Everyone can find something to enjoy in Barcelona. Foodies, art enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers will all be enthralled by this magnificent city. Las Ramblas and Placa de Catalunya are great starting points, but be sure to explore all that the city has in store. Whether you’re admiring the incomparable architecture, soaking up some sun on a beach, or enjoying the small-town feel of the Gràcia district, Barcelona will give you experiences you’ll never forget. Here are ten of the best things to do in Barcelona, Spain.
Las Ramblas
Wander into the middle of Barcelona and you’ll find yourself on Las Ramblas, a wide, pedestrian-friendly boulevard running through the heart of the city. By day it’s bustling with souvenir stands, street performers, and local artists, by night it’s a hub for partiers and club-goers. Las Ramblas is one of Barcelona’s classic tourist hubs, and it’s also a great spot from which you can check out other destinations.
Placa de Catalunya
Placa de Catalunya is a large, central square that lies right where the old city and 19th century additions meet. The 50,000 square meter plaza is connected to many of Barcelona’s biggest attractions, but don’t be so quick to leave the square itself. Full of beautiful fountains and statues, Placa de Catalunya is a great place to unwind and people-watch. Stop by Café Zurich if you get hungry, and if you feel like shopping you can head over to El Corte Ingles.
Barcelona Beaches
If you want to soak in the sun (or the water), try one of Barcelona’s many beaches. The beaches at Port Olimpic are scenic and tranquil (during the day at least), while Barceloneta Beach is buzzing with sunbathers and vendors. The Barceloneta promenade is also home to plenty of cafes and bars, so you if you get hungry or thirsty you won’t have to worry. Spend the afternoon in the water then head to shore for dinner!
La Sagrada Familia
Barcelona is home to a number of famous works by Antoni Gaudi, a Spanish architect known for his unique style. One of his most beloved accomplishments is La Sagrada Familia, the Church of the Sacred Family. Gaudi began work on this building in 1883 and worked all the way until his death in 1926, but the church is still under construction today. The innovative architect went with an unconventional design that deviated from the typical Gothic style, creating one of the most unique churches ever built. Full of beauty and unconventionality, you need to see it for yourself.
Park Guell
Park Guell is another one of Antoni Gaudi’s creations, a whimsical park resembling something out of a fairy tale. Covering 42 acres and surrounded by one long, wavy stone bench decorated with colorful mosaics, the park’s welcome centers are wonderfully fantastical. With beautiful ocean views and an unforgettable design, this park is a great place to explore.
La Boqueria
The Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, commonly known as La Boqueria, is arguably the best public market in Barcelona. A tourist favorite that is accessible from Las Ramblas, you’ll find fishmongers in the center and a variety of fruits, vegetables, cheese, and fresh juiced scattered throughout. There are also bars and restaurants, so you’re bound to find something that appeals to you!
Gràcia
Gràcia is a great place to visit if you’ve tired of touristy areas packed with visitors. Gràcia offers a more authentic experience of Catalan life, providing a small-town feel fitting for the tapered streets and quaint town squares. There are many students in the area, as well as a thriving arts scene, so you’ll still find shops, cafes, and bars, but Gràcia is a great stop if you want to step away from the more tourist-oriented areas.
Palau de la Musica Catalana
The breathtaking Palau de la Musica Catalana, or Palace of Catalan Music, was designed by Gaudi’s contemporary Lluis Domenech I Monater and remains a masterpiece of Catalan art nouveau. The exterior is adorned with mosaic pillars and sculptures of famous composers, while the interior is a vibrantly colorful collection of mosaics and stained glass. Check out the stained glass skylight on the central ceiling, and be sure to catch a concert if you can.
Barri Gotic
Barri Gotic, Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, is the oldest area in the city. It’s also the perfect place to take in some—you guessed it—Gothic architecture, with many old, beautiful buildings standing right next to contemporary shops and restaurants. Antiquity and modernity collide wonderfully, as Barri Gotic is simultaneously a great spot to admire history and an ideal location for shopping.
Montjuic
Located at the foot of the Mediterranean lies Montjuic, a broad hill overlooking the harbor. The CaixaForum cultural center sits at the bottom of the hill, while the top of the hill is home to Castle Montjuic—a retired military fortress—and Fundacio Joan Miro, a museum dedicated to the artist Joan Miro. Montjuic is also where you’ll find the Palau Nacional, home to the National Art Museum of Catalonia. Whether you decide to hike up the slope or ride the cable car, don’t miss your chance to check out Montjuic.
Museu Picasso
Featuring over 4,000 works the Spanish artist Pablo Picasso the Museu Picasso is a must-see experience for art, history and architectural lovers alike. The museum offers insights into the creative genius of Picasso as it looks into his formative years, his relationship with Barcelona, his work and influences through various exhibits and cultural activities. Picasso’s works are housed in five historic, Catalan-gothic palaces (or medieval royal mansions) of Barcelona which feature open air staircases and central staircases that date back to the 13th through 15th centuries making a trip the Museu Picasso truly memorable.
You’ll never run out of things to do in Barcelona. It’s a beautiful city with a rich history and delightful culture, a city that guarantees some incredible memories. We’ve included ten of the best things to do in Barcelona, but we can guarantee that there are myriad other options as well. You’ll just have to find out for yourself.
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