It is one of the most cosmopolitan cities, situated on the shores of the Mediterranean and the cradle of European and international modernity. Do you know which city we are talking about? Yes, indeed. Barcelona, the Catalan capital, will make you fall in love in a matter of seconds. If you are planning a trip and want to know what to do in Barcelona, here is a list to ensure you don’t miss anything and make the most of your visit.
Barcelona is located in the northeast of Spain and has more than 1.5 million inhabitants. Thanks to everything this city represents—history, culture, sport, art, and life—it receives more than 15 million tourists every year, of which 12 million are foreigners. If you want to get to know the city better, don’t miss its history.
Visit the Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia, a benchmark of international Modernism, is one of the most iconic monuments in Barcelona. This masterpiece is located in the city’s Eixample district and was designed in 1882 by Gaudí, the most famous Modernist artist. Currently, the basilica is still under construction and, when finished, it will be the tallest in the world. The Sagrada Familia is the second most visited church in Europe, behind only St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican in terms of visitor numbers.
Stroll through Park Güell
Located in the upper part of the city and also designed by Gaudí, Park Güell was built between 1900 and 1914 and inaugurated in 1926. Its gardens and naturalist architectural elements transform the park into a unique landscape, making it a place you definitely cannot miss on your trip to Barcelona.
Walk down Las Ramblas
It is probably the most famous street in the entire city and one of its main arteries. Las Ramblas is a 1.3-kilometer-long street and promenade that connects Plaza de Cataluña with the Columbus Monument in the old port. On Las Ramblas, you can find everything from restaurants and café terraces to flower stalls, musicians, and street performances.
Paseo de Gracia and La Pedrera
Paseo de Gracia is another of the most important and largest avenues in the city and throughout Catalonia, known above all for its Modernist buildings and luxury brand shops. There is a huge influx of tourists who stroll along this street daily.
At number 92 Paseo de Gracia, you will find Casa Milà, also popularly known as La Pedrera. This is another Modernist building designed by Antoni Gaudí and built between 1906 and 1912. Every year, around one million people visit this building, making it one of the 10 most visited monuments in Spain. A stroll along Paseo de Gracia and a visit to La Pedrera are essential on your trip to Barcelona.
What to do in Barcelona? Visit the Boquería Market
Popularly known as “La Boquería,” the San José Market is located on Las Ramblas. It is a municipal market where you can buy all kinds of fresh products. The market is one of the city’s greatest tourist attractions, featuring more than 300 stalls where you can also eat at one of the bars or restaurants found inside.
The Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona is the historical heart of the city and one of the most famous neighborhoods in the Catalan capital. Here you will find Roman remains as well as medieval streets that will allow you to fully enjoy your trip to Barcelona.
Visit some of the terraces with panoramic views
A different way to enjoy the city: from the terraces with panoramic views, you will get to know Barcelona from a completely different perspective and fall in love at first sight. There are many panoramic terraces where you can relax with a good drink or dinner, such as the terrace of our Hotel Regente, where you can enjoy your visit to the center of Barcelona.
La Barceloneta and other beaches
Another tourist attraction of the city is its pleasant climate, which is why many visitors come to Barcelona during the hottest time of the year to enjoy the beaches and the sea. Barcelona’s beaches are generally very well-maintained and clean.
Some of the most famous ones are La Barceloneta, Sant Sebastià, or Sant Miquel, all of which are about a 20-minute walk from the city center.
Montjuïc
Another great plan for Barcelona is visiting Montjuïc mountain, 173 meters high, which owes its fame to grand buildings and beautiful gardens. There are several things to see on Montjuïc: you can visit the Olympic Stadium, the cemetery where you will find the graves of famous figures from the city, or the Magic Fountain, where light and sound shows take place every day.
Visit the Barcelona Cathedral
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, better known as Barcelona Cathedral, is a Gothic temple built between 1298 and 1420. It is a must-visit on your trip, as both the interior and exterior of the cathedral are truly impressive. There are many legends about this cathedral that you should read during your trip to Barcelona. Now that you know what to do in Barcelona, it’s time to plan your trip. Check out our hotels in Barcelona and book as soon as possible to get the best price.
