The Best of the Brilliant City of Barcelona
Barcelona is a vibrant coastal city known for its brilliant art and architecture. It is the capital of the Catalonia region and the 2nd largest city in Spain (after Madrid). Despite being a diverse international city, the streets echo with the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Three days is enough for the main highlights, but there is an exhaustive amount of experiences to enjoy including museums, beaches, delicious food, and nightlife. Follow this Barcelona travel guide for the top 10 things to do in Barcelona. For the best deals on the city’s top attractions for a great discount, check out the Barcelona CityPass!
10. Ride a Segway through Park de la Ciutadella
If you’ve never experienced the joy of a bipedal dash through the streets, this is your sign to try out a Segway. This tour takes you through the green Oasis of Park de la Ciutadella, which is a verdant escape from the bustling downtown with lush gardens and fountains. The park even contains its very own Arc de Triomf, similar to the one in Paris. Sign up for your Segway tour here, or gain free access with the Barcelona CityPass along with a plethora of major attractions.
9. Explore the Dark Side of Barcelona in the Gothic Quarter
The labyrinthine alleys of the Gothic Quarter offer an insightful look into Barcelona’s historical past. Narrow alleyways contain tons of Gothic architecture, colorful street art, and lively plazas to explore the traditional side of Barcelona. It is also near numerous iconic landmarks including Plaça de Catalunya, Catedral de Barcelona, Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar, and the famous Picasso Museum. An excellent way to enjoy this district is on a guided walking tour.
8. Platja de la Barceloneta, the Most famous Beach in Barcelona
The palm-lined promenade of Barceloneta Beach is another reason why this top tier city has it all. Beautiful golden sanded beaches make the perfect backdrop for sunbathing and surfing. Along the coastline you’ll find oceanside restaurants and the ostentatious W Hotel, inspired by Dubai’s influential style.
7. See the Top of Barcelona from Montjuïc Hill
Ascend the Montjuïc Hill to be rewarded with stunning vistas from the 2nd tallest point in Barcelona. Ride a cable car for the most thrilling way to reach the summit (as long as it’s not windy!). Once at the top, you can wander around the enchanting medieval town of Poble Espanyol or explore the ancient military fortress of Montjuïc Castle. Stay until nightfall to witness the mesmerizing performance of the Magic Fountain, where water and light twirl in perfect harmony.
6. Gaze upon the City from Mount Tibidabo
Mount Tibidabo is the highest point in Barcelona, rising over 500 meters above the city. Located just north of downtown, this notorious hill offers panoramic views and the oldest amusement park in Spain. You can ride the funicular to the top for less than 15 Euros for the added experience. The mighty Sagrat Cor church rests at the zenith of Tibidabo, overlooking the beautiful skyline for the perfect sunset views. Hop on the Ferris wheel to get stunning views of this captivating church!
5. Visit La Predrera- Casa Mila, One of Gaudí’s Finest Constructions
Casa Mila, also known as La Predrera, is an unconventional apartment complex created by the architectural genius Antoni Gaudí. Literally translating to stone quarry, this emblematic building was built between 1906 and 1912 and was the last private residence designed by the architect. The ornate and whimsical architecture is unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and the undulating rooftop façade is the most iconic terrace in Barcelona. You can also reserve tickets to a special night experience here.
4. Eat Something Delicious at La Boqueria
The sensory overload at La Boqueria Market is an Eden for foodies. Embrace a feast of colors, aromas, and flavors while perusing through the tantalizing array of fresh produce, delectable tapas, and local delicacies. Find this world-class market on Las Ramblas, the most famous street in the city that’s lined with even more shops and restaurants than anyone could try in their entire lifetime. Arrive hungry since there’s a humongous variety of amazing food to try including olives, seafood, meat, fruits, and fried tapas.
3. Walk Thru Park Güell, a Harmonious blend of Nature & Engineering
Lose yourself in Park Güell’s surreal landscape adorned with colorful mosaics and whimsical designs, an earthly paradise envisioned by Gaudí. Sign up for a guided tour for a visual insight into the eccentric architect’s imagination behind the park’s construction. The panoramic views of the city from this mosaic wonderland are also incredible.
2. Visit Casa Batlló, an Architectural Masterpiece
Another of Gaudí’s infamous masterpieces, Casa Batlló allures observers with a kaleidoscopic façade that seems straight out of a fantasy. Built in 1904, Gaudí’s imaginative touch transformed this private residence into a magical marvel with unparalleled architecture unlike anything in the world. Casa Batlló is a symphony of color & form you can explore early in the morning or at night amongst illuminated projections. The included audio guide is an immersive way to learn the history of the building at your own pace. It’s also located just a few blocks from Casa Mila.
1. La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona’s Symbolic Landmark
Resting in the heart of Barcelona is Antoni Gaudí’s most famous architectural masterpiece; La Sagrada Familia. This marvelous basilica transcends the conventional boundaries of religious edifices with its intricate design, hiding stories of spiritual symbolism in each crevice throughout the divine structure. The soaring spires pierce 172.5 meters into the heavens, intentionally designed just below the height of Montjuïc. Two of the towers can also be climbed for an additional fee. Prisms of radiant light illuminate the inner sanctuary and visitors are transported to a realm of providence beneath the intricate designs.
While La Sagrada Familia remains the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world, the estimated completion date is now 2026. The best way to experience this magnificent sanctum is on a private tour, where you can learn all about La Sagrada Familia’s fascinating history. La Sagrada Familia is Spain’s most iconic symbol and possibly the greatest church in the world (sorry France & Germany). If you only see one thing in the city, let this be number one on your Barcelona attractions list.
Barcelona is a vibrant city of modern and traditional art. It is a marvelous metropolis where the symbiosis of Gaudí’s architectural designs and natural landscapes blend effortlessly. Travelers satisfy any of their desires, from fast paced city exploring to lounging on beautiful beaches. Whether you’re seeking world-class history or museums like in Madrid, Innovative modern architecture or beautiful beaches like in Valencia, or insane party vibes like Ibiza, Barcelona has got you covered. It definitely has become on eof my favorite cities! For more information on planning the perfect trip to Spain, check out this post. Thanks for reading and keep leveling up!
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