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Barcelona Itinerary: How to Spend Your Time in This Incredible City

Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations in Europe . It’s a lively city bursting at the seams with world-class food, wild clubs and bars, and tourists galore.

While its roots stretch back to the Roman Empire, it was during the Middle Ages that Barcelona really grew into the economic and political center of the Western Mediterranean.

As part of Catalonia (locals consider themselves Catalonian rather than Spanish), you’ll see signs written in Catalan and in Castilian Spanish, and most locals in the city speak both languages. The combination of Spanish and Catalan cultures and traditions here is part of what makes Barcelona the unique city that it is.

In recent years, the city has had to clamp down on “ overtourism ” as over 30 million people visit each year, putting significant strain on the locals and the environment. If you can, try to avoid the hectic summer months and book accommodation outside the city center.

But with so much to see and do in and around Barcelona, where do you begin? How many days do you need to visit?

This Barcelona itinerary highlights all the best things to see and do and can help you organize your visit so you can see it all!

Table of Contents

Day 1 : Barri Gotic, Barcelona History Museum, La Boqueria, & more

Day 2 : Park Güell, La Sagrada Familia, La Rambla, & more

Day 3 : Montjuïc Hill, Cooking Class, Harbor Cable Car, & more

Day 4 : Day Trip to Girona

Other Things to See and Do : Montserrat, Football, Bike Tour, & more

Barcelona Itinerary: Day 1

My recommended free walking tour companies in Barcelona are:

• Free Walking Tours Barcelona
• Free Tours By Foot

For paid tour options, check out this post as it lists all my favorites. You can also check out Get Your Guide as they have tons of tours for every interest and budget.

The area also has numerous attractions worth seeing:

Barcelona History Museum – Barcelona has one of the best city history museums I’ve ever visited. It includes 4,000 square meters (43,000 square feet) of Roman ruins beneath the museum that you can walk through. There is a free, detailed audio guide and meticulous explanations of the exhibits. If you do one thing in the city, make it this. I visit every time I’m in Barcelona. The ruins are just stunning. Admission is 7 EUR per person but free on Sundays after 3pm.

The Grand Royal Palace – The Palau Reial Major (near the history museum) is almost 700 years old and was the home of Barcelona’s counts and later the kings of Aragon. The palace offers visitors a very detailed history of the city and region through the centuries. Admission is 7 EUR (shared with the history museum above). It’s free on the first Sunday of the month and every Sunday after 3pm.

Chapel of Santa Àgata – This royal chapel was built in 1302 and is part of the Museum of the History of Barcelona. The most interesting thing inside is the beautiful altarpiece, made by Jaume Huguet, that was added in the 15th century. It contains beautiful paintings of religious symbols in the style of the Middle Ages. Admission is 7 EUR.

Barcelona Cathedral – Built between the late 13th to early 15th centuries, this is a classic Gothic cathedral with huge spires standing over 53 meters (174 feet) tall, colorful stained glass, and incredible wood carvings. Make sure you visit the upper terraces where you’ll get an incredible view of Barcelona. Admission is 14 EUR for tourists (free for worshippers).

Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA) This museum has over 5,000 works, including an extensive collection of pieces by Spanish artists such as Joan Miró and Pablo Picasso. There are also works by Americans Andy Warhol and Alexander Calder (the latter being known for his innovative mobiles). While it’s not really my favorite style of art, if you love modern art, be sure to add this to your itinerary.

Plaça dels Àngels 1, +34 934 120 810, macba.cat/en. Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-8pm and Sundays 10am-3pm (closed on Tuesdays). Admission is 10.80 EUR if purchased online and 12 EUR at the door. Entry is free on Saturdays from 4pm-8pm.

Rambla, 91, +34 934 132 303, boqueria.barcelona/home. Open Monday to Saturday 8am-8:30pm.

• Los Tarantos – This is Barcelona’s oldest flamenco venue. It’s a short show (just 30 minutes) so it’s a good place for an introduction to the art and won’t take up your entire night. Plaça Reial, 17, +34 933 041 210, tarantosbarcelona.com/en. Shows run at 6:30pm, 7:30pm, 8:30pm, and 9:30pm. Tickets start at 25 EUR.
• Tablao Flamenco Cordobes – This show is in a convenient location on Barcelona’s main walkway, but it’s pricey. La Rambla, 35, +34 933 175 711, ablaocordobes.es. Shows run twice each evening (check the website for times). Admission is 47 EUR (drink and show) or 83 EUR (dinner and show).

Barcelona Itinerary: Day 2

• Park Güell – Park Güell is a 45-acre garden complex designed and built between 1900 and 1914. It’s since been converted into a municipal garden and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tickets are 13 EUR .
• La Sagrada Família – This is arguably the most famous of Gaudí’s works (and one that seems to never be finished). The church has been under construction for over 100 years (the groundbreaking was in 1882 and is supposed to be done in 2030). Gaudí was a devout Catholic and spent the last 10 years of his life working on this project which is a combination of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. Admission with an audio guide is 33.80 EUR — but it’s worth it!
• Casa Batlló – Casa Batlló is a building restored by Antoni Gaudí in the early 1900s. He spent two years on the project completely revamping the exterior, main floor, patio, and roof. Located in the Eixample district, it (like everything Gaudí designed) was heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau style. It’s one of my favorite Gaudí buildings. Admission is 25 EUR and includes an audio guide.
• Casa Milà – From 1906 to 1910, Gaudí worked on Casa Mila which is just a couple hundred meters away from Casa Batlló. It’s also known as “La Pedrera” (the Stone Quarry) as the building has a facade of limestone. The goal with this design was to evoke the sense of a snowy mountain. Gaudí, himself a Catholic and a devotee of the Virgin Mary, also planned for the Casa Milà to be a spiritual symbol. Skip-the-line tickets are 28 EUR.
• Palau Güell – Located off La Rambla, Palau Güell (Güell Palace) building doesn’t jump out at you like other Gaudí structures. Built from 1886-1888, it was designed for one of Gaudí’s patrons, Eusebi Güell. The home is centered around the main room used to entertain high-society guests.

For more information on Gaudí’s works as well as entrance fees, locations, and operating hours, check out my guide to Gaudí’s Barcelona .

Take a stroll on La Rambla This popular boulevard, with a broad but crowded walkway in the center, has many beautiful buildings along it, including the Gran Teatre del Liceu, the city’s opera house. Near the theater, you can also see a mosaic by famous artist Joan Miró. There are street performers galore here (they even have their own union), making it perfect for people-watching. While this street is ground zero for tourists in the city and gets swamped by crowds it’s worth a stroll down at least once (don’t eat at the restaurants here, they’re overpriced). Just keep an eye out for pickpockets.

Barcelona Itinerary: Day 3

Visit the Picasso Museum While I’m not a huge fan of most of Picasso’s later work, it’s still interesting to learn about the life and work of one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. Opened in 1963 and home to over 4,000 pieces of art, it’s the most comprehensive collection of Pablo Picasso’s works in the world. In addition to his paintings, the museum also has drawings, ceramics, and engravings by Picasso.

Carrer Montcada 15-23, +34 932 563 000, museupicasso.bcn.cat/en. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-7pm. Admission is 12 EUR, with free entry on the first Sunday of the month.

Ride the harbor cable car The 1,450-meter-long (4,757-foot) harbor aerial tramway with red cars connects Barceloneta and Montjuïc Hill. The 10-minute trip offers incredible views of Barcelona. You’ll see the port and sea on one side and the city on the other. Also, at the top of the 78-meter (255-foot) Sant Sebastià tower in Barceloneta, there’s a restaurant accessible by an elevator. You can also hike one of the trails to the summit of Montjuïc Hill, which takes as little as 30 minutes.

Miramar station (Paseo Juan de Borbón) and San Sebastián Tower (Avda. de Miramar), +34 934 304 716, telefericodebarcelona.com/en. Open daily 11am-5:30pm (10:30am-8pm in the summer). Round-trip tickets cost 16 EUR .

Here are some highlights of Montjuïc:

Castell de Montjuïc – This old fortress features military displays and information on the history of the castle. Admission is 12 EUR (13 EUR including a guided tour). It’s free on Sundays after 3pm as well as on the first Sunday of the month.

Joan Miró Foundation – Joan Miró was one of Catalonia’s most famous artists. Many of the artist’s surrealist works (over 14,000 of them) are on display in this museum. Most were donated by Miró himself. There is also a contemporary art collection that was put together as a tribute to the artist in the years after his death. Admission is 9 EUR.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya – This art museum houses Catalonian art, particularly Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque works. The fountain out front has a spectacular free show that takes place on Thursday, Fridays, and Saturdays from 9pm-10pm (April 1-May 31 and September 1-October 31) and 8pm-9pm (November 1-March 31), and Wednesday-Sundays from 9:30pm-10:30pm (from June 1-August 30). Currently, the fountain is closed during the drought so be sure to check their website for information. Admission is 12 EUR (free on Saturdays from 3pm and on the first Sunday of the month).

Poble Espanyol (Spanish Village) – The Spanish Village was built in 1929 to resemble an actual traditional village with 117 buildings from different Spanish regions. There’s an Andalusian quarter, a section of the Camino, a monastery, and more. It’s a good family activity. Admission is 13.50 EUR in advance online (15 EUR same day online or from the ticket office).

The Olympic Ring – When Barcelona hosted the 1992 Olympic Games, all of the excitement centered around the Olympic Ring: the Olympic Stadium, Palau Sant Jordi, and the Olympic Esplanade. You can roam the entire space for free.

• Devour – ( devourtours.com , from 80 EUR).
• bcnKITCHEN – ( bcnkitchen.com , from 50 EUR)
• Barcelona Cooking – ( barcelonacooking.net , from 75 EUR)
• Just Royal Bcn – ( justroyalbcn.com , from 110 EUR).

Barcelona Itinerary: Day 4

They filmed Game of Thrones here too and Game of Thrones walking tours are available for 35 EUR if you’re a die-hard fan who wants some behind-the-scenes info.

Overall, there’s a lot of history and delicious food in the city. The train ride is about 80 minutes on the normal train while the high-speed train gets there in 38 minutes. Return tickets start at 20 EUR.  

Other Things to See and Do in Barcelona

Head to Montserrat – The Montserrat mountain range is just an hour outside of the city by train and makes for a great getaway from Barcelona’s urban atmosphere. Once there, pay a visit to the famous shrine of the Black Madonna at the Santa Maria de Montserrat monastery. This Benedictine monastery is built into the mountain and it is claimed that the Black Madonna here was carved in Jerusalem during the early years of Christianity, (it most likely actually dates to the 12th century). The Benedictine monastery and the valley of unique, rocky pillars make for some really awesome photography.

Monserrat also has an Art Museum with works by Monet, Dali, Picasso, and many other famous artists. And don’t miss the local market — it’s the perfect place to buy local products like fresh produce, cheese, honey, and artisan crafts and it’s easy to find (it’s on the way to the monastery).

Guided day tours to Montserrat start around 70 EUR per person.

Visit an old-school amusement park – Tibidabo Barcelona, built in 1899, is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. On a tall mountain in the Serra de Collserola, it also offers an incredible view of Barcelona and the coastline in addition to the rides, games, and restaurants there. It’s open on the weekends, except in the winter. Tibidabo Square, +34 932 117 942, tibidabo.cat. Hours vary depending on the season. Check the website for details. Admission is 35 EUR.

Catch an outdoor film – If you’re in Barcelona in July or August, consider going up to Montjuïc Castle to catch an outdoor film on the lawn of the castle’s moat. Screenings take place everyday at 10:30pm and are preceded by live music. Tickets are 7.50 EUR.

If you can’t make those screenings, try Sant Sebastià beach in Barceloneta (showing movies on Thursdays and Sundays) or Cosmonits at CosmoCaixa outside the Science Museum (Thursdays in July/first week of August). The Cine al Aire Libre–l’Illa Diagonal also has movies at the Gardens of San Juan De Dios on Thursday evenings in July as well.

Watch a soccer match – The first “football” game I ever saw was in Barcelona. It was Espanyol versus Valencia. I still have the shirt I bought that day. Barcelona’s two teams are Espanyol and FC Barcelona and, if a match is going on, try to take in one. Locals are obsessed with the sport and you’ll make a lot of good friends at the game! If you can’t make a game, you can tour the stadium and the FCB (or Barça) Museum for 28 EUR.

Visit the aquarium – Perfect for a rainy day, the Barcelona Aquarium has more than 11,000 animals, showcasing species from a variety of underwater ecosystems. The walk-through tunnel is the best part. Moll d’Espanya del Port Vell, +34 932 217 474, aquariumbcn.com/en. Open daily 10am-8pm, depending on the season. Admission is 25 EUR.

Gaze at Barcelona’s free public art – Gaudí outdid himself with the huge fountain located in the Parc de la Ciutadella, a tribute to the god Neptune. I absolutely love the art and fountain here. Gaudí designed the famous fountain when he was an architecture student. There’s also a zoo in the park and some short walking paths. Take a bottle of wine, grab some ham, and have a picnic.

Other offbeat Gaudí works include the lampposts in Plaça Reial and Pla de Palau and the Miralles gate and wall on Passeig de Manuel Girona.

Barcelona native Joan Miró’s work is found throughout the town as well; you can see his famous “Woman and Bird” sculpture at Parc de Joan Miró. There are also Miró mosaics on La Rambla and at the airport.  

Where to Eat in Barcelona

For some excellent food, be sure to check out some of my favorite places to eat in Barcelona:

• Les Quinze Nits – Delicious food at a great price. It’s a bit touristy, but even the locals come here for the value. Avoid the long lines at dinner by going for lunch instead.
• Quimet & Quimet – Tasty tapas and sandwiches in a cozy setting. There are over 500 types of wine on the menu too!
• 1881 per Sagardi – Upscale seafood restaurant in La Barceloneta with a view.
• Paradiso – Chic cocktail bar with delicious small plates. They offer mixology classes too.
• Pinotxo Bar – Just inside the Boquería food market, this little stall is always packed and serves some of the most famous tapas in the area.
• Tapeo – Original dishes and an expansive wine menu in an intimate Gothic Quarter space.
• La Fonda – Good food with large portions. Its set menu will give you more than you can eat, and it features beautiful décor and a robust wine selection.
• Botafumeiro – One of the best seafood joints in the city. Expect high prices!
• Dry Martini – Fancy cocktail bar with a classy wooden interior and strong Mad Men vibes (though there’s no dress code so don’t need to dress up).
• Els 4Gats (The Four Cats) – This was one of Picasso’s favorite haunts and a popular hangout for artists in the early 1900s. Grab a drink and maybe some tapas (the patatas bravas are delicious!) and soak up the place’s history.

Barcelona has something for everyone. You could squeeze in the real highlights of Barcelona in two or three days, but taking four, five, or even six days for the above itinerary will give you enough time to gorge on Iberian ham, tapas, and sangria while not rushing around.

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Barcelona: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• St. Christopher’s Inn

For more hostel suggestions, this post has all my top hostels in Barcelona .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Need a Guide? Barcelona has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks . This day tour company will give you inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock too!

Want More Information on Barcelona? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Barcelona for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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10 things to know before visiting Barcelona

Aug 7, 2023 • 6 min read

In the peak of summer Barcelona's city beaches get busy, read on for where to go instead © Westend61 / Getty Images

Barcelona is the kind of city that casts a spell over its visitors. Enticed by the epic architecture and promise of deep-running history set in the context of a coastal Mediterranean getaway, millions of travelers arrive every year to see the charms of Barcelona for themselves. 

Despite this popularity, it’s often misunderstood – especially if you fail to escape the typical tourist pitfalls. For me, though, it’s a city that always called me back and a place where I felt the most at home, but I admit that there are many missteps travelers can make in a city this big, popular and culturally complicated.

Today, the spotlight often shines on Barcelona for its overtourism problem, and local resentment makes itself known through aggressive graffiti near popular attractions. In some cases, this has even forced city officials to restrict access to once off-the-grid spots like the Carmel Bunkers , simply because the crowds have gotten out of control. In my years of living in Barcelona, I’ve learned how to avoid shoulder-to-shoulder crowds and enjoy the city as a local would. Here’s everything you should know before you come to Barcelona, from the essential safety tips to the cultural landscape.

1. You can’t see the whole city in a day

Barcelona may not be the biggest city you’ve ever been to, but it is massive when you consider all the ways you can entertain yourself. Because there is so much to see, the ideal number of days for a trip to Barcelona is between two and five. That should be enough to cover the must-sees, but if you want to explore more in the surrounding area, 10 days would give you additional time to plan day trips either to nearby cava wineries, the Costa Brava , or even as far north as the Pyrenees for a day of skiing.

2. There will be lots of tourists

There’s no use denying that overtourism is an issue in Barcelona, but you can plan to avoid the crowds by traveling during the off-season or trying to get an early start on the day before the cruise ships pull in and the streets fill up with visitors.

You can also book many tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait in the long lines, but in some places, you won’t be able to avoid the crowds. Try to space out the big attractions in your itinerary so you have some breathing room in between, ie, don’t go from the Sagrada Familia to Casa Batllò .

3. Avoid traveling during big events

Barcelona draws big acts from around the world every summer as a mainstay on the music festival circuit. But unless you’ve got your ticket to Primavera Sound or Sonar already, you may want to avoid traveling during these weekends or any other time when large trade fairs, like the Mobile World Congress, take over the city. It’s already an expensive city, but accommodation rates skyrocket when a big influx of visitors is on its way.

4. Know what cultural events to look for

If you want to have an authentic cultural experience in Barcelona, you can look for local events that embrace Catalan traditions like the parades of giants, human tower gatherings, Sardana dance circles and the Correfoc fire parades. You may stumble across them if you’re traveling over a holiday like Holy Week, but if you want to secure your odds, make a trip in September when the city celebrates La Mercè, one of Barcelona’s patron Saints, with a week of festivities that include cultural events and free concerts.

5. There’s more than one Rambla

Everyone will tell you La Rambla is a must-do, but for me, walking the Rambla feels a lot like walking through Times Square back at home – crowded, touristy, and to be avoided whenever possible. Thankfully, the city has more than one Rambla, where you can actually enjoy the slow strolling these city features were built for. In the center, you can venture down the Rambla del Raval with its famous Botero cat sculpture, or go a little bit out of the way to walk the Rambla del Poblenou from Diagonal all the way down to the beach.

6. The beaches get better the further away from the city center you get

Barceloneta is the most famous beach in Barcelona, and the adjacent neighborhood is worth checking out for its narrow streets and great tapas spots, but travel further down if you actually want to lay out on the beach. Barceloneta can get very crowded and noisy with tourists, so walk or cab your way past Port Olímpic to Platja de la Mar Bella . Because all the beaches in Barcelona are artificial, built for the 1992 Olympic games, the sand isn’t the nicest, to be frank. If you can travel outside the city to Sitges or up the Costa Brava , you’ll find more tranquil and scenic beaches.

7. Get to know Catalan culture

An autonomous region of Spain , the subject of Catalan independence is still a touch-and-go, but you should be respectful to the locals by learning about all the distinct characteristics that give Catalans their cultural identity. Show a little curiosity, and locals will be more than happy to tell you all about their favorite traditions, from wintertime onion barbecues to the cheeky caganer ("the pooper") a beloved Christmas icon.

8. Catalan is not a dialect of Spanish

If you’re looking for the quickest way to offend a Catalan, this is the one. Almost everyone in Barcelona can speak Catalan and Spanish, and the tourism circuit is well set up for English-speaking clientele, so you should have no problem getting around. However, you can make a good impression on your hosts by learning a few words. Some are similar to Spanish and French, like “ Hola ” and “ Merci ” for “Hello” and” Thank you,” but you can also try “ Bon día ” for “Good morning” and “ Adéu ” for “Goodbye.”

9. Pickpockets are a real issue

Just about everyone in Barcelona has a first or second-hand pickpocketing story, including me (they slipped two credit cards out of my wallet while I was working on my laptop in a crowded cafe). You should never let your guard down, especially when riding the metro or walking down crowded tourist areas like La Rambla. Keep your phone put away whenever you’re not using it, and never leave it sitting out on the table if you’re dining outside.

1o. Public transportation is safe and efficient

Although you do have to mind your belongings for the nefarious pickpockets, one of the best things about living in Barcelona is how easy and efficient public transportation is. I’ve had generally positive experiences, and it’s easy to connect to the major train and bus stations for adventures outside the city.

You may also see the red shared bikes called Bicing, but don’t bother trying to rent one because they’re only for residents. If you want to take advantage of Barcelona’s bike lanes, you’ll have to get a rental from a shop, but be strategic about how and where you lock it – bike thieves are as common as pickpockets.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

3 Days in Barcelona: The Ultimate Barcelona Itinerary

Last updated: December 16, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 83 Comments

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most popular cities for visitors, and one of our favourite cities too. There’s loads to see and do, from the incredible architecture of Anton Gaudí, through to museums, UNESCO world heritage sites, markets, delicious tapas – and even a beach.

As you might imagine, it is not hard to fill your time when visiting Barcelona, even with three full days to play with. We’ve visited multiple times, and are always coming across new sites and things to do.

You should be aware that Barcelona is a fairly big city, with a number of fairly distinct areas. It does have a good public transport system, but obviously you want to spend more of your time sightseeing and less of your time on a bus or metro.

With that in mind, I’ve put together what I think is a good overview of some of the city’s main sights that will help you spend 3 days in Barcelona, either as part of a long weekend, or a longer European itinerary like this .

I’ve ordered the sights for each day by a logical order of how you might want to visit them and also put those sights first that you should visit earlier in the day before the crowds arrive, where possible.

Barcelona is very popular with visitors, and especially in the summer months attractions can become very crowded, so booking ahead where possible and turning up early are the key to a frustration free trip.

You might also want to consider looking into the Go Barcelona Pass , Barcelona City Pass , or Barcelona Card for your visit. These offer free and discounted admission, as well as skip the line access, travel options and various other perks that might make your visit easier.

For each attraction, I’ve highlighted which pass is best, and there’s a section on passes for Barcelona towards the end of the post. Jess has also written a comprehensive review and guide to using the Go Barcelona Pass , as well as a comparison of the main discount passes available in Barcelona , which are both worth a read.

Of course, an itinerary like this should just be a starting point for your plans, and at the end I’ve also added some optional sights that you might want to add in. You could also extend this itinerary over some more days if you really want to take your time exploring Barcelona. If you have less time, take a look at our suggested 2 day Barcelona itinerary .

Now, let’s take a look at our idea of the perfect way to spend 3 days in Barcelona.

A 3 Day Barcelona Itinerary

Barcelona itinerary: day 1.

The first day of our exploration focuses on the city centre of Barcelona, and everything here is easily walkable. It covers some of the more famous works by Anton Gaudí , plus one of the city’s most famous streets.

Casa Batlló

One of the most famous of Gaudí’s houses in Barcelona, Casa Batlló is also one of the most popular, so we definitely recommend you put this at the beginning of your day.

Even from the outside this property is intriguing, with the famous balconies on the building’s façade, which are reminiscent of Venetian masks.

Inside, there’s a stunning spine-like staircase and organic-feeling rooms which you can explore at your leisure before emerging onto the incredible roof terrace which is shaped to represent a dragon – one of Gaudí’s favourite icons.

As already mentioned, this is a popular spot. You can skip the ticket line by booking your ticket online in advance on GetYourGuide here . We recommend GetYourGuide for individual tickets as they usually include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance of your visit, which can be great if your plans change for any reason. Obviously you’ll want to check the cancellation policy of any ticket before booking though to be sure.

Casa Batlló is also included on the Go Barcelona Pass , giving you free entry to this, and many other attractions on the itinerary. It’s also included on the 3 Houses of Gaudi pass .

Alternatively, you can get discounted admission with a Barcelona Card if you buy your ticket on the door, or by booking in advance if you have a Barcelona City Pass.

Casa Milá , also known as La Pedrera, is a short walk from Casa Batlló, and is another of Gaudí’s houses in Barcelona – the last of his major civil works.

This one also has a famous façade, this time of undulating limestone, the stone-like look which earned it the nickname “La Pedrera”, which means the Quarry. This façade is self-supporting, freeing up the rest of the building from requiring load-bearing walls.

As soon as you enter the building, it will intrigue you. From the ground floor courtyard looking up there’s an incredible view of the inside of the building, with light pouring in from the roof to the interior apartments. As you go up the floors, you’ll explore some of the apartments that are open to the public, as well as the magnificent brick-ribbed loft space.

The highlight for many though is the roof terrace area, with its famous chimneys, skylights, and stairways. From here there are excellent views across the city, including to some of Gaudí’s other works, most notably the Sagrada Familia.

Casa Milá is also a popular stop for visitors. It’s a good place to use the Go Barcelona Pass, which has skip the line access to Casa Mila , meaning you don’t need to queue to get in here. It’s also included on the 3 Houses of Gaudi pass .

Again, you can get discounted admission with a Barcelona Card if you buy your ticket on the door, or by booking in advance when you buy your Barcelona City Pass. Alternatively, buy your tickets online in advance here .

Las Ramblas

Time for a spot of walking, and maybe all this sight-seeing has you hungry? Why not head past Plaça de Catalunya, and onto one of the city’s most famous streets for a stroll – Las Ramblas. Take a drink from the fountain at the northern end of the street, which will guarantee you’ll return to the city.

Then, head down the street for a spot of people watching and a wide range of outdoor dining options. Sure, they might not be the cheapest or most “authentic” options, but hey, you can get a pitcher of Sangria and watch the world go by, and what’s wrong with that?

La Boqueria

About half way down Las Ramblas you’ll come to La Boqueria, the city’s oldest and most famous market. This used to be just outside the old city wall, and has always been famous as the market that would have the items you couldn’t find elsewhere.

Today, the market is still popular with locals and visitors alike, and still has the reputation for having one of the widest choices of the city markets, with everything from meat and fish through to fruit, sweets and even food stalls.

It’s a good place to get a freshly squeezed fruit juice, to have a snack or just to admire the 19th century Modernista design, which is certainly worth the visit alone.

Mirador de Colom (Columbus Monument)

From Palau Güell, I suggest you continue your journey south along Las Ramblas until you get to the end, where you’ll be greeted by the sight of a large column, atop which sits a statue of Christopher Columbus, the famous Italian explorer largely responsible for opening up the Americas to European exploration.

This was a venture he achieved under the sponsorship of the Spanish monarchs at the time, and the statue commemorates his first voyage to the Americas.

Originally built for the Barcelona Universal Exposition in 1888, today the statue serves as both monument and tourist attraction, with the bonus that you can head up inside it for good views of the southern side of the city, including along the port and an excellent aerial view up Las Ramblas.

There’s an entry fee to the monument. Tickets can be bought in person. You get a discount if you have a Barcelona Card and if you book in advance if you have a Barcelona City Pass.

Las Golondrinas Boat Tour

At the end of Las Ramblas where you find the Columbus Monument is the marina area of Barcelona. So far the day has involved a fair bit of walking, so this might be a good opportunity to rest and let the scenery float by, perhaps accompanied by a coffee or something stronger.

From the port area, a number of operators offer boat tours of varying length which will give you a different perspective of Barcelona harbour.

We took the 90 minute boat tour with Las Golondrinas , which is included for free with the Go Barcelona Pass (discounted for holders of the Barcelona Card or Barcelona City Pass).

There are a number of operators though with different tour lengths and routes, depending on what you want to see.

Barcelona Aquarium or Catalonia History Museum

If a boat ride isn’t for you, or you want to keep exploring once the ride is finished, there are a couple of great options at this end of town.

Depending on your interests, you could visit the Barcelona Aquarium or the Catalonia History Museum (the former is free with the Go Barcelona Pass and both are discounted with the Barcelona Card & Barcelona City Pass).

Alternatively, you can buy tickets for the Aquarium here , and the history museum here .

We’ve been to both, the former is an excellent Aquarium and a good option for families. The Catalonia History Museum will take you through the full history of the region and its people, from prehistory right up to the modern day. It’s a fascinating insight into the region, and will keep you occupied for some time.

And that’s the end of a full first day in Barcelona! Time for an evening drink and some food, before we kick off our second day of our three day Barcelona itinerary.

Barcelona Itinerary: Day 2

Our second day in Barcelona will have you exploring the more north-eastern part of the city and visiting some of Barcelona’s highlights, starting with the famous:

Sagrada Familia

Without a doubt Gaudí’s masterpiece, this massive basilica was the work that Gaudí was labouring over when he tragically died. Construction started in 1882, although by the time of Gaudí’s death in 1926 it was still less than a quarter finished. At time of writing, it’s still not complete.

This doesn’t mean you can’t visit though. Despite this being an active construction zone, the majority of building is open to the public.

It’s another popular stop, so again we suggest you pencil this in as the first stop of the day – perhaps taking in sunrise from the park over the road, before heading in.

Entry is timed, and tickets sell out well in advance, so you will definitely want to buy your ticket online in advance and pick a time slot that suits you. You can do that on the official website here , as well as on Tiqets here and GetYourGuide here .

Note, the official website tends to have the lowest prices, but we suggest also checking out GetYourGuide as the majority of their tickets include the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance of your visit, which can be worth a slightly higher price in our opinion.

Note that as of 2022, tickets for entry prior to the last two hours of opening are a little more expensive, but do include an audioguide, which is well worth it.

Again, as it gets later in the day the building gets more crowded, so we definitely recommend visiting earlier in the day if you can. There’s also the option to take a guided tour of the cathedral .

Holders of the Barcelona Card get a discount on tickets, however to our knowledge this can only be redeemed when purchasing tickets in person, not online.

A number of passes include entry to the Sagrada Familia. The Go Barcelona Pass includes a guided tour, which is an excellent option for learning more about what you are seeing. The Barcelona City Pass also includes the Sagrada Familia, and lets you book your entrance time online before you go.

Another option is the Gaudi bundle , which includes pre-booked timed entry to the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, as well as an audioguide that covers both attractions.

See more on discount passes in Barcelona in the section on saving money in Barcelona below. We also recommend reading our guide to visiting the Sagrada Familia , which has everything you need to know to plan your visit.

Recinte Modernista Sant Pau

A relatively new opening to Barcelona visitors, the Recinte Modernista Sant Pau is quickly becoming one of Barcelona’s more popular attractions.

Originally built as a hospital, this series of buildings is one of the finest examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe, and has been awarded UNESCO world heritage status alongside the Palau de la Musica Catalana in the Gothic Quarter.

You can explore this complex and go inside a number of the buildings. It’s just a stunningly beautiful place to walk around and experience, both inside and outside, and is only a 15 – 20 minute walk from the Sagrada Familia. Well worth doing.

Free to Go Barcelona Pass holders, discounted admission for Barcelona Card holders. You can also buy tickets online in advance here .

Gaudí Experience 4D

Next on our itinerary is a trip up towards Park Güell. On the way, we suggest you might want to pop into the Gaudí experience , an interactive exhibition that will take you through the life and works of the architect responsible for so many of Barcelona’s sights. There’s an overview of some of his most notable works, as well as a 4D cinema.

Free with the Go Barcelona Pass, or you can buy a ticket online in advance here .

Situated on the hills towards the north of the city, Park Güell is another of Gaudí’s works. This is a little bit different though, being as it is a large park area with a number of installations to explore and visit.

Originally planned as a housing development of upper class properties offering spectacular views, the vision of sixty homes was never realised, with only two actually completed.

However, many of the features envisioned by Gaudí for the public spaces were created, including the entrance houses, main terrace area, mosaic serpentine bench, and colonnaded footpaths.

There is also a house museum you can visit on site which was Gaudí’s home for the last twenty years of his life. This has a separate entry fee, but if you are interested in seeing how he lived, is worth the visit.

Park Güell used to be free to visit, but its overwhelming popularity led to a ticketing system being put in place.

This has timed entrances, helping to keep the park more pleasant for everyone to visit. You can visit parts of the park without a ticket, but the key attractions, known as the Monumental Zone, do require a ticket.

You will want to book tickets for Park Güell online in advance , which you can do on GetYourGuide here , or on the official site here . This is definitely recommended to be sure you are not disappointed or have to wait when you arrive. If you do this, be sure you arrive at the entry time specified on the ticket as otherwise you won’t be able to get in.

Holders of the Barcelona City Pass can also pre-book their timed entry to Parc Guell online, and entry is also included as part of this card. Holders of the Go Barcelona Pass can visit Parc Guell as part of a free guided tour.

If you don’t want to invest in one of these passes but still want to visit both Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia, you might consider a Gaudi bundle , which includes pre-booked timed entry to both attractions, as well as an audioguide that covers both attractions.

And that sums up our second day of exploration in Barcelona! It might seem that there’s not so much on this day, but the attractions will take you a while to visit, and you will have to factor in transit times between them, so we’d suggest not trying to add too much more to today in case you run out of time.

Barcelona Itinerary: Day 3

The third day on our Barcelona itinerary has us starting in the Gothic Quarter, and then heading up above the town to visit a castle and a number of Barcelona’s most popular museums, finishing off with a spectacular free sound and light display. But first, we start with the:

Chocolate Museum

What better way to start the day than with chocolate? And given that your entry ticket to Barcelona’s chocolate museum is actually a real bar of chocolate, you can’t fail to be happy when you visit.

When you do, you’ll learn all about the history of one of the world’s favourite treats, including how it came to be so popular in Europe, how it is made, and some of the culture that grew up around it. Barcelona was one of the major ports for chocolate to arrive into Europe, and it played a key role in the economy of the city.

Also fun are the many chocolate statues and displays made of chocolate. Definitely a fun way to start a full day of exploration in Barcelona!

This one is free for Barcelona Card holders, or you can buy your ticket online in advance here .

Gothic Quarter

From the Chocolate Museum you’re going to head deep into the warren of narrow streets that is the Gothic Quarter.

This is the oldest part of the city, and is where some of the highlights of Barcelona are tucked away. I’d definitely recommend having a paper map handy when you start to explore – the high buildings and narrow streets mean GPS signals can get easily confused.

Whilst wandering the Gothic Quarter is an experience of itself, there are a number of attractions within that you should check out. First of these, coming from the Chocolate Museum, is the excellent Picasso Museum , which celebrates the early part of the artists life and work, as well as housing some of his later work. A must for fans. You can book a guided tour of the museum here .

From here, you can also visit the UNESCO world heritage listed Palau de la Musica Catalana . You can book tickets for this online here , or buy them in person at the box office. If you have a Barcelona Card, it’s good for a 20% discount on the tour price, but only when purchasing tickets in person.

A good option is also to visit the Palau de la Musica for a performance. You can see all the upcoming performances and book tickets for them here .

Heading further west in the Gothic Quarter, you’ll find yourself at Barcelona’s massive gothic Cathedral. This is free to enter, and worth popping into.

Next to it is the Gaudí Exhibition Centre, the first museum entirely dedicated to the works of Anton Gaudí. You can learn all about the architect and his architecture through images, models, audio-visuals and documents, and it’s a fascinating journey through his work.

Montjuïc Hill Attractions

We’re now going to head up Montjuïc Hill, which has a number of attractions atop it. Depending on your interests and how much time you have, you will probably want to pick a few of these rather than try to rush around all of them.

Montjuïc Castle

First on my list is the large fortress atop the hill, Montjuïc Castle . This huge fortress has played a key role in the history of the city over the last few hundred years, serving as a Spanish control over the potentially unruly Catalan city, as well as a prison and execution centre.

Today the castle is open to visitors and you can wander the huge walls, take in the views across the city skyline, and think back to darker times. There’s an entry fee, although it’s free to visit on Sunday afternoons.

Poble Espanyol

If you’re interested in learning about the different regions of Spain, and in particular their architecture and food, then a visit to Poble Espanyol should be on your list.

This is a huge open air architectural museum, built in 1929, which consists of 117 full-size buildings representing fifteen different regions of Spain, many of which are replicas of actual buildings. It’s also home to local artists, restaurants and shops, and you can see everything from glass blowing to jewellery making.

Again, you could spend a few hours just wandering around here as there is a lot to see and do. It also regularly hosts concerts, gastronomic festivals and other events.

Free to holders of the Go Barcelona Pass, discounted admission for Barcelona Card & Barcelona City Pass holders. You can also book a ticket online in advance here .

Joan Miro Foundation

Fans of Barcelona-born Joan Miró will definitely want to stop in at the Joan Miró Foundation on Montjuïc Hill. Created by the artist himself with the aim of promoting the work of young experimental artists, the museum displays a large number of Miró’s creations, stretching throughout his career.

The purpose built building is also an impressive and logically laid out structure, that will guide you through the artist’s works. There’s also a library on site which is home to Miró’s book collection.

There’s an entry fee, Barcelona City Pass holders get discounted admission. You can also book a ticket online in advance here .

National Museum of Catalunya Art

An imposing building with a spectacular view over the city, the National Museum of Catalan Art (MNAC) is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in the art of the Catalonia region.

It has art of various styles from across the centuries, including an impressive collection of romanesque church paintings.

The building itself is also quite spectacular, in particular the Oval Hall, a massive event space which houses one of Europe’s largest organs. You can also take the lift to the top floor to wander on the roof, which offers excellent views of the city.

Magic Fountain

The last entry on our final day of our three day Barcelona itinerary is the Magic Fountain , which you can see from the steps in front of the National Museum of Catalan Art.

This fountains runs a spectacular sound and light show in the evenings which is a real treat to watch as the water displays synchronise with the sound and light.

Built in 1929 for the International Exhibition, and restored for the 1992 Barcelona Olympic games, this is definitely one you won’t want to miss. The schedule depends on the time of year – you can see it here .

Barcelona Itinerary: Extras

There’s a lot to see in Barcelona beyond the above, and I wanted to highlight a few of our favourite spots. If you have a bit more time in Barcelona, or simply want to swap a few things around in the itinerary, the below items should definitely be in your list.

Take a Walking tour or Segway tour

If you buy a Go Barcelona Pass, you’ll find it comes with free walking tours of Barcelona and a Segway tour of Barcelona . We took advantage of the free walking tour, and chose a three hour tour around the highlights of the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas.

This was an excellent way to learn a bit about the history of the city and see some of the main attractions with a local.

If you do a tour like this, we’d suggest scheduling it early on in your trip as it will help orientate you to the city – plus you can ask your guide for tips and advice on things like local restaurants, bars and nightlife.

See a later section of this guide for tips on walking tours in Barcelona we recommend.

Palau Güell

Just off Las Ramblas you’ll find the Palau Güell , one of the earlier works by Gaudí in the city, and one where you can see many of his architectural visions coming into focus.

This is strikingly obvious as soon as you see the building from the outside, with its hugely impressive twin front doors in Gaudí’s famous parabolic arch shape.

These were designed to be large enough to accommodate a horse drawn carriage, with one door being for entering the building, and the other for exiting.

Once inside you’ll have the opportunity to see many of the rooms inside, including the central hall and the bedrooms, and of course, the roof terrace. This latter place is a popular spot to see the sunset, depending on when you visit.

You can buy a ticket in advance here . It’s also included on the 3 Houses of Gaudi pass .

Fans of FC Barcelona will probably have a visit to Camp Nou right at the top of their list. This is the home of Barcelona’s hugely successful football team, and during the day you can take a tour of the stadium to get a behind the scenes look at everything from the VIP suites to the players locker rooms. You can even sit in the seats the coach sits in during the game!

There’s also a well laid out museum which takes you through the history of the club, its impact on the city, and some of its notable players and achievements. Jess and I actually really enjoyed this visit, despite neither of us being huge football fans.

If you do decide to visit, we definitely advise coming early as it gets very popular. You’ll also want to check match times as obviously you can’t take a tour when the stadium is in use. Although fans may want to also catch a game here.

Camp Nou is free for holders of the Go Barcelona Pass, and there is a small discount for holders of the Barcelona Card. You can also book tickets here .

Note – Camp Nou is undergoing major construction works so access to the stadium is limited until November 2024.

Parc de la Ciutadella

If you would like to visit a city centre park, a good option is the Citadel Park, or Parc de la Ciutadella, which isn’t too far from the Chocolate Museum.

Dating from the 19th century, and the earliest green space in the city, this 70-acre park has plenty of green space – perfect for a picnic, or to grab a breather from all your exploring.

Its best known feature is likely the large water feature, which was one of the earlier works in the city that Gaudí was involved with, although he wasn’t well known at the time and his involvement was fairly minimal.

It’s a grand construction, topped with giant golden horse drawn chariots, and is worth seeing. Entry is free.

Torre Bellesguard

A little way north of the city centre, Torre Bellesguard is a relatively recent addition to the works of Gaudí that you can visit in the city.

Built for a private owner between 1900 and 1909, the home is still occupied by a private owner, so only certain parts of the property can be visited, although this does include the spectacular attic and roof areas which were the highlights in my mind.

I would suggest that this is well worth doing – this is a much less popular attraction than many of the other Gaudí properties, and you will have a bit more room to breathe.

I particularly enjoyed visiting the roof terrace, which has spectacular views over the city, with the bonus that the whole roof is designed to look like a dragon.

Guided tours currently run on weekends, and there are also audio guided tours available. See times and languages on the official site here . You can book tickets (with optional tour) here .

Colonia Güell

Colonia Güell is 23 kilometres from the city centre of Barcelona, but can still be reached by public transport, so don’t let the distance put you off. It’s a purpose built 19th century industrial village, which you can explore with the help of an audioguide.

The village is definitely worth exploring, but the highlight of a visit to Colonia Güell is the church known as Gaudí’s Crypt. Whilst the final vision was never completed, this building was the place where Gaudí first incorporated all of his architectural innovations, and it serves very much as a blueprint for much of the Sagrada Familia.

The only part of the church to be completed was the crypt area, although this feels more like a church than a crypt, with a full nave, altar and pews. It’s a truly unique creation, and as it requires a bit more effort to get here than say the Sagrada Familia, is a lot less crowded – we actually had the whole Crypt to ourselves for large parts of our visit.

Entry is free with the Go Barcelona Pass , and you get the audioguide as part of your entry too. The Barcelona Card gives discounted admission. You can also book tickets online in advance here .

And that sums up our suggested itinerary for three days in Barcelona! As you can see, there’s a lot to see and do here, and you’ll have no trouble filling your time. Now, let’s take a look at some practicalities for your visit, as well as a map of this Barcelona itinerary.

3 Day Barcelona Itinerary Map

To help you visualise all the above, we have put together a map which you can see below or on Google Maps here . It also includes our recommended hotels.

3 Day Barcelona Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Casa Batlló, Casa Milá, Las Ramblas, La Boqueria, Mirador de Colom, Las Golondrinas, Barcelona Aquarium
• Day 2: Sagrada Familia, Recinte Modernista Sant Pau, Gaudí Experience, Park Güell
• Day 3: Chocolate Museum, Gothic Quarter, Montjuïc Hill

How to Save Money on Your Barcelona Sight-Seeing

As you’ll have seen throughout this post, Barcelona has a number of options for saving money when visiting attractions in Barcelona.

The three main ones that we recommend visitors look at are the Go Barcelona Pass , the Barcelona City Pass , and the Barcelona Card .

These work a little differently, and depending on what you want to visit, you might find one works better for you than the other.

If you plan to visit everything on the main itinerary above, the Go Barcelona Pass is what we would recommend.

The combined price of the attractions which are included in the above Barcelona itinerary that are covered by the Go Barcelona Pass at time of writing is around €211, and a three-day pass is only €159 (as of April 2023).

Consider that it also includes the Barcelona Bus Turístic Hop on Hop off bus tour worth €30, plus a number of other attractions as well as a walking tour and bike tour, then we think the Go Barcelona Pass is excellent value for money and well worth considering for your Barcelona visit.

Read Jess’s full review and guide to using the Go Barcelona Pass to see if it makes sense for you.

If you don’t think you’ll visit enough attractions to make the Go Barcelona Pass worth it, then you might consider the Barcelona Card instead.

This is a cheaper option, and whilst it does offer free admission to a number of attractions, the majority of its benefit comes in the form of free public transport (including the airport train) and a range of discounts on popular attractions.

Another option if you just want to focus on the highlights, and then save on the other major attractions as you wish, is the Barcelona City Pass .

This pass includes both the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, and it lets you pre-book a timeslot for both of these, which is essential to a smooth queue free visit. It also includes a number of other features and attractions, including a hop on hop off bus ticket, and 10% off admission at the majority of the sites in this post.

So, which card to go for? Well, in the text above for each attraction I’ve made it clear where each card offers a benefit, so do take a look through and figure out which card might be best for you, and also check out the other features of the Barcelona City Pass , the Go Barcelona Pass and the Barcelona Card before making a decision, which may include discounted admissions, guide books, and so on.

Overall, if you’re planning on seeing everything in this guide, then the  Go Barcelona Pass will likely be the best option. If you are focusing primarily on specific highlights like the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, the Barcelona City Pass  is a fantastic option.

Finally, if you’re just going to a few attractions and are more concerned with sorting out your transport and getting a bit of a discount, check out the Barcelona Card .

Note – in 2020 the Barcelona Pass rebranded as the Go Barcelona Pass which is now a virtual product only – there is no physical pass option. The products included are the same, but the name and branding changed. Our photos are of the older product, from when it was available as a physical pass.

Getting Around Barcelona

Barcelona is easy to get around, with an extensive bus, metro and light rail network. It’s also easily walkable for the most part, although you will likely want to take public transport for some of the slightly further out destinations.

If you are going to use public transport you have two options, depending on how much you want to travel.

First, you can buy individual tickets as you go. If you decide to do this, the most cost-effective way to do so is the ten ticket (T-Casual) card.  This is much cheaper than buying individual tickets and also lets you change transport options within an hour and fifteen minutes of starting your journey.

Note this was previously known as the T10 card. Unlike the T10 card though, this cannot be used by multiple travellers for the same journey – each traveller needs their own card.

The other option for public transport is the Hola BCN card, which gives unlimited access to the transport network in the city, and is available for durations from 48 hours to 120 hours. You can buy that online here .

There are a couple of other options for paying for your Barcelona transport.

First, if you purchase a Barcelona Card or a Barcelona Card Express , you get free travel on the metro, buses, trams and trains for the duration of the card. This includes the airport metro and train.

Second, if you purchase a Go Barcelona Pass  or Barcelona City Pass , these both come with one day access to the Hop On Hop Off Barcelona Bus Tour , which covers nearly every major tourist site in the city.

Alternatively, you can purchase 1 or 2 day hop on hop off bus tickets directly here .

If you’re arriving into Barcelona by air, you can take a taxi or train into the city centre. There’s also an airport bus service, which is what we normally use. You can buy tickets on the day, but we normally reserve ours in advance so as not to have to worry about it. You can buy tickets for the Barcelona aerobus here .

Walking Tours of Barcelona

We love taking walking tours when we visit a city. It’s a great way to learn a lot about its history, culture and people, as well as get tips on what to see and where to eat.

There are a number of walking tour companies offering tours in the city. If you pick up one of the aforementioned passes, some of these include a walking tour, so definitely take advantage of that.

Otherwise, we usually recommend walking tour company Take Walks . We’ve taken tours with them in cities around the world, and enjoy the small groups and knowledgeable guides. They offer a number of tours in Barcelona, some of which we’ve included below along with other suggestions.

• This excellent value 2-hour walking tour of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter on GetYourGuide
• This 3 hour tour of the Gothic Quarter which includes tapas tasting. Included on the Go Barcelona Pass
• Complete Gaudí Tour : Interested in learning about Gaudi? This tour features some of the architects highlights, including Casa Batlló, Park Guell and the Sagrada Família. It even includes a Tower Climb of the latter. This is with Take Walks , one of our favourite walking tour companies.
• Barcelona Cooking Class : Want to learn how to cook some delicious Spanish cuisine? This Paella making party with a local chef includes a visit to Boqueria market and Sangria making!
• Skip the Line Express Sagrada Família Tour & Tickets – If you want a guided tour of the Sagrada Familia and are struggling to get official tickets, this is a great option
• If you prefer your tours to mix history with food, check out this 3.5 hour food walking tour of the Gothic Quarter which includes tapas tasting, drinks and dinner. This is another Take Walks tour.

Obviously, if you decide to take a walking tour you will need to tailor this itinerary to suit. We’d suggest doing it earlier in the trip so you can take full advantage of the tips your guide gives you.

Naturally, there are also many other walking tours to choose from. See this selection on GetYourGuide and these options on Viator for more ideas.

Day Trips from Barcelona

If you’re in Barcelona for longer, or would prefer to spend one of your days exploring the Catalonia region, then we have some fantastic day trip options for you to consider.

• A full day trip to Girona and Figueres – visiting Girona and Figueres is one of the more popular day trip options from Barcelona. Girona has spectacular old medieval streets to explore, Figueres was the birthplace of Dali, and it has a fantastic Dali museum.
• A luxury full day small-group tour from Barcelona which includes the Dali Museum, Girona, and lunch in Besalu
• A day tour to Montserrat – home to the Montserrat monastery, built at the top of the impressive Montserrat mountains. This is a wonderful place for hiking and epic photos. The full day tour includes wine tasting and lunch.
• A day tour of the medieval villages of Catalonia , which includes stunning Besalu as well as Rupit and Tavertet
• A full day small group tou r to Montserrat that includes early Entrance to Montserrat Monastery as well as a Gourmet Cava Tour and lunch
• A hot air balloon tour – this tour includes a hot air balloon ride, transfers and breakfast
• A full day tour of the Pyrenees – this includes a visit to the stunning Nuria Valley which can only be accessed on foot or by rack railway. In summer it’s the perfect place for hiking, and in winter it’s a haven for snow sports. You can also book a full day hiking trip if you prefer.
• Speaking of skiing, if you visit Spain in winter you can take a day trip from Barcelona and go skiing! See our detailed guide to how and where to go skiing in Spain here
• A full day tour of the Costa Brava coastline – the rugged Costa Brava coastline is home to stunning beaches, ruined Roman cities and dramatic coves. This tour will take you to some of the highlights.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Barcelona has no shortage of choice when it comes to accommodation, and we’ve stayed at a number of different locations in the city in both apartments and hotels.

Our preferred option when booking accommodation is booking.com (see their Barcelona listings here ). They list everything from hotels to apartments to hostels, and we find they usually have the widest range at the most competitive prices.

To give you an idea of what’s available, here are some options we recommend:

• Hotel Barcelona Catedral – a 4* property in Barcelona in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. We’ve stayed here, and enjoyed the roof top pool and incredible central location.
• Hostel One Ramblas – a very well reviewed and very central hostel option
• The 8 Boutique B&B – a highly rated and well located bed and breakfast
• Duquesa de Cardona – a 4* property on the waterfront with a roof top bar
• Leonardo Hotel Barcelona Las Ramblas – part of the good value Leonardo chain, this 3* property is a few moments from Las Ramblas. We enjoyed our stay here, and the breakfast in particular was excellent.

Apartment rentals through sites like Plum Guide are also available. One thing to be aware of is that in Barcelona these need to be registered with the city. When they are registered they will be issued a license number. If you want to stay in an apartment rental in Barcelona, then we recommend picking one which has the license number on the listing.

If you would prefer to stay in an in apartment in Barcelona, then we recommend Plum Guide .

Plum Guide carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. We’ve stayed at a number of their properties around the world, and you can see our  review of the Plum Guide here . See their listings for Barcelona here .

If you can’t find what you want from the above choices, or you want some new options to try out, we wrote a whole post on the  best alternatives to AirBnB  which you should check out!

Practicalities for Visiting Barcelona

Safety: We’ve not had any problems in Barcelona, although the city carries a reputation for petty crime, in particular pick pockets. These are known to frequent tourist areas, especially Las Ramblas and the metro system. We believe that most crime is opportunistic in nature, so if you take basic precautions and are aware of some common Barcelona scams , you should be fine.

Power: Electricity is of the 220v standard, with the 2 pin European style plug. Travellers from countries like the UK and the US will need an adapter, and US travellers need to check their equipment supports the 220v standard – it will be written clearly on the power adapter.

See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

Currency: Barcelona is part of the Eurozone, so the main currency is the Euro. You can get these from ATM’s, banks and currency exchanges, although credit cards are of course widely accepted.

Internet: Internet access is widely available in the form of WiFi all around the city and in hotels and coffee shops, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting online. You can also pick up local SIM cards if you have an unlocked phone. If you are travelling from the USA, consider a Google Fi package which lets you use your data overseas.

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options.

Water: The water in the taps is safe to drink, but tastes heavily chlorinated. If you don’t like the taste, bottled water is widely available.

Further Reading for your 3 Day Barcelona Trip

Well, that was a lot of content to help you plan your trip to Barcelona! Hopefully you find it useful. As well as the above, we have a number of other resources we’d like to recommend to help you out, both content we’ve written ourselves, and resources we’ve found online. Between this post and these resources, you should be able to put together the perfect trip!

• If you’re visiting for a shorter time period, here’s a suggested itinerary for one day in Barcelona as well as our 2 day Barcelona itinerary .
• Our guide to the best photography spots in Barcelona
• Jess’s comprehensive review and guide to using the Go Barcelona Pass
• A post comparing the three main discount passes available in Barcelona , to help you decide which one will save you the most money
• A guide to taking a day trip from Barcelona to Girona and Figueres
• A guide to the best locations for getting a great view of Barcelona
• Some of our favourite street art in Barcelona
• Want to see some of Gaudi’s creations? Check out our definitive guide to the best Gaudi sights in Barcelona
• Thinking of heading out of town? Check out our definitive guide to the Spanish Pyrenees , as well as our guides to things to do in Girona , and things to do in Besalu !
• The Lonely Planet Pocket Guide to Barcelona
• Rick Steve’s Barcelona Guide
• The official Barcelona Tourism webpage

And that sums up our idea of how to spend the perfect three days exploring Barcelona! We hope you found this itinerary useful. Are you planning a trip to Barcelona? What do you want to see when you do? Let us know in the comments below!

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Ranger Roberts says

4th September 2023 at 7:14 pm

How Do you know what dates and times are available to purchase The Barcelona city pass ?? Ive put in multiple combinations all showing availability but when I try to confirm itinerary I get “Tickets you have selected are no longer available. ” I’m looking around the 26-29th of Sep ..

I see where time slots are sold out for Sagrada Familia but not for for any other selection including HOHO Bus.. So I dont know what or how many selections to change and what may options are .. Please help .. I’m on the Tibet website .

Thank you .. Ranger Roberts

Laurence Norah says

6th September 2023 at 3:16 pm

Hi Ranger Roberts,

So I just checked the Barcelona Pass on the Tiqets website and it seemed to let me pick most combinations and times around the time you are visiting. So I am wondering if there was a glitch when you tried? Otherwise, I’d recommend reaching out to the Tiqets team via their website to ask for some assistance.

Apologies I can’t be of more assistance, but do have a great time in Barcelona!

27th February 2020 at 8:32 am

Hi Laurence,

I am planning a 3 day trip to Barcelona in the month of June and below is a schedule of attractions I have planned to cover in 3 days: Day 1 – Casa Batlló, Casa Milá, Las Ramblas, La Boqueria, Parc de la Ciutadella, Mirador de Colom, Las Golondrinas Boat Tour

Day 2 – Camp Nou Stadium tour, Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Chocolate Museum, Gothic Quarter – Barcelona Walking Tour, Los Tarantos Flamenco Show

Day 3 – Cost Brave full-day tour

Also, I would be using public transport from the airport to the city and within the city for 3 days.

Can you please help me with which Card I should get? Barcelona Card (free public transport) or the Go Barcelona Card?

Also, if I choose the Barcelona Card – will I get a discount on tickets for below attractions : 1. Sagrada Familia 2. Parc Guell 3. Chocolate Museum 4. Camp Nou Stadium tour 5. Casa Batllo 6. Casa Mila etc.

27th February 2020 at 10:52 am

Sounds like a great trip! So, first, let’s look at the individual entry prices for each attraction (Feb 2020 prices):

Casa Batllo – €25 (online) Casa Mila – €24 (online) Las Ramblas – free La Boqueria – free Parc de la Ciutadella – free Mirador de Colom – €5.4 (online) Las Golondrinas Boat Tour – €15.50 Camp Nou – €26 (online) Sagrada Familia – €26 (online) (there is a €20 ticket, but this can only be used for the last two hours of opening) Park Guell – €10 (online) Chocolate Museum – €6 Gothic Quarter Barcelona Walking Tour – €18 Los Tarantos Flamenco Show – €17

So you are looking at €172.9 for attractions so far.

For transport to and from the airport, the Aerobus from the airport is €5.90 one way, and €10.2 return.

For transport around the city, you can either get a transport card, or buy individual tickets. A transport card for two days is €16.30. You can also buy a pack of 10 individual tickets for €11.35. I actually think this might work out better for you as you should be able to walk to most places, with the exception of Camp Nou and Parc Guell. However, some of the passes come with the Hop on Hop off bus, which stops at those locations.

We usually recommend three cards in Barcelona, the Barcelona City Pass , the Go Barcelona Pass and the Barcelona Card .

You can see our full comparison of all the Barcelona passes here .

Let’s look at your plan and see which card would be best value for you 🙂

The Barcelona City Pass. This includes entry to the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, as well as a one-way airport transfer. There’s also a 1 day Hop on Hop off bus. Then you get 20% off a number of attractions, including most of the attractions you plan to visit, which also includes 20% off a Costa Brava day tour. The price is €88.

I added up the price of the pass overall once you take into account what is included and the discounts, and you’d end up paying €202.9. So on the face of it, not a great discount for what you want to see. However, it does include the airport bus one way (€5.9), and a one day HOHO bus, (€25). However, probably not the best fit for you still.

The Go Barcelona Pass. This includes many attractions you want to see, with the exception of Mirador de Colom, Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Chocolate Museum and Los Tarantos. The pass costs €99.99 for two days. I added up the cost of the pass plus the tickets you have to buy, and it comes to €164.39 – so this is definitely a saving. Consider it also has the HOHO bus and lots of other attractions that you might consider visiting, and this is definitely an option to consider I think.

The Barcelona Card. This primarily features museums for free, and then has discounts on other attractions. It also includes a transport pass. The pass costs €41.4, which is quite low. However, you have to pay full price for Camp Nou, Sagrada Familia and some other attractions. I did the math, and based on your plan, the total with the card, attractions and discounted attractions is €184.8.

So far, I would say the best option is the 2 day Barcelona Card. You would have to pay for your own transport to and from the airport. However, you can then use the HOHO bus for your second day. I would suggest planning your day by looking at the route of the HOHO bus as it goes one way around the city. That said, as the timings might be quite tight on that day, taking public transport might be best as it will likely be faster!

I hope this all helps with your planning 🙂

arlene says

25th October 2019 at 3:29 pm

i printed it thru the icon its 89 pages long!big print a lot of wasted space and paper

25th October 2019 at 4:25 pm

Thanks for the feedback. This is a new feature on the website so it is useful to have this feedback. I have adjusted the font size for the printable page – can you let me know how many pages it shows now for you? It seems to be different for different people, but hopefully this has fixed it. No need to print it again of course.

Marcy Lane says

19th October 2019 at 8:23 am

Where can I find the print button. I don’t see it. We are going to Lisbon first with my husband and I and are meeting our daughter and her young family. Is this kid friendly? Where can I find the print button? I don’t see it? This is fabulous! Do you have itinerary for Lisbon too?

19th October 2019 at 8:26 am

There should be a print button in the social sharing icons that float down the side of the post (on desktop) and are at the bottom of the post (on desktop and mobile). It’s a blue icon, just after the e-mail envelope (second icon along). Let me know if you don’t see it, and what you see there instead, as we’ve only just implemented this and so it might not be displaying properly everywhere. If you don’t see it, if you could let me know what browser you are using.

For Lisbon, we haven’t visited yet so we don’t have an itinerary unfortunately.

For Barcelona – this itinerary is kid friendly, although it will depend on the kid and their stamina for sight seeing! So you might want to cut it down a bit to make it more manageable depending on their age and interests 🙂

Have a great trip!

19th October 2019 at 8:44 pm

The message said to sign up for the newsletter to get the itininery which I did. I haven’t gotten a confirmation that I signed up so I can get the itinerary. thanks

19th October 2019 at 9:09 pm

Thanks for coming back to me. I can see you have signed up and still need to confirm. If you could check your spam/trash folders as sometimes the confirmation e-mails go there. If it’s not there, and you haven’t received it by tomorrow, let me know and I can confirm you manually,

19th October 2019 at 9:17 pm

It’s not in my spam. I just looked. Can you send me the itinerary to my email address? Would that work? [email protected]

19th October 2019 at 9:26 pm

I’ve manually approved your request and so you should be able to access the print page now. If you put in your e-mail address it should work.

I’ve raised this as an issue with our e-mail provider as you should definitely have received our e-mail!

Let me know if you have any more problems 🙂

TONY FEEHAN says

27th September 2019 at 7:48 am

Hi, I have never been to Barcelona, I travel in a couple of days for a 4 night stay with my wife, apart from going to the Camp Nou and the beach, I didnt really think there was too much there but you guide has changed my mind, a brilliant blog, really looking forward to going now, thanks you both, Tony Feehan

27th September 2019 at 7:02 pm

Thanks very much Tony – have a great time in Barcelona 😀 Do let us know how you enjoy it!

23rd September 2019 at 7:59 am

Thank you Laurence (and Jess). I’m from the US, currently in Paris with my family, and taking off to Barcelona later today to get away from everyone. Original plan was to camp out in a hotel and get some work done in peace (us, Americans, and our stupid deadlines), but after reading your article it looks like I’ll be paying attention to more than the laptop screen. I’m only going for a day or two, but your extensive guide will be indispensable to making the most out of the short trip. Cheers!

23rd September 2019 at 9:55 am

Our pleasure! You definitely won’t be short of a thing or two to do in Barcelona 😉 Even if you only manage to see a few sights in between working, it will be worth it 😀 Have a great time, and good luck with the deadline!

Nick Wells says

20th September 2019 at 4:05 pm

Hi, A great post with the most amazing and insightful advice. My wife and i are taking our daughter in October for 3 days and we will certainly utilise your travel advice – thanks. Quick question we appreciate that Barcelona has multiple options re accommodation and we have based on price and availability got reduced the list to 4 hotels. Have you stayed in any,c an you give advice re location etc Leonardo Hotel Las Rambals (£376) Room Mate Carla (£398) H10 Universitat (476) Royal Ramblas (£446) Many Thanks ..

20th September 2019 at 4:09 pm

Thanks for your comment 🙂 We have stayed at the Leonardo Hotel on Las Ramblas and thought it was nice. The street was relatively quiet (it’s a block or so back from Las Ramblas itself), and the breakfast was very comprehensive if you opt for that option. Location wise it was within walking distance to most of the highlights, otherwise very close to a metro stop for the other sights.

We’ve not stayed at the others so can’t comment specifically on those 🙂

19th September 2019 at 6:02 pm

Thank you so much for sharing such a wonderful detailed itinerary plan. This really helps. We are planning our first trip to Barcelona in mid November. Is it a good time to visit Barcelona? How about weather.. Will it be pleasant or very cold in November. Appreciate your inputs.

19th September 2019 at 7:13 pm

Thanks very much, it’s my pleasure. November it will definitely be a bit cooler in Barcelona, although not too cold – probably between 10C in the evening and as high as 20C in the day time. So pretty perfect for sightseeing in my opinion. If you are unlucky and it is windy, then it might feel cooler. So you would want to pack some warmer clothes, but overall it should be pleasant 🙂

Christopher Gladney says

12th September 2019 at 4:59 pm

Hi, this is extremely helpful! Similar to Rome, is there a Google Maps to accompany this itinerary?

14th September 2019 at 5:05 pm

Hi Christopher!

A great point! I have added the map now 🙂

Marie Michelle Aurélus says

12th September 2019 at 3:11 pm

Thank you for taking the time to put together such useful and comprehensive information on the website. I am from Haiti and i will be traveling tomorrow to Lisbon and Barcelona . I am lucky to come across this article the day prior to my departure I can’t wait to visit the historic and beautiful sites you have recommended.

Thank you and kindest regards

Marie Michelle

13th September 2019 at 8:36 pm

Our pleasure Marie – have a fantastic trip!

7th September 2019 at 6:22 pm

This article was so helpful, we are going next May for three days before our cruise and it sorted out a lot of things. A friend told me about a wine and concert they did on the roof of a building have you ever heard of one?

8th September 2019 at 10:25 am

Delighted to be able to help 🙂 We’ve not actually heard or done one of these, was your friend able to give you any more details? Was it a performance venue or something arranged at a hotel?

24th June 2019 at 4:06 pm

Your site is so helpful! Thank you.

Do you know if the magic fountain is on during the day? I know it would be without lights and music. I’m just wondering if it runs or they turn it off during the day. I can’t imagine that fighting all the crowds at night would be a pleasant experience while traveling with two teenagers, but we’d love to see it on our way down from the castle.

25th June 2019 at 1:25 am

Our pleasure! So, the Magic fountain sound and light show only runs in the evenings, you can see the schedule here: https://www.barcelona.cat/en/what-to-do-in-bcn/magic-fountain/magic-fountains-show-times

However, parts of the fountain do run in the daytime I believe, although not with the choreographed sound and light. I would urge you to see it at night if you can though, it’s quite spectacular, and it’s a big space so there is room for lots of people 🙂

27th June 2019 at 3:55 pm

Thank you, Laurence.

I’ve been looking for a good, casual restaurant for paella in Barcelona. Do you have any recommendations? We also took you up on your recommendation and booked a balloon ride with Vols de Coloms. We’re staying in Santa Pau before and after the balloon and are looking for a casual but good local restaurant between Olat, Santa Pau and Besalu and are are traveling with two teenage boys. We will have a car as well. Do you have any recommendations?

Thanks again for your help!

27th June 2019 at 7:36 pm

We don’t have any paella recommendations for Barcelona – the dish is actually from Valencia, so whilst it is of course available in Barcelona, it’s not a local specialty. For tapas though we can recommend La Alcoba Azul which is excellent.

For Santa Pau, we have dined at Cal Sastre which is also fantastic 🙂 We can recommend reading our specific regional guide for more ideas: https://independenttravelcats.com/la-garrotxa-travel-guide-volcanic-catalonia-spain/

27th June 2019 at 7:48 pm

Thank you. Great news about Cal Sastre since that is where we are staying.

And, thanks for the information about the paella. That helps me to understand why I am having trouble finding a place. Have you heard of Bar Mut or Casa Lolea in Barcelona? I’m going to add La Alcoba Azul to our plans. Thank you!!!!

27th June 2019 at 7:52 pm

Oh, you’ll have a wonderful time there. It’s so picturesque and peaceful 🙂 I have to be honest, I have not heard of either of those locations. That doesn’t mean much though, there are thousands of restaurants in Barcelona. We usually just go by recent reviews on Google Maps to find someplace!

Catherine says

20th June 2019 at 10:52 pm

Hello!! What a great blog you have! I am looking for recommendations regarding best part of the city to stay in order to take in most, if not all, of the items on your 3 day Barcelona itinerary. Looking for a 4* or better hotel. Another possibility would be an Airbnb property to rent. Saw one available in Eixample – would this be a good location option? Also, what are recommendations regarding the Salvador Dali Museum? Many thanks!

23rd June 2019 at 12:02 am

Hi Katherine!

Thank you very much! So there are lots of hotels in the city that meet your criteria. The one we stayed at most recently which has a great location is Hotel Barcelona Catedral , which is right in the gothic quarter and perfect for getting to everything. The Eixample is a good area as well.

For the Salvador Dali museum, the easiest way is to take a tour that goes from Barcelona, such as this one: A full day trip to Girona and Figueres . That will get you to and from the museum, plus you’ll have some time to explore Girona which is also lovely.

Have a great trip – let me know if you have any more questions!

Larry Krantz says

4th June 2019 at 5:12 pm

Just came across your 3 Days in Barcelona on the internet while planning for our trip in October. What a wonderful, comprehensive itinerary. We are thinking of starting our stay by taking a city tour bus around the City to get a quick overall taste, and then following your itinerary. Any recommendations for the bus tour? We’ll be going on to Morocco so any thoughts on our getting there? Thanks very much.

4th June 2019 at 5:42 pm

Hi Larry – thanks very much!

So we’ve only taken the official bus tour, which is included in the Barcelona Pass. It’s the Hop on Hop off bus tour which goes around the majority of the sights, and has an audioguide in a variety of languages. So that would be the one I recommend. If you aren’t getting a Barcelona Pass, or one of the other passes which includes a bus tour, then you can buy an individual ticket for that here .

From Barcelona, there are direct flights to Marrakesh if that’s where you are heading. The easiest way is going to be to fly. We usually use Kiwi to check flights as it’s one of the few comparison tools that includes most of the budget airlines. Just be sure to add any bags to get the true price 🙂

Let me know if you have any more questions, and have a great trip!

ferdie syfu says

31st May 2019 at 2:19 pm

I have read your thorough blog on a three day stay in Barcelona. It will be our first time traveling to barcelona , me and my wife and both 50 years old. we will be coming from Madrid by train and staying for 3 nights in June. i heard the weather is not cold this time of the year. are the three days enough or shall we stay for a fourth? thank you likewise for accommodation recommendations, as we have not planned this trip yet, we are still looking, we normally travel by train or by bus to get around, so we would normally choose a lace close to stations.

31st May 2019 at 4:07 pm

So there is a lot to see in Barcelona! We’ve visited many times and always find more to do. So you will certainly have plenty of options if you decide to stay a fourth day 🙂

For accommodation, there’s a great metro in Barcelona and it shouldn’t be hard to find a stop close to a hotel as there are lots of stops. So that shouldn’t be hard.

15th May 2019 at 2:55 pm

What a great itinerary! We will be visiting Barcelona for 4 days in January. Is the boat tour offered in January?

16th May 2019 at 11:32 am

Yes it is, although I believe it only goes once a day rather than multiple times a day, so you will want to check the timetable so as to be sure not to miss it. You can see that here .

Jocelyn S says

6th April 2019 at 6:11 am

Hi there, great article. Any tips for a family of 11 adults and 1 toddler (3yrs old), 1 adult can’t walk for long distances or time..maybe an hour at most. Any suggestions on where to stay for a big group?

Thanks ahead of time.

6th April 2019 at 12:19 pm

Hi Jocelyn!

So my tip would be to take advantage of the Hop on Hop off bus, as that will get you to all the sights in the city and minimise walking time. Alternatively, the Barcelona metro system is also very good and goes to most locations on this itinerary.

For accommodation, I’ve not travelled in large group. However, I would suggest looking for a multi-room apartment which will likely be the most cost effective option as otherwise you will have to pay for a lot of individual hotel rooms.

For example, this search on booking.com is set up to just show apartments that will take up to 11 adults. You will have to adjust the dates of course, but there are a variety of options, and the prices are very reasonable if you calculate it per person (you should be able to get a central apartment for between $30 and $60 per person per night, depending on when you visit I think).

Robin N Hall says

3rd April 2019 at 11:40 pm

Thank you so very much for such a comprehensive site on what to do, when and how much. I really appreciate all the time you have saved us. We will be attending a family wedding in London in September and then thought we’d fly to Barcelona for a 3 day visit and we will likely follow your itinerary to the T. Thank you again!

4th April 2019 at 11:56 am

Our pleasure Robin – thanks very much for taking the time to let us know you found the content useful. It’s why we write it, and it’s lovely to hear feedback. Have a wonderful trip – we’d love to hear how it went!

19th March 2019 at 11:54 am

Hi Great site and itinerary – as a relative neanderthal IT etc do you have this a printable version – thanks Steve

20th March 2019 at 12:49 pm

So this isn’t an option we currently have on the site. We know that most browsers do have a print function, so that would likely be the easiest option for now.

17th October 2019 at 6:43 pm

I appreciate this might be a bit late for your trip, but for others reading and in case you use our site in the future for other trips, we’ve now added a print button on all our posts 🙂

Happy travels!

Carol L says

21st February 2019 at 4:30 am

Weather in mid May, based on what I can tell from reading it seems dresses and pants and short sleeves for day time with jacket at night—-is that correct based on your experience? Also any recommendation for local place to see Flamenco dancing?

21st February 2019 at 8:51 am

That sounds about right – the nights tend to cool down a bit. It might also be quite warm in May (climate is so hard to predict), so you may want shorts or lighter, shorter skirts.

For Flamenco, there are a lot of options. Tablao de Carmen and Palau Dalmases Flamenco are both very highly rated, although we haven’t attended either. However I would definitely check out online reviews and go for the best reviewed options 🙂

13th February 2019 at 4:35 pm

Thanks for your Itinerary for major tourist cities and I found it very usefully when I planed my trip to Paris last summer.. I basically followed your itinerary daily, used Paris Pass and had wonderful time.

This year I plan to visit London and Barcelona and plan to follow your itinerary of both cities.. Does this Barcelona itinerary comes with a google map like other cities?

13th February 2019 at 7:06 pm

I’m delighted that you have found our content useful for your trips! You are right, this post is missing a map. I will add one in the next few days – sorry about that!

16th February 2019 at 2:56 am

Hi Laurence, We will arrive Barcelona for a 12 nights cruise trip in end of May and stay behind for 3 days after disembark. Can I ask what sort of pass are suitable for us as we have 6 hours on first day then boarding on the cruise at evening. After 12 nights of the cruise, we will stay behind of 3 days in Barcelona. This is our first time visit and I don’t know what pass and travel card are suitable. I am not quite sure how to work out the 3-day Barcelona Pass plus Travelcard because if we activate on the first day then it seems not worth for a pass. Please advise for any better idea.

17th February 2019 at 4:38 pm

It definitely depends on which attractions you want to visit in Barcelona. My suggestion would be to get the three day Barcelona Pass for your three days, but not to activate it on your first day. Instead, I would suggest maybe visiting the Sagrada Familia on your first day as that is not included on the Barcelona Pass. Then you can see the other sites when you come back from your cruise. You also might not need the travel card – public transport is very cheap in Barcelona, and you can take the metro to most locations for around a euro a ride if you buy a 10 journey travel card (which can be used for multiple people). I do however urge you to see what attractions the pass covers before deciding. To help out, we have a guide to all our favourite Barcelona Passes here:

https://independenttravelcats.com/barcelona-discount-passes-barcelona-card-vs-barcelona-pass-vs-barcelona-museum-pass/

I hope this helps – let me know if you have any other questions!

18th February 2019 at 8:04 am

Hi Laurence, Thank you so much for your suggestion and it helps us to make the decision.

Cheers, Anita

18th February 2019 at 8:15 am

My pleasure Anita – have a great trip!

26th January 2019 at 2:48 pm

We will be in Barcelona in March and was wondering what were your top choices for restuarants and food. We will also be visiting Lisbon and Paris during this trip and we are all about food experiences any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you

26th January 2019 at 3:12 pm

So we don’t currently have a guide to where to eat in Barcelona as we tend to just pick the places with good deals and good recent reviews on Google Maps. However, we do have a guide for Paris which you might find useful:

https://independenttravelcats.com/paris-lunch-splurges-saving-money-on-michelin-starred-restaurants/

We’ve not visited Lisbon yet, so can’t help there I’m afraid!

have a great trip, and let us know if you have any more questions 🙂

Fabiana says

12th January 2019 at 2:00 pm

I’m so thankful for this!!! Very very helpful and great readingg! ✵✵ ✵Greetings from Brazil✵

12th January 2019 at 4:08 pm

My pleasure – I hope you have a wonderful trip and do let us know if you have any questions!

Tony Snellgrove says

13th November 2018 at 5:44 am

great site guys, well done, very helpful, we will be using your suggestions.

13th November 2018 at 3:32 pm

Thanks very much Tony!

11th November 2018 at 7:47 pm

Very comprehensive itinerary! My husband and I will be heading to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, also with a 3 day stay, and I think the plan so far will be to follow your itinerary to the T 🙂 I think we will be purchasing the Barcelona Pass. Just wondering at which point and how did you incorporate the hop on hop off bus that was included in the Barcelona pass into the trip?

11th November 2018 at 7:56 pm

Hi Emily! My suggestion for your trip is to use the HOHO bus for Day 2, as it’s an easy way to get from the city center to the Sagrada Familia and then on to Parc Guell (you would just have to walk to the Recinte from Sagrada Familia, which is not too far). You can then take it back from Parc Guell – it take a nice route around the city at this section, and you will see a few things from the bus that you might not otherwise have seen 🙂

Have a great trip, and let us know how it goes!

GBrown says

8th November 2018 at 2:43 am

I would like to plan a 3-day trip during the week of December 17-23 to some place warm and sunny. What places do you recommend in South or Central America? Thanks,

8th November 2018 at 8:12 pm

That’s quite a big part of the world! To be honest, we have only visited Costa Rica and Ecuador, so don’t have extensive knowledge of that area. Costa Rica would be a good option, as would much of the Carribean, but you’ll want to check the weather of course. Otherwise, you might also consider Thailand or Sri Lanka 🙂

Hope this helps!

Bob Lee says

11th September 2018 at 12:34 pm

Hi do you do any itinerary for other cities in Spain eg Madrid?

11th September 2018 at 12:49 pm

Hey Bob! We don’t have itineraries for the other cities as yet as we’ve not visited them, however it’s on the to-do list, so stay tuned 🙂

Kevi Jackson says

9th June 2018 at 5:49 pm

I want to confirm what sights are free with the Barcelona card, but cannot find the information online. The Barcelona card website lists the Picasso museum, but not some of the others we want to see. Are you able to reserve times for visits via the Barcelona card rather than each individual sight? (Namely the Chocolate Museum and the Monument Zone of Park Guell). Also what does ICOM stand for? TIA!

11th June 2018 at 11:38 pm

The full list of museums and attractions included are here: http://bcnshop.barcelonaturisme.com/imgfiles/ecv/card/BarcelonaCard2018.pdf

Unfortunately, there’s no one card that covers everything in Barcelona, so you have to figure out which one suits you best. For the Chocolate Museum you don’t need to reserve in advance. The only sights that require advance reservations to secure a spot are Parc Guell and the Sagrada Familia. You can book tickets for those directly online. The only city card we currently know of that lets you book those tickets in advance is the Barcelona City Pass ( https://travelcats.barcelona.ticketbar.eu/en/discount-cards/barcelona-city-pass-/ ) – we’re in the process of reviewing this and will be adding it to this post soon, but you might find it meets your needs. Once you get that you can book your time slots directly for those two attractions.

Hope this helps! I’m not sure what ICOM stands for, where did you see that?

7th June 2018 at 6:36 am

Wow this has been so wonderfully described and sorted out so many things for me. Extremely helpful artice

8th June 2018 at 10:30 am

Thanks very much Komal 🙂

2nd June 2018 at 6:29 am

This looks very useful …you kept things to the point and clear .

2nd June 2018 at 1:57 pm

Thanks Vijay

Rista Hansen says

13th May 2018 at 2:27 pm

Hi We are from Windhoek Namibia and our first time ever to visit Barcelona. We are flying to London and onwards by train to Barcelona,then Paris. The information is very useful and exciting. Any train recommendation? Regards Rista Hansen

13th May 2018 at 9:26 pm

Thanks very much! I have to say that in my mind it makes more sense to go to Paris before Barcelona, just because of geography, but i assume you have a reason for going in that order. If you want to take a train, there’s an overnight train from Paris to Barcelona, which is a great option for not wasting a day of travel. So you can take the eurostar from London to Paris, and then the overnight train to and from Paris / Barcelona. That would be my suggestion 🙂

Rorita Gattinger says

6th April 2018 at 9:07 pm

Thank you so much for putting this informative and comprehensive list together. It sure saved us a lot of time and research. We will be going soon and look forward to visiting the many sites you suggested.

Kind regards,

7th April 2018 at 10:42 am

Our pleasure Rorita – have a wonderful trip! Do check back in and let us know how it went 😀

Mireen says

30th March 2018 at 3:07 am

Hello Laurence Norah, My husband and daughter are planning a trip to Barcelona in the summer. These tips are indeed very helpful. We can definitely maximize our 3 day plan trip to Barcelona. We also wanted to see Madrid – do you have any prior blog post? If we have a few more days to spare any 3rd best city after the 2? I heard Toledo is great – or neighboring country. We have a total of 12 days. Any feedback will be highly appreciated. Thanks so much!

30th March 2018 at 10:39 am

I’m pleased that you found the post useful. I haven’t been to Madrid yet but it’s on my list! I would say that it really depends on where you want to go and what you want to see. If you wanted to stay local to Barcelona, then the town of Girona is really beautiful, and easy to get to by train. There’s also Lisbon in Portugal, which I have not visited but many friends say it is lovely. If you wanted to go further afield, there’s an overnight train service that links Barcelona with Paris too!

Have a lovely trip

Mireen Q. Delos Santos says

16th June 2018 at 2:20 am

Sorry – I didn’t see your reply. We will be on our way to our Spain adventure in about 3 weeks. Yes, we did include Lisbon in our itinerary. We were fortunate to see Paris last summer so we wanted to concentrate on Spain and enjoy it without rushing. So far we have Barcelona, Madrid, Toledo and Seville and a side trip to Lisbon.

Appreciate all your tips! Thanks so much!

16th June 2018 at 10:18 pm

My pleasure Mireen, and no worries. Have a great trip!

Kyle and Briana says

24th February 2018 at 6:51 pm

This is a good comprehensive itinerary. If we return we will check out some of the places we didn’t get to but gosh there is so much to do in Barcelona! We could spend quite a bit of time there, especially with all the possible day trips you could do outside the city as well. Here is what we did. We originally had 2 full days there, then our flight got moved so we had three so we thought okay more time in BCN! (It was supposed to be in Marrakech). But then we got pick-pocketed and day three was mostly the police station. We didn’t get the Barcelona pass but think we would have had we been staying a little longer or maybe if we thought we had a full three days from the start. We also didn’t love the tap water – it tastes like it does here in our apartment in California now! haha but we use a water filter to help

24th February 2018 at 7:02 pm

Thanks very much 🙂 There is loads to do in Barcelona you are right – we have visited a number of times and will be returning shortly, and we’re always finding more to do every time! Sorry to hear you got pickpocketed, I’ve heard really bad things about the city in the regard, but we’ve been ok so far. The water is also definitely and acquired taste!

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Barcelona   Travel Guide

Why Go To Barcelona

Barcelona contains both the authentically historic and the wildly bizarre. From the scenic trails of the colorful  Park Güell  to the romantic narrow alleys of the Barri Gòtic , this city by the sea seems to attract all types – the adventurer, the romantic, the partier, the culture lover – with an almost overwhelming variety of things to do. You could stay for a few days exploring its architectural marvels, but chances are you'll need a whole week to explore.

And while the beach lures locals and visitors in droves, it’s the cosmopolitan city that really dazzles. Much of the activity revolves around the Ciutat Vella (or Old City), a series of narrow streets and alleys packed with restaurants, cafes and nightclubs, and the home of Las Ramblas – the wide, tree-lined thoroughfare that’s long been the hub of the city.

Just as unmissable are Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces; the architect, famous for his distinctive Catalan art nouveau style was the brains behind the city’s wavy, whimsical creations, from Casa Milà and Casa Batlló to La Sagrada Família . Beyond Gaudí’s influential mark, you’ll find an eclectic shopping scene, a slew of museums, plenty of parks and exquisite food and wine. You see why we suggest a week vacation? To get a lay of the land, consider signing up for one of the city's best guided tours .

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• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in Spain
• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in March 2024
• # 6 in Best Places to Visit in Europe for 2023-2024

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Best of Barcelona

Best hotels in barcelona.

• # 1 in Hotel Arts Barcelona
• # 2 in Cotton House Hotel, Autograph Collection
• # 3 in Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona

Best Things to Do in Barcelona

• # 1 in La Sagrada Família (Church of the Sacred Family)
• # 2 in Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)
• # 3 in Casa Batlló

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Barcelona Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Barcelona is from May to June, when balmy temperatures in the low to mid-70s mesh with a flurry of festivals that trumpet the advent of summer. The actual summertime is sticky with humidity – locals leave their beloved city in droves to catch a breeze somewhere else. They come back for the fall when the average highs drop back in to the 70s. Winter is mild compared to other Spanish destinations, with highs in the high 50s. And while coming during the spring may seem like smart idea for avoiding crowds, April sees frequent showers, which may put a literal damper on sightseeing plans (most of Barcelona's top attractions are experienced outside). Keep in mind that no matter what time of the year you'll visit, there will be other tourists: Barcelona is the most-visited city in Spain.

Weather in Barcelona

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Don't visit in August Swarms of locals leave the city in August to catch some relief from the sweltering humidity, which means some of the smaller restaurants and shops are closed until September.

Spanish vs. Catalan Most residents who grew up in the region consider themselves Catalan and speak the Catalan language to each other, instead of Spanish. But don't worry – Barcelona is an incredibly international city and most residents are bilingual. Many are also trilingual, especially in the tourist areas.

Cover up at church Religious sites, such as Barcelona Cathedral and La Sagrada Família, ask that visitors cover up knees and shoulders when entering. If you don't have the proper attire on hand, you won't be admitted (although shawls are for sale at the cathedral).

Take a tour According to visitors, one of the best ways to acquaint yourself with the city is to take a guided tour .

How to Save Money in Barcelona

Go big on lunch Eat a big meal at lunch and you can cash in on the menú del día (menu of the day), which is usually an affordable and tasty three-course meal (they’re normally served on weekdays, although some restaurants offer them on weekends too). A similar meal in the evening costs much more.

Don't eat in touristy areas The more-visited parts of the city like Las Ramblas are known to serve mediocre food at exorbitant prices. Instead, venture away from the crowded areas and you’ll find something better for much less.

Stay in an apartment Cut down on food costs by renting an apartment (rather than staying in a hotel), where you can buy groceries and cook your own Catalan feasts.

Culture & Customs

Barcelona is part of the Spanish province of Catalonia, making its culture a little different from what you'd experience in Madrid , Seville  or Granada . The most noticeable difference is the language. In Barcelona, both Spanish and Catalan are official languages; Catalan is not a dialect of Spanish. The language was derived from Latin during the occupation of the Romans several thousands of years ago. While in Barcelona, you'll see street and roadway signs in both Catalan and Spanish as well as some restaurant menus. However, considering Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe, you will likely find English speaking residents in hotels and tourist areas.

Barcelona's official currency is the euro (EUR). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops. Like the rest of Spain, tipping is not common in Barcelona. Depending on where you dine, a service charge may be added to your bill. However, if you do want to tip, 10% is more than sufficient. Also similar to the rest of Spain, Catalans eat late and party even later. Restaurants are typically open for lunch between 1 and 4 p.m. and for dinner from 8 to 11 p.m. For locals, dinner usually starts at 9 p.m. at the earliest, going out starts at 12 a.m. and clubs stay open until 5 or 6 a.m. 

What to Eat

In Barcelona, expect to find a mix of traditional Spanish dishes along with Mediterranean-infused Catalonian classics. While here, make sure to sample Spanish staples including jamón ibérico, manchego cheese , tortilla española (potato omelet), gazpacho (cold soup), and patatas bravas (sautéed potatoes typically served with a spicy aioli). And considering the city borders the Mediterranean Sea, you should indulge in paella accordingly. But when in Catalonia, try the Catalan versions of paella. There's arròs a la catalana , which features much of the same ingredients of paella except the dish doesn't use saffron, a key ingredient in Spanish paella. Fideuà is another paella-like dish with a Catalan spin, only instead of rice you get noodles.

Catalonian cuisine is big on meat and fish. And while that may not sound too far off from the rustic, meat-heavy fare found throughout the rest of Spain, the difference here is that the Catalans like to mix both of them together in one dish. Mar i muntanya is the name of the phenomenon ,  so don't be alarmed if while in a restaurant, you notice a dish coming out with chicken and shrimp together on a plate. If that sounds too heavy for your liking, there are plenty of lighter options that are quintessentially Catalan. Grilled vegetables are surprisingly big for a place that loves pork. (Sausage is another staple here. Instead of focusing on chorizo, go for the regional botifarras sausage). One of the most traditional Catalan dishes available is escalivada , which is grilled eggplant and red peppers mixed with olive oil and garlic (sometimes with anchovies) served on top of bread. There's also the vegetarian-friendly, and favored pa amb tomàquet snack, or bread spread with a mix of olive oil, garlic and crushed tomatoes. And if you're visiting from December to early May, seek out a calçot cookout. Calçots are a type of spring onions native to the province, and it's a Catalan pastime to char them on a grill and dip them in romesco sauce. Also part of the pastime? Wearing bibs (often emblazoned with calçots) and eating outside, where the grilled calçots are spread among newspaper. (If that sounds familiar, it's the same way crab and lobster is consumed in the USA.)

Whatever you decide to eat while in Barcelona, make sure to leave room for dessert. Crema catalana is the Catalan version of creme brulee. Cheese is also dessert here. Mel i mató is a goat cheese drizzled with warm honey and accompanied by walnuts. Cava, or Catalan sparkling wine, goes great with these too.

Barcelona is a major tourism hotspot and pickpockets know it. Be mindful of your surroundings especially while touring Barcelona's major attractions. The city sees a moderate rate of conventional crime and principal tourist areas and metros are often the most targeted spots. Men should keep their wallets in their front pockets and carry backpacks in front when traveling on the metro and women should make sure their purses are zipped or secured as best as possible.

Getting Around Barcelona

The best way to get around Barcelona is by metro. A handful of numbered and color-coded lines weave throughout the city, making stops near many of the city's most popular attractions as well as the Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). City buses are also an option for getting around the city, but be aware that ever-present traffic jams make commuting this way rather time-consuming. You could hail taxis on the street, but if you want to burn a few calories, conduct your tour on foot or by bike. Driving is not recommended.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport is required for entry into Spain. The passport must be valid for three months beyond your departure date. Tourists from the United States can stay for up to 90 days without a tourist visa. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .

Park Güell is one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona, thanks to its excellent views and colorful atmosphere.

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Things To Do

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10D Barcelona Itinerary for First Timers — Road Trip Around the Best of Catalonia

This epic Barcelona itinerary goes beyond the city. Go skydiving in Girona, hiking in Montserrat, and see first-century Roman ruins in Tarragona!

Updated on 16 Feb 2022.

Like most first-timers to Spain, my knowledge of Catalonia was limited to its capital — Barcelona. I looked forward to seeing Gaudi’s works and eating lots of tapas.

But this trip proved there’s so much more to the region surrounding Barcelona. There are dormant volcanoes to hike into, quirky museums (from some of the most brilliant artists in the world) and even Game of Thrones filming locations!

For those unfamiliar with Catalonia, here’s a short introduction: Catalonia is made up of four regions — Barcelona , Girona, Tarragona, and Lleida.

Despite being part of Spain, Catalonia has its own flag, language, and traditions not found anywhere else in the country. Like the sport of building human towers (below), Castells!

Castells are under the UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage list!

Good news for those hoping to visit as well; Singapore announced a Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) with Spain ! Read on for our 10-day itinerary exploring Barcelona and surrounds.

Pre-trip Essentials

Photo credit: @angelacompagnone via Unsplash

COVID-19 related:

Entering Spain — You’ll need the following documents: 1) 48 hours pre-departure: Complete the Spain Travel Health Form to receive a QR code. You’ll need to present this upon arrival in Spain. 2) Before check-in: Download your Digital Vaccination Certificate via  Notarise .

Catalonia’s COVID-19 page here.

Returning to Singapore (Update as of 22 Feb 2022) — Travellers entering Singapore (citizens included) via the VTL are required to take a supervised ART within 24 hours of arrival.

Do check the latest VTL requirements when planning your trip.

Social distancing restrictions: Most facilities and events are back at 100% capacity. Face masks must be worn indoors and some outdoor locations such as amusement parks.

More pre-trip essentials below such as where to get data and a Google maps with all the locations pinned!

Barcelona and Surrounds Itinerary Overview

This 10-day Catalonia road trip itinerary covers highlights in the Barcelona, Tarragona, and Girona regions in a clockwise direction.

Day 1-3: Barcelona

We spent six weeks based in Barcelona as part of Airbnb’s Live Anywhere Program and still left feeling like there’s so much more left to see!

If you’re only in Barcelona for a few days, here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

La Sagrada Familia

No Barcelona itinerary would be complete without seeing the Sagrada Familia — Gaudí’s last and arguably greatest work. 40 years of his life was dedicated to building the Sagrada Familia, and his last 12 years were spent working solely on it up till his death in 1926.

The interior is unlike any other church. Our eyes were immediately drawn to the ceiling — massive granite columns branching up to the sky. Gaudí’s main inspirations were nature and light and every detail in the church reflected that!

The church is still undergoing construction and was slated to be completed by 2026, but will most likely be delayed due to the pandemic. Entrance includes a detailed audio tour, but you can book guided tours (€49) as well.

Entrance fee: €26 , €24 for those under 30 years old — tickets can only be purchased online) Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM How to get there: Take the L2 or L5 metro line to Sagrada Familia station. Alternatively, take bus 19, 33, 34, 43, 44, 50, 51, B20 or B24 and get off at the Sagrada Familia stop

Park Güell 

Park Güell is another Gaudí must-see in Barcelona. The most iconic part of the park is the Terrace, an excellent vantage point overlooking the city decorated with vibrant mosaic tiles!

The project was intended as a private estate for upper-class families in 1900, but was bought over by the City Council in 1922 due to the lack of interested buyers. No complaints there because Park Güell can now be enjoyed by everyone!

Other notable photo spots here include the Greek Theatre , Dragon Stairway , and Hypostyle Room .

Entrance fee: €10 (~S$15.43) — purchase online beforehand as there are time slots for entry Opening hours: 9:30AM – 5:30PM How to get there: Take the L3 metro line to Lesseps or Vallcarca stations and walk 20min from either station. Or, take bus H6 or D40 and walk 10 min.

Casa Batlló

Photo credit: @casabatllo via Instagram

Glimmering scaled-roofs and mask-shaped balconies; the exterior of Casa Batlló stands out like a sore thumb — in the best possible way. The interior is no less fascinating. For one, you’ll find no straight lines! Every door, window, and tile exudes character, creating Casa Batlló’s lively personality.

Entrance includes a free audio tour sharing the history of Casa Batlló and Gaudí’s inspirations while designing it.

Entrance fee: €35 (~S$54), free for children under 12 — tickets can be purchased online or in-person Opening hours: 9AM – 6:30PM (Tue – Thu), 9AM – 8PM (Fri – Mon) How to get there: Take the L2, L3 or L4 metro line to Passeig de Gràcia station or bus H10, V15, 7, 22 or 24 and walk 3min

Singapore has Orchard Road , Barcelona has La Rambla . This 1.2km-long street stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to Port Vell at the coast. Beyond big brands like Primark and Zara, there’s also street artists and performers here!

*Pro-tip: Take your time to explore the side streets. There are loads of charming bakeries and vintage shops (See Carrer de Tallers street) in the area.

Opening hours: Most shops close by 9PM, but restaurants open till much later How to get there: Take L1 metro line to Catalunya (exit at the beginning of La Rambla at Plaza Catalunya) or L3 metro line to Liceu (exit in the middle of La Rambla)

La Boqueria Market

Boqueria Market isn’t just a colourful feast for the eyes. Salami and cheese bouquets, fresh fruits, and local pastries are some gems you’ll find! We enjoyed snacking on street food, but a highlight was stopping at one of the seafood bars for tapas.

We settled at Ramblero for some calamari, mussels, and grilled octopus. The bill came to €38 (~S$58), but verdict — we’d gladly return for more.

Spoiler — we actually did return. Couldn’t leave without trying their seafood platter (€60) 😂

*Pro-tip: Some stalls start closing around 4PM so it’s good to go earlier!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8AM – 8:30PM (Mon – Sat, Closed on Sun)  How to get there: Take the L3 metro line to Liceu station. The entrance of La Boqueria is located on La Rambla

If you’d like to explore markets the locals frequent, Barcelona has 38 other food markets scattered all over the city! Just the Eixample district alone has a few — like Ninot Market , and Sant Antoni Market .

Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter , or Barrio Gothic, is one of the best places to visit in Barcelona. It’s one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city — a labyrinth of bars, shops, and timeless architecture.

Walk the same streets as Picasso , who frequented the restaurant Els Quatre Gats as a young artist in the 1900s. It was here he held one of his first exhibitions! The Gothic Quarter is also home to Barcelona’s oldest restaurant, Can Culleretes  — a family-run eatery since 1786.

In the area, be sure to visit the Cathedral of Barcelona , the Bishop’s Bridge (first photo) and Plaça Reial (second photo).

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: Take the L3 metro line to Liceu station. The Gothic Quarter is located opposite La Boqueria.

Hot Chocolate and Churros

Churros con chocolate (Churros with chocolate) is a must-try in Barcelona. And no, it’s not quite the hot chocolate you’re used to — more like pure, sinful melted chocolate to dip the churros in. There are many places selling this snack but one of our favourites was Churrería Laietana !

Cost: €1.70/serving (+ €2 for a cup of melted chocolate) Opening hours: 7AM – 1PM, 4:30PM – 8:30PM (Mon – Fri), 8AM – 1:30PM (Sun), Closed on Sat Address: Via Laietana, 46, 08003 Barcelona

Accommodation in Barcelona (3 Nights): Stay in the Exiample or Gothic Quarter area for easy access to the main attractions. Our Airbnb was located in Exiample and had several dining options nearby.

Read also: 16 Best Things to do in Barcelona Besides the La Sagrada Familia

Day 4: Tarragona

Rent a car in barcelona and drive to tarragona.

Distance: 97.6km  Drive time: 1h 13min

The first stop on this Catalonia road trip is Tarragona, a coastal city famous for well-preserved ancient Roman ruins. It was the first Roman stronghold in Spain, dating back to 218 BC.

Look up car rentals via doyouspain.com and opt to pick it up from Barcelona Sants (train station). We got a five-seater SUV with automatic transmission from OK Rent A Car at €153 (~S$236) for six days (excl. zero excess for insurance).

PortAventura World

PortAventura Park

Start the road trip on a high with a visit to PortAventura Park . This thrill-seeker’s paradise has 43 rides across six themed worlds so you won’t be able to cover them all in a day.

Our favourites were the big coasters like Furius Baco, Shambhala, Dragon Khan, and El Diablo. Despite the long estimated waiting times for the rides, we waited no more than 15 minutes for most of them.

Ferrari Land

Right next to PortAventura Park is another theme park — Ferrari Land , whose main attraction can be spotted from afar. The ride Red Force stands at an intimidating 112m and goes from 0 – 180km/hr in just five seconds. Ferrari Land is much smaller and can be covered in just half a day.

If we had to pick just one park, it’ll be PortAventura Park. It’s almost three times bigger, with a lot more rides.

Entrance fee: From €48 (PortAventura Park), from €20 Ferrari Land). Alternatively, pay €58 for both parks Opening hours: Varies Address: Av. Pere Molas, Km 2, 43840, Tarragona

Accommodation in Tarragona (1 Night): Our Airbnb was located right in front of Mercat De Tarragona (Tarragona’s Central Market) and just a 15-minute drive from the theme parks. Pick an Airbnb or hostel in the same area for easy access to the main landmarks.

Day 5: Tarragona to Montserrat

Spend the first half of the day exploring Tarragona before driving up to Montserrat. The main attractions are all located within walking distance of one another.

Tarragona Market

The Tarragona Market is the heart of the city. Despite being around since 1915, the inside is modern with minimalistic cast-iron columns. Fresh meat, veggies and cooked food are sold on the main floor, while the basement houses a large supermarket.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8:30AM – 9PM (Mon – Sat, Closed on Sun) Address: Plaça de Corsini, 43001 Tarragona

Tarragona Amphitheatre

Along the coast lies Tarragona Amphitheatre , which has been around since the second century. This was the backdrop of bloody gladiator fights and public executions, witnessed by up to 14,000 spectators.

Besides the amphitheater, there are several Roman landmarks around Tarragona. Like the Roman Circus (above), which used to hold chariot races! A single attraction ticket costs €3.30. Alternatively, get bulk tickets to four Roman monuments and two noble houses for €11.05.

Entrance fee: From €3.30 Opening hours: Varies depending on the season Address: Parc de l’amfiteatre, s/n, 43003 Tarragona (Roman Amphitheatre)

Mediterranean Balcony

Just a two-minute walk from Tarragona Amphitheatre is the Mediterranean Balcony . Here you’ll get the best views of the Mediterranean ocean from Tarragona. According to legend, touching the railing brings good luck!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: Passeig de les Palmeres, s/n, 43004 Tarragona

Other landmarks in Tarragona include the Monument als Castellers sculpture and Plaça del Sadassos .

Las Ferreres Aqueduct

A 16-minute drive from the main city will take you to Les Ferreres Aqueduct , also known as Devil’s Bridge. This structure has been around since the first century A.D. and used to supply the city with water. These days, visitors can enjoy a scenic walk across the remaining 217-metre long stretch.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 43007 Tarragona

Lunch at El Celleret

For lunch, we recommend stopping by El Celleret — a highly-rated local restaurant surrounded by vineyards. It’s roughly a 40-minute drive from Les Ferreres Aqueduct. This establishment is run by the Torres family , a five-generation wine empire since 1870.

They have an a la carte menu , but we settled on the set lunch (€38/pax) which included five starters and two bottles of wine to share, plus a main and dessert each. Dishes feature commonly used ingredients from the area, like wild mushrooms, potatoes and grilled Iberian pork. 😋

El Celleret gets pretty packed, so call ahead to book a table.

Cost: From €15 for a main Opening hours: 1PM – 4PM (Wed – Mon), Closed on Tue Address: Finca el Maset, s/n, 08796 Pacs del Penedès, Barcelona

Drive to Montserrat from El Celleret

Distance: 54km  Drive time: 52min 

Escape the city and head to the jagged peaks of Montserrat ! Montserrat, or “serrated mountain” in Catalan, is one of Catalonia’s most famous landscapes. This can also be done as a day trip from Barcelona via train, so feel free to reshuffle the itinerary.

Montserrat Monastery and Escolonia Boy’s Choir

Founded over a thousand years ago, Montserrat Monastery is one of Catalonia’s most recognised landmarks.

End the night with a performance by Escolanía de Montserrat in the Montserrat Basilica. This prestigious all-boys choir is one of Europe’s oldest singing groups, with a history of over 700 years!

Entrance fee: Free Performance timings: Escolanía de Montserrat typically performs twice daily, in the afternoon and at night [ schedule ] Address: 08199 Montserrat, Barcelona

Accommodation at Montserrat (1 Night): Abat Oliba Hostel is conveniently located just beside the Abbey of Montserrat and offers both dorm beds and family rooms.

*Pro-tip: There are limited dining options at Montserrat. La Cafeteria is the most budget option but it closes early (4:30PM on weekdays, 6:30PM on weekends). Pack some food and snacks before driving up.

Day 6: Montserrat to Girona

A popular hike here is to the peak of Sant Jeroni and there are two ways up. You could start from the base which will take around six hours roundtrip. If you’re pressed for time, you can cut that journey in half by taking the Sant Joan Funicular up and hike the rest of the way.

Sant Joan Furnicular

Sant Joan Furnicular takes you from the lower station near the Abbey of Montserrat up to 1,000m above sea level.

If you’re hiking up, there’s a clearly marked path on the right side of Upper Sant Joan Station leading to the summit, Sant Jeroni.

Cost: €9.10 for a single journey , €14 for return Opening hours: Varies Address: 08293 Monestir de Montserrat, Barcelona

Hike up Montserrat’s Peak, Sant Jeroni

The path is well-marked and not too steep, so kids can take on this hike too. We even spotted mountain goats along the way!

It’ll take around 2.5hrs to get to Sant Jeroni (1,236m), but there are many viewpoints along the way so look out for those as well.

The last stretch includes a long flight of steps but trust us, the view at the top is worth it.

After that, either return to Sant Joan upper station and take the furnicular down or take an alternate hiking route to Montserrat Monastery.

If you’re opting for the latter, look out for a Y-junction on the way down from the peak. Take the path labelled “Pla dels Ocells” (where the hiker is standing). It’ll take roughly an hour from here to return to the Monastery.

Drive to Girona from Montserrat

Distance: 131km  Drive time: 1h 38min 

A 1.5-hour drive from Barcelona, most visitors just experience Girona Old Town as a day trip. But we suggest staying overnight to experience more of what Girona province has to offer!

Accommodation at Girona (3 Nights): Pick a hostel or Airbnb within Girona Old Town.

Day 7: Girona

Girona old town.

Start the day visiting the iconic colourful houses along the River Onyar — best viewed from Pont de Ferro , a bright red iron bridge built by Gustave Eiffel. The name should ring a bell; he’s the same architect who built the Eiffel Tower in Paris!

The Girona Cathedral is the city’s crown jewel. It was built between the 11th and 18th centuries and houses one of the world’s widest Gothic naves.

Fun fact: From the sixth season of Game of Thrones onwards, the crew stopped filming in Dubrovnik and used this church instead as the Great Sept of Baelor .

The Sant Marti Sacosta church is another GOT spot that shouldn’t be missed. The steps to the entrance are the same ones Arya Stark took when she was running from the Waif in Braavos !

Another great thing to do in Girona is walking along the 1.6km-long City Walls — no entrance fee! 🥳

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, opt for a GOT tour . The tour comes with an experienced guide who will introduce the prominent filming locations as well as the interesting history of Girona.

Girona Game of Thrones Walking Tour Cost: €30/pax Tour timings: 10:30AM and 3PM Meeting point: Plaça Sant Feliu, 08028 Barcelona

Local Cuisine in Girona

Rocambolesc Gelateria was set up by Girona local Jordi Roca , who was crowned “World’s Best Pastry Chef” in 2014!

Many dishes in Girona feature locally produced ingredients like mushrooms, meats, and wines — and the people here are really proud of their food scene.

Recommended eateries include Rocambolesc Gelateria (gourmet ice cream), Normal (traditional Catalan cuisine), Bubbles Gastrobar & Restaurant (signature tapas).

Day 8: Girona

Option 1: hot air balloon over la garrotxa.

An hour’s drive from Girona Old Town is the stunning volcanic region of Garrotxa . The area is known for medieval villages and a range of dormant volcanoes. We opted to start our morning on a high with the best view of La Garrotxa — from a hot air balloon!

Pink cava (sparkling wine) and local cake is served onboard!

The balloon ascends two meters per second, up to heights of 2,100m. But don’t worry, you’ll hardly notice as you’ll be completely transfixed with the view — there’s the Pyrenees and Montserrat on the horizon, and the Santa Margarida volcanic crater right at your feet.

Rides last between an hour to an hour and a half depending on wind conditions.

Celebrate another item ticked off the bucket list with a Catalan brunch — botifarra (a type of sausage), haricot beans, bread with tomato, and a salami platter. For drinks, there’s wine, coffee, tea, and a shot of ratafia (a local liquor, a really potent one).

Cost: €170 (Weekdays), €185 (Weekends and PH) Meet up time: 7:30AM Address: Afores, s/n, 17811 Santa Pau, Girona

Explore Surrounding Old Towns

Visit surrounding medieval villages like Santa Pau if you’ve got time to spare. It’s a good base to go on hikes around the area !

Option 2: Hike up at Santa Margarida

There’s also several hiking routes in the area for those who’d prefer to explore La Garrotxa on foot.

One of those we explored was the dormant Santa Margarida Volcano , famous for a lone hermitage built in the centre of the crater. Not much is known about the abandoned shack, other than it has a Roman origin.

There are various routes around here but the fastest would be to park at Santa Margarida Car Park . Parking is free and the entrance is clearly marked.

If you’re up for the challenge, there’s a 11km route (~4.5hrs) which also covers Croscat Volcano and Faeda d’en Jordà Forest.

Lunch at La Deu in Olot

Candied cod loin with sweet potato puree. Yum.

La Garrotxa’s rich fertile soil produces high-quality crops, and it’d be a sin to leave without trying some volcanic cuisine . We checked out Restaurant La Deu for lunch (a ~10min drive from Santa Margarida). It’s one of La Garrotxa’s oldest eateries, around since 1885!

The mains and desserts were yummy, but we were completely sold on the starters — mixed mushrooms and a creamy pumpkin soup with Garrotxa cheese.

Cost: From €23.95 for a set meal incl. a starter, main and dessert Opening hours: 10AM – 10:30PM (Mon – Sat), 10AM – 7PM (Sun) Address: Carretera de la Deu, s/n, 17800 Olot, Girona

Day 9: Figueres to Barcelona

Skydive empuriabrava.

Another way to take in the view from the top is at Skydive Empuriabrava ! Empuriabrava’s mix of ocean and mountain views make it a rewarding place to try skydiving — especially if it’s your first time, as it was for me.

After a safety briefing by experienced instructors, we were ushered onto a small aircraft. I’ll admit I was slightly (read: extremely ) nervous during the ascent to 4000m.

But once the light turned red and we exited the plane, I felt my fear leave as well. After a 30-second free fall to 1,500m, your shoot is deployed. Our instructors even let us try navigating the parachute! The whole experience was liberating — truly the best way to take in the views.

Cost: From €280 (top up required for photos and videos) Opening hours: 9AM – 5PM Address: Sector Aeroclub, s/n, 17487 Empuriabrava, Girona

Drive to Figueres from Skydive Empuriabrava

Distance: 15.3km Drive time: 21min

Lunch at Txot’s Sidreria in Figueres

Txot’s Sideria is great for tapas — there’s over 100 items listed on the menu . Order a couple to share!

Cost: ~€12/pax Opening hours: 12PM – 12:30AM Address: Avinguda de Salvador Dalí i Domènech, 114, 17600 Figueres, Girona

Dali Theatre-Museum

The Dali Theatre-Museum is the main reason why people visit Figueres . But even if you’ve got no clue who Dali is, this museum is worth a visit! Dali was an eccentric artist and his work is equally eccentric. For starters, the exterior is covered with eggs.

The inside is just as fascinating. Most art museums have a minimalistic layout with just one or two paintings per wall. Not the Dali Theatre-Museum — there’s art everywhere you look (ceilings included!).

Entrance fee: €14 (~S$21.62) Opening hours: 10:30AM – 6PM (Check the museum calendar before visiting as they close on certain dates) Address: Plaça Gala i Salvador Dalí, 5, 17600 Figueres, Girona

Drive to Barcelona from Figueres

Distance: 145.5km Drive time: 1hr 32min

After the Dali Theatre-Museum, drive back to Barcelona and return the car.

Accommodation in Barcelona (1 Night): Same as the first three nights.

Day 10: Barcelona and Flight Home

Visit other attractions like the Tibidabo Amusement Park , Mercat dels Encants (secondhand market) or Casa Mila before heading to Barcelona Airport.

There’s a shuttle bus service ( €5.90 one way ) to the airport from Placa Catalunya and Placa Espanya which departs every six minutes.

Bonus: Stay in a 13th-century Farmhouse

This 13th-century farmhouse on Airbnb was a little out of the way (1.5hr drive from Barcelona or 30min drive from Girona), but we loved it so much I just had to mention it.

Warm hospitality, beautifully decorated rooms, and adorable donkeys outside — this was a stay we won’t soon forget. If you can afford to extend your trip by one or two days, this is an experience worth including!

Tips for Planning Your Next Trip to Spain

Youthful, sexy, full of life and culture — that was my impression of Spain. After spending some time here, it’s still true.

Our 10-day road trip around Catalonia packed enough adventure to make up for the lack of travel for the past two years.

We got to tick off bucket list experiences like skydiving and taking a hot air balloon ride, visiting several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and eating loads of good food!

We knew we would love Spain before arriving but now it’s official — Spain is up there on our list of favourite destinations. Hoping to visit? Here are some pre-trip essentials:

Connectivity: A 12GB SIM card plan from Vodafone costs €10 (~S$15.45) and is valid for 30 days

Transport within Barcelona: The Hola Barcelona Travel Card includes unlimited rides on trams, buses and metros. Choose from 48, 72, 96 or 120 hour cards from €16 (~S$24.72). Alternatively, purchase pre-paid rides from the machines at metro stations. A single ride within zone 1 costs €2.40 but 10 rides cost €11.35 — useful if you’re planning to walk most of the time.

Language: Most locals can speak English, but prefer to speak Spanish or Catalan. It’ll be useful to learn basic Spanish before visiting. These few phrases should help you get by:

Google Map with pinned locations:

What are you looking forward to most on this Barcelona itinerary? Share with us in the comments!

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Hi, would you be able to share the breakdown cost of this trip in excel (if there is)?

Hi Jenn, unfortunately we did not prepare a breakdown of costs for this trip!

Hi, could I check for your car rental, is Ok rent a car same as Ok Mobility?

Yup it was!

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How to Spend the Perfect 24 Hours in Barcelona

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Barcelona is one of the most magnificent and beautiful cities in all of Europe. From amazing churros and other local delicacies to exploring Gaudi’s architectural marvels, it’s completely possible to spend just 24 hours in Barcelona to see some of Spain’s highlights .

With the right amount of planning, you can easily see the landmarks that Barcelona is so well known for. Plus, with Barcelona’s great transportation, you’d be surprised at how much you can pack in one day.

Luckily, I’ve extensively traveled throughout Europe while studying abroad in Spain and have also visited Barcelona.

Below, learn how to spend 24 hours in Barcelona!

Table of Contents

At a Glance: Things to do with 24 Hours in Barcelona

If you’re in a rush, here’s our list of the best things to do with just one day in Barcelona. Pick and choose what sounds the most fun for you.

• See the Sagrada Familia
• Explore Park Guell
• See Casa Batllo
• Visit Casa Mila
• See the Cathedral of Barcelona
• Stroll through Citadel Park
• Grab a bite to eat at La Boqueria
• Try a local delicacy, like paella

How to get to Barcelona

Luckily, there are actually quite a few ways to travel to Barcelona because it’s a bigger city in Spain ! I personally got there by train, but I thought I’d go through all the options to help you best out when you’re planning your trip.

The first option is to get to Barcelona by bus . Barcelona’s main bus station is Barcelona Nord, and there are quite a few bus companies that can get you here from surrounding countries.

Some of Europe’s more popular bus companies are Flixbus, Eurolines, and Megabus.

I personally have taken Flixbus quite a few times. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you can normally purchase bus tickets fairly cheaply.

Bus travel is usually the most budget-friendly option for travel in Europe, but it can be the most time-consuming.

Book your bus to Barcelona here! 🚌

The next option is to travel by train. I personally traveled to Barcelona from Paris and took the train.

It’s a very nice mode of travel because you get to see a lot of the lovely countryside, and if you’re flexible with travel times, you can normally snag a fairly okay price for train travel.

The two more popular stations are Barcelona Sants Station and França Station. I arrived at Barcelona Sants Station, and there were luckily a lot of ways to easily get downtown via the metro or bus from there!

Book your train to Barcelona here! 🚊

You could also get to Barcelona by plane, which is the most popular option. You’d most likely fly into Barcelona’s El Prat Airport, as this is the closest airport to the city center.

Definitely try to fly here if you can, because the next closest airport is 96 km outside of the city center!

Another option is actually by boat! This is definitely more doable if you’re planning on partaking in a cruise or even a ferry into the Port de Barcelona. Check out their website to see your different options!

Lastly, you could get to Barcelona by car. If you live in Europe, you could drive there, or if you’re a visitor, you could easily rent a car and drive there.

Renting a car allows a lot more freedom as a tourist than any of these other options wouldn’t give. With a car, you could even go on one of these road trips in Spain with your extra time after exploring Barcelona!

Rent a car for your trip to Barcelona here! 🚗

FREE TRAVEL QUIZ

How to Get Around With 24 Hours in Barcelona

The most common forms of transportation in Barcelona are the bus and the metro. I rarely used the metro and only used the bus to get to and from my hotel!

The bus will connect you to a lot of the surrounding areas of Barcelona, which is good if you’re staying slightly outside of the city.

The nice thing about the bus is that you can use one single ticket for up to 75 minutes and can even switch modes of transportation, but make sure that you’re traveling in the same direction.

Taking the metro is also a good option. I only found myself taking the metro once when I was traveling from the train station to the city center since it was so late at night. It’s definitely a quicker mode of transportation than the bus.

You can also walk! I found it super easy to walk everywhere I wanted in Barcelona because the weather was so nice in mid-March when I visited in the spring of 2019. Just make sure you have good walking shoes on!

For more information about transportation, check out this post on how to get around Barcelona .

Book your Barcelona Transport Pass here! 🎟️

Where to stay in Barcelona

I’ve shared below just a few options that I found in Barcelona, but if none of these suit your fancy, there are so many more options!

B&B HOTEL Barcelona Mataro

The first option is slightly out of the city: B&B HOTEL Barcelona Mataro ! This is where I stayed. It is in Mataró, which is just north of Barcelona.

I loved staying here because it’s right on the beach, and the room was absolutely huge. Plus, there was a restaurant right on-site and air conditioning!

A coach bus will take you from a nearby bus stop right to downtown Barcelona, which is how I often traveled to the city center. Remember that this ride takes about an hour, depending on traffic. The view is pretty great the whole time, though!

Book your stay at B&B Hotel Barcelona Mataro here!

Generator Barcelona

If you’re looking to save money, you could stay at the city’s top-rated hostel, Generator Barcelona . The 7th floor of this hostel offers a great view of the city!

It’s also a short 5-minute walk from two metro stations, so you can easily travel around the city from this location.

There are private and dorm options, whatever works best for you!

Book your stay at Generator Barcelona here!

Read More: Where to Stay in Barcelona 🏨

If you want to stay in a hostel, you should also check out this article about the 3 best hostels in Barcelona !

If none of these seem like a good fit for you, here are more options on where to stay in Barcelona !

What to See in Barcelona

With just 24 hours in Barcelona, you have to be picky with what you see. There are, of course, many more great places to see, and the architecture of Barcelona is unlike anywhere else.

If you’re still looking for more things to see, consider checking out this post on the top things to do in Barcelona or this ultimate Spain bucket list ! Visiting the Bunkers del Carmel is also a great way to spend the day.

Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is probably the most well-known sight in all of Barcelona, and for good reason. It’s a Roman Catholic church that has been under construction for over a century now.

It’s been designed by Antoni Gaudí, and you’re bound to see many of his magnificent creations throughout the city.

To go inside, tickets start at €18 if you’re a student and go up from there. I personally didn’t pay to go inside since I was there for such a short time, but it was still really gorgeous from the outside. I even saw a couple get engaged right in front of it!

Book your Sagrada Familia tickets here! 🎟️

Park Güell is another of the more popular spots in Barcelona and was also created by Gaudí. It’s one of the ca n’t-miss sites with 24 hours in Barcelona.

You may recognize this sight from the Cheetah Girls 2! Just remember that you do have to purchase a ticket to visit the monumental zone, which is the area in the pictures in this post.

Definitely purchase your tickets ahead of time as well. I didn’t, and they were sold out the day that I visited!

If you have more flexibility in your schedule, visit this area at night, after the monumental zone closes, or very early in the morning, before the monumental zone opens. Then you can visit the area for free.

Book your Park Guell tickets here! 🎟️

Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló is another sight created by Gaudí. Catching my drift yet? This beautiful sight is inspired by sea life underwater.

The outside’s facade is unreal, and I’ve heard that the inside is even better. Unfortunately, the site was under construction when I visited. Next time I go to Barcelona, I’m definitely paying to see the inside!

Tickets start at €22 with a student ID and go up from there.

Book your Casa Batllo tickets here! 🎟️

Casa Milà is yet another sight created by Gaudí. The outside is quite marvelous. You can go to the top for €18.50 with a student ID, and prices go up from there. From the top, you can get one of the best views of Barcelona.

Book your Casa Mila ticket here!

Cathedral of Barcelona

The Cathedral of Barcelona is a sight that I stumbled upon while walking around the city. The surrounding area is a lot of fun, and there are even a lot of street performers!

This church, unlike the Sagrada Familia, is actually finished. There is a small fee to go inside unless it’s during worship hours.

This is one of the underrated places to visit with 24 hours in Barcelona.

Citadel Park

Citadel Park is a whole lot of fun, especially since it’s a free sight! A prison was originally in this spot, though soon it was transformed into a public park for Barcelona with the help of Gaudí.

He helped to design the waterfall area. I highly suggest bringing a picnic and sitting out here! There’s also usually a whole bunch of cute ducks in the pond.

Just be careful because many people will try to sell you stuff in this area because of how touristy it is.

Read More: Free Things to do in Barcelona Spain 💰

La Boqueria

La Boqueria is another free sight on this list. It’s a huge market, and there are so many great foods and drinks to buy! I personally purchased some chocolate-covered strawberries, but I almost had to buy some fresh juice and candy, too.

Everything is fairly reasonably priced! It’s a great stop to grab a quick lunch within 24 hours in Barcelona.

Considering spending more than 24 hours in Barcelona? There are loads of great day trips from Barcelona . You could visit Girona, Montserrat, Perpignan, and more. One of the most notable day trips is to France and Andorra from Barcelona !

What to Eat in Barcelona

Barcelona is filled with so much great food and has a multitude of great restaurants. There are even great vegan and gluten-free restaurants in Barcelona !

Below, find some of the must-try dishes you have to try at least once during your trip.

Churros con Chocolate

This has to be my favorite food that I had in Barcelona. It’s basically just a really thick hot chocolate (almost as thick as pudding!) with churros.

Take the churros and dip them right into the chocolate, and you’re in for a treat! They’re so amazing. Plus, this dish is relatively cheap.

There are many great locations across the city that sell this. We tried it at both Xurreria Rosita and Xurreria Sagrada Familia. Both places were delicious!

Paella is another dish that can’t be missed, and it’s even considered one of the best street foods in Europe ! It’s a traditional Spanish dish with rice, veggies, and meat, usually seafood. I’m not a seafood eater myself, so I tried it with chicken.

My friend and I split one dish, which was a perfect serving for each of us. We ordered ours at Guell Tapas Restaurant and enjoyed it out in their lovely outdoor seating area!

Sangria is so incredible, especially in Barcelona. It’s fairly cheap too! I got the huge glass in the above photo with paella for only a few euros.

It’s red wine mixed with fruits! There are many places across the city that sell this. I had my sangria at Guell Tapas Restaurant, and I recommend it!

Smoothie Bowls

Though probably not seen as a traditional Spanish dish, I can’t recommend enough that you try a smoothie bowl while in Barcelona. It is so refreshing and delicious, plus it’s so much cheaper than any smoothie bowl I’ve ever had in the United States!

I tried mine at FitBar, and it was so good. It’s said to be one of the best restaurants in Barcelona ! The best smoothie bowl I’ve ever had!

Final Thoughts: One Day in Barcelona

Now you know exactly how to have the perfect day in Barcelona! We hope that you enjoyed this post and have the best trip ever.

Looking to spend longer than 24 hours here? Check out this 5-day Barcelona itinerary or 36-hour Barcelona itinerary !

Not a fan of reading? Check out our video from our time in Barcelona.

Save this post for later:

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KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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87 Comments

I love Barcelona! I spent three months there last year with my husband and had a blast, can’t wait to return and eat some more churros con chocolate. Yum!

That sounds so awesome! I’d love to stay there for 3 months. I was only there for a weekend. The churros con chocolate are amazing!

Great photos, videos and the whole article! Keep it up! I’ve heard you hate red wine? I’m the opposite! I so love red wine. Hehe

Thank you! Yeah, for some reason I’m not much of a wine drinker. Thanks for stopping by! 🙂

This is such a great guide! I would LOVE to visit Barcelona someday! Your pictures are beautiful. Thanks for the tips about transportation and buying a ticket for Park Güell. Will save this for a future itinerary 🙂

Thanks so much! Barcelona is such a beautiful city. 🙂

Wow! Spain is really a wonderful place to visit. Great guide you have here <3

Thank you! I loved Barcelona. 🙂

This is a list and a half. I feel like I didn’t do all of this in 4 days there, now I need to go back. Such a great city. I was there in February so it wasn’t nearly as warm and beautiful as if I’d gone in the summer but a fun city nonetheless.

I know! When I visited Barcelona, I was on a mission since I knew that I had such a short amount of time there. A lot of these sights I ended up just seeing from the outside. 🙂 I visited in March and it was so hot! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

Great post! Barcelona is one of those places I want to get to one day – your photos are amazing! I love how cheap public transit is too – but I love to walk everywhere and take in the sites. Can’t wait to go one day!

I hope you make it to Barcelona one day! I loved it there. I mostly walked everywhere too. 🙂

Soo incredible I can’t wait to travel to Spain! Thanks for sharing this post!

Of course! Thanks so much for stopping by!

I love the ariel shot of Barcelona! It’s so cool to see how it’s all in little squares. Clearly planned this way hundreds of years ago but still very cool! =)

Yeah it’s so crazy! I loved Barcelona. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!

Barcelona is on my bucket list for sure. I’d love to visit La Boqueria and to try the real paella, and churros con chocolate! Great idea to travel by train.

I hope you get there one day! The food is absolutely exquisite. 🙂

This is beautiful! I have always wanted to go to Barcelona! Thank you for sharing!

Thank you! I hope you get to Barcelona one day. 🙂

I only spent a couple of days in Barcelona so I desperately want to go back and stay longer. I want to go inside La Sagrada Familia next time. Citadel Park look lovely too.

I also only spent a few days there, but it’s definitely a place that could take months to fully explore! I didn’t get to go inside La Sagrada Familia either, but the inside looks beautiful from what I’ve heard.

Barcelona has been on my list. I was supposed to go with my husband this summer. He has been and cannot stop talking about it. Well, as of now we don’t know if we will make it. But that paella and sangria had my mouth drooling. Great pics and post. Will pin so I have this guide when we get to go. Thanks girl!

I hope you get there sometime! It really is such an amazing city, and the food is AMAZING. 🙂

This is an amazing guide! Barcelona looks so beautiful and I can’t wait to get there one day! Thank you so much for including ticket prices for all of the sights!

Of course, thanks so much for stopping by! 🙂

This post is giving me travel fever so bad!! I love Spain, and this is such a wonderful post for Barcelona! I will definitely go back to it when I visit!

I got travel fever myself by writing it! I hope you get to Barcelona sometime. 🙂

What a great guide! 🙂 I’ve only ever been to Barcelona once but I really want to go back and drink some more Sangria. Cheers!

Thank you! I’d love to go back to Barcelona too since I only spent a weekend there. 🙂

Love Barcelona, and this is a really good 24h guide!

Thank you so much! 🙂

Wow! Great post! I love Barcelona, and I can’t wait to visit it again! Your pictures make me dream about it :):)

I love Barcelona too! Thanks so much for stopping by. 🙂

I loooove Barcelona so much! It’s so beautiful there. It amazes me that the Sagrada Familia isn’t even finished yet!

I know. I can’t wait to see what it looks like when it is finished! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

Barcelona seems like such an amazing city. I would love to visit one day! Loved your vlog too

It really is so amazing! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

This is such an amazing guide to Barcelona! I still need to get there, so I’m definitely keeping this handy. Your photos are beautiful! 🙂

Thank you so much, I really appreciate it! 🙂

I was supposed to go to Barcelona next week ? I will keep this post for my future travels

I hope you get there sometime! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

Barcelona looks so amazing. I would love to see the inside of the Cathedral in person. I bet it is incredible. I would also love to do a tapas tour!

It really is, I hope you get there one day! The food is amazing. Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

The chocolate churros sound amazing! Makes me want to go

They’re so good! I’d go back just for the food alone!

Love Barcelona! You’ve captured this city beautifully <3

I love it too! Thank you for your kind words. 🙂

Wow girl your photos are stunning! I went to Barcelona once at the beginning of my very first solo backpacking trip and was TOTALLY LOST. I think I even just spent most of the time in the hostel because I just felt too overwhelmed by the city. I would love to go back and give it another try. I will definitely do more research and save this post for when I return!

Thank you! That’s so awesome that you went solo backpacking. Definitely go back to Barcelona if you can! I loved it. 🙂

Can’t wait to visit Barcelona one day! I have never been to Spain and it looks so beautiful 🙂 Thanks for the guide!

Spain really is beautiful! I’d love to explore more of the country one day. 🙂

This is a great guide! My husband and I visited in 2016 and loved it! We had a great experience, especially at the La Boqueria. 🙂

That’s awesome! I loved La Boqueria too. 🙂

Barcelona is one of my absolute favorite cities! I live in Spain about 3-4 hours from Barcelona. I love all of your recommendations! I will have to recreate some of your photos 🙂

Yay, I’m glad you love it so much! I’d love to go and explore more of Spain one day. That’s so awesome that you live there.

Barcelona is my one of my favorite city to visit! I went here last year for 3 days and absolutely had a blast. There’s so much to see and this list is sooo compete, perfect to have with you on a city trip to Barcelona 🙂

I was only there for 3 days too and I absolutely fell in love with it! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

I love Barcelona and was impressed by all of Gaudi’s work. The inside of the Sagrada Familia is incredible and probably even more impressive now (It’s been 8 years since I’ve been there.)

Wow, I really wish I had gone inside Sagrada Familia! Since I was there for such a short time, I didn’t end up going inside. :/ Definitely next time!

Oh Barcelona is one of my most favourite cities in the world. Ive been twice but I’d keep going back again ans again if I could! Especially as I havent done everything!

I loved it too! I’d love to go back and maybe explore more of Spain. 🙂

The last time I visited Spain was when I was 14 with my school. I am 42yo now. I have been waiting to go back for so long!!! Thanks for a great post. Stunning photos! Barcelona was my favorite city to visit.

I hope you get back one day! It is such an awesome city. That’s cool that you got to visit with your school! 🙂

I love Barcelona! It is such a pretty city. I want to go back to visit Parque Guell and see the progress on the Sagrada Familia.

I’ve only been to Barcelona for one night, during a business trip. Unfortunately didn’t get to see much (like viewing Sagrada Familia in the pitch black at midnight), so would love to come back and explore the city properly.

Such a beautiful city, I only had a few days there but I missed lots of what’s on this list! Which means I have a great reason to go back!

I’d really love to go back too. Thanks for stopping by!

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Wow! In March I’ve been the second time there, and I just love Barcelona so much! I’m about to publish today my 3 day Barcelona itinerary and checking your 24-hour travel guide I need to say I really liked it! Covering everything, great post! xx

Thanks so much! I love Barcelona. I’ll have to check out your post!

Thanks for all the tips! I hope I can visit next year, so I’m already drooling over all the treats!

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Girl, this post is sooooo incredibly detailed! Especially for it just being a 24 hour itinerary! So impressed. The photos are amazing, too! I can’t wait to visit Barcelona again and check out all the amazing architecture and eat a bunch of tapas 🙂

Thank you so much! I’d love to go back to Barcelona one day. It is such an awesome city!

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35 Must-Knows For Traveling to Barcelona the First Time

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, get ready for an adventure in one of Spain’s most dynamic and beautiful cities. Known for its art, architecture, and vibrant street life, Barcelona is a place where every day brings something new and exciting.

I live in Spain and have spent a lot of time wandering through the streets of Barcelona, which has given me the chance to pick up more than a few tips and insights along the way that can really take your visit to the next level.

But what are the things you need to know before traveling to Barcelona? Well, from the top sights to must-try foods and essential travel tips, you’ll see just what you need to know to make your first trip to Barcelona unforgettable.

Planning a trip to Barcelona last minute?

If you’re booking your  trip to Barcelona last minute, I’ve got you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

⭐  Most popular sights in Barcelona

• Sagrada Familia – tickets often sell out weeks in advance so get your entry ticket here (or entry tickets AND a guided tour here)
• Park Güell – grab your skip-the-line entry
• Casa Batlló – click here for tickets and audio guide

🌍 Top tours in Barcelona

• Montserrat Tour, Monastery and Winery (great day trip!)
• Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes (incredible night out)
• Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History (all the highlights at once)

🛏️ Top hotels in Barcelona

• Ohla Barcelona (5-star luxury with an amazing rooftop pool)
• Seventy Barcelona (boutique hotel with beautiful décor)
• Àmfores Boutique Guest House (great budget option with superb location)

🚌 Want free public transport while you’re in Barcelona? Check out the Hola Barcelona travel card !

Table of Contents

1. Book early to avoid missing out on popular spots

The biggest thing I hear people say that they wish they knew before coming to Barcelona is that they should have booked things earlier.

So if you’ve got your heart set on marveling at the twists and towers of the Sagrada Familia or strolling through the mosaic wonderland of Park Güell , here’s the scoop: these spots can sell out weeks in advance. 

Yep, you read that right. Waiting until you’re in Barcelona could mean you’ll miss out on these iconic sights entirely. 

So, while you’re planning which tapas to try first, take a moment to book your tickets online. It’s not just about skipping the line (which is a sweet bonus, by the way!), but securing your spot is crucial. 

This way, you’re guaranteed to step inside Gaudí’s dreamscapes rather than just admiring them from the outside.

2. Choose comfortable shoes for your days out exploring

Barcelona’s charm unfolds on foot, from the alleys of El Raval to the elegance of Eixample. But remember, those cobblestone streets aren’t kind to flimsy flip-flops or heels. 

(Also, to be honest, Barcelona fashion tends to look at flip-flops as a no-no away from the beach anyway.)

That’s why you should do yourself a favor and pack a pair of trusty shoes that hug your feet in all the right places. I’m talking arch support that could withstand a day at the Mercat de Sant Josep or an impromptu hike up to Montjuïc. 

And remember, breathable materials will be your best friend when you’re wandering around for hours under the Mediterranean sun. So lace-up and step out – Barcelona’s endless streetscapes await.

3. When visiting in the high season, expect and prepare for more people

Visiting Barcelona when the sun’s out and the schools are closed means you’ll be sharing the city with, well, everyone. It’s when the locals and travelers alike pour into the streets, creating an electric atmosphere that’s palpable. 

From the human towers at a neighborhood festival to the crowded terraces in Plaça Reial, the city feels alive. Sure, you’ll be rubbing elbows with tourists at La Boqueria or waiting a bit longer to see the Picasso Museum, but it’s all part of the city’s summer song. 

So head into the throngs with a smile and the understanding that every moment of wait is an opportunity to soak up the local vibes, strike up a conversation, or simply people-watch – although, yes, it’s also a good idea to pack a healthy dose of patience in your hand luggage for the peak periods. 

4. Make public transportation your go-to

Alright, let’s talk about getting around. Barcelona’s public transport system is your best friend here – it’s reliable, it covers most of the city, and hey, it’s eco-friendly too. 

The metro will zip you from the Gothic Quarter to Gaudí’s Park Güell before you can say “modernisme.” Buses are aplenty, and they’re great for those routes where you get to peep at the city life outside the window. 

And for a real slice of local life, jump on the trams – they’re a smooth ride and a perfect way to give those feet a break.

5. Venture to lesser-known beaches

If you’re traveling to Barcelona, you might have your eye on a beach day at some point during your trip. And while Barceloneta is the most famous one, if you’re looking for some tranquility by the sea, Barcelona’s got hidden nooks along the coast that locals like me treasure. 

That’s why I’d actually suggest that you skip the well-trodden path to Barceloneta and venture out to spots like Ocata Beach, where the sands stretch wide and the vibe is laid-back. These lesser-known beaches offer a slice of serenity with plenty of space to sprawl out, and the waves are just as inviting. 

Pack a picnic, grab a book, or just bask in the sun – these quieter beaches are perfect for a leisurely day where the only sounds are the sea and your own heartbeat.

6. Leave room in your budget for Gaudí’s architectural wonders

If you’re traveling to Barcelona on a budget, I’ve definitely been there, done that. But while there are certainly bargains to be found for things like food, there are some must-sees that are worth the cost.

And on that list, I’d put seeing some of Gaudí’s masterpieces at the very top, especially the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell.

I get it if the prices seem a tad steep, but the feeling of craning your neck up inside the Sagrada Familia or touching the mosaics in Park Güell – that’s priceless. 

So, when you’re planning your budget, give Gaudí’s creations a generous slice. It’s a splurge that will stay with you long after you’ve left the city’s embrace.

FYI: If you’re looking to visit both the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell and you’re short on time, you can get skip-the-line entry and a tour of both sights in one day right here .

7. It’s also fine to pass by some of Gaudí’s works for free

…at the same time, you don’t always need a ticket to appreciate art, and Gaudí’s buildings are proof of that. Even the best Barcelona travel guide books will scream at you to visit all of these but, to be honest, even just seeing them from the outside is going to be great in many cases.

For this, take a leisurely walk down Passeig de Gràcia, and you’ll find Casa Milá (La Pedrera) and Casa Batlló waiting to greet you with their surreal facades. 

These structures are alive with stories, and as you wander past, you’re tracing the outlines of Barcelona’s cultural heartbeat. If you’re up for it, park yourself at one of the nearby cafés and just gaze at these wonders over a cortado. 

Watch the light change, see the balconies cast shadows on the pavement, and observe people’s reactions as they look up – it’s a simple, yet complete, Gaudí experience.

8. Download the Cabify app

Sometimes, you just need your own space, and that’s where Cabify comes in. It’s like the local cousin of Uber – just as handy and without the surge pricing surprises. 

I use it all the time rather than taking taxis, as it means I can lock in the fare and the route ahead of time. I find it infinitely better than taxis which can often, shall we say, feel inclined to take foreigners on the “scenic” (read: more expensive” route.

Fire up the app, book a ride, and you’ll be on your way to your next tapas stop in no time. Plus, it’s nice to know that you’ve got a clean, safe ride just a few taps away, especially after a late night out when the metro has called it a night.

9. Grab a discount card for the transit savvy

If you’re going to be riding the rails and buses like a local, get yourself a discount card. The Hola Barcelona travel card is a winner – it gives you unlimited travel on the metro, buses, and other public transport. 

That means more money saved for those little indulgences, like another round of patatas bravas or that cute souvenir from El Raval. 

Plus, it’s super convenient – you won’t have to fumble for change or buy a ticket each time you hop on and off. Get it for 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours – it’s your golden ticket to the city.

10. Keep a close eye on your belongings

So, you’re out and about, soaking in the vibrant streets of Barcelona – it’s a sensory overload in the best way. But, here’s the thing – those crowded spots are a playground for pickpockets. 

Now, don’t let this put a damper on your day. Just keep your wits about you. A crossbody bag, worn at the front, or a money belt tucked away is your go-to. 

And those backpacks? They belong on your front when you’re in a throng. 

Just a glance now and then at your stuff can keep the pesky thieves at bay. Stay alert, stay smart, and you’ll be just fine.

11. Enjoy paella for lunch – not dinner

Paella and Barcelona go together like bread and tomato, and here’s a little secret – it’s traditionally a lunchtime dish. Yep, those enormous, aromatic pans of goodness are meant to be savored when the sun’s high, not when it’s setting. 

So when you’re ticking off your foodie list, make sure you’re sitting down to a paella when the locals do. Trust me, there’s nothing like a 2pm paella (yep, they eat meals late here!) to fuel the rest of your day’s adventures.

12. No need to pause for siesta

You might have heard that Spain is the land of siestas, but I’m sorry to break the news to you: most Spaniards don’t actually take a siesta.

It’s ok, you’re forgiven if you think that’s the case as a lot of people do, especially when they see stores closing for a few hours after lunch. But this generally isn’t for a siesta – instead, it’s just to give the shop owner a break so they can stay open longer into the night!

That being said, if you fancy a little break after all that sightseeing, you’ll find plenty of cafes and parks where you can relax and recharge. After all, a little rest is never a bad idea, right?

13. Sign up for a walking or biking tour

Got only a few days in this vibrant city? No worries – a walking or biking tour can be your secret weapon to seeing the best of Barcelona in a short time. 

These tours give you the highlights reel with some neat local insights you might not find in your guidebook. Pedal through the Gothic Quarter or walk the path of Picasso, and let those knowledgeable guides fill you in on the secrets that the city whispers to those who listen. 

Plus, it’s a chance to meet other travelers and swap stories – always a bonus!

If you’re looking for a great tour that will show you the  highlights of Barcelona’s incredible 2,000+ year history , I definitely recommend this  Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour .

You’ll be taken to the best parts of the oldest, most interesting parts of the city, while hearing stories about this time and the centuries that have followed. In particular, for first-timers, it’s a great way to see all the main spots at once.

14. Pack for winter – it’s not always warm year-round

Winter in Barcelona isn’t your typical freeze-fest. The city keeps it mild, but don’t be fooled – when the sun dips down, so does the temperature. 

Bring a jacket that’s got some style (this is a trendy city, after all) and layer up. You’ll want to be cozy when you’re sipping on that hot chocolate with melty churros at a sidewalk café. 

And since the sun likes to play hide and seek, a hat and gloves aren’t a bad idea either – better safe than shivery!

15. Stay cool during the summer

Summer in Barcelona is like living in a sunbeam – warm, bright, and lively. But it can get hot, really hot…and that’s not even mentioning the humidity. 

Light, airy clothing is the way to go – think linens and cottons that let you breathe. And remember, hydration is your best pal – carry a water bottle that you can refill at the city’s many drinking fountains. 

Slap on some sunscreen, pop on a hat, and maybe grab one of those hand-held fans to make those balmy afternoons more bearable as you explore the city’s sunlit streets.

16. The water is safe but the taste is…something

Alright, let’s talk agua. The tap water here in Barcelona? Safe, but it’s got a taste that’s very, very acquired. 

It’s all thanks to the minerals in it – great for the pipes, not always great for your palate. But before you think about buying heaps of plastic water bottles, consider this – get yourself a bottle with a built-in filter. 

My top pick is this Brita filtered water bottle for drinking water on the go. It does a seriously good job of improving the taste of the tap water here, and it’s insulated too, which means your water stays cool.

It’s a win-win! You get to sip on something that tastes like it’s fresh from a mountain spring, and you’re doing Mother Earth a solid by cutting down on plastic waste. 

Just fill up, let the filter do its heavy lifting, and you’re good to go.

17. Get into the festive spirit with Barcelona’s unique Christmas traditions

Now, Barcelona doesn’t do a ‘silent night’ over Christmas – it’s more of a ‘let’s make some noise and have a blast’ kind of vibe. Aside from the twinkling lights and the smell of roasted chestnuts in the air, there’s a whole cast of characters that make a Catalan Christmas unique. 

Like the Caga Tió, a cheerful log that poops out presents when kids beat it with sticks (yes, you read that right). And let’s not forget about the cheeky Caganer, a figure you’ll spot squatting in nativity scenes. 

(Why? It’s a long story, but it’s all in good fun.) 

The Three Kings Parade is the icing on the cake – a dazzling show where the magic of the holiday really comes alive. Floats, fireworks, and a shower of sweets – it’s something that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear.

18. Take time to explore the city’s museums

Imagine stepping into a place where every corner holds a story, where every painting, sculpture, or oddity has a tale to tell. That’s what Barcelona’s museums are like. 

At the Picasso Museum , you can follow the artist’s journey from his early sketches to his greatest masterpieces. And the MNAC isn’t just a museum – it’s an epic ride through art history, with Romanesque murals that will make you feel like you’ve time-traveled.

Or for something a little more avant-garde, the Miró Foundation is a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes. So, take your time. Let each piece tell you its story. 

Who knows? You might walk out seeing the world a little differently. And remember, these cultural havens are perfect for those days when the sun’s too much or the clouds roll in.

19. Adapt to the local dining schedule

So, you might notice something funny when you wander into a restaurant at what you think is dinner time – it’s as quiet as a library. That’s because in Barcelona, dinner is a late affair, often starting around 9 PM and stretching well into the night. 

It’s not just about eating – it’s about relaxing with friends, sharing stories, and enjoying life. Restaurants buzz with energy well past what many consider bedtime. 

So if you find yourself hungry at 7 PM, join the locals for some tapas or a vermut as a warm-up act. Then, when it’s actual dinner time, you’ll be ready to join in the fun, whether that’s at a beachside chiringuito or a bustling bodega in the Barri Gòtic.

20. Plan at least one day trip

Barcelona’s allure is strong, but don’t miss out on the adventures that await just a short journey away. Within an hour or two, you can take a day trip to Montserrat to swap cityscapes for it dramatic vistas, with its serrated mountains and serene monastery. 

Or maybe you’re a fan of the bubbly? A day trip to the cava vineyards of Penedès isn’t just about wine tasting – it’s about strolling through vineyards and soaking in the rural charm. 

If quaint coastal towns call your name, Sitges awaits with open arms , offering sandy beaches, a dash of art history, and a slower pace. Each day trip offers a taste of Catalonia beyond the city limits, a chance to slow down and see what life is like outside the hustle and bustle.

21. Practice a few phrases in Catalan and Spanish

Barcelona’s heart beats in two languages: Catalan and Spanish. While you’ll get by just fine with English, especially in tourist spots, there’s something special about exchanging a few words in the local tongue. 

Start with a cheerful ‘Bon dia’ (good morning in Catalan) at the coffee shop, or a friendly ‘Buenas tardes’ (good afternoon in Spanish) to the bus driver. You’ll notice smiles, nods of appreciation, and a warm response that you just don’t get with English. 

It’s about showing respect for the local culture, and believe me, even if you bungle the pronunciation, your effort won’t go unnoticed. Plus, it’s the perfect ice-breaker for those moments when you find yourself sharing a table at a crowded tapas bar or browsing a local market.

22. Sample the local specialty, cava

Let’s talk bubbles – cava, Catalonia’s answer to champagne, and a must-try when you’re here. This fizzy delight isn’t just for toasting – it’s for enjoying at any hour (within reason, of course). 

You’ll find cava at any local bar, but for the real deal, take a jaunt to a cava bar where they pair it with everything from salty snacks to sweet treats. 

Want to go all out? As just mentioned a bit earlier, head for a day trip to the Penedès wine region , just a short trip from Barcelona, where you can tour the vineyards and learn how this sparkling wine is made. 

It’s a day out that will give you a whole new appreciation for every pop of the cork.

23. Educate yourself on the complexities of the Catalan independence movement

Barcelona isn’t just sun and siestas – it’s a city with a story, part of which is the push and pull of the Catalan independence movement. It’s complex, it’s passionate, and it’s woven into the fabric of everyday life here. 

You’ll see flags on balconies and stickers on lampposts. If you’re really curious, pick up a history book or chat with a local who’s willing to share their perspective. 

It’s a conversation that can offer insight into the fierce pride and enduring spirit of the Catalan people. Just remember to approach the topic with sensitivity – it’s a real issue that affects real lives.

24. Remember, tipping isn’t customary

Now, let’s talk about tipping. In Barcelona, it’s not the norm to leave a hefty tip after a meal – the price on the menu is what you pay, and service is usually included. 

But hey, if you’ve received service that made your day, feel free to leave a euro or two as a thank you. It’s not expected, but it’s definitely appreciated. 

The same goes for taxis and cafes. Consider it a way to say ‘gracias’ for service that’s gone above and beyond.

25. Locals prefer a drink that’s not sangria

On those warm Barcelona afternoons when you’re looking for something to quench your thirst, let me let you in on a little local secret: forget the sangria and order a ‘tinto de verano’ instead. 

It’s what the locals sip on – red wine mixed with a bubbly lemon soda, served over ice with a slice of lemon. It’s less sweet than sangria, incredibly refreshing, and just the thing to cool you down without slowing you down. 

Find yourself a spot at a streetside café, watch the world go by, and you’ll feel like you’ve got this Barcelona lifestyle down.

26. Learn about the friendly double kiss

Here’s a fun fact: when you meet someone in Barcelona, don’t be surprised if they lean in for a kiss on each cheek. It’s a greeting as warm as the Catalan sun and it’s how the locals say ‘hello’ or ‘nice to meet you.’ 

It’s not a real kiss, more like a cheek touch with a kissing sound, but it’s a sign of friendliness and acceptance. 

So, don’t be shy. Embrace it – it’s a lovely way to break the ice and makes introductions a little more personal. Just go with the flow and return the gesture. It’s all part of the charm!

27. English in tourist areas, but not everywhere

Now, if you’re sticking to the well-trodden path of tourist spots, you’ll find that English gets you by just fine. From the Sagrada Familia to the buzzing La Rambla, many Barcelonians in these areas speak enough English to help you out with directions, recommendations, and any of those pesky travel questions you might have. 

But once you step off the beaten track, English becomes more of a rare bird. It’s a good idea to have a translation app handy or a few key Spanish phrases in your pocket. 

It’s part of the adventure, and hey, miming can be a pretty fun way to communicate too!

28. Look up any local festivals

Barcelona never really sleeps, and there’s always some sort of fiesta going on in one of its vibrant barrios. From the fire-run parades of Correfoc to the street parties of La Mercè, these festivals are the soul of the city. 

Do yourself a favor and check if there’s one happening during your stay. It’s your ticket to live music, traditional dances, and a chance to mingle with the locals as they celebrate age-old traditions. 

There’s usually plenty of food stalls around too, so you can nibble on local treats as you soak up the atmosphere.

29. Carry a photocopy of your passport 

When you’re out and about discovering the nooks and crannies of Barcelona, keep a photocopy of your saved to the cloud on your phone. It’s a little thing, but it’s important.

The last thing you want is to lose your passport when you’re chilling on vacation and a copy will often suffice if you need to identify yourself.

It also means you can leave the real deal locked up safely back at your accommodation. Just one less thing to worry about, right?

30. Get ready for a night out to start late

Think you know what a late night is? Barcelona will redefine that for you. 

Here, the night is a slow burner – dinner wraps up close to what some might call bedtime, and that’s just the prelude. Clubs and bars don’t really get going until well past midnight, and the streets buzz with energy until the sun threatens to rise. 

It’s a rhythm that takes some getting used to, but once you’re in sync, it’s a whole new world. So take a siesta, have a late dinner, and then hit the town – Barcelona by night is something else.

31. Remember most shops close on Sundays

Here’s a little tip that might save you from standing in front of a closed shopfront: Sundays in Barcelona can feel like a ghost town in the shopping districts. Most shops pull down their shutters and take a day off. 

So, if you’ve got your eye on some local goods, make sure to plan your shopping spree for another day. But don’t worry – the upside is that you’ve got a perfect excuse to visit one of the city’s many markets or take a leisurely stroll along the beach instead.

32. Spend some time in the local cafés

One of my favorite things to do in Barcelona is to just sit back in one of the countless cafés with a cortado in hand and watch the world go by. These little hubs are perfect for a mid-morning coffee or a late afternoon pick-me-up. 

You’ll find them filled with a mix of locals typing away on laptops, friends catching up, or even artists sketching the scene. Each café has its own vibe, so try a few and find your favorite. It’s in these moments, with the aroma of freshly ground coffee in the air, that you’ll feel the real pulse of the city.

33. Explore each neighborhood’s unique personality

Barcelona is like a patchwork quilt – every district, or ‘barrio,’ has its own unique fabric. The Gothic Quarter’s medieval labyrinth feels like stepping back in time – think narrow alleys and hidden squares.

Over in Gràcia, you’ll find a bohemian spirit with artisan shops and an easygoing pace. Then there’s El Raval, raw and edgy, with street art and an eclectic mix of food spots. 

Each neighborhood has its own story, its own rhythm. Take the time to wander through a few and you’ll discover the many faces of Barcelona. 

It’s an adventure in itself to see how the city changes from one street to the next.

34. Rent a bike 

Barcelona might just surprise you with how bike-friendly it is. Renting a bike here isn’t just a great way to stay active during your travels, it’s also your ticket to seeing the city from a fresh perspective.

Glide along the beachfront, breeze through the parks, and pedal down historic streets, all while taking advantage of the city’s extensive network of bike lanes. It’s the freedom to explore at your own pace – no waiting for buses or deciphering metro maps. 

Plus, you’ll get to those hidden nooks that cars can’t reach and buses don’t go!

35. Check the schedule for the Magic Fountain show

There’s something truly magical about the Font Màgica de Montjuïc, or the Magic Fountain. This grand fountain doesn’t just spout water – it puts on a show with lights, music, and colors that dance through the night sky. 

But, before you set out for this spectacle, do a quick check online to make sure it’s on. The showtimes can change with the seasons or it can even be turned off at times to save water, so a quick check is a good way to save yourself a trek over there for nothing. 

And if you do manage to get over there while the fountain is on, you’re in for the perfect Barcelona evening, capped off with the fountain’s waterworks playing in sync to a melody, all under the night sky.

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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Traveling to Barcelona for the First Time: 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 2024

Traveling to Barcelona for the first time and not sure where to start and what to expect? This article covers all the essential Barcelona travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip.

Planning your first visit to Barcelona, Spain, might be overwhelming. There are so many questions… How much time do you need in Barcelona? When to visit and how to avoid the crowds? Where to stay and what to see? Any local tips and habits to be aware of? Or how to see the best that Barcelona has to offer in a limited time and without breaking the bank?…

To help you plan your first trip to Barcelona, we selected some of the best tips for visiting the city. This no-nonsense practical guide will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your time and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Familia .
• Park Güell .
• Montjuïc Cable Car .
• Barcelona Pass .
• Casa Batlló .

Here are our essential Barcelona travel tips:

1. Research & Book in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when visiting Barcelona for the first time is not to plan your trip in advance. So congratulations – because you are reading this, you already have a head start compared to other visitors!

Whether it’s flights, accommodations, or tickets for the main Barcelona attractions – booking in advance means that you have more choices and much better prices . It also means less wasted time queuing and more relaxing time sightseeing and enjoying this fabulous city. After all, you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Also, doing your research in advance means that you will avoid disappointment to find that the places you want to visit are closed or tickets sold out . Below are some examples that illustrate what I mean.

For example, we really wanted to see the dancing fountain of Barcelona, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc , and were told that it dances every night. However, it’s not the case. Furthermore, since we were traveling in the low season, it was actually only dancing three times a week.

Because we arrived on a Saturday and left before the next weekend, we only had one chance to see the fountains during our visit – on the first evening in the city. So despite an early flight and a very long day, we decided to go. If we hadn’t done the research -assuming that we could just see it any night- we would have definitely missed it.

We also researched whether it was a good idea to visit Montserrat Monastery on Sunday. It turns out that it’s the busiest day of the week. So we booked a tour for Monday instead…

I also heard from some of our readers that they couldn’t visit the famous Barcelona market Mercado de La Boqueria because they didn’t realize that it was closed on Sundays. By the way, all indoor markets in Barcelona are closed on Sundays.

Another reader told us that they couldn’t visit Park Güell because they didn’t buy tickets in advance and no walk-ins were possible… (Btw, Park Güell is one of the most-visited Barcelona attractions and you really have to book your tickets in advance!).

Good to know: Tickets for the most popular Barcelona attractions often sell out up to 2-3 weeks in advance. This is especially the case in high season. Plus, most entry tickets are now timed, so you need to see what’s possible and how to fit it all into your itinerary. Further below, you will find more details and tips, but if you get the Barcelona Pass , you will have the option to pre-book a timeslot for your skip-the-line entry to all the main sights.

By doing your research in advance, you can also compare prices, reviews, and itineraries for the best tours in Barcelona… This brings us to the next point.

READ ALSO: Top Sights & Attractions in Barcelona

2. Save Time & Money When Visiting Barcelona’s Main Landmarks

Visiting Barcelona for the first time also means visiting all the main landmarks and attractions. Of course, you will want to see the famous La Sagrada Familia and the other iconic Gaudi buildings and architecture! Just make sure that you are well prepared so that you don’t waste hours and days standing in lines.

TIP: If you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona, consider skip-the-line tickets for ALL the main landmarks and the most popular tourist attractions. We also recommend booking guided tours for the Sagrada Familia and the main Gaudi buildings – that way you’ll get a much better understanding of all the symbolism and stories behind the architecture.

You can find Barcelona tours and skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and also on Tiqets . More information – further below.

Skip the Line Tickets

Some of the most popular attractions in Barcelona like Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, Park Güell, or La Sagrada Familia can have extremely long waiting times. Buying your tickets in advance is essential when visiting these places in any season!

Here you can get skip-the-line tickets for Casa Batllo , Casa Mila , Park Güell , and – the most popular of them all – La Sagrada Familia .

PRO TIP: With this Barcelona Pass , you can immediately reserve timed-entry tickets for the most popular sights, including the towers of La Sagrada Familia (regular tickets don’t include tower access!). This is a digital pass, so you will get tickets per email (= very simple to book and use).

TIP: If you didn’t think of buying the tickets in advance and they are sold out, try booking a guided tour instead. Guided tours prebook tickets and make it possible to visit the main landmarks even if the tickets are sold out. I recommend visiting Gaudi’s buildings and especially La Sagrada Familia with a tour anyway. Read on to learn why!

Guided Tours

Even when we visited in the low season, all the Gaudi buildings in Barcelona were incredibly busy. Often, it wasn’t even clear where to go even if you had already pre-booked your tickets…

That’s why we chose to visit all the Gaudi buildings on a tour. Here you can read more about our experience with the Gaudi tour (we chose this amazing tour that covers all the main Gaudi landmarks in a day).

We visited Barcelona with our three kids who, obviously, have no patience when it comes to long queues. Taking a tour meant that we could relax while the guide took care of everything. We just followed the guide and never had to wait anywhere longer than 10 minutes.

I can’t imagine how different our experience would have been if we had to figure out where exactly to go and wait in endless lines everywhere. We wouldn’t have been able to see half as much, not even to mention our sanity having to deal with bored kids…

Furthermore, having a local guide who explained what, where, and why, enabled us to appreciate what we were seeing. We never knew there were so many symbols and stories behind all the tiny details in Gaudi’s buildings! Gaudi was a real genius and we would have never gotten to know any of that if we had visited his buildings on our own.

Free Museums

Most Barcelona museums have specific days or hours when you can visit them free of charge. In general, you can expect most museums to be free on the first Sunday of the month. But there are also additional times when you can enter free of charge.

For example, the Picasso Museum is free to visit on the first Sunday of the month and also on Thursday evenings. Barcelona Cathedral (not to be confused with Sagrada Familia) is free to visit between 8.30 AM and 12.30 PM and in the evenings from 5.45 PM to 7.30 PM (hours vary a bit per day and on some days are a bit longer, but the hours indicated here apply daily).

Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA Plaça del Rei) is free on the first Sunday of the month and in the late afternoon on other Sundays.

These are just a few examples – there are so many museums and other attractions in Barcelona. So do your research for the places you want to see and, if possible, time your visit accordingly.

City Cards & Package Deals

If you are planning to visit several of the main Barcelona attractions on your own, you may want to look into getting one of the city cards that offer discounts and free entrances to certain attractions and also public transport tickets.

There is also a museum card that gives access to 6 of the most popular museums in Barcelona. So do your research and see if and which card makes sense for you, depending on your interests.

TIP: If you find the choice overwhelming, we recommend this Barcelona Pass . This is the best pass for Barcelona’s top sights including Park Güell & Sagrada Familia. If you also want to visit the towers of the Sagrada Familia (recommended), then this all-in pass is the best option for you. In case you wonder, there is a lift to get to the top of the towers.

Good to know: These passes not only save you money but make it really easy to book fast-track tickets to the most popular attractions in one place. Furthermore, the tickets are digital so you don’t have to waste your time once you get there!

3. Avoid High Season, Bank Holidays, and School Breaks

As one of the most-visited cities in Europe, Barcelona is always busy . Still, there is a huge difference between visiting Barcelona in the high season (June-August), in the shoulder season (April-May and September-October + New Year), or in the low season when there are fewer international travelers and hardly any cruise ships in town.

Because we travel with kids, however, we can only travel during school breaks. For years, we have been postponing a trip to Barcelona for that reason. However, we decided that it was high time to see this iconic city and chose the first week of November (autumn break) for our trip.

We were pleasantly surprised. It was still busy at the main attractions in the city, but it never really felt too crowded or overwhelming AND we had quite a few amazing places almost to ourselves.

Needless to say that this greatly influenced our experience and we loved Barcelona so much more than I ever expected. Based on all the horror stories about the crowds, we were really fearing the worst. But what we found was a really pleasant city that gave us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sights without having to brush elbows with thousands of strangers.

Furthermore, the weather in early November was fabulous with plenty of sunshine and temperatures that were warm enough to wear a t-shirt during the day.

So if you can, visit Barcelona in the shoulder season or in the low season. It will be so much more enjoyable!

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe

4. Stay in the City Center

Another very important thing to take into account when traveling to Barcelona is where to stay .

While it’s often tempting to choose cheaper accommodation further away from the city center, we have learned the hard way that it’s not the best idea. Yes, it can save you some money, but it will cost you time and comfort. It’s so easy if you can just walk to a nice restaurant for dinner from your hotel or sleep longer in the morning knowing that your tour starts right around the corner and not on the other side of town…

So if you are visiting Barcelona for the first time and want to make the most of your short trip, stay in the city center! Also, stay somewhat close to a metro station – that way you can always get to the other parts of town quicker.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . It’s a perfect location for sightseeing and you can easily walk to most attractions in the old town or to the nicest Gaudi buildings… There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, and most tours and excursions start in this area.

Here are our hand-picked recommendations with an excellent location near Plaça de Catalunya for all budgets:

• If you are looking for a really nice place to stay in the heart of Barcelona, check out Ohla Barcelona , a fabulous 5* hotel with a rooftop pool and bar.
• Some of the best mid-range 4* hotels are Acta Atrium Palace and  Exe Plaza Catalunya .
• If you are on a l ower budget , check out these popular and highly-rated options with excellent locations: Hotel Lloret Ramblas (the best-rated and most popular budget hotel in the center) or  Hostal Boqueria (a very good, simple hotel on a low budget).

Where we stayed: We stayed at the Acta Splendid Hotel.  The location couldn’t be better and the price/quality was unbeatable for this area.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in central Barcelona (Plaça de Catalunya area).

Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

5. Explore the Gothic Quarter

One of the most beautiful parts of Barcelona is the old Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). No visit to the city would be complete without exploring this fascinating area.

While the district gets its name thanks to the 13-15th century Gothic buildings, it’s actually the oldest part of Barcelona with archeological finds dating to Roman times.

The main landmarks here are the Cathedral of Barcelona (The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia), Plaça del Rei , and the underground Roman city that is part of the earlier mentioned Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA). But the real charm of the Gothic Quarter is its fascinating maze of streets and historic buildings.

TIP: This part of town can get really busy. The best time to visit is as early in the morning as possible, or in the low season.

6. Use Barcelona Metro

Barcelona is a big city and its attractions are scattered throughout. So no matter where you stay, eventually, you’ll find yourself in need of a transfer. By far the easiest and the fastest way to get around the city is by taking the metro . And, if you avoid peak times, the metro is surprisingly quiet.

There are all kinds of multi-day and multi-journey tickets available for Barcelona metro and public transport, so choose one that best suits your needs. When we traveled, we got a 10-journey card that could be used by multiple people at the same time. Names and conditions of these cards change often, and you can find the best up-to-date information on the official website .

If you’re just taking the metro (so not a bus and other public transport options), you can easily get ticket cards at any metro station as well. There are ticket machines and everything is well-explained, also in English. Credit cards are accepted.

TIP: You can also take a metro to the airport , but it takes very long (it took us over 1.5 hrs to get to the city center). Alternatively, there are airport shuttle buses that run frequently, cost about the same as the metro ticket, and take much less time. On our way back to the airport, we took a taxi and it was surprisingly affordable. You can find more information about Barcelona airport transport here .

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Just as with any city trip, traveling to Barcelona means that you’ll be walking a lot. Make sure that you wear comfortable walking shoes!

Take my word for it, wrong footwear can ruin your entire vacation. Get lightweight sneakers or slip-on shoes for your Barcelona trip. I wear and recommend shoes in this style ; they are light and comfy – ideal for city trips.

TIP: If you don’t like walking too much, consider taking a hop-on hop-off bus instead.

8. Adjust Your Dining Schedule

You may have heard this before – Spanish people have very different habits when it comes to dining times. The main meal of the day is lunch and it usually starts at around 2 – 2.30 PM. Most restaurants will not open for dinner before 8 – 9 PM.

We were a bit worried about late dinner times because we traveled to Barcelona with kids, but it worked out quite well. Since it’s such a touristy place, there are quite some restaurants that have adapted their opening times and it was usually possible to find a place to eat at 7.30-8 PM.

We were told that the best local restaurants don’t open before 8.30-9 PM, but we found plenty of good restaurants that do.

That being said, you won’t easily find a good local restaurant open for dinner before 7 – 7.30 PM.

9. Try Tapas

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without tapas . In case you don’t know what tapas are, this is just a popular Spanish word for small snacks. Like appetizers in the US or antipasti in Italy. Basically, tapas are just small-sized portions of food – from seafood, meat, to all kinds of vegetables or potatoes ( patatas bravas ).

Everywhere you go, you’ll see tapas on the menu. It’s a great way to try a big variety of Spanish food without having to order an entire dish not knowing whether you’ll like it. It’s ideal if you are traveling with a bigger family or a group of friends because you can order a big variety of tapas and everyone will easily find something they like.

Some restaurants have set tapas menus which are a real lifesaver if you are feeling overwhelmed. After a couple of tapas meals, you’ll get more familiar with the concept, and ordering tapas will actually be fun.

Good to know: Tapas are EVERYWHERE in Barcelona, but they are not the only option (luckily). If you stay in Barcelona longer, it’s quite likely that you’ll eventually get tired of tapas. No worries – there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional Spanish food, seafood, paellas, but also a big variety of international cuisines. After five days in Barcelona, our kids didn’t want to see or hear of any more tapas, so we found a really nice pasta restaurant that the whole family loved.

TIP: If you want to try some of the best local dishes, consider joining a food tour as well! Food tours are our favorite thing to do when visiting any city! Check out this highly-rated tapas & wine tour . Another popular choice is this paella cooking experience + Boqueria market visit .

10. Tipping in Barcelona

Generally speaking, tipping is not that common in Europe, and so also not in Spain. However, American habits quickly find their way here too and it’s now more and more common to tip. That being said, it’s never really expected, let alone obligatory.

In Barcelona, you do not have to tip and locals usually don’t tip or just round up the bill. If you find the restaurant service exceptionally good, you can tip 5-10%. It’s not common to tip at a bar. Taxi bills are usually just rounded up. For bellboys – a euro or two is enough.

Many people tip tour guides, but it’s really your call how much. In Europe, we usually tip 20 EUR for a day tour that we take as a family of 5. If you are alone or traveling as a couple, 5-10 EUR is acceptable, but most Europeans don’t even do that.

11. It’s OK to Haggle

If you are planning to buy any souvenirs from street vendors, at the markets, or at the tourist shops in town, you should know that haggling is completely acceptable. Very often, you’ll see that no prices are advertised and in such cases, you definitely have to haggle or you’ll be overpaying up to twice the price, if not more.

It’s also very common that the same souvenirs will cost twice as much close to the most popular tourist landmarks, compared to some lesser-visited places. However, it’s not always the case.

My best advice is not to buy souvenirs immediately. Take your time, ask for prices, and get a better idea of what’s acceptable before buying anything.

12. Know That Things Are Laid Back

Barcelona is a very laid-back place. You’ll notice it in many ways. Depending on where you’re from and what you’re used to, things might seem a bit too relaxed, or maybe just normal…

The best way to enjoy your time in Barcelona is just go with the flow. Don’t get upset if it takes a bit longer for a waiter to take your order, or if the shops are closed for siesta a bit longer than advertised…

Good thing is that Barcelona is also much more casual in terms of clothing than, for example, Madrid. There is no need for fancy clothing and even at dinner at some nicer restaurants we dined at, most people were quite casually dressed. That being said, when in doubt, I’m always in favor of overdressing.

13. Beware of Pickpockets

Just as in any other big city or popular tourist destination, Barcelona has a problem with pickpockets. These guys are real professionals and it’s not uncommon that they manage to distract attention and even rob a big group of people at the same time.

So take precautions and don’t carry too much money or any other unnecessary valuables around. Also, make sure that you have good travel insurance! Be careful at the most popular tourist places, such as La Rambla or around La Sagrada Familia, and also when using public transport.

An anti-theft backpack might be a good idea too. Or – if you have a regular backpack – wear it in front of you and not on your back. Also, it’s really not a good idea to store your wallet or your smartphone in your jeans pocket.

14. Don’t Try to See Everything

Barcelona is a huge city and there is so much to see and do ! But… there’s no way to see everything in just a couple of days. So plan your itinerary well! If you don’t know where to start, check out our tips on how to spend 1 day in Barcelona and also an itinerary for 2 days in Barcelona .

I recommend choosing a couple of must-see places each day or maybe one specific area, and not try to do it all at once. You’ll enjoy the city much more if you also leave some time for a relaxing lunch at a nice café or some unexpected discoveries.

When it comes to visiting Barcelona, remember that less is more!

I know that it’s very tempting to try and see as many landmarks as you possibly can, but you’ll just get tired and frustrated. Take your time to sample some local specialties at the market, turn into a little picturesque alley and see where it leads, or explore some lesser-known places that don’t involve standing in line for hours… This brings us to the next tip…

15. Get off the Beaten Path

Barcelona is so much more than its most famous landmarks , La Rambla, Gothic Quarter, Barceloneta beach, or Gaudi architecture… There are so many other amazing places that are worth visiting just as much, yet are overlooked by most first-time visitors.

Some of our favorite moments in Barcelona were visiting the lesser-known and less-visited places . And while it’s not easy to find any truly ‘hidden’ gems, even just getting a bit off the main tourist routes will show you a very different side of Barcelona.

One of our favorite places in Barcelona was the beautiful Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site , which we had practically to ourselves. While it is not completely unknown, it was completely deserted when we visited it in the low season… And so worth a visit!

We particularly enjoyed the Port Vell and La Barceloneta – an old fishermen’s quarter with narrow streets and local restaurants. And yes, there is a really busy area in this part of town as well – with a seaside promenade, fancy yachts, and tourist restaurants. But if you take the time to explore deeper, you find a totally different place, just a few blocks away…

The same counts for the El Born and La Ribera areas which are like a labyrinth of narrow streets and passageways – so fun to just get lost and explore this area without a map.

We also went to a more local Poublenou area and explored Gracia , L’Eixample , and Montjuïc on foot. We visited some little-known sights and some really nice markets that had many more locals than tourists (Mercado de La Boqueria is really not the only market worth seeing in Barcelona)…

Each and every area has something special and unique. Behind the busier streets and popular areas, there are always lesser-visited gems just waiting to be discovered.

Even if you just see a few of these more local areas, it will make your trip to Barcelona so much more memorable.

16. Attend a Performance at Palau de la Música Catalana

If you want to experience something really special in Barcelona, try to get tickets for a performance at Palau de la Música Catalana . This stunning music hall is a real masterpiece and worth visiting in itself, but it’s even more special if you can attend a concert here.

They organize various concerts every evening and also during the day on the weekends. From classical music and dance to the most modern musical performances and traditional Flamenco dances – there are always plenty of choices to suit any interest. Most of the time, tickets are available just a few days in advance (or even on the day itself), so check the program and go. It will be totally worth it!

Good to know: You can also just visit the music hall itself. Self-guided and guided tours are available throughout the day and take less than an hour. Here you can get tickets for your visit .

17. Escape the Hustle of the City for a Day

Visiting a busy city like Barcelona can leave you exhausted, especially if you are not used to the crowds or if the summer heat becomes too much for you.

While most tourists head to Barceloneta beach , you’ll hardly find any locals there. The better beaches (nicer and also less crowded) can be found a bit further away. Try Playa de Bogatell if you don’t want to go too far. Or – outside of town – Platja de Castelldefels in the south or Platja de Badalona in the north of Barcelona.

The most popular day trip outside of the city is visiting Montserrat Monastery . Because it’s located in the mountains, the temperatures are usually cooler there too. We also took this day trip and here you can read all about our Montserrat tour .

These are just a few examples of places to visit outside the city. There are many more beautiful areas that you can visit on a day trip from Barcelona! Here are a few other popular options:

• Catamaran Sailing Tours (1.5-2 hrs)
• Kayaking & snorkeling (half a day)
• Hot air balloon flights (half a day)
• Vineyards near the city (half a day)
• Girona and Costa Brava (full day)
• Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum (full day)
• 3 Countries in a Day (full day)

So if you are staying in town for more than 2-3 days, I suggest you take at least one day trip to see more of the surroundings or just to escape the crowds. As a minimum, rent a bike and drive along the beach – there is a beautiful waterfront promenade with bike paths that bring you to the quieter beaches and districts of Barcelona.

18. Stay Clear of Politics and Protests

Political protests in Catalonia are not uncommon. There were huge protests and even riots in Barcelona just a few days before our trip, and there were also some violent protests in the city while we were there.

But, in general, these protests don’t really influence your travel experience much (unless they block an airport, which happened once a few years ago).

My best advice is to just stay clear of any political protests. If you see any demonstrations, just walk around or take another street. Barcelona is a big city and the chances that you’ll find yourself amidst the protesters are really not that high.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some  more practical tips  to consider when traveling to Barcelona for the first time:

• You can  pay  by credit card pretty much everywhere, but it’s always useful to have some cash as well. Spain uses the EURO .
• If you don’t have a credit card with a chip and a 4-digit pin , check out this selection of  the best American credit cards for travel and get one – you’ll need a car with a pin everywhere in Europe. I recommend choosing  a card with no foreign transaction fees .
• While you can easily get around using English , it’s always useful to learn a couple of words of Spanish or Catalan. Hola (hello) and gracias (thank you) go a long way.
• Barcelona has a pretty good network of free WiFi with hundreds of access points throughout the city. Hotels and some restaurants also usually offer free wifi.
• Download an offline map of Barcelona using apps like Google Maps or Maps.me. It’s so much easier than a paper map and you can always easily find your way around.
• Make sure to pack a travel adapter . Spain uses  European plugs .
• Remember that many shops and markets are closed on Sunday . However, most museums and other attractions remain open. We chose to do a Gaudi tour on a Sunday and it worked out great.
• Pack comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the season. It can get really warm in Barcelona and sun protection is an absolute must in summer. Don’t forget your sun hat !
• Make a copy of your travel documents and send it to yourself by email (or save it in the cloud). As with any international trip, make sure that you have good travel insurance .

So, these are some of the most important practical tips that you should know when traveling to Barcelona for the first time.

Below, you can also find some frequently asked questions for your first visit to Barcelona. Take a look!

Barcelona Travel FAQs

The best time to visit Barcelona are the shoulder months between March and May and also from September to October. The weather is best for sightseeing and it’s not as busy as in the summer.

While you can see the main landmarks of Barcelona in one or two days, we recommend at least 3-4 days for your first trip to Barcelona. This will allow you to explore the city at a more relaxed pace, visit Gaudi buildings and a few museums, and maybe even take a tour to Montserrat.

Barcelona is a very popular destination, so it’s best to book your accommodation and the tours that you absolutely want to do in advance. Make sure to book skip-the-line tickets for the most popular landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia!

Yes, Barcelona is a safe destination. However, just like in any other big European city, you should be careful with pickpockets and common travel scams. If you are not sure about visiting certain areas at night, ask your hotel for advice.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . The location is perfect for sightseeing and you can easily walk to the most popular attractions in the city center. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby. Most tours also start in this area.

Do you have any questions or maybe want to share your experience when visiting Barcelona? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

More tips for your trip to Spain:

• Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• Barcelona 1 Day Itinerary
• How to See the Best of Barcelona in 2 Days
• Complete Guide to Visiting Montserrat
• Montserrat Tour Review
• Best Barcelona Gaudi Tour
• 1 Day in Seville
• 2 Days in Seville
• Flamenco in Seville
• One Day in Madrid: What to See & Itinerary
• Madrid to Toledo Day Trip

READ ALSO: Spain Bucket List: Top Places & Experiences

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• Brasov, Romania
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• Bruges, Belgium
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• Sintra, Portugal
• Venice, Italy
• Verona, Italy
• Read also our tips for traveling to Europe .

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Tuesday 13th of June 2023

Hi Jurga! I love your blog and I'm planning to visit Barcelona in October. Did the Acta Splendid charge you a resort fee in addition to the price of the room & tax?.....Elaine

Wednesday 14th of June 2023

Hi Elaine, I don't remember hotel charging us any special fees. When you book on Booking.com, it's always very clearly shown what's included. Usually, for most places, they already include the city tax in the price, or show you how much it will be. For Acta Splendid, if I try just random dates, I see that it shows me in the booking window that 10% VAT and City tax are included in the price. What sometimes happens is that you first get charged just for the room and then have to pay the taxes at the property separately. But the total price you see on Booking is usually the total of what you'll pay in the end (unless clearly stated otherwise). That's a big difference vs. booking with hotels directly. Most hotels don't show taxes in their price at first and then add it to your bill later. This way, you might think that you are paying less but, often, it's quite the opposite. Just one more reason why we always use Booking.com for all our accommodation bookings. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Founder @ wanderlustapp.io

April 4, 2023

The Ultimate Barcelona Spain Travel Guide for 2023

Welcome to Barcelona, Spain's second largest city and a cultural hub in the Mediterranean. With its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant energy, Barcelona is a city that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a new adventure, there's something for everyone in Barcelona. In this ultimate travel guide article, we will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to this enchanting city.

The best months to travel to Barcelona

The best time to visit Barcelona is between April and June or September and November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it the perfect time to explore the city's many attractions without feeling overwhelmed. If you're looking to experience the city's lively festivals and events, plan your trip around the city's many celebrations, including the Barcelona Carnival in February and the La Mercè Festival in September.

Best areas to visit in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city with many distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and personality. If you're looking for a trendy and lively atmosphere, head to El Raval, which is known for its hip cafes, bars, and street art. For a taste of the city's history and culture, visit the Gothic Quarter, where you can explore winding streets, beautiful architecture, and ancient Roman ruins. El Born is another must-visit neighborhood, with its trendy boutiques, stylish restaurants, and beautiful medieval streets. Meanwhile, Gracia is a bohemian neighborhood that's home to many local artists, musicians, and writers. No matter where you go in Barcelona, you're sure to find a neighborhood that suits your style and interests, so be sure to explore as much as possible and discover all that this incredible city has to offer.

The most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city with no shortage of incredible sights to see, from stunning architecture to beautiful parks and beaches. One of the most famous tourist attractions in the city is the Sagrada Familia, a breathtaking church that's been under construction for over a century. Designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia is a masterpiece of modernist architecture and a true icon of the city. Visitors can explore the church's many ornate facades and intricate details, including its towering spires and stunning stained glass windows.

Another must-see attraction in Barcelona is Park Guell, a whimsical park filled with colorful mosaics and stunning views of the city. Designed also by Gaudi, the park features a range of unique structures and sculptures, including a winding dragon staircase and a playful gingerbread house. Visitors can wander through the park's lush gardens, soak up the sun on its expansive terraces, or enjoy a picnic with friends and family.

La Rambla is another popular tourist attraction in Barcelona, a vibrant pedestrian street that's home to some of the city's best cafes, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can stroll along the tree-lined promenade, taking in the sights and sounds of the city, while stopping for a coffee, a bite to eat, or to pick up souvenirs to take home.

For a taste of the city's history and culture, visit the Picasso Museum, which houses an incredible collection of the artist's works, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. The museum offers visitors a unique insight into Picasso's life and work, as well as the broader cultural context of Barcelona in the early 20th century.

If you're looking to soak up some sun and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere, head to Barceloneta Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the city. Located just a few minutes from the city center, the beach features golden sands, clear waters, and a range of bars and restaurants to enjoy. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or simply relax and soak up the energy of this beautiful city by the sea.

Overall, Barcelona is a city that's full of incredible tourist attractions, from its stunning architecture to its beautiful beaches and parks. With so much to see and do, be sure to plan your itinerary carefully, and leave plenty of time to explore all that this enchanting city has to offer.

The best way to travel around Barcelona

Barcelona is a city with a fantastic public transportation system, which makes getting around the city both easy and affordable. The metro is fast, efficient, and covers most of the city's major neighborhoods and tourist attractions. With over 150 stations, visitors can quickly and easily get from one end of the city to the other, all while enjoying the comfort of air conditioning and avoiding the traffic on the city's busy streets.

Another great way to travel around Barcelona is by bus or tram. The city has an extensive network of buses and trams that cover all corners of the city, making it easy to explore off the beaten path neighborhoods and attractions. For those who prefer to travel above ground, the trams offer a scenic way to see the city, while the buses are a more affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

For a more unique way to explore the city, consider renting a bike or taking a Segway tour. Barcelona is a bike-friendly city, with many dedicated bike lanes and paths throughout the city. Renting a bike can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city's many neighborhoods and attractions, allowing visitors to see the city at their own pace and take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. Segway tours are also a popular option, allowing visitors to explore the city's most popular sights while gliding effortlessly through the city.

Finally, for those who prefer the comfort and convenience of a private car, there are many taxi and ride-sharing services available throughout the city. While this option can be more expensive than public transportation, it offers a more flexible and personalized way to explore the city, especially for those with limited time or mobility issues.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, be sure to plan ahead and consider your budget, schedule, and preferences when deciding how to travel around Barcelona. With so many options available, there's sure to be a method of transportation that suits your needs and allows you to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

The most popular cultural food in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that's renowned for its delicious cuisine, and one of the most popular cultural foods in the city is tapas. These small, bite-sized dishes are perfect for sharing with friends and family and are a great way to try a variety of local flavors and specialties. Some of the most popular tapas in Barcelona include patatas bravas, which are crispy fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce, and croquetas, which are creamy and crispy fried balls of béchamel sauce filled with ham, chicken, or cheese.

Another must-try food in Barcelona is paella, a traditional rice dish that's often served with seafood, chicken, or vegetables. This savory dish is a staple of Spanish cuisine and is typically enjoyed with a glass of local wine or sangria. For an authentic experience, head to one of the city's many paella restaurants, where you can watch as the dish is prepared in front of you in a large paella pan.

Seafood is also a big part of Barcelona's culinary culture, thanks to its location on the Mediterranean coast. Visitors can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled octopus, roasted fish, and fried calamari. For a more casual and budget-friendly option, head to one of the city's many seafood stands, where you can sample a variety of fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the hustle and bustle of the city.

Finally, no trip to Barcelona would be complete without trying churros con chocolate, a delicious and indulgent treat that's perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a late-night snack. These fried dough pastries are typically served with a thick and rich hot chocolate sauce, making them the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings.

With so many delicious options to choose from, be sure to explore as much of the local cuisine as possible and immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Barcelona. Whether you're looking for a casual street food experience or a fine dining experience, there's sure to be a dish or restaurant that suits your tastes and preferences.

The best restaurants to visit in Barcelona

Barcelona is home to many incredible restaurants, ranging from Michelin-starred fine dining establishments to casual street food stands. Here are some of the best restaurants to visit in the city:

This world-renowned restaurant is helmed by chef Albert Adrià, who is known for his creative and avant-garde approach to cooking. The menu features a range of innovative and whimsical dishes, inspired by Spanish and Catalan cuisine, and presented in a playful and interactive way.

El Celler de Can Roca

This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the world and is known for its innovative and artfully presented dishes. The menu features a range of traditional Catalan flavors and ingredients, reimagined in creative and unexpected ways.

Another Michelin-starred restaurant, Disfrutar is known for its innovative and playful approach to cooking. The menu features a range of avant-garde dishes, inspired by the flavors and textures of Spanish and Catalan cuisine, and presented in a visually stunning way.

La Boqueria Market

This bustling market in the heart of Barcelona is a foodie's paradise, with dozens of stalls selling fresh seafood, cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and other local specialties. Visitors can sample a variety of dishes and ingredients, from traditional tapas to modern fusion cuisine, all while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic market.

This trendy and stylish restaurant is known for its simple yet delicious tapas dishes, made with high-quality ingredients and served in a cozy and intimate setting. The menu features a range of classic and modern tapas, including fresh seafood, cured meats, and seasonal vegetables.

No matter which restaurant you choose to visit, be sure to sample as much of the local cuisine as possible and immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Barcelona. With so many incredible options to choose from, you're sure to have a memorable and delicious dining experience in this beautiful city.

The best sights to see in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that's full of incredible sights to see, from stunning architecture and museums to beautiful parks and beaches. Here are some of the best sights to see in the city:

La Sagrada Familia

This iconic church, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, is one of the most famous and beloved landmarks in Barcelona. Visitors can explore the church's many ornate facades and intricate details, including its towering spires and stunning stained glass windows.

Another masterpiece by Gaudi, Park Guell is a whimsical park filled with colorful mosaics and stunning views of the city. Visitors can wander through the park's lush gardens, soak up the sun on its expansive terraces, or enjoy a picnic with friends and family.

The Gothic Quarter

This historic neighborhood is filled with winding streets and beautiful buildings, including ancient Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and medieval palaces. Visitors can explore the many boutiques, cafes, and museums that dot the neighborhood, or simply stroll through its charming pedestrian streets and soak up the atmosphere.

The Picasso Museum

This incredible museum is home to an extensive collection of works by the famous artist Pablo Picasso, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings. The museum offers visitors a unique insight into Picasso's life and work, as well as the broader cultural context of Barcelona in the early 20th century.

Barceloneta Beach

Located just a few minutes from the city center, Barceloneta Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the city, offering visitors a chance to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun. The beach is surrounded by a range of cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to spend a day by the sea.

Casa Batllo

This iconic building, also designed by Gaudi, is a masterpiece of modernist architecture, featuring a range of whimsical and surreal details, including colorful tiles, undulating walls, and whimsical balconies. Visitors can take a tour of the building's many rooms and learn more about Gaudi's unique and innovative approach to architecture.

Overall, Barcelona is a city that's full of incredible sights to see, from stunning architecture and beautiful beaches to fascinating museums and historic neighborhoods. With so much to see and do, be sure to plan your itinerary carefully, and leave plenty of time to explore all that this enchanting city has to offer.

The approximate daily cost in USD

The cost of traveling to Barcelona can vary depending on your budget and travel style. On average, you can expect to spend around $100-$150 per day on accommodation, food, and transportation. However, keep in mind that the cost can vary depending on the time of year you visit, the type of accommodation you choose, and the activities you plan to do. For a more budget-friendly trip, consider staying in a hostel or renting an Airbnb, eating at local cafes and markets, and using public transportation to get around the city.

In conclusion, Barcelona is a city that offers something for everyone, from its stunning architecture and beautiful beaches to its delicious cuisine and lively festivals. By following this ultimate travel guide, you can make the most of your trip to this incredible city and create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Barcelona!

Wanderlust App was created to make it easy to discover the most beautiful places across the world. From an AI travel assistant to planning the perfect trip and tracking all the places you want to visit around the world, Wanderlust App will help you do it all.

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• irBarcelona, your Barcelona Travel Guide

Updated Apr 02 2024

IrBarcelona is a Barcelona tourist guide , in which you’ll find all sorts of useful tourist, cultural and historical information about the city, and also about the most beautiful parts of Catalunya .

From the unmissable sights that are most well known and recognised by the majority of people, to the hidden gems that you’ll find in this beautiful city and its surroundings, many of which remain undiscovered even by many of Barcelona’s locals, you will find it all at irBarcelona.

The best temporary exhibitions in Barcelona

“sorolla, a new dimension” immersive exhibition.

TICKETS NOW ON SALE!

Fascinating exhibition to immerse yourself in the work of Sorolla, the Valencian painter considered the great dominator of light

360º projections, virtual reality and digital art

Centre d’Arts Amatller (Arts Center)

Tutankamun the Immersive Experience

Immersive exhibition on Pharaoh Tutankhamen

IDEAL Digital Arts Center

The World of Banksy

Immersive exhibition on the artist Banksy

Espai Trafalgar Barcelona

What to do these days in Barcelona?

Ou Com Balla tradition

Cloisters of the churches and other spaces of the city

From May 30th to June 2nd

Sant Jordi Festival in Barcelona

Streets and squares of Barcelona and the rest of the towns in Catalonia

April 23, 2024

Catalonia’s April Fair in Barcelona

Parc del Fòrum (Park)

April 26 – May 5, 2024

The next months events in Barcelona

Barcelona in April 2024

Barcelona in May 2024

The must to see places in barcelona: book your tickets online.

Sagrada Familia

Skip the line

Casa Batlló

Barcelona’s Picasso Museum

Avoid the long queue at the box office

Camp Nou Experience FC Barcelona

Direct access to the Camp Nou and the F.C. Barcelona

Recinte Modernista of Sant Pau

The largest modernist complex

Book your hotel or apartment in Barcelona

Barcelona public transport pass and tourist cards.

Barcelona Pass

Barcelona Card + Gaudí Bundle

Barcelona Card

Public transportation included (3, 4 and 5 days), access to various museums and discounts

-10% online

ArticketBCN Passport

6 Museums and art foundations

Hop-On Hop-Off Barcelona Bus

1 or 2 days option

Online discount

Hola Barcelona Travel Card

Public transport included (48h, 72h, 96h and 120h)

AeroBus BCN

Bus transfer to / from Barcelona Airport

Suggestions, proposals and useful information to enjoy Barcelona

My aim is simply to introduce you to the wealth of possibilities that this wonderful city has to offer in the most detailed and personal way possible, so that whatever your interests, you’ll be able to organize and plan your holidays .

We also want to make your stay in the city a memorable one, and we’ve therefore introduced various sections that we think are very useful (especially from our experiences of visiting other cities), such as those that refer to the trips and visits that we suggest according to the number of days that you’ll be in Barcelona, as well as the section that highlights the events , traditions and celebrations that take place in the city throughout each month of the year.

The best proposals by irBarcelona to enjoy the city

Making plans for your time in Barcelona

The best plans based on the number of days you will be in Barcelona

Day trips from Barcelona

Discover the best of Catalonia

What things to do in Barcelona

The most important places in the city and the best proposals

Barcelona with children

Planes y propuestas para hacer en Barcelona con niños

Our typical cuisine and much more

Conoce y disfruta de las maravillas de la gastronomía catalana

Cruise ship stuck in Spain to finally leave after 69 passengers removed

A cruise ship stuck in Barcelona will be able to resume its route after a group of Bolivian passengers with visa problems were taken off the vessel on Thursday, authorities have said.

The Spanish government said in a statement it had reached an agreement with MSC Cruises in which 69 Bolivian passengers were removed from the boat and taken to a transit zone in the port, but were not granted permission to enter Spanish territory.

The ship got stranded in Barcelona this week after the Bolivian passengers were not allowed to disembark because they lacked valid documents to enter the European border-free Schengen area, an ID-check-free travel zone comprising 29 European countries that Spain is part of.

Barcelona was meant to be the final destination for the Bolivian passengers, but the boat was scheduled to travel onward to other countries.

The cruise company agreed to provide another boat from Livorno, Italy , for the Bolivian passengers later Thursday, the government statement said. It was not clear if that boat would remain in Barcelona until the situation is resolved or take the Bolivian passengers elsewhere.

Under the agreement, MSC Cruises will also provide food and health care for the impacted Bolivians and immigration officials will work to resolve the passengers' visa problems as quickly as possible, it added.

MSC Armonia, with more than 1,000 passengers reportedly on board, plans to sail to Italy on Thursday, the cruise company said.

Solange Duarte, a Bolivian diplomat in Barcelona, told The Associated Press on Wednesday she had received reports that some of the stranded Bolivians had been duped into obtaining fake visas but had no further information.

“We have asked the families to indicate who has processed this visa and we have not gotten answers,” she said.

Spain ’s national police were looking into the possibility of a fake visa scam, Duarte said.

MSC Cruises said in a statement Wednesday the Bolivian “passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil ” but Spanish authorities later said the visas were not valid for entry into the Schengen area.

The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking news brand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. We have grown a huge, global readership of independently minded individuals, who value our trusted voice and commitment to positive change. Our mission, making change happen, has never been as important as it is today.

Cruise carrying 1,500 passengers stuck in Barcelona port over Bolivian visa dispute

The ship had sailed from Brazil and was on course for Croatia before the incident involving Bolivian passengers.

Wednesday 3 April 2024 16:30, UK

A cruise ship carrying hundreds of passengers is stuck in the port of Barcelona after a group of Bolivian passengers were found to have visa issues, according to officials.

Authorities said 69 Bolivians are not being allowed to leave the liner as they do not have valid documents to enter the EU's border-free Schengen area.

There are some 1,500 passengers on board the luxury MSC Armonia, which had set sail from Brazil and was to continue through the Mediterranean Sea to Croatia.

Spanish government officials in Barcelona said they were in contact with Bolivian authorities and MSC Cruises to resolve the situation.

The Bolivians on board included families and children, MSC Cruises said in a statement.

It said: "The passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil.

"We have been informed by the authorities that the visas are not valid for entry into the Schengen area. As a result, passengers have not been able to disembark in Barcelona, which was their final destination."

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• cruise ships

'Treated like a criminal'

The ship remained in port while it works with authorities to rectify the incident, the company said.

A statement from the Bolivian Foreign Ministry said the Bolivian embassy in Spain and the country's consulate general in Barcelona "are carrying out the pertinent steps to address this case".

Read more: Ex-Spanish football boss arrested at airport 'Heartbroken' and 'devastated' families of UK aid workers killed by Israel pay tribute

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Catalan newspaper Ara reported a Bolivian woman felt she was treated like "a criminal [in a] prison" despite claiming she paid for a visa from an agency which told her it was valid.

The newspaper also reported passengers claiming they had been allowed to leave the cruise in Tenerife without impediment, before being blocked in Malaga and eventually stopped in Barcelona.

The Schengen area is an ID check-free travel zone comprising 29 European countries, most from the European Union.

Related Topics

Delta Air Lines posts a narrow Q1 profit and says travel demand remains strong despite flight scares

Delta Air Lines eked out a narrow first-quarter profit and said Wednesday that demand for travel is strong heading into the summer-vacation season, with travelers seemingly unfazed by recent incidents in the industry that ranged from a panel blowing off a jetliner midflight flight to a tire falling off another plane during takeoff.

Delta reported the highest revenue for any first quarter in its history and a $37 million profit. It expects record-breaking revenue in the current quarter as well. The airline said that second-quarter earnings will likely beat Wall Street expectations.

Shares of Delta Air Lines Inc., based in Atlanta, jumped more than 4% before the opening bell Wednesday and other airlines were pulled higher as well on the performance.

CEO Ed Bastian said Delta’s best 11 days ever for ticket sales occurred during the early weeks of 2024.

If travelers are worried about a spate of problem flights and increased scrutiny of plane maker Boeing , “I haven’t seen it,” Bastian said in an interview. “I only look at my numbers. Demand is the healthiest I’ve ever seen.”

A slight majority of Delta’s fleet of more than 950 planes are Boeing models, but in recent years it has bought primarily from Airbus, including a January order for 20 big Airbus A350s. As a result, Delta will avoid the dilemma facing rivals United Airlines and American Airlines, which can’t get all the Boeing planes they ordered. United is even asking pilots to take unpaid time off in May because of a plane shortage.

“Airbus has been consistent throughout these last five years (at) meeting their delivery targets,” Bastian said.

Delta does not operate any Boeing 737 Max jets, the plane that was grounded worldwide after two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, and which suffered the panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines flight this year. However, Delta has ordered a new, larger version of the Max that still hasn’t been approved by regulators. Bastian said Delta will be happy to use the Max 10 when they arrive.

Delta’s first-quarter profit follows a $363 million loss a year ago, when the results were weighed down by spending on a new labor contract with pilots.

“We expect Delta to be one of the few airlines to report a profit in the March quarter,” TD Cowen analyst Helane Becker said before Delta’s results were released.

Delta said that excluding special items, it earned 45 cents per share. Analysts were expecting 36 cents per share, according to a FactSet survey.

The airline forecast second-quarter earnings of $2.20 to $2.50 per share. The Wall Street consensus was $2.22 per share.

First-quarter revenue rose 8%, to $13.75 billion. Putting Delta’s Pennsylvania refinery aside, operating revenue was slightly more than analysts predicted. The airline said second-quarter revenue will be 5% to 7% higher than a year ago.

The airline reported that large corporate customers — who were slower than leisure travels to resume flying after the pandemic — are spending more on travel, including firms in technology and financial services.

Delta has boosted profit by focusing more on premium passengers who pay the highest fares, and raking in money from a credit-card partnership with American Express.

Costs could rise too, however. Jet fuel is higher than it was a year ago, following a run-up in oil prices, and Delta is spending more on aircraft maintenance this year.