Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, blends history, culture, and modernity, draws more than 12 million visitors annually. Visitors marvel at Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, explore the charming Gothic Quarter, visit world-class art museums and enjoy the delights at the many tapas bars.
Getting Around Barcelona
Getting around is relatively easy and convenient, thanks to its well-developed public transportation system and pedestrian-friendly layout. The Barcelona Metro is efficient and user-friendly, with frequent service and stations conveniently located throughout the city. Additionally, the public bus network provides comprehensive coverage, making it easy to reach destinations not served by the metro. For those who prefer to explore on foot, Barcelona’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make it ideal for walking, especially in the historic center and along the waterfront. Overall, whether by metro, bus, tram, cabs, Uber or on foot, navigating Barcelona is a straightforward and enjoyable experience, allowing visitors to efficiently explore all that the city has to offer. If you arrive at the Barcelona airport, you can get the L9 metro from both Terminals 1 and 2 and change lines as you need to. If you arrive by train, you most likely will arrive at Barcelona Sants (Sants Estació) which is on both the L3 (Green Line) and L5 (Blue Line) See the attached Metro Map
One thing to note is the arrows on the metro signs; they’re not like we’re used to. When a sign has a ‘down arrow’ ⬇️ , that means ‘Straight Ahead’.
Top Things to do in Barcelona
Sagrada Família
The Sagrada Família is one of the most iconic landmarks of Barcelona, Spain, and perhaps even the world. Designed by the visionary architect Antoni Gaudi, construction began in 1882 and today, more than 140 years later after the laying of the cornerstone, it is still under construction with an anticipated completion date sometime in the 2020s or 2030s
The exterior is adorned with elaborate facades depicting scenes from the Bible, intricately carved stone sculptures, and towering spires that reach to the skies. Each facade has its own distinct style, reflecting different aspects of the Christian faith and Gaudí’s innovative approach to architecture.
Inside, the Sagrada Família is a marvel of light and color, with towering columns that resemble trees reaching up to support the intricate ceiling. Stained glass windows bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors, which are truly breathtaking.
Visitors can explore the basilica’s interior and ascend to the top of its towers for panoramic views of Barcelona if you purchase the Towers as part of your visit. There are several ticket options for individuals, you can choose the downloadable audio guide or if you prefer, with a guided tour.
We chose the Sagrada Família snd Towers option (you get to choose one of the towers), where you take the lift up to the tower and spiral stairs down.
Note; No backpacks allowed, but a small sling bag or a purse is fine.
The Sagrada Família is extremely busy, and the ticket lineups can be long so we would highly recommend booking your tickets ahead of time (see their website address below) to avoid disappointment. If you book your ticket “with Towers”, you will generally have about 45 minutes to see the inside before your scheduled time to go up the tower. Once you descend from the tower, you do not need to exit the basilica, you are free to wonder around inside for as long as you wish.
We were there on the 1st day of June and high season was already in full swing, so we were really glad we planned ahead.
Park Güell
Park Güell, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a captivating park that also showcases the genius of renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. Designed between 1900 and 1914, the park was originally conceived as a housing development commissioned by Eusebi Güell but was later transformed into a municipal garden.
The park is a whimsical wonderland of colorful mosaics, and undulating shapes, that blend with the natural landscape.
You can wander along winding paths lined with mosaic-covered walls, palm-lined terraces, and gingerbread-like houses that evoke a fairytale ambiance. At the center of the park is the grand esplanade, adorned with a curving bench covered in mosaic tiles known as the “serpentine bench,” offering panoramic views of the city below.
At the heart of Park Güell stands the iconic Salamander Fountain, also known as “El Drac” (The Dragon), which has become a symbol of the park and a popular photo spot for visitors.
The park is also home to Gaudí’s former residence, which now serves as a museum dedicated to his life and work, offering insight into his innovative architectural style and creative process.
As Park Güell is a very popular attraction, we’d recommend booking your tickets ahead of time (see their website address below). We purchased our tickets several weeks in advance and were glad we did, as people who were arriving as early as 10:00 am without a ticket were told they were all sold out for the day. At the time of purchase, you choose a designated time to visit which you can access up to 30 minutes after the reserved time. Another recommendation is pick earlier in the morning if you can, once tour buses arrive, it is very difficult to get the perfect picture!
The closest metro station to Park Güell is Lesseps station (L3, Green line), which is about 1 km from the park.
The Gothic Quarter
The Barri Gòtic or the Gothic Quarter, nestled in the historic center of Barcelona, is a captivating maze of narrow medieval streets and centuries-old buildings that date back to Roman times and are lined with boutiques, artisan workshops, and quaint cafes tucked away in centuries-old buildings.
Wandering through the Gothic Quarter, you’ll encounter iconic sights such as the Barcelona Cathedral, with its grand Gothic facade and serene cloisters. Nearby, the Plaça Reial exudes a vibrant ambiance with its palm trees, ornate streetlamps, and bustling cafes, making it a popular gathering spot day and night.
Aside from Plaça de la Seu (square), stop in the smaller square Plaça Sant Felip Neri, which was bombed by Spanish dictator Francisco Franco during the Spanish Civil War (you can see scars from the attack on the church in the square). Another notable plaza is Plaça Sant Jaume, where the Catalan seat of government has been since the Middle Ages.
Catedral de Barcelona (Barcelona Cathedral)
The Barcelona Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture is nestled in the heart of the city’s Gothic Quarter. Built over six centuries, from the 13th to the 20th century, its stunning facade and intricate spires dominate the skyline. Inside, the cathedral’s vast interior houses a myriad of chapels, each adorned with exquisite stained-glass windows and ornate altarpieces. The cloister, with its serene courtyard filled with palm trees and the company of thirteen geese, is a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. For travellers seeking a blend of architectural splendor and cultural richness, the Barcelona Cathedral is an essential stop on any visit to Barcelona.
The Kissing Mural
The Kissing Mural, also located in the Gothic Quarter, is a delightful hidden gem for travellers seeking a romantic and artistic experience. Painted by local artist Joan Fontcuberta, this charming mural captures a moment of intimacy between two figures against a backdrop of vibrant colors and intricate details. Nestled in a narrow alleyway near Carrer del Bisbe, the mural invites you to pause and admire during your exploration of Barcelona as well as offering a unique photo opportunity.
Mercat de la Boqueria (Boqueria Market)
La Boqueria is the most famous market in Barcelona and is located at the lower end of La Rambla. More than 200 traders showcase a wide array of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and delicious delicacies. The market is open Monday to Saturday, 8:00 am to 8:30 pm.
La Rambla
La Rambla, often simply referred to as Las Ramblas, is one of Barcelona’s most famous and vibrant boulevards, stretching for about 1.2 kilometers from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. This iconic pedestrian street is a bustling hub of activity, lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and street performers, making it a lively and dynamic thoroughfare.
As you strolling down La Rambla, you can admire the beautiful architecture of historic buildings, such as the Gran Teatre del Liceu, Barcelona’s renowned opera house, and the Palau de la Virreina, a stunning example of Catalan Baroque architecture.
The street is divided into several sections, each with its own distinct character and attractions. From flower stalls and bird markets to human statues and living statues, La Rambla offers an array of sights and sounds that will captivate you.
Whether you’re people-watching from a sidewalk cafe, browsing through the shops, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, a visit to La Rambla is an essential part of experiencing the vibrant energy of Barcelona.
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló located at 43 on Paseo de Gracia is a masterpiece designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. Its undulating facade, adorned with colorful mosaic tiles and skeletal balconies reminiscent of masks, captivates visitors. Exploring Casa Batlló is like stepping into a fantastical dreamscape where every corner reveals a new marvel of design and innovation.
Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
Casa Milà, better known as La Pedrera, stands as a testament to Antoni Gaudí’s visionary architectural style. This UNESCO-listed masterpiece, completed in 1912, is renowned for its undulating stone facade, is complemented by wrought-iron balconies resembling seaweed.
La Pedrera is not just a building but an experience and if you want to delve into Barcelona’s rich architectural heritage, Casa Milà promises a glimpse into the mind of one of Catalonia’s most celebrated architects.
Palau de la Música Catalana
Palau de la Música Catalana, a UNESCO-listed concert hall has a stunning stained-glass skylight, intricate mosaics, and sculptural elements. Inside the main concert hall there are beautiful ornate columns, vibrant floral motifs, with performances ranging from classical music to flamenco and contemporary concerts. You have the option of taking a guided tour or you can explore on your own which is our preferred method. Unfortunately we didn’t get to attend a concert, but that is definitely on our “must’ list for our next visit.
Montjuïc Castle
The Montjuïc Castle is perched atop Montjuïc Hill overlooking Barcelona’s harbor, offers both history and some of Barcelona’s most breathtaking views. Originally built in the 17th century, the castle has served various purposes throughout its storied past, including as a military fortress and a prison. Today, you can explore its grounds, wander through the former barracks, but mostly enjoy the panoramic vistas of the city and the Mediterranean Sea from its strategic vantage point.
However, as a fan of everything historic it was a little bit of a let-down, other than the views so if you have limited time in Barcelona, you could skip this.
Telefèric de Montjuïc (Montjuïc Cable Car)
If you do decide to visit Montjuïc Castle, you can venture up the walking paths through the park or for those who would rather take the easier way (like we did), there is a cable car (the Telefèric de Montjuïc) which offers a scenic view of the city and the Mediterranean Sea that starts near the Miramar Gardens.
The Montjuïc Cable Car is located at Avinguda de Miramar, 30 which you can get to on the Montjuïc Funicular, from Paral·lel metro station (L2 and L3), or on buses 55 and 150. The funicular is part of the integrated fare system and the ticket is the same price as a trip by metro or bus.
More to see
For art enthusiasts, the Picasso Museum offers a comprehensive collection spanning the legendary artist’s early years.
Sports aficionados can’t miss a visit to Camp Nou, the hallowed home of FC Barcelona, where they can soak in the electric atmosphere of a live match or explore the club’s illustrious history at the FC Barcelona Museum.
Finally, Barcelona’s coastal location (Barceloneta Beach) invites visitors to unwind on its golden beaches, where they can soak up the Mediterranean sun. The nearest metro station is located in the La Barceloneta neighbourhood, close to the beach and Parc de la Ciutadella on L4 (Yellow Line).
What are the most popular Spanish Dishes in Barcelona
Paella – a Spanish rice dish with veggies and often topped with seafood, chicken or chorizo
Jamón Iberico – the Iberian Acorn-fed ham is a cured meat, similar to prosciutto but some would say much more flavorful. Iberico ham sandwiches will be found everywhere throughout Spain.
Empanada – a meat filled crescent shaped pastry
Tapas
Churros – the Spanish version of doughnuts, are deep-fried lengths of choux pastry
From traditional tapas bars to innovative Michelin-starred restaurants, the city’s gastronomic scene offers something to satisfy every palate.
How many days do you need to visit Barcelona?
It is recommended to plan a visit lasting 5-7 days which also gives you the opportunity to do 1 or 2, day trips. (Coming soon: Montseratt and Sitges). We spent 6 days in Barcelona and were able to see and do everything on our list.
Is Barcelona Safe?
Barcelona is widely regarded as a safe city to visit, provided visitors exercise common safety precautions. Like any major urban destination, it’s advisable to stay vigilant, particularly in public transport and crowded tourist areas like Sagrada Familia, La Rambla and the Sants station, to guard against petty theft and pickpocketing. Keeping valuables secure, being aware of surroundings, and avoiding isolated areas at night are recommended practices. Also, use some common sense and never leave your cell phones or cameras on tables in cafes.
Overall, Barcelona offers a welcoming and hospitable environment for travelers, with a robust police presence and a generally low incidence of violent crime. With sensible precautions, visitors can enjoy all that Barcelona has to offer with peace of mind.
Is the water safe to drink in Barcelona?
Yes, according to all international standards include the EU and World Health Organization, Barcelona has some of the highest quality drinking water in the world.
When is a good time to Go to Barcelona?
The best time to visit Barcelona is typically during the spring (April to June; we visited Barcelona during May and June), and autumn (September to October) months when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded with tourists compared to the peak summer season. During these months, temperatures are comfortable for exploring the city and there are fewer crowds at popular landmarks. Additionally, spring and autumn offer opportunities to experience local festivals and cultural events, such as the Sant Jordi festival in April and the La Mercè festival in September. However, Barcelona enjoys a Mediterranean climate, so even during the summer (July to August), visitors can still enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and beautiful beaches, albeit with higher temperatures and larger crowds. Overall, the best time to visit Barcelona depends on personal preferences regarding weather, crowds, and the desire to experience specific events or festivals.
Is Barcelona Worth a Visit?
A resounding YES!! With its rich cultural heritage, architectural wonders, and dynamic energy, Barcelona was a real favorite of ours.