Barcelona is a multi-faceted city that still retains its emblematic landmarks. Every year, Barcelona becomes more and more majestic and always has something new to offer in terms of construction and discovery. That's why it welcomes so many tourists every year, whether they've been here before or not. It's a great destination for a trip to Spain if you're an art lover, a party-goer, a fan of urban activities or a lover of sunshine on the beaches. If you're coming with the family, Barcelona will also be an unforgettable experience. To prove that it's the perfect destination for your next holiday, we present 60 of the interesting things you can do in Barcelona.
So, what can you do in Barcelona on your next trip? What activities can you do? Where to eat? Where to visit? Where to sleep?
Top 60 most popular activities
Visiting the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
Standing in front of the Sagrada Familia is absolutely the first thing to do in Barcelona. It offers an incredible view of any postcard of the city. The architectural gem created by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi is one of the most spectacular basilicas in the world.
It's ideal for those who are tired of traditional churches. Take your time contemplating the arches fashioned from tree branches and the rainbow-effect stained glass windows. To fully appreciate the madness and brilliance of the place, be sure to take a guided tour.
However, if you're a fan of mystery and like to get off the beaten track, in this article I invite you to discover a strange, legendary, dark but thrilling Barcelona...
Follow the Guide to Barcelona's 10 enduring mysteries and legends.
Enjoy the pleasant and comfortable atmosphere of Parc Güell
Parc Güell is a dreamy urban park floating above the city. Its entrance, a caretaker's pavilion akin to a gingerbread house, offers incredible views and its emblematic mosaic lizard serves as a bench for the many tourists. You shouldn't visit the park without discovering the 6-metre-long Hypostyle Hall with its hundred Doric columns, the Washerwoman's Porch (Pórtico de la Lavandera), Gaudi's house and gardens, the Baix Bridge - and the 360-degree view from the Belvedere of Parc Güell.
Going to a neighbourhood party
Barcelona always has plenty to offer. You can take part in quirky neighbourhood parties that honour patron saints, dead political prisoners and even green onions. Barcelona will find any excuse when it comes to taking traffic off the streets to set up a stage and get the wine and music flowing.
The two most important festivals of the year are the Festa Major de Gracia (August) and the Mercè (September).
Treat yourself to tapas
On winter and summer evenings alike, Spaniards call out to each other in a ritual that is the envy of the world: "¡Vamos de tapas!", which means "Let's go for tapas!But that's not all the expression means: it implies eating savoury snacks in small portions while drinking with friends over a caña (a small draught beer), a local wine, a cider... It's also a non-established itinerary, moving from bar to bar, chatting lightly, munching, meeting new people for an hour in the evening.
And for tourists, eating local specialities is just one of the interesting things to do in Barcelona.
Get access to even more activities and ideas for outings with a difference... more than 100 new and original ideas for discovering and visiting Barcelona off the beaten tourist track!
Flirt with flamenco, the most folkloric form of Spanish art
A typical flamenco recital blending passion and tranquillity will capture your attention [ with its cante (singing), toque (guitar), baile (dance), jaleo (vocalisations), palmas (applause) and pitos (clapping). ] The festive, resilient atmosphere it creates can bring an audience to tears. What's more, the dynamics of the performers will win you over in an unusual way. You don't want to miss the best flamenco show in Barcelona. It's at the Tablao Flamenco Cordobes.
Drink the most delicious vermouth
In Barcelona, we've found the tastiest vermouth (pronounced bair-MOÛT) to drink in summer. For the people of Barcelona, drinking vermouth is no longer just a tradition... it's become a lifestyle in its own right! It's as sacred as the Spanish siesta. It's also traditional to have a glass (at least) at midday before lunch. At Tasca El Corral, you can order it at any time of day and enjoy it as an aperitif or before your meal. It's a fortified, tasty and inexpensive wine enriched with all sorts of spices and plant extracts such as cinnamon and camomile. Just make sure it's accompanied by a balanced meal.
Get lost in the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter
This is Barcelona's oldest district. It dates back to the city's foundation as a Roman military camp in 15 BC. As you'll see, some of the original walls are still part of Barcelona Cathedral.
Take time to wander through the winding roads and narrow streets that open onto majestic squares such as Plaça Reial, Plaça del Pi, Plaça George Orwell and Plaça de la Seu , which are a must-see. Of course, much of the area is pedestrianised, so you'll be able to take in every detail. Increasingly, the district is becoming a focal point for many of the city's best bars.
Want to know why you should visit the Gothic Quarter ?
Take a stroll along La Rambla
This is absolutely one of the places you must see at least once during your stay in Barcelona. Easily the most famous street in Barcelona, you'll find an explosion of bars, street artists and souvenir shops.
You'll also find Gaudi's lanterns in the picturesque Plaça Reial square and at the Pla de l'Os, a brilliant mosaic on the pavement by Joan Miro. Discover the rambla.
Eating at Barcelona's best market
The Boqueria market stands out for the quality of its fruit, meat and fish. Don't leave before trying one of their delicious €1.00 smoothies! But we're sure you'll try more than one.
At El Quim de la Boqueria, have fried eggs with squid or fresh ingredients or go on an adventure with garbanzo beans and blood sausage at Bar Pinotxo.
Contemplate Casa Vicens
Seeing Gaudi's trio of Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo and Casa Milà is one of the most beautiful things you can do in Barcelona. Let yourself be seduced by Gaudi's genius, as well as the lush garden, the terracotta tiled roof and the noble floor of Turkish and Oriental influence. And if you're a big fan of the man and want to explore his humble beginnings, Barcelona offers the Casa Vicens summer pavilion recently opened to the public (since 2017). With an affordable price of €14.00, it's probably the best way to learn and relax.
Culture in El Raval
Need to see a bit more than the main attractions and postcard streets? Well, you'll love doing that in Barcelona's most unique and diverse neighbourhood.
You'll find skateboarders, cheap cocktail bars, epic ethnic food and modern museums like the CCCB.
A stroll down the famous Rambla del Raval to see Botero's cat will also do your eyes good.
Take in a concert on the roof of Casa Batlló
As you know, few world-class attractions organise a series of carefully selected concerts for the general public on their spectacular roof terrace. But that's what Casa Batlló has in store for you.
From June to October, performances of blues, rock, soul, jazz, swing, pop and flamenco take place in the most intimate and aesthetically pleasing venues for listening to music from all over the world. You won't regret buying a ticket to Barcelona's nightlife to enjoy the place. Each ticket entitles you to a tour of the house and a drink.
Visit Casa Milá
This is another of Barcelona's surrealist mansions. Right in the heart of some of Barcelona's best shopping, this unconventional Antoni Gaudi apartment building is built in the shape of an asymmetrical figure 8 (seen from above). With no straight lines and more wobbly than the building itself, Casa Milá deserves all the attention it can get. With its 28 chimneys, it could also be the most spectacular roof terrace you've ever seen!
In fact, it was built for the city's richest industrialists. You can also request a place to stay, preferably a flat to rent on the 3rd floor - so you can look out over the city.
Eat a traditional Spanish culinary speciality: a good paella
Paella takes its name from the pan used to cook it. The dish is made from rice, but it's not a conventional rice dish! Invented by servants from the leftovers of royal banquets, it is still one of the most popular traditional dishes. Order it, and you'll feel like a king with a full fork - flavour guaranteed!
Although it originated in the Valencia region (where the rabbit and chicken version reigns supreme), you'll find that seafood paella is the unmissable choice of paella restaurants in Barcelona.
And don't forget to try the Spanish socarrat (rice grilled on the bottom of the pan)!
Pretend you're Messi at Camp Nou
Camp Nou is Europe's most historic football stadium and the home of FC Barcelona.
You can visit the stadium and admire the many trophies on display. Don't hesitate to go onto the pitch through the players' tunnel to see 4 Champions League trophies, sit in the visitors' changing room and see Messi's Ballon d'Or. There is also an interactive museum offering football fans a Mecca-like experience - incredible surprises!
The stadium is currently being refurbished, as announced many years ago, and the work will last until 2025. We hope to be able to meet the deadline. In the meantime, take advantage of our special tickets to visit Camp Nou.
See a sound, light and colour show at the Magic Fountain
Located at the foot of Montjuïc mountain, the Magic Fountain has become one of Barcelona's most popular attractions. This enchanting fountain and light show is one of the best free things to do in Barcelona. It uses 3,620 water jets and 4,760 lights to create more than 7 billion combinations and features beautifully choreographed music ranging from classical to modern swing.
You can enjoy yourself from Thursday to Saturday evenings (Sundays in high season) close to Plaça Espanya, but make sure you measure the wind before choosing your seat so you don't get soaked!
Discover Spain at El Poble Espanyol
Try spending an afternoon in miniature Spain - you won't regret it! El Poble Espanyol is an atypical museum of incredible construction that presents a Spanish village, with the particularity of mixing the styles of different regions in the same place. Discovering this unusual place in the heart of Barcelona means discovering 117 life-size replicas representing the architecture of Spain's 15 regions.
You'll be able to see and appreciate the emblematic white streets of Andalusia, pre-Roman Asturias, and all sorts of Castilian classics. There are also over 20 craft shops selling jewellery, handbags and glassware.
Admire Casa Batlló
How can you visit Barcelona without seeing this modernist monument? It's a mansion of colourful mosaics in which Antoni Gaudi brought out every last detail, right down to the door handles.
The square is a hymn to nature, with its jaw-dropping balconies, tropical fish radiators and mushroom-shaped chimney stacks. Antoni Gaudi's Casa Batlló is an absolute masterpiece, in itself a fascinating universe combining architectural genius, an ode to nature and an invitation to dream - guaranteed to win your heart!
Visit the Picasso Museum
A trip to Spain without a visit to the Picasso Museum is criminal. Located in magnificent old buildings in the Gothic Quarter, the museum looks very interesting. The museum retraces the entire life of Pablo Picasso. There are around 4,000 permanent works of his art. numerous and classified by period.
If you're looking to fill an afternoon, come and explore the world-famous artist's early years when he was in Barcelona.
Don't forget to have a coffee at Els Quatre Gats, the popular meeting place for modernist artists at the time.
Relax in the Parc de la Ciutadella
In Barcelona, when the weather warms up, the Parc Ciutadella comes to life and becomes the roundabout for tourists and locals alike. With over 280,000 m2 of urban green space, it is Barcelona's largest park. You can enjoy a friendly, relaxing alternative to the beach and a cool international atmosphere.
It's also the perfect picnic spot for those looking for an outdoor getaway but don't want to go to the beach.
You'll find shaded picnic spots, a ton of musicians, street performers, and the odd marijuana brownie vendor. A zoo and a large artificial lake are also available for visits and boat trips.
Enjoy yourself at the MACBA museum of modern art
Visiting MACBA is one of the best things to do in Barcelona. You'll be delighted to see over 5,000 works (mesmerising photographs, sculptures, paintings and much more) by well-known 20th-century artists.
Discounts on admission can be obtained by purchasing the Articket BCN Museum discount card.
Take a look at Barcelona Cathedral
Visiting Barcelona without seeing its Cathedral is unforgivable. It's another great sight that costs nothing. The neo-Gothic cathedral stands out for its gargoyles and its roof of mythical pets.
Nestling between the city's narrow streets, it is dedicated to Barcelona's patron saint, Eulalia, who was martyred by the Romans in 303 AD. Although it is one of Spain's most emblematic buildings, it still hides a few curiosities.
Be sure to see the cloister, which houses a small garden with orange and almond trees, a pond and the 13 white geese of Saint Eulalia, one for each of the torments she endured.
Viewing Barcelona from Tibidabo
We've listed so many fun things to visit in Barcelona, but this is the only visit to Barcelona at the top of a mountain.
Strategically located in the city, this charming amusement park gives you an impressive panoramic view, as if you were flying over the city.
Take a stroll along the Chemin du ciel, then head to the upper part of the church of the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the retro amusement park with its 100-year-old Ferris wheel.
You're almost there from the super Tramvia Blau, almost San Francisco-style, so throw yourself in for extra effect.
Go to a concert at the Palau de la Musica Catalana
This garden of incredible light and colour is the ideal place for music lovers to enjoy opera, flamenco or even a symphony.
This modernist musicpalace with its golden-age acoustics is distinguished by the central place of the chandelier.
Guided tours are available, so you don't necessarily need to attend a concert to discover the Palau de la Música. But if you do want to see a show, check the calendar of events.
Climb the Turo de la Rovira ("The Bunkers")
The Turó de la Rovira is perhaps the most beautiful viewpoint in Barcelona. It was once thought of as an anti-aircraft bunker defending the city from bombardment during the Spanish Civil War. Today, it's a great museum and picnic spot, with an excellent option of things to do as the sun sets. Barcelona's highest point is now freely accessible, and you can bring your own drinks to enjoy the splendid 360-degree panorama - exceptional views guaranteed.
Visit the Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueras
This is a masterpiece by the Catalan surrealist artist Salvador Dali. A visit to the Dali Museum, dedicated to the surrealist genius Salvador Dali, is one of the things to do around Barcelona. The only one of its kind in the world and almost indescribable, it was one of the few created in his lifetime and with the artist's active contribution.
The Spectre of Sex Appeal (1932) and the Bread Basket (1945) make the place an immersive work, a surrealist plunge into the work and world of Salvador Dali - a must for fans of the origins of man and madness in general.
Sitting in the Plaça Vila de Gracia
This is one of Barcelona's best districts, packed with themed bars and eccentric boutiques. The city has a bohemian atmosphere, making it the ideal place to enjoy a coffee or a beer. Barcelona's best district is the meeting point for locals and street musicians.
Going to Gracia is exactly one of the things you shouldn't miss doing in Barcelona if you want to feel like a local.
Getting to Montserrat
The Montserrat massif boasts some of the most breathtaking jagged mountains in the world. There's plenty to do here, too, and plenty of beautiful scenery to enjoy. The highest point in the Catalan lowlands is an excellent escape from the hustle and bustle of the city at 1236 metres above sea level. The open-air Benedictine monastery and its statue of the Black Madonna show that Montserrat is strongly attached to spiritualism and the Christian religion. However, if you're less religiously inclined, head in the direction of the Sant Jeroni lookout.
Cycling
Hire a bike and discover Barcelona's charm in an original way. Imagine pedalling between its most beautiful monuments, the Gothic Quarter, the Sagrada Familia and much more from your bike. First of all, you'll benefit from the mild weather, which is great for cycling, and there are around 100 km of cycle paths. Also, since all the main attractions are accessible by bike, cycling is popular with many tourists. So why shouldn't you? Here you can consult the map of cycle routes in Barcelona.
Discover the Fundació Joan Miró
Situated on the Montjuïc hill that rises behind the south-western part of the city centre, the Fundació Joan Miró is a fusion of architecture and art in a unique setting. In fact, its creation was made possible by the collaboration of artist Joan Miró and architect Josep Lluís Sert. It was founded in 1975 by the Catalan artist himself to make his art more accessible to the public, and now boasts 14,000 of his whimsical masterpieces, from early Surrealist paintings to later Dada-inspired works. Also a must-see is the hilarious man and woman in front of a pile of excrement - yes, you're not wrong!
Spend some time in the El Born district
Located between Parc de la Ciutadella and Via Laietana in the Ciutat Vella, or old town, this is one of Barcelona's trendiest neighbourhoods. El Born has countless trendy meeting places: a collection of cool tapas joints, cocktail bars and popular restaurants. Its maze of narrow streets is home to original galleries and several upmarket boutiques. The Born Cultural and Memorial Centre and the history museum displaying the ruins of the old medieval town here show that the district is a perfect blend of history and tradition. Don't miss dining on tasty tapas bites at Bormuth, having innovative cocktails at Dr Stravinsky or a coffee to go at the city's best café, Cafés El Magnifico.
Sunbathing on Barcelona's beaches
You'll love spending a weekend on one of Barcelona's beaches. These are popular entertainment areas that attract visitors and locals alike. But experience has shown that the beaches of Barcelona and El Somorrostro are very popular with visitors, while Nova Icària and Bogatell are more popular with locals. On the other hand, if you're looking for a little more privacy, Mar Bella is the city's nudist beach.
Read also: Barcelona beach, the complete guide to the 12 best spots
Visit La Plaça Espanya
The Plaça España is a pretty square just outside the city centre, where many of Barcelona's main roads cross, such as the Gran Via and the Paral.lel. It is also home to Barcelona's former bullring, which has been converted into the Las Arenas de Barcelona shopping centre.
One of the main reasons to visit Plaça España is the Palau Nacional Art de Catalunya (MNAC), the Catalan art museum, which sits regally on the slopes of Montjuïc. It's magnificent, and there's never a better time to see it than when it's lit up at night with the Magic Fountain in front.
Take a walk in the heights of the city: the Collserola and the Carretera de les Aigües
These two paths have become a paradise for walkers and sports enthusiasts in Barcelona. The Collserola nature park is tucked into the hills that surround the back of the city. On the opposite side of Mount Tibidabo and its theme park is the castle-like Torre Baró. Between the two lies the wide Carretera de les Aigues, offering breathtaking views. There are many different hiking and cycling routes criss-crossing the park, which you can easily access by taking the FGC train from Plaça Catalunya, just a few metres from the Funicular.
Discover Barcelona's nightlife
There's plenty to do in Barcelona in the evening, with a party going on at all hours of the night. Whether you're a fan of quiet evenings by the sea, wild nights out at the discotheque or a hybrid experience between the two. Here, the whole city comes alive at sunset after you've spent your siesta recharging your batteries.
Discovering Barcelona's famous architecture at night is still one of the best things to do in Barcelona. We suggest you enjoy a concert, an art exhibition or go to a club to wash down the tapas. So, to help you relax as much as possible, we've put together a list of the best things to do in Barcelona in the evening.
Visit the modernist Sant Pau Recinte building in Barcelona
Zooming around theSant Pau hospital is one of the incredible things you can do in Barcelona. This masterpiece of Art Nouveau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a real lesson in the relationship between medicine, humanism, beauty and nature. It is a brilliant and incredible place, as much for its sublime modernist architecture as for its scale, functionality and humanist spirit. The site, designed by Barcelona's other famous architect, Lluís Domènech I Montaner, is made up of several different pavilions linked by underground tunnels, each richly decorated with colourful tiles and mosaics, floral motifs, ornate arches and turrets and luminous stained glass windows. It is just a 14-minute walk from the famous Sagrada Familia church.
Admire the facades of L'Eixample
The Eixample district is one of Barcelona's most elegant neighbourhoods and is an architecture lover's dream. Just dare to look up and you'll be treated to views of some of the best examples of Catalan modernist style. Colourful tiles and mosaics, picturesque facades and floral motifs are just some of the features to be found on the best Modernista masterpieces in the district: the Casa de les Punxes, the Palau Baró de Quadras, the Palau Macaya, the many private residential buildings in the Eixample and many more...
Discover the Poblenou district
Poblenou is less rich in tourist attractions, but it's still a charming local district to explore. On the one hand, it is home to former warehouses that have been transformed into trendy meeting places such as coffee roasters, craft breweries and design centres. On the other, the district is made up of the more traditional section with its own walkway lined with beautiful modernist buildings, bars and restaurants and stretching down to the beach.
Explore the Monestir de Pedralbes
Another of Barcelona's Gothic masterpieces is located towards the Pedralbes district in the north-west corner of the city. The monastery was built in the early 14th century and houses several excellent temporary exhibitions.
It is still one of the most elegant examples of Gothic architecture, but the special feature here is that it is built around a serene three-storey cloister. Have you ever visited a place that offers a glimpse of life in a convent? Take a guided tour and discover the former refectory, kitchen, stables, infirmary and great hall, with its dormitories. You can also take your own tour, and don't forget that admission is free on Sundays after 3pm.
Take the kids to the CosmoCaixa science museum
When the heat becomes too much to bear in Barcelona, or on a rainy afternoon, the CosmoCaixa Science Museum comes to life. The centre is located in the far north of the city, close to the foothills of the Collserola nature park. The CosmoCaixa Science Museum features interactive exhibitions covering everything from space and the human body to Antarctica and ancient fossils. You'll also find a large section that has been transformed into a living Amazon rainforest, complete with piranha fish and live crocodiles. It also rains every 15 minutes.
Go to the city's many festivals
Barcelona is home to so many different festivals that one is guaranteed to coincide with your trip. If you're going in April, you'll love attending the celebration of Catalonia's patron saint (Sant Jordi). In June, on the other hand, you'll be thrilled to be at the Sant Joan festival, where fireworks explode throughout the city all night long. And in September, the La Mercè festival, with concerts, street theatre and dance performances, will make your stay unforgettable. The festivities are always vibrant and full of energy, and include dancing giants, castellers and correfocs.
Visit Barcelona's wax museum
During a stay in Barcelona, the wax museum is a place of choice. Its typical façade and its location close to the Ramblas, in a small cobbled alleyway, are its merits.
When the sun goes down, the view outside is resplendent, with a luminosity that lends a certain atmosphere. The building that has housed the museum since 1970 was the former headquarters of the Bank of Barcelona.
Discover the Port Olímpic
The Port Olímpic is a new port built in 1992 to host the Olympic Games, particularly the sailing competitions. It is often compared to the old port (Port Vell) and is now a popular tourist spot with restaurants, bars and attractions along the waterfront. A little out of the way from the city centre, it is close to GoldFish and Barcelona's two towers, which can be seen from afar.
Discover Casa Amatller
The Casa Museo Amatller is a true demonstration of an era full of splendour and history, which marked a turning point in Barcelona. At that time, traditional society based on the ancien régime was moving towards a much more open and dynamic society typical of an industrial and contemporary world at the beginning of the 20th century.
Visiting Casa Amatller is like taking a journey through the history of Barcelona, its people and its collections.
Visit the Mirador de Colomb
If you want to keep a good view of yourself in Barcelona, head for the Christopher Columbus Column, aka the Mirador de Colomb.
The column was built in 1888 as part of the Universal Exhibition to pay homage to Christopher Columbus, who chose the port of Barcelona as the place to land on his return from America.
If you're feeling energetic, try climbing 60 metres to enjoy the panoramic view over Barcelona!
See the Egyptian Museum in Barcelona
The Egyptian Museum in Barcelona aims to give visitors an insight into the life, society and customs of one of the oldest civilisations in history. It has over 1,000 exhibits on different themes, each of which offers an overview of the general features of the Pharaonic civilisation.
The museum has a number of installations covering 2,000 m2 where you can discover aspects of daily life in society, the mummification process, the figure of the pharaoh and the worship paid to the gods.
Explore Barceloneta
Barceloneta is the Catalan capital's famous seaside district. It has it all: beach, entertainment with flying kites, shouting vendors, lively music, crashing waves and a friendly atmosphere.
This district is renowned for its restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood. If you manage to visit Barcelona's friendly district, be sure to see the Port Vell or Port of Barcelona, which has been completely renovated, where you can visit the Aquarium, and even take the cable car up to Montjuïc.
Discover Port Vell (Port of Barcelona)
The Port Vell is Barcelona's old port, stretching from the statue of Christopher Columbus at the foot of the Ramblas to the point where luxury yachts and sailing boats rub shoulders. Since it was renovated for the 1992 Olympic Games, it has become a beautiful part of the city that can't be missed when walking around. Take a stroll between the beautiful buildings lining the harbour and you'll discover a number of works of art, statues and sculptures. The Maremagnum and the Barcelona Aquàrium can be found behind the harbour - all exceptional places.
Discover the Barcelona Aquarium
The Barcelona Aquàrium is a wonderful and picturesque place in Barcelona. Leisure, education, science and much more are all elements that give this fun and educational marine centre its meaning. You and your family can enjoy a unique experience as you contemplate 66 aquariums, an 80-metre-long underwater tunnel, 11,000 animals of 450 different species, of which sharks are the star species, 6 million litres of water and a huge oceanarium that is unique in Europe. This centre offers a unique spectacle, a source of education and entertainment that makes a visit a must. If you leave the square for a drink on the 1881 rooftop of the history museum, you'll have the chance to admire a 360° view.
See the Museum of the History of Catalonia
The Museum of the History of Catalonia is located in the heart of Barcelona's Palais de Mar. It is a remarkable example of port architecture that was built with the intention of using it for commercial storage. It was designed and built between 1880 and 1890 by the engineer Maurici Garrán, and refurbished in 1992 by the architects Josep Benedito and Agustí Mateos. From there, it became the museum of the Centre for Contemporary History of Catalonia and the headquarters of the Ministry for the Family of the Generalitat of Catalonia.
Admire Montjuïc hill
Where can you admire some of Barcelona's most beautiful views for free? Well, at Montjuïc Hill. It's the perfect place to get some height and take a short break to admire the city from above. Montjuïc rises to the west of the city centre. There are a thousand ways to get there, but one of the most interesting is to climb the enormous monumental staircase and fountain of the Plaça d'Espanya to the magnificent neo-Baroque building. Another impressive way is to take a cable car from the port area to the top. The hill is dotted with magnificent gardens, including the city's Botanical Garden - several interesting museums, including the Olympic Museum, the Fundació Joan Miró and the Catalan Museum of Archaeology - the fascinating Montjuïc cemetery , home to Joan Miró and Catalan president Lluís Companys.
Take a boat trip
A Mediterranean jewel, the Bay of Barcelona will forever hold a special place in your heart. It's a great idea to hire a boat in Barcelona for a day. You'll be able to discover more of the city in just a few hours:
Playa Castelldefels, a beautiful, tranquil beach that's ideal for recharging your batteries away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist trade, just a three-hour sail away.
Playa Morisca, a wild and beautiful spot tucked between the cliffs of Garraf Park, which is a further thirty minutes away.
The Costa Brava or the beautiful beach of Ocata (Playa Ocota), an hour north of Barcelona. With or without a licence, with or without the help of a skipper, you're sure to have some wonderful memories of the Catalan capital.
Tour the city and seafront on a Segway
Barcelona offers a totally unique way to see the city on a Segway. You'll have the chance to cruise for 2 hours through Barcelona, from the Hotel W to the Columbus monument, via the picturesque sandy beaches and the Gothic Quarter. If you pay close attention, you'll notice the Parc de la Ciutadella on the way to the Arc de Triomphe and the zoo, before finishing at the exclusive Port Vell.
Exploring Barcelona in an eco-friendly way
Visiting Barcelona by electric bike is a fun, unique and original experience that reveals the hidden secrets of the buildings designed by Gaudí. You'll discover more sites in less time than a walking tour in a small group. There's almost everything to see: Gaudí's monuments and buildings such as Casa Milá and Casa Battló, as well as Sagrada Família, Citadel Park, Parc Güell and many other surprises.
Take a helicopter flight for a 360° tour
Discovering the Catalan capital from the sky remains one of the best things to do in Barcelona. You'll see Barcelona's highlights from every angle in just half a day. Above the Gothic Quarter and other must-see sites, we're sure you'll have a fantastic time. Please note! This excursion is usually very expensive when done alone, so consider doing it in a small group.
Take a 2-hour Mediterranean excursion
The trip will start at the Port Olímpic and head towards the Hotel W, passing some of the city's most emblematic monuments. You can visit the old town through Port Vell and the One Ocean marina with its remarkable yachts on the water. Imagine enjoying the sound of the wind and waves with a small group of up to nine people and a personal skipper, admiring the view of Barcelona's rooftops from a different angle,... Just soak up the beautiful deep blue colour of the Mediterranean and the breathtaking view of Barcelona's rooftops to realise at a glance how the city has developed from ancient times to the present day. Enjoy a short swim if time permits and take time to appreciate the local aquatic fauna: sunfish, crabs, turtles, dolphins and maybe even whales.
Experience parasailing in a small group
Take advantage of 12 minutes to get a different view of Barcelona. A parasailing experience will let the adrenaline rush through your body as you fly 150 metres above the sea, with uninterrupted 360-degree views. It's all designed to keep you sailing through the sky and enjoying the breathtaking view from above before landing safely in your boat.
Such is the entertainment in Barcelona that we thought it would be a good idea to put together an article summarising Barcelona's favourite entertainment activities. Follow us!
Visit Plaça de Sant Jaume (Santiago Square)
The Plaça de Sant Jaume has been the city's only historical and administrative centre since antiquity. It is home to two major Catalan administrative buildings: Barcelona City Hall and the Generalitat de Catalunya.
In the past, the square was the venue for many historic events. Today, it hosts exhibitions and concerts all year round, not to mention celebrations of football victories.
The square is set between a number of pleasant little streets that wind their way through the city centre, which you can also visit. These include Carrer del Bisbe, which links Plaça Sant Jaume to Barcelona Cathedral.
Explore the Horta Labyrinth Park
The Parc del Labyrinthe d'Horta is Barcelona's oldest park, with a quiet, secret atmosphere that makes it ideal for a romantic stroll.
Once you've explored the labyrinth from top to bottom, you can enjoy a picnic or relax in the neo-classical park.
Admission is cheaper at €2, but exceptionally free on Wednesdays and Sundays.
It remains a pleasant place to visit after visiting the must-see places in Barcelona.
Admire the skyscraper that makes up the Glòries Tower (Torre Agbar)
The Torre Agbar is an icon of the modern city, marking the start of the technology district in the former industrial district of Poblenou, now redeveloped. At 142 metres long, the Torre Agbar has 34 storeys and a surface area of 30,000 m2.
To create this masterpiece and integrate the Torre Agbar into the urban landscape, French architect Jean Nouvel was inspired by a number of typically Barcelona objects. As you can see, the cylindrical construction style, which has an air of the peaks of Montserrat, bears some resemblance to the bell towers of the Sagrada Familia.
But the tower looks much more like a jet of blue water rising from the ground, where the aluminium blinds reflect the sunlight during the day. But you absolutely must visit this place at night to see Torre Agbar illuminated by 4,500 coloured LED lights.
Barcelona is renowned for its charm, rich culture and unusual architecture. In this guide, we have listed a few that are well worth a visit, including the Sagrada Família, Parc Güell and other places and monuments of interest. There's something to suit everyone's tastes. For example, sports fans and especially Barça fans will love a visit to the Camp Nou.
When to go to Barcelona
High season: June to August and public holidays
Best time for festivals and events.
In high season, Barcelona's accommodation is fully booked and prices rise considerably. Residents tend to leave the city. Expect warm, sunny weather with some humidity.
Mid-season: March to May, September and October
The best time for long walks in the city.
The off-season is a good time to visit Barcelona, with mild, clear weather and fewer crowds, but make sure you book in advance if you're travelling at Easter. In September, the sea is still warm. For pleasant weather, but without the sea bathing, come in May.
Low season: November to February
Best period for budget travellers.
Temperatures tend to be fairly mild in Barcelona in winter, ranging from 8°C to 15°C. The streets are often empty and accommodation prices fall. The streets are often empty and the cost of accommodation falls.
How do I get around Barcelona?
The best solution for convenience and price: Metro
Comprising eight lines and 161 stations, and in operation since 1863, Barcelona's metro is a vast electric rail network, mainly underground, linking the city centre with the suburbs and several adjacent towns, including L'Hospitalet and Badalona.
Today, even the smallest neighbourhood and most of Barcelona's most popular tourist destinations are well connected by metro. The Sagrada Família, the Casa Batlló, the Platja de la Barceloneta, the Arc de Triomf and many other places are accessible by metro, making it the best and most convenient way to get around Barcelona.
The metro runs from 5am to midnight from Sunday to Thursday. On Fridays, Saturdays and the nights before public holidays, it runs until 2am.
The best way to get around late at night: Bus
With over 200 lines and their own bus lane, Barcelona's hybrid city buses can be faster than the metro, especially when your metro line doesn't have a direct connection to a certain attraction. Also, remember that the Barcelona metro has limited opening hours, but the city bus has several lines that run all night.
Learning the different routes can be difficult, but Google Maps is an excellent travel aid, and all stations have detailed maps and routes of their specific area.
In a nod to its role in a carbon-free future, Barcelona's public transport system is slowly adopting more energy-efficient vehicles, with all new buses being electric or hydrogen-powered.
Tip for taking the bus: tickets can only be bought inside the metro stations.
The best solution for epic views: Funicular (cable car)
Barcelona has three funicular railway lines. Two of them take you up to popular tourist attractions such as Tibidabo, the city's highest hill, where you'll find the church with the most epic views. The other provides access to Montjuïc, another hill to the west of the city, home to the city's castle.
The best way to go further: By bike
Cycling is a great way to get around Barcelona. Less than ten years ago, there were hardly any cyclists in Barcelona, but in recent years the city has made huge efforts to make itself bike-friendly. There are plans to add even more cycle lanes in the next few years.
Unfortunately, only residents can use Bicing (pronounced "be-zing"), the public hire service. It is not yet available to tourists. However, visitors wishing to get around Barcelona by bike can easily hire one from one of the city's bike hire shops. The city centre is relatively flat, making it easy to get around and explore the city by bike.
The best way to visit the old town: On foot
Strolling the streets of Barcelona - moving from one district to another while soaking up the architecture and social contrasts - is one of the best things you can do in the city.
If you're staying in the Old Town or another part of the city centre, most tourist attractions are within 2 or 3 km. La Barceloneta, El Raval, the Gothic Quarter, Passeig de Gràcia and Passeig del Born are all within walking distance of the city centre, where you'll find places like Barcelona Cathedral, the Museum of Contemporary Art, La Pedrera and even the beach. All these attractions can keep you busy for at least a few days.
However, to visit Parc Güell, Casa Vicens, Montjuic, Hospital Sant Pau or Sagrada Família, you may want to take the metro or other means of transport.
The best solution for ease and comfort: Taxi
Visitors who like to travel with a higher level of comfort can flag down one of the yellow taxis that run around Barcelona all day. Fares generally start at €2.10, but at night and weekends prices can rise. Alternatively, several taxi apps operate in Barcelona - Hailo and MyTaxi are the most popular choices.
How many days do you need in Barcelona?
The best time to spend in Barcelona is between 3 and 4 days. If you spend up to 4 days in the city, you'll have enough time to visit all the best attractions Barcelona has to offer.
You can easily spend a whole day exploring the city's surrounding mountains. Barcelona offers incredible views from these mountains, and you should take the time to hike around them to get the best views of the city.
But you could just as easily spend a couple of days marvelling at the local architecture. Buildings like Casa Batlló, La Sagrada and Casa Mila are just the tip of the iceberg. The city is vast, there's so much to do, and you can easily spend more than four days here.
How do I get to Barcelona?
By plane
Barcelona is well connected to most European destinations. All the major airlines fly into Barcelona El Prat airport, about 17km from the city centre. Two smaller airports are located close to Barcelona, Sabadell airport and Reus airport. Tourists can fly direct to Barcelona from the international airports of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. Fares may depend on the airline chosen and the time of year.
Car
Barcelona is a city where getting around is the least of your worries. Inter-city and intra-city travel is fast and relatively cheap. The beautiful Catalan city is linked to other parts of Spain and Europe by several bus services. Eurolines is the main bus service in Barcelona, and is very reliable. Other bus services such as Megabus and Busbud are also efficient and economical. Intra-city buses run from 4.25am to 11pm, and tickets can be purchased from ticket kiosks throughout the city or from the following websites: click here.
Train
Barcelona has excellent connectivity with other parts of Spain and Europe, thanks to its incredible rail network. Eurorail should be your first preference when it comes to getting around by train. Barcelona Sants and Barcelona Franca are two main stations where you can find regional and international train services. Apart from these two stations, there are three other stations where residents and tourists can get around easily and cheaply. However, given the large number of tourists visiting Barcelona, it is advisable to book your train tickets in advance.
FAQ What to do in Barcelona
What can you do in Barcelona if you love culture?
There are so many things to do in Barcelona if you love culture. Here are some of our favourites: Visit the Plaça Reial, visit museums such as the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, the Picasso Museum, the Museu d'Art Contemporáneo, the Fundació Joan Miró, visit the Montserrat Natural Park, the Centre de Cultura Contemporánea, Fundació Antoni Tàpies...
What to do in Barcelona when it rains?
Even if the weather doesn't cooperate, there are plenty of things to do in Barcelona that will keep you dry. The National Art Museum of Catalonia is an incredible place to spend a rainy half-day; they have everything from ancient to modern art. You can also try one of Barcelona's many covered markets: Els Encants Vells is open Monday to Saturday and is full of antiques, while Santa Caterina offers fresh local produce every day except Sunday.
What to do in Barcelona with your family
Barcelona, Spain, is a fantastic city with a vibrant and welcoming culture. If you're heading there with your family but don't know what to do during your stay, here are a few suggestions! Start by learning about the city's history. You can visit the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Decorative Arts and discover the Greek and Roman influence on Catalan culture. In the evening, you should definitely explore the streets of Barcelona - there's so much fun to be had walking around in search of adventure. Be sure to stop for tapas at the first place that looks open! To do something unique in Barcelona with your family, head to the Tibidabo theme park! It's one of the most famous amusement parks in the whole of Europe. After dinner at Tio Antonio (which has a spectacular view), take a taxi to Tibidabo mountain and explore. There are tons of rides for all ages, beautiful gardens and even a medieval castle for an extra charge!
What to do in Barcelona as a couple
There are so many attractions it can be hard to choose. Here are our top picks for things to see and do in Barcelona as a couple: 1. Take a sunset cruise. 2. Visit Casa Milà, which is one of Gaudí's most iconic works of architecture in Spain, and is located right in the heart of Barcelona. 3. Take a romantic gondola ride. 4. Watch flamenco. 5. Take a bike ride through the city and countryside. 6. Take a helicopter tour over the city and coastline.
See also:
Halal restaurant Barcelona, top 32 best places
Barcelona hotel, the 30 best places for all budgets
Barcelona on video
A selection of 17 things to do in Barcelona presented on video
