Discover why Barcelona is one of Spain's and Europe's most iconic cities in this comprehensive travel guide. With its breathtaking historic architecture, charming streets, and exquisite cuisine, Barcelona is a must-visit destination for traveller's and is definitely the type of city you will want to return to over and over (and over and over) again.
Whether you're planning a weekend city break or a longer stay, this guide covers the top things to do and see in the city, ensuring that you don't miss out on any of its highlights.
Here are the 7 MUST DO's when in Barcelona:
1) Visit the Sagrada Familia
The famous church was designed by famous architect Gaudí, who also designed numerous other famous spots around the city. Construction began in 1882- and the Sagrada Familia is still under active construction today! It is due to be finished in 2026.
The Church is an iconic spot in Barcelona- so attracts a lot of tourists. I would advise going early in the morning to beat the crowds, and check out my Instagram post for how to get this shot!
2) Visit Park Güell
Park Güell is one of the most famous spots in Barcelona and is the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon in the sun! The park was designed by Gaudí and features unique buildings and benches decorated with colourful ceramics. I would definitely recommend setting aside a few hours to explore the park properly as there is a lot to take in. Other tip tips are to bring food and water as there are no restaurants or bars within the park! Pack a cute picnic and spend an afternoon basking in some amazing views over the city.
Check out my Instagram post about how to get a clear shot at Park Güell with no other tourists!
3) The Gothic Quarter
The Gothic quarter is one of my favourite areas of Barcelona! It gets its name from its heritage, as the area used to be a Roman village. Today, it is still common to spot an ancient building beside a modern one. The Gothic Quarter is also a popular spot for drinking, dinner spots and cosy cafes.
Whilst you are here, make sure you also pay a visit to Barcelona Cathedral. The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, otherwise known as Barcelona Cathedral, is another iconic piece of architecture in the city. It was constructed between the 13th and the 15th century and sits in the Gothic quarter of the city. You can either marvel at the building from the outside, or you can explore the inside for €9. You can get your tickets online here:
4) La Rambla
La Rambla is a must see when you visit Barcelona! It is the old city centre of Barcelona and is completely closed to traffic, meaning it is the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering the labyrinthine of streets and getting a real feel for the heart of the city.
5) Visit The Markets
One of my favourite things to do in a new city is check out the markets, and Barcelona's did not disappoint. My favourite was the Mercat de la Boqueria, which is located right of La Rambla. Make sure you come here hungry as there is a huge array of different food stalls, and don't forget to try one of the freshly squeezed juice drinks!
6) Head to the Beach
City wandering can be pretty exhausting- after a morning of pounding the streets, head to one of the beaches in Barcelona to relax and enjoy the sun! The coastline stretches for 4.5km, and offers a range of beach options.The most popular ones for sunbathing and swimming are Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach and Nova Icària.
7) Wander by the Marina
Barcelona marina is a beautiful place to visit by night. The marina is lined with different restaurants (I ate at Terrazza Ravello which was delicious!) so is the perfect dinner time spot to relax and gaze in awe at the huge yatchs that are often moored in the marina!
Barcelona truly has something for everyone, from its breathtaking architecture and world-class museums to its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches. By following this guide, you can experience the best of what the city has to offer and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a beach lover, Barcelona will not disappoint. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today and get ready to fall in love with this vibrant city. For more travel guides and inspiration, be sure to check out my Instagram- @shedot.travels.
Have the best trip in Barcelona,
Love,
Saz
xxx