Barcelona has it all, from Gaudí’s Sagrada Família to the lively streets and tasty Spanish tapas. With so many options, planning an itinerary can be overwhelming.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Let’s jump in and explore the 7 best things to do in Barcelona. Whether you’re a foodie, a history nerd, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, Barcelona offers endless possibilities to explore!
1. Visit La Sagrada Família
The beautifully decorated ceiling and towering columns that support the structure of La Sagrada Família from inside the basilica.
La Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s ‘masterpiece in the making’ by architect Antoni Gaudí. Its construction started in 1882 and continues to this day!
It is one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona and the intricate details, lifelike sculptures, stained-glass windows, tall spires, and sheer scale will leave you in awe!
Travel tip: Book a Skip the line Sagrada Família Guided tour to avoid waiting for hours in a crowd outside the church.
2. Explore the colorful Park Güell
The two pavilions by the Southside entrance of Park Güell.
Park Güell is one of the most unique parks in the world. It is renowned for its exquisite architecture and stunning views of Barcelona’s skyline and the Mediterranean sea.
This park is another incredible creation by Gaudí, who drew inspiration from elements of nature in his designs. Some of the most notable features of Park Güell include its winding benches, hypostyle hall, and Dragon Staircase.
You can read more about Park Güell and its curiosities here.
2 in 1 tour option: Park Güell and Sagrada Família with an expert local guide.
3. Take a walk down Passeig De Gràcia
Casa Amatller and Casa Batlló, two exquisite modernist houses on Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona.
Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona can be compared to New York’s 5th Avenue or the Champs Elysées in Paris. This luxurious avenue is dotted with upscale shops and elegant restaurants.
However, people do not only flock here for shopping and fine dining. Passeig de Gràcia also boasts stunning examples of modernist architecture, including Casa Batlló and Casa Milá.
4. Wander around the Gothic Quarter
A charming street in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona.
Another one of the best things to do in Barcelona is to get lost in the picturesque Gothic Quarter.
This neighborhood is a maze of tiny alleys and winding streets that lead to secret plazas and beautiful Gothic-style churches. From old Roman ruins to charming cafes and speakeasy bars, countless gems are waiting to be discovered in Barcelona’s ‘Barri Gòtic’.
5. Try some local Catalan and Spanish Tapas
A selection of local cheeses, bread with tomato and charcuterie paired with wine at a Barcelona Local Experiences gastronomic tour.
No trip to Barcelona is complete without the experience of what we call, a ‘tapas crawl’. This is a popular custom amongst locals that involves going from one bodega, restaurant, or bar to another, usually in a group, to eat different tapas.
There are many types of Catalan and Spanish tapas that can be enjoyed in Barcelona. The complexity of the recipes can range from something as simple as ‘pan con tomate’ or ‘bread with tomato’ to elaborate seafood dishes. Traditionally, these tasty small plates are shared amongst friends while enjoying a glass of wine or two, or three…
Sounds pretty good, right?
Try this Walking Tapas and Wine Tour where you’ll get an authentic ‘tapas crawl’ experience with a local guide.
6. Visit La Boqueria Food Market on La Rambla
The entrance to La Boqueria, a popular food market on La Rambla street in Barcelona.
La Boqueria is the biggest food market in Barcelona and with a history dating back to 1217.
Located on the bustling street of La Rambla, here you can find everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood to tiny eateries inside the market serving Catalan and Spanish tapas. It is a popular place not only for tourists but also for locals who come to this vibrant market for its great selection of high-quality products.
Travel tip: Be aware of your possessions while walking on La Rambla, especially in crowded areas, as it is a common spot for pickpocketing.
7. Soak up the sun at Barceloneta beach
The W Hotel, one of many popular establishments surrounding Barceloneta beach, the main beach in Barcelona.
What better way to spend a sunny day in Barcelona than to relax on the beach while enjoying the refreshing breeze from the Mediterranean sea?
Barcelona’s popular palm tree-lined beach also offers a range of fun activities like paddle boarding, surfing, kayaking, and beach volleyball. In the evenings Barceloneta is bustling with people enjoying cocktails at the beach bars and restaurants making it the perfect spot to spend a summer night out!
We hope that this list has helped narrow it down to the most essential things to do in Barcelona!
See What to see in Barcelona in a single day?
To make things even easier, we’ve created a Half-day Barcelona Highlights tour for you to experience the best of Barcelona with a fantastic local guide!
Stunning view of Barcelona from Montjuïc, one of the stops on our Best of Barcelona tour.
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