On this put up, I’m going to share with you my high issues to do in Barcelona.
Barcelona is a metropolis of contrasts. It’s edgy and uncooked, but creative and complicated. It’s a spot that’s residence to a whole melting pot of cultures, but stays uniquely its personal.
It’s additionally a metropolis blessed with world-class eating places, unbelievable structure, a thumping nightlife scene, and a beautiful shoreline.
With a terrific public transport system to shuttle you between the numerous neighbourhoods, and broad, pedestrian-friendly streets, getting round Barcelona is a breeze.
The town actually does have a vibe of its personal and there are infinite issues to do in Barcelona to maintain you busy.
Having spent 10 days in Barcelona with Nick, we had been capable of sufficiently scratch the floor and uncover plenty of all this vacation spot has to supply. For sure, that is now considered one of my favorite cities on the planet.
With that, let’s get began with this listing of the 15 greatest issues to do in Barcelona.
1. Be a part of a Strolling Tour
This is without doubt one of the greatest actions in Barcelona for once you first arrive.
Strolling excursions can be found in just about each main metropolis in Europe, and by becoming a member of one, you’ll be capable of orientate your self instantly, whereas checking off some metropolis highlights alongside the best way.
You may be a part of a free tour with firms like Sandemans, whose guides will take you thru just a few of the neighbourhoods in Barcelona, and present you most of the metropolis’s must-see sights.
These strolling excursions are “free”, however they function on ideas (€5-10 is enough). Since they’re such a low worth, you might discover that many folks want to be a part of your most popular journey too.
A greater possibility is to affix this extremely rated strolling tour expertise, which has a restrict of simply 7 company. Collectively together with your educated and comical information, you’ll go to the Previous City ‘Ciutat Vella’, the Gothic Quarter ‘Barri Gòtic’, and ‘El Born’.
When you’ll definitely see the principle sights, the very best a part of the strolling tour is that you simply’ll additionally acquire native perception into town; together with the dos and don’ts, the very best locations to eat, and extra.
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2. Test Out Antoni Gaudí’s Work
You actually can’t go to Barcelona with out testing the attractive work of Antoni Gaudí. You actually couldn’t miss his masterpieces for those who tried.
Sitting in stark distinction subsequent to the extra typical trendy structure and the gorgeous, however much less exotic-looking Catalan Gothic buildings, is the works of Twentieth-century genius architect, Antoni Gaudí.
Most of his buildings are primarily based on naturally occurring natural shapes, curves, and bends. Whereas regular buildings have pointed archways, sharp corners, and useful columns, Gaudí’s look like inbuilt celebration of the connection between man and Mom Nature.
Two Gaudí buildings which you can’t miss whereas in Barcelona embody La Sagrada Familia – a construction nonetheless underneath building greater than 130 years later, and the Barcelona Cathedral – that is my favorite piece within the metropolis.
Different must-sees embody Parque Guell, Casa BatYo, Casa Mila, and Casa Vee-sens.
An effective way to cowl all of Gaudi’s work in a single go is to be a part of this Introduction to Gaudi expertise, which is just $20. You’ll go to 7 of Gaudi’s masterpieces and study fascinating details about the artist and his structure alongside the best way.
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3. Stroll The Seaside Boardwalk at La Barceloneta
The Barceloneta seaside space of Barcelona is attractive. With a large boardwalk generally known as Paseo Marítimo which follows the shoreline for about 4 kilometres, it’s the right place for a protracted stroll by the ocean.
You’ll discover just a few cool eating places and bars which have tables spilling out onto patios proper on the sand, and there are all the time folks making sandcastles, swimming within the water, (throughout summer season months), and having fun with the sunshine.
We ended up visiting the Barceloneta space after already being within the metropolis for every week, and we couldn’t consider how lovely it was, or that we hadn’t visited sooner!
Relying on which neighbourhood in Barcelona you’re staying in, you possibly can go to Barceloneta on foot, by bus, or by taking the metro to Metro cease “Barceloneta”, (Yellow Line, L4).
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4. Get Misplaced in El Born
The Barrio of El Born is a labyrinth of slim cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and superbly ornate Church buildings and Basilicas.
On this neighbourhood, you’ll discover cafes and boutique shops by daylight, and cocktail bars and samba by evening. You may go to El Born any time of day and it’s all the time enjoyable and thrilling, nevertheless it takes on an entire completely different vibe at evening.
In case you have time, attempt to enterprise right here a minimum of as soon as in the course of the day, and as soon as at evening, when the road lamps gentle up the stone buildings, giving them a golden glow.
Contemplating he lived right here from the age of 15, it’s not stunning that you simply’ll additionally discover some creative works by Pablo Picasso in El Born, significantly within the Picasso Museum.
Couple that with some nice wine bars and eating places and you’ve got one of the eclectic and thrilling barrios within the metropolis. For a quaint and enjoyable wine bar, I like to recommend Bodega del Born, and for glorious cocktails and an expertise in itself, the Paradiso speakeasy.
5. Discover the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is yet one more charming medieval neighbourhood within the metropolis of Barcelona. I’ve now listed three of town’s coolest neighbourhoods on this article, however the truth is, that is solely a small number of the barrios that this metropolis has to supply.
The Gothic Quarter is Barcelona’s jewel within the crown of historic barrios. Relationship again greater than 2,000 years, it’s an space stuffed with slim again streets, towering church buildings, quiet alleyways, nice eating places and bars, and a few of the metropolis’s most fascinating historical past.
Artisans promote leather-based and jewellery close to La Sagrada Familia, whereas flower stalls and street-food distributors line the busy avenue of La Rambla.
An effective way to discover the Gothic Quarter, (Barri Gòtic), is by becoming a member of a Barri Gòtic strolling tour. Along with Juliana, you’ll wander by the historic heart studying in regards to the historical past, tradition, and darkish secrets and techniques of Barcelona. On the finish of the strolling tour, (in true Catalonian fashion), you’ll share a glass of sangria collectively.
Benefit from the Gothic Quarter – you’ll be amazed at each nook you flip on this fascinating maze of slim streets and alleys.
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6. Be a part of a Paella Cooking Class (One of many Greatest Issues to do in Barcelona!)
We booked this paella cooking class throughout our journey to Barcelona and it was simply among the finest experiences we’ve loved to this point. That is positively among the finest issues to do in Barcelona for {couples}, pals, and foodies.
Though Pallela is initially from Valencia, (additional south within the area), it’s nonetheless a preferred dish all through Catalonia.
Throughout this cooking class, Chef Lucia, (who’s labored in each Gordan Ramsay’s and Jaime Oliver’s kitchens), walks you thru the steps to create considered one of Catalonia’s most well-known dishes; the scrumptious paella.
Whereas cooking in pairs at your station, you’ll be served ice chilly, bubbly cava, (the Catalan fashion of glowing white wine), relish in chatting with different company, and study skilled cooking strategies from revered cooks.
The cava doesn’t cease flowing and you’ll have as a lot, or as little, as you want.
What’s particularly nice about this expertise is that you simply get to cook dinner the dish from begin to end, versus different cooking lessons which have all the things ready for you, and also you principally simply watch the meal being accomplished. Not right here! You do all of it, and get to take pleasure in your creation on the finish.
I actually can’t suggest this sufficient. Not solely is it a terrific cooking class, however you get to tick two issues off your listing of issues to do in Barcelona; drink cava and eat paella. Guide the paella cooking class right here.
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7. Go Out For Tapas and Pinchos
Just about everybody is aware of about tapas – the well-known Spanish appetizer plates – however have you ever heard of the smaller, bite-sized snacks generally known as pinchos?
Pincho actually interprets to “thorn” or “spike” and refers back to the toothpick that you simply’ll discover holding collectively each pincho you eat.
There are many locations in Barcelona to get each tapas and pinchos, however Poble Sec particularly is the place to be for the abundance of bars that line the road right here.
We joined this tapas/pinchos journey which took us to five completely different pinchos bars the place we sampled practically a dozen completely different small dishes. You’ll find out about tapas tradition and tidbits about Barcelona. Plus, correctly pay for pinchos at a bar, (spoiler: you retain your toothpicks and pay per “stick” on the honour system).
I gained’t give all of it away by telling you in regards to the tasty tapas we sampled, you’ll must ebook and uncover for your self. We actually loved the pinchos expertise and felt prefer it was a must-do in Barcelona to get the evening began.
8. Wander Round El Raval Barrio
El Raval is a vibrant multi-cultural barrio within the coronary heart of Barcelona. Though this space is taken into account a spot in Barcelona to take warning of, nowadays there’s plenty of gentrification occurring, and it’s now higher identified for being an edgy, bohemian space.
Throughout our journey to Barcelona we spent a day exploring El Raval and loved experiencing this different facet of town. Reasonably than medieval structure and broad, leafy streets, we discovered buildings that seemed a bit rougher across the edges, fascinating avenue artwork, and beautiful neighborhood gardens.
El Raval is definitely residence to a few of Barcelona’s high museums and eating places — don’t miss Cañete Bar, or Dos Palillos.
9. Be Wowed By a Drink at Paradiso Cocktail Bar
Paradiso cocktail bar is an establishment in Barcelona, and for good motive. That is most likely the best secret bar we’ve ever been to and that’s no understatement!
To enter the bar, it’s a must to already find out about it as a result of it has a hidden entrance by a walk-in freezer door behind a deli, however regardless of their makes an attempt to maintain this place a secret, just about everybody who lives or visits Barcelona will probably be drawn right here sooner or later.
The costs on this bar aren’t low-cost, (round 15 euros for a cocktail), however neither is the booze that they use, or the best way they put together them.
From steaming wood logs topped with crispy deep-fried ants, cachaca and keenness fruit, to dry ice gins and smoked tequila cocktails, this place places a whimsical spin on each drink they serve.
The bartenders at Paradiso are actually pleasant and affected person as you order the drinks, making this a really approachable speakeasy. In the event you like an excellent drink, shaken or stirred, I extremely suggest that you simply add this unbelievable bar in El Born to your Barcelona itinerary.
10. Go Crusing
Crusing is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Barcelona on a scorching afternoon, or to benefit from the sundown within the night.
Hop aboard this sailboat and cruise up the coast to take pleasure in views of town’s shoreline. Among the high sights embody Sagrada Familia, Tibidabo, Montjuic, and Diagonal Mar.
The sailboat can maintain as much as 12 company, however the captain sometimes solely books it for 7 – 8 folks to make sure you’re comfy. Convey your bathing go well with if you want and revel in a dip within the sea.
Security tools, native snacks and drinks, (cava, white wine, beer, mushy drinks, water), are included. Be taught extra about this Barcelona crusing tour.
11. Stroll La Rambla and Store at La Boqueria Market
La Rambla is a large, tree-lined pedestrian-only avenue that stretches for 1.2 kilometres from Plaça de Catalunya within the centre of town, to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell.
It additionally kinds the boundary between the Gothic Quarter to the east, and El Raval to the west.
Right here you’ll discover dozens of outlets, in addition to flower stands lining the road. In the course of the excessive season, La Rambla could be packed, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a cool place to come back for a stroll.
While you’re on the Rambla, preserve an eye fixed out for Mercado de la Boqueria. Boqueria actually interprets to “place the place goat is bought” in Catalan, however there’s rather more right here than simply goat meat.
That is considered one of Barcelona’s greatest markets, promoting all the things from meats and cheeses, to wines, fruits, handicrafts, and pastries. It was really voted the very best meals market on the planet by CNN.
The market is open on Monday to Saturday, from 8:00am to eight:30pm. Every of the stalls out there is numbered, so after you have your favourites, you possibly can all the time return.
With a median of 40,000 guests coming to La Boqueria daily, it’s no shock that that is one other place that will get crowded within the metropolis, however for those who’re a foodie, you actually should make time for it.
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12. Sandwiches With a Aspect of Cava
Top-of-the-line locations to go to in Barcelona earlier than going out for a late evening is Can Paixano. This bustling, small store serves nothing however just a few tapas, sandwiches, and cava, (Spanish glowing wine).
Order on the bar and take your sandwich to go, or keep awhile with the locals, holding a glass of bubbles in a single hand, and your sandwich within the different!
My advice is the sliced sausage squished between a mushy hamburger bun with melted cheese… and some glasses of cava, (in fact).
Costs are very affordable at round €1.50 – €3 for all the things. Can Paixano is open from midday till 10:00pm, and is closed Sunday and Monday. Discover it right here on the map.
13. Go to the Vineyards
It’s no secret that Spain is known for its wine. And fortuitously, throughout your journey to Barcelona, you gained’t must go removed from town to go to vineyards and style some implausible wines.
Situated simply 35 minutes by automotive, or 45 minutes by practice, is the well-known Penedés wine area.
Throughout this enjoyable wine expertise, you’ll go to two wineries and style some premium wines or cavas. Plus, you’ll obtain a snack at every cease. Whereas driving between the wineries, (in a classic Mehari!), you’ll study in regards to the area, grape rising, and extra out of your information.
After the vineyard visits, your host Neus will put together a picnic within the vineyards, full with native meals and extra wine, (as many glasses as you need…).
In the event you selected to reach by practice, Neus will probably be ready for you on the Sant Sadurdí d’Anoia practice station to whisk you away into the countryside.
Don’t miss this extremely rated expertise simply outdoors of town. In the event you’d somewhat have a non-public journey for 2, Neus can organize it. This is without doubt one of the most romantic issues to do in Barcelona for certain.
14. Watch Some Dancing (or Take part)
Top-of-the-line issues to do in Barcelona on a Sunday is to go to the Plaça de la Virreina and watch some lindy hop dancing! You’ll discover this sq. within the Gràcia neighbourhood, (which in itself is a good place to go to within the metropolis).
Wander across the plaza and go to the Sant Joan de Gràcia church earlier than stopping at one of many cafes to benefit from the dancing. Even for those who can’t go to on a Sunday, pop by Plaça de la Virreina for a drink.
15. Make Your Personal Footwear
This is without doubt one of the extra distinctive issues to do in Barcelona that you simply gained’t need to miss. Create your individual pair of conventional Catalan espadrilles, (handmade sneakers), as a particular memento so that you can preserve out of your journey to Barcelona.
Meet up with Luis and his spouse Kathe, who’re the founders and artisans of Handmade Barcelona. They’ve been making sneakers for years whereas operating this moral model of handmade conventional sneakers from Cataluña.
Reasonably than merely purchase a pair of sneakers, why not make your individual?!
Throughout this shoemaking expertise with Luise and Kathe, you’ll meet at their workshop within the Gothic Quarter to learn to make your individual espadrilles, and customise them to your liking. In addition they have some cava accessible for those who get thirsty. Be taught extra and ebook this memorable expertise right here.
FAQs About Visiting Barcelona
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on a visit to Barcelona.
Is Barcelona secure?
Barcelona has a fairly dangerous popularity for being a pickpocket haven.
Be conscious of your belongings whereas strolling across the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, and main vacationer sights… particularly when strolling at evening. Control your pockets, purse, and backpack. Be conscious in eating places, and don’t go away your belongings on the bottom, or your telephone on any tables.
When doubtful, simply take taxis or Ubers at evening as they’re very inexpensive within the metropolis. Having stated all of that, we spent greater than every week in Barcelona and had nothing however optimistic experiences.
What do you have to not miss in Barcelona?
When you gained’t be capable of see all the things, in Barcelona you gained’t need to miss seeing Antoni Gaudi’s work, (particularly La Sagrada Familia), making (and consuming) paella, occurring a tapas tour, and easily wandering across the numerous neighbourhoods to absorb the environment.
What ought to I NOT do in Barcelona? (Issues to Keep away from)
Don’t anticipate folks to talk English in Barcelona, don’t flaunt your valuables, don’t purchase issues from distributors on Las Ramblas, don’t take part any avenue video games, don’t over tip, (5-10% is okay), and don’t eat at touristy eating places the place the menu is in English — go for the genuine meals!
Is 3 days lengthy sufficient in Barcelona?
Sure, 3 days is sufficient time in Barcelona. It’s possible you’ll not be capable of, (or need to), go to any of the sights outdoors of town just like the wineries at the moment, nonetheless, with 3 days, you’ll be capable of cowl all the foremost sights and revel in plenty of the wine and tapas bars!
The place to Keep in Barcelona
There are a lot of unbelievable neighbourhoods in Barcelona, every with its personal environment. To have the ability to greatest take pleasure in all the Barcelona points of interest and funky issues to see, listed below are some nice areas to remain:
1. Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)
That is the guts of Barcelona and it’s about as central as you could be. The well-known pedestrian avenue, La Rambla, separates the Gothic Quarter and the edgier El Reval. El Born neighbourhood additionally borders the Gothic Quarter.
There are quite a few locations to remain right here, take a look at this spacious 3-bedroom condo, this stylish Southeast Asian impressed loft, or this deluxe condo.
2. El Born
It is a attractive barrio with medieval structure, quite a few eating places and bars, boutiques, and a big park. There are many flats and lodging right here. Take a look at this contemporary condo, or this cozy studio with a balcony.
3. Eixample
It is a extra upscale space of Barcelona with a number of luxurious retailers and lodging. Reasonably than slim, cobbled streets like within the outdated city, you’ll discover shiny, open avenues. This neighbourhood is residence to considered one of Barcelona’s hottest points of interest, Sagrada Familia.
This attractive penthouse condo is an efficient possibility, as is this two bed room condo, and this condo with a pool and backyard.
4. Gràcia
It is a extra residential space, which looks like a city throughout the metropolis of Barcelona. That is the place we stayed throughout our journey and located it to be a terrific native space crammed with genuine bodegas, (wine bars), eating places, and quieter streets. It’s additionally actually shut to a different of Gaudi’s creations, Park Güell.
The lodging in Gràcia are extra inexpensive than different areas of town, and also you’re only a fast stroll, or metro journey away to the very best issues to do in Barcelona. Take a look at this extremely rated condo within the heart of Gràcia and this lovely condo with a rooftop terrace.
Now You Know The Greatest Issues To Do in Barcelona
There are such a lot of enjoyable issues to do in Barcelona, it’s actually among the finest cities, not simply in Spain, however in all of Europe. Prepare for implausible meals, welcoming folks, fascinating structure, and epic nightlife.
Barcelona is a metropolis for every type of travellers, plus it’s additionally a terrific place to stay as a digital nomad and is without doubt one of the high locations to show English — it actually has one thing for everybody. I hope this information to the highest issues to see in Barcelona helps you propose your journey.
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