13 Best Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

If you appreciate the elegant works of 21st century artistry and architecture, Barcelona is, no doubt, a city you need to see. It is the capital of Catalonia and the second largest city of Spain.

The buildings are mesmerizing, like nothing you’ve ever seen before, thanks to architects and artists like Gaudi Antoni.

In the city of Barcelona, there is something for everyone. For the food connoisseurs, there are twenty-one Michelin star restaurants.

And if it’s culture that thrills you, there is a consortium of events, museums and breathtaking buildings. 

In addition to that, you will find breezy urban beaches, expansive of shopping malls and a lively night-life.

The list of things to do in Barcelona is endless, but we have managed to narrow it down to thirteen.

Here is The List of Best things to Do in Barcelona:

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1. Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas begins from Placa De Catalunya and continues to the water in front of the Columbus monument.

You can bask in the shade of the tall trees in summer and watch as the crowds make their way past you.

You’ll be amazed at the bird-sellers, street performers and flower stands.

At the waterfront, you can make your way along the boardwalk to Barcelona’s Aquarium or the Maremagnum malls.

2. Sagrada Familia 

This is where you will find the best art and architecture. Gaudi’s Basilica is a project of sheer finesse, however it has yet to be completed.

The project is still 75% complete after more than 140 years from the time Gaudi first started working on it.

When it’s spire is completed, it will be the largest church in the world.

This is not your regular religious structure. Again, it features a variety of architectural designs such as Spanish Late-Gothic, Catalan modernism, and Art Noveau.

Sagrada Familia is a real classic. It is one of Gaudi’s masterpieces.

3. Casa Batllo

Yet another one of Gaudi’s works of architecture. This block wasn’t built from scratch, it was a building remodeled in the 20th century.

The roof of this building is world-renowned, with its dragon-scale tiling. You don’t need to visit Barcelona to recognize it.

Like other works of Guadi, the Casa Batllo is a dazzling beauty. Both the interior and exterior have a sinuous appearance. The building features fluid, naturalistic lines and a superb attention to detail.

4. Casa Milà  

The Casa Milà is also known as La Pedrera, as the front of this building bears resemblance to a stone quarry.

This emblematic Gaudi building was erected in 1912. It’s just another one of the many outstanding modern works in Catalonia. It is Unesco listed, and is the fourth and last building by Gaudi on Passeig de Gracia.

If you are interested in architecture, you will certainly appreciate the innovative methods applied to this structure, such as the underground garage and the self-supporting stone facade.

It was built for Pere Milà i Camps, a Spanish lawyer, as his family home. The apartments on the upper floor are now available for rent. 

Both the interior and exterior design of this building truly are a joy to behold, and are a perfect example of Gaudi’s work at its prime.

5. City Beaches 

The beaches and boardwalks that line the coast of Barcelona stretch across miles.

To get to Diagonal Mar on foot from Barcelona, it would take you roughly one hour of trekking. That being said, it’s a great walk, as it helps you understand the city.

Beaches located on the western side of the city are just as beautiful, such as Sant Sebastia.

You will find that the beaches are surrounded by trendy bars and shops with outdoor seating and terraces. 

The Diagonal Mar mall is just a few minutes walk from Platja de Llevant, a beach that is situated in the heart of the business district.

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6. La Boqueria

An elegant marketplace.

Even though trading in Barcelona dates back to the medieval period, this particular spot came into being just 200 years ago, and its wrought iron roof was only built in 1914.

Whether you are simply browsing or looking to make a purchase, this modern market is guaranteed to satisfy all tastes.

You can find an array of stalls selling cheese olive oil, fresh vegetables, fruit, fish and cold meats.

You can relax in any of the bars nearby and treat yourself to a cold bottle of beer.

7. Camp Nou 

Camp Nou has been the home of FC Barcelona since 1957 and a solid foundation for European football.

You don’t have to love football to visit this stadium. The staggering structure and sheer scale of the arena would amaze anyone. 

If you are a football fan, however, it’s heaven on earth. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the stadium and examine the memorabilia within this world-famous football cathedral.

It’s important to note that access to the stadium is forbidden on or before a match day.

8. Park Guell

This is the best way to finish your Gaudi experience. Situated on Carmel hill, this garden features enchanting sculptures, fountains and colonnades all adorned with bright mosaics.

It’s like something straight from a fairytale.

The panoramic view of Barcelona from the main entrance is reason enough to visit.

You can also view the house that Gaudi lived from 1906 to 1926, featuring decorations and furniture all designed by the artist himself.

9. Barcelona City History Museum

This museum protects and conserves historic sites along the Gothic quarter, such as the funeral way on the Placa De la vila De Madrid and the temple of Augustus.

Take an elevator down to the basement to discover what remains of the Garum factory, dyeing shops, laundries, and portions of the ancient walls of Barcino.

The city of Barcino covers about 4000sqm, and elevated walkways are used to tour this historic settlement.

You will also have the opportunity to experience the Palau Reial Major, the seat of the Kings of Aragon during medieval times.

10. Montjuic

A grand structure built in 1929 to house the international exhibition. It boasts a variety of highly rated museums including the museum of archaeology, the National Museum of Catalan Art and the museum of Ethnology.

The Museum of Art stands out from the others, owing to the breathtaking view of the city visible from the stone steps leading to the entrance.

Below the Museum is the Magic Fountain, built solely for its light exhibition. During weekends, it shoots bursts of water, illuminated by bright color, in time to music.

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11. Gracia

If you wish to experience real, everyday life in Catalonia, look no further than the small neighborhood of Gracia. With its narrow streets and miniature squares, Gracia is perfect for those who prefer a quieter, alternative atmosphere.

The area is mostly inhabited by students and artists, and you will find a wide variety of bars, independent shops, and cafes.

If your trip coincides with the Festa Major de Gracia, you’ll find the area completely transformed as the locals celebrate this festival of music, color and creativity.

12. Placa De Catalunya 

This famous, bustling square is the heart of the city, situated just below Passeig De Gracia and above Las Ramblas.

It is an ideal meeting point to sit out with friends and enjoy the evening. Alternatively, it’s a great spot to lounge if you are waiting for someone in the shopping mall. The flagship of the Barcelona branch of El Corte ingles can be found here.

13. Eating In Barcelona

You will find multiple restaurants and cafes in Barcelona serving typical Catalan cuisine.

Pintxos are especially popular among tourists and locals. They are a Basque-style snack, usually eaten in bars, comprised of a tiny slice of bread piled high with various toppings.

Another typical Catalan snack is Pa amb tomaquet, a slice of rustic bread, toasted and topped off with crushed tomatoes and olive oil.

For something sweeter, a bowl crema Catalana is the prefect way to finish off your meal. It is similar to a creme brulée, but with the addition of orange zest and a hint of cinnamon.

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