Barcelona is by far my favourite place in Spain. What I love most about it is that it has a little bit of everything: stunning beaches, amazing food, incredible culture and architecture that is at times out of this world. It has a rich history and the perfect amount to see and do in a few days. I mean, if you’re lucky enough to stay longer, then I’m sure you’ll discover endless amounts of entertainment. But, whether it’s a short stint or a longer layover, you cannot go wrong seeing this city. I know its magic will leave a lasting impression on you, like it did to me. Here is my guide to Barcelona – what to see, do and eat!
What to See:
La Sagrada Familia
No trip to Barcelona is complete without a stop at Antoni Gaudi’s yet to be completed masterpiece. You don’t need to be an architect or overly religious to appreciate this awe inspiring work of art. Outside, you can see how one side takes on a more Gothic look, while the other is a wonder in Art Nouveau. I love the contrast. And on the inside, the light streams through the stained glass windows, illuminating this enchanting world. It’s breathtaking! But make sure to book your time slot online and avoid the long line up in person. Same goes if you want to head up one of the towers – book that in advance too and feel good knowing your ticket purchase goes towards future building of the Basilica!
Park Güell
While we are on the Gaudi train, make sure to take a wander through this unique park. The renowned architect was asked back in the early 1900’s to design this residential estate for the well to do. Now, it’s a public place where we can continue to marvel at Gaudi’s creativity.
Other Gaudi masterpieces around the city worth seeking out: Casa Mila (La Pedrera), Palau Güell, Casa Batlló
The Gothic Quarter and the Barcelona Cathedral
One of my favourite areas of Barcelona has to be the Gothic Quarter otherwise known as the Barri Gotic. It is definitely worth a wander since it’s filled with a labyrinth of small streets, charming squares to rest in, shops to endlessly browse around and so many quaint cafes and restaurants to fill up in. In fact, one afternoon, we stayed for hours eating and drinking at this one tapas bar. We were the only ones in there and the servers dropped off complimentary drinks, taught us how to dance and entertained us to no end! It was the most fun! And even though the Cathedral is no Sagrada Familia, it is still absolutely stunning!
Stroll beautiful boulevards and experience local Catalan culture
Strolling La Rambla will be one of your favourite parts of your trip, but pay close attention to your belongings at all times, as this area is, unfortunately, as popular with pickpockets as any other European hotspot. My favourite streets to wander were in the Gothic quarter but honestly, you can’t go wrong with anywhere in Barcelona. Just get lost 🙂
Montjuïc and/or Montserrat
For one of the best views of the city, head to Montjuïc. Hiking there breaks a bit of a sweat but the hilltop viewpoint is well worth it. In addition to a great hike, you can also visit the Magic Fountain, the national palace and the Montjuïc fortress.
Another day trip that is a bit more extensive is to Montserrat, where you can completely escape the city and feel transported back in time. Make sure to visit the old monastery where you may just catch the choir singing.
What to Do:
Check out a Football Match
This was a must on our list but, alas, we struck out with tickets on our trip. If you can’t grab tickets like us there is still a great tour of Camp Nou where you can get all the background info as to why the football culture is so important to the Catalan people and why it’s one of the biggest clubs and stadiums in the world.
Visit the Barceloneta Beach
We had a nice relaxing afternoon at the beach one day, soaking up the sun and jumping over to the beach bar for drinks. A bike ride along the boardwalk would have been a great way to spend some time too. I found that overall the beaches in Valencia were nicer but Barcelona had a lot more energy…the people we met on the beach were so much fun and there to party! lol
What to Eat:
Tapas!!!
In fact, take a tapas tour! It’s a great way to see the city and experience the local food culture! Try booking one here and try to do it as early in your visit as possible! That way you know what you want to try again and you can get immersed in the delicious tapas earlier!
A couple of places we ate that I highly recommend: Tarannà, La Petipa & Granja Petitbo (amazing breakfast)
La Boqueria Market
Boqueria Market is one of the most famous food markets in the world. It’s a great place to wander around, sample fresh and local foods, and even buy a few food-related gifts like delicious olive oil! And it’s just off La Rambla so very easy to get to amidst your other shopping.
A friendly reminder that in Spain everyone eats later because of siesta! So lunch is more like 1-3 and dinner is pretty late, usually starting around 8:00!
A recommendation on where to stay: We found a great place very close to La Sagrada Familia. It was a short walking distance to a metro stop and the hosts were incredible. I absolutely loved our little home away from home. Check it out here.
And there you have it. A little guide to Barcelona to get anyone’s feet wet! There’s so much more to experience but with only a few days, it gets tricky to pack it all in.
Have you been to Barcelona?! What were some of your favourite things to see and do?!