Think you know everything there is to do in Barcelona? Think again. The city has a lot of well-known stuff going for it: Great food, lots of sunshine, happy locals, and fabulous beaches. That’s why so many people visit the city each year. But there are loads more things to do waiting to be discovered. Put together by our local guides, here are the top things to do in Barcelona.
Pro Tip: Planning your trip to Barcelona? It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our Barcelona Guide for more planning resources, our top Barcelona tours for a memorable trip, and how to see Barcelona in a day.
22 Best Things To See and Do While Visiting Barcelona
Barcelona is one of the top most visited cities in Europe, and it’s not hard to see why. This multifaceted city combines the best of a warm seaside destination on the Mediterranean with a metropolitan city bursting with history and contemporary culture.
You may already know to see the city’s iconic mega monument, La Sagrada Familia, but what else is there to do? In this guide, discover the top things to do in Barcelona, from more of Gaudí’s work to ancient Roman architecture, a Gothic cathedral, a mountain-top monastery, a historic food market, and iconic green spaces.
1. Step Into an Enchanted Forest in La Sagrada Familia
Antoni Gaudí’s La Sagrada Familia is to Barcelona what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris: iconic, towering, and on every must-see list. Still, one of the most common questions I hear from friends is whether it’s worth going inside. After all, tickets sell out weeks to months in advance, and the most famous parts—the Nativity Façade, Passion Façade, and the still-unfinished Glory Façade—are on the outside.
I always give the same advice, book that ticket and don’t skimp out on a guided tour. I don’t want to spoil the surprise if you haven’t already seen pictures of the interior, but it’s like stepping inside an enchanting forest bathed in warm hues. As for the guide, they’ll share stories of the century-long construction, the groundbreaking vision of Antoni Gaudí, and hidden symbolism that takes a keen eye to decipher.
2. Take a Coffee Break at a Cliff-Tucked Monastery
If you have time for just one day trip from Barcelona, make it to Montserrat. Or, more precisely, the Monastery of Montserrat. Since the 11th century, this jagged mountain range has been a center of religious significance and still today has an overwhelming presence of serenity.
If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you’ll be pleased to know getting to Montserrat is relatively easy. Take the R5 train line to Aeri de Montserrat, where you’ll switch to a funicular that brings you up to the monastery (about an hour and a half journey). Once there, exploring the grounds is free and there’s also a cafeteria on site that serves up coffee and a range of snacks, sandwiches, and heartier meals.
Alternatively, leave the logistics to a local and join a guided tour to Montserrat. From getting a close-up look at the revered statue of Black Madonna to horseback riding through grassy valleys, they’re the perfect way to combine your interests with one of Catalonia’s most jaw-dropping sites. Check out what to see and do at Montserrat.
Between dodging sneaky pickpocketers and capturing that perfect Instagram shot of the cathedral’s spires, you’ll want to keep an eye on your phone here. But don’t let the drama outside distract you from the real show inside. Soaring overhead are strong stone arches spreading out to support a vaulted ceiling.
The stained glass windows give an almost golden hue to the cathedral and when you step out into the cloister, you’ll be greeted by a small pond home to 13 white geese—-representing the age of Saint Eulalia when she was martyred. And here’s a cheeky tip, take the elevator up to the roof for an incredible bird’s eye view of the Gothic Quarter.
Park Güell, one of Antoni Gaudí’s most iconic creations, is no stranger to the camera lens. Its gleaming mosaic bench and charming gingerbread-like houses have become symbols of Barcelona, their vibrant colors capturing the attention of photographers and tourists alike. But beyond the viral photos, many are unaware of just how vast and diverse this park truly is. I was stunned when a local recommended setting aside at least two hours to fully experience it—two hours just for a selfie with the Dragon Staircase?
Not exactly. While you will indeed have to navigate the sea of selfie sticks to capture that coveted shot with the famous staircase, the real reason is that Park Güell stretches over 12 hectares of land. Away from the bustling crowds and Instagrammable landmarks, serene tree-lined paths wind their way through the landscape, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. It’s a peaceful retreat, completely different from the towering drama of Sagrada Familia, where you can find a moment of calm within the city’s heart.
Let’s be honest—Barcelona’s streets are made for wandering, but all that walking can take a toll. Why not switch things up with a relaxing coastal cruise? You’ll trade bustling boulevards for stunning views of golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and Montjuïc Hill, all while your legs get the vacation they deserve. But don’t forget, not all boat tours are created equal. Sure, a big party boat might be fun if you’re fresh out of college, but if you’re looking for something a bit more serene, smaller is definitely better.
In Spanish, “pincho” means “to pierce,” and in the world of food, it refers to tasty treats served on skewers. Think of like a finger food variety of tapas. We’re talking grilled Basque sausages, marinated anchovies, stuffed peppers, and golden croquettes. And if your Spanish is rusty and you’ve had enough trying to decode menus, the best part about pinchos bars is that you simply grab (or point, depending on the establishment), the items you want, and when you’ve had enough, count up your skewers and pay accordingly.
My favorite pinchos bar is Euskal Etxea in Old Town. With most bites around 1.20€ and classically cheap beer, it’s the perfect place to rest and refuel between city excursions.
There’s no denying it, Barcelona’s busy, and sometimes, you just need a breath of fresh air and wide open spaces to refresh your mind. Luckily, the city is packed with parks and gardens, and its most central, Parc de la Ciutadella, is free to enter and is the perfect place to unwind. That is if you forget about its rather violent origins.
When Philip V of Spain took over Barcelona and Catalonia in 1714 after the War of Spanish Succession, he built a fortress in its center and named it the Citadel. The fortress was built to suppress the local population and serve as a symbol of Bourbon authority over the rebellious Catalans.
Since Catalonians were, to put it nicely, not very stoked about losing their independence, this park became the go-to place to hold riots. In 1869 the fortress was dismantled, and since then, it has become a very serene and peaceful public park—-for the most part.
Any food served with a bib is bound to be delicious, even vegetables. Embrace the child in you, forget about your table manners, and tuck into Catalonia’s undisputed king of smoky goodness. A little caveat here, these specially grown long white onions are only harvested in the winter and coincidentally will only appear on the menu in the cooler months.
Grilled directly over open flames, the calçots’ outer skin blackens to a crisp. With a little effort, you peel away the burnt layer, revealing the soft, smoky onion beneath. Dunk it generously into Romesco sauce, and savor every bite of this winter delight. Check out the top foods to try in Barcelona.
9. Sip Overpriced Sangria on Platja de la Barceloneta
Have a few hours to fill before restaurants open for dinner at 8 pm? Head to the city’s main beach, Platja de la Barceloneta, and stroll along the boardwalk under the promenade until you find a seat at one of the many beach bars. Order a jug of sangria and a serving of patatas bravas, and you’re all set to judge rookie sand volleyball games and watch as golden hour sets over the Mediterranean.
Hop on the R2 train heading south and within 40 minutes, you’ll arrive in one of Spain’s most intriguing resort towns. Layered with sandy beaches, lively bars, an expansive promenade, and a white-washed Old Town, it practically defines the “life is better at the beach” Spanish lifestyle. Plus, as an LGBTQ+ haven since the 1970s and a hotspot for festivals (we’re talking everything from patchwork to the iconic Carnival), there’s always a happy buzz in town.
Hemingway’s minimalist style might be legendary, but the man was anything but minimal when it came to his bar visits. He had his favorite haunts: Café de Flore in Paris, La Venecia in Madrid, and in Barcelona? That would be Bar Marsella. And here’s the kicker—Bar Marsella hasn’t really changed since Hemingway was sipping there. It’s still the same no-frills joint, where you can order absinthe with sugar and overhear deep conversations about revolution. Need a little more persuasion? Picasso was a regular too!
12. See Gaudí’s Unfinished Cripta de la Colònia Güell
Don’t get me wrong, the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell are absolute sights to behold, but the hordes of people can take away from their intended peaceful atmosphere. This is not the case in Colònia Güell.
In the late 19th century, when Spanish entrepreneur Eusebi Güell went on a quest to create an ideal textile worker’s community, he called in Antoni Gaudí to design the town’s church. Gaudí might not have known it at the time, but it became the perfect testing ground to master his self-supporting arches, branching, tree-like columns, and awe-inspiring use of stained glass. The cyrpt, officially known as the Cripta de la Colònia Güell, remains unfinished, with unused structures still lying in the grass.
I’ll admit, it doesn’t compete with the likes of the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell for overall awe-factor. But considering tickets to the church are 10€, which includes a map and an audio guide for the entire community, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon away from the crowds of Barcelona.
Siestas and Spain go hand in hand, but if you’re struggling to convince your mind to shut off for a midday snooze, I know just the trick. Catch the R4 train southwest to Vilafranca del Penedès and spend the early afternoon sipping your way through a few of the region’s 300 wineries. After a few glasses of cava, Spain’s take on champagne, and a behind-the-scenes tour or two, your eyelids will certainly feel heavier.
Travel tip: While most wineries are happy to take walk-ins for tastings, you will need to book in advance for tours. Feel free to leave the logistics to us and join a guided wine-tasting tour!
14. Find the Roman Funeral Way in the Middle of the City
Considering it has nothing on Rome’s wonders, it’s easy to see why the majority of locals and tourists have never heard of the MUHBA Via Sepulchral Romana. So, what’s this long-named thing doing on the top things to do in Barcelona list? If you remember to peer over the glass railing, you’ll set your eyes on one of the best-preserved Roman necropolises (a burial site located outside city walls). After the memorials were erected between the 1st and 3rd centuries, layers of silt and gravel covered them up. When the memorials were rediscovered in 1956, they were in remarkably good shape and it was decided to excavate and preserve them while continuing the planned urban development around the site.
15. Get Lost in the Maze at Parc del Laberint d’Horta
Ever wondered if you could conquer Harry Potter’s Triwizard Maze? You won’t have to outsmart a sphinx or any boggarts at Pacf del Laberint d’Horta, but you will be tasked with navigating a labyrinth of towered, trimmed cypress trees. Eros, the God of Love, waits at the center for those who make it through.
Sound like your cup of tea? Take the L2 metro line to Mundet, head uphill, and after paying the equally reasonable and random entry price of 2.23 €, you’ll be in one of the oldest gardens that remain in the city. Plus, being away from the main drag, you’ll likely have the 9 hectares nearly to yourself!
You’ll see them hanging in grocery stores, sitting on café counters, and heck, there are even entire stores dedicated to Jamón Iberico. I’ll admit, the first time I saw this massive leg of cured ham complete with a hoof, I wasn’t convinced. Don’t be me. In fact, one of the first things you should try when you hop off the plane or train in Barcelona is a Jamón Iberico bocadillo, aka a seriously tasty ham sandwich. After indulging in an acorn-filled life and being cured for up to four years, this ham’s got a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that’s well worth the hype.
More comfortable enjoying it in a nice restaurant or tapas bar? Check out the best restaurants in the Gothic Quarter. Then don’t forget to order a plate of the famous Catalan bread with tomato along with it!
17. Ride a Ferris Wheel High Above the City
Love a bit of nostalgic fun? This one’s for you! Sitting on the highest hill in Barcelona awaits the Tibidabo Amusement Park, and beyond its name being a treat to the tongue, it’s also one of Europe’s oldest theme parks. From spinning high above the city on a Ferris wheel to soaring in a replica of the first aircraft to fly from Barcelona to Madrid, it really is the definition of fun for the whole family. To top it all off, the Sagrat Cor Church sits next door, which is well worth the visit to Tibidabo Hill in its own right.
To get there, ride the Tibidabo Funicular, drive, or toss on your trail shoes and hike up through Collserola Natural Park.
La Boqueria Market is buzzing with energy from the moment it opens at 8 am until the last stall shutters 12.5 hours later. Tourists weave through the aisles, while locals try to sneak past to grab their fresh meat and fish. It’s a lot to take in, so having a game plan is key to avoiding the chaos. My tip? Head straight to one of the tapas bars at the back. Bar Quiosc Modern is a top choice, serving up incredibly fresh oysters and prawns. But honestly, any bar with an empty seat will do. Once settled, you can relax away from the crowds and enjoy some prime people-watching.
19. Test Your Resistance to Clap Along at a Flamenco show
With every stomp and the guitar’s rhythmic strum, your hands almost have a mind of their own, eager to join in. But when you’re at a flamenco performance, your job is to sit back and soak it all in—watch the powerful footwork, swirling skirts, and precise hand movements that tell a story of passion and longing. Wait until the final note lingers in the air before offering your applause.
One of my favorite places to watch flamenco in Barcelona is at the 17th-century palace of Palau Dalmases. Not only will you enjoy an intimate show, but you’ll also get to see where one of the city’s most prominent noble families once lived.
20. Shop Inside a Bull Ring at Arenas de Barcelona
I normally don’t consider shopping malls to be worthy of a spot on any must-do list, but there’s an exception to every rule. In this instance, it’s because the mall is housed in a former bullfighting ring that oozes with a blend of modern of historical charm. For nearly 100 years, the arena saw matadors face off against enraged bulls under the roar of 14,000 spectators. Fast forward to 1977 when bullfighting declined in popularity in Catalonia, and the ring fell into despair. Luckily, instead of it being torn down, British architect Richard Rogers was called to turn it into a shopping complex.
Today it houses a movie theatre, a range of clothing stores, and as the ultimate cherry on top, rooftop restaurants that offer spectacular views of the city.
Like many European cities, Barcelona is filled with parks filled with bars. Not the high-end, hidden-away kind of bars. More like, a concession stand with tables scattered around. One of my favorites, and certainly not for its okay pizza, is Bar Les Cascades. First, it’s hard to compete with its 3€ caña (draft beer), and second, its location near the Montjuïc National Palace makes it an excellent people-watching spot. Especially as it’s on a direct walking route to FC Barcelona’s temporary stadium. If you plan your time right, you can watch bundles of excited fans decked out in reds and blues march past.
Picasso might be synonymous with Paris’s Montmartre neighborhood, but did you know he spent his teenage years in Barcelona? As a student at the Llotja School of Fine Arts, he far exceeded his older classmates in drawing and painting, eventually turning to a bohemian café to refine his techniques thanks to the mentoring of older artists.
To honor Picasso’s early works, Barcelona opened the Picasso Museum in 1963. Inside, you’ll discover his somber Blue Period paintings, experimental ceramics, and a collection of sketches offering insight into his creative process. You can explore the museum on your own, but I do feel having a guide leading the way adds so much more to the experience.
Have you ever wished there was an article that explained which neighborhoods of a city are the best choices for different traveler types? Our where-to-stay articles focus on neighborhoods, then suggest hotels.
Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!
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Johanne
Amazing post!!
I would add to rent a boat and sail along Barcelona coast. We did it with http://www.rentaboatbarcelona.com and it was amazing.
Best wishes!!
Johanne
Amazing post!!
I would add to rent a boat and sail along Barcelona coast. We did it with http://www.rentaboatbarcelona.com and it was amazing.
Best wishes!!
Johanne