This publish could comprise affiliate hyperlinks. We could obtain a small fee, for free of charge to you, when you make a purchase order. Learn Disclosure.
Barcelona is a metropolis that leaves anybody who visits right here dazzled. Not solely is it strikingly stunning with its modernist structure and Roman archeological websites, but it surely’s additionally a melting pot of various cultures and communities.
For those who’re on the lookout for a spot to celebration, Barcelona provides that. For those who’re on the lookout for seashores, verify! For those who’re on the lookout for world-class cuisines, you gained’t discover higher in Spain. Evidently, there are many issues to do in Barcelona to go away you in awe.
As a part of our metropolis guides collection, we interviewed Mariana Calleja who has been dwelling in Barcelona, Spain since January 2010, after she visited town, fell in love with it, and determined to remain longer.
Mariana shares with us her insider suggestions on what to do in Barcelona plus some hidden gems. She additionally provides us some recommendations on the place to eat, sleep, drink, store, and discover. However first…
How Lengthy is Sufficient Time in Barcelona?
Barcelona is a really wealthy metropolis in lots of elements. It has a lot to see and do, but in addition there’s a lot tradition to take in as nicely. Whether or not you wish to hit the seashores, take a look at iconic Gaudi structure, or attempt scrumptious Catalan meals, you want at the least 3 days to actually see all of the highlights.
Why Go to Barcelona?
Barcelona is a metropolis that provides one thing for everybody. Musicians all over make my day day-after-day life right here vibrant and vibrant. Contained in the metro, on the streets, and alongside the seashore. To me is like being in a film each time!
Simply stroll round Barcelona, there’s magic all over the place, and it’s exhausting to explain. There’s a pleasant ambiance. Security too one way or the other is dependent upon the place you might be coming from however nonetheless is a secure metropolis to only take pleasure in day or night time. Barcelona is vibrant and intense, but stress-free and welcoming.
On this metropolis, you get to eat actually good meals total. Catalan delicacies is kind of beautiful, from major dishes to pastry retailers. It doesn’t matter what time of the 12 months, they all the time have particular delights for everybody. Undoubtedly, a spot to come back, eat and loosen up!
Issues to Do in Barcelona
Now you recognize a little bit bit about why it is best to go to Barcelona and for a way lengthy, it’s time to introduce you to the highest sights in Barcelona! Don’t miss these unforgettable issues to do within the capital of Catalonia!
1. Try the Gaudi Buildings
Barcelona is stuffed with wonderful structure, however nothing fairly compares to the scattered works of one of many world’s most well-known architects, Antoni Gaudí, all through town.
His daring, artwork nouveau designs have made Barcelona probably the most iconic cities in Europe because of such iconic works as La Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera (Casa Milà), and Casa Battló.
If it’s your first time in Barcelona, trying out these distinctive constructions is an absolute should factor to do!
Whereas he has a number of works everywhere in the metropolis, a lot of that are a Unesco World Heritage Web site, you merely should take a look at Park Güell, which has one in every of Gaudi’s most famed masterpieces. Winding up the financial institution above the Market Corridor is a dragon made out of cut up ceramics. You gained’t miss it, because it’s additionally the park’s entrance.
Remember to head to the close by Gaudi Home Museum at Parc Guell to study extra about his life and inspiration. With Gaudi, each element tells its personal story.
2. Watch a Magic Montjuic Fountains Present
The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is situated on Avinguda Maria Cristina, beneath the Palau Nacional on the Montjuïc mountain.
Each Friday to Sunday from October by way of to April, the fountain reveals a free mild and water present. The present takes place from 7pm to 9pm, and is among the greatest free issues to do in Barcelona at night time.
3. Lease a motorcycle and journey alongside the seashore
What’s particular and distinctive about Barcelona is that it sits proper on the coast. The seashores in Barcelona are clear, well-maintained, and buzzing with individuals.
You’ll see teams taking part in volleyball on the comfortable golden sand, children taking part in soccer, many individuals swimming and everybody having a superb time.
The most effective methods to expertise the seashore is to hire a motorcycle and cycle alongside the promenade.
Stretching for 4 kilometers alongside the shoreline, it provides breathtaking views out to sea and over town. When it’s worthwhile to cease for a break, there are many little seashore bars the place you’ll be able to seize an ice cream or take pleasure in some sangria.
I extremely suggest you come to the seashore within the night to see an unbelievable sundown.
Barcelona Seashore Bikes is the place to get your bike rental from – they’ve a wonderful fame and the bikes are stored in good situation.
4. Go to the Santa Llucia Christmas Market (Seasonal)
The Santa Lucia Christmas Market in Barcelona is a must-visit when you’re on the lookout for issues to do in Barcelona in December.
This vibrant and festive market is the most important and oldest Christmas market in Barcelona and takes place exterior Barcelona Cathedral (Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia).
Right here, there’s something for all to see and do; guests can browse the artisanal stalls showcasing native merchandise or take a gander on the festive decorations lining the sq..
Get pleasure from heat and scrumptious conventional culinary treats, discover some distinctive items in your family members, or just get into that particular Christmas spirit whereas singing alongside to dwell carols.
5. Discover the Neighborhoods of Barcelona
Barcelona is a large metropolis and one of the best ways to actually get a really feel for the tradition, the individuals, and the lifestyle, is to only wander across the neighborhoods and soak all of it in.
I extremely suggest you do that by strolling down La Ramblas, Barcelona’s most well-known avenue. This palm-lined pedestrian avenue is 1.2km lengthy and passes by way of some unbelievable neighborhoods, in addition to iconic sights reminiscent of Plaça de Catalunya.
Remember to take a look at the Gracia neighborhood, a conventional outdated Spanish kinda neighborhood. It’s crammed with little plazas good for a espresso afternoon or some beer and tapas. Additionally identified each for its good nightlife and a family-friendly place.
In fact, no journey to Barcelona could be full with out visiting the Gothic Quartier. This mystique space is ideal for nightlife as nicely. It has all types of bars, cafes, eating places, and worldwide meals choices, which makes this neighborhood among the best in Barcelona for my part.
Cozy, alive, and magical.
Raval is a distinctive and contrasting place. It deserves a superb stroll round its genuine and ethnic streets, crammed with an unbelievable mixture of Islamic and Hindu cultures throughout. It’s nice for curious vacationers into one thing past town guides.
Eixample is the modernist coronary heart of Barcelona. It’s best for lengthy walks whereas getting delighted with its nice structure and buildings, together with Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milá, essentially the most identified Barcelona sights.
To not point out the countless variety of good locations for consuming, having espresso, or only a good chat.
6. Examine Out The Meals Markets
Meals markets are among the best issues to do in Barcelona! La Boqueria is the touristy one however is a pleasant place to admire and get the senses to go lively. Not on a price range however simply watching and smelling is free.
Mercat de Santa Caterina is value visiting for its distinctive structure. Remember to lookup on the wavey roof!
Then, there are native markets reminiscent of Mercat de L’Abaceria in Gracia, situated in a fairly distinctive outdated constructing.
For a singular market expertise, the Ebook Market in Sant Antoni on Sundays is a must-see! And final however not least, simply get misplaced any weekend round El Raval neighborhood, over its cozy Rambla you can see native artisan market stands, away from town rush.
Every other native markets reminiscent of Mercat de L’Abaceria and Mercat de la Barçeloneta are nice locations to seek out one thing to eat. At time for supper, I like to recommend you head to Ciutat Comtal for high quality Catalan meals.
7. Attempt Tapas and Regional Delicacies
No journey to Barcelona is full with out sampling its scrumptious regional delicacies. Barcelona is legendary for its Catalonian meals, reminiscent of Fideua, which is sort of a paella however made up of little particular noodles and served with a conventional sauce referred to as “alioli”.
Within the winter, Calçots are a winner. Your fingers and palate might be grateful endlessly.
When on the lookout for one of the best locations to attempt regional meals, La Bodegueta has actually good tapas with a do-it-yourself feeling. Additionally good to have some wine and loosen up inside. Very native.
Not very Catalan however good meals round when you go to Arepería La Taguara in El Born neighborhood, contained in the gothic quarter. Though it’s Venezuelan conventional meals, it’s undoubtedly not on town guides and for some purpose, I can’t clarify, you’ll like it too!
I haven’t discovered one other like this on my travels so value a attempt.
8. Attend One in all The High Festivals in Barcelona
Barcelona is among the most energetic cities in Europe and it’s as a result of there’s all the time one thing taking place. For those who take pleasure in leisure and festivals, then that is town for you. A number of the most unmissable festivals in Barcelona it is best to add to your itinerary are:
- Festa Main de Gracia: a tremendous show of group avenue artwork for an entire celebration week!
- Sant Joan: the shortest night time of the 12 months have to be lived on the seashore over bonfires, good buddies, and countless fireworks within the sky.
- Festes de Gracia in August is a must-see!
- Sant Jordi: on April twenty third, a particular occasion takes place: crimson roses and books take over town fully, celebrating the defeat of the dragon by Sant Jordi, saving the princess and giving peace to the entire city from the dragon’s menace.
For those who’re visiting in the summertime, little doubt you’ll stumble throughout a dwell music occasion or some avenue performers out displaying off their abilities, even with out on the lookout for it.
9. Take a Day Journey to Montserrat
Montserrat despite the fact that it’s touristy, is a tremendous place to go to. Positioned in Spain’s northeastern area, this stunningly stunning mountain area is crammed with an abundance of spiritual monuments, breathtaking landscapes, and engaging historical past.
Its first inhabitants date again to prehistory, whereas the enduring monastery, probably the most well-known landmarks within the metropolis, has referred to as Montserrat its dwelling because the tenth century.
Remember to take a look at Santa Cova (a small cave considered the place the Virgin Mary appeared), or admire the unbelievable mountain views.
Journey seekers must also be sure to hit up a few of Montserrat’s well-known climbing trails – you’ll be able to’t beat these majestic mountains! With all that Montserrat has to supply, it’s the proper day journey from Barcelona.
10. Take a Day Journey to Tarragona
Tarragona is an unbelievable port metropolis simply exterior Barcelona. With 1000’s of years of historical past that return to the Romans, it’s no marvel why there are such a lot of wonderful sights to discover right here.
The Tarragona Cathedral is understood for its beautiful Gothic structure mixed with a little bit of Romanesque affect.
Then head over to the Amphitheatre of Tarraco and be introduced again over 2,000 years into time for a close-up take a look at some Roman Ruins.
Remember to discover the Historic Necropolis and depend the numerous tombs which are scattered across the grounds.
In fact, no journey could be full with out trying out what the Mediterranean shoreline has to supply.
Tarragona has a number of seashores round it that make an excellent spot for absorbing some Spanish solar and even having fun with some water sports activities like diving and crusing.
With wonderful Roman ruins and a stunning stretch of coast, and undoubtedly not as crowded as Rome, it’s an fascinating place for a day journey from Barcelona.
11. Try the Picasso Museum
One of the crucial well-known Spanish artists is Pablo Picasso. You’ll be able to study all in regards to the youth of his life by way of a well-curated and intimate exhibit on the Picasso Museum.
The museum incorporates 4,251 items in its everlasting assortment, a number of the most notable are the collection Las Meninas from 1957 and a few older items from 1917.
Because it opened in 1963, the museum has been devoted to showcasing the fascinating life and works of one of many world’s most recognisable artists.
12. Admire The Great thing about Palau de la Música Catalana (Palace of Catalan Music)
The Palau de la Música Catalana is a live performance corridor that was constructed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner in 1908. Its distinctive design is among the most placing works of Catalan modernista type within the metropolis. It’s most well-known for its beautiful stained-glass home windows, which not solely line the partitions however the ceiling as nicely.
Initially supposed for Orfeó Català, a choral society that was a number one power within the Catalan cultural motion, the palace shortly turned probably the most treasured buildings in Barcelona.
In 1909, it gained an award from the Barcelona Metropolis Council as one of the best constructing in-built 1908, and in 1997, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Web site.
Right now you’ll be able to go to to observe quite a lot of musical performances.
13. Study About Soccer Historical past at Camp Nou Stadium
Soccer followers mustn’t miss this thrilling attraction in Barcelona. Camp Nou, which is also called Spotify Camp Nou for sponsorship causes, is Barcelona’s soccer stadium and residential to the FC Barcelona.
This large stadium can seat practically 100,000 and is the largest stadium in Spain and the third largest soccer stadium on this planet.
Vacationers can now tour the stadium and go to the Barcelona museum and study all in regards to the historical past of the soccer membership and its legendary gamers, reminiscent of Kubala, Cruyff, Maradona, Guardiola, and Ronaldinho.
On a guided tour of the stadium, you not solely discover the stands however some behind-the-scenes areas such because the guests’ altering room and the tunnel onto the pitch, the tv studio, the press room, and the commentary packing containers.
14. Examine Out The View from Bunkers del Carmel
The Bunkers of Carmel is a panoramic viewpoint that provides a 360º view of Barcelona. It’s most well-known as a viewpoint, but it surely was additionally a Spanish Civil Battle bunker that housed anti-aircraft weapons.
Try a little bit of Spanish protection historical past and watch the sundown over the attractive metropolis it as soon as protected.
Finest Time to Go to Barcelona
Barcelona is a really weather-friendly metropolis all 12 months spherical. Summer time is just not extraordinarily scorching and winter is just not extraordinarily chilly.
In fact, one of the best seasons could be within the Spring and November when the climate is at its most snug.
The shoulder season is from late March to April, and from late September to October. That is whenever you see the fewest quantity of vacationers, however honest warning, it’s nonetheless busy.
There are a couple of wet days all through the entire 12 months and even in winter, you get sunny days with deep blue skies.
Getting To and Round Barcelona
Barcelona is a good place by way of location and transportation. Getting there’s straightforward in any means: automotive, prepare, bus, airplane, or ship. You select!
The airport is nicely situated and nicely related to downtown with bus and prepare service, all on a price range and in good timing. We suggest you are taking the Aerobus because it’s the quickest strategy to town from the airport.
Vueling Airline is one good low-cost firm that arrives in BCN from a lot of locations. Simply to say one. However undoubtedly, BCN is a VERY well-connected metropolis with the world, so no hassle right here!
In relation to exploring town, the Barcelona Metro is the best way to go. It connects just about all over the place and is the simplest and most economical strategy to get from A to B.
Barcelona can also be very walkable when you don’t like spending an excessive amount of time on trains. Nonetheless, one of the best factor could be to arrange every day throughout your go to round one neighborhood. This fashion you’ll be able to take pleasure in strolling, taking within the views, and the native feeling whereas going by yourself ft.
The place to Keep in Barcelona
Anyplace near La Rambla and Paseo de Gracia are good spots since they’re near the transport system. Search for lodging anyplace across the avenue referred to as Passeig de Gracia and/or Plaza Cataluña-Las Ramblas if it’s your first time, as this places you near many high sights in Barcelona.
For price range lodging in Barcelona, Safestay Passeig de Gràcia is in an excellent location and has a social vibe. They provide loads of actions for vacationers so you’ll by no means be lonely within the metropolis.
You’ll discover loads of hostels round Plaza Cataluña and Passeig de Gracia which are dependable.
You probably have a mid-level price range for lodging in Barcelona, take a look at Sercotel Caspe Resort which is in a superb location and has top-class service.
For luxurious accommodations, you gained’t discover a lot better than Casa Fuster Resort, which is like staying in a fortress! The lodge is solely stunning and is situated in a central location close to many high sights.
Ideas for Visiting Barcelona
To take advantage of out of your journey and to seek out some hidden gems, listed here are some last suggestions for you:
- For tea lovers, you won’t wish to miss El Salterio Tea Home, within the gothic quarter.
- Ciutat Comtal is one great place for tapas & montaditos. Actually good meals all 12 months spherical. Very fashionable among the many Catalan group.
- As all the time a good suggestion to attempt consuming on the native markets, the place any meals might be 100% recent and engaging!
- Control your belongings, particularly in touristy areas. Pickpockets are frequent in Barcelona.
- Ebook tickets for sights prematurely to skip the road and keep away from huge queues.
- Use the Aerobus from the Airport because it’s the quickest strategy to town.
The preferred excursions and sights in Barcelona:
Ultimate Ideas on Issues to Do in Barcelona
Barcelona has given me life experiences, extra than simply journey.
It has given me a dream come true, a life, a house away from dwelling, a brand new language and tradition, and new buddies too.
However above all, it has given me a base to do my entire journey dream, to maneuver round, and to study extra.
There may be a lot to see and do in Barcelona, I hope this information helps encourage you and provides you some concepts that can assist you plan your itinerary.
Writer Bio:
Mariana Calleja is a costarican journey blogger primarily based in Barcelona since 2010 along with her journey and life accomplice, each curious for experiences involving the 5 senses in a acutely aware means. Try her weblog “Journey Thirst” and join along with her on Fb, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Extra Journey Ideas for Spain
Are you planning on visiting different components of Spain? Then you could discover the beneath assets helpful!
Save It On Pinterest:
Do you could have recommendations on issues to do in Barcelona? Tell us within the feedback!
Supply: Breaking Travel News
