With so much to see and do on your planned vacation to Spain, even if you have a full itinerary, you can’t forget to visit the best hotels and things to do in Barcelona
Barcelona is known for being one of the best cities in the world. It attracts all types of people from all over the world and for good reason. This place is lively, welcoming and tourist-friendly.
There also isn’t a shortage of activities. Almost anyone can find the type of food, entertainment, and events that they like in this hip-Spanish city. If you’re planning a trip to Spain and need to pack your itinerary, regardless of your travel budget, with tons of fun and culture, keep reading to check out this list of the best things to do in Barcelona.
Stroll Down Las Ramblas
Las Ramblas might not be a favorite for the locals but for tourists, it’s one of the best things to do in Barcelona. It’s a pedestrian street covered in trees in the central part of Barcelona.
There are tons of sights, stores, and restaurants -and not to mention people. Las Ramblas stretches for almost a mile and connects to another popular spot called Plaça de Catalunya.
You won’t want to miss out on this busy block.
Marvel at La Sagrada Família
If you aren’t familiar with the famous Spanish architect, Antoni Gaudí, you probably will be once you leave Spain. La Sagrada Família is amongst his many brilliant structures and is definitely one of the top things to do in Barcelona.
The unfinished Basilica was started in 1882 and isn’t scheduled to be completed until 2026 (estimated date). Still, Sagrada Família it is a breathtaking sight even from the outside. You can purchase tickets to enter into the main section, as well as venture up into the towers.
Take Pics in Park Güell
Here’s another one of Gaudí’s works of arts. This colorful public park is designed like a wonderland with quirky landscapes and whimsical buildings that might remind you of gingerbread houses. One of the best spots for taking fun photos!
You can enter Park Güell for free. However, some of the “monumental zones” are limited access unless you’ve purchased an official ticket.
Get Lost in the Gothic Quarter
If you’re one that loves to explore historical parts of places you visit then heading over to the Gothic Quarter is one of the best things to do in Barcelona for you. The Gothic Quarter is also known as El Barri Gótic and is located in part of the old town (Cuitat Vella).
You can basically get lost in a maze of narrow medieval streets filled with amazing bars, restaurants, night clubs, and artsy shops.
Shop at La Boquería
Strategically hidden in the middle of Las Ramblas (but still pretty easy to find) is Barcelona’s infamous outdoor marketplace, La Boquería. Here is where you will lose yourself in delicious fresh produce, authentic foods, and dishes and hundreds of herbs, spices, candies, pastries and pretty much anything else you’re looking for in a market.
La Boquería is a must-stop shop for all the foodies out there or anyone who just wants a taste of what Barcelona has to offer.
Visit Montserrat
Monserrat is not exactly located in the city of Barcelona but it definitely makes for a good day trip while visiting. Monserrat is a beautiful monastery nestled atop a huge mountain in the clouds. It looks like a page straight out of national geographic.There are plenty of things to do at this spectacular hiking spot. It’s a good idea to book a tour to get the full history of the magical mountain. You can read more about the Montserrat library here.
Bar Hop on Carrer de Blai
Carrer de Blai is literally known as the Tapas street in Barcelona. If you’re looking for a row of cool tapas bars that you can visit all in one spot then you’ve found it.
This cozy block of delicious drinks and pinchos (pintxos) offers some of the best prices for great quality.
Plan Back-to-Back Trips to Casa Milá & Casa Batlló
If you haven’t gotten enough of Gaudí’s impressive works yet then here are two more of the best things to do in Barcelona. Consider planning an entire day dedicated to these artistic attractions.
Casa Milá, also known as La Pedrera, is an unusual structure with surrealist elements and a rough stone aesthetic. The interior is reminiscent of being inside a warm colorful seashell with twisting stairways and arching ceilings. This definitely worth a visit.
Casa Batlló is another brilliant funhouse in the form of artwork. The refreshing designs and cool colors make this a truly sensational place. The coolest part about all of this that it’s actually been lived in and refurbished quite a few times.
Catch Some Waves at the City Beaches
Who comes to Spain and doesn’t catch some fun in the sun? Another one of the best things to do in Barcelona is to visit the local beaches. And there are plenty of options for tourists.
Amongst the most popular beaches are Barceloneta, Nova Icaria, Sant Sebastia, Mar Bella, Ocata and Bogatell. Each of these locations has a different vibe so it all depends on what you’re looking for. But you’re bound to find the perfect spot for you whether you want to catch some waves or get some suntanning done.
Watch Magic at Montjüic
Montjüic is a scenic hill with some very cool attractions. It sits 173km above sea level and has a park, great views, museums, and even a castle.
One of the best parts about this great place is watching the water in the magic fountain light up at night and dance to the music.
Interested in the Best Things to Do in Barcelona?
Whenever you plan a trip somewhere you want to try to make sure the itinerary is filled with great attractions and fun activities. Try some of the things listed here for the best things to do in Barcelona to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
For more travel tips and advice, check out our blog.
