13 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that likely needs no introduction. If you love a cosmopolitan atmosphere, fascinating architecture, proximity to the sea, a plethora of attractions and entertainment, and Spanish cuisine, you won’t need convincing to visit one of the most captivating cities in Europe.

Today, I will showcase the Barcelona that you know and love, as well as less-traveled locales where you can unwind away from throngs of tourists and discover the authentic side of this picturesque city. I invite you to journey with me to sunny Barcelona!

Sagrada Família

This temple is undoubtedly one of the more distinct symbols of the Catalan capital. It is still unfinished, despite its construction continuing for over 130 years! Perhaps it will reach completion in 2026, on the 100th anniversary of the death of its architect and creator, Antonio Gaudi, although some speculate it could be as late as 2030.

Defining the architectural style of the temple is challenging; we see elements of Catalan Modernism, Spanish Gothic, Art Nouveau, and most prominently, Gaudi’s own unique style. Gaudi was fond of incorporating references to nature, including plants and animals.

This UNESCO-listed church is set to become the largest religious building globally. Here, you’re certain to be awed by the richly adorned interior symbolizing Jerusalem, and the façade, with its numerous towers. Intriguing architectural solutions emphasize sun rays piercing the interior, and the immense size of the building is genuinely awe-inspiring.

Admission to the temple is ticketed, and you can purchase tickets at the ticket office at the entrance or online. The entire place is impressive both from the outside and inside. The Sagrada Família elicits strong emotions; some adore it, others abhor it, considering it unattractive. Which group do you belong to? Let me know in the comments on this post.

Park Güell

Located in the north-central part of the city is a large park that Antonio Gaudi designed for his friend Eusebi Güell. However, like the Sagrada Família, it was never completed. The site was initially intended to serve as a private space, but the Barcelona authorities purchased it and converted it into a city park.

Today, you can enjoy an array of vegetation intertwined with fascinating architectural elements from Gaudi’s design, including numerous stairways, alleys, and most notably, a spectacular view of the city.

You can also find the world’s most famous bench here, measuring 152 meters in length and adorned with Gaudi’s characteristic colorful mosaics. The park is also home to the house where the renowned architect once lived.

Park Güell is an excellent place for a stroll, where you can sense the city’s artistic spirit. It’s also a fantastic spot for watching sunsets.

Beautiful Townhouses in Barcelona

When visiting Barcelona, you should definitely see the beautiful townhouses, especially those designed by Gaudí, the brilliant architect who embodies the essence of Catalan art and culture. Gaudí gained fame as the creator of modernist works of art in Catalonia.

Gaudí’s four townhouses are:

1. Casa Vicens
2. Casa Calvet
3. Casa Milà
4. Casa Batlló

Casa Milà and Casa Batlló are two of the most famous townhouses in Barcelona, known for their breathtaking and unique architecture. They are located on Passeig de Gràcia, one of the city’s most exclusive streets.

Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, was built between 1906 and 1912. Looking at it, one gets the impression that the facade of the building seems to flow. The townhouse was made of stone and iron, and its unusual shapes and ornate details make the building extremely photogenic. Take note of the roof of Casa Milà, adorned with unusual chimneys and bay windows.

Casa Batlló, on the other hand, was built between 1904 and 1906. It is stunning with its vibrant colors. Built with a mosaic of glass and ceramics, shaped like waves and featuring brilliant blue tiles, it evokes a story of the sea. ? From the windows of Casa Batlló, you can enjoy the vibrant life on Passeig de Gràcia, and the interiors of the building are equally fascinating.

La Rambla

La Rambla is the primary promenade in the Catalan capital and arguably the most famous street in all of Spain. It has an artistic vibe and is home to plenty of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

There are trees along the entire length of the promenade, offering effective shade from the hot Spanish sun. Colors, music, delicious food – La Rambla encapsulates Spain in one place. I highly recommend spending a substantial amount of time here, soaking in the incredible atmosphere.

Interestingly, at the promenade’s end, right on the beach, there is a monument to Christopher Columbus. This commemorates the very spot as the beginning of his voyage. The monument also serves as a vantage point, as you can take an elevator to the top, offering a beautiful view of the city and the coast.

During your walk, consider stopping at La Boqueria market, where colorful stalls offer Spanish tapas, wines, and fresh juices. Be wary of pickpockets here and along the entire length of La Rambla.

This Catalan pedestrian street is one of the most touristy places in all of Spain. Be alert for pickpockets, solicitors, and swindlers who are often encountered here.

Arc de Triomf in Barcelona

The Arc de Triomf, also known as the Triumphal Arch, was constructed as the main entrance to the Exposición Universal de Barcelona in 1888. This impressive structure was designed by architect Josep Vilaseca, and its brick construction and reddish-red color distinguish it from other triumphal arches worldwide. The Arc de Triomf is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Located on Passeig de Lluís Companys, one of the city’s most picturesque avenues, the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona offers a captivating experience. As you stroll along this promenade, you can admire the beautiful palm trees and historic townhouses that contribute to the unique atmosphere of this part of Barcelona. Visiting during the day or evening is highly recommended, as the brick facades are beautifully illuminated after sunset.

Barri Gòtic – The Gothic Quarter

To the east of bustling La Rambla is the old town, centered around the Barri Gòtic, or Gothic Quarter. Here, a unique atmosphere pervades, and you can lose yourself in a labyrinth of narrow streets, visit the history museum, admire the Gothic architecture, and relax in Plaça del Rei square.

The centerpiece of the Gothic Quarter is the Cathedral of San Eulalia, which is also worth visiting to appreciate its Gothic architecture. Don’t be surprised to find 13 live white geese; they inhabit this temple complex to honor Saint Eulalia, who was a goose herder.

In addition to the cathedral’s magnificent main building, you can also access its roof, visit the museum – the Chapter Hall, or the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. Barcelona Cathedral is often the starting point of many tours, a location you can’t miss during your stay in this city. However, beware of pickpockets here as well.

Eixample – Downtown Barcelona

Eixample translates to ‘extension’ in Catalan, representing the new part of the city that emerged alongside the old town. From a bird’s eye view, Eixample resembles a meticulously planned checkerboard or grid, designed by engineer Ildefonso Cerdá Suñera. The famous Gaudi also contributed to its construction. The townhouses form symmetrical squares, and each is almost the same size. It’s a very thought-out and architecturally orderly space.

A leisurely walk in this district is well worth it, enjoying the hospitality of the numerous pubs, dining on tapas, and sipping wine. The famous Sagrada Família, described above, is located in this neighborhood.

During your stroll, I urge you to visit the historic hospital building – Hospital de Sant Pau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, amid the plethora of remarkable townhouses, ensure you find the unique ones designed by Gaudi – Casa Batllo with its fish scales and Casa Mila with its wavy facade.

Montjuïc Hill

Montjuïc Hill is a complex of parks, gardens, and buildings where you could spend an entire day. Notable attractions here include the famous dancing fountains, the Olympic Stadium, and the National Palace. The hill’s most characteristic building is the centuries-old Montjuïc Castle, which offers tourists a breathtaking view of the city. While the castle’s courtyards and walls are worth a visit, the stunning panorama will likely leave the most lasting impression. You can access the hill via two railroads: the cable car (Aeri del Port) and the gondola train (Telefèric de Montjuïc), which is an attraction in itself.

La Barceloneta

La Barceloneta is the port district of the city. It’s easily recognizable by the distinct, sail-like W Barcelona skyscraper that houses a hotel, a restaurant, and the Eclipse club, which offers a beautiful view from the 26th floor.

The district’s main attraction is the Sant Sebastià beach, popular among tourists and water sports enthusiasts. Here, you’ll also see elegant yachts and numerous seafood restaurants serving various tapas. Strolling along the palm-lined promenade, you can take the cable car up to Montjuïc Hill.

Parc de la Ciutadella

Parc de la Ciutadella is the green heart of Barcelona. When walking through the park, you can admire the exotic trees and stroll along romantic alleys while discovering fascinating sites like the Catalan Parliament and the Castillo de los Tres Dragones. Additionally, there is a waterfall located in the central part of the park. Parc de la Ciutadella offers the perfect setting to relax or enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature. It also serves as an excellent starting point for further exploration of Barcelona.

Camp Nou

Camp Nou, the largest stadium in Europe and one of the largest in the world, needs little introduction. With a seating capacity of 100,000, this renowned arena is home to the famous FC Barcelona.

Football fans are not only drawn to the stadium’s grandeur but also to the club museum. Visitors can even explore the players’ locker rooms, walk through the tunnel leading to the pitch, or sit in the VIP box. There’s also a shop selling merchandise for FC Barcelona’s most ardent supporters.

Plaça de Catalunya – Catalan Square

Plaça de Catalunya is a perfect starting point for your city tour. From this spacious square, you can easily reach the Barri Gòtic, the old town, or the Eixample district. It’s also one of the city’s major transportation hubs, providing access to almost all key points on the sightseeing map.

The buildings surrounding the square host various hotels, stores, and the headquarters of important financial institutions. This distinctive square in the city’s heart is an ideal spot to relax by the fountains, admire the greenery and numerous sculptures, before strolling down La Rambla.

Barcelona off the beaten track – Hospitalet de Llobregat

While Hospitalet de Llobregat falls within the boundaries of the Barcelona metropolitan complex, it is considered a separate city. It’s an excellent place to visit if you wish to experience Spain away from the tourist crowds or are looking for a cheaper base for exploring Catalonia.

However, this doesn’t mean it lacks attractions. The city is home to an interesting cultural center, the historic Ermita de Santa María de Bellvitge temple built in the Romanesque style, a beautiful beach, shopping centers, museums, markets, and green parks. It offers a perfect space to catch your breath while sightseeing.

In the Catalan capital, you can also visit attractions such as Parc De La Ciutadella, museums like the Picasso and MNAC, suburbs such as El Raval, the Catalan Music Palace, Tibidabo Hill, and the Sacred Heart Church.

Where to stay in Barcelona?

Barcelona offers a wide range of accommodations. Choices include high-end hotels with swimming pools and excellent restaurants, apartments by the beach or in the heart of key districts, as well as numerous hostels.

However, accommodation prices are not among the lowest. During high season on Booking.com, you’re unlikely to find a well-rated place with a private bathroom in the city center for less than 120 euro per night. Therefore, if you’re planning a typical budget trip, I recommend looking for accommodation  with private hosts on Airbnb.

• Under this link you will find a wonderful hotel that will impress just about everyone – the perfect location and rooms for a romantic weekend.
• If you’re keen on having a pool with a spectacular view of the city, check out this place (for me it’s the ideal choice).
• An extraordinary hotel housed in a modernist building where everything is perfected: luxury apartments and room service breakfast can be booked at this link.
• Apartments in the center of Barcelona with a fully equipped kitchen and breakfast can be booked at this address (1 and 2-bedroom options are available).
• You can also book modern and very clean apartments with a kitchen and excellent amenities at this link.
• If you are looking for a beautiful villa in Barcelona, I propose a vacation home with a private pool, garden, barbecue equipment, WiFi, and private parking, which you can find at this address.

What and where to eat in Barcelona?

In Spain and Barcelona, there’s more to the cuisine than just paella. I recommend trying crispy potatoes accompanied by hot sauce – patatas bravas, ham croquettes – croquetas de jamón, fried squid, or small green Padrón peppers. You can even eat snails here. For dessert, I suggest the delicious churros with chocolate!

One of the most recommended restaurants is Bodega La Puntual, where you can enjoy beautifully served Spanish tapas. The restaurant itself boasts an intriguing atmosphere with brick walls and a vintage elevator shaft inside.

If you’ve had your fill of Spanish food, don’t worry – PolkaBar is a restaurant serving Polish dishes that is beloved by Barcelona residents. You can find it at Carrer de Cabestany 7.

However, I encourage you to explore and savor this unique cuisine. While strolling through Barcelona’s streets, treat yourself to delicious ice cream or just churros.

Have you already been to Barcelona? How did you like it? I must admit, I was slightly apprehensive about the aforementioned pickpockets, which somewhat dampened my sightseeing enjoyment. So, I recommend that you prepare well for the trip to ensure that nothing dampens your spirits.

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