Barcelona is one of those cities that has it all: beaches, art, unique architecture, incredible food, and a fun nightlife. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a whole week, consider this your ultimate guide to the best 30 things to do in Barcelona. These picks mix the iconic tourist attractions with hidden gems so you get the full Barcelona experience.
Quick note before we get started: the photos in this post aren’t my usual quality. My iPhone glitched (and of course my iCloud wasn’t backed up), so I lost almost all the pictures I took in Barcelona. Most of what you’ll see here are either photos my mom managed to grab or stock images. However, the tips and recommendations are still all mine, and I hope they help you plan the best Barcelona trip.
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Quick Picks for Barcelona
If you’re short on time, here are my quick picks for the absolute must-dos:
- Must-see landmarks: Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. Make sure to purchase the tickets ahead, especially during the summer.
- Where to stay: El Born and the Gothic Quarter put you right in the middle of everything. I stayed in this boutique hotel located in El Born and loved it.
- Food you need to try: Tapas, obviously. Head to La Boqueria Market. Also, try paella if you haven’t already, for a unique experience, you can book this paella cooking class.
- Recommended day trip: If you’re staying longer, head to Montserrat for amazing views, and if you love the beach, then a day trip to Costa Brava is for you.
How to Get to Barcelona
Barcelona is super easy to get to.
If you’re flying internationally, the most affordable and easiest thing to do is to fly into Madrid. This gives you a chance to also explore the capital city, which I am sure you’d enjoy too.
From Madrid, there are many direct trains to Barcelona. The AVE high-speed trains from Madrid are comfortable and drop you right at Barcelona Sants station.
If flying in directly to Barcelona is an option, you’d fly into Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN), which is about 30 minutes from the city center by taxi. There’s also a convenient aerobus that drops you right in Plaça de Catalunya.
👉 Pro tip: When it comes to booking train tickets, I recommend booking directly on Renfe, which is Spain’s national railway. That way, you’ll get the best prices. Sites like Trainline and RailEurope tend to add additional fees, and the booking process is the exact same. If you have issues with Renfe’s website, install a VPN and set your location to Spain.
Best Times to Visit Barcelona
Barcelona is one of those cities that are amazing to visit year-round, but the vibe definitely changes with the seasons.
If you want warm weather without the crowds, spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) are the sweet spots. You’ll get plenty of sunshine, lighter crowds, and you can still enjoy the beach!
Summer (July–August) is peak season, and Barcelona is a very popular destination. Which means the beaches are packed, hotels are pricier, and it can get hot and humid. However, if you love the summer vibe, it might be worth it. During the summer, there are also plenty of festivals and a more lively nightlife scene.
Winter (November–March) is the quietest time and also the most affordable time to visit. It’s cooler, and you’ll need a jacket, but it will be easier to get tickets to the most popular attractions, and there won’t be many crowds. If you visit in December, you will see the festive Christmas markets.
If it’s your first time, aim for spring or fall. But honestly, there’s no bad time to experience Barcelona, it just depends on what you prefer and your budget!
When I Visited Barcelona + My Experience
I visited Barcelona in January. And while it was beautiful, I do wish to visit again during the summer to fully experience everything Barcelona has to offer.
However, I will say that if you don’t like crowds and want to enjoy the city at a slower pace, then winter is the perfect time to visit.
I had such a great time. And was also able to get tickets to see the most popular attractions at the last minute. I got to see La Sagrada Familia in the afternoon, and it was almost empty.
It is also not as cold as in other European cities, which means you can walk around and explore the city on foot comfortably.
Where to Stay in Barcelona
If it’s your first time, I recommend staying near El Born or the Gothic Quarter, you’ll be close to the major landmarks, tapas bars, and nightlife. For something more chic and quieter, check out Eixample. If you love the beach, you will want to stay near Barceloneta.
We stayed at Chic & Basic Born Boutique Hotel, located in the El Born neighborhood. We were within walking distance of most tourist attractions. There were plenty of restaurants around the area, and it was still quiet at night. The hotel was pretty affordable, and it was very beautiful. Our room was very spacious and even had a balcony! I’d stay in that boutique hotel again.
My hotel picks:
- If you want to stay in a cute boutique hotel, Chic & Basic Born puts you right in the middle of El Born’s lively streets and cafés.
- For a luxury pick, Ohla Barcelona has a rooftop pool with an amazing view, and it is located right in the middle of the Gothic Quarter.
- If you’re dreaming of a beachside stay, you’ve got two great options:
- For a splurge, the W Barcelona is the city’s iconic sail-shaped hotel with ocean views and a buzzing nightlife scene,
- If you want something more affordable but still stylish, Hotel Acta Voraport in Poblenou puts you close to the beach with a rooftop pool overlooking the city.
👉 Pro Tip: Hotels in summer sell out fast, so book early.
Tips for Visiting Barcelona
There are a few things worth knowing before visiting Barcelona. These are the little things that will save you time, money, and maybe even a headache or two.
- Watch your belongings: Barcelona has a reputation for pickpocketing, especially around Las Ramblas and metro stations. Stay aware of your surroundings, always zip up your bag, and you’ll be fine.
- Book tickets ahead: Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló sell out weeks in advance. Don’t risk showing up without a ticket. That being said, I was able to snag tickets either the same day or the day before during the winter.
- Eat late: Dinner in Spain starts around 9 pm. If you walk into a restaurant at 6:30 pm, it’ll probably be empty.
- Plan around siesta hours: Many restaurants and small shops close in the afternoon (usually around 2–5 pm), so don’t be surprised if you find doors shut during that time. This is extra important if you’re planning to do day-trips to smaller cities. We visited Tarragona and could not find any restaurants open in the afternoon.
- Get the Hola Barcelona card: If you plan on using the metro often, this unlimited pass saves you time and money.
30 Things to Do in Barcelona
This list of the best things to do in Barcelona mixes the most popular tourist attractions with a few hidden gems that I either stumbled upon or read about when doing research for my own trip.
Visit the Sagrada Familia
Let’s start with the obvious. Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece is one of the most iconic landmarks in Europe. I have been to many churches across Europe, and the Sagrada Familia was a breath of fresh air. I absolutely loved the stained glass windows and how the columns branch out like a forest.
Go in the morning or late afternoon for the best light! When the sun comes through the stained-glass windows, it looks like there is a rainbow indoors. So magical!
I recommend purchasing tickets for the Sagrada Familia in advance as this is the most popular attraction.
If you’re visiting during the off-season, you can often purchase tickets on the same day. That is what I did. I got the 3 pm timeslot, and to my surprise, the Sagrada Familia was not crowded at all. In fact, there were areas of the church where I was almost alone. Perfect for taking photos!
🎟️ This is the Sagrada Familia ticket I booked when I visited. It comes with an audio guide, which makes the visit even more meaningful because you’ll learn the stories behind Gaudí’s design.
Walk along Las Ramblas
Okay, yes, it’s touristy, but you can’t come to Barcelona and not stroll down Las Ramblas at least once. The street is always alive with performers, flower stalls, and way too many people. Stop at La Boqueria Market along the way for a fresh fruit juice or a cone of jamón.
Eat your way through La Boqueria Market
One thing I always do when travelling in Europe is visit the food markets. You get to try many different foods, and they are always so cute!
This market is foodie heaven and one of my favorite stops in Barcelona. You’ll find lots of fresh fruit, seafood, spices, and Catalan specialties, and endless varieties of jamón.
Grab a cone of cured ham or sit at one of the market bars for tapas cooked right in front of you.
If you want a very unique experience, you can join a paella cooking class that starts with a market tour. You’ll shop for ingredients with a local chef, then learn to make authentic paella step-by-step before sitting down to enjoy it with sangria or cava. It’s such a fun way to learn more about Barcelona’s food culture.
Stroll through Park Güell
Another Gaudí gem, and also where the iconic scene of Cheetah Girls was filmed (iyky). Park Güell was one of my favorite Barcelona attractions, as it feels so funky, fun, and unique! The mosaic benches, whimsical houses, and amazing views of the city make it one of the most magical places in Barcelona.
The Monumental Zone is where the colorful benches are, and they you’ll also find the dragon fountain at the entrance (El Drac), the Hall of 100 Columns with its tiled ceiling, and staircases covered in mosaics. This is the only area that requires a ticket; the rest of the park is free to wander. So, if you’re on a budget, you can still enjoy the views. But honestly, the Monumental Zone is what makes Park Güell so iconic, and it’s 100% worth it. Grab your Park Güell tickets here.
There is even a small Gaudí museum inside one of the houses he designed. However, you need to purchase a separate ticket to enter. In the museum, you’ll learn more about Gaudí’s early life. When I was there, the lines were pretty long, and the ticket price did not feel justified given the size of the museum.
👉 Pro tip: Go around sunset hour because you can get incredible views of the city from the park!
🎟️ I recommend booking your Park Güell Admission Ticket here so you don’t miss out.
Explore the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is one of those places where you can just wander for hours. You’ll find narrow alleys, hidden little squares, and buildings that look straight out medieval times.
I loved just getting lost there, as I stumbled across hidden cafés, little boutiques, and the stunning Barcelona Cathedral.
Make sure to swing by Plaça Reial too, it’s lined with palm trees and lots of lively bars.
Pick up a Caganer Souvenir
Barcelona has its fair share of quirky traditions, and the caganer is one of the most unique. These little figurines are of a person… well, squatting to do their business. It’s meant to symbolize good luck and fertility, and you’ll find them everywhere in souvenir shops, often styled after celebrities, politicians, or even cartoon characters.
My brother-in-law collects souvenirs that symbolize good luck so I had to bring him one. This is by far the most unique we have found so far!
👉 Pro tip: You’ll see the biggest variety around Christmas markets, but souvenir shops carry them year-round. It makes for a funny, very Catalan souvenir to bring home.
Relax at Barceloneta Beach
Barcelona isn’t just about Gaudí and tapas; it’s also a beach city. Barceloneta is the most popular beach, where you’ll find golden sand, tons of beach bars, and plenty of people-watching. If you want fewer crowds, head further down the coast to Bogatell or Nova Icaria.
Even during the winter, I loved strolling along the boardwalk and enjoying the view. But experiencing Barcelona in the summer is still on my bucket list.
Experience Barcelona from the Water
One of the best (and most underrated) ways to see Barcelona is from the water. Whether it’s a sunset cruise with cava, a paddleboarding session along Barceloneta Beach, or a half-day boat trip out on the Mediterranean, getting out on the water gives you a totally different perspective of the city.
You’ll see the skyline, beaches, and even Montjuïc from a whole new angle, and it’s the perfect way to slow down after a busy day of sightseeing.
Take a Day Trip to Costa Brava
If you have an extra day in your Barcelona itinerary, heading up the coast to Costa Brava is so worth it. The coastline here is rugged and dramatic, with little coves, turquoise water, and cute small seaside towns.
👉 Pro tip: Go with a guided tour if you want the logistics handled (transport, gear, and lunch). It’s the easiest way to get out on the water without stressing about trains or buses.
🎟️ Recommended experience: If you want to pack the most into one day, this Costa Brava kayaking, snorkeling, and cliff-jumping tour includes everything.
Explore El Born
El Born is the neighborhood where I found myself wandering the most. It’s artsy, a little bohemian, and packed with cute boutiques, wine bars, and medieval streets.
Don’t miss the Santa Maria del Mar Church, it’s gorgeous inside. Honestly, this area is perfect for a slow afternoon of getting lost.
Shop Along Passeig de Gràcia
Passeig de Gràcia is Barcelona’s most famous shopping street, lined with designer boutiques and flagship stores. Even if you’re just window shopping, it’s worth walking down to admire the architecture; Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and Casa Milà both sit on this street.
See Casa Batlló
One of Gaudí’s most famous works, Casa Batlló is a must-see. The façade looks like it’s made of shimmering scales, and the interior feels like out of a fantasy book. You won’t find such unique architecture anywhere else.
It’s a little pricey to go inside, but I’d say it’s worth it at least once, especially if you’re into design or architecture.
👉 Pro tip: Lines can get very long, especially in peak season, so booking ahead is a must.
🎟️ This Casa Batlló entry ticket comes with a self-guided audio tour, which makes it easy to explore at your own pace while learning all the cool details about Gaudí’s design.
Visit Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
Just down the street from Casa Batlló is another Gaudí masterpiece, Casa Mila, also known as “La Pedrera.
Casa Milà houses a museum where you can learn more about Gaudí’s life and the history of the building. You can also explore the courtyards, the attic exhibition, the period apartment, and the rooftop with a timed ticket.
👉 Pro tip: If you’re choosing between times, grab the first slot of the morning for fewer people in your photos, or golden hour to watch the sunset from the rooftop.
🎟️ Tickets: This is the Casa Milà ticket I’d book, it includes a timed entry with audio guide so you can see the courtyards, attic, apartment, and rooftop at your own pace.
Climb Up to Bunkers del Carmel
Built during the Spanish Civil war, the Bunkers del Carmel were meant to be anti-aircraft fortifications. But now, it is hands down the best viewpoint in Barcelona. It’s a bit of a hike (or bus ride), but watching the sun set over the city is unforgettable. Bring snacks and a bottle of wine for a picnic.
Wander through Gràcia
Gràcia feels like a completely different world compared to the busy center of Barcelona. It used to be its own town before being absorbed into the city, and you can still feel that small-town vibe. There you will find narrow streets, plazas, and a slower pace that feels more local.
Stop by Plaça del Sol, where locals gather in the evenings. As you explore, you’ll find indie boutiques, artisan shops, and small tapas bars.
👉 Pro tip: If you’re visiting in August, don’t miss the Festa Major de Gràcia, when the whole neighborhood goes all out with themed street decorations, music, and food stalls.
Visit the Montjuïc Castle
Sitting at the very top of Montjuïc Hill, the castle is a 17th-century fortress with some of the best panoramic views over Barcelona and the port. The castle itself is more about the setting than the exhibits inside, meaning the views are the real reason to go!
Half the fun of visiting Montjuïc Castle is the ride up. The cable car glides over the city and drops you right at the top with amazing views of the port and coastline.
🎟️ Tickets: Entry for the castle is 12 euros, and it’s free on Sundays after 3 pm and all day the first Sunday of the month. Buy the tickets online to avoid the long queues. You can buy the cable car tickets here.
Explore Montjuïc Hill
After you’re done with the castle, I recommend you explore Montjuïc. It is like its own little city of attractions, perched right above Barcelona.
You’ll find gardens, museums, and even the 1992 Olympic stadium. One of the things to do here is wander the different gardens. The cactus garden (Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera) has insane city views, and the Joan Miró Foundation is a must if you’re into art.
Visit the Picasso Museum
Set in a medieval mansion in El Born, this museum houses one of the largest Picasso collections in the world. It’s especially great if you want to see how his early work evolved, especially pieces from when he lived in Barcelona.
👉 Pro tip: Visit in the morning right when it opens, or late in the day for fewer crowds. Sundays after 3 pm are free, but expect it to be packed.
🎟️ Tickets: The museum requires a timed entry ticket, and it can sell out, especially in summer. Book in advance if you know you want to go. You can book tickets here.
Explore the Palau de la Música Catalana
This concert hall is one of Barcelona’s true hidden gems. It is gorgeous from both the outside and the inside. In the inside you can expect stained-glass skylights, and colorful mosaics. Even if you don’t see a show, you can join a guided tour to peek inside.
👉 Pro tip: If you’re lucky enough to catch a concert here, do it. You can find the show schedule here.
Try Tapas in Barceloneta
You can’t leave Barcelona without a proper tapas crawl. Head to Barceloneta for fresh seafood tapas, think grilled octopus, fried anchovies, and patatas bravas.
👉 Pro tip: Order a glass of vermouth with your tapas. It’s a Barcelona tradition and pairs perfectly with salty seafood.
Shop at Mercat dels Encants
If you’re into thrifting or just love browsing markets, you have to check out Mercat dels Encants. It’s Barcelona’s biggest flea market and one of the oldest in Europe, with everything from vintage clothes, antiques, furniture, jewelry, and much more.
I absolutely love thrifting and always love to check local flea markets and when traveling. Mercat dels Encants did not dissappoint. I ended up puchasing a leather blazer for around 10 euros and a silver bracelet for 15 euros.
👉 Pro tip: Go in the morning for the best finds, or later in the afternoon if you just want to stroll without the crowds. Bring cash as not every vendor takes cards.
Visit Camp Nou
If you’re a football (soccer) fan, visiting Camp Nou is a must. It’s the home of FC Barcelona, one of the most famous clubs in the world.
Right now, the stadium is undergoing renovations, so the traditional “Camp Nou Experience” tour isn’t running. Instead, you can check out the Barça Immersive Tour, a high-tech exhibition that includes the FC Barcelona Museum, trophies, and interactive experiences that make you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action.
🎟️ Tickets: You can book your tickets directly on their website. It’s worth booking in advance since it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions. Here is the Barça Immersive Tour I recommend.
Stroll Parc de la Ciutadella
Parc de la Ciutadella is Barcelona’s central park and one of the best spots to take a break from sightseeing. The highlight is the Cascada Monumental fountain, which was partially designed by Gaudí. There’s also a small boating lake where you can rent rowboats for a few euros.
Experience Flamenco
While flamenco is more traditional in southern Spain, you can still catch incredible performances in Barcelona.
See the Mural del Beso
Hidden in the Gothic Quarter, you’ll find the Mural del Beso. It is interesting to note that is made up from hundreds of small titles, each one is a photo that was donated by locals. It’s romantic, a little artsy, and definitely Instagram-worthy if you’re hunting for unique photo spots in Barcelona.
Visit Tibidabo Amusement Park
Tibidabo is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, established in 1901. This amusement park feels retro, with rides like a Ferris wheel and a vintage plane ride, but the real draw is the view.
Admire the Arc de Triomf
Barcelona’s version of the Arc de Triomphe is a beautiful red-brick monument that leads into Parc de la Ciutadella. It’s a great photo spot and usually buzzing with street performers.
Take a Day Trip to Montserrat
If you’re staying in Barcelona for a little longer than just a few days, then it’s worth doing a day trip. Just an hour outside the city, Montserrat is a mountain range with rock formations, a monastery, and hiking trails. The views are unreal, and you can get there by train.
If I were planning my trip to Barcelona all over again, I’d definitely include a day trip to Montserrat, and this is the tour I’d book (it includes a wine tour).
I am currently writing an article all about day trips to take from Barcelona. Leave your email below to get it straight to your inbox once it comes out.
Check out El Raval
El Raval has a bit of a gritty reputation, but it’s also one of the most creative neighborhoods in Barcelona. The streets are full of vintage shops, record stores, and street art.
Here you’ll also find the MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art), which is worth a stop if you’re into modern art.
End the Day at a Rooftop Bar
Barcelona has some of the best rooftops in Europe. Order a glass of cava and watch the city light up at night. Favorites include 360° at Barceló Raval and Sky Bar at Grand Hotel Central.
Barcelona is one of those cities that just sticks with you. Between the beach days, Gaudí’s architecture, endless tapas, and nightlife, it’s impossible not to fall a little in love here. Whether you’ve got three days or two weeks, this list of the best things to do in Barcelona will keep you busy, and probably have you planning your next trip back before you’ve even left.
