Barcelona plays a prominent role in the city's imagination. Heading to a football match at Camp Nou between September and May is the best way to catch a bit of Barcelona fever, but watching it on screen in a bar can be just as much fun, depending on the crowd. 

Planning tip: Even if you can't make it to a game, the interactive Barça Stadium Tour and Museum experience takes you through the locker rooms and onto the field, hallowed ground for many Catalans.

Transform your visit to Camp Nou by  booking with GetYourGuide.

10. Experience Barcelona's famous nightlife

A night in Barcelona holds limitless possibilities. Start with sunset drinks on a rooftop terrace or sink your heels into the sand at a rustic-chic beachside xiringuito . As darkness falls, the city transforms with buzzing squares and live music, and around midnight the bars fill up.

Pick from old-school taverns, plush lounges in lamp-lit medieval chambers, sleek cocktail dens, boisterous cava bars, basements churning out brassy jazz and more. If you're still standing at 3am, hit the clubs and keep going until dawn.

11. Spend an early morning on La Rambla

Sure, the leafy 1.2km (0.75-mile) pedestrian boulevard of  La Rambla  that stretches toward the sea is the most touristed spot in town – at times, you can barely push through the crowds. But pay a visit first thing in the morning and you'll see that beyond the souvenir shops and craft sellers, it's a pure sensory overload.

Open-air cafes, fragrant flower stands and a much-overlooked mosaic by Miró dot the pavement, while key venues line both sides of the street, including the elegant Gran Teatre del Liceu , the sprawling Mercat de la Boqueria and numerous galleries. Several other barris , such as El Poblenou, have their own attractive rambles , too.

12. Enjoy Catalan cuisine

Barcelona is a great foodie city, known throughout the world for its innovative chefs and creative cuisine. While you’ll find tapas bars everywhere, be sure to sample some local Catalan dishes, too.

Before you dine, join in l’hora del vermut at a typical vermouth bar, which pairs the fortified wine with bites of pickled anchovies and olives to whet the appetite. Follow it up with traditional Catalan dishes, such as botifarra amb mongetes (sausage with white beans), suquet de peix (fish stew), escalivada (roasted red peppers, onions and eggplant) and crema catalana (similar to crème brûlée). Sample the cuisine at  Casa Delfín .

13. Celebrate during festival time

Because Barcelona has a festival almost every other month, it won’t be hard to make your trip to the city coincide with one. There are the patron-saint festivals of Santa Eulalia and La Mercé in February and September, respectively, La Diada de Sant Jordi in April (when people give each other gifts of books and roses to celebrate St George) and the fire festival of St Joan in mid-June.

Some of the main features of Catalan festivals include the castellers  (human towers), huge parading giants and correfocs , where firework-wielding devils dance through the streets.

14. See a range of works at Fundació Joan Miró

Joan Miró, the city’s best-known 20th-century native son, bequeathed this art foundation to his hometown in 1971. The light-filled buildings are crammed with seminal works, from Miró’s timid early sketches to paintings from his last years.

15. Scope out examples of Modernista architecture

One of the things that makes Barcelona so charming is its Modernista architecture. An artistic movement that affected everything from literature and art to architecture, the Modernisme era lasted from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries.

You can identify these buildings by their bright colors, floral or botanical motifs, patterned tiles and curvy lines. Some of the best examples can be seen around the L'Eixample area, but you can also find them dotted all over the city. Besides Gaudí’s Modernista works, some of the best examples in the city are the  Palau de la Música Catalana and the  Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau , both designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.

16. Explore up-and-coming El Poblenou

On the up is the formerly industrial neighborhood of El Poblenou, northeast of the center. Vacant warehouses are being reimagined as creative tech and design hubs, cafes, boutiques, bars and more.

17. Sip a drink at one of L'Eixample's rooftop bars

Admire Modernista marvels over a cocktail or vermouth. L'Eixample 's elegant streets conceal an array of hidden-away, view-laden open-air bars and cafes beloved by barcelonins , many of them within swish hotels but open to all. 

This article was first published February 2020 and updated February 2024

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28 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

By Gemma Askham

The soul-caressing Spanish climate might set Barcelona up as an outdoor city, but its indoor activities have kudos, too. Find world-renowned museums that showcase artistic legends and rising stars, markets rich in local produce, and panoramic viewing platforms to take in the iconic architecture. If it’s sun you want, it’s sun you shall get—but the beach is only one option. From a secret maze to a hilltop fairground, Barcelona’s to-do list is every bit as varied as it is pure fun; Antoni Gaudí’s color-pop architecture ensures that dull moments simply don’t exist here. Consider this your capsule edit of attractions: the definitive list of what to do in Barcelona for the time-smart traveler, from art, iconic parks, and performing arts spaces to so much more. Spanning big-hitters and under-the-radar gems, these are the best things to do in Barcelona—the Catalan-speaking city's most unmissable spots.  Vamos .

Read our complete Barcelona travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

"The World Begins With Every Kiss" Mural Arrow

This romantically named mural near the Catedral de Barcelona was only meant to be a temporary exhibition. It was unveiled in 2014 for the 300th anniversary of September 11, 1714, a day known as Catalonia Day, or La Diada, which commemorates Catalan surrender in the War of Spanish Succession. The day is a tribute to the Catalan lives lost, to regional identity, and to freedom. The mural is made up of 4,000 tiles with photos printed onto them arranged into mosaics by color and density so that, from afar, the 26-foot-tall mural shows two people kissing. This kiss—a symbol of affection, empathy, and liberty—felt so poignant that the local government never took it down.

Park Güell Arrow

Park Güell is an almost make-believe landscape: home to Barcelona’s famous mosaic lizard—the image on a thousand postcards—plus spiral towers that look like fairground slides. The city’s grandest park began life as a collaboration between entrepreneur Eusebi Güell (hence the park’s name) and Antoni Gaudí. Know that you need to book in advance online, and arrive promptly for your allotted slot—there’s zero wiggle room with timing. An interesting add-on is Casa Museu Gaudí, the pink spired building inside the park. It’s not included in your entrance fee (so factor in an extra €5.50/$5.50 per person), but Gaudí actually lived there for 19 years—which makes it the home tour of all home tours.

Santa Maria del Mar Arrow

Ask any local to pick their favorite church and we’d bet a glass of (sacramental) Catalan wine that Santa Maria del Mar would be it. (Sorry, La Sagrada Família !) If you’ve read Ildefonso Falcones’s thriller Cathedral of the Sea , you already know more about it than you think: the novel’s backdrop is the construction of this particular Gothic church, with the lead protagonist one of its stone workers. In real life, the church’s history is almost stranger than fiction: in 1428, it was shook by a major earthquake. Then, in July 1936, it was set on fire and burned for 11 days straight. Look inside, and you’ll still see the black scorch marks on the roof. The building has very tall columns, set 43 feet apart. Combine that airiness with vast stretches of stained glass and it almost feels like someone’s pulling you up into the sky.

Parc del Laberint d'Horta Arrow

Barcelona is famous for its buildings being works of art; this is one of the few examples of a garden stepping up to that level. On the wilderness spectrum, Barcelona’s oldest park is beauty-salon manicured: splendid temples, lily-glazed ponds, sculptures of mythological figures, and a cypress maze that’s clearly given the gardener’s pruning shears a workout. The labyrinth is definitely the standout feature, a maze made of elaborate swirls of thick foliage. It recreates the Greek myth of Theseus destroying the Minotaur (a part-human, part-bull monster) to fall in love with Ariadne. A similar fate awaits those who make it to the center—no bovine slaying required, but you will find love in the form of a statue of Cupid. If that all sounds a bit soppy, scoff later: the maze is harder than it looks.

Laura Kiniry

Blane Bachelor

Stacey Lastoe

Tibidabo Arrow

While Tibidabo mountain is a fairground, it's also so much more. You’ll first notice it from the city center: high on a summit, the silhouette of a majestic temple makes you curious to go. Officially called the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor (or Sacred Heart church, easier on the tongue), its roof is topped with an enormous bronze statue of Jesus that you can take an elevator to. Mind-blown (and a little breeze-blown), you suddenly see the charm of the amusement park next to it—like its retro-styled attractions, such as a Ferris wheel with color-pop seating pods, built for the views as much as the screams. Adults love the views; kids love the rides. Finish with a gin and tonic on the terrace of Mirablau Bar , near where the blue tram stops. The edge seats rule.

Gran Teatre del Liceu Arrow

As you’d expect from an opera venue, it’s grand, beautiful, doused with art, and occupies a prime piece of zip code on La Rambla . Yet, as with many of life’s most interesting characters, not all is quite what it seems. The vestibule, as you walk in, dates back to the building’s original construction in 1847. However, the main performance space—with a striking domed ceiling, red-velvet chairs and ornate gold moldings that have echoes of the Palace of Versailles—was actually unveiled in the grand old year of… 1999. A fire having wiped out most of the building’s structure in 1994. But you would never know. The acoustics and sight lines are excellent, and a small screen in your footwell provides subtitles. There's legroom to keep even the long-limbed content.

Mirador Torre Glòries Arrow

Even if you don’t know Torre Glòries by name, you’ll know it by sight. The gleaming, iridescent tower that pierces the cityscape like (some say) a gherkin, though architect Jean Nouvel had a geyser in mind. It’s possibly Barcelona’s most famous landmark that Gaudí had absolutely nothing to do with, and at 470-feet tall it’s definitely one of its tallest. Opened in 2005, and famous for housing Meta’s Barcelona outpost, it’s never offered much in the way of visitor interest beyond a snap. That changed in 2022, when the 30th floor became a panoramic public observation deck with unobstructed views across every angle of the city. Now, when we explain an example of an exhibit, you’ll think we’re joking—we are not joking; it’s a climbing frame, suspended in the air by 3.7 miles of tensioned cable, made of tiny platforms–many transparent–that you scramble up onto, with absolutely no safety protection. Some platforms have cushions to rest and savor the view. Others are so physically tricky to traverse that you’ll break into a sweat, slide on your butt, and have to logically plan a route out. The serious stuff: it’s hard! 

Catedral de Barcelona Arrow

It might not have the quirkiness nor the hype of La Sagrada Família , but it holds court: a giant Gothic temple that looms large against the narrow lanes and matchbox shops. Its site originally housed a Roman temple some 2,000 years ago, when Barcelona was still called Bàrcino (you can track down parts of the old Roman walls and aqueduct nearby). Today, the cathedral’s official name, Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, honors Eulalia, a local girl who refused to accept Roman emperor Diocletian’s demand to recant her Christian faith. It’s beautiful and atmospheric, as religious buildings so often are. Regardless of your personal level of piety, the architecture inside—plus the city view from the short elevator ride to the top—is quite something.

La Boqueria Arrow

La Boqueria might be Barcelona’s oldest market—it started life in 1217 as a mere huddle of meat stalls on La Rambla —but tradition isn’t staid. More than 200 stands unite like a foodie’s choir: traders’ shouts, the clink of glasses, welcome greetings sung out ("holaaaa"). Though, for all the atmosphere, it’s the smell that gets you: warm, ocean-salty, freshly fried fish: the kind that lines your nostrils, excites your stomach, makes your physician tense, and has to be washed down with a glass of cava. Grab a fruit smoothie from the technicolored stalls as you walk in. Then do a lap: the deeper you venture, the better the value.

La Rambla Arrow

Barcelona’s most famous street—a nearly one-mile pedestrianized boulevard from Plaça Cataluyna to Port Vell—is still the strolling route for the city's visitors, even if selfie-stick vendors can’t match the charm of the old-school florists, gelaterías, and candy stalls offering bites of crema catalana (a form of crème brûlée) along the way. To predict your next question: But is it La Rambla or Las Ramblas? Well, it’s really both. Originally, the area consisted of five mini-ramblas: Rambla de Canaletes, Estudis, Sant Josep, Caputxins, and Santa Mònica, but they're often lumped together and today, the street sign says La Rambla. Annoying as it is to keep your purse clenched from pickpockets for a mile, La Rambla has a charm that keeps the 78 million coming.

Fundació Joan Miró Arrow

It takes a certain type of space to accommodate Miró—an artist whose works range from a white canvas with a single black line to bold, primary-colored, robot-like sculptures. So it makes sense that Miró worked with his friend, architect Josep Lluís Sert, to design the building himself. It’s modern and minimalist by Barcelona’s standards—it's certainly no La Sagrada Família . But the coolest part is knowing that you’re seeing Miró’s work laid out exactly as he intended. However you feel about Miró, the collection is lively and energetic and devoid of the stuffy pretense that art museums can attract.

Els Encants Arrow

Els Encants is the flea market with the fabulous roof. That ceiling is over 80-feet high, built from undulating zinc and aluminum, and mirrored silver-gold to reflect a kaleidoscopic whirl of stalls below. This market of odds-and-sods has existed in Barcelona since around 1300; for years, as a nomad–goods laid out on ever-changing streets and squares around the city. That changed in 2013 when Els Encants’ sparkling new home opened in Poblenou. The design wizardry of architect b720 Fermín Vázquez (which is now modernizing the city’s iconic Camp Nou soccer stadium), it’s a visual stunner blessed with good-looking neighbors. On one side, the tin-foil-shiny Torre Glòries and Disseny Hub, the design museum. Turn 90 degrees, and there’s La Sagrada Familia saying hola in the background.

Casa Batlló Arrow

It’s easy to see why Casa Batlló has been likened to Claude Monet’s Water Lilies : Covered in shards of stained glass, it sometimes appears blue, then green, then shimmering like the glassy layer of a lake. Textile industrialist Josep Batlló commissioned Gaudí to design this home after seeing what Gaudí had done with Park Güell . Influenced by nature, Casa Batlló has no straight lines (because they don’t exist in nature, said Gaudí), stone pillars that contort like animal bones, and a tall, ocean-blue stairwell that’s very Jules Verne. The result is both grand and intimate. See our Barcelona Gaudi guide, here .

Palau de la Música Catalana Arrow

It might be the Palace of Catalan Music, but you come as much for your eyes as your ears. The auditorium is a kaleidoscope of roses, chandeliers, and stained glass. This is the work of Modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, a building some say is even prettier than Gaudí's La Sagrada Família . Built to house the Orfeó Català symphonic choir, today’s musical acts span from choral to pianists, jazz, flamenco, and operas such as La Traviata and Carmen . A key decision is whether to visit in daylight, for a tour, when the building is at its most spectacular, or at night, when the music happens.

Barceloneta Arrow

Barceloneta is the high-school jock of beaches: loud, popular, and boisterous. Its version of a buff torso? A strip of sand that’s no less of a showoff; at one end, there’s the metallic, sail-like silhouette of the W Hotel , at the other, the blinding gold sculpture of a fish by architect Frank Gehry. When you’ve arrived at Barceloneta, you know it. If you’re looking for the whitest sand and the most azure waters, you won’t find them at Barceloneta. But it is convenient, chaotic, and a must-see carnival.

Montjuïc Arrow

There are many grand elements to Montjüic, a historic hill that’s a whole lot more than ‘just a hill’. For starters, the approach at ground level. From the roundabout at Plaça España (which doesn’t sound sexy, we know), it appears majestically from nowhere, a dramatic, architectural staircase leading up to the  Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (National Museum of Catalan Art). It looks like a palace; the water feature in front is even called the Magic Fountain. (Some evenings, there’s a water-light spectacular; check the schedule  here ). So far, we’ve described about 400 meters of Montjüic: the rest has more museums, the 1992 Olympic site, exotic gardens, and enough panoramic views to jam a smartphone camera roll.

Palo Market Fest Arrow

Take an abandoned factory in the most up-and-coming part of town, plant enough foliage to fund your local garden center for life, and use the term "concept space" a LOT. Sounds trendy, right? On the thermometer of cool, Palo Market Fest is an icy Old Fashioned cocktail. Yet its atmosphere has the warm glow of having knocked a few back: live music provides a head-bopping shopping backdrop, while pop-up beer bars and insanely good food trucks mean that everyone is simply in a great mood.

La Sagrada Família Arrow

It’s practically illegal to go to Barcelona and not visit La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s extraordinary temple dedicated to the Holy Family—also known as the world’s largest unfinished church. The illusive end date remains a mystery—local theorists speculate it will never be done in order to preserve its in-process cachet. Be sure to book a ticket ahead (dates are available three months out) so you can get inside and gawk at the vaults and rainbow stained glass. When you go, spring for the extra audio guide and a trip up to one of the two towers—the Nativity Façade is our favorite.

Mercat de Sant Antoni Arrow

Imagine La Boqueria –the heaving, calamari-scented food market on La Rambla—before it became famous. When the only voices were local, and daily specials were scribbled in felt-tip pen on scraps on paper. That’s Sant Antoni today. A food and clothes market that’s revered by locals and cemented in their daily routines. Telling an international audience about it feels like breaking a secret code, so come with respect for that authenticity and a willingness to practice your high-school Spanish–as well as an appetite. Oh yes, you’ll definitely want the latter. Aim for that sweet spot where you’ll salivate upon seeing trays of olives piled like sandcastles, but aren’t so ravenous that you’ll blow all your hunger on the first stall of cured meats you come to. Built in 1882, it recently closed from 2009 to 2018 for an €80 million refurb. Today, it’s restored, reopened and thriving–with the surrounding blocks becoming car-free to enhance the community-first experience. If you're on a budget: the stall Ous de Calaf takes pretty presentation next-level with loose eggs displayed in straw among ornaments of hens. Regional wines are also likely to be gluggably affordable.

Picasso Museum Arrow

A museum spread over five palaces—we’d expect nothing less for Picasso, who moved to Barcelona as a 14-year-old boy and made frequent trips back throughout his life. Downstairs, a courtyard and Gothic archways lead into white studios that illuminate his works. Upstairs, the rooms are lavish: epic painted ceilings that almost drip crystal chandeliers. Visitors flock here to see Picasso's work, but the special setting is why they come back again and again. If you’re expecting Picasso’s big-hitters, you might be disappointed—for a few minutes. Guernica resides in the Reina Sofía in Madrid , The Weeping Woman at London ’s Tate Modern . What Barcelona’s museum has, is everything around those postcard images. In chronological order, it shows every brushstroke (all 4,251 works’ worth) of how he moved from a classically trained painter (see Ciencia y Caridad in Room 3) to a Cubist pioneer, plus some things we never knew he did, like ceramics.

Moco Museum Barcelona Arrow

Here’s the thing: you cannot be bored here. Even if you hit 10,000 steps by lunchtime, Moco’s fluorescent, lively, reaction-provoking collection is a guaranteed perk-you-up. Yes, even if you’ve been known to yawn at the word “museum”. Younger sister of the original Moco Museum in Amsterdam , the name–a snappy portmanteau of modern and contemporary–gives you an idea of the collection’s genre. In truth, the cliché of “expect the unexpected” runs true. There’s a room of Banksys. Talking-point pieces by Damien Hirst and Salvador Dalí sit alongside chuckle-inducing satirical wall quotes. Andy Warhol pops up; photography by David LaChapelle; a lot of KAWS–he of Smurf courtyard fame. And possibly some new-discovery names to add to your iPhone Notes, such as the beautifully macabre oil paintings of Chile’s Guillermo Lorca, which are part-fairytale, part-horror story. One hack: tickets for time slots before 11:00 am and after 6:00 pm are cheaper.

Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site Arrow

Built by legendary Modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner (of Palau de la Música Catalana fame) with all the features of Catalan Art Nouveau—extravagant domes, stained glass windows, epic pillars—it was designed to be a building that people enjoyed recuperating in. His vision was a garden city for nursing the sick instead of the clinical-looking spaces we still know today—buildings are oriented for maximum sun exposure, for example. When the hospital was moved further north in 2009, this site went through its own rehabilitation: into a museum and arts venue. It now hosts the runways for Barcelona Fashion Week.

Parc de la Ciutadella Arrow

Barcelona's vast city park houses a zoo, regional parliament, and plenty of sites and spots for lounging. Cascada Monumental, built with input from a young Gaudí, is a stunning golden waterfall that both wows and relaxes you. Ditto the serene boating lake beside it. Enter through the Arc de Triomf and the elaborate Modernist building to your right is Castell dels Tres Dragons , built by Lluís Domènech i Montaner. Currently closed for renovation, with no word on a reopening date, it was once the zoology museum. Another beautiful, yet no less mysterious, series of structures are the cast iron Umbracle (palm house) and Hivernacle (winter garden) in front. Go for an authentic slice of city-park life.

The Barcelona Pavilion by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Arrow

This Pavilion was designed by German architects Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich for the 1929 International Exposition—a global showcase of architectural styles. Exposition over, the pavilion was duly dismantled back to Germany. It was only in the decades after—cue: a face-palming moment of hindsight—that the architectural community realized just how pivotal Mies van der Rohe’s founding symbol of modernist architecture was. In 1980, Barcelona City Council enlisted a team of Catalan architects to turn salvaged photographs and drawings into a delicate, atmospheric reconstruction. Most people’s overarching takeaway from the Pavilion is that it’s smaller than they imagined, so use this as your battery recharge before tackling the other arty big-hitters on Montjuïc , such as Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) and Fundació Joan Miró .

Camp Nou Arrow

The importance FC Barcelona soccer club has in the city can be felt in the noise of its home stadium, the Camp Nou. At 99,354, it’s the biggest in Europe—and there's an expansion plan in place to push it to 105,000. All seats are actually owned by season-ticket holders, who then release them to the public if they can’t go. Don’t worry: it means there’s usually a good chunk available, especially against lower league teams, and 72 to 48 hours before a match. Barcelona’s home matches in La Liga—the Spanish soccer league—usually run from mid-August to the end of May, and tours of the stadium and the FC Barcelona museum are still kicking off (from €26, or $30). Glimpse Messi’s trophies, the players’ tunnel, and the first team’s bench.

Casa Vicens Arrow

Built in the 1880s as a summerhouse for stockbroker Manel Vicens, Casa Vicens was the very first house Gaudí designed. Forget the Gaudí of La Sagrada Família fame, this is his Orientalist Period. Imagine a Moorish palace merged with a Rubik’s cube. It’s crazy. Anyone who’s a fan of tiles or maximalist design will geek out on the oriental palms, pink walls, flower-adorned tiles and flying birds. Add in a terracotta roof terrace, a couple of elaborate domes, and some Gaudí ironwork and you’re left wondering how it all harmonizes together. Because, weirdly, it does.

IDEAL Centre d’Arts Digitals Arrow

If a digital arts center was going to pop up anywhere in Barcelona, you’d bet your tapas fund on the district of Poblenou—the Catalan capital’s East London-like ‘hood, where once crumbling factories spawn start-ups, art studios, and museums like the Museu Can Framis . From the outside, IDEAL’s boxy exterior shouts movie theatre. And it was—for 67 years. Then it became a movie set, then nothing at all, before a regeneration project in 2019 turned the lights back on. It’s now southern Europe’s first facility dedicated to producing and showcasing digital arts projects, such as holography and virtual reality. Instead of watching an image, you’re thrown right into the image—meaning popcorn-munching to fill the slow scenes is a thing of the past.

Nau Bostik Arrow

Barcelona has a lot of well-known museums, with a lot of well-known names, in a lot of well-known parts of town. Nau Bostik is absolutely none of those—which is exactly why we love it. Take the metro to La Sagrera, walk 10 minutes through a residential district that makes you wonder if you've gotten lost, and look for a bold-colored striped mural on the side of a factory. This work, by Argentine street artist Elian Chali, sums up the spirit of the Nau Bostik.

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Visit Barcelona: Top 25 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in barcelona: the 25 best places to visit and highlights.

You’re planning to visit Barcelona during your next trip to Spain?

Great idea!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have written this guide of the best things to do in Barcelona , with all the must-see attractions and points of interest.

From Parc Guell to La Sagrada Familia , you will discover all the best places to visit in the city as well as hidden gems , known only by locals.

And at the end of this article, you will also find itineraries to visit Barcelona in 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days (or even a week!) as well as my suggestions of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Barcelona? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. La Sagrada Familia

2. las ramblas of barcelona, 3. mercado de la boqueria, 4. plaza catalunya, 5. passeig de gracia: shopping in barcelona, 6. casa batlló, 7. casa milà or “la pedrera”, 8. park güell – where to walk in barcelona, 9. güell palace, 10. visit the national art museum of catalonia (mnac), 11. plaça d’espanya and the magic fountain of montjuic, 12. the olympic installations from the 1992 olympic games, 13. montjuic hill, 14. visit camp nou stadium, 15. the basilica of santa maria del mar, 16. barcelona port / barcelona cruises, 17. going to the beach in barcelona, 18. ciutadella park, 19. barcelona’s cathedral of the holy cross, 20. the palau de la música catalana, 21. the recinte modernista de sant pau, 22. the best viewpoints and lookouts in barcelona, 23. horta’s labyrinth park, 24. attending la mercè, 25. exploring barcelona’s gastronomy, the 6 best things to do around barcelona, best things to do in barcelona when it rains, visiting barcelona with kids, how many days to visit barcelona, 1 day in barcelona, 2 days in barcelona, 3 days in barcelona, 4 days in barcelona, 5 days in barcelona, where to stay in barcelona, where to eat in barcelona, my tips for a trip to barcelona, barcelona tourist map, how to get to barcelona, how to get around barcelona, what are the best places to visit in barcelona, when is the best time to visit barcelona, what to do in barcelona at night, you’re traveling in spain these articles will help you, visit barcelona: all must-see attractions.

You simply can’t visit Barcelona without planning a visit to La Sagrada Familia.

La Sagrada Familia is the most famous work of Catalan architect Gaudí , who shaped Barcelona’s architectural landscape until his death in 1926. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site , it’s Spain’s most visited monument and the emblematic symbol of Barcelona.

You’ll immediately understand why upon arriving at the Basilica: the building is impressive , with its details and Catholic references . Its unique architectural style, mixing Gothic and Art Nouveau , will take your breath away!

Under construction for 136 years , La Sagrada Familia is still unfinished and is not expected to be completed until 2027. In the meantime, the entry fees are used to fund the completion of the work. You can boast about having contributed to the construction of this masterpiece!

Practically speaking, La Sagrada Familia is open every day from 9 AM, and until 6 PM, 7 PM, or 8 PM depending on the season.

Of course, you can visit the interior as well as the museum displaying original plans and drawings that trace the evolution of the Basilica.

I highly recommend you book your ticket online before your visit to La Sagrada Familia. At any time of the day, the queue is often endless , and it would be a shame to waste hours waiting in line!

You need to book your skip-the-line ticket for La Sagrada Familia by clicking on the button below:

And if you prefer a guided tour of La Sagrada Familia with an official guide, simply click here to book it!

To visit Barcelona and La Sagrada Familia , you should get the Barcelona Pass.

Here’s what’s included:

• Skip-the-line entry to La Sagrada Familia
• Entry to Park Güell
• Access to the Hop-On Hop-Off bus for 24 hours
• Barcelona audioguide to download
• 10% discount on other entrance tickets to buy online like Casa Batlló.

You need to book your Barcelona City Pass by clicking on the button below:

La Rambla (or Las Ramblas) is another place you don’t wanna miss during your visit to Barcelona.

It’s the pedestrian boulevard that connects the port of Barcelona to Plaza Catalunya (Plaça de Catalunya).

What to see along Las Ramblas of Barcelona:

• La Font de Canaletes: a gathering place for Barcelona residents during major events and football victories!
• Joan Miro’s mosaic, created directly on the pavement
• The Gran Teatre del Liceu, the oldest in the city
• Plaza Reial and its numerous bars
• Palau de la Virreina, which hosts temporary exhibitions.

Along nearly 2 km , you will also find numerous street artists, musicians, shops , and plenty of cafés and restaurants. Also, don’t miss the living statues : men and women dressed as creatures that are truly impressive.

You’ll find them towards the lower part of Las Ramblas , closer to the port.

Did you know?

During your stay in Barcelona, you should really go to the Mercado de La Boqueria.

The market, the oldest in the city, is the main tourist attraction on Las Ramblas . Look for an Art Nouveau portal and a crowd of tourists pouring in: that’s the spot!

This place is perfect for finding all kinds of Catalan products : tapas, Iberian ham, turron, fresh fruit… A true feast for the eyes and the palate. The stalls are beautifully presented, and the atmosphere is warm. You’ll want to try everything!

If you’re interested in Spanish cuisine , I recommend a super fun activity to do in Barcelona.

You can visit La Boqueria with a chef who will choose the best ingredients and then prepare for you a variety of hot and cold tapas as well as a paella . You’ll be able to watch the whole process and, of course, taste everything at the end accompanied by a small glass of sangria!

Book your visit to Mercado de La Boqueria and cooking class right here.

It will be hard to avoid the crowds on Las Ramblas, but if you don’t want to be with all the tourists, go there early in the morning , between 8 AM and 10 AM. You’ll be more at ease to admire the old buildings along the promenade.

To continue your tour of Barcelona, I suggest you then head to Plaza Catalunya (Plaça de Catalunya), located at the end of Las Ramblas.

It’s the heart of the city , at the crossroads of Las Ramblas, Rambla de Catalunya, and Passeig de Gracia.

There, you’ll find several statues , including the statue of Frederic Marès, a few cafés, and an El Corte Inglés . You should have a drink on the roof of the department store , the view is really nice!

Plaza Catalunya is also the starting point of many metro lines and the Barcelona equivalent of the suburban rail, the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC).

So, this is the perfect starting point if you want to visit Barcelona using public transportation.

Continuing from Las Ramblas , past Plaza Catalunya, you will find Passeig de Gracia .

It’s one of the most famous avenues in Barcelona and one of the many places to see.

Originally, Passeig de Gracia was the avenue where wealthy Barcelona families lived . Hence, you will find magnificent villas , including some designed by Gaudí ( Casa Batlló and Casa Milà ), and Puig y Cadafalch , another renowned architect in Barcelona ( Casa Amatller ).

Passeig de Gracia is also the perfect place for shopping among the countless luxury stores that line the promenade (or just window shopping if your budget doesn’t allow), with brands like Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Cartier, Hermès, Gucci…

The street lamps of Passeig de Gracia are also signed by Gaudí. It seems that Barcelona’s favorite architect truly left his mark everywhere.

To continue this guide of the best places to visit in Barcelona, let’s head to Casa Batlló.

It’s one of the two villas designed by Gaudí on Passeig de Gracia. Known as La Casa del Ossos (the House of Bones) by the locals, it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

I strongly recommend visiting it as it is even more impressive inside than outside!

I suggest, again, that you book your ticket online in advance to avoid the potentially endless queue, even before 11 AM.

A 3D audiovisual guide makes the visit interactive and even more enjoyable:

Plan about 1 hour for the visit.

If you want to experience Casa Batlló differently , I recommend you get the “Magical Nights” ticket .

It includes an animated nighttime tour with live music on the rooftop terrace (at 8 PM), as well as 2 complimentary drinks .

The other Gaudí villa located on Passeig de Gracia is Casa Milà , nicknamed “La Pedrera” (which means “the stone quarry” in Catalan, a nickname given for its unique architecture).

Also on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites , the building is recognizable from afar with its wavy white façade . Spanning 5 floors and 4,500 m², you can discover all of Gaudí’s architectural genius and immerse yourself in his world.

The view of Barcelona from the rooftop terrace is also breathtaking.

To book your skip-the-line ticket for Casa Mila, click here:

Should you wish to visit Casa Mila in a unique way , I suggest you book a night tour tickets (click here) with a show.

Starting from 9 PM, audiovisual projections take place in different parts of the building and on the roof. Plus, a glass of champagne is included.

If you wish to visit the three remarkable houses designed by Gaudí while saving money, you should get the Gaudí Houses Pass.

It includes:

• Skip-the-line access to Casa Milà + audio guide
• Entry to Casa Batlló + audio guide
• Skip-the-line ticket for Palau Güell + audio guide

You need to book the pass to visit Gaudí’s houses by clicking this green button:

Let’s continue with Gaudí’s works: Park Güell is another must-see tourist attraction in Barcelona.

Built between 1900 and 1914 by order of Eusebi Güell, a friend and patron of Gaudí, the park was originally intended to be a garden city housing about 60 homes. In the end, only 4 houses were built due to budgetary constraints.

However, Park Güell remains a treasure trove of Modernist architecture and Art Nouveau , showcasing the blend of modernism and nature that characterized Gaudí’s work.

It’s divided into two areas: the “Monumental” zone, which has an entrance fee (this is where the famous curvy benches, the salamander, and the columns are found) and a free area.

You should plan to spend several hours exploring this park.

You can also climb up to the viewpoint (Mirador de Virolai), and even though the climb is a bit tough, it’s worth it. The panoramic view of Barcelona’s landmarks is stunning.

Tickets to visit the park must be reserved well in advance as availability is really limited:

Don’t forget, if you have purchased the Barcelona City Pass , entry to Park Güell is already included!

Güell Palace is yet another commission by Güell for Gaudí , located in the Raval neighborhood, in the historical center of Barcelona. It actually served as the Güell family’s residence .

Do not be deceived by the rather modest facade of the villa: the interior is truly luxurious .

The must-see elements of Palau Güell include the wrought iron gate, the entrance hall , and also the mansion’s bedrooms.

The full price ticket is 12€ but you can visit the palace for free on the first Sunday of every month.

You need to buy your ticket by clicking here.

If you have purchased the Gaudi Pass , entrance to Güell Palace is included!

You’re going to Barcelona?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in the large European cities 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting Barcelona on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Barcelona.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Barcelona, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Barcelona!

What are the best things to do in Barcelona if you love art and culture?

Go visit the MNAC!

The National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) is famous for having the largest Romanesque art collection in the world. Besides its rich collections spanning all mediums and eras, it’s housed in a majestic palace specially built for the 1929 World Fair.

It’s also one of the largest museums in Spain.

You need to buy your MNAC entrance tickets by clicking here:

It’s possible to visit the MNAC for free , including both permanent and temporary exhibitions, on Saturdays after 3 PM and all first Sundays of the month.

If you plan to visit other museums in Barcelona besides the MNAC, you should buy the Barcelona Museum Pass. It will grant you access to the city’s 6 main museums (skip-the-line tickets):

• National Art Museum of Catalonia
• Barcelona Picasso Museum
• Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art
• Fundació Joan Miró
• Contemporary Culture Center of Barcelona
• Fundació Antoni Tàpies.

You need to buy it by clicking on the button below:

Let’s continue this guide of Barcelona’s must-see attractions and head to Plaça d’Espanya.

Located opposite the MNAC, designed by architect Puig i Cadafalch , it was also built for the 1929 World Fair.

It’s recognizable by the former bullring , which is now a shopping center . I definitely recommend heading to the top floor , on the roof terrace: it offers a magnificent view of the square and Montjuic hill.

Don’t miss the Magic Fountain of Montjuic , located between the MNAC and Plaça Espanya.

Every evening, from Wednesday to Sunday , the fountain lights up to music . It’s an unmissable spectacle that both locals and tourists flock to see it: you should thus arrive early to get a good spot!

You may already know that Barcelona hosted the 1992 Olympic Games . A lot of sites were built for the occasion, especially in the Olympic port and on Montjuic hill.

Here are the main Olympic facilities to see:

• Montjuic Olympic Park , which includes the Olympic Stadium, Palau Sant Jordi, the Calatrava Tower, the Barcelona Sports Palace, and the Pavilion of Industrial Spain.
• Parc del Mar , home to the Olympic Port of Barcelona and the Mar Bella Pavilion.

For a hassle-free (and fun!) way to explore the Olympic sites , you should opt for a 1.5 hours guided Segway tour.

Reserve your spot by clicking here!

Aside from the Olympic Park, Montjuic Hill still has many surprises in store. It’s a very peaceful area in Barcelona, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Here are the best places to visit in Montjuic:

• Montjuic Castle , which played a controversial role in the city’s history, notably as a vantage point for bombings during the War of Spanish Succession (18th and 19th centuries). It offers a breathtaking view of Barcelona’s coastline
• Barcelona Botanical Garden , where you can admire plant species from Australia, California, the Mediterranean, and more
• Miramar Gardens with their magnificent panorama over the entire city
• The Greek Theatre Gardens
• Mossèn Costa i Llobera Gardens , with a Californian theme.

To get to Montjuic , you can take the bus or go on foot, but I highly recommend taking the Montjuic cable car from Barceloneta. The view from the cable car is absolutely worth it!

Round-trip tickets are available right here.

What’s the best place to visit in Barcelona if you’re a sports enthusiast, especially a football fan?

The Camp Nou Stadium, without any hesitation!

The “Camp Nou Experience” combined tour allows you to visit the home of FC Barcelona, which is not only the largest stadium in Spain but also in Europe, as well as the FC Barcelona Museum. You will be completely immersed into the world of Spanish football.

You need to book this experience directly here:

To get there, your best option is to take the subway: line L3 to Palau Reial or Les Corts stations; and line 5 to Badal or Collblanc stations.

The Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar , located in the historical Born district, is a must-visit for fans of Gothic architecture and religious history.

You’ll surely be impressed by the immensity of the Basilica from the inside. You should ideally visit at night when it’s illuminated – it’s even more beautiful!

You can find opening hours and access information on the official website.

Not many people know, but you can climb right to the top of the basilica. From the Terraces of Santa Maria del Mar , you’ll get an unbeatable view of the Born district and the surrounding areas. However, this privilege comes at a cost (8€).

Port Vell is also worth a visit in Barcelona.

Theren you can find a shopping center ( Mare Magnum ), which might interest you if you’re fond of shopping. To get there, feel free to walk across the pedestrian bridge from La Rambla to the shopping center.

Here are some other attractions you can find at Port Vell:

• Christopher Columbus statue : you can climb to the top for a nice view of La Rambla and the port
• The IMAX cinema
• Barcelona Aquarium: This is a great activity for families visiting Barcelona. Tickets available here .

Port Vell is also where you can embark on Golondrinas cruises .

These boats take you to see Barcelona from the water, offering a different perspective of the city. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy. You need to book your tickets by clicking here.

And if you prefer a more festive cruise,   you should opt for a catamaran ride.

The outing lasts 3 hours and includes a barbecue lunch (with drinks). A DJ is on board to set the mood, and there’s even a planned swimming stop.

Book by clicking the green button below:

You can also combine a cruise in the port with a helicopter flight over the city and a guided tour of the Gothic Quarter.

This 4-hour excursion for the three activities is around 135 euros, which is really a great deal considering the price of helicopter flights!

Book using the green button below:

Where to go to the beach in Barcelona?

Barcelona is also famous for its beaches, and if you’re visiting Barcelona during the summer, it’s the best way to cool off.

There are 10 beaches in Barcelona, spread along the Passeig Maritim.

The beaches closest to the center ( Barceloneta, Sant Miquel, and Sant Sebastià ) are the busiest. For a quieter experience, head to Nova Icària Beach.

Let’s continue this guide with Ciutadella Park , another famous park in Barcelona, built for the 1888 Universal Exposition.

It’s a favorite spot for locals when the weather is nice, and you can even enjoy a boat ride on its lake.

In the park, you will find several tourist attractions such as:

• The Arc de Triomf
• The Museum of Modern Art
• The seat of the Parliament of Catalonia.

If you’re visiting Barcelona with your children, you can also take them to Barcelona Zoo. Tickets on sale here!

And to save money when you’re visiting Barcelona with your family, I recommend 2 packages that include entry to the zoo (click the links to book):

• Barcelona Family Pass : includes zoo entry + one-hour harbor cruise + fast-track entry to the Wax Museum
• The Zoo and Aquarium Pack : includes zoo entry + aquarium ticket + a ride on Barcelona’s port cable car.

Another great way to explore the park and its surroundings is to opt for a 2-hour electric scooter tour.

The tour also includes a visit to the Olympic Port and the beaches.

The same tour is also available on a Segway:

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Barcelona is definitely the first landmark you’ll notice while wandering through the Gothic Quarter.

This impressive cathedral is one of Barcelona’s most majestic religious sights . Built in Gothic style, it is rich in detail and sculpture , both on the exterior and interior.

Admission costs 7€ and gives you access to the cathedral, the cloister, the terraces, the choir, the museum, and the chapel.

To explore other monuments in the Gothic Quarter , you can choose a guided walking tour.

For 2 hours, a professional guide will show you every corner of the neighborhood.

To book, click here:

This Art Nouveau concert hall is surely one of the most beautiful in the world.

This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the early 20th century by Domènech i Montaner, who was a mentor to Gaudí and Puig i Cadafalch.

To visit the Palau de la Música Catalana , a guided tour is mandatory. Lasting 50 minutes, a guide will show you the intermission hall and balcony , the auditorium , and the upper balconies.

The tour is very interesting and full of fascinating anecdotes. It costs 20€ per person and various languages are available depending on the schedule.

Book your palace tour directly here.

The Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau is another modernist masterpiece by architect Domènech i Montaner whom I just mentioned.

It was once a public hospital , designed as a garden city, and functioned throughout the 20th century.

You can visit several buildings on the premises, some of which host exhibitions, like the Sant Rafael Pavilion which shows what the hospital looked like in its early days.

You need to get your tickets here.

What are the best places to go in Barcelona for a breathtaking view?

The best viewpoint in Barcelona is undoubtedly the Bunkers del Carmel , or Turó de la Rovira.

This site once hosted anti-aircraft bunkers that played a major role in the defense of the city during the Spanish Civil War. Today, not much remains except for a magnificent 360° view of the entire city of Barcelona.

Here’s a summary of the best spots to see Barcelona from above (most of which I have already mentioned)

• Montjuic hill (the castle or the Miramar)
• The Columbus Column
• The rooftop of La Pedrera
• Torre Glòries (tickets available here!) from its 33rd floor, you get a spectacular view of Barcelona!
• The rooftop of the Las Arenas shopping center on Plaça Espanya
• The rooftop of the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar
• Mount Tibidabo
• Torre de Collserola

Horta’s Labyrinth Park is Barcelona’s oldest park , with a quiet and secretive atmosphere, ideal for a romantic stroll.

Once you’ve explored the labyrinth thoroughly, you can relax in the neoclassical park or even have a picnic.

Admission is 2€, but it’s free on Wednesdays and Sundays.

It’s a pleasant place to visit after seeing Barcelona’s more popular attractions.

La Mercè is THE celebration in Barcelona you can’t miss . This religious festival , also known as “festa major d’estiu” in Catalan, takes place over a week around September 24th.

You’ll experience a full display of Catalan culture: castells and falcons, parades of Catalan giants, correfocs (fire runs), sardine barbecues, concerts, exhibitions, and more.

But the best way to understand what La Mercè is all about is to experience it for yourself!

What would a trip to Barcelona be without trying Catalan gastronomy?

Tapas, paella, arroz negre (black rice) and fideua (a type of paella made with short noodles), calçots (a kind of onion), crema catalana, turron, and coca de San Joan …

You will certainly have plenty to enjoy during your holiday!

If you’re spending several days in Barcelona, don’t hesitate to leave the city and explore its surrounding areas.

Barcelona has the advantage of being located in a region rich in architectural treasures and diverse landscapes. Catalonia will delight lovers of urban art, ancient history, beaches, and mountains alike.

Here are the best places to visit around Barcelona:

• Montserrat Mountain: you should visit Montserrat Abbey and enjoy one (or more!) hikes. There are organized day trips from Barcelona , which is super convenient if you don’t have a car. You need to book your trip here!
• Colonia Güell: An industrial estate designed by Gaudí for the textile workers of Güell, featuring his unconventional church (the Crypt). To visit it, you should take the train from Barcelona. All-inclusive tickets with train journey, Colonia Güell and Crypt visit only cost 15€.
• Sitges: for strolling along the seafront and enjoying the beach in summer. It’s the ideal place to relax near Barcelona. Book your guided tour here!
• Tossa de Mar: on the Costa Brava, a unique village with a very charming medieval town center. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit near Barcelona. To book your day trip, you simply need to click here.
• Girona and Figueres, the 2 most important cities in Northern Catalonia. In Girona, you will visit many medieval monuments and in Figueres, you will discover the world of the famous Salvador Dali! Book your visit here!
• PortAventura Amusement Park: simply the best amusement in Spain and in Southern Europe. As an ultra-touristic attraction near Barcelona, you really need to purchase your skip-the-line tickets in advance . You can also reserve a  day trip to PortAventura with transport included from Barcelona (very convenient if you don’t have a car).

Even though Barcelona is a Mediterranean city renowned for its pleasant climate, it does rain in Barcelona sometimes!

So you’re not caught off-guard, I’ve prepared a list of the best activities to do when it rains in Barcelona:

• Visit museums: in my opinion, Barcelona’s must-see museums are the MNAC, the Picasso Museum, and the Miró Foundation on Montjuic. All of them are included in the Barcelona Museum Pass . But you could also take the opportunity to visit more unusual museums, like the Museum of Eroticism or the Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum, dedicated to cannabis.
• Drink a “chocolate a la taza”: this thick hot chocolate, often accompanied by churros, is a tradition in Barcelona. You can enjoy them in the numerous granjas, such as Granja Viader or Granja Pallaresa. One of my favorite spots is La Nena, in the Gracia neighborhood, an authentic café that’s quite popular with locals.
• Watch a Flamenco show: Flamenco is Andalusian, but it’s still very popular in Barcelona. Show evenings are especially organized at Los Tarantos, one of the oldest tablaos in Barcelona. You can book this activity here.
• Shopping: Barcelona has many shopping centers: Las Arenas, Glories (near Torre Agbar), L’illa Diagonal…

What are the best things do in Barcelona with your family?

To plan your trip to Barcelona with family, I have prepared a list of the best activities to do with children:

• Visit CosmoCaixa Science Museum, in Sarria district. Free for kids, it offers plenty of fun learning activities.
• A trip to the Tibidabo Amusement Park: located on Mount Tibidabo, this amusement park is one of the oldest in the world and offers stunning views over the city.
• The Blue Tram of Sarria: a century-old tramway connecting Avinguda Tibidabo with the funicular station. Note that it only runs on weekdays.
• Barcelona Aquarium: You’ll see fish and aquatic creatures from all over the world.
• The Magic Fountain of Montjuic: I mentioned it earlier on, and I can assure you that your children will love this show.
• Poble Espanyol: This “Spanish Village” offers a pretty amazing reconstruction of typical villages from Spain’s regions, from Andalusia to Castile. It’s great because it hosts many events and workshops for kids. It’s the perfect visit for a family stay in Barcelona.

If you’ve decided to visit Barcelona with your family , you can also take them to Barcelona Zoo. Tickets available here!

And to save money on your Barcelona trip with kids, I recommend 2 packs that include a visit to the zoo (click the links to book):

• The Barcelona Family Pass including: zoo entrance + one-hour harbor cruise + skip-the-line entry for the wax museum
• The Zoo and Aquarium Pack with: zoo entrance + aquarium ticket + a trip on the Barcelona Port cable car.

The length of your stay in Barcelona depends a lot on what you want to see and what kind of traveler you are.

It’s perfectly possible to visit Barcelona in a weekend or to spend a week there without getting bored.

To help you plan your stay, I’ve prepared itineraries to visit Barcelona in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days or even a week.

There are 2 discount cards (City Passes) for Barcelona, which will help you save time and money.

1) The best one in my opinion is the Barcelona City Pass . It includes:

• The excellent visit to the Sagrada Familia
• A skip-the-line ticket for Park Güell
• The ticket for the hop-on hop-off bus for 1 or 2 days – Perfect to easily move from a point of interest to another and discover all the best places to visit in the city!

2) If you’re staying more than 3 days in Barcelona, you might also consider the Barcelona Card . Valid for 3, 4, or 5 days, it grants you free public transport and discounts or free entry to city attractions and museums. A city and metro map are also included.

If you’ve only got one day to visit Barcelona , you should focus your sightseeing around the heart of the city: the area that stretches from Ciutat Vella (the historic quarter) to Passeig de Gracia.

Here are the must-see attractions:

• Start your tour with the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and the Gothic Quarter, and take the opportunity to enjoy some tapas in the historic center of Barcelona
• Then, stroll down La Rambla
• Do some shopping at La Boqueria Market
• Taste tapas either at La Boqueria Market or in the upper Gothic Quarter
• Walk up along Passeig de Gracia , including a visit to Casa Batlló
• End your visit at the Sagrada Familia, so you can take your time to explore
• Enjoy a flamenco show in the evening

To optimize your time, you should book your tickets in advance online . You’ll find reservation links at each point in the article.

And if you don’t want to walk, you can also opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city. It’s the best way to make the most of Barcelona in one day.

You need to buy your Hop-on Hop-off bus ticket here.

If you’re staying 2 days in Barcelona, you should follow the previous day’s itinerary, replacing the visit to the Sagrada Familia with a visit to Casa Milà.

Here are some ideas for your second day in Barcelona:

• Start your day with a visit to Park Güell
• Check out the Bunkers del Carmel, just a short distance away
• Pass by the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau
• Visit the Sagrada Familia (on the first day you would have visited Casa Mila)
• End your day in the Born district

All the details to organize your weekend in Barcelona are in this article: 2-Day Itinerary in Barcelona.

If you’re planning to spend 3 days in Barcelona , you should do the itinerary mentioned above for the 2 first days and add a day on Montjuic hill.

Here’s how to organize your day:

• Head to Plaça Espanya and enjoy the view from the top of the shopping center
• If you have children, visit Poble Espanyol
• Visit the MNAC
• Have a picnic in one of the many parks on Montjuic (I especially like the Greek Theatre garden)
• Take a tour of the Olympic installations
• Finish your visit at Montjuic Castle
• Return to Plaça Espanya to eat some tapas and watch the Magic Fountain show

For 3 days in Barcelona, I’ve also prepared a detailed guide with all my tips to make the most of your stay in Barcelona.

Here it is: 3 Days in Barcelona , the ultimate guide!

If you have 4 days in Barcelona , I recommend following the 3-day itinerary and adding a day around the beach and Port Vell:

• Take a tour of Port Vell: if it’s raining, go shopping and visit the aquarium, and if it’s sunny, take a Golondrinas boat tour
• Walk along Passeig Maritim to admire Barcelona’s beaches. In summer, you can even spend the afternoon at the beach.
• Visit the Olympic Port
• Return to the old town and rest in Parc de la Ciutadella
• Visit Santa Maria del Mar Basilica and climb to the top to enjoy the view over the city.

All these details and the day-by-day program can be found in my other article: 4 Days in Barcelona: the perfect itinerary.

For 5 days in Barcelona , I recommend adding to the previous itinerary an excursion to visit Barcelona’s surroundings

Here are the best day trips from Barcelona:

• A visit to the Costa Brava from Barcelona: explore Lloret del Mar and Tossa del Mar + boat trip, bus transport, and guide included for only 55€ per person
• From Barcelona: Costa Brava, Kayak and Snorkeling: maximum of 12 people, transfer to the Costa Brava, kayak navigation and snorkeling (equipment provided) + lunch starting from 65€.
• Hot air balloon ride departing from Barcelona: hotel pickup + one-hour hot air balloon flight and picnic included
• Tickets for Montserrat from Barcelona + Museum: round trip – full-day tour with train ride, monastery and museum visit with audio guide included
• In winter, you can go skiing at one of the stations near Barcelona (La Molina, for instance, is very renowned)
• With children or with friends, go to PortAventura and don’t forget to book your skip-the-line tickets here.

To learn more about the best things to do in Barcelona in 5 days , you should read my detailed itinerary right here: 5 Days in Barcelona.

And if you’re planning to stay longer, for example, a week in Barcelona, no worries, there are still plenty of things to see, including the Camp Nou Stadium, Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau, the Palace of Catalan Music , and many museums.

You can also simply take your time and soak up the ambiance of the Catalan capital!

I detail the entire program in my dedicated article right here: A Week in Barcelona: the ultimate itinerary.

As you know, finding a good hotel deal in Barcelona isn’t that easy!

That’s why I have selected for you the 5 best hotels in Barcelona , depending on your budget.

If you already know your travel dates and find a hotel that suits you, you should really book now, as the best deals don’t last long!

• Hostel One Ramblas: This hostel is located in the center of Barcelona. Dormitory beds start from €33 with dinner included. Strong points: the atmosphere, the price. A great choice if you’re visiting Barcelona on a budget.
• Hotel Grums Barcelona: Located next to Montjuic hill and 600m from Las Ramblas. Elegant and bright rooms starting from €134. Strong points: the spa with jacuzzi and sauna, room design, great location. It’s one of my favorite hotels in Barcelona for its excellent value for money!
• Ohla Barcelona: Perfectly located luxury hotel in Barcelona, between the Cathedral and the Plaza Catalunya, and 200 meters from the metro. This 5-star hotel offers contemporary and comfortable double rooms starting at €325 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the beauty of the establishment both outside and inside, the rooftop pool with breathtaking views, the 3 gourmet restaurants. This is definitely the perfect choice for a romantic stay in the heart of Barcelona.
• W Barcelona: The iconic Barcelona hotel is located in the Barceloneta district. Luxurious and well-equipped double rooms starting at €363. Strong points: the views, the two swimming pools, the facilities, the restaurants. Undoubtedly the most famous hotel in Barcelona!
• Hotel Arts Barcelona: 5-star hotel located in the Olympic Port district, 250 meters from the beach and 300 meters from Ciutadella Park. Design and ultra-spacious double rooms starting from €670 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the 2-Michelin-star restaurant, the outdoor pool with panoramic views, the design, and the contemporary art collection. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Barcelona!

To get a complete list of the best accommodations in Barcelona , sorted by area and budget, you should read my dedicated guide: Where to Stay in Barcelona?

• For tapas: Taller de Tapas . This restaurant is part of a chain (with 6 locations in Barcelona, mainly in the old city), offering very affordable prices and a good sample of Catalan cuisine such as pan con tomate, paella, seafood tapas, croquetas, crema catalana, and more.
• For a good burger: Bacoa is also a chain, and it’s truly an institution in Barcelona. The burgers are artisanal, made with fresh products, and hearty.
• For a taste of chocolate a la taza: Granja La Pallaresa is one of the most famous and the best place to enjoy churros con chocolate. Moreover, the setting is really cool (in the Gothic Quarter, near the Cathedral of the Holy Cross).

Here are my tips to ensure you have the best time in Barcelona:

• Barcelona is known for its pickpockets . To avoid any unpleasant surprises, be very careful with your belongings in the busiest areas, especially Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter, the metro, and the beaches. If possible, try not to look like a tourist (with a city map in hand, camera around your neck).
• Embrace the Spanish schedule. In Barcelona, as in all of Spain, people live life late into the night. You’ll notice that shops and museums rarely open before 10 AM. Meal times are similar: Spaniards have breakfast at 11 AM, lunch between 2 PM and 4 PM, and dinner between 9 PM and 10 PM. Be careful not to fall into tourist traps: restaurants that open before 1 PM or 7 PM are usually targeting tourists.
• Don’t just stay in the tourist areas , like the beaches and the old town. The Gracia and Poblesec districts, for example, are authentic and you should really take a stroll there to discover Catalan life.

To help you get a better sense of the city, I have created a tourist map of Barcelona listing all the places I mentioned in this top 25 things to do in Barcelona.

You can display the map legend by clicking on the button in the top left with a little arrow.

It’s really easy to get to Barcelona.

From the US, you have direct flights to Barcelona from major cities ( New York , Los Angeles ..)

From Europe, you can find cheap flights with Ryanair, or Vueling, the Barcelona-based low-cost airline.

It’s also possible to get to Barcelona by train. For example, the journey takes on average 8h20 to go from Paris to Barcelona. SNCF (the french train operator) offers 5-6 trips per day.

And you, what do you plan to visit during your stay in Barcelona?

If you need any help to plan your trip, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below!

FAQ – I Answer Your Questions About Barcelona

• The Hola Barcelona card (to be purchased by clicking here!) , Barcelona’s public transport card offers unlimited access to buses, metros, and trams for 2 to 5 days. Includes the metro line from Barcelona airport to the city center!
• A ticket for the Hop-On Hop-Off bus from Barcelona Bus Turistic + audio guide
• A ticket for the City Tour Barcelona bus + audio guide
• A ticket for the Aerobus shuttle that runs between the airport and the center of Barcelona
• La Sagrada Familia
• Casa Batlló
• Las Ramblas where the Boqueria Market is located.

In summer , you can enjoy the beaches , and in winter , the city’s rich architecture (and churros con chocolate).

To me, the best time to visit Barcelona is in September : the weather is still nice but not as hot as in mid-summer, the tourists have thinned out, and above all, it’s the time for La Mercè!

In September, you can still enjoy the beaches of Barcelona and the Costa Brava.

Here’s my list of things to do:

• Explore Barcelona’s monuments by night . Casa Batlló and La Pedrera offer night tours with audiovisual projections and complimentary glass of wine.
• Attend a flamenco show (tickets can be booked here!) at one of the best tablaos in Barcelona: los Tarantos.
• A dusk catamaran cruise accompanied by a jazz concert
• Watch the Magic Fountain of Montjuic – Every evening from Wednesday to Sunday.
• Climb up to the Bunkers del Carmel to admire the view of the illuminated city
• Embark on a tapas bar crawl in Barcelona
• Go for a drink on a rooftop bar in Barcelona or join a guided bar tour with free shots!

Discover all my articles about Spain : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Spain are listed there.

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Barcelona Bucket List: What to Do in Spain’s Top City

One of the major tourist destinations in Spain, Barcelona is home to many top attractions and activities: a rich cultural heritage, a world-renowned football team, stunning arts and music, and many more. With that in mind, it is easy to get lost on what things to do in Barcelona, especially if it is your first time visiting, which is why we are here to help you get some of the best ideas.

From visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites to downing some tasty tapas, you will find some of the best bucket-list-worthy things that you can do for a full-on experience in your adventure to Barcelona!

Barcelona Bucket List: Best Activities & Things to Do in Spain’s Top City

1. barcelona city history museum.

Travel back 2000 years into the past in the Barcelona City History Museum ! Also referred to locally as MUHBA (Museu d’Història de Barcelona), it aims to conserve and showcase the history of Barcelona. They also manage several historical sites spread around the city.

Inside the main headquarters located in Placa del Rei, you’ll see a collection of artifacts dating from Roman times. Underneath it all, you will also get to explore the old Roman city called Barcino! Of course, the views above ground like the Viŀla Joana and Turó de la Rovira are just as spectacular and are definitely worth a visit.

2. Ogle Casa Batlló

A masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture and one of Antoni Gaudi’s masterpieces, Casa Batlló is a UNESCO World Heritage Site found in Passeig de Gràcia in the Eixample district. It also forms a part of four other Modernista houses in the same row.

From the dragon spine-like roof arch to the rounded shapes and lip-like edges on the main floor’s facade to its creative interior design, you’ll be at a loss for words on how magnificent the whole building is!

PS: You can take the Gaudi Tour that will take you to Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló!

3. Be Amazed by The World Begins With Every Kiss Mural

From afar, it may look like wall art or graffiti of two people kissing, but it is actually a collection of freedom-themed photos turned into tiny mosaics. You can find the mural in Plaça d’Isidre Nonell.

Created by Joan Fontcuberta in 2014 as part of Barcelona’s Tricentenary celebrations, the pictures came from the locals, who sent them to a local newspaper called El Periodico. Next to the mosaic, you will see a plaque that quotes Oliver Wendell Holmes.

4. Be Awestruck by the Sagrada Família

Sagrada Família is a large unfinished minor basilica designed by Antoni Gaudi and is considered his greatest masterpiece. It began construction in 1882 and is still under construction as of the time of this writing.

Like all of Gaudi’s works, Sagrada Família’s exterior is already a work of art in itself, with religious depictions and a design that imitates Mother Nature. Inside the cathedral, a flood of colors coming from the stained glass windows will welcome you, depicting stories from the Bible.

You can navigate your way to Sagrada Familia on your own, or take one of these top rated tours:

• Art Nouveau & Gaudí Tour
• Barcelona: Instagram Tour of the Most Scenic Spots
• Barcelona 3-Hour Segway Tour with Sagrada Familia

5. Create (& Drink!) Your Own Cava

Where’s all my bubble drinker’s at? Barcelona is not just about its stunning art and architecture, cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine. It is also a chance to get a taste of the local Catalan sparkling wine called cava! And to level up the experience, why not make your very own cava as well?

To start your cava tasting (and making) activity, you can take a train from Barcelona to the region of El Penedés, where some of the best local wineries offer Cava-making workshops and tasting sessions. Or just sign up for this tour: Create you Own Cava Experience at Local Winery near Barcelona .

6. Day Trip to Montserrat

Montserrat’s stunning views from the top, historic sites, and hiking opportunities make it a popular day-trip destination in Barcelona. These include the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, which houses the Virgin of Montserrat, and Sant Jeroni, Montserrat’s highest peak.

There are many ways to get to this majestic mountain range. The easiest one is by taking the R5 train from Plaza España in Barcelona going to Manresa. You can then take a cable car ride up the mountain at the Aeri de Montserrat stop. Or for something even simpler just take one of these tours that will take you there from Barcelona:

• From Barcelona: Montserrat Full-Day Trip with Guided Hike
• Montserrat: 6-Hour Hike with a Choice of 3 Levels
• From Barcelona: Montserrat Monastery and Hike with a Local

7. Delve into the IDEAL Centre d’Arts Digitals

If you want to experience a different take on art in Barcelona, look no further than IDEAL Centre d’Arts Digitals . Unlike classical art, IDEAL produces and showcases many forms of digital art. It is also the first of its kind in southern Europe.

People of all ages will be able to immerse themselves in many of the digital works, which delve into augmented reality, holography, and audiovisual projections. 

8. Eat a Traditional Catalan Cuisine 

A trip to a new place like Barcelona warrants a taste of its traditional cuisine—eating is one of the best activities in the city! Catalan cuisine owes much of its flavors to the ingredients on the Mediterranean coast, from fresh produce like tomatoes to animal products like pork and even fish.

And what better way to taste the Catalan (and other Mediterranean-inspired) flavors than to dine at Dos Pebrots . From their version of the coca de recapte to txogitxu beef steak, you will be leaving a few pounds heavier! You could also try  Nou Celler or Bar del Pla .

9. Eat Tapas, Lots of Tapas

If you are not yet acquainted with Spanish cuisine, munching on some good ol’ tapas with family and friends is a way to get started. Usually served as a light snack or appetizer, tapas range from fried cheese to sauteed prawns and many others.

Some of the best places to get some tapas include:

• Tapas 24 : try out their signature chicken croquettes, runny scrambled eggs, and ham-and-cheese toastie. They have two spots in Barcelona: at Street Diputació and Avda. Diagonal.
• Bar Lobo : a 3-min walk from La Rambla, Barcelona’s most famous street. Try out their version of patatas bravas and octopus/meatball dish!
• Tapeo : The squid fideuà and ham croquettes are just some of the many flavors awaiting you. Located at Carrer de Montcada, 29.

>>> Get two bucket list checkmarks with the Tapas Walking Tour & Flamenco Show tour!

10. Enjoy the View at Tibidabo

If you want to take a break from touring the beautiful sights around Barcelona, why not take a trip to one of the world’s oldest amusement parks: Tibidabo!

Situated at the top of Mount Tibidabo (500+m above sea level), Tibidabo Amusement Park has been around for over 100 years and has more than 30 family-fun attractions for people of all ages! They also boast a picturesque view of Barcelona in their Panoramic Area (which is free access!). PS: the Full-Day Guided City Highlights Tour of Barcelona will take you there and to many of the other best places in Barcelona.

11. Explore Montjuïc Hill

Montjuïc Hill is a broad, shallow hill that is said to be the birthplace of Barcelona, located right next to the Mediterranean sea. Today, the hill is famous for its Parc de Montjuic, a large park that hosts many different must-go tourist attractions like the Jardins de Laribal (a beautiful public rose garden), museums, Olympic Stadium, and much more!

For a more dramatic entrance to the park, I suggest going to the Placa d’Espanya near metro station Espanya, with two Venetian towers as landmarks. Walking down Placa d’Espanya leads you to the Magic Fountain of Montjuic (the light show at night is a must-watch!).

The hill is also home to the Montjuic Castle, which sits at the top. Cable cars are one of the best ways to get to the castle (via the Telefèric de Montjuïc ). 

For another top experience, take the Montjuic Hill E-Bike Tour that will take you all over the city too!

12. Explore Park Güell

Park Güell is a privatized park system located in La Salut, in the district of Gracia. There are two areas in the park: the monumental area (an UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the woodland area. Entrance to the park is free, however, tickets are needed to enter the Monumental Area.

Designed by none other than Antoni Gaudi himself, the park is a spectacle of color and nature like the Serpentine Bench and the salamander statue called ‘El Drac.’ You will also find here one of the MUHBA sites, the Casa del Guarda.

If social media is your thing that Park Guell is just one of the cool stops on the Instagram Tour of the Most Scenic Spots .

13. Find Your Favorite Street Art

Art in Barcelona is not just confined to museums and art galleries. Take a stroll down a street or two, and you will see some form of street art or graffiti on one of the walls (or someplace you least expected).

Some of the best spots to find street art include The Gothic Quarter, Poblenou, and the Three Chimneys Urban Park. You can also go on a street art hunt of your own to make it more exciting. Just don’t forget to have your cameras ready!

14. Get Cocktails at an Ice Bar

Want to escape the heat in Barcelona and have a refreshing drink? We got the right place for you.

Located in Somorrostro Beach, Icebar is a new and exciting place to enjoy a cocktail (or juice) while wearing a warm jacket, gazing at stunning ice sculptures.  From Yoda in Star Wars to the Xenomorph in the Alien franchise and much more, there is always something new to see each year!

15. Hang Out in Plaça de Catalunya

Plaça de Catalunya is a large square found at the heart of Barcelona. With a transport hub both underground and above ground, and being close to several Barcelona attractions, it is an ideal meeting spot for locals and tourists.

The square itself also has its share of fascinating sculptures, like the Francesc Macià monument. There are also plenty of spaces for you to sit down while admiring the city scene.

16. Immerse Yourself in Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)

The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC for short) is one of the most magnificent museums you can go to in Barcelona, located at the foot of Montjuic. They have an outstanding collection of art spanning different timelines, from Romanesque to Gothic to Renaissance and Modern Art.

The library inside is a treasure trove for people looking for any info regarding art, with a collection of books and archives coming from Barcelona and abroad.

As a bonus, their restaurant offers a fantastic view of Montjuic. And if you want to take it a step up, definitely visit the roof!

You can get your tickets in advance here: Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya Admission Ticket . Or here: Barcelona: Skip-the-Line Entry to 6 Top Art Museums

17. Nosh at a Pinchos Bar

Snacking and socializing is a fun and enjoyable activity in Barcelona. Aside from tapas , there is another snack you should try: pinchos ! It is made of sliced bread with toppings like cheese or chorizo (and many more), skewered by a toothpick.

As to where we can enjoy some of the best pinchos (aka: pintxos) in the city, you can check out the ones below:

• Las Tasqueta de Blai (at Carrer de Blai)
• Irati Taverna Vasca (Carrer del Cardenal Casañas, 19; near La Boqueria)
• Taktika Berri (at Carrer de Valencia, 169)

If you are a foodie who likes to try a variety of food while traveling, then take a Barcelona Private Food Tour that will include 10 tastings (including pintxos!). If you want to know more pintxos, then read our Guide to Spanish Pinchos (Pintxos) + Traditional Recipes .

18. Ogle Casa Vicens

If ever you are in the Gracia neighborhood in Barcelona, you should visit Gaudi’s first major project: Casa Vicens . The house is a perfect example of Gaudi’s earlier work, a “Gaudi before Gaudi” if you will.

Almost every aspect of the house has an adaptation of nature, from the walls to the design. When touring the house, don’t miss out on the two smoking rooms, made specifically for men and women, each with its unique design.

19. Pass Through Arc de Triomf

Arc de Triomf is a triumphal arch in Catalonia built as a gateway to the Universal Exhibition of Barcelona in 1888. You’ll see it on the Passeig de Lluís Companys, which leads to the Ciutadella Park. Don’t pass up on the chance to go through when you are in the area!

It contains various sculptures like the one in the front face of the arch called Barcelona rep les nacions and the Recompense on the opposite side. You will also see carvings depicting the Barcelonan coat of arms atop the structure and the coat of arms of the Spanish provinces on the sides.

20. See a Flamenco Show

Celebration of Barcelona’s culture is not just through its works of art, rich history, and Mediterranean cuisine. It is also through its rhythmic tunes and expressive song and dance, in the form of flamenco!

To get a taste of this passionate Spanish art form (after having a drink and/or tapas on the side), you can visit some of the best flamenco shows. A couple top ones are listed below, but for a full list see this article: Where to See the Absolute Best Flamenco Shows in Barcelona .

• Tablao Flamenco Cordobes Barcelona
• Tablao de Carmen
• Palau Dalmases

21. See a Game at Camp Nou

Camp Nou (which translates to “The New Ground”) is a large football stadium in Barcelona, and is the biggest in Europe. It has been the home stadium of FC Barcelona since it opened in 1957 and has witnessed some of football’s greatest players like Ronaldo and Messi.

With a seating capacity of over 99,000, you will have no trouble getting a ticket for a game most of the time. You can get tickets either online or at the ticket office of the stadium. For the ultimate bucket list experience then take the Secret Camp Nou Tour with a Sports Journalist !

22. See a Show at Palau de la Música Catalana (Palace of Catalan Music)

This concert hall is one of Barcelona’s hidden gems, concealed from sight in the corner of a cramped street in Carrer Palau de la Música. It was also declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner in the Catalan modernista style during 1905 to 1908, one could not help but admire the building with its rich detail and dynamic shapes.

Palau de la Música Catalana mainly hosts regular performances by internationally renowned musicians (which is a must thing to do!). Because of the building’s beauty, they also host tours inside, which you can book here .

23. See La Casa de la Seda

Home to the Association of the Silkmakers’ Art, La Casa de la Seda (The House of Silk) is the only guild house open to the public in Barcelona with guided tours. It is located near the Palau de la Música Catalana.

This magnificent building has over 300 years of history in its walls, and the rooms inside are nothing short of elegant like the silk-lined walls of their guild room and the presidential office and meeting room.

24. See the Royal Monastery: Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes

The Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes (Royal Monastery of Santa Maria of Pedralbes) is a perfect example of Gothic architecture in Barcelona. It features a three-story cloister (said to be the largest in the world) and a beautiful garden in the courtyard.

The monastery gives you an insight into the daily lives of the nuns, with historical and religious artifacts on display. One of the rooms contains the fresco paintings of Ferrer Bassa, a 14th-century painter.

You will also get to see the tomb of Queen Elisenda de Montcada, who founded the monastery in 1326, with his husband’s support, King James II of Aragon.

25. Shop at La Boqueria

For a unique Barcelona food shopping experience, you can never go wrong with La Boqueria ! Located in the heart of Barcelona in Las Ramblas, this food paradise features a plethora of different food and ingredients on its many stalls, from fresh fruits to seafood and meat, and much more!

There are also bars around the market where you can satisfy your different food cravings, like some mouth-watering pintxos or seafood platters. With the smell and sight of fresh ingredients all around, your senses will surely feast in La Boqueria!

26. Step Inside Casa Milà (La Pedrera)

Casa Milà , commonly known as La Pedrera (The Quarry), is another creation of Antoni Gaudi and was built between 1906 to 1912. Today, it is the head office of Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera and is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

The building is known for its extraordinary shape, from its facade to the balconies to the interior decorations. However, the icing on the cake is the rooftop with its many unorthodox designs.

27. Stroll Through Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)

Take a stroll in one of the oldest neighborhoods in Barcelona, Barri Gòtic! As you take a look around, you’ll find that it is easy to spot the old buildings and structures (which date back to Roman times) from the modern ones.

Some of the attractions you will see include the Barcelona Cathedral at the heart of the district, the Barcelona City History Museum, and Plaça Reial (famous for its nightlife and the streetlights made by Gaudi near the fountain).

28. Stroll Through Parc de la Ciutadella

Dubbed as “The Green Lung” of Barcelona, Parc de la Ciutadella is an excellent place to retreat from the urban life in the city. The rich green landscape of the park and places to visit within it are perfect for long walks or to slow down and relax.

Some of the attractions in the park include the Barcelona Zoo, the Palau del Parlament de Catalunya, the park’s fountain, and the Als Voluntaris Catalans (a bronze sculpture by Josep Clarà).

29. Study Pablo’s Artwork at the Picasso Museum

Pablo Picasso is one of the greatest painters of the 20th-century, and here in the Picasso Museum in Barcelona, we will get the chance to see and study over 4,251 of his works. Even if you are not an art lover, don’t let that stop you from visiting this place!

The museum offers a guided tour that shows and explains the different phases of Picasso’s career and art style in chronological fashion. You can also go on a self-guided tour if you want to take a look around at your own pace.

If you don’t like waiting in queue, then book your tickets in advance. The Skip-the-line Guided Tour will not only get you inside quicker, but you’ll also learn from a specialized art expert.

30. Sunbathe in La Barceloneta

Want to spend a day on the beach in Barcelona? Then head over to La Barceloneta ! Situated in Ciutat Vella, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, the neighborhood is known for its sandy beach, restaurants, and nightclubs (especially in the summer).

Besides swimming and sunbathing, you should also try out their paella, which is one of the best in Barcelona! You can also go to the nearby Aquarium Barcelona, which is home to over 400 species of marine wildlife.

31. Take a Cooking Class

Taking a souvenir back home with you from Barcelona is a great way to remind you of the experiences you had. But you know what is even better: learning how to cook some of their Spanish and Catalan cuisine!

Not only will you impress your family and friends with your very own tapas or paella , but you will also be able to relive your time in Barcelona through cooking. You can check out some of their best cooking classes below:

• Barcelona Cooking
• Cook&Taste (this is the Barcelona cooking class that I took!)

32. Take Pictures at Nau Bostik

Nau Bostik is another hidden gem located in the La Sagrera neighborhood. It was once a glue factory that was abandoned during the Industrial Revolution.

Now covered with murals from some of the best street artists from Barcelona, this place aims to be a go-to place for anyone interested in cultural and artistic expressions.

They also host events like the monthly Barcelona Vintage Market and Eat Street, which became highly popular with the young crowd.

33. Visit Catedral de Barcelona

The Catedral de Barcelona is a Gothic cathedral found in the center of the Gothic Quarter and serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona.

There are plenty of things to see inside the cathedral, like the crypt of Santa Eulàlia, the museum, and the thirteen live geese in the cloister (which represents a year of Santa Eulàlia’s life before her martyrdom).

It is also said that the Catalan tradition of the “dancing egg” started on the cathedral’s fountain in the 16th century.

34. Visit Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site

Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site is the world’s largest Art Nouveau complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site, comprising twelve pavilions connected by a kilometer of underground tunnels. It was once a hospital before it was renovated and turned into the attraction that we see today.

There are plenty of fascinating things to see in each pavilion, like the Operations Pavilion, which shows historical recreations of life in the former hospital, and exhibitions like Patient and Doctor .

35. Visit the Fundació Joan Miró Museum

The Fundació Joan Miró is a museum of modern art on Montjuic Hill in Barcelona, dedicated to the works of Joan Miró, a Spanish painter known for his abstract and Surrealism art.

It is not surprising to marvel and be amazed by the artworks around the museum, most of which Joan Miró has donated himself. Aside from the artworks, there are areas in the museum worth visiting.

The Olive Tree Patio at the center offers a view of Montjuic Park and Barcelona on either side. If you want to take a break, you can head over to the Carob Tree Patio, while the North Patio and roof terrace have note-worthy sculptures and an excellent view of the surrounding landscape.

36. Visit the Gothic Santa Maria del Mar

The Santa Maria del Mar (Saint Mary of the Sea) is one of the best examples of Catalan Gothic style in Barcelona, located in the La Ribera neighborhood. Due to the support it received from the common folk, it is also known as “The People’s Church.”

The church’s facade owes its beauty to the simplicity of Catalan Gothic architecture. Inside, however, is surprisingly spacious and decorative. Two of the many glass-stained windows inside have some things for you to look out for (hint: Olympics and Barcelona Club crest). Don’t miss out on the view from the rooftop as well!

37. Walk the City’s Most Famous Street, La Rambla

Bustling with tourists and locals alike, La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous walking street, and for good reason.

In this 1.2 km stretch of pavement and trees, it is not unusual to see a human statue entertaining people. Grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a meal is easy as well, with plenty of bars and restaurants to go around, especially in La Boqueria. You will also come across popular tourist attractions like the Columbus Monument.

“With plenty of things to do and see around, it is also critical to keep an eye on your belongings, so make sure to keep your valuables hidden away as you walk down the street.

38. Walk Through the Historical Gardens at Parc del Laberint d’Horta

Parc del Laberint d’Horta means “Park of the Labyrinth of Horta.” As you might have guessed, this park/museum is best known for its hedge maze made up of trimmed cypress trees. It is also the oldest garden in Barcelona.

At the entrance, you’ll find the former palace of the Desvalls family, who once owned the park. Numerous sculptures around the park depict Greek Mythology figures, like Theseus and Ariadne (which you’ll see at the entrance to the hedge maze). Fountains, springs, and pools are also scattered around and make for a nice view along with the greenery.

With lots of things to do in Barcelona, you’ll have plenty of reasons to come back for more! And if you haven’t started living your bucket list yet, now is your chance to take the first step and go out there! Like the hidden treasures still buried beneath the soils of this majestic city, Barcelona is waiting for you to dig and explore its wonders and story.

Essential Tips for Visiting Barcelona Getting There: Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (also known as Barcelona Airport or simply El Prat Airport) is a major hub and most airlines will fly into it. You can easily check for the best fare deals at Skyscanner , which also has the option to choose ‘cheapest month’ as the departure to find the lowest priced dates to fly to your destination. From the airport to the city center, you can use take a bus, aerobus, taxi, train, metro or car hire. Where to Stay in Barcelona: It’s best to stay near the city center, public transportation or the area that you will be spending the most time in. Hotel Casa Camper is a great choice in the Ciutat Vella, Barcelona (0.4 kilometers from the center). For something on the less expensive side, try Praktik Èssens located in Eixample, Barcelona (0.4 kilometers from the center) . For a hotel with a little more extravagance, book a room at the Mercer Hotel Barcelona . Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com . If you’re looking for more of a home atmosphere (or are traveling with a group of people), head over to VRBO that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.  Getting Around: Driving in a new destination can be a bit of a challenge, but if you choose to rent a car, RentalCars.com has great deals. If you are not renting a car, there are plenty of other options. Taxis and Uber are available all over the city, plus most of the major attractions can be accessed with the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus . For a more budget friendly option, metro, trams, buses, and the Catalan government’s city and suburban rail service (FGC) – all of which prioritize sustainable energy – are available. The city also boasts a public bike rental program and more than 200 kilometers of bike lanes, as well as a taxi service that comprises hybrid and electric vehicles as well as natural gas cabs. They also rent out electric automobiles that are favorable to the environment. The Hola BCN Card is an all-in-one transit card offering rides on multiple forms of transportation (metro, buses, trams, and suburban trains) for one fee. Best Tours in Barcelona : You can find some of the top tours at Get Your Guide or Viator , and here are some of the top ones. tours: Barcelona: 3.5-Hour Street Art Tour by Bamboo Bike Barcelona: Art Nouveau & Gaudí Tour Barcelona: Montjuïc, Raval and Gothic Quarter E-Bike Tour Insurance: It’s always a good idea to travel fully insured so you are protected in case of trip cancellations or medical emergencies. You can check out pricing at Travelex Insurance . Universal Adapter: Your American plugged equipment will need an adapter. I use the Celtic Universal Adapter , which has brought me around the world with no problems. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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11 thoughts on “Barcelona Bucket List: What to Do in Spain’s Top City”

thankyou for sharing

nice posting thanks

You have written a unique article. I am very happy with this article and I will include some of your information in my blog.

Hi Annette,

It was a great list! I love Spain, and I always wanted to visit Barcelona, Although I haven’t been traveling much after the pandemic, I am still collecting ideas of what I will do when I start traveling. Your list sounds amazing, and I have bookmarked this. I will definitely be doing all of these activities when I visit Barcelona. All of these things sound amazing, I can’t wait to experience them myself. Thanks a lot for sharing this amazing list!

I really loved this article! People often wonder which is the best platform for blogging, and it is a great resource to help those people out.Thanks for this great post!

Amazing skill You should travel in the world

Amazed what Barcelona, Spain has to offer to traveller. For a beginner, it is best to know first the country by knowing its wonderful places to visit, culture and language.

Soo much amazing and great information.

Thank you for writing an excellent article. This end of May 2022, will be my fourth time back in Barcelona and looking forward to checking off items in this bucket list especially the Catalan cuisine restaurants and the tapas bars recommendations.

Have a great vacation! Hope to hear more about your Barcelona adventure

Quite interesting blog to read, will recommend more users to read this amazing content.

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Hey Bucket Listers! I'm Annette .

I’m a goal obsessed mid-lifer, traveler, experience collector, fear crusher, digital marketer and author with big bucket list dreams. Let's Connect!

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60 Best Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

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There are a lot of things to do in Barcelona, Catalonia. Its art and architecture have enriched this beautiful city with worldwide fame, making it one of the main tourist destinations in Spain.

As all of my mother’s family is from Catalonia, I have been traveling to Barcelona for as long as I can remember and I can tell you that you should visit it at least once in your lifetime.

I suggest spending 3 days in Barcelona, but if you want to visit the surroundings, you’re better off with 4 or 5 days. There are many amazing  places to visit in Barcelona , one of the best cities to visit in Spain.

If this is your first time, this  free tour  is one of the  best things to do in Barcelona  as soon as you arrive. Also, to learn more about the architect that designed many of the main points of interest in the city, don’t miss this   free tour about the modernist works of Gaudí .

Keep in mind that not all of  Barcelona’s tourist attractions  are close to each other. The best way to get around is with   this unlimited transport card , which is valid for 2 to 5 days from activation. However, if you’re going to visit museums and other paid attractions,   this other card   includes unlimited transportation and free entrance to some sites.

Now, here are the 60 best things to do in Barcelona . At the end of this guide, I’ve included a tourist map to help you plan your itinerary.

1. La Sagrada Familia, a must-see in Barcelona, Catalonia

La Sagrada Familia  is one of the most important  places to visit in Barcelona . This Catholic cathedral was designed by Antoni Gaudí and is considered his most impressive work. Construction began in 1882 and the work is still not finished! Once you step inside, you’ll understand why.

The church is a prime example of Catalan Modernist architecture, and perhaps the most ambitious project in the country. Simply walking up to it, you have to crane your neck to see the impressive façade and all the intricate details. Be sure to take time to see all the religious elements interspersed with natural forms.

The Sagrada Familia is a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site, so there’s no doubt that visiting it is one of the best things to do in Barcelona . Along with the Alhambra in Granada, the cathedral is one of the most-visited monuments in Spain. The interior is a true work of art, full of symmetrical ornamentation.

The most remarkable thing about it is its massive size and huge towers. Each tower is meant to represent a Biblical character: Jesus, the Virgin Mary, the apostles, and the four evangelists of the gospels.

I think it’s well worth spending the extra money to climb to the top of the towers. You’ll get the most stunning views of the city! The lines get long, so I suggest booking one of these options in advance:  skip-the-line-ticket only ,  ticket + guided tour , or  ticket + guided tour + towers .

2. Park Güell, the most beautiful park to visit in Barcelona

Park Güell  is one of those places not to miss in Barcelona . This public park is another dreamy creation by Gaudí, and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Entrance to the park is free, although you’ll need a ticket to visit the monument area. It’s worth it, as you’ll get to see the best modernist architecture in Barcelona. Plus, there’s a  skip-the-line ticket  available. Or, you  bundle Park Güell with a tour of La Sagrada Familia .

As you go through the main entrance, you’ll see a whimsical little house overlooking the southern slope of Mount Carmel. The house functions as a bar, exhibit room, and souvenir shop. Also, right in front of it is one of the top tourist  attractions in Barcelona : Gaudí’s famous lizard sculpture. The colorful ceramic fragments were made with the traditional  trencadís  technique, which is reflected in many Barcelona souvenirs.

Take your time exploring the gardens and the  Plaza de la Naturaleza , where you’ll find the iconic snake-shaped bench and magnificent views. Be sure to also check out the incredible architecture of the  Hypostyle Hall, the Viaducts , and the  Laundry Room Portico . You can also visit the Gaudí House-Museum, where the famous architect lived for a few years.

I would plan a few hours at the park so you can take your time to see everything. There are picnic tables and plenty of benches, too. Don’t forget to visit the  Austrian Gardens , the  Vallcarca Forest , and the  Hill of Three Crosses .

3. Watch a match at Camp Nou,  popular things to do in Barcelona, Spain

I’m not passionate about soccer, but I know that watching the Barça team play at  Camp Nou  is a dream come true for many people. I think it’s one of those  activities in Barcelona  that anyone could enjoy.

Camp Nou stadium was inaugurated on September 24, 1957, and since then, has been where FC Barcelona plays their home games. The arena currently seats over 99,000 fans, making it one of the largest stadiums in Europe. It’s also open to self-guided tours throughout the week, so it’s a popular  tourist attraction in Barcelona .

If you can’t catch a match, consider  this tour , which takes you behind the scenes to the more private areas of the stadium. A sports journalist will share history about the Barça team while showing you the press room, museum, and press box. The tour ends with a snack and drinks at the local bar.

I did this tour with my brother a couple of years ago and can say that it’s one of the  fun things to do in Barcelona  for families too.

4. La Pedrera-Casa Milà, a breathtaking place to go in Barcelona

La Pedrera , also known as  Casa Milà , is another important work by Antoni Gaudí, and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can find it by strolling along Paseo de Gràcia. Once you see it, you’ll have no doubts because it’s the most  beautiful place to visit on Barcelona ‘s streets.

It’s hard to imagine living in such an incredible building, but  Casa Milà  was built as a residence. The undulating structure was completed in 1912 for Pere Milà and Roser Segimon, an aristocratic couple.

From the sidewalk, you can see the home’s wrought-iron balconies, each with a slightly different style. You can admire Casa-Milà from the outside or pay to see the inside. Admission doesn’t cost too much, and I think it’s an  interesting thing to do in Barcelona .

From inside, you can see that the construction of the windows and patios was very intentional to improve the lighting and ventilation. If you go up to the roof, you’ll get awesome views of the city. I think it’s fun to look around and notice which chimneys and staircases stand out from the ordinary.

The main hall of the building serves as a public museum. It also houses the headquarters of the Catalunya La Pedrera Foundation headquarters and some luxury apartments.

If you do want to go inside, I suggest booking a  skip-the-line ticket  since it can get crowded.

5. Casa Batlló, one of the best museums in Barcelona, Catalonia

Casa Batlló  is another famous work by Antoni Gaudí and one of my favorite  places to visit in Barcelona . What makes this building so special is that the façade represents the history of Sant Jordi, the patron saint of Catalonia. If you visit Casa Batlló on April 23rd (the day of his death and the Day of the Book), you’ll see red roses adorning the balconies.

The exterior façade of Casa Batlló is colorful and ornate, and the designs seem to resemble masks or skulls. The balconies are equally as impressive, especially the uppermost Princess Balcony. Along with the scaly roof, these architectural elements look like the body of a dragon. You could stand in front of this house for an hour and still find little details, which makes it a  popular place to visit in Barcelona.

Like Gaudí’s other works, Casa Batlló is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can view the exterior for free, but I recommend reserving a  ticket  to go inside. The tour includes a virtual reality “smart guide” that gives you an inside look at Gaudí’s design process.

6. Visit Plaza de Cataluña-La Rambla-Mirador de Colón, the best free thing to do in BCN

One of the most iconic  things to do in Barcelona  is to take a walk through the  Plaza de Cataluña  to  La Rambla  and the  Columbus Monument . These three attractions are part of any Barcelona itinerary and will give you a great introduction to the city.

The  Plaça de Catalunya is a huge square and connects the old town to the E nsanche , or expansion of the city. Shops, bars, restaurants, and a subway station surround the plaza, and it always has a lively atmosphere. If you visit during the holidays, you can experience the Christmas market. There are lots of activities too, making it one of the best  things to do in Barcelona with kids .

6. Plaza de Cataluña-La Rambla-Mirador de Colón, the best free thing to do in BCN

The plaza also connects to La Rambla, the central street in Barcelona. This energetic street leads to the port and is always filled with tourists and enticing stalls. La Rambla passes by popular  Barcelona attractions  like the  Liceu Theater  and the  Boquería market . While there are lots of things to see here, be sure to stay aware, as lots of pick-pocketers hang out around this area.

At the end of La Rambla, you’ll see the  Columbus Monument . It’s nearly 200 feet tall and you can climb to the overlook, where you’ll get spectacular views of the port. Nearby is a scenic waterfront walkway and Port Vell , the old city port. There are lots of restaurants around here, but I don’t recommend them because the prices are high, and the quality isn’t great.

7. Eat at La Boquería, an incredible thing to do in Barcelona, Catalonia

The  Boquería Market  is one of the most  famous places to visit in Barcelona , and it’s quite an experience for the senses.

This open-air market has the perfect location to entice tourists who are strolling La Rambla. It dates to 1840 when it was a popular local market for fresh produce. Today, it’s one of the main  Barcelona tourist attractions  with a global reputation.

La Boquería covers over half an acre, and you’ll find over 200 vendors here. The products range from local specialties to exotic foods and delicacies. If you can find a seat at one of the bar counters, settle in for some traditional tapas. The market is also a great place to sightsee, and it’s a nice free thing to do in Barcelona .

I think it’s interesting that this area used to be the site of the Convent of Sant Josep back in the 16th century. However, the convent caught fire, so the market was built in its place.

8. La Barceloneta, one of the best beaches in Barcelona, Spain

La Barceloneta  is one of the top  tourist sites in Barcelona . The neighborhood is a popular vacation spot for locals and visitors since it offers a convenient location to the beach and the city center.

Because of its proximity to the sea, the Barceloneta district was a fishermen’s neighborhood in the mid-18th century. While the area has been modernized, the old-fashioned essence of remains, mostly in the narrow streets, darkened facades, and squawking seabirds.

Barceloneta Beach  is one of the more  popular places to visit in Barcelona , particularly among tourists. The beach can get so crowded that many locals prefer to travel to nearby towns instead. While Barceloneta is worth seeing, there are other great beaches in Barcelona, such as  Sitges, Calella , and  Castelldefels .

When you get hungry, you won’t be far from some great restaurants. One of my favorite pizzerias, NAP, is in Barceloneta. If the weather is nice, you can order a pizza to go and enjoy it on the beach.

There are also lots of  interesting things to do in this Barcelona  neighborhood. For example, here you’ll find the  Museum of History of Catalonia, the Clock Tower , and the  Maremagnum Shopping Center . You can also take the  cable car to the Miramar Viewpoint  on the lower level of  Montjuïc , an area I’ll talk about next.

If you’re staying overnight, the beach has one of the best hotels in Spain , the W Barcelona .

9. Montjuïc, an area with more things to do in Barcelona, Catalonia

Montjuïc  is one of those  places of interest in Barcelona  that offers something for everyone. This iconic hill is home to parks, museums, historical sites, and incredible views of the city.

The area has several  unique things to do in Barcelona  that you can’t find anywhere else. For example, the  Castle of Montjuïc  is an old military fortress from the 1640s, although it had to be rebuilt in 1751. It has a neoclassical style with bastions, parade grounds, a watchtower, moat, and terrace. It’s at the summit of the hill, over 565 feet above sea level, and you feel like you’re in another world.

If it’s museums that you want, Montjuïc won’t disappoint. The area is home to MNAC , the  Archaeology Museum of Catalonia , the  Joan Miró Foundation , and the  Joan Antoni Samaranch Olympic and Sports Museum . The  Poble Espanyol,  an open-air museum that recreates traditional Spanish villages, is another highlight.

Another unforgettable thing to do here is to see the free  Magic Fountain  show in front of MNAC. Watching the colorful display of water, lights, and music is the  best thing to do in Barcelona at night .

Besides, getting to Montjuïc is half the fun. You can take the  cable car  and take in aerial views of the sea and mountains. It’s a more expensive option, but it’s worth it for the experience.

10. Tibidabo amusement park, the best thing to do in Barcelona with kids

Tibidabo amusement park  is the most popular  place to visit in Barcelona with kids . The park is on  Tibidabo Mountain , which is part of the Collserola Range. It’s the oldest active amusement park in Spain, and one of the oldest in Europe, and makes for a thrilling day trip.

The amusement park will delight kids, but there are also elements for adults to enjoy. If I had to choose an attraction, of course, I’d choose  Hotel Krüeger . It’s a haunted house full of creepy characters like Dracula, Freddy Krueger, and the girl from  The Exorcist . This is one of the  best attractions in Barcelona . It’s so good that you can only go in three times per day.

Other activities at Tibidabo include historic rides like  Talaia , a rotating arm built in 1921 that soars over 1,800 feet in the air. There is also  Avió , the world’s first   flight simulator, which is a to-scale replica of a 1920s Iberian Airlines plane. There are modern thrill rides, too, such as the  Dididado  4D cinema attraction and  Virtual Express , a virtual reality roller coaster.

When you need a break, you can visit the park’s  Automata Museum , which contains over 40 automated machines and puppets from the 19th and 20th centuries. There are also several restaurants, picnic areas, and souvenir shops in the park.

Tibidabo is popular with locals and tourists, so it can get crowded. Sometimes it’s impossible to get same-day  tickets , so I recommend purchasing them in advance.

11. Barcelona Cathedral, a tranquil place to go in Barcelona, Catalonia

The  Barcelona Cathedral  is one of the most impressive Gothic temples in Catalonia, so it’s one of the top places for  sightseeing in Barcelona .

Also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, this 14th-century church is a stunning example of Catalan gothic architecture. As you approach the structure, you’ll notice the exterior façade is covered in religious motifs and gargoyles. There are also relief sculptures of Christ and the apostles on the large door and Gothic arch.

If you’re an art aficionado, you may notice that some elements in the church are more Renaissance while others are modernist. For example, the impressive bell towers and stained-glass windows reflect these styles.

Of course, you don’t need to be well-versed in art history to appreciate the beauty of this cathedral. One of the most remarkable parts of the church is the  Crypt of Santa Eulalia . This tomb is the resting place of Saint Eulalia, a young girl who defended her Christian faith to her death. The 13 white geese in the cloister area represent the age at which Eulalia was martyred.

You should also check out the ornate choir stalls, the monstrance made of gold and silver, and the  Chapel of Santo Cristo de Lepanto , which was built in 1407.

12. MNAC, one of the most important museums in Barcelona, Spain

MNAC  or the  National Art Museum of Catalonia  is one of the most important  museums to visit in Barcelona . It’s conveniently located in Montjuïc Park, behind the Magic Fountain.

The museum has one of the most impressive collections in the country. Its exhibits cover masterful works from the 11th century to the present day, including works by El Greco, Rubens, and Goya, among others. Along with these famous paintings, you’ll also find drawings, engravings, sculptures, and foreign coins.

It’s worth visiting MNAC more than once, as the permanent collection is massive. That said, the museum also holds temporary exhibits, so check the  website  to see what’s showing during your trip.

As you walk up to the museum, you’ll feel like you’re entering a magnificent castle. And well, you kind of are! MNAC is housed in the National Palace, a Spanish-Renaissance building that was designed for the 1929 International Exhibition.

If you love art, this is one of the  best places to go in Barcelona . You can explore thousands of works all in one location. Plus, if you go up to the museum terrace, you can look out over  Plaça d’Espanya  and the rest of the city.

13. The Gothic Quarter, an interesting place to visit in Barcelona

The  Gothic Quarter  is one of the most  interesting places to visit in Barcelona . As the oldest and, in my opinion, the most beautiful part of the city, you can’t say you’ve experienced Barcelona without seeing this neighborhood.

You might stumble upon the Gothic Quarter by accident, or you can make a left off La Rambla as you’re walking towards the Columbus Monument. Follow the narrow streets to encounter one of the most charming  Barcelona attractions .

Some of the small shops in this neighborhood are the original 19th and 20th-century buildings. You’ll also find a few tourist sites like the neoclassical  Plaza Real , the  Barcelona City History Museum , the  Picasso Museum , and the  Barcelona Cathedral  that I mentioned earlier.

One of the most important areas is the  Plaça de Sant Jaume , where City Hall and the Government of Catalonia are located. Several cultural events occur here throughout the year, such as the  castells , or human towers.

The Gothic Quarter is also home to the remnants of Barcelona’s Jewish Quarter, known as  El Call . One of the oldest synagogues in Europe, the  Ancient Synagogue of Barcelona , can be found here.

You want to take your time exploring this distinct neighborhood. I know the labyrinthine streets can be confusing, so consider this  2-hour walking tour . Afterward, you might enjoy browsing the nearby  Portal de l’Àngel  shopping area.

14. Palace of Catalan Music, one of the most spectacular places to go in Barcelona

The  Palace of Catalan Music  is a modernist Catalan music hall and a  beautiful place in Barcelona . Designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the palace first opened in 1908. Today, it’s a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site and a prime example of the  Renaixen ç a , the Catalan Rebirth.

You can see national and international performers at the concert hall, although the stunning interior decorate might steal the show. The palace’s interior is filled with intricate floral motifs as well as traditional Spanish and Arabic elements.

Perhaps the most impressive feature is the stage, which is surrounded by muses, busts of Anselm Clavé and Beethoven, and a depiction of Wagner’s Valkyries. The circular stained-glass skylight looks like a sun radiating throughout the concert hall.

A visit to the palace is an amazing  experience in Barcelona  and one that you shouldn’t miss. The cheapest seats cost $24-$35, but I recommend spending a bit more so you can really take in the show. If there isn’t a performance you’re interested in seeing, this 45-minute  guided tour  is a great way to explore the luxury of the palace.

15. Visit Plaça d’Espanya, the best free thing to do in Barcelona

Plaça d’Espanya  is one of the most  famous places to visit in Barcelona , as you might guess from its iconic Venetian towers. The square holds historical and cultural significance and is a must-see during your trip.

The plaza’s spectacular architecture was designed for the 1929 International Exhibition, and today, it creates a lovely backdrop for the  Magic Fountain  shows.

This is also where you’ll find  Las Arenas , a former bull-fighting ring that’s now a massive shopping center with some good restaurants. If you go up to the roof terrace, you can view the plaza and its surroundings. You can take the panoramic elevator, but they’ll charge you a fee. I don’t think it’s worth it, so I prefer taking the free elevator or escalator.

The  CaixaFórum  art gallery is also in the square. It’s a cool place to see contemporary art, photography, film, and architecture. If the  Fira de Barcelona  pavilions are open, check those out, too. Throughout the year, this area hosts interesting trade shows covering a variety of subjects like cars, manga, weddings, and more. Nearby is the open-air  Poble Espanyol  museum, which I’ll talk about later.

Getting to the plaza is simple since many bus routes stop here. Or you can take the L1, L3, or L8 subway train to the Espanya station.

16. Joan Miró Foundation, another great museum to visit in Barcelona, Catalonia

Nestled atop Montjuïc Hill is the  Joan Miró Foundation , which doubles as a museum and a contemporary art institution. Miró was an influential Catalan painter, and the collection spans more than 104,000 pieces of his work, so this is a top  museum in Barcelona .

On your way to the foundation, you’ll probably pass through Plaça d’Espanya, which is home to Miró’s  Dona i Ocell  sculpture. At the museum, not only will you find some of the artist’s best work, but the building itself was designed by him, too. He imagined each gallery space and room layout so they could reflect specific artworks, which I think is pretty cool.

Along with his surreal paintings, drawings, and sculptures, the foundation also holds temporary exhibits of 20th and 21st-century artists. Here, you can find works by Rene Magritte, Alexander Calder, Mark Rothko, and lesser-known artists. The Espai 13 gallery is dedicated to young experimental artists.

The museum also offers family activities and workshops, so this could be a fun  place to visit in Barcelona with kids .

17. Ciutadella, a popular place to go in Barcelona, Catalonia

La Ciutadella  is a gorgeous historical garden, although it was once a military fortress. After the 1868 Revolution, the fortress had been demolished, leaving the city to decide what to do with the space. Since the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition was approaching, the plan was to create one of the most  beautiful places in Barcelona .

Without a doubt, La Ciutadella Park is a prominent  site in Barcelona , both for its historical significance and its incredible design. It has a unique five-corner design with the main entrance being near the  Arc de Triomf . The entire area covers over 40 acres, making this the perfect place to hang out, practice sports, have a picnic or sightsee.

Speaking of which, La Ciutadella is a prime spot for  sightseeing in Barcelona . I suggest checking out the  Cascada , a lovely waterfall that mimics the design of Rome’s Trevi Fountain. There is also the modernist  Castle of the Three Dragons , where you’ll find the  Museum of Natural Sciences of Barcelona .

Be sure to bring your camera because there are lots of cool monuments to see. One of the best is the mammoth sculpture, whose trunk you can climb onto. The General Prim monument and  Als Voluntaris Catalans  statue, which honors fallen Catalan volunteer soldiers, are also popular.

On a typical day, you’ll see couples and families enjoying the fresh air or a rowboat ride on the lake. Even though it’s in the city and close to several attractions, it’s a peaceful haven.

18. Arc de Triomf, an incredible monument to see in Barcelona, Catalonia

The  Arc de Triomf  is a  Barcelona attraction  you can’t miss. Built for the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition, the arch is nearly 100 feet tall, although it’s smaller than the Paris arch that inspired it. You can find it near the Ciutadella entrance on the Lluis Companys promenade.

While most arches of triumph are meant to commemorate military victories, Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf is non-combative and instead, welcomes visitors. The inscription on the front-facing side even says  Barcelona rep les nacions , which translates to “Barcelona receives the nations”.

The iconic landmark was a collaborative project among several Catalan architects, and all the elements represent various aspects of the city’s history. For example, there are relief sculptures to mark Barcelona’s agricultural industry and commerce, as well as shields of the 49 Spanish provinces. The carved stone bats are a nod to King Jaume I, who oversaw a period of prosperity over the city.

The Arc de Triomf is a unique  thing to see in Barcelona , plus it’s close to several good restaurants and tourist attractions. The surrounding area near the Lluis Companys promenade is a pleasant hangout spot for locals, so take your time to walk around and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

19. Güell Palace, a breathtaking place to go in Barcelona

Another Gaudí masterpiece you should check out is  Güell Palace . This cultural landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, which you can find in the El Raval neighborhood, was completed in 1890.

Like all Gaudí’s works, Güell Palace stands out among the other homes on Nou de la Rambla Street. The modernist architecture is something you’ll recognize if you’ve already visited other Gaudí  tourist attractions in Barcelona .

If you pay attention to the house’s front entrance, you’ll notice two iron gates, which were designed to accommodate horse-drawn carriages. There are intricate organic forms forged into the iron, some of which resemble underwater plants.

Part of the mansion is a museum, and you can go inside for a reasonable fee. Your visit starts in the basement stable, through the central room, and up to the roof terrace, the most beautiful part. Here, you’ll find 20 chimneys and a central spire, all covered in decorative ceramics. Walking through the terrace feels like traversing a magical landscape of colorful mosaics and curvaceous forms.

If you plan on visiting other  places of interest in Barcelona , consider  this tour , which guides you through La Rambla, La Boquería, and Güell Palace.

20. Turó de la Rovira, a little-known area to visit in Barcelona, Catalonia

For an interesting yet  unusual thing to do in Barcelona , consider a trip to  Turó de la Rovira . This hill sits 860 feet above sea level, granting you awesome views of the city and sea.

The site dates to the 4th century, although it was most prominent during the Spanish Civil War in the late 1930s. The famous  Carmel bunkers  you’ll see here were used as an anti-aircraft battery during the war.

In the 1950s, the area became a shantytown, housing thousands of poor families. This ushered in the urban phenomenon of  barraquismo  or informal housing.

Today, Turó de la Rovira is home to a  Barcelona History Museum archaeological site . You can explore the outdoor museum space and exhibitions to learn more about the Spanish Civil War and the post-war period in Catalonia. I’ll mention the Barcelona History Museum in-depth a bit later.

Turó may be off the beaten path, but it’s a great place to go if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Besides, the area is perfect for stargazing, which is one of my favorite  things to do in Barcelona in the summer .

21. Church of Colònia Güell, a secret place to visit in Barcelona

If you loved Park Güell, then you’ll enjoy visiting the  Church of Colònia Güell . Also known as the Gaudí Crypt, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hidden gem in Barcelona.

The church is tucked away in a small forest, its man-made materials blending in seamlessly with the natural surroundings. If you visited La Sagrada Familia, you’ll find the Gaudí Crypt to be a similar structure.

Gaudi built the church with colorful materials and textures, which reflects his focus on natural elements. While the architect started building the structure in 1898, he took a decade-long break only to leave the chapel unfinished in 1914. The crypt portion is the only part that’s complete, although local architects did some work on the church so that visitors can stand on the roof, which Gaudi meant to be the floor.

Fortunately, this magnificent building maintains the asymmetrical charm that the Catalan architect is known for. Plus, compared to Gaudi’s other works, the Church of Colònia Güell is the least touristy. Of course, it’s still a  beautiful place to visit in Barcelona , particularly for its stained-glass windows. You can get early entry to the church and crypt  here .

22. Shop at Agbar Tower & Encants Market, a great activity to do in Barcelona

The  Agbar Tower , now known as the Torre Glòries, is a prominent landmark on the Barcelona coastline. It’s also one of the  famous places to visit in Barcelona . Thanks to its distinct shape, the building has received several funny nicknames such as the cucumber, the bullet, or the dildo.

From afar the building looks a bit silly, but up close, it’s quite a sight. At nearly 475 feet tall, the 34-floor structure is made of shiny glass and aluminum. The inside mostly contains offices, although the architect’s penthouse is at the top. Rather, Torre Glòries is a cool  place to go in Barcelona at night , when its 4,500 LED lights create pretty color and pattern combinations.

Plus,  Encants Market  is right next door. Similar to the Rastro de Madrid, Encants is a one-stop-shop for just about anything you might want. Here, you can browse through stalls selling furniture, clothing, toys, crafts, antiques, and more. There are also several food vendors offering delicious street food.

Arrive here in the afternoon and spend some time perusing the market as well as the  Glòries Shopping Center . Around dusk, you’ll be able to see the Tower lights go on. It’s a  unique thing to do in Barcelona  that I highly recommend.

23. Gràcia, a bohemian neighborhood you must visit in Barcelona, Catalonia

Gràcia  is a quintessential Barcelona neighborhood. It has a fun, bohemian vibe with lots of artistic and cultural characteristics. Without a doubt, it is one of the most  popular places to visit in Barcelona .

Some of my best memories are from my days in Gràcia, so it’s one of the neighborhoods I like the most. If you can, I suggest visiting during the  Fiesta Mayor de Gràcia  in mid-August. Gràcia residents compete for the best street decorations, and visitors come to see all the themed displays, many of them handmade. The event is an awesome  thing to do in Barcelona in the summer , and people line up around the block to see it!

Besides that, Gràcia is a charming district with beautiful squares and architecture. Check out the  Plaza de la Virreina , where you’ll find the  Church of Sant Joan , the  Plaza del Diamante,  the peaceful  Plaza del Norte , or the  Plaza de la Vila de Gràcia , a modern area with bars and coffee shops.

To enjoy some sightseeing, visit the  Mercado de la Libertad , the  Vallcarca Viaduct , Gaudi’s  Casa Vicens , or the  Teatre més petit del món  (The Smallest Theater in the World). You can visit the one-room theater for an intimate performance, but space is limited, so  book ahead .

24. Picasso Museum, one of the top museums in Barcelona, Spain

The  Picasso Museum  is one of the best  museums to visit in Barcelona . Pablo Picasso covered a wide scope of artistic styles throughout his career, and this museum has thousands of his works, the most in the world. If you need something to do on a rainy day, or you just love art, check this place out.

What’s unique about this museum is that Picasso himself established it in 1963. After a friend suggested having the museum in Málaga, Picasso decided it would be in Barcelona, a city he had come to love.

This  Barcelona attraction  occupies several houses along  Montcada Street  as well as a building in nearby  Sabartés Square . These impressive structures are a good example of Catalan civic gothic architecture and seem perfect for containing Picasso’s work. Along with its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibits related to Picasso’s life and artistic style.

The museum is a popular tourist spot, so I suggest booking your ticket in advance. Better yet, this  walking tour  includes museum admission and a walk through Picasso’s old hangouts, such as  Els Quatre Gats  (The Four Cats). If you have time, visit this iconic cafe, which played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s age of  modernisme .

25. Gran Teatro del Liceu, another must-see in Barcelona, Catalonia

Along La Rambla, you’ll come across the  Gran Teatro del Liceo . It first opened in 1847 for the city’s upper class, so seeing a performance there is a  luxurious thing to do in Barcelona . You can find out who is performing at the theater on the  website .

Unlike other opera houses in Europe, private shareholders funded the construction of the Gran Teatro. This fact is reflected in the theater’s design and lack of a royal viewing box. Despite being emblematic of Barcelona’s elite, it became a beloved city icon.

Over the years, a fire and bombing destroyed parts of the theater, but it was rebuilt in the original style. Still, some locals believed that the theater was cursed since it was built on the former site of a convent!

Cursed or not, the Gran Teatro is a  must-see in Barcelona . I was lucky enough to be in town when  Les Misérables  was playing at the theater, and I was blown away by the quality of the acoustics and the Art Nouveau architecture. If you love theater, add this to your  Barcelona to-do list .

26. Plaza de San Felipe Neri, a historical place to go in Barcelona

The  Plaza de San Felipe Neri  is hidden among the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, and it deserves a section of its own. This historical  attraction in Barcelona  is equal parts beautiful and mysterious.

The square has a medieval Baroque style, which you’ll notice in the surrounding buildings, such as a school and church. There is a nearby playground and a lovely octagonal fountain, which many interpret as a symbol of life and hope.

All this Renaissance beauty aside, there is a somber air about this place. You’ll probably notice the damaged walls of the church. While tour guides and locals sometimes say that the pockmarks are the result of an anarchist execution, that’s not true.

The damage occurred on January 30, 1938, during the Spanish Civil War. It was one of General Franco’s planes that dropped bombs on the church in the plaza. The bombings killed 42 people, many of whom were children.

Visiting this square is one of the more  unusual things to do in Barcelona , but it’s a historically significant area that I think is worth seeing.

27. Air-raid shelters, another unusual place to go in Barcelona, Catalonia

The Spanish Civil War was just 80 years ago and had a strong impact on the country and Catalonia in particular. One of the more  unique things to do in Barcelona  is to visit the  air-raid shelters  throughout the city. If you’re interested in diving into this part of Barcelona’s history, I’ll tell you where to find the most significant shelters.

One of the largest is  Refuge 307 de Poble Sec  at the foot of Montjuïc. The Barcelona City History Museum manages it now, but back in the late 1930s, the residents of this neighborhood dug a tunnel over 1,310 feet deep to build the shelter. Today, the refuge is open to public tours, so you can see how the 9,000 residents lived within the walls of these tunnels.

Another shelter, the  Refugio de la Plaza del Diamante , is in the Gràcia neighborhood. It’s smaller, just 40 feet underground, and with a 200-person capacity, but it’s still impressive. I also suggest you visit the  Refugio de la Plaza de la Revolución , which housed 1,400 residents and is also in the Gràcia district. This shelter is lesser-known, and sometimes it’s closed off, but you won’t know until you get there.

Finally, be sure to visit the refuge used by Lluís Companys, president of the Generalitat de Catalunya at that time.  Les Heures  was his secret residence during the Spanish Civil War, and the University of Barcelona organizes tours of the shelter.

28. Go out for tapas, something you must do in Barcelona

Going out for tapas  is one of the  best things to do in Barcelona . Tapas are small dishes that you can enjoy alone or with friends, and I’m sure that the typical Catalan foods will leave you satisfied.

One of the simplest yet most delicious tapas is  pan tumaca . It’s nothing more than crusty bread with tomato, although some people add ham or cheese, too. Other popular dishes include patatas bravas, calamari a la romana, tortilla de patatas, and bombas.

Going out for tapas is common throughout Spain, but some dishes are synonymous with Catalonia. For example,  calçots with romesco sauce , which are a kind of scallions with a tomato and garlic sauce. If you want to taste this dish, I suggest going to El Disbarat in Gràcia. You’ll also find  caracoles  (snails) on the menu. These are very typical in Catalonia and were my grandmother’s signature dish!

If you have a sweet tooth, trying  crema Catalana  is  something you must do in Barcelona . This special egg yolk cream has a layer of caramelized sugar, so it’s crunchy on the outside and gooey inside.

You can try all these delicious dishes on  this food tour  which takes you through the Gothic Quarter, El Born, and Barceloneta for tapas.

29. Laberint d’Horta Park, the oldest park in Barcelona

Besides Ciutadella Park,  Laberint d’Horta Park  is one of my favorite parks in Barcelona. It’s the oldest park in the city and it’s quite romantic, so spending a few hours here is a great  thing to do in Barcelona for couples .

This beautiful garden is the perfect blend of nature and architecture. Spanning over 135 acres, the landscaped grounds reflect the neoclassical style, so you’ll see lots of symmetrical columns and buildings. As I said, it’s a romantic place full of lovely plants, including  agapanthus , which is known as the flower of love.

As the name suggests, the park also has a topiary labyrinth, and the maze is a  fun thing to do in Barcelona  for both kids and adults. I must admit that it took me a while to find my way out, but it’s an enjoyable experience. The maze is full of stone benches and beautiful sculptures, so you won’t mind getting lost.

The romantic fountains, the fun labyrinth, the soothing nature; it’s the perfect escape from the busy city. Plus, there is no admission cost on Sundays, so it’s one of the  best free things to do in Barcelona .

30. Santa María del Mar Church, a peaceful place to go in Barcelona, Spain

Santa María del Mar Church , also known as the Ribera Cathedral, is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. In fact, it’s the only church in the pure Catalan Gothic style, so it’s a  must-see in Barcelona .

The church is the work of Berenguer de Montagut, who built it in the 14th century. If you’re a fan of medieval architecture, this cathedral will delight you. One of the first things you’ll notice is the three naves and the massive columns, which create a feeling of expansiveness. A few of the stained-glass windows have remained throughout the centuries, making this a  beautiful place in Barcelona .

The Santa Maria chapel includes a stained-glass window depicting the Ascension. Interestingly, part of the cathedral sits on former burial grounds, adding to the solemnity of the place.

If you go, be sure to check out the rose window. The original was destroyed in the 1428 earthquake, but the replacement is just as stunning. I also suggest going up to the roof, where you can enjoy incredible views of the city.

Avid readers may recognize the Santa Maria del Mar church from the famous novel  Cathedral of the Sea , by Idelfonso Falcones. If you understand Spanish, you can even take this book tour through the cathedral,  something interesting to do in Barcelona .

31. Visit Parc de la Creueta del Coll, a free thing to do in Barcelona, Spain

Another  cool thing to do in Barcelona ‘s Gràcia neighborhood is to visit  La Creueta del Coll Park . The “Park of the Corner of the Hill” was formerly an abandoned quarry, but now it’s a fun place to go, especially in the warmer months.

The best part of this park is its huge public swimming pool. There are lots of trees scattered throughout the park, too, so it’s a popular hangout when the weather gets hot. Not too many tourists know about this place, but visiting it is a great  thing to do in Barcelona in the summer .

Besides the pool, you can also enjoy ping pong tables, playgrounds, and picnic areas. There’s also lots of space to ride a bike, practice sports, or simply relax and people-watch. If you’re looking for something to do for free, this is one of the best  Barcelona areas to visit , and you won’t get crowded out by tourists.

A centerpiece of the park, besides the pool, is the  Praise of Water  sculpture  by Eduardo Chillida. This curious 50-ton artwork hovers above a placid pond and is supported by four steel cables. American sculptor Ellsworth Kelly also has a piece,  Escultura , at the park’s entrance.

32. See the castells , a unique activity to do in Barcelona, Catalonia

The  castells , or human towers, are an essential part of Catalan culture. This tradition dates to the end of the 1700s in the city of Valls. From there, it spread throughout Catalonia, and nowadays,  seeing a castells performance  is one of the most  popular things to do in Barcelona .

There are several  colles castelleres  (teams) in the city, and they usually perform on holidays and some weekends. The best time to see them is from April to November in various plazas around town. You can check  this website  to see if there’s a performance during your stay.

32. See the castells, a unique activity to do in Barcelona, Catalonia

Of course, there is much more to these human towers than simply scrambling on top of each other. The castells have a hierarchical structure, starting with the  pinya  or base. The tiers get progressively smaller until you get to the crown of the castle, which is usually a child.

The towers can vary depending on the number of levels and the number of people in each tier. Even so, each performance is accompanied by music from a  gralla  (similar to a flute) and a timpani drum.

I’ll admit, the first time I saw a performance, I was terrified for the kids at the top of the tower. However, castells are an iconic part of Catalan culture, and they’ve even been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by  UNESCO . Seeing the human towers is a  quirky thing to do in Barcelona , one that you’ll want to tell your friends about!

33. Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art, a cool museum in Barcelona

The  Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona , also known as  MACBA , is a modern art museum in the El Raval neighborhood. If you’re looking for  things to do in Barcelona in winter , check out this place.

While there are lots of historical museums and  modernisme  artworks in the city, MACBA is the best  museum to visit in Barcelona  if you want to see contemporary art. Most of the pieces are minimalist or abstract, and the collection spans over 5,000 works.

Some of the prominent artists you’ll find here include Bruce Nauman, Cristina Iglesias, Antoni Muntadas, and Xavier Miserachs. One of the most interesting exhibits is the 1989 graphic poster  Do Women Have to be Naked to Get into the Met. Museum?  It’s a piece by the Guerilla Girls, an anonymous group of feminist artists devoted to gender equality.

MACBA also has a second building in the  Convent dels Àngels  complex, a gothic chapel just a few minutes away. I know contemporary art isn’t for everyone, and for some travelers, this museum isn’t essential. Still, it’s an  interesting place to go in Barcelona if it rains.

34. Carretera de les Aigües, the best hike to do in Barcelona, Catalonia

The  Carretera de les Aigües  or, Road of the Waters, is the perfect  place to visit outside of Barcelona ‘s city center. It gets its name from an old water pipeline running parallel to the route. The pipes aren’t there anymore, but the area is still one of the best sites to hike in Barcelona.

The entire route is just over six miles, and it starts at  Sant Pere de Màrtir  to the west of the city center. From there, it travels northeast to  Rabassada Road  and runs through the  Collserola viewpoint where you can look out over the vast cityscape and enjoy the natural park. The walk itself is pretty easy since it is quite flat. Still, I suggest wearing comfortable shoes!

One of the great things about this city is its proximity to outdoor areas and natural spaces. The Carretera de les Aigües is popular with locals who need a break from city life so you might make some new friends. If you enjoy getting out in nature and away from the hustle and bustle, this hike will be a  relaxing thing to do in Barcelona.

35. Pedralbes Royal Palace gardens, another lovely place to go in Barcelona

The  Pedralbes Royal Palace gardens  are one of the most  beautiful places in Barcelona . The Palace was the home of the Spanish Royal Family when they would visit the city from 1919-1931.

Today, you can visit this lovely area, and it’s a  romantic thing to do in Barcelona  for couples. The lush gardens are protected by a wrought-iron gate, which adds a distinctive air to the place. It’s certainly a calmer and more regal section of the busy city.

The Royal Palace is surrounded by greenery, trees, and vegetation, bringing the entire landscape together. Today, the building houses the  Museum of Ceramics, Museum of Textiles , and the  Museum of Decorative Arts , which are interesting to walk through if you have the time.

Of course, the gardens alone are quite a sight to behold, and the sculptural elements here reflect the style of Antoni Gaudí. Speaking of the arts, if you visit in June, you may catch the  Jardins Pedralbes Festival , a popular music festival. It’s one of the top  things to do in Barcelona in the summer,  as you can see international and national artists like James Blunt, Juanes, and Raphael.

Besides that, the Royal Palace is close to  Cervantes Park , a public garden full of Mediterranean plants, rose bushes, and beautiful modern sculptures.

36. El Born, a neighborhood to visit in Barcelona at night

El Born , also called La Ribera, is the medieval quarter of Barcelona’s “old city”. Not only is it an aesthetically interesting place, but it’s a popular place for nightlife. If you’re wondering  where to go in Barcelona at night , hit this neighborhood first!

The evenings in El Born are lively, as locals gather in cafes and bars for food and fun. Taking it easy with a beer or mojito after a long day is one of the most  relaxing things to do in Barcelona . Fortunately, El Born has plenty of cool places where you can sit back and enjoy the atmosphere.

That said, this is one of the coolest  neighborhoods to visit in Barcelona  during the day, too. Here, you’ll find hip boutiques and shops, although they’re on the expensive side. If you want to do some sightseeing, El Born is home to sites like the  Plaça de Sant Pere  and the church of the same name.

Some of the attractions I mentioned earlier are also in this neighborhood, like  Santa Maria del Mar Cathedral, Picasso Museum , and the  Palace of Catalan Music . Another nice spot is the Santa Caterina Market, which is a great alternative to La Boquería.

37. Monastery of Pedralbes, another calm place to go in Barcelona

The  Monastery of Pedralbes , also known as the Monastery of Santa Maria de Pedralbes, is a must-see  attraction in Barcelona . King James II of Aragon founded this Gothic monastery back in 1326. Originally, it was a community of Poor Clares, a group of Catholic nuns. Today, a handful of nuns still live there, and the monastery is now a national monument.

You should visit this structure to see a prime example of Catalan Gothic architecture. While only a small portion of the original monastery remains, it still exudes the same solemn spirit.

Be sure to walk through the cloister and visit the bedrooms and day cells where the nuns would rest at the end of the day. This part of the monastery is on display for the public, as is the  Chapel of St. Michael . Here, you can see frescos by the Catalan painter Ferrer Bassa, who worked for the 14th-century Count of Barcelona. In one of the cloister’s wings, you can find the alabaster tomb of King James II’s wife, Queen Elisenda.

This is certainly a unique  Barcelona attraction , especially if you’re into medieval history, so don’t miss it!

38. Poble Espanyol, one of the most popular places to go in Barcelona, Spain

I do not doubt that Montjuïc is one of the  Barcelona sites  you’ll visit, so be sure to check out  Poble Espanyol  while you’re there. Literally translated to “Spanish town”, Poble Espanyol is a life-size museum of traditional Spanish villages. It was built for the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition, and it’s still well worth visiting today.

The whole project was meant to promote the architectural and cultural wealth of the country. Visitors can walk through the open-air museum, which has 117 buildings representing different regions of Spain.

What makes Poble Espanyol such a popular  Barcelona tourist attraction  is its ability to transport you to other territories in Spain. In addition to exploring the distinct architecture of each place, there are often cultural events and cuisines to experience. The village hosts concerts, film festivals, flamenco shows, and much more.

The area is also home to the  Museum Fran Daurel,  a private collection of works by Picasso, Dalí, Miró, Chillida, Josep Guinovart, and other prominent artists. While you’re there, I also suggest visiting the  Sculpture Garden , which is full of contemporary works by several artists.

Poble Espanyol is a fun and affordable  thing to do in Barcelona for families , so I recommend booking skip-the-line tickets  here .

39. Visit Port Olímpic, something fun to do in Barcelona, Catalonia

I found it interesting that there wasn’t much of a harbor in Barcelona until the arrival of the Olympic Games in 1992. The city had to prepare to play host to one of the most iconic international sporting events. This led to the creation of the  Olympic Port , one of the most  popular places to visit in Barcelona .

The port was an urban redevelopment project that created one of the top recreational spots in the city. Here, you can rest on the beach, enjoy delicious Mediterranean food, or go to a nightclub. Two of the most famous  places to go in Barcelona at night  are the clubs,  Opium,  and  Shôko .

If you don’t like partying, the Olympic Port is a wonderful place to go in the daytime, too. Take a relaxing stroll along the promenade, eat some good food, or get in a refreshing bike ride or jog.

Also, be sure to snap a photo of  El Peix , the golden fish sculpture by Frank Gehry. This 183-foot-long steel fish glistens in the sun and forms the backdrop for the  Barcelona Casino  and the  Hotel Arts Barcelona .

To get a good view of the Olympic Port area, go to the Moll de Gregal , where you’ll also find some nice restaurants.

40. See Casa Vicens, one of Antoni Gaudí’s first works

As I mentioned earlier,  Casa Vicens  is another beautiful work by Gaudí, and it was one of his first. The mansion is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and another  must-visit in Barcelona .

Casa Vicens is an example of Gaudí’s signature style. The previous homes in Catalonia looked nothing like this mansion, which adopted a  modernisme  aesthetic.

You’ll get a better idea of it when you see the house in person. This masterpiece has a front door made of cast iron, while ceramic tiles depicting marigolds adorn the facade. Gaudí was mindful of incorporating natural and local elements into his designs, which you can see in the painting, carpentry, and tiles. Bird, vine, and floral motifs repeat themselves throughout the home’s interior as well.

The mansion was a private residence until 2014 when it was purchased and restored. It opened as a public museum in 2017 and is one of the  best places to go in Barcelona  to experience Gaudí’s magic. If you want to go inside, you can purchase a skip-the-line ticket  here . Or you can simply admire the building’s exterior from Carrer de les Carolines in Gràcia.

41. La Roca Village, one of the best places to shop in Barcelona

If you love shopping,  La Roca Village  is one of the best  places to visit in Barcelona . It’s one of the largest outlet complexes in Spain, and the shops here offer discounts of up to 60%. If you’re traveling from out of Europe and you want to take advantage of some name brand items, look no further than La Roca.

You can browse through more than 140 big brand stores such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Bvlgari, Gucci, Montblanc, and many more. To see a directory of all the stores, check out the La Roca Village  website .

Hitting the stores is a fun  activity in Barcelona  you can do on a rainy day. These outlets are open seven days a week, and the complex includes several restaurants so you can make a whole day of it.

This cute luxury village is about 40 minutes from downtown, but it’s a great  place to visit near Barcelona  if you have the time. You can get directions  here  or take this  shopping tour  from Barcelona.

42. Go out partying, another fun thing to do in Barcelona at night

Hitting the town and partying  is one of the  best things to do in Barcelona at night . For the night owls out there, this city has plenty of hotspots where you can dance the night away. If you want to go to some of the most popular clubs in Barcelona, I recommend  this card , which grants you complimentary access to several of them.

Along with the Barcelona Casino, the  Olympic Port  area is home to a few top party places, such as  Opium ,  Shôko ,  Carpe Diem , and  Danzatoria . That last one is frequented by a more adult audience.

The Eixample, in the city center, is where locals and tourists mingle. Here, you’ll find the Arena , Barcelona’s famed gay nightclub, as well as  Teatre Principal  and  Moog. City Hall Nightclub  is perfect for electronic and techno music lovers.

If you’re in the  Zona Alta , some nighttime  Barcelona areas to visit  include the luxurious  Bling Bling  nightclub and  the Sala Bikini , which hosts themed parties.

Finally, you can’t go wrong with  Razzmatazz  in  Poble Nou . At this quintessential club, you can dance the night away and hear some great bands.

If you want to experience the nightlife scene in Barcelona, you have more than enough options. Even if you only go once, it’ll be an unforgettable experience.

43. Hospital de Sant Pau, a lovely modernist building to visit in Barcelona, Spain

Part hospital, part museum, the  Hospital de Sant Pau  is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful modernist  attraction to see in Barcelona . It was a functioning hospital until the summer of 2009 when a new hospital opened next door. Now, the 20th-century building is a cultural center and museum.

The hospital was built by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, who also designed the Catalan Palace of Music. While you can visit the hospital on your own, I recommend this  guided tour , which takes you to different areas in the building.

The tour begins at the opposite end of the entrance, where you’ll see the different pavilions, including the  Sant Salvador Pavilion . This was the first area to function as a hospital, and it now includes a historical exhibition about the architect and his design process.

Next, you’ll go through the modernist tunnels to the  Hypostyle Room . This room reflects the Art Nouveau style with Domènech i Montaner’s Catalan twist. The room leads to the  Sant Pau Gardens , one of the most  popular places to visit in Barcelona .

The garden area was meant to be a place where patients could get fresh air, talk a leisurely walk, or simply sit and relax. That calming atmosphere is what attracts tourists and locals to this day.

44. Sant Jordi Festival, the best experience in Barcelona for couples

The  Festival of Sant Jordi , which takes place on April 23rd, is one of the best things to  experience in Barcelona .

This beloved Catalan celebration is a day of love and culture. Traditionally, men present their partners with a rose, while women give their significant others a book. More recently, Catalans have tweaked the tradition, so people give both a flower and a book.

Even if you’re just visiting, the Sant Jordi Festival is something  not to miss in Barcelona . Strolling along La Rambla and the surrounding areas, you’ll see book and flower stalls and lovers holding hands. The aroma of fresh-cut roses fills the air, and there is a joyous atmosphere.

The best part about this day is that you can see local theater performances and other cultural activities throughout the day. You may even run into an author holding a book signing. As you wander the streets, you may notice some city monuments or buildings decorated for the festivities. For example, the owners of Casa Batlló are known to adorn the balconies with fragrant red roses.

The origins of this day are a bit mixed up, but legend says that long ago, a dragon was terrorizing the people of Montblanc. To appease the dragon, the residents would hold a lottery to choose a human sacrifice.

One day, the princess was the unlucky victim, but Sant Jordi the knight came to the rescue and defeated the dragon, and a rose bush grew from the beast’s puddle of blood. Therefore, people give away roses. As for the books, that’s because the day coincides with The Day of the Book, which commemorates the deaths of Miguel de Cervantes, William Shakespeare, and the Inca Garcilaso de la Vega.

45. Casa de les Punxes, another luxurious place to visit in Barcelona, Spain

Casa de les Punxes,  or  Casa Terradas , is another beautiful modernist building in Barcelona. Located in the Eixample area, it looks like a medieval castle in the city center.

Casa de les Punxes was the work of Josep Puig i Cadafalch, who was tasked with building a house for each of three royal sisters. The spectacular result was this construction of castles named after the  punxes , or spikes, that crown the towers.

If you’re walking around the Eixample, it’s impossible to miss this Barcelona attraction  because it’s so gorgeous. The pointed towers and the wrought-iron balconies with floral motifs are distinctly Catalan modernist. The ornate decoration on the home’s facade includes ceramic panels, stained-glass windows, and a colorful mural of Sant Jordi.

If you’re going to tour other modernist buildings in Barcelona, such as La Pedrera or Casa Battló, I recommend this  attraction pass . If you go into Casa de les Punxes, go up to the largest tower where you can get stunning views of the city.

46. Drink sangria at Bosc de las Fades, the best thing to do in Barcelona for date night

Bosc de les Fades  is a bar-cafe, but not just any bar-cafe. Translated to “Forest of the Fairies”, this is one of the most  beautiful places in Barcelona  to enjoy a sangria or warm beverage with your sweetie.

This magical cafe is part of the  Wax Museum of Barcelona , so it’s like two attractions in one. Visiting this woodland dream of trees, streams, and fairy lights is one of the best  things to do in Barcelona for couples . The menu includes fondue and crepes, making it a delicious date night venue.

This enchanted forest cafe is also a fun place to go with friends. You can enjoy a variety of typical cafe foods, and the atmosphere is out of this world.

I’ve visited the Bosc de les Fades and loved it. It is the perfect place to have a drink, although it is always quite crowded, so you might have to wait for a table. Still, enjoying a drink here is one of the most  romantic things to do in Barcelona  that I highly recommend.

47. Escape Rooms, something fun to do in Barcelona for families

Escape rooms  have become a popular  activity in Barcelona , so if you’re traveling with family or friends, consider trying one out.

There are over 150 escape rooms in the city, many of them with specific themes. I’m sure you’ll find one that suits your interests! Plus, this attraction is a good backup plan if the weather is bad.

Since escape rooms are so popular here, the newest ones boast the latest technology to challenge participants. Trying to get out of these rooms is quite an experience, as you must solve tough puzzles and interact with interesting characters.

While some rooms can accommodate couples, most of them are for groups of four or more. If you’re looking for  things to do in Barcelona for couples , I recommend this  horror-themed escape room .

For larger groups, I suggest  Escape Barcelona , which hosts all kinds of themed rooms like  Alien: The Origin  and  Tomb Hunter: The Legend of Akasha . I also like  Unreal Room Escape , where you can find attractions like  The Mine  and  Narcos .

No matter the theme, you can’t go wrong. These escape rooms are loads of fun, but they’re also super popular, so you should book in advance. Also, if you’re planning on a specific  neighborhood to visit in Barcelona , check  this website  to find an escape room in that area.

48. Take a trip to Montserrat, the best place to go near Barcelona

Montserrat  is one of the most popular  places to visit near Barcelona . This mountain range is just outside of the city, making it a great day trip for getting out into nature.

Its name comes from the jagged rock formations at the mountain’s peak, which you can see from a distance. The summit is over 4,050 feet above sea level, and Montserrat is one of the most significant mountains in Catalonia. Not only is it a beautiful  place to go near Barcelona , but it’s also the site of a Benedictine sanctuary and monastery.

The sanctuary is dedicated to the  Virgin of Montserrat  and includes a statue of the  Madonna and Child . She is the patron saint of Catalonia and shares an altar with Sant Jordi, whom I mentioned earlier. The statue is one of the  Black Madonnas  of Europe, carved in the 12th century. For this reason, many make the pilgrimage to Montserrat to pay respects to the Virgin.

To get the most out of your time in Montserrat, I recommend  this day trip , which takes you up the mountain by train. You’ll tour the  Royal Basilica , see the Black Madonna, and enjoy a wine tasting hosted by the monks at the sanctuary. If you’re lucky, you’ll also hear the  Escolania  boys’ choir, one of the oldest children’s choirs in Europe.

Without a doubt, Montserrat is one of the most stunning  areas to visit in Barcelona .

49. Montseny Natural Park, one of the most popular hikes to do in Barcelona

Montseny Natural Park  is one of the best places for hiking in and around Barcelona. Nestled in the Catalan countryside, the area features diverse climates as well as a variety of flora and fauna. Along with hiking, mountain biking is another popular activity to do in the park.

Montseny is just over 30 miles from the city, so it’s a great  place to visit around Barcelona . As the oldest natural park in Catalonia, it is also a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Here, you’ll find gorgeous Mediterranean vegetation like holm oaks and pines, as well as Eurosiberian trees like beech and white fir. The alpine meadow area on Montseny has lots of boreal pines. There are also hundreds of species of wildlife, including the  Montseny Brook newt ,  Panoptes Blue Butterfly , and the  Little Egret , among others .

Beyond the natural park, life in the Montseny area is charming and slow-paced. That said, there are beautiful sites to see, including the  Roman ruins in La Garriga  as well as  Montsoriu Castle . So, if you’re wondering  where to go near Barcelona , be sure to check out Montseny!

My favorite part of the natural park is all the hiking trails, so take some time to explore this lovely park around Barcelona.

50. Visit CosmoCaixa, another thing to do in Barcelona with kids

The  CosmoCaixa  science museum is one of the coolest  places to visit in Barcelona with kids . Even if you’re traveling alone, I still recommend CosmoCaixa, as it’s one of my favorite museums in the city.

This interactive science museum has permanent exhibits and temporary displays covering a wide variety of subjects. Through touch-and-play kiosks, you can learn about the Amazon Rainforest, geological structures in Catalonia, Mediterranean flora and fauna, and the Big Bang.

What I like about this museum is that it uses practical and local examples to teach you about complex topics like biology, chaos theory, and astronomy. It’s also affordable, making it a great  thing to do in Barcelona for families .

One of the coolest parts of CosmoCaixa is the  Bubble Planetarium , which has an advanced full-dome projection system, so you feel like you’re stargazing in space. It even has a stereo sound system to create a fully immersive experience. The planetarium regularly hosts special shows to take visitors on an educational and exciting adventure. If it’s this exciting for an adult, imagine what it’s like for a kid!

CosmoCaixa is open seven days a week and is one of the top  museums to visit in Barcelona . Consider it if you have a rainy day in the city or some extra time during your trip.

51. Collserola Natural Park, another beautiful place to hike in Barcelona, Catalonia

Collserola Natural Park , commonly called the city’s “green lung”, covers nearly 20,000 acres and is a  must-see place in Barcelona . If you go to  Tibidabo , you’ll find actually be in the highest part of this park. The area is perfect for hiking and getting away from the busyness of the city center.

The park is the largest green space in Barcelona, and you can find a variety of Mediterranean flora and fauna here, especially white pines and foxes. You might even see a wild boar in the more secluded areas.

Collserola Natural Park is also rich in Catalan culture, particularly architecture. Here, you can stumble across the ancient Iberian town of  Ca n’Oliver , the medieval castle of  Castellciuró , and numerous old churches and hermitages.

Another cool  place to go near Barcelona  is the  Collserola Tower  on Mount Tibidabo. It’s over 960 feet tall and was built by Sir Norman Foster for the 1992 Summer Olympics. Its primary function is as a broadcasting antenna, but there is an observation deck about 500 feet up, granting you incredible views of the surrounding area.

With its hiking trails and scenic refuge from the traffic and noise, a visit to Collserola Natural Park is a  relaxing thing to do in Barcelona .

52. Visit Tamarita Gardens, a romantic thing to do in Barcelona

Tamarita Gardens  is one of the most gorgeous  places to visit in Barcelona . Covering nearly 5 acres, these public gardens once belonged to an aristocratic Belgian family that settled in Barcelona in the 1700s. The manicured lawns are still surrounded by a wrought-iron wall, and when you walk through the gate, you’ll be transported into a world of beauty and grace.

The gardens were designed by landscape artist Nicolau M. Rubió i Tudurí, who divided them into two distinct sections. The more natural and rugged garden features small pools, fountains, decorative vases, vines, a pavilion, and exotic and tropical species. The other section has a more classical look with French flowerbeds, rose bushes, a small square, and a nymphaeum (ancient Greek spring) with waterfalls.

Tamarita Gardens offers peace and quiet, and a visit here is a great  thing to do in Barcelona for couples . It’s located in the Sant Gervasi-Bonanova area, yet it feels like it’s miles away from the city. The natural beauty here is undeniable. You’ll see myrtle, privet, sweet bay, black locust, and jacaranda. Near the  Torrent del Frare stream , there are cypresses, acanthuses, and bamboo trees.

There are more exotic trees, too, including Australian silk oaks and purple-leaf European beechwoods. Keep an eye out for the 100-year-old English oak tree; it’s 75 feet tall! This garden is a little pocket of relaxation, so don’t miss it.

53. PortAventura World, another exciting place to visit around Barcelona

PortAventura World  is a fun  place to visit near Barcelona.  This popular amusement park, which is in Salou, Tarragona, is one of the largest in Spain.

The park is divided into several thematic areas: the Mediterranean, Polynesia, China, Mexico, and the Far West. Each section includes a variety of attractions relating to the particular theme, such as the Imperial Cobra kiddie coaster in China and the 328-foot Hurricane Condor free fall in Mexico.

There is a good mix of kiddie and family rides as well as thrill rides. Some of the best attractions include the Dragon Khan rollercoaster; Furius Basco, which goes from 0 to 83 mph in just three seconds; and the record-breaking Shambhala coaster.

Also, PortAventura acquired two other parks:  Ferrari Land  (named after the luxury Italian sports car), and  Caribe Aquatic Park . There are also several resort hotels on the premises, although the amusement park is less than 1.5 hours from Barcelona, so you probably won’t need to book an overnight trip.

That said, if you want an advance ticket to PortAventura and Ferrari Land, you can book one  here . The reservation includes round-trip transportation by bus from Barcelona.

54. Botanical Garden of Barcelona, the most stunning lookout from Barcelona

The  Botanical Garden of Barcelona  is another  beautiful place to visit in Barcelona . Conveniently located in Montjuïc, the gardens cover nearly 35 acres and create one of the most important plant collections in the city.

The main purpose of the botanical garden is to conserve Mediterranean flora for study. This is why you’ll find all kinds of plants from various regions in the Mediterranean, including olive trees and chaparral shrubs.

There are also non-native species here that can thrive in the garden environment. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll see euphorbia and echium palms from the Canary Islands, acacias, and cedars from Africa, eucalyptus, and kangaroo paw from Australia, redwoods from California, and San Pedro cactus from Chile.

Thanks to its location on Montjuïc hill, visitors to the Botanic Gardens will get magnificent views of the city and coast. If you’re looking for some fresh air and quiet time, a stop at the gardens is a  good thing to do in Barcelona .

55. Sant Llorenç del Munt Natural Park, something you must see in Barcelona, Catalonia

Sant Llorenç del Munt Natural Park  is part of the Catalan pre-coastal mountain range. If you’re into hiking or rock climbing, this is one area in  Barcelona not to miss .

The natural park is a protected area and, as I said, it’s a great place for hikers and climbers. Thanks to its incredible rock formations and caves, you can enjoy a day of adventure across this rugged landscape.

There are over 300 chasms and caverns to explore, as well as some famous lookouts.  La Mola  is over 3,600 feet above sea level, and  Montcau  is only slightly shorter.

The park spans two mountain ranges that are separated by the Les Arenes Stream and dotted with holm oaks, white pines, and other forested areas. It isn’t too far from the city center, but it is secluded and peaceful, making it one of the best  places to go near Barcelona  for some quiet time.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the  Sant Llorenç del Munt Monastery  atop La Mola. This Catalan landmark was rebuilt in the 19th century, but it reflects the original 11th-century building. Inside, there is a small exhibit about the sanctuary and mountain. Attached to the monastery is a farmhouse that serves as an information center.

56. Themed tours, one of the best activities in Barcelona

If you want to discover the capital of Catalonia in a totally original way, a  thematic tour  is the  best thing to do in Barcelona . Since this is such a popular city, there are plenty of guided tours through its distinct neighborhoods and areas. I’m sure you can find a tour that suits your specific tastes.

We’ve done this  mystery tour  through the Gothic Quarter, which recounts the creepy legends of this historic neighborhood. The guide did a great job of sharing interesting information while adding personality to the tour.

If you’re into spooky stuff, I also recommend this  Barcelona ghost tour  through Sant Pere, Santa Caterina, and La Ribera. As you walk past iconic landmarks in the city, you’ll hear stories of spirits and other terrors. It’s definitely a unique  thing to do in Barcelona at night .

For those who don’t like horror, there are lots of other fun thematic tours. The  medieval Barcelona tour  is a cool journey around the city center’s historic cathedrals and monuments. Another option I recommend is the  Forbidden Barcelona tour , where you’ll learn about the city’s brothels and secret erotic activities.

Finally, you can’t go wrong with the  Gaudí & Modernism tour . This is one of the best ways to learn about Catalan modernisme and one of Barcelona’s top artists, Antoni Gaudí. A good number of his works are in the city, so you’ll get to learn the story behind his iconic style.

57. Girona, a beautiful place to visit around Barcelona

If you’re going to have a longer stay in Barcelona, then I highly recommend taking a day trip to  Girona .

After visiting Girona, it became one of my favorite Catalan cities. I love its medieval architecture and the tranquil atmosphere. The city’s old quarter has several ancient, preserved buildings, and the old castles and fortifications are popular with tourists.

If you’re wondering  what to visit around Barcelona , look no further than Girona. The placid river and quaint houses will charm you in an instant. Also, if you visit in May, you’ll be able to catch the  Temps de Flors Festival , when all the streets, plazas, and monuments are adorned with flowers.

That said, any time of year is a great time to visit this city. Girona has some amazing landmarks, including the  Stone Bridge,  the  San Martí Church  in the  Jewish Quarter,  and the  Girona Cathedral , a nearly 150-foot-tall church built in the 11th century.

Girona is such a magical  place to go near Barcelona , so consider spending one or two days here. If you’re short on time, consider a day trip or a guided day tour.  This one  includes Girona as well as Figueres and the Dali Museum, two other awesome places worth visiting. Or, take  this tour  of Girona and Sitges, a beach that I’ll talk about later.

58. Costa Brava, the best summertime spot near Barcelona

Costa Brava  is one of the top  places to visit near Barcelona  in the summer. The deep blue waters, the chill coastal atmosphere, the fresh seafood…there is so much to enjoy at Costa Brava.

If you’re already in Girona, you are not far at all from Costa Brava. However, the town is less than a 2-hour drive from Barcelona, and lots of guided tours offer day trips. This area is a  must-see near Barcelona , so if you have time, I encourage you to go.

A good option is this  half-day tour , which includes bus service to Lloret de Mar, a touristy hotspot in Costa Brava. After spending some time touring the village, you’ll board a boat to Tossa de Mar, a scenic medieval town.

Or you could do this  full-day tour , which takes you to the cliffside beach town of Blanes, where you can enjoy botanical gardens and delicious seafood. This tour also takes you to Tossa de Mar before heading back to Barcelona.

My absolute favorite is  this tour  because it takes you to some of the most gorgeous coastal areas in the region. You’ll see  Calella de Palafrugell,  a cute fishing village, then walk along the beautiful  Camino de Ronda  waterfront path. The tour continues with a visit to  Llafranc , a traditional seaside resort. You’ll then visit the medieval village of Pals, the port city of  L’Estartit , the Greek/Roman settlement of  Ampurias , and finish with a boat ride around the  Medes Islands .

59. Freixenet wineries, another fun thing to do in Barcelona

Less than an hour from the city center, you’ll find  Cavas Freixenet , a  top place to visit near Barcelona . This Catalan winery has been operating since 1861 and is the largest global producer of  cava , a Spanish sparkling wine.

The family business has been passed down from generation to generation, resulting in an award-winning recipe that has even been endorsed by celebrities like Shakira. The cava business really took off in the 1910s, and the iconic winery building was built in 1927 by the modernist architect Josep Ros i Ros.

If you love wine and want a relaxing getaway, consider  this tour  of the Freixenet vineyard. You’ll learn the history behind Freixenet cava, tour the facilities, and enjoy a glass of superb sparkling wine.

To make a whole day of it, book  this day trip  to Cavas Freixenet, Jean Leon Winery, and Torres Winery. At each vineyard, you’ll enjoy wine tastings and light refreshments. If you’re traveling with your partner, it’s a great  couples thing to do around Barcelona , too.

60. Sitges, one of the best beaches near Barcelona

Many locals consider  Sitges  to be one of the most beautiful  places to visit near Barcelona , ​​so I highly recommend adding this beach town to your itinerary.

Sitges is known for its pretty coastline and lively promenade. There is a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere here, and it makes for a pleasant blend of tradition and modernity. During your time here, you might browse some boutiques, enjoy live music at a cafe, or look at the vibrant street art. The town also hosts the  International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia,  also known as the Sitges Film Festival, every year.

Besides, they say the best beaches in Barcelona are in Sitges! If you’re looking for things to do around Barcelona in the summer, check out this  full-day tour  of Sitges and neighboring  Tarragona , a city with a strong Roman heritage. Transportation is included, so you don’t even have to worry about getting there.

Another option is  this day trip  to Sitges and Girona, a charming town that I mentioned earlier. After enjoying the historic Old Quarter of Girona, you can spend the afternoon basking on the beaches of Sitges.

Now that you know  what to do in Barcelona , ​​here is a map of all the  tourist attractions in Barcelona  and the nearby areas I mentioned. You can use this map to better plan and organize your itinerary and make sure you see all the  best places in Barcelona .

I know you’ll love Barcelona as much as I do. If you have any questions about your trip to Barcelona, you can leave me a comment, and I’ll get back to you. Happy travels, or, as they say in Catalonia,  bon viatge !

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Cool Things To Do In Barcelona

From classic attractions to unique and original experiences to spice up your trip.

Editor’s Choice

1. Park Guell (by Ebike)

5. Montserrat (& Wine)

6. Local Bike Tour

7. Create Your Own Cava

9. Paella Cooking Class

11. Flamenco & Tapas

12. Casa Mila by Night

16. Sea Kayaking

22. Dali & Girona Tour

33. Espadrilles Workshop

Are you a first-time visitor keen to hunt down Barcelona’s must-see attractions ? Or maybe you’re searching for an unforgettable experience to share with friends? Here are my most inspiring tips, on and off the beaten track . The highlight of your trip is waiting for you on this very page!

This article was last updated in February 2024. You can reach me on [email protected] .

Everyone’s heard of  the main attractions in town , like  La Sagrada Familia  and the  Picasso Museum , but what about some of the cool and different things to do in the capital of Catalonia?

In a city as magical and mysterious as Barcelona, there’s plenty to savour that goes beyond the ordinary… experiences that stay with you long after you’ve left

In a city as magical and mysterious as Barcelona, there’s plenty to savour that goes beyond the ordinary… experiences that stay with you long after you’ve left, and which will leave you with plenty of holiday snaps that go beyond the usual photo fodder of greasy paellas and overpriced jars of sangria on Las Ramblas .

From unique experiences, quirky museums and one-of-kind bars, to authentic local tours, secret gardens, nudist beaches, and unusual and thrilling activities, we’ve compiled a few of our favourite original and alternative ways to pass the time in Barcelona.

And to make this a complete list (you can plan your whole trip on this page!) we’ve also rounded up the must-see attractions for first time visitors, and included our advice on how best to experience them.

Fun Things to do in Barcelona

To make this list more manageable, and your trip easier to plan, we’ve divided this list into themes – starting with the unmissable attractions and ending with ideas on how to live life like a local .

In between, we highlight plenty of unique inspiration you won’t find on any other “best things to do” article.

36+ Things To Do By Theme

Part 1. Must See Attractions… with a Twist! Part 2. Authentic Tours Part 3. Magical Evenings Part 4. ‘Wow’ Experiences Part 5. Museums, Art & Culture Part 6. Delicious Food & Drink Part 7. Kids & Families Part 8. Going Local Part 9. Fun Group Activities

So without further ado, let’s get going…

I. Must See Attractions… With A Twist!

Let’s start with the classic attractions you absolutely MUST SEE on a first time visit to Barcelona. But of course, we like to be original, so let me share my local perspective on how I would visit these sights…

1. Park Guell (via electric bike?) 2. Sagrada Familia (with tower visit!) 3. Montjuic Cable Car 4. Camp Nou Experience (and challenge Robokeeper?) 5. Montserrat Abbey (plus organic wine tasting!)

1. Visit Park Guell…

BOOK PARK GUELL TICKETS

…With a Twist. Get There via E-bike!

Why faff around with the metro or tourist bus, when you could whizz up to Park Guell on an electric bicycle with Gaudi Bike Tours ? Their Gaudi Legacy includes Park Guell tickets and drinks on the rooftop of the 5-star hotel, and costs €69, or you could opt for their more affordable Gaudi UNESCO Highlights Tour that focuses on the architect’s mansions. Both tours call by Sagrada Familia…

2. See La Sagrada Familia…

BOOK SAGRADA FAMILIA TICKETS

…With a Twist. Climb a Tower!

If you can afford it, I’d strongly recommend upgrading your standard entry ticket to include visiting to one of the church towers, from which you’ll enjoy panoramic views over the whole of the city – whilst also getting up close to some of the incredible architectural details at the top of Gaudi’s basilica. There are two towers that are open to the public , and the option to book them pops up after you select the date of your visit. Otherwise, you could also book a guided tour .

THE BARCELONA PASS

BUY BARCELONA PASS

3. Ride the Cable Car to the Castle

RESERVE CABLE CAR TICKETS

4. The Camp Nou Experience

RESERVE BARCA IMMERSIVE TOUR

…With a Twist. Take on Robokeeper!

Think you’re pretty handy in front of goal? Then upgrade your standard Barça Immersive Tour ticket to include the Robokeeper Challenge For just €37, you get 6 chances to take a penalty against a robotic goalie… you can even a prize or two! Just look for this ticket upgrade option after selecting your dates on Get Your Guide .

5. Visit Montserrat Abbey & Mountain…

BOOK MONTSERRAT HALF DAY TOUR

…With a Twist. Add on Wine Tasting!

II. Authentic Tours

Now it’s time to go deeper. To discover, to learn and to experience Barcelona and its unique culture with the help of friendly and expert guides. Here’s our list of the most authentic tours in the city…

6. Local Bike Tour 7. Create Your Own Cava 8. Street Photography Tour 9. Paella Cooking Class 10. Free Walking Tour

6. Explore Barcelona by Bike!

STEEL DONKEY BIKE TOURS!

7.  Create Your Own Cava

BOTTLE YOUR OWN BUBBLY!

8. Learn Street Photography

BOOK A PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR!

9. Sign up for a Paella Cooking Class!

BOOK PAELLA COOKING CLASS

10. Take A (Free) Walking Tour

BOOK WALKING TOUR

III. Magical Evenings

Barcelona comes alive at night (full article here !), with flamenco shows, rooftop concerts, boat parties and VIP nightlife tours amongst your options for evening entertainment.

11. Flamenco & Tapas Evening 12. Casa Mila by Night 13. Awesome Boat Parties! 14. Sub-zero Ice Bar 15. VIP Nightlife Tour

11.  Eat Tapas… And Dance Flamenco!

BOOK FLAMENCO & TAPAS EVENING

12. Visit Gaudi’s Casa Mila by Night

CASA MILA BY NIGHT TICKETS

13. Party On The Mediterranean!

GET ON BOARD A BOAT PARTY!

14. Chill Out In A Sub-Zero Beach Bar

RESERVE ICE BARCELONA TICKETS

15. Experience The Legendary Nightlife

RESERVE NIGHTLIFE TOUR!

IV. Unforgettable Experiences

The Catalan capital has more than its fair share of extraordinary activities, magical moments and Instagram opportunities for travellers ready to spoil themselves…

16. Sea Kayaking 17. Sailing Trips 18. Helicopter Flight 19. Hot Air Balloon Flight 20. Ferrari Drive

16. Go Sea Kayaking on the Costa Brava

GO SEA KAYAKING!

17. Sail Away On An Ocean Breeze…

BEST SAILING TOURS

18. Take a Helicopter Flight!

TAKE A HELICOPTER FLIGHT!

19. Take a Hot Air Balloon Flight

BOOK HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT

20.  Cruise Around Town in a Ferrari

CRUISE IN A FERRARI!

V. Museums, Art & Culture

Barcelona isn’t all about beaches and tapas you know… here are some unmissable museums and other cultural attractions.

21. Picasso Museum 22. Dali Theatre Museum 23. The Gaudi Houses 24. Palau de la Musica 25. Moco Museum

21. Visit The Picasso Museum

PICASSO MUSEUM TOUR

22. Head to the Dali Theatre Museum

BOOK DALI MUSEUM + GIRONA TOUR

23. Dive Inside One (Or All) of Gaudi’s Mansions

BUY GAUDI HOUSES PASS

24. Explore El Palau de la Musica

BUY PALAU DE LA MUSICA TICKETS

25. Mosey Around the Moco Museum

BUY MOCO MUSEUM TICKETS

VI. Delicious Food & Drink!

Ok, we’ve already mentioned a few cooking and tasting tours, but you’re in Barcelona… a city where Spanish and Catalan traditions mix with the creative legacy of Ferran Adria’s ‘molecular cuisine’. Let’s delve in…

26. Vineyard Tours 27. Tapas Tours 28. Craft Beers

26. Visit the Local Vineyards

THE 11 BEST WINE TOURS

27. Take a Tapas Tour of El Born

BOOK TAPAS TOUR

28. Sneak off for a Crafty Beer

Like most of the world, Barcelona has experienced a craft beer revolution with scores of  boutique breweries, beer bars and festivals  appearing from nowhere to wet our whistles with delicious artisan ales. You’ll find great bars dotted all around the city, with a concentration of cool venues above Plaça Universitat in what is unofficially known as ‘the beer mile’. You can even  take a tour  of some of them in the company of a local expert and brewer.

VI. Keeping The Kids Entertained!

The dreaded ‘M’ word (museum!) needn’t be a drag when there’s a whole village to explore. Or planetariums to discover…

29. Barcelona Aquarium 30. Poble Espanyol (The Spanish Village) 31. Olympic Swimming Pool 32. Family Photoshoot

29. See Sharks at the Aquarium

30. The Whole of Spain in One Village

31. Go Swimming In An Olympic Pool

32. Book a Family Photoshoot

RESERVE A PHOTO SHOOT

VIII. Going Local

If you’re in town for longer, or just far too hip to see the mainstream sights, the following suggestions should keep you busy…

33. Espadrilles Workshop 34. Parc del Laberint 35. Skateboarding 36. Nudist Beaches 37. Learn Spanish 38. Vintage Shopping 39. Shadow of the Wind (Literary Tour)

33. Espadrilles Workshop

BOOK ESPADRILLES WORKSHOP

Barcelona Life readers get a special discount, when you check out!

34. Get Lost In A Labyrinth

35. Skateboard At MACBA

That’s right grandpa, Barcelona has been considered the skateboarding capital of the world for well over a decade now, and the hobby is all the rage with the Catalan cool kids who take their boards wherever they go. You can catch them practicing their tricks every evening on the Plaça del Angels by  MACBA , and soak up some of the alternative vibe with 1 euro beer from a friendly Pakistani vendor. If you want to join in check out FTC Barcelona Skate Shop just round the corner to pick up a board.

36.  Go To A Nudist Beach

37. Learn To Speak The Lingo

If you’re in town for longer than a few days you might want to consider signing up for an intensive Spanish course – in which case check out  our page on language schools in Barcelona . Speaking a foreign language is certainly an exhilarating experience, and at the same time it’s a great way to meet other students and make some new friends with whom to explore the city. If you don’t have time for that you can always check out our pages on Spanish  and  Catalan language tips .

38. Go Vintage Shopping

39. Chase The Shadow Of The Wind

IX. Group Activities

Whether you’re here for a hen do, stag weekend, wedding, team building event or birthday celebration, you can find plenty of ways to keep your crew entertained…

Embark On A Treasure Hunt

In this group activity (min. 8 players), you race against both the opposing teams, and the clock, as you navigate the winding streets of the  Barri Gotic and beyond in a bid to find the (proverbial) treasure in this interactive urban game. You’ll have to solve cryptic clues, consult your compass and move sharpish to claim the winner’s bottle of  Spanish champagne .

Challenge Yourself in an Escape Room

If you fancy yourself as a bit of a Sherlock Holmes, or even Indiana Jones, then pit your wits against the puzzles and challenges of  one of Barcelona’s great escape rooms . There are several companies operating in the city and each has one or more interactive games where you have to frantically search for keys, crack codes and solve conundrums to progress and eventually leave the room! Some of the storylines are a lot of fun, and if you’re looking for something different to do in a small group of friends this might just be perfect for you.

Shake Up Your Drinking Habits

LEARN HOW TO MIX!

Keep Reading…

Still not sure what to do in BCN? Are you crazy??? Try swinging by  our guide section  for the essential attractions and a break down of the best districts. Or read up on  our recommended tour providers  for more original (as well as tried and tested) activity ideas…

For a different take on things consult this nearly-as-awesome-as-ours  list by Time Out .

Related Reading

Entertainment Guide

Culture Guide

Tours & Trips

Shopping Guide

Spas & Wellness

Things To Do With Kids

Barcelona After Dark

About the Author

Duncan established Barcelona Life in 2009, whilst freelancing for the likes of Conde Nast, The Guardian, Easyjet Magazine, CNN Traveller and many more. From interviews with Ferran Adria to revealing the secrets of the city’s poetry brothels, he knows the city inside out… and shares all his best tips right here.

Dinyar H. Sidhva

Hi Duncan, My wife and I are in Barcelona for 3.5 days. Kindly, provide your valuable inputs on the following: 1) Once I book the Go All-inclusive Pass, is my booking at the attractions in Barcelona automatically confirmed? 2) Is the tourist bus transport available for only one of the days or for all days of the stay? 3) If you were my age (70+) would you recommend Montjuic or Montserrat, if you had to choose between the two? 4) I assume Montserrat would not be part of the All-inclusive Pass and if that is suggested by you, I would be better-off take the Explorer Pass instead of the All-inclusive Pass. Look forward to getting your suggestions. Thanks & Regards

Possibly you meant to comment on our Tourist Cards article, not our things to do one?

https://www.barcelona-life.com/barcelona-card-and-city-passes

But in any case, it doesn’t matter, I’ll be happy to help!

I just wrote to my contact as the pass company to get clarification on some of your points… what I can tell you now is the following:

1) For sure, after buying the All Inclusive Pass, you will need to then also need to select a specific time to visit La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. I believe the same will be true of nearly all the main attractions, as they are all pretty busy these days.

2) This I need to check. From the wording of the website, I would say you only get to ride the bus on one day (not every day for the duration of your pass).

3) Difficult one… but I think you will find Montserrat more impressive overall though.

4) Montserrat is included in the All-Inclusive Pass. If you click on the link , then scroll to the bottom where it says “See all attractions” then you can reveal more options, including Montserrat.

The Montserrat option available with the All-Inclusive pass is just transport to and from Montserrat however, no guided tour. But if you’re happy to see the church by yourself that’s fine. There’s also the museum and chance to take the funicular up to the very top of the mountain range.

Hope that helps! Will try to get more clarification about the tourist bus for you soon.

Just to confirm the Tourist Bus is only for one day.

thanks for sharing such a nice information

Cool round-up of the city. The fun stuff is doing things and you’ve listed so many besides the usual touristy things. Great site.

I also enjoyed these fabulous things during my last journey and have a joyful time with my mates.

Nice activities !! I like it 🙂 I loved the Escape game and the Ice bar, all tested !

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28 TOP Barcelona Sights & Tourist Attractions (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 11, 2024

Looking for the best things to do in Barcelona, Spain, and feeling overwhelmed? Deciding which of the most popular Barcelona attractions to see is indeed not easy, especially if you are visiting for the first time and your time in the city is limited…

So to help you figure out where to go and what to see in Barcelona, in this guide we share the VERY BEST sights and TOP tourist attractions in Barcelona that are worth your time the most . For each place, we also include our top tips for your visit. We also created a map of Barcelona attractions that should help you plan your sightseeing itinerary. Find out!

Located between the sea and the mountains, the beautiful city of Barcelona is rich in culture and history. Its architecture is stunning, a contrasting mixture of Catalan Gothic and Modernism. The atmosphere is fun and cosmopolitan, with a relaxed and friendly vibe during the day and a vibrant nightlife when the sun goes down.

With so many things to do and interesting places to explore in Barcelona, you may be feeling a little daunted when it comes to planning an itinerary. This guide to Barcelona’s top sights and attractions will give you a good idea of what to expect, and our experience-based tips will help you make the most of your time. At the bottom of this article, you can find a map indicating all the top sights in Barcelona.

Good to know: In addition to the Barcelona must-sees featured in this guide, there are many more interesting things to do in Barcelona. While not a must on a short first visit, these experiences will make your visit to the city even more special than just ticking off the ‘must-see’ list . So in order to give you a more complete picture of what there is to see and do in Barcelona, we listed some of the coolest attractions and fun, local activities as well.

Good to know: This list of the best sights and attractions in Barcelona is sorted starting with the must-sees first . So if you are really short on time, start with the top of this list and make your way down.

The top 10 sights on this list are not to be missed . If you have more time in the city, be sure to read all the suggestions and choose a few more places that interest you the most.

The top 15-20 are really nice to see and you should be able to cover most of these sights in about 3 days. The rest is well worth it too, and if you have 4-5 days in Barcelona, you should be able to see most of the places mentioned in this guide.

TIP: Be sure to also check our additional recommendations for fun activities and experiences that will make a nice addition to any sightseeing itinerary and will help you plan a much more memorable trip to Barcelona! You can find them at the end of this guide , right before the map of the main sights in Barcelona.

But first – the musts, best places to see and things to do in Barcelona. Take a look!

Top 3 Places Not to Miss in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Familia (Be sure to upgrade to Tower access!) .
• Park Güell .
• Casa Batlló .

These are the main landmarks, best sights, and top tourist attractions in Barcelona:

1. La Sagrada Familia

One of Barcelona’s most famous buildings, the Basilica of La Sagrada Familia (Basilica of the Holy Family) is an architectural masterpiece that should be at the top of any Spain bucket list . If there is one landmark that you absolutely cannot miss in Barcelona, it’s Sagrada Familia. As impressive as it is, seeing the church from the outside isn’t enough – you really have to visit the inside too!

Designed by the genius architect Antoni Gaudí, La Sagrada is truly breathtaking. No words or pictures do it justice – it’s a place you have to experience first-hand.

Filled with rich detail, its interior is bathed in fairytale-like rainbow hues as the light filters through the colorful glass windows. The atmosphere is almost surreal and the view inside the naves – looking up at the tree-like columns surrounding the vaulted ceiling – defies description.

Good to know: Do not confuse La Sagrada Familia with the Cathedral of Barcelona . Whilst the most famous and most visited, Basilica La Sagrada Familia is not a Cathedral . The actual Barcelona Cathedral is also well worth a visit – you’ll find more information about it further below.

Interesting fact: Although the construction started at the end of the 19th century, La Sagrada Familia is still not completely finished. The building has been under construction for over 130 years! Whilst most of the interior is now complete, you’ll notice that work is still being done to the exterior. The aim is to finish it by 2026, to coincide with the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s passing. It’s fun to spot the differences in architectural styles and colors as you walk around.

Good to know: Be sure to get skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid wasting time queuing. Plan 1.5-2 hours for your visit, and – in high season – allow some extra waiting time (even with priority tickets, you’ll have to locate the dedicated entrance, pass the security check, etc).

Best time to visit: If you want to avoid the crowds, visit La Sagrada Familia first thing in the morning. However, mid-morning or mid to late afternoon is the best time light-wise. That’s when the sunlight strikes the windows directly, enhancing the colorful illumination within the church. We visited at around 2 PM and the light was mesmerizing!

TIP: Instead of just getting tickets and going on your own, we highly recommend booking a guided tour which will come with priority access tickets. There is so much symbolism, so many interesting details, and stories about La Sagrada that you would totally miss without a guide. Having a guide will enhance your visit to any of the Gaudi buildings, but especially at La Sagrada Familia!

PRO TIP: If available for your travel date, upgrade your ticket to include tower access. Some guided tours also give this option. It doesn’t matter which tower you choose – Passion Facade Tower or Nativity Facade Tower, the views are just as spectacular, and you get to see the incredible architectural details of the towers and the rooftops from close by. It’s one of the most unique experiences in Barcelona!

We visited La Sagrada Familia as part of this amazing day tour that includes all the main Gaudi landmarks in Barcelona. You can read all about this tour via the link below.

READ ALSO: Best Gaudi Tour in Barcelona

2. Gothic Quarter – Old Town of Barcelona

The Ciutat Vella – Barcelona’s Old Town – is made up of four main areas. The most popular and the most beautiful to see is the Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter). No matter how long your trip is, this area is not to be missed in Barcelona!

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is a rather compact area located southeast of Pla ça de Catalunya and perched between the streets of La Rambla to the west and Via Laietana to the east.

It’s a fascinating part of the town, with a network of narrow medieval streets and stunning examples of the Gothic stone architecture that gave it its name.

It’s here that you’ll find many of the oldest churches of Barcelona, including the 13-15th-century Cathedral of Barcelona (more about it below). And be sure to explore the neighborhood’s many squares, including the most famous of them all, Plaça Reial (Royal Square).

TIP: The 19th-century  Plaça Reial is one of the must-sees in Barcelona! It’s a lively city square lined with tall palm trees, a fountain in the middle, and lamps designed by Gaudi. This is a popular meeting place with many restaurants and cafes – ideal to relax, have a drink, and do some people-watching. If you visit on a Sunday morning, you’ll find the coin- and stamp collectors’ market here as well.

But the history of the Gothic Quarter goes back much further, with parts dating back to Roman times. Inside the area’s City History Museum (MUHBA – more info further below), you can even visit a subterranean Roman town. Here you’ll see ancient houses, streets, and workplaces.

Good to know: The Gothic Quarter is packed with bars and restaurants and has a very lively nightlife. It’s also great for shopping, with plenty of little boutiques to explore.

TIP: There are many really nice tours that visit this part of town (often in combination with other popular sights in Barcelona). You can choose from walking tours , bike tours , or food tours – it’s a fun way to get to know the city a bit better.

3. Barcelona Cathedral

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia – also known as Barcelona Cathedral – is the main attraction in the Old Town. It’s a traditional Gothic cathedral, totally different from La Sagrada Familia, but worth a visit just as much.

Dating back to the 13th to 15th centuries, Barcelona Cathedral is a beautiful building with a spectacular interior that simply must not be missed. Its facade is famous for its gargoyles, along with domestic and mythical animals.

But what many people don’t realize is that its elaborate exterior was actually a 19th-century addition! Its original features were much more simple and can still be seen along the Cathedral’s sides.

Be sure to take a walk in the picturesque garden , filled with tall palms and magnolias. Here you will find the Well of the Geese (Fuente de las Ocas). This is a large, raised pond filled with thirteen white geese. Some say they are there to safeguard the cathedral’s treasures – geese were traditionally kept by the Romans as security guards. Others say they are there to represent the age of Christian martyr Saint Eulàlia when she died.

TIP: It’s also well worth taking the elevator to the Cathedral roof . Here you can get a good view of the Barcelona skyline.

Good to know: You’ll need a ticket to visit the Cathedral. It is now possible to book this ticket online and we highly recommend doing that! The ticket includes fast-track entry to the Cathedral, access to the rooftops, the Chapter Room, and more. For more info about opening times and tickets, see their website .

Also, you should wear appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders covered) for your visit here – shorts and revealing clothes are considered disrespectful.

4. Park Güell

Park Güell is another of the most famous Gaudi attractions and a must-see in Barcelona!

This magical garden was commissioned by the Spanish entrepreneur Eusebi Güell. He wanted a stylish park for Barcelona’s aristocracy to enjoy and this magnificent open space was the result.

You can see beautiful tiling here, along with unique stone structures, detailed mosaics, and a wonderful dragon staircase with a fountain. There is even a small house in which Gaudi lived at one point. This is now a museum and contains interesting pieces of furniture that he designed.

TIP: Be sure to book your tickets ahead of your visit, as they are usually sold out at least a few days in advance. Many of our readers told us that they weren’t able to visit the park because they didn’t think to book in advance, and our local guide confirmed that this is indeed often the case.

PRO TIP: If you didn’t get the tickets in time, try to see if you can still join one of the guided tours that visit the park . They usually prebook some extra tickets to accommodate last-minute bookings.

Good to know: Park Güell is located a bit outside of the city center. The closest metro station to the park is about 15 minutes away, so if you are very short on time you may prefer to take a taxi. Also, wear comfy footwear! Much of the walking is uphill and many of the paths are made from dirt. Sneakers are ideal.

5. Plaça de Catalunya

Located in the very heart of Barcelona, Plaça de Catalunya is a large plaza, the central square of the city. It’s here that the Gothic Quarter, the neighborhoods of El Raval and l’Eixample, and the most prominent streets such as La Rambla and Passeig de Gràcia come together. It doesn’t get any more central!

Plaça de Catalunya is a popular meeting place in Barcelona – for locals and tourists alike. Many city tours start here, and – because there’s enough space for big buses to park – quite a lot of tours that go outside the city also start here.

This large city square is a hub of activity, with frequent fiestas and live musical performances. Its perimeter is lined with statues and there are fountains and green verges, giving you somewhere to sit for a while and soak it all up.

Surrounding the square are many great eateries (including the Hard Rock Cafe , for the fans). Shopping is good here too, with – among others – a large branch of El Corte Ingles, Spain’s biggest department store chain.

Good to know: To appreciate the plaza without the crowds (and noise) visit on the weekend in the morning.

TIP: For an impressive, birds-eye view of the plaza and the city beyond, check out the self-service restaurant at the very top level of the El Corte Ingles shopping center. It’s one of the best – and free – viewpoints in Barcelona’s city center.

6. La Rambla

La Rambla (aka Las Ramblas) is probably Barcelona’s most famous street and no trip to the city would be complete without walking through it. Connecting Plaça de Catalunya to the waterfront area La Rambla crosses the heart of Barcelona’s old town, with many of Barcelona’s most famous sights just nearby.

This wide tree-lined avenue with a wide pedestrian area in the middle is packed with street musicians, souvenir vendors, and people enjoying drinks on the restaurants’ terraces.

It’s busy – crowded – at La Rambla every day. But visit early in the morning and you’ll find it much quieter. This will give you an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful architecture and other interesting sights here.

Check out the Font de Canaletes , a small drinking fountain where Barcelona football club fans come to celebrate the team’s victories. Drinking from this fountain is said to guarantee your return to the city (I haven’t tried though)…

Other spots worth visiting include Gran Teatre del Liceu and Palau Güell , an impressive mansion designed by Gaudi. Also the earlier mentioned Gothic Quarter with Plaça Reial – beautifully decorated with palm trees – and Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol square with Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi is just nearby.

Casa Bruno Cuadros – a building at the corner of La Rambla and Plaça Boqueria – with Chinese mosaics, umbrellas, and a huge dragon on the facade is also noteworthy.

Good to know: Restaurants and cafes on La Rambla tend to be of quite poor quality. Your best dining option in the area is to head to the Boqueria market instead (see below) or check out the restaurants in the Gothic Quarter just nearby.

Also, La Rambla is so busy and so touristy that it’s one of the places where you really have to watch out for pickpockets!

7. Casa Batlló

Designed by Gaudi, the iconic architecture of Casa Batlló in the city center attracts a million visitors every year. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the building was originally constructed in 1877, at which point it had a very unoriginal appearance. But when local businessman Josep Batlló y Casanovas bought it in 1903, he called in Gaudi to work his magic. It then evolved into the spectacular work of art we see today!

Its exterior and interior – like all of Gaudi’s work – is absolutely unique, from the extravagant facade all the way to the dragon roof. The entrance hall has an underwater feel, whilst the Noble Floor features massive oak doors with stained glass panes. The dining room at its center leads out to a beautiful and tranquil rear courtyard, beautifully paved and dotted with tile and glass-coated flower pots.

Strange as it may sound, make sure you check out the building’s elevator too. Installed in the center of the patio of lights, it still uses its beautiful and original wooden car.

The newest addition is the immersive Casa Batllo 10D Experience with two immersive rooms – the Gaudi Dome and the Gaudi Cube. The art literally comes to life as you approach! Just be sure to choose the right ticket option – depending on what you want to see and how much time you have inside. See more info below as well.

Good to know: Casa Batllo is open daily to visitors and takes around an hour to explore. Be sure to get your tickets in advance and plan to visit first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon, when it is less crowded.

NEW! There’s now a special, early access available to Casa Batllo with this ‘Be the First’ ticket . If you don’t mind getting up earlier and want to see one of the most special Gaudi buildings in Barcelona without the crowds, check it out!

TIP: We visited here with this tour that also visits La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and allows you to see a few other Gaudi landmarks in about half a day. The guide took us inside Casa Batllo before the building opened to the general public. It was magical!

8. Casa Milà

Casa Milà , also known as La Pedrera (the stone quarry), is another famous Gaudi building and a very popular place to see in Barcelona. Like Casa Battlo, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is equally busy to visit!

Casa Mila is famous for its unusual rough-hewn, wavy appearance. Incredibly, it does not have a single straight line and looks almost organic rather than something manmade.

The most impressive is its rooftop and chimneys that you can see up close if you visit inside.

TIP: If you are looking for an even more special experience, you can visit here in the evening, after dark. The rooftop is lit up and you can experience a spectacular light show. For more info and tickets for the La Pedrera night experience, see here .

Good to know: Just like all the Gaudi sights, Casa Mila is an extremely popular attraction in Barcelona. So if you want to be sure to see the interior, you really should get skip-the-line tickets in advance !

Consider this: Casa Battlo and Casa Mila are both iconic landmarks, among the most visited Barcelona attractions. Even with fast-track access, trying to see both of them can eat up too much of your precious time in Barcelona.

So depending on your overall sightseeing itinerary, you might prefer to visit the inside of only one of these buildings and appreciate the other one from the outside.

Opinions differ on which is best – Casa Mila or Casa Battlo. The majority of visitors seem to agree that the interior of Casa Battlo really shouldn’t be missed, so if you can visit just one of the two, make it Casa Battlo, and then admire Casa Mila from the outside. They’re located very close to each other, just 5 minutes walk between the two.

9. Passeig de Gràcia

One of the city’s most important avenues, Passeig de Gràcia is another place you really have to see in Barcelona. Along this famous street, you’ll find some of Barcelona’s most remarkable architecture, high-end boutiques, plus cafés, bars, and restaurants.

Some of the most impressive buildings in Barcelona can be found on Passeig de Gràcia. The earlier-mentioned Casa Battlo and Casa Mila are located here.

Plus, there are many other buildings by other prominent architects including the most famous mansions such as Casa Amatller (this one can also be visited inside ), Casa Lleó Morera , Casa Mulleras , and Casa Josefina Bonet .

TIP: Note the hexagonal tiles on the pavements ! Designed by Gaudi, they all follow the same pattern with natural elements such as starfish, ammonites, and algae. The design was originally meant for the floors of Casa Batllo but was later used for the service floors inside Casa Mila. Recently, the sidewalks of Passeig de Gracia have been paved with tiles produced using this Gaudi design.

Many people come to Passeig de Gràcia just to shop. Indeed, it’s one of the best places for luxury shopping in Barcelona.

There are plenty of renowned international designer stores to choose from, including Prada, Chanel, and Gucci. Or you can head all the way into Gracia Village, where Passeig de Gràcia ends. Here you’ll find an interesting collection of independent boutiques, organic health-food eateries, and stores selling up-cycled furniture.

And if you want to take a break from sightseeing and shopping, you’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars at which to stop and enjoy lunch or dinner.

Good to know: Gracia village has lots of outdoor squares lined with laid-back cafes and bars. And its nightlife is excellent, attracting a young and local crowd.

10. Mercado de La Boqueria

Barcelona has 12 large covered 19th-century markets scattered all over the city.

The best-known and most popular indoor market is the Mercado de La Boqueria , housed in a stunning glass and steel building in the heart of La Rambla.

Boqueria Market is a real foodie’s paradise, with local meats, cheeses, and seafood along with a range of exotic and colorful fruits and vegetables. It’s a great place to go for lunch or a quick snack when sightseeing in Barcelona city center.

Good to know: The marker is open every day from morning through to the evening (except on Sundays)

Market stalls and bars selling food and drinks are dotted throughout the market. You may not always be able to sit down as you eat, but you can certainly enjoy the lively atmosphere and bustle!

TIP: Head to the stalls at the back of the market for the best prices – those at the front pay more rent, so they charge more too! And be sure to try one of the many different kinds of freshly squeezed fruit juice while you’re here. They are yummy!

11. Picasso Museum

Picasso Museum is one of the most visited museums in Barcelona. Containing the world’s largest collection of Picasso’s work, the museum is well worth a visit, but you should know that the majority of art you’ll see here dates from his early years. So it might not be exactly what you expect to see based on Picasso’s most famous works…

Although Picasso was born in Malaga, he spent his formative years in Barcelona. Subsequently, it was the place he most considered home. The Picasso Museum honors that connection and contains an extensive collection of his lesser-known works. There are more than 4,200 pieces to view, all chronologically arranged to show the evolution of his art.

You don’t need to be a Picasso fan to appreciate this museum – indeed, there are very few Cubist paintings at all. This museum mostly showcases how his art developed from a traditional style into the rather more unconventional works that made him famous.

It’s really interesting to see how Picasso evolved as an artist and how his style changed with time!

The museum is located in a magnificent medieval building in the old town – somewhat at odds with the style of its subject. However, this also means that the rooms are quite small and it can get very busy at times.

Good to know: The museum is open daily except for Mondays. Count about 1-1.5 hours for a visit.

You can visit the museum on your own (free entrance is included with Barcelona Card and also with the Top-6 Museums Card ). But if you want to learn more about the artist and get a better understanding of his works, there’s also a very good guided tour of the museum .

TIP: Just like the majority of Barcelona museums, you can visit here free of charge at certain times. At the moment of writing, the entrance is free on the first Sunday of the month and from 4 PM on Thursdays.

12. Sant Pau Recinte Modernista

Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site (also known as Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau or Sant Pau Recinte Modernista ) is a true architectural gem of Barcelona! However, this is one of those places that usually get overlooked in most Barcelona sightseeing itineraries which are mainly focused on the world-famous Gaudi buildings.

But if you have an hour to spare, I highly recommend visiting the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site! For us, it was one of the highlights of Barcelona that we really wouldn’t have wanted to miss.

Designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this is a big architectural complex that housed a hospital for more than eighty years. Restored in 2009, it is now a museum called the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site is just a 10-minute walk from La Sagrada Familia . But it has an entirely different feel to it, with few tourists and no street vendors. So close and yet a world apart!

The atmosphere here is magical and tranquil, with beautiful gardens surrounded by art-nouveau architecture. You can see many of the buildings of the former hospital and visit several of them.

Make sure you check out the interior of the Sant Rafael Pavilion. It has been restored to look exactly as it would have done in the 1920s, with antique radiators and hospital beds. And don’t miss the underground tunnels connecting the former hospital rooms with surgical facilities.

Good to know: Sant Pau Recinte Modernista is open daily, except for some public holidays. Here, you can find more info and book tickets .

TIP: If you can, visit here in the late afternoon when the buildings turn bright orange, colored by the setting sun. It’s absolutely impressive! However, this will depend on the season when you visit – in the summer, the sun sets much later than in the fall when we visited.

Anyway, no matter the time of day or season, don’t miss this stunning landmark in Barcelona. It’s absolutely worth a short detour from La Sagrada Familia!

WINTER TIP: If you are visiting Barcelona during the holiday season (+-end November – mid-January), don’t miss Els Llums de Sant Pau Christmas Garden . The entire site is then lit up with millions of Christmas lights – it’s absolutely magical!

13. Palau de la Música Catalana

The Palau de la Música Catalana is one of the architectural gems of Barcelona! Just as the above-mentioned Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site, this beautiful concert hall was also designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner.

The exterior is very striking, with bright colors and detailed mosaics. Unfortunately, it is a little hard to appreciate because the streets surrounding it are so narrow. But step inside and you cannot help but be mesmerized by the lavish interior, with its ornate glass roof.

This music hall doesn’t appear in many Barcelona travel guides. And maybe that’s a good thing, as it allows you to enjoy the stunning beauty of this building in relative peace. But now that you know about it, be sure to visit!

We stumbled upon it by coincidence when researching something else and decided to check it out. It became one of our favorite places in Barcelona!

Good to know: You can freely visit the entrance hall and cafe, both of which are stunning. Normally, you need to join a guided tour in order to see the main concert hall, but they now have an option for a self-guided tour as well.

Tours take around 45 minutes, so if you visit on your own, count at least half an hour.

Palau de la Música Catalana is a working concert hall, so you can also attend a concert here. The sightseeing visits during the day are usually available every day, year-round. However, during certain events, the music hall might not be open for visits. So if you want to see it inside, be sure to check in advance!

TIP: Whether you want to visit on your own or with their guide, be sure to book the tickets in advance . That way, you’ll also immediately see if some dates aren’t available. Also, while not very widely known, the place is popular enough to fill the available ticket slots, especially during the high season.

14. Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

Located below the Palau Nacional Art Museum ( MNAC ) on the Montjuïc mountain, The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc (Font Màgica de Montjuïc) is one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions. And it’s FREE!

Every evening, this dancing fountain offers stunning displays of music, light, and water acrobatics. These music- and light shows are very popular with locals and tourists alike and attract big crowds.

Arrive here at least 15-30 minutes before the show in order to secure a good spot close to the fountains. In the high season, people usually start to arrive an hour in advance.

Practical information: The best way to get to Font Màgica de Montjuïc is by taking a metro to Plaça d’Espanya. If you have more time, plan half a day for a visit – take a cable car from the waterfront area, explore the Montjuïc mountain and Miro Museum (see below), and then see the fountains in the evening.

Magic Fountain show times vary per season:

• March: Thursday to Saturday from 8 PM to 9 PM.
• April, May, October : Thursday to Saturday from 9 PM to 10 PM.
• June, July, August, September: Wednesday to Sunday from 9.30 PM to 10.30 PM.
• November, December + the first week of January: Thursday to Saturday from 8 PM to 9 PM.
• Rest of January and February: closed.
• This is general info in ‘normal’ times, but be sure to double-check online for the up-to-date schedule before you go!

Good to know: If you are visiting the city in September, then you can see The ‘Piromusical’ here. This huge firework display with accompanying music and lasers is the closing event for La Mercè – Barcelona’s main festival.

TIP: Be sure to climb the staircase to Palau Nacional on Montjuïc – the views from the top are really nice . However, this is actually something that you’ll appreciate better during the day when it’s light or at sunset – a good reason to arrive earlier and explore the area. You can find more information about other attractions on Montjuïc further below.

15. Montjuïc: Cable Car, Castle, Palau Nacional & City Views

Montjuïc (the Jewish Mountain) is the best-known hill in Barcelona. It houses several parks, botanical gardens, places, pavilions, and museums, many of which were built for the 1929 World Fair that was held in Barcelona.

Nowadays, it’s a popular place to visit in the city and some of the must-see sights mentioned in this guide are located in this area (such as the Magical Fountain, the Museum of National Art of Catalonia , Joan Miro Museum , or an open-air museum Poble Espanyol ).

But the majority of tourists come here for aerial views of the city from the Montjuïc cable car , the Montjuïc Castle, and other viewpoints nearby. Also the earlier-mentioned views from the staircase at Palau Nacional on Montjuïc are not to be missed.

Good to know: While you can walk to the top of the mountain from the city center, the easiest way to get here is by taking a cable car from the waterfront or by hop-on-hop-off bus .

TIP: A nice way to visit Montjuïc is by joining an e-bike tour . Or you can visit with a walking tour that includes a cable car ride .

With a local guide, you don’t have to wonder where exactly to go or what to see and do at Montjuïc (which is a big advantage because the area is really big and it’s quite overwhelming).

16. Joan Miró Foundation

Located on Montjuïc Mountain, Joan Miró Foundation is one of the best contemporary art museums in Barcelona

There are artworks by Joan Miró throughout Barcelona, but this museum is dedicated purely to his art. Well worth a visit and fun for all ages!

Housing more than 10,000 paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other pieces, it is located in an innovative building designed by the Spanish architect, Rafael Moneo. There are beautiful gardens to explore and frequent exhibitions of the works of other artists.

TIP: Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace of the museum. Along with a collection of Miró’s colorful sculptures, you can also enjoy some wonderful views across the city.

Good to know: For the opening dates and tickets, see here .

We just got the tickets on the spot and there was no need to book in advance. However, we visited in a rather quiet season.

17. Port Vell

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without a walk along its waterfront at Port Vell .

Port Vell is the Old Harbour of Barcelona, with a wide waterfront promenade leading down to the city’s famous beaches. It’s a bustling area with lots of cafes, restaurants, and also the History Museum of Catalonia .

Check out Rambla De Mar , a modern bridge/walkway that connects the city center to the modern bustling area with Barcelona Aquarium and Maremagnum shopping center.

It’s also nice to just take a stroll around the harbor and admire the yachts and boats moored there.

18. La Barceloneta

Port Vell borders the historic neighborhood called La Barceloneta . This charming local area was an old fishing district .

La Barceloneta is lined with narrow one-way streets towered by high apartment buildings, with laundry hanging out the windows everywhere you look.

Despite its relatively central location in Barcelona, this neighborhood has a very traditional feel, with elderly gentlemen sitting in the streets outside their houses and women calling across to each other over balconies.

Good to know: There are many good restaurants in this area offering fresh seafood options. It is a nice place to come for lunch or dinner.

The restaurants at the waterfront tend to be more touristy, but – despite having pictures on the menu and overly friendly waiters trying to convince you to choose their place – the food is generally very good.

TIP: For a more local feel a bit off the beaten path, check out the restaurants in the narrow side streets of La Barceloneta. There are many great choices and all types of cuisine, not just seafood.

19. Barcelona Beaches & Waterfront

Barcelona Waterfront is a large coastal area stretching between Playa de Llevant Beach on the outskirts of the city center and the Cruise Ship Terminal in the city center. This commercial and recreational area was created in the early 1990s and has some of Barcelona’s best beaches and a beautiful wide pedestrian area where you can walk/bike/skate for miles .

Barcelona has miles of scenic coastline and some beaches are just a 15-minute walk from the city center. There is something very special about being able to spend half a day admiring Barcelona’s incredible architecture and visiting landmarks, and then relaxing in the sunshine on a beautiful beach in the afternoon!

Some beaches are bustling – crowded with tourists, hawkers, and street performers. Others are far more peaceful, perfect for unwinding with a good book and a cold drink.

Closer to the center, there is also a maritime station for ferries and you can watch cruise ships come in to dock. You’ll also find the Maritime Museum here, housed in a large medieval shipyard, plus L’Aquàrium , one of the largest aquariums in Europe.

TIP: Why not get a different perspective on the city by taking a trip in one of the Golondrinas (ferries) moored opposite the Columbus Monument and take in all the sights of the waterfront! Or book one of the amazing sailing cruises – it’s a great way to see the city from another perspective while at the same time relaxing from all the walking and sightseeing.

Good to know: If you’re looking for a party atmosphere and want to connect with like-minded visitors from all over the world, head to Barceloneta Beach. The nightlife in Barceloneta is very vibrant too! For the best family-friendly option, try Nova Icaria Beach. Whilst tranquil, it still has plenty of restaurants and bars, plus some excellent sports facilities.

You might want to avoid cocktails and drinks from vendors walking along the beaches. They are often unrefrigerated for long periods and tend to warm up!

20. Camp Nou – F.C. Barcelona Stadium

Update 2024: At the moment of the last update, Camp Nou Stadium is undergoing a complete renovation. It is still possible to visit the museum .

Camp Nou is the largest stadium in Europe and the home stadium of the world-famous F.C. Barcelona. This is a must-see for any football fanatics but is actually really interesting even if you are not a fan. Camp Nou is one of the most-visited tourist attractions in Barcelona!

We went here mainly because of our kids who live and breathe football, but – despite having zero expectations – I loved it too. After all, it’s not every day that you get to experience such a large stadium with behind-the-scenes access!

Tours include the pitch, the stands, and the players’ bench, along with the changing rooms and press area. Also included is a visit to the museum where you can see the many trophies on display and learn more about the club’s amazing history.

Good to know: The stadium is located a bit outside the city center. You can get here by metro or by hop-on hop-off bus .

TIP: There are various ticket- and tour options for a visit here. The most popular – and the option we chose – is a self-guided stadium- and museum tour. Another option is a guided tour, but I’d only recommend it to those who want to learn even more about the team and its history.

If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, you can also opt for the Players Experience Tour which includes everything the standard tour does, plus access to the actual FC Barcelona players’ locker rooms, an official FC Barcelona gift, and a few other perks.

21. Casa Vicens

Casa Vicens is a modernist building dating from the end of the 19th century. It is considered to be Gaudi’s first major project

Unique in style, Casa Vicens looks nothing like the other Gaudi buildings in Barcelona! Its look is distinctly oriental, with dome-shaped finishes and Moorish arches. Its design was influenced by the art of India, Persia, and Japan along with Hispanic Islamic works.

Built in 1883-85 as a family summer house in the former village of Gràcia (now one of the city neighborhoods), the building was expanded by another architect in 1925. By that time, Gaudi was mainly focused on La Sagrada Familia, with little interest in other projects. But the original style was retained.

Casa Vicens has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and recently restored to its former glory.

As with all of Gaudi’s buildings, the interior of Casa Vicens does not disappoint either. You can easily spend 1 to 2 hours here admiring the bizarre but beautiful decorative elements of its rooms.

TIP: Casa Vicens is hardly ever mentioned among the best places to see in Barcelona, and so many tourists don’t even know about it. This is mainly due to the fact that it was only opened to the public a few years ago is far less known than Gaudi’s other buildings.

This means that it is much quieter, making it a great place to visit in Barcelona if you prefer to avoid crowds .

Good to know: Casa Vicens is open daily. You can find more information and get the tickets here . Despite being somewhat of a hidden gem, it’s becoming better known as more and more people discover it. So get there before the rest of the world finds out!

22. Palau Güell

Güell Palace – not to be confused with Park Güell – is one of Gaudi’s early works and another popular landmark to see in Barcelona. This magnificent building is located in the Raval district – close to La Rambla shopping street in the heart of the city center. This is the only Gaudi building that is located in the old town .

This modernist mansion was commissioned by the industrial tycoon Eusebi Güell in the late 19th century. He wanted somewhere luxurious to live in an area that was very run down at the time. He certainly got his wish – every part of this incredible palace is decorative and opulent, from the forged iron gates at the front to the roof terrace adorned with mosaics and fourteen chimneys.

Good to know: Palau Güell is open daily except for Mondays. A free audio guide is included with your ticket. For more info and tickets, see here .

TIP: If you are visiting in the summer, check if there are any events planned here during your stay. Frequent concerts are held on the rooftop terrace of Palau Gëull and tickets include a tour around the palace.

23. Barcelona History Museum (MUHBA)

MUHBA – Museum of History of Barcelona – is one the most interesting museums in the city. Here, you can see the archeological site with the actual remains of streets and buildings of Barcelona as it looked like about 2000 years ago.

Located inside the Palau Clarina Padellàs (the Gothic Palace) on Plaça del Rei just behind the Barcelona Cathedral, this fascinating museum is dedicated to researching and preserving Barcelona’s history. It contains more than 35,000 historical and cultural objects.

There are also several other sites managed by the museum around the city. Some contain excavated portions of the Roman city of Barcino, whilst others date back to medieval times.

Good to know: The museum is open daily except for Mondays. Audio guides are included with your ticket, which includes admission to all MUHBA sites in the city. You can find more info on their (rather confusing) website . Or simply walk over there and likely, you’ll be able to just get a ticket on the spot. Despite its central location, many people seem to just pass by here, so it’s usually not too busy.

TIP: Even if you are not interested in visiting the museum, be sure to come and see the impressive medieval architecture of Plaça del Rei .

24. Arco de Triunfo & Ciutadella Park

Built in 1888 as the gateway to the Universal Exhibition, the Arco de Triunfo is located at the Passeig Lluís Companys promenade.

It is one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks, with a classic shape and beautiful decorative finishes. At the top, you can see the coat of arms of the city, under which are the shields of the 49 Spanish provinces.

The Passeig Lluís Companys leads to Ciutadella Park , probably Barcelona’s most idyllic spot. It’s a lovely place for a picnic, with palm trees, a fountain designed by Gaudi, and a pretty rowing lake.

There are also numerous attractions on the grounds, including zoology and geology museums, honorary statues, and the Barcelona Zoo . The Parliament of Catalonia and a few other interesting landmarks are located here as well. It’s a really large park with lots to see!

TIP: Be sure to climb to the top of the Cascada del Parc de la Ciutadella fountain for nice views of the park. It’s especially nice late in the afternoon, around sunset.

25. Plaça d’Espanya & Views from Arenas de Barcelona

Plaça d’Espanya is a large square close to the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. It’s somewhat of an eclectic mix of sculptures, monuments, and busy traffic with several major avenues coming together here. Just a few minutes walk to the south, you’ll find the earlier-mentioned Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.

On the northern side of Placa d’Espanya, you’ll find Las Arenas de Barcelona . This oval-shaped commercial shopping center was originally a bullfighting arena but was reconstructed in 2011.

There are countless shops here and its top floor is filled with restaurants that go all the way around the perimeter, and there are also cinemas (with all the movies in Spanish, however).

But the main reason to mention a shopping center in this Barcelona sightseeing guide is because of the awesome 360° city views from the large circular platform at the very top of Arenas de Barcelona. And also because it’s so close to the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc which you’ll likely want to visit anyway. And if you’re already in the area, it’s just a small effort to check out those views.

We visited here around sunset, before heading to the fountain for the evening show, and the views were really nice. Well worth a small detour.

TIP: There is a glass elevator to the rooftop, but there is a small charge to use it. Unless you specifically want to enjoy views on your way up, then you can also just take the stairs or the escalator, which are free!

26. Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar

The beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar is a 14th-century Gothic Church. Together with La Sagrada Familia and Barcelona Cathedral, this is one of the nicest churches to see in the city.

It is located in the El Born neighborhood, a maze of medieval streets lined with trendy boutiques and cafes. Taking 55 years to build – partially paid for and constructed by the parishioners themselves – it is famous as being an example of pure Catalan Gothic architecture. This is rare, as most churches and cathedrals have a mixture of different styles.

TIP: You can see the best of the church in 20 minutes or so. But if you have more time then I recommend taking the guided tour, which includes a visit to the rooftop. The views of the skyline of the Old City are quite beautiful.

Good to know: The Basilica is open daily, in the morning and in the evening (usually closed between 1 and 5 PM).

27. Santa Caterina Market

Mercat de Santa Caterina is a covered food market located close to the Picasso Museum. It is easily spotted because of its brightly colored roof. If you want to visit a few local markets in Barcelona, this is a good option.

Clean, well-organized, and modern, it tends to be far quieter than the famous Mercado de La Boqueria, so it’s easier to sample the wares at all the different stalls and try some local specialties. It also has better prices and it is easier to get a seat if you decide to stop for lunch at one of the restaurants or bars.

The site now occupied by the market was originally home to the convent of Santa Caterina, of the Dominican Order or Order of Preachers. Remains of the cloister are still visible in the basement and can be seen with a ticket to the Barcelona History Museum.

Good to know: Santa Caterina market is open daily except on Sundays, from 7.30 AM to 8 PM. However, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays it closes at 3.30 PM already.

28. Day trip to Montserrat Monastery

No list of the best things to do in Barcelona would be complete without mentioning the most popular day trip near the city – a visit to the Abbey of Montserrat .

The mountain range of Montserrat is located around 50km northwest of Barcelona. Its main attraction is the Benedictine Monastery Santa Maria de Montserrat, one of Catalonia’s most important religious sites.

You can’t actually go inside the monastery, but you can visit the grounds, the church, and see the statue of the Black Madonna, Catalonia’s patron saint. You can also hear daily performances from the world-famous Montserrat boys’ choir. In addition, there are some hiking trails and you can enjoy the incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

Good to know: There are many ways to visit Montserrat Monastery – on your own by train or by car, or with one of the many tours from the city . Here you can read our Montserrat tour review , and via the link below – find all the info you need for a visit.

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Montserrat from Barcelona

Additional suggestions for what to see and do in Barcelona

We have now covered most of the main sights in Barcelona. However – as you can imagine – a city like Barcelona has so much more to offer than just the main landmarks and top sights mentioned above !

There are just too many attractions in Barcelona than we can mention in one guide (while still keeping it somewhat manageable for tourists just looking to cover the musts…).

So here is a list of some other great activities in Barcelona that are well worth considering too . From local experiences to the best places to visit with kids, fun things to do in Barcelona at night, and more.

TIP: Even if you just add one or two of these activities to your Barcelona sightseeing itinerary, it will make your visit to the city so much more special. Take a look!

Fun experiences and attractions in Barcelona:

• Food tours – one of our favorite ways to explore any city!
• Cooking classes .
• Sailing and catamaran cruises – a relaxing way to see the city from another perspective.
• Bike and e-bike tours .
• Segway- or e-scooter city tours .
• Street art tour by bike .
• Flamenco shows – a must in Spain.
• Hot-air balloon rides .
• Helicopter tours .

Things to do in Barcelona with kids:

• Barcelona Aquarium .
• Barcelona Zoo .
• Family walking tour at the Gothic Quarter (ideal for families with kids aged 4-12 yrs).
• Museum of Illusions (just next to La Rambla and La Boqueria market).
• PortAventura theme park – spend a day at Spain’s largest amusement park and one of the largest theme parks in Europe.
• Caribe Aquatic tour – a water park at PortAventura.

Things to do in Barcelona at night:

• Sunset cruises .
• Flamenco shows .
• Casa Mila (La Pedrera) night experience .
• Ghost tours .
• Magic fountain show .
• Cocktails and tapas .
• Nightclubs and pub crawls .

More museums to visit in Barcelona:

• Poble Espanyol Site – open-air museum at Montjuïc.
• Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA) – in the city center.
• Egyptian Museum – close to Gaudi buildings in the center.
• Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya – at Montjuïc.
• Salvador Dali Museum at Figueres – day trip from Barcelona.
• Olympic & Sports Museum – at Montjuïc.
• History Museum of Catalonia – at the old harbor Port Vell.
• The World of Banksy, Immersive Experience – in the center.
• Big Fun Museum – in the center, right on La Rambla.
• Wax Museum – in the center.

Where to Stay

If you are visiting for the first time and want to explore the main sights and tourist attractions, the very best area to stay for sightseeing in Barcelona is around Catalunya Square.

Here are some of the best-rated hotels in this area for all budgets:

€€€€€ Ohla Barcelona €€€€ Hotel Jazz €€€ El Avenida Palace €€ Mothern by Pillow € Hostal La Palmera

Map of Barcelona Attractions

To help you plan your time in the city, we created this map indicating the main landmarks, sights, and tourist attractions in Barcelona mentioned in this article . It should give you a better idea of where everything is located and help you plan your itinerary.

This map shows the main places to see in Barcelona as described in our list above. To make it somewhat easier to use and keep the focus on the best sights, we didn’t indicate any of the additional suggestions or places that are outside the city (like Montserrat Monastery).

You’ll also see that we use different colors depending on whether the places are must-see (purple), highly recommended (red), or nice-to-see (yellow). They’re ALL worth a visit, but if you are short on time, this might help you decide what to see first.

TIP: Take a look at our suggestions on how to spend one day in Barcelona and also on how to plan a 2-day Barcelona trip . It will give you a better idea of how to see the main sights in just a few days.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our guide to the top sights and attractions in Barcelona. I hope that it helps you plan your trip and enjoy every moment of your visit to this world-class destination and its charming mix of avant-garde and traditional style!

TIP: For more practical information for your visit, be sure to check Barcelona travel tips via the link below.

In this article, you’ll find more information about getting around, where to stay, tipping and haggling etiquette, bizarre dining hours, and more. Take a look!

READ ALSO: Top Tips for Visiting Barcelona for the First Time

More travel inspiration for Spain:

• Best Things to Do in Spain
• 1 Day in Barcelona
• 2-3 Days in Barcelona
• Best Gaudi Tour in Barcelona
• How to Visit Montserrat from Barcelona
• Montserrat Tour
• Toledo Day Trip (from Madrid)
• 1 Day in Seville
• 1 Day in Madrid
• 2 Days in Seville
• Best Flamenco Tour in Seville
• Read also our tips for planning a trip to Europe .

Have a great trip!

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel inspiration for European cities:

If you are visiting other European cities and are looking for in-depth information for your trip, take a look at some of our city guides:

• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Antwerp, Belgium
• Barcelona, Spain
• Bern, Switzerland
• Bologna, Italy
• Brasov, Romania
• Brussels, Belgium
• Bruges, Belgium
• Bucharest, Romania
• Colmar, France
• Edinburgh, UK
• Florence, Italy
• Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Krakow, Poland
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Liverpool, UK
• Lucerne, Switzerland
• Madrid, Spain
• Manchester, UK
• Milan, Italy
• Naples, Italy
• Paris, France
• Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal
• Ravenna, Italy
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Rome, Italy
• Salzburg, Austria
• Siena, Italy
• Sintra, Portugal
• Venice, Italy
• Verona, Italy
• For more… check our destinations page.

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35 Best Things to Do in Barcelona: Taste, Art and Architecture in the Catalan Capital

Discover the best things to do in Barcelona. With its cobbled streets, unique architecture and epic food scene, this Spanish city will capture your heart.

Let me make a (not-so) bold claim: Barcelona should be on every Spain Itinerary . 

I am kinda – ok, completely – obsessed with Barcelona. I’ve just returned from a month stint in the Catalan capital, and it just so happened to reignite a love affair that I started with the city when I was just 18 (many, many moons ago). So much so that I’ll be returning for another six-week stint in a few days.

It makes sense right? As someone who likes completely geeks out over food, wine, history and a pretty building or two, being captivated by this city was inevitable. 

Equipped with this handy travel guide, I guarantee you will also discover Barcelona’s charms – whether that be by wandering through the Gothic Quarter or snapping photos of Gaudí’s greatest works. Or, you know, by chowing down on enough patatas bravas to feed a small army.

Ready to explore? Let’s go! 

Wondering where to stay? Book a room at The Hoxton for a luxurious stay. It’ll serve as the perfect base for exploring all the best things to do in Barcelona. 

Top 5 Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

Admire sagrada familia.

The Sagrada Familia is Barcelona’s most iconic building without a doubt. Not to mention the most famous piece of work by Antoni Gaudí… and it isn’t even complete yet.

The story of the cathedral is an interesting one. Gaudí wasn’t even the original architect – that was Francisco de Paula del Villar, whose design was used to start building the church in 1882. Villar eventually quit and Gaudí was brought on to work on the church in 1883, officially as Architect Director in 1884. The rest, as they say, is history. 

You’ll need to book a ticket to get inside the Sagrada Familia (do this well in advance as they sell out fast). But be aware that normal ticket entry does not include entrance to the towers, so you’ll need to book the specific tickets that includes them (prepare for the ultimate leg workout as you descend – there are so. many. steps). 

You’ll have to pick from the Nativity Facade or the Passion Facade – no ticket includes both sets of towers. Though, I’ll be honest: there’s not much in it view-wise, as both have spectacular views of the city below. 

You can book guided tours, both through the Sagrada’s own website and Get Your Guide – but there is a lot of information in the Sagrada Familia app, so it’s easy to skip the tour if you want to take things at your own pace. 

In fact, there’s a self-guided tour in the app – it gets a little dry in places but it’s a great jumping off point for all the history/architecture nerds out there who want to dig a little deeper into the story of the building (I definitely am one of those nerds). 

It truly is an impressive building. I could go on and on, but if you want a local’s keen interpretation, I recommend joining a Sagrada Familia guided tour .

Top Tip: If you want to catch the church in its full glory, visit before 11.30am or between 5-6pm when the rising and falling light stream through the stained glass windows at an angle, casting a distinctly colourful glow inside.

Spend Time at Park Guell

You’re going to be hearing a lot about Gaudí throughout this guide – and Park Guell is no exception. It truly is part park, part magical escape into a fairyland studded with mosaic-covered structures, grottos, winding tunnels and pillar-filled halls. 

Yep, it’s a pretty gorgeous spot to explore in Barcelona. I’ll be real with you guys, the first time I visited Park Guell was when I was 18. And I was completely blown away. Several (and I mean several ) years later, that still hasn’t changed. 

This UNESCO site was originally designed by Gaudí under the commission of Count Guell as a residential neighbourhood to lure in well-off families. And, at the time, it was not a success – only three of the many envisioned plots of land were ever sold and two of the houses ever built (one of which was bought by Gaudí himself and now houses the Gaudí House museum). 

Today, however, is a different story. Admire the mishmash of genius in full flow at the Monumental Zone. You’ll find everything from stunning mosaiced ceilings in the Hypostyle Room and the Dragon Stairway with its colourful Catalonia-style gargoyles.

Head to the highest point (Turo de las Tres Cruces) for extensive views of the city spread out below, leading all the way to the sea. The views are *almost* as good as the park itself.

Top Tip: Book tickets in advance – they sell out fast. Oh, and visit first thing in the morning if you can as the weather is cooler. Thank me later.

Hike To Turo de la Rovira 

Turo de la Rovira is a set of Spanish Civil War bunkers at the summit of a hill in the Can Baro District. You’ve got two choices: take the bus 119 to the top of the hill or hike up this majestic mountain from El Carmel Station.

The latter is exhausting, but it’s also one of the best hikes in Spain , as the views at the end are magical. If you choose to hike, it’s a steep one-mile (1.6 km) climb up the hill and two miles (3.2 km) if you do the entire loop.

I highly recommend going before sunset, as the tapestry of colour in the afternoon is to die for.

Eat Your Way Around Barcelona

Large lunches aren’t a thing in Barcelona. So embrace the change and eat your way around the city’s best tapas bars.

For the perfect blend of Catalan and Asturian cuisine, go on a gastronomic adventure at El Chigre 1769. It may bill itself as a vermuteria meets cidreira – and it is both of those – but the reality is that this is one of the best places to eat in Barcelona, no ifs and no buts. 

This joint has a relatively extensive menu, split into traditional tapas like Cantabrian anchovies and cured pancetta, as well as cheeses, grills and regional classics like Fabada Asturiana – a gut-busting stew of beans and meats. You pretty much can’t go wrong. 

Even dishes that sound relatively boring (like egg and pancetta) turn into a flavourful powerhouse in which the runny yolk is offset by crisp shards of pancetta and shreds of fried potato. 

And don’t even get me started with the bone marrow topped with flecks of air-dried fish. It sounds like it shouldn’t work but it really does. 

Still hungry? Duh – then listen up. Berbena restaurant serves some of the city’s best Duck Gyoza in jus and pan tomaca. 

This restaurant is a personal fave (and one I definitely ate at more than once on my recent trip). The brainchild of Carles Pérez de Rozas Canut, who wanted to create a restaurant where he could showcase good food in a relaxed and more informal setting, and that’s very much what he’s achieved here. 

Top Tip: Not sure where to start? You can also join this guided tapas and wine tour .

Explore the Gothic Quarter

Of all the places to visit in Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter is up there with my favourites. With over 2,000 years of complex history, its winding streets give birth to a new age of vibrant bars and eateries in Barcelona (more on this later).

It also houses the Jewish Quarter, with the oldest synagogue in Spain, and Gaudí’s first project, a selection of street lamps at Plaça Reial. You can never go wrong on a Gothic Quarter walking tour , but why stop there?

You can also pop into urban art galleries like Base Elements and Canal Gallery. Or dig into the best Catalonian food at Barcelona’s oldest restaurant, Can Culleretes.

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Barcelona 

Have a feast at can cisa/bar brutal .

Not sure where to head in Barcelona to FEAST on food that will set your tastebuds alight? Let me introduce you to Can Cisa/Bar Brutal.

The front is a laid-back wine bar (Can Cisa) while the back is a more upscale (yet still relaxed) restaurant called Bar Brutal. 

The wine bar specialises in natural wines and is well worth a visit, but if you can nab a table in the restaurant, you should – I’ve been a few times and it does not disappoint with its choice of contemporary Spanish dishes. 

The menu changes constantly but you can always expect adventurous ingredients such as sweetbreads and duck hearts (if you’re not too sure about the sound of that, don’t worry, you’re in good hands). 

There are plenty of more traditional dishes such as scallops and octopus on the menu – this is Spain, after all. It’s not the cheapest of meals – for two with drinks you’re looking at coughing up around €130 – but it’s well worth the splurge.

Bar Brutal is equally brilliant; here the drinks take centre stage. The wine list may be extensive, but I highly recommend trying their vermut, a fortified spiced wine that pairs perfectly with cold cuts. 

Discover Street Art in Three Chimney’s Park

Wondering what to see in Barcelona that’ll give you a glimpse into the artistic nuances of the Catalonians? Exploring the street art at Three Chimney’s Park is a must, and there are a few artworks that you can’t miss.

Admire Kram’s neurofunk animal murals or Skount’s unique portrayal of everything flooding our minds in Trash in Head . For something more pop-arty, discover the vibrant works of Dante Arcade. And if you want to see where tattoos inspire murals, admire the large portraits by Turkesa.

It’s a playground for street artists from all over the globe. So it only makes sense to join a street art tour to discover which mastermind is behind what.

See Modernist Architecture at Illa de la Discordia

Beautiful spaces are a given at this block of Modernist Buildings in the Eixample District. It may take up an entire city block, but the sights you can’t miss include the Casa Batlló and Casa Milà.

Who made these trippy-looking buildings? Of course, none other than Gaudí himself, and while their wavy exterior will entice you, wait until you step inside.

Casa Batlló is also known as the house of bones thanks to its skeletal design (not dissimilar to parts of the passion facade on the Sagrada Familiar). This truly is Gaudí at his weirdest and most wonderful. 

The building comes to life when you enter the Patio of Lights, as the stained glass wall paints the room with colour. Expect it to be busy AF when you visit, but it’s well worth it.

On the other hand, Casa Milà’s most unforgettable aspect is on its roof, where a spiralling world of mosaics will take your breath away. There are several kinds of tickets, but all include a really interesting self-guided tour that teaches you about the architect’s work and inspiration. 

You can also book special events on the rooftop at Casa Milà. This summer, for example, they’re holding a series of jazz concerts on Thursday and Friday evenings . It’s certainly one of the more unique locations you can attend an event in. 

Other stunning architecture in the block includes Casa Planells by Josep Maria and Casa Comalat by Salvador Valeri I Purpurull.

With so much to see, why not get the full Illa de la Discordia experience with this Casa Batlló and Casa Milà tour ?

Admire Greatness at the Picasso Museum

The Picasso Museum is another must-see when in Barcelona. 

Art fanatics far and wide are quick to call Picasso the forefather of Cubism. And you know what? After seeing a fraction of the 4,251-piece collection, it’s hard not to agree.

From his Blue Period to the unmistakably famous 58-piece series Las Meninas (1957), you’re in for a real treat. Marvelling at the works in near-silence is great, but a guided Picasso Museum tour is much better.

Enjoy More Wonders at Barcelona Cathedral 

In true Gothic style, the Barcelona Cathedral has stood tall and proud since 1420. With three naves but only one apse (domed ceiling), it’s a space with a real ethereal feeling. 

But its standout feature has to be the monstrance, a beautiful vessel of gold, silver, and rare jewels. And let me not forget the gold-plated choir stalls surrounding you as you walk through the building.  

With so much to see inside, you’ll want to grab a Barcelona Cathedral entry ticket early. Another Barcelona must-see when visiting the cathedral is actually on its rooftop. You won’t find better views of the Gothic Quarter anywhere else.

Wander Past the Montjuic Magic Fountain

Looking for something to do in Barcelona that doesn’t revolve around Gaudí? Let’s take a break from the shackles of Barcelona’s hypnotising architecture and catch a light show you’ll never forget.

At the top of Avinguda Maria Cristina, the Magic Fountain performs a perfectly choreographed dance every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. These shows take place from 9 pm to 10 pm. With seven billion unique choreographies, you’re in for a genuinely magical display.

Note: The fountains are temporarily turned off due to a drought.

Join the Football Fanatics at Camp Nou

Football is Spain’s language of love, so it’s no wonder one of the most famous places in Barcelona is Camp Nou. It’s the largest stadium in Spain and Europe, with a capacity of 99,354 and a fantastic museum for all to enjoy (yep, even if you’re not a footie fan).

Discover the rich history of FC Barcelona, from the club’s humble beginning to its 26 La Liga titles. You can also learn about the infamous La Masia academy that brought about the likes of Lionel Messi and Xavi.

Top Tip: Football fanatics will not want to miss out on a Camp Nou guided tour .

Enjoy Live Music at Jamboree

Amongst the stunning architecture and famous food, the city also has some fabulous music. Longstanding jazz club Jamboree is a case in point.  

I have a lot of nostalgia for this place as Jamboree was the very first bar I went to on my interrailing trip around Spain and Portugal in 2003. And *literal decades* later it’s still a lot of fun. 

The daily jazz programme – between 8pm and 10pm – ranges from more traditional offerings to those with a distinctly modern influence. My favourite, however, are the weekly jam sessions on Mondays at 7pm. 

With three eclectic rooms, you can enjoy everything from homegrown funk singers to trombone-blowing solo acts. Heck, they’ve even had acts by Chet Baker and Dexter Gordan. Whatever your vibe, this is where all the fun things to do in Barcelona hit home with a beautiful symphony of sound.

Psst.. Jamboree somehow turns into a nightclub in the early hours – don’t knock it, it works.

Top Tip: You must pay for events individually, so keep an eye on the Jamboree website for prices, dates, and times of your ideal shindig.  

Walk Down La Rambla

Wandering along La Rambla is a tourist trap, yes. But it also happens to be one of the more fun things to do in Barcelona. This tree-lined street stretches between Placa de Catalunya and the coast.

Enjoy La Rambla’s iconic flower stalls as you approach the Christopher Columbus monument near the port. As you make your way, pop into the historic Cafè de l’Opera, a place all coffee aficionados will love.

And don’t forget to snap some memorable photos at the Canaletes Fountain and Joan Miró’s massive mosaic. Or see all the best bits of La Rambla on this beer biking tour .

Admire Classics at the MACBA Museum

It may be a relatively new museum, but the Museum of Contemporary Art – or MACBA – has its fair share of significance within the city and the world. 

The first floor exhibits just a fraction of the museum’s collection of 5,709 works. Its remaining two floors consist of rotating exhibitions of up-and-coming artists.

Most works are from the 1960s to the present, with a substantial collection of Catalan and Spanish pieces. Need more convincing? Get a taste of MACBA’s collection in its public space just outside the building, such as the sculpture La Ola or the graffiti work by Keith Haring. 

Remember to grab your MACBA entrance ticket before you head out.

Gaze Up at Bellesguard Tower

Need some more Gaudí inspiration and another must-see in Barcelona? You got it. Venture to the Sarrià-Sant Gervasi District and find the glorious manor house of Bellesguard Tower.

It pales compared to Sagrada Familia, but this 1909 building is as complex as every other Gaudí construct. Drawing from the original building’s history as the last king of Aragon’s palace, this magnificent structure exudes symbolism.

It’s a beautiful blend of Gothic and Moorish inspiration, from its striking tesserae facade and colourful wall tiles along the stairway to its carved arches. The only way you can get a true sense of its beauty is on a Bellesguard Tower tour .

Marvel at Art Galore at MOCO

It took a little while for me to actually make it into the MOCO Museum – my first trip was stopped in its tracks thanks to an impromptu visit by the Obamas. But I’m glad I finally made it. 

Set in a 16th-century palace along Montcada Street, MOCO sets itself apart from all the other museums and must-see places in Barcelona. For example, it’s the first exhibition space to have an entire floor showcasing up-and-coming NFT artwork.

It’s a space with a keen eye for detail and a desire to show all the modern and contemporary artists that are currently working. MOCO houses works by famous names such as Banksy, Damien Hirst and Andy Warhol, to name a few. 

It’s little surprise that a city with so much street art and striking architecture also has a few impressive museums up its sleeve, but MOCO was my favourite. 

Top Tip: Grab a MOCO entry ticket ahead of time. They’re cheaper online than at the door.

Chill Out on Barcelona’s Beaches

There are so many unusual things to do in Barcelona that I almost forgot this is a beachside paradise. 

A must-visit is Barceloneta, with its popular bars and golden fish sculpture by Frank Gehry. With its gritty golden sand and throngs of lounging beach bums, it’s no surprise Barceloneta is the most popular beach in town. 

If you’re looking for a more relaxing vibe, the soft sand of Llevant Beach (15 minutes from the Gothic Quarter) may tickle your fancy. And if you want something with all the facilities of Barceloneta but fewer people, head 12 minutes out of the Gothic Quarter to Nova Icària Beach.

Enjoy the Tastes of El Nacional

There are many restaurants throughout the city, but don’t miss the opportunity to eat at El Nacional . To make it even better, it’s more than just one restaurant. You can wine and dine at four restaurants and four bars, each offering a bespoke experience of the Iberian Peninsula.

La Braseria will be your go-to for meat lovers, while an authentic paella is in order at La Llotja. Then there are the bars, each dedicated to a particular drink, all fabulous.

Head Up the Montjuic Cable Car 

If there is ever a must-do in Barcelona, it’s riding the Montjuic cable car up to the Montjuic Castle. As you ride high in the sky, there are a few stops along the way.

One of the best stops is at Mirador de L’Alcalde, a garden space with terraced waterfalls and sublime city views. While that’s great, the main event is Montjuic Castle, which dominates the top of the hill.

Standing tall since 1640, this archaic castle has stunning gardens to frolic through. As for the terrace and watchtower, they offer spectacular 360-degree views of Barcelona.

Unique Things to See & Do in Barcelona: Hidden Gems That Are Off the Beaten Track

Discover gaudí’s casa vicens.

One of my favourite places to see in Barcelona is actually one of Gaudí’s earliest commissions, Casa Vicens. Despite being one of his earlier works, you still get a real sense of his use of light, colour and pattern. 

From the bright carmen-coloured exterior tiles to the fragrant jasmine and lily plants, the building’s facade and garden are just as stunning as the interior. The entrance hall mimics the plant-filled garden, while the dining room takes bold to the next level with unique wildlife depictions.

Getting a Casa Vicens ticket is easy as this site is less busy than his other work. Before you leave, be sure to pop up to the top floor and the oddly placed (it’s Gaudí, after all) mini tower. 

Stroll Through the Temple of Augustus 

A piece of Rome in the heart of Barcelona, who would’ve thought? This will be the most surprising of all the places to see in Barcelona. The four magnificent columns nestle quietly in a small courtyard within the Gothic Quarter. 

Before Barcelona was, well, Barcelona, the Romans had control of a city they called Barcino. These last few columns have faced the test of time and form part of MUHBA. It may be a short visit, but this relatively quiet site is free and made for the history buffs.

Walk Through Placa de Sant Felip Neri 

For a hidden gem with a tragic past, look around the Barcelona Cathedral for the quaint Placa de Sant Felip Neri. It’s hard to find — like, really hard — so it’ll take a bit of exploring before you wander into its tranquil space with an octagonal fountain.

Its beauty hides a sad past, as a bombing during the Spanish Civil War saw 42 people lose their lives here. You can still see the holes left by the bomb in some of the courtyard’s walls.

Despite this sad past, it’s now a stunning space hosting a school and church where everyone is welcome.

Explore Sant Pau Art Nouveau 

Not only is the Sant Pau the largest Art Nouveau complex in the world, but it’s also home to the Old Hospital de la Santa Creu. This creation of Lluís Domènech I Montaner will captivate your mind with its stained glass windows, pristine gardens and intricate mosaics.

Walk through the orange gardens before entering the old hospital, now the National Library of Catalonia. It may be off the beaten path, but booking your Sant Pau Art Nouveau ticket in advance is still a good idea.

Find Botero’s Cat 

There’s no better place to snap memorable Barca photos than at the plump – and pretty terrifying – sculpture Botero’s Cat . Interestingly, this huge sculpture danced across the city for 15 years before finding its permanent location at the Rambla del Raval.

While it’s not a standout activity, snapping some photos here can be as fun as you make it. Pose with the cute sculpture in every way possible, and you’ll get your Insta-ready pic in no time.

Venture Through Palau de la Música Catalana 

Music moves the masses, but a space where music comes to life will live for eternity. Well, at least I think so, and the Palau de la Música Catalana is an art nouveau building that serenades its visitors even in silence.

From its dominating organ to the mesmeric stained glass skylight, the concert auditorium will entrance your senses. And with natural motifs painting the space with colour, it’s no wonder this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Top Tip: Why not take a self-guided tour of Palau de la Musica to see beyond the concert auditorium and into the Petit Palau and rehearsal hall?

Visit the Joan Miro Foundation

Explore a place where the architecture by Josep Lluis Sert is just as impressive as the artwork it holds. With a Joan Miro Foundation ticket in hand, you can see the genius of Joan Miro, an artist that dabbled in everything from surrealism to avant-garde.

As it rests within the Parc de Montjuic, you can wander the gardens while admiring the most complete collection of Joan Miro’s works. They even have a free exhibition space you can explore without a ticket at Espai 13 — exhibits regularly change here, though.

See Greenery at Ciutadella Park 

Fancy taking a walk in one of Barcelona’s prettiest spaces? Take a wander through the gardens of Ciutadella Park. It’s the gateway to several activities in Barcelona, from exploring the city zoo to admiring the Catalan Parliament.

There are also some unique sculptures throughout this lush park, so keep your eyes peeled for woolly mammoths and dragons. While it’s a great place to pop open a bottle of vino and have some pan tomaca, snapping pics at the central fountain is an absolute must.

Take in History at Palau Guell 

For a unique blend of mediaeval inspiration and classic Gaudí quirkiness, explore the wonderful world of Palau Guell. As one of many commissions by Eusebi Guell, Gaudí didn’t hold back on the wow factor of this imposing fortress.

From expansive, dimly lit rooms and custom-made furniture to a spiralling basement and colourful rooftop elements, you can’t help but fall into an alternate world here. 

Even when you start your Palau Guel l walking tour at the wrought iron doors, you’ll notice how much artistic freedom Gaudí had creating this piece.

Find More Classics at MNAC

With an MNAC entry ticket , explore one of the world’s best collections of Romanesque art in a truly historic building. With over 25,000 works focusing on Barcelona’s history, you truly learn about Catalan culture here.

This 1928 building isn’t something to scoff at either, with beautiful fresco ceilings and halls big enough to fit an elephant. And don’t forget to explore the temporary exhibition spaces either.

Wander Through Mercado de la Boqueria 

You’ll find markets everywhere in Barcelona, but you simply have to tour La Boqueria . Smack-dab in the centre of the Gothic Quarter, you can easily spend hours tasting your way through the tapas and stocking up on local produce.

Sure, it’s one of the most popular markets – and the busiest – but it’s still worth popping in. One spot I highly recommend visiting is El Quim de la Boqueria. Not only are their tapas to die for, but their vermouth is a real heart warmer.

Get Funky at JazzMan

Barcelona and jazz music (surprisingly) go hand in hand. On that note, popping into JazzMan at Roger de Flor Street is a must.

Sure, there are better-known bars (Jamboree and Harlem Jazz Club, for example), but this tiny bar tucked away in Eixample is one of my absolute favourites. The fact that there’s no cover charge (simply order a drink) is only a mega bonus.

This is where sipping on some vino and letting the smooth symphony of Bracelona’s finest go hand in hand. With local artists like Miguel Talavera and Carles Pineda taking the stage, you’ll quickly find the city’s soul in this intimate club.

Top Tip: It’s only open Monday to Thursday. And it’s *really* small so get there early to nab a table. On my first visit it was standing room only, and even then people were squeezing in the door.  Worth it, though!

Take a Trip To Can Calopa Vineyard

Speaking of wine, it’s also worth the 40-minute drive out of town to get a real taste of the only winery in (or near, I suppose) the city. The views of the Serra de Collserola Mountain Range will dazzle as you’re learning about the winery’s unique techniques to produce their delicious vinos.

Can Calopa specifically grows the Syrah and Grenache grape varieties, giving its wines their distinct spiced raspberry flavour. From classic reds to bubbly rosé, you can taste all their produce in style. 

Shop Til’ You Drop at Encants Market

You can’t go home empty-handed, so pop into the most epic flea market at Encants. With over 700 years of history, 301 stalls and nine restaurants on site, I guarantee you’ll find something that piques your interest.

From new handcrafts and old books to foodie souvenirs and everything in between, the Encants Market has something for everyone. The architectural space itself in Poblenou is worth a visit, but there’s no harm in getting some goodies along the way.

Sip Sundowners at a Rooftop Bar

How to round off a day in Barcelona? Spend the evening admiring the city below as you quaff glass after glass of booze on a rooftop terrace.

My pick? Bar-Terraza Ayre Rosselló. This is the perfect place to watch the setting sun light up Sagrada Familia.

Other great spots are the Pulitzer Terrace and Ohla Chillout Terrace, but if you’ve got the choice, stick with Bar-Terraza Ayre Rosselló.

Things to do in Barca: Practical Tips for Your Trip

Like I’ve mentioned, I spent a month in Barcelona and honestly, it felt like I barely scratched the surface. Ideally though, spending at least 4 days in the city should allow you to see the top sights.

Barcelona is ideal as it’s an all-year round destination. That said, the shoulder months of September, October, April and May are best for avoiding crowds and high prices.

Where Should I Stay in Barcelona? 

Axel hotel (mid-range) .

With indoor pools, bubbly hot tubs, spacious rooms and an eye for detail that’s second to none, Axel Hotel is the best adult-only hotel in Barcelona.

Rooms are on the simple side, though they’re plenty spacious for a couple on a cosy getaway. And the abundance of lively bars and restaurants on your doorstep means you’re likely not going to be in much, anyway.

Check Rates and Availability

The Hoxton (Luxury) 

It’s no secret that The Hoxton is one of the coolest luxury hotel chains in the world. And the rooftop pool and bar that towers above the rest is one of the many reasons to book a room here while in Barca.

It’s also perfectly placed between the Gothic Quarter and the coastline, so all the best things to do in Barcelona aren’t far away. 

Recommended Tours in Barcelona

• Park Guell Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access
• Sagrada Familia Guided Tour with Tower Access
• Private Casa Batllo & Casa Mila Tour with Tickets
• Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour
• Walking Tour with Local Tapas and Wine

Things to do in Barcelona: Map

Things to do in Barcelona: Read Next

• Brilliant Hotels in Barcelona
• The Best Airbnbs in Barcelona
• Uncovering Gaudí’s Barcelona: In the Footsteps of a Modernist Genius
• The Ultimate 10 Day Spain Itinerary

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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What to see in Barcelona: 36 essential things to do in the city

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Barcelona is full of surprises. The cosmopolitan, Mediterranean city, full of light and life, is home to countless interesting places made for enjoyment. To help you plan your visit and so you get the most out of your city break, we have compiled a list of the essential things to do in the Ciudad Condal, as it is often referred to, that you cannot miss. Modernist buildings, parks, squares, museums and gourmet markets await, ensuring that your Barcelona city break is absolutely unforgettable. The Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, the Palau de la Música, Barceloneta beach, the Cathedral and Las Ramblas are just a small example of the many attractions that make Barcelona one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Legend has it that Barcelona was founded by the Carthaginian leader Hamilcar Barca, although other more spiritual types maintain that it was the god Hercules himself who founded the city after finding his ninth boat (barca nona) moored on the beach. What is documented is the presence of Romans from the first century B.C. Today the city’s streets and monuments bear traces of its long history and its attractions are enjoyed by the scores of visitors that come to the city to enjoy its many charms. In this guide you can find all of Barcelona’s must-visit places so that you get the most out of your trip to the city. So whether you are staying for three days or a weekend , don’t miss a thing.

• The Sagrada Familia

Palau de la Música

• Caso Batlló

Barcelona cathedral

Torre Agbar

Plaza de Catalunya

• La Boquería
• Montjüic fountain and Plaza de España
• Monjüic castle

Ciutadella park

• Arco del triunfo

Santa María del Mar basilica

Gran Teatre del Liceu

Port Olimpic

Palacio Güell

Passeig de Gràcia

Horta labyrinth

The Carmel bunkers

• Tibidabo hill and Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor

Las Arenas shopping centre

• Barcelona neighbourhoods in which to lose yourself
• Where to stay in Barcelona

PLACES YOU CANNOT MISS IN BARCELONA

Sagrada Familia basilica

The  Sagrada Familia  is perhaps the most famous and most visited landmark in Barcelona – an emblem of the city. The architect Antoni Gaudí  dedicated 40 years of his life to its construction and it is for this reason that he was laid to rest beneath one of the basilica’s naves. His particular, striking brand of architecture leaves no one indifferent. The Sagrada Familia is a true gem and an emblem of modernist Barcelona that you cannot miss.

Barceló Raval

• Located next to the famous Ramblas
• 360º terrace with swimming pool, solarium and panoramic views of the city
• A Barcelona brunch that’s famous on twitter
• Wellness Centre and Fitness

Barceló Sants

• Excellent position
• Large 3,000 m² area for events and conferences
• Ultra-modern Orbital rooms
• Sensational restaurants

Occidental Diagonal 414

• Prime location, in the heart of Barcelona
• Roof Top Terrace
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
• Meeting rooms

Occidental Atenea Mar - Adults Only

• On the seafront
• Next to the International Convention Centre
• Fitness Centre and Sauna
• New terrace with infinity pool

Occidental Barcelona 1929

• Superior, Premium and Family rooms
• Pool, sun terrace and fitness studio with free access for hotel guests
• Restaurants offering local cuisine
• Excellent location and connections

Sagrada familia Barcelona

Declared a Unesco Heritage Site in 1984, Park Güell  is one of Gaudí’s most outstanding creations, since it blends the unique style of his modernist works with other natural motifs. The dragon, on the main stairway, is the park’s icon.

Parque Güell

If you like sport, especially football, you cannot miss the stadium of one of the world’s biggest clubs. The  Camp Nou  is the inner sanctum of blaugranas , as supporters are known, as well as an impressive, magnificent stadium with a capacity of 98,000 people that is well worth a visit.

Built in 1908 by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the  Palau de la Música  encapsulates the history of modernism and world music and is one of the most spectacular auditoriums in the world with a large, beautiful concert hall. Be sure not to miss the main façade too. The building is a Unesco World Heritage Site for good reason.

Palau de la música

Commonly known as La Pedrera,  Casa Milá  is also categorised as a World Heritage Site. It is a work of art in itself due to its extraordinary architecture and the large windows dotted across its façade. Decorated with sea and mythological motifs, the building also houses an exhibition room and concerts are held on its roof terrace.

Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló , designed by Gaudí, was built between 1902 and 1906, converting an ordinary building into an impressive creation. Its multi-coloured walls, balconies and roofs covered in scales will leave you in awe.

Barcelona cathedral  is an impressive example of Spanish Gothic architecture declared a Cultural Interest Site and a National Historical Monument. In addition to the interior, the cloister is also well worth a visit.

Catedral de Barcelona

The most famous street in Barcelona, on  La Rambla  you can get a feel for the hustle and bustle of the city with people everywhere you look, shops, street artists and stalls selling crafts, souvenirs and flowers. Be sure to walk the full length from Plaça de Catalunya to Port Vell.

Standing at a height of 142 metres, Torre Agbar  dominates the Barcelona skyline. It was designed by the French architect Jean Nouvel, who took inspiration from the architecture of Gaudí. One of the building’s most interesting details are the lights that change colours, which are even more special at certain times of the year.

One of the city’s main hubs and a meeting point that separates the old city from the Eixample district, Plaça de Catalunya  was built in 1889 after the International Exposition that was held in Barcelona the previous year. It is lined with important buildings and boasts two large fountains.

Plaza Cataluña

Boquería market

In addition to being a municipal market, Boquería market has become one of Barcelona’s most important tourist attractions. Situated on Las Ramblas, its culinary offerings are so appetising that you won’t be able to resist trying the gourmet delicacies sold at its varied stalls.

The Montjuïc magic fountain and Plaza de España

After Plaça de Catalunya, Plaça d’Espanya  is one of the most important places in Barcelona. One of its great attractions is the Montjuïc magic fountain , where you can enjoy a water, light and music show. It is also home to the former bullring, which is now a large shopping centre.

Montjuïc castle

On the top of the hill, Montjuïc castle  is a former military stronghold categorised as a Site of Cultural Interest and a National Heritage Site. Its walls have borne witness to countless battles throughout the history of Barcelona.

Barcelona’s quintessential park, across 17 hectares you will find a zoo, buildings of the Catalan Parliament, a church, a secondary school and even a lake.   Ciutadella park  also hosts fairs, open-air markets and sporting events. You can reach this lovely park by metro getting off Arc de Triomf (L1), Ciutadella/Vila Olímpica (L4) or Jaume I (L4).

Arc de Triomf

The  Arc de Triomf  was built in 1888 as an entrance to the International Exposition that took place in Ciutadella park. Although its shape and proportions are built in classical style, its decoration is full of symbolic motifs. The arch is an emblem of Barcelona’s transition into modernity.

The  Santa María del Mar basilica is a simple, austere construction that is nevertheless steeped in a type of beauty especially associated with the Catalan Gothic. Particularly notable are its beautiful stained glass windows. The basilica served as inspiration for the writer Ildefonso Falcones and his famous novel Cathedral of the Sea . It is the resting place of the patron saint of sailors.

Situated on Las Ramblas, since 1847 the  Gran Teatre del Liceu  has played host to the very best opera singers and is regarded as one of the most important opera theatres in the world. A guided tour is a great way to explore it in depth and not miss any of its beautiful details as is, of course, catching a performance.

Port Vell is the oldest part of the port of Barcelona. Its facilities are currently used for recreational boats and the middle part is home to the Maremagnun shopping and entertainment centre.

In 1992, Barcelona’s Port Olimpic was the setting of the sailing competitions of the Barcelona Olympic Games and today it is one of the city’s liveliest entertainment areas. It is situated close to the beach where you can do water sports and boasts scores of restaurants where you can sample food typical of Barcelona.

The  Palacio Güell  was designed by Gaudí for the Güell family. The building remains practically the same as when the artist designed it. Touring through this unique building from the basement to the rooftop, passing through the house’s different rooms, is an experience you cannot miss.

Passeig de Gràcia is one of the best shopping streets in the city where you will find high-end fashion and accessories brands as well as more budget-friendly options. The street is also home to many of Gaudí and Lluís Domènech i Montaner’s most famous buildings.

Paseo de Gracia

One of the prettiest parks in Barcelona, this romantic space combines nature and interesting architecture to perfection. Situated at the foot of the Collserola mountains, it is named after the labyrinth made of trimmed Cypress trees that you can visit and explore in the lower part of the garden. In its day the land on which the park lies belonged to the Desvalls family, who donated it to the City Council in 1967. The garden-museum has been open to the public since 1971.

Located at the highest point of Turó de la Rovira, the bunkers in the Carmel neighbourhood are a fantastic viewpoint from where you can enjoy spectacular views of Barcelona. Despite its name, there have never been any bunkers on the top of Turó de la Rovira but rather an anti-aircraft battery, which was key to the city’s defence system during the Spanish Civil War. The site is very popular with young people and a popular tourist destination. It has served as a backdrop for adverts, films and TV series and countless images of it can be found on social media.

Tibidabo hill and the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor

Tibidabo is one of the most emblematic and magical places in the city of Barcelona as well as the highest point in the Collserola mountains providing almost unbeatable views of Barcelona and the Vallés region. Tibidabo amusement park offers visitors over 30 attractions for all ages in addition to lovely restaurants and a picnic area. Tibidabo is also the site of the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor (Temple of the Sacred Heart), designed by Enric Sagnier in 1902 and completed in 1961. The neo-Gothic-style building is crowned by a large bronze statue of the Sacred Heart. A lift will take you to the highest part of the temple, 500 metres above sea level, from where you can enjoy incredible views of the city – a true window onto Barcelona.

Situated on Plaça d’Espanya, the Las Arenas shopping centre is housed within Barcelona’s former bullring, which had remained unused from 19 June 1977, the day on which the final bullfight took place. The complex was redesigned by the architect Richard Rogers and since 2011 it functions as a shopping centre, sports centre and music centre with 360-degree panoramic views of the city. The top floor is lined with restaurants, the one below houses a cinema and the rest are occupied with shops and small businesses.

BARCELONA NEIGHBOURHOODS IN WHICH TO LOSE YOURSELF

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

One of the oldest neighbourhoods in Barcelona, with narrow medieval streets and hidden squares, the  Gothic Quarter  is one of the most charming places to stroll around and enjoy the city. Don’t miss walking through the square in front of the Cathedral, Carrer del Bisbe and Plaça Reial and sitting at one of its terraces.

Gothic Quarter

Barceloneta beach and neighbourhood

Barceloneta  is not just the name of a famous beach, although that is often what we identify it with, but a neighbourhood with a seafaring spirit. Situated within the Ciutat Vella district, it was built to provide housing for residents from the La Ribera neighbourhood, who were evicted in the eighteenth century to make way for Ciutadella park.

Aside from its history, today Barceloneta is the place to go to eat at a seafood restaurant, go shopping, sunbathe, and enjoy the beach. Much of the city’s 4.5 kilometres of beaches are situated in the area. Make the most of your time in Barcelona to explore this authentic corner of the city.

Barceloneta beach

The Raval neighbourhood

Somewhere that you should not miss on a trip to Barcelona is  Raval , because, however many times you go there, you will always find something new. The ever-evolving neighbourhood is a favourite among art lovers, since it is home to MACBA (Barcelona Contemporary Art Museum) and CCCB (Barcelona Centre of Contemporary Culture). What’s more, its design shops, art galleries and graffiti, which give the area an even more urban feel, always offer surprises. It is also the perfect place to go for tapas in bohemian bars and, if you like the atmosphere of markets, be sure to visit La Boquería, a real institution in the Catalan capital.

The Gràcia district

The Gràcia district, made up of five neighbourhoods, is the smallest district in Barcelona, which does not mean to say that it isn’t an essential place to visit on a city break. One of its most emblematic neighbourhoods is Villa de Gràcia, which dates back from the seventeenth century. Although it is today integrated into the city, the area still maintains its own identity and sense of belonging. It is a lovely place to take a stroll, have a drink on one of its terraces, visit an art workshop or listen to some Catalan rumba, since the district is the birthplace of artists such as El Pescaílla, and, of course, visit Park Güell , one of Gaudí’s greatest works.

Try not to confuse the Gràcia neighbourhood with Passeig de Gràcia, which has a very different feel.

BARCELONA’S MOST IMPORTANT MUSEUMS

Nacional Art Museum of Catalunya

The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya  is housed in the National Palace, one of the most emblematic buildings from the 1929 International Exposition. It can be seen up high from Plaça d’Espanya, from where it can be reached via a lovely staircase. Works from throughout history await to be discovered.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

CosmoCaixa and CaixaForum

Belonging to Fundació La Caixa, these two cultural centres play an important educational role and are housed in historical buildings that have been painstakingly renovated.  CosmoCaixa , on the site of the former Science Museum, is housed in an old asylum for the blind built by the famous architect Josep Domènech i Estapà. Today it brings visitors of all ages in touch with nature and science. CaixaForum , meanwhile, is more linked to art, and is housed in a former modernist-style factory on Montjuïc hill designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch.

Poble Espanyol museum

Poble Espanyol  is an open-air museum situated on Montjuïc hill built for the 1929 International Exposition as a showcase of Spanish culture and architecture. In it you will find reproductions of the most representatives places from many Spanish cities.

Poble Espanyol

Picasso museum

The  Picasso museum  possesses the largest collection of pieces from the Malaga-born artist’s youth and formative years in Barcelona. Touring this large art gallery housed in several medieval palaces is a true privilege in light of the paintings that hang from its walls and its sculptures and prints. It is worth stopping to observe some pieces that demonstrate the relationship that Picasso had with other contemporary artists, who he would meet up with at the famous café Els Quatre Gats.

MACBA (Barcelona Contemporary Art Museum)

In this museum, more commonly known by the acronym  MACBA , art from the second half of the twentieth century takes centre stage. Over 5,000 artworks are distributed throughout a building that exudes modernity, spanning more than 14,000 m2. Its large white rooms, vast windows and the abstract art on offer help create an experience that you should not miss when in Barcelona.

The museum also boasts an extensive artistic and culture programme as well as interesting temporary exhibitions.

Fundación Joan Miró

The space housing the collection of Joan Miró  was conceived by the artist himself and the architect Josep Lluís Sert in the heart of Montjuïc hill. A visit to this art sanctuary is made all the more powerful by the building itself, the surrounding gardens and the dialogue that the Catalan artist’s works establish with the whole ensemble. To visit the Fundació Miró it to get lost amid its courtyards, terraces and exhibition rooms and round it all off by enjoying the surrounding nature.

As part of its permanent exhibition, in addition to admiring paintings, sculptures and tapestries by Joan Miró, you can also see works by other artists such as Chillida, Tàpies and Calder.

Casa-Museo Gaudí

Situated within the Park Güell complex, the Gaudí house-museum was the artist’s former residence for almost 20 years, between 1906 and 1925. In 1963 it opened for the first time as a museum and today houses a collection of furniture and objects designed by the architect, in addition to pieces by people that worked with him. After being put up for sale unsuccessfully, the building—designed by Francesc Berenguer, a regular collaborator of Gaudí between 1903 and 1905—was bought by Gaudí, in 1906, who took up residence in it together with his niece and father until 1925, several months before his death when he moved his studio to the Sagrada Familia.

The house-museum, which shows the architect’s most personal side with object and documents related to his life, is set across three floors. Visitors can view the bedroom, studio and the inner entrance door, in addition to the furniture designed by Gaudí for buildings such as Casa Batlló, Casa Calvet, Casa Milà, Casa Vicents and the crypt of Colonia Güell.

Dónde alojarse en Barcelona

Hotel barceló raval.

Rated with four stars and boasting excellent value for money, the  hotel Barceló Raval  is situated next to Las Ramblas and, therefore, is just a short walk from Plaça de Catalunya, the Teatre del Liceu, Boquería market and the Cathedral. Its 182 rooms and four suites boast all creature comforts and look out onto the Raval neighbourhood. The whole hotel exudes modernity, a cosmopolitan feel and urban DNA. The B-Lounge is the place to go for signature tapas, cocktails and one of the most famous Sunday brunches in the city.

Hotel Barceló Sants

Situated above Sants station, the four-star  hotel Barceló Sants resembles a spacecraft, inviting guests to enjoy a imaginary journey through space. Although the hotel has a futuristic, cutting-edge look, its 312 Orbital rooms, 52 Stratosphere rooms and 14 Orbital suites offer a cosmic ambience in which comfort and amenities come before design. In addition to being one of the best-located hotels in the city, it boasts floor space spanning 3,000 square metres distributed across 15 lounge areas, two restaurants, a cafeteria, a bar and a gym.

Hotel Occidental Diagonal 414

Situated on Avinguda Diagonal, this boutique design hotel is just a short walk from Casa de les Punxes, one of Barcelona’s modernist icons, and very close to Passeig de Gràcia and the city’s most important tourist attractions. The hotel boasts 100 well-decorated, welcoming rooms, a 25-square-metre gym open 24 hours a day and a private car park for hotel guests. In terms of dining options, the hotel Occidental Diagonal 414  has a buffet restaurant decorated in Nordic style serving a selection of Mediterranean and international specialities as well as a snack bar with a tapas and vermouth menu.

Hotel Occidental Atenea Mar – Adults Only

This four-star urban hotel is adults only and has an excellent location, 150 metres from Nova Mar Bella beach and a 15-minute walk from CCIB (Barcelona International Convention Centre). The  hotel Occidental Atenea Mar – Adults Only  boasts 191 modern, spacious rooms with sea or city views and a wealth of details. It also has a car park, a free-to-use fitness room, five lounge areas, a gourmet restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, a terrace with a snack bar, a 48-square-metre infinity pool and a solarium with Balinese beds and sun loungers.

At Barceló Experiences you can continue your journey discovering Spain’s many charms by visiting our comprehensive tourist guides of other must-visit destinations such as  Madrid ,  Cádiz ,  Asturias ,  Valencia ,  Seville and  Granada .

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you not miss in Barcelona?

Barcelona is known for its wide range of options and attractions. Your first stop should be the Sagrada Familia followed by a stroll along Las Ramblas. You should also make a stop to see Boquería market as you make your way up to Plaça de Catalunya. Park Güell and Barcelona cathedral are other must-visits.

What is there to do for free in Barcelona?

There are many things to do in Barcelona for free, from strolling along Las Ramblas or through Plaça de Catalunya to visiting Plaça d’Espanya, where you can enjoy the Montjuïc magic fountain. We also recommend seeing Ciutadella Park and the Arc de Triomf and rounding off the day by walking along Port Vell and the Port Olimpic.

What transport options are there in Barcelona?

The best way to move around Barcelona on your city break is by public transport. Barcelona has an excellent metro and tram network as well as a very extensive bus network (urban, interurban and tourist buses). Not forgetting of course taxis and private hire vehicles.

How many days should you spend in Barcelona?

Barcelona is a very large city and in order to see its most important attractions we recommend a minimum stay of four to five days. Bear in mind that aside from the countless things on offer in the city, many nearby places are also well worth visiting.

What neighbourhoods should you visit in Barcelona?

Be sure to visit, in this order, the Gothic Quarter, Raval, Barceloneta and the Grácia neighbourhood.

What museums should you visit in Barcelona?

The Museo Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, Cosmocaixa, CaixaForum, Poble Espanyol museum, the Picasso museum, MACBA (Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art), Fundació Joan Miró and the Gaudí house-museum.

What are the best beaches in the city of Barcelona?

The most famous and most beautiful beach in the city is Barceloneta beach, although there are others worth visiting such as Somorrostro, Sant Miquel, Sant Sebastià, Nova Icària, Bogatell, Mar Bella, Nova Mar Bella and Llevant.

Related plans

La rambla, barcelona’s most emblematic boulevard, camp nou, barça’s temple, the basilica of santa maria del mar, a place of worship built by and for the people, park güell, the garden shaped by gaudí’s imagination.

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Home » Europe » Spain » Barcelona

36 BEST Places to Visit in Barcelona (2024)

Barcelona is the capital of the autonomous region of Catalonia and more than 1.6 million people live within the limits of this city. It’s a city known for its stunning architecture, creative spirit and of course the passion the locals have for FC Barcelona!

The endless historical buildings in the city will stun you with their beauty and detail, you’ll spend your whole time whilst visiting Barcelona completely awestruck! From La Sagrada Familia to Park Güell, Casa Mila and Casa Batlló Gaudi’s city will blow you away! Then there’s the Mercat de la Boqueria and the enchanting Gothic Quarter, there really are endless options!

There’s such a wide variety of things to do in the city. It’s got amazing food, fascinating history, incredible beaches and world class shopping if that’s your bag (pun intended!)

The biggest problem with this city? There’s so many incredible tourist attractions to see when you’re visiting Barcelona that is can be hard to sift through them all! So, we’ve gone through everything this incredible Spanish city has to offer so you can craft your own trip.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Barcelona:

These are the best places to visit in barcelona, faq on the best places to visit in barcelona.

We know you want to get going, there’s a lot to explore in this city, but before you join the thronging masses, we recommend you check out where to stay in Barcelona first. That way, you’ll know which neighbourhoods have the right flavour for you!

Barrio Gotico

Barrio Gotico is the heart and soul of Barcelona. The oldest neighbourhood in the city, it’s filled with charming narrow streets, picturesque boroughs, and quaint terraces and plazas.

• Stand in awe of Barcelona Cathedral
• Dine on delicious Mediterranean cuisine at Viana.
• Browse the stalls off fruits, vegetables, fish, meat and sweets at Mercat de la Boqueria on Las Ramblas.

Looking for more accommodation? Why not check out the selection of epic hostels in Barcelona if you’re on a backpacker budget. If you’re on the lookout for something a bit more upmarket for your trip, why not have a look at the awesome Barcelona Airbnb options.

Now, onto the good stuff…

With sooo many things to do in Barcelona you could be forgiven for feeling a bit overwhelmed, especially if you’re only here for a few days. But there’s no need to worry, you just need to check out our extensive list to decide where you want to add to your personal Barcelona Itinerary .

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#1 – The MNAC

• The best place to experience Catalan art in Barcelona.
• Includes one of the oldest and biggest collections of paintings on wood in Europe.
• A must-see for art lovers!

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re in Barcelona, then you absolutely must see some Catalan art. This museum reopened in 2014 and boasts different media art from the 1950s to the modern day. So when you spend time there, you’ll be able to see examples of cinema, posters, architecture, and photography as well as the standard sculptures and paintings. If you only have a weekend in Barcelona then make sure to fit this one, it’s one of the top tourist attractions in the city.

What to do there: If you have the time, make sure you take the climb from Placa d’Espanya up to the museum as the views are panoramic and spectacular. Spend some time admiring the building as well, it’s a landmark in the city, and you’ll be able to take some great photos in front of it. Other than that, just explore the art within, particularly the Catalan pieces, the like of which you’ll rarely see outside of Barcelona.

#2 – The Encants Market – A great place in Barcelona if you love to shop!

• This is the place to go if you’re looking for a bargain!
• Make sure you bring your wallet and take home some souvenirs.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the oldest markets for second-hand goods in Europe and it also offers some of the best opportunities for people-watching in this enchanting Spanish city. You’ll find everything at this place from souvenirs to sewing machines and bicycles, so make sure you take your time and explore everything that’s on offer.

What to do there: The vendors at this market are incredibly varied, so you’ll probably find clothes next to bicycles and toys next to jewellery. That’s half the fun too, so make sure you explore it all! Once you’re done with your shopping, there are plenty of great food options in the market so choose one and see what they have on offer.

#3 – La Sagrada Familia – A great place to see in Barcelona if you love architecture

• La Sagrada Familia is a Gaudi masterpiece.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Make sure that you take lots of pictures of this architectural marvel.

Why it’s so awesome: Antoni Gaudi was the most famous architect in Barcelona’s history and many of the most beautiful buildings in the city were his magical creations. This incredible cathedral is a stunning representation of his style: it’s dreamy, fanciful and built on a scale that boggles the eyes and the mind. In fact, the structure still isn’t finished, and it’s been 140 years since construction began. When it is done, it will be the tallest cathedral in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is unlike any old church you’ve been in before, even if you’re not religious, La Sagrada Familia is an absolute work of art. It’s a must-do when visiting Barcelona.

What to do there: You have to admire the mastery and the sheer genius of Gaudi. His works are sometimes controversial, but always striking and memorable. When you visit this site, you’ll see that it combines several popular architectural styles but in a way that’s pure Gaudi and purely incredible. What you also might see are incredibly long lines at the ticket counter.

Be smart and book your skip-the-line ticket for La Sagrada Familia in advance!

Insider tip: Go early in the day when the sun is in the perfect location to shine through the colourful windows.

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#4 – Park Güell

• Park Güell is a gorgeous, fanciful natural paradise in the heart of the city.
• Park Güell is the perfect way to escape the city and enjoy a calmer, more serene natural area.

Why it’s so awesome: This garden complex is located on Carmel Hill and it’s another must-see Gaudi creation. As with all of his work, everything in this park is beautiful and slightly unusual, such as serpentine benches and walls set with colourful mosaics. You’ll also enjoy fountains, sculptures and colonnades all in Gaudi’s distinct, fairy tale style.

What to do there: Take some time away from the busyness of the city and enjoy Gaudi’s unique take on nature. Wander around the Park Güell and then visit the Gaudí house museum, where he lived from 1906 to 1926. He designed all the furniture and decorations in the house, so it will give you an amazing insider’s view of this great man’s mind.

Since you don’t want to be one of the tourists waiting in line to get their tickets (which can be up to 1200 at a time, it’s one of the most well-known tourist attractions), you can sneak your way around that stress by booking ahead of time, skipping the line and getting a professionally guided tour through the park.

#5 – The Umbracle – A nice quiet place to see in Barcelona

• A display of iron architecture.
• A striking and unusual display that would make a great background for photos.
• A green natural space in the middle of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: It isn’t often that a collection of iron sculptures is protected by the Catalan Department of Culture, but this display definitely deserves special treatment. Built in the late 19th century by Josep Fontsere it resembles a large cage on the outside with brick columns. It was once used as a party space and something of that opulent past remains even though it now houses plants from all over the world. It’s worth a slight detour when visiting Barcelona.

What to do there: This is actually a botanical garden now and it’s the perfect place to take a breather from your explorations. It contains plant species from nearly two dozen countries, all of them protected by the arches of the metal architecture. This venue is only open on weekdays, so make sure you plan your visit. What’s great is that is one of the lesser-known tourist attractions.

Wondering how much you should set aside to afford Barcelona’s attractions? Our Barcelona Budget Guide will give you all the helpful tips and tricks so you don’t have to dig too deep into your pockets!

#6 – La Cova Fumada – A must-see for foodies!

• Tapas, tapas, tapas!
• Despite the plain building, this location has some of the best tapas in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: The tradition of tapas – small snacks that come with drinks – is extremely popular in Barcelona, and it’s also a fairly cheap way to try a range of tastes and dishes. La Cova Fumada is one of the best places in the city for this. The outside and the inside of the building are bland, but the tapas are absolutely first-rate.

What to do there: This venue is famous for the quality of its tapas, serving some of the most iconic Catalan dishes . Particularly popular are their grilled sardines, spicy potato, mincemeat bomba and seafood offerings. So, go in for a drink one afternoon and go to town on the offerings. Chances are that you’ll be there all afternoon working your way through the menu!

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#7 – Gran Teatre del Liceu

• Barcelona’s opera house.
• One of the most historic buildings in the city.
• You can see opera in this building, but the venue also plays host to ballet performances and concerts.

Why it’s so awesome: This building has stood through the ages despite disaster and economic crisis. It was first opened in 1847 but was remodelled in 1994 after a fire. For the people of Barcelona, this has long been the place where their culture and spirit have thrived, expressed through theatre and dance, and that feeling continues to the present day.

What to do there: You can obviously see some opera at this venue, but if you’re not a fan of that particular artform then keep an eye out for other performances. This building hosts dance and music performances too. The tickets are usually much lower than you would think, so make sure you snap them up fast before they run out!

#8 – An authentic Flamenco Show – A great afternoon/evening entertainment!

• An amazing show, held in the evening
• Affordable tickets that offer an amazing experience
• Professional dancers that’ll leave you in complete amazement

Why it’s so awesome : Music, world-class dancers, a XIX century stage – it can’t get better than that when visiting Barcelona. Enjoy the show (which only lasts for an hour by the way) in the centre of the city before heading to dinner afterwards. It’s culture, it’s art, and it’s incredibly fascinating and entertaining. 

What to do there : Just sit and enjoy the show. You’ll fall in love with authentic Spanish music, great singers and professional dancers!

Keep in mind: There are only three shows in the evening, so be quick to book your tickets.

#9 – Carmel Bunkers

• An amazing historical site left behind after the Spanish civil war.
• Make sure you enjoy the view from the site – it’s one of the best in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This site is an anti-aircraft battery that was built in 1937 when the city was bombed hundreds of times each day during the Spanish Civil War. This is a part of history that most people born outside of the area probably wouldn’t know about and it’s one of the lesser-known tourist attractions to visit.

The Spanish Civil War went on from 1936 to 1939 and it tends to get overshadowed by the events of the Second World War. But this slice of history reflects the spirit of the city and their determined resistance to the forces of Francisco Franco during the war.

What to do there: It’s quite a climb up to this site but it’s worth the trip. After the war, this area was occupied by houses that were later abandoned. The site would have been forgotten, but the neighbors petitioned to preserve the site as a historical monument. Once you’ve taken in the site, make sure you take some time to enjoy the views, which stretch all the way over Barcelona and out to the sea.

Insider Tip: This is a great place to watch the sunset over the city

#10 – Bostik Murals

• A great place for art lovers.
• The perfect place to take in another side of Barcelona’s famous art scene.

Why it’s so awesome: This site is a museum of urban art. Ordinarily, that would be difficult as you can really tear murals from walls in the street. To overcome this issue, the owners of this venue have encouraged more than 20 artists to create original pieces on the exterior of the building. You’ll see some of the best muralists in the city in this location and gain a new appreciation for the creative spirit in Barcelona.

What to do there: The muralists who have taken part in this project are absolutely amazing and include BToy, Sixe Paredes, Manu Manu, Sheone, Fasim, Sebastien Waknine, and Sam3. The art here changes all the time, so make sure you check the website to see what’s on while you’re in the city. If you’re an artist yourself, the venue also offers its walls to outside artists who want to give murals a try.

#11 – The Montjuic Magic Fountain Show – Awesome place to visit in Barcelona with kids!

• A spectacular water show, with more than 7 billion combinations of light, sound and music.
• A great place to take the kids in the early evening.
• The show includes Spanish music as well, so you’ll get the chance to enjoy local sounds.

Why it’s so awesome: This site is kinda for kids but any adult who loves music, light and water will enjoy it as well. The fountain was designed by Carles Buigas for the 1929 Exposition and it’s the only remaining attraction from that show. There are over 7 billion choreography combinations in the shows, with the water and light dancing to music from past times as well as more popular soundtracks.

What to do there: Make sure you arrive early so that you can stake out a good spot. The show tends to be popular amongst tourists, so if you’re late you’ll probably find yourself in the back where you can’t see much.

#12 – Las Ramblas

• One of the first things you should do when you arrive in the city is explore this area!
• The people watching in this area is incredible if that’s your jam!

Why it’s so awesome: This is the tourist heart of the city, which is why a lot of locals avoid it. But it’s also something that you should experience just once to fully understand Barcelona. This promenade stretches for miles and contains entertainers and food stalls before ending at the waterfront. It’s an amazing and engaging walk and once you reach the end you’ll be within walking distance of some of Barcelona’s best attractions including the Gothic Quarter.

What to do there: Ok, so Las Ramblas is one of those wild places that you’ll either love or hate. It’s a place you’ll have to visit once just to say you’ve been, but don’t waste too much of your precious time here. Instead, use it as a thoroughfare to explore the Gothic Quarter, Placa de Catalunya and the Columbus Monument.

Insider Tip: Be careful of pickpockets in this area and also avoid the restaurants are they’re a bit of a rip-off.

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#13 – Can Calopa – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Barcelona

• A great natural area to relax in the middle of the city.
• If you enjoy learning about how to make wine, you’ll love this site.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to enjoy Barcelona’s wine and olive oil in a natural area, then you don’t have to do it outside of the city. Can Calopa is a winery and bodega right in the centre of the city. It’s a 16th-century farmhouse surrounded by 3 hectares of vineyards right in the heart of the city. It’s managed by a corporation that uses the site to provide a home and work for young people with psychiatric disabilities.

What to do there: About 8,000 bottles of red wine a year are produced at this venue and you can be one of the first to taste the new bottles! The venue has wine and olive oil tasting and for a small fee, you can take a tour of the oil mill and wine cellar. You can also choose an option that includes a late breakfast with wine pairing. So, no matter how you enjoy your wine, you’ll find an option here that you’ll love.

#14 – Casa Batllo

• Casa Batlló is another of Gaudi’s masterpieces.
• A perfect place to take photos.

Why it’s so awesome: Gaudi’s creations are all over the city and some of them are pretty enough to be on postcards. In fact, a lot of them are on postcards, and Casa Batlló will help you understand exactly why. It’s an apartment block that Gaudi remodelled at the start of the 20th century and the roof tiles are modelled to look like dragon scales! Epic right!

What to do there: The attention to detail and the feel of Casa Batlló is amazing so make sure you take the time to notice all the details yourself. Inside and out, the building has a sinuous feeling very like a dragon, with few straight lines and an overall impression of something alive that is, perhaps, just sleeping. You can take a tour through the site if you’d like more context or just enjoy Casa Batlló on your own.

Short on time and want to see as much as possible? Check out our sample itinerary for Barcelona   before visiting!

#15 – Mercat de la Boqueria – A fascinating place to visit in Barcelona

• A great place for people watching.
• Mercat de la Boqueria dates to medieval times and nothing much has changed!

Why it’s so awesome: The current site for this market has been in operation for more than 200 years, but there has been a Boqueria market in the city for much longer than that. This is a tradition that has lasted through all the changes in the modern world, and it’s one that’s well worth experiencing. At this market, you can buy all the freshest foods and take part in a ritual that has been a part of Barcelona for an incredibly long time.

What to do there: If you like to cook or just want an easy snack then you’ll find lots of fresh produce at Mercat de la Boqueria. Even if you aren’t interested in buying food you have to cook, there’s still a lot to do at this site. This is a site where you can see the locals in their natural environment, so it’s amazing for people watching. When you get tired of that, you can always have a beer and some tapas at one of the market’s bars. A great way to experience this market is with a local guide who will help you pick out ingredients to make authentic paella.

#16 – Barcelona City History Museum

• A must-see for history buffs!
• Barcelona is so stunning on its own that you sometimes forget it has a really long history, dating back to Roman times, and this place will remind you of that.

Why it’s so awesome: Barcelona has a long history, extending back to the Romans and the great emperor Augustus, and parts of this history have been preserved at this museum. There are also several Roman sites across the city, mostly in the gothic quarter, but this museum is the best way to see these ancient roots close up.

What to do there: This site is underground and will allow you to explore the remnants of a factory, shops and parts of the ancient wall. It’s a big site, covering 4,000 meters, so make sure you put aside a couple of hours to see everything. Keep moving up through the museum because it will take you through time to the vaults of the Palau Reial Major, which was the seat of Barcelona’s ancient Dukes.

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#17 – Fundacio Joan Miro

• A museum exploring Joan Miro, another of Barcelona’s iconic Catalonian artists.
• His work was pivotal in creating Barcelona’s contemporary spirit and style.

Why it’s so awesome: Barcelona is a city of artists and creators and it’s been that way for a long time because of visionaries like Joan Miro. This museum was set up by the artist to encourage the growth of contemporary art in the city and he worked very closely with the architect during the building. As a result, the building is in unusual harmony with the works inside, in a way that will make your whole experience more relaxing than you could imagine.

What to do there: You’ll need to set aside part of an afternoon to explore this museum because it contains a large collection of work from sculptures and drawings to paintings. There are also temporary exhibitions of more contemporary art and the museum has a constant schedule of interactive and educational projects and displays. So, just see what’s on while you’re in the city and be part of the creation!

#18 – Gracia – An awesome place to visit in Barcelona for half a day!

• A part of Barcelona that was only recently enveloped by the city and so feels like a completely different area.
• There are lots of popular bars, cafes and independent shops in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: Barcelona is fascinating but it’s still a big city and sometimes the only way to understand somewhere is to visit a small town and see how the locals live. You can do this without even leaving Barcelona by visiting the area known as Gracia.

This area was once a town on its own but became part of the city in the 20th century. As a result, it still holds onto its small-town feel and charm and walking around its streets can make you feel as if you’ve been transported to a completely new place.

What to do there: This area has a lot of small streets and squares laid out in interesting patterns so make sure you spend some time wandering and exploring. Gracia is young and stylish, so enjoy the many cafes and bars in the area and visit the independent shops for souvenirs that are truly unique.

#19 – Casa Milà

• The Casa Milà is another Gaudi building in a very different style that looks like the a rockface!
• You’ll get some great pictures in front of the Casa Milà!

Why it’s so awesome: Casa Mila was completed in 1912 and is another important Gaudi building. It looks like a quarry made from white stone, with holes blown out of it by prospecting miners. This site is UNESCO listed and it’s been renovated to include some contemporary features such as an underground carpark and self-supporting stone façade.

What to do there: The Casa Milà is a true marvel. Not only does it retain Gaudi’s fanciful features, it also seamlessly incorporates more contemporary features as well. This is part of the genius of the architect, his creations last because they can be adapted to the changing times. Gaudi was at the top of his game when he designed Casa Milà, so make sure you take some time and explore his creation.

#20 – Camp Nou – A Great Place To Experience Local Culture

• The Camp Nou is home of FC Barcelona .
• If you get the chance, make sure you see a game because it’s a huge part of peoples lives here.
• If it isn’t the football season, take a Camp Nou stadium tour so you can explore the museum and the sheer size of this stadium.

Why it’s so awesome: The Camp Nou seats 99,000 people and has been the home of FC Barcelona since 1957. In fact, this stadium is so large that it’s almost like a football cathedral and a good indication of just how seriously the locals take their football. They also have an amazing museum where you will find memorabilia of FC Barcelona’s prestigious history. In fact, if you’re a fan of the game you won’t want to miss out on visiting what is one of the world’s best football stadiums .

What to do there: If you’re there in the right season, make sure you see an FC Barcelona game. Football is an integral part of daily life in Barcelona and it’s exhilarating to be part of that energy at The Camp Nou. If it isn’t the football season then join a stadium tour just so you can have a close up look at the enormous Camp Nou stadium and marvel at the FC Barcelona trophy collection!

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#21 – Palau de la Musica Catalana

• A concert hall that deserves an encore on its own.
• One of the best places to experience opera, folk music and symphonies in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Have you ever been to the opera back home? Chances are that the venue was beautiful but lacked the history and gravity this art form seems to demand. Not so at this musical venue. It looks like it could have stepped directly from the time of the Phantom of the Opera, with fanciful, elaborate decorations and deep reds and golds. It was built by Lluis Domenech, a contemporary of Gaudi, and it’s the perfect place to take in some great music while you’re in the city.

What to do there: They have a lot of different musical concerts in this venue, so find out what’s on while you’re in the city and grab a ticket. This is a beautiful venue that’s full of old-world charm, so make sure that you dress up and walk in feeling like you’ve entered a period drama!

#22 – Nova Icaria Beach – Great place to visit in Barcelona for couples!

• The best beach in the city for relaxing and taking in the sun.
• This beach has more than 400km of sand, so there’s plenty of room for the whole family.

Why it’s so awesome: Barcelona has lots of great beaches and it can be difficult to choose between them, but Nova Icaria is definitely one of the best beaches in Barcelona . The endless stretch of white sand is one of the quietest beaches in the city and it’s perfect for families and for couples looking for a relaxing time.

What to do there: This is a great beach for relaxing but there’s also a lot to do if you’re more active. It has a game area and volleyball courts for kids or for anyone who wants to work up a sweat and easy access to restaurants and bars when you get tired of the sun and want to eat.

#23 – Barceloneta Beach

• One of the most touristy beaches in the city and for good reason!
• You’ll find some of the best seafood meals in the city in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: This beach is in a popular neighbourhood and is one of the busiest beaches in the city. But there are good reasons for this, as it has lots of entertainment options as well as some of the best seafood restaurants in the city. Whether you enjoy sunbaking, water sports or just want to look at the ocean and eat seafood, you’ll find everything you need and more at this beach.

What to do there: This beach has a wide range of seaside huts where you can eat delicious dishes while you stare out across the sand. Watersports are also popular in this area, with windsurfing and kitesurfing being the most popular options. Basically, no matter what you enjoy doing at the beach, you’ll find the equipment and the space to do it at Barceloneta Beach.

#24 – Santa Maria del Mar

• A soaring gothic temple with stained glass windows.
• One of the most architecturally significant ancient buildings in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This building was completed in 1383 and took 54 years to complete. Every stone used was hauled from the mountains around the city by ordinary citizens, which perhaps explained why its construction took so long! This is an incredibly elegant building that has survived through the ages to awe tourists in the present day.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see in this building so make sure you put aside some time. Most of the original structure is intact, though there is some fire damage sustained during the Spanish Civil War, so you’re literally looking at a slice of history when you spend time in this place.

Make sure you pay attention to the stained glass windows, which are perfectly positioned to take advantage of the angles of the natural light that enters the building.

#25 – Museu Picasso

• This great artist actually chose this location for his museum!
• Great for art lovers as you’ll get to see some of Picasso’s earliest works.

Why it’s so awesome: You might not expect to see a museum dedicated to Picasso’s work in Barcelona, after all, he was from Malaga. But Picasso apprenticed in Barcelona and did some of his earliest works in the city. The Picasso museum shows a lot of examples of this work all the way up to his Blue Period, so you’ll be able to get a deeper appreciation and understanding of his early genius.

What to do there: Picasso’s work is obviously the biggest draw at this museum, but the buildings themselves are worth some attention too. The five adjoining buildings of the Picasso museum were built in the 13th and 14th centuries and are fantastic examples of that period of history. So, make sure you spend some time exploring these blasts from the past as well.

#26 – Manzana de la Discordia

• A city block that illustrates the conflict between the greatest Modernist architects.
• If you enjoy architecture, you absolutely must see this city block.

Why it’s so awesome: Barcelona has been the home of a lot of famous artists and architects and of course, they didn’t always get along. If you want to see this conflict up close, you can visit the Manzana de la Discordia.

Located in the Eixample District, the buildings in this block were created by the greatest Modernist architects in Barcelona at the time. Each of the architects was trying to show their supremacy over the others, and the end result is a stunning and slightly confusing combination of styles.

What to do there: To get to the Manzana de la Discordia you should go on foot. Walk up Passeig de la Gracia and take in the sites along the way before you arrive at this city block, then just explore. The buildings in this block are all innovative and very different and represent important advances in Modernist techniques. Unfortunately, their genius was eclipsed by Gaudi’s Casa Batllo, but that doesn’t mean they’re any less interesting or significant.

#27 – Passeig del Born – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Barcelona!

• If you don’t like the crowds of Las Ramblas, this is the perfect alternative!
• It’s mostly for locals, so you won’t have to put up with the tourist crowds in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: This promenade has a long history. It was once a gathering place for locals during jousting competitions or celebrations and these days it’s a popular spot for drinks and foods in the evening and night. It has the same wide range of food and drink places as Las Ramblas, but for the locals, not the tourists.

So, if you want a much more authentic experience while you’re in the city, then spend one of your evenings in this relaxed setting.

What to do there: This area is the perfect place to bar hop along with the locals. Some of the city’s best bars and restaurants are in this tree-lined promenade and it’s the perfect place to take some friends and enjoy the tastes of Barcelona. So, do what the locals do. Start out with a cocktail at Cal Brut and then try some tapas at Disset 17 Gaus. After that, just see where the evening takes you! If you want to make this area your base for a while, why not stay in a hostel nearby in greater Born.

#28 – Ocata Beach – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Barcelona

• The perfect place to get away from the city.
• If you’re looking for serenity and a beach away from the tourists, this is the best option.

Why it’s so awesome: This beach is located half an hour out of the city by train and is pristine and beautiful with golden white sand. It’s also enormous, so you’ll be able to stake out your own spot of sand and enjoy the peace without disruptions. You won’t find many tourists at this location as it doesn’t have the entertainment options of other beaches. Instead, this is a place to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy some great seafood.

What to do there: You won’t have to complete for towel space at this beach. Instead, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Just enjoy the sun, the sand and the ocean alone or with some good friends. And when you’re sick of the sun, visit one of the chringuitos, the nearby eateries, for fresh seafood and cold drinks.

#29 – Barcelona Cathedral (Cathederal de la Seu)

• Part of the beautiful Gothic Quarter and it’s super photogenic!
• Barcelona Cathedral has all the gothic features you’ve ever dreamed about including gargoyles and flying buttresses.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s nothing like a gothic cathedral to get the imagination running wild! If you’ve been dreaming about the gargoyles and slightly creepy but intricate features of the Gothic period, then you’ll find them all at the Barcelona Cathedral. Created to honour Eulalia, the patron saint of the city, it even includes 13 live geese who wander around the site.

What to do there: Get your cameras ready and make sure you take pictures in front of the cathedral and then count the geese. There are always 13 geese in the cathedral, meant to symbolise each year of Eulalia’s life before her martyrdom. Also, do the rooftop tour while you’re there. The cathedral looks particularly stunning from up high and you’ll also great a great view of the Gothic Quarter from above.

#30 – Carrer de les Aigues – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Barcelona

• An ancient road that offers the absolute best views in the city.
• A great way to work off all the tapas in stunning surroundings!

Why it’s so awesome: A lot of people will tell you that the best views in the city can be found in Park Guell. But the locals know that the views at the park can’t compare to those you’ll enjoy on this ancient road. It winds around the mountains and overlooks the Mediterranean, offering views of both land and sea. And as an added bonus, the old-style road has been modified so that it’s perfect for biking or walking, so make sure you pack some decent walking shoes for your Barca trip!

What to do there: This is a long road, around 20km, but it’s fairly flat and easy to walk or bike along. You can reach it via a short funicular ride, and you’ll get stunning views that are almost completely absent of tourists. This is a secret that only the locals know, so take advantage of it before the crowds set in!

#31 – Tibidabo

• At 1,700 feet, you’ll get amazing views of the city from the top of this mountain.
• Take pictures of the city against the backdrop of the dark blue Mediterranean.

Why it’s so awesome: Tibidabo is a 1,700 feet mountain that offers a lot for anyone who dares to reach the top. You can get up there by tram because you definitely won’t have the time to climb all the way and enjoy great views as well as a range of entertainment options.

What to do there: There are a lot of ways to enjoy this mountain. You can hike through the park, tour the Sagrat Cor Basilica, or spend some time at the theme park. This final option is determinedly retro but loved by kids of all ages and has a Ferris wheel and carousel as well as other older style rides and games.

#32 – Parc de la Ciutadella – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Barcelona

• Parc De La Ciutadella is a chance to get away from the rush of the city and rest in nature.
• Make sure you check out the iconic fountain in the middle, designed by famed architect Josep Fontsere.

Why it’s awesome: When you’re in the middle of a busy city, sometimes a park can be a haven. This is even more important when you’re in Barcelona, which is a walking city. So if your legs are getting tired, make sure you rest them in the cool, lush surroundings of Parc De La Ciutadella. After a little rest and recharge, you’ll be ready to face the rush again!

What to do there: This is a park for relaxing on a bench and enjoying the feelings and sights that come when you have nature all around you. You can also go on a relaxing rowboat trip along the lake and make sure you check out the Neoclassical fountain in the centre, created by one of the most popular architects in Barcelona’s history.

#33 – Casa Pages

• Eat tapas like the locals do!
• Get away from the tourist traps for the best tapas you’ve ever eaten.
• Make sure you try the locally made and bottle vermouth.

Why it’s so awesome: Tapas isn’t strictly Catalonian food, but they’re still an awesome way to eat because you get to try a range of tiny dishes and find the tastes that you really love. The best way to do this is by escaping the tourist trails and finding bars like the Casa Pages where the locals go to eat.

What to do there: Eating tapas is all about trying lots of small options and seeing what you enjoy the most. So, make sure you try the meatballs and patatas bravas and get a drink while you’re there as well. The locally bottled vermouth is usually the drink of choice for the locals, so who are you to go against tradition?

#34 – The Labyrinth Park of Horta – Quite the quirky place in Barcelona!

• A semi-secret park that will keep you busy for hours!
• The oldest garden in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This garden is mostly neglected by tourists, but it’s been delighting the locals for hundreds of years, making it the oldest garden in the city. It was created in 1791 as part of the huge estate owned by the wealthy Desvalls family and the terraces were inspired by Italian designs. There are several parts to this garden, created at different times in history, but the central labyrinth is the main draw.

What to do there: There are over 2,000 twists and turns in this labyrinth , so if you don’t have a good sense of direction you could get very happily lost there. In the centre is a statue of Eros, the Greek god of love, and you can also sit in one of the pavilions overlooking the maze and watch the action.

Each pavilion has its own statues of Greek gods, so if you’ve ever wanted a picture with an icon from the past then this is the place where you can get it!

#35 – Wander the Stunning Gothic Quarter

• Take in some of the most historic and beautiful architecture in the city.
• Be sure to visit the El Pont del Bisbe  (Bishop’s Bridge)
• You can explore by yourself or take a walking tour to see some of the hidden gems

Why it’s so awesome: Barri Gòtic or the Gothic Quarter as you might imagine is jam-packed full of incredible architecture dating back to the Gothic period and beyond. In fact, this area is one of the oldest areas in the city and even has the remains of a Roman Fort lurking amongst the narrow alleyways and winding streets. This labyrinth-like area of the city is a joy to get lost in and you’ll soon find yourself in the heart of a beautiful cafe-lined plaça before diving back into the maze!

What to do there: The best thing to do around this area is to just wander and see where you end up, embrace the art of getting joyfully lost! There are a few highlights though to look out for, the Bishop’s Bridge, Plaça Reial, Plaça Sant Jaume, Plaça de Sant Felip Neri and Plaça del Pi to just name a few.

Insider Tip: It’s easy to get lost in not only the streets here but the history too! A walking tour with a local guide is. a great way to discover the hidden secrets of the area.

#36 – Montjuic Cemetery

• This cemetery has some of the most striking and unusual sculptures you’ll ever see!
• A slightly creepy look at art and architecture in Barcelona.
• This is one of the most serene and beautiful sites in the city, and overlooks the Mediterranean.

Why it’s so awesome: This cemetery opened in 1883 and is the biggest cemetery in Barcelona. Some of the most famous people in Barcelona’s history are buried there such as artist Joan Miro and Catalan leader Lluis Companys, but there are also more tragic and terrible displays. It might sound a bit strange to wander a cemetery, but the beautiful modernist graves and peaceful surroundings overlooking the ocean make it one of the best experiences in the city.

What to do there: For a more sombre look at the city’s history, make sure you check out the el Fossar de la Pedrera, otherwise known as the Grave of the Quarry. It’s located in the western wing of the cemetery and contains 4,000 victims of the Franco regime after Barcelona fell to fascist forces during the Spanish Civil War. There are also memorials to victims of the holocaust there, which makes this part of the cemetery a moving and sad place to visit.

Get insured for your trip to Barcelona!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Barcelona

What is the most visited place in Barcelona?

The most visited place in Barcelona is the Sagrada Familia with over 4.7 million visitors in 2019.

Are 3 days enough to visit Barcelona?

Three days should be enough time to see the main attractions in Barcelona, but it is easily a place you could spend more time in if you wanted.

Is Barcelona an expensive place to visit?

Barcelona is quite an expensive place to visit but there are ways to keep costs down. Staying in hostels and cooking your own food will allow you to have a budget-friendly stay.

Is Barcelona a safe place to visit?

Barcelona is generally a safe place to visit but pick pockets are common. You should be careful around tourists attractions and keep an eye on your stuff.

Barcelona is a city known for its art and architecture and it’s probably one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in Europe. It’s a must when you’re backpacking in Spain !

It was the home of the famous architect Gaudi , who left his mark all over the city in the most spectacular fashion possible. That’s why, if you’re looking for interesting food, great architecture, and a cool and slightly unusual place to visit, Barcelona is the city for you. And now, you can use this easy guide to find everything in the city that you’re interested in seeing.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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35 Must-Knows For Traveling to Barcelona the First Time

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, get ready for an adventure in one of Spain’s most dynamic and beautiful cities. Known for its art, architecture, and vibrant street life, Barcelona is a place where every day brings something new and exciting.

I live in Spain and have spent a lot of time wandering through the streets of Barcelona, which has given me the chance to pick up more than a few tips and insights along the way that can really take your visit to the next level.

But what are the things you need to know before traveling to Barcelona? Well, from the top sights to must-try foods and essential travel tips, you’ll see just what you need to know to make your first trip to Barcelona unforgettable.

Planning a trip to Barcelona last minute?

If you’re booking your  trip to Barcelona last minute, I’ve got you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

⭐  Most popular sights in Barcelona

• Sagrada Familia – tickets often sell out weeks in advance so get your entry ticket here (or entry tickets AND a guided tour here)
• Park Güell – grab your skip-the-line entry
• Casa Batlló – click here for tickets and audio guide

🌍 Top tours in Barcelona

• Montserrat Tour, Monastery and Winery (great day trip!)
• Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes (incredible night out)
• Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History (all the highlights at once)

🛏️ Top hotels in Barcelona

• Ohla Barcelona (5-star luxury with an amazing rooftop pool)
• Seventy Barcelona (boutique hotel with beautiful décor)
• Àmfores Boutique Guest House (great budget option with superb location)

🚌 Want free public transport while you’re in Barcelona? Check out the Hola Barcelona travel card !

Table of Contents

1. Book early to avoid missing out on popular spots

The biggest thing I hear people say that they wish they knew before coming to Barcelona is that they should have booked things earlier.

So if you’ve got your heart set on marveling at the twists and towers of the Sagrada Familia or strolling through the mosaic wonderland of Park Güell , here’s the scoop: these spots can sell out weeks in advance. 

Yep, you read that right. Waiting until you’re in Barcelona could mean you’ll miss out on these iconic sights entirely. 

So, while you’re planning which tapas to try first, take a moment to book your tickets online. It’s not just about skipping the line (which is a sweet bonus, by the way!), but securing your spot is crucial. 

This way, you’re guaranteed to step inside Gaudí’s dreamscapes rather than just admiring them from the outside.

2. Choose comfortable shoes for your days out exploring

Barcelona’s charm unfolds on foot, from the alleys of El Raval to the elegance of Eixample. But remember, those cobblestone streets aren’t kind to flimsy flip-flops or heels. 

(Also, to be honest, Barcelona fashion tends to look at flip-flops as a no-no away from the beach anyway.)

That’s why you should do yourself a favor and pack a pair of trusty shoes that hug your feet in all the right places. I’m talking arch support that could withstand a day at the Mercat de Sant Josep or an impromptu hike up to Montjuïc. 

And remember, breathable materials will be your best friend when you’re wandering around for hours under the Mediterranean sun. So lace-up and step out – Barcelona’s endless streetscapes await.

3. When visiting in the high season, expect and prepare for more people

Visiting Barcelona when the sun’s out and the schools are closed means you’ll be sharing the city with, well, everyone. It’s when the locals and travelers alike pour into the streets, creating an electric atmosphere that’s palpable. 

From the human towers at a neighborhood festival to the crowded terraces in Plaça Reial, the city feels alive. Sure, you’ll be rubbing elbows with tourists at La Boqueria or waiting a bit longer to see the Picasso Museum, but it’s all part of the city’s summer song. 

So head into the throngs with a smile and the understanding that every moment of wait is an opportunity to soak up the local vibes, strike up a conversation, or simply people-watch – although, yes, it’s also a good idea to pack a healthy dose of patience in your hand luggage for the peak periods. 

4. Make public transportation your go-to

Alright, let’s talk about getting around. Barcelona’s public transport system is your best friend here – it’s reliable, it covers most of the city, and hey, it’s eco-friendly too. 

The metro will zip you from the Gothic Quarter to Gaudí’s Park Güell before you can say “modernisme.” Buses are aplenty, and they’re great for those routes where you get to peep at the city life outside the window. 

And for a real slice of local life, jump on the trams – they’re a smooth ride and a perfect way to give those feet a break.

5. Venture to lesser-known beaches

If you’re traveling to Barcelona, you might have your eye on a beach day at some point during your trip. And while Barceloneta is the most famous one, if you’re looking for some tranquility by the sea, Barcelona’s got hidden nooks along the coast that locals like me treasure. 

That’s why I’d actually suggest that you skip the well-trodden path to Barceloneta and venture out to spots like Ocata Beach, where the sands stretch wide and the vibe is laid-back. These lesser-known beaches offer a slice of serenity with plenty of space to sprawl out, and the waves are just as inviting. 

Pack a picnic, grab a book, or just bask in the sun – these quieter beaches are perfect for a leisurely day where the only sounds are the sea and your own heartbeat.

6. Leave room in your budget for Gaudí’s architectural wonders

If you’re traveling to Barcelona on a budget, I’ve definitely been there, done that. But while there are certainly bargains to be found for things like food, there are some must-sees that are worth the cost.

And on that list, I’d put seeing some of Gaudí’s masterpieces at the very top, especially the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell.

I get it if the prices seem a tad steep, but the feeling of craning your neck up inside the Sagrada Familia or touching the mosaics in Park Güell – that’s priceless. 

So, when you’re planning your budget, give Gaudí’s creations a generous slice. It’s a splurge that will stay with you long after you’ve left the city’s embrace.

FYI: If you’re looking to visit both the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell and you’re short on time, you can get skip-the-line entry and a tour of both sights in one day right here .

7. It’s also fine to pass by some of Gaudí’s works for free

…at the same time, you don’t always need a ticket to appreciate art, and Gaudí’s buildings are proof of that. Even the best Barcelona travel guide books will scream at you to visit all of these but, to be honest, even just seeing them from the outside is going to be great in many cases.

For this, take a leisurely walk down Passeig de Gràcia, and you’ll find Casa Milá (La Pedrera) and Casa Batlló waiting to greet you with their surreal facades. 

These structures are alive with stories, and as you wander past, you’re tracing the outlines of Barcelona’s cultural heartbeat. If you’re up for it, park yourself at one of the nearby cafés and just gaze at these wonders over a cortado. 

Watch the light change, see the balconies cast shadows on the pavement, and observe people’s reactions as they look up – it’s a simple, yet complete, Gaudí experience.

8. Download the Cabify app

Sometimes, you just need your own space, and that’s where Cabify comes in. It’s like the local cousin of Uber – just as handy and without the surge pricing surprises. 

I use it all the time rather than taking taxis, as it means I can lock in the fare and the route ahead of time. I find it infinitely better than taxis which can often, shall we say, feel inclined to take foreigners on the “scenic” (read: more expensive” route.

Fire up the app, book a ride, and you’ll be on your way to your next tapas stop in no time. Plus, it’s nice to know that you’ve got a clean, safe ride just a few taps away, especially after a late night out when the metro has called it a night.

9. Grab a discount card for the transit savvy

If you’re going to be riding the rails and buses like a local, get yourself a discount card. The Hola Barcelona travel card is a winner – it gives you unlimited travel on the metro, buses, and other public transport. 

That means more money saved for those little indulgences, like another round of patatas bravas or that cute souvenir from El Raval. 

Plus, it’s super convenient – you won’t have to fumble for change or buy a ticket each time you hop on and off. Get it for 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours – it’s your golden ticket to the city.

10. Keep a close eye on your belongings

So, you’re out and about, soaking in the vibrant streets of Barcelona – it’s a sensory overload in the best way. But, here’s the thing – those crowded spots are a playground for pickpockets. 

Now, don’t let this put a damper on your day. Just keep your wits about you. A crossbody bag, worn at the front, or a money belt tucked away is your go-to. 

And those backpacks? They belong on your front when you’re in a throng. 

Just a glance now and then at your stuff can keep the pesky thieves at bay. Stay alert, stay smart, and you’ll be just fine.

11. Enjoy paella for lunch – not dinner

Paella and Barcelona go together like bread and tomato, and here’s a little secret – it’s traditionally a lunchtime dish. Yep, those enormous, aromatic pans of goodness are meant to be savored when the sun’s high, not when it’s setting. 

So when you’re ticking off your foodie list, make sure you’re sitting down to a paella when the locals do. Trust me, there’s nothing like a 2pm paella (yep, they eat meals late here!) to fuel the rest of your day’s adventures.

12. No need to pause for siesta

You might have heard that Spain is the land of siestas, but I’m sorry to break the news to you: most Spaniards don’t actually take a siesta.

It’s ok, you’re forgiven if you think that’s the case as a lot of people do, especially when they see stores closing for a few hours after lunch. But this generally isn’t for a siesta – instead, it’s just to give the shop owner a break so they can stay open longer into the night!

That being said, if you fancy a little break after all that sightseeing, you’ll find plenty of cafes and parks where you can relax and recharge. After all, a little rest is never a bad idea, right?

13. Sign up for a walking or biking tour

Got only a few days in this vibrant city? No worries – a walking or biking tour can be your secret weapon to seeing the best of Barcelona in a short time. 

These tours give you the highlights reel with some neat local insights you might not find in your guidebook. Pedal through the Gothic Quarter or walk the path of Picasso, and let those knowledgeable guides fill you in on the secrets that the city whispers to those who listen. 

Plus, it’s a chance to meet other travelers and swap stories – always a bonus!

If you’re looking for a great tour that will show you the  highlights of Barcelona’s incredible 2,000+ year history , I definitely recommend this  Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour .

You’ll be taken to the best parts of the oldest, most interesting parts of the city, while hearing stories about this time and the centuries that have followed. In particular, for first-timers, it’s a great way to see all the main spots at once.

14. Pack for winter – it’s not always warm year-round

Winter in Barcelona isn’t your typical freeze-fest. The city keeps it mild, but don’t be fooled – when the sun dips down, so does the temperature. 

Bring a jacket that’s got some style (this is a trendy city, after all) and layer up. You’ll want to be cozy when you’re sipping on that hot chocolate with melty churros at a sidewalk café. 

And since the sun likes to play hide and seek, a hat and gloves aren’t a bad idea either – better safe than shivery!

15. Stay cool during the summer

Summer in Barcelona is like living in a sunbeam – warm, bright, and lively. But it can get hot, really hot…and that’s not even mentioning the humidity. 

Light, airy clothing is the way to go – think linens and cottons that let you breathe. And remember, hydration is your best pal – carry a water bottle that you can refill at the city’s many drinking fountains. 

Slap on some sunscreen, pop on a hat, and maybe grab one of those hand-held fans to make those balmy afternoons more bearable as you explore the city’s sunlit streets.

16. The water is safe but the taste is…something

Alright, let’s talk agua. The tap water here in Barcelona? Safe, but it’s got a taste that’s very, very acquired. 

It’s all thanks to the minerals in it – great for the pipes, not always great for your palate. But before you think about buying heaps of plastic water bottles, consider this – get yourself a bottle with a built-in filter. 

My top pick is this Brita filtered water bottle for drinking water on the go. It does a seriously good job of improving the taste of the tap water here, and it’s insulated too, which means your water stays cool.

It’s a win-win! You get to sip on something that tastes like it’s fresh from a mountain spring, and you’re doing Mother Earth a solid by cutting down on plastic waste. 

Just fill up, let the filter do its heavy lifting, and you’re good to go.

17. Get into the festive spirit with Barcelona’s unique Christmas traditions

Now, Barcelona doesn’t do a ‘silent night’ over Christmas – it’s more of a ‘let’s make some noise and have a blast’ kind of vibe. Aside from the twinkling lights and the smell of roasted chestnuts in the air, there’s a whole cast of characters that make a Catalan Christmas unique. 

Like the Caga Tió, a cheerful log that poops out presents when kids beat it with sticks (yes, you read that right). And let’s not forget about the cheeky Caganer, a figure you’ll spot squatting in nativity scenes. 

(Why? It’s a long story, but it’s all in good fun.) 

The Three Kings Parade is the icing on the cake – a dazzling show where the magic of the holiday really comes alive. Floats, fireworks, and a shower of sweets – it’s something that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear.

18. Take time to explore the city’s museums

Imagine stepping into a place where every corner holds a story, where every painting, sculpture, or oddity has a tale to tell. That’s what Barcelona’s museums are like. 

At the Picasso Museum , you can follow the artist’s journey from his early sketches to his greatest masterpieces. And the MNAC isn’t just a museum – it’s an epic ride through art history, with Romanesque murals that will make you feel like you’ve time-traveled.

Or for something a little more avant-garde, the Miró Foundation is a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes. So, take your time. Let each piece tell you its story. 

Who knows? You might walk out seeing the world a little differently. And remember, these cultural havens are perfect for those days when the sun’s too much or the clouds roll in.

19. Adapt to the local dining schedule

So, you might notice something funny when you wander into a restaurant at what you think is dinner time – it’s as quiet as a library. That’s because in Barcelona, dinner is a late affair, often starting around 9 PM and stretching well into the night. 

It’s not just about eating – it’s about relaxing with friends, sharing stories, and enjoying life. Restaurants buzz with energy well past what many consider bedtime. 

So if you find yourself hungry at 7 PM, join the locals for some tapas or a vermut as a warm-up act. Then, when it’s actual dinner time, you’ll be ready to join in the fun, whether that’s at a beachside chiringuito or a bustling bodega in the Barri Gòtic.

20. Plan at least one day trip

Barcelona’s allure is strong, but don’t miss out on the adventures that await just a short journey away. Within an hour or two, you can take a day trip to Montserrat to swap cityscapes for it dramatic vistas, with its serrated mountains and serene monastery. 

Or maybe you’re a fan of the bubbly? A day trip to the cava vineyards of Penedès isn’t just about wine tasting – it’s about strolling through vineyards and soaking in the rural charm. 

If quaint coastal towns call your name, Sitges awaits with open arms , offering sandy beaches, a dash of art history, and a slower pace. Each day trip offers a taste of Catalonia beyond the city limits, a chance to slow down and see what life is like outside the hustle and bustle.

21. Practice a few phrases in Catalan and Spanish

Barcelona’s heart beats in two languages: Catalan and Spanish. While you’ll get by just fine with English, especially in tourist spots, there’s something special about exchanging a few words in the local tongue. 

Start with a cheerful ‘Bon dia’ (good morning in Catalan) at the coffee shop, or a friendly ‘Buenas tardes’ (good afternoon in Spanish) to the bus driver. You’ll notice smiles, nods of appreciation, and a warm response that you just don’t get with English. 

It’s about showing respect for the local culture, and believe me, even if you bungle the pronunciation, your effort won’t go unnoticed. Plus, it’s the perfect ice-breaker for those moments when you find yourself sharing a table at a crowded tapas bar or browsing a local market.

22. Sample the local specialty, cava

Let’s talk bubbles – cava, Catalonia’s answer to champagne, and a must-try when you’re here. This fizzy delight isn’t just for toasting – it’s for enjoying at any hour (within reason, of course). 

You’ll find cava at any local bar, but for the real deal, take a jaunt to a cava bar where they pair it with everything from salty snacks to sweet treats. 

Want to go all out? As just mentioned a bit earlier, head for a day trip to the Penedès wine region , just a short trip from Barcelona, where you can tour the vineyards and learn how this sparkling wine is made. 

It’s a day out that will give you a whole new appreciation for every pop of the cork.

23. Educate yourself on the complexities of the Catalan independence movement

Barcelona isn’t just sun and siestas – it’s a city with a story, part of which is the push and pull of the Catalan independence movement. It’s complex, it’s passionate, and it’s woven into the fabric of everyday life here. 

You’ll see flags on balconies and stickers on lampposts. If you’re really curious, pick up a history book or chat with a local who’s willing to share their perspective. 

It’s a conversation that can offer insight into the fierce pride and enduring spirit of the Catalan people. Just remember to approach the topic with sensitivity – it’s a real issue that affects real lives.

24. Remember, tipping isn’t customary

Now, let’s talk about tipping. In Barcelona, it’s not the norm to leave a hefty tip after a meal – the price on the menu is what you pay, and service is usually included. 

But hey, if you’ve received service that made your day, feel free to leave a euro or two as a thank you. It’s not expected, but it’s definitely appreciated. 

The same goes for taxis and cafes. Consider it a way to say ‘gracias’ for service that’s gone above and beyond.

25. Locals prefer a drink that’s not sangria

On those warm Barcelona afternoons when you’re looking for something to quench your thirst, let me let you in on a little local secret: forget the sangria and order a ‘tinto de verano’ instead. 

It’s what the locals sip on – red wine mixed with a bubbly lemon soda, served over ice with a slice of lemon. It’s less sweet than sangria, incredibly refreshing, and just the thing to cool you down without slowing you down. 

Find yourself a spot at a streetside café, watch the world go by, and you’ll feel like you’ve got this Barcelona lifestyle down.

26. Learn about the friendly double kiss

Here’s a fun fact: when you meet someone in Barcelona, don’t be surprised if they lean in for a kiss on each cheek. It’s a greeting as warm as the Catalan sun and it’s how the locals say ‘hello’ or ‘nice to meet you.’ 

It’s not a real kiss, more like a cheek touch with a kissing sound, but it’s a sign of friendliness and acceptance. 

So, don’t be shy. Embrace it – it’s a lovely way to break the ice and makes introductions a little more personal. Just go with the flow and return the gesture. It’s all part of the charm!

27. English in tourist areas, but not everywhere

Now, if you’re sticking to the well-trodden path of tourist spots, you’ll find that English gets you by just fine. From the Sagrada Familia to the buzzing La Rambla, many Barcelonians in these areas speak enough English to help you out with directions, recommendations, and any of those pesky travel questions you might have. 

But once you step off the beaten track, English becomes more of a rare bird. It’s a good idea to have a translation app handy or a few key Spanish phrases in your pocket. 

It’s part of the adventure, and hey, miming can be a pretty fun way to communicate too!

28. Look up any local festivals

Barcelona never really sleeps, and there’s always some sort of fiesta going on in one of its vibrant barrios. From the fire-run parades of Correfoc to the street parties of La Mercè, these festivals are the soul of the city. 

Do yourself a favor and check if there’s one happening during your stay. It’s your ticket to live music, traditional dances, and a chance to mingle with the locals as they celebrate age-old traditions. 

There’s usually plenty of food stalls around too, so you can nibble on local treats as you soak up the atmosphere.

29. Carry a photocopy of your passport 

When you’re out and about discovering the nooks and crannies of Barcelona, keep a photocopy of your saved to the cloud on your phone. It’s a little thing, but it’s important.

The last thing you want is to lose your passport when you’re chilling on vacation and a copy will often suffice if you need to identify yourself.

It also means you can leave the real deal locked up safely back at your accommodation. Just one less thing to worry about, right?

30. Get ready for a night out to start late

Think you know what a late night is? Barcelona will redefine that for you. 

Here, the night is a slow burner – dinner wraps up close to what some might call bedtime, and that’s just the prelude. Clubs and bars don’t really get going until well past midnight, and the streets buzz with energy until the sun threatens to rise. 

It’s a rhythm that takes some getting used to, but once you’re in sync, it’s a whole new world. So take a siesta, have a late dinner, and then hit the town – Barcelona by night is something else.

31. Remember most shops close on Sundays

Here’s a little tip that might save you from standing in front of a closed shopfront: Sundays in Barcelona can feel like a ghost town in the shopping districts. Most shops pull down their shutters and take a day off. 

So, if you’ve got your eye on some local goods, make sure to plan your shopping spree for another day. But don’t worry – the upside is that you’ve got a perfect excuse to visit one of the city’s many markets or take a leisurely stroll along the beach instead.

32. Spend some time in the local cafés

One of my favorite things to do in Barcelona is to just sit back in one of the countless cafés with a cortado in hand and watch the world go by. These little hubs are perfect for a mid-morning coffee or a late afternoon pick-me-up. 

You’ll find them filled with a mix of locals typing away on laptops, friends catching up, or even artists sketching the scene. Each café has its own vibe, so try a few and find your favorite. It’s in these moments, with the aroma of freshly ground coffee in the air, that you’ll feel the real pulse of the city.

33. Explore each neighborhood’s unique personality

Barcelona is like a patchwork quilt – every district, or ‘barrio,’ has its own unique fabric. The Gothic Quarter’s medieval labyrinth feels like stepping back in time – think narrow alleys and hidden squares.

Over in Gràcia, you’ll find a bohemian spirit with artisan shops and an easygoing pace. Then there’s El Raval, raw and edgy, with street art and an eclectic mix of food spots. 

Each neighborhood has its own story, its own rhythm. Take the time to wander through a few and you’ll discover the many faces of Barcelona. 

It’s an adventure in itself to see how the city changes from one street to the next.

34. Rent a bike 

Barcelona might just surprise you with how bike-friendly it is. Renting a bike here isn’t just a great way to stay active during your travels, it’s also your ticket to seeing the city from a fresh perspective.

Glide along the beachfront, breeze through the parks, and pedal down historic streets, all while taking advantage of the city’s extensive network of bike lanes. It’s the freedom to explore at your own pace – no waiting for buses or deciphering metro maps. 

Plus, you’ll get to those hidden nooks that cars can’t reach and buses don’t go!

35. Check the schedule for the Magic Fountain show

There’s something truly magical about the Font Màgica de Montjuïc, or the Magic Fountain. This grand fountain doesn’t just spout water – it puts on a show with lights, music, and colors that dance through the night sky. 

But, before you set out for this spectacle, do a quick check online to make sure it’s on. The showtimes can change with the seasons or it can even be turned off at times to save water, so a quick check is a good way to save yourself a trek over there for nothing. 

And if you do manage to get over there while the fountain is on, you’re in for the perfect Barcelona evening, capped off with the fountain’s waterworks playing in sync to a melody, all under the night sky.

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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30 Great Places to Visit in Barcelona – The Top Barcelona Attractions

Welcome to our guide on the best places to visit in Barcelona. This iconic Spanish city is a top European city break destination that can be visited all-year round. It offers endless historic attractions and sightseeing opportunities, but also a great food scene. It also has some of Spain’s best nightlife! Barcelona is a city that rises late and stays up late.

From its iconic football team to the beautiful beaches, life in the city is fast paced and any visit is a thrilling whirlwind from start to finish. To help you get started with your trip planning, we’ve assembled a list of the top 30 must-see attractions. You’ll need a full week to see them all, so choose wisely and note down the Barcelona attractions that stand out to you the most.

We’ve also included some helpful travel tips, accommodation recommendations and bonus day-trip ideas. Continue reading our guide for 30 great places to visit in Barcelona.

1. The Sagrada Familia

We’re starting off our list of the best places to visit in Barcelona with the city’s number one attraction. The Sagrada Familia is widely regarded as one of the world’s best man-made attractions and the most beautiful church on the planet. Construction started on the church in 1883 when architect Antonio Gaudi took the reins on the project. Being such a grand design, work is still being completed on the church to this day.

Sagrada Familia is beautiful to admire both inside and out. It boasts elaborate stone carvings, huge spires, and a design that’s unlike any other church you’ve seen before. Inside, the floors, ceilings and staircases are made from a soft white marble, featuring the same Gaudi design that intertwines natural form with modernism. The colours reflected from the stain glass windows set the scene for the most beautiful church interior you’ll ever witness.

Sagrada Familia is the number one attraction in Barcelona, and you must pre-book a time slot online to visit. If you only visit one place in the city, it must be the Sagrada Familia!

2. Mount Tibidabo

Made world-famous by ‘Joey’ from the TV series ‘Friends’, Mount Tibidabo is a mountain range that towers behind the city of Barcelona. It’s one of the best city viewpoints you’ll find and is high up enough to see all corners of Barcelona, from the neighbourhoods to the beaches. The best way to get to the top of Mount Tibidabo is by funicular. The journey is fast and scenic, taking you to the top in a matter of minutes.

At the top of Mount Tibidabo, you’ll find some excellent viewpoints. There’s also a small amusement park, food stalls and a fairy-tale-like white church called the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

3. The Gothic Quarter

One of our favourite places to visit in Barcelona is the old town centre, also known as the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). This charming area is home to some of Barcelona’s oldest buildings, each with a medieval style. It has several Roman-era monuments and buildings, museums, and Middle Ages churches. One of the best things about the Gothic Quarter is simply wandering through its narrow, dimly lit streets. During the day they’re full of tourists on walking tours. On evenings, they’re dark, moody and full of hidden bars and restaurants.

We recommend spending a lot of time exploring the Gothic Quarter. It’s in the main tourist area and there’s a lot to see all in one place. MUHBA Temple d’August, Plaça de Sant Jaume and El Ponte de Bisbe are some of the must-sees.

4. Barcelona Cathedral

Located in the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic-style cathedral that dominates the skyline of the old town. Only second to the Sagrada Familia for most impressive churches in the city, it’s a must see when wandering the streets of ‘Barri Gòtic’. Admire the church from the outside before paying the entry fee and talking an audio tour of the grand interior. The church opened in 1448 and has a rich history.

5. Ciutadella Park

Every major global city has a nice park to explore, and in Barcelona’s case, that’s Ciutadella Park. This neatly manicured park is a short walk from the old town tourist centre. It features a large man-made lake where you can hire a rowing boat, and several walking trails, gardens and relaxation areas. Life here is quiet, making it a nice place to visit on a sunny day. The rowing boat experience is something we highly recommend doing with your partner – it’s such a romantic setting!

Other things to see in Ciutadella Park include Barcelona Zoo, the Catalunya parliament building and the Monument of Sonia Rescalvo Zafra.

WATCH OUR VIDEO ON 20 OF THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN BARCELONA BELOW ⬇️

6. Arc de Triomf

Right next to Ciutadella Park, you’ll find Barcelona’s answer to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Arc de Triomf is a memorial arch that was built by architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas for the 1888 Barcelona World Fair. It has bold terracotta colours, towering pillars and a tall archway that you can walk through. The Arc de Triomf area is a great place to hire a bike and explore. There are plenty of cycle paths near the park and a long promenade that leads to the monument.

El Born is one of Barcelona’s coolest neighbourhoods. It’s located right next to the historic Gothic Quarter that we mentioned above and has its own rich medieval history. The old buildings and narrow streets are reminiscent of the past, but these days, it’s a very fashionable place to stay or visit. The quaint streets of El Born are full of trendy restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. It’s a great place to visit on an evening for a night out, but can also be enjoyed by those that want a quiet drink and chat over some tapas.

We recommend visiting El Born both during the day and on an evening for completely different experiences. It’s one of the best places to eat or drink and has some less touristic restaurants compared to the Gothic Quarter.

8. Barceloneta Beach

One thing we absolutely love about Barcelona is the fact it has a huge beach right alongside the city. Not many cities on earth have a beach like Barcelona’s! Barceloneta Beach and the nearby beaches are the relaxation place of choice for locals in the warmer months. They’re also hotspots for tourists that want a break from the sightseeing. Featuring white sands and plenty of facilities, bars and restaurants, Barceloneta is a great place to spend an afternoon.

Even if you don’t want to relax on the beach or go for a swim, you can go for a walk along the long promenade to Port Olimpic, Barcelona’s premier yacht marina. The entire Barceloneta area is always buzzing, no matter the time of day you visit.

9. Port Vell

Port Vell is one of the best places to visit in Barcelona to enjoy a drink or meal with a view. Being a key Mediterranean port, the city always has hundreds of boats and yachts docked up in its main marina, including luxury yachts of the rich and famous. Port Vell is where you can soak in the sea-breeze and feel like you’re not in a city, but in a nice seaside resort in the south of Spain.

We recommend going for a long walk around Port Vell at sunset. You can enjoy a drink in a harbourside bar or browse the shops at Maremagnum Shopping Mall. It’s one of the better shopping destinations in the city. Barcelona Aquarium is also located here, which is a great attraction for families.

10. Montjuic cable car and park

We’ve mentioned one area where you can get some amazing views, Mount Tibidabo. Montjuic is another great place to visit in Barcelona to capture panoramic views of the city. To get to Montjuic, you’ll need to take a funicular transport from the city centre, up the hill to the base of the mountain. You can then proceed to walk up through the hillside park until you reach a castle.

Alternatively, take a scenic cable car ride up the mountainside for spectacular views of the city and shoreline. This was one of our favourite activities in Barcelona and we highly recommend paying the small cable car fee rather than walking. In Montjuic Park itself, you’ll find a number of walking trails, viewpoints and relaxation areas. There’s also a Botanical Garden.

11. Montjuic Castle

At the top of the Montjuic hill ascent, you’ll find an old defence fortress known as Montjuic Castle. Built in 1640 during the Reapers’ War, the castle sits at 173 metres above sea level. You can admire the exterior of the fort as you walk along to the hilltop viewpoints. Alternatively, cross the castle entrance bridge, pay the small fee and explore the inside. The well-preserved fortress grounds have several watchtowers, rooms and parade grounds to explore. You can also walk along the fortified walls for some beautiful views of Barcelona.

12. Montjuic Magic Fountain

Montjuic Magic Fountain is a Barcelona attraction that has captivated tourists and locals since 1929. Featuring a series of moving water streams, coloured lights, music and colours, the fountain comes alive on an evening. Water seemingly does acrobatics to the sound of the music! Montjuic Magic Fountain is a fun attraction to see before you head out to dinner, but please check opening hours before arrival. It temporarily closes throughout the year.

13. The National Art Museum of Catalunya

We were mesmerized when we first saw the National Art Museum of Catalunya. It’s without a doubt one of the most stunning buildings in Barcelona! The 19 th -century building houses a series of 11 th to 20 th -century Catalan art, including an impressive Romanesque collection. If you like art galleries, you can’t miss this place off your list! Even if you don’t want to peer inside the museum, we recommend stopping by to see the building’s grand exterior whilst in the Montjuic area.

14. Placa d’Espanya

Another place worth visiting in the Montjuic area is Placa d’Espanya. This iconic city square is a short walk from The National Art Museum of Catalunya and is just as magnificent. The plaza has a series of historic buildings, including a long-standing bull fighting area, marble pillars and two 47m tall Venetian Towers. There’s also a roundabout that houses a fountain monument at its centre.

15. Poble Sec Neighborhood

Poble Sec is an up-and-coming Barcelona neighbourhood that’s quickly becoming one of the trendiest areas of the city. Day or night, it’s one of the best places to visit in Barcelona to experience authentic, affordable tapas in a small corner bar. There are some excellent restaurant options, whatever your taste. It also has a lively nightlife scene for evenings out into the later hours. We recommend visiting Poble Sec for lunch after exploring Montjuic. The funicular from Montjuic takes you right into the heart of Poble Sec neighbourhood.

16. L’Eixample neighbourhood

L’Eixample is one of Barcelona’s trendy and upmarket neighbourhoods. Located right next to the main shopping areas and exclusive fashion boutiques of the city, it’s a great place to base yourself during your visit. It’s also a great place to explore! Visit L’Eixample during the day to shop, dine and enjoy a drink in a café. On an evening, there’s a great selection of tapas restaurants and bars to check out.

17. Plaça de Catalunya and Passeig de Gràcia

Plaça de Catalunya is one of Barcelona’s main squares. It sits at the very top of the main tourist street, Las Ramblas, and connects to a series of excellent attractions, shops and restaurants. Locals use it as a gathering point and it’s a great place to start your sightseeing adventure. Take time to explore the shops, cafes and square itself. If you’d like to do a spot of shopping, the large high street stores and department stores at Plaça de Catalunya are the best in the city.

Alongside Plaça de Catalunya, you’ll find the high-end shopping street known as Passeig de Gràcia. This long street has an impressive line-up of buildings, including two of Gaudi’s premier pieces of work. It’s a bustling place to visit and there’s always something going on. As well as designer fashion stores and jewellery shops, you’ll find high streets stores such as Nike and Mango.

18. Barcelona Camp Nou Stadium

One of Barcelona’s biggest exports is football! Barcelona FC is known worldwide, and they’ve long been one of the top club teams challenging in the Champions League. Whether you’re a football fan or not, a tour of Barcelona’s home stadium Camp Nou is something we highly recommend. The stadium has a lot of history and there’s a lot to see.

Stop by for a guided tour of Camp Nou and an insight into the football club. You’ll get a tour of the changing rooms, trophy room, substitute and manager area, amongst others. You’ll also get to view a completely empty stadium, which is very cool to see.

Some of Barcelona’s best attractions are all buildings designed by architect Antonio Gaudi. His works of art are scattered throughout the city, each instantly recognisable for his trademark style, but all having a different concept. Gaudi’s work is known for having an ‘organic’ look to it. There are seven main works of art by Gaudi in Barcelona, and many of them are must-see Barcelona attractions. We recommend checking out the following:

19. Parc Guell

Parc Guell is one of Gaudi’s largest projects. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage designated park that’s comprised of several buildings, monuments, sculptures and walking paths. Stepping into this unique park is like entering a completely different world. We thoroughly enjoyed walking around seeing the buildings, walking paths and viewpoints. Be sure to book tickets online before arriving and allocate a good couple of hours to see Parc Guell. It’s one of Gaudi’s most diverse works of art.

20. Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló is a Gaudi-designed building on Barcelona’s main designer shopping street, Passeig de Gracia. The building instantly stands out with its modernist, organic design, which is much like Gaudi’s other projects. As one of the top-rated Gaudi attractions, Casa Batlló is one of the best places to visit in Barcelona to see a Gaudi-designed interior. Much of the building is open to explore, with its grand hallways, quirky rooms and magnificent ceiling designs on show. In addition to the Gaudi artwork, the museum hosts interactive exhibits throughout the year.

21. Casa Vicens

Case Vicens is a Gaudi-designed building with a very different design to the others we’ve listed. Modernist in design, but with a series of colourful shapes and chequered squares, it has an almost fairy-tale like appearance. Casa Vicens is famous for being the first project that Antonio Gaudi was commissioned to work on. It paved the way for his many other projects and displays the early era of his design work. You can visit Casa Vicens for a small entrance fee.

22. Casa Mila

Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera, was Gaudi’s last commissioned architectural project. It shows the full extent of Gaudi’s imaginative design-style and is truly a masterpiece to explore. The building spans 5 floors, all of which you can walk around at your leisure. There’s also a rooftop terrace with unique turrets and nice views of the city centre. Casa Mila is well worth visiting if you have time. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Museum has lots of interactive exhibits and is a chance to see Gaudi’s last piece of civic design work.

23. Palau Guell

The last Antonio Gaudi-designed budling on our list of Barcelona attractions is right in the heart of the city’s tourist area, just off Las Ramblas street. It’s a mansion that was built to house the elaborate parties of high society guests and it features a very different style to some of Gaudi’s other works of art. The exterior of the building is small and somewhat hidden, blending in with other buildings on the street. However, look closely and you’ll notice Gaudi’s organic design style. Inside, there are several rooms and grand hallways to explore.

24. Parc del Laberint d’Horta

Parc del Laberint d’Horta is a hidden gem of a Barcelona attraction. It’s slightly off the tourist trail on the edge of the city centre and is well worth visiting on a sunny day. Easily reached by Metro, Parc del Laberint d’Horta is a historic garden on the grounds of an estate. It has existed as a royal garden since the late 1700’s and has been transformed many times since.

Today, it’s a neatly manicured series of walking trails, sculptures and scenic relaxation areas. There’s also the main attraction; a large hedge maze. It’s a great place to get lost or enjoy a picnic on a hot day. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Barcelona for couples. The setting is beautifully romantic!

25. Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is the main tourist hub of the city. It’s a long street that leads from the seafront, all the way to Place Catalunya, the main shopping hub. No matter what time of the year you visit, the street is full of crowds of tourists. Gift stalls, shops, cafes, dessert parlours and live street performers make this one of the busiest areas in Barcelona.

There’s no doubt that Las Ramblas is extremely touristic. The restaurants here are all way overpriced and we don’t recommend any of them. However, the vibrant atmosphere and unique architecture on the street make it a must see at least once during your stay. Grab a fruit shake from the market, check out the live performers and soak in the atmosphere.

26. Boqueria Market

Located on Las Ramblas, you’ll find the iconic Boqueria Market. This famous food market started in the 1200’s and has grown to become a major tourist attraction. It’s one of the best places to visit in Barcelona to soak in the lively atmosphere whilst sampling a variety of foods. Market vendors sell fresh produce to the locals, but you’ll also find interesting snacks, drinks and souvenirs to buy. A common activity is to order a fresh fruit shake and drink it as you walk around.

Another top thing to do in Boqueria Market is to grab a stool at one of the tapas bars inside the market. It’s an authentic way to experience Spanish Tapas for the first time and the prices aren’t too bad. We recommend eating at El Quim ( view on Google Maps ).

27. Santa Caterina Market

Another market to check out is Santa Caterina Market. Whilst Boqueria Market now caters mainly to tourists, Santa Caterina provides an authentic experience of a local Barcelona Market. Locals shop here for their fresh meat, vegetables and bakery supplies. It’s a smaller, less crowded market that’s worth a quick visit whilst exploring the El Born area of town. It’s a good place to buy cured meats, and you can also sample some tapas.

28. Palace of Catalan Music

The Palace of Catalan Music is a modernist Catalan concert hall that opened in the early 1900’s. Like many of the old Catalonian buildings in the city, the interior of the concert hall is really something special. Floral and organic style is apparent throughout the main hall, with a dazzling ceiling of tiles and glass. The acoustics in the concert hall are also really special.

You don’t have to see a show to experience the beauty of Palace of Catalan Music. Simply book a tour. Tours run throughout the day, giving you a guided experience of everything the concert hall has to offer.

29. Bogatell Beach

We’ve already listed Barceloneta Beach, the city’s most popular beach. However, it’s not the only beach in the area. If you want a quieter relaxation experience with less crowds and people selling you things, check out Bogatell Beach. Botagell is just along the coastline from Barceloneta Beach. It has soft white sand, it’s very clean and is a great place to swim. Go for a long walk or cycle ride on its promenade or lay down your towel and bathe under the hot Spanish sun.

30. Visit one of Barcelona’s many museums

If you like exploring museums on a city break, you’re in for a treat. Barcelona is full of amazing museums, galleries and exhibits, each offering something unique. We recommend checking out the following:

Picasso Museum – A small museum dedicated to the art of Pablo Picasso. It contains more than 4000 works of art from all periods of the artist’s life.

History Museum of Barcelona – Located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, the History Museum of Barcelona is a place where you can learn about the city’s rich history. It features stories, exhibits and artefacts from Barcelona’s early Roman beginnings, up to the modern day.

Banksy Museum – A small, quirky museum that’s dedicated to the elusive British artist, Banksy. It’s always hosting new exhibits and events.

CosmoCaixa – The ultimate science museum! Excellent for families and those than want an interactive learning experience, Cosmo Caixa is well worth visiting if you want an alternative to sightseeing.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Looking for a great place to stay in Barcelona during your visit? Read our safe areas to stay in Barcelona guide for area and hotel recommendations.

Frequently asked questions

If you only have time to see a handful of attractions during your time in the city, we recommend the following. They’re each very different, providing you with a broad experience of Barcelona. – Sagrada Familia – Gothic Quarter – Boqueria Market – Monjuic Cable Car and Park – Barceloneta Beach

The top free things to do in Barcelona include: – Wandering around the old streets of the Gothic Quarter. – Going for a walk and relaxing in Ciutadella Park. – Admiring the view or going for a swim at Barceloneta Beach. – Taking the bus to the top of Mount Tibidabo and admiring the view. Barcelona has a lot of paid-for attractions, including museums, churches and galleries, but it has a lot of free outdoor attractions too.

Gaudi designed a total of 7 buildings in Barcelona and they’re all stunning works of art. In our opinion, the absolute must-sees are: – Parc Guell – Casa Batllo – Casa Vicens

Experience the beautiful towns and mountains outside of the city by taking a train or bus to the following destinations: Sitges – a small seaside town with a beach and some nice shops and restaurants. Girona – a charming Spanish city that’s rich in culture, has great food and boasts several sightseeing opportunities. Montserrat – The vast mountainous region just outside of Barcelona. Endless nature walks and spectacular viewpoints.

Thanks for reading our guide on the best places to visit in Barcelona. No matter the time of the year you visit, there’s always something going on in the city and there are endless options for things to do. Whether you’re on a fleeting visit or are spending a full 2-weeks here, there’s plenty to keep you entertained morning and evening. Do you have any questions about our guide? Maybe you have your own Barcelona attraction suggestion? Be sure to post a comment below.

Check out our other Barcelona travel guides:

Central and Safe areas to Stay in Barcelona

Our Barcelona 3-day Itinerary

BY RICKY MARSHALL

An adventurer at heart that loves anything outdoors. Beaches, mountains and amazing scenery is everything I love about travel! I also enjoy home comforts and need a nice place to relax and re-charge after every trip.

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Best Things To Do in Barcelona (Travel Guide)

Barcelona is the perfect getaway in Europe . It offers great public transport, beautiful architecture, city life, and the best part: a beautiful beach. A city trip of about 3-4 days should be enough to cover most of the highlights. These are the things you can do in Barcelona.

Day 1 – A Stroll Around Barcelona

Start off slowly and take some time to relax from the flight you just had ( you can find flights to Barcelona here ).

Take the subway, bus, or taxi to the Arc de Triomf of Barcelona; this is where we start the walk.

Palau de la Música

Continue to Palau de la Música Catalana, this is about a 10-minute walk through the popular neighborhood called El Born. A district inside the historic center of Barcelona, with small streets, art galleries, and boutique shops.

Get your tickets online

Barcelona Cathedral

From Palau de la Música, make your way to the Cathedral of Barcelona. You will enter the Gothic Quarter district, which is one of the oldest and most beautiful districts in Barcelona. It is home to lots of little bars, restaurants, and shops.

Hotels in Barcelona 😴

On day one of this Barcelona Citytrip Guide, you’ve seen Arc de Triomf, Palau de la Musica Catalana, El Born, the Gothic Quarter, and the Cathedral of Barcelona.

Here are all your hotel options in Barcelona.

Day 2 – A Gaudí Walk – Best Thing to do in Barcelona

Today it’s all about the creative mind of Antoni Gaudi. In the last decade, he was the architect behind sights in Barcelona, which are now famous worldwide. Parc Guell is even named a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Start the day at Parc Guell, which may be the most creative park in the world. Get there as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

You can buy tickets in advance via their website for 10 EUR (11 USD) per ticket. It is recommended to do this since they only allow a certain amount of people per time block. But you don’t need to enter the park. It is possible to take photos of Gaudi’s work without buying a ticket.

Skip the line: Get your Parc Guell ticket and tour

You can get here easily by bus. Google Maps will help you to get the correct bus number from the place you’re staying. You will need 1-2 hours in the park.

Continue by getting on bus 24 back to the city center and get out at Casa Batllo. You will be near Casa Mila and Casa Batllo. Visiting both can be quite expensive. Both houses are designed by the creative mastermind Gaudi.

Inside you can learn everything about how it was built, its architecture and the view from the top is pretty good too. The entrance fee for a single house visit is about 35 EUR (37 USD). See tickets and availability for Casa Batllo here .

Sagrada Familia

The last and probably best part of the day: The Sagrada Familia. It has been under construction since 1882, and they say it’s almost done. The cathedral was one of Gaudi’s latest projects, and he worked on this until his death.

Tickets for the church will cost about 38 EUR (40 USD), but you can also admire it from the outside. Stroll through the little park in front of the Sagrada for the perfect photo spot or just a little cover from the sun.

Day 3 – Barcelona Beach Area

Let’s follow a slower pace on your last day or the day before leaving. Start off at one of the Cable Car stations at the port. This will take you to the top of Montjuic, which is a hill in Barcelona overlooking the Barcelona harbor.

Also, read about the best city trips in Europe!

Jardin de Mossen Costa

Once on top, you will have a beautiful view over the entire city and can visit the picturesque garden called Jardin de Mossen Costa. Besides the garden, check out the Montjuic Castle!

Make your way down and start a small walk through the beautiful Barceloneta neighborhood. From there, head towards the beach and relax for a few hours!

Restaurants in Barcelona

There are many great restaurants in Barcelona. We’ve rated them by yummy (♥️) rating.

• Flax & Kale – ♥️♥️♥️♥️
• Surf House Barcelona – ♥️♥️♥️♥️
• Carabela Cafe – ♥️♥️♥️
• Set de Born– ♥️♥️

Where to Stay in Barcelona

This city offers some beautiful places to stay. Cheap or luxurious, they have it all. When you’re on a budget, choose a hostel located near the bus stop or subway station.

Getting Around Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the easiest cities to get around. Public transport is very good; buses and the subway always seem to connect. You can buy a 10-trip ticket at one of the subway stations. You can take the bus or subway 10 times which should be just enough for 3 or 4 days.

Use Google Maps to see which lines you should take to get to a certain location. You can also rent a bike but don’t forget Barcelona is located on a hill so you will have to climb up.

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Spain via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Best Things to do in Madrid, Spain

14 best things to do in valencia (city trip guide), seville, spain: 14 best things to do.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hello! Friendly suggestion to update the prices of tickets to these places mentioned. After doing outside research, the prices mentioned for the Sagrada Familia and Casa Battlo have both gone up about 10 euros each. Thanks for the awesome itinerary tips!

Thanks Sam! We’ve made the changes now – appreciate the update :) Enjoy your trip to Barcelona!

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Places to see in Barcelona in 3 days: the perfect itinerary (map included)

• May 21, 2023

Home > Spain > Places to see in Barcelona in 3 days: the perfect itinerary (map included)

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Barcelona is probably my favourite city ever😍 (except Porto , of course!). Maybe that’s why I’ve already been there 3 times, and I feel like it won’t stop there. It’s a city full of life and perfect for any occasion: solo, romantic or a family trip.

So, I decided to prepare this blog post with all the best places to see in Barcelona in 3 days in order to help you plan the perfect trip to the Catalan capital.

In this 3 days Barcelona itinerary, you will find tips on what to see and do in Barcelona in 3 days as well as where to stay in Barcelona or some restaurant suggestions. At the end of the post, you can also find two alternative versions of Barcelona itineraries: a 2-day itinerary and also a Barcelona 4-day itinerary.

If Barcelona is on your bucket list, don’t put it off any longer! It is a city that, besides being very cosmopolitan, has a vast architectural and cultural heritage. I promise it will surprise you 😉.

What is the best time of year to visit Barcelona?

Considering all the sights in Barcelona, any time of the year is a good time to visit Barcelona. Many of the attractions are located indoors, so even if it rains, there is plenty to do in Barcelona!

However, it is also true that the spring and summer months are much more pleasant to visit Barcelona. The city takes on a different colour and is even more lively. And who knows, it might even be the perfect excuse for a refreshing dip on the famous Barceloneta beach.

I, therefore, recommend that you choose to plan your Barcelona itinerary for the months of April to October.

💡 EXTRA TIP: However, if you can avoid the peak summer months (July and August), your wallet will certainly thank you, as prices tend to be higher at this time of year.

How many days are enough to visit Barcelona?

The city of Barcelona has many points of interest, so you could easily spend a week exploring it without getting bored. However, most travellers opt for a quicker visit to the city.

In order to get to know the main attractions of Barcelona, I recommend at least 3 full days in the city . This way, you will get to experience the best things to do in Barcelona without rushing from one place to another.

The itinerary in this blog post is written having in mind the places to see in Barcelona in 3 days. However, in the end, you will find alternative versions of Barcelona itineraries for 2 and 4 days in the city.

How to get to Barcelona?

Barcelona has one airport with several direct air connections to various countries in the world – Barcelona-El Prat Airport . These are some examples:

• Portugal (Porto, Lisbon, Faro)
• France (Nice, Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Nantes, Marseille, Toulouse, …)
• United Kingdom (London, Newcastle, Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, …)
• Switzerland (Basel, Geneva, Zurich)
• Italy (Milan, Venice, Bologna, Rome, Naples, …)
• Germany (Berlin, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Cologne)
• Netherlands (Eindhoven, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, …)

Outside Europe, there are direct flights to countries such as Morocco, Israel, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, the United States, Chile, Colombia, Canada, Mexico, Argentina and Brazil, among others.

How to get from Barcelona airport to the city centre?

Barcelona airport is located about 10 km from the city centre. And there are plenty of options for getting from the airport to the centre of Barcelona.

Barcelona Airport (both terminal 1 and 2) is served by the L9 metro line which takes you to other stations (e.g. Torrassa, Collblanc and Zona Universitària) that have connections with more central areas of the city.

The journey to these connecting stations takes about 30 minutes and the total journey time to the city centre takes between 50 minutes and 1 hour.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: A single journey between the airport and the city centre costs 5.15€. You can check the most up-to-date pricing information here . However, there are other ticket options available (more information below) that may be more interesting, such as the T-day or T-usual cards, for example.

There are also buses that run between Barcelona Airport and the city centre. One of these is the direct Aerobús service that connects Plaza de Catalunya with terminals 1 and 2 at El Prat airport (each terminal has its own line).

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: A one-way trip costs 6.75€. If you choose to buy the return journey as well, both tickets will cost you 11.65€. In the latter option, the return ticket must be used within 90 days of purchase. You must buy your tickets in advance here .

There are other less direct (but much cheaper!) buses that also run between the airport and Plaza de España, such as the N46 bus, N16 (which connects terminal 2 at night) or the N17 (night connection from terminal 1).

Personally, I have used these lines several times and, although the journey takes slightly longer (about 30-45 minutes), it is worth it since it’s quite cheaper (2.4€ per ticket). You can find the most up-to-date information on all the buses that offer this service here .

Another option that connects the centre of Barcelona to the airport is the train ( RENFE ), which has a station at terminal 2 of the airport. Each ticket costs 5.15€ and the journey takes on average around 30 minutes.

💡 EXTRA TIP: There is a free shuttle bus that transports passengers between the two terminals at Barcelona Airport. The journey takes between 10 and 14 minutes and exists daily for 24 hours with a maximum frequency of 10 minutes.

Taxi or transfer

Finally, there is the most convenient solution: a taxi. A trip to and from the airport costs at least 20€, and a trip to the centre costs, on average, 30-35€. As an alternative to the traditional taxi, you can also call a driver from Cabify, Free Now or Uber. Prices vary depending on supply and demand!

And if you want to make sure you have a dedicated driver once you arrive in Barcelona, I suggest using the services of Welcome Pickups .

What is the best way to visit Barcelona?

Many of the places to visit in Barcelona are a bit far away from each other. I, therefore, recommend using public transport in some situations. Taking into account the individual price of each metro/bus ticket, it makes the most sense to buy one of the following:

• T-usual: 20€ with access to 1 zone and an unlimited number of trips in a month
• T-casual: 11,35€ for 10 trips
• T-dia: 10,5€ with access to unlimited travel in one day in 1 zone

💡 EXTRA TIP: On my last 3-day trip to Barcelona, I opted for the T-casual card and it worked perfectly for the number of journeys I needed to make during the whole trip (excluding transport to/from the airport).

Alternatively, you can also opt for the Barcelona Hola Card which allows unlimited travel on Barcelona’s public transport. In addition to access to the metro, bus and urban trains, the Montjuïc funicular (not the cable car) is included. There are several options available:

• 48 hours: 16,4€
• 72 hours: 21,4€
• 96 hours: 27,9€
• 120 hours: 34,4€

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you buy the Hola Card Barcelona online you’ll get a 10% discount (the prices above already include this discount). You can buy yours here . It is also possible to buy through GetYourGuide here , with the option of free cancellation within 24 hours.

How to save some money in Barcelona?

Many of the must-visit places in Barcelona are quite expensive! So, besides trying to find cheap things to do in Barcelona, there are some cards that offer discounts and/or free entrance to some of the main points of interest in the city.

The decision of whether these options are worthwhile or not depends a lot on your Barcelona itinerary. As I usually suggest, I recommend that you decide on your itinerary before and only then check if there is an advantage in buying any of these options:

• Barcelona Card
• Barcelona City Pass

Accommodation in Barcelona

Considering the popularity of a city like Barcelona, there is no shortage of accommodation. However, given the demand, the price has skyrocketed over the years 😌. Nevertheless, I have two recommendations that might be interesting.

Firstly, in a more relaxed style, Casa Gràcia . I’ve been here twice before (2015 and 2018) in a private room with a bathroom and I really liked it. However, I know that the prices are not as attractive as they used to be.

However, more recently I have stayed in another accommodation that is also quite central and I would also recommend it. Center Gran Via is a relatively basic hotel, but it was clean and perfect for a restful night at the end of a day of sightseeing.

It was located in an old building, but the rooms were refurbished inside. I paid about 50€ per night per person in April.

However, there are other accommodation options in Barcelona. I leave you here some examples:

Activities & tours in Barcelona

Best places to see in barcelona in 3 days what to visit in 3 days.

Before starting this itinerary with all the places to see in Barcelona in 3 days, I’ll share with you a map with the must-see things in Barcelona to help you plan your visit.

Places to see in Barcelona in 3 days – Day 1

The first day of this Barcelona itinerary will focus on the Montjuïc area at the beginning of the day, but will also pass by one of the most emblematic sites of the city and one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona.

» Plaça d’Espanya

This Barcelona guide starts in what is one of the best-known squares in the city and one of the largest in Spain. It’s also one of the places you can visit in Barcelona for free, so enjoy. The square was built in 1929 for the International Exposition that was held that year in the city, and is located at the base of Montjuïc Hill.

At its centre, you’ll find a fountain, but this is far from being the most prominent element in Plaça d’Espanya. There are, for example, the two Venetian towers in the middle of the square that immediately will remind you of Venice .

However, you can also take advantage of your visit to Barcelona’s largest square to go up to the Las Arenas shopping mall terrace for another perspective of this square.

» Montjuïc Magic Fountain

A few metres away from the two Venetian towers, we find the Montjuïc Magic Fountain . It attracts thousands of people after nightfall to watch a magnificent show of lights and water. The shows take place from Thursday to Saturday from 9 pm to 10 pm.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Due to the current drought situation in Spain, the show is temporarily suspended. I suggest you check the latest updates on this topic here .

» Montjuïc National Palace

Montjuïc National Palace houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia. Inside the museum, we can see an extensive and important collection of Romanesque art. It comprises works of art ranging from the Romanesque to the 20th century.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The museum’s opening hours, as well as the most up-to-date prices can be found here .

The visit to the museum costs 12€, but there is an option of only 2€ to visit the terraces (with phenomenal views over Plaça d’Espanya 😱!), as well as some parts of the palace’s interior, such as the dome. I opted for the second option and I highly recommend it since the visit truly surprised me.

💡 EXTRA TIP: Admission to the Museum is free every Saturday from 3 pm and on the first Sunday of every month. However, early booking is recommended.

» Montjuïc Hill

After visiting the National Art Museum of Catalonia, I recommend you continue uphill towards Montjuïc. This task is made much easier by the various escalators that we find along the way (in fact, these start to appear right at Plaça d’Espanya).

Montjuïc Hill has several places to visit, but in my opinion, it is not worth going through absolutely all of them. In fact, I suggest you choose only 2 of these places, otherwise, you will need more time to visit Montjuïc.

One of the most emblematic places in Montjuïc is the Olympic Stadium, built for International Exposition in 1929 and renovated for the Olympic Games held in Barcelona in 1992.

Relatively nearby, we can also see the Palau Sant Jordi – the main concert venue in Barcelona. There, it will also be difficult to miss the Calatrava Tower – a telecommunications tower and symbol of urbanism in Barcelona.

If you are already tired from your visit, I suggest a stop at one of the many green spaces on Montjuïc Hill , such as the Joan Brossa Gardens, the Botanical Garden of Barcelona or the Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer Gardens.

The Montjuïc Castle is also another interesting option for those who like history and want interesting views of the city. It’s far from being one of the most impressive castles I’ve visited, but it might be worth it for the views 😉.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The price to enter the Castle of Montjuïc is 9€. Entrance is free on Sundays after 3 pm or on the first Sunday of every month. Click here to check all the details.

And finally, the Joan Miró Foundation , where you can contemplate various works by this artist.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The ticket to visit the Joan Miró Foundation costs 14€. The latest information on pricing and opening hours can be found here .

💡 EXTRA TIP: You can also choose to use the Montjuïc Cable Car to move between some areas. The cable car departs from Parc de Montjuïc towards the Castle, but there is an optional intermediate stop. You can buy tickets here . Another option is the Montjuïc Funicular , which connects Paral-lel station to Parc de Montjuïc.

» Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Familia needs no introduction and is one of the top sights in Barcelona! It is probably the best-known work by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí and has been under construction since 1882.

However, and although the church is still under construction (it is expected to be finished in 2026), it is possible to visit its interior and climb its towers. It is truly a unique work of art and it will be difficult not to be surprised.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The visit to Sagrada Familia costs 26€ (36€ with a visit to the towers) and includes an audio guide. I recommend buying tickets in advance on the official website , as this is the most popular monument in Barcelona and tickets usually sell out.

For the perfect framed photo of Sagrada Familia, nothing like a visit to the small park located right in front of the church entrance – Plaça de Gaudí .

With the first day of this itinerary coming to an end, I suggest a visit to the highest point in the city, where we find one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona. However, Tibidabo is actually an amusement park (the oldest in Spain!) located at the peak of the Sierra de Collserola. Tibidabo is actually one of the best free attractions in Barcelona!

But, my suggestion is to stay for the views we have next to the Tibidabo Amusement Park and eventually to visit the Temple of the Sacred Heart (Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor) which also marks the Tibidabo surroundings.

Tibidabo is the most off-hand location on this itinerary, thus requires a bit more effort in getting there! But I assure you it’s worth it 😍. The simplest way to get to Tibidabo is through its funicular, which departs from Plaça Doctor Andreu. This square is located about 25–40 minutes by public transport from the city’s main squares (Plaza de España or Plaza de Catalunya).

💡 EXTRA TIP: Depending on how much time you have dedicated to Montjuïc on this day, it may make more sense to take a taxi or Uber to Tibidabo, thus saving some time in commuting.

Places to see in Barcelona in 3 days – Day 2

The second day of this itinerary is dedicated to Barcelona’s old city centre, passing by some of Barcelona’s main attractions, such as La Rambla and its famous market. But it also includes a long walk through the Gothic Quarter.

» Plaça de Catalunya

Despite not being one of the prettiest squares in Barcelona, Plaça de Catalunya is one of the most important squares in the city and worth a brief visit. The square is a meeting point for tourists and locals, and you can find a wide variety of shops in the surrounding buildings.

» Palau de la Música Catalana

We move on to a place I totally consider a must-see in Barcelona – Palau de la Música Catalana. This is one of Barcelona’s concert halls and certainly the most beautiful. I highly recommend a visit inside as it is probably one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

There is the possibility of a guided tour or, alternatively, with an audio guide (on your mobile phone). I opted for the second option, and I think it is a great choice.

The details in the main concert hall are jaw-dropping. Prepare to spend several minutes looking at the ceiling, columns, stained-glass windows, or the organ in the centre of the room.

And, to finish, a visit to the small outdoor terrace with some colourful columns, which immediately liven up any photo 😍.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The guided tour lasts about 50 minutes and costs 20€, while the tour with audio guide costs 18€. Tickets can be bought in advance on the official website or on Get Your Guide , where you can benefit from the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

» La Rambla

It is time to visit the most famous street in Barcelona, which connects Plaça de Catalunya with the port of Barcelona. You will probably find this street packed as it is visited by thousands of tourists every day. However, your Barcelona bucket list won’t be complete without a walk on this street, so take your time and enjoy.

There are several shops, cafés and restaurants on La Rambla, but beware that prices tend to be higher in this area as it is very touristy.

» La Boquería Market

And a trip to Barcelona is not complete without visiting Barcelona’s most famous market, located on La Rambla – La Boquería Market.

This market, officially called Mercado de San José, has hundreds of shops, where we can find the most varied products. However, the colourful fruit juices are the product that has gained popularity in recent years.

Nowadays, this market is more of a tourist attraction than a real market where locals do their shopping. Even so, it is worth a visit and, who knows, you might even try some of the tempting food on sale there.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: La Boquería Market is open Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 8.30 pm. It is closed on public holidays.

» Plaça Reial

Escaping the hustle and bustle of La Rambla, we arrive at Plaça Reial. This is rather a small town square, but no less beautiful.

Look out for the fountain at its centre, the beautiful façades of the buildings that act as the square’s “walls” or the street lamps (work of Gaudí). Surprising, isn’t it? 🥰

» Plaça George Orwell

We move on to yet another square – George Orwell Square. This one is less imposing than the other squares on this itinerary, but it is still full of life. Be sure to notice the surrealist statue of Leandre Cristòfol, located in the centre of the square.

💡 EXTRA TIP: Take advantage of your visit to this square to have a look at the Carrer de Milans . When you get there, look at the sky! It’s probably one of the best photographic framings in Barcelona 😉.

» Santa Maria del Pi Basilica

Following Carrer d’Avinyó (one of the most emblematic streets of the Gothic quarter), head for Santa Maria del Pi Basilica. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, this is a Gothic-style church.

It is possible to visit its interior, as well as the crypt, interior garden and bell towers which offer us privileged views of Barcelona.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The Basilica is open from Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. The price to visit is 8€. For the most up-to-date information, please click here .

» Plaça de Sant Jaume

A few minutes walk from the Basilica is Plaça de Sant Jaume. This is a meeting place for important events, such as some celebrations and demonstrations.

This is because two of the most important buildings in Catalonia are located here: the Town Hall and the Generalitat of Catalonia.

» Saint Philip Neri Square

Despite its rather small size, I also suggest a walk through Saint Philip Neri Square. This square tells a sad story, as it was bombed in 1938 by fascist forces supporting the nationalist group in the Spanish Civil War.

You can still see the marks that the bombs left in the church in this square.

» Barcelona’s Catedral

It is also in the Gothic Quarter that the city’s second largest religious monument is located – Barcelona’s Cathedral. Dating back to the 14th century, this is a church of Gothic architectural style.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Visiting times to the Cathedral vary depending on the day of the week, with the adult ticket costing 9€. All the information to plan your visit is available here . You can also buy your ticket to visit Barcelona Cathedral directly here .

Visiting its interior, you can access the Saint Eulalia crypt, the cloister and also the terrace, where there are views over the city. This is one of the must-do things in Barcelona, so be sure not to miss it!

💡 EXTRA TIP: The place with the best views of Barcelona Cathedral is the rooftop of Hotel Col o n , located right in front of the church.

» Carrer del Bisbe

Carrer del Bisbe is probably one of the busiest streets in Barcelona and also one of the most beautiful in the Gothic Quarter 🥰. The unique feature of this street is its elevated bridge that connects two buildings located on opposite sides of the street – Casa dels Canonges and Palau de la Generalitat.

This bridge’s details are absolutely beautiful! This was built in the late 1920s by one of Gaudí’s disciples – Joan Rubió i Bellver.

» El Beso Mural

Hidden in an alley next to the Cathedral, we find the El Beso Mural. This is probably one of the most photographed murals in Barcelona. The mural is constructed with hundreds of photos that together create the effect of two kissing mouths.

» Santa Caterina Market

Although much less famous than La Boquería Market, Santa Caterina Market is another of Barcelona’s popular markets. This was the first covered market in the city and it sells mostly fresh produce. However, it is also possible to find some restaurants and bars there.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Santa Caterina Market is open on Mondays from 7.30 am to 2 pm, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7.30 am to 3.30 pm and Thursdays and Fridays from 7.30 am to 8.30 pm.

» Picasso Museum

Although he was born in Malaga , we can appreciate thousands of works by one of the most famous Spanish painters in Barcelona at the Picasso Museum. This is the largest collection of the painter’s works in the world. So, if you like this kind of visit and you have time available, I strongly suggest a visit to this museum.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The Picasso Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm. The ticket to visit all the collections costs 14€ if bought online . A visit to the temporary exhibitions costs 6.5€.

» Santa Maria del Mar Basilica

We continue towards another of Barcelona’s most famous churches – the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar. It was built in the 14th century and is one of the best examples of Catalan Gothic architecture.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The church is open from Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 8.30 pm. However, you have to pay 5€ to visit its interior only at certain times of the day (Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday from 1.30 pm to 5 pm). More information here .

» Passeig del Born

With the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar at one end and walking towards the El Born Market, Passeig del Born is one of the most popular streets with locals. Here we find many cafés and restaurants, which makes this part of the city very lively (especially at night!).

But this street’s history (and of the whole El Born neighbourhood) has not always been the happiest, as it was here that some jousting and executions took place during the Inquisition period.

» Barceloneta Beach

And to end the day, I recommend a visit to Barceloneta, where Barcelona’s beach is located. This is actually of the most fun things you can do in Barcelona. However, there is much more to Barceloneta than just the beach. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the narrow streets that are part of an old sailors’ quarter.

And of course, don’t miss the opportunity to try one of the many fish and seafood restaurants located in this part of town!

Places to see in Barcelona in 3 days – Day 3

The third and last day of this itinerary will start with the admiration of some cool places in Barcelona such as Antoni Gaudí’s greatest works, as well as the most beautiful green space in the city and also one of the city’s viewpoints that will make this visit to Barcelona even more special😍.

» Passeig de Gràcia

Passeig de Gràcia is one of the most beautiful avenues in Barcelona and where we find some of the most emblematic and surprising buildings in the city! This is because this avenue has been the chosen place for many of the richest Catalan families to build their houses.

» La Pedrera (Casa Milà)

Located on Passeig de Gràcia, La Pedrera is one of Gaudí’s most famous works and was built between 1906 and 1912. This house was inhabited by the Milá family. In fact, the house’s rooms are one of the first parts we get to visit inside.

During the visit, it is also possible to learn more about the projection techniques used by Gaudí. However, the most surprising place of the whole visit is its terrace, both for its views of the city and its ventilation towers.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Since La Pedrera is one of the top things to see in Barcelona, you should buy your tickets in advance. You can do so on the official website or here to ensure a free cancellation option. The most basic ticket to visit La Pedrera (includes an audio guide) costs 25€. However, there are other options available.

» Casa Batlló

A few metres from La Pedrera, we find Casa Batlló. This is probably one of the most beautiful buildings in Barcelona. It was built at the request of Josep Batlló at the beginning of the 20th century and was also designed by Gaudí.

Like La Pedrera, during the visit, we can also see some of the rooms of the old house where the Batlló family lived. At the end of the tour, we are also surprised by its fantastic terrace.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The most basic visit with an audio guide costs 29€ if bought online (at the box office it is more expensive).

💡 EXTRA TIP: Given the high price to visit both La Pedrera and Casa Batlló (and also given the time available on this itinerary), I suggest you visit inside only one of the buildings. Having already visited both, I prefer the exterior of Casa Batlló and the interior and terraces of La Pedrera. However, whatever you choose, it will always be an incredible experience!

» Casa Amatller

Next to Casa Batlló, we find the no less surprising Casa Amatller. This building was renovated by the architect Puig i Cadafalch, at the request of Antoni Amatller (chocolate industrialist) who had bought this house to live there.

Given the time available for this itinerary, I suggest only observing the house from the outside.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: There are several visit options and the cheapest is the one that includes an audio guide (17€). The house can be visited from Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm. All information is available here .

» Casa de les Punxes

While visiting this part of the city, I also suggest a visit to Casa de les Punxes. This is another of the city’s important Modernist works and was designed by the architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch.

This house results from the junction in one single building of 3 buildings that existed there. Once again, the details of the façades will most likely amaze you. Its name comes from its towers, which remind us of a castle.

» Arc de Triomf

Arc de Triomf is another of Barcelona’s must-see places. Designed by the architect Josep Vilaseca at the end of the 19th century, it served as the main entrance to the Barcelona International Exhibition.

Nowadays, it is a place that is loved by tourists and locals who usually stroll around there, also due to its proximity to Ciutadella Park!

» Ciutadella Park

Ciutadella Park is the largest and most popular green space in the city, and also one of the outdoor activities available in Barcelona. It covers over 17 hectares and is built on the site of the former Barcelona fortress.

The best way to enjoy this park is to wander around without much direction (or, who knows, even hire a small boat for a ride on the lake there). However, there are some must-see spots such as the Castle of the Three Dragons or the Neptune Fountain with its staircase – one of the most beautiful places in the whole park.

» Park Güell

We move on to the second most important and visited park in the city – Park Güell. This is located high up in the city and the best way to get there is by public transport!

A visit to this park is another must on a visit to Barcelona. It was also designed by Gaudí with the initial aim of building a luxury residential complex.

Opened in 1922, this park covers over 17 hectares and the main attraction of the park is the Greek Theatre, the Hypostyle Room and the Dragon Staircase. But, there is so much more to discover in this magical place in Barcelona. And the views over the city with the sea in the background are one of them🥰.

We can also find the Gaudí Museum House (where Gaudí lived) inside the park, but honestly, I don’t think the visit is worth much.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Tickets cost 10€ and must be bought online in advance as they sometimes tend to sell out.

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you have extra time, you can take the opportunity to stop by Gaudí’s first work – Casa Vicens . It is possible to visit inside, and the ticket costs 18€. All updated information here .

» Bunkers El Carmel (Turó de la Rovira)

And to end your stay in Barcelona, I suggest what is, for me, the best viewpoint in the city. Join the hundreds of tourists and locals who gather there daily to enjoy the sun setting deep into the sea. I promise it is truly enchanting! If you’re travelling with a loved one, let me tell you that this actually one of the most romantic things to do in Barcelona.

The place that today is a place where life is celebrated, was not always like that. This place was once a military base with anti-aircraft cannons, built during the Spanish Civil War. In fact, some of the bunkers’ remains are still visible today.

💡 EXTRA TIP: This venue has become increasingly popular, so don’t expect to find the place empty, especially during sunset.

Alternative version: 2-day itinerary in Barcelona

Although the minimum recommended duration of a trip to Barcelona is 3 days, I’ll share with you an alternative version of a 2-day itinerary in the city, passing through the best tourist attractions in Barcelona:

• Day 1: Plaça d’Espanya – Montjuïc Magical Fountain – Montjuïc National Palace (outside) – Passeig de Gràcia (only from the outside: La Pedrera, Casa Batlló or Casa Amatller) – Arc de Triomf – Ciutadella Park – Sagrada Familia (inside) – Plaça de Gaudí
• Day 2: Plaça de Catalunya – Palau de la Música Catalana – La Rambla – La Boqueria Market – Plaça Reial – Carrer d’ Avinyó – Santa Maria del Pi Basilica – Plaça Sant Jaume – Cathedral – Carrer del Bisbe – El Beso Mural – Santa Maria del Mar Basilica – Passeig del Born – Park Güell and/or Bunkers El Carmel

Alternative version: 4-day itinerary in Barcelona

In my opinion, a 4-day itinerary would be similar to the one presented throughout this post for 3 days. By spending 4 days in Barcelona you will have more opportunity to visit some of the sites mentioned throughout this post (e.g. Gaudí’s houses, Casa Amatller, Picasso Museum and Joan Miró Foundation) inside. Plus, it’ll also allow you to do some more non-touristy things in Barcelona.

Anyway, I also add a suggestion of a lesser-known place that is one of my favourites in the city – Hospital de Santa Creu i Sant Pau . This is an old hospital complex with several buildings (each building was dedicated to a speciality) connected by underground tunnels.

The visit is very interesting and the buildings extremely beautiful. This is one of the best examples of modernist architecture in the city.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Visits (16€) are possible from Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 6.30 pm (April to October) and from 10 am to 5 pm in the other months. Guided tours (20€) are only available at weekends. All updated information is here . You can purchase your tickets with a free cancellation option here .

Another interesting option to add to your itinerary if you have some extra time available in Barcelona is Palau Güell – another of Gaudí’s works.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: A visit to Palau Güell costs 12€, but it is free on the first Sunday of every month and on some days of the year. You can check this updated information as well as the opening hours here .

Restaurants in Barcelona

Of course, Barcelona, like the rest of Spain, is an excellent city to try Spanish cuisine, namely its famous tapas. So, I’ll share with you a list of some places I tried and really liked.

For lunch/dinner

• El Nou Ramonet (€€): Next to Barceloneta, this is the perfect place to try paella .
• Jabato Tapería (€€): A very cosy space with tapas in generous portions.
• Tantarantana (€€): Very cute decoration and excellent quality tapas. I particularly recommend the croquettes and huevos rotos.

To have a drink

I recommend a visit to one of the most original (and secret 🤫) bars in the city – Bobby’s Free . Nowadays, the bar is no longer that secret, but it is well worth it. The entrance is through a shop that looks like a barber shop, and inside we are surprised by an incredible atmosphere. Besides, the cocktails are delicious!

Disclaimer : this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊

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I am Mariana from Porto, Portugal . I am truly passionate about traveling and all things travel related. And that’s exactly what led me to create this page: so I can inspire others to travel and help plan all those trips with my tips and itineraries.

Click here to find out more about me.

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Where to Stay in Barcelona This Year: Our Favorite Places And Neighbourhoods

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Published On: April 7, 2024

Few cities on this planet are as magical and captivating as Barcelona. Boasting some of the most famous landmarks in the entire world, it’s hard to imagine that anyone could have less than an enjoyable time in Barcelona. 

But I guess it depends quite a bit on where you stay; book a hotel that’s too far from the things you want to see, and you’ll spend more time bumping elbows on the metro than sightseeing and snacking on tapas. Nobody wants that to happen, and I’m happy to help you figure out where it makes sense for you to stay in Barcelona. 

I’ve included all the best neighborhoods in the city in this guide, from the breezy and beachfront Barceloneta to the local Gracia. Whether you want to find the best hotels in Barcelona with epic views or are traveling on a tighter budget but still appreciate a central location, I’ve got your back. 

Please listen to what I have to say because I know Barcelona like the back of my hand. I’ve helped friends and relatives find places to stay and shared all my Barcelona travel tips to help them plan their itineraries with zero complaints so far. Well, there were some complaints about the crowds throughout the city, but none about the hotel location, quality of service, or the comfort of the beds they slept in. 

Table of Contents

Where To Stay In Barcelona

Barcelona is a big city, so it’s crucial to stay close to the landmarks that interest you most. Consider which landmarks you want to prioritize, and then book a hotel in the appropriate neighborhood. 

The best ones for first-time visitors are usually the Gothic Quarter, Eixample, and La Barceloneta, but returning visitors prefer the calm vibes of Gracia and El Poble-Sec.

Don’t Have Time To Read The Full Article? 

• First-Time Visitor: The best hotels for first-time visitors in Barcelona are Kimpton Vividora Hotel , The Loft Hostel Barcelona , and Hotel 54 Barceloneta . 
• Our Overall Favorites: Some hotels I absolutely adore are W Barcelona , Sercotel Hotel Rosellon , and The Barcelona Edition .
• Alternate Accommodation: Barcelona offers countless apartments to choose from but the best are Suites Center Barcelona , Sensation Sagrada Familia , and Casas Apartamentos Gracia . 

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Hotel Barcelona Catedral and loved every minute of it. The location was perfect for exploring Barcelona on foot; the bed was super comfortable, and everything was sparkling clean. 

Gothic Quarter: Our Recommendation 

The Gothic Quarter is Barcelona’s historic center and home to most of the city’s oldest buildings. Stay here for charming, walkable alleys full of the city’s best landmarks and loads of great tapas and bars. 

Bordering Las Ramblas in the west and Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera in the east, the Gothic Quarter is the central area of the Cituat Vella district. Even if you stay elsewhere, you will likely come to this neighborhood often, whether for the history and culture or the excellent food. 

This area offers accommodation options in every price range, so you’ll find something up your alley whether you’re looking for cheap hostels or five-star hotels. Just keep in mind that prices of accommodations (and most other things) are generally higher in the Gothic Quarter than in some other parts of Barcelona. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in the Gothic Quarter

• Historic district boasts many landmarks and attractions 
• Hotels in every price range
• Great bars and restaurants 
• Hotels and restaurants are more expensive
• Perpetually busy and noisy 
• Tourist crowds attract pickpockets 

Highlights of Staying in the Gothic Quarter

The best thing about staying in the Gothic Quarter is that there’s history everywhere throughout the neighborhood. Just go on a quick walk around the block, and you’ll spot buildings that are several centuries old. 

• The Cathedral of Barcelona may not be as famous as Sagrada Familia, but it’s still an impressive sight. The 13th-century Gothic cathedral sits at the center of the neighborhood and offers fantastic city views from its tall towers. 
• See the Roman Ruins . The Gothic Quarter is a historic neighborhood and home of Barcelona’s many oldest buildings and landmarks, plenty of them date back to Roman times, including the city walls, towers, and temples. 
• Stroll down La Rambla , Barcelona’s most famous street. It is lined with shops and restaurants, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire city. 
• People watching at Plaça Reial is great for understanding local culture better. This sprawling city square features palm trees, a fountain at the center, and is lined with bars and restaurants where an extra seat is wanted every evening. 

Best Places To Stay in the Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter is a fairly small neighborhood, so the hotel’s location doesn’t matter quite as much. Also, this area is well connected to the rest of the city with public transport, so getting around Barcelona will be easy and quick. 

It isn’t my favorite option for travelers on a tight budget, simply because you can get more bang for your buck in other districts. However, you’d have to compromise on the location, which isn’t something all travelers are keen on doing. 

Kimpton Vividora Hotel

The Kimpton Vividora Hotel is among the best five-star hotels in the Gothic Quarter. Featuring modern rooms with ensuite bathrooms, this pet-friendly hotel is an excellent luxury option in the heart of old Barcelona. 

The Kimpton’s rooms are smaller, and even some of the suites offer only 32 m² of living space. But they’re beautifully decorated with high-end finishes and state-of-the-art appliances. And the hotel’s fabulous rooftop pool easily compensates for the small size of the rooms. All the suites and rooms at the Kimpton include coffee makers, smart TVs, and luxe toiletries.

This hotel has three restaurants, a fitness center, and a spa center. The Kimpton also has the Social Wine Hour; every day from 6 PM, hotel guests are invited to attend the open bar serving local wines. With rooms starting at $450 per night, I reckon you can easily get your money’s worth at the wine bar alone. 

Hotel Barcelona Catedral

Hotel Barcelona Catedral is a four-star hotel with a rooftop pool. It is situated in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, just a few steps away from the Cathedral of Barcelona. Hang out at the rooftop pool to enjoy a view of the Gothic spires, interrupted only by Barcelona’s signature-colored rooftops. 

The guest rooms here are quite spacious. The smallest rooms are 25 m², and the suites are twice as big. Every room has an ensuite bathroom, a TV, and a desk area. The decor is mostly contemporary with some classic accents, and I like that there’s a pop of color in each room. 

The beds are very comfortable, and a good night’s sleep is guaranteed here. The hotel also has a bar, restaurant, and fitness center, so you’ll have access to all the facilities you might need during your stay. The starting rate for a stay is roughly $330 per night, which is a good deal for a mid-range hotel with five-star amenities and service. 

Itaca Hostel

You can stay in the old city even if you’re on a tight budget! Consider the Itaca Hostel if you’re looking for cheap beds with a central location in Barcelona. Just keep in mind that the same amount of money could be used to book a room with a private bathroom in a different part of the city. 

This hostel offers only mixed dormitories with 6, 8, or 10 beds. Every dormitory has its own bathroom, so you will be sharing those facilities with at least five other people. The good news is that this is possibly the cleanest hostel in Barcelona, with pristine dormitories, bathrooms, and shared spaces. 

The common areas are nice. They include a kitchen, dining area, and a living room, so it kind of feels like you’re staying at a college campus. I definitely recommend this hostel to young adults who are going on a solo trip and want to meet new people. You’ll pay $40-50 for a bed in the center of historic Barcelona, which is as cheap as it gets. 

Eixample: Best For Sightseeing 

Eixample is a massive city district with many of Barcelona’s best sights. It stretches from Sagrada Familia in the east to the Sant Antoni Market in the southwest, encompassing many of the best streets and landmarks in Barcelona in all of its popular neighborhoods. 

This district is good for virtually anyone in Barcelona, whether it’s your first or fifteenth time in the city. It’s great for shopping, museum tours, sightseeing, nightlife, and culinary tours of Barcelona. Gaudi’s architecture is a staple of Eixample, as are countless tapas bars, and excellent hotels. 

Choose Eixample because it is a very safe area of Barcelona popular for upscale hotels and luxury shops. Yes, you’ll pay more for a hotel here, but you’ll also have to worry less about pickpockets and bag snatchers when strolling around the city streets. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Eixample

• Home to Barcelona’s best tourist attractions
• Great public transport connections 
• One of the safest neighborhoods in Barcelona
• The busiest part of Barcelona 
• The upscale area is generally more expensive
• Fewer budget hotels 

Highlights of Staying in Eixample

Eixample is the central district of Barcelona with all the best landmarks, shops, buildings, and hotels. Stay here if you want to be within walking distance of Barcelona’s iconic sights, 

• La Sagrada Familia is by far the most famous landmark in Barcelona and easily the highlight of the entire neighborhood. The iconic building has been under construction since the late 19th century and now has a completion date of 2026. But work on the sculptures and details as well as the stairway that will be the main entrance, is expected to continue until 2034.
• Sant Antoni Market is the place to be whether you want fresh groceries, pastries, or cheap clothes. The covered market is set in a 19th-century building, and it’s one of the best places in Barcelona for a cheap shopping spree. Also, you can buy virtually anything here, from classic Spanish cured meats to yarn balls, making the local market a must-visit for souvenir shopping. 
• Gaudi’s architecture is the undisputed highlight of Eixample, and Casa Milà is the district’s most popular building. The entire place is fascinating, but the views from La Pedrera’s roof are by far my favorite thing about it. 
• Casa Batlló is another Gaudi masterpiece in Eixample that you need to include in your itinerary. The building is absolutely enchanting, and the works of art displayed inside its museums will keep you busy for hours. 

Best Places to Stay in Eixample

Eixample is a central neighborhood in Barcelona and home to many of the best and most famous tourist attractions in the city. It’s a top location for boutique and luxury hotels but one of the worst areas for travelers on a tight budget because there are very few cheap places to stay here, and most are hostels. 

The area is especially good if your main criterion is proximity to iconic Barcelona landmarks, as most of the accommodations here are within walking distance of Gaudi’s best works. Countless top-notch restaurants are also in Eixample, and chances are there will be at least a dozen excellent places to eat just five minutes from your hotel. 

Hotel El Palace Barcelona

Hotel El Palace is a top-notch luxury hotel with an excellent location in Eixample. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Casa Batlló to the north and the entrance to the Gothic Quarter to the south. It takes roughly 20-25 minutes to walk from the hotel to La Sagrada Familia, so stay here if you want a premium location for sightseeing in Barcelona. 

The guest rooms are spacious with classic and elegant furniture, while the hotel’s shared spaces make you feel like you’re in an actual palace. With opulent decorations and luxury finishes throughout the hotel, you’ll constantly be reminded that you’re staying in a five-star accommodation in Barcelona. 

All rooms have a private bathroom, desk, and flat-screen TV. The hotel also offers a fitness center, spa center, and fantastic outdoor pool with beautiful city views. El Palace Hotel includes two restaurants, one of which is on the rooftop terrace. 

Sercotel Hotel Rosellon

Sercotel Hotel Rosellon is a four-star hotel in Barcelona with a five-star view of La Sagrada Familia. You’ll be staying in the heart of this city, just 300 meters from the most iconic landmark in Barcelona. 

The guest rooms are small but equipped with all the amenities you might need during your stay. All the rooms have ensuite bathrooms, a desk, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV. But by far the best thing about the hotel is the rooftop bar, which offers interrupted views of the ongoing construction of Gaudi’s most famous work. 

However, this hotel will work for you only if you aren’t expecting too much from the facilities. Sercotel Hotel Rosellon does not have a restaurant, fitness center, or pool. However, countless restaurants are just five minutes from the hotel, though, so you can make it work if you’re open to exploring. Also, breakfast is included in the nightly rate, which starts at roughly $300 per night. 

The Loft Hostel Barcelona

Eixample is not a good neighborhood for budget stays. Your main options are hostels and cheap hotels, both of which are pricey for what you’re actually getting. The Loft Hostel Barcelona is arguably one of the best budget options, with beds starting at only $40.

That is a steep rate for half a bunk bed, but it’s as cheap as it gets for Eixample. The hostel’s location is good enough to justify the rate, as it’s only two minutes from Casa Milà. You’d be within walking distance of most of Barcelona’s best landmarks, as well as bars, shops, and anything else of interest. The metro station is also very close to the hostel. 

Guests can choose from mixed and female-only dormitories with 6-12 beds. It’s more expensive to stay in the smaller dormitories, and it’s worth noting that all the guests who stay in spaces with shared bathrooms have to rent towels if they don’t have their own. But the hostel’s shared spaces are really nice, and it even includes an outdoor lounge space that’s lovely in the summer. 

Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera: Best For Art And Culture 

Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera is a chic neighborhood with excellent art museums, indie shops, and local markets. It encompasses several smaller neighborhoods, including the trendy and busy El Born, which is very popular with younger crowds in Barcelona. 

This is one of the best parts of the city for young adults, especially artists and other creative types. Staying at Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera is absolutely a great idea if you want to explore Barcelona’s art museums and galleries, visit trendy coffee shops, and shop at markets and vintage boutiques. 

The art museums are my favorite thing about this neighborhood. I think everyone should visit a Banksy museum and a museum that displays elaborate sculptures created entirely from chocolate. Also, if you stay here, you’ll have easy access to the rest of the city with public transport and be within walking distance of the Gothic Quarter and many other attractions. 

Pros and Cons Staying in Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera

• Close to the city center
• Excellent art museums
• Close to the beach 
• Metro stations only on the edges of the neighborhood
• Not too many historical landmarks
• Noisy at night 

Highlights of Staying in Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera

This Barcelona neighborhood is probably the best for all art lovers and creatives in the city, thanks to a wide variety of fantastic art museums. The area also includes notable historical buildings and landmarks. 

• The Basilica of  Santa Maria del Mar is one of Barcelona’s best Gothic churches. Dating back to the 14th century, this stunning landmark towers over El Born’s other rooftops. 
• The Banksy Museum is a unique opportunity to discover art created by the world’s most elusive artist. I’m obsessed with everything Banksy creates so I can’t recommend this museum enough. But bear in mind that Banksy always aims to shock and raise awareness, so this isn’t a museum you’re likely to leave feeling happy and upbeat.  
• Head to Ciutadella Park on a nice sunny day to discover landscaped walking trails, gardens, and a fantastic boating lake. The sprawling park is also home to the Parliament of Catalonia, the Barcelona Zoo, and several smaller museums. 
• Museu de la Xocolata features incredible sculptures made from chocolate. Most exhibits are references to popular cartoons and comic books, but there are also quite a few gems on display, including a chocolate version of Sagrada Familia. 

Best Places To Stay In Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera

This sprawling neighborhood is home to some of the best hotels in Barcelona, especially if you’re looking for luxury and boutique hotels. A few hotels are also available in the budget range, making Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera a solid option for most travelers. 

However, keep in mind that this hip and trendy area mostly attracts young adults. Whether that should be added to the pros or cons list is up to you to decide, but it’s certainly something to remember when choosing a place to stay in Barcelona. 

The Barcelona Edition 

The Barcelona Edition is one of the best luxury hotels in the entire Cituat Vella area. It features large rooms with contemporary furnishings and luxury decorations, making it an excellent option for people who prefer lavish accommodations. 

Book a room on one of the higher floors, and you’ll enjoy a beautiful cityscape from the (very) comfortable king bed. Every guest room at The Barcelona Edition has a private bathroom, desk, TV, and seating area. 

This hotel also offers an outdoor swimming pool, two restaurants, a bar, and a billiards table. The rooftop bar is undoubtedly the highlight of the entire hotel, thanks to its expansive views of Barcelona’s rooftops. It’s one of the best rooftop bars in the city, and that alone is enough reason to spring $550 for a night at The Barcelona Edition. 

Mercer House Bòria

Mercer House Bòria is a boutique hotel located centrally in Ciutat Vella. It offers spacious rooms with ensuite bathrooms and modern furnishings. Every room has a TV, minibar, and a seating area. 

The Mercer’s double rooms are nicely decorated but quite basic. The hotel is much more popular for its suites, so consider staying here if you prefer to have more than one room. All the suites include a kitchen, desk, and separate living quarters. 

However, the hotel facilities are lacking a bit. It doesn’t have a restaurant or a fitness center, so you might want to consider a different hotel if you prefer having these amenities included. There is an on-site coffee house, as well as a rooftop terrace with wonderful views of Santa María del Mar cathedral. 

Born Barcelona Hostel

Born Barcelona Hostel is a great budget option just steps away from Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf. It features dormitories with just 4 and 6 beds, as well as double rooms with shared bathrooms, which are surprisingly nice. 

Everything here is squeaky clean, and the common spaces are beautifully decorated. The dining room chairs aren’t the most comfortable, but they’re perfectly fine if you’re paying under $40 for a night in Barcelona. 

I wouldn’t necessarily recommend the private room just because it doesn’t include an ensuite bathroom, but it costs more than $130 per night. You can book a stay in a two-star hotel in the same neighborhood for the same amount of money, and you wouldn’t have to share a bathroom with anyone. 

Gracia: Best For Gaudi’s Architecture 

Gracia is a vast Barcelona neighborhood known for pedestrian streets and bistros serving Catalan cuisine. Gaudi’s architecture adorns most streets of this neighborhood, making it a top destination for anyone who wishes to see more of the famous architect’s masterpieces. 

The area extends all the way to the foot of Mount Tibidabo, but the southern parts of the neighborhood are better for tourists. Bordering Eixample, they offer easy walking access to Barcelona’s most popular landmarks. Green and yellow metro lines pass through this part of the city, making it super easy to reach areas that are further away. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Gracia

• Hotspot for Gaudi’s architecture
• Lots of great local restaurants
• A walkable neighborhood
• Fewer touristy things to do 
• Northern areas are far from the city center
• It’s becoming increasingly popular with tourists

Highlights of Staying in Gracia

The best thing about staying in Gracia is the local vibe. You’ll find all the restaurants where the locals actually eat, and you’ll get to visit some of the city’s most notable tourist attractions. 

• The best and most famous attraction in Gracia is Park Guell . Featuring buildings covered with mosaics and the actual house where Antoni Gaudi once lived, the place is a dream for anyone who comes to Barcelona wanting to see the architecture. 
• Casa Vicens Gaudí is another spectacular work of art by the famous architect. It’s special for the Moorish influences and a protruding tower on the corner of the building. 
• Gracia is a popular hub for Catalan restaurants, so a local food tour is in the books for anyone staying in this neighborhood. Devour Canelons, Faves a la Catalana, and Fricandó while stopping by the local markets to check out the selection of cured meats. 

Best Places To Stay in Gracia

Gracia offers a wide variety of hotels in every price range, and it’s one of the better neighborhoods for budget travelers. It’s also the best part of the city for tourists who prefer to stay in private apartments. 

Hotel Casa Fuster

Hotel Casa Fuster is my top choice of luxury hotels in Gracia. It is located on the southern edge of the neighborhood, on the border with Eixample. The nightly rate starts at just under $400, which is a terrific deal for a luxury hotel with such a great location in Barcelona. 

The hotel is set in an early 20th-century building, which is a landmark in itself. In fact, Casa Fuster is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and staying in the building is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Despite the historic status, the hotel offers state-of-the-art facilities, including a sauna, fitness center, and rooftop pool. A Michelin-starred restaurant is available at the hotel, and it’s a great place for fine dining in Barcelona city. The guest rooms are quite spacious with contemporary, colorful furnishings and large private bathrooms.  

Hotel Ronda Lesseps

Hotel Ronda Lesseps is a very nice four-star hotel near Parc Guell. It offers modern, cozy rooms with comfortable beds. Every room features a private bathroom, desk, and flat-screen TV. 

All guests also have access to a coffee maker in the room, as well as a mini fridge and free WiFi. The smallest rooms don’t have a seating area and only have one tiny closet, so I wouldn’t recommend them for a longer stay. 

In terms of hotel amenities, the two indoor/outdoor terraces are my favorite thing about the hotel. They’re entirely covered with plants and feel like you’ve wandered into a jungle. But the hotel doesn’t have an on-site restaurant or a gym, so keep that in mind. 

Casa Jam Barcelona

Casa Jam Barcelona is an affordable hostel that looks a lot nicer than I expected. It offers clean and pleasantly decorated rooms for an affordable price, which makes it a top option in Gracia for travelers in Barcelona on a budget . It’s also just a 5-minute walk from the nearest metro station, meaning you can be anywhere in Barcelona in just 15 minutes. 

This hostel offers dormitories with 4 or 6 beds, private family rooms, and quadruple rooms with ensuite bathrooms. If you’re traveling with three other people, the quadruple rooms are excellent value for money, considering the hostel’s location.

All Casa Jam guests can use the free Wi-Fi and shared kitchen. The hostel has a few nicely decorated shared spaces, especially if you like modern furniture. 

La Barceloneta: Best For Beach Access

The Barceloneta neighborhood is the area around the namesake beach and the best place to stay for travelers who are primarily interested in Barcelona’s sandy beaches. The hotels in this area are top-notch, and the area is worth considering if five-star hotels are in your budget. 

Just remember that Barceloneta is quite far from the city center, so it will take you a while to get around the city if you still want to visit the popular tourist attractions. It’s also not the safest part of Barcelona at night , but the upscale areas around the high-end hotels are generally safe for everyone. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in La Barceloneta

• Best area for a beach vacation 
• Multiple high-end hotels 
• Easy public transport access to the city center
• Far from the city center
• Few attractions in the area 
• Not the best area to hang out at night 

Highlights of Staying in La Barceloneta

There aren’t too many tourist attractions in La Barceloneta, but the ones that exist are absolutely fabulous. 

• La Barceloneta Beach is the best thing about this part of the city. The vast stretch of sand attracts both locals and tourists who want to spend a day sipping cocktails on loungers and listening to the crashing waves. 
• Ride the Port Cable Car to Montjuic Hill. It’s a wonderful opportunity to do something different in this city and you’ll get to experience magical views along the way. 
• The Museum of the History of Catalonia offers an extensive exhibit on the region’s history. It’s ideal for travelers who want to learn more about the ways of the locals in Catalonia. 

Best Places To Stay In La Barceloneta

La Barceloneta is a small neighborhood, so the precise location of your accommodation doesn’t matter as much. Unless you want to be directly on the beach, in which case you’ll find several suitable options in this waterfront area. 

W Barcelona

The W Barcelona is a premium five-star hotel with a seafront location. Stay here if you want to make the most of Barcelona’s beaches. This premium hotel offers direct beach access with private loungers. 

The W’s guest rooms are large and beautifully decorated. They feature modern furniture, ensuite bathrooms, and massive windows that offer a stunning view of the beach. All the rooms have a Nespresso coffee machine, a Bose Bluetooth sound system, a minibar, a seating area, and a desk. The hotel offers three swimming pools—two are seasonal outdoor pools, while the indoor pool can be used year-round.

This fabulous hotel also has a rooftop bar, a gourmet restaurant, a gym, a wellness center, and much more. There’s hardly a better place to stay for a relaxed beach vacation in the lovely city of Barcelona. 

Hotel 54 Barceloneta

Hotel 54 Barceloneta is a three-star design hotel overlooking the Barcelona port. It’s a good option if you want to stay at a mid-range hotel and enjoy the classic facilities, but also be just a few steps away from the sandy beach. 

Every guest room at this hotel features an ensuite bathroom, a small balcony, and a seating area. I must point out that the shower is in the room, and although you can’t see through the glass, I imagine these aren’t ideal conditions if you’re traveling with a friend or relatives. 

Hotel 54 doesn’t have a restaurant, but it does feature a breakfast bar. Also, there’s a rooftop terrace with lovely views of the sea, and I imagine most guests spend their evenings relaxing here. A wide variety of restaurants and seafood bars are within walking distance of the hotel, so you’ll have plenty of options for dining in Barceloneta. 

Residencia Campus del Mar 

Residencia Campus del Mar is pretty much your only option for a budget stay in Barceloneta. Rent a studio apartment in a residence hall and you’ll be close to the beach without spending a fortune on the accommodation. The nightly rate is around $160 for two people, which is a pretty good deal for this exclusive location. 

The studio apartments are small, averaging just 25 m². There’s even a tiny double room with a kitchenette and a private bathroom, which is the most affordable option at this residence hall.

Because this isn’t a standard hotel, you won’t have access to staple hotel facilities. But there is a game room, a library, and a laundry room that everyone is welcome to use. Also, every studio apartment has a kitchen and a private bathroom, as well as a desk and even a dining space. 

El Poble-Sec: Best For Alternative Stays 

El Poble-Sec is a residential neighborhood at the foot of Montjuïc Hill. Yes, a hill in Barcelona! That alone makes this area interesting enough to consider for your stay. Another reason to consider basing yourself so far from the city center is to experience a different kind of life in Barcelona, one that doesn’t revolve around Gaudi’s best buildings . 

Here’s the thing: El Poble-Sec is a neighborhood you should consider staying in if this is your second, third, or umpteenth trip to Barcelona. If you’ve already traveled to this city and you’ve done all the classic touristy things, it’s time to try something new. And it doesn’t get better than Sants-Montjuïc, with countless museums, scenic viewpoints, and the historic Montjuïc Castle. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in El Poble-Sec

• Great for returning visitors 
• Lots of interesting attractions in the area 
• Metro access to the city center 
• No beach access 
• It’s mostly a residential neighborhood
• Far from yellow and red metro lines 

Highlights of Staying in El Poble-Sec

El Poble-Sec is one small neighborhood in Sants-Montjuïc that offers a wide array of fun activities for tourists. Cable car rides, panoramic views, and countless museums all await in El Poble-Sec.

• Montjuïc Castle is the star of the namesake hill, offering historical and art exhibits, as well as sweeping scenic views of downtown Barcelona. Come here to discover a landmark that is still a bit of a hidden gem in Barcelona.
• Head to Jardi Botanic Historic to see Euro-Siberian plants thriving in the warm Barcelona climate. The botanical garden is on the site of a former quarry and has a cool microclimate that allows these unique plants to flourish.
• History buffs will be glad to know that El Poble-Sec is home to a bomb shelter from the Spanish Civil War. Refugi 307 offers guided tours of the shelter that was built by the citizens and offers great insight into the history of the area. It’s genuinely one of the most fascinating history tours in Barcelona, so don’t miss out. 
• Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya is one of the most popular art museums in the city. Many people come to El Poble-Sec specifically for this museum, and it’s a must-see if you’re interested in Catalan Art throughout the centuries. The museum exhibit is excellent and even includes a sizeable Romanesque collection.

Best Places To Stay In El Poble-Sec 

El Poble-Sec offers surprisingly many hotels for a residential neighborhood. And there are hotels in every price range here, so you’ll find a suitable option whether you want to spoil yourself or sleep at a hostel. 

One thing I will note is that it’s best to look for hotels near the metro stations. That way, you can still travel to other parts of Barcelona quickly and easily and explore as much as you like without being slowed down. 

Hotel Miramar Barcelona

Hotel Miramar is a luxurious five-star hotel on Montjuïc Hill. I’m torn on the hotel’s location; on the one hand, I love that it’s in a serene part of the city, with direct access to Plaça de l’Armada and stunning observation decks. But on the other hand, it’s quite far from the rest of Barcelona, so not the ideal hotel for easy exploration of the city’s best landmarks. 

I love everything else about this hotel. The rooms are big and beautifully decorated, with spacious ensuite bathrooms. Every room has a desk, a seating area, and a flat-screen TV, as well as a terrace. Also, I have to point out that some rooms include a glass sink in the bathroom, which I’m honestly obsessed with. 

This luxury hotel also offers two swimming pools, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. My absolute favorite feature of the Miramar Hotel is the staircase in front of the entrance, which leads to the Miramar Gardens with fantastic views. Witnessing a sunset here would be one of the highlights of your trip for sure. 

Hotel Concordia Barcelona

Hotel Concordia is a four-star hotel just steps away from the Poble Sec metro station. You can be in the heart of the city in just 15 minutes from this hotel, which is excellent for exploring Barcelona. 

The hotel offers spacious modern rooms with colorful accents. Guests all have access to a TV, desk, and seating area in their room, as well as an extra large and very comfortable double bed. An ensuite bathroom is available in every room, as well as a kettle and a minibar. The bigger rooms even have a private terrace. 

In terms of other amenities, Hotel Concordia offers an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a bar, and a restaurant. Room service is available to all guests, as well as free WiFi. Overall, it’s a very nice hotel, and the nightly rate is more affordable than what you’d pay for a similar level of service in Barcelona, which is a more central location. 

Onefam Ramblas

Onefam Ramblas is an affordable hostel just five minutes from the nearest metro station. It’s also just a short walk from the Barcelona port, where you can enjoy wonderful sea views. 

The hostel is the best option for a budget stay in this part of Barcelona. Nightly rates start at $40 for a dormitory bed. 

This is a social hostel, so plan to stay here only if you’re okay mingling with other people. It’s worth noting that the hostel is only for travelers 18-45 years old and doesn’t process reservations made by older travelers. 

The hostel is squeaky clean, which is the most important thing for me. It offers several shared spaces where guests can hang out and have fun, including a sprawling communal terrace. Also, the hostel organizes free family dinners every night, so you can save a lot of money on meals and meet loads of people. 

Answering Your Questions About Where To Stay In Barcelona

Which area is best to stay in barcelona.

Gothic Quarter and Eixample are the best areas to stay in Barcelona on a first trip. Consider El Poble-Sec if you’ve previously visited Barcelona. 

Where to avoid staying in Barcelona? 

Avoid staying directly on La Rambla. It’s the busiest part of Barcelona, with huge crowds that attract a lot of pickpockets. 

Is the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona good to stay in? 

Yes, the Gothic Quarter is a good area of Barcelona to stay in, especially for a first visit. It’s the historic center of the city with many landmarks and old buildings. 

Is it good to stay at La Rambla Barcelona?

I wouldn’t recommend staying directly on La Rambla because it’s very busy and noisy. Stay in the Gothic Quarter instead, and you’ll be just steps away from Barcelona’s famous street. 

Where Not To Stay in Barcelona

El Raval is a central neighborhood in Barcelona with a bad reputation, so it’s best to avoid booking a hotel there. The area is not inherently unsafe, but it does have a higher crime rate than other parts of the city. Walking around the neighborhood to visit attractions is okay, but I advise you not to stay after dark. And as always, stay vigilant and keep one hand on your purse because you are in Barcelona, after all. 

Also, I wouldn’t recommend booking a hotel directly on La Rambla. It’s the busiest street in Barcelona, and the noise and the crowds are a bit much, especially in the evenings. Instead, stay at the Gothic Quarter for easy access to this tourist hotspot but a much calmer atmosphere. 

Feeling inspired about where to stay in Barcelona? Hopefully, you’ve found your match, whether you want to be near great restaurants, have a rooftop pool, or be opposite the Picasso Museum or Passeig De Gràcia. Barcelona has accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. You may also like Where to Stay in Paris , another popular European city.

It’s clear that this ‘amazing city’ is full of incredible accommodation choices and neighborhoods, not just tourist attractions. Visiting Barcelona will be a real treat from the moment you land at Barcelona el Prat Airport. Don’t forget to check out these fun facts about Spain  before you go.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

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1 thought on “Where to Stay in Barcelona This Year: Our Favorite Places And Neighbourhoods”

Thanks for sharing this wonderful place to visit in barcelona, looking forward to travel there soon.

Wander With Alex

Spain's Hidden Treasures: A Local's Guide to the Best Places to Visit

Posted: April 11, 2024 | Last updated: April 11, 2024

Insider Picks: A Local's Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Spain

Spain is one of the most visited countries in Europe, and there is no doubt why. Travelers can enjoy different activities and attractions, from visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites and well-known art galleries and museums to seeing incredible landscapes and indulging in delicious tapas.

With so many options, it is challenging to choose your Spanish destination , but this list of the best places to visit in Spain, from a local, can help!

Seville: A Budget-Friendly City Break

Seville is one of the most vibrant cities in Southern Spain. The capital of Andalusia will certainly not disappoint. You can enjoy a budget-friendly city break while visiting emblematic buildings and eating delicious tapas.

When visiting Seville, you can’t miss Plaza de España, a beautiful square built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929; since then, it has become one of the most visited squares in Spain. Its architectural styles and atmosphere make it an unmissable spot in Seville.

In addition to Plaza de España, other important buildings for those who love history and culture are the Cathedral of Seville, one of the oldest in Spain, and the Alcazar of Seville, a stunning palace with gardens.

For gorgeous panoramic views of the city, head to Setas de Sevilla. This viewpoint is incredible, but even better at sunset.

Malaga: Walkable and Well-Connected

If you are looking for a vacation that combines sightseeing and relaxation, Malaga is one of the best places to visit in Spain.

Although it used to be seen as an airport city, it has become increasingly popular among travelers as there is so much to do in this Andalusian city.

The city is ideal for a city break because it is walkable and well-connected. Plus, you can enjoy many cultural activities for free.

During your visit to Malaga, explore the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro fortress complex, the Cathedral, and the Picasso Museum. If you visit Malaga in late spring or summer, you can also enjoy its beaches. La Malagueta Beach is only a few minutes walk from the city center.

Last but not least, don’t forget to try Malaga’s delicacies. Some of its traditional dishes include ajoblanco (cold garlic and almond soup), espetos de sardinas (grilled sardines), and ensalada malagueña (a potato salad with cod, oranges, and hard-boiled egg).

Madrid: Enjoy Museums, Art Galleries, and Dining

Of course, the capital city of Spain has to make the list. Madrid is one of the best places to visit in Spain for culture lovers . It is home to the country's most important museums and art galleries, El Prado Museum and Reina Sofia Museum.

However, if you aren’t into history and art, you will also love Madrid for its food scene . The city has plenty of eateries to enjoy classic Spanish tapas or local dishes like bocadillo de calamares (fried squid sandwich) and huevos rotos (broken eggs).

Madrid nightlife is also worth mentioning; there are many unique speakeasy bars, fantastic nightclubs, and rooftop terraces with great views.

Barcelona: A Cultural Hub with Great Nightlife

Who hasn’t heard of Barcelona ? It is a bucket list destination, and there are many reasons Barcelona is one of the best places to visit in Spain. La Sagrada Familia is just one of them. This architectural masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi is one of Spain's most important buildings.

However, Gaudi has many other impressive buildings across the city. For example, Park Güell, Casa Vicens, and Palau Güell are worth visiting.

On top of these cultural activities, Barcelona has a vibrant nightlife scene. In the evening, you will see many people enjoying a meal with their families and others heading to nightclubs with friends.

Overall, Barcelona has many things to do, so you can easily spend more than three days here. Plus, there are many lovely excursions you can take from Barcelona too. 

Cordoba: An UNESCO World Heritage City

When someone mentions Cordoba, the first image that comes to mind is Mezquita de Cordoba, its Mosque-Cathedral, and it is undoubtedly the most emblematic building in the city.

Its Mosque-Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a building with lots of history behind it. One of the reasons it is so important is the representation of different religions.

Other important locations across Cordoba are Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos and the historic center, home to several museums and Cordoba’s Synagogue.

If you are planning a visit to Cordoba, the best time to visit it is spring, especially in May, when you can attend its courtyard festival, where locals decorate their patios with beautiful flower pots and other decorations. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they tell a story.

Bilbao: Delicious Basque Cuisine

Bilbao is an exciting city in the Basque Country, in northern Spain.

You can easily spend a weekend visiting its most famous museum, Guggenheim Bilbao Museum. It's easy to get lost for hours viewing important art pieces, its impressive Gothic Cathedral, and its historic center.

Bilbao is also a good city break for those who love food. Instead of tapas, you will find pintxos in Bilbao. These bite-sized snacks normally contain a small piece of bread with meat, fish, or vegetables. The best place to enjoy pintxos is La Ribera Market.

In addition, there are incredible day trips from Bilbao. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is one of the most popular excursions. It became famous for its appearance in the Game of Thrones series.

Valencia: Perfect for History Lovers

Valencia is one of the largest cities in Spain, and one of the best Spanish city breaks.

The city is home to many interesting buildings and attractions. The old town of Valencia is one of the top locations for history lovers. The impressive Cathedral of Valencia, the Turia Fountain, and the Basilica are here.

Another unmissable place to visit in Valencia is Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciènces. This cultural and leisure complex will give you a futuristic feeling. The Science Centre, the 3D cinema, and L’Oceanografic are some of the best attractions inside the complex.

Valencia is also famous for paella. This popular dish originated in Valencia, so you will find the most authentic paellas here. Classic paella is made with chicken and rabbit, but you can also have other versions made with seafood or vegetables.

Marbella: A Luxurious Coastal Resort Town

Marbella is a coastal resort located in Costa del Sol, Malaga. Although many travelers think that Marbella is all about luxury, this is a misconception.

Besides visiting the luxury port of Puerto Banus, you can enjoy many activities in Marbella, from exploring Marbella’s Old Town and relaxing at its blue flag beaches to going on scenic hiking trails.

It is the perfect destination for couples and travelers who want to have a good time, as there is a party side too. Marbella has many amazing beach clubs, including the famous Nikki Beach Marbella.

Another fun activity for either couples or friends is to take a boat trip in Marbella . Many include paddleboards and scuba diving equipment if you're looking for adventure. But a sunset cruise is worth checking out if you prefer a more relaxing experience.

Tenerife: A Family-Friendly Getaway

If you are looking for an island destination, Tenerife is one of the best places to visit in the Canary Islands. It is a popular destination for all types of travelers, but especially families .

Despite being an island, Tenerife has so much to see and do. Whether you love beautiful green landscapes, golden sand beaches, or cultural activities like visiting museums, Tenerife is for you.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital, but other lovely towns and villages are worth adding to your list. Masca Village, for example, must be on your list if you are after hidden gems. It is referred to as the “Machu Picchu of Spain.”

Regardless of the area you choose to stay, visiting El Teide volcano is an unmissable experience in Tenerife. It is the only volcano in Spain. You can take a scenic hike, enjoy the views from a cable car, or stargaze in the evening.

Santander: Natural Landscapes and Laid-Back Vibes

Santander is one of the most underrated cities in Spain. It is the perfect city for those who want a more laid-back vacation.

One of the reasons to visit Santander is its natural landscapes. The city is home to golden sand beaches perfect for surfing in the summer months, but also a short drive from gorgeous hiking trails.

You can visit historical landmarks in the city like the Cathedral, Botin Museum, and Palacio de la Magdalena, a former royal palace on a small peninsula overlooking the Cantabrian Sea.

If you are a foodie, Santander has delicious dishes, such as rabas (fried squid), and local products like cheeses and desserts. Sobaos pasiegos and Quesada are a must-try for those who have a sweet tooth, as they are delightful.

Featured Photo Credit: [@SOMATUSCANI/DepositPhotos]

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How You Can Climb To New Heights While in Barcelona

Escaping the monotony of daily life, a visit to Barcelona could be the perfect rejuvenating experience.

This vibrant city offers an array of captivating sights and activities, from marveling at the iconic Sagrada Familia or admiring the Gothic architecture to basking in the sun at the Barceloneta beach.

Just when you think Barcelona has shown you all its wonders, a new and exhilarating pursuit has emerged as a fan favorite – rock climbing.

This adventurous sport has gained a substantial following globally, leading to a surge in indoor climbing gyms, and Barcelona is no exception.

Champions League: San Siro SINKS as Inter Takes Early Lead

The Catalan News reports that according to the Catalan Mountain Sports Federation, the number of climbing centers in Catalonia has quadrupled over the past decade, with approximately 30 of them being of considerable size.

Among the various climbing disciplines, bouldering stands out as one of the most popular.

This form of climbing requires no harnesses or ropes, with the only necessary equipment being climbing shoes, a chalk bag to keep hands dry, and a well-padded surface to ensure safe landings.

Gym floors are lined with soft mats, and the walls typically reach no higher than 4 meters, minimizing the risk of injury. Bouldering’s accessibility is one of its greatest appeals, welcoming individuals of all fitness levels and body types, regardless of height.

This inclusivity has made climbing gyms across Barcelona a hub for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike, with admission fees comparable to most fitness facilities – monthly memberships ranging from €45 to €60, and daily passes available from €9 to €14.

The allure of climbing transcends gender boundaries, with both men and women finding equal solace and exhilaration in the sport.

For many, it’s a multifaceted pursuit – a means to stay in shape, a fun hobby, and a path to increased strength. Solving the “problems” (as climbing routes are termed) presents an engaging challenge, igniting an adrenaline rush while demanding unwavering concentration to avoid falls.

Carles, a regular at Sharma Climbing – Spain’s largest climbing center boasting 5,000 square meters of climbable walls designed by renowned American climber Chris Sharma – encapsulates the sport’s appeal to the Catalan News: “I like it because you’re working out and playing at the same time; it’s not like going to the gym and lifting weights, which I find very boring. Instead, here you feel like you’re doing both things at once, a fun hobby and getting stronger at the same time.”

Climbing’s inclusive nature welcomes both locals and visitors alike, making it an ideal addition to your Barcelona experience.

A visit to one of the city’s climbing centers could leave you not only invigorated and stronger but also with a newfound appreciation for all that Barcelona has to offer.

Perhaps this is the opportunity to scale new heights, both physically and metaphorically, during your time in this captivating city!

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

These are  Amazon’s best-selling  travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

• The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 –  Learn more here
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Travel Gear

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Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

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By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

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