If you want to start talking about Barcelona, there are a lot of things that come to mind. Count down the reasons for visiting Barcelona; football insanity, magnificent beaches, and a unique history reflected in impressive buildings strewn across the city… It’s an endless list.

The city offers one thing of everything which leaves everyone delighted and aspired to come back again and again.

In this guide, you will find all information you need to know before hitting up Barcelona, Spain, ranging from things to do, things not to do, destinations to visit, free activities, where to stay, and key suggestions to help you organise your trip.

Happy vacation in advance!

Top Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

Have a Walking Tour: Parc de la Ciutadella

Location: Passeig de Picasso
How to get there: Few minutes walking away from Arc de Triomf  metro station
Price: Free admission
Let’s start this list of the top things to do in Barcelona, Spain, with the city’s must-see attractions and its top of free activities, Parc de la Ciutadella.

Dating back to the 19th century, Parc de la Ciutadella is the most extensive oasis in Barcelona. It combines many plants and animals in a wild environment offering something unique for its visitors.

Why should you visit Parc de la Ciutadella?

Parc de la Ciutadella is a 280-square-kilometer park that features a historical zoo, the Catalan parliament, a small lake, a big fountain, and museums. Other symbols, including the Arc de Triomf, can be found directly adjacent to the garden. Don’t forget to photograph this famous structure.

Parc de la Ciutadella is the most fabulous place to start your visit to Barcelona since you may rest in front of a beautiful golden waterfall while watching parrots squawk in the trees. You can even climb the fountain to get a better view of the vast vistas. If you go to the park on a Sunday, you’ll see senior dancing groups putting on a display and dressed in traditional clothes.

It may take you over three hours to explore the entire park, but it will be well worth your time.

Things to Do:

• Visit museums inside the park to explore the history of this fantastic open place built under the order of King Philip V and to learn about the various transformations that have occurred in the park throughout the years.
• Rent a boat in the lake between evergreen branches and enjoy the gentle breeze.
• Pay a visit to the absolutely eye-catching building, the Castle of the Three Dragons.
• Explore the architectural glass wonder, Greenhouse, erected for Expo Spain in 1992.
• Sit down for drinks or grab food from one of the kiosks.

Things not to Do:

• Don’t visit the park on hot summer days. The sultry weather will ruin your day.
• Because this is a picnic excursion, don’t wear shoes that aren’t appropriate. You must be at ease.
• If you’re looking for a completely free pastime, skip rowing boats. It will set you back around $7.

Pro Tip: Try to visit Parc de la Ciutadella on Sundays, where there are many activities or small exhibitions for families, and it would be great for your kids

Let your eyes linger on this masterpiece: Catedral de Barcelona

Location: Pla de la Seu
How to get there: Few minutes walking away from Liceu metro station
Price: Around USD 8
Have you ever experienced falling head over heels while gazing at something?

This is something you will see here. Magic features are at your fingertips; all eyes can’t catch up with anything else except Catedral de Barcelona, the building that gets under your skin.

Why should you visit Catedral de Barcelona?

This structure exemplifies evolution rather than just design. However, Catedral de Barcelona stands for the 19th century. The building reflects innovation and creativity in ways that have challenged every architect across the world to decipher how this high-end epic tower has been created.

Inside, you can see how the cathedral was built to apply physics and nature laws to let sunlight pass through every angle of the place. The influence of nature also emerges in columns acting like giant trees of forests, arches mimicking rib cages of human bodies, and spiral stairs inspired by seashells. Let’s say Catedral de Barcelona demonstrates the ultimate celebration of God.

In an era when there was no mathematical science, it was a brilliant concept to come up with. Genius!

There are currently construction activities to build Barcelona’s highest tower, which will allow visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the city and a closer look at the spectacular structure of the cathedral.

Things to Do:

• Admiring the unique structure of Catedral de Barcelona, interior and exterior. Everything here will take your breath away.
• Take the elevator to access the roof and enjoy views of this fantastic city.
• Ask for an audio guide to explore the history of the gorgeous Gothic cathedral.
• Don’t miss out on discovering the surrounding area, narrow alleyways, enjoy bands performing instruments in adjacent lanes, and stopping by one of the local eateries for a bite to eat.
• Snapping away in front of the beautiful façade of the cathedral and inside to capture a lot of memories of visiting Barcelona.

Things not to Do:

• Don’t wear something that reveals so much skin. It’s a holy house anyway.
• Don’t arrive too late; the chapel will be packed.
• Don’t bring large suitcases with you. Only small bags are permitted.

Pro Tip: Be savvy and reach the cathedral before 12:30 p.m. to gain free admission.

Explore the Hidden Gems of Barcelona: Gothic Quarter

Location: Barrio Gòtico
How to get there: Within walking distance from Liceu metro station
Price: Free admission
Barcelona is one of the rarest cities that has its own otherwise identity. Many historical well-preserved landmarks appear here, which give you a glimpse of the old city of Barcelona.

Why should you visit the Gothic Quarter?

The Gothic Quarter is a modest medieval district with narrow streets and twisting alleyways. As you walk through the old cobblestone narrow lanes surrounded by more than 2000 huge buildings that have stood here for decades, your experience will be breathtaking. There’s a good chance you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time there.

Barchenians said this place is the stage of history. And it rings so true. Not just displaying the glory of the past, houses here symbolize how the city resisted the Spanish civil war. Many local museums welcome visitors to discover ancient Roman ruins.

So, if you are looking for the ancient European feel, the Gothic Quarter is where you want to go. 

Wondering what the sound is echoing from the center?

Well, people in Barcelona appreciate every moment of their lives. They love eating, hanging out, making relationships, and dancing.

This music frequently brings people together, most strangers, to dance Catalan Sardana as part of their culture. Don’t hesitate to join the team and have a good time dancing and singing.

Things to Do:

• Visit the Museu d’Història de la Ciutat, which contains the old excavations of Barcelona’s Roman, and listen to exciting stories about powerful personalities during this ancient empire.
• Head for Plaça Sant Felip Neri, a historical square that includes an old church. Maybe it transfers some sinking feelings to you because it was under attack in 1938, and many people were killed right here.
• Explore Palace Del Rey, which was the seat of the Catalonian king; you can find the royal chapel and palace.
• If your hotel is near the ancient town, there is beautiful nightlife here, with several bars and nightclubs in the Royal Square.
• Sip your coffee in one of the oldest cafeterias in Barcelona, Els Quatre Gats.

  

Things not to Do:

• If you visit Barcelona in summer, don’t visit the Gothic Quarter in the morning. It would be hot and overcrowded. Plan your visit here at night.
• If you want to discover all the fantastic attractions here, don’t make it at the end of your day. The tours will last for two hours to just absorb all this tremendous atmosphere.
• Be conscious of pickpockets, and don’t buy from hawkers.

Pro tip: Please note that the Gothic Quarter is not accessible for vehicles, including taxis, which is terrific to keep the place safe and clean without loud rubbing sounds and squealing noise from cars. And of course, pollution.

Walking Down in the Most Famous Streets of Barcelona, La Rambla

Location: La Rambla
How to get there: Within walking distance from Catalunya metro station
Price: Free admission
Ready for discovering the real Barcelona, Welcome to La Rambla, the most famous street here for shopping, eating, strolling, and a notable cultural hub.

Why should you visit La Rambla?

Your journey here begins at Plaça de Catalunya and continues for 1.2 kilometers until you reach the renowned status of Christopher Columbus. You will find here lots of cafes, shops, bars and more. You will dump into many trendy and traditional shops on your way along La Rambla.

With trees lining the roadway down, your trek down here will be one of the fascinating walking tours you’ve ever had.

Along with some fascinating statues, such as the golden angel, you will come across different street fairs and dancing festivals to capture a cool shot with them. Without even booking a seat at one of the chilly restaurants, you can feel upbeat vibes while walking underneath trees.

If you visit late at night, be prepared to see one of Europe’s most prestigious performances in the Gran Teatre del Liceu. You should purchase an online ticket and do preliminary research to see whether these performances are appropriate for you.

Your trip to Barcelona is about to be over, and you don’t buy any souvenirs for your family?

We have a plan in place for this as well. You will find many stores for memorable souvenirs at affordable prices. But don’t dip deeper in this experience unless you want to break the back.

Things to Do:

• Capture the ambiance of the city’s most fascinating streets while strolling through shops and getting a taste of the Barclenian way of life.
• Discover a variety of market stalls, like the Boqueria, that bring together locals, tourists, newcomers, and chefs to pick up fresh ingredients that aren’t available anywhere else.
• Visit the wax museum or escape room, located in the center of La Rambla, for heart-racing activity. 
• Have your meal at the seats down at the side with classic festoon lights.
• Don’t miss stopping for a few minutes to treat your eyes with colorful flowers; this spot was the pure source of inspiration for many European artists.

Things not to Do:

• Don’t come here after 8:30 p.m. if you decide to go shopping. Only bars will be open.
• Do not choose a restaurant without first looking at the menu to check if the plates suit your expectations or if you must continue walking.
• It’s considered a long walk tour, so don’t wear anything that makes you uncomfortable.

Pro tip: As it’s a hot tourist destination, La Rambla is quite famous for pickpockets. So, please be careful to keep your items, pocket, mobile, and passport safe from them and close them tightly within your pocket. Except this, there is nothing to be concerned about when visiting La Rambla.

Admire the Facade of Casa Batllo

Location: Passeig de Gracia
How to get there: 5 minutes walk from Passeig de Gràcia metro station
Price: Around USD 40
Casa Batllo, another masterpiece by Catalan architect Antoni Gaud, has a fascinating and unique design that astonishes anyone who attempts to comprehend how Gaud constructed such a gorgeous structure.

Why should you visit Casa Batllo?

Casa Batllo was a Spanish artist Josep Bartolí’s house who contacted Gaudí to remodel a new home to help him get inspired. And it’s obvious how this place worked out for Bartolí once you get there.

The exterior facade does not contain straight lines; instead, you can see tracery and irregular oval windows with colorful stained glasses and flowing precisely carved stonework.

Additionally, you can feel cheerful when taking in details, as the upper of the building is decorated with beautiful Catalan mosaics made of glazed ceramic tiles.

The interior is also worth visiting, with carpeting, ceramics, and iron adorning the walls, ceiling, and staircase. And if you notice the columns around the windows, you can see that the pillars look very similar to bones, making the whole thing super impressive.

Inspired by nature once more, you clearly understand that they are part of skeletons when seeing the balconies. 

It’s no surprise that this place is one of the most creative and brilliant urban works globally.

Things to Do:

• Enjoy exploring Casa Batllo’s complex and gorgeous facade, which represents the creativity of Catalan architecture.
• Explore the interior of the mansion, which is made up of vivid naves and animal-bone-like columns.
• Come here in the evening to enjoy the musical performances on Casa Batllo’s roof. There’s no better way to get a taste of Barcelona than spending a memorable Spanish evening here.
• Getting an audio guide to learn more about the master Gaud would be a fantastic idea.
• Don’t miss to pay a visit to Casa Amatller and Casa Lleó I Morera, two other landmarks of Barcelona and located right next to Casa Batllo.

Things not to Do:

• A baby stroller is not permitted inside; you must leave it at the entrance gate in the designated safe.
• Don’t go without first purchasing your internet ticket since they sell out fast.
• Personal photographs are only permitted, so don’t bring your professional camera.

Pro Tip: Be an early bird and reach Casa Batllo between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. to find a place reserved for you to go around the palace without being jam-packed.

Let’s Head to Oldest Shopping Center: La Boqueria

Location: La Rambla
How to get there: A few minutes walk from Liceu metro station
Price: Free access
Now, we are here in the sparkling part of Barcelona that’s buzzing at all hours of the day. But despite its cultural influence, Barcelona also manages to retain a strong commercial and economic power. La Boqueria is the oldest market in Spain, dating back to 1217.

Why should you visit La Boqueria?

Apparently, It’s one of the busiest and freshest markets in the entire area of Barcelona. This market is ginormous, so don’t be surprised if you are going to fight your way through crowds to get through here.

Most importantly, the World Markets Congress has named it the best market in the world. Here, you will find all the different colors of fruit juices, that everything is entirely fresh. So, if you get tired of fast food or plan to cut your food budget, without any doubt, go to La Boqueria.

If you need to buy some Spanish cheese to try it out, keep walking, and you will find a vast refrigerator stocked with all kinds of local dairy products. If your accommodation is near a market, we recommend coming here every morning to get your fresh and tasty necessities.

Are you looking for some seafood? Don’t take it any further. In La Boqueria, your demands are met, and there are even some items you’ve never seen before.

 

Things to Do:

• Nothing is better than going shopping for fresh food if you plan to stay in Barcelona for more than three days. 
• Gulp some beer in the market’s bars or enjoy a fresh meal.
• Besides being considered the world’s most important market, it is also a historical site, so take a walk around it to see all of the surrounding areas.
• Don’t miss out on the most famous Spanish cuisine, Jamón Serrano. You will never be sorry you tried it.
• Many different varieties of spices are available at low prices in the market. Roam around the place to explore all kinds of products you might be able to bring home with you.

 

Things not to Do:

• If you have an issue with overcrowded places, please don’t go there. The market is clogged almost every day. Alternatively, attempt to get at the market before 2 p.m., as the market will be in full swing after that.
• If you aren’t planning on staying in Barcelona for a long time, don’t spend too much because many items will wind up in the trash, wasting your money.
• Don’t take all your money there; it’s another hotspot for pickpockets. Keep an eye on your belongings while still remembering you should have fun here.

Pro Tip: While there’s no shortage of all kinds of food products here, it’s a destination not just for tourists but for locals as well. So show respect for them, and before opening your Instagram account to take snaps, ask them if they don’t mind.

Don’t Leave Barcelona without Visiting  Most Instagrammable Spots: Parc Guell

Location: Carrer d’Olot
How to get there: 3 minutes walk from Rossell bus stop
Price: Around USD 8
Parc Guell is one of the hottest tourist attractions in Barcelona, a decent park representing the astonishing architectural beauty of Catalan art with variations of activities to do. It’s a notable and prestigious structure made by, yes again, Gaudi. If you respect and like the art of this whiz, plan to visit this beautiful park.

Why should you visit Parc Guell?

The park consists of main parts; firstly, the monumental zone you will need to show your ticket, secondly, the public park, which requires no charge for admission.

 Conventionally located on the hilltop overlooking the whole Barcelona and Mediterranean coastline, the park offers incredible panoramic views in the Hill of the Three Crosses. You will notice here that the park’s theme is the house of dragons which will make your kids so amazed by just strolling around the huts.

On the top of the houses, you will discover the creativity of Parc Guell’s design and how he was so efficient at employing mosaics to form his structures that formulate the history of Barcelona.

Heading to Laca De La Natura is also a great idea to admire the stunning views of the most famous attractions in Barcelona and some landscapes dominating the city. Expect to have the time of your life here, especially when the sun goes down.

Things to Do:

• Walking around the Sala Hipostila and getting exclusive access to explore the unique architecture of Gaudi’s works.
• Climbing up to the Hill of the Three Crosses to enjoy unforgettable views of some of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks
• Visit Placa De La Natura, the most fantastic part of the park, and take the most instagrammable photos you’ve ever had.
• Don’t miss going to Pórtico De Las Lavanderas, which boasts incredible off-the-wall architecture. You will find it at the main entrance gate of the public park. Priceless!
• Getting a guide is so recommended to pay attention to the concepts behind every piece.

 

Things not to Do:

• Don’t go to Parc Guell by metro. The metro station is a little away, and an uphill stroll will leave you exhausted before even reaching the park. Instead, there is a hop-on-hop-off bus, taxi, or other public transport.
• Don’t wear sturdy shoes as it would be a long walking tour, and there are some steep lanes.
• Don’t enter the park without having a map in hand to be able to explore each spot of the park.

Pro Tip: Buy your ticket in advance no matter what, except you want to stay for three hours in lines waiting to get it. Otherwise, buying an online ticket will cost you an extra 2 dollars, but it’s really worth it.

Visit one of the Largest Stadium in the world: Camp Nou

Location: Carrer d’Aristides Maillol
How to get there: 9 minutes walk from Collblanc metro station
Price: Around USD 34

Believe me or not, this tour is a must whether you are a fan of Barcelona or even one of those who haven’t watched a football game ever.

Camp Nou is the largest stadium in Europe and has witnessed many significant events over the decades. Let’s say it’s a genuine spectacle to behold that your tour here will be enthusiastic, as brilliant as goals kicked by Messi, Eto’o, and Iniesta.

Why should you visit Camp Nou?

Being one of the greatest admirers of Barca or not doesn’t mean you don’t know who Messi is or that you were unaware that he was leaving the club after 21 years. From the get-go of stepping inside this fantastic stadium, you’ll understand why Messi grieved so hard when he made his decision to go to Paris.

Unlike any other sports arena, Camp Nou has its magic.

After checking your ticket, we prefer to have it online. You will walk through corridors and tunnels till you reach the club museum, where you can get up and personal with all of the cups, from the Champs League to domestic champions. And don’t miss the Messi section boosting the six Ballon d’Or awards, a global record for the best player on the planet.

Plus, you’ll be close to a number of interactive panels where you can touch and view all of Barca’s incredible historical moments.

Things to Do:

• Visit the museum of the club to explore all trophies, cups, and memorabilia the club has and to know the history of its legends, not just Messi. 
• Take a welcome photo with your favorite player; it’s virtual, of course.
• Get your audio guide to know the glorious history of the Barcelona club.
• Use interactive walls to see the most terrific moments of the club’s history, goals, and other champions’ honors.
• Enjoy these very incredible photographs from Barcelona’s past to understand why this legendary club enthralls so many people.

 

Things not to Do:

• Don’t come here late to ensure that you can move freely inside the museum as trophies and other amazing rewards take up a lot of people’s attention.
• On game days, avoid going to the club. Unless you wish to watch a match, the club is closed to tours and visits.
• Keep an eye out for restricted areas that you don’t have access to, such as the conference table, shower rooms, and so on.

Pro Tip: You will have access to many places in the stadium, so don’t be intimidated to explore the seats of the playground, the media zone, press conference area, changing rooms, and so on. It’s an absolute must-see in Barcelona. 

Beach is Calling: Stretch on Barcelona’s Beaches

Do you know that most visitors come to Barcelona not for admiring historical sites, which do absolutely deserve your attention, but for chilling out on the world-class beaches in a sun-kissed city in almost all seasons of the year?

Barcelona has nine beaches, and below we will review the top of them all.

Bogatell Beach

Location: Avinguda del Litoral
How to get there: A few minutes walk from Poblenou metro station
Price: Free access
One of the best beaches in Spain, blue water, blazing sunshine, and magnificent dunes, You could spend all day here and not feel like time is passing you by.

And because it’s the most famous public beach which draws tourists across the globe, the beach comes to be packed to the gills.

But still, there is much fun waiting for you, playing ping-pong, or spending hours hitting the volleyball, or maybe seamlessly sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing.

Here you are going to experience summer life in all possible ways.

Barceloneta Beach

Location: Sant Sebastià
How to get there: 20 minutes walk from Barceloneta metro station, or you may need to take a taxi.
Price: Around USD 17
However, located in the old city of Barcelona, La Barceloneta is now famous for its sandy beach. Also, the neighborhood has the best restaurants and nightclubs along the boardwalk. Here, you can see the most iconic 5-star W Hotel, which takes the shape of a sail looming in the skyline.

If you like Miami Beach in Florida, Barceloneta Beach will absolutely satisfy your aspirations. So, if you are looking for a place to calm your heart and relax, it’s not the right place for you.

Here you will enjoy the hustle and bustle of Barcelona’s beaches.

Platja de la Mar Bella (Nova Icària)

Location: Passeig de Garcia Faria
How to get there: 15 minutes walk from Marina to Fluvià bus stop.
Price: Free access
For your information, you are free to break any laws prohibiting you from wearing a swimsuit here. So, before heading to the beach, decide if it’s appropriate for you or not.

 But anyway, the beach is not wholly packed like other ones, so go for it if you are looking for a place to unwind after a long day and you have the discretion of showing up naked or not.

 You can bring your beer from the beach lounge and enjoy the sunset, or you can play volleyball, basketball, or even ping-pong. There is a book library as well to curl up with a good book.

Things to Do:

• On all of Barcelona’s beaches, you may play volleyball, basketball, or even ping-pong.
• Enjoy dinner at one of the stores or restaurants along the seafront, each with a breathtaking outlook.
• Take a bike ride and inhale the exhilarating sea breeze as you go down the path.
• Pick up your favorite book from the free book library and chill out.
• After a brief lesson, pay for some water activities such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.

 Things to Do:

• There is no submission to let pets enter most of Barcelona’s beaches.
• Don’t use any device to put on loud music.
• Don’t set up any tents, and on some beaches, smoking is not allowed.

 Pro Tip: Please keep your belongings in a very safe place, especially in high season. If you are alone, ask the guards if there is a safe or any place to put your items, or maybe don’t bring your phone or pocket with you.

Places and Hotels to Stay in Barcelona

Barcelona is home to ten different districts, all with their own unique characteristics. And each of these districts has a number of neighborhoods with unique characteristics as well.

Deciding where to stay in Barcelona needs you to define your vacation here; a family holiday, a solitary adventure, or a romantic retreat because every neighborhood offers something for any type of traveler.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best places to stay in Barcelona.

 

1- La Rambla

It’s part of the Ciutat Vella (Old City), offering a bunch of markets, restaurants, bars, street performers. This street is an excellent area for shopping lovers or those searching for exciting nightlife or wandering through the streets to explore the city.

If you want to be in the thick of things, stay in La Rambla.

Best hotels: Hotel Continental Barcelona
Hotel Arc La Rambla

 

2- Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

If you plan to have a luxurious vacation, you should stay in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi. It’s the most expensive district in the city, and I am sure you will find something that sparks your interest from tranquility, cleanliness, large landscapes, fancy restaurants, and cafes. 

It’s a little far from the city center, but it’s a good option for couples seeking seclusion and leisure. But the highlight of the visit is the possibility to go to Tibidabo mountain for an unbelievable experience.

Best hotels: AbAc Hotel
Hotel La Florida

3- Barri Gòtic

Barri Gòtic is the second option being a bit affordable,