20 Best Things To Do In Barcelona

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Barcelona is an amazing city located on the northeast coast of Spain. It has a vibrant culture, stunning architecture and a wide variety of activities to enjoy. From its famous tapas bars and world-class museums to its beautiful beaches, there are plenty of places to explore in Barcelona. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out or a relaxing day in nature, here are some of the best things to do in Barcelona.

1. Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is a vibrant and lively street that stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus monument at Port Vell. This popular tourist attraction boasts a variety of attractions such as colorful markets and stalls, street performers, restaurants, cafes and other entertainment activities. It is no surprise that Las Ramblas is a top activity for both locals and tourists alike.

The architecture along La Rambla definitely adds to its charm with its many Gothic facades adorning the buildings along this long pedestrian walkway. The intricately designed tiles lining the streets also give it an extra special touch that truly captures the essence of Barcelona's culture. One can find all sorts of interesting items for sale such as souvenirs, jewelry or even flowers.

2. Sagrada Família

The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain is an iconic architectural feat that has captivated viewers since it began construction in 1882. It is a large Roman Catholic church designed by the renowned architect Antonio Gaudi and remains incomplete due to his death in 1926. The most impressive characteristic of this structure is its intricate design which features symbolic religious elements such as sculptures of Jesus Christ, Virgin Mary and other biblical figures. Additionally, there are numerous towers surrounding the building which represent each of the twelve apostles.

This breathtakingly grandiose structure has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to draw millions of visitors every year from all over the world who marvel at its impressiveness. There are several guided walking tours available for those interested in learning more about Gaudi's vision for this masterpiece and exploring its various components up close. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Barcelona

Contact:

Address: C/ de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 932 08 04 14

3. Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló is one of the most iconic buildings in Barcelona, Spain. Designed by Antoni Gaudi, it is a representation of the architect's creative genius and exceptional ability to fuse nature with architecture. The façade of the house is particularly impressive; its soft curves are reminiscent of a seashell or dragon’s back and it is decorated with broken ceramic tiles known as trencadis.

Every detail from the roof to the windows has been artistically designed to create a beautiful experience for its viewers. Inside, there are elaborate designs that make it feel like you have entered an entirely new world. Marble columns line up along undulating walls while vibrant colors give each room its own individual flavor; even some furniture pieces have been created out of exotic materials like wrought iron and wood carvings.

Contact:

Address: Pg. de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 932 16 03 06

4. Casa Milà

Casa Mila, or La Pedrera as it is more commonly known, is one of the most iconic buildings in Barcelona. Located on the Passeig de Gracia, this avant-garde building designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi is a sight to behold. Its undulating stone façade and curved wrought iron balconies make it a fascinating example of modernist architecture. Inside, travelers can explore its many unexpected spaces such as a rooftop terrace with incredible views of Barcelona's skyline and an inner courtyard adorned with colorful mosaics inspired by nature.

This masterpiece of Art Nouveau style has been recognized for its architectural significance and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

Contact:

Address: Pg. de Gràcia, 92, 08008 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 932 14 25 76

5. City Beaches

Barcelona has some of the most beautiful city beaches in Europe. Situated on the Mediterranean coast, Barcelona's four beaches provide plenty of opportunity for beach-goers to enjoy a variety of activities. Barceloneta Beach is one of the most popular and arguably the prettiest, with its historic fishing harbor, restaurants, and beach bars. This vibrant beach offers stunning views over both the sea and city skyline; it's perfect for sunbathing or taking a stroll along the promenade. For those looking for something a little more active, Mar Bella Beach offers volleyball nets and kite surfing classes.

The other two beaches in Barcelona are Nova Icaria Beach and Bogatell Beach; both offer visitors clean sand, lively atmosphere, calm waters which make them ideal destinations for families with young children.

6. La Boqueria

La Boqueria in Barcelona is a market that is loved by locals and tourists alike. Established over 200 years ago, this vibrant marketplace never ceases to amaze with its variety of fresh produce, meats, seafoods, cheeses, and other products from around the world.

Tourists who visit La Boqueria can expect an abundance of colorful stands overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables for sale alongside cured hams hanging from intricate ceilings. The atmosphere of the market is as lively as it gets -- customers can make their way through narrow walkways while listening to vendors shouting out their prices and bargaining with customers in Catalan.

In addition to offering a variety of ingredients for cooking meals at home or eating on-the-go snacks like paella croquetes and churros con chocolate, La Boqueria also has several restaurants located inside the market itself.

Contact:

Address: La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 934 13 23 03

7. Camp Nou

Camp Nou football stadium in Barcelona is one of the most iconic stadiums in the world and worth a visit during your trip to Barcelona. Located in Catalonia, it is home to FC Barcelona and has hosted many significant games throughout its rich history. The stadium dates back to 1954 and holds a capacity of 99,354 people making it the largest football stadium in Europe.

It contains four grandstands: North, South, East and West. The stands are able to be configured depending on the type of event taking place at Camp Nou which has been host to major international soccer tournaments such as UEFA Champions League Final in 1999 and 2011 as well as 4 FIFA World Cup matches during 1982 FIFA World Cup.

Aside from being a sports facility, Camp Nou serves as an entertainment hub for shows and concerts. In 2010, Spanish singer Joaquin Sabina held a charity concert at Camp Nou with all proceeds donated to UNICEF.

Contact:

Address: C. d'Arístides Maillol, 12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 902 18 99 00

8. Park Güell

Park Güell is one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona. Located in the Gracia district on Carmel Hill, it was designed by Antoni Gaudí and built between 1900 and 1914. It was originally intended to be a private housing estate, but today it is one of Barcelona's top attractions.

The park features many architectural elements inspired by nature including undulating pathways that resemble tree branches and curved walls covered with colorful mosaic tiles known as trencadís. Its other highlights include the Dragon Stairway entrance gate, the Hypostyle Room with its 86 Doric columns, and the Monumental Zone where you can find examples of Gaudi’s geometric patterns and shapes.

9. Barcelona City History Museum

The Barcelona City History Museum, otherwise known as the Museu d’Historia de la Ciutat de Barcelona, is one of Spain’s most prominent and visited museums. Located in the Gothic Quarter of Ciutat Vella, this museum offers an immersive and in-depth look into the city’s history that spans over two thousand years.

Established in 1960, it was initially housed inside the former Palau Reial Major before being moved to its current building in 2000. It covers a wide range of topics that explore different aspects of life from prehistory to modern day times including Catalan art, politics, and religion. Vacationers can get a firsthand experience by viewing ancient artifacts such as coins, ceramics and sculptures found during archaeological excavations throughout the city.

Contact:

Address: Plaça del Rei, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 932 56 21 22

10. Montjuïc

Located near Barcelona its port, Montjuïc is a hill that offers breathtaking views of both the city and the sea. At its highest peak sits El Castell de Montjuïc, which was originally built in 1640 as an observation post for military purposes. It has since become one of Barcelona's emblematic tourist attractions with its rich history.

Montjuïc also features many cultural attractions such as museums and monuments commemorating different events in Spanish history such as The National Palace Museum and The Spanish Village exhibition. In addition to these historical attractions, visitors can take part in activities like hiking trails around the park or even taking a cable car ride up to the top of Montjuïc mountain for an extraordinary view of Barcelona.

11. Fundació Joan Miró

Fundació Joan Miró in Barcelona is an incredible experience for anyone who loves art and culture. Established in 1974, the museum showcases the works of Spanish painter Joan Miró. He was a prominent figure within the Surrealist movement and his work reflects this style as he explored themes such as dreams, fantasy, and imagination. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, works on paper, ceramics and other objects which are all displayed throughout the museum's galleries to create an immersive atmosphere that visitors can explore during your visit to Barcelona.

The Fundaci Joan Miró also offers educational programs for school children so they can learn more about Spanish art. These educational activities include guided tours through their permanent collection as well as discussion groups that help young people understand how creativity has shaped Barcelona’s cultural history.

Contact:

Address: Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 934 43 94 70

12. Gràcia

This vibrant and bustling area of the city is full of beauty, culture, and life. The narrow streets and small squares resemble an old Mediterranean village with its unique architecture, quaint cafes, and colorful buildings.

Gràcia is a lively neighborhood where one can find anything imaginable – art galleries, designer shops, lively bars boasting great craft beers, amazing restaurants serving traditional Catalan cuisine, and more. There are also some lovely public parks where families gather for picnics or simply to relax on a sunny day. This area offers something for every taste and budget – whether you’re looking for cheap food or fine dining; cultural activities or nightlife; there’s something here for everyone.

13. Palau de la Música Catalana

The Palau de la Musica Catalana is a stunning music hall that was built in the early 20th century. Located close to the center of Barcelona, it boasts two beautiful façades and a spectacular interior design with intricate mosaic tiles that has earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of its main attractions is its concert hall, which can seat up to 2,000 people and often hosts performances by some of Spain's most renowned classical musicians. In addition to concerts, the space is also frequently used for other events such as conferences or film screenings due to its incredible acoustics and backdrop of the city skyline.

Contact:

Address: C/ Palau de la Música, 4-6, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 932 95 72 00

14. Plaça de Catalunya

Plaça de Catalunya is a public square located in the centre of Barcelona. It is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions due to its convenient location and historical significance. The area has been an important meeting place since medieval times and was home to many royal palace events over the centuries. Today, it is surrounded by some of Barcelona's most iconic buildings and is a major transportation hub for local commuters.

The plaza itself features a variety of shops, restaurants, and fountains as well as ample amounts of benches and green spaces for people to relax on during their visit. At night, the illuminated fountain provides a beautiful backdrop for pictures or romantic strolls.

15. Eating in Barcelona

From the bustling city streets to the small, tucked away eateries, Barcelona has something for everyone when it comes to food. The city offers a variety of traditional Spanish dishes like paella and tapas, but also embraces global flavors like Italian and Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal with friends, Barcelona’s restaurants are sure to please.

The atmosphere at each eatery adds to the overall dining experience. Small cafes line the streets where patrons can sip their café con leche while watching people pass by and take in some of the many street performers that make up the vibrant culture of Barcelona. Larger restaurants offer outdoor seating so guests can enjoy their meal al fresco and soak up some Catalan sunshine.

16. Tibidabo

Tibidabo is a mountain that has been a popular attraction since its inauguration. Standing at 512 meters tall, Tibidabo is one of the highest points in the region and provides spectacular views of the city. From this incredible vantage point, visitors can take in the Catalan capital, with its old world architecture and modern landmarks such as Sagrada Familia.

The park itself is full of fun activities for all ages, including rollercoasters and carousels, as well as games like mini golf. The park also features a range of restaurants which offer traditional Spanish dishes for visitors to enjoy after an action-packed day out. After dark there are several bars and restaurants which stay open late into the night with live music providing entertainment until 1AM on weekends.

17. Parc del Laberint d'Horta

Parc del Laberint d'Horta in Barcelona is a remarkable place to visit and explore when you visit Barcelona. It is the oldest public park in the city, founded in 1791. The park was designed by Italian architect Domenico Bagutti, and it features an impressive neoclassical structure with numerous fountains and sculptures. One of its most striking features however, is its complex maze, made out of high hedges that measure 4 meters tall and 400 meters long. This unique labyrinth provides visitors with hours of fun as they wander through its winding paths and dead ends.

The park also houses several other attractions such as a lake surrounded by ponds for aquatic bird species, a Japanese garden full of exotic plants, statuesque palm trees from around the world, and many others that provide breathtaking views from every corner of the park.

Contact:

Address: Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, 08035 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 931 53 70 10

18. Santa Maria del Mar

Santa Maria del Mar is a breathtakingly beautiful Barcelona Cathedral. Located in the Gothic Quarter, it was originally built between 1329 and 1383 by the people of Barcelona to represent their faith and devotion to God. This cathedral is the perfect example of Catalan Gothic architecture, with its high ceilings and grandiose columns. The interior of the church is just as impressive as the exterior, featuring intricate stained glass windows depicting scenes from religion, ornate sculptures, and exquisite works of art from some of Catalonia's greatest Renaissance painters.

Visiting Santa Maria del Mar is an experience not soon forgotten; one can feel a sense of awe just by standing among such grandeur inside this ancient establishment. Not only does it stand out as a great architectural wonder, but also serves as an important historical landmark for Barcelona.

Contact:

Address: Plaça de Santa Maria, 1, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 933 10 23 90

19. Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site

The Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site in Barcelona is truly a sight to behold. Founded in 1902 and opened as a hospital complex in 1930, the Site's architecture is a unique blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. The main building stands out in particular, with its stunningly-ornate facades, patio gardens, courtyards, and stained glass windows – all designed by Catalan architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.

In 1997, the Complex was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its outstanding architectural qualities. It consists of 20 pavilions interconnected by arcades and surrounded by lush gardens that make for an enchanting atmosphere for visitors to explore during your stay in Barcelona.

Contact:

Address: C/ de Sant Antoni Maria Claret, 167, 08025 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 935 53 71 45

20. Parc de la Ciutadella

Parc de la Ciutadella in Barcelona is a stunning and peaceful oasis in the bustling city of Barcelona. Sitting right on the Mediterranean Sea, it is one of the largest parks in the city and provides visitors with plenty of activities to enjoy. The large green spaces are perfect for relaxing but there is also plenty of opportunity for more active pursuits such as walking, cycling, jogging or rollerblading.

The park itself is filled with interesting sculptures and monuments, including a fountain designed by Josep Fontsére. There are many different attractions within Park de la Ciutadella such as a lake where visitors can rent boats for an afternoon cruise, the Zoological Gardens which house over 5500 animals from all over the world, and even several very impressive cascades that provide quite an incredible backdrop for any photographs taken during your visit to this beautiful place.

Contact:

Address: Passeig de Picasso, 21, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Phone: +34 638 23 71 15