Looking for things to do in Barcelona this weekend? The Catalan capital never rests and always offers the perfect plans for those who want to make the most of their getaway. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there are plenty of activities, events, and hidden gems to discover. Here’s an updated selection of the best things to do to fully experience Barcelona from Friday to Sunday.
Must-do plans in Barcelona for the weekend
Stroll along Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter
Starting the weekend with a walk down Las Ramblas is almost a must (although renovations are ongoing, so walk carefully). From Plaça Catalunya to the Columbus Monument, this iconic promenade is full of life, color, and charm. Street performers, kiosks, terraces, and shops line both sides. Then, venture into the Gothic Quarter, a maze of narrow streets steeped in history. Discover the Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça del Rei, the Jewish Quarter, and the magic of this medieval heart full of surprises.
Climb Montjuïc and enjoy views from the cable car
Montjuïc is a green oasis in the city that offers much more than views. You can hike, take the funicular, or ride the cable car, which offers spectacular panoramas of the port and Barcelona’s skyline. At the top, you’ll find the Montjuïc Castle, the Joan Brossa and Joan Maragall gardens, the MNAC, and the Miró Foundation. You’ll also find perfect spots to walk, picnic, or simply relax with unbeatable views.
Sunset at Tibidabo Park
Watching the sunset from Tibidabo Park is one of the magical experiences you can have in Barcelona. From the top of the Collserola mountain range, over 500 meters high, you’ll have panoramic views of the entire city, the Mediterranean Sea, and surrounding mountains. Besides the viewpoint, you can stroll through the park’s gardens, enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere of the amusement park, or even ride the iconic red airplane. It’s a perfect place to disconnect from the urban bustle and end the day with an unforgettable postcard.
Cultural activities and weekend events
Museums with free entry
Barcelona boasts a wide range of museums, many of which offer free entry on Sunday afternoons. You can visit the Picasso Museum and the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC), which are free on the first Sunday afternoon of each month by reserving tickets; or the Maritime Museum every Sunday. Along with free access, you’ll enjoy temporary exhibitions, stunning architecture, and cultural offerings that enrich any visit.
Concerts, theater, and festivals on stage
Barcelona’s cultural life doesn’t stop on weekends. Check the schedule because there are always live music concerts, theater performances, dance shows, and festivals for all tastes. From large venues like the Liceu or the National Theater of Catalonia, to alternative spaces like Sala Apolo or Razzmatazz, there’s something for every audience and budget.
Markets, fairs, and gastronomic events
Barcelona hosts food markets, design fairs, and cultural gatherings on weekends. Check which weekend you’ll be visiting and plan accordingly. For example, you can visit the Palo Alto Market, held one weekend a month, ideal for discovering local creators, eating street food, and enjoying live music. There are also traditional markets like Sant Antoni or La Boqueria, where gastronomy blends with authenticity. Moreover, themed gastronomic days or seasonal food festivals are often organized.
Gastronomic experiences in Barcelona
Tapas in El Born and Barceloneta
If you seek authenticity and flavor, nothing beats a tapas tour. In El Born, you’ll find bars reinventing traditional tapas with a modern twist. In Barceloneta, the flavors of the sea dominate the menu: octopus, squid, mussels, and paellas await you by the Mediterranean. Ideal for good food and feeling the pulse of the city’s liveliest neighborhoods.
Tasting menus at restaurants
Barcelona is also an ideal city for lovers of haute cuisine. Many restaurants offer tasting menus that allow you to explore their gastronomic proposals through several beautifully presented and flavorful dishes. From Michelin stars to hidden gems in neighborhoods like Gràcia or Raval, it’s an excellent choice for a special dinner with your partner or friends.
Charming cafés for breakfast or snacks
Charming cafés are part of the city’s soul. In neighborhoods like Gràcia, Sant Antoni, or Eixample, you can enjoy a healthy breakfast or a comforting snack. From specialty coffee shops to artisanal bakeries, it’s the perfect plan to start your day energized or take a break between visits.
Outdoor plans to enjoy
Routes through Parc de la Ciutadella and the waterfront
The Parc de la Ciutadella is one of the most beautiful and lively green spaces in Barcelona. Ideal for walking, renting a boat on its lake, or watching street performances. From there, you can continue to the Seaside Promenade, stroll along Barceloneta beach, or relax by the sea. A simple yet perfect plan to unwind.
Bike rides through Eixample or Diagonal
Barcelona is ideal for getting around by bike. Well-connected bike lanes run throughout the city. You can rent a bike and explore the Eixample, admiring its modernist buildings, or ride along the Diagonal to reach Les Corts or the sea. A dynamic and sustainable plan to see a lot in a short time.
Picnic in parks and viewpoints
When the weather is nice, nothing beats a picnic in one of the city’s parks or viewpoints. Turó Park, Parc del Guinardó, or Montjuïc are tranquil spots to enjoy an outdoor meal with great views. You can buy local products at markets and organize a memorable impromptu meal.
Family-friendly plans for the weekend in Barcelona
Visits to the Aquarium or the Zoo
The Barcelona Aquarium and the Zoo are two classics that never fail if you’re traveling with family. The former, located at Port Vell, is one of the largest in Europe and features an underwater tunnel that fascinates both young and old. The Zoo, located in Parc de la Ciutadella, allows close encounters with animals from all over the world in a green and accessible environment.
Interactive museums and family activities
Some museums in the city, such as CosmoCaixa and Museu Blau, feature exhibitions designed for children. There are workshops, interactive zones, and activities that make visits fun and educational. On weekends, family shows or children’s cinema are often offered.
Parks and outdoor play areas
Barcelona has dozens of parks with safe and varied playgrounds. From modern structures to large green spaces for running and playing, there are options in every neighborhood. Parc de l’Espanya Industrial and Parc Central de Nou Barris are large areas ideal for spending a morning.
Where to stay in Barcelona for the weekend
Get ready to enjoy an unforgettable weekend in Barcelona! Plans, culture, gastronomy, and a great atmosphere await you. Pack your bags and let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of the city!
To make the most of your getaway, staying in central Barcelona is key. You’ll be close to the main points of interest, able to explore the most emblematic neighborhoods on foot, and have quick access to restaurants, museums, and shopping areas.
At HCC Hotels, we offer you everything you need for a comfortable and worry-free stay: strategic locations in central Barcelona, modern rooms, excellent service, and an experience designed to make you feel at home. If you’re planning a weekend in the city, book one of our hotels to combine rest and convenience. We look forward to welcoming you!
