What to do in spain barcelona: Catedral de Barcelona — Landmark Review

17 best things to do in Barcelona

Barcelona is Spain’s most visited city, and it’s not hard to see why – the historic capital of Catalonia is packed with galleries, museums, attractions and thriving restaurants.

Set between the mountains and sea, the city is celebrated for its unique architecture, famous artists and urban beaches. Here are the best things to do in Barcelona when you get there.

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Discover La Sagrada Família, Barcelona

1. Visit the Sagrada Família

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

Far from a construction site, however, the church features two grand facades studded with intricate stone carvings, towers that gleam with gem-like tiles and an interior filled with tree-like columns soaring up toward the canopy ceiling. Before the pandemic forced a pause, the building was expected to be completed in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death in 2026, but that date has now been pushed back, though construction has resumed. 

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

2. See more of Gaudí’s designs

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

Explore the streets of Barcelona’s atmospheric Gothic Quarter © David Soanes Photography / Getty Images

3. Wander the Gothic Quarter

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

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

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

4. Explore Barcelona’s food markets

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

For a more authentic vibe, visit the modern Mercat de Santa Caterina with its multi-colored wavy roof or the grand Mercat de Sant Antoni, which reopened in 2018 after nine years of renovations.

Barcelona has plenty of beaches to explore © Siqui Sanchez / Getty Images

5. Soak up the sun at Barcelona’s city beaches

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

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

6. Venture up Montjuïc

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

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

Snack on plate after plate of tapas in Barcelona’s Mercat de la Boqueria © Jon Hicks / Getty Images

7.

Snack on some tapas

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

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

8. Learn about an icon at the Museu Picasso

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

Camp Nou is a must-see stadium for sports fans © Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock

9. Catch a game at Camp Nou

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

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

10. Experience Barcelona’s famous nightlife

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

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

La Rambla is one of Barcelona’s most visited spots © Veniamin Kraskov / Shutterstock

11. Spend an early morning on La Rambla

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

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

Savor Catalan dishes like escalivada, made with grilled and peeled eggplant, red pepper and onion © nito / Shutterstock

12. Enjoy Catalan cuisine

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

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

13. Celebrate during festival time

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

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

14. See a range of works at Fundació Joan Miró

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

Palau de la Música Catalana is a wonderful example of Modernista architecture © Emreturanphoto / Getty Images

15. Scope out examples of Modernista architecture

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

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

16. Explore up-and-coming El Poblenou

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

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

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

25 Best Things to do in Barcelona – Earth Trekkers

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Barcelona, Spain…this is a city that deserves to be on every traveler’s must-see list. Why? Barcelona is a beautiful city. Think Rome meets Paris. This city is spotless, with wide streets, beautiful architecture, beaches, palm trees, cafés, and boutique shopping. Throw in some tapas, Gaudí, and cava, and you have yourself a fabulous destination just waiting to be explored. For one week Tim and I explored this city and its surrounds, and here is our list of the best things to do in Barcelona.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Barcelona

#1 Wander the Gothic Quarter

For us, the Gothic Quarter was one of the highlights during our time in Barcelona.

The Gothic Quarter is the old city centre of Barcelona. Wandering its labyrinth of narrow, cobblestoned streets will take you back in time. Go shopping at the small boutiques and pop into the small restaurants for tapas or cava. You could easily spend all day here, but a few hours is all that is needed to get a feel for the Gothic Quarter if you are limited on time.

Plaça Reial | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

 

Barcelona Old Quarter | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#2 Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is a Roman Catholic church designed by Antoni Gaudí. Although it is still under construction, this church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction is forecast to be completed by 2026.

The Sagrada Familia, without a doubt, is a place you must visit while in Barcelona. Most love it, some think it is incredibly ugly. The Sagrada Familia is the most unique church we have ever seen.

From the outside, the front of the church looks like a sandcastle that is slowly crumbling into the ocean. Our first impression was not a good one. But once inside, it is beautiful. Modern, colorful, whimsical…like so much of Gaudí’s artwork in Barcelona. I love the inside…for the colors and its incredible uniqueness.  Gaudí broke out of the mold of how churches are traditionally designed and came up with this masterpiece.

During your visit, you have the option to climb one of the two towers. We chose the tower on the Passion façade, hearing that the views over the city centre are amazing. Well, this was a total disappointment. An elevator whisked us up the tower. From the top, our view was through a small window covered with a metal grate. All we could see was the scaffolding from the current construction work. We never saw those epic views that people told us about.

Your other option is to climb the tower on the Nativity façade. This tower looks out over east Barcelona. Whether or not the views are any better, we have no idea.

For those who want to do this, please note, the only way down either tower is via a spiral staircase.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: This is very important! Book your tickets in advance or join a tour of the Sagrada Familia. Without pre-purchased tickets, you risk waiting up to two hours in line to enter the Sagrada Familia. To purchase your tickets online in advance, and get updated pricing and hours, visit the Sagrada Familia website.

 

 

#3 Our Favorite Gaudí Masterpiece, Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló is one of Gaudi’s most famous designs. This colorful building sits on Passeig de Gràcia, one of the major thoroughfares through the city.

If you are short on time (or money) view Casa Batlló from the outside. For those with an interest in Gaudí and his architecture, it is worth paying the fee to tour the house. Tickets are pricey and lines can be long. This is another site where it is definitely worth purchasing your tickets in advance. To do so, visit the Casa Batlló website. Entry tickets can also be purchased through GetYourGuide. 

#4 Casa Amatller

Located to the left of Casa Batlló is Casa Amatller, another unique building in Barcelona. This building was designed for the chocolatier Antoni Amatller.

Take a peak of the outside (easy to do since it stands adjacent to Casa Batlló) and then enter the building. Inside is a store selling Amatller chocolate. It is delicious! We recommend visiting the café and ordering the melted chocolate served with bread. And don’t forget to buy some chocolate to bring home. Yum!!

Casa Amattler and Casa Batlló | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#5 Casa Milà

aka La Pedrera

Here is yet another Gaudí work of art. Gaudí really left his mark on Barcelona.

Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, is located just a few blocks north of Casa Batlló on Passeig de Gràcia. This was the last civil work designed by Antoni Gaudí and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Casa Milà is another icon of Barcelona but not quite as popular as Casa Batlló. We walked by La Pedrera several times and never saw the queues like we did at Casa Batlló.

You can purchase tickets online in advance for Casa Milà. To learn more, visit the official website.

La Pedrera | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#6 Park Güell…One of Barcelona’s Most Popular Sites

Park Güell is one of Barcelona’s most popular sites, but is it worth it? During peak season, expect huge crowds of people here. Entry is limited to 400 people every half hour, which sounds like a lot, but tickets can sell out early in the day. Putting a limit on the number of people makes the visit much more enjoyable, just be prepared to buy your tickets in advance.

Park Güell is another work of Antoni Gaudí and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s another colorful spot in Barcelona with buildings that resemble gingerbread houses and a long, tiled bench designed to represent a serpent.

So, is it worth it? If you want to see more of Gaudí’s designs, yes. If you like visiting parks and natural areas, yes. If you feel like you’d be missing something if you didn’t check this one off the list, then yes.

I am glad we saw it but we did not fall in love with this one. Even with the limit on the number of people, it felt crowded and overrated.

If you are short on time, make Casa Batlló and Sagrada Familia your main Gaudí visits. There is so much more to see in Barcelona.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: If you plan on visiting Park Güell, purchase your tickets in advance. Visit the official website here.

#7 Palau Güell, Our Final Gaudí Recommendation

Palau Güell, located just off of La Rambla near the Gothic Quarter, is a palace designed by Gaudí for industrial tycoon Eusebi Güell. This one is only worth the visit if you are a big fan of Gaudí or want an interesting perspective over Barcelona from the rooftop.

Palau Güell rooftop | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#8 Watch the Sunset from a Rooftop Bar

Rooftop bars dot the skyline in Barcelona. What better way to watch the sunset over the city from a rooftop bar with a glass of cava or wine?

Our two favorites were Alaire Terrace Bar and 360° Terrace.

Alaire Terrace Bar | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

 

View of Passeig de Gràcia and Casa Milá from the Alaire Terrace Bar

#9 Tibidabo

Tibidabo is very small amusement park perched on a hillside overlooking the city of Barcelona. This is a great spot to take the kids when you need a break from sightseeing. To get here, you can take Bus 196 or the Blue Tram (when it’s running) to the funicular.

Tibidabo and it’s view over Barcelona | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#10 Sagrat Cor and It’s Amazing View

Sagrat Cor, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is a Roman Catholic Church located on Mount Tibidabo. Wherever you go in Barcelona, this church, on its perch overlooking the city, can be seen. For one of the best views of Barcelona, come here.

Sagrat Cor | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

 

Sagrat Cor sits adjacent to the Tibidabo amusement park. For one of the best views of the city, ascend to the highest point of the church.

For us, the visit to Sagrat Cor was a highlight of our time in Barcelona. This was wonderful. The views are unbelievable and there were very few people here. Later, when we shared our photo on social media, many people who had visited Barcelona knew nothing about Sagrat Cor. We highly recommend a visit here, especially on a clear day. Hopefully, you will have just as wonderful of an experience as we did.

#11 Sip Cava or Vermouth at an Outdoor Cafe

Outdoor cafes are easy to find throughout Barcelona, as are glasses of vermouth and cava. Barcelona is in the midst of a vermouth renaissance. It’s found on most menus, and if you want a great place to try it out (and have some amazing tapas) try Bodega 1900.

Cava is Spain’s sparkling wine. Found at almost every bar and restaurant in Barcelona, people usually drink cava at the start of a meal.

Outdoor Cafe in Barcelona | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#12 Take a Peak Inside the Cathedral of Barcelona

Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, this cathedral sits just to the north of the Gothic Quarter. It’s worth a visit if you are in the area.

Cathedral of Barcelona | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#13 Take a Stroll through Parc de la Ciutadella

If you need a break from the streets of Barcelona, or like to explore parks, the Parc de la Ciutadella is a great place to visit. This park is located near the Gothic Quarter. Gravel paths wind through the park, lush with palm trees and tropical vegetation.

Parc de la Ciutadella | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#14 See the Arc de Triomf

Sitting just to the north of Parc de la Ciutadella is the Arc de Triomf. It may not be not is impressive as the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, but it still is worth a quick visit. This arch was the main access gate for the 1888 World’s Fair.

Arc de Triomf | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

El Nacional | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#16 Watch a Game at Camp Nou

Camp Nou is the official football stadium of Barcelona and the largest stadium in Spain. It is the home of FC Barcelona. Watch a game, tour the stadium, and visit the museum. For more information, click here. 

 

 

#17 Visit Mercado de la Boqueria

Mercado de la Boqueria is a large market in central Barcelona. It’s a tourist landmark and worth a visit. It’s a great place to go shopping for fish, fruit, fresh juices, and an assortment of foods. There are also small tapas restaurants that are excellent. We recommend Pinotxo Bar and El Quim de la Boqueria.

#18 Take a Day Trip

If you have the time, you can take some excellent day trips from Barcelona. Visit Montserrat, a mountain range with amazing views, Girona, a medieval, delightful small town to visit, or Tarragona, a small town known for its Roman ruins.

Montserrat

 

Girona

#19 Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar

This cathedral is located in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. It’s free to visit and worth a quick stop.

Santa Maria del Mar | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

 

Barcelona Old Quarter street and Santa Maria del Mar

#20 Enjoy the View from Bunkers of Carmel

For another fantastic view of Barcelona, visit the Bunkers of Carmel. These abandoned aircraft defenses are now one of the most popular spots to watch the sunset.

View from the Bunkers of Carmel | Noppasin Wongchum/shutterstock.com

#21 Take a Stroll on Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is the main pedestrian thoroughfare through Barcelona. It connects Plaça de Catalunya with the Christopher Columbus monument. Tourists and locals can be found here and expect it to be busy!!

As a visitor to Barcelona, it’s worth walking on Las Ramblas for a few blocks. But we think wandering the twisting lanes of the Gothic Quarter and Passeig de Gràcia are much more interesting. Another nice street for strolling is Rambla de Catalunya…similar to Las Ramblas but much less crowded.

Las Ramblas | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#22 Palau de la Musica Catalana

This gorgeous concert hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed in modernista style, it was constructed between 1905 and 1908. You can take a guided tour or attend a musical performance here. Learn more on the official website.  

Palau de la Musica Catalana | Christian Bertrand/shutterstock.com

#23 The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

This fountain puts on a display of color, water, and music several nights a week, depending on the season. People who watch the show rave about it. Get show times here.

Montjuïc Fountain Show | pixelshop/shutterstock.com

#24 Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

This is the national museum of Catalunya art from the 19th and 20th centuries. We never made it inside but for art lovers this makes a great stop while in Barcelona.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#25 Ride the Cable Car to Montjuïc Castle

Located on top of Montjuïc Hill, Montjuïc Castle is a military fortress that is almost 400 years old (it dates back to 1640). In the War of the Spanish Succession in the early 1700’s, the fort was an important defense point for Barcelona. Since this time, the castle has been renovated. Ride the Montjuïc Cable Car (Teleferic de Montjuïc) to get here. Tour the castle and enjoy the view over Barcelona.

Montjuïc Castle | saiko3p/shutterstock.com

Best of Barcelona: On a Map

How to Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers (points of interest and restaurant recommendations). You can click the check marks to hide or show layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each point of interest.
 
If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

Note: This map includes 14 restaurant and rooftop bar recommendations. For more information about these restaurants, read our article Tapas! Tapas! Tapas! Rooftop Bars and Restaurants.

How Many Days Do You Need in Barcelona?

Ideally, plan on spending at least three days in Barcelona. This gives you enough time to visit the main highlights of the city. With more time, you can add on day trips to places such as Girona and Montserrat.

If you are planning your Barcelona itinerary, take a look at our guide for the best way to spend 3 days in Barcelona. It also covers important information about how to get around Barcelona and about the various travel passes.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Barcelona is organized into neighborhoods, such as the Gothic Quarter, Plaça de Catalunya, El Raval, and El Born, just to name a few. When choosing your hotel in Barcelona, do only do you have to pick a property that works with your budget, but you also have to decide which neighborhood to stay in. In our Barcelona Hotel Guide, we cover the best hotels in Barcelona, organized by location and budget. 

Tours of Barcelona

 

 

Do you have questions about the best things to do in Barcelona? Comment below if you have any questions or if you want to share your favorite experiences.

More Information for Your Trip to Barcelona:

BARCELONA, SPAIN: Plan your visit with our 3 Day Barcelona Itinerary, our guide on Where to Stay in Barcelona, and get recommendations on where to eat in Barcelona.

BARCELONA DAY TRIPS: From Barcelona, spend the day in Girona or day trip to Montserrat to visit the Monastery and hike to spectacular viewpoints.

MORE CITIES AROUND THE WORLD: Visit more cities around the world with our guides to Rome, Paris, New York City, London, and Athens.

EUROPE ITINERARIES: Check out our article 10 Days in Europe: 10 Amazing Itineraries for 10 different ways to visit the best places in Europe. And if you have less time, check out our guide to 25 Ways to Spend One Week in Europe.

Planning a trip to Spain? Read all of our articles in our Spain Travel Guide.

 

 

Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All rights reserved © Earth Trekkers. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.

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10 things to do in Barcelona

How to understand the soul of one of the most beautiful cities in the world? How can we understand how gentle beauty and a proud spirit coexist? Where did such originality come from in a city in the heart of Europe? You need to go to Barcelona to find the answers to these questions. This is a list of places where you can truly feel the spirit of this free city.

1. Listen to music

Barcelona is a city of anarchists, also in terms of music. There is nothing dominant here, and all genres are equal. It doesn’t matter if you want to go to the show of a world star or listen to the avant-garde – in Barcelona there are many concerts of various directions. Do you want classics? At your service is the Palace of Catalan Music (one of the best halls on the planet). Do you like the atmosphere of good music festivals? Buy tickets to Sonar or Primavera Sound.

2. Walk along the Rambla (La Rambla)

Let’s not be original – yes, the most touristic street. Yes, you have probably heard about it before, but it is simply necessary to walk along it to the sea. Even Somerset Maugham wrote that this is the best street in the world. Take a walk from Plaza Catalunya to the port, look at the masterpieces of architecture. Remember two things: you should not eat here and you need to carefully monitor your bags and pockets – cunning thieves are very fond of taking advantage of the fact that tourists walk in crowds with their heads up.

3. Visit Camp Nou

There are many temples of various denominations in Barcelona, ​​but the loudest and brightest is the New Field, which is how the name of the home stadium of the Barcelona football club is translated from the Catalan. You can not love football, not understand what offside, corner and even penalties are. One can sincerely wonder what is spectacular in a crowd of men kicking a ball to each other. However, it is worth coming here to see how a huge stadium, like a living organism, rejoices in unison or worries about their favorites, how almost 100 thousand people sing songs, how people go to football in huge families from a gray-haired old man to a little peanut, who had just learned to move independently. If you love this game, then go here to see what Messi and company are doing. The club’s motto tells us that Barcelona is more than a club. By visiting this stadium, and even better, the museum that is located in it, you will understand why this is so.

4. Find the best view of the city

Barcelona is a lady who is good both up close and from a distance, especially if you know where to look from. Someone recommends Mount Tibidabo, where there is a wonderful amusement park, someone recommends the observation deck of the Norman Foster TV tower. Take note of Montjuic. We recommend that you do the following: have lunch in Barceloneta (the old fishing quarter), from there take the funicular to the top of the mountain. In addition to the wonderful view, Montjuic will offer you beautiful parks and a huge museum dedicated to art.

5. Admire the Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia is not even a church, it is the dream of one of the most famous sons of Barcelona, ​​Antoni Gaudí, embodied in stone. The great architect wanted Barcelona to be unlike anything else in this world with its architecture, which he contributed to. This temple became the pinnacle of his thought; it has not yet been completed. The planned completion date for the work is 2026.

6. Realize a dream

Barcelona is a city where dreams come true. One little boy loved to play football, but he had problems with growth, thanks to Barcelona he became the best football player in the world. Do you have a dream? Take a trip around the world? Become a freelance artist? Run a marathon? This city is perfect for realizing your dream. For example, a marathon as a way to overcome yourself. The Barcelona Marathon is one of the most famous in the world, while it is not as difficult as, for example, Athens. Traditionally takes place in early March. The finish line is on the Plaza de España, where there are many fountains and from where you can make a hike to Montjuic.

7. Experience Catalan cuisine

Local cuisine is very diverse, like the city itself. From wild boar with baked apples and lobster with a bottle of expensive wine in a fine restaurant to simple peasant snacks (tapas). We also recommend the Catalan paella, instead of rice it has small pasta. Real jam!

5 things to try in Spain

8. Be part of the fantasy in the Park Güell

Gaudi left behind a huge number of architectural monuments to his beloved city. The architect’s fantasy even created a whole park filled with gingerbread houses and streets. Gaudi built this park for 15 years, following the then fashionable concept of the garden city. The park was divided into sections where it was planned to build mansions, but only three houses were sold, Gaudi settled in one of them, now there is a museum named after him, which is definitely worth a look.

9. Explore the gothic quarter

The Gothic Quarter (also called the egg yolk by the locals) is the cradle of Barcelona, ​​and it is here that the city was born. Once in this place there was a settlement of the Romans, traces of which are still visible. The quarter itself is an example of a medieval city: narrow streets, buildings of the XIV-XV centuries. Walking around the quarter and admiring the ancient buildings, do not forget to look around you, here you will find a huge number of interesting shops. Combine shopping with admiration and finish your walk with a visit to the Picasso Museum, where you can see his early works, made in a strict academic style – what could be better?

What to bring from Spain?

10. Get lost

Throw away the map, turn off the navigator. All you need are legs to walk and eyes to admire. In addition to all the named attractions, there are a huge number of other interesting places that cannot be listed and cannot be found even in the largest guidebook. You can always navigate along the large streets like Diagonal, but you can only dive into the Barcelona sea with your head.

where to go, what to see, tips from FUNBCN

Details about the sights of the Catalan capital: where to go, what to see, tips for travelers

number of tours to Rome and Paris.

Barcelona: where to go, what to see, travel tips

Even if you only have one or two days, you can make an amazing trip. Remember, the less time you have, the more important it is to plan routes in advance to see the maximum.

Every traveler sees the city as special: for some it is noisy and crowded, for others it is romantic and cozy. It is enough for someone to visit here only once, see the main sights and go further, while someone comes back here again and again to discover new places unknown to most tourists. We have prepared for you an article about the most interesting objects in Spain in Barcelona: attractions with photos and descriptions. Instead of standard excursions, choose the ones that are important for you, and spend your vacation useful and exciting!

Want to go on a cool tour of Barcelona?

The best main attractions in Barcelona.
Photo with titles and descriptions :

  • Sagrada Familia, Sagrada Familia. This is one of the most famous symbols of Spain and the most visited attraction in Barcelona, ​​it is visited daily by 5-10 thousand tourists. The amazing creation of Gaudi fascinates with its beauty and monumentality, and the sun’s rays break through the stained-glass windows and paint the interior in bright colors. It is better to buy tickets in advance and for morning hours, so you will skip the line and avoid the crowds.
  • Gothic Quarter Narrow cobbled streets, hidden courtyards, sudden cul-de-sacs and secret passages – here you can wander for several hours, enchanted by the amazing centuries-old architecture. It is best to do this at dawn, when the quarter becomes empty and fabulous, or in the evening – twilight makes it mystical and enchanting.
  • Parc Güell Talking about the main sights of Barcelona and its surroundings, the description of Park Güell takes a lot of time, however, as well as a walk through it. Almost 18 hectares, a stunning view of the city, gingerbread houses with ceramic decor, a hall of 100 columns and tree columns, mosaics, sculptures, viewing platforms – and all this was created by the legendary Gaudi. You can spend all day here!
  • Casa Mila and Casa Batllo Continue the series of Gaudí’s world-famous creations. Even people who are indifferent to architecture look at such unusual buildings with pleasure. You can get inside, or even go on night excursions with dinner on the roof – write to us and we will provide tickets for you!
  • Boqueria Market and Las Ramblas The list of Barcelona sights in Russian must include these places. For Europeans, such city markets and walking boulevards are familiar, and for domestic travelers, this is an opportunity to plunge into local life and feel it from the inside. You won’t leave here without souvenirs and delicious treats!

Sagrada Familia tickets

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first of all, it is worth seeing a tourist in Barcelona to see the main thing. But the capital of Catalonia is not only the creations of Gaudí: there are many other wonderful places here. Choose what interests you:

Interesting sights in Barcelona

  • Montjuïc, castle and fountains
  • In the park on the mountain, which can be reached by cable car, you can have a great picnic with a view of the city, walk through the Olympic Village, visit the National Art Museum of Catalonia and see paintings by Rubens, Picasso, El Greco and Goya. In the evening, admire the “magic” fountains with music and lights.
  • Poble Village
    Espanyol, Spanish Village
  • This is an open-air museum of Spanish architecture. Replicas of traditional houses, churches and palaces from all over the country are built here. You can walk on your own, and if you want to get to one of the best flamenco shows in the country along with a traditional dinner, write to us and we will buy tickets for you.
  • Old Port
  • Amazing place for walking. During the day, you can go on a sea excursion along the coast or along the docks, and in the evening admire the sunset, old ships and ultra-modern yachts. According to tourists, they make the most delicious waffles in the city, you should definitely try it.
    House Mila added to the list of masterpieces of Antonio Gaudí in 1910 and became the last completed project of the great architect. An ordinary residential building under the guidance of a master has become a work of art.

    Unusual sights in Barcelona

    Here is a small list of things to see in Barcelona on your own

    • Camp Nou Stadium. Walk through the interiors, visit the football museum, and try to get to the game – the emotions there just go wild!
    • Mount Tibidabo overlooking the city from its highest point. Take a look at the museum of ancient mechanical automata here, you will like it!
    • Torre Agbar, an oval skyscraper that shines with many LEDs. It can be seen from anywhere in the city.
    • Barceloneta beach with many bars and sea restaurants with the freshest seafood.
    • Tapas bars with local drinks and treats, with a unique atmosphere. Taste Spanish life!

      PortAventura tickets

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        Barcelona what to see 9005 026

        Many activities and attractions in Barcelona are interesting for both children and adults. If you travel with children, you will have something to show them and impress them so that the trip will be remembered for a long time. Write to us and we will book tickets for you and make an itinerary!

        • The mosaic lizard in Park Güell appeals to both kids and teenagers. You will get colorful photos, and young travelers are guaranteed to be delighted!
        • The Citadel Park Zoo is one of the best in Europe, with many exotic animals.
        • An aquarium with tunnels and a walkway where you can ride around the area. By the way, children can stay here overnight and watch the sharks: how they fall asleep, wake up, eat. The program includes lectures and themed games. And parents at this time can go to a nightclub or on night excursions.
        • Cosmocaixa Science Museum and Barcelona Planetarium. It is often included in the list of must-sees for schoolchildren in Barcelona. A lot of interactive exhibits, the ability to touch everything, test, experience, experiment – science in this form will interest anyone!
        • PortAventura is a huge amusement park with various themed areas. It is recommended to go here for at least 2 days, because in a day you will not see even half. This is a whole world of attractions for any age and taste. And those who are older can visit the Ferrari Land park and ride on the race track with the whole family.

          Unusual Barcelona: our top 5

          Horta’s Labyrinth (Parc del Laberint d’Horta) Unusual places in Barcelona are located where the crowds of tourists end and the real life of Barcelona begins. “Attraction for own” number one is the Horta park labyrinth (or as the Spaniards say “Horta”). This oldest botanical garden is located on the territory of a former estate in the Orta Guinardo area. In it you will find rare plants, fountains, waterfalls and a wonderful labyrinth, in whose 750-meter walls several scenes of the film “Perfumer” were filmed. It will be a pleasure to relax and wander around this quiet park after a noisy city. To preserve the cozy nature, the limit of visits is 750 people per day. It is forbidden to walk the dogs, play noisy games and have picnics.
          Metro station: “Mundet”.

          El Carmel Bunker Once a strategic military facility, the El Carmel Bunker has turned into a vibrant tourist attraction in times of peace. Such crazy panoramic views of the city as here, you will not see anywhere else in Barcelona. You can’t even imagine how breathtaking Torre Agbar, Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell and slender cells of the glamorous L’Eixample district look from above.
          Some scenes of the Spanish film “Three meters above the sky” were filmed on top of the restored Bunker el Carmel. It is here that you feel like visiting the hospitable Barna.
          Metro station: El Coll-La Teixonera and El Carmel.
          El Carmel bunker address: Marià Lavernia street, 59.

          Cabaret El Molino If we decide to list all the most unusual places in Barcelona, ​​then we cannot remain silent about the piquant and romantic Barcelona cabaret. Of course, this is not the Moulin Rouge, the stage, like the hall, is small, and there are not a hundred dancers. But when the lights go out, the music turns on and breathtaking seductive dances begin, even skeptics, holding their breath, cannot take their eyes off.
          In some moments, the dancers are almost completely naked, the dance performance is saturated with sexuality, and the entertainer jokes on exactly those topics. Therefore, visiting a cabaret in Barcelona is clearly not entertainment for children, it is more entertainment for men or for those who are older. All dancers and dancers are professionals in their field, the production has a theatrical component, so this is not just a striptease show, but rather an art with an erotic flavor.
          Metro station: Paral lel.

          San Antoni Market

          The long-term restoration of the San Antoni Market is finally complete! The beautiful market, located in the district of the same name, compares favorably with the San Antonio market in Madrid. It is bigger and more pompous and has a good selection of food and delicacies. On weekends, there is an interesting book market outside the building in temporary pavilions where you can sell, buy and even exchange books for free. Also in the San Antoni area, after which both the market and the nearest metro station are named, there is also the San Antoni restaurant, which serves the freshest seafood and excellent tapas.
          Sant Antoni market address: Carrer del Comte d’Urgell 1.
          Metro station: Sant Antoni.
          Sant Antoni market official website: www.mercatdesantantoni.com

          Montjuic

          If you are a good and conscientious traveler and you have some time, then you should definitely climb Montjuic. Almost every tourist walks at the foot of the mountain in the area of ​​Plaza de España or magic fountains, but on the mountain itself there are even more attractions that many do not even know about. Here is the fortress of Montjuic, in which, during the harsh times of the dictator Franco, the former president of Catalonia, Luis Companys, was executed. Luis was the first person to make public speeches against the Spanish government, fueling the fires of rising nationalism. The huge Olympic Stadium, located on the top of the mountain, is named after this politician. In addition to the Olympic facilities, beautiful parks and gardens, the Joan Miro Museum and the Museum of the Olympic Games are located on the mountain. And from the mountain you can go down to Barceloneta beach by cable car.

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          About FUNBCN

          Hello. My name is Alina Kabakova and I am the founder of the FUNBCN experience agency. As a resident of Barcelona, ​​I know that this city has much more to offer than what guidebooks suggest.
          My team and I offer over 50 active, romantic and relaxing experiences, from romantic yacht cruises and rooftop dinners to extreme hot air ballooning and Formula 1 races.
          Contact us and we will create your dream holiday.
          Because Barcelona is love, and we want to share it with you.