What to see in Barcelona: 36 essential plans to get to know the city
- Barceló Experiences
- Apr 15
- 17 min read
Barcelona is a box of surprises. In this cosmopolitan and Mediterranean city, full of light and life, there are many interesting places to enjoy. To make your visit easier and to get the most out of your getaway, here is a list of the essential places to visit in Barcelona. Modernist buildings, parks, squares, museums and gourmet markets are waiting for you to make your visit to Barcelona unforgettable. Here is a list of must-see places you should not miss. The Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, the Palau de la Música, the Barceloneta beach, the cathedral or the Ramblas are just a sample that makes this city one of the most beautiful in the world. An old legend assures that Barcelona was founded by the Carthaginian leader Amilcar Barca, but others, more spiritual without a doubt, insist that it was the god Hercules himself who would have picked up on its beaches the ninth boat that he used in his famous works. What is documented is the presence of the Romans since the first century BC. Today the streets and monuments of the city have the imprint of its long history and its tourist and artistic attractions are enjoyed by the many visitors who come to the city to enjoy all its charms, which are many. In this guide you will find all the essentials and all the corners of Barcelona, so you can make the most of your visit to the city, three days?, a weekend?... Do not miss any detail.
Basílica de la Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is possibly the best known and most visited monument in Barcelona. It is an emblem. The architect Antoni Gaudí dedicated 40 years of his life to its construction and therefore rests there, under one of its naves. Its particular and impressive architecture leaves no one indifferent. A jewel and an emblem of modernist Barcelona that you can not miss in Barcelona.
Parque Güell (Park Güell)
Declared a World Heritage Site in 1984, Park Güell (Park Güell) is one of Gaudí's most brilliant creations, as he managed to integrate the particular style of his modernist works with other motifs of nature. The dragon on the main staircase is the icon of the park.
Camp Nou
If you like sports, especially soccer, you can't miss the stadium of one of the most recognized teams in the world. Camp Nou is the sanctuary of all the azulgranas, but also an impressive and majestic stadium with a capacity for 48,000 people that is well worth a visit.
Palau de la Música
Built in 1908 by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the Palau de la Música condenses the history of Modernism and universal music. It is one of the most spectacular auditoriums in the world, with a large and beautiful concert hall. Do not overlook its facade either. Not in vain is within the list of World Heritage of Unesco.
Casa Milà
Popularly known as La Pedrera, Casa Mila also has the category of World Heritage Site. It is a work of art in itself for its extraordinary architecture and the large windows of the facade. It is decorated with marine and mythological motifs. Built in 1908 by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the Palau de la Música condenses the history of Modernism and universal music. It is one of the most spectacular auditoriums in the world, with a large and beautiful concert hall. Do not overlook its facade either. Not in vain is it on the list of World Heritage of Unesco.
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló was built by Gaudí between 1902 and 1906, turning an ordinary building in the city into an impressive creation. Its polychrome walls, balconies and scaly ceilings will leave you with your mouth open.Popularly known as La Pedrera, Casa Mila also has the category of World Heritage Site. It is a work of art in itself for its extraordinary architecture and the large windows of the facade. It is decorated with marine and mythological motifs. Built in 1908 by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the Palau de la Música condenses the history of Modernism and universal music. It is one of the most spectacular auditoriums in the world, with a large and beautiful concert hall. Do not overlook its facade either. Not in vain is within the list of World Heritage of Unesco.
Catedral de Barcelona
Barcelona Cathedral is an impressive example of Spanish Gothic architecture. It has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest and a National Historic Monument. In addition to its interior, its cloister is also worth a visit.
La Rambla
It is the most famous street in Barcelona. In La Rambla you can feel the bustle of the city: people everywhere, stores, street artists, craft stalls, souvenir and flower stalls. You have to walk along it from Plaza de Catalunya to Port Vell.
Torre Agbar
Its 142 meters high, guarding the sky of Barcelona, will impress you. The Agbar Tower was built by the French architect Jean Nouvel, who was inspired by the architecture of Gaudí. One of its main attractions are its changing lights that are even more special at certain times of the year.
Plaza de Catalunya
It is one of the neuralgic points of the city, a meeting place that separates the old part of the city from the so-called Ensanche. Plaça de Catalunya was built in 1889 after the Universal Exposition held in Barcelona the previous year. It is surrounded by important buildings and two large fountains.
Mercado de la Boquería
Besides being municipal, the Boqueria Market has become a very important tourist spot in Barcelona. It is located on the Ramblas and its gastronomic offer is so appetizing that you will not be able to resist trying some of the “gourmet” delicacies of its varied stalls.
Fuente Mágica de Montjüic y Plaza de España
After the Plaza de Cataluña, the Plaza de España is one of the most important points of Barcelona. One of its great attractions is the Magic Fountain of Monjuïc, where you can enjoy a spectacle of water, light and music. Also in its surroundings is the old bullring, now converted into a large shopping center.
Castillo de Montjuïc
Located on the mountain, Montjuïc Castle is an ancient military fortress. It is listed as an Asset of Cultural Interest and Historical Heritage of Spain. Its walls keep a thousand and one battles of the history of Barcelona.
Parc de la Ciutadella
It is Barcelona's park par excellence. In its 17 hectares we find the zoo, buildings of the Parliament of Catalonia, a church, an institute and even a lake. The Parc de la Ciutadella is a space where fairs, open-air markets and sporting events are held. You can reach this beautiful park by metro. Look for the stations Arc de Triomf (L1), Ciutadella/Vila Olímpica (L4) and Jaume I (L4).
Arc de Triomf o Arco de Triunfo
The Arc de Triomf or Arc de Triomf was built in 1888 as an access to the Universal Exposition that was organized in Barcelona in the Ciutadella Park. Its shape and proportions are classical in style, but its finishes are full of symbolic motifs. It is the emblem of Barcelona's entry into modernity.
Basílica de Santa María del Mar
The basilica of Santa Maria del Mar is an austere and simple construction but full of beauty that represents especially the Catalan Gothic. The beauty of its stained glass windows stands out. This temple inspired the writer Idelfonso Falcones his famous novel ‘The Cathedral of the Sea’. It is the resting place of the patron saint of sailors.
Gran Teatre del Liceu
Located on the Ramblas, the Gran Teatro del Liceu has seen the parade of the best opera artists since 1847. It is considered one of the most important opera houses in the world. A guided tour can be a fantastic idea to get to know it in depth and not miss any detail of its beauty. And of course, enjoy some of its performances.
Port Vell
Also known as the Old Port of Barcelona, the Port Vell is the oldest area of the Port of Barcelona. Its facilities are currently used for sport boats and in its central part is the Maremagnun shopping and leisure center.
Port Olimpic
Also known as the Old Port of Barcelona, the Port Vell is the oldest area of the Port of Barcelona. In 1992, the Port Olimpic of Barcelona was the venue for the sailing competitions of the Olympic Games held in Barcelona and today it is one of the liveliest leisure areas of the city. It is close to the beach, where you can practice water sports, and has many restaurants where you can taste the typical food of Barcelona.
Palacio Güell
The Güell Palace was designed by Gaudí for the Güell family. It is preserved almost as the artist designed it. Surprise yourself touring this unique building from the basement to the roof, through the different rooms of the house.
Passeig de Gràcia
Passeig de Grácia is one of the most commercial streets of the city. You will find stores with top fashion brands and accessories but also others for more modest pockets. Here are many of the most characteristic buildings of Gaudí and Lluís Domènech i Montaner.
Laberinto de Horta
This is one of the most beautiful parks in Barcelona, a romantic space in which architecture and nature are perfectly combined. It is located next to the Collserola mountain range and its name comes from the labyrinth of cut cypress trees that can be visited and walked through in the lower part of the garden. The land on which the park sits once belonged to the Desvalls family, who donated it to the City Council in 1967 and since 1971 this garden-museum has been open to the public.
Los búnkers del Carmel
Located in the highest part of the Turó de la Rovira, the bunkers of the Carmel neighborhood are a real viewpoint from which you can enjoy spectacular views of Barcelona. Despite its name, there has never been any bunker at the top of the Turó de la Rovira, but an anti-aircraft battery that was fundamental in the defensive system of the city during the Civil War. This space is fashionable among young people and is already a tourist attraction. Advertisements, films and TV series have been filmed here, and social networks preserve numerous images of this curious place.
Monte Tibidabo y Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón
Tibidabo is one of the emblematic and magical places of the city of Barcelona, as well as being the highest point of the Collserola mountain range, so from here you can enjoy an almost unbeatable view of Barcelona and the Vallés region. Tibidabo Park offers visitors more than 30 attractions for all ages, as well as nice restaurants and a picnic area. Tibidabo is also home to the Expiatory Temple of the Sacred Heart, designed by Enric Sagnier in 1902 and completed in 1961. It is a monumental building in neo-Gothic style and is crowned by a large bronze statue of the Sacred Heart. An elevator allows you to climb to the highest part of the expiatory temple, 500 meters above sea level, from where you can enjoy incredible views of the city. A real balcony of Barcelona.
Centro Comercial Las Arenas
Located in the Plaza de España, Las Arenas Shopping Center occupies the space that once held the old bullring of Barcelona, which was unusable as a bullfighting arena since June 19, 1977, the day the last bullfight was held here. Afterwards, the complex was redesigned by architect Richard Rogers and since 2011 it has functioned as a shopping, sports and music center with a 360 panoramic view of the city. The upper floor is lined with restaurants, the lower floor with cinemas and the rest of the floors are occupied by stores and small businesses.
AREAS OF BARCELONA TO GET LOST IN
Barrio Gótico de Barcelona
It's one of Barcelona's oldest neighborhoods, with narrow medieval alleys and hidden squares. The Gothic Quarter is one of the most charming areas for a stroll and to enjoy the city. Be sure to stroll through Plaza de la Catedral, Carrer del Bisbe, or Plaza Real and sit on one of the terraces.
Barrio y playa de la Barceloneta
Barceloneta isn't just the name of a famous beach, although we identify it with it, but rather encompasses a neighborhood with a strong seaside flair. It's located in the Ciutat Vella district and was established to provide housing for those who lived in the Ribera neighborhood, evicted in the 18th century to build the Ciutadella.
History aside, today people go to Barceloneta to eat at a seafood restaurant, have tapas, go shopping, sunbathe, and enjoy the beach. Of the more than 4.5 kilometers of beaches in Barcelona, a large portion are located in this area. Take advantage of your trip to discover this traditional corner.
Barrio El Raval
A must-see on any trip to Barcelona is El Raval, because no matter how often you visit it, you'll always find something new. This ever-changing neighborhood is a favorite spot for art lovers, home to the MACBA (Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art) and the CCCB (Barcelona Center for Contemporary Culture). It also always surprises with its designer shops, the occasional art gallery, and graffiti that adds an even more urban touch to the neighborhood. It's also the perfect place to go for tapas in bohemian bars, and if you like the market atmosphere, be sure to visit La Boquería, an institution in the Catalan capital.
Barrio de Gràcia
The Gràcia district, made up of five neighborhoods, is the smallest in Barcelona, but that doesn't mean it isn't a must-see on a city break. One of its most iconic neighborhoods is Villa de Gràcia, whose roots date back to the 17th century. Although it's now integrated into the city, there's still a sense of belonging here. It's a pleasant setting for strolling, having a drink on its terraces, visiting an artist's studio, or listening to Catalan rumba, as artists such as El Pescaílla were born here. And, of course, visit Park Güell, one of Gaudí's greatest works.
The Gràcia neighborhood shouldn't be confused with Passeig de Gràcia, which has a completely different character.
Barrio del Born
This is one of the most fashionable neighborhoods for visitors to Barcelona, and it is also one of its residents. Distributed around the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar and framed by the Citadel and Via Layetana, for centuries it was the city's seaside neighborhood, experiencing significant decline until the end of the 20th century. But today, its many bars, restaurants, stylish shops, and entertainment options make it one of the most pleasant areas of the Ciutat Vella. A lively meeting point during the day and much of the night.
Furthermore, the Picasso Museum, the European Museum of Modern Art, and the Moco Museum Barcelona are located here, housed in beautiful historic palaces. A visit to these neighborhoods is a complete eulogy to the various Western artistic movements of the 20th century.
THE MOST IMPORTANT MUSEUMS IN BARCELONA
Museo Nacional d’Art de Catalunya
The home of the National Art Museum of Catalonia is the National Palace, one of the most emblematic buildings of the 1929 International Exhibition. From the Plaza de España, you'll see it towering above you and approach it via a beautiful staircase. Works from all eras await your discovery.
CosmoCaixa y CaixaForum
These two cultural spaces, part of the La Caixa Foundation, offer a strong educational component and are located in historic buildings that have been carefully renovated and refurbished. CosmoCaixa, which inherited the site of the former Science Museum, occupies a former asylum for the blind, built by the famous architect Josep Domènech i Estapà. Today, it brings nature and science closer to the public of all ages. CaixaForum, on the other hand, has a closer connection with art and occupies a former Modernista-style factory, designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, on Montjuïc mountain.
Museo del Poble Espanyol
The Poble Espanyol is an open-air museum located on Montjuïc mountain. It was built for the 1929 International Exposition to represent a synthesis of Spanish architecture and culture. You'll find reproductions of the most iconic landmarks from many Spanish cities.
Museu Picasso
The Picasso Museum prides itself on having the largest collection of works from the Malaga-born artist's early and formative period in Barcelona, and for good reason. Touring this vast art gallery, which occupies several medieval palaces, is a privilege on par with the canvases hanging on its walls or its sculptures and engravings. It's very interesting to pause to look at some of the works that show Picasso's relationship with other contemporary artists, whom he met at the famous Els Quatre Gats venue.
MACBA o Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Barcelona
In this museum, better known by its acronym MACBA, the main focus is art from the second half of the 20th century. More than 5,000 works are housed in a building that oozes modernity and spans over 14,000 square meters. Its spacious spaces and glass walls, the white color projected in every corner, and its abstract art create an experience not to be missed in Barcelona.
It offers an extensive artistic and cultural program, as well as interesting temporary exhibitions.
Fundación Joan Miró
The home of Joan Miró's collection is a space imagined by the artist and architect Josep Lluís Sert in the heart of Montjuïc Mountain. A visit to this sanctuary of art offers a host of emotions, starting with the building itself, its landscaped surroundings, and the dialogue that the Catalan artist's works establish with the rest of the collection. A visit to the Miró Foundation means letting yourself be carried away by its courtyards, terraces, and exhibition halls, and ultimately enjoying nature.
In its permanent exhibition, in addition to admiring Joan Miró's canvases, sculptures, and tapestries, you'll also have the opportunity to see works by other artists such as Chillida, Tàpies, and Calder.
Casa-Museo Gaudí
Located within Park Güell, the Gaudí House-Museum was the artist's residence for almost 20 years, from 1906 to 1925. It opened as a museum in 1963 and today houses a collection of furniture and objects designed by the architect, as well as other works by his collaborators. The building was designed by Francesc Berenguer, a frequent collaborator of Gaudí, between 1903 and 1905, and was put up for sale without success. So in 1906, Gaudí decided to buy the property and live there with his niece and father until, in 1925, a few months before his death, he moved his studio to the Sagrada Familia.
The House-Museum, which showcases the architect's most personal side with objects and documents relating to his life, consists of three floors. Here you can see the bedroom, the study, and the entrance gate, as well as the furniture designed by Gaudí for buildings such as Casa Batlló, Casa Calvet, Casa Milà, Casa Vicents, and the crypt of Colonia Güell.
How to get around Barcelona
Without a doubt, the best way to get around Barcelona is by public transportation. Using the city's metro, as well as the city bus and Rodalies (commuter train) network, funiculars, cable cars, and trams, you can reach any of its neighborhoods, major monuments, and the cities that make up the metropolitan area in a more than reasonable amount of time and with more than reasonable comfort.
These forms of transport can be complemented by cycling, for which Barcelona has an extensive network of 200 kilometers of dedicated lanes. In addition to the traditional bicycle rental companies, there are up to 45 stations for the municipal electric bicycle service Bicing, ideal for city residents or those planning to stay there for an extended stay.
Of course, you can also get around by taxi, ride-hailing vehicles (RVs), or your own vehicle, although in the latter case, it's important to note that there are significant restrictions on street parking.
The best areas to go out in Barcelona
Barcelona is full of bars, nightclubs, and clubs where you can enjoy everything from midday aperitifs until the early hours of the morning. Among the most popular and tourist-friendly are the Born and Raval neighborhoods, in the heart of the city's historic center, which attract a multicultural crowd.
Also, thanks to its many bars, its preserved popular flavor, and the great beach atmosphere, are the Barceloneta area and the adjacent Port Olímpic, where there are several places to dance and have a drink, even outdoors when the weather is nice.
The Gràcia neighborhood, meanwhile, is home to a large number of venues frequented by both locals and visitors to the city. Meanwhile, in the Eixample district, bars and nightclubs attract a more sophisticated crowd, for example on Aribau Street, which coexists with some legendary venues for the LGBTI community.
Day trips from Barcelona
Sitges
This coastal town, located next to the Garraf Mountains and about 40 kilometers south of Barcelona, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the province. Without a doubt.
The main reason is that, while preserving the essence of what until just a few decades ago was a small fishing village, it has managed to adapt and foster an atmosphere of freedom, tolerance, and respect for diversity that makes it even more attractive. In fact, in the streets, squares, and beaches of Sitges, it's common to hear all kinds of languages spoken by visitors from all over the world.
Once here, it's worth visiting the iconic 17th-century Church of San Bartolomé and Santa Tecla, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, the Town Hall Square, the always lively promenade, and the beaches, both urban (each catering to a different audience) and those located in the town's natural surroundings.
Priorat
This primarily agricultural region is one of the main centers of wine production in Catalonia, with two designations of origin: Priorat and Montsant. It is also a great showcase of architecture, with its many valuable monuments scattered throughout its different towns.
Among them, the most notable are the Cartuja de Escaladei, the historic site of Siurana, the prehistoric sites of Calvario and Puig Roig, Capçanes, with its cave paintings, and the Falset Castle, which houses the Provincial Museum.
Furthermore, Priorat is known for its landscapes and natural spaces, well worth a leisurely wander. Some of these include the Serra de Montsant Natural Park, the beaches of the Costa Daurada, the area surrounding the Margalef reservoir, and the Carthusian Route.
Calella de Palafrugell
This former fishing village, located on the Costa Brava, about 125 kilometers from Barcelona, retains its charm despite the proliferation of the tourist industry. The rocky coves that surround it play a key role in its appeal, where you can enjoy the most authentic Mediterranean waters.
One of the town's most attractive spots is the Cap Roig Botanical Garden, where one of Catalonia's most prestigious music festivals is held every summer. Also highly recommended is the urban and coastal center of Llafranc, which offers some of the most photographable panoramic views of this area of the Baix Empordà region.
Vilafranca del Penedès
This municipality is inextricably linked to its flagship product: cava. In fact, the main wineries of the Penedès region (such as Freixenet, Segura Viudas, Codorníu, and Juvé & Camps, among others) are among the main attractions of a visit to Vilafranca.
Also noteworthy in this regard is the Vinseum, the Museum of Wine Cultures of Catalonia, where you can learn about the traditions and future of this product, which is so important to the local economy.
Regarding monuments, it's worth following both the medieval and modernist routes, which allow you to visit such interesting sites as the Basilica of Santa María, the Baltà Palace, the Trinitarian and San Francisco cloisters, the Berger Balager Forum, and the Casa de la Villa.
Vall del Corb
In the heart of the province of Lleida, the Vall del Corb (Crow Valley) is located about 120 kilometers from Barcelona. It is one of the most attractive rural areas in inland Catalonia, where almond, olive, cereal, and vine trees are grown.
Regarding the latter, the winemaking culture is deeply rooted in the valley. Municipalities such as Verdú, Guimerá, Conesa, Santa Coloma de Queralt, and Maldá stand out for their beauty and rich heritage.
Equally interesting are the natural landscapes of Maldanell, the Sierra del Tallat, and the shady areas of the Corb River. In fact, the Vall del Corb is an ideal setting for hiking enthusiasts, and there are several marked trails that are truly attractive.
Montserrat
The great sanctuary of Catalonia is located in a stunning natural mountain setting, just 50 kilometers from Barcelona. The characteristic sedimentary rock formations of Montserrat have sparked the imagination since prehistoric times (as evidenced by the remains found in Cova Freda), making it a center of spirituality.
Therefore, it makes sense that the main Catalan religious center was located (since the 9th century) in the very heart of this natural space, centered around an image of the Virgin Mary supposedly found in one of its caves. This image is not the one venerated today by the many thousands of faithful who come here each year, but another carved around the 12th century. These dates coincide with the original construction of the abbey (12th-13th centuries). However, it should be noted that most of the current buildings date from the mid-19th century, as a result of looting, confiscation of church property, and several fires.
Girona
Although we're suggesting Girona as a day trip from Barcelona, the truth is that it's a destination (or a getaway) in itself. There's so much to see and enjoy in this small city that it's well worth spending several days there.
Among the main points of interest, we must mention the Cathedral and its famous staircase (the setting for so many scenes from the series "Game of Thrones"), the Arab Baths, the Oñar River, with its colorful houses and one of the bridges that cross it, manufactured by the Eiffel factory, the churches of Sant Feliu and Sant Pere de Galligants, the Call, the Jewish Quarter, and the walk along the city walls.
The Archaeological Museum of Catalonia and the Girona Art Museum are also worth a visit. And, of course, enjoy the gastronomy in its avant-garde and haute cuisine restaurants, led by the famous Celler de Can Roca.
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