There isn’t a shortage of things to do in the Catalan capital. Explore Gaudí masterpieces that breathe life into the city like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Get lost in the Gothic Quarter. Soak up the sun on the beach. Go to world-class cocktail bars and restaurants. Oh, Barcelona— you have my heart.
Must-Do Experiences
La Sagrada Familia
Visiting La Sagrada Familia is like stepping into a work of art. The church is breathtaking, reflective, and a true marvel of color and light. Look around, and you’ll notice everyone quietly in awe of this nearly indescribable masterpiece. I’m not usually an audio-guide girl, but even the self-guided tour is wonderful, offering insight into the church’s fascinating history and extraordinary attention to detail.
Make sure to book tickets at least one month in advance at Sagrada Familia.
Montjuic Hill
In simple terms, Montjüic is a hill, but in actuality, it is a spectacular lookout point that offers panoramic city views. To go up the hill, you must ride a Funicular cable car, which is an experience in and of itself. Once you arrive at the peak of Montjüic, there is much more to explore than the fabulous view; there are gardens, a castle, and even the 1992 Olympic Stadium is tucked away here.
Ciutadella Park
Ciutadella Park is Barcelona’s serene green escape and the perfect place to slow down amidst sightseeing. For decades, it was Barcelona’s only green space, so you can only imagine how cherished it is in the city’s culture. There’s nothing not to love in this beautiful park lined with palm trees, romantic fountains, and gorgeous architecture, like arches and staircases, that look like they’re growing out of the grass themselves.
Barcelona Beach
The world’s best paella is waiting for you in a waterfront restaurant right on Barcelona’s beach. It’s true. My Airbnb host told me, and I tasted it myself. Mindblowing stuff. Other than the life-changing paella, Barcelona’s beach is one of my favorite areas because it gives a completely different vibe to the busy and historic part of the city, like the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla. There always seems to be volleyball going on, and while you might not be down for a game, it really is the perfect place for a relaxed beach walk or seaside cocktail during golden hour.
Gothic Quarter
Picture this: winding medieval streets filled with bars, restaurants, and boutiques that are packed with patrons late into the night. Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is so much fun to explore.
This area is packed with tourists during the day. My favorite times to walk around the Gothic Quarter are early in the morning or late at night. But once the sun goes down, this neighborhood comes to life with Barcelonians ready to party.
Pedrera Night Experience
Seeing Gaudí’s La Pedrera at night is magical. The evening experience brings this already magnificent building to life with whimsical lights, projections, and a private tour guide. At this ticketed event, the attraction is much less crowded, so you’re able to really take in all the details of this building that looks carved out of stone. This night event is one of the most memorable ways to experience Gaudí’s genius. Get tickets at La Pedrera Night Experience.
Passeig de Gràcia
The Passeig de Gràcia is Barcelona’s most glamorous city stroll. I mean, this is a city girl’s guide, after all. This wide street is lined with the most high-end designer stores and cafés decked out in Barcelona’s signature style. Not only that, but it’s home to some of Gaudí’s most iconic creations that are UNESCO World Heritage. Spend some time window shopping, seeing the sights, and stopping for lots of cappuccinos— all on one avenue.
Tapas Crawl
A tapas crawl is a must in Barcelona. Hopping from bar to bar sampling patatas bravas (yes), jamón, croquetas (more yes), pan con tomate (extra yes), and glasses of cava or sangria (super yes) along the way is an unforgettably delicious experience. A lot of tapas crawls will take place in the evening once all the Barcelonians are out and about, so the restaurants and bars are slam-packed. Overall, it’s a social and lively time where you’ll sample Barcelona’s best bites and pretend like you’re one of the locals and never actually going home. Book a Barcelona Tapas Crawl through Airbnb Experiences.
Must-See Gaudí
The genius Spanish architect, Antoni Gaudí, and the city of Barcelona are synonymous. Gaudí’s buildings paint the city with imaginative and colorful designs.
La Sagrada Familia
Visiting La Sagrada Familia is like stepping into a work of art. The church is breathtaking, reflective, and a true marvel of color and light. Look around, and you’ll notice everyone quietly in awe of this nearly indescribable masterpiece. I’m not usually an audio-guide girl, but even the self-guided tour is wonderful, offering insight into the church’s fascinating history and extraordinary attention to detail.
Make sure to book tickets at least one month in advance at Sagrada Familia.
Park Güell
Colorful, creative, and undeniably Gaudí. Park Güell has to be one of the most playful parks in the world, with its strange structures and bright mosaics. And if you’re anywhere near my age, you’ll recognize this park from the critically acclaimed (ahem, it’s true) dance sequence from The Cheetah Girls 2 movie. I had to control myself from not breaking out into song. Alas, the nostalgia is just penetrating from young girls everywhere.
Make sure to book tickets at least one month in advance at Park Güell.
Casa Batlló
Have you ever wanted to step inside a glittery wave of magic? If so, you should visit Casa Batlló. This curved blue building that draws large crowds at all hours is one of my favorites because it makes everyone stop in their tracks.
Book tickets at Casa Batlló to tour this ocean-inspired mansion that’s become a symbol of the city.
Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
Casa Milà feels more like a living piece of art than an apartment building. Inside, Gaudí’s attention to detail is everywhere, but the real highlight is the rooftop. The chimneys look like moving water, and the views over the city are breathtaking.
The best way to see Casa Milà is at night. The evening experience brings this already magnificent building to life with lights, projections, and a private tour guide. Get tickets at La Pedrera Night Experience.
Eats
La Alcobita
Tucked away in a little side street of the Gothic Quarter is the world’s coziest tapas bar called La Alcobita, serving local Catalan classics.
Bodega Vasconia
This legendary tapas bar is what you’d imagine old-school Barcelona to be. Stand at the bar, order a few plates, and soak in the lively energy of this authentic tapas experience.
El Nou Ramonet
One word: paella. Really, all seafood shines in this hidden gem that’s perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner by the water.
El Xampanyet
El Xampanyet lives on a charming narrow street that you can’t really miss because once you turn the corner, you’ll see the crowds of people waiting to order their beloved tapas and cava. Expect close quarters and quick bites to snack on before dinner.
La Boqueria
Barcelona’s La Boqueria is a feast for all the senses. Colorful fruit stands, jamón hanging from every corner, and quick bites make it one of the most iconic food stops in the city.
Alice Secret Garden
Brunch done right. With fun cocktails and a playful menu (lots of pancakes, toasts, and tea cakes), Alice Secret Garden offers the perfect palette cleanser from all the tapas and seafood.
La Flauta
La Flauta is casual, energetic, and always busy. It’s a beloved local favorite known for consistently great tapas and a buzzing atmosphere.
