Born over 2,000 years ago as the Roman colony Barcino, Barcelona offers as many things to do as its history is long. The medieval architecture of Gothic Quarter seamlessly blends with the modern wonders scattered throughout the seaside city. A visit to the Catalan capital will reveal a joyous city full of Gaudí’s fantastical structures, iconic parks, worldly art, innovative sports, tasty tapas and rooftops best enjoyed with a glass of Cava. Here is the conclusive list of the best things to do in Barcelona for the well-rounded traveler! Barcelona also has an incredible food scene, make sure to read about some of Barcelona’s Best Restaurants and Bars.
1. La Sagrada Família
No trip to Barcelona is complete without a visit to La Sagrada Família. This magnificent basilica is an unmistakable part of the city’s identity and Antoni Gaudí’s greatest masterpiece. Inspired by nature, La Sagrada Família has been under construction for over a century. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in lines. Ask at your hotel’s front desk to streamline the process or purchase up to several months in advance.
Best viewpoints: Sagrada Família is most commonly photographed from across the pond in the Plaça de Gaudí, but Hotel Ayre Rosellón’s rooftop offers an equally advantageous view with the added perk of delicious cocktails.
2. Parc de la Cituadella
A green oasis in the middle of Barcelona. Around the park you’ll find many attractions: the Museum of Natural Sciences of Barcelona, the Catalan Parliament, and Cascada Monumental—a fountain designed by Josep Fontsére to loosely resemble Rome’s Trevi Fountain. There’s also a beautiful lake and the city zoo to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and then make the short walk to the Arc de Triomf.
3. Arc de Triomf
A striking triumphal arch with deep red hues and intricate details, the Arc de Triomf was constructed to serve as the gateway for the 1888 Barcelona World Fair. On one side, palm trees line the pathway leading to the Parc de la Cituadella. Go early in the morning to catch the sun peeking through.
4. Park Güell
Since its construction, Park Güell has become a defining feature of Barcelona. This public park in like nothing you’ve seen before, with fantastical fairy-tale architecture and gardens designed by the incomparable Antoni Gaudi. The technicolor UNESCO World Heritage Site was initially intended as a residential park but became city property in 1923 when this lofty goal went unrealized. The park is always crowded so plan on purchasing tickets in advance. PSA: If you go before it opens, you can get in for free with fewer crowds and better lighting.
5. Gaudí Houses – Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, Casa Vicens
“God’s Architect” also constructed several houses with his signature Modernism style. Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, and Casa Vicens are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites and open to public visits. Casa Batlló is the most recognizable with masks as balconies and soft blue tones. Casa Milà is built of stone with contrasting iron. If you get the chance, head up to its refreshingly quirky rooftop. Casa Vicens is another Gaudí house decorated in bright red brick and intricate tiling. Casa Batlló and Casa Milà are located within a five-minute walk from one another along Passeig de Gràcia. From here, Casa Vicens is a twenty-minute walk in the direction of Park Güell.
6. Catedral de Barcelona
Located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, and more formally known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, the cathedral was built during the 13th and 14th centuries and is an exquisite example of Gothic Architecture. Spend some time appreciating the cloister dedicated to Eulialia, the young patron saint of Barcelona, which contains thirteen white geese memorializing the age at which she was martyred. Visiting the rooftop (accessible by elevator) lets you see the architecture up close and offers extraordinary views of the city.
Best viewpoints: In the cathedral square, Placita de la Seu, and from rooftop bars—Terraza Colón at Colón Hotel, Teressa del Gòtic at H10 Madison Hotel, and the rooftop terrace of Hotel Ohla Barcelona.
7. Pont del Bisbe
Also known as ‘Bishop’s Bridge’, Pont del Bisbe can be seen between two nondescript buildings overhanging a narrow street near Barcelona Cathedral. The Gothic Quarter’s iconic bridge perfectly blends in with its Medieval surroundings even though it was actually built in 1928. Best viewed in the early morning light.
8. La Rambla
Barcelona’s most famous street, a tree-lined pedestrian boulevard in the center of town, runs close to a mile, connecting Plaça de Catalunya to the Port Vell waterfront harbor. It’s wonderful for strolling and filled with vendors selling flowers, gelato and selfie sticks. With droves of tourists flocking to La Rambla business is always good—for vendors and pickpockets alike. Keep a good hold on your purse!
9. Picasso Museum
The Museu Picasso houses the most extensive and complete collection of artworks by the famed 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. With 4,251 pieces, the museum allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of this eccentric genius. The works are displayed in chronological order that follow the arc of his illustrious career from young prodigy to mature icon. Picasso moved to Barcelona as a 14-year-old and began his artistic career in the Spanish city. Learn more about the storied artist while exploring the beautiful museum with a courtyard and stunning Gothic archways tucked away in Barcelona’s La Ribera neighborhood.
10. Bunkers del Carmel
High above the city sits a group of old military bunkers that offers incredible panoramic views of Barcelona’s surrounding landscape reaching from the Mediterranean to Spain’s interior. Come here armed with appropriate drinks to watch the sunset from the city’s best vantage point. Give yourself enough time as you’ll be taking a taxi then walking the final stretch of hill. Arrive at least an hour before to beat the crowds as this is a well-appreciated spot.
11. Santa Maria del Mar
A local favorite, Santa Maria del Mar is the only surviving church in pure Catalan Gothic style. Built from 1329 to 1384, the church illustrates a unity of style that is uncommon of large medieval buildings. The church has a checkered past. In 1428 it was rocked by the major Catalonia earthquake and during the Spanish Civil War in 1936 it was set on fire and burned for 11 days. Once inside, inhale the crisp cool air and turn your gaze upwards at the towering columns and colorful stained-glass windows near the ceiling.
12. Mount Tibidabo
At just over three-hundred meters, Tibidabo is Barcelona’s highest peak—although it’s more accurately referred to as a hill. The top of the hill features 360 degree views reaching from the sea, the city, and inland towards Montserrat. Also, at the top of Tibidabo is the Sangrat Cor church and Tibidabo Amusement Park. To get here plan on taking a thirty-minute taxi ride.
13. Camp Nou
Camp Nou is the largest stadium in Europe and one of the top-rated football stadiums in the world. With seating for nearly 100,000 people, this massive structure is home to FC Barcelona. Since opening in 1957 Camp Nou has hosted European League finals, FIFA World Cup matches, and even the final of the 1992 Summer Olympics. If you’re a sports fan, consider taking a tour or catching a game at this modern-day Coliseum.
14. Barceloneta
Barcelona’s seaside neighborhood features the sandy Sant Sebastià Beach, al fresco seafood dining, and swanky marinas hosting super-yachts. Stroll the palm-lined promenade and bask in the sun on the city’s convenient-and-chaotic beach before indulging in a sunset drink at the waterfront W Hotel that sits at the far end of the beach.
15. La Boqueria
Established in 1217 in the midst of the Crusades, La Boqueria is the oldest market in Barcelona. With an entrance just off of the famous street La Rambla, the market has more than 200 traders and is always crowded. Come shop for fruit, juices, olives, cheese, meats, nuts, nuts, seafood, and more! PSA: If you’re looking to visit a less touristy market, check out Santa Caterina Market in the La Ribera neighborhood.
16. Parc del Laberint d’Horta
Barcelona’s oldest garden is an immaculate neo-classical royal estate with a labyrinth of lavish greenery and an elegant terraced pavilion. Wander the romantic grounds while navigating the two-meter high hedge maze and enjoying the flowers, fountains, and lily-covered ponds. Located on the edge of Barcelona it’s a 20-minute ride from the city center.
17. Palau de la Música Catalana
The world’s only UNESCO concert hall is equally impressive to the eyes as to the ears. Designed by Modernist architect Lluís Domènech I Montaner, the palace’s auditorium feels like the inside of a kaleidoscope with elaborate stained-glass windows. Originally built as a home for Orfeó Català, a choral society, the concert hall hosts a variety of events including flamenco, operas, choral, and pianists to name a few. Come for a guided or book a musical act.
18. Montjuïc
Close to Barcelonta sits Montjuïc, a modest yet historic hill overlooking the water. Atop the hill you will find the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, Castle Montjuïc, Barcelona’s Botanical Gardens, and the 1992 Olympic Stadiums. Take the cable car from the port to Montjuïc’s peak and enjoy the unparalleled city views.
19. Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site
The site began as the famed Hospital de la Santa Creu originating in the middle ages. In 1902, Modernist architect Lluís Domènech I Montaner was given the chance to design a new state-of-the-art public hospital. The legendary artist incorporated stained glass windows, vivid colors, and elaborate domes to create an uplifting setting for healing the sick. After the last hospital on the property closed in 2009, the grounds reopened in 2014 as an open-air museum and the world’s largest Art Nouveau complex. The massive space is comprised of 27 pavilions connected by a series of underground tunnels. The space is unlike anything you’ve ever seen—the facility even hosts runways during Barcelona Fashion Week.
20. Day Trip – Sitges, Tarragona or Montserrat
While there are plenty of things to do in Barcelona, it’s also nice to explore some of the smaller neighboring towns. Sitges is a charming resort town with beautiful sandy beaches and plenty of nightlife. Make sure to read the Ultimate Sitges Travel Guide. Sitges is accessible via a 40-minute train or taxi ride. Tarragona is home to some of Spain’s best Roman ruins, including the incredibly well-preserved Tarragona Amphitheatre right along the beach. Tarragona is accessible via an hour and a 15-minute train or car ride. Check out the Best Things to do in Tarragona. Montserrat is a stunning mountain town with the Benedictine Monk retreat. The town is reachable via an hour trip by car or train. While all these towns are manageable day trips, I suggest staying a night—especially in Sitges!
