How many days barcelona: Where to Go in 1 to 7 Days by Rick Steves

The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Barcelona Itinerary

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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.

Visiting Barcelona’s top attractions? Book your admission tickets to the Sagrada Familia & Park Guell now!

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, but 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 Barcelona, 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.

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

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 from 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 for only €8.90, 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.

The Barcelona metro is a great way to get around!

2, 3 or 4 Days 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!

Sweets at La Boqueria Market

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.

Placa Reial

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

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.

It is such a major tourist destination that if you don’t book tickets in advance, you’ll be waiting for hours.

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 and authentic paella) before embarking on the 20-minute walk to Park Güell.

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.

View of Barcelona from Park Guell

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 or 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 in Barcelona 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 tour Camp Nou, the home of FC Barcelona.

Tibidabo

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.

Tibidabo

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.

Montserrat

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.

Montserrat is a great day trip from Barcelona

Girona

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.

Girona Cathedral

Figueres

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.

Outside the Dali Museum in Figueres

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most popular places to visit in Europe and because of this, there are countless accommodation options to choose from. Whether you’re looking to stay in a hostel dorm or a luxe boutique hotel, there is something for everyone in the Catalonian capital. If you’re wondering where to stay in Barcelona, have a look at these suggestions:

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. Click here to see their latest prices

Hotel Condado — This central hotel is another fantastic option for your 2, 3 or 4 days 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. Click here to see their latest prices

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. Click here to see their latest prices

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

Arc de Triomf in Barcelona

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.

Looking for travel insurance before visiting Barcelona? World Nomads offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

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

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How Many Days in Barcelona Do You Really Need? • Abroad with Ash

Planning a trip to Spain & wondering how many days in Barcelona make for the perfect trip? Discover how many days you need for every type of trip & traveler!

So you’ve decided to head to Spain for your next vacation. Excellent choice! I know you will fall in love with the Spanish culture, sights, food, and traditions just like I did.

Barcelona is an absolute must on any Spain itinerary. It’s actually where I’ve chosen to spend three of my birthdays in the last decade. If that doesn’t give a hint to how much this city has to offer, I don’t know what will.

When I’m planning a trip, step one is to decide which destinations to include on my itinerary. Step two is how long to spend in each city. How often do us trip planners agonize over whether we are spending too much or too little of our precious vacation time in a city? I know I do when I’m unfamiliar with the area or country.

Well, I’m here to help you with step two and guide you on how many days in Barcelona are ideal. The answer depends on a handful of factors. What type of traveler you are, the style of trip you’re looking for, and your overall budget. We will consider all these things and more when discussing how many days in Barcelona will be right for you!

SKIP TO

Short Answer to how many days in Barcelona are ideal

HOW MANY DAYS IN BARCELONA FOR A FIRST TRIP TO SPAIN | 3-4 DAYS

HOW many days do you need IN Barcelona to JUST SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS | 2 DAYS

HOW MANY DAYS IN Barcelona FOR THE BUDGET TRAVELER | 2 DAYS

HOW MANY DAYS is deal FOR THE SLOW TRAVELER | 5-7 DAYS

IN SUMMARY

Short Answer to how many days in Barcelona are ideal

If you want the quick answer for the average tourist, four days is the golden ticket. Continue reading for a more in-depth breakdown.

SEE ALSO:

BARCELONA COFFEE SHOPS – TOP 5

SPAIN IN A WEEK | 5 SPAIN ITINERARY IDEAS

BARCELONA TO GIRONA DAY TRIP | A COMPLETE GUIDE

HOW MANY DAYS IN BARCELONA FOR A

FIRST TRIP TO SPAIN | 3-4 DAYS

Barcelona is a great place to start if it’s your first time in Spain. There is plenty to do from a tourist perspective. Cathedrals and museums to visit, plenty of walking tours packed with fascinating history, memorable day trips a train ride away, and restaurants that will have planning a return trip before you know it.

Barcelona is Spain’s second-largest city and one of the most touristed cities in the world. This means there will be more than plenty to keep you busy for days on end and is why I strongly suggest four days at a minimum if it’s your first time in the city.

Every time I’ve visited Barcelona, I have chosen to spend four days here. I like to stay busy but not be rushed, and I feel four days is the sweet spot. Will you be able to see absolutely everything? Probably not, unless you are a speed demon. Will you have time to see everything that is a priority for your sightseeing tastes. Absolutely.

Part of the Spanish culture is to slow down and enjoy yourself. Barcelona may be a bit of a quicker pace than other cities in Spain with it being the growing, thriving, metropolis that is it, but that doesn’t mean it should be rushed.

Four days in Barcelona will allow you to have relaxed dinners, rooftop drinks, evening strolls down Las Ramblas (the infamous tree-lined pedestrian street), see the works of Antoni Gaudi including the Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell, and Casa Mila, hit the beach, eat your way through La Boqueria food market, take a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter, and snap some pictures at the Montjuic Magic Fountain.

You could technically see all the main sights in three days and then move on to your next destination if you’re really tight on time. If not, fit in all the sights in three days and save your fourth day for a day trip.

I can’t recommend Girona enough. This city was actually used as a Game of Thrones filming site and it’s not hard to see why. Girona seems a lifetime away. The streets are perfect for strolling and a photographer’s dream. Read all about a day trip to Girona here.

Another fantastic day trip is to combine a day trip to Montserrat with a wine tour. Visit an ancient monastery rising high above Barcelona on the mountain tops. Continue to visit a few wineries and see a totally different side of Barcelona and the surrounding region. This is a great way to wind down after a few hectic sightseeing days.

Jake and I did this Montserrat, Tapas, and Wine Half Day Tour and loved it!

I highly recommend booking a walking or bike tour to learn the history and see the best areas of Barcelona.

HOW many days do you need IN Barcelona to

JUST SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS | 2 DAYS

If you’re short on time and just want to see the highlights of Barcelona to say you’ve been there and done that, then two days will be sufficient. Don’t get me wrong, it will be an extremely rushed two days, but you’ll be able to see the most popular attractions.

Walk down the Las Ramblas, see the quirky designs of Antoni Gaudi at Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell, and Casa Mila, stroll the Gothic Quarter, grab a quick snack at La Boqueria food market, snap a pic at the Arc du Triomf, visit the Barcelona Cathedral, and give your feet a rest while you sip sangria and much on tapas.

A two day itinerary means two very long and rushed days, but with some preplanning, you should be able to see the main sights before heading to your next stop.

Booking your attractions is a must on any length itinerary, but especially if you only have two days. You will not have time to wait in line to buy tickets. Book the most popular attractions, like the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell for first thing in the morning so you can bypass the crowds and large tour groups.

HOW MANY DAYS IN Barcelona FOR THE

BUDGET TRAVELER | 2-3 DAYS

Spain, in general, is very cheap. ..especially when you compare it to cities like London, Paris, and anywhere in the US. If you’re really focused on budget though, you will find cheaper places in Spain. Southern Spain for example is without a doubt cheaper than the larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona.

See the main sights at lightning speed and then head elsewhere if you really want your dollar to go as far as possible. Personally, cost is one of the many reasons why I prefer cities like Seville, Cordoba, and Granada because they are so cheap.

Barcelona is cheaper than Madrid, but a tad more expensive when it comes to food and lodging in the smaller, Southern cities. An outstanding meal in Seville can easily cost €10 to €15, where Barcelona is more like €15 to €25.

It’s also a lot easier to find affordable places in Southern Spain. Barcelona has a lot more expensive places (and tourist trap joints), so it requires a bit more research if you’re pinching your pennies. It’s not a huge difference, but you’ll feel that your dollar will go farther in other cities.

HOW MANY DAYS is deal FOR THE

SLOW TRAVELER | 5-7 DAYS

If you’ve learned to love the art and pleasure of slow travel, you could easily spend five to seven days in Barcelona and feel that it was time well spent. Pick two attractions a day, and then save the rest of your time for shopping the boutiques, enjoying multiple coffee stops, leisurely meals, and time to relax in the beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.

Most tourists only see Barceloneta Beach as a quick walk by. Seven days in Barcelona will mean you have the time to bring a book and sit in the sand. Walk up to Montjuic Castle, an attraction most visitors don’t have time for and spend hours walking around the surrounding parks and green space.

You’ll have plenty of time to explore all the main neighborhoods and return to your favorite. A week in Barcelona also means you have time for multiple day trips including my two favorite, Girona and Montserrat.

Day trip to Girona

Spend the day visiting Game of Thrones filming sites in charming and picturesque Girona. Take a change of pace and join a tapas and wine tour that includes a visit to the monastery on Montserrat.

Visit the Prado museum multiple times or take several walking tours focusing on different themes and areas.

Seven days in Barcelona will mean you leave truly feeling like you got to know the city the surrounding areas.

**If you prefer to skip the day trips, then five days would be perfect for the slow traveler.

7 days in Barcelona means you have plenty of time for tours!

IN SUMMARY

I hope this post helps you decide how many days in Barcelona are ideal for your upcoming trip. See the highlights in two days on the quickest of itineraries, spend four days for the perfect mix of sightseeing and slowing down to really enjoy the culture, or try the slow travel method and spend a week to get to know the city inside and out with a few day trips!

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What to see in Barcelona in 5 days?

Is 5 days in the capital of Catalonia a lot, a little or enough? How to have time to see all the most important during this time? To get started, we recommend using the services of an experienced guide. He will share with you secrets and useful life hacks, and then you will plan a route and go to explore Barcelona on your own. So, go!

Day one: walks in old Barcelona
Day Two: In the footsteps of the genius Gaudí
Day Three: Departure for Sants Montjuic
Day Four: Mount Tibidabo
Day Five: A surreal journey

Three districts of Barcelona: Ciutat Vella or Old Town and Gothic Quarter La Ribera – captivating cobbled streets and majestic cathedrals, magnificent fountains and many museums.

You can start from the main square of the city – Plaza Catalunya and move along the famous La Rambla, which separates the Old Town and the Gothic Quarter.

What to see on La Rambla?

Canaletas Fountain. Drink water from it and you will fall in love with Barcelona once and for all. So says the sign near the fountain. Be sure to check it out!;
Boqueria Market. A sea of fruits and vegetables, mouth-watering cheeses, fish, traditional meat delicacies. The picture is so beautiful that even if you are not going to buy anything, at least take a picture;
Palace Güell. We begin to get acquainted with the masterpieces of Gaudí. A stunning mansion with a dome, unusual sculptures on the facade and an explosive mixture of styles – that’s what the great architect started with;
Monument to Columbus. The monument to the famous sailor is located at the very end of the Rambla, of course, by the sea. Above is a viewing platform. Be sure to climb up and look at the city from a height of 57 meters.

By the way. Melt-in-your-mouth pastries can be found at the historic Escribà patisserie at 83 Rambla. Barcelona residents and visitors alike recognize them as the best in the Catalan capital.

Gothic Quarter

A silent witness to Barcelona’s centuries-old history is ready to share dark secrets with you.

What is there to see?

Royal Square . A magnificent palace of the early Middle Ages, fountains to match it, lanterns created by Gaudi himself, and many … palm trees;
Barcelona Cathedral. Gothic in all its glory: soaring towers, sparkling stained-glass windows – the main temple of the city will undoubtedly amaze you. Interestingly, 13 geese live in the cathedral;
Atmospheric cafe “4 cats” . This place was glorified by its visitors: here Picasso exhibited his paintings to the public, reflected on the projects of Gaudi, Albeniz played.

La Ribera

Picasso Museum. Several thousand works by the master – you will not see such a collection anywhere else. The early and late periods of the artist’s work are especially well represented. Among the pearls of the exposition are a series of paintings “Las Meninas” and children’s drawings by Picasso;
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Mar. We continue our acquaintance with Gothic. Built at the expense of Barcelona residents, this church remains truly popular and beloved. Harmony, grace and flight in every detail;
Ciutadella Park (Park Ciutadella) . You can spend the evening walking along the alleys of the amazing Citadel Park. Enjoy the coolness at the incredible fountain “Cascade”, look at the “Castle of the Three Dragons”. And if possible, visit the Geological Museum and the zoo – they are worth it.

You will get to know the works of the great Gaudí more closely in the Eixample and Gracia districts.

Eixample adjoins the Old City; this is a densely populated, unusually planned area of Barcelona with beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and the main street for all shopaholics – Paseo de Gracia.

What to see in Eixample?

Sagrada Familia. It was worth coming to Barcelona for this cathedral alone. During the peak season, you can stand in line at the ticket office for about an hour and a half, so we strongly recommend that you purchase tickets in advance;
House of Lleo i Morera . The brainchild of a contemporary of Gaudi, the famous architect Luis Domènech i Montaner. The picturesque balconies, rotunda and columns are one of the most beautiful buildings in Barcelona;
Casa Batlló . Either a house, or an unknown beast lay down to rest. Gaudí’s signature style is recognizable in each line. Be sure to ride the vintage elevator inside the mansion;
House Mila . Another unusual residential building. All rooms have windows: the impression is that the house is staring at you. But do not be afraid, but take a good look at the colorful balconies and sculptures on the roof. On the seventh floor of the House there is a Gaudí museum and an apartment in which the atmosphere of the early 20th century is recreated.

What to see in Gracia?

Parc Güell

A fabulous park built from inexpensive materials, and even partly from industrial waste, was one of the first works of Gaudi gaining popularity. Bright, whimsical, causing surprise and delight at every turn. The architect himself once lived in one of the park houses: now it houses a museum where you can see the furniture he made.

Montjuic is home to numerous museums, shopping centers and attractions. In fact, this is a single park, by the way, the largest in the Old World.

What to see?

Olympic venues. The Olympics took place in Barcelona almost 30 years ago, and left behind the TV Tower, the Olympic Stadium, Europe Square, gyms and swimming pools. These are not just objects, they are works of art;
Magic Fountain. The magic begins in the evening: when classical music starts, the fountain will come to life, dancing and changing the color of the jets to the beat of the melody. Fascinating spectacle!;
National Art Museum of Catalonia. Why not visit the museum? An impressive collection of works of Romanesque, Gothic, Art Nouveau and creations of contemporary authors;
Spanish village. 117 buildings represent all regions of Spain, different styles and eras. Work is in full swing in local workshops: artisans blow figurines out of glass, sew leather things, sculpt, and draw. Children participate in creative workshops, and the choice of souvenirs is simply huge. In the evening, local restaurants are noisy and cheerful, people sing, dance flamenco and simply enjoy life in the streets and squares. Someone who, but the Spaniards know how to do it!;
Montjuic Castle . From the powerful citadel of the 18th century, an impressive panorama of the endless sea, the city and the nearby mountains opens up. In the fortress itself there is a museum of military guns and military uniforms;
Maritime Museum. An entire museum is dedicated to the invincible Spanish Armada, founded at the foot of Montjuic. Ships from bygone centuries, ancient maps of the world, irreplaceable things for a pilot and a diver – a sea of impressions is guaranteed.

Sarrià-sant-Gervasi is considered an elite area of Barcelona. But it is famous not only for its luxurious mansions, but also for the highest mountain of these places – Tibidabo and its sights.

What to see?

Church of the Sacred Heart. It took more than half a century to build this magnificent cathedral, and the result exceeded all expectations. From the observation deck at the foot of the statue of Christ, you will see how divinely beautiful Barcelona and its surroundings are;
Amusement park. For children and more: a Ferris wheel that will take you to dizzying heights, fast-moving slides, a whole hotel inhabited by ghosts: all this and much more – in the oldest park in Barcelona;
CosmoCaixa Interactive Science Museum. Almost all the exhibits here are allowed to be touched, you can conduct laboratory experiments on your own. In addition, skeletons of prehistoric animals and quite live crocodiles, snakes, frogs and other inhabitants of the jungle are waiting for you. And you can also get wet to the skin under the most that neither is a real tropical downpour!

A very special attraction awaits you 140 kilometers from the capital of Catalonia, in the town of Figueres. Innovative and provocative compositions, objects and paintings by Dali himself and other famous artists: El Greco and Marcel Duchamp settled there.

Bread, giant eggs, a room, she is also the face of a Hollywood sex symbol, actress Mae West, an installation of painted condoms, Newton with a head pierced by an apple – what to tell, it is better to see once. And to honor the talent of the artist: his crypt is located in one of the towers. Just be careful: you can walk on the tombstone, which is built into the floor, and not even notice it.

What to see in Barcelona in 3 days

Below is more information

Barcelona is a very bright, ever-changing city full of sights and interesting places, and many tourists say that no matter how much time they spend here, there is always something to see . Three days and at least two nights is enough time to get to know the city better.

Of course, it is impossible to see all the sights of Barcelona in 3 days, but you will see the main places. Be sure to visit the Sagrada Familia and other sites recommended by us for a day trip, and also choose what interests you from the following list of the best places to visit in Barcelona:

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We advise you to take one of three days in Barcelona to explore the Ciutat Vella (Old Town), which is the historical center of Barcelona and is divided into 4 quarters: Barrio Gòtic ( Gothic Quarter), Raval, Borne and Barceloneta. Only in the Gothic Quarter you can walk for half a day, enjoying its grandeur and antiquity. What to see in Barcelona in 5 days?

In general, you can choose any sights from our reviews for 1 day or 3 days and explore them leisurely and with pleasure. But if you have enough time, it’s worth setting aside a whole day and going on excursions from Barcelona to one of the following amazingly beautiful places

• Girona is a medieval city with a well-preserved historical center.
• Figueres – here is the toy museum, as well as the Dali Theatre. • Montserrat – the mountain on which the monastery is located, and from it you can see the whole city!
• Vilanova i la Geltru is a cozy town with few tourists but wild beaches and a very interesting railway museum.
• Sitges – snow-white houses, colorful museums and many beaches for every taste.
• PortAventura is a huge amusement park for children and adults.
• Tarragona – with preserved remains of ancient Roman buildings – an amphitheater, a forum, a governor’s palace and much more.
• Andorra – with duty-free shops (like Duty Free), it’s worth going shopping here.
• Selected excursions, such as boat trips along the coast with swimming in the open sea or on the beaches, as well as trips to country wineries for wine tasting.

How many days does it take to see Barcelona?

No matter how long you come, you will definitely want to come back more than once! Barcelona is impressive at any time of the year, and is always able to surprise, opening up from a new side. If there is not much time, it is best to plan your trip in advance, especially during the tourist season or on weekends, as you will need to buy entrance tickets to museums.

Our agency FunBcn develops individual travel and leisure plans: we offer locations tailored to your interests, plan all movements and transfers, buy tickets (it’s cheaper and easier than ordering on your own). When you arrive or arrive, you will already have a well-planned program for the perfect vacation!

How many days does it take to see Barcelona?