wie lange barcelona trip

Wie lange soll ich in Barcelona bleiben? – 1, 2, 3 Tage oder länger?

In Barcelona gibt es soviel zu sehen, dass ich einen Aufenthalt von 3 bis 10 Tagen empfehle. In diesem Beitrag verrate ich dir aber auch, was du unternehmen solltest, wenn du nur 1 oder 2 Tage in der Stadt bist.

Bist du nur 1 Tag in Barcelona, wirst du den Plaça d'Espanya wahrscheinlich nicht sehen.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• 1 1 Tag in Barcelona
• 2 2 Tage in Barcelona
• 3 3 Tage oder ein Wochenende in Barcelona
• 4 Insidertipps, für deinen Aufenthalt in Barcelona

1 Tag in Barcelona

Nur einen Tag in Barcelona bist du meistens dann, wenn du mit einem Kreuzfahrtschiff ankommst. Dann wirst du auf dem Schiff Tagesausflüge angeboten bekommen. Nutze diese.

Solltest du aber planen, eventuell auf einer Rundreise durch Spanien , nur einen Tag Barcelona, zu besuchen, dann rate ich dir davon ab. Plane unbedingt mehr Zeit ein.

Fokussiere dich auf die Sagrada Família, wenn du nur 1 Tag hier bist.

Solltest du nur 1 Tag in der Stadt sein, fokussiere dich auf die Sagrada Familia . Buche eine Tour mit einer Turmbesichtigung. Zudem plane rund 2 Stunden für den Besuch ein.

Eintrittskarte Barcelona: Sagrada Familia Eintrittskarte mit Audio Guide

Eventuell wird eine solche Tour noch in Kombination mit dem Park Güell angeboten. Dieses Angebot lohnt sich nur, wenn schönes Wetter ist.

In diesem Beitrag zeige ich dir, wie der Nahverkehr in Barcelona funktioniert.

Der Park Güell könntest du ebenfalls noch schaffen, wenn du nur 1 Tag in der Stadt bist.

2 Tage in Barcelona

Bist du nur 2 Tage in Barcelona , handelt es sich dabei meistens um einen kurzen Wochenendtrip. Diese 2 Tage solltest du vorab gut planen, damit du keine langen Wartezeiten hast.

Am Abend finden beim Font Màgica de Montjuïc manchmal auch Lichtspiele statt.

Suche dir für die 2 Tage jeweils 3 Highlights pro Tag aus. Meine Empfehlungen sind dabei folgende, wenn du noch nie in Barcelona warst:

• Tag 1: Park Güell, Sagrada Familia, Altstadtviertel El Born
• Tag 2: Plaça d’Espanya, Berg Montjuic mit Magischem Springbrunnen, Aussichtspunkt Jardins del Mirador

Die Tickets für den Park Güell und die Sagrada Familia solltest du unbedingt vorab kaufen. Plane jeweils 2 Stunden Zeit für den Besuch ein. Versuche deswegen die Tickets so zu buchen, dass sie ca. 3 Stunden auseinanderliegen.

In diesem Beitrag erfährst du, wie du schnell vom Flughafen in die Stadt kommst.

Der Blick vom Jardins del Mirador auf Barcelona solltest du bei schönem Wetter genießen.

3 Tage oder ein Wochenende in Barcelona

Solltest du ein verlängertes Wochenende oder 3 volle Tage in Barcelona sein, wirst du dir einiges ansehen können. Aber auch für diese Zeit empfehle ich dir, plane alles gut.

Mein Hinweis: Wenn du ein verlängertes Wochenende planst, dann reise möglichst am Donnerstag schon an und plane deine Abreise erst wieder am Montag.

Der Brunnen Cascada del Parc de la Ciutadella ist ein Highlight, welches sich lohnt, wenn du etwas länger in der Stadt bist.

Für jeden der 3 Tage, suche dir 3 Highlights raus , welche du dir in Barcelona ansehen möchtest. Ich würde dir folgende Spots empfehlen:

• Tag 1: Park Güell, Sagrada Familia, Strand von Barcelona
• Tag 2: La Catedral, Altstadtviertel El Born, Parc de la Ciutadella
• Tag 3: Plaça d’Espanya, Berg Montjuic mit Magischem Springbrunnen, Aussichtspunkt Jardins del Mirador

Für den Park Güell, die Sagrada Familia und die La Catedral benötigst du Tickets. Buche diese vorab , damit du nicht warten musst.

Für den Park Güell und die Sagrada Familia plane jeweils rund 2 Stunden Zeit ein . Für die La Catedral wirst du nur maximal 1 Stunde benötigen.

Hier, in diesem Beitrag , habe ich eine Liste der TOP Sehenswürdigkeiten von Barcelona für dich zusammengestellt.

Bist du mindestens 3 Tage in der City, laufe unbedingt auch mal am Strand entlang.

Insidertipps, für deinen Aufenthalt in Barcelona

Solltest du länger als 3 Tage in Barcelona bleiben, dann kannst du nahezu alles vor Ort in Ruhe planen. Folgende Tipps solltest du dabei aber beachten.

In diesem Gebiet empfehle ich dir eine Unterkunft. Dann kannst du vieles auch erlaufen.

• Plane täglich maximal 3 Spots ein, die du dir ansehen möchtest. Versuche dabei die Spots so auszuwählen, dass diese nah beisammen liegen. Laufe zwischen den Spots lieber durch die Stadt und entdecke diese auf diesem Weg.
• Schau dir unbedingt die Wetterprognose für die kommenden Tage an. An schönen Tagen besuche Aussichtspunkte. An regnerischen Tagen bevorzuge die Sehenswürdigkeiten, bei denen das Wetter keine Rolle spielt.

Brauchst du noch eine passende Unterkunft? Dann schaue mal hier auf Booking.com nach. Hierüber buche ich immer meine Unterkünfte.

Auch für die La Catedral empfehle ich dir vorab Tickets zu kaufen.

• In den Sommermonaten kann es sehr heiß in Barcelona werden. Du musst an diesen Tagen aber nicht literweise Getränke mitschleppen. In der Stadt gibt es nämlich viele 24 Stunden Läden , in denen du immer etwas zu trinken kaufen kannst.
• Bargeld musst du nicht ausreichend mitnehmen. Du kannst in Barcelona nahezu überall mit Karte bezahlen . Dabei funktionieren EC-Karten, die meisten Kreditkarten und auch Bezahlen mit dem Smartphone sehr gut. Dies geht auch bei Kleinstbeträgen, also unter 5 Euro.

In diesem Beitrag zeige ich dir meine TOP 7 Aussichtspunkte von Barcelona .

Die La Rambla kannst du nebenbei mitnehmen. Aber auch diese solltest du einmal ablaufen, wenn du länger in Barcelona bist.

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5 Days in Barcelona: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

How to spend 5 days in barcelona: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend 5 days in Barcelona and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you the perfect itinerary to visit Barcelona in 5 days.

I will first give you all my best tips to avoid the long waiting lines (often more than 2 hours!) in front of the city’s must-see attractions such as the Sagrada Familia.

Then, I will give you my optimized 5-day itinerary to make the most of your stay in the Barcelona.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips as well as accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Barcelona in 5 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The Barcelona City Pass

5 days in barcelona: must-see attractions:, 3. the barcelona card, one last tip for a perfect 5-day stay in barcelona, a. the cathedral of the holy cross and the gothic quarter, b. walking along la rambla, c. the boqueria market, d. casa batlló, e. casa milà, f. attend a flamenco show, a. park güell, b. bunkers del carmel, c. sant pau recinte modernista, d. la sagrada familia, e. el born district, a. plaça espanya, b. the mnac, c. montjuic park, d. olympic facilities, e. visit montjuic castle, f. tapas on plaça espanya and magic fountain, a. port vell, b. passeig maritim, c. olympic port, d. walk in ciutadella park, e. santa maria del mar basilica, day 5: day-trip around barcelona, where to stay in barcelona, visiting barcelona in 5 days with family, more ideas for things to do and see in barcelona in 5 days, map of your 5-day itinerary in barcelona, heading to barcelona for 5 days: flight prices, you’re traveling in spain these articles will help you, my best tips to save time at barcelona’s must-see attractions.

As you probably know, like many other major European cities ( Florence, London , or Rome ), Barcelona ranks among the top tourist destinations .

Every year, millions of visitors flock to the city to see the must-visit sites like the Sagrada Familia . In fact, I’m sure that in planning your 5-day visit to Barcelona , it’s at the top of your list of things to see!

So don’t be surprised if upon arrival you need to wait in line for hours before being able to enter.

But to avoid finding yourself in this situation , good news, you just need to follow my advice!

There are indeed several tricks to save a tremendous amount of time and avoid waiting at tourist sites during your 5-day tour of Barcelona. I’ll explain everything!

The first solution , and let’s be clear, the best one to discover as much as possible during your 5-day trip to Barcelona , is to purchase the Barcelona City Pass .

If you’re used to traveling, you might have already used this kind of city pass in the most famous cities .

In cities like Milan or Rome , they offer passes that generally allow you to skip lines and save money!

Barcelona’s works on exactly the same principle.

After ordering the Barcelona City Pass, fast-track tickets for tourist attractions are sent to you via email . All you have to do is present them on your smartphone at the entrance of the attractions included in the offer.

And the Barcelona City Pass has another super useful advantage for your 5-day stay in Barcelona: it is valid for the duration of your vacation . Unlike most passes that are valid for a maximum of 72 hours, Barcelona’s has no time limit.

We can definitely say that it’s the most convenient and complete pass for visiting Barcelona in 5 days.

To finish convincing you, here’s a selection of what’s included:

• Skip-the-line ticket to the Sagrada Familia: to explore every corner of one of Spain’s most famous landmarks! When purchasing the City Pass, you will be asked to select a date and time for your visit. It’s mandatory to adhere to the scheduled time slots.
• A skip-the-line ticket for Park Güell . You’ll be prompted to schedule your visit date and time.
• A ticket for the hop-on hop-off bus
• An audio guide to learn more about all of Barcelona’s points of interest
• Discounts for attractions and certain museums: the ones for Casa Batlló and Casa Milà are really helpful! A discount code of 10% will be sent to you after purchasing the Barcelona City Pass. You’ll then need to reserve your visits on the same site to benefit from the promo code.

To buy your Barcelona city pass, simply click on the green button below:

2. Skip-the-Line Tickets for Barcelona’s Tourist Attractions

There is another solution for fast access to the sites included in this visit program.

You can buy your skip-the-line entrance tickets one by one for museums and monuments. There are many options for both activities to do in Barcelona over 5 days and for tourist attractions.

Below, I’ve listed those that correspond to the itinerary I’ll present to you shortly. For making a reservation or more details, simply click on the orange links:

They are also indicated throughout this article (by a link or a green button):

• Casa Batlló
• Gaudi’s 3 Houses Pass
• Flamenco Show
• Sant Pau Recinte Modernista
• Sagrada Familia Skip the Line
• Sagrada Familia Guided Tour
• Barcelona Museum Pass
• Montjuic Cable Car
• Palau de la Musica Catalana
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tourist Bus

For visiting Barcelona in five days , there’s also a final option: the Barcelona Card.

But I won’t dwell on it too much because its main advantage is offering free public transportation . If you follow the optimized itinerary I propose, which clusters visits in the same area, the cost of the card may not be worth it.

Besides, there are 10-trip passes sold in the metro or buses that are cheaper.

Among other benefits of the Barcelona Card , there are also discounts for certain museums such as the Picasso Museum or the Barcelona History Museum, but not for major attractions like the Sagrada.

For a first trip to Barcelona, I recommend you to take the Barcelona City Pass or skip-the-line tickets.

However, if you are already familiar with the city and its highlights, and your plan is based on museums, feel free to click the following green button to see if the Barcelona Card suits you:

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As Barcelona is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Barcelona by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in Barcelona.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Barcelona, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

5 Days in Barcelona: The Best Itinerary

Let’s now see how to visit Barcelona in 5 days.

For each day , I will give you an optimized itinerary with all the details you need for your visits, along with a map of Barcelona. This will help you optimize your trip  and enjoy a stress-free stay in the city!

I assume that you will be staying in Barcelona for 5 full days and that you have purchased your Barcelona City Pass or skip-the-line tickets in advance. This way, you will be able to see as many places as possible during your 5-day stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the very end of this article.

I will be glad to help you plan your trip 😄.

So,  what are the best places to visit in Barcelona in 5 days?

Day 1: Discovering the Historic Center

Day 1 visits:

A. The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and the Gothic Quarter B. La Rambla C. Boqueria Market D. Casa Batlló E. Casa Milà F. Flamenco Show

The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona is perfect for diving into the city’s atmosphere on the first day .

Known locally as the Barrio Gòtico , it’s one of the city’s most emblematic areas.

This medieval district is also the historic center of Barcelona . It’s home to the impressive Cathedral of the Holy Cross , which you cannot miss.

Its Gothic architecture is remarkable, and the visit includes access to the cloister, the terraces, the choir, various chapels, and a small painting museum. On the terraces , you can enjoy a beautiful view of the surroundings.

After or before visiting the cathedral, take the time to wander through the alleys of the quarter (careful not to get lost as it’s a real labyrinth!). Be sure to see:

• Plaça Sant Jaume
• Plaça del Rei
• Museum of History of Barcelona
• Plaça del Pi

Every weekend (Saturdays at 6pm and Sundays at 11am), street performances , including the Sardana dance, take place on the small square at the entrance of the cathedral.

If you wish to, you can also start your trip to Barcelona with a guided tour.

It’s a great way to get a first impression of the city !

You can opt for the traditional walking tour, or go for something more fun, like a tuktuk, Segway or GoCar tour. Simply click on the links below for more information and to book:

• Walking tour of the Old Town and Gothic Quarter to discover the places I’ve just mentioned, such as Sant Jaume and the Plaça del Rei.
• Guided tour of Barcelona by bike or E-bike. This tour is super comprehensive, as you’ll discover 25 must-see sites such as Ciutadella Park and the Sagrada Familia.
• Visit Barcelona by electric tuk tuk
• Visit Barcelona by GoCar with integrated GPS
• Segway tour

And if you’re looking for an exceptional experience as soon as you arrive in the city, I’d definitely recommend a helicopter flight! You’ll have the chance to see the impressive Sagrada Familia from above 😎

Click here to book your helicopter flight in Barcelona.

After the Barrio Gotico, I suggest taking a walk along the famous La Rambla , Barcelona’s most frequented pedestrian avenue.

You can reach it in less than 10 minutes on foot from the historic center. A must-do during a 5-day stay in Barcelona , La Rambla, always lively, is 2 km long and stretches from Plaça de Catalunya (Catalonia Square) to the port.

I suggest you first walk down towards the port , admiring along the way:

• The Gran Teatro del Liceu (the city’s oldest theatre, which can also be visited)
• The Joan Miró mosaic
• Plaça Reial (perfect for a drink on a terrace)

After reaching the port, head back up towards Plaça Catalunya . Not to be missed along the way:

• Fountain of Canaletes
• Palau de la Virreina and its temporary exhibitions

All along La Rambla, you’ll also find:

• Shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants
• Numerous street performers.

During your walk along La Rambla, , you will undoubtedly come across the Boqueria Market , where I suggest you stop for a while.

This authentic and picturesque market, with an entrance marked by a grand Art Nouveau archway , is the city’s oldest.

It’s a chance to discover Catalan products and taste tapas and fresh fruit at the colorful stalls of the vendors.

The Boqueria Market is a highly popular tourist attraction , so it will be hard to avoid the crowds, but that’s part of the location’s charm!

If you like guided tours, the special market tour with a chef might be a good option. The chef guides you through the market while selecting the best products with you.

He then prepares tapas and a paella to share right in front of you.

Your 5-day visit to Barcelona continues on Passeig de Gracia , just a 5-minute walk from Plaça de Catalunya.

Here is where you can marvel at one of the masterpieces of the Barcelona architect Antoni Gaudi: Casa Batlló.

A symbol of Barcelona, this villa with its unique architecture (typical of Gaudi) is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site . Its balconies, shaped like skulls, have earned it the nickname Casa del Ossos (the house of bones).

While stunning on the outside, Casa Batlló is also worth a visit inside. Allocate about 1 hour to explore the interior.

Avoid the endless line at the entrance of Casa Batlló by purchasing your ticket in advance.

Remember that with the Barcelona City Pass , you get a 10% discount code which you can use for the Casa Batlló visit among other attractions through Tiqets website.

Stay on Passeig de Gracia and head slightly north to reach Casa Milà in about 7 minutes on foot .

This second villa, born from Gaudi’s imagination , is also a must-see with its white facade featuring wavy lines characteristic of the architect’s work.

Take your time to visit and explore the various rooms spread over 5 floors . From the rooftop terrace of the villa, you will also enjoy a stunning view of the surroundings.

Here too, remember to buy your entrance ticket for Casa Milà on Tiqets using the discount from your Barcelona City Pass .

For an unusual visit , choose a nighttime entrance ticket . The night visits start at 9 PM and include audiovisual projections and a complimentary glass of Champagne .

This night entrance ticket can be purchased by clicking here .

How can you visit Barcelona in 5 days without planning to see a flamenco show ?

This popular Andalusian dance is performed all year round in Barcelona’s tablaos . These intimate venues allow you to enjoy a meal or a drink while watching musical performances.

For this evening, I recommend “Los Tarantos” , one of the oldest and most famous tablaos in the city.

You can book your flamenco evening by simply clicking here!

It is located on Plaça Reial, very close to Las Ramblas. To get there from Casa Milà, you have 2 options:

• On foot, a 30-minute walk down Las Ramblas
• By metro: take line 3 from Diagonal station to Liceu station + a 3-minute walk to Plaça Reial.

If tickets are sold out, here are some other places to see a flamenco show during your stay in Barcelona (click on the orange links to book):

• City Hall, in the theater of Barcelona City Hall
• At the tablao Flamenco Cordobes, in Rambla district
• Tablao de Carmen, located in Poble Espanyol district.

What to do and see in Barcelona on day 2?

Visits for day 2:

A. Park Güell B. Bunkers del Carmel C. Sant Pau Recinte Modernista D. Sagrada Familia E. Born District

Park Güell is another major work of Gaudi , located in the north of the city and built between 1900 and 1914.

I suggest you dedicate your second morning in Barcelona to the exploration of this one-of-a-kind park .

It’s divided into two areas, one with an admission fee and the other free . The paid zone, known as “Monumental” , houses key pieces of Gaudi’s work including a wavy bench covered in mosaic, a salamander, and columns that resemble tree trunks.

To have time to visit the park leisurely, plan on arriving early in the morning . Last but not least, don’t forget to climb up to Mirador de Virolai for a beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings.

To get to Park Güell, take the line 3 metro and get off at Vallcarca .

Tickets for Park Güell are limited and it is highly recommended to book them in advance.

The entrance is included in the Barcelona City Pass, or you can also get your skip-the-line ticket by clicking here.

To make sure you don’t miss any of the park’s best spots, you can also opt for a guided walking tour organized by Barcelona’s tourist office .

You’ll find all the information you need and be able to book by clicking here!

After your morning in the park, head toward Bunkers del Carmel , one of the most stunning viewpoints in Barcelona offering a 360° perspective of the entire city.

From Park Güell, the Bunkers are just a 20-minute walk away . You can also take the bus (lines 24 or 86) or a taxi.

These bunkers are located 262 meters above sea level on the Turo de la Rovira, a former anti-aircraft base used during the Spanish Civil War.

Access is free , and the climb to the top, although strenuous at times, is definitely worth it. A great idea is to plan a picnic to have lunch with a stunning panoramic view.

Then, about a 30-minute walk away, reach the Sant Pau Recinte Modernista .

This former public hospital now hosts exhibitions and allows visitors to explore various buildings that recount the site’s history.

But it’s worth the visit for its architecture and facade alone!

Entrance tickets can be taken here, if you’re interested in the visit.

The emblem of Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia is THE must-see monument during your 5 days in Barcelona.

This basilica imagined by Gaudi is truly spectacular , and of course, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

La Sagrada Familia combines Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture in a unique style that is characteristic of Antoni Gaudi. It’s actually the most visited monument in Spain!

Take the time to admire all its exterior details and then enter inside to see, among other things, a small museum about the history of the basilica.

Don’t forget that your Barcelona City Pass includes a skip-the-line ticket to visit La Sagrada Familia. That alone is a good reason to buy it!

Otherwise, without the Pass, you absolutely need a skip-the-line ticket to avoid hours of waiting at the entrance. Buy it by clicking here.

And of course, if you would like to find out more about the history of this impressive monument , I recommend you to book a guided tour of the Sagrada Familia by clicking here.

It’s time to slow down a bit and end the day on a relaxing note.

El Born District is perfect for an enjoyable evening after a day of sightseeing.

This little medieval village within the city, along with the Gothic Quarter, forms the old town of Barcelona .

El Born is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city, the place to be for nightlife and to enjoy numerous tapas bars and trendy restaurants.

The neighborhood is also home to several Gothic churches , as well as museums including the Picasso Museum . This is also where you’ll find the Palau de la Musica , which I highly recommend visiting if you have the time.

You can also:

• Discover the MOCO museum , dedicated to contemporary art. There, you can especially admire works by Banksy and Andy Warhol.
• Enjoy a tasting of 5 Catalan and Spanish wines.

The Palau de la Musica is one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world. The guided tour costs 20 euros and lasts 50 minutes, and it’s definitely worth it!

Book your visit to the palace right here.

Day 3: Points of Interest to Visit in Barcelona

Visits for day 3:

A. Plaça Espanya B. The MNAC C. Montjuic Park D. The Olympic facilities E. Montjuic Castle F. Plaça Espanya and the Magic Fountain

I suggest starting your third day by heading to Plaça Espanya , the starting point for the other sites I have prepared for you.

Barcelona’s Plaça Espanya dates back to 1929 and is credited to the famous architect Puig y Cadafalch . It’s recognized for the large sculpture by Josep Maria Jujol in the middle of the roundabout.

This square is a bit like Barcelona’s Place de l’Etoile , with a lot of traffic around it. It’s also surrounded by several buildings and convention halls , including “Las Arenas” , a former bullring transformed into a shopping center.

Especially don’t miss the unmatched view from the rooftop terrace of Las Arenas.

Opposite Plaça Espanya, you’ll find the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC).

You’ll get there on foot in about 15 minutes, passing by the Magic Fountain (which you’ll have a chance to appreciate more later in the evening).

The MNAC is one of the largest museums in Spain and also one of the richest in Barcelona. Here, you can see the world’s largest collection of Romanesque art.

On Saturdays after 3 PM and on the first Sunday of each month, admission to the MNAC is free.

With the Barcelona City Pass , you can get a discount for your MNAC entry ticket by clicking here.

If you plan to visit other museums during your 5 days in Barcelona, you could opt for the Barcelona Museum Pass which grants access to the city’s top 6 museums.

Buy it directly with the button below:

After visiting the MNAC, it’s probably time for lunch.

I propose a little picnic in Montjuic Park , the green lung of the city situated on the hill of the same name.

To get there, the best option is to take the Montjuic funicular , which offers a great view during the ascent. Round-trip tickets for the cable car here.

Montjuic Park is very popular on weekends and in the evenings with locals who enjoy walking, sports, and fresh air .

The park is divided into several gardens . Do not miss the Greek Theater garden , the most beautiful in the park in my opinion!

There are also some historic monuments and museums:

• Urban Guard Museum
• Modern Art Museum
• Olympic Museum
• Joan Miro Foundation .

In 1992, the Olympic Games were held in Barcelona. The city underwent significant renovations for the event.

The Olympic facilities are still in place and have become one of the points of interest in the city , even if you’re not a sports fan.

I suggest you now head towards the Olympic Park of Montjuic , located close to the park. There, you will see:

• The Olympic Stadium
• Palau Sant Jordi
• Torre de Calatrava
• Barcelona Sports Palace
• Pavilion of the Industrial Spain.

Stay in Montjuic and finish the afternoon with a visit to the castle, open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Montjuic Castle dates back to 1640 and was used to protect the city from Catalan rebels . It later became a prison and was transformed into a military museum in the 1960s.

Plans are underway to turn it into a cultural center and an international center for peace soon.

The visit is very interesting, and you will especially enjoy a magnificent panorama of the Barcelona coastline from the heights of the monument.

Sampling tapas followed by the Magic Fountain show is a must-do evening during a 5-day trip to Barcelona.

So, I suggest you return to Plaça Espanya for a delicious dinner at a tapas restaurant, then enjoy the Magic Fountain show of Montjuic.

Every night from Wednesday to Sunday (starting at 8 p.m. from November to March, and at 9 p.m. from April to October), a music-backed light show takes place here.

The show lasts one hour and always attracts a crowd, so plan to arrive a bit early to secure good spots.

Day 4 – Strolling through Barcelona

Visits for day 4:

A. Port Vell B. Passeig Maritim C. Olympic Port D. Ciutadella Park E. Santa Maria del Mar Basilica

For this fourth morning of your 5 days in Barcelona, head to Port Vell (“Old Port” in Catalan), the city’s oldest port.

It’s a pleasant place to stroll, get some fresh air, enjoy the view, and shop.

You can also take advantage of the walk to climb to the top of the Columbus Monument or visit the Barcelona Aquarium .

Don’t miss the Moll de la Fusta (“Wooden Wharf”), a lovely place that once served for mooring and unloading timber cargoes.

La Rambla de Mar (the name of this floating bridge) leads you directly to the port shopping center, with its stores and restaurants.

From the port , you can also hop on a golondrina for a mini cruise. Reserve here.

Catamaran cruises (during the day or at sunset) are also available if you’d like to enjoy a moment of relaxation while admiring beautiful views over the city . Click here to book!

From Port Vell, take the Passeig Maritim and start a stroll along the coastline.

The Passeig Maritim is 5 km long and runs along the beaches of Barcelona . It’s a path well-loved by locals and tourists alike.

In summer, it’s perfect for stopping at one or several beaches for a picnic and/or a swim.

Sport enthusiasts can then stop at Parc de Mar to take a look at other Olympic facilities such as the Barcelona Olympic Port and Mar Bella Pavilion .

Continue your 5-day Barcelona itinerary with a visit to Ciutadella Park.

Dating back to 1888, this huge park is perfect for a breath of fresh air, a boat ride on the lake, and also contains several points of interest:

• The Triumphal Arch
• Barcelona Zoo
• The Catalan Parliament Building.

If you’re planning to visit the zoo with family, you can save money by booking online one of these Passes (click on the links to reserve):

• Barcelona Family Pass including: entry to the zoo + one-hour harbour cruise + skip-the-line entry to the wax museum
• Zoo and Aquarium Pack including: entry to the zoo + ticket to the aquarium + a ride on the Barcelona port cable car.

To end the day, I suggest you visit the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar.

It’s located in the historic El Born district.

This gothic basilica is very impressive both inside and out, and even more beautiful at night when illuminated .

For 8 euros, you can even climb to the top to the Terraces for a stunning view of the entire district.

For the evening , you can choose between one of these 3 activities I’ve selected for you:

• A guided tour of the best Tapas in Barcelona who will take you to several small local bars to sample 8 courses of tapas, accompanied by a drink at each stop
• A pub crawl with complimentary drinks + VIP club entry to a nightclub
• A ghost-themed tour where you’ll walk through the Gothic Quarter with a guide who’ll tell you lots of spooky, supernatural stories.

In four days, you’ll already have experienced a comprehensive tour of Barcelona .

For your fifth and final day , I suggest a day-trip around the city .

You have several options to choose from:

1) A visit to the Costa Brava, one of Spain’s most famous coastlines located to the north of Catalonia. Discover Lloret del Mar and Tossa del Mar while enjoying a boat trip.

This day-trip includes bus transportation and a guide. It needs to be booked by clicking the button below:

2) Day-trip to the Costa Brava with kayaking and snorkeling (8 hours duration): for up to 12 people, this package includes transfers to the Costa Brava, a kayaking session, and snorkeling .

Equipment is provided and lunch is included .

Book it right below:

3) For an even more unique day, you could also opt for a hot air balloon ride departing from Barcelona.

With this offer, you are picked up from your hotel and enjoy an one-hour hot air balloon flight over the city and its surroundings, with a picnic included .

4) Excursion to Montserrat, a retreat for Benedictine monks in the heart of the Catalan mountains.

This organized tour includes a round-trip train ride from Barcelona , the visit to the monastery , and the Museum of Montserrat with an audio guide.

5) If your five-day itinerary in Barcelona happens during winter, you can choose to go skiing at one of the resorts around Barcelona, like La Molina resort .

6) A day at the PortAventura theme park: enjoy a family outing at this amusement park where you can ride the tallest roller coaster in Europe!

Book your 12-hour day-trip here which includes round-trip bus transportation from Barcelona and skip-the-line tickets:

Having outlined how to visit Barcelona in 5 days, it’s time to tackle the question of accommodations! Where are you going to stay for your 5 nights in Barcelona?

When you’re not familiar with the city, it isn’t always easy to efficiently narrow down the myriad of choices .

So, I’ve selected a shortlist of the best hotels to stay in Barcelona, based on your budget:

• Hostel One Ramblas:  Youth hostel located in the center of Barcelona. Dorm bed from 33€ with dinner included. Strong points: the atmosphere, the price.
• Hotel Grums Barcelona:  Located next to Montjuic hill and 600 m from La Rambla. Elegant and bright rooms from 134€. Strong points: the spa with jacuzzi and sauna, room designs, location. It’s our favorite for value for money.
• Ohla Barcelona:   Perfectly located luxury hotel of Barcelona, between the Cathedral and Catalunya Square, 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 exterior and interior, the rooftop pool with a breathtaking view, the 3 gourmet restaurants. The best choice for a romantic stay in the heart of Barcelona.
• W Barcelona:  Barcelona’s legendary hotel located in Barceloneta district. Luxurious and well-equipped double rooms from 363€. Strong points: the view, the 2 pools, the amenities, the restaurants.  Without a doubt the most famous hotel in Barcelona!
• Hotel Arts Barcelona:   Five-star hotel located in Port Olympic district, 250 m from the beach and 300 m from Ciutadella Park. Design and ultra-spacious double rooms start at 670€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the 2-Michelin-starred restaurant, the outdoor pool with panoramic views, the design, and the contemporary art collection.  Our recommendation for a luxurious stay in Barcelona.

If these hotels are fully booked on your travel dates to Barcelona, or they don’t exactly meet your criteria, I’ve compiled a more extensive selection in my other article .

I’ve organized my suggestions by district and by price so you can easily find what you’re looking for.

Just click here to read it: The Best Hotels to Stay in Barcelona.

Are you going to spend 5 days in Barcelona with your family and wondering if there will be something for everyone? The answer is yes!

Barcelona is a city that is very family-friendly , offering a wide variety of activities that cater to all tastes.

I especially recommend the following visits that are sure to delight:

• Poble Espanyol: include in your itinerary if you wish, perhaps instead of a museum visit. Poble Espanyol is a life-size artificial village that showcases all types of existing houses. It’s located right near the Magic Fountain, a mere 5-minute walk. The visit is on foot and it’s a fun place that children really enjoy.
• Ciutadella Park (near El Born district): perfect for a family picnic, it also includes a great playground for kids.
• Tibidabo Amusement Park: located on the outskirts of the city, this amusement park sits atop the highest peak in Barcelona. A great spot for children aged 6 and up.
• PortAventura: a thrilling amusement park enjoyed by both young and old.
• Museu Blau: Barcelona’s natural history museum.

Otherwise, don’t worry too much; they are certainly going to appreciate most of the visits I’ve planned:

• The Magic Fountain show
• La Boqueria market
• Strolling along La Rambla
• Tasting tapas (with their hands!)
• Flamenco performances.

This 5-day Barcelona itinerary is quite comprehensive , but if you have more time or want to tweak it a bit, you’ll find even more activities to do in my detailed travel guide.

Depending on your interests, you’ll surely find other places to visit during your 5-day vacation in Barcelona.

You can find my dedicated Barcelona article right here: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Barcelona.

To help you visualize your routes over these 5 days in Barcelona, I have created a map listing the places to visit day by day . You can display the map legend by clicking the button in the top left corner with a little arrow. This will allow you to see the itineraries for each day.

As flight prices to Barcelona can vary greatly, it’s a good idea to compare them as early as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner. It’s the surefire way to get the best rate.

Need help planning your 5-day itinerary in Barcelona? Feel free to ask me your questions in the comments section.

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

• Barcelona: Top 25 best places to visit
• Madrid: The 21 best things to do
• 2 days in Barcelona – The best itinerary to visit the city in a weekend
• 3 days in Barcelona – The best 72-hour itinerary in the Catalan capital
• 4 days in Barcelona – The best day-by-day program
• 5 days in Barcelona – The ultimate itinerary for visiting the Catalan capital
• One week in Barcelona – My detailed 7-day itinerary!
• 2 days in Madrid – The best way to visit the city in a weekend
• 3 days in Madrid – The best itinerary for visiting the city in 72 hours
• 4 days in Madrid – The ultimate itinerary for visiting Spain’s capital!
• 5 days in Madrid – The best detailed day-by-day itinerary!
• Where to stay in Barcelona? My guide of the best places to stay for all budgets
• Where to stay in Madrid? All the best areas and hotels to stay in Madrid as a tourist

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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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thanks this was really helpful!

Thanks! I’m glad my 5-day itinerary in Barcelona helped you to plan your trip.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

3 Days in Barcelona: The Ultimate Barcelona Itinerary

Last updated: December 16, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 83 Comments

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most popular cities for visitors, and one of our favourite cities too. There’s loads to see and do, from the incredible architecture of Anton Gaudí, through to museums, UNESCO world heritage sites, markets, delicious tapas – and even a beach.

As you might imagine, it is not hard to fill your time when visiting Barcelona, even with three full days to play with. We’ve visited multiple times, and are always coming across new sites and things to do.

You should be aware that Barcelona is a fairly big city, with a number of fairly distinct areas. It does have a good public transport system, but obviously you want to spend more of your time sightseeing and less of your time on a bus or metro.

With that in mind, I’ve put together what I think is a good overview of some of the city’s main sights that will help you spend 3 days in Barcelona, either as part of a long weekend, or a longer European itinerary like this .

I’ve ordered the sights for each day by a logical order of how you might want to visit them and also put those sights first that you should visit earlier in the day before the crowds arrive, where possible.

Barcelona is very popular with visitors, and especially in the summer months attractions can become very crowded, so booking ahead where possible and turning up early are the key to a frustration free trip.

You might also want to consider looking into the Go Barcelona Pass , Barcelona City Pass , or Barcelona Card for your visit. These offer free and discounted admission, as well as skip the line access, travel options and various other perks that might make your visit easier.

For each attraction, I’ve highlighted which pass is best, and there’s a section on passes for Barcelona towards the end of the post. Jess has also written a comprehensive review and guide to using the Go Barcelona Pass , as well as a comparison of the main discount passes available in Barcelona , which are both worth a read.

Of course, an itinerary like this should just be a starting point for your plans, and at the end I’ve also added some optional sights that you might want to add in. You could also extend this itinerary over some more days if you really want to take your time exploring Barcelona. If you have less time, take a look at our suggested 2 day Barcelona itinerary .

Now, let’s take a look at our idea of the perfect way to spend 3 days in Barcelona.

A 3 Day Barcelona Itinerary

Barcelona itinerary: day 1.

The first day of our exploration focuses on the city centre of Barcelona, and everything here is easily walkable. It covers some of the more famous works by Anton Gaudí , plus one of the city’s most famous streets.

Casa Batlló

One of the most famous of Gaudí’s houses in Barcelona, Casa Batlló is also one of the most popular, so we definitely recommend you put this at the beginning of your day.

Even from the outside this property is intriguing, with the famous balconies on the building’s façade, which are reminiscent of Venetian masks.

Inside, there’s a stunning spine-like staircase and organic-feeling rooms which you can explore at your leisure before emerging onto the incredible roof terrace which is shaped to represent a dragon – one of Gaudí’s favourite icons.

As already mentioned, this is a popular spot. You can skip the ticket line by booking your ticket online in advance on GetYourGuide here . We recommend GetYourGuide for individual tickets as they usually include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance of your visit, which can be great if your plans change for any reason. Obviously you’ll want to check the cancellation policy of any ticket before booking though to be sure.

Casa Batlló is also included on the Go Barcelona Pass , giving you free entry to this, and many other attractions on the itinerary. It’s also included on the 3 Houses of Gaudi pass .

Alternatively, you can get discounted admission with a Barcelona Card if you buy your ticket on the door, or by booking in advance if you have a Barcelona City Pass.

Casa Milá , also known as La Pedrera, is a short walk from Casa Batlló, and is another of Gaudí’s houses in Barcelona – the last of his major civil works.

This one also has a famous façade, this time of undulating limestone, the stone-like look which earned it the nickname “La Pedrera”, which means the Quarry. This façade is self-supporting, freeing up the rest of the building from requiring load-bearing walls.

As soon as you enter the building, it will intrigue you. From the ground floor courtyard looking up there’s an incredible view of the inside of the building, with light pouring in from the roof to the interior apartments. As you go up the floors, you’ll explore some of the apartments that are open to the public, as well as the magnificent brick-ribbed loft space.

The highlight for many though is the roof terrace area, with its famous chimneys, skylights, and stairways. From here there are excellent views across the city, including to some of Gaudí’s other works, most notably the Sagrada Familia.

Casa Milá is also a popular stop for visitors. It’s a good place to use the Go Barcelona Pass, which has skip the line access to Casa Mila , meaning you don’t need to queue to get in here. It’s also included on the 3 Houses of Gaudi pass .

Again, you can get discounted admission with a Barcelona Card if you buy your ticket on the door, or by booking in advance when you buy your Barcelona City Pass. Alternatively, buy your tickets online in advance here .

Las Ramblas

Time for a spot of walking, and maybe all this sight-seeing has you hungry? Why not head past Plaça de Catalunya, and onto one of the city’s most famous streets for a stroll – Las Ramblas. Take a drink from the fountain at the northern end of the street, which will guarantee you’ll return to the city.

Then, head down the street for a spot of people watching and a wide range of outdoor dining options. Sure, they might not be the cheapest or most “authentic” options, but hey, you can get a pitcher of Sangria and watch the world go by, and what’s wrong with that?

La Boqueria

About half way down Las Ramblas you’ll come to La Boqueria, the city’s oldest and most famous market. This used to be just outside the old city wall, and has always been famous as the market that would have the items you couldn’t find elsewhere.

Today, the market is still popular with locals and visitors alike, and still has the reputation for having one of the widest choices of the city markets, with everything from meat and fish through to fruit, sweets and even food stalls.

It’s a good place to get a freshly squeezed fruit juice, to have a snack or just to admire the 19th century Modernista design, which is certainly worth the visit alone.

Mirador de Colom (Columbus Monument)

From Palau Güell, I suggest you continue your journey south along Las Ramblas until you get to the end, where you’ll be greeted by the sight of a large column, atop which sits a statue of Christopher Columbus, the famous Italian explorer largely responsible for opening up the Americas to European exploration.

This was a venture he achieved under the sponsorship of the Spanish monarchs at the time, and the statue commemorates his first voyage to the Americas.

Originally built for the Barcelona Universal Exposition in 1888, today the statue serves as both monument and tourist attraction, with the bonus that you can head up inside it for good views of the southern side of the city, including along the port and an excellent aerial view up Las Ramblas.

There’s an entry fee to the monument. Tickets can be bought in person. You get a discount if you have a Barcelona Card and if you book in advance if you have a Barcelona City Pass.

Las Golondrinas Boat Tour

At the end of Las Ramblas where you find the Columbus Monument is the marina area of Barcelona. So far the day has involved a fair bit of walking, so this might be a good opportunity to rest and let the scenery float by, perhaps accompanied by a coffee or something stronger.

From the port area, a number of operators offer boat tours of varying length which will give you a different perspective of Barcelona harbour.

We took the 90 minute boat tour with Las Golondrinas , which is included for free with the Go Barcelona Pass (discounted for holders of the Barcelona Card or Barcelona City Pass).

There are a number of operators though with different tour lengths and routes, depending on what you want to see.

Barcelona Aquarium or Catalonia History Museum

If a boat ride isn’t for you, or you want to keep exploring once the ride is finished, there are a couple of great options at this end of town.

Depending on your interests, you could visit the Barcelona Aquarium or the Catalonia History Museum (the former is free with the Go Barcelona Pass and both are discounted with the Barcelona Card & Barcelona City Pass).

Alternatively, you can buy tickets for the Aquarium here , and the history museum here .

We’ve been to both, the former is an excellent Aquarium and a good option for families. The Catalonia History Museum will take you through the full history of the region and its people, from prehistory right up to the modern day. It’s a fascinating insight into the region, and will keep you occupied for some time.

And that’s the end of a full first day in Barcelona! Time for an evening drink and some food, before we kick off our second day of our three day Barcelona itinerary.

Barcelona Itinerary: Day 2

Our second day in Barcelona will have you exploring the more north-eastern part of the city and visiting some of Barcelona’s highlights, starting with the famous:

Sagrada Familia

Without a doubt Gaudí’s masterpiece, this massive basilica was the work that Gaudí was labouring over when he tragically died. Construction started in 1882, although by the time of Gaudí’s death in 1926 it was still less than a quarter finished. At time of writing, it’s still not complete.

This doesn’t mean you can’t visit though. Despite this being an active construction zone, the majority of building is open to the public.

It’s another popular stop, so again we suggest you pencil this in as the first stop of the day – perhaps taking in sunrise from the park over the road, before heading in.

Entry is timed, and tickets sell out well in advance, so you will definitely want to buy your ticket online in advance and pick a time slot that suits you. You can do that on the official website here , as well as on Tiqets here and GetYourGuide here .

Note, the official website tends to have the lowest prices, but we suggest also checking out GetYourGuide as the majority of their tickets include the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance of your visit, which can be worth a slightly higher price in our opinion.

Note that as of 2022, tickets for entry prior to the last two hours of opening are a little more expensive, but do include an audioguide, which is well worth it.

Again, as it gets later in the day the building gets more crowded, so we definitely recommend visiting earlier in the day if you can. There’s also the option to take a guided tour of the cathedral .

Holders of the Barcelona Card get a discount on tickets, however to our knowledge this can only be redeemed when purchasing tickets in person, not online.

A number of passes include entry to the Sagrada Familia. The Go Barcelona Pass includes a guided tour, which is an excellent option for learning more about what you are seeing. The Barcelona City Pass also includes the Sagrada Familia, and lets you book your entrance time online before you go.

Another option is the Gaudi bundle , which includes pre-booked timed entry to the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, as well as an audioguide that covers both attractions.

See more on discount passes in Barcelona in the section on saving money in Barcelona below. We also recommend reading our guide to visiting the Sagrada Familia , which has everything you need to know to plan your visit.

Recinte Modernista Sant Pau

A relatively new opening to Barcelona visitors, the Recinte Modernista Sant Pau is quickly becoming one of Barcelona’s more popular attractions.

Originally built as a hospital, this series of buildings is one of the finest examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe, and has been awarded UNESCO world heritage status alongside the Palau de la Musica Catalana in the Gothic Quarter.

You can explore this complex and go inside a number of the buildings. It’s just a stunningly beautiful place to walk around and experience, both inside and outside, and is only a 15 – 20 minute walk from the Sagrada Familia. Well worth doing.

Free to Go Barcelona Pass holders, discounted admission for Barcelona Card holders. You can also buy tickets online in advance here .

Gaudí Experience 4D

Next on our itinerary is a trip up towards Park Güell. On the way, we suggest you might want to pop into the Gaudí experience , an interactive exhibition that will take you through the life and works of the architect responsible for so many of Barcelona’s sights. There’s an overview of some of his most notable works, as well as a 4D cinema.

Free with the Go Barcelona Pass, or you can buy a ticket online in advance here .

Situated on the hills towards the north of the city, Park Güell is another of Gaudí’s works. This is a little bit different though, being as it is a large park area with a number of installations to explore and visit.

Originally planned as a housing development of upper class properties offering spectacular views, the vision of sixty homes was never realised, with only two actually completed.

However, many of the features envisioned by Gaudí for the public spaces were created, including the entrance houses, main terrace area, mosaic serpentine bench, and colonnaded footpaths.

There is also a house museum you can visit on site which was Gaudí’s home for the last twenty years of his life. This has a separate entry fee, but if you are interested in seeing how he lived, is worth the visit.

Park Güell used to be free to visit, but its overwhelming popularity led to a ticketing system being put in place.

This has timed entrances, helping to keep the park more pleasant for everyone to visit. You can visit parts of the park without a ticket, but the key attractions, known as the Monumental Zone, do require a ticket.

You will want to book tickets for Park Güell online in advance , which you can do on GetYourGuide here , or on the official site here . This is definitely recommended to be sure you are not disappointed or have to wait when you arrive. If you do this, be sure you arrive at the entry time specified on the ticket as otherwise you won’t be able to get in.

Holders of the Barcelona City Pass can also pre-book their timed entry to Parc Guell online, and entry is also included as part of this card. Holders of the Go Barcelona Pass can visit Parc Guell as part of a free guided tour.

If you don’t want to invest in one of these passes but still want to visit both Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia, you might consider a Gaudi bundle , which includes pre-booked timed entry to both attractions, as well as an audioguide that covers both attractions.

And that sums up our second day of exploration in Barcelona! It might seem that there’s not so much on this day, but the attractions will take you a while to visit, and you will have to factor in transit times between them, so we’d suggest not trying to add too much more to today in case you run out of time.

Barcelona Itinerary: Day 3

The third day on our Barcelona itinerary has us starting in the Gothic Quarter, and then heading up above the town to visit a castle and a number of Barcelona’s most popular museums, finishing off with a spectacular free sound and light display. But first, we start with the:

Chocolate Museum

What better way to start the day than with chocolate? And given that your entry ticket to Barcelona’s chocolate museum is actually a real bar of chocolate, you can’t fail to be happy when you visit.

When you do, you’ll learn all about the history of one of the world’s favourite treats, including how it came to be so popular in Europe, how it is made, and some of the culture that grew up around it. Barcelona was one of the major ports for chocolate to arrive into Europe, and it played a key role in the economy of the city.

Also fun are the many chocolate statues and displays made of chocolate. Definitely a fun way to start a full day of exploration in Barcelona!

This one is free for Barcelona Card holders, or you can buy your ticket online in advance here .

Gothic Quarter

From the Chocolate Museum you’re going to head deep into the warren of narrow streets that is the Gothic Quarter.

This is the oldest part of the city, and is where some of the highlights of Barcelona are tucked away. I’d definitely recommend having a paper map handy when you start to explore – the high buildings and narrow streets mean GPS signals can get easily confused.

Whilst wandering the Gothic Quarter is an experience of itself, there are a number of attractions within that you should check out. First of these, coming from the Chocolate Museum, is the excellent Picasso Museum , which celebrates the early part of the artists life and work, as well as housing some of his later work. A must for fans. You can book a guided tour of the museum here .

From here, you can also visit the UNESCO world heritage listed Palau de la Musica Catalana . You can book tickets for this online here , or buy them in person at the box office. If you have a Barcelona Card, it’s good for a 20% discount on the tour price, but only when purchasing tickets in person.

A good option is also to visit the Palau de la Musica for a performance. You can see all the upcoming performances and book tickets for them here .

Heading further west in the Gothic Quarter, you’ll find yourself at Barcelona’s massive gothic Cathedral. This is free to enter, and worth popping into.

Next to it is the Gaudí Exhibition Centre, the first museum entirely dedicated to the works of Anton Gaudí. You can learn all about the architect and his architecture through images, models, audio-visuals and documents, and it’s a fascinating journey through his work.

Montjuïc Hill Attractions

We’re now going to head up Montjuïc Hill, which has a number of attractions atop it. Depending on your interests and how much time you have, you will probably want to pick a few of these rather than try to rush around all of them.

Montjuïc Castle

First on my list is the large fortress atop the hill, Montjuïc Castle . This huge fortress has played a key role in the history of the city over the last few hundred years, serving as a Spanish control over the potentially unruly Catalan city, as well as a prison and execution centre.

Today the castle is open to visitors and you can wander the huge walls, take in the views across the city skyline, and think back to darker times. There’s an entry fee, although it’s free to visit on Sunday afternoons.

Poble Espanyol

If you’re interested in learning about the different regions of Spain, and in particular their architecture and food, then a visit to Poble Espanyol should be on your list.

This is a huge open air architectural museum, built in 1929, which consists of 117 full-size buildings representing fifteen different regions of Spain, many of which are replicas of actual buildings. It’s also home to local artists, restaurants and shops, and you can see everything from glass blowing to jewellery making.

Again, you could spend a few hours just wandering around here as there is a lot to see and do. It also regularly hosts concerts, gastronomic festivals and other events.

Free to holders of the Go Barcelona Pass, discounted admission for Barcelona Card & Barcelona City Pass holders. You can also book a ticket online in advance here .

Joan Miro Foundation

Fans of Barcelona-born Joan Miró will definitely want to stop in at the Joan Miró Foundation on Montjuïc Hill. Created by the artist himself with the aim of promoting the work of young experimental artists, the museum displays a large number of Miró’s creations, stretching throughout his career.

The purpose built building is also an impressive and logically laid out structure, that will guide you through the artist’s works. There’s also a library on site which is home to Miró’s book collection.

There’s an entry fee, Barcelona City Pass holders get discounted admission. You can also book a ticket online in advance here .

National Museum of Catalunya Art

An imposing building with a spectacular view over the city, the National Museum of Catalan Art (MNAC) is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in the art of the Catalonia region.

It has art of various styles from across the centuries, including an impressive collection of romanesque church paintings.

The building itself is also quite spectacular, in particular the Oval Hall, a massive event space which houses one of Europe’s largest organs. You can also take the lift to the top floor to wander on the roof, which offers excellent views of the city.

Magic Fountain

The last entry on our final day of our three day Barcelona itinerary is the Magic Fountain , which you can see from the steps in front of the National Museum of Catalan Art.

This fountains runs a spectacular sound and light show in the evenings which is a real treat to watch as the water displays synchronise with the sound and light.

Built in 1929 for the International Exhibition, and restored for the 1992 Barcelona Olympic games, this is definitely one you won’t want to miss. The schedule depends on the time of year – you can see it here .

Barcelona Itinerary: Extras

There’s a lot to see in Barcelona beyond the above, and I wanted to highlight a few of our favourite spots. If you have a bit more time in Barcelona, or simply want to swap a few things around in the itinerary, the below items should definitely be in your list.

Take a Walking tour or Segway tour

If you buy a Go Barcelona Pass, you’ll find it comes with free walking tours of Barcelona and a Segway tour of Barcelona . We took advantage of the free walking tour, and chose a three hour tour around the highlights of the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas.

This was an excellent way to learn a bit about the history of the city and see some of the main attractions with a local.

If you do a tour like this, we’d suggest scheduling it early on in your trip as it will help orientate you to the city – plus you can ask your guide for tips and advice on things like local restaurants, bars and nightlife.

See a later section of this guide for tips on walking tours in Barcelona we recommend.

Palau Güell

Just off Las Ramblas you’ll find the Palau Güell , one of the earlier works by Gaudí in the city, and one where you can see many of his architectural visions coming into focus.

This is strikingly obvious as soon as you see the building from the outside, with its hugely impressive twin front doors in Gaudí’s famous parabolic arch shape.

These were designed to be large enough to accommodate a horse drawn carriage, with one door being for entering the building, and the other for exiting.

Once inside you’ll have the opportunity to see many of the rooms inside, including the central hall and the bedrooms, and of course, the roof terrace. This latter place is a popular spot to see the sunset, depending on when you visit.

You can buy a ticket in advance here . It’s also included on the 3 Houses of Gaudi pass .

Fans of FC Barcelona will probably have a visit to Camp Nou right at the top of their list. This is the home of Barcelona’s hugely successful football team, and during the day you can take a tour of the stadium to get a behind the scenes look at everything from the VIP suites to the players locker rooms. You can even sit in the seats the coach sits in during the game!

There’s also a well laid out museum which takes you through the history of the club, its impact on the city, and some of its notable players and achievements. Jess and I actually really enjoyed this visit, despite neither of us being huge football fans.

If you do decide to visit, we definitely advise coming early as it gets very popular. You’ll also want to check match times as obviously you can’t take a tour when the stadium is in use. Although fans may want to also catch a game here.

Camp Nou is free for holders of the Go Barcelona Pass, and there is a small discount for holders of the Barcelona Card. You can also book tickets here .

Note – Camp Nou is undergoing major construction works so access to the stadium is limited until November 2024.

Parc de la Ciutadella

If you would like to visit a city centre park, a good option is the Citadel Park, or Parc de la Ciutadella, which isn’t too far from the Chocolate Museum.

Dating from the 19th century, and the earliest green space in the city, this 70-acre park has plenty of green space – perfect for a picnic, or to grab a breather from all your exploring.

Its best known feature is likely the large water feature, which was one of the earlier works in the city that Gaudí was involved with, although he wasn’t well known at the time and his involvement was fairly minimal.

It’s a grand construction, topped with giant golden horse drawn chariots, and is worth seeing. Entry is free.

Torre Bellesguard

A little way north of the city centre, Torre Bellesguard is a relatively recent addition to the works of Gaudí that you can visit in the city.

Built for a private owner between 1900 and 1909, the home is still occupied by a private owner, so only certain parts of the property can be visited, although this does include the spectacular attic and roof areas which were the highlights in my mind.

I would suggest that this is well worth doing – this is a much less popular attraction than many of the other Gaudí properties, and you will have a bit more room to breathe.

I particularly enjoyed visiting the roof terrace, which has spectacular views over the city, with the bonus that the whole roof is designed to look like a dragon.

Guided tours currently run on weekends, and there are also audio guided tours available. See times and languages on the official site here . You can book tickets (with optional tour) here .

Colonia Güell

Colonia Güell is 23 kilometres from the city centre of Barcelona, but can still be reached by public transport, so don’t let the distance put you off. It’s a purpose built 19th century industrial village, which you can explore with the help of an audioguide.

The village is definitely worth exploring, but the highlight of a visit to Colonia Güell is the church known as Gaudí’s Crypt. Whilst the final vision was never completed, this building was the place where Gaudí first incorporated all of his architectural innovations, and it serves very much as a blueprint for much of the Sagrada Familia.

The only part of the church to be completed was the crypt area, although this feels more like a church than a crypt, with a full nave, altar and pews. It’s a truly unique creation, and as it requires a bit more effort to get here than say the Sagrada Familia, is a lot less crowded – we actually had the whole Crypt to ourselves for large parts of our visit.

Entry is free with the Go Barcelona Pass , and you get the audioguide as part of your entry too. The Barcelona Card gives discounted admission. You can also book tickets online in advance here .

And that sums up our suggested itinerary for three days in Barcelona! As you can see, there’s a lot to see and do here, and you’ll have no trouble filling your time. Now, let’s take a look at some practicalities for your visit, as well as a map of this Barcelona itinerary.

3 Day Barcelona Itinerary Map

To help you visualise all the above, we have put together a map which you can see below or on Google Maps here . It also includes our recommended hotels.

3 Day Barcelona Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Casa Batlló, Casa Milá, Las Ramblas, La Boqueria, Mirador de Colom, Las Golondrinas, Barcelona Aquarium
• Day 2: Sagrada Familia, Recinte Modernista Sant Pau, Gaudí Experience, Park Güell
• Day 3: Chocolate Museum, Gothic Quarter, Montjuïc Hill

How to Save Money on Your Barcelona Sight-Seeing

As you’ll have seen throughout this post, Barcelona has a number of options for saving money when visiting attractions in Barcelona.

The three main ones that we recommend visitors look at are the Go Barcelona Pass , the Barcelona City Pass , and the Barcelona Card .

These work a little differently, and depending on what you want to visit, you might find one works better for you than the other.

If you plan to visit everything on the main itinerary above, the Go Barcelona Pass is what we would recommend.

The combined price of the attractions which are included in the above Barcelona itinerary that are covered by the Go Barcelona Pass at time of writing is around €211, and a three-day pass is only €159 (as of April 2023).

Consider that it also includes the Barcelona Bus Turístic Hop on Hop off bus tour worth €30, plus a number of other attractions as well as a walking tour and bike tour, then we think the Go Barcelona Pass is excellent value for money and well worth considering for your Barcelona visit.

Read Jess’s full review and guide to using the Go Barcelona Pass to see if it makes sense for you.

If you don’t think you’ll visit enough attractions to make the Go Barcelona Pass worth it, then you might consider the Barcelona Card instead.

This is a cheaper option, and whilst it does offer free admission to a number of attractions, the majority of its benefit comes in the form of free public transport (including the airport train) and a range of discounts on popular attractions.

Another option if you just want to focus on the highlights, and then save on the other major attractions as you wish, is the Barcelona City Pass .

This pass includes both the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, and it lets you pre-book a timeslot for both of these, which is essential to a smooth queue free visit. It also includes a number of other features and attractions, including a hop on hop off bus ticket, and 10% off admission at the majority of the sites in this post.

So, which card to go for? Well, in the text above for each attraction I’ve made it clear where each card offers a benefit, so do take a look through and figure out which card might be best for you, and also check out the other features of the Barcelona City Pass , the Go Barcelona Pass and the Barcelona Card before making a decision, which may include discounted admissions, guide books, and so on.

Overall, if you’re planning on seeing everything in this guide, then the  Go Barcelona Pass will likely be the best option. If you are focusing primarily on specific highlights like the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, the Barcelona City Pass  is a fantastic option.

Finally, if you’re just going to a few attractions and are more concerned with sorting out your transport and getting a bit of a discount, check out the Barcelona Card .

Note – in 2020 the Barcelona Pass rebranded as the Go Barcelona Pass which is now a virtual product only – there is no physical pass option. The products included are the same, but the name and branding changed. Our photos are of the older product, from when it was available as a physical pass.

Getting Around Barcelona

Barcelona is easy to get around, with an extensive bus, metro and light rail network. It’s also easily walkable for the most part, although you will likely want to take public transport for some of the slightly further out destinations.

If you are going to use public transport you have two options, depending on how much you want to travel.

First, you can buy individual tickets as you go. If you decide to do this, the most cost-effective way to do so is the ten ticket (T-Casual) card.  This is much cheaper than buying individual tickets and also lets you change transport options within an hour and fifteen minutes of starting your journey.

Note this was previously known as the T10 card. Unlike the T10 card though, this cannot be used by multiple travellers for the same journey – each traveller needs their own card.

The other option for public transport is the Hola BCN card, which gives unlimited access to the transport network in the city, and is available for durations from 48 hours to 120 hours. You can buy that online here .

There are a couple of other options for paying for your Barcelona transport.

First, if you purchase a Barcelona Card or a Barcelona Card Express , you get free travel on the metro, buses, trams and trains for the duration of the card. This includes the airport metro and train.

Second, if you purchase a Go Barcelona Pass  or Barcelona City Pass , these both come with one day access to the Hop On Hop Off Barcelona Bus Tour , which covers nearly every major tourist site in the city.

Alternatively, you can purchase 1 or 2 day hop on hop off bus tickets directly here .

If you’re arriving into Barcelona by air, you can take a taxi or train into the city centre. There’s also an airport bus service, which is what we normally use. You can buy tickets on the day, but we normally reserve ours in advance so as not to have to worry about it. You can buy tickets for the Barcelona aerobus here .

Walking Tours of Barcelona

We love taking walking tours when we visit a city. It’s a great way to learn a lot about its history, culture and people, as well as get tips on what to see and where to eat.

There are a number of walking tour companies offering tours in the city. If you pick up one of the aforementioned passes, some of these include a walking tour, so definitely take advantage of that.

Otherwise, we usually recommend walking tour company Take Walks . We’ve taken tours with them in cities around the world, and enjoy the small groups and knowledgeable guides. They offer a number of tours in Barcelona, some of which we’ve included below along with other suggestions.

• This excellent value 2-hour walking tour of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter on GetYourGuide
• This 3 hour tour of the Gothic Quarter which includes tapas tasting. Included on the Go Barcelona Pass
• Complete Gaudí Tour : Interested in learning about Gaudi? This tour features some of the architects highlights, including Casa Batlló, Park Guell and the Sagrada Família. It even includes a Tower Climb of the latter. This is with Take Walks , one of our favourite walking tour companies.
• Barcelona Cooking Class : Want to learn how to cook some delicious Spanish cuisine? This Paella making party with a local chef includes a visit to Boqueria market and Sangria making!
• Skip the Line Express Sagrada Família Tour & Tickets – If you want a guided tour of the Sagrada Familia and are struggling to get official tickets, this is a great option
• If you prefer your tours to mix history with food, check out this 3.5 hour food walking tour of the Gothic Quarter which includes tapas tasting, drinks and dinner. This is another Take Walks tour.

Obviously, if you decide to take a walking tour you will need to tailor this itinerary to suit. We’d suggest doing it earlier in the trip so you can take full advantage of the tips your guide gives you.

Naturally, there are also many other walking tours to choose from. See this selection on GetYourGuide and these options on Viator for more ideas.

Day Trips from Barcelona

If you’re in Barcelona for longer, or would prefer to spend one of your days exploring the Catalonia region, then we have some fantastic day trip options for you to consider.

• A full day trip to Girona and Figueres – visiting Girona and Figueres is one of the more popular day trip options from Barcelona. Girona has spectacular old medieval streets to explore, Figueres was the birthplace of Dali, and it has a fantastic Dali museum.
• A luxury full day small-group tour from Barcelona which includes the Dali Museum, Girona, and lunch in Besalu
• A day tour to Montserrat – home to the Montserrat monastery, built at the top of the impressive Montserrat mountains. This is a wonderful place for hiking and epic photos. The full day tour includes wine tasting and lunch.
• A day tour of the medieval villages of Catalonia , which includes stunning Besalu as well as Rupit and Tavertet
• A full day small group tou r to Montserrat that includes early Entrance to Montserrat Monastery as well as a Gourmet Cava Tour and lunch
• A hot air balloon tour – this tour includes a hot air balloon ride, transfers and breakfast
• A full day tour of the Pyrenees – this includes a visit to the stunning Nuria Valley which can only be accessed on foot or by rack railway. In summer it’s the perfect place for hiking, and in winter it’s a haven for snow sports. You can also book a full day hiking trip if you prefer.
• Speaking of skiing, if you visit Spain in winter you can take a day trip from Barcelona and go skiing! See our detailed guide to how and where to go skiing in Spain here
• A full day tour of the Costa Brava coastline – the rugged Costa Brava coastline is home to stunning beaches, ruined Roman cities and dramatic coves. This tour will take you to some of the highlights.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Barcelona has no shortage of choice when it comes to accommodation, and we’ve stayed at a number of different locations in the city in both apartments and hotels.

Our preferred option when booking accommodation is booking.com (see their Barcelona listings here ). They list everything from hotels to apartments to hostels, and we find they usually have the widest range at the most competitive prices.

To give you an idea of what’s available, here are some options we recommend:

• Hotel Barcelona Catedral – a 4* property in Barcelona in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. We’ve stayed here, and enjoyed the roof top pool and incredible central location.
• Hostel One Ramblas – a very well reviewed and very central hostel option
• The 8 Boutique B&B – a highly rated and well located bed and breakfast
• Duquesa de Cardona – a 4* property on the waterfront with a roof top bar
• Leonardo Hotel Barcelona Las Ramblas – part of the good value Leonardo chain, this 3* property is a few moments from Las Ramblas. We enjoyed our stay here, and the breakfast in particular was excellent.

Apartment rentals through sites like Plum Guide are also available. One thing to be aware of is that in Barcelona these need to be registered with the city. When they are registered they will be issued a license number. If you want to stay in an apartment rental in Barcelona, then we recommend picking one which has the license number on the listing.

If you would prefer to stay in an in apartment in Barcelona, then we recommend Plum Guide .

Plum Guide carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. We’ve stayed at a number of their properties around the world, and you can see our  review of the Plum Guide here . See their listings for Barcelona here .

If you can’t find what you want from the above choices, or you want some new options to try out, we wrote a whole post on the  best alternatives to AirBnB  which you should check out!

Practicalities for Visiting Barcelona

Safety: We’ve not had any problems in Barcelona, although the city carries a reputation for petty crime, in particular pick pockets. These are known to frequent tourist areas, especially Las Ramblas and the metro system. We believe that most crime is opportunistic in nature, so if you take basic precautions and are aware of some common Barcelona scams , you should be fine.

Power: Electricity is of the 220v standard, with the 2 pin European style plug. Travellers from countries like the UK and the US will need an adapter, and US travellers need to check their equipment supports the 220v standard – it will be written clearly on the power adapter.

See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

Currency: Barcelona is part of the Eurozone, so the main currency is the Euro. You can get these from ATM’s, banks and currency exchanges, although credit cards are of course widely accepted.

Internet: Internet access is widely available in the form of WiFi all around the city and in hotels and coffee shops, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting online. You can also pick up local SIM cards if you have an unlocked phone. If you are travelling from the USA, consider a Google Fi package which lets you use your data overseas.

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options.

Water: The water in the taps is safe to drink, but tastes heavily chlorinated. If you don’t like the taste, bottled water is widely available.

Further Reading for your 3 Day Barcelona Trip

Well, that was a lot of content to help you plan your trip to Barcelona! Hopefully you find it useful. As well as the above, we have a number of other resources we’d like to recommend to help you out, both content we’ve written ourselves, and resources we’ve found online. Between this post and these resources, you should be able to put together the perfect trip!

• If you’re visiting for a shorter time period, here’s a suggested itinerary for one day in Barcelona as well as our 2 day Barcelona itinerary .
• Our guide to the best photography spots in Barcelona
• Jess’s comprehensive review and guide to using the Go Barcelona Pass
• A post comparing the three main discount passes available in Barcelona , to help you decide which one will save you the most money
• A guide to taking a day trip from Barcelona to Girona and Figueres
• A guide to the best locations for getting a great view of Barcelona
• Some of our favourite street art in Barcelona
• Want to see some of Gaudi’s creations? Check out our definitive guide to the best Gaudi sights in Barcelona
• Thinking of heading out of town? Check out our definitive guide to the Spanish Pyrenees , as well as our guides to things to do in Girona , and things to do in Besalu !
• The Lonely Planet Pocket Guide to Barcelona
• Rick Steve’s Barcelona Guide
• The official Barcelona Tourism webpage

And that sums up our idea of how to spend the perfect three days exploring Barcelona! We hope you found this itinerary useful. Are you planning a trip to Barcelona? What do you want to see when you do? Let us know in the comments below!

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Ranger Roberts says

4th September 2023 at 7:14 pm

How Do you know what dates and times are available to purchase The Barcelona city pass ?? Ive put in multiple combinations all showing availability but when I try to confirm itinerary I get “Tickets you have selected are no longer available. ” I’m looking around the 26-29th of Sep ..

I see where time slots are sold out for Sagrada Familia but not for for any other selection including HOHO Bus.. So I dont know what or how many selections to change and what may options are .. Please help .. I’m on the Tibet website .

Thank you .. Ranger Roberts

Laurence Norah says

6th September 2023 at 3:16 pm

Hi Ranger Roberts,

So I just checked the Barcelona Pass on the Tiqets website and it seemed to let me pick most combinations and times around the time you are visiting. So I am wondering if there was a glitch when you tried? Otherwise, I’d recommend reaching out to the Tiqets team via their website to ask for some assistance.

Apologies I can’t be of more assistance, but do have a great time in Barcelona!

27th February 2020 at 8:32 am

Hi Laurence,

I am planning a 3 day trip to Barcelona in the month of June and below is a schedule of attractions I have planned to cover in 3 days: Day 1 – Casa Batlló, Casa Milá, Las Ramblas, La Boqueria, Parc de la Ciutadella, Mirador de Colom, Las Golondrinas Boat Tour

Day 2 – Camp Nou Stadium tour, Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Chocolate Museum, Gothic Quarter – Barcelona Walking Tour, Los Tarantos Flamenco Show

Day 3 – Cost Brave full-day tour

Also, I would be using public transport from the airport to the city and within the city for 3 days.

Can you please help me with which Card I should get? Barcelona Card (free public transport) or the Go Barcelona Card?

Also, if I choose the Barcelona Card – will I get a discount on tickets for below attractions : 1. Sagrada Familia 2. Parc Guell 3. Chocolate Museum 4. Camp Nou Stadium tour 5. Casa Batllo 6. Casa Mila etc.

27th February 2020 at 10:52 am

Sounds like a great trip! So, first, let’s look at the individual entry prices for each attraction (Feb 2020 prices):

Casa Batllo – €25 (online) Casa Mila – €24 (online) Las Ramblas – free La Boqueria – free Parc de la Ciutadella – free Mirador de Colom – €5.4 (online) Las Golondrinas Boat Tour – €15.50 Camp Nou – €26 (online) Sagrada Familia – €26 (online) (there is a €20 ticket, but this can only be used for the last two hours of opening) Park Guell – €10 (online) Chocolate Museum – €6 Gothic Quarter Barcelona Walking Tour – €18 Los Tarantos Flamenco Show – €17

So you are looking at €172.9 for attractions so far.

For transport to and from the airport, the Aerobus from the airport is €5.90 one way, and €10.2 return.

For transport around the city, you can either get a transport card, or buy individual tickets. A transport card for two days is €16.30. You can also buy a pack of 10 individual tickets for €11.35. I actually think this might work out better for you as you should be able to walk to most places, with the exception of Camp Nou and Parc Guell. However, some of the passes come with the Hop on Hop off bus, which stops at those locations.

We usually recommend three cards in Barcelona, the Barcelona City Pass , the Go Barcelona Pass and the Barcelona Card .

You can see our full comparison of all the Barcelona passes here .

Let’s look at your plan and see which card would be best value for you 🙂

The Barcelona City Pass. This includes entry to the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, as well as a one-way airport transfer. There’s also a 1 day Hop on Hop off bus. Then you get 20% off a number of attractions, including most of the attractions you plan to visit, which also includes 20% off a Costa Brava day tour. The price is €88.

I added up the price of the pass overall once you take into account what is included and the discounts, and you’d end up paying €202.9. So on the face of it, not a great discount for what you want to see. However, it does include the airport bus one way (€5.9), and a one day HOHO bus, (€25). However, probably not the best fit for you still.

The Go Barcelona Pass. This includes many attractions you want to see, with the exception of Mirador de Colom, Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Chocolate Museum and Los Tarantos. The pass costs €99.99 for two days. I added up the cost of the pass plus the tickets you have to buy, and it comes to €164.39 – so this is definitely a saving. Consider it also has the HOHO bus and lots of other attractions that you might consider visiting, and this is definitely an option to consider I think.

The Barcelona Card. This primarily features museums for free, and then has discounts on other attractions. It also includes a transport pass. The pass costs €41.4, which is quite low. However, you have to pay full price for Camp Nou, Sagrada Familia and some other attractions. I did the math, and based on your plan, the total with the card, attractions and discounted attractions is €184.8.

So far, I would say the best option is the 2 day Barcelona Card. You would have to pay for your own transport to and from the airport. However, you can then use the HOHO bus for your second day. I would suggest planning your day by looking at the route of the HOHO bus as it goes one way around the city. That said, as the timings might be quite tight on that day, taking public transport might be best as it will likely be faster!

I hope this all helps with your planning 🙂

arlene says

25th October 2019 at 3:29 pm

i printed it thru the icon its 89 pages long!big print a lot of wasted space and paper

25th October 2019 at 4:25 pm

Thanks for the feedback. This is a new feature on the website so it is useful to have this feedback. I have adjusted the font size for the printable page – can you let me know how many pages it shows now for you? It seems to be different for different people, but hopefully this has fixed it. No need to print it again of course.

Marcy Lane says

19th October 2019 at 8:23 am

Where can I find the print button. I don’t see it. We are going to Lisbon first with my husband and I and are meeting our daughter and her young family. Is this kid friendly? Where can I find the print button? I don’t see it? This is fabulous! Do you have itinerary for Lisbon too?

19th October 2019 at 8:26 am

There should be a print button in the social sharing icons that float down the side of the post (on desktop) and are at the bottom of the post (on desktop and mobile). It’s a blue icon, just after the e-mail envelope (second icon along). Let me know if you don’t see it, and what you see there instead, as we’ve only just implemented this and so it might not be displaying properly everywhere. If you don’t see it, if you could let me know what browser you are using.

For Lisbon, we haven’t visited yet so we don’t have an itinerary unfortunately.

For Barcelona – this itinerary is kid friendly, although it will depend on the kid and their stamina for sight seeing! So you might want to cut it down a bit to make it more manageable depending on their age and interests 🙂

Have a great trip!

19th October 2019 at 8:44 pm

The message said to sign up for the newsletter to get the itininery which I did. I haven’t gotten a confirmation that I signed up so I can get the itinerary. thanks

19th October 2019 at 9:09 pm

Thanks for coming back to me. I can see you have signed up and still need to confirm. If you could check your spam/trash folders as sometimes the confirmation e-mails go there. If it’s not there, and you haven’t received it by tomorrow, let me know and I can confirm you manually,

19th October 2019 at 9:17 pm

It’s not in my spam. I just looked. Can you send me the itinerary to my email address? Would that work? [email protected]

19th October 2019 at 9:26 pm

I’ve manually approved your request and so you should be able to access the print page now. If you put in your e-mail address it should work.

I’ve raised this as an issue with our e-mail provider as you should definitely have received our e-mail!

Let me know if you have any more problems 🙂

TONY FEEHAN says

27th September 2019 at 7:48 am

Hi, I have never been to Barcelona, I travel in a couple of days for a 4 night stay with my wife, apart from going to the Camp Nou and the beach, I didnt really think there was too much there but you guide has changed my mind, a brilliant blog, really looking forward to going now, thanks you both, Tony Feehan

27th September 2019 at 7:02 pm

Thanks very much Tony – have a great time in Barcelona 😀 Do let us know how you enjoy it!

23rd September 2019 at 7:59 am

Thank you Laurence (and Jess). I’m from the US, currently in Paris with my family, and taking off to Barcelona later today to get away from everyone. Original plan was to camp out in a hotel and get some work done in peace (us, Americans, and our stupid deadlines), but after reading your article it looks like I’ll be paying attention to more than the laptop screen. I’m only going for a day or two, but your extensive guide will be indispensable to making the most out of the short trip. Cheers!

23rd September 2019 at 9:55 am

Our pleasure! You definitely won’t be short of a thing or two to do in Barcelona 😉 Even if you only manage to see a few sights in between working, it will be worth it 😀 Have a great time, and good luck with the deadline!

Nick Wells says

20th September 2019 at 4:05 pm

Hi, A great post with the most amazing and insightful advice. My wife and i are taking our daughter in October for 3 days and we will certainly utilise your travel advice – thanks. Quick question we appreciate that Barcelona has multiple options re accommodation and we have based on price and availability got reduced the list to 4 hotels. Have you stayed in any,c an you give advice re location etc Leonardo Hotel Las Rambals (£376) Room Mate Carla (£398) H10 Universitat (476) Royal Ramblas (£446) Many Thanks ..

20th September 2019 at 4:09 pm

Thanks for your comment 🙂 We have stayed at the Leonardo Hotel on Las Ramblas and thought it was nice. The street was relatively quiet (it’s a block or so back from Las Ramblas itself), and the breakfast was very comprehensive if you opt for that option. Location wise it was within walking distance to most of the highlights, otherwise very close to a metro stop for the other sights.

We’ve not stayed at the others so can’t comment specifically on those 🙂

19th September 2019 at 6:02 pm

Thank you so much for sharing such a wonderful detailed itinerary plan. This really helps. We are planning our first trip to Barcelona in mid November. Is it a good time to visit Barcelona? How about weather.. Will it be pleasant or very cold in November. Appreciate your inputs.

19th September 2019 at 7:13 pm

Thanks very much, it’s my pleasure. November it will definitely be a bit cooler in Barcelona, although not too cold – probably between 10C in the evening and as high as 20C in the day time. So pretty perfect for sightseeing in my opinion. If you are unlucky and it is windy, then it might feel cooler. So you would want to pack some warmer clothes, but overall it should be pleasant 🙂

Christopher Gladney says

12th September 2019 at 4:59 pm

Hi, this is extremely helpful! Similar to Rome, is there a Google Maps to accompany this itinerary?

14th September 2019 at 5:05 pm

Hi Christopher!

A great point! I have added the map now 🙂

Marie Michelle Aurélus says

12th September 2019 at 3:11 pm

Thank you for taking the time to put together such useful and comprehensive information on the website. I am from Haiti and i will be traveling tomorrow to Lisbon and Barcelona . I am lucky to come across this article the day prior to my departure I can’t wait to visit the historic and beautiful sites you have recommended.

Thank you and kindest regards

Marie Michelle

13th September 2019 at 8:36 pm

Our pleasure Marie – have a fantastic trip!

7th September 2019 at 6:22 pm

This article was so helpful, we are going next May for three days before our cruise and it sorted out a lot of things. A friend told me about a wine and concert they did on the roof of a building have you ever heard of one?

8th September 2019 at 10:25 am

Delighted to be able to help 🙂 We’ve not actually heard or done one of these, was your friend able to give you any more details? Was it a performance venue or something arranged at a hotel?

24th June 2019 at 4:06 pm

Your site is so helpful! Thank you.

Do you know if the magic fountain is on during the day? I know it would be without lights and music. I’m just wondering if it runs or they turn it off during the day. I can’t imagine that fighting all the crowds at night would be a pleasant experience while traveling with two teenagers, but we’d love to see it on our way down from the castle.

25th June 2019 at 1:25 am

Our pleasure! So, the Magic fountain sound and light show only runs in the evenings, you can see the schedule here: https://www.barcelona.cat/en/what-to-do-in-bcn/magic-fountain/magic-fountains-show-times

However, parts of the fountain do run in the daytime I believe, although not with the choreographed sound and light. I would urge you to see it at night if you can though, it’s quite spectacular, and it’s a big space so there is room for lots of people 🙂

27th June 2019 at 3:55 pm

Thank you, Laurence.

I’ve been looking for a good, casual restaurant for paella in Barcelona. Do you have any recommendations? We also took you up on your recommendation and booked a balloon ride with Vols de Coloms. We’re staying in Santa Pau before and after the balloon and are looking for a casual but good local restaurant between Olat, Santa Pau and Besalu and are are traveling with two teenage boys. We will have a car as well. Do you have any recommendations?

Thanks again for your help!

27th June 2019 at 7:36 pm

We don’t have any paella recommendations for Barcelona – the dish is actually from Valencia, so whilst it is of course available in Barcelona, it’s not a local specialty. For tapas though we can recommend La Alcoba Azul which is excellent.

For Santa Pau, we have dined at Cal Sastre which is also fantastic 🙂 We can recommend reading our specific regional guide for more ideas: https://independenttravelcats.com/la-garrotxa-travel-guide-volcanic-catalonia-spain/

27th June 2019 at 7:48 pm

Thank you. Great news about Cal Sastre since that is where we are staying.

And, thanks for the information about the paella. That helps me to understand why I am having trouble finding a place. Have you heard of Bar Mut or Casa Lolea in Barcelona? I’m going to add La Alcoba Azul to our plans. Thank you!!!!

27th June 2019 at 7:52 pm

Oh, you’ll have a wonderful time there. It’s so picturesque and peaceful 🙂 I have to be honest, I have not heard of either of those locations. That doesn’t mean much though, there are thousands of restaurants in Barcelona. We usually just go by recent reviews on Google Maps to find someplace!

Catherine says

20th June 2019 at 10:52 pm

Hello!! What a great blog you have! I am looking for recommendations regarding best part of the city to stay in order to take in most, if not all, of the items on your 3 day Barcelona itinerary. Looking for a 4* or better hotel. Another possibility would be an Airbnb property to rent. Saw one available in Eixample – would this be a good location option? Also, what are recommendations regarding the Salvador Dali Museum? Many thanks!

23rd June 2019 at 12:02 am

Hi Katherine!

Thank you very much! So there are lots of hotels in the city that meet your criteria. The one we stayed at most recently which has a great location is Hotel Barcelona Catedral , which is right in the gothic quarter and perfect for getting to everything. The Eixample is a good area as well.

For the Salvador Dali museum, the easiest way is to take a tour that goes from Barcelona, such as this one: A full day trip to Girona and Figueres . That will get you to and from the museum, plus you’ll have some time to explore Girona which is also lovely.

Have a great trip – let me know if you have any more questions!

Larry Krantz says

4th June 2019 at 5:12 pm

Just came across your 3 Days in Barcelona on the internet while planning for our trip in October. What a wonderful, comprehensive itinerary. We are thinking of starting our stay by taking a city tour bus around the City to get a quick overall taste, and then following your itinerary. Any recommendations for the bus tour? We’ll be going on to Morocco so any thoughts on our getting there? Thanks very much.

4th June 2019 at 5:42 pm

Hi Larry – thanks very much!

So we’ve only taken the official bus tour, which is included in the Barcelona Pass. It’s the Hop on Hop off bus tour which goes around the majority of the sights, and has an audioguide in a variety of languages. So that would be the one I recommend. If you aren’t getting a Barcelona Pass, or one of the other passes which includes a bus tour, then you can buy an individual ticket for that here .

From Barcelona, there are direct flights to Marrakesh if that’s where you are heading. The easiest way is going to be to fly. We usually use Kiwi to check flights as it’s one of the few comparison tools that includes most of the budget airlines. Just be sure to add any bags to get the true price 🙂

Let me know if you have any more questions, and have a great trip!

ferdie syfu says

31st May 2019 at 2:19 pm

I have read your thorough blog on a three day stay in Barcelona. It will be our first time traveling to barcelona , me and my wife and both 50 years old. we will be coming from Madrid by train and staying for 3 nights in June. i heard the weather is not cold this time of the year. are the three days enough or shall we stay for a fourth? thank you likewise for accommodation recommendations, as we have not planned this trip yet, we are still looking, we normally travel by train or by bus to get around, so we would normally choose a lace close to stations.

31st May 2019 at 4:07 pm

So there is a lot to see in Barcelona! We’ve visited many times and always find more to do. So you will certainly have plenty of options if you decide to stay a fourth day 🙂

For accommodation, there’s a great metro in Barcelona and it shouldn’t be hard to find a stop close to a hotel as there are lots of stops. So that shouldn’t be hard.

15th May 2019 at 2:55 pm

What a great itinerary! We will be visiting Barcelona for 4 days in January. Is the boat tour offered in January?

16th May 2019 at 11:32 am

Yes it is, although I believe it only goes once a day rather than multiple times a day, so you will want to check the timetable so as to be sure not to miss it. You can see that here .

Jocelyn S says

6th April 2019 at 6:11 am

Hi there, great article. Any tips for a family of 11 adults and 1 toddler (3yrs old), 1 adult can’t walk for long distances or time..maybe an hour at most. Any suggestions on where to stay for a big group?

Thanks ahead of time.

6th April 2019 at 12:19 pm

Hi Jocelyn!

So my tip would be to take advantage of the Hop on Hop off bus, as that will get you to all the sights in the city and minimise walking time. Alternatively, the Barcelona metro system is also very good and goes to most locations on this itinerary.

For accommodation, I’ve not travelled in large group. However, I would suggest looking for a multi-room apartment which will likely be the most cost effective option as otherwise you will have to pay for a lot of individual hotel rooms.

For example, this search on booking.com is set up to just show apartments that will take up to 11 adults. You will have to adjust the dates of course, but there are a variety of options, and the prices are very reasonable if you calculate it per person (you should be able to get a central apartment for between $30 and $60 per person per night, depending on when you visit I think).

Robin N Hall says

3rd April 2019 at 11:40 pm

Thank you so very much for such a comprehensive site on what to do, when and how much. I really appreciate all the time you have saved us. We will be attending a family wedding in London in September and then thought we’d fly to Barcelona for a 3 day visit and we will likely follow your itinerary to the T. Thank you again!

4th April 2019 at 11:56 am

Our pleasure Robin – thanks very much for taking the time to let us know you found the content useful. It’s why we write it, and it’s lovely to hear feedback. Have a wonderful trip – we’d love to hear how it went!

19th March 2019 at 11:54 am

Hi Great site and itinerary – as a relative neanderthal IT etc do you have this a printable version – thanks Steve

20th March 2019 at 12:49 pm

So this isn’t an option we currently have on the site. We know that most browsers do have a print function, so that would likely be the easiest option for now.

17th October 2019 at 6:43 pm

I appreciate this might be a bit late for your trip, but for others reading and in case you use our site in the future for other trips, we’ve now added a print button on all our posts 🙂

Happy travels!

Carol L says

21st February 2019 at 4:30 am

Weather in mid May, based on what I can tell from reading it seems dresses and pants and short sleeves for day time with jacket at night—-is that correct based on your experience? Also any recommendation for local place to see Flamenco dancing?

21st February 2019 at 8:51 am

That sounds about right – the nights tend to cool down a bit. It might also be quite warm in May (climate is so hard to predict), so you may want shorts or lighter, shorter skirts.

For Flamenco, there are a lot of options. Tablao de Carmen and Palau Dalmases Flamenco are both very highly rated, although we haven’t attended either. However I would definitely check out online reviews and go for the best reviewed options 🙂

13th February 2019 at 4:35 pm

Thanks for your Itinerary for major tourist cities and I found it very usefully when I planed my trip to Paris last summer.. I basically followed your itinerary daily, used Paris Pass and had wonderful time.

This year I plan to visit London and Barcelona and plan to follow your itinerary of both cities.. Does this Barcelona itinerary comes with a google map like other cities?

13th February 2019 at 7:06 pm

I’m delighted that you have found our content useful for your trips! You are right, this post is missing a map. I will add one in the next few days – sorry about that!

16th February 2019 at 2:56 am

Hi Laurence, We will arrive Barcelona for a 12 nights cruise trip in end of May and stay behind for 3 days after disembark. Can I ask what sort of pass are suitable for us as we have 6 hours on first day then boarding on the cruise at evening. After 12 nights of the cruise, we will stay behind of 3 days in Barcelona. This is our first time visit and I don’t know what pass and travel card are suitable. I am not quite sure how to work out the 3-day Barcelona Pass plus Travelcard because if we activate on the first day then it seems not worth for a pass. Please advise for any better idea.

17th February 2019 at 4:38 pm

It definitely depends on which attractions you want to visit in Barcelona. My suggestion would be to get the three day Barcelona Pass for your three days, but not to activate it on your first day. Instead, I would suggest maybe visiting the Sagrada Familia on your first day as that is not included on the Barcelona Pass. Then you can see the other sites when you come back from your cruise. You also might not need the travel card – public transport is very cheap in Barcelona, and you can take the metro to most locations for around a euro a ride if you buy a 10 journey travel card (which can be used for multiple people). I do however urge you to see what attractions the pass covers before deciding. To help out, we have a guide to all our favourite Barcelona Passes here:

https://independenttravelcats.com/barcelona-discount-passes-barcelona-card-vs-barcelona-pass-vs-barcelona-museum-pass/

I hope this helps – let me know if you have any other questions!

18th February 2019 at 8:04 am

Hi Laurence, Thank you so much for your suggestion and it helps us to make the decision.

Cheers, Anita

18th February 2019 at 8:15 am

My pleasure Anita – have a great trip!

26th January 2019 at 2:48 pm

We will be in Barcelona in March and was wondering what were your top choices for restuarants and food. We will also be visiting Lisbon and Paris during this trip and we are all about food experiences any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you

26th January 2019 at 3:12 pm

So we don’t currently have a guide to where to eat in Barcelona as we tend to just pick the places with good deals and good recent reviews on Google Maps. However, we do have a guide for Paris which you might find useful:

https://independenttravelcats.com/paris-lunch-splurges-saving-money-on-michelin-starred-restaurants/

We’ve not visited Lisbon yet, so can’t help there I’m afraid!

have a great trip, and let us know if you have any more questions 🙂

Fabiana says

12th January 2019 at 2:00 pm

I’m so thankful for this!!! Very very helpful and great readingg! ✵✵ ✵Greetings from Brazil✵

12th January 2019 at 4:08 pm

My pleasure – I hope you have a wonderful trip and do let us know if you have any questions!

Tony Snellgrove says

13th November 2018 at 5:44 am

great site guys, well done, very helpful, we will be using your suggestions.

13th November 2018 at 3:32 pm

Thanks very much Tony!

11th November 2018 at 7:47 pm

Very comprehensive itinerary! My husband and I will be heading to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, also with a 3 day stay, and I think the plan so far will be to follow your itinerary to the T 🙂 I think we will be purchasing the Barcelona Pass. Just wondering at which point and how did you incorporate the hop on hop off bus that was included in the Barcelona pass into the trip?

11th November 2018 at 7:56 pm

Hi Emily! My suggestion for your trip is to use the HOHO bus for Day 2, as it’s an easy way to get from the city center to the Sagrada Familia and then on to Parc Guell (you would just have to walk to the Recinte from Sagrada Familia, which is not too far). You can then take it back from Parc Guell – it take a nice route around the city at this section, and you will see a few things from the bus that you might not otherwise have seen 🙂

Have a great trip, and let us know how it goes!

GBrown says

8th November 2018 at 2:43 am

I would like to plan a 3-day trip during the week of December 17-23 to some place warm and sunny. What places do you recommend in South or Central America? Thanks,

8th November 2018 at 8:12 pm

That’s quite a big part of the world! To be honest, we have only visited Costa Rica and Ecuador, so don’t have extensive knowledge of that area. Costa Rica would be a good option, as would much of the Carribean, but you’ll want to check the weather of course. Otherwise, you might also consider Thailand or Sri Lanka 🙂

Hope this helps!

Bob Lee says

11th September 2018 at 12:34 pm

Hi do you do any itinerary for other cities in Spain eg Madrid?

11th September 2018 at 12:49 pm

Hey Bob! We don’t have itineraries for the other cities as yet as we’ve not visited them, however it’s on the to-do list, so stay tuned 🙂

Kevi Jackson says

9th June 2018 at 5:49 pm

I want to confirm what sights are free with the Barcelona card, but cannot find the information online. The Barcelona card website lists the Picasso museum, but not some of the others we want to see. Are you able to reserve times for visits via the Barcelona card rather than each individual sight? (Namely the Chocolate Museum and the Monument Zone of Park Guell). Also what does ICOM stand for? TIA!

11th June 2018 at 11:38 pm

The full list of museums and attractions included are here: http://bcnshop.barcelonaturisme.com/imgfiles/ecv/card/BarcelonaCard2018.pdf

Unfortunately, there’s no one card that covers everything in Barcelona, so you have to figure out which one suits you best. For the Chocolate Museum you don’t need to reserve in advance. The only sights that require advance reservations to secure a spot are Parc Guell and the Sagrada Familia. You can book tickets for those directly online. The only city card we currently know of that lets you book those tickets in advance is the Barcelona City Pass ( https://travelcats.barcelona.ticketbar.eu/en/discount-cards/barcelona-city-pass-/ ) – we’re in the process of reviewing this and will be adding it to this post soon, but you might find it meets your needs. Once you get that you can book your time slots directly for those two attractions.

Hope this helps! I’m not sure what ICOM stands for, where did you see that?

7th June 2018 at 6:36 am

Wow this has been so wonderfully described and sorted out so many things for me. Extremely helpful artice

8th June 2018 at 10:30 am

Thanks very much Komal 🙂

2nd June 2018 at 6:29 am

This looks very useful …you kept things to the point and clear .

2nd June 2018 at 1:57 pm

Thanks Vijay

Rista Hansen says

13th May 2018 at 2:27 pm

Hi We are from Windhoek Namibia and our first time ever to visit Barcelona. We are flying to London and onwards by train to Barcelona,then Paris. The information is very useful and exciting. Any train recommendation? Regards Rista Hansen

13th May 2018 at 9:26 pm

Thanks very much! I have to say that in my mind it makes more sense to go to Paris before Barcelona, just because of geography, but i assume you have a reason for going in that order. If you want to take a train, there’s an overnight train from Paris to Barcelona, which is a great option for not wasting a day of travel. So you can take the eurostar from London to Paris, and then the overnight train to and from Paris / Barcelona. That would be my suggestion 🙂

Rorita Gattinger says

6th April 2018 at 9:07 pm

Thank you so much for putting this informative and comprehensive list together. It sure saved us a lot of time and research. We will be going soon and look forward to visiting the many sites you suggested.

Kind regards,

7th April 2018 at 10:42 am

Our pleasure Rorita – have a wonderful trip! Do check back in and let us know how it went 😀

Mireen says

30th March 2018 at 3:07 am

Hello Laurence Norah, My husband and daughter are planning a trip to Barcelona in the summer. These tips are indeed very helpful. We can definitely maximize our 3 day plan trip to Barcelona. We also wanted to see Madrid – do you have any prior blog post? If we have a few more days to spare any 3rd best city after the 2? I heard Toledo is great – or neighboring country. We have a total of 12 days. Any feedback will be highly appreciated. Thanks so much!

30th March 2018 at 10:39 am

I’m pleased that you found the post useful. I haven’t been to Madrid yet but it’s on my list! I would say that it really depends on where you want to go and what you want to see. If you wanted to stay local to Barcelona, then the town of Girona is really beautiful, and easy to get to by train. There’s also Lisbon in Portugal, which I have not visited but many friends say it is lovely. If you wanted to go further afield, there’s an overnight train service that links Barcelona with Paris too!

Have a lovely trip

Mireen Q. Delos Santos says

16th June 2018 at 2:20 am

Sorry – I didn’t see your reply. We will be on our way to our Spain adventure in about 3 weeks. Yes, we did include Lisbon in our itinerary. We were fortunate to see Paris last summer so we wanted to concentrate on Spain and enjoy it without rushing. So far we have Barcelona, Madrid, Toledo and Seville and a side trip to Lisbon.

Appreciate all your tips! Thanks so much!

16th June 2018 at 10:18 pm

My pleasure Mireen, and no worries. Have a great trip!

Kyle and Briana says

24th February 2018 at 6:51 pm

This is a good comprehensive itinerary. If we return we will check out some of the places we didn’t get to but gosh there is so much to do in Barcelona! We could spend quite a bit of time there, especially with all the possible day trips you could do outside the city as well. Here is what we did. We originally had 2 full days there, then our flight got moved so we had three so we thought okay more time in BCN! (It was supposed to be in Marrakech). But then we got pick-pocketed and day three was mostly the police station. We didn’t get the Barcelona pass but think we would have had we been staying a little longer or maybe if we thought we had a full three days from the start. We also didn’t love the tap water – it tastes like it does here in our apartment in California now! haha but we use a water filter to help

24th February 2018 at 7:02 pm

Thanks very much 🙂 There is loads to do in Barcelona you are right – we have visited a number of times and will be returning shortly, and we’re always finding more to do every time! Sorry to hear you got pickpocketed, I’ve heard really bad things about the city in the regard, but we’ve been ok so far. The water is also definitely and acquired taste!

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The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Barcelona Itinerary

Last Updated on December 5, 2023

by Ella Kilroy

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect 2, 3 or 4 days in Barcelona itinerary can be a bit overwhelming when you start to consider just how much there is to do in this incredible city.

There is no city in the world quite like Barcelona. This vibrant, coastal metropolis in the Catalonia region of northeastern Spain has long been a source of inspiration, experimentation, and refuge for some of the world’s greatest artists, writers, and creatives, so it is no surprise that today, Barcelona is a top tourist destination with so many completely unique points of interest.

In between the incredible innovative architecture, historic sites and museums, bustling food scene, beautiful Mediterranean beaches, and buzzing nightlife, there is truly something for every type of traveller to experience on a visit to this legendary city.

If you are planning a trip to Spain and aren’t quite sure how many days to spend in Barcelona and allocate your time, look no further- this itinerary will provide you with the ideal way to spend 2 to 4 days in this inimitable city.

Table of Contents

How Many Days In Barcelona?

At the absolute minimum, you should plan on spending 2 days in Barcelona in order to visit all the major sites, eat delicious food, and perhaps spend a night out on the town. However, if you want to truly experience everything the city has to offer, 3 days in Barcelona is ideal.

If you give yourself 3 days to explore the city, you’ll be able to get to know the neighbourhoods off the beaten path, visit a few unique sites outside the city centre, and get a better grasp of the lifestyle and energy of Barcelona.

If you have 4 days in the city, you will even be able to experience some other places in the beautiful Catalonia region as day trips.

And for those wondering about the best time to visit Barcelona, you will be pleased to hear that its temperate climate makes it enjoyable year-round. However, expect the city to be busiest in the summer months of June, July and August.

Getting To & Around Barcelona

Since Barcelona is such a popular tourist destination with a large international airport, you’ll have no trouble finding affordable fares into the city.

Many airlines fly directly into Barcelona Airport El Prat from major European cities and international destinations, which means getting into Barcelona should be a breeze. There are also some flights that go to nearby Girona .

There are also many connections via highspeed train and bus from other cities in Spain such as Madrid , Valencia , Sevilla and even Málaga as well as other cities in Europe such as Paris and Nice . – click here to browse schedules.

Upon landing, you’ll find getting around Barcelona to be similarly stress-free. You can take a bus from the airport to the city centre and once you’re in the city, most of the sites and activities you’ll likely be doing are within walking distance. If you prefer the convenience, you can also book a private transfer .

There is a very efficient and easy-to-navigate metro system you can use if you’re going from one side of the city to another, but walking is truly the best way to get to know the city and take in the unique and beautiful architecture.

If you do opt to take the metro during your time in Barcelona, you can purchase tickets at metro stations or you could elect to buy an unlimited transport pass if you anticipate using it frequently with different time lengths available from 48 hours to 120 hours.

You could also opt to purchase the Barcelona Card which includes transport along with admission to a number of sites around the city.

2, 3 or 4-Day in Barcelona Itinerary

Whether you have 2, 3 or 4 days in Barcelona, this itinerary will cover the highlights and some more far-flung places so you can have the best time possible in the Catalonian capital.

Day 1 – City Centre Highlights

Day 1 in Barcelona is dedicated to familiarizing yourself with the layout of the city and the most popular neighbourhoods and getting acquainted with the unique Modernist style of Antoni Gaudí, the famous architect whose works and influence are defining characteristics of Barcelona.

The Houses of Gaudí

Begin your first day in Barcelona with a visit to Casa Batlló, the incredible and colourful building designed by Gaudí and considered one of his masterpieces. A visit to this house will give you a taste of the eclectic style that Gaudí is known for.

If you elect to go inside and take the tour, you won’t be disappointed. Starting your Barcelona trip with this tour will give you a good foundation of information regarding Barcelona’s history and the influence of Gaudí on the city’s aesthetic.

Just a five-minute walk from Casa Batlló, you’ll find Casa Milà , another iconic building designed by Gaudí that highlights his refusal to adhere to the status quo. Casa Milà was also the architect’s private residence and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Finally, there is also Casa Vicens which is the first house of Gaudi and you can buy skip-the-line tickets here. All of these sites are some of the top things to see in Barcelona.

La Rambla and La Boqueria

Next, amble over to La Rambla, a bustling pedestrian street in the city centre – an unmissable attraction when exploring Barcelona.

La Rambla is incredibly crowded and touristy, but still worth seeing. La Rambla is home to a plethora of outdoor cafes, street performers, souvenir shops and top-notch people-watching, but make sure to stay attentive and keep an eye on your belongings!

This street is infamous for pickpockets because of the abundance of tourists, so make sure to keep your important belongings in a bag that zips completely and consider a cross-body bag rather than a backpack.

After strolling from Casa Milà down La Rambla, you’ll come across the Market de la Boqueria, one of Europe’s largest and most famous food markets.

There’s a stall for nearly everything inside the lively market… fresh fruits and vegetables, roasted nuts, local meats and cheeses, homemade oils and vinegars, even full-service bars and small plate (tapas) style restaurants. 

It truly is a mecca for food lovers, and a great spot to stop and sample some Spanish delicacies and indulge in a glass of cava : a sparkling Spanish wine from the Catalonia region that is very popular in Barcelona. After getting properly fueled up at La Boqueria, you’ll be ready to take on the rest of the day!

Gothic Quarter

From La Boqueria, you’re just a ten-minute walk to the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter . The Gothic Quarter is the oldest yet most trendy part of Barcelona, complete with narrow, winding streets, beautiful historic buildings, plenty of amazing shopping and dining options, and a fun, artsy vibe.

Once in the Gothic Quarter, there are so many different options of things to do, including a visit to the Barcelona Cathedral. The Gothic-style architecture of this building is stunning, and admission is donation-based, so a visit to the Cathedral won’t break the bank.

Additionally, when exploring the Gothic Quarter be sure to check out Plaça Reial, a picturesque plaza featuring a Gaudi-designed fountain and home to some of the best restaurants and nightlife in Barcelona, including the famous traditional jazz club, Jamboree .

If you want to learn more about the history of the Gothic Quarter, it’s possible to take a 2-hour walking tour of this neighbourhood.

La Barceloneta

Once you’ve explored the Gothic Quarter, make your way down to La Barceloneta, the breezy, seaside neighbourhood right on the coast.

Take a walk on the beach, visit the Marina, the Museum of Catalan History , the Barcelona Aquarium (one of the largest and most diverse in Europe), or opt to take a cable car from the beach to Montjuïc hill for stunning views of Barcelona.

For dinner in the evening, dine al fresco in La Barceloneta if the weather is nice.  There are so many seaside bars and restaurants you can choose from that provide stunning views of the beach and delicious Spanish food.

After dinner, spend this evening exploring the nightlife scene in Barcelona.  If you’re into dance clubs and a high-energy experience stay in La Barceloneta, then visit the clubs that line the street nearest to the beach.

There are so many unique ones to choose from and you’ll definitely get a taste of the wild nightlife Barcelona is known for. If you’d like a more relaxed night but still want to check out local bars, head back into the Gothic Quarter for a quiet drink.

Day 2 – Gaudí’s Barcelona

Now that you have a good foundation of knowledge on Gaudí and the basic layout of the city and major popular areas, Day 2 will be spent checking out the iconic masterpieces of Gaudi and exploring inland Barcelona.

La Sagrada Familia

Your first priority on Day 2 should absolutely be visiting La Sagrada Familia, the breathtaking yet unfinished Catholic church designed by Gaudí and considered to be his masterpiece.

La Sagrada Familia is a truly incredible feat of architecture and design, and it is unlike any other building in the world. Your trip to Barcelona won’t be complete without visiting it, so make sure to book tickets in advance .

Try to get there as early as possible for the most manageable experience. You can also pre-book tickets here or book a skip-the-line guided tour of La Sagrada Familia & Park Güell.

After spending a few hours taking in the incredible basilica, explore the area around Sagrada Familia a bit more. To see more Art-Noveau style architecture, head down to Sant Pau Recinte Modernista, designed by Lluís Domènech I Montaner and a UNESCO Historical Artistic Monument.

Alternatively, you could rent bikes near the basilica for an hour or two and explore the neighbourhood on wheels.

Grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes or restaurants in this part of town (I recommend Taverna el Glop for amazing paella) before embarking on the 20-minute walk to Park Güell.

Park Güell is another absolutely iconic site in Barcelona and the perfect place to spend the afternoon. This sprawling park combines elements of Gaudi’s signature whimsical design with the landscape’s natural beauty to create a truly unique sanctuary within the city.

Explore the large park, and make sure to get plenty of photos! The colourful mosaic walls and the buildings that look like gingerbread houses will definitely be something you want to show your friends and family back home. You can pre-book tickets here.

The Bunkers of Carmel

After visiting Park Güell, it should be early evening. Head over to the Bunkers of Carmel for a well-deserved rest and to take in an absolutely stunning birds-eye view of Barcelona at sunset.

The bunkers were built during the Spanish Civil War on top of the hill Turó de la Rovira, but today it is a viewpoint destination that cannot be matched anywhere else in Barcelona.

At sunset, it gets pretty crowded and many people bring up a bottle of wine or some picnic-style snacks to enjoy while taking in the view, so try to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to get a good spot to sit.

Tapas and Flamenco show

After watching the sunset head back into the city centre, either by walking, metro, or taxi, for some tapas and a Flamenco show!

Flamenco shows combine traditional Spanish dancing, singing, and musical performance into an entertaining and memorable performance. Though it comes from southern Spanish cities like Seville and Granada , seeing a show in Barcelona is an option, as well.

There are many different venues and groups that put on flamenco shows in Barcelona and you can pre-book some online to guarantee a spot!

Day 3 – Tibidabo & El Born

As you can see, in days 1 and 2 you’ll have covered all the major points of interest and must-see tourist destinations in the city, but if you have 3 days in Barcelona and really want to get off the beaten path and experience more of what the city has to offer, it is worth allocating another day or two to exploring the city and surrounding areas.

Day 3 will be dedicated to a visit to Tibidabo, exploring different neighbourhoods in the city centre, and some more incredible views!

Alternatively, if Tibidabo doesn’t interest you and you are a football fan, consider taking the time to visit the FC Barcelona museum at Camp Nou.

In the morning, hop on the bus to Tibidabo, a hill overlooking the city and home to an incredible basilica, the Sagrat Cor, and a retro amusement park that provides amazing panoramic views of the city.

After a few days of being a serious traveller and learning about Spanish history, Gaudí, and Catalan Modernism, spend the morning having some fun on the rides, taking in the stunning view you get on the Ferris wheel, and checking out the Sagrat Cor.

Explore El Born

After you’ve had some fun at Tibidabo, take the bus back into the city centre and head to El Born, an artsy district near the Gothic Quarter. In El Born, you can find cute cafes, trendy boutiques, galleries and museums, and great bars and restaurants.

Explore this area for a few hours, and make sure to check out the Church of Santa Maria del Mar, the Santa Caterina Market, and the Picasso Museum, just to name a few of the things worth seeing in the neighbourhood.

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

If it happens to be a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night, consider taking the metro to the base of Montjüic to see the Magic Fountain.

On these nights for an hour (usually 8-9 p.m., but you can always check the website to make sure), the fountain becomes a spectacular show of water, light, colour, and music that is completely free to view. The Magic Fountain is such a fun and unique show, and definitely worth seeing if you’re able.

Day 4 – Day Trip to Montserrat, Girona or Figueres

If you’re seeing Barcelona in 4 days, take the final day in the Catalonian capital to see a bit more of what the region has to offer. The nearby monasteries of Montserrat, the beautiful city of Girona and cool Figueres are all excellent options, but there are countless more places to visit in Catalonia .

One great option for your final day in Barcelona is to spend the day taking a trip to Montserrat , a beautiful mountain range and home to a historic and beautiful monastery just about an hour away from Barcelona city centre by train.

After the hour-long train journey to the base of the mountain, take the cable car to the very top, or consider trekking the last 5 kilometres by foot for a healthy dose of exercise. 

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find there are so many different options of things to do on Montserrat, and you can structure your day around the activities that appeal to you the most.

However, make sure to visit the famous Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, an active mountain monastery that includes a stunning basilica and an impressive art museum that includes the works of many famous artists, including Picasso, Monet, and Dalí.

Additionally, you could explore the beautiful natural landscape by going hiking, dine on traditional Catalan food at some of the impressive restaurants, visit the local market, or attend a performance by Escolania de Montserrat, the famous boys’ choir that is one of the oldest in Europe.

However you decide to spend your time, you’ll easily be busy the full day in Montserrat, and can return back to Barcelona via train.  

It’s also possible to take an organised day tour to Montserrat if you prefer not to visit independently.

Arguably one of the most beautiful cities in Spain if not all of Europe, the city of Girona is a great day trip from Barcelona. Located a bit north of the city and within about an hour of Barcelona centre.

Though you could easily spend a few days here, a day trip to Girona is enough to get a feel for the city and do it justice.

Take the time to walk the city walls, visit the incredible cathedral and take in the Arab Baths. It’s also worth it to visit the Jewish Museum and simply get lost in the incredible and beautiful city streets.

You can easily visit Girona independently, but there are plenty of day tours should you not want to deal with the hassle.

Another popular day trip from Barcelona is to the lovely town of Figueres . Known for being the birthplace of legendary surrealist Salvador Dalí, Figueres is a great place to visit – especially if you’re a fan of the artist.

The city itself has a lot to do, but arguably the biggest draw is the Dalí Museum, which is a bizarre and quirky place to visit that was designed by Dalí himself. If you’re driving, then consider also visiting the Castell de Sant Ferran, a fascinating fortification location just outside of the city.

It’s easy enough to reach Figueres independently, but there are plenty of day tours available. For instance, this full-day tour includes Figueres along with some stops in Cadaqués and on the Costa Brava.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Room Mate Anna – This small boutique hotel is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a quaint and romantic room in Barcelona. They have a range of lovely, comfortable rooms available and its location in the city centre means within easy reach of all of the best attractions in Barcelona.

Hotel Condado – This central hotel is another fantastic option for your time in Barcelona. Situated in a prime location for sightseeing, they have numerous spacious and comfortable rooms available and also includes breakfast in the nightly rate.

Fabrizzio’s Petit – If you’re travelling solo or on a budget in Barcelona , then this small, locally-run hostel is an excellent choice. Centrally located within easy walking distance of all of Barcelona’s main attractions, they not only have both dorm and private rooms available but also include a great breakfast in their rates.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Barcelona hotels!

As you can see, whether you decide to spend 2, 3, 4 or even more days in Barcelona, you’ll find there is no shortage of exciting and unique things to do. Use this itinerary as a jumping-off point to help guide your planning, and you’ll be sure to have an incredible experience in this amazing city.

Are you planning a Barcelona itinerary? Have any questions about your trip? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect Avila Day Trip from Madrid

Barcelona or Madrid: Which Spanish City to Visit?

Is Spain Expensive? Trip to Spain Cost Guide in 2024

About Ella Kilroy

Ella is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an American living in Dublin, Ireland, and when she isn’t writing, you can find her jetting off to countless destinations across Europe and beyond. Ella fell in love with travelling while studying abroad in Galway, which is what prompted her to come back to Ireland and start writing about her experiences.

Thank you for great info on Barcelona! My friends and I are going on our annual Girls trip in September and staying in Barcelona for several days before our cruise of the Mediterranean. Hope to visit most of the places you mentioned.

I noticed that you are living in Dublin. On our way to Barcelona, we are stopping in Dublin for a 10 hour stopover via Aer Lingus (our favorite airline). We have been to Ireland before but would love a couple of ideas on what we could do in the city for that short amount of time. I am guessing that we would only have about 6 hours to do anything.

Do you have any suggestions?

I’m visiting Barcelona in Sept. Thank you so much for this info!

This was a brilliant blog. We are planning a 4 day trip and this was invaluable. Thank you!

Loved reading this blog. It helped me to organize my trip to Barcelona.

Happy this helped! Cheers 🙂

Such great info. Going there in May. Thanks so much. Its appreciated.

Very informative, thanks.

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Gina On A Plane

small-town girl turned aesthetic solo traveler ♥

The Perfect Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary (for Your First Visit!)

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If you’re looking for the perfect 3 day Barcelona itinerary , look no further. Barcelona is one of Spain’s most popular tourist cities and my personal favorite city in Europe. Between the delicious tapas, gorgeous scenery, and stunning architecture, this eclectic city draws people from all over the world. If you are looking to spend a weekend or even a few days in Barcelona, you’ve come to the right place.

This post is structured for someone who is visiting Barcelona for the first time; however, even if this isn’t your first visit, you may read about some things that you never knew existed! If this is your first visit, I have included all of my travel tips and must-do activities, plus a few of my favorite things I stumbled across along the way. Ready to check Barcelona’s top attractions off your bucket list? Keep scrolling…

Intro to Barcelona

Antoni gaudi: the barcelona architect.

You will see me refer to Antoni Gaudí multiple times throughout this post. He is an architect who designed many of Barcelona’s most famous buildings. Quite frankly, his creativity and artistic ability is unmatched. He is famous for incorporating nature, religion, and reason into many of his designs.

Barcelona Food to Try

Although Spain is known for a variety of foods, the most famous are tapas and cava. Tapas are small plates of various types of food that are meant to be shared, and cava is white wine/champagne hybrid.

For a list of my favorite restaurants in Barcelona, check out the following 2 posts:

• Must-Try Restaurants in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter
• The Best Restaurants in Barcelona’s Eixample Neighborhood

Some (Personal) Barcelona Nostalgia:

If you have read my About Me section, you know that Barcelona was the first trip I took completely solo . Little did I know back then how my first solo trip would change my life. It was the catalyst to me becoming a travel blogger and why Gina on a Plane exists.

Barcelona is the place that made me a brave traveler and the place that keeps calling me back. Every time I visit, I feel like I’m home.

Website Disclaimer: I most recently visited Barcelona in September 2023. Although everything is accurate as of the publication of this post, keep in mind that prices, attractions, and other things may change with time.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Below, I have provided links to the hotels I have stayed at and loved while in Barcelona. There are recommendations to fit all budgets.

Hotels in Eixample

• Ona Hotels Mosaic (3 stars)
• Hotel Claris (5 stars)
• YEAH Barcelona Hostel (2 stars)

Hotels in The Gothic Quarter

• Hotel Colón Barcelona (4 stars)

Barcelona: The Perfect 3 Day Itinerary for Your First Visit

Day 1: explore eixample – passeig de gràcia, plaça de catalunya, casa batlló.

Eixample (pronounced “ayy-sham-pleh” ) is one of the most popular Barcelona neighborhoods and is home to many of Gaudi’s masterpieces. It is absolutely a must-explore part of the city.

One of the things I immediately noticed about Barcelona was how clean it was (well…except for the Gothic District. But we’ll get there). There is some graffiti and scaffolding, but considering the amount of tourists, I was very impressed with how nice this part of the city looked.

1. Explore Passeig de Gràcia

Passeig de Gràcia is one of the main streets of Eixample and a beautiful area to walk through. It is home to a lot of shopping (including high-end shopping), restaurants, bars, and 2 of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous buildings!

I mentioned earlier how Barcelona was rather clean for a city its size, and you can definitely see that here in Eixample. Take some time to go down the side streets and explore the boutiques, cafes, and gelato shops,

Oh – and you can’t forget to stop and marvel at the architecture. Spanish architecture is stunning, and Barcelona is home to some of the most artistically creative architecture I’ve ever seen.

This probably sounds cliché, and perhaps a bit dramatic, but I have always felt irrevocably happy when I walk through this part of Barcelona. Maybe it’s luck, but every time I have been there, the sun has been shining, people have been friendly, and I smell tapas around every corner. Oh, and I usually buy something. That probably has something to do with it too. /shrug

2. Plaça de Catalunya

If you head southeast down Passeig de Gràcia, you will eventually stumble upon Plaça de Catalunya , a large square that is regarded by many as the City Center. It connects the “old town” ( Ciutat Vella , better known as the Gothic Quarter ) with Eixample, the “new” part of the city. It is home to fountains and sculptures, and is a venue for various festivals and performances throughout the year.

• Fun Fact: Plaça de Catalunya is actually the starting point for both Passeig de Gràcia and Las Ramblas . To simplify this, remember that Passeig de Gràcia is the street that runs through Eixample, the new part of the city, and Las Ramblas is the street that runs through part of the Gothic Quarter, or “old town.” Thus, this is how Plaça de Catalunya connects both parts of Barcelona!

3. Casa Batlló, Casa Amatller, & Casa Mila

As you explore Barcelona, you will no doubt be in awe over the architecture. I feel like all Spanish architecture is gorgeous, but there are certain buildings that stand out due to the exceptional creativity that was put into their design. Casa Batlló , Casa Mila , and Casa Amatller are 3 of those buildings (along with La Sagrada Familia , but we’ll get to that on Day 3!)

Must Do : Tour Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló is a building in Eixample designed by Antoni Gaudí and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is considered one of his greatest masterpieces. Out of the 3 buildings listed here, this is the one I recommend that you must tour.

• When booking your tour, you can book one of the experiences through Get Your Guide below, unless you want to do the Magic Nights option, which is linked further down:

I love when everything about a building (or a piece of art, or… anything , really) is designed to tell a story or have a deeper meaning. Gaudí incorporated meaning into literally everything he did, which is part of why his buildings have become so legendary.

Gaudí used nature as an inspiration to almost all of his designs, and Casa Batlló is no exception. When you walk through, you’ll notice the blue curved stained glass that resembles the ocean, the swirled designs on the ceiling that resembles a snail’s shell, and the tiles on the rooftop that resembles a dragon’s scales.

Casa Batlló – Magic nights option

If you want to enhance your experience, you can book the Magic Nights tour through Casa Batlló’s official website which includes a tour starting at 8pm and a concert on the rooftop at 9pm after. You also get a free glass of cava while you enjoy the concert! I did this my first time in Barcelona and absolutely loved it.

Get Some Chocolate at Casa Amatller

Casa Amatller – once the home of chocolatier Antoni Amatller – is the only one of these 3 buildings NOT designed by Gaudí. The main thing I would suggest you do here is visit Faborit , the cafe on the first floor.

They serve coffee and tea, salads and smoothies, and of course, chocolate, which is what I recommend you try. Their mancerina de chocolate – bread served with hot melted chocolate – is a fan favorite!

Optional : Tour Casa Mila

Casa Mila (aka La Pedrera ) is the other building designed by Gaudí on the main street of Passeig de Gràcia. Also a UNESCO World Heritage site, this building is beautiful (but differently so) from Casa Batlló. Casa Mila also serves as a museum to some of Gaudí’s drawings and work.

You could absolutely tour this building as well, but from what I’ve read, Casa Batlló is a better value for your money, and is the more popular of the two. I have never toured Casa Mila, so I can’t give my personal input, but I did love going through Casa Batlló!

If you do decide you want to tour Casa Mila, check out these options from Get Your Guide below:

Day 2: Las Ramblas, El Born, and The Gothic Quarter

I am obsessed with the Gothic Quarter – or El Gòtic, as they call it in Spain. The Slytherin in me loves the dark accents of the architecture, the narrow alleyways with rustic string lights, and the eerie-yet-beautiful aesthetic. I am fascinated by things that have dualities, hence why I love the angels-and-demons vibes that you get all over this part of the city.

After spending a day in Eixample, you’ll notice that the Gothic Quarter is much… grungier – but in the most beautiful way. This part of the city is much older and therefore dirtier, but I promise you, it only adds to its charm.

Maybe I’m biased, but I think you could spend a whole day here. My first time in Barcelona, I came back here my final evening before I left and I was still finding alleyways and buildings I hadn’t seen yet.

1. Walk Down Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas (or, La Rambla – it is known as both) – is one of the busiest and most tourist-heavy streets in Barcelona. This 0.8 mile stretch contains shops, restaurants, and vendors all along the street, and serves at the connecting point between Plaça de Catalunya and the city’s old port. It is located right beside the Gothic Quarter and therefore, makes it easy to walk down while exploring this part of the city.

Although there are a lot of restaurants and vendors here, my recommendation would be to avoid this area in terms of getting food and shopping. I have never eaten here, but I have had locals tell me the food isn’t as good in this part of the city, not to mention it is more expensive.

As far as shopping, there are plenty of shops – souvenir, boutique, and more – in El Born and the Gothic Quarter, so you don’t need to spend your money on vendors that may provide you with lesser-quality souvenirs.

• Pro Tip: Las Ramblas has been nicknamed “The Pickpocketing Capital of Europe” due to the abundance of people – tourists and locals alike – on this street. In order to come prepared, check out my other post: “The Best Ways to Avoid Pickpocketing in Barcelona.”

Having said all that, don’t let it deter you from walking through here. This street and area is beautifully lined with trees, and since it is buzzing with people, it gives off a happy, vibrant energy. I have also encountered street performers and Spanish guitar players while exploring this area!

Mercado de La Boqueria (aka Mercat St Josep La boqueria) on Las Ramblas

Remember how I just said “don’t eat here?” The Mercado de la Boqueria is the exception to the rule. “Mercados” are Spanish food markets that have everything you could possibly imagine: meat, cheese, seafood, wine, dessert, sandwiches, the list goes on and on.

If nothing else, while visiting Las Ramblas, just walk through here and be amazed…although you’d be hard-pressed not to get at least one thing to eat. It’s been called the “best market in the world,” and maybe I’m biased, but I agree.

2. Things To See & Do in The Gothic Quarter

Visit the barcelona cathedral.

When you are getting ready to go to The Gothic District, I would recommend putting the Barcelona Cathedral into Google maps as your destination point . This will ensure that you are taken right to the heart of this part of the city.

The Barcelona Cathedral is by far my favorite church in Gothic District. It is dedicated to Saint Eulalia, who’s tomb actually lies beneath the main alter in the church. Currently, is a stunning representation of Catalan history and serves as the seat for the Archbishop of Barcelona. The outside of it is absolutely gorgeous and would make a phenomenal Instagram photo spot.

If you fancy an expert tour, you can actually take this walking tour of the Gothic Quarter, which takes you inside the Barcelona Cathedral as long as you book the morning option.

• Pro Tip: If you want to go inside the church but don’t want a full-blown tour, you are able to attend mass here! I did this the last time I was in Barcelona and, even though the mass was in Catalan and I couldn’t understand it, it was such a cool experience.

Get A Drink on Top of Hotel Colón barcelona

Hotel Colón Barcelona is located directly across from the Gothic Cathedral and has a rooftop bar with spectacular views of the city. It is an amazing place to grab a drink and gaze at the city from down below. They do NOT take reservations and there is usually a wait, but the views are worth it!

• Pro Tip: I have stayed in this hotel before and loved it. The location and service were both incredible.
• (Another) Pro Tip: The rooftop bar in Hotel Colón opens at noon, but if you are staying here, you can go up starting at 11:00am.

gaze at El pont del bisbe

El Pont del Bisbe (translation: The Bishop’s Bridge) is a bridge on Carrer de Bisbe, right near the Gothic Cathedral. It is one of the most photographed parts of the Gothic Quarter, partially due to its beauty, but also partially due to the (creepy) legend that it carries with it.

If you walk underneath El Pont del Bisbe and look up, you will see a skull pierced by a dagger underneath the bridge. Legend has it that whoever walks underneath the bridge and gazes at the dagger will be cursed with bad luck!

Of course, now you can’t not look at it, but you also don’t want bad luck, right? Good news: you can (literally) reverse your bad luck by walking backwards underneath the bridge while looking up at the skull and making a wish. Sure, you may get some odd looks, but who’s the real winner here? You, withOUT bad luck, obviously.

Explore Plaça Reial

Plaça Reial (translation: “Royal Plaza”) is a lively square in the heart of the Gothic Quarter surrounded by palm trees, giving it somewhat of a “tropical” feel. If you ask me, the palm trees seem kind of random in this part of the city, but I digress. It has a fountain in the center with two lampposts that were designed by (who else?) Antoni Gaudi, and in fact, serve as his first commissionable work for the city!

This area has also become a huge draw for nightlife in Barcelona. Events, concerts, and festivals are often held here, and there are a few nightclubs in the square as well. Plaça Reial is home to numerous bars and restaurants, but I have been told that food elsewhere in the Gothic District is better. Similar to Las Ramblas, this is due to it being a large tourist-draw, which can make for higher food and drink prices.

Having said that, I did stop and get a coffee in Plaça Reial with a lovely Spanish man that I met, and I can’t say I was disappointed. Maybe it was the company? *innocent shrug*

3. Things to See & Do in El Born

When exploring the Gothic Quarter, you may wander into El Born without initially realizing it. Both areas look very similar, and there is no real “barrier” to indicate where one starts and the other begins.

The easiest way I have found to know that I am in El Born is to walk to the Jaume 1 metro station, cross the street, and walk down Carrer de la Princesa . Carrer de la Princesa is a busy street, but once you’re here, you can dart off into one of the alleyways and start exploring. Here, you will immediately notice that it is somewhat calmer – that is, still lively but less touristy.

• Pro Tip: If rustic-grunge alleyways with string lights that come alive at night are your vibe, I found more of them last time in El Born than I did in the main Gothic Quarter.

tour the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar

Santa Maria del Mar is another impressive church in the Gothic District (although from the outside, not as impressive as the Barcelona Cathedral IMO). Still, it is definitely worth seeing. You can also go inside and tour this church as well, which I would recommend. Its incredibly high dome shaped ceiling, tall pillars, stained glass windows, and Gothic-style architecture is truly a work of art.

You may be wondering, what’s the difference between a cathedral and a basilica?

• A cathedral is simply the home church for a bishop or an archbishop in a certain Catholic diocese (district).
• A church is designated as a basilica by the Pope if it carries important historical, spiritual, and/or architectural significance. To be named a basilica is an huge honor, as it is the highest designation that a Catholic church can receive.

Immerse Yourself in the Streets and Alleys

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll understand when I say, “it’s giving Diagon Alley.” Except, you know, make it Spanish.

I’ve touched on the alleyways here already, and so you don’t need me to go on another tangent of how much I love them. I find that there is no real difference in the alleyways in El Born vs. the Gothic Quarter, except that I stumbled upon more with artsy string lights while I was in El Born.

In many of the alleyways, you will find graffiti, hanging plants, and laundry draped from the balconies. Gahh…the fking CHARACTER here!!!! okayiswearimdone….

Have a Spa Day at aire ancient baths

If you are a spa person, I’m going to tell you that AIRE Ancient Baths in El Born is a must-do. AIRE has various locations around the world, but I have been told their Barcelona location is more affordable than some of the others.

You are able to choose from a variety of massage treatments, and/or spend your time in the different baths. They have hot and cold pools, along with a salt pool you can float in, and a sauna. The entire spa is gorgeous and the staff is incredibly kind. Oh – and you can also get cava and chocolate truffles. What’s not to love?

Get a Drink at Paradiso

Voted the best bar in the world in 2022, Paradiso is a must-do if you like cocktails. Located behind the unsuspecting fridge door of a pastrami shop, this hidden speakeasy has taken the world by storm with its creative cocktail presentation and energetic bartenders. Seriously, the bartenders make sure you have the time of your life from the second you walk in the door.

I shamelessly loved this place so much I went back twice. Their menu changes yearly, but my favorite drinks for 2023 were the Great Gatsby and the Evolution Negroni (and considering I’m a tequila girl, this is saying something!).

• Pro Tip: You can’t just walk into Paradiso, and they don’t take reservations by phone. To know how to enter, check out my other blog post: How to Enter The Best Cocktail Bar in Barcelona .

Day 3: Park Güell, La Sagrada Familia, and Mount Tibidabo

1. walk through park güell.

Park Güell is another Gaudí masterpiece known for its iconic rainbow serpentine bench that curves gracefully around the main terrace, offering both a cozy resting spot and beautiful views of the city below. The greenery of the trees and plants allows the colorful architecture to seamlessly merge with the natural environment.

A lot of travel blogs say to 100% go to Park Güell. IMO, I thought Park Güell was beautiful but did not consider it a “must do.” However, this could possibly be because I got there in the afternoon and it was crowded . For this itinerary, I listed Park Güell as the first thing for your 3rd day because I think going early in the morning would give you a much better experience. Plus, you’d be able to get some amazing photos! For tickets, check out the options from Get Your Guide below:

2. Visit La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia is a church designed by (you guessed it!) Antoni Gaudi, and is an absolute must-do when going to Barcelona . It is a true work of art, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Spain’s most iconic building. It is arguably the most unique-looking church you will ever visit in your lifetime. At the time of this post, it is still being built, and looks to be finished by ~2026.

• Fun Fact: When La Sagrada Familia is finished, it will be the tallest church in the world!

From the outside, La Sagrada Familia is….somewhat drab(?) in terms of color. It’s also not your typical Gothic, baroque, or Romanesque-style architecture that you typically see in European churches. Instead, it’s… Gaudi being Gaudi . Still, a lot of people have a moment of “WTF?!” when they first see La Sagrada Familia, especially if they haven’t learned about its history.

BUT…then you go inside. The colors. THE COLORS!!! I’ll never forget the moment I stepped inside this church for the first time. The stained glass windows illuminate the entire church, making it a stark contrast to the neutral tone of the building’s exterior.

From the Get Your Guide links below, you can purchase a ticket to enter La Sagrada Familia with an audio guide, or you can do a guided tour. Learning about the hidden meanings Gaudí put into the construction and elements of this church is fascinating!

You can also purchase a ticket from the official website that comes with tower entry that allows you to go up inside one of the towers, either on the Passion Facade or the Nativity Facade .

• Pro Tip: I went in the tower on the Nativity Facade my second time in Barcelona. I thought it was cool to go inside the tower, but if you’re looking to save money, I would not consider it a must-do.
• (Another) Pro Tip: If you do decide to go in one of the towers, most people choose the Nativity Tower because you get views of the city from this side of the church. The Passion Tower gives you views of the Mediterranean Sea.

3. Take in the Views from Mount Tibidabo

• Pro Tip: Mount Tibidabo is a bit out of the way from the rest of the attractions listed in this post, so I saved it for your last day after La Sagrada Familia to give you plenty of time.
• If you want to take the bus, it stops at Caja Madrid Bank in Plaça de Catalunya square

Mount Tibidabo is a hill overlooking the entire city of Barcelona. On top of it sits an amusement park, along with a church called the Sagrat Cor , aka The Sacred Heart of Jesus . IMO, you get much better city views from here than you do from the Nativity Tower in La Sagrada Familia.

The Tibidabo Amusement Park is small and would be something fun if you are traveling with kids. For ticket and ride information, you can visit their official websit e here. I mainly went here to see the Sagrat Cor and check out the views from atop Mt. Tibidabo.

The Sagrat Cor is a gorgeous church with a massive statue of Jesus on the top. You are able to see it sitting on the mountain as you walk through some of the streets in Eixample. I loved walking through this church and looking at the views of the city from this high up.

6 Free Time Suggestions

1. explore montjuïc.

Montjuïc literally translates to “Jewish mountain” in Catalan and is an area rich in history. You are able to see some incredible sites here including The Palau Nacional , a stunning palace that is home of the National Museum of Catalan Art . You can also get panoramic views of the city by taking a cable car to the top of Montjuïc Castle .

If you’re here in the evening, check out the Magic Fountain , located at the head of Avinguda Maria Cristina. After dark, the Barcelona Magic Fountain comes to life with a spectacular dancing fountain show with music, water acrobatics, and lights. The Magic Fountain show lasts about 20 minutes and begin at 30 minute intervals. **Update** – As of July 2023, the Magic Fountain is closed due to the drought in Barcelona.

• Pro Tip: If you are coming from Eixample near Casa Battló, the best way to get to Montjuïc is to Uber. Getting there via car will take you 15 minutes, whereas the subway will take you 45 minutes.

2. Check Out a Rooftop Bar

A lot of hotels in Spain have fun rooftop bars, and you can even Google different options nearby wherever you are. I have so much fun relaxing on a rooftop with a glass of wine or cava!

• Check out the rooftop of Hotel Colon Barcelona for views of the Gothic Cathedral
• Check out the rooftop of Bar-Terraza Ayre Rosselló if you want views of La Sagrada Familia

3. Go to the Beach

Barceloneta Beach is the closest beach to the city center and is surrounded by cute bars, restaurants, and cafes. However, I should probably tell you that parts of it are a nude beach, and you can’t always tell where those parts end and begin. I suppose there are worse things in the world though, like having tan lines….

4. Take a Walking Tour or Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour

Get Your Guide offers a walking tour of Barcelona that allows you to sample some tapas and wine in the Old City while learning about the city’s (fascinating) history!

If you want to see even more of the city, you can book a hop on/hop off bus tour to quickly get to different places. This tour comes with a complimentary map, and you will have access to 2 different routes.

5. Explore (More) of the Gothic Quarter

IMO, one day is not enough to spend in the Gothic Quarter. If you had free time, you could absolutely come back to this area of town and walk around. There is such a variety of restaurants, bars, and people here that it isn’t hard to be entertained.

6. Take a Day Trip

I know, you only have 3 days, but maaaybe you fancy seeing even more of Spain? If so, a day trip from Barcelona to Montserrat or Costa Brava through Get Your Guide may be the perfect idea! Get Your Guide also has half day trips to Montserrat if you don’t want to spend a whole day.

How to Get Around Barcelona

The best ways to get around Barcelona are to either walk or take the metro . Transportation-wise, this city makes it so easy to get around and is another reason why it is my favorite. The main parts of Barcelona are incredibly walkable, and the metro is very easy to figure out, which I love.

You are able to get a metro card at any of the metro stations and use it for a set number of days (up to 5). If you’re an expat or staying longer, you can buy a monthly card starting at only €20.

Barcelona: The Summary

If Barcelona was a person, she would be one of the most multifaceted people you know. A little bit gothic, a little bit sparkly, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re going to explore the famous buildings, walk through the Gothic Quarter, eat your weight in tapas, or hit the beach, you are sure to find happiness in this Spanish city.

Love Spain as Much as I do?

Check out my other spain posts.

• How to Enter The Best Cocktail Bar in Barcelona
• The Best Ways to Avoid Pickpocketing in Barcelona
• Must-Try Restaurants in the Gothic Quarter
• The Best Restaurants in Eixample Barcelona
• 7 Unique Restaurants in Madrid, Spain
• Top Things to Do in Madrid, Spain

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Your Trip to Barcelona: The Complete Guide

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Barcelona is a city of contrasts: it's Catalan and Spanish, traditional and modern, and exciting and laid-back, all at the same time. But it's this perfect harmony that makes Spain's second-largest city fascinating enough to draw around 20 million tourists every year.   As one of Europe's chicest cities, home to no shortage of things to see and do , it's important to make every second count while in Barcelona. Here's everything you need to know about planning your getaway to guarantee the trip of your dreams.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : Spring and fall feature mild, sunny weather and a pleasant, laid-back vibe. These low-season periods are ideal for both tourists and residents—accommodation prices and lines for major attractions will be on the lower side, and fewer crowds make it easier for locals to go about their daily lives.

Language : Spanish is the official national language of Spain. In Catalonia, Barcelona's region, Catalan has co-official status, so you may see signs and menus written in one or the other—or both.  

Currency : Spain uses the euro .

Getting Around : Barcelona boasts a widespread, inexpensive, and efficient public transportation system, making it easy to get around town in a flash. The metro , bus, and tram networks are all safe and easy to use.

Travel Tip : Lines at some of the major Barcelona attractions—such as the Sagrada Familia and the Picasso Museum—can get quite long at the box office. Skip the queues and buy your tickets for important tourist sites online in advance before you go, which will save you valuable time.

Things to Do in Barcelona

You could easily spend months in Barcelona discovering its thriving Catalan heritage and colorful modern culture. Home to great art, live music, and shopping in addition to some of Spain's most iconic tourist attractions, Barcelona is a city where it's nearly impossible to get bored. And if you ever need a quick break, head to one of its gorgeous parks or beaches for a quick dose of vitamin D.

• Discover the works of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, from masterpieces such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell to grandiose residences such as Casa Vicens .
• Explore the world of wonders that is Montjuic Hill, home to the National Catalan Art Museum , an entire miniature Spanish village , and some pretty spectacular views.
• Visit a bustling neighborhood market to get an authentic glimpse of local life—consider Mercado de Santa Caterina or Mercado de Sant Antoni as alternatives to the touristy Boqueria.

Get more inspiration with our complete lists of things to do in Barcelona , as well as things not to do .

What to Eat & Drink in Barcelona

When thinking about food in Spain, one word probably comes to mind: tapas. These aren't just small plates—here in Spain, going out for tapas is an entire social event centered around sharing food and good conversation with friends at a crowded bar. If you're in the mood for a sit-down meal, you'll also find plenty of rustic, traditional Catalan fare, as well as an exciting array of international restaurants representing the city's vibrant immigrant community.

Barcelona is one of Spain's most exciting cities for wine lovers, with century-old bodegas standing side-by-side with sleek, contemporary wine bars. Beyond the typical Catalan reds and whites—which are excellent—you'll also find a lot of locals drinking vermouth and cava, Spain's answer to champagne. Beer lovers will be pleased to know that the city is also home to a growing number of microbreweries serving up some of the most fascinating craft brews in the country.

Find more foodie tips in our guides to the top bars and restaurants in Barcelona .

Where to Stay in Barcelona

When it comes to where to stay in Barcelona, the best neighborhoods are just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the city center. By staying here, you'll save money on your accommodation and avoid the louder touristy areas, making for a more pleasant stay.

Gracia , formerly its own village before being swallowed up by the ever-expanding metropolis that is Barcelona in the 19th century, retains plenty of small-town charm while keeping you close to the action of the modern city. Just south of that is Eixample, a chic, sophisticated district with a great shopping and dining scene. And if a seaside atmosphere is what you're after, you'll love the quaint old fishermen's quarter that is Barceloneta (while the beach of the same name is far from Barcelona's best, the neighborhood itself offers irresistible charm).

Take a deeper dive into where to stay in Barcelona with our guides to the city's top hotels and top boutique hotels.

Getting There

Three major Catalan airports serve the Barcelona area, but if you're staying in the city itself, your best bet is likely to fly into Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) which welcomed 52.9 million passengers in 2019  . If you're already in Spain or even elsewhere in Europe, the city is well-connected by bus and train as well, and is conveniently served by Spain's high-speed train line ( the AVE ).

Culture & Customs

Though legally part of Spain, many residents of Catalonia—including Barcelona—consider themselves Catalan rather than Spanish. This means you might be more likely to see and hear the Catalan language being used, and some people may get upset if you identify them as being from Spain, so be respectful of the local identity. Large, peaceful demonstrations in favor of Catalan independence are not uncommon.

Tipping in Spain is not as customary as it is other countries, most notably the United States. As a general rule, a small tip (such as rounding up the bill to the nearest euro) is appreciated, but is not necessary in most industries.

Barcelona is generally a safe city, but petty crime such as pickpocketing does happen. Keep an eye on your belongings, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Money Saving Tips

• Come lunchtime, look for restaurants serving a menú del día . This multi-course meal deal includes two dishes (usually you'll be able to choose from a short list of options), bread, a drink, and coffee or dessert, all for one low price.
• Or, grab some goodies from the market and head to the park for a DIY picnic that's even cheaper.
• Take the bus or train from El Prat Airport to the city center and pay a fraction of what a taxi would cost for the same trip.
• Use a T-10 travel pass to save on public transportation within the city.
• If museums are your thing, plan your trip for the first Sunday of any given month, when they're free throughout the city.

Get more bang for your buck (or euro) by reading our complete guide to free things to do in Barcelona .

Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona. "2019 Tourist Activity in Barcelona Data Has Been Published." February 12, 2020.

Turisme de Barcelona Consortium. "Language."

Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona. " 2019 Tourist Activity in Barcelona Data Has Been Published." February 12, 2020.

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4 Days in Barcelona: Planning An Amazing Barcelona Itinerary

Wondering how to spend your time in Barcelona, and not sure where to start? You’re in the right place! We’ve been to Barcelona a couple of times over the past few years (including just under a week in the spring of 2024), and we’re here to do our best to help you plan an incredible trip. 

Barcelona was the first stop on our first real foray into Spain, and we spent a full week in the city, exploring different neighborhoods, eating and drinking our way through the city, and walking A LOT. 

After visiting other parts of Spain later on that trip, including Madrid and Andalusia, we came away with a new appreciation for Barcelona and its unique story and culture. 

It’s a more international, cosmopolitan city (which has its pros and cons), and the history in Barcelona – and Catalonia more broadly – has a slightly different tinge to it than parts of Spain that are further south. 

Barcelona has a lot of the things we look for in a city – it’s super walkable, full of great food and drinks, forward-thinking and diverse, and has some amazing history behind it.

However, those positives are certainly balanced by the sheer number of tourists that visit Barcelona. It’s extremely noticeable, especially in the narrow alleyways of the Gothic Quarter, where you’ll often run into tour groups of 50+ people trying to make their way through the oldest part of the city. 

Over the course of your time in Barcelona, you’ll get a taste for what makes the city special (spoiler: it’s not Las Ramblas or the beach). Along the way, you’ll visit one of the most spectacular churches in Europe, learn how to cook a Spanish specialty, and connect with locals to get a fresh perspective on the city they call home.

In this guide, we’re going to give you a 4 day itinerary for Barcelona that is informed by our own experiences exploring the city over two different trips (one a few years ago, one more recently in the spring of 2024). 

We’ll start with some logistics – like where to stay and how to get around – and then get into a specific itinerary for spending 4 days in Barcelona. 

Our intention is to give you all the information you need to put together your own itinerary, and along the way help you discover a few places or experiences that we loved and think you will too. 

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it!

P.S.: Planning a trip to Spain? We have a detailed Spain itinerary plus guides to Madrid , Granada , and Seville to help you plan an amazing trip!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days to Spend in Barcelona

Barcelona is a huge, fascinating city, but it’s not exactly filled with landmark tourist attractions like Paris or Rome. It’s much more similar to a city like Lisbon in that it has a few major tourist attractions, but the best part about it is exploring different neighborhoods and, of course, eating and drinking. 

All that being said, we think you need at least 3 days in Barcelona itself , plus a day for one of the awesome day trips available that take you deeper into Catalonia and the distinct culture that has thrived here for thousands of years.

In other words, we think four days is the right amount of time to experience Barcelona without feeling too rushed, and to fit in that day trip. 

It’s also not too much time in Barcelona – you’re going to find your days are still full, and you’re going to leave with a list of things you want to do next time you’re in the capital of Catalonia. 

If you have more time or less time to spend in Barcelona, don’t worry – we have an entire section for you below the main itinerary with how we’d recommend spending one, two, three, and five or more days in Barcelona. 

However much time you have in Barcelona, you’ll be able to use this detailed guide to planning your Barcelona itinerary to organize your trip, figure out the best things to do and see, and plan an incredible trip. 

Where to Stay in Barcelona

We think there are a bunch of possible answers to the question “where should I stay in Barcelona?” The truth is, it depends on what you’re looking for. 

Which is why we’ve written an entire guide to the best places to stay in Barcelona , with a detailed breakdown of strengths and weaknesses of each neighborhood. 

However, you’re here for the short version, so here it goes. 

Here are the two neighborhoods – that we’ve stayed in – that we would absolutely recommend (especially for a relatively longer trip of four or more days) as nice home bases for exploring Barcelona. 

PS: Whatever you do, DO NOT STAY ON LAS RAMBLAS (or within a few blocks of it) . It’s a giant tourist trap, and you will end up paying more than your room is worth for the privilege of it being super loud all day and night. 

Gràcia: The Coolest Part of Barcelona

This is the part of the city that we fell in love with, and we stayed here for the first half of our first trip to Barcelona (together – we had both been separately before). 

It used to be its own city before the expansion of Barcelona swallowed it up, and still retains some of the distinctly independent vibes that it once had. 

It’s less central (and further from the cruise ship terminal) – and therefore, less full of tourists at all hours – than most of the more central neighborhoods. 

But it’s still really, really well connected to the rest of the city via the metro (two lines run through this area), and we had no problem getting from place to place while we were staying in Gràcia .

We stayed at Casa Gràcia , which we had a love-hate relationship with.

The idea – a hostel with private rooms, dorms, and apartments and plenty of common spaces – is great! However, the rooms were deeply in need of an update (and a deep clean). We were disappointed because it has so much potential! 

If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay in Gràcia with a similar vibe but better facilities, look at Casa Jam Barcelona .

Here are some places to stay in Gràcia that caught our eye, and that we think you will like. 

• If you want a boutique hotel : Seventy Barcelona
• If you want a great value hotel : Casa Mathilda
• If you want to stay in an apartment : Be Mate Paseo de Gràcia
• If you want a hostel (with a private room) : Yeah Barcelona Hostel or Casa Jam Barcelona

L’Eixample: Central and Well Connected

Matt spent the entirety of his latest trip to Barcelona in this central neighborhood , which is significantly more modern than the Ciutat Vella because of the fact that it was built well after the old town as a way to connect ever-expanding Barcelona with the smaller towns (like Gràcia) outside the old city walls. 

The name literally means “the expansion” because that’s exactly why it was built.

It’s more of a grid, with wide boulevards and a distinctly Parisian feeling to it (I’m sure Barcelonians love hearing that), which is a stark contrast to the old, windy alleys of the Gothic Quarter and El Born. 

Still, it’s a nice place to stay precisely because it’s so central, and it has some things to do and see that make it a place to visit in its own right, like Passieg de Gràcia and some excellent food and drink spots nearby. 

Overall, I think this is probably the most practical place to stay for a shorter trip (3-4 days) because it gets you out of the mayhem of the Gothic Quarter, but still within an easy walk or metro ride to those places. 

Here are some places to stay in l’Eixample that caught our eye (three of which we’ve actually personally stayed at, and you can see a few pictures below), and that we think you will like. 

• If you want a boutique hotel : Casa Bonay (where Matt stayed)
• If you want a great value hotel : Praktik Essens (where Matt stayed)
• If you want to stay in an apartment : Apartments Sixtyfour (right on Paseo de Gràcia – the part that’s in l’Eixample)
• If you want a hostel (with a private room) : TOC Hostel (where we stayed)

4 Days in Barcelona: How to Plan a Perfect Barcelona Itinerary

Now that we’ve covered some basics, let’s get into exactly how to spend your time in Barcelona. 

The first thing you should know going into this particular itinerary is that it’s focused much more on experiences than checking off every single tourist attraction in Barcelona. 

Sure, there are a bunch of Gaudí sites to see in Barcelona, but with just four days, do you really need to see them all? Probably not. 

Instead, focus on one or two that are worthwhile, and save the rest for next time. 

The same goes for both churches and markets, both of which there are plenty of in Barcelona. 

To illustrate the point above, there are two Gaudí sites in Barcelona that you’ll find on every other itinerary, but we purposely excluded because it’s just too much! Those two are Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, which are in the “with more time” section below, but not in the main itinerary. 

Instead, we’ve included a lesser-known (but equally interesting) site – Casa Vicens – which was Gaudí’s first foray into residential architecture, and is slightly off the beaten path (as much as anything can be in Barcelona) and doesn’t have lines around the block in front at all hours of the day. 

We have a secret for you. And it’s a lesson that it took us years of traveling to finally learn on our three month European extravaganza a few years ago.

Travel is better – and by better, we mean more rewarding, interesting, and fun – when you try your best to connect with locals to see the place through their eyes. 

We took that to heart in Spain, and have done a bunch of different tours and experiences over the past few visits that have opened our eyes to a new side of Barcelona, its unique culture, and its people. 

Our biggest tip for Barcelona is to prioritize tours (which is what you’re going to see in this itinerary). 

In terms of structure, we always do our best to anchor the days in our itineraries around a main experience, with time on either side for things like coffee, cocktails, and good old fashioned wandering around a neighborhood. 

And we never, ever do multiple museums (or major sights) in a single day. Trust us and learn from our mistakes – you WILL be exhausted by the time you get to the second one, and will get a lot less out of it. 

In general, the itinerary that you’ll find below is structured with one major sight per day – like the Sagrada Familia, for example – with time for exploring a particular neighborhood and eating and drinking your way through the city on either side of that main attraction. 

Here’s an overview of the itinerary you’ll find below: 

Here’s a high-level overview of the day-by-day itinerary you’re about to read. 

• Day 1 : Exploring the Gothic Quarter & A Walking Tour
• Day 2 : La Sagrada Familia & Barceloneta
• Day 3 : Choose Your Own Day Trip
• Day 4 : Casa Vicens, Park Güell & Learning to Make Paella

We don’t want to be too prescriptive – obviously, you could do a day trip on the fourth day in Barcelona instead of the third if it works better for your particular schedule.

Day 1: Exploring the Gothic Quarter & A Walking Tour

On your first morning, it makes sense to spend your time exploring the Gothic Quarter, home of the original city of Barcino that was founded by the Romans 2,000 years ago, before taking a walking tour with a local guide to get your bearings in the city and learn a few things along the way. 

Finish with a guided tapas tour where you’ll not only try some delicious food, but also get the context behind it, which we always find fascinating. 

The Gothic Quarter: La Boqueria and Las Ramblas

Start your morning out in the Gothic Quarter, the oldest part of the city and the place where the original city of Barcino was founded by the Romans two millennia ago as a trading post on the Iberian Peninsula. 

Despite being the main tourist attraction in Barcelona, there is still something romantic about the dark, narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter, which make the huge city of Barcelona feel small and quiet in the way that they insulate you from everything going on outside that particular street. 

Today, it’s the most-visited part of the city, and Las Ramblas – the famous thoroughfare running from Plaça de Catalunya down to the water –  is bustling, loud, and wild at almost all hours of the day (though, not in the early morning!). 

Theoretically, it’s lovely with its tree-lined pedestrian lined with flower vendors, but in reality it’s pretty unbearable at most hours. 

Start your day off right – with some great coffee at Right Side Coffee Bar , which is just a few blocks off of Las Ramblas. 

Take the metro (or walk) to Plaça de Catalunya and wander south before veering off to the left to head to get some coffee. Right Side is one of the original specialty coffee roasters in the city, and they have a nice space with high ceilings and a range of coffee drinks from filter to espresso and milk drinks. 

After you’re caffeinated, head back out to Las Ramblas and make your way to Mercado de La Boqueria , the most famous (and, therefore, most visited) of Barcelona’s markets. 

It is packed with tourists, yes, but we think it’s still well worth visiting, especially early in the morning before it’s wall-to-wall with people oooohing and aaahhing over the fresh produce, cured meats, and fish (among many, many other things). 

It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs, snacks for later (like meat and cheese), or fresh fruit and juice for breakfast, which is what we opted for. 

Get a container of sliced mango and some fresh papaya juice and take some time to wander the hundreds of stalls. 

Continue all the way down Las Ramblas – 1.2 km or so – to the Christopher Columbus Statue (who is somehow revered for making a huge mistake for thinking that the Americas were India, among other things) that marks the end of the street. Congratulations, you walked Las Ramblas from start to finish. 

Now, we’d recommend spending the entirety of the rest of your time away from Las Ramblas exploring Barcelona a little more deeply, only returning to cross the main thoroughfare en route to a different spot. 

An Introductory Walking Tour

We always like to do a walking tour on our first day in a new city for a couple of reasons. 

Over the past few years, we’ve come to the realization that walking tours are often our favorite way to get oriented in a new city for a few reasons. 

First, you get a crash course in history and culture , which is a valuable baseline that will make the rest of your trip more enjoyable. 

Second, you get to spend a few hours with a local who will give you all sorts of tips about what to eat, drink (and see), and specifically where to find the best version of said things. 

Last, but not least you’ll discover places that you definitely would never have found on your own . 

All this is to say that if you want to get below the surface of the historic center of Barcelona, you should absolutely do a guided walking tour. 

We avoid the free tours now because we’ve found that the guides are just never as good as the ones you pay for… which makes total sense. It’s worth the slight investment on our part to have a local expert giving us the real deal, rather than a college student who memorized a script, often isn’t a local, and is working for tips. 

We did this walking tour , and our guide Miguel gave us a fantastic introduction to the city of Barcelona. It was funny, engaging, disgusting at times, and overall a really fun way to get oriented in a new city. 

Another option is this Highlights and Hidden Gems tour with With Locals, a tour company that I also really like that focuses on private tours that are completely customizable. 

We’ve done tours with them all over Europe, and I actually did that tour (solo) in Barcelona. It probably starts to make sense from a price perspective if you have more than two people. 

An Evening Tapas and History Tour

Round out your first day in Barcelona with an evening tapas tour with Devour Food Tours, one of the OG food tour companies in Spain. 

It was founded in 2012 to help support struggling local restaurants during the recession, and has become a Europe-wide food tour empire since. 

Their tours, unfortunately, are not safe for people with Celiac Disease (that’s me!), otherwise we would have done one ourselves. But that doesn’t mean you can’t! However, I did get to go out to a couple of tapas bars with some friends in Barcelona (I didn’t get to eat anything), and it was one of my favorite experiences on that second trip.

The tours may seem expensive, but you’re basically getting a history tour and food tour all in one. 

Come hungry, because you make a bunch of stops along the way at some of the most historic establishments in the city, and your local guide will tell you rich stories that will help you contextualize what you’re eating and get a couple of levels deeper than “wow, these patatas bravas are tasty.”

It’s a three and a half hour tour, and it includes the equivalent of a full dinner plus drinks.  

Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability . 

Day 2: La Sagrada Familia & Barceloneta

On day two, spend your morning at La Sagrada Familia, the most impressive church in the world (in our opinion, anyway), then spend the afternoon in Barceloneta. 

Coffee near La Sagrada Familia

Before you head into the Sagrada Familia, you’re going to want to be caffeinated. And there are not one but TWO excellent coffee shops within a few blocks of the basilica to get your daily caffeine dose.

The first is about half a block up the street, and it’s called Café Fargo . They have multiple roasters – usually Nomad, who is from Barcelona, and a couple of other European roasters that rotate every few weeks. I had coffee here one sunny morning, and it’s a cozy little spot with a very friendly owner (and other baristas) who brew a good cup of coffee.

The other option is on the other side of the basilica, and it’s called Blackbird Coffee Corner . It’s a tiny little shop on a corner with a couple of outdoor tables (and no indoor seating) that serves Nomad Coffee (my favorite coffee roaster in Barcelona) and has a nice selection of pastries that you can grab as a snack before your visit to the basilica.

Marvel at the Beauty of La Sagrada Familia

Look, we spent three full months in Europe, exploring Portugal and Italy over two months before arriving for just over a month in Spain and let me tell you, we saw a lot of churches. 

La Sagrada Familia is easily the most impressive, and it’s because of the details. It is abundantly clear how much thought and care was given to every single last detail of this architectural marvel. 

However, it’s worth noting that it is a basilica (a church that has been consecrated by the Pope, but is not the seat of a bishop or archbishop), NOT a cathedral (that seat lives at the Barcelona Cathedral at the time of writing).

The contrast between the two facades – which you’ll learn about in the handy audioguide (more on that in a second) is fascinating, as is the entire structure. They feature stories of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.  

My favorite aspect is the fact that it’s oriented so that the sun rises on the “life” facade, which has stained glass windows of blues and greens, and sets on the “death” facade, which is all oranges and reds. 

The brain that came up with all these details that ladder up to the bigger picture is something that my brain can’t even comprehend. 

While there are bigger churches and more ornate churches out there, this is the pinnacle for us. 

It’s still under construction after being started in 1882 (Gaudí actually didn’t join the project until a year later, in 1883 though, which I didn’t know). 

Gaudí died in 1926, but left a detailed plan and sketch of his vision for future architects to bring to life. However, there was a slight hiccup in the 1930’s when, during the Spanish Civil War, people broke into the crypt and destroyed his plans, which took more than 10 years to rebuild. 

Hence, the Sagrada Familia is still under construction, due to be completed in 2026, the 100 year anniversary of Gaudí’s death as of my most recent trip, the date had been pushed back to after 2030 sometime. However, one of our guides in Barcelona mentioned that he’d expect even that later date to be delayed.

We’d highly recommend going either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light streams through the amazing stained glass windows and creates a pretty marvelous light show inside the basilica. 

According to our guide, Miguel, on the Gaudí tour I did on my most recent trip to Barcelona (which includes La Sagrada Familia), midday is the worst time to be in the basilica because of both the crowds and the lack of light coming through the stained glass windows. 

How to Visit the Sagrada Familia

First of all, if you’re in Barcelona in peak season (read: summer), you need to book your tickets for the Sagrada Familia well in advance. 

They will sell out, and you’ll be left with a couple of options in that case that are going to be more expensive. We’ll get to those in a second.

You have two main options here – visit independently, or as part of a guided tour.  

To get tickets on your own, you’ll need to go to the official website and hit the big red button that says “TICKETS”. 

At the time of writing, tickets are 26 Euros a person (includes entry and the audioguide, which is phenomenal). For 30 Euros, you can do a guided tour with a live guide in place of the audio guide.

For 36 Euros, you can climb one of the towers (only one of them) for great views out over Barcelona. 

You will then have to choose a specific day and entry time for your tickets, which will depend on your particular schedule. Do it as early as possible if you can!

Pro-tip : Make sure to bring headphones with you and download the audioguide on your phone in advance to listen to it as you go!

What if tickets are sold out? If tickets are sold out through the official website, you have two options. Check on Get Your Guide to see if they have Skip-the-Line tickets available, or join a guided tour of the Basilica . 

If you’re interested in a guided tour of the Basilica , we’d recommend going with Walks , one of our favorite tour companies in Europe. We’ve done multiple tours with them (read about our awesome Colosseum tour in Rome ) and the guides are some of the best around. They have a specific 90 minute Sagrada Familia Tour , and a more comprehensive Gaudí Tour (that I did on my last trip to Barcelona) that visits La Sagrada Familia along with Casa Batlló (or Casa Vicens) and Park Güell over the course of five hours.

An Afternoon in Barceloneta

After your Sagrada Familia experience, make your way south to the waterfront to Barceloneta for lunch and a history lesson that should last most of the afternoon. 

When you’re in the heart of Eixample or the Gothic Quarter, it’s easy to forget that Barcelona is actually a seaside city.

Originally, I thought of Barceloneta as exclusively an area for the beach, which is a wide, sandy affair on the Mediterranean. We’re not huge beach people, so we kind of dismissed it and completely neglected including it in an earlier version of this guide. 

However, after connecting with two locals on my latest trip during/after tours, I can firmly say that there’s A LOT more going on in Barceloneta than just the beach (spoiler: it’s mostly great food and drinks). 

I actually had the privilege of walking through Barceloneta with Elvira, my guide on my walking tour with With Locals (highly recommend both the tour and Elvira as a guide!), and that’s when it clicked for me that Barceloneta is more than the beach. 

We went to Mercat de la Barceloneta, which is a cornucopia of Catalan food (though I have Celiac Disease, which is a lot more complicated). To get there, we walked through the narrow streets lined by tall apartment buildings adorned with Catalan flags, and I realized that “oh yeah, people live here.” 

Barceloneta as a neighborhood is a triangular manmade peninsula that juts out into the Mediterranean, bordered by the sea, El Born, and Poblenou (and Parc de la Ciutadella).

Generally speaking, the closer you get to the beach at the southern tip, the more generic it becomes. This part of the city has a high concentration of vacation rental listings, and their presence is hollowing out the neighborhood, forcing locals out as landlords chase the tourist money. 

Barceloneta Beach, located in a former fishing district, is one of the city’s oldest and best-loved beaches. The whole waterfront area was remodeled way back in 1992 for the Barcelona Olympics, and today, this long strip of sand is a firm favorite with both tourists and locals alike.

Barceloneta Beach may not have the architecture or urban feeling of the inner city, but it’s still a great spot for an afternoon stroll, and an excellent place to grab an ice cream and indulge in a little people watching.

Instead of focusing on the beach, though, you’re really here for the food, the market, and the Catalan History Museum, which is an eye-opening experience for those of us who haven’t really learned all that much about Catalonia. 

The Museu d’Història de Catalunya

Start your exploration of Barceloneta with the Museu d’Història de Catalunya , which was our favorite museum in Barcelona because it covers a subject that we didn’t really know all that much about prior to visiting. 

The great thing about this museum is that it’s both cheap, at just 4 Euros per person, and has many of the signs in English. 

Bring your headphones because there’s also a handy audio guide that you can use the museum’s wifi to listen to as you browse, but it’s not totally necessary since most of the signage has an English translation. 

It’s worth spending between one and two hours here exploring the two floors of the museum. 

You’ll have to check your backpacks and you’ll need a 1 Euro coin to do so, but we learned (thanks to the friendly man at the front desk!) that the coin you put in to lock the door will be returned to you at the end, and it’s just a deposit to make sure you don’t run away with the key (for some reason?). 

More information on the museum, including current hours and ticket prices, on their official website . 

Barceloneta Market

After the museum, make your way over to the Barceloneta Market. 

One of our favorite aspects of Spanish cities is the fact that in Madrid, Sevilla, and Barcelona, there is essentially a neighborhood market in each of the main neighborhoods. La Boqueria, for example, is one of them (though it has kind of been transformed by tourism into a more “Central Market” vibe that you’ll often find in European cities).

Barceloneta Market is, as you might imagine, the local market in Barceloneta. It’s significantly less touristy than La Boqueria, but still somehow packed to the gills with a mixture of locals and tourists. 

It’s best in the morning through lunchtime, and the market closes for the day at 2:00 pm. 

You can either find a place to eat here, pick up some picnic materials and head to the nearby beach, or simply wander the stalls and admire the bounty of fresh produce, fish, and meat before heading out for lunch nearby. 

Tapas for Lunch

For lunch, you have three options nearby that are on every list of the best food experiences in Barcelona (and our local guide actually recommended these without us even asking about them). 

First is Perikete , a no-frills tapas bar with outdoor seating and big hunks of meat hanging from the ceiling. Order tapas – we like the fried padron peppers and patatas bravas – and wash it down with a cheap glass of vermouth, cava, or a beer. 

Second, just around the corner, is Can Paixano , a cava bar where locals and tourists alike eat shoulder-to-shoulder in the tiny space. There’s always a line for lunch, but it moves fast.

For lunch, you can choose from a range of tapas and bocadillos, which are basically little sandwiches. And, of course, cava. 

Regular cava. Nice cava. Pink cava. All the cava, please! (note: no gluten free options for food here, sadly – if you need to eat gluten free, make sure to read our guide to gluten free Barcelona !). 

Pro-tip : If the server isn’t paying attention to you after your first glass of cava, it’s because you need to order more food to go with it (thanks to Miguel, our walking tour guide, for the tip!). 

Last is a tiny, historic tapas spot in Barceloneta that Elvira (my guide for the history-focused walking tour ) recommended and actually took me to – though I was hesitant because I have Celiac Disease – called La Cova Fumada , which is a great place to try local Catalonian specialties like bombas (which were actually created in Barceloneta).

An Evening in El Born

After your leisurely afternoon in Barceloneta, spend the evening in nearby El Born, known for its food scene and great nightlife. 

Here are some things to do in El Born and nearby, in no particular order: 

• Get coffee at Nomad Coffee Lab (my personal pick for the best coffee in Barcelona, particularly this location) or Hidden Coffee Roasters , some of the best specialty coffee in Barcelona. 
• Explore Ciutadella Park and walk out to the Arco de Triomf (every European city has one!).
• Make a detour into the Gothic Quarter for the best tea we’ve ever had at Salterio . No joke. The Yogi Tea is incredible, and the family running the place is super friendly and welcoming. Caj Chai and La Masala Cafe are close seconds, though, and both are nearby. 
• Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar after 5:00 pm, when the interior of the church is free! We’d recommend going inside this church over the Barcelona Cathedral.
• There are an endless number of bars and restaurants to choose from – we liked Flax & Kale Passage for vegetarian, internationally-inspired food (the Malaysian Curry is great!). 

If you’re up for an after-dinner drink , here are a couple of spots you might enjoy in El Born: 

• El Diset : A cocktail + wine bar with a focus on Catalan wines with a selection of tasty tapas if you arrive earlier in the evening.
• Paradiso : This bar feels like the beginning of a spy movie. You’ll start your visit in an unassuming Pastrami bar, before opening a refrigerator door (yes, really), to reveal the entrance to a super cool speakeasy with expert mixologists and world famous cocktails.
• El Xampanyet : Less hipster and more traditional, this tavern style bar is a local favorite, with all the hallmarks of a Catalan tapas bar: stand up socializing on tiled floors, barrels stacked behind the bar and a steady supply of snacks throughout the evening.

Day 3: Choose Your Own Day Trip Adventure

On your third day in the city, we’d take advantage of Barcelona’s proximity to multiple great day trips to get out of the city and get deeper into Catalonia. 

There are two day trips in particular that we’d recommend as our top two options, and each offers something a little different, and which one you choose kind of depends on what you’re into. 

The first is Girona , a charming medieval city with intact walls, and the second is Montserrat , a cathedral in the rocky mountains above Barcelona with some nice hiking options. 

We’ll cover both in this section so that you have the ability to choose which you’d prefer. 

We do want to add a plug for Tarragona as an honorable mention, which I went out to check out because it was the original Roman settlement in the Iberian Peninsula and has tons of somewhat well-preserved Roman ruins. 

If that sounds like something up your alley, I’d highly recommend this guided tour with Bernat , which I did and enjoyed because Bernat is able to bring a ton of historical and cultural knowledge and context to help you understand the history of not only the city, but the region as a whole.  

Option 1: Girona, the Charming (Catalonian) City with Medieval Walls

We’d highly, highly recommend a day trip to Girona to dive deeper into Catalonia. It was the day trip we chose to take from Barcelona on our first trip, and we really, really enjoyed it. 

It’s a gorgeous town at the convergence of multiple rivers about 100 km northeast of Barcelona. So beautiful, in fact, that Game of Thrones filmed several major scenes in Season 6 in Girona!

We have an entire guide dedicated to planning a day trip to Girona from Barcelona, which you should read for more details. Otherwise, here are the highlights. 

Getting to Girona

Take the high-speed AVE train from Barcelona-Sants to Girona, which takes just 40 minutes each way. Book tickets either directly through Renfe , or through Omio for a more user-friendly experience (that comes with a small service fee).

We recommend the 7:05 am train if you can stomach it, which will get you there with plenty of time to do some exploring before meeting up with the best walking tour we did in Spain. 

Then, catch a train home AFTER 6:00 pm – the siesta is real in Girona, which means everything closes from 2:00 to 5:00 pm or so. A later train will give you time to make it to some of the places you miss during the siesta time. 

What to Do in Girona

Again, see our entire guide to one day in Girona for many, many more details, but here is the gist of how we’d spend a day in Girona (and, essentially, how we did it ourselves). 

Arrive early and walk the city walls before it gets packed. You can get up onto the walls from the Jardins de la Francesa behind the massive cathedral ( here on Google Maps), and they continue alllll the way around back to right around Plaça de Catalunya (though you can get off the walls at several points between those two spots). Don’t miss climbing up into at least one of the towers along the way for great views of the city and cathedral!

Head down to Espresso Mafia for the best coffee in Girona and a pastry or two, or over to their sister cafe La Fabrica if you’re in the mood for a more hearty brunch.

Join our favorite walking tour in Spain at 10:30 am. And the best part is, you have two options! We loved the history-focused walking tour we did with Raquel, whose knowledge about Girona and Catalonia as a whole was impressive, and it’s the one we’d recommend for most people. However, they also do a Game of Thrones Tour , which fans of the TV show (minus the last season of course, which was hot garbage) will appreciate because it takes you to places in the city where they filmed pieces of Season 6.

After the tour, grab lunch somewhere in the old town (ask your guide for a recommendation!).

During the siesta, where the entire city basically shuts down for a few hours in the afternoon, hit the informative Jewish History Museum . The museum covers the history of the Jewish population in Girona, which shaped the city prior to them being expelled in 1492. Then check out the Girona Cathedral , which is home to an impressive cloister, a huge nave (with no arches in the middle, which is unique) and the Tapestry of Creation from the 11th (ish) Century.

Afterwards, spend the rest of your time wandering the old town and stopping into any place that catches your eye before catching your train home!

Option 2: Montserrat – the Basilica in the Mountains (+ Hiking)

Montserrat is a holy site just outside of Barcelona that sits atop a rocky outcropping that absolutely does not look like it belongs in the same place as the surrounding landscapes. It’s not surprising that someone hundreds of years ago said “yeah, this is a special place” and set up shop. 

Since then, Montserrat has become a destination for pilgrims (kind of like the Camino de Santiago, but less famous).

Today, the two main attractions are the basilica atop the mountain – Basílica de Montserrat and the “Black Madonna” that sits atop the altar (the basilica’s holy relic), also known as “La Moreneta” – and the views from the hiking trails that leave from the abbey and basilica. 

If you want to do both the basilica and head out on a short hike, you’re looking at a 5-6 hour trip, including transportation (depending on a lot of factors). We’d STRONGLY recommend heading out on the first train of the day from Barcelona, because it does get very crowded here (especially on weekends, and particularly on Sundays). 

I actually did this guided tour with a local company – which includes the transportation to Montserrat from Barcelona – for a couple of reasons. 

One, I was traveling solo, and wanted to connect with other people. Two, I was deep into my trip and I didn’t want to deal with all the logistics of getting there, which is a little bit complicated. 

I enjoyed the tour, and thought our guide Christian added a ton of context and information about the monastery and surrounding area. 

The main downside of the tour is the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Want to see the Boy’s Choir, do the Museum, or go on a longer hike? You’re at the whims of your group. 

Getting to Montserrat

This is a significantly more complicated journey than the journey to Girona, because it involves multiple forms of transportation. 

There are two legs of this journey: the journey to the base of the mountain, and the journey to the abbey. 

First, to get to the base of the mountain, you need to get to Plaça d’Espanya (the regional train station), where you’ll hop on the R5 regional train towards Manresa-Baixador. 

Which stop you get off at depends on which form of transportation you’ll use to get to the top – more on that in a second. 

Then, to get up to Montserrat, you have two options; the cable car (Aeri de Montserrat), or the train (really a rack railway). 

They cost the same, and the better option is the cable car because it’s faster (it’s one fewer stop on the regional train, which is only around five minutes) and has great views along the way. 

HOWEVER, if you are afraid of heights , do yourself (and your travel companions) a favor and take the railway. 

If you are doing the cable car , take the regional train to the stop called “Aeri de Montserrat.” 

If you are doing the rack railway , take the regional train one stop further, to the stop called “Monistrol de Montserrat.” 

Again, our strong recommendation is to get on the earliest train leaving Barcelona that you can to beat the crowds out to Montserrat. 

At the time of writing, the first train out is at 7:35am (leaving from Plaça d’Espanya – leave yourself plenty of time to buy your ticket and get to the train!), which puts you at Montserrat around 9am. 

To buy tickets, you can either buy in advance on the official Barcelona Tourism site here (you’ll get a voucher that you have to exchange for a card once you’re in Barcelona), or buy them at Plaça d’Espanya on the day of your trip from one of the machines, which have an English language toggle (leave yourself plenty of time, because the machines can get busy). 

Important note: If you buy the train tickets in advance, the pickup point does not open until 8am, so you will need to exchange the voucher for your tickets ahead of time (which you can do either at Plaça d’Espanya, or at the Tourism Office at Plaça de Catalunya which is in the basement). 

Another note: There are other pre-book card options that include the museum and a meal in the cafeteria at Montserrat, but we would just recommend the train journey + basilica. 

What to Do at Montserrat

There are several attractions to take in at Montserrat, but there are two main things we’d focus your time on. 

The Basilica . The main “attraction” (though for us, it’s the hike), the Basilica de Montserrat is gorgeous, and really makes you wonder how they built it. Aside from La Moreneta, which requires a different ticket and line, I really liked the unique, ornate lamps that people send for good luck. It costs 6 Euros a person (extra if you want to touch La Moreneta) and you’ll want to book in advance and choose a timeslot that lines up with your itinerary. 

The hiking . There are a variety of hiking trails that leave from the Abbey and take you up the hill to various viewpoints (including a short hike to the top of the Saint Joan Funicular, which leaves from the abbey and climbs the rocky hillside to a higher point without hiking, if you prefer). Here are a couple of hiking options: 

• To the cross of Saint Michael : Paved but steep path to a main overlook of the abbey and surrounding mountains. It’s relatively steep, but well worth the effort. 
• To the Summit of Sant-Jeroni : By far the most difficult, this one is going to take you several hours to complete, and takes you to the summit (the highest point in this particular group of mountains). You can shave off a bit of distance and climbing by taking the Saint Joan Funicular, and starting your hike from the top.  

Other things, like the museum, the boys choir, and the farmers market, depend on how much time you have and what you’re interested in. 

Tips for Visiting Montserrat

Here are a few tips to keep in mind before your visit to Montserrat. 

Bring a backpack and some water . Especially if you’re hiking. It can get hot in the summer, and you want to have water and snacks. 

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes if you’re hiking . Don’t try to hike in flip flops!

Pack a picnic lunch . The restaurants (really, cafeterias) at Montserrat are both underwhelming and expensive. Far better to pack a sandwich or some bread, cheese, and meats to bring with you to enjoy with a view. 

Day 4: Park Güell & Learning to Make Paella

On your last day in Barcelona, check out Park Güell in the morning, then do a cooking class centered around paella before ending your trip to Barcelona in Gràcia, our favorite neighborhood in Barcelona. 

Spend your morning relaxing, grabbing coffee and breakfast, and visiting a lesser-known Gaudí landmark, preparing yourself for an action packed afternoon and evening. 

Casa Vicens: An Unexpected Delight

The least famous of Gaudí’s residential sites, Casa Vicens was an unexpected delight on my latest trip to Barcelona. 

The added benefit of being a bit out of the way is that it’s A LOT quieter than the two houses on Paseo de Gràcia, but no less beautiful (in fact, I’d say it’s the most intricate). 

It’s on a quiet street in Gràcia, a few blocks north of all the hustle and bustle, which puts you in perfect position for your afternoon plans. 

One of the things I first noticed about the design elements here is the influences from other styles – namely Mudejar, the architectural style you find in southern Spain inspired by the Islamic caliphate that inhabited the Iberian Peninsula for centuries (and there’s also something vaguely Japanese going on that I can’t put my finger on). 

My favorite parts about the design are the interior patio and the fountain, the paper mache ceilings featuring all sorts of fun natural elements, and the rooftop terrace. Plus, all the tilework is absolutely gorgeous.

 Part of the house is original, and part of the house is an extension built after Gaudí’s death by one of his students, matching his original style.  

Despite the fact that it’s less popular than other sites like Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia, you should still book tickets in advance if you can. You can do it on the official website , and the base ticket is going to cost 18 Euros. 

Learn How to Cook Paella in a Gorgeous Garden

We personally did this cooking class , and it was a highlight of our entire trip to Spain (you can read their stellar reviews on Airbnb ). 

Did you know paella is a) traditionally a lunchtime dish and b) not from Barcelona, but from Valencia, which is further south down the coast of Spain? 

In fact, paella from Valencia NEVER has any kind of seafood in it, which is generally what I thought of when picturing paella before this cooking class. 

Frankly, we didn’t really know a whole lot about paella other than “it’s rice, and it’s from Spain” before doing this cooking class with Clara, who grew up in Barcelona and whose family still lives in the house behind the fabulous garden you’ll make the paella in. 

This class is usually at lunch (except on Fridays) and it’s a lovely afternoon spent cooking a couple of different types of paella, meeting both Clara and like-minded travelers, and eating tapas, paella, and drinking Spanish wine in a gorgeous setting.  

The class lasts three hours, and we’d recommend not getting too drunk off of wine to make it to your next stop, which is one of the main attractions in Barcelona. 

Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability of the paella class we did.

An Afternoon in Park Güell

The main attraction of the day is absolutely Park Güell, a site that was built by Gaudí in the early 20th Century and has a very distinct modernist design and architecture that has led to it being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Despite having been to Park Güell before, it wasn’t until doing this Gaudí tour with Walks (my favorite tour company in Europe) on my latest trip that I realized that it wasn’t built to be a park, but an exclusive neighborhood for rich people (like a gated community) like the ones you found in England at the time. 

However, it quickly became apparent that the concept wasn’t taking off here in Spain, so the project kind of fizzled out and, more recently, it became a park. 

Regardless of its success as it was originally intended, it’s a cool place with interesting architecture (obviously, it’s Gaudí!).

Our recommendation is to make sure to walk up the hill to the viewpoint at the top, which will take you away from the majority of the tourists (though there will definitely still be other people there).

Don’t miss the benches (really, one long bench), particularly the fact that it’s super comfortable despite being made of rock, and the drainage system for when it rains. Oh, and the tile work – called trencadís – which refers to breaking the tile and reassembling it on a surface that isn’t flat. 

Getting Tickets for Park Güell

This place is not exactly off the beaten path. It’s usually packed with tourists from all over the world at all hours, which means you’re going to need to book tickets well in advance. 

Basically, as soon as you know the dates for your Barcelona trip, see if there are tickets available. 

This is the official site where you can buy tickets. There is an English version available, which makes it easier. 

Like the Sagrada Familia, you’ll need to choose an exact entry time when you book your tickets. If you do the paella class beforehand, I’d do 4:00 pm to be safe. 

I repeat: BUY TICKETS IN ADVANCE if you are coming in peak season. Trust us. 

Tickets become available three months in advance . You can also buy skip the line tickets here .  

An Evening in Gràcia

After a couple of hours at the park, head down into the neighborhood of Gràcia, which sprawls down the hill below the park. It’s our favorite area in Barcelona, and it has an impressive array of food and drinks and a more local vibe than most of the more central parts of Barcelona. 

Never have I ever seen more dogs out for their morning and evening walks in Barcelona than in this part of town!

Here are some places that we think you should check out, though you really can’t go wrong just wandering the neighborhood, choosing a plaza and grabbing a table, and watching the world go by. 

Las Vermudas is the place to go to learn about Spanish vermut, a fortified wine that you might know as “vermouth.”

They won best Vermuteria in Barcelona in 2020, and we showed up on a weeknight and it was packed. 

We knew exactly nothing about vermouth prior to coming here, and over the course of a couple of hours, the friendly servers and bartenders gave us a crash course in vermouth in Spain, which is sweeter and more aromatic than those from places like France and Italy (which are more common, at least in the US). 

For great wine, head to Viblioteca , who has a nice array of wines to go with Spanish cured meats cheeses. Or to Bodega Bonavista , which is more of a wine store, but also does tastings and wines by the glass. 

For Venezuelan arepas (and cachapas!) and cocktails, go to Rabipelao Gràcia . 

The options in Gràcia are endless! You’ll see why we fell in love with this part of Barcelona as you’re walking down a well-lit street buzzing with a combination of locals and tourists mingling and starting their nights. 

What to Do with More Time in Barcelona

If you’re lucky to have more time on your trip to Barcelona, here are a few ideas. 

Add another day trip . Both Girona and Montserrat (and Tarragona) are worth your time, if you have it. You can use the section in the main itinerary above to plan the extra day trip. 

Catch an F.C. Barcelona game . I, Matt, am a big soccer nerd, and going to an F.C. Barcelona game has been on my bucket list for years. Unfortunately, on this latest trip, they weren’t playing at Camp Nou (their main stadium) as it was being renovated, so I made the trek up the hill to Montjuïc to catch them playing there and got to see Robert Lewandowski score a hat trick in a thrilling 4-2 win over nearby Valencia. See their schedule and buy tickets here . 

Explore Montjuïc . The hill that looms over Barcelona to the south (fun fact: the Sagrada Familia’s towers will be just lower than the highest point of Montjuïc because Gaudí believes in the power of God/nature, and didn’t want them to be higher than the highest natural point in the city). To get up there, you can either walk up through Poble-Sec at the foot of the hill on the south side, or enter from Plaça d’Espanya on the northern end and walk past the fountain and other developments built for the World Fair in 1929 that was held in Barcelona. Here’s the rough route that we’ve done before – don’t miss the viewpoints out over the Mediterranean along the southern edge of the mountain! 

Hit another Gaudí site . We’d do Casa Batlló , which is right on Paseo de Gràcia and is probably the most impressive of his residential sites. But Casa Mila is just up the street, and is slightly less busy (only slightly, though). Whichever one you choose, get the audioguide to help you understand what you’re looking at and get the ever-important details about Gaudí’s thought process and details in the design. 

What to Do with Less Time in Barcelona

If you have less time in Barcelona, here’s how we’d organize your time to make the most of it. You won’t be able to see everything, but you can certainly see some of the highlights. 

With Three Days

As much as we hate to say it, cut the day trip and follow the rest of the Barcelona itinerary as written above. 

We loved all of the day trips, but think it’s a better use of time to get deeper into Barcelona and the rich culture within its city limits. They can be saved for next time you make it to Catalonia!

With Two Days

With two days, we’d consolidate the itinerary above by doing a morning in the Gothic Quarter , the sights in Barceloneta , and either the Walking Tour OR the Food Tour on the first Day, then doing La Sagrada Familia , the Paella Class , and Park Guell on an action-packed second day. 

With One Day

With only one day in Barcelona, you’re going to be really, really short on time. We’d do the Sagrada Familia first, which is our top sight to see in Barcelona, and then explore the Gothic Quarter with an evening Food Tour to round out the day. 

Getting Around Barcelona

With limited time, we’d DEFINITELY recommend taking advantage of Barcelona’s wide-reaching and efficient metro system , which is one of the better ones in Europe. 

Sure, you can absolutely walk around Barcelona since it’s flat until you get up towards Park Güell, but you’ll end up walking for 30 minutes to get between places on this itinerary. 

It’s a beautiful city, don’t get us wrong, but we think you’ll appreciate the efficiency that comes with zipping around on the metro, covering that ground in eight minutes instead of 28. 

The bus system is pretty good too, although the schedules posted weren’t quite accurate in our experience (which isn’t surprising, just something to note). 

You can either buy tickets individually at 2.40 Euros a pop (which is expensive), as a group of 10 tickets (for one person) for 11.35 Euros, or you can get an Hola Card, which is their unlimited transport card for tourists, for 48-120 hours (in increments of 24 hours). 

Tickets can be bought at the TMB (the metro system company) machines at most metro stations. 

We went with the Hola Card (on both of our recent visits) and recommend that you do too, especially if you’re arriving in Barcelona via the airport, which is included in the price (and costs 5.15 Euros one-way). 

You can get a discount if you buy it online in advance, and use a code to redeem it at the machines when you arrive. 

Prices and ticket types might have changed, so make sure to check the official TMB website for the most up to date information. 

Getting to Barcelona

If you’re planning a flight to Barcelona, there are a couple of important considerations to keep in mind before you book your trip. 

Barcelona only has one main airport .

Budget airlines would have you believe that Girona Airport and Reus Airport are actually “Barcelona Girona” and “Barcelona Reus”. 

In reality, these airports are around 75 miles (120km) away from Barcelona, on the outskirts of two completely separate cities. It’s possible to find extremely cheap flights to these provincial airports, but much of the savings will be canceled out by the 1.5 hour trip to the center of Barcelona. 

The Better Option: Fly into El Prat (BCN) .

Barcelona’s real international airport is officially known as “Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport”, or simply “El Prat” or “BCN”, for short. 

The vast majority of long-haul international flights land here, and you can also connect to main European hubs like London, Frankfurt, and Paris. 

How to Get into the City from the Airport

Once you’ve landed at El Prat, avoid an expensive taxi fare and take advantage of the excellent public transportation options into the city.

The best option is the metro – line L9 sud , which takes roughly 30 minutes (and departs every 7 minutes) costing 5.15 Euros each way. 

It’s covered by the Hola Card, Barcelona’s unlimited public transit card for tourists, which you can buy in advance (for a 10% discount) and pick up at the departure station near Terminal 2. 

Airport buses (Aerobús) run directly to the very central Plaça Catalunya every 15 minutes. The journey takes 40 minutes and only costs around 10 Euros for a return ticket (valid for 15 days) or 5.90 Euros for a one-way ticket, if this is a jumping-off point for a broader Spain itinerary .

IMPORTANT NOTE: This bus is NOT covered by the Hola Card!

Let Us Help You Plan Your Amazing Trip to Spain!

We’ve got plenty of other detailed guides for our favorite places in Spain – from Barcelona, to Madrid and Andalusia – that we wrote to help you plan an incredible trip.

P.S.: If the link isn’t there, it means we’re still working on it and the guide will be up shortly. It takes a lot of time and effort to put together these detailed guides! Bear with us.

• Two Weeks in Spain: How to Plan an Amazing 14 Day Spain Itinerary
• 4 Days in Barcelona: How to Plan the Perfect Barcelona Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Barcelona: A Complete Guide to 5 Great Areas
• Gluten Free Barcelona: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• Exactly How to Take an Amazing Day Trip to Girona From Barcelona
• 2 Days in Madrid: A Complete Guide to Planning Your Madrid Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Madrid: A Complete Guide to 5 Great Areas
• Gluten Free Madrid: A Complete Guide for Celiacs (Restaurants + Bakeries)
• Taking A Day Trip to Toledo From Madrid: A Complete Guide
• 2 Days in Granada: A Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Granada
• 2 Days in Seville: A Complete Guide to Planning a Seville Itinerary

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Hi which hotels would you recommend for me and my 20 year son. It’s our first time visiting Spain and Barcelona. We are going to stay in Barcelona 5-6 days and i was thinking if we should break our stay in two places. Please give some good affordable/ boutique/ midrange hotel suggestions.

Hey there Necla! Exciting that you’ve got so much time in Barcelona! We have an entire guide dedicated to helping you figure out where to stay, including hotel recommendations. You can find that here:

https://wheatlesswanderlust.com/where-to-stay-barcelona-best-places/

Let us know if you have any specific questions and we’re more than happy to help.

Cheers, Matt & Alysha

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Spending 5 days in Barcelona? My ultimate Barcelona itinerary is all you need to plan a perfect trip, what to see and do, where to stay in Barcelona, and a lot more!

how to spend 5 days in barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in the world, the reason is clear, visiting the city you can enjoy impressive art, beaches, excellent food, green parks, entertainment venues, and diverse nightlife.

Barcelona is a city full of attractions, restaurants, tapas, sangria, bars, shopping shops, parks, museums, buildings with impressive architecture, and what not? It has everything from everything and people full of the joy of life.

I did solo travel in Barcelona, if you are looking for a destination for a solo trip, Barcelona is a great option.

Table of content

How to get from barcelona airport to the city center, best time to visit barcelona, how many days to spend in barcelona, getting around barcelona.

• Barcelona itinerary: Day 1
• Barcelona itinerary: Day 2
• Barcelona itinerary: Day 3
• Barcelona itinerary: Day 4
• Barcelona itinerary: Day 5
• Where to stay in Barcelona?
• Extras for your Barcelona itinerary 
• Best Travel tips in Barcelona

Planning your Barcelona itinerary:

Barcelona El Prat Airport is 13 km from the city.

There are different ways to get from there to the city center using different means of transportation.

There is a bus that leaves every 5-10 minutes from the airport.

The bus costs €5.90 one way or €10.20 round trip.

You can pay with a credit card at the machine at the entrance to the bus or with cash.

You can also buy it in advance on the website .

The bus stops in Plaça Catalunya which is the main square in Barcelona, ​​from where you can take the metro or walk to your hotel or hostel.

The working hours of the line are 5:00-00:30.

Public Transport:

There is a public bus line departing from the airport and arriving at Plaça Catalunya.

It is slower than Aerobus because there are more stops, but the big advantage over it is that you can pay for the ride at the price of a regular public bus.

If you land at night, you can use the Nimbus N17, the ride is the same.

A taxi ride from the airport to the city center should cost between 25-35 euros.

You can visit Barcelona all year round.

Just do yourself a favor and not in July-August.

Keep in mind that July and August are both very hot and busy.

I do not recommend you to come to Barcelona during the peak months of summer.

You will not find parking, in case you are in a rented car.

In Park Guell, for example, you will hardly be able to see the back of the tourist in front of you, And you will have to book tickets in advance for every site.

During the tourist summer months, you will have to wait a long time in line at the tourist bus stops.

Therefore the recommended time to visit Barcelona is between the shoulder seasons in spring or autumn .

I visited Barcelona in October and it was amazing weather, not too hot not too cold, less crowded. Perfect time to visit.

The minimum is 3-4 days in Barcelona.

5 days in Barcelona is the perfect time to see everything properly without running from one place to another or giving up certain things due to lack of time.

Barcelona is a cool city with great vibes and atmosphere, full of young peoples that you can easily stay spend week in Barcelona.

When you visit Barcelona in five days you have enough time to travel slow and also get to know more beautiful corners in Barcelona and experience the city better.

It's recommended to go on a day trip to Montserrat , the mountain and the monastery - about an hour away from Barcelona.

Transportation in Barcelona is very convenient.

There are bus lines, there is a metro, and also taxis at reasonable prices.

Many sites on the Internet recommend purchasing the T-10 card and indeed it comes out lucrative.

The card has 10 tickets and can be used on both the bus and the metro.

For a couple, it will be enough for 5 trips each.

You can buy the "Barcelona Travel Card" which includes an unlimited number of trips for a set time.

(There is a ticket for two days 16.30 euros, a ticket for 3 days 23.70 euros, a ticket for 4 days 30.80 euros, a ticket for 5 days 38 euros).

By ordering the card online in advance, you can get a 10% discount on this site

Barcelona on a bicycle

Barcelona is a very bike-friendly city.

Bicycle paths get a place of honor there alongside sidewalks and roads.

Barcelona city center is flat and very convenient to get around by bike. Bicycle stands are scattered throughout the city but are used by locals only.

Tourists can rent bicycles from one of the many rental shops located in the tourist areas.

For those who are interested, you can take a Guided bike tour that will take you to all the famous places in Barcelona.

Hop-on Hop-off bus in Barcelona

The most convenient way to see the city is with the help of a tourist bus, especially if you have arrived in the city for a short time, you are traveling with children or people who have difficulty walking or you just want to be pampered and see the city from above. 

The tourist bus through the city's major tourist sites and stops near each of them.

You can get off at any of the stations, walk around the site and continue driving to the next site. Most fun to sit upstairs and look out over the city while driving and listening to an audio guide.

Three routes are offered to choose from - the blue route that passes through all the city's must-see sites, the red route that passes through other sites worth seeing in the city, and the green route that runs during the summer and passes by sea and beaches.

  Click here To buy a bus ticket

5 day Barcelona itinerary map

Barcelona itinerary for 5 days – overview

DAY 1: La Rambla - La Boqueria Market - Gothic Quarter - Plaça de Sant Jaume - Plaza Real - Barcelona Beach

DAY 2: Palau de la Música Catalana - Arc de Triomf - Ciudadela Park - Bunkers del Carmel

DAY 3: Montjuïc - The Olympic Stadium - Palau Nacional Palace - Pablo Espanyol - Magic Fountains

DAY 4: Gràcia Neighborhood - Park Güell - Sagrada Familia - Casa Mila - Casa Batlló

DAY 5: Day trip to Montserrat Monastery

The Complete Barcelona Itinerary:

Day 1: gothic quarter & la rambla.

The first day I recommend starting with a walk on the famous Rambla Avenue which is a long sidewalk with stalls of food, flowers, and souvenirs.

Since this is a central place with lots of tourists - take good care of your bags while walking and beware of pickpockets.

La Boqueria Market - After about 20 minutes walk on the La Ramblas at 91 La Rambla Street is the food market La Boqueria Market .

You will find fruit, vegetable, juice, chocolate, meat, spice, pastry, and more stalls.

After visiting the market, continue walking along the Rambla to the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic).

The Gothic Quarter is the oldest in Barcelona. There you can stroll through the beautiful alleys and the abundance of shops in the place. 

Nice to walk there even in the evening and the area is bustling with life while the shops and cafes are still open.

You can choose to visit the Gothic Quarter independently or on a guided tour. 

The last stop is close to the promenade so that at the end you can take the time to walk along the long promenade along which there are many stalls and it leads to the beach.

What is special about Barcelona's beach is that the sand and the many palm trees in the area were brought to Barcelona especially before the Olympic Games held in the city in 1992 to upgrade the city and attract tourists - a very successful move and in recent years Barcelona has become one of the most popular cities.

Shopping lovers should know that there is also a mall called Maremagnum in the coastal area. (About 15 minutes walk away).

Within walking distance is also the Aquarium and the IMAX Cinema - a nice and popular place for families and children.

Another mall in the coastal area but in a more remote area is the "Diagonal Mall" which includes lots of well-known stores including "Primark" - the successful fashion store that sells at very equal prices.

From Barceloneta beach to diagonal mall:

Metro line L4 from Barceloneta station to Selva de mar

If you do not want to do some shopping you can sit in one of many restaurants in Barcelona, order a beer and tapas and just enjoy the lifestyle of the Spanish peoples.

Day 2: Art, culture and Beautiful view point

Palau de la Música Catalana - a concert hall that is one of the most popular sites in Barcelona among tourists. 

You can get there on foot / by bus/metro (about 15 minutes).

Bus lines V15, V17, 45.

Metro: L1, L4.

It is a masterpiece created by an architect named Luis Dominic I Montaner.

This is a building that is specially and magically designed with a combination of stained glass and special mosaics, and concerts are held there regularly.

The cost of the tour of the place: You can take a self-guided tour inside the building (10 euros) or a guided tour (18 euros). For those who book 21 days in advance, the cost is 16 euros instead of 20. Admission is free for children under 10, and senior citizens 16 euros.

A 20% discount is also given to those who purchased tickets for the tour bus in the city (the tour bus) - the ticket must be presented at the box office.

The tours take place every 30 minutes.

The Palau de la Musica is open for tours daily from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm.

There are special opening hours on Easter and the month of July from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. There are also extended hours in August from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Continue from there to Via Laietana, a central and famous main street with impressive architecture.

From there continue to the impressive Arc de Triomf , formerly built in honor of the Barcelona International Exhibition.

From the Arc de Triomf continue on foot to the Citadel Park called Parc de la Ciutadella located next to the Arc de Triomf.

The park was established in the middle of the 19th century and is impressive and beautiful. Not to be missed. It has a beautiful lake, benches, a fountain, the impressive Parliament building of Catalonia, and more.

From here you can visit the El Born district , also called the La Ribera district, which is also one of the oldest and most beautiful areas in the city and is located right next to the Gothic Quarter, between Via Laietana and Ciutadella Park.

In this area, you will find a variety of impressive medieval palaces and buildings, some in the Picasso Museum complex.

It is a calm, cozy and lively area, with a variety of colorful restaurants, bars, and alleys.

It is recommended to end the day and get to Bunkers del Carmel , the most impressive and cool lookout in Barcelona towards sunset. 

This is the best view point in Barcelona - a great 360-degree view of the entire city, far from the bustle of tourists, on a mountain in the heart of the El-Carmel neighborhood near a park where you can walk.

I like observations. Just let me get away from the noise a bit, see things from a distance, get some proportions - and I'm happy. 

So when I heard that there was a view point in the city that I had not visited I knew I had to get there.

The Bunkers del Carmel view point is located on a 262-meter-high mountain with the remains of fortifications erected on it during the Spanish Civil War, designed to protect against airstrikes.

This place is far from all the classic tourist places and therefore has almost no tourists.

The view is especially beautiful at sunset, but for people who especially like quiet, it is recommended to arrive in the early morning.

A little tip - if you still decide to arrive at sunset, you will arrive about an hour before sunset and take a seat. Although the place is not very touristy because it is not easy to get to, but it is completely the favorite place of the locals and at sunset, it fills up.

You can reach El Carmel Station by bus line 24 from Plaça Catalunya or by the blue Metro L5 and from there take a few minutes on foot to the view point.

Day 3: Montjuïc & The magic fountains

This day starts at the Montjuïc , The Mount of the Jews.

This is a hill topped by an old military fortress. You can ascend to the fortress at the top of the hill in Montjuic via a cable car through which you will gain a beautiful view of the entire city. 

A cable car in Spanish is called Teleférico (you should keep this in mind if you want guidance from passersby in the area).

How to get to Montjuic?

To get there take the metro line l-3 or L-1 to the Plaza España (Plaza España) station.

The exit from the metro will lead you directly to the beautiful Espanya Square, directly opposite which you will see the Palau Nacional Palace, which we will reach later. Now get on bus line 150 (his bus stop is next to the metro).

Line 150 ascends the mountain through several stations to the fortress at the top of Montjuic Hill.

One option is to get off the bus at the entrance to the fort and then get off there by cable car or on foot.

Another option is to get off the bus before arriving at the fort, at a station called Panicular from where the cable car leaves in the direction of up the hill (towards the fort), and then get off on foot.

Cable ticket price: € 13.70

You can order online

After getting off the cable car, continue walking in the area towards The Olympic Stadium .

It is the sixth-largest stadium in Spain. It was established in 1929 and served as the main stadium for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

You can also walk around the beautiful parks located in the Montjuïc area:

Juan Maragall's Gardens - Jardins de Joan Maragall - only open at specific hours.

The Gardens of Juan Brossa Jardins de Joan Brossa

Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera

Jardins de Laribal

Walking distance from the Liberal Gardens and the Gardens of Juan Margal lies the Palau Nacional Palace built-in 1929 for the Barcelona International Exhibition and from 1934 serves as the National Museum of Art of Catalonia.

There is an amazing view from there that should not be missed on the whole city and also on Plaza España.

Poble Espanyol

From the palace, facing Plaza España, turn left and keep going straight in the direction of Pablo Espanyol .

This is an impressive site built in the shape of a Spanish village, It is very worthwhile to enter the site.

You will be impressed by Spanish-style buildings divided into different regions in Spain.

There are also nice shops with artisans who do handicrafts like glass, ceramics, jewelry, guitars, and more.

You can also sit down at one of the local cafés and enjoy an authentic Spanish atmosphere. Also do not miss the film that is screened in a place that tells about the festivals that are customary in Spain.

Entrance fee to Pablo Espanyol: Adult - 14 euros. (Online booking: 11.20 euros), entry after 8 pm: 7 euros, 

children (ages 4-12): 8 euros, children (under 4 years old) - free, 

students: 10.50 euros, 

pensioners: 9 euros.

Click here To buy tickets online

If Pueblo Espanyol is the last stop on your route, you can return to Plaza Espana the same way you came - with line 150. (From Pueblo Espanyol's gate, turn right to bus stop 150 which will take you back to Espanya Square and from there Metro l-3 to the hotel).

The Magic Fountains - Adjacent to Plaza España is the Magic Fountain of the Montjuïc.

If you are there during the fountain's operating hours, do not miss the fountain show.

The show resumes every half hour.

Show hours:

April-May, October: Thursday - Saturday, 21: 00-22: 00, 

June - September: Wednesday - Sunday, 21: 30-22: 30, 

1 November to 31 March: Thursday - Saturday, 20:00 -21: 00, 

January 7 to February 28 - no shows.

Day 4: Full Day of Gaudi

When you visit Barcelona, ​​you should, at least for one day, behave like a local.

Visit this special district, the Gracia district, and there is no doubt at all that your suitcase of experiences will be filled even more.

For those interested, there is a guided tour in a package that combines the three magnificent buildings of Gaudi .

The Gracia neighborhood is the oldest and most authentic neighborhood of Barcelona, ​​including the well-known neighborhoods of Villa de Garcia and Garcia Nova.

The Garcia district was a separate settlement from the large city of Barcelona and only at the end of the 17th century was annexed to Barcelona, ​​but it still functions as an independent province.

Passeig de Gràcia was the road that led to the settlement.

The neighborhood is best known for the Festa Major de Gràcia, which is celebrated every year in August, where the streets of the neighborhood are filled with colorful decorations and a variety of events and celebrations.

The residents of the neighborhood are young families and a lot of students and artists and it has a variety of entertainment venues and bars, along with various shops, galleries, and nice cafes.

The neighborhood has several beautiful squares and many restaurants as well as a nice little market called Libertat.

The main squares in the neighborhood are Plaça De La Vila De Gràcia , with the clock tower in the center; Placa de la Virreina, centered on an old church and Placa del Sol, home to Cafe del Sol, considered the oldest café in the area.

Another interesting site in the area is Casa Vicens - the first building Gaudi designed in 1883-1878 for the ceramic manufacturer Manuel Vicens.

What you should know about Gràcia: The neighborhood itself is pleasant and recommended for visits and even for special shopping, spending time in cafes and getting to know the nightlife.

For those who are interested after some days in the heart of Barcelona's tourism, disconnect from the tourist areas and discover different atmosphere, gracia district is the place to be..

For shopping enthusiasts - here you will find specialty stores at cheap prices, but less famous chains and large malls.

After strolling around Gracia you can visit Park Guell - A garden complex designed and designed by renowned architectural artist Antonio Gaudi.

The site was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2005.

Visiting Park Guell

Park Guell is without a doubt one of Barcelona's most famous sites designed by Gaudi.

He was commissioned by Osby Goel who wanted to create a stylish park for the Barcelona nobility.

The park has multiple entrances.

The most impressive is the main entrance from Carrer d'Olot.

You will see there two pavilions one of which is a small museum and at the beginning of the stairs, there is the famous dragon statue. There is a lot to see in the park-like rock pillars that look to grow out of the ground like tree trunks

(Gaudi was greatly influenced by natural forms and used in his work).

At the top of the park, there is a wonderful view that overlooks the whole park and Barcelona.

There is also a small restaurant in the park where you can buy something small to eat and drink sangria.

How to get to the park?

The park can be reached by bus line 24. (Its bus stop is near Plaça Catalunya). This is a 30-minute drive.

Line 24 will drop you off at the entrance to Park Guell. There is a free area in the park, and there is another paid area (10 euros per adult). Inside the park, you can go up the stairs where you will find a nice view of the city.

Regarding the paid area - you should know that the queues are long and the number of tickets is limited.

Therefore advisable to book tickets in advance! 

An important tip worth knowing!

Before and after the official opening hours - the paid area is also free (6-8 in the morning and 9-11 in the evening).

Sagrada Familia

At the end of the tour in Park Guell, you will walk towards the Sagrada Familia The most famous church in Barcelona designed by Gaudi.

Its construction began in 1883 and to this day has not yet been completed. Its expected completion is in 2026.

How to get to Sagrada Familia from Park Güell?

In Park Güell - exit the same gate you entered. (If you are already in the low area of ​​the park at the second gate, go up the stairs and continue straight until you reach the entrance gate).

From the gate turn right and continue a few meters straight until the v-19 station, this is the bus that goes to Sagrada Familia. Get off at the station

Pg. de Sant Joan - Rosselló and from there a 10 minute walk to the Sagrada Familia.

Note that the Sagrada Familia has 2 sides and each side looks different, so be sure to see her from both sides.

The Sagrada Familia is considered the most popular tourist site in Barcelona and no wonder.

Take a slow walk around the church - only then can you be impressed by a load of ornaments and statues on the outside of the church.

The main hall of the church is also impressive and you should not give up a short tour inside as well.

It is also possible and recommended to enter for a fee to be impressed by the unique structure from the inside as well.

Tickets for the Sagrada Familia are recommended to be purchased in advance! 

Continue by metro to Diagonal station, from where you leave for Passeig de Gracia.

Turn left onto Carrer de Provenca and reach Casa Mila, better known as La Federer, an apartment building built by Gaudi between 1905 and 1910. You can tour the building and visit one of the apartments and the attic where there is a small and modest museum dedicated to Gaudi's work.

The highlight of the visit to the building is undoubtedly the roof, with its chimneys having quirky shapes, spectacular colored mosaics, and a wonderful view of the city.

Casa Mila - Address: Carrer de Provença 261-265, Opening hours: 9:00 - 20:00.

Click here To order tickets online

Casa Batlló

Head back on foot to the trendy Passeig de Gracia, where you can be impressed by the clothing stores, cafes, and restaurants.

When you reach building number 43 on the street, it is impossible not to stop and admire.

Casa Batlló, built and designed by Gaudi in 1906, attracts attention with a façade with corrugated windows and curved balconies, porcelain-inlaid walls in blue, green, and purple, and a wavy, blue-tiled roof.

The roof resembles a dragon in its shape and is supposed to symbolize St. George, who according to Christian belief fought the dragon and defeated it.

You should enter and tour the building, which is full of vegetarian, round and colorful elements, which can cause slight dizziness.

‍ Day 5: Day trip to Montserrat Monastery

After 4 perfect days in Barcelona, ​​it is recommended to embark on one of the popular day trips from Barcelona. 

The most famous and beautiful of them is a day trip to Montserrat .

For many visitors, a visit to the Monastery de Montserrat (some look at its name Montserrat also means the devoted Mount of Teeth and when you visit the place you will immediately understand why) - which in the region of Catalonia in Barcelona (Spain) is the highlight of this trip. 

Montserrat is a Benedictine monastery located (or rather rock-cut) on a mountain of incredible beauty about an hour by train northwest of Barcelona.

Not only does the monastery boast of ancient history and immense religious importance, but also the stunning views that surround it have become a good enough reason for a pilgrimage.

Apart from this monastery, it is a national park that includes a jagged and unique mountain range so if you enjoy walking, some particularly interesting trails pass through the mountains that surround the monastery, where you can experience stunning views of the unique stone textures that exist throughout Catalonia.

You can also ascend to the top of the mountain with the help of the cable car and the funicular of the place, and from there choose between several different hiking trails which all wrap around the breathtaking views of the rural Catalonia region and so different from the cityscape of Barcelona.

What to do in Montserrat?

Monastery of Montserrat

The monastery is the famous site of the place, which is visited by many pilgrims.

Visitors are not allowed to enter the monastery, but you can visit the church (the main building on the site), a dark and ornate basilica from the 16th century. Above the main altar, in a small niche, is the sanctuary of the place: the statue of the Black Madonna.

In addition, you can see the Plaça de Santa María, a plaza in front of the monastery, the Museu de Montserrat, which displays modern works of art by Spanish artists, such as Dali and Picasso. It is also interesting to see how on Sunday afternoons, and sometimes even later, Sardana dances (Catalan national dance) take place in the church square.

In the monastery area, two more different routes can be done with an easy walk of 3 km - not a bad option for those who do not go well - the "serious hikers" will prefer to follow the harder and longer routes at the top.

Montserrat ridge:

The ridge of the entire Monster is a nature reserve and so, apart from visiting the church, you can go hiking in the surrounding mountains. Providing unique scenery, observation, plants, and animals as well as cliffs for mountain climbers.

Among other things, you can watch from the routes to the Pyrenees and even see in the distance the islands of Ibiza and Majorca.

On the various routes and the many options in the area, it is recommended to keep up to date with the local tourist office in Mansrat or that of Plaça Catalunya.

Assuming you are not satisfied with the monastery and have chosen to ascend the funicular up to Sant Joan station - there are at least three routes that the place offers from this point (walk to a high observation point, walk to the "cave" of the monastery, and the route to Path of La Font Seca and Path of Les Batteries - all These routes are divided into different levels of difficulty).

A day trip that is a must from Barcelona and is recommended for anyone who wants to break away from the big city and experience the beauty that is around Barcelona.

‍ Where to stay During 5 days in Barcelona?

I have visited Barcelona twice and stayed in 4 different hostels that I can highly recommend.

Each hostel has its style and each one was different from the other.

4 best hostels in Barcelona

Kabul party hostel barcelona.

Without a doubt, this is the place to meet people and party in Barcelona!

The rooms are shared and so are the toilets and showers - but if you have come to the city to celebrate and meet more travelers, this is a great place.

The hostel is located in the Gothic Quarter, near La Rambla, and offers its guests pub and club tours, free city tours and lots of parties, barbecue evenings, and drinking competitions. There is also a cool roof terrace and what you will find in each hostel - a shared kitchen, laundry, and computer stations with free Wi-Fi.

Check availability & prices

Yeah Hostel Barcelona

Yeah, Hostel is amazing! Lots of activities, friendly staff, dinners served at night so you can meet people, and the walking tours are amazing. It's close to the metro so you can get around pretty easily. The rooms are really clean and nice, too. They have a bar and the bar crawls after dinner.

nicely located around a lot of tourist sights which is great and walking distance to some famous areas of Barcelona that you want to see.

Bed & Bike Hostel

is one big space divided for a different purpose.

They have a kitchen with great facilities if you want to cook your food, common are with big tv and Netflix, dining room, the staff is very friendly and helpful and beds are comfy.

they organize dinners and biking tours for free, just paying for the rent of the bike for 7 € a day.

Rodamón Hostel

Hostel for digital nomads.

Very nicely invested hostel, clean with a huge terrace.

Most of the people who are in this hostel during the day work through the computer so socially this is not the place to meet new people or celebrate. This is not a hostel for parties.

For those who are looking for a quiet and quality place that you can work from, this is the place for you.

3 coolest hotel to stay in Barcelona

In case you are not interested to stay in a hostel, there are so many accommodation options in Barcelona and these are my favorite places to stay:

Room Mate Emma

is a futuristic and stylish hotel in the Eixample district, close to Diagonal Metro Station.

The design is minimalist, in light shades, with the use of special elements of lighting.

The rooms are equipped with LCD TV and of course Wi-Fi.

A 5-star boutique hotel, a beautiful place that is especially suitable for couples

Rooms are decorated in a great location, there is a rare bar on the roof of the hotel and in the evening local people come to the bar so the atmosphere is amazing.

The location of the hotel is fabulous.

The rooms are unique in the sense the shower is right smack dab in the middle of the room and the toilet is in a secret cubby in the wall, so you better be real friendly with who you go with.

Casa camper

Trendy and colorful hotel in the Ravel district, close to La Rambla.

Rooms are spacious and comfortable and decorated in a minimalist style.

In addition to the usual fittings, they have incredibly comfortable sofas and even a hammock dangling from the ceiling.

The minibar has access to a 24-hour buffet with sandwiches, salads, fruit, desserts, and free snacks.

There is also a terrace with city views, a billiards bar, and a gym.

Check availability & prices ‍

‍ Extras for your Barcelona itinerary 

Visit the camp nou stadium.

A must-do for all football lovers!

The FC Barcelona Football Museum is a must-see site for football fans in general and Barcelona fans in particular.

The Camp Nou Staduim is one of the largest and most famous in the world (almost 99,000 seats).

The club's motto is "Mes Que un club".

Indeed, Barcelona's football club stood by its slogan and became one of the unique symbols of Catalonia's nationality and culture.

On the first floor, you can view sculptures and figurines made of wood and copper along with objects related to the group on its various branches:

divisions belonging to the club's ice hockey team, balls from various sports on which the team logo is painted, entrance tickets to special games, trophies, and medals won by the team, arranged in the trophy cabinet By the years of winning them, and other interesting items like contracts signed with famous past players.

On the second floor, you can be impressed by drawings depicting the team players, color pictures, and advertisements for various products starring the team players.

In addition, you can view photos of magnificent past vehicles, ads of international games, etc.

A video is projected on the side that aims to explain the close connection between the team and the city, the film documents the general atmosphere that grips the city on the day of the team's important game.

Of course, like any good tourist site, there is no way to get out of the museum without going through - the souvenir shop.

In the store, you can buy shoes, sportswear, balls, videotapes, scarves, hats, posters of the team players, and many other merchandise products of the team.

It is important to know that the prices in the store are especially expensive and you should refrain from buying the same products elsewhere.

Things to know about visiting the Camp Nou Stadium

*Buy an entrance ticket to the stadium and the museum . 

It is recommended to book tickets in advance in the summer.

*There is a combined ticket to the stadium along with Barcelona Hop-On Hop-Off bus.

*You should check the opening hours on days of stadium games.

The museum closed three hours before the opening kick.

*Visiting the stadium is an experience for everyone.

For football fans especially Barca fans - it is a must, for others, it is a pleasant experience that allows a glimpse into the bowels of the great and famous stadium in Europe.

*It is very convenient to combine the visit to the stadium with the area of ​​Plaza España and the Montjuïc - it is both convenient in terms of distance and also because there is a direct metro.

*The prices in the store are expensive and you can buy the same products in the city.

‍ Top tips for a 5 day Barcelona itinerary

1/ travel insurance is required.

Travel insurance will protect you and your contents, ensure travel in peace and save a lot of heartaches.

A relatively small expense on insurance is recommended for all types of vacations and trips in Europe and around the world.

2/ Don’t rent a car

You do not have to rent a car to get around in Barcelona.

Apart from two tourist bus lines that will take you to all the tourist sites, there is an efficient subway with stations scattered all over the city and you can get around on foot.

You will not have to move away from the bustling tourist areas to see equal places and soak up the atmosphere.

3/ Beware of pickpockets

Like any other large and touristy city in the world, Barcelona has also been considered a place where there is a high chance that you will be pocketed.

Protect yourself from pockets by using a money belt and spread risks among the bag, suitcase, pockets, and other equipment left with you.

I have not experienced any problem in this matter just as anywhere in the world should keep your stuff well in crowded places.

4/ Map and orientation

It’s very easy to get around the city, especially since there are signs for all the main places.

In addition, Google maps works wonderfully even without internet, you can download an offline map of Barcelona and use it without internet, beyond that there is WiFi in lots of restaurants and shops and there is also the Barcelona WiFi network in lots of points in the city to which you can connect completely free if you enter your email address.

5/ Take a day trip from Barcelona 

Take advantage of your visit in Barcelona to take a day trip.

In just a two-hour you will find Figueres and Girona, or you can visit the famous Montserrat Monastery.

Thanks for reading my Barcelona itinerary!

I hope this Barcelona travel guide will help you plan your trip to Barcelona and I am sure you will enjoy Barcelona - one of the most coolest cities in Europe!

Travel resources

Here are some websites I use whenever preparing for my next journey anywhere around the world.

• Book affordable flights on Skyscanner , a great website that show the best routes and flight deals to your destination.
• Find a budget-friendly deal on all sorts of accommodation types on Booking.com .
• Buy the most flexible and budget-friendly travel insurance at SafteyWing .
• Pre-book a private transfer from Barcelona airport to the city center.
• Check the best city walk, tours & day trips from Barcelona to maximize your trip.

Read My Other Blogs:

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How to plan the ultimate norway road trip

15 most amazing places in Norway

3 Day Madrid Itinerary

how to spend weekend in Amsterdam

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10D Barcelona Itinerary for First Timers — Road Trip Around the Best of Catalonia

This epic Barcelona itinerary goes beyond the city. Go skydiving in Girona, hiking in Montserrat, and see first-century Roman ruins in Tarragona!

Updated on 16 Feb 2022.

Like most first-timers to Spain, my knowledge of Catalonia was limited to its capital — Barcelona. I looked forward to seeing Gaudi’s works and eating lots of tapas.

But this trip proved there’s so much more to the region surrounding Barcelona. There are dormant volcanoes to hike into, quirky museums (from some of the most brilliant artists in the world) and even Game of Thrones filming locations!

For those unfamiliar with Catalonia, here’s a short introduction: Catalonia is made up of four regions — Barcelona , Girona, Tarragona, and Lleida.

Despite being part of Spain, Catalonia has its own flag, language, and traditions not found anywhere else in the country. Like the sport of building human towers (below), Castells!

Castells are under the UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage list!

Good news for those hoping to visit as well; Singapore announced a Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) with Spain ! Read on for our 10-day itinerary exploring Barcelona and surrounds.

Pre-trip Essentials

Photo credit: @angelacompagnone via Unsplash

COVID-19 related:

Entering Spain — You’ll need the following documents: 1) 48 hours pre-departure: Complete the Spain Travel Health Form to receive a QR code. You’ll need to present this upon arrival in Spain. 2) Before check-in: Download your Digital Vaccination Certificate via  Notarise .

Catalonia’s COVID-19 page here.

Returning to Singapore (Update as of 22 Feb 2022) — Travellers entering Singapore (citizens included) via the VTL are required to take a supervised ART within 24 hours of arrival.

Do check the latest VTL requirements when planning your trip.

Social distancing restrictions: Most facilities and events are back at 100% capacity. Face masks must be worn indoors and some outdoor locations such as amusement parks.

More pre-trip essentials below such as where to get data and a Google maps with all the locations pinned!

Barcelona and Surrounds Itinerary Overview

This 10-day Catalonia road trip itinerary covers highlights in the Barcelona, Tarragona, and Girona regions in a clockwise direction.

Day 1-3: Barcelona

We spent six weeks based in Barcelona as part of Airbnb’s Live Anywhere Program and still left feeling like there’s so much more left to see!

If you’re only in Barcelona for a few days, here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

La Sagrada Familia

No Barcelona itinerary would be complete without seeing the Sagrada Familia — Gaudí’s last and arguably greatest work. 40 years of his life was dedicated to building the Sagrada Familia, and his last 12 years were spent working solely on it up till his death in 1926.

The interior is unlike any other church. Our eyes were immediately drawn to the ceiling — massive granite columns branching up to the sky. Gaudí’s main inspirations were nature and light and every detail in the church reflected that!

The church is still undergoing construction and was slated to be completed by 2026, but will most likely be delayed due to the pandemic. Entrance includes a detailed audio tour, but you can book guided tours (€49) as well.

Entrance fee: €26 , €24 for those under 30 years old — tickets can only be purchased online) Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM How to get there: Take the L2 or L5 metro line to Sagrada Familia station. Alternatively, take bus 19, 33, 34, 43, 44, 50, 51, B20 or B24 and get off at the Sagrada Familia stop

Park Güell 

Park Güell is another Gaudí must-see in Barcelona. The most iconic part of the park is the Terrace, an excellent vantage point overlooking the city decorated with vibrant mosaic tiles!

The project was intended as a private estate for upper-class families in 1900, but was bought over by the City Council in 1922 due to the lack of interested buyers. No complaints there because Park Güell can now be enjoyed by everyone!

Other notable photo spots here include the Greek Theatre , Dragon Stairway , and Hypostyle Room .

Entrance fee: €10 (~S$15.43) — purchase online beforehand as there are time slots for entry Opening hours: 9:30AM – 5:30PM How to get there: Take the L3 metro line to Lesseps or Vallcarca stations and walk 20min from either station. Or, take bus H6 or D40 and walk 10 min.

Casa Batlló

Photo credit: @casabatllo via Instagram

Glimmering scaled-roofs and mask-shaped balconies; the exterior of Casa Batlló stands out like a sore thumb — in the best possible way. The interior is no less fascinating. For one, you’ll find no straight lines! Every door, window, and tile exudes character, creating Casa Batlló’s lively personality.

Entrance includes a free audio tour sharing the history of Casa Batlló and Gaudí’s inspirations while designing it.

Entrance fee: €35 (~S$54), free for children under 12 — tickets can be purchased online or in-person Opening hours: 9AM – 6:30PM (Tue – Thu), 9AM – 8PM (Fri – Mon) How to get there: Take the L2, L3 or L4 metro line to Passeig de Gràcia station or bus H10, V15, 7, 22 or 24 and walk 3min

Singapore has Orchard Road , Barcelona has La Rambla . This 1.2km-long street stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to Port Vell at the coast. Beyond big brands like Primark and Zara, there’s also street artists and performers here!

*Pro-tip: Take your time to explore the side streets. There are loads of charming bakeries and vintage shops (See Carrer de Tallers street) in the area.

Opening hours: Most shops close by 9PM, but restaurants open till much later How to get there: Take L1 metro line to Catalunya (exit at the beginning of La Rambla at Plaza Catalunya) or L3 metro line to Liceu (exit in the middle of La Rambla)

La Boqueria Market

Boqueria Market isn’t just a colourful feast for the eyes. Salami and cheese bouquets, fresh fruits, and local pastries are some gems you’ll find! We enjoyed snacking on street food, but a highlight was stopping at one of the seafood bars for tapas.

We settled at Ramblero for some calamari, mussels, and grilled octopus. The bill came to €38 (~S$58), but verdict — we’d gladly return for more.

Spoiler — we actually did return. Couldn’t leave without trying their seafood platter (€60) 😂

*Pro-tip: Some stalls start closing around 4PM so it’s good to go earlier!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8AM – 8:30PM (Mon – Sat, Closed on Sun)  How to get there: Take the L3 metro line to Liceu station. The entrance of La Boqueria is located on La Rambla

If you’d like to explore markets the locals frequent, Barcelona has 38 other food markets scattered all over the city! Just the Eixample district alone has a few — like Ninot Market , and Sant Antoni Market .

Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter , or Barrio Gothic, is one of the best places to visit in Barcelona. It’s one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city — a labyrinth of bars, shops, and timeless architecture.

Walk the same streets as Picasso , who frequented the restaurant Els Quatre Gats as a young artist in the 1900s. It was here he held one of his first exhibitions! The Gothic Quarter is also home to Barcelona’s oldest restaurant, Can Culleretes  — a family-run eatery since 1786.

In the area, be sure to visit the Cathedral of Barcelona , the Bishop’s Bridge (first photo) and Plaça Reial (second photo).

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: Take the L3 metro line to Liceu station. The Gothic Quarter is located opposite La Boqueria.

Hot Chocolate and Churros

Churros con chocolate (Churros with chocolate) is a must-try in Barcelona. And no, it’s not quite the hot chocolate you’re used to — more like pure, sinful melted chocolate to dip the churros in. There are many places selling this snack but one of our favourites was Churrería Laietana !

Cost: €1.70/serving (+ €2 for a cup of melted chocolate) Opening hours: 7AM – 1PM, 4:30PM – 8:30PM (Mon – Fri), 8AM – 1:30PM (Sun), Closed on Sat Address: Via Laietana, 46, 08003 Barcelona

Accommodation in Barcelona (3 Nights): Stay in the Exiample or Gothic Quarter area for easy access to the main attractions. Our Airbnb was located in Exiample and had several dining options nearby.

Read also: 16 Best Things to do in Barcelona Besides the La Sagrada Familia

Day 4: Tarragona

Rent a car in barcelona and drive to tarragona.

Distance: 97.6km  Drive time: 1h 13min

The first stop on this Catalonia road trip is Tarragona, a coastal city famous for well-preserved ancient Roman ruins. It was the first Roman stronghold in Spain, dating back to 218 BC.

Look up car rentals via doyouspain.com and opt to pick it up from Barcelona Sants (train station). We got a five-seater SUV with automatic transmission from OK Rent A Car at €153 (~S$236) for six days (excl. zero excess for insurance).

PortAventura World

PortAventura Park

Start the road trip on a high with a visit to PortAventura Park . This thrill-seeker’s paradise has 43 rides across six themed worlds so you won’t be able to cover them all in a day.

Our favourites were the big coasters like Furius Baco, Shambhala, Dragon Khan, and El Diablo. Despite the long estimated waiting times for the rides, we waited no more than 15 minutes for most of them.

Ferrari Land

Right next to PortAventura Park is another theme park — Ferrari Land , whose main attraction can be spotted from afar. The ride Red Force stands at an intimidating 112m and goes from 0 – 180km/hr in just five seconds. Ferrari Land is much smaller and can be covered in just half a day.

If we had to pick just one park, it’ll be PortAventura Park. It’s almost three times bigger, with a lot more rides.

Entrance fee: From €48 (PortAventura Park), from €20 Ferrari Land). Alternatively, pay €58 for both parks Opening hours: Varies Address: Av. Pere Molas, Km 2, 43840, Tarragona

Accommodation in Tarragona (1 Night): Our Airbnb was located right in front of Mercat De Tarragona (Tarragona’s Central Market) and just a 15-minute drive from the theme parks. Pick an Airbnb or hostel in the same area for easy access to the main landmarks.

Day 5: Tarragona to Montserrat

Spend the first half of the day exploring Tarragona before driving up to Montserrat. The main attractions are all located within walking distance of one another.

Tarragona Market

The Tarragona Market is the heart of the city. Despite being around since 1915, the inside is modern with minimalistic cast-iron columns. Fresh meat, veggies and cooked food are sold on the main floor, while the basement houses a large supermarket.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8:30AM – 9PM (Mon – Sat, Closed on Sun) Address: Plaça de Corsini, 43001 Tarragona

Tarragona Amphitheatre

Along the coast lies Tarragona Amphitheatre , which has been around since the second century. This was the backdrop of bloody gladiator fights and public executions, witnessed by up to 14,000 spectators.

Besides the amphitheater, there are several Roman landmarks around Tarragona. Like the Roman Circus (above), which used to hold chariot races! A single attraction ticket costs €3.30. Alternatively, get bulk tickets to four Roman monuments and two noble houses for €11.05.

Entrance fee: From €3.30 Opening hours: Varies depending on the season Address: Parc de l’amfiteatre, s/n, 43003 Tarragona (Roman Amphitheatre)

Mediterranean Balcony

Just a two-minute walk from Tarragona Amphitheatre is the Mediterranean Balcony . Here you’ll get the best views of the Mediterranean ocean from Tarragona. According to legend, touching the railing brings good luck!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: Passeig de les Palmeres, s/n, 43004 Tarragona

Other landmarks in Tarragona include the Monument als Castellers sculpture and Plaça del Sadassos .

Las Ferreres Aqueduct

A 16-minute drive from the main city will take you to Les Ferreres Aqueduct , also known as Devil’s Bridge. This structure has been around since the first century A.D. and used to supply the city with water. These days, visitors can enjoy a scenic walk across the remaining 217-metre long stretch.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 43007 Tarragona

Lunch at El Celleret

For lunch, we recommend stopping by El Celleret — a highly-rated local restaurant surrounded by vineyards. It’s roughly a 40-minute drive from Les Ferreres Aqueduct. This establishment is run by the Torres family , a five-generation wine empire since 1870.

They have an a la carte menu , but we settled on the set lunch (€38/pax) which included five starters and two bottles of wine to share, plus a main and dessert each. Dishes feature commonly used ingredients from the area, like wild mushrooms, potatoes and grilled Iberian pork. 😋

El Celleret gets pretty packed, so call ahead to book a table.

Cost: From €15 for a main Opening hours: 1PM – 4PM (Wed – Mon), Closed on Tue Address: Finca el Maset, s/n, 08796 Pacs del Penedès, Barcelona

Drive to Montserrat from El Celleret

Distance: 54km  Drive time: 52min 

Escape the city and head to the jagged peaks of Montserrat ! Montserrat, or “serrated mountain” in Catalan, is one of Catalonia’s most famous landscapes. This can also be done as a day trip from Barcelona via train, so feel free to reshuffle the itinerary.

Montserrat Monastery and Escolonia Boy’s Choir

Founded over a thousand years ago, Montserrat Monastery is one of Catalonia’s most recognised landmarks.

End the night with a performance by Escolanía de Montserrat in the Montserrat Basilica. This prestigious all-boys choir is one of Europe’s oldest singing groups, with a history of over 700 years!

Entrance fee: Free Performance timings: Escolanía de Montserrat typically performs twice daily, in the afternoon and at night [ schedule ] Address: 08199 Montserrat, Barcelona

Accommodation at Montserrat (1 Night): Abat Oliba Hostel is conveniently located just beside the Abbey of Montserrat and offers both dorm beds and family rooms.

*Pro-tip: There are limited dining options at Montserrat. La Cafeteria is the most budget option but it closes early (4:30PM on weekdays, 6:30PM on weekends). Pack some food and snacks before driving up.

Day 6: Montserrat to Girona

A popular hike here is to the peak of Sant Jeroni and there are two ways up. You could start from the base which will take around six hours roundtrip. If you’re pressed for time, you can cut that journey in half by taking the Sant Joan Funicular up and hike the rest of the way.

Sant Joan Furnicular

Sant Joan Furnicular takes you from the lower station near the Abbey of Montserrat up to 1,000m above sea level.

If you’re hiking up, there’s a clearly marked path on the right side of Upper Sant Joan Station leading to the summit, Sant Jeroni.

Cost: €9.10 for a single journey , €14 for return Opening hours: Varies Address: 08293 Monestir de Montserrat, Barcelona

Hike up Montserrat’s Peak, Sant Jeroni

The path is well-marked and not too steep, so kids can take on this hike too. We even spotted mountain goats along the way!

It’ll take around 2.5hrs to get to Sant Jeroni (1,236m), but there are many viewpoints along the way so look out for those as well.

The last stretch includes a long flight of steps but trust us, the view at the top is worth it.

After that, either return to Sant Joan upper station and take the furnicular down or take an alternate hiking route to Montserrat Monastery.

If you’re opting for the latter, look out for a Y-junction on the way down from the peak. Take the path labelled “Pla dels Ocells” (where the hiker is standing). It’ll take roughly an hour from here to return to the Monastery.

Drive to Girona from Montserrat

Distance: 131km  Drive time: 1h 38min 

A 1.5-hour drive from Barcelona, most visitors just experience Girona Old Town as a day trip. But we suggest staying overnight to experience more of what Girona province has to offer!

Accommodation at Girona (3 Nights): Pick a hostel or Airbnb within Girona Old Town.

Day 7: Girona

Girona old town.

Start the day visiting the iconic colourful houses along the River Onyar — best viewed from Pont de Ferro , a bright red iron bridge built by Gustave Eiffel. The name should ring a bell; he’s the same architect who built the Eiffel Tower in Paris!

The Girona Cathedral is the city’s crown jewel. It was built between the 11th and 18th centuries and houses one of the world’s widest Gothic naves.

Fun fact: From the sixth season of Game of Thrones onwards, the crew stopped filming in Dubrovnik and used this church instead as the Great Sept of Baelor .

The Sant Marti Sacosta church is another GOT spot that shouldn’t be missed. The steps to the entrance are the same ones Arya Stark took when she was running from the Waif in Braavos !

Another great thing to do in Girona is walking along the 1.6km-long City Walls — no entrance fee! 🥳

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, opt for a GOT tour . The tour comes with an experienced guide who will introduce the prominent filming locations as well as the interesting history of Girona.

Girona Game of Thrones Walking Tour Cost: €30/pax Tour timings: 10:30AM and 3PM Meeting point: Plaça Sant Feliu, 08028 Barcelona

Local Cuisine in Girona

Rocambolesc Gelateria was set up by Girona local Jordi Roca , who was crowned “World’s Best Pastry Chef” in 2014!

Many dishes in Girona feature locally produced ingredients like mushrooms, meats, and wines — and the people here are really proud of their food scene.

Recommended eateries include Rocambolesc Gelateria (gourmet ice cream), Normal (traditional Catalan cuisine), Bubbles Gastrobar & Restaurant (signature tapas).

Day 8: Girona

Option 1: hot air balloon over la garrotxa.

An hour’s drive from Girona Old Town is the stunning volcanic region of Garrotxa . The area is known for medieval villages and a range of dormant volcanoes. We opted to start our morning on a high with the best view of La Garrotxa — from a hot air balloon!

Pink cava (sparkling wine) and local cake is served onboard!

The balloon ascends two meters per second, up to heights of 2,100m. But don’t worry, you’ll hardly notice as you’ll be completely transfixed with the view — there’s the Pyrenees and Montserrat on the horizon, and the Santa Margarida volcanic crater right at your feet.

Rides last between an hour to an hour and a half depending on wind conditions.

Celebrate another item ticked off the bucket list with a Catalan brunch — botifarra (a type of sausage), haricot beans, bread with tomato, and a salami platter. For drinks, there’s wine, coffee, tea, and a shot of ratafia (a local liquor, a really potent one).

Cost: €170 (Weekdays), €185 (Weekends and PH) Meet up time: 7:30AM Address: Afores, s/n, 17811 Santa Pau, Girona

Explore Surrounding Old Towns

Visit surrounding medieval villages like Santa Pau if you’ve got time to spare. It’s a good base to go on hikes around the area !

Option 2: Hike up at Santa Margarida

There’s also several hiking routes in the area for those who’d prefer to explore La Garrotxa on foot.

One of those we explored was the dormant Santa Margarida Volcano , famous for a lone hermitage built in the centre of the crater. Not much is known about the abandoned shack, other than it has a Roman origin.

There are various routes around here but the fastest would be to park at Santa Margarida Car Park . Parking is free and the entrance is clearly marked.

If you’re up for the challenge, there’s a 11km route (~4.5hrs) which also covers Croscat Volcano and Faeda d’en Jordà Forest.

Lunch at La Deu in Olot

Candied cod loin with sweet potato puree. Yum.

La Garrotxa’s rich fertile soil produces high-quality crops, and it’d be a sin to leave without trying some volcanic cuisine . We checked out Restaurant La Deu for lunch (a ~10min drive from Santa Margarida). It’s one of La Garrotxa’s oldest eateries, around since 1885!

The mains and desserts were yummy, but we were completely sold on the starters — mixed mushrooms and a creamy pumpkin soup with Garrotxa cheese.

Cost: From €23.95 for a set meal incl. a starter, main and dessert Opening hours: 10AM – 10:30PM (Mon – Sat), 10AM – 7PM (Sun) Address: Carretera de la Deu, s/n, 17800 Olot, Girona

Day 9: Figueres to Barcelona

Skydive empuriabrava.

Another way to take in the view from the top is at Skydive Empuriabrava ! Empuriabrava’s mix of ocean and mountain views make it a rewarding place to try skydiving — especially if it’s your first time, as it was for me.

After a safety briefing by experienced instructors, we were ushered onto a small aircraft. I’ll admit I was slightly (read: extremely ) nervous during the ascent to 4000m.

But once the light turned red and we exited the plane, I felt my fear leave as well. After a 30-second free fall to 1,500m, your shoot is deployed. Our instructors even let us try navigating the parachute! The whole experience was liberating — truly the best way to take in the views.

Cost: From €280 (top up required for photos and videos) Opening hours: 9AM – 5PM Address: Sector Aeroclub, s/n, 17487 Empuriabrava, Girona

Drive to Figueres from Skydive Empuriabrava

Distance: 15.3km Drive time: 21min

Lunch at Txot’s Sidreria in Figueres

Txot’s Sideria is great for tapas — there’s over 100 items listed on the menu . Order a couple to share!

Cost: ~€12/pax Opening hours: 12PM – 12:30AM Address: Avinguda de Salvador Dalí i Domènech, 114, 17600 Figueres, Girona

Dali Theatre-Museum

The Dali Theatre-Museum is the main reason why people visit Figueres . But even if you’ve got no clue who Dali is, this museum is worth a visit! Dali was an eccentric artist and his work is equally eccentric. For starters, the exterior is covered with eggs.

The inside is just as fascinating. Most art museums have a minimalistic layout with just one or two paintings per wall. Not the Dali Theatre-Museum — there’s art everywhere you look (ceilings included!).

Entrance fee: €14 (~S$21.62) Opening hours: 10:30AM – 6PM (Check the museum calendar before visiting as they close on certain dates) Address: Plaça Gala i Salvador Dalí, 5, 17600 Figueres, Girona

Drive to Barcelona from Figueres

Distance: 145.5km Drive time: 1hr 32min

After the Dali Theatre-Museum, drive back to Barcelona and return the car.

Accommodation in Barcelona (1 Night): Same as the first three nights.

Day 10: Barcelona and Flight Home

Visit other attractions like the Tibidabo Amusement Park , Mercat dels Encants (secondhand market) or Casa Mila before heading to Barcelona Airport.

There’s a shuttle bus service ( €5.90 one way ) to the airport from Placa Catalunya and Placa Espanya which departs every six minutes.

Bonus: Stay in a 13th-century Farmhouse

This 13th-century farmhouse on Airbnb was a little out of the way (1.5hr drive from Barcelona or 30min drive from Girona), but we loved it so much I just had to mention it.

Warm hospitality, beautifully decorated rooms, and adorable donkeys outside — this was a stay we won’t soon forget. If you can afford to extend your trip by one or two days, this is an experience worth including!

Tips for Planning Your Next Trip to Spain

Youthful, sexy, full of life and culture — that was my impression of Spain. After spending some time here, it’s still true.

Our 10-day road trip around Catalonia packed enough adventure to make up for the lack of travel for the past two years.

We got to tick off bucket list experiences like skydiving and taking a hot air balloon ride, visiting several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and eating loads of good food!

We knew we would love Spain before arriving but now it’s official — Spain is up there on our list of favourite destinations. Hoping to visit? Here are some pre-trip essentials:

Connectivity: A 12GB SIM card plan from Vodafone costs €10 (~S$15.45) and is valid for 30 days

Transport within Barcelona: The Hola Barcelona Travel Card includes unlimited rides on trams, buses and metros. Choose from 48, 72, 96 or 120 hour cards from €16 (~S$24.72). Alternatively, purchase pre-paid rides from the machines at metro stations. A single ride within zone 1 costs €2.40 but 10 rides cost €11.35 — useful if you’re planning to walk most of the time.

Language: Most locals can speak English, but prefer to speak Spanish or Catalan. It’ll be useful to learn basic Spanish before visiting. These few phrases should help you get by:

Google Map with pinned locations:

What are you looking forward to most on this Barcelona itinerary? Share with us in the comments!

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram  for more travel inspiration!

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Hi, would you be able to share the breakdown cost of this trip in excel (if there is)?

Hi Jenn, unfortunately we did not prepare a breakdown of costs for this trip!

Hi, could I check for your car rental, is Ok rent a car same as Ok Mobility?

Yup it was!

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A Guide To Spending 6 Days In Barcelona, Spain

As Europe's largest metropolis on the Mediterranean coast, the city of Barcelona has a great deal to offer.

The capital of Catalonia is a cultural mecca, filled with intricate architecture, suave fashion houses, and savoury dishes.

I was fortunate enough to spend six days in this dream city, where I saw not only the most famous sights but also some rare gems.

Barcelona is a city with several annual festivals. Since I travelled to Spain in August, I was able to celebrate the Festa De Gracia festival , one of the most energizing neighbourhood celebrations in the city.

In this article, I will guide you through how to spend six days in Barcelona: from what I saw and tasted to where I wandered. My hope is that it may inspire you to do the same and spend six awesome days in this incredible city.

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Day One: Explore your Neighbourhood

When you first land in Barcelona Spain, there will be a multitude of sights vying for your attention. The city has so much to offer, that it can be quite challenging to pick and choose which attractions to see first.

Depending on what time of year you are visiting, it will be essential to book some of the popular sights, such as the Sagrada Familia , Casa Battlo , and Park Guell, well in advance.

In addition to purchasing tickets for these popular tourist attractions, the Bus Turistic is a tour bus that can take you around to various popular attractions. I would highly recommend purchasing tickets ahead of time.

During my trip, I made sure to leave sufficient gaps of time for exploring the city, so I only made reservations for a few major attractions per day. I find that this is the best way to experience a city. And there is no shortage of places to see in Barcelona!

From secret alleyways to gardens, historic churches, and more, there is something to discover around every corner.

To get from the airport to the city centre, you can ride the Aerobus from Barcelona airport directly into town! Once you arrive in town, there are several metro stations to take you to the neighbourhood where you will be staying during your holiday.

After first arriving in Barcelona, spend your first day acclimating to the neighbourhood where you have chosen to stay. As I visited during Festa De Gracia , I chose an Air BnB in the hip district of Gracia. This unique area boasts a vibrant bohemian scene with a range of cool bars, cafes, and plazas.

Visiting Barcelona during a grand neighbourhood celebration is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Spain is a country with an endless supply of festivals , ranging from a huge tomato food fight to art exhibitions. If you can time your trip during one of the several festivals, you should!

Originating in 1817, Festa De Gracia is an energizing annual street festival that takes place over a period of 6 days. The small, tight-knit community of Gracia unites to create a truly spectacular extravaganza of music, food, and art.

One of the most unique parts of Festa de Gracia is the parade float competition, wherein each street/neighbourhood decorates one street with giant floats and displays which must be composed of recyclable materials.

Each street comes alive with multicolour-themed displays that seem to have come right from your imagination! Massive paper mache creations dangle from the skies along every street. This festival goes beyond anything you may have seen before Gracia residents go all out, creating incredible themed decorations.

When I was in Barcelona, some of the themed street displays I saw included an illuminated under-the-sea theme, rock music guitar theme, an amazon jungle theme, and a pirate ship theme.

In addition to this unique visual street art contest, there are endless options of things to do and foods to try. Throughout the festival, there are endless opportunities to learn various Spanish dance styles at workshops, and places to try traditional Spanish Paella, Catalan Sausage, and Esmorzars de Coca, just to name a few food options. You can also try a mojito, which is a lemon drink.

If you prefer a different vibe, there are over 10 districts you could explore. Each part of Barcelona has a unique personality. For example, professional shoppers will enjoy exploring the Eixxample neighbourhood. Here you will find posh shopping boutiques, luxurious hotels, and modern buildings.

The Old Town/El Ravel is divided into four main areas: the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic), El Ravel, El Born, and La Barceloneta. This is the heart of the city, the site of Ciutadella Park, the Gothic Cathedral, and the famed Picasso Museum, so it will likely attract those of you who enjoy travelling back in time to a different historical era.

El Ravel is another community with a bohemian vibe. This area is full of art studios and Barcelona's largest meat market, La Boqueria Market. There are also a few interesting statues in El Ravel, including El Gato de Botero.

Chill beach-goers will fall in love with Barceloneta, a modern district that was designed during the 1992 Summer Olympics. Finally, for techies, there is Sant Marti, a neighbourhood with the 38-story glass skyscraper Torre Glories and several modern technological amenities.

After an afternoon of strolling through your new neighbourhood, you are sure to be hungry for a hearty meal!

On your first night, try a traditional meal with Paella and Patatas Bravas. One of my personal favourite tapas bars is Lalola, located on Carrer de l'Escorial. While here, be sure to try the Potatas Bravas, a snack with spicy potatoes fried in oil and smothered in a creamy, spicy sauce.

Day Two: Visit the Crown Jewel of Barcelona and More!

On your second day, you will be well-rested and super eager to take on the town. This is the day to check a few of the top sights of Barcelona off of your must-see list.

You can begin your day with a free walking tour of Barcelona . Several tour companies offer unique tours including the Gaudi Free Tour by Runner Bean Tours.

After roaming around all day like tourists tend to do, you will want to take a lunch break. There are several popular tapas bars along Passeig de Gracia you can try.

Be brave and try something you haven't ventured to before! A few of the top-ranked choices include Cerveceria Catalana, Bar El Velodromo, and Vinitus.

After a hearty lunch-tasting paella, vegetable dishes, unique seafood dishes, and an assortment of wines or sangria, you will be free to explore the city some more.

If you are a chocolate lover, check out Museu de la Xocolata . Located in the Gothic Quarter, this museum is open daily from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM and offers the chance to learn about the origins of chocolate and its significance to the city of Barcelona.

If you have children travelling along with you, they will enjoy finding the chocolate statues throughout the museum. Adults and children alike will surely love to sample some delicious rich chocolate!

A leisurely walk through the Gothic Quarter would be a great way to spend the rest of the afternoon. This unique area features a few historical and vintage shops, restaurants, tapas bars, and museums.

Among a few select attractions include the magical Barcelona Cathedral, Placa Jaume, and the Jewish Quarter. Several walking tours also cover the Gothic Quarter, in case you are interested in doing some treasure hunting and learning about the history of Barcelona.

While in the Gothic Quarter, don't miss visiting Els Quatre Gats , which is an art nouveau cafe notorious for being the gathering spot for artists during the 19th century. Picasso and Gaudi himself even frequented this spot! Be warned that it is quite pricey, though!

Later that afternoon, make your way to the Sagrada Familia , located in the L'Eixample district of Barcelona. This is an attraction for which you will definitely want to make a reservation for at least a week before you go, to ensure that you don't waste time waiting in line (It can be quite long and take hours!).

It is a good idea to purchase the audio guide along with the basic ticket , as you will be able to learn about the history of the Sagrada Familia and be able to follow a particular sequence when navigating the grand church. I found the guided tour to be quite enlightening.

There are almost always enormous crowds around the Sagrada Familia, due to its popularity and it takes around two hours to properly see it.

Late afternoon is a good time to visit the Sagrada Familia, as sunlight will strike the windows and create an incredible shower of colours through the stained glass windows inside the cathedral.

The Sagrada Familia is truly the crowning glory of Barcelona, and is an amazing architectural wonder that you cannot miss!

Day Three: Gaudi Appreciation Day

Begin your third morning touring the colourful Gaudi masterpiece, Parc Guell . This unique Barcelona destination located in the Gracia district is very popular and for good reason! Swarms of tourists and locals alike flock here to enjoy an architectural wonder and a relaxed natural vibe.

Although now a beautiful park for tourists to relax and enjoy the fruits of Gaudi's architectural labour, this artistic garden was originally commissioned in 1900 as a luxury housing development for Barcelona's elite. However, by 1914, it evolved to become a parkland where people could picnic.

While at Parc Guell, be sure to visit the Gaudi House Museum, where Gaudi himself lived until his death in 1926. If you would like to tour the gardens in a leisurely manner, 2-3 hours should be sufficient.

You can even pack a picnic brunch to enjoy while perched on the famous mosaic Serpentine Bench. Timed tickets to Parc Guell cost 10 euros and should be booked at least a week ahead of your trip here. The guided tour costs 23 Euros.

After exploring Parc Guell, it will be time to locate a good tapas bar for lunch.You’ll find several options close by, including Restaurant Terra Mia which offers Mediterranean cuisine with a diverse selection of seasonal specialities. Their tapas menu includes chorizo al brandy y romero (Chorizo sausage with brandy and rosemary), Pulpitos a la Diavola (Baby octopus in a spicy red sauce), and Calamares a la Romana (Fried coated calamari rings).

After your fill of delicious Spanish cuisine, get ready for an afternoon of continued architectural appreciation. Spend the afternoon touring Casa Batllo , the world's best landmark 2021 winner. This incredible Gaudi creation has been called the real-life version of Claude Monet's painting, Water Lilies, and is an ocean-themed historical mansion featuring a wavy exterior, blue-green stained glass windows, and even a blue-hued grand staircase.

Of course, its most distinctive characteristic is its very Gaudi-esque mosaic patterns, which even coat the chimneys and rooftops! Basic admission tickets for Casa Batllo (including an audio guide) cost 29 Euros per adult and admission is free for children under 12 years of age.

If you are a fan of cultural music, a history buff, or just someone who appreciates beauty, another tourist site you will want to add to your trip itinerary is Palau de la Musica Catalana .

Just a 15-minute walk from Casa Batllo, this UNESCO World Heritage site was designed by architect Lluis Domenech I Montaner in the Catalan art nouveau style in 1908. The interior concert hall is a treat for the eye: beautiful stained glass ceilings, an ornately designed interior auditorium, and a particularly impressive central skylight in the main concert hall set this concert hall apart from others you may have seen.

Originally created as a home for Barcelona's choir, the Orfeo Catala, it serves today as a beautiful concert auditorium hosting various performers, including famed violinists, piano players, and opera singers.

The tour is well worth the price of 30 euros, but if you are interested in attending a musical concert here, you can either walk in or make a reservation on their website .

By the time evening rolls around, you will be starving for a delicious dinner. Tapas are always a popular option.

One amazing bar located near Palau de la Musica Catalana is Tosca Tapas y Vino . With a fusion-style menu, some of the highlights include empanadas filled with caramelized onions, walnuts, goat cheese, and mozzarella, traditional Catalan cured ham and danish style meatballs with almond sauce.

After recharging at your hotel, catch the evening lights show at the Magic Fountain of Montjuic, near Placa d'Espanya. Featuring dancing water shoots choreographed to high-beat musical tunes, the fountain show is a spectacle you will not want to miss!

During summer nights, shows take place from Wednesday to Sunday and typically last an hour at dusk. Fun Fact: During the day, you can ride the Montjuic cable car to get unparalleled views of the city from the skies!

After a jam-packed day of touring, tapas tasting, and meandering through Spanish streets, retreat to your hotel and rest up for your future adventures in Catalonia!

Day Four: Spend a Day Climbing Montserrat

After a few days of exploring the urban landscape, taking a day trip to a natural oasis will be a welcome change. Spend your fourth day in Montserrat, translated as "rugged mountain", where you will relish breathtaking views. This Spanish mountaintop is the perfect getaway from bustling Barcelona, providing a tranquil retreat for those of us who need a little nature time. This unique spot is a hiking destination and a religious pilgrimage.

Although there are many forms of transport to Montserrat, a cheap and scenic option is to take the one-hour train ride from Placa Espanya in Barcelona to Aeri de Montserrat. A roundtrip adult fare costs 11.50 euros and takes approximately 1 hour from Barcelona.

Once you arrive at Aeri de Montserrat, you can ride the cable car 30 minutes to the Basilica and Benedictine Abbey.

There are also alternative packages that include lunch and admission to the Montserrat Monastery Museum if you are inclined to learn about the history and significance behind this church.

According to historical legends, Montserrat was first settled by monks in the ninth century, when the four chapels were originally built. You can learn all about the monastery's origins at the museum, which should take no more than half an hour to view.

Interestingly enough, about a hundred monks still reside at the Montserrat Monastery today. Several locals take a religious trip to Montserrat to be blessed by the Black Madonna. You can certainly add this to your list of things to see at Montserrat, but know that you may be stuck waiting in line for hours.

Be prepared with snacks, drinks, and perhaps some travel games, if you are accompanied by kids! If possible, check the weather forecast and schedule your day trip to Montserrat on a sunny day, as you will likely be spending most of the day outdoors. The Basilica is open from 7 AM to 8 PM.

The hike to Montserrat is most definitely a 10/10 for its incredible scenery. It is moderate in difficulty, but there are several options if you are not an avid hiker, and are just there for the views.

Hiking to the top will take approximately 1-1.5 hours to climb 5 km; you can also take the cable car to/from Aeri Montserrat, which will cost 20 euros. We chose to take the cable car/funicular, and it was quite a scenic ride.

Once you are at the top of Montserrat, you will be able to visit the Benedictine Abbey, the Basilica, and a small museum.

There are also smaller, lesser-known landmarks and sites that you will want to check out while at Montserrat. These include the Santa Cova Chapel, Sant Miquel's Cross, and Sant Jerome, which is the absolute top of Montserrat.

Overall, Montserrat should rank high on your priority list while visiting Catalonia. You will not be disappointed!

Day Five: Visit one of the Glittering Villages along the Costa Brava

In awe of sparkling aqua-blue waters and sandy beaches? Love traipsing through cobblestone historical villages? More of an art lover?  Then the Costa Brava is an essential addition to your travel plans! No trip to Barcelona would be complete without a stop along with this constellation of little seaside towns.

The Costa Brava is a string of quaint and cultured hamlets along the Spanish stretch of the splendid Mediterranean coast.

If you are limited to just six days in total, you will likely only be able to visit a couple of the towns along the Costa Brava.

How to limit yourself to just one? This, my friend, is the challenge of short trips to Barcelona! There is just too much to see! Nevertheless, you can choose the perfect village for you, based on what you want to see.

If your perfect day consists of a day meandering through an old historic town, touring a giant, majestic cathedral, exploring a Jewish quarter, or exploring the shooting locations of Game of Thrones, then Girona is your city! This town is slightly inland from the villages located right on the coast and has retained its historical charm.

You can easily pass 12+ hours here by taking Instagram-worthy shots against the Eiffel Bridge (built by the same architect who designed the Eiffel Tower, passing through the ancient Roman-built walls that encircle Girona, seeing the massive Girona Cathedral, visiting a cool cycle-themed café and touring the ancient Arab baths.

For those of you who prefer spending a day away from the city sunbathing on a pristine stretch of sand while the rolling waves crash against the beach, you will want to choose L'Estartit. This family-friendly beach town hosts various festivities throughout the year, and has all you would need for the perfect beach holiday: food, drinks, a bar, and a not-too-shabby view!

If a rainy (or sunny) day at the art museum sounds like the perfect afternoon, you may want to spend the day perusing the Dali Theatre Museum in Figueres.

This bright fire-engine-red museum is a feat to behold, but it's the spectacular paintings that you will find within its walls that are the greatest draw.

The Dali Museum holds over 2400 of Salvador Dali's works and was christened by Dali himself. Figurues is also home to the San Ferran Castle (Castell de Sant Ferran) which is a fairy-tale castle perched on a hill. This town holds the key to pure medieval magic!

Last, but certainly not least (17 villages make up the Costa Brava!), if you enjoy a mix of seaside bliss, culture, festivities, and natural beauty, choose Cadaques. This eye-catching town is painted white and is home to the Cap de Creus Natural Park. This natural preserve provides unmatched scenery which will amaze you.

Overall, the Costa Brava is a gem that you cannot miss during your Barcelona vacation. You will be truly grateful you made time to visit one (or ten!) of these towns and will have made memories to last a lifetime.

Day Six: Your Last Day in Barcelona

Before long, it will come time for you to bid farewell to the city of your dreams. Although this is your final vacation day, be sure to enjoy it to the fullest!

We recommend you spend your last day shopping for last-minute souvenirs along Passeig de Gracia and stopping by La Boqueria Meat Market, which is the largest meat market in the city. Here, you will find a vast selection of fresh fruits, meats, seafood, vegetables, and other delicacies and snacks. Come hungry, and leave with a full belly!

After lunch, you can stroll through Old Town's La Ribera District and take a trip to the Picasso Museum. This is well worth the 12 euros it costs to see Picasso's largest collection of art. Even if you aren't a huge fan of his work, don't miss this museum, as there is nothing like it!

As the day turns to dusk, stroll through the green Parc de la Ciutadella , a beautiful zoological-themed park in the city's northeastern corner that offers picnic spots a plenty (or the perfect place to devour a gelato or café con chocolate), a central fountain, and even a boating pond which is open from March through September.

Find a space to catch the beautiful sunset. It will be the perfect spot to savour the last few moments of your stay.

And there you have it! Six days in the cherished Catalan capital. Barcelona is a wild, crazy, yet cultured city with a particularly unique character.

No matter what time of year you visit, or what neighborhood you choose to make your home base, you will leave with a strong affinity for the city, its people, food, and culture. And you will no doubt be ready to return at the next opportunity!

Recommended Hotels & Holiday Rentals

Useful resources.

» Where to Stay In Barcelona » Travel Resources » Free Barcelona Tourism Brochures » Barcelona Metro » Hola Barcelona Travel Card » Best Specialty Coffee Shops in Barcelona » Best Cathedrals & Beautiful Churches in Barcelona » A Weekend in Barcelona » Learn Spanish in Barcelona » Free Walking Tour Of Barcelona » The Sagrada Familia » Must See Attractions In Barcelona » Flamenco Show Barcelona » Getting Around Barcelona » Barcelona FC Stadium Tour » Gaudi´s La Pedrera » Gaudi´s Casa Batllo » Why Barcelona is a Perfect City To Learn Spanish » 11 Fun Things To Do In Barcelona For Couples » 26 Best Things To Do In Barcelona for 2023 » A Guide to Spending 6 Days in Barcelona » 9 Amazing Things To Do In Barcelona » Learn Spanish in a Homestay

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I'm a travelholic and started visiting Spain around 10 years ago. Have travelled the length and breadth of this beautifully contrasting country. “Remember that happiness is a way of travel, not a destination.”

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Barcelona in 3 Tagen

Sehenswürdigkeiten in barcelona an 3 tagen: mein programmvorschlag für ein wochenende.

Wenn es eine Stadt gibt, die alles hat, was ich mir wünsche, dann steht Barcelona ganz weit vorn. Obwohl du es nicht schaffen wirst, alle Highlights an einem Wochenende zu erkunden, hilft dir dieses Programm, die meisten Highlights in Barcelona in 3 Tagen zu erkunden. So holst du das Beste aus deinem Kurztrip heraus.

In Barcelona kannst du nicht nur viele historischen Gebäude, Geschichte und grandiose Architektur in Hülle und Fülle bewundern, es gibt auch einen Strand, du kannst wandern und am ziemlich guten Nachtleben teilhaben. Nicht zu vergessen den Panoramablick von den Hausbergen Tibidabo und Montjuïc. Was willst du mehr?

Stimmt, gutes Essen. Aber dank der guten spanischen Küche gibts auch in Barcelona zahlreiche kulinarische Höhepunkte.

Hier ist mein Vorschlag für deine dreitägige Barcelona-Reiseroute in der Hoffnung, dass du deine Zeit in der Hauptstadt Kataloniens genauso genießen wirst wie ich (ich war bereits achtmal hier, und kann nicht genug von Barcelona bekommen). Dazu gibts hilfreiche Reisetipps, die deinen Wochenendtrip nach Barcelona noch entspannter machen.

• Wesentliche Reisetipps vorab

Beste Reisezeit: Das ganze Jahr, Sommer (Juni-August sehr heiß, trotzdem sehr beliebte Monate). Mein Tipp: Frühling (März bis Mai) oder Herbst (September bis November). Silvester in Barcelona ist ebenfall ein tolles Erlebnis. Reiseführer : DuMont direkt Barcelona (kompakt mit allem, was du wissen musst) Anreise : Flüge finden / Bahnticket buchen / Bus (Flixbus) Unterkunft buchen: booking.com 💶 Geld sparen mit dem Barcelona all-inclusive Pass oder Explorer Pass Aktivitäten & TIckets vorab reservieren : Get Your Guide Kulinarische Touren: EatWith

Dadurch, dass meine beste Freundin in Barcelona studiert und gelebt hat, war ich in den vergangenen 20 Jahren mehr als 8 Mal in der katalanischen Hauptstadt.

Route für Barcelona planen

Vor deiner Städtereise solltest du zunächst überlegen, wie viele Tage du in Barcelona verbringen möchtest. Als Nächstes empfehle ich dir darüber nachzudenken, ob du die Zeit nur in Barcelona verbringen, oder auch einen Tagesausflug nach Girona oder Montserrat unternehmen möchtest. Option 3 ist, du bist ohnehin auf einem Roadtrip in Spanien entlang der Costa Brava unterwegs.

Wie du entscheidest, hängt von dir ab. Jede dieser Optionen ist richtig. Es gibt viel zu sehen, vorwiegend in Barcelona gibt es viel zu tun. Daher rate ich dir, am Morgen früh aufzustehen und so viel wie möglich auf deinem Aufenthalt herauszuholen. Wir neigen dazu, die Tage vollzupacken, da wir neugierig sind und so viele Attraktionen wie möglich ansehen möchten.

Wie viele Tage sollte man in Barcelona verbringen?

Für Barcelona gibt es kein Limit. Ich könnte dir auch ein Programm für 1 Woche erstellen, ohne dass Langeweile aufkommt. Aber ich schätze, dass du wahrscheinlich auf einer kürzeren Reise zu Besuch in Barcelona bist. Daher stelle ich diese 3-tägige Barcelona-Route zusammen.

Meine persönliche Empfehlung ist es, mindestens 3 Tage in Barcelona einzuplanen. Das Minimum, um die wichtigsten Highlights und ein wenig Kultur (und auch das Nachtleben) entdecken zu können.

In Barcelona ist immer viel los, daher achte darauf, am besten Tickets ohne Warteschlange (vor allem für die Sagrada Família) vorab zu kaufen.

Reichen 3 Tage für Barcelona?

Wenn du 3 Tage in Barcelona Zeit hast, ist es die ideale Dauer, um die wichtigsten Attraktionen der Stadt zu erleben und sogar abseits der bekannten Touristenpfade Orte zu entdecken. Die katalanische Hauptstadt ist voll an Kultur und Highlights.

Anreise nach Barcelona

Mit dem Flugzeug: Der Flughafen Barcelona ist gut mit anderen europäischen Städten verbunden. Ich verwende die Flugsuchmaschine Skyscanner, um gute Flüge zu finden.

Mit dem Zug: Die Bahn ist vielleicht nicht das billigste Transportmittel in Spanien, aber das schnellste. Dazu kannst du mit dem Zug nachhaltiger anreisen als mit dem Flugzeug. Du kannst bei der Bahn nach Spartickets suchen .

Mit dem Bus: Fahrten zwischen Barcelona und anderen europäischen Städten wie Paris, Brüssel und München sind dank Flixbus supergünstig. Schau gleich mal nach der schnellsten Verbindung bei Flixbus .

Nutze Omio , um Dauer und Kosten von Bus-, Bahn- und Flugreisen zu vergleichen.

Verkehrsmittel in Barcelona

• U-Bahn: Die schnellste und einfachste Art, sich in Barcelona fortzubewegen. Spare Geld mit einem Tarjeta T-Casual (10 Fahrten-Ticket)
• Bus und Straßenbahn: Auch das sind gute Möglichkeiten, sich in Barcelona fortzubewegen. Fahrten werden ebenfalls durch das Tarjeta T-Casual (10 Fahrten Ticket) abgedeckt.
• Standseilbahn : Diese besondere Fortbewegungsart verbindet den Montjuïc-Park mit der Stadt und ist ebenfalls im Ticketsystem enthalten.
• Taxis : In Barcelona gibt es kein UBER. Du kannst normale Taxis benutzen, ich rate davon ab, da sie teuer sind und immer viel Verkehr auf den Straßen ist.
• Fahrrad : Barcelona ist eine sehr fahrradfreundliche Stadt. Mach eine geführte Fahrradtour, leih dir ein oder schalte dir eines über die mobile App frei. Ich hätte es selbst nicht gedacht, allerdings getestet und war begeistert.
• Hop-On Hop-Off-Bus: Okay, diese Busse sind touristisch. Aber für einen ersten Kurztrip ideal für einen Überblick.
• An- und Abreise zum Flughafen Barcelona: Nimm den Aerobus zum/vom Plaça de Catalunya für 6 €, der alle 30 Minuten fährt.

Hole dir die Hola BNC Karte für 3 Tage in Barcelona (72-Stunden-Pass à 20 €). Dieser beinhaltet alle Züge, Straßenbahnen und Busse, einschließlich des Flughafentransfer.

Ich habe hier alle Reisetipps für Barcelona zusammengefasst : von der Anreise zum Flughafentransfer und den öffentlichen Verkehrsmitteln vor Ort.

Beste Reisezeit

Barcelona ist ein ganzjähriges Reiseziel. Der Sommer (Juni-August) kann sehr heiß und stickig in der Stadt sein. Obwohl es eine beliebte Reisezeit ist, wäre es nicht meine Wahl, da die Stadt überfüllt ist. Viele Urlauber an der Costa Brava machen Tagesausflüge in die Stadt oder Kreuzfahrtschiffe "fluten" das Zentrum. Dann musst du unbedingt Tickets vorab reservieren ( GetYourGuide ist gut dafür).

Meine präferierten Jahreszeiten sind der Frühling (März-Mai) und der Herbst (September-November). Schöne Jahreszeiten, um Barcelona mit angenehmem Wetter und weniger Menschenmassen zu besuchen. Auch der Winter (Dezember bis Februar) ist keine schlechte Reisezeit. Ich habe nach Weihnachten schon Silvester in Barcelona verbracht. Die Tage sind angenehm warm und sonnig (ca. 18 - 20° C), nur die Nächte sind kalt. Die Gebräuche zu Weihnachten und Silvester fand ich sehr spannend.

Hotel-Tipp: Motel One Barcelona-Ciutadella (El Born, Sant Martí)

Das  Motel One  bietet gewohnte Qualität wie in Deutschland. Es liegt nur 20 Minuten vom Strand entfernt  und befindet sich direkt am Botanischen Garten. Ich mag die Lage in besonderem Maße, da Freunde lange im angrenzenden Viertel Poblenou gelebt haben.

Hier kannst du das Hotel ansehen und buchen

Generell finde ich für einen Kurztrip die Viertel Gracia und das Barri Gotic ideal.

Günstiges Hotel: Auch preiswert mit guter Lage ist das Praktik Rambla . Eine Ruheoase in einem Palast aus dem 19. Jahrhundert. Neben den gemütlichen Zimmern gibt es einen schönen Terrassenbereich mit Sitzgelegenheiten im Innen- und Außenbereich. Zur Nebensaison ab 70 Euro/Nacht buchbar .

• Zum Wochenend-Programm (Fr-So)

Wenn du schon mehrere meiner Reiseberichte gelesen hast wirst du bemerkt haben, dass wir uns die Tage gerne von morgens bis abends mit Sightseeing und Aktivitäten vollpacken.

Hier folgt also mein Vorschlag für ein Wochenende in Barcelona:

Nimm an einem Stadtrundgang teil

Um einen ersten Eindruck einer Stadt zu bekommen, empfehle ich dir, an einer Walking - oder Fahrradtour teilzunehmen. Empfehlen kann ich die Free Walking Tours (Start um 11 und 15 Uhr), diese Fahrradtour bei Get your Guide oder diese Fototour zu den Wahrzeichen der Stadt .

Falls du nicht gut zu Fuß bist, kannst du auch eine Tour mit den roten Hop-on Hop-off Bussen unternehmen .

Die Free Walking Tour oder Fahrradtour sind meine bevorzugte Art , eine Städtereise zu beginnen. Die Guides sind ortskundig, sodass du einen guten ersten Eindruck und ein paar Geheimtipps für Barcelona bekommst.

Falls du schon in Barcelona warst, kannst du spezifische Touren zu Themen wie Gaudí, Geschichte der Tapas oder ähnliche Touren unternehmen.

Spaziergang durch Las Ramblas und das Gotische Viertel, die Altstadt von Barcelona

Erkunde die Innenstadt von Barcelona vor oder nach deiner Stadtführung. La Rambla , die berühmteste Allee Barcelonas, mag sehr geschäftig und touristisch sein, aber sie ist eben das pulsierende Herz der Stadt. Verbringe etwas Zeit damit, hier herumzuwandern, aber versuche nicht hier etwas zu essen oder einzukaufen. Die Dinge hier sind mit Abstand am teuersten, das Essen nicht wirklich gut.

Hast du doch Hunger? Dann kannst du beim Café Viena ein Flauta d'ibéric d.o. jubag o (Sandwich mit typischem Schinken) bestellen. Dazu ein Caña (ein kleines frisch gezapftes Bier) und du gehst schon fast als Local durch. Nicht günstig, dafür verdammt lecker.

Dank einer 2.000 Jahre alten Geschichte ist das Gotische Viertel (Barri Gòtic) unweit La Rambla ein weiteres Muss für ein Wochenende Barcelona

Wenn du durch die Gassen wanderst und die tollen Gebäude und Balkone mit ihren sonnigen Plätzen bewundert hast, wirst du sicher verstehen, warum so viele Menschen, wie ich von Barcelona schwärmen. Mit dem Wissen, dass sowohl Picasso als auch Gaudí von diesem Viertel bei ihrer Arbeit inspiriert wurden, lässt das Barri Gotic gleich mit einer größeren Faszination dastehen (für mich zumindest).

Hier kannst du wirklich viel Zeit verbringen, um die Atmosphäre einzusaugen und die Architektur zu bewundern. Besuche die La Rambla (katalanisch: Les Rambles), die Kathedrale Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia , den Plaça Reial mit seinen berühmten Laternen und das Kolumbus Denkmal . Der kleinere und ruhigere Platz Plaça del Pi ist ein toller Ort, um eine Kleinigkeit zu Essen und eine Pause einzulegen.

Das Highlight im gotischen Viertel ist für mich allerdings der Markt La Boqueria Market:

La Boqueria

Einen Crashkurs in der katalanischer Küche machst du am besten auf einem der vielen Lebensmittelmärkte der Stadt, wo Stände kostenlose Verkostungen anbieten und Bars einfache Köstlichkeiten mit frischen Produkten des Tages zubereiten.

La Boqueria sagt über sich selbst, der beste Markt der Welt zu sein. Bilde dir selbst ein Urteil. Es gibt hier wirklich viele köstliche und frische Zutaten und Gerichte, die du probieren kannst. Nicht günstig, aber für mich ein Muss. Über 200 Händler bieten alles von Fisch, Fleisch, Käse, Brot und Oliven bis zum fertigen Gericht an.

Barcelona ist ganz einfach das Schlaraffenland für Food-Fanatiker. Die katalanische Hauptstadt ist vollgepackt mit Cafés, Bars, Restaurants, Feinkostläden, Eisdielen, Konditoreien und Weinhandlungen und Märkte. Außerdem gibt es alle Arten von spezialisierten kulinarischen Produzenten für jeden Geschmack, von Feinschmeckern und Feinschmeckern bis hin zu wählerischen Essern und kleinen Geldbeuteln.

La Boqueria gibt es seit 1836 in Barcelona, an dem Ort wurden angeblich schon 1217 frischer Fisch von Händlern verkauft.

Du kannst eine Tour auf dem Markt mit einheimischen Köchen buchen, um alle Insights zu erfahren und die besten Händler genannt zu bekommen.

Auf den Spuren Gaudís: Casa Batlló und Casa Milà

Vom Gotischen Viertel aus kannst du jetzt einen 20-minütigen Spaziergang machen (meine Empfehlung), oder die 8-minütige Fahrt mit der U-Bahn in Kauf nehmen, um einige der schönsten Meisterwerke Gaudís zu entdecken. Keine Angst, es handelt sich dabei nicht um eine Galerie, denn Gaudís Kunst kannst du von der Straße aus bewundern.

Casa Batlló und Casa Milà liegen 5 Gehminuten voneinander entfernt am Paseo de Gràcia .

Casa Batlló

Dieses Gebäude wurde Gaudí übergeben, und er konnte hier zwischen 1904 und 1906 seine ganze kreative Ader ausleben und baute das Gebäude um. Die markante Fassade hat ihm einen Platz auf der Liste des UNESCO-Weltkulturerbes eingebracht und zieht jedes Jahr mehr als eine Million Besucher an.

Infos zu Casa Batlló:

• Tickets kosten 35 Euro (mit Audioguide) , Tickets am frühen Morgen ohne viele Menschen sogar 45 Euro. Es lohnt sich. Das Ticket beinhaltet die Aussicht auf den neuen Gaudí Dom, den Gaudí Cube und die Dachterrasse sowie neue Treppe von Kengo Kuma.
• Für Gaudi Fans wie ich:   Stadtführung mit E-Bike „Auf den Spuren Gaudís“
• Öffnungszeiten:  9 bis 21 Uhr. Letzter Einlass 20 Uhr.
• Dauer des Besuchs ca. 1 Stunde
• Offizielle Webseite Case Batlló

Obwohl es von außen nicht sofort so beeindruckend wie Casa Battlo aussieht, ist dieses zweite architektonische Juwel, auch bekannt als La Pedrera, wegen der markanten Skulpturen auf dem Dach des Kriegers und der renovierten Altbauwohnung einen Besuch wert.

Das Gebäude wird umgangssprachlich nur Pedrera genannt, da es bei den Bauarbeiten eher einem Steinbruch als einem architektonischen Meisterwerk glich. Dabei beauftragte die Witwe Milà Antoni Gaudí damit, einen prunkvollen Palast zu bauen. Der Spitzname Pedrera gefiel der Witwe genauso wenig wie der Entwurf Gaudís.

Weitere Infos zu La Pedrera:

• Eintritt Casa Milà ohne anstehen
• Für Gaudi Fans wie ich:  Stadtführung mit E-Bike „Auf den Spuren Gaudís“
• Öffnungszeiten: 27. Februar – 2. November: täglich von 9 bis 20.30 Uhr, 3. November – 24. Dezember: täglich von 9 bis 18,30 Uhr, 26. Dezember – 3. Januar: täglich von 9 bis 20.30 Uhr, 1. Januar: 11 – 18,30 Uhr, geschlossen am 25. Dezember. Letzter Einlass ist 30 Minuten vor Ende der Öffnungszeiten.
• Offizielle Webseite La Pedrera - Casa Milà

Palau de la Música Catalana

Nur 15 Gehminuten (oder eine kurze Bus-/U-Bahnfahrt) von den berühmten Häusern Gaudís entfernt liegt der spektakuläre Palau de la Música Catalana (Palast der katalanischen Musik). Er wurde zwischen 1905 und 1908 vom Architekten Lluís Domènech i Montaner entworfen und ist atemberaubend schön. Berechtigterweise zählt dieses architektonisch bedeutsamste Gebäude der Stadt zum UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe.

Kauf dir ein Ticket und erhalte Zugang zu dem Labyrinth aus Räumen, einschließlich des Konzertsaals mit einer unfassbaren detaillierten Buntglasdecke. Spaziere die prachtvollen Treppen empor und staune über die vielen Verzierungen der Säulen und Glasfenster. Besonders bei Tageslicht ist die Lluís-Millet-Halle einer der schönsten Orte im Palau de la Música Catalana.

Hinweis : Du kannst die Tour mit Audiguide auf dem Handy ohne Guide machen. Dazu empfinde ich es als hilfreich, Kopfhörer fürs eigene Handy dabeizuhaben, um die Hände frei zuhaben.

• Eintrittspreis: Ticket inklusive Führung kostet 20 € (bzw. 11 € für Studierende).
• Adresse: C/ Palau de la Música, 4-6, 08003 Barcelona.
• Öffnungszeiten: täglich 10 -1 5.30 Uhr und von Ostern bis August bis 18 Uhr.

Sundowner in der Bar 1881 mit Blick über den Hafen

Um den ersten Tag deines Barcelona Städtetrips zu beenden, begibst du dich zum Hafen in die Bar 1881 per SAGARDI auf dem Dach des Museu d'Història de Catalunya (Historischen Museumin Barceloneta ). Wenn du noch Zeit hast, kannst du das Museum auch noch besichtigen (Eintritt kostet 6 Euro).

Die Bar ist etwas teurer, aber wenn nicht am ersten Tag, wann dann sollte man sich etwas gönnen? Der Blick über den Hafen ist wirklich toll. Webseite der Bar .

Alternativ empfehle ich dir eine Tapas Bar im Barri Gòtic oder in El Born. Zum Beispiel El Chigre 1769 oder eine der ältesten Tapas Bars der Stadt Bar La Plata . Im Barri Gotic findest du in der Carrer de la Mercè einige Tapas Bars und du kannst frei auswählen.

Als alternative Bar am Abend empfehle ich CDLC Barcelona (Carpe Diem) , eine besondere Strandbar, die sehr beliebt ist. Am Tag ein Restaurant, am Abend ein Club mit DJ.

Ich hoffe, du hast heute bequeme Schuhe an. Heute geht es weiter, um die schönsten Bauwerke Gaudis zu besichtigen. Ja, ich bin ein riesengroßer Fan, aber ich verspreche dir, dass diese Orte auch dir gefallen werden.

Start in den Tag mit einem guten Frühstück

Je nachdem, für welche Unterkunft du dich entscheidest, gibt es folgende Optionen: Picnic wäre die erste Wahl mit einem guten Brunch (ab 10 Uhr) und ist ideal, damit du gestärkt in den Tag startest. Eine weitere Empfehlung ist Brunch & Cake , mit gleich drei Locations in Barcelona. Es gibt vom Hummer mit Garnelen Benedict bis zu Schoko-Pancakes alles, was es braucht, um dich sattzumachen. Monsieur Bosc ist ein weiterer Tipp.

Falls du ein typisch spanisches Frühstück möchtest (ich liebs) musst du wissen, dass zu Hause oder Unterwegs erstmal ein Kaffee getrunken wird. Gegen 10 Uhr wird dann das zweite reichhaltigere Frühstück zu sich genommen. Normalerweise besteht dies aus einem Gebäck oder kleinen Baguette-Sandwich mit einem Kaffee und frisch gepresstem Orangensaft.

Auch beliebt sind Bikini (ein Sandwich mit Käse und Schinken), mein Favorit Pa amb tomàquet (Brot mit Tomaten, Knoblauch und einem Spritzer Olivenöl) oder eine Scheibe spanisches Omelett. Diese nimmst du in einer Granja zu dir. Die bekanntesten Granjas in Barcelona sind Dulcinea , Xocoa und Granja la Pallaresa , die sich alle in der Carrer de Petrixol befinden. Du findest allerdings auch immer in der Nähe deiner Unterkunft kleine Cafés (meist in Hinterhöfen), wo du Pa amb tomàquet bestellen kannst.

Sagrada Familia 

Jetzt geht es zur berühmtesten Sehenswürdigkeit Barcelonas: Gaudís unvollendete Kathedrale Sagrada Familia. Auch wenn viele der Top-Sehenswürdigkeiten überbewertet sind und Besucher danach enttäuscht sind. Hier wirst du dich nicht sattsehen können. Die verträumten Türmchen, Säulen und die bunten Details sind einfach unfassbar. Ich war schon viermal im Inneren und komme immer wieder zurück, um den Fortschritt zu sehen.

Gaudí begann 1883 mit der Arbeit an der Kathedrale und war noch dabei, seine Vision zum Leben zu erwecken, als er 1926 starb. Die Sagrada befindet sich bis heute im Bau, wobei das geschätzte Datum der Fertigstellung auf 2026, ein Jahrhundert nach seinem Tod, festgelegt ist.

Infos zu Tickets für die Sagrada Familia

• Da das Basisticket (17 €) nur den Innenbereich beinhaltet, empfehle ich dir, auf ein Ticket mit Aufstieg zu den Türmen mit Führung zurückzugreifen. Eine Nahaufnahme der Türme ist fantastisch, ebenso wie die Aussicht von oben über die Stadt.
• Falls du Höhenangst hast (oder Platzangst, denn die Wendeltreppe ist sehr eng), dann solltest du die Tour mit Guide buchen, da er dir viele Details zeigt, die du auf eigene Faust nicht erkennst oder findest.
• Um Zeit in der langen Warteschlange zu sparen, solltest du dir ein Ticket ohne Anstehen im Voraus besorgen .

Update : Aufgrund der aktuellen Sicherheitsanforderungen sind die Türme aktuell geschlossen. Auf der offiziellen Webseite findest du die neuesten Infos dazu.

Hinweis : Mit dem Barcelona Pass von Go City ( hier kaufen ) ist der Eintritt frei (mit Führung und reservierter Zugang, wenn verfügbar).

• Nächste Metrostationen: Monument, Verdaguer und Escants. Alle nur einen kurzen Spaziergang entfernt.

Ein weiterer wichtiger Stopp (und mein Lieblingsort) bei deinem Städtetrip in Barcelona ist der Park Güell. Dieser 17 Hektar große Park ist nicht nur eine der größten Grünflächen in Barcelona, sondern ein guter Ort, um an einem sonnigen Tag spazieren zu gehen. Das UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe ist voll von weltberühmter moderner Kunst.

Der Bau des Park Güell begann 1900 , im selben Jahr, in dem der Jugendstil auf der Internationalen Ausstellung in Paris triumphierte. Der Unternehmer Eusebi Güell wollte einen stilvollen Park für die Aristokratie schaffen und beauftragte daher mehrere Architekten mit der Arbeit am Park Güell. Dazu gehörte Gaudí, der vor fast 20 Jahren sein Haus Palau Güell auf Las Ramblas entworfen hatte.

Einige der besten Fotomotive findest du am farbenfrohen Drachenbrunnen , dem Mosaik-Sitzbereich und der Casa del Guarda , einem Torhaus im Märchenstil, in dem Fotos und Filme ausgestellt werden. Zu den weiteren Aktivitäten im Park gehören eine Besichtigung des Casa Museo Gaudí (Haus Gaudís, 7,50 €) und der Aufstieg zum Mirador für einen unvergleichlichen Blick auf die Stadt.

• Eintrittspreis : 10 € / 22 € inkl. Führung. Mit dem Barcelona Pass ( hier kaufen ) kostenlos.
• Anreise zum Park Güell: 12-minütiger Spaziergang von der Metrostation Vallcarca der Linie 3.

Bunker del Carmen

Zum Sonnenuntergang geht es heute zu den Bunkern aus dem spanischen Bürgerkrieg, die auf einem Hügel thronen. Vom Park Güell aus kannst du 20 Minuten nach oben durch den Park gehen und schon bist du bei den Bunkern.

Schnapp dir ein Essen und ein paar Bier und bewundere den Himmel, während er sich rosa und orange färbt.

• Adresse: Carrer de Marià Labèrnia, s/n, 08032 Barcelona, Spanien.

Erwäge für deinen letzten Tag im wunderschönen Barcelona die folgenden Aktivitäten:

Am Morgen – Entspannen am Strand von Barceloneta

Um die vielen zurückgelegten Schritte der letzten paar Tage zu belohnen, fahre nach Barceloneta zum Schwimmen, Surfen und SUP (und vielleicht einem Besuch in den schicken Strandbars, wenn du ein wenig mehr Geld ausgeben möchtest). Die Zeiten als ruhiges Fischerdorf sind in Barceloneta lange vorbei. Das Viertel und der Strandabschnitt sind heute Hotspot für Einheimische und Touristen.

Wenn du keine Lust auf den Strand hast, besuche das Museum für katalanische Geschichte, das Picasso Museum, das Aquarium oder den Markt La Barceloneta. Komme am Abend nochmals für einen Sundowner her und genieße ein Abendessen mit frischen Meeresfrüchten.

Nachmittag: Die schönesten Panoramablicke

Beende deine 3-tägige Barcelona Reise mit einem Panoramablick über die Stadt. Ich würde empfehlen, eine der folgenden Orte zu besuchen. Ich würde den Tibidabo bevorzugen, aber nur weil ich sogar zu den Olympischen Spielen 1992 (und noch viel öfter) auf dem Montjuïc war.

Auf dem Montjuïc befindet sich eine Burg mit einer unglaublichen Aussicht auf die Stadt. Im Sommer finden hier auch Open-Air-Kinoabende statt. Es gibt ein Schwimmbad, in dem Kylie Minogue das Video zu Slow filmte. Um dorthin zu gelangen, nimmst du die Standseilbahn (im Metro-Ticket enthalten) oder entscheidest dich für die touristische Seilbahn (11 €, kostenlos mit Barcelona Pass –  hier kaufen ). Du kannst auch den Bus 150 nehmen, aber da würde ich noch eher den Fußweg auf mich nehmen.

Der Tibidabo ist mein Favorit. Auf diesem Berg gibt es einen Vergnügungspark mit einem riesigen Retro-Riesenrad. Der Eintritt kostet 28 €, aber wenn du nicht viel Geld ausgeben möchtest, kannst du die beeindruckende Kirche besuchen (und auf den Turm hinauf), durch die wunderschönen Gärten schlendern und einfach den Panoramablick genießen.

Steigen Sie am Plaça de Catalunya in den T2A-Bus. Ich rate dir, zu Fuß zu gehen und diesen Artikel von mir zum Tibidabo in Barcelona zu lesen.

• Tagesausflüge von Barcelona

Hast du einen zusätzlichen Tag, um einen Ausflug zu unternehmen? Erwäge, deine 3-tägige Barcelona-Städtereise auf 4 Tage zu verlängern. Folgende Ausflüge kann ich empfehlen:

Diese charmante Stadt ist eine fantastische Möglichkeit, der geschäftigen Stadt zu entfliehen. Girona ist in nur 40 Minuten zu erreichen. Die Züge sind sehr komfortabel. Der Ort ist wunderschön, das haben auch die Macher von Game of Thrones erkannt. Die Stadt diente als Filmkulisse.

Das Kloster auf dem Berggipfel ist absolut sehenswert. Es dauert ungefähr eineinhalb Stunden, um Monistrol de Montserrat zu erreichen (von der Plaça Espanya nimmst du die Linie R5 bis Aeri de Montserrat). Von dort aus kannst du in die Seilbahn steigen, die dich nach Montserrat bringt.

Ausflug mit Transfer im Barcelona Pass inklusive ( hier kaufen )

• Tipps für 3 Tage in Barcelona

Lohnt sich ein City Pass in Barcelona?

Stellt dir vor, du bist in Barcelona. Du hast nichts im Voraus geplant und stellst vor Ort fest, dass die Warteschlange an der  Sagrada Familia  extrem lang ist (sie geht oft um mehrere Ecken!),  Tickets  für andere  Sehenswürdigkeiten ausverkauft  sind und überhaupt alles in Summe  viel zu teuer  wird. Das wäre wirklich ärgerlich, oder? 

Darum unser Tipp:  Kaufe dir vor deiner Reise eine Touristenkarte der Stadt. Die bekannteste Karte ist die  Barcelona Card . Als Alternative gibt es den  Barcelona Digital Pass , den von uns empfohlenen Barcelona Pass von Go City , sowie den  Turbopass Barcelona.

Lies in diesem Artikel, wann sich welcher Barcelona City Pass für dich lohnt . Wer mag schon bei einem Kurztrip ständig in Warteschlangen stehen? Zeit und Geld zu sparen, klingt doch viel besser! Oder? Für uns ist aktuell der Barcelona Pass der Beste ( hier kaufen ).

Beste Reiseführer für Barcelona

Für Barcelona greife ich gerne auf die Reiseführer von Dumont zurück. Dazu kaufe ich den aktuellen Bildatlas, da weitere Tipps und auch Geschichten enthalten sind:

• Bischoff, Helmuth (Autor)

• Schmidt, Lothar (Autor)

Essen und Trinken

Es gibt so viele ausgezeichnete Tapas-Lokale in welchen du hervorragend essen kannst. Folgende kann ich sehr empfehlen:

Tapas essen

• Quimet y Quimet (Poeta Cabanyes, 25): Eine der besten Tapas-Bars der Stadt.
• Can Condina Carrer del Torrent de l'Olla, 20, Gracia)
• Samsara (Gracia): Fusion Tapas wie Meeresfrüchte mit weißer Schokolade oder Auberginen-, Ziegenkäse- und Balsamicosalat.

Kult: El Xampanyet

Es gab eine Zeit, als meine beste Freundin in Barcelona studiert hatte und wir jeden Abend in der "Champagneria" waren. Cava für wenig Geld, dazu Bocadillos con queso oder Serano Schinken (Brötchen mit Manchego Käse und/oder Schinken). Seit diesem Zeitpunkt (2019) komme ich bei jedem Besuch zurück. Der kleine Laden ist schon lange in jedem Reiseführer, aber einfach zu gut!

• Bobby Gin (Gracia): Tolle Gin Bar im authentischen Viertel Gracia

Achte auf deine Tasche und Wertsachen

Die Stadt ist für Taschendiebe bekannt und bei so vielen Besuchern mangelt es gewiss nicht an Möglichkeiten. Bewahre dein Telefon und deine Brieftasche in den Innentaschen auf und passe vor allem auf der Rambla auf.

Trage bequeme Schuhe

Wenn du in Barcelona bist, solltest du die Stadt am besten zu Fuß erkunden! Selbst wenn du dich auf einen bestimmten Bereich beschränkst, wirst du wahrscheinlich Tausende von Schritten gehen, bevor du es merkst. Turnschuhe oder Sneakers sind ideal.

Starte am frühen Morgen mit dem Sightseeing

Barcelona zieht viele Besucher an. Mir oft zu viele, besonders während den beliebten Sommermonate! Wenn du Warteschlangen vermeiden oder Fotos ohne größere Menschenmassen machen möchtest, solltest du am Morgen nicht zu lange warten mit deiner Erkundung.

Danke, dass du meinen Vorschlag für ein Programm, um Barcelona an einem Wochenende zu entdecken gelesen hast. Wenn dir der Artikel gefallen hat, teile ihn.

Folge mir auf  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest  und  Threads  oder abonniere regelmäßig Neuigkeiten per  Newsletter .

☕️.  Bloggen kostet Zeit und Geld. Du möchtest unsere Arbeit wertschätzen, damit wir weiterhin unsere Tipps als Experten mit dir teilen können?  Wir freuen uns über ein Trinkgeld in unserer virtuellen Kaffeekasse bei PayPal →  VIEL UNTERWEGS Kaffeekasse . Dank dir, können wir unsere Leidenschaft und ganzes Herzblut in diesen Blog stecken.

Transparenz und Vertrauen: In diesem Artikel befinden sich Empfehlungslinks (Affiliate-Links). Das bedeutet für dich: Keine Mehrkosten. Aber: Wenn du über einen Link etwas kaufst, erhalte ich eine kleine Provision. Dir entstehen keine Mehrkosten, aber helfen mir, diese Seite zu betreiben und den Blog und meine für dich kostenlose Informationen und Expertentipps zu unterstützen! Vielen lieben Dank!

Hi ich bin Katrin!

Ich bin Katrin, viel unterwegs und echte Reise-Expertin! Mit Campervan oder Rucksack möchte ich die ganze Welt entdecken. Um meine Erfahrungen & Erlebnisse mit dir zu teilen, habe ich diesen Reiseblog gegründet!

Diese Artikel könnten dich auch interessieren

Das sagen unsere Leser

Hallo Katrin, wir kommen am 25.10. nach Barcelona und wollen gemeinsam mit unserem Sohn das Fussballspiel FC Barcelona gegen FC Bayern München ansehen (wir sind NICHT aus Deutschland, sondern aus Österreich), Kannst du mir Tickets besorgen oder mir sagen, wie ich welche bekomme (ausser Viagogo, seatsnet, StubHub usw.) Vielleicht kennst du da ja jemanden, der helfen kann. ps deine Seite ist echt super !!

Katrin Lehr

Hallo Andrea,

leider kenne ich mich damit nicht aus. Waren spontan mal bei einem Spiel, aber bei der Champions League geht das glaube ich nur direkt über die Clubs.

Liebe Grüße Katrin

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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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Barcelona in two days

From here you can make your way to the most famous street in the city: La Rambla , 1,200 metres long and any visit to Barcelona would be incomplete without walking along it. Terraces, streets artists, florists and kiosks are spread out along the road and as you move along you will find some very famous places including the Boquería Market (interested in doing a Spanish cooking workshop?), the Plaza Real and the Gran Teatre del Liceu . When La Rambla reaches the sea you will come across the Colombus Monument with views of Barcelona from its viewing gallery.

Eat with views of the sea and the cable car to Montjuïc

At the end of La Rambla is the area known as Port Vell (old port). If you keep walking through Moll de la Fusta (wooden dock), you will see contemporary sculptures, moored boats, and much more. And you can keep going until you reach Barceloneta beach . Make the most of it by reserving a table in one of the area’s restaurants specialising in paella, ‘fideuá’ and sea food. And you'll be even luckier if there is a terrace with a view of the sea. If the weather is good enough you can also take a dip in the sea.

If you have time before dinner and want some special views of the port and the city then why not climb up the Montjuïc mountain. It is easy to get to with the funicular or cable car from Paral·lel station. This is where you will find the National Art Museum of Catalonia and the Joan Miró Foundation . If you are pushed for time then it might be better to just stroll around the beautiful Parc de la Ciutadella , the lungs of Barcelona.

Magic Fountain and dinner in El Raval or El Born

If you have been to Montjüic then you will definitely like watching the show of lights, music and water at the Montjüic Magic Fountain at night (depending on the season it usually occurs between 8 pm and 10 pm).

When it is time to have dinner you can head to El Born , a charming, cool neighbourhood that also includes some of the city’s major attractions, such as the Picasso Museum and Santa María del Mar church . It is, without doubt, an ideal place to have dinner and a drink.

What to see

Places not to be missed

Ciudadela Park

Montjuic Park

Gran Liceu Theatre

Barcelona Cathedral

Santa Maria del Mar Basilica

La Boqueria

Beach: La Barceloneta

Joan Miró Foundation

Las Ramblas

Gothic Quarter

National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC)

Picasso Museum in Barcelona

Modernism, and in particular the works of Antoni Gaudí, is the main feature of our second day in Barcelona.

Morning at the casa batlló and la pedrera.

We start today's journey in Plaça de Catalunya with some pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato) for breakfast, and walk 10 minutes to Casa Batlló , halfway up Passeig de Gràcia. Casa Milà , also known as La Pedrera, is a bit further on, on Carrer de Provença. These two Art Nouveau buildings are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of works by Gaudí, with stunning exteriors. If you have more time, we recommend going inside to learn even more about the imagination and impossible shapes of Gaudí.

You can also sign up to the Barcelona Walking Tours Modernism route through the Quadrat d’Or to learn everything about Catalan Modernism. And as you are already on Passeig de Gràcia and surrounded by some of the most exclusive brands in the city, why not spend some time shopping!

Sagrada Familia: the undisputed icon of Barcelona

The Blue Route on the Barcelona Tourist Bus stops opposite the Sagrada Familia , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and we recommend buying your ticket for the monument in advance. This is a special moment of the trip as we are about to discover an international symbol of architecture as well as Gaudí’s most famous work. Although construction has been ongoing since it was started in 1882 (it is forecast to be completed in 2026), it is worth climbing to the top of the original towers to check out the magnificent view of Barcelona. And here's an interesting fact: did you know that Gaudí’s body was buried here after he was hit by a tram?

Lunch in Gràcia and Park Güell

The same Blue Route on the Tourist Bus drops us off in Park Güell. But first, we need to stop in the Gràcia neighbourhood for lunch. This is one of the most charming areas of Barcelona. People tend to say this neighbourhood has a community feel because the neighbours all get along and, alongside the traditional bars and restaurants, you will find shops opened by new designers and multicultural restaurants.

After lunch, you could stroll around Park Güell , also by Gaudí and one of the best spots to enjoy an afternoon. You will definitely want to take photos on the Dragon Stairway and in the Hypostyle with the panorama of the city in the background. There are 50-minute guided tours of the park in several languages if you want to discover its secrets.

Gourmet dinner

To finish your trip in the best possible way, and if you like fine dining, is to indulge yourself at one of the most famous restaurants in the city. Some of them are in the Eixample area: Lasarte, Moments, Caelis, Hofmann, Disfrutar, Cinc Sentits, Tickets, Via Veneto… There are plenty to choose from. If not, you can enjoy the sea breeze on the Mediterranean coast at Port Vell or spend some quality time in a bar in the Maremàgnum.

Bonus track

It is difficult to see everything Barcelona has to offer in just two days. So if you can give yourself more time (for example, arriving on Friday evening if you are coming for a whole weekend), we can recommend two spots a bit further from the centre that are also very interesting.

The first plan consists of taking the funicular up Mount Tibidabo , to the theme park. This is perfect if you are travelling with children. The second idea is less well-known but more original, especially for children - a visit to the Carmel Bunkers , which many say is the best viewpoint of Barcelona, despite being a bit further away. The bus services V17, 24, 92, 114 and 119 will leave you close by, but you still have to walk for 10 minutes. It is unmissable if you want to see how the city is lit up at sunset! Of course, we cannot forget the football fans. If the FCB stadium is calling you more than culture, the Camp Nou tour, the Camp Nou Experience, includes a visit to the museum, the trophy room , the tunnel to the pitch, the press room, and much more.

Casa Milà "La Pedrera"

Basilica of La Sagrada Familia

Casa Batlló

Tibidabo Amusement Park

Plaza de Cataluña square

Spotify Camp Nou

Tips and recommendations

Worth knowing

If you are visiting Barcelona for the first time or you don’t have very long to see it, we recommend that you take a tour on the Barcelona Tourist Bus, the best way to see all the sights and places of interest. Here you can find a selection of the different tours and guided tours that you can do in the city. Some of the most popular excursions you can do from Barcelona are: Figueres and the Dalí Museum, Port Aventura and Ferrari Land (especially if you are travelling with children) or Montserrat and its famous monastery.

When to go on the trail

Two special dates for getting to know the city could for example be to coincide with two of its most popular festivities: Sant Jordi (23 April and Book Day) and La Mercé (the week of 24 September).

Healthy tour

If you want to keep fit, you can take this 10,000-step tour visiting the most iconic locations in the city.

Travel plans for inspiring you

Villages in Spain, near Barcelona, between the mountains and the sea

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Traveling to Barcelona for the First Time: 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 2024

Traveling to Barcelona for the first time and not sure where to start and what to expect? This article covers all the essential Barcelona travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip.

Planning your first visit to Barcelona, Spain, might be overwhelming. There are so many questions… How much time do you need in Barcelona? When to visit and how to avoid the crowds? Where to stay and what to see? Any local tips and habits to be aware of? Or how to see the best that Barcelona has to offer in a limited time and without breaking the bank?…

To help you plan your first trip to Barcelona, we selected some of the best tips for visiting the city. This no-nonsense practical guide will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your time and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Familia .
• Park Güell .
• Montjuïc Cable Car .
• Barcelona Pass .
• Casa Batlló .

Here are our essential Barcelona travel tips:

1. Research & Book in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when visiting Barcelona for the first time is not to plan your trip in advance. So congratulations – because you are reading this, you already have a head start compared to other visitors!

Whether it’s flights, accommodations, or tickets for the main Barcelona attractions – booking in advance means that you have more choices and much better prices . It also means less wasted time queuing and more relaxing time sightseeing and enjoying this fabulous city. After all, you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Also, doing your research in advance means that you will avoid disappointment to find that the places you want to visit are closed or tickets sold out . Below are some examples that illustrate what I mean.

For example, we really wanted to see the dancing fountain of Barcelona, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc , and were told that it dances every night. However, it’s not the case. Furthermore, since we were traveling in the low season, it was actually only dancing three times a week.

Because we arrived on a Saturday and left before the next weekend, we only had one chance to see the fountains during our visit – on the first evening in the city. So despite an early flight and a very long day, we decided to go. If we hadn’t done the research -assuming that we could just see it any night- we would have definitely missed it.

We also researched whether it was a good idea to visit Montserrat Monastery on Sunday. It turns out that it’s the busiest day of the week. So we booked a tour for Monday instead…

I also heard from some of our readers that they couldn’t visit the famous Barcelona market Mercado de La Boqueria because they didn’t realize that it was closed on Sundays. By the way, all indoor markets in Barcelona are closed on Sundays.

Another reader told us that they couldn’t visit Park Güell because they didn’t buy tickets in advance and no walk-ins were possible… (Btw, Park Güell is one of the most-visited Barcelona attractions and you really have to book your tickets in advance!).

Good to know: Tickets for the most popular Barcelona attractions often sell out up to 2-3 weeks in advance. This is especially the case in high season. Plus, most entry tickets are now timed, so you need to see what’s possible and how to fit it all into your itinerary. Further below, you will find more details and tips, but if you get the Barcelona Pass , you will have the option to pre-book a timeslot for your skip-the-line entry to all the main sights.

By doing your research in advance, you can also compare prices, reviews, and itineraries for the best tours in Barcelona… This brings us to the next point.

READ ALSO: Top Sights & Attractions in Barcelona

2. Save Time & Money When Visiting Barcelona’s Main Landmarks

Visiting Barcelona for the first time also means visiting all the main landmarks and attractions. Of course, you will want to see the famous La Sagrada Familia and the other iconic Gaudi buildings and architecture! Just make sure that you are well prepared so that you don’t waste hours and days standing in lines.

TIP: If you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona, consider skip-the-line tickets for ALL the main landmarks and the most popular tourist attractions. We also recommend booking guided tours for the Sagrada Familia and the main Gaudi buildings – that way you’ll get a much better understanding of all the symbolism and stories behind the architecture.

You can find Barcelona tours and skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and also on Tiqets . More information – further below.

Skip the Line Tickets

Some of the most popular attractions in Barcelona like Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, Park Güell, or La Sagrada Familia can have extremely long waiting times. Buying your tickets in advance is essential when visiting these places in any season!

Here you can get skip-the-line tickets for Casa Batllo , Casa Mila , Park Güell , and – the most popular of them all – La Sagrada Familia .

PRO TIP: With this Barcelona Pass , you can immediately reserve timed-entry tickets for the most popular sights, including the towers of La Sagrada Familia (regular tickets don’t include tower access!). This is a digital pass, so you will get tickets per email (= very simple to book and use).

TIP: If you didn’t think of buying the tickets in advance and they are sold out, try booking a guided tour instead. Guided tours prebook tickets and make it possible to visit the main landmarks even if the tickets are sold out. I recommend visiting Gaudi’s buildings and especially La Sagrada Familia with a tour anyway. Read on to learn why!

Guided Tours

Even when we visited in the low season, all the Gaudi buildings in Barcelona were incredibly busy. Often, it wasn’t even clear where to go even if you had already pre-booked your tickets…

That’s why we chose to visit all the Gaudi buildings on a tour. Here you can read more about our experience with the Gaudi tour (we chose this amazing tour that covers all the main Gaudi landmarks in a day).

We visited Barcelona with our three kids who, obviously, have no patience when it comes to long queues. Taking a tour meant that we could relax while the guide took care of everything. We just followed the guide and never had to wait anywhere longer than 10 minutes.

I can’t imagine how different our experience would have been if we had to figure out where exactly to go and wait in endless lines everywhere. We wouldn’t have been able to see half as much, not even to mention our sanity having to deal with bored kids…

Furthermore, having a local guide who explained what, where, and why, enabled us to appreciate what we were seeing. We never knew there were so many symbols and stories behind all the tiny details in Gaudi’s buildings! Gaudi was a real genius and we would have never gotten to know any of that if we had visited his buildings on our own.

Free Museums

Most Barcelona museums have specific days or hours when you can visit them free of charge. In general, you can expect most museums to be free on the first Sunday of the month. But there are also additional times when you can enter free of charge.

For example, the Picasso Museum is free to visit on the first Sunday of the month and also on Thursday evenings. Barcelona Cathedral (not to be confused with Sagrada Familia) is free to visit between 8.30 AM and 12.30 PM and in the evenings from 5.45 PM to 7.30 PM (hours vary a bit per day and on some days are a bit longer, but the hours indicated here apply daily).

Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA Plaça del Rei) is free on the first Sunday of the month and in the late afternoon on other Sundays.

These are just a few examples – there are so many museums and other attractions in Barcelona. So do your research for the places you want to see and, if possible, time your visit accordingly.

City Cards & Package Deals

If you are planning to visit several of the main Barcelona attractions on your own, you may want to look into getting one of the city cards that offer discounts and free entrances to certain attractions and also public transport tickets.

There is also a museum card that gives access to 6 of the most popular museums in Barcelona. So do your research and see if and which card makes sense for you, depending on your interests.

TIP: If you find the choice overwhelming, we recommend this Barcelona Pass . This is the best pass for Barcelona’s top sights including Park Güell & Sagrada Familia. If you also want to visit the towers of the Sagrada Familia (recommended), then this all-in pass is the best option for you. In case you wonder, there is a lift to get to the top of the towers.

Good to know: These passes not only save you money but make it really easy to book fast-track tickets to the most popular attractions in one place. Furthermore, the tickets are digital so you don’t have to waste your time once you get there!

3. Avoid High Season, Bank Holidays, and School Breaks

As one of the most-visited cities in Europe, Barcelona is always busy . Still, there is a huge difference between visiting Barcelona in the high season (June-August), in the shoulder season (April-May and September-October + New Year), or in the low season when there are fewer international travelers and hardly any cruise ships in town.

Because we travel with kids, however, we can only travel during school breaks. For years, we have been postponing a trip to Barcelona for that reason. However, we decided that it was high time to see this iconic city and chose the first week of November (autumn break) for our trip.

We were pleasantly surprised. It was still busy at the main attractions in the city, but it never really felt too crowded or overwhelming AND we had quite a few amazing places almost to ourselves.

Needless to say that this greatly influenced our experience and we loved Barcelona so much more than I ever expected. Based on all the horror stories about the crowds, we were really fearing the worst. But what we found was a really pleasant city that gave us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sights without having to brush elbows with thousands of strangers.

Furthermore, the weather in early November was fabulous with plenty of sunshine and temperatures that were warm enough to wear a t-shirt during the day.

So if you can, visit Barcelona in the shoulder season or in the low season. It will be so much more enjoyable!

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe

4. Stay in the City Center

Another very important thing to take into account when traveling to Barcelona is where to stay .

While it’s often tempting to choose cheaper accommodation further away from the city center, we have learned the hard way that it’s not the best idea. Yes, it can save you some money, but it will cost you time and comfort. It’s so easy if you can just walk to a nice restaurant for dinner from your hotel or sleep longer in the morning knowing that your tour starts right around the corner and not on the other side of town…

So if you are visiting Barcelona for the first time and want to make the most of your short trip, stay in the city center! Also, stay somewhat close to a metro station – that way you can always get to the other parts of town quicker.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . It’s a perfect location for sightseeing and you can easily walk to most attractions in the old town or to the nicest Gaudi buildings… There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, and most tours and excursions start in this area.

Here are our hand-picked recommendations with an excellent location near Plaça de Catalunya for all budgets:

• If you are looking for a really nice place to stay in the heart of Barcelona, check out Ohla Barcelona , a fabulous 5* hotel with a rooftop pool and bar.
• Some of the best mid-range 4* hotels are Acta Atrium Palace and  Exe Plaza Catalunya .
• If you are on a l ower budget , check out these popular and highly-rated options with excellent locations: Hotel Lloret Ramblas (the best-rated and most popular budget hotel in the center) or  Hostal Boqueria (a very good, simple hotel on a low budget).

Where we stayed: We stayed at the Acta Splendid Hotel.  The location couldn’t be better and the price/quality was unbeatable for this area.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in central Barcelona (Plaça de Catalunya area).

Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

5. Explore the Gothic Quarter

One of the most beautiful parts of Barcelona is the old Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). No visit to the city would be complete without exploring this fascinating area.

While the district gets its name thanks to the 13-15th century Gothic buildings, it’s actually the oldest part of Barcelona with archeological finds dating to Roman times.

The main landmarks here are the Cathedral of Barcelona (The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia), Plaça del Rei , and the underground Roman city that is part of the earlier mentioned Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA). But the real charm of the Gothic Quarter is its fascinating maze of streets and historic buildings.

TIP: This part of town can get really busy. The best time to visit is as early in the morning as possible, or in the low season.

6. Use Barcelona Metro

Barcelona is a big city and its attractions are scattered throughout. So no matter where you stay, eventually, you’ll find yourself in need of a transfer. By far the easiest and the fastest way to get around the city is by taking the metro . And, if you avoid peak times, the metro is surprisingly quiet.

There are all kinds of multi-day and multi-journey tickets available for Barcelona metro and public transport, so choose one that best suits your needs. When we traveled, we got a 10-journey card that could be used by multiple people at the same time. Names and conditions of these cards change often, and you can find the best up-to-date information on the official website .

If you’re just taking the metro (so not a bus and other public transport options), you can easily get ticket cards at any metro station as well. There are ticket machines and everything is well-explained, also in English. Credit cards are accepted.

TIP: You can also take a metro to the airport , but it takes very long (it took us over 1.5 hrs to get to the city center). Alternatively, there are airport shuttle buses that run frequently, cost about the same as the metro ticket, and take much less time. On our way back to the airport, we took a taxi and it was surprisingly affordable. You can find more information about Barcelona airport transport here .

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Just as with any city trip, traveling to Barcelona means that you’ll be walking a lot. Make sure that you wear comfortable walking shoes!

Take my word for it, wrong footwear can ruin your entire vacation. Get lightweight sneakers or slip-on shoes for your Barcelona trip. I wear and recommend shoes in this style ; they are light and comfy – ideal for city trips.

TIP: If you don’t like walking too much, consider taking a hop-on hop-off bus instead.

8. Adjust Your Dining Schedule

You may have heard this before – Spanish people have very different habits when it comes to dining times. The main meal of the day is lunch and it usually starts at around 2 – 2.30 PM. Most restaurants will not open for dinner before 8 – 9 PM.

We were a bit worried about late dinner times because we traveled to Barcelona with kids, but it worked out quite well. Since it’s such a touristy place, there are quite some restaurants that have adapted their opening times and it was usually possible to find a place to eat at 7.30-8 PM.

We were told that the best local restaurants don’t open before 8.30-9 PM, but we found plenty of good restaurants that do.

That being said, you won’t easily find a good local restaurant open for dinner before 7 – 7.30 PM.

9. Try Tapas

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without tapas . In case you don’t know what tapas are, this is just a popular Spanish word for small snacks. Like appetizers in the US or antipasti in Italy. Basically, tapas are just small-sized portions of food – from seafood, meat, to all kinds of vegetables or potatoes ( patatas bravas ).

Everywhere you go, you’ll see tapas on the menu. It’s a great way to try a big variety of Spanish food without having to order an entire dish not knowing whether you’ll like it. It’s ideal if you are traveling with a bigger family or a group of friends because you can order a big variety of tapas and everyone will easily find something they like.

Some restaurants have set tapas menus which are a real lifesaver if you are feeling overwhelmed. After a couple of tapas meals, you’ll get more familiar with the concept, and ordering tapas will actually be fun.

Good to know: Tapas are EVERYWHERE in Barcelona, but they are not the only option (luckily). If you stay in Barcelona longer, it’s quite likely that you’ll eventually get tired of tapas. No worries – there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional Spanish food, seafood, paellas, but also a big variety of international cuisines. After five days in Barcelona, our kids didn’t want to see or hear of any more tapas, so we found a really nice pasta restaurant that the whole family loved.

TIP: If you want to try some of the best local dishes, consider joining a food tour as well! Food tours are our favorite thing to do when visiting any city! Check out this highly-rated tapas & wine tour . Another popular choice is this paella cooking experience + Boqueria market visit .

10. Tipping in Barcelona

Generally speaking, tipping is not that common in Europe, and so also not in Spain. However, American habits quickly find their way here too and it’s now more and more common to tip. That being said, it’s never really expected, let alone obligatory.

In Barcelona, you do not have to tip and locals usually don’t tip or just round up the bill. If you find the restaurant service exceptionally good, you can tip 5-10%. It’s not common to tip at a bar. Taxi bills are usually just rounded up. For bellboys – a euro or two is enough.

Many people tip tour guides, but it’s really your call how much. In Europe, we usually tip 20 EUR for a day tour that we take as a family of 5. If you are alone or traveling as a couple, 5-10 EUR is acceptable, but most Europeans don’t even do that.

11. It’s OK to Haggle

If you are planning to buy any souvenirs from street vendors, at the markets, or at the tourist shops in town, you should know that haggling is completely acceptable. Very often, you’ll see that no prices are advertised and in such cases, you definitely have to haggle or you’ll be overpaying up to twice the price, if not more.

It’s also very common that the same souvenirs will cost twice as much close to the most popular tourist landmarks, compared to some lesser-visited places. However, it’s not always the case.

My best advice is not to buy souvenirs immediately. Take your time, ask for prices, and get a better idea of what’s acceptable before buying anything.

12. Know That Things Are Laid Back

Barcelona is a very laid-back place. You’ll notice it in many ways. Depending on where you’re from and what you’re used to, things might seem a bit too relaxed, or maybe just normal…

The best way to enjoy your time in Barcelona is just go with the flow. Don’t get upset if it takes a bit longer for a waiter to take your order, or if the shops are closed for siesta a bit longer than advertised…

Good thing is that Barcelona is also much more casual in terms of clothing than, for example, Madrid. There is no need for fancy clothing and even at dinner at some nicer restaurants we dined at, most people were quite casually dressed. That being said, when in doubt, I’m always in favor of overdressing.

13. Beware of Pickpockets

Just as in any other big city or popular tourist destination, Barcelona has a problem with pickpockets. These guys are real professionals and it’s not uncommon that they manage to distract attention and even rob a big group of people at the same time.

So take precautions and don’t carry too much money or any other unnecessary valuables around. Also, make sure that you have good travel insurance! Be careful at the most popular tourist places, such as La Rambla or around La Sagrada Familia, and also when using public transport.

An anti-theft backpack might be a good idea too. Or – if you have a regular backpack – wear it in front of you and not on your back. Also, it’s really not a good idea to store your wallet or your smartphone in your jeans pocket.

14. Don’t Try to See Everything

Barcelona is a huge city and there is so much to see and do ! But… there’s no way to see everything in just a couple of days. So plan your itinerary well! If you don’t know where to start, check out our tips on how to spend 1 day in Barcelona and also an itinerary for 2 days in Barcelona .

I recommend choosing a couple of must-see places each day or maybe one specific area, and not try to do it all at once. You’ll enjoy the city much more if you also leave some time for a relaxing lunch at a nice café or some unexpected discoveries.

When it comes to visiting Barcelona, remember that less is more!

I know that it’s very tempting to try and see as many landmarks as you possibly can, but you’ll just get tired and frustrated. Take your time to sample some local specialties at the market, turn into a little picturesque alley and see where it leads, or explore some lesser-known places that don’t involve standing in line for hours… This brings us to the next tip…

15. Get off the Beaten Path

Barcelona is so much more than its most famous landmarks , La Rambla, Gothic Quarter, Barceloneta beach, or Gaudi architecture… There are so many other amazing places that are worth visiting just as much, yet are overlooked by most first-time visitors.

Some of our favorite moments in Barcelona were visiting the lesser-known and less-visited places . And while it’s not easy to find any truly ‘hidden’ gems, even just getting a bit off the main tourist routes will show you a very different side of Barcelona.

One of our favorite places in Barcelona was the beautiful Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site , which we had practically to ourselves. While it is not completely unknown, it was completely deserted when we visited it in the low season… And so worth a visit!

We particularly enjoyed the Port Vell and La Barceloneta – an old fishermen’s quarter with narrow streets and local restaurants. And yes, there is a really busy area in this part of town as well – with a seaside promenade, fancy yachts, and tourist restaurants. But if you take the time to explore deeper, you find a totally different place, just a few blocks away…

The same counts for the El Born and La Ribera areas which are like a labyrinth of narrow streets and passageways – so fun to just get lost and explore this area without a map.

We also went to a more local Poublenou area and explored Gracia , L’Eixample , and Montjuïc on foot. We visited some little-known sights and some really nice markets that had many more locals than tourists (Mercado de La Boqueria is really not the only market worth seeing in Barcelona)…

Each and every area has something special and unique. Behind the busier streets and popular areas, there are always lesser-visited gems just waiting to be discovered.

Even if you just see a few of these more local areas, it will make your trip to Barcelona so much more memorable.

16. Attend a Performance at Palau de la Música Catalana

If you want to experience something really special in Barcelona, try to get tickets for a performance at Palau de la Música Catalana . This stunning music hall is a real masterpiece and worth visiting in itself, but it’s even more special if you can attend a concert here.

They organize various concerts every evening and also during the day on the weekends. From classical music and dance to the most modern musical performances and traditional Flamenco dances – there are always plenty of choices to suit any interest. Most of the time, tickets are available just a few days in advance (or even on the day itself), so check the program and go. It will be totally worth it!

Good to know: You can also just visit the music hall itself. Self-guided and guided tours are available throughout the day and take less than an hour. Here you can get tickets for your visit .

17. Escape the Hustle of the City for a Day

Visiting a busy city like Barcelona can leave you exhausted, especially if you are not used to the crowds or if the summer heat becomes too much for you.

While most tourists head to Barceloneta beach , you’ll hardly find any locals there. The better beaches (nicer and also less crowded) can be found a bit further away. Try Playa de Bogatell if you don’t want to go too far. Or – outside of town – Platja de Castelldefels in the south or Platja de Badalona in the north of Barcelona.

The most popular day trip outside of the city is visiting Montserrat Monastery . Because it’s located in the mountains, the temperatures are usually cooler there too. We also took this day trip and here you can read all about our Montserrat tour .

These are just a few examples of places to visit outside the city. There are many more beautiful areas that you can visit on a day trip from Barcelona! Here are a few other popular options:

• Catamaran Sailing Tours (1.5-2 hrs)
• Kayaking & snorkeling (half a day)
• Hot air balloon flights (half a day)
• Vineyards near the city (half a day)
• Girona and Costa Brava (full day)
• Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum (full day)
• 3 Countries in a Day (full day)

So if you are staying in town for more than 2-3 days, I suggest you take at least one day trip to see more of the surroundings or just to escape the crowds. As a minimum, rent a bike and drive along the beach – there is a beautiful waterfront promenade with bike paths that bring you to the quieter beaches and districts of Barcelona.

18. Stay Clear of Politics and Protests

Political protests in Catalonia are not uncommon. There were huge protests and even riots in Barcelona just a few days before our trip, and there were also some violent protests in the city while we were there.

But, in general, these protests don’t really influence your travel experience much (unless they block an airport, which happened once a few years ago).

My best advice is to just stay clear of any political protests. If you see any demonstrations, just walk around or take another street. Barcelona is a big city and the chances that you’ll find yourself amidst the protesters are really not that high.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some  more practical tips  to consider when traveling to Barcelona for the first time:

• You can  pay  by credit card pretty much everywhere, but it’s always useful to have some cash as well. Spain uses the EURO .
• If you don’t have a credit card with a chip and a 4-digit pin , check out this selection of  the best American credit cards for travel and get one – you’ll need a car with a pin everywhere in Europe. I recommend choosing  a card with no foreign transaction fees .
• While you can easily get around using English , it’s always useful to learn a couple of words of Spanish or Catalan. Hola (hello) and gracias (thank you) go a long way.
• Barcelona has a pretty good network of free WiFi with hundreds of access points throughout the city. Hotels and some restaurants also usually offer free wifi.
• Download an offline map of Barcelona using apps like Google Maps or Maps.me. It’s so much easier than a paper map and you can always easily find your way around.
• Make sure to pack a travel adapter . Spain uses  European plugs .
• Remember that many shops and markets are closed on Sunday . However, most museums and other attractions remain open. We chose to do a Gaudi tour on a Sunday and it worked out great.
• Pack comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the season. It can get really warm in Barcelona and sun protection is an absolute must in summer. Don’t forget your sun hat !
• Make a copy of your travel documents and send it to yourself by email (or save it in the cloud). As with any international trip, make sure that you have good travel insurance .

So, these are some of the most important practical tips that you should know when traveling to Barcelona for the first time.

Below, you can also find some frequently asked questions for your first visit to Barcelona. Take a look!

Barcelona Travel FAQs

The best time to visit Barcelona are the shoulder months between March and May and also from September to October. The weather is best for sightseeing and it’s not as busy as in the summer.

While you can see the main landmarks of Barcelona in one or two days, we recommend at least 3-4 days for your first trip to Barcelona. This will allow you to explore the city at a more relaxed pace, visit Gaudi buildings and a few museums, and maybe even take a tour to Montserrat.

Barcelona is a very popular destination, so it’s best to book your accommodation and the tours that you absolutely want to do in advance. Make sure to book skip-the-line tickets for the most popular landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia!

Yes, Barcelona is a safe destination. However, just like in any other big European city, you should be careful with pickpockets and common travel scams. If you are not sure about visiting certain areas at night, ask your hotel for advice.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . The location is perfect for sightseeing and you can easily walk to the most popular attractions in the city center. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby. Most tours also start in this area.

Do you have any questions or maybe want to share your experience when visiting Barcelona? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

More tips for your trip to Spain:

• Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• Barcelona 1 Day Itinerary
• How to See the Best of Barcelona in 2 Days
• Complete Guide to Visiting Montserrat
• Montserrat Tour Review
• Best Barcelona Gaudi Tour
• 1 Day in Seville
• 2 Days in Seville
• Flamenco in Seville
• One Day in Madrid: What to See & Itinerary
• Madrid to Toledo Day Trip

READ ALSO: Spain Bucket List: Top Places & Experiences

If you found this post helpful, 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
• 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
• 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
• Read also our tips for traveling to Europe .

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Tuesday 13th of June 2023

Hi Jurga! I love your blog and I'm planning to visit Barcelona in October. Did the Acta Splendid charge you a resort fee in addition to the price of the room & tax?.....Elaine

Wednesday 14th of June 2023

Hi Elaine, I don't remember hotel charging us any special fees. When you book on Booking.com, it's always very clearly shown what's included. Usually, for most places, they already include the city tax in the price, or show you how much it will be. For Acta Splendid, if I try just random dates, I see that it shows me in the booking window that 10% VAT and City tax are included in the price. What sometimes happens is that you first get charged just for the room and then have to pay the taxes at the property separately. But the total price you see on Booking is usually the total of what you'll pay in the end (unless clearly stated otherwise). That's a big difference vs. booking with hotels directly. Most hotels don't show taxes in their price at first and then add it to your bill later. This way, you might think that you are paying less but, often, it's quite the opposite. Just one more reason why we always use Booking.com for all our accommodation bookings. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

First Timers Guide to Barcelona

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Oh Barcelona, I fell in love with you. My first time in Barcelona was overwhelming, hectic, fast-paced, super fun, and beautiful. There are plenty of things I wish I would’ve known and now I’m going to pass my first time visitor tips for Barcelona to you!

The basics for your first time in Barcelona

• Location: Spain
• Region: Catalonia
• Currency: Euro. If something is 10 euros and 20 cents, then it will be written like 10,20 €
• Language: Catalan (the majority of locals speak Catalan) and Spanish
• Average Temperature: Summer – 85°F/29°C, Winter – 59°F/15°C
• Barcelona’s beaches are all man-made… and thanks to the 1992 Olympics, they exist!
• Barcelona has nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites

View of La Sagrada Familia from Plaça de Gaudí (left), Park Güell (right)

How to get to Barcelona

By Plane: There is only one airport in Barcelona, Barcelona- El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport (BCN), however many smaller airlines will fly into neighboring airports and call it Barcelona.

Girona- Costa Brava (GRO) is 65 miles away, but is a very popular route, so just be careful when you are booking your ticket and double check your destination’s airport code. It will be so much cheaper to buy a more expensive plane ticket to BCN than to get the cheaper plane ticket to Girona or Reus and having to find transportation into Barcelona.

By Train: Train travel is very convenient and super easy in and around Barcelona. There’s direct trains into the city including high speed trains from Paris and Lyon!

Did you know, if you book at least a month in advance you can find super cheap tickets from London to Barcelona with a change in Paris for under £50.00?!?! And you’ll get there in 12 hours!

By Boat: Barcelona has a cruise and ferry port in the harbor, so if you book a Mediterranean cruise, make sure Barcelona is on your day trip list!!

By Bus: Traveling by bus might seem like a hassle and it will take a while, however, thanks to overnight buses and the level of comfort increasing, it’s actually a great way to travel. My go-to European bus travel is Flixbus , super frequent and budget friendly. The buses are comfy and roomy with free WiFi… better than taking a red-eye flight!

Park Güell (left and right)

How to get to Barcelona from the Airport

More than likely you will arrive in Barcelona by plane… so how do you get into the city? It’s actually SUPER easy and super close to the city center compared to a lot of major airports in the world.

By Taxi: You can take a taxi for a flat rate of €30.00 one way. Although, if your accommodation is down one of the back streets or side streets, there’s a possibility you won’t be able to get dropped off right outside and you might end up dragging your suitcases around when you don’t want to.

By Metro: This is my personal favorite… it’s super easy to figure out and the city is well connected. Look for the metro signs in the airport and walk up the stairs (or go up the escalator) to the bridge that leads away from Terminal 1. The metro line is L9. Walk down into the metro and you can purchase your ticket from one of the machines or the customer service desk across from the machines. (More on the metro below!)

By Bus:  The Aerobus is another convenient and budget option for getting into the city. Departures are every 5 minutes and the stops in the city are placed so there’s lots of coverage of the city. A single ticket is €5.90 and a roundtrip ticket is €10.20 (but must be used within 15 days, so if you’re staying longer than 2 weeks, don’t buy the roundtrip ticket because it will not be valid by the time you leave). You can purchase your tickets online, at a bus stop, at the vending machines, or with the bus driver (cash only).

Quick Guide to the Metro

Since it’s your first time in Barcelona, you probably want to know how to get around the city? The subway is convenient and simple to navigate and should absolutely be your first choice for getting around!

First things first, download a metro map app!!! My favorite is Barcelona Metro – TMB Map or CityMapper.

The lines are numbered with an L in front of the number. So, L1, L2, L3, etc…

The best thing about the metro are all the options for tickets. There’s literally something for everyone’s trip. It’s €2.40 for a single journey, so if you are just using it for getting to and from the airport, then a single ticket is perfect.

If you’re planning on doing 10 trips, the T10 ticket is €10.00. This can be used by multiple people in your group, so if you have a group of 2 or 3 and you just need a couple of trips, then you can get this ticket, save money, and share it between your group.

The Hola Travel Card is what I used and I highly recommend it for shorter trips up to 5 days. You get unlimited travel for 2, 3, 4, or 5 days. So if you plan on using public transport the whole time you’re in the city, then buy one of these cards. You can purchase online for a small discount or buy it at the airport metro for your first journey. If you buy the 2 day, 48 hour pass then it will expire EXACTLY 48 hours later.

• 2 Days/48 Hours: €16.30
• 3 Days/72 Hours: €23.70
• 4 Days/96 Hours: €30.80
• 5 Days/120 Hours: €30.00

Gothic Quarter

This is a charming area of Barcelona, filled with restaurants, local shops, bars, and medieval streets.

My favorite area is around the Cathedral of Barcelona (which took centuries to build!!) and the original Roman City of Barcino. It’s fun to just walk around here and look at the architecture.

Las Ramblas

This street (technically a few streets) is over a mile long and a tourist mecca in Barcelona. Over 150,000 people walk this street EVERYDAY! What?!

There’s vendors and restaurants lining the busy streets. I recommend walking down it, to say you did, however, DON’T EAT HERE. You won’t get authentic food and you’ll end up paying double the price!

You will find the infamous La Boqueria food market here, it’s good to walk around and check out, however the food is overpriced.

Barcelona Cathedral (left), Pont del Bisbe – Bishop’s Bridge (right)

Watch out for pick pockets

I hate bringing up the bad stuff, but Barcelona has been known as the “Pick Pocket Capital of the World”. And you don’t want your first time in Barcelona to be ruined by something that could’ve been prevented with a little knowledge.

Las Ramblas is a hub for pick pockets so BE CAREFUL! I’m not saying duct tape your wallet to your body under your clothes, but make sure you are aware of your surroundings.

Watch your bag or wear your back pack on your front when you are using the metro and if you go to the Magic Fountains at night, be aware of where your personal belongings are, because that’s another hot spot.

Make a copy of your passport and leave the real thing in a safe spot in your hotel!

I always use my cross body bag whenever I travel and rest my hand on the top of it when I’m walking through crowded areas or not fully paying attention to it. For my equipment, I use a back pack with hidden anti-theft pockets in it.

That being said, I had no issues while I was there, but have heard ALLLLLL the stories.

Who is Gaudi?

Casa Batlló

Antoni Gaudi is a famous architect that has had much influence around the city. You will see his works throughout the city. The most famous being the La Sagrada Familia (the massive cathedral), which has been under construction since 1882!!

His method for designing buildings was a little different, he would prefer to make 3D models instead of drawing plans out for his buildings. His model of the La Sagrada Familia is being used to continue and finish construction on the cathedral… it’s supposed to be finished by 2026, so I guess we will see…

Seven of his works are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites that you can walk around and visit.

What to do if it’s your first time in Barcelona?

There’s so much to do in Barcelona and sometimes it’s easier to just pick out a few things you really want to do and then go with the flow the rest of the time. It will definitely take you a few visits to fully explore everything this city has to offer.

La Sagrada Familia

I’ve already talked about this cathedral so it needs no introduction, but it’s a must visit! Walking around the interior is a magical colorful experience, especially when the sun is shining. You need to pre-book your ticket well in advance if you want to see the inside.

If you’re not bothered about roaming the pews (which you should be), you can always walk around the outside of the cathedral. The park that is across the street, on left side (if you are looking at the main entrance) is the most perfect view of La Sagrada Familia.

Another one of Gaudi’s masterpieces which was actually supposed to be a quirky housing development that didn’t get it’s funding, was turned into a park overlooking the city.. and the views are amazing!

If you want to save some money, get here early and watch the sunrise. The gates to the park are left open even when the park is closed. If you arrive AND leave before they set up for the day (usually 8am or 8:30am depending on the season) then you won’t have to pay the entry fee… and it won’t be so crowded!

Montjuïc Cable Cars

If you’re interested in taking the cable cars, do not make my mistake!! There’s two different cable cars that require two different tickets. I had no idea there were two different lines and ended up putting the higher cable car into my GPS and walking half way up the mountain to where the first cable car would’ve dropped me off. *face palm*

One leaves from the harbor and goes up to the view point at Miramar and the other leaves from Parc de Montjuïc and goes to Castell de Montjuïc (the castle on the hill). Both will take you up to GREAT view points!

You will have to walk to get to the harbor cable car, but the Montjuïc cable car is easily accessible via the Funicular de Montjuïc from the Paral·lel metro station (also included with your 48 travel card).

If you are crazy like me and want to walk up the mountain… which is steep, but will reward you with some great views, get off at the Paral·lel metro stop and just start walking south. You’ll run into a mountain… so start walking up! There’s plenty of ways to get up, so you can take some steep stairs, try out the switchbacks or head up the street.

Free entry in museums

Most museums will grant free entry on the first Sunday of the month and then free entry after 3:00pm on other Sundays. There are even special open days and night at the museum evenings with free entry.

If you’re unsure which museums participate in this, you can always check the museum’s website before you visit.

The Barcelona City History Museum, Picasso Museum and even the Montjuïc Castle are all included!!

Travel off the beaten path

This is always an obvious one for me.

If you really want to see a city then check out where the locals go… where do they eat? Where do they drink? Where do they hang out?

Yes, I know… it’s your first time in Barcelona and you want to do the tourist stuff. At least walk around the local areas and see what you’re missing.

My favorite is the neighborhood of Sant Antoni (it’s right next to Montjuïc), there’s some great food and drink in this area and the atmosphere and vibe is so much more chill and quiet than the craziness of Las Ramblas.

Heading to Barcelona? Lemme know in the comments below!!

Check out more places to visit around from my blog

• Why You Should Visit Hamburg, Germany
• How to Find Anafiotika in Athens, Greece
• 10 Super Easy Day Trips From London, UK

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When is the best time to go to Barcelona?

Aug 23, 2023 • 5 min read

Our seasonal breakdown of what's happening in Barcelona will help you plan the perfect trip © Jordi Mora igual / Getty Images

With over 300 days of sunshine per year, good weather in Barcelona is the norm – but that doesn’t mean this Mediterranean metropolis has no seasons.

Winter nights can get quite cold, and summers are hot and muggy, making spring and fall the best seasons to visit. However, the city has a busy calendar of events with annual festivals, holiday traditions and seasonal eats.

Whether you come for the sights, the sea or the local parties, here’s a guide to the best time to visit Barcelona.

June to August is peak season for festivals and beaches

Pack your body glitter, because June kicks off festival season in Barcelona with Primavera Sound , and Sónar brings some of the world’s top music acts to Parc del Fòrum, the city’s sprawling seaside festival site. Then, on the night of Sant Joan, which always takes place on the summer solstice – June 20 or 21, depending on the year – locals celebrate with bonfires and fireworks on the beach.

Barcelona is a very LGBTIQ+ friendly city , and no time of year is that more apparent than July when Pride Barcelona takes over Plaza Espanya with parades, live music and street parties all weekend long.

At the height of summer in July, Barcelona swells with visitors and battles the heat and humidity. Temperatures reach average highs between 70F and 85F, and the humidity gets oppressive, particularly in August. In 2022, Spain passed a law barring businesses from setting their air-conditioning below 80.6F to curb energy use – thankfully, there is an exception for hotel guests .

Once a year, every Barcelona neighborhood puts on a street party known as festes majors . These are big events with street food, live music, Catalan traditions – like human towers and fire runs – and elaborate decorations. The parties are organized throughout the year, but the biggest and most impressive is the Festa Major de Gràcia in mid-August, whose contest for the best-decorated street motivates locals to go above and beyond with their art skills.

With summer heat waves becoming more routine in Southern Europe, don’t plan a trip at this time of year without making time to cool down at the beach . You should also get your tickets for attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell ahead of time to avoid waiting in long lines.

September to December brings accommodation deals and festive fun

The summer excitement starts to simmer down come September, and hotel rates also tend to drop. For budget travelers in Barcelona, this is the best time to explore on foot and make the most of the city’s sights and attractions.

A party atmosphere sweeps through the streets with the arrival of  La Mercè – the festival for all of Barcelona. Honoring the city’s patron saint on the weekend near her Saint’s Day (September 24), you can find free concerts and cultural demonstrations all over the city all weekend long.

For over 50 years, the Barcelona Jazz Festival has been one of the world’s top jazz festivals, consistently bringing in the world’s premier artists. The concerts begin in October and continue through the end of December, so you have a wide window to catch a performance.

Cooler temperatures may put you off having a dip in the sea, but you’ll find fewer crowds on the beach and in the streets. It rarely gets colder than lows of 40F, and apart from a usually rainy November, you can still enjoy the sunshine most of the time. Take public transport for a day of skiing in the Pyrenees  when snow arrives north of the city. If you catch the ski bus or train to the La Molina resort , the round-trip fare includes the cost of your ski pass. Winter in Catalonia also brings the return of the calçotada, traditional wintertime barbecues.

At Barcelona’s cheery Christmas markets – in front of the Barcelona Cathedral or the Sagrada Familia – you’ll find a decoration that no other city in the world has: the pooper. Also known as the caganer , this cheeky figure can be found hiding in nativity scenes all over the city.

January to March are best for Carnival, calçots and classical music

Every new year in Spain starts with a mouthful of grapes, and soon after, the city celebrates Three Kings Day with a parade on January 5, officially marking the end of the holiday season. In the morning, you may see locals lining up at bakeries to pick up their Kings’ Cake.

If you’re exploring Barcelona between January and March, look for restaurants that have calçots on the menu. These large spring onions are a local specialty that is only eaten during the winter months.

This is also the season for Carnival, so you may be able to catch the street festivities in the week before Ash Wednesday. The weather in Barcelona is on the upswing in March, so this is the best time of the year to take advantage of low rates and light-jacket weather. Music lovers might also want to check out the schedule for the Barcelona Obertura Spring Festival , the city’s classical concert series.

April and May are for books, romance and a museum marathon

The most romantic day in Barcelona is April 23, the day of Sant Jordi. Often dubbed the “Catalan Valentine’s Day,” locals celebrate their love by exchanging books and roses. On almost every corner, you’ll find someone selling roses. The Passeig de Graçia transforms into a literary bazaar, with booksellers lining the streets all the way down to La Rambla . Make sure you stop by Casa Batlló to see the special rose decorations they put out on the balconies every year.

Celebrating the continent-wide Night of Museums in May, many of Barcelona’s museums open their doors for free in the after-hours. Not only can you take advantage of the free entry at big institutions like the National Art Museum of Catalonia , the Picasso Museum and the Moco Museum , but you can also visit historic sites like Montjuïc Castle or try tasty diversions like the Chocolate Museum.

This article was first published Feb 12, 2021 and updated Aug 23, 2023.

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Barcelona Travel Guide

Our EPIC travel guides, written by locals & experts who love the city of Barcelona.

Barcelona Destinations

• Things to Do
• Where to Stay

Best Beaches

• Best Time to Visit
• Getting Around
• What to Pack

Why We Love Barcelona.  Founded as a Roman colony in the 1st century BC, Barcelona has housed several influential cultures, civilizations, and movements over the past two millennia, the remains of which can still be observed within the modern city.

Combining its historical past with perpetually beautiful weather, world-class white sand beaches, and eclectic architecture that spans centuries of evolving styles, it is no wonder that Barcelona has become one of the most visited cities in the world.

Whether you are looking to explore the local Catalan culture, tour dozens of historical and artistic landmarks, lounge on a world-class Mediterranean beach, or sample some of Spain’s most delicious culinary offerings, Barcelona offers an experience for everybody.

• The Gothic Quarter – Explore the historic heart and Gothic architecture of Barcelona’s medieval old town.
• El Raval – Sample Spanish and Catalan culinary offerings at several local restaurants and tapas bars.
• El Poblenou – Enjoy vibrant nightclubs and modern attractions in Barcelona’s ‘New Village.’
• Barceloneta – Explore Barcelona’s waterfront, seafood scene, and 18th-century neighborhood.
• La Vila Olimpica – Visit Barcelona’s Olympic Village and a beautiful beach restored for the 1992 Summer Olympics.

Things To Do In Barcelona

• La Sagrada Familia – The must-visit tourist attraction in Barcelona. Designed by the iconic architect Antoni Gaudí.
• Park Güell – A one-of-a-kind architectural wonder, also designed by Antoni Gaudí.
• Museu d’Història de Barcelona – essentially the city’s history museum, you get a closer look at the unique history of Barcelona.
• Camp Nou – Home of Barcelona FC and a museum celebrating the team’s history.
• La Boqueria – The market dates back to 1217, making it the oldest market in Barcelona, with over 200 stalls selling local food and drink.

Explore all things to do in Barcelona, Spain .

Where To Stay

• Gothic Quarter – Winding streets, fantastic architecture and excellent restaurants.
• El Poblenou – The Coolest Neighborhood In Barcelona. Beach, watersports and delicious Catalan cuisine!
• El Born – A Fashionable, wealthy hotspot. Known for being trendy and modern with a great nighlife.
• Eixample – A Trendy, Modern Neighborhood. Eixample translates to Expansion District, with long /straight streets, arranged in an  efficient grid-like pattern.

Explore the areas & places to stay in Barcelona .

Barceloneta Beach

Barcelona’s most famous and traditional beach with a neighborhood dating back to the 18th century.

Mar Bella Beach

A beautiful stretch of shoreline restored for the 1992 Summer Olympics.

Llevant Beach

Barcelona’s newest beach, perfect for a day of relaxation free from heavy development.

Nova Icària Beach

One of Barcelona’s most relaxing beaches with plenty of beachside services.

Bogatell Beach

A popular beach in a traditional Barcelonian neighborhood.

Best Time To Visit

• High Season – (May, June, July, August, and Early September): High season has the hottest weather, making it the perfect time for beach trips but a potentially challenging time for sightseeing in the city. Days are especially long during the high season, and in some months, the sun stays up for 14 hours, giving you lots of time to explore.
• Shoulder (Mid) Season – (Late March, April, Late September, and October) : Shoulder season is the perfect balance between the extremes of high and low seasons. Prices are reasonable and, depending on when you go, can be pretty low.
• Low Season – (November, December, January, February, and Early March) : Low season has the coldest weather, which often leaves beach-going out of the question but opens up the possibility of strolls throughout the city as it doesn’t get that cold in Barcelona.

Explore the best and worst times to visit Barcelona .

Getting Here & Around

• ✈️ Airports – Most international visitors arrive in Barcelona by air. Barcelona has only one international airport, the Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN).
• 🚞 Train – Barcelona can easily be accessed by rail, with several daily trains connecting it with Madrid, Valencia, and Montpellier in France.
• 🚌 Buses – While not the most comfortable option, visitors can also reach Barcelona from across Spain and Europe by bus.
• 🚃 Metro – Connecting all of the major Barcelona neighborhoods and tourist centers, the metro is the most efficient way to get around in the city.
• 🚗 Driving – Driving can be an effective way to explore Barcelona’s surrounding areas and mountains. However, traffic can make driving in the city problematic.
• 🚕 Taxis – Barcelona has thousands of experienced taxis zipping their way through the city, promising a convenient ride should you need it.
•  Public Transport – Barcelona has a very effective public bus network readily available to get you where you need to go.
• 🚲 Biking – With an extensive network of bike lanes throughout the city, bicycles are a fantastic way to tour Barcelona while taking in the sights.
• 🚶 Walking – Walking is a great option if you are staying in the city center as most of the city’s popular attractions are relatively close to the tourist center.

Barcelona Travel Tips

• Avoid Peak Season – Barcelona can become very crowded during peak season. Avoid the lines by traveling during the off or shoulder months.
• Be Aware of Siesta Times – Siestas are common all over Spain, and many shops close their doors between 1:30 and 5:00 pm.
• Buy Tickets in Advance – The city’s most popular attractions can experience long wait times. Luckily, you can usually buy your tickets online.
• Carry Cash – Many shops in Barcelona have minimums for credit/debit transactions. So be sure to carry some cash for those smaller purchases.
• Sample the Local Dishes – Barcelona is famous for its cuisine. Be sure to sample both the Spanish national dish, Paella, and the traditional Catalan dish, botifarra amb mongetes.

What To Pack

• Comfortable Shoes – You will be doing a lot of walking in Barcelona. Pack accordingly.
• Swimwear – Barcelona can get hot in the summer. You are going to want to plan at least one beach day for swimming.
• Sunscreen – Guard yourself against the Mediterranean sun with UV protection.
• Backpack + Lock – Protect your valuables from pickpockets with a lock for your bag.
• Camera – Barcelona has dozens of beautiful sights. Be sure to capture them all.

Barcelona Travel Guides

The 15 Best Hostels in Barcelona (Updated 2024)

The 22 Best Things to do In Barcelona, Spain in 2024 (with photos!)

Where To Stay In Barcelona in 2024 (Best Areas and Places)

The 16 Best Restaurants In Barcelona, Spain (Updated 2024)

When Is The Best Time To Visit Barcelona, Spain? (2024 Guide)

Meet our barcelona travel expert.

Kurt Norris

A Canada-based freelance writer, Kurt acquired his bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Windsor. Upon graduating, Kurt left the courtside media desk behind and began venturing the globe. Throughout his journeys, Kurt enjoys partaking in slow travel and loves to explore the histories and cultures of each destination, which he shares with others through his writing.

Facts & Info

• Population – 1.6 Million
• Time Zone – Summer: Central European Time (UTC +1 hour) | Winter: Central European Summer Time (UTC +2 hours)
• Airports – Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport
• Nickname – Barna / Ciudad Condal
• Demonym – Barcelonian
• Country – Spain

Barcelona Map

WayToStay is an independent travel website, providing in-depth travel guides from locals and experts. Our mission is to help travelers, backpackers & adventure lovers to discover and research their next destination.

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Kurztrip nach Barcelona

Was sehen und machen in Barcelona in 1,2,3,4, oder 5 Tagen

In diesem Artikel gebe ich dir die besten Tipps mit den besten Seiten und Dinge , die du dir in Barcelona anschauen solltest, wenn du nur ein, zwei, drei, vier oder fünf Tage Zeit hast. Außerdem bekommt du Tipps zu den besten Restaurants, Unterkünften und Einkaufsmöglichkeiten .

Wenn du nur einen Tag Zeit hast, kannst du schon einiges anschauen aber meine Empfehlung ist klar: Du musst unbedingt durch die Rambla gehen, die Sagrada Familia besuchen einen Spaziergang um den Passeig de Gracia machen, um das berühmte Casa Batllo und Casa Milà de Gaudí zu sehen.

In zwei Tagen kannst du schon mehr tun. An deinem zweiten Tag solltest du in die beliebtesten Parks Barcelonas gehen: den Parc Güell und den Parc de la Ciutadella. Aber verirre dich nicht! Und am besten du beendest deinebn Tag im lebendigsten und einem der schönsten Viertel der Stadt: El Born .

Wenn du drei Tage Zeit hast Barcelona zu besuchen, kannst du den ganzen Charme der katalanischen Hauptstadt spüren. Für diesen Tag empfehle ich dir eine Route, die dich vom berühmten Strand Barceloneta bis zum Berg Montjüic bringt, wo du eine kostenlose Musik- und Farbshow genießen kannst: La Font Mágica .

Wenn Sie Glück hast und sogar vier Tage bleibst, könntest du ein Souvenir kaufen und die Sporteinrichtungen der Stadt besuchen: das Camp Nou und den Anillo Olímpico . Entspanne am Ende des Tages auf den Terrassen mit Blick über das Einkaufszentrum Arenas .

Wenn du fünf Tage bleibst, kannst du noch mehr erleben und dich in Tibidabo verlieben, dem höchsten Gipfel der Stadt mit einem Tempel und einem Vergnügungspark. Ich empfehle dir, den Tag mit der Suche nach dem Schatz der Stadt zu beenden und die Ruta Modernista zu besuchen.

Eine Stadt wie Barcelona in ein paar Tagen zu besuchen, erfordert viel körperliche Aktivität. Deshalb ist es wichtig, sich gut erholen zu können. Wenn du in einer schönen Wohnung Urlaub machst, kannst du dich entspannen, neue Energie tanken und dich wie zu Hause fühlen. Schaue dir dazu unser Angebot von Wohnungen im Zentrum von Barcelona an. Fast alle unsere Apartments sind erst kürzlich renoviert worden und bieten großen Komfort zu vernünftigen Preisen.

• 1.1 Rambla und Umgebung
• 1.2 Sagrada Familia und Avinguda Gaudi
• 1.3 Passeig de Gràcia und Gótico
• 2.1 Parc de la Ciutadella und Arc de Triomf
• 2.2 Das Viertel El Born
• 3.1 Playa de la Barceloneta und Castillo de Montjüic
• 3.2 La Font Màgica
• 4.1 El Portal de l'Angel
• 4.2 Camp Nou und Olympischer Ring
• 5.1 Tibidabo
• 5.2 Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau
• 6 Barcelona mit Kindern
• 7 Wochenende in Barcelona
• 8 Aktivitäten bei Regen
• 9 Barcelona kostenlos?
• 10.1 Barcelona: Wo übernachten mit Kindern?
• 10.2 Barcelona: Was ist die beste Gegend um zu übernachten?
• 10.3 Barcelona: Wo günstig übernachten?
• 11.1 Was kaufen in Barcelona?
• 11.2 Wo kann man in Barcelona shoppen gehen?
• 12.1 Barcelona: Frühstück
• 12.2 Barcelona: Günstig und gut essen
• 12.3 Barcelona: Paella essen
• 12.4 Barcelona: Tapas
• 12.5 Barcelona: Wo und was Abendessen?
• 13.1 Barcelona: Wohin gehen und Spaß haben
• 14.1 Barcelona: Welcher Flughafen?
• 14.2 Barcelona: Vom Flughafen ins Zentrum
• 15.1 Barcelona: Öffentliche Verkehrsmittel
• 15.2 Barcelona: Wo parken?

Ein Tag in Barcelona

Nein, es ist nicht unmöglich, die Seele Barcelonas an einem einzigen Tag zu sehen. Du kannst die Magie der Stadt 24 Stunden lang spüren. Es ist nur wichtig, dass du dich darauf einstellst, dass du viel laufen wirst.

Hier hast du einen perfekten Plan, um das Beste der Stadt an einem Tag zu sehen . Für diesen epischen Kreuzzug braucht man gutes Essen und einen perfekten Ort zur Erholung. Hier geben wir dir die Antworten auf diese Fragen ... Bereit? Nun, lass uns anfangen...

• Wo essen in Barcelona?
• Wo schlafe in Barcelona?
• Was kaufen in Barcelona und wohin gehen?

Rambla und Umgebung

Wenn du nur einen Tag in der Stadt bleibst, ist die Rambla das Erste, was du siehst. Es ist eine der berühmtesten Straßen der Welt, wo du unter Bäumen und mit Menschen aus der ganzen Welt spazieren gehen kannst. Auf diesem Weg findest du den traditionellen Mercat de la Boqueria mit seinen frischen Produkten, den lebhaften Plaça Reial mit seinen Terrassen und das Denkmal von Columbus , wo die Rambla das Meer erreicht.

Nicht viele Leute wissen, dass man mit einem Aufzug innerhalb des Columbus-Monuments hochfahren und einen unglaublichen Aussichtspunkt von Barcelona genießen kann.

Sagrada Familia und Avinguda Gaudi

Dein zweiter Halt sollte Gaudís berühmtestes Werk sein: die Sagrada Familia . Du musst sie auf jeden Fall von Innen anschauen. Es gibt verschiedene Arten von Tickets und am besten du kaufst dein  Ticket online , denn so kannst du dir sehr viel Zeit sparen. Schau dir dazu diesen Artikel an, um das beste Ticket für dich zu finden, bei dem du am meisten Geld und Zeit sparst.

Nach einem solchen Besuch solltest du dich bei einem Drink oder Abendessen in der Fußgängerzone ausruhen, am besten in der wunderschönen Avinguda Gaudí . Dort kannst du einen entspannten Spaziergang machen, ohne Autos, voller Terrassen und mit Blick auf die Sagrada Familia.

Passeig de Gràcia und Gótico

Nach dem Abendessen kannst du mit der U-Bahn zur Haltestelle Passeig de Gràcia zurückkehren. Diese Straße ist bekannt für ihre schöne Allee und unzähligen Geschäften. Dort kannst du die Fassaden von zwei großen Werken von Gaudí sehen: das Casa Milá auch "La Pedrera" genannt und das Casa Batlló.

In dem Häuserblock, in dem sich das Casa Batllo befindet, findest du noch weitere Gebäude der Moderne : das Casa Lleó Morera von Lluís Domènech i Montaner, das Casa Mulleras von Enric Sagnier, das Casa Bonet von Marceliano Coquillat und das Casa Amatller von Josep Puig i Cadafalch.

Verpass nicht die Gelegenheit, durch das prächtige gotische Viertel  zu schlendern. Es ist eines der beliebtesten Viertel unter Touristen. Bei Nacht kann man das Lichtspiel der mittelalterlichen Gebäude, die Catedral de Santa Eulalia , den Plaça Sant Felip Neri und den Plaça Sant Jaume, wo sich auch das Rathaus befindet, genießen. Die Straßen dieses Viertels sind perfekt, um die letzten Stunden in der Stadt ausklingen zu lassen.

Finde ein perfektes Restaurant für dein erstes Abendessen in Barcelona. Ich empfehle dir die Seite El Tenedor . Dort kannst du Rabatte von bis zu 40% und 50% auf die Preise der Speisekarte von guten Restaurants in der Stadt bekommen.

Barcelona in 2 Tagen

Jetzt bekommst du einen guten Plan über die besten Dinge, die du am zweiten Tag deines Aufenthalts besuchen kannst. Wenn du es noch nicht gelesen hast, dann schau dir jetzt den Plan für den ersten Tag an .

Park Güell und die Werke von Gaudí

Barcelona ist voll von Werken des großen katalanischen Architekten Antonio Gaudí. Der Park Güell ist einer der bekanntesten.

Du solltest deine Tickets für den Park Güell im Voraus reservieren , besonders in der Hochsaison. Dieser Besuch wird zwei oder drei Stunden dauern. Am Ende schlage ich eine Pause für einen Kaffee in der Parkbar vor. Im Folgenden Artikel kannst du die künstlerischen Geheimnisse des Parks entdecken.

Parc de la Ciutadella und Arc de Triomf

Der nächste Halt ist ein weiterer beliebterer Park. Hier kommen die Bewohner der Stadt zur Ruhe, machen Sport, tanzen, gehen mit ihren Kindern spazieren oder machen eine Bootsfahrt. Wir sprechen über den Parc de la Ciutadella , der in der Nähe des Arc de Triomf liegt. Beide wurden für die Weltausstellung von 1888 gebaut und behalten ihren ursprünglichen Charme.

Entdecke in diesem Artikel den großen Park im Zentrum der Stadt und vergiss nicht, das Parlament von Katalonien zu besuchen ;)

Das Viertel El Born

Wenn du dir ein Sandwich zum Mittagessen mitgebracht hast, schlage ich vor, dass du im Barrio del Born , das direkt neben dem Ciutadella Park liegt, anschließend ein Eis essen gehst. Hier findest du auch viele Restaurants und coole Plätze . Die Nachbarschaft ist wunderschön und voller origineller Geschäfte.

Genieße die angenehme historische Atmosphäre entlang der Carrer de la Princesa , entdecke die mittelalterliche Basilika Santa María del Mar (1383) und besuche das Picasso-Museum .

Diese Gegend ist ideal, um abends auszugehen. Rund um den Passeig del Born findest du viele Bars, Lokale, Restaurants und ein sehr angenehmes Nachtleben.

Schau dir die Geschichte und die Gegenwart des Viertels Born in diesem Video an: 

Barcelona in 3 Tagen

Der dritte Tag in Barcelona besteht aus Meer-, Berg- und bunten Lichtern  !! Wenn du es vorhin nicht gelesen hast, ist hier der Plan für den ersten Tag und den zweiten Tag .

Playa de la Barceloneta und Castillo de M ontjüic

Beginne den Tag mit einem Besuch an den Strand Barceloneta . Du kannst zum Strand laufen, lesen, in der Nähe des Strandes einen Kaffee trinken, Sport treiben und dich natürlich sonnen. Genieße diese Stunden der Ruhe und des Friedens, denn nun folgt ein Ausflug in die Höhe.

Die Fähre Port Aeri bringt dich in nur 5 Minuten vom Strand zum Montjüic. Dieses Transportmittel bietet unglaubliche Panoramablicke , die du nicht verpassen solltest. Du kannst außerdem das Schloss von Montjüic und viele andere Attraktionen besuchen, die du in diesem Artikel entdecken kannst.

La Font Màgica

In der Nacht schlage ich vor, dass du im Viertel Sants-Montjuic bleibst, entlang der Avenida Maria Cristina und dem Plaça d'Espanya spazieren gehst und die magische Show am Brunnen in Barcelona genießt: die Font Màgica.

Schau dir vorher die Zeitpläne genau an und komme etwas früher, um einen guten Platz zu bekommen ;-)

Barcelona in 4 Tagen

Am vierten Tag in Barcelona besteht der Plan aus Shopping , das Camp Nou zu besichtigen und die olympischen Einrichtungen zu entdecken. Wenn du es übersprungen hast, dann ist hier der Plan für den ersten Tag , den zweiten   und den dritten Tag  in Barcelona.

El Portal de l'Angel

Wir beginnen den Morgen mit ein wenig Entspannung. Du wirst wahrscheinlich immer noch keine Geschenke und Souvenirs für dich und deine Freunde haben, also ... lass uns einkaufen gehen! Der Morgen ist die perfekte Zeit des Tages, um einkaufen zu gehen, weil dann noch nicht so viele Menschen und Touristen unterwegs sind. Ich empfehle das Portal de l'Ànge l im Gotischen Viertel. Am Ende dieses Artikels gebe ich dir Tipps, wo du einkaufen und was du dort kaufen kannst .

Camp Nou und Olympischer Ring

Wenn du ein begeisterter Sportfan bist, wirst du den heutigen Plan mögen, denn wir werden das Camp Nou und den olympischen Ring , der für die Olympischen Spiele 1992 in Barcelona geschaffen wurde, entdecken. Diese Gebiete liegen ein wenig außerhalb der Altstadt, also nutzt du am besten den öffentlichen Nahverkher. Wenn du kein Sportler bist, dann schau dir wenigstens die Architektur an: Sie ist beeindruckend.

Schau dir den ganzen Artikel über das FC Barcelona Stadion an.

Wenn du vom Camp Nou zurückkehrst, kannst du am Plaça d'Espanya anhalten und eine unglaubliche Aussicht genießen. Wir sprechen vom  Einkaufszentrum Arenas , einer ehemaligen Stierkampfarena, die heute Geschäfte, Restaurants, ein Multiplex-Kino und eine beeindruckende Terrasse beherbergt, auf der du über die ganze Stadt bei Nacht blicken kannst.

Barcelona in 5 Tagen

Der Fünf-Tage-Plan in Barcelona besteht darin, den höchsten Gipfel Barcelonas zu entdecken und die modernistische Architektur der Stadt besser kennenzulernen. Wenn du es noch nicht gelesen hast, dann ist hier der Plan für den ersten Tag , den zweiten,  den dritten Tag  und den  vierten Tag in Barcelona.

Willkommen zu deinem fünften Tag in Barcelona! Jetzt kennst du die Stadt bereits und es ist an der Zeit, sie vom Berg Tibidabo aus zu sehen. Sicher hast du während deiner ersten Tage in der Stadt immer mal wieder ein weißes Gebäude auf einem Berg gesehen. Es ist der Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón von Tibidabo. Dort findest du auch einen tollen Vergnügungspark und einen Aussichtspunkt , wo du einen einzigartigen Blick über die ganze Stadt genießen kannst.

Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau

Wenn du vom Tibidabo zurückkehrst, dann mach einen Halt in Dreta de l'Eixample, um die Arbeit von Lluís Domènech i Montaner zu entdecken: das Hospital Santa Creu i Sant Pau . Dieses modernistisches Gebäude ist eine unglaubliche Konstruktion. Wenn du deinen Besuch beendst, dann lass dich einfach treiben von den Fliesen der " Route der Moderne "  und entdecke all die zahlreichen Gebäude in diesem architektonischen Stil.

La calle Enric Granados  befindet sich im Zentrum des großen modernistischen Viertels Eixample. Es ist eine Straße ohne Verkehr und mit guten Restaurants, wo du dein letztes Abendessen genießen kannst. Wir wünschen dir eine gute Reise und hoffen, dich bald wieder in Barcelona begrüßen zu dürfen!

Barcelona mit Kindern

Möchtest du diese wunderbare Stadt mit deinen Kindern besuchen, aber weißt nicht so recht, ob es eine gute Idee ist? Ich kann dir sagen, diese Stadt ist fantastisch für Kinder . Ihr könnt den Strand, die Parks in der Stadt oder den Vergnügungspark Tibidabo genießen. Es gibt viele Möglichkeiten, um  Spaß mit der ganzen Familie zu haben. Schau dir diesen Artikel an und stell dir deinen perfekten Reiseplan zusammen!

Wochenende in Barcelona

Wenn du über das Wochenende verreist, dann gibt es viele Konzerte, Messen, Festivals und Veranstaltungen, die du nicht verpassen solltest. In diesem Link findest du einen aktuellen Plan über alle Wochenendveranstaltungen in Barcelona. Verpasse nichts!

Aktivitäten bei Regen

Manchmal haben wir kein Glück und haben während der wenigen Urlaubstage auch noch Regen. Aber keine Sorge ... In diesem Fall bietet dir Barcelona auch viele Möglichkeiten . Glaubst du nicht? Schau hier!

Barcelona kostenlos?

Weißt du, dass du auch eine billige Reise machen kannst? Viele Leute glauben, dass diese Stadt eine der teuersten in Spanien ist, aber wenn du dir diesen Artikel anschaust wirst du merken, dass es nicht so ist ... Entdecke alle kostenlosen Aktivitäten in Barcelona !

Wo in Barcelona übernachten?

Jetzt, da du deine Reiseroute vorbereitet hast, fehlt nur noch das Wichtigste: die Unterkunft . Eine gemütliche Unterkunft, in der du dich wohlfülst, kann der wichtigste Bestandteil deiner Reise sein. Wenn du in einem schmutzigen Hotelzimmer hausen musst oder auf Betrüger reinfällst wird die Reise schnell zu einem Alptraum . Aus diesem Grund empfehlen wir dir hier die besten Unterkünfte , Ferienwohnungen und Apartments für deinen Urlaub in Barcelona .

Wenn du eine Ferienwohnung buchst, empfehlen wir dir, das Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis zu überprüfen. In Barcelona gibt es ein großes Angebot an Ferienwohnungen, viele davon sind aber sehr klein mit wenig Komfort. Wenn du dein Budget nur ein wenig anhebst, kannst du ein super Apartment bekommen.

Barcelona: Wo übernachten mit Kindern?

Unsere Ferienwohnungen für Familien sind komplett ausgestattet, um dort mit Kindern zu leben. Außerdem kannst du bei Ok Apartments ein 24-Stunden-Notruftelefon nutzen.

Barcelona: Was ist die beste Gegend um zu übernachten?

Wir von Ok Apartments Barcelona haben eine Umfrage unter 850 Menschen, die seit mindestens 3 Monaten in Barcelona leben, durchgeführt und sie gefragt "Was ist die beste Gegend um in Barcelona zu leben?" ... Entdecke hier die schönsten und günstigsten Viertel von Barcelona.

Barcelona: Wo günstig übernachten?

Obwohl es unmöglich scheint, gibt es eine Möglichkeit, billig in Barcelona zu übernachten . Wichtig ist immer, bei Verträgen vorsichtig zu sein, denn es gibt Tücken. Das Wichtigste ist das Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis und das Vertrauen in das Unternehmen . Unser Büro befindet sich im Zentrum von Barcelona. Alle Wohnungen sind von uns verifiziert und wir garantieren, dass sich die Wohnung in einem einwandfreiem Zustand befindet. Darüber hinaus haben unsere Kunden einen 24-Stunden-Kundendienst für Notfälle . Schau dir die besten Apartments in Barcelona hier an.

Was in Barcelona kaufen und wohin gehen?

Einkaufen ist immer ein wichtiger Teil einer Reise, ob für Souvenirs oder für eigene Geschenke . Barcelona ist eine der besten Städte zum Einkaufen, es gibt unzählige Geschäfte aller Art: Kunsthandwerk, berühmte und Luxusmarken, klassische und handgefertigte Souvenirs , etc. Wir beginnen mit einem perfekten Leitfaden, um Geschenke für deine Freunde und Familie zu finden.

Was kaufen in Barcelona?

Wo kann man in Barcelona shoppen gehen?

Jetzt ist es an der Zeit an dich zu denken! Hier findest du eine große Auswahl an Einkaufsmöglichkeiten. Entdecke die besten Orte zum Einkaufen .

Outlets in Barcelona

Wenn du noch mehr Zeit zum Shoppen findest, haben wir hier einen Artikel über Outlets in Barcelona. Gut und günstig !

Gibt es Primark in Barcelona?

Viele Touristen fragen uns, ob es in der katalanischen Hauptstadt Geschäfte der berühmten irischen Marke gibt. Primark hat sogar gleich zwei Geschäfte in zwei Einkaufszentren: L'illa Diagonal und Diagonal del Mar. Die Adressen sind: Carrer de Déu i Mata, 69-99, 08029 Barcelona  und  Avinguda Diagonal, 3, 08019 Barcelona .

Barcelona Restaurants

Wer auf Reisen ist, weiß wie wichtig gutes Essen ist! Hierfür hat unser Team eine Liste mit den besten Restaurants, Bars und Clubs in Barcelona erstellt. Entdecke alles, was du über das Essen dieser Stadt wissen musst.

Barcelona: Frühstück

Es ist unmöglich nach Barcelona zu kommen und nicht das typischste Frühstück Spaniens zu probieren: die Churros. Hier findest du die besten Churrerías der Stadt.

Barcelona: Günstig und gut essen

Es ist immer schwierig, gute und günstige Orte zum Essen zu finden, besonders in Touristenstädten wie Barcelona. Aber schwierig bedeutet nicht unmöglich! Hier haben wir einen kompletten Artikel über alle günstigen Tapas, Pinchos und Mojitos in der Stadt. Guten Appetit!

Barcelona: Paella essen

Die Paella ist ein typisches spanisches Gericht und auch du solltest sie mindestens einmal probiert haben. Viele Restaurants sind nur zum Mittagessen geöffnet und immer ziemlich gut gefüllt. Deshalb raten wir dir Donnerstags Paella essen zu gehen, das ist der beste Tag um essen zu gehen und eine spanische Tradition. Einige der besten Paella-Restaurants in Barcelona sind: Restaurant 7 Portes, El Racó de l'Aguir, El Cercle, Elche und viele mehr, vor allem in der Gegend von Barceloneta . Aber schau dir zunächst diesen Artikel zu den besten Peallas der Stadt an.

Barcelona: Tapas

Wie in jeder spanischen Stadt ist es Pflicht, mindestens einmal Tapas zu essen. Auch wenn du aus anderen Teilen Spaniens kommst, solltest du die besten katalanischen Tapas probieren. Um nicht in der ganzen Stadt nach einer guten Tapas Bar suchen zu müssen, schaue dir diesen Artikel an und gehe dort hin, wo es dir am besten gefällt.

Barcelona: Wo und was Abendessen?

Am Ende des Tages ist ein gutes Abendessen wichtig. Kennst du schon die katalanische Küche ? Wenn dies das erste Mal ist, dass du dieses Wort hörst, dann schau dir diesen Artikel an, das darfst du auf keinen Fall verpassen.

Wir haben dir auch einige Tipps zu typischen katalanischen Restaurants in Barcelona, aber denke immmer daran im Voraus zu reservieren, denn die guten Restaurants sind meistens voll.

[CAJA COCINA CATALANA]

Barcelona bei Nacht

Barcelona: wohin gehen und spaß haben.

Wie in allen großen Städten gibt es in Barcelona auch viele Orte, an denen man nachts ausgehen kann. Wir werden uns nur an einige von ihnen erinnern, wie  Eixample Esquerra , Ciutat Vella mit den Vierteln Gótico und Born , Barceloneta usw.

An jedem Ort gibt es Attraktionen, Aktivitäten und andere, neue Menschen . Du kannst in den Bars und Clubs der Altstadt trinken gehen, oder die berühmten Clubs , die immer verschiedene Partys zu bieten haben, ausprobieren. Außerdem gibt es im Sommer viele Outdoor-Events , bei denen du das fantastische Klima von Barcelona genießen kannst ... verpass nicht die Strandpartys!

Um kein Event bei Nacht in Barcelona zu verpassen, schaue dir diese Seite an.

Barcelona: Wie man dorthin kommt

Alle Antworten auf deine Fragen zum Thema Transport in der Stadt Barcelona: Wie kommt man wohin?

Barcelona: Welcher Flughafen?

Der Flughafen von Barcelona heißt "Aeropuerto El Prat".

Barcelona: Vom Flughafen ins Zentrum

Und so kommst du vom Flughafen ins Zentrum:

Barcelona: Wie man sich fortbewegt

Barcelona: öffentliche verkehrsmittel, barcelona: wie man zum camp nou gelangt.

• Linie 3 nach Collblanc oder Badal (Cerca accesos 2 a 17)
• Linie 5 nach Les Corts (Cerca accesos 17 a 21 und Maria Cristina (cerca accesos 1 a 11)
• Richtung de Pius XII, Palau Reial, Maria Cristina und Avinguda Xile
• Mehrere Linien halten rund um das Stadion: 7, 15, 43, 67, 8, 74, 75, L12, L50, L60, L62

Barcelona: Wie man zum Montjuic gelangt

Du kannst entweder die Linie 150 nehmen oder mit der Seilbahn zum Montjuïc gelangen.

Barcelona: Wie man zum Strand kommt

Um zu Barceloneta, dem bekanntesten Strand Barcelonas, zu gelangen, kannst du bis zur Metrostation Barceloneta fahren und von dort aus einen 10-minütigen Spaziergang von den Restaurants und dem Touristenhafen entfernt genießen.

Barcelona: Wie man nach Tibidabo kommt

Die beste Route ist vom Plaza Catalunya die U-Bahn Linie S1 oder S2 zu nehmen und an der Haltestelle "Peu del Funicular" auszusteigen. Von dort aus kann man mit der Seilbahn Vallvidrera bis zur Haltestelle "Vallvidrera Superior" fahren. Die Buslinie 111 bringt dich an die Spitze.

Barcelona: Wie man zum Park Guell gelangt

Um zum Park Guell zu gelangen, nimmst du die U-Bahn, grüne Linie (L3) bis Lesseps oder Vallcarca oder mit den Buslinien H6, 32, 24 und 92.

Barcelona: Wie man zur Sagrada Familia kommt

Du kannst Gaudis Arbeiten mit der Metro L2 und L5 bis Haltestelle Sagrada Família erreichen, oder mit den Bussen 19, 33, 34, 43, 44, 50, 51, B20 und B24.

Barcelona: Wo parken?

Schau dir unseren vollständigen Artikel darüber an, wo du in Barcelona kostenlos parken kannst.

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