Barcelona Travel Guide
Big attractions, hidden secrets, neighborhoods, and getting around
Originally published 12 March 2025
All images are courtesy of the Spain Less Traveled team, unless otherwise stated.
Barcelona from the Passion Tower of Sagrada Familia
A visit to Barcelona is on just about everyone’s bucket list. And it is no wonder that this is the case. Beautiful photos of Barcelona’s modernista architecture, quaint Gothic quarter, and coastline can be found on just about every corner of the internet and in every travel magazine.
Barcelona is one of those cities with hundreds of things to see and do. You could spend a lifetime there and still find hidden gems, new places, and different experiences. After Madrid, Spain’s bustling capital, it is Spain’s second largest city, so there is something for everyone.
That is why figuring out what to see and do in Barcelona during a limited time there is so important.
With so many offerings in Barcelona, every traveler’s itinerary will (and should) differ based on their unique interests, time of year visiting, and more.
Barcelona is truly a world-class city with a Catalan heart.
Be sure to schedule ample time into your Spain itinerary to truly experience Barcelona and its surroundings.
And of course, we would love to help plan your dream trip to Spain!
The best of Barcelona: the #1 must-see and other top sites
Of course if you go all the way to Barcelona, seeing the major sites is essential. Here are some of our favorite Barcelona classics to add to your Spain travel itinerary.
Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia’s beautiful interior
If there is one place in Barcelona that you must visit, both the interior and the exterior, that place is Sagrada Familia. This is one of the most important pieces of architecture in Spain, period.
Modernista architect, Antoni Gaudí’s most famous and most elaborate work, Sagrada Familia is something you will never forget.
Construction began in the 1800s and this massive basilica is still unfinished to this day. Be sure to take note of Gaudí’s whimsical play of color, light, shadows, and shapes.
You can opt to go to the top of one of the towers too, for views of Barcelona and glimpses of some of Sagrada Familia’s more intricate details.
To visit you absolutely need to buy tickets in advance. In fact, there are a lot of ins and outs to know for planning a visit to Sagrada Familia. So many that we have a comprehensive guide all about how to visit Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain! Check it out!
Park Güell
Park Güell is a private park in the hills above Barcelona mostly designed by Gaudí. The original concept was in fact not supposed to be a park but instead a modern (at the time) upscale private housing community. Luckily that idea was dropped and visitors are welcome to visit the private park.
Opened in the 1900s, the park is a great representation of Gaudí’s more nature inspired phase of his career. You will see his whimsical plays on organic shapes and nature.
Just like Sagrada Familia, Park Güell requires advanced planning. Advanced tickets are available, and it is highly recommended to purchase them. Admission to the park often sells out. You can get tickets on the Park Güell official website.
Casa Batlló
The exterior of Casa Batlló on Passeig de Gràcia
Casa Batlló is the most visited of the houses that were designed by Gaudí. Considered to be one of his masterpieces, he did not build it from scratch, but instead remodeled an existing home. The result, a signature Gaudí with color, whimsy, and shapes.
There is a longstanding debate about visiting Casa Batlló. Many believe that it is best viewed from the outside, hence saving you the cost of admission. But inside you will find some of Gaudí’s most unique designs.
In the evenings, the rooftop hosts a series of concerts and an all around unique experience.
Tickets for both a daytime visit and the rooftop evenings should be purchased in advance.
Casa Mila (La Pedrera)
If you want to see the last private residence designed by Gaudí, then you will want to visit Casa Mila (often called La Pedrera).
Just like other works of Gaudí, Casa Mila was not without controversy. Many argued that the building did not respect any conventional style or structure. But Gaudí was unphased. If you visit, pay close attention to the roof, which is one of the signature elements of Casa Mila.
Though not as popular as the other Gaudís, it is still recommended to buy entry tickets in advance if you want to visit. Especially during the high season.
Casa Vicens
Finally, the last major work of Gaudí on this list is Casa Vicens. Whereas Casa Mila was his last private residence, Casa Vicens was considered to be his first major work.
More subdued than his later work, Gaudí was inspired by a neo-Mudéjar style of architecture, but with his own signature.
Many aficionados of Gaudí and modernista architecture will agree that this is their favorite Gaudí house to visit, juxtaposed with Sagrada Familia, it really does tell the story of his unique style and career.
It is not a bad idea to reserve tickets in advance.
The Gothic Quarter
Streets of the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is Barcelona’s most famous neighborhood, at least with visitors to the city. Barri Gòtic, as it is called in Catalan, is often a top area for travelers to stroll in the city. And it is no secret as to why. This medieval neighborhood, with its narrow, winding streets and hidden plazas, will transport you back in time to the old days of Barcelona.
Aside from just a stroll, there are several important sites in the Gothic Quarter. For example, the majestic Gothic style (of course) Cathedral of Barcelona is a must-see. This is THE cathedral of Barcelona, and Sagrada Familia is not that. In fact, it is one of the top cathedrals in Spain.
If you are interested in Barcelona’s rich history, the Museu d’Història de Barcelona (MUHBA) should be another stop along your Gothic Quarter stroll. And if you are interested in Barcelona’s rich Jewish history, the city's old Jewish quarter, known as El Call is located in the Gothic Quarter near the Barcelona Cathedral and Plaça Sant Jaume.
We don’t necessarily recommend staying in the Gothic Quarter (keep reading for neighborhood recommendations), but you definitely want to add a walk around Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter to your Spain travel itinerary.
La Boqueria
La Boqueria Exterior
Located on La Rambla, between the Gothic Quarter and the neighborhood of El Raval, you will find La Boqueria, Barcelona’s most famous market.
Officially called la Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, we definitely recommend a visit to this colorful market. But there are a few caveats: For one, prices are much higher here than in Barcelona’s neighborhood markets. Make no mistake, these days La Boqueria is a touristic market. And please keep a close eye on your belongings when visiting. With money being exchanged, and crowds, La Boqueria is a ripe spot for pickpockets.
All that said, though, take a look around and bring your camera. La Boqueria is a quintessential Barcelona experience.
The Picasso Museum
Before we dive into Barcelona’s most famous museum, let’s just clarify one thing. Pablo Picasso was born in Málaga, Spain not in Barcelona. This is a common misconception.
That said, he spent a fair amount of time in Barcelona, and hence, being one of Spain’s most known artists, there is a Picasso Museum in Barcelona and it is incredibly popular.
Located in the El Born area, this museum is made up of five old palaces connected together. Some of the museum’s highlights include an extensive collection from Picasso’s early years as well as many works from his famous Blue Period.
It is a must-see for fans of Picasso!
Barceloneta Beach
We always say that Barcelona is on the beach, but it is not a beach town.
That said, the most central and most popular beach in Barcelona is a beach called Barceloneta.
While it is convenient for a day at the beach, there are a few other things to see and do in the area. The neighborhood itself is called La Barceloneta and it has a Barcelona meets Naples, Italy vibe to it.
As you stroll along the Passeig Marítim, you’ll see iconic landmarks like the five star W Hotel, which dominates the skyline with its sail-like shape, and Frank Gehry’s golden fish sculpture (Peix d’Or) heading toward Port Olímpic. Nearby you will also find the Museum of the History of Catalonia. A really great spot to learn about Catalonia’s rich history and culture.
If you are looking for something more active, the Barceloneta seafront area is perfect for walking, cycling, or rollerblading while taking in views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Barcelona less traveled…
Now that you have a good understanding of the top things to do in Barcelona, read on for some of the gems of the city.
Palau de la Música Catalana
Interior of the beautiful Palau de la Música Catalana
Gaudí was not the only architect designing in the Modernista style. Lluís Domènech i Montaner was a Catalan architect who also employed this style. He designed the stunning Palau de la Musica Catalana and we think it is a must!
It is probably the most beautiful concert hall in the world, with astonishing decoration. It is so stunning it features in our guide: showtime in Spain. It allows tourist visits, but attending one of its frequent concerts is a once in a lifetime experience.
Even if you don’t want to attend a concert there, you can do tour to see the beautiful interior!
Hospital de la Santa Creu i de Sant Pau
Exterior of Hospital de la Santa Creu i de Sant Pau
Also designed by Domènech i Montaner is the Hospital de la Santa Creu i de Sant Pau, not far from Sagrada Familia.
Built between 1902 and 1930, it was originally conceived as a cutting-edge medical facility, blending innovative healthcare concepts with breathtaking design. The hospital’s intricate mosaics, colorful stained glass windows, and sculpted facades make it one of the most visually striking landmarks in Barcelona.
The Hospital de la Santa Creu i de Sant Pau is a fantastic addition to your Barcelona, Spain travel itinerary, especially if you want to see more modernista works without all of the crowds.
Palau Güell
Palau Güell’s “starry sky” ceiling
So the Gaudís are extremely popular, right? Well, not all of them. It is still possible to find Gaudí off the beaten path in Barcelona, and in a location that is quite convenient for visitors.
Palau Güell is a mansion designed by Gaudí for the industrial tycoon Eusebi Güell, constructed between 1886 and 1888. It was reopened in 2011 after a lengthy restoration process. And it is right in El Raval, so close to where most visitors, well, visit.
It is ornate and has many of Gaudí’s signature elements such as tall ceilings and holes to give the appearance of a starlit sky.
Why is this Gaudí so much less visited than his other works? Who knows! But the key takeaway is that you can still visit a work of Gaudí in Barcelona without the crowds!
Bellsguard (Casa Figueres)
And while we are at it, how about another lesser known Gaudí? Bellesguard, which means “beautiful view” in Catalan was constructed between 1900 and 1909.
Also known as Casa Figueres, you can find this lesser visited work of Gaudí in the upscale residential Sarrià-Sant Gervasi Barcelona neighborhood.
A cross between the Modernista and Gothic styles, this Gaudí created manor house is a must if you are a Gaudí fanatic. Especially if you are looking to see something different.
Montjuïc
Barcelona views from Montjuïc’s Plaça de Carlos Ibáñez
Enough Gaudí for now. Because Barcelona is so much more than just that. Next, let’s go up a mountain.
Montjuïc is a hill in the city close to the port, and includes many attractions. The name Montjuïc means “Jewish mountain” and this area was home to Barcelona’s Jewish population in the middle ages. However, there are not any remnants of this. Then much later, Montjuïc was mostly developed for the 1929 World’s Fair. There are a lot of interesting sights on the mountain.
If you are a garden lover, a visit to Montjuïc is a must. There are several gardens. The most notable being the Barcelona botanic gardens. But if you like cactuses, be sure to pay a visit to Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera. There are several species of cactuses. Jardins del Mirador is a nice terraced garden with footpaths, a pond, and views. And Jardins de Laribal is a beautiful garden setting in an old estate home with terraced gardens, fountains, and a variety of plant species native to Cataluña. There are nice views of the city from the gardens too.
If you like the works of Miró, then Fundació Miró is a must. It houses the most important collection of Joan Miró works in the world, as well as temporary exhibitions.
Though it is mostly a fortress and no longer a full castle, you can visit Castell de Montjuïc. It's fun to walk around, especially if you like fortresses. And if you do like castles, we have a guide on the best castles in Spain.
If you are looking for kitsch and aren’t visiting any other parts of Spain, you may want to check out Poble Espanyol. It’s a village made of houses replicating traditional architecture from all over Spain. From time to time there are special events held.
Many of the events of the 1992 Olympics were held on Montjuïc. If you are interested in this, Anella Olímpica is the area you will find the venues. There is a small Olympic museum that you can also visit.
And speaking of speciality museums, the Museum of Funeral Carriages is on Montjuïc. Here you can explore local funerary customs, past and present.
Pabellón alemán was the German pavilion for the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition (Exposició Internacional de Barcelona). Designed by German architect Mies van der Rohe, it’s considered one of the most influential buildings in modern architecture.
A great way of ending your Montjuïc visit is to take the Teleféric del Port down. It’s an aerial cable car that flies all over Barcelona port, ending in a tall tower in La Barceloneta. So much fun!
Also on Montjuïc is Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC)
Exterior of the MNAC
One of our absolute personal highlights of Montjuïc is Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC), located in the grand Palau Nacional on Montjuïc. We love this museum so much that it gets its own section even though it is on Montjuïc.
This museum houses the largest collection of Catalan art in the world. You will also find one of the most important collections of Romanesque art, featuring beautifully preserved frescoes from Catalan churches, such as the famous Apse of Sant Climent de Taüll.
And if that is not enough, MNAC offers an extensive collection of Catalan Modernism, featuring pieces by Gaudí, Ramon Casas, and Santiago Rusiñol.
Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace for amazing views of Barcelona!
Arc de Triomf and Parc de la Ciutadella
Ciutadella Park (Parc de la Ciutadella) is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful and historic green spaces, perfect for a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Originally built as a military citadel in the 18th century, it was later transformed into a public park for the 1888 Universal Exposition. Today, it’s home to lush gardens, picturesque walking paths, and stunning landmarks like the Cascada Monumental, a grand fountain partially designed by Gaudí when he was younger.
You will also find the Catalan Parliament here, located in a historic former arsenal building. Art lovers will enjoy the park’s impressive sculptures, including the famous Mammoth statue, a favorite for photos.
Finally, it isn’t Paris, but Barcelona has its own Arc de Triomf, a red brick monument, located by the main entrance to Parc de la Ciutadella.
Mercat de Sant Antoni
Interior of Mercat de San Antoni
So we’ve already covered la Boqueria, but if you are a market lover, we really encourage you to expand your Barcelona horizons and visit a more local market.
Mercat de San Antoni is actually one of our top markets in all of Spain!
This is the local market for the Sant Antoni district, in the large Eixample neighborhood, this market packs lots of history its sprawling steel frame building shaped like an “X.”
The market was designed by local architect and urban planner Antoni Rovira i Trias.
During the week, the market is where you will find locals buying their fresh produce, fish, meat, and more. But on Sundays, the perimeter of the market is popping with booksellers, coin sellers, stamp sellers, and other stalls selling relics of the past.
Las Ramblas (all of them)
La Rambla de Poble Nou
We did not include the famous La Rambla (the one that divides the Gothic Quarter from El Raval) in this blog post because quite frankly, we think it is overrated. But did you know that there is not just one La Rambla in Barcelona? You will find a La Rambla in just about every Barcelona neighborhood and these are totally worth exploring!
La Rambla" comes from the Arabic word "ramla," meaning "sandy riverbed" or "dry stream." Today a “la Rambla” simply means a pedestrian boulevard. Often the pedestrian area is in the middle of the street, with lanes for cars on both sides.
The La Rambla is often the heart of the neighborhood. On a La Ramboa you will usually find sidewalk cafes, shops, and more. At the end of the Rambla de Raval, you will find El Gato de Botero, the cat statue. Poble Nou’s La Rambla is full of hipster coffee spots and unique cafes.
If your time in Barcelona is limited, we recommend skipping a stroll on the popular La Rambla, as it is a tourist trap. But visit some of the neighborhood ramblas! Please continue reading for Barcelona neighborhoods.
Explore Barcelona’s other neighborhoods
We’ve already told you about the Gothic Quarter in our Barcelona travel guide. But here are a few other Barcelona neighborhoods to check out!
Eixample
Corner in Eixample
In Catalan, the word “Eixample” simply means broad or wide. And once you see a Barcelona map with Eixample, you will understand why this neighborhood has that name. It is a wide one!
Eixample is characterized by long straight streets, a strict grid pattern crossed by wide avenues, and square blocks with 45° corners.
The neighborhood houses many of the Gaudís including Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló. But if you look at the every day apartment buildings, you will find so many beautiful Modernista masterpieces.
We think Eixample is the perfect neighborhood to stay in, especially for first time visitors to Barcelona. It’s a nice mix of tourism and locals, has all of the amenities travelers need, and is well connected to the rest of the city. At the very least, set aside some time in your Barcelona, Spain travel itinerary to stroll Eixample’s beautiful boulevards.
El Born
El Born at night
Artsy, cool El Born is part of the Ciutat Vella (old part of Barcelona). Bordering the Gothic Quarter, El Born has a totally different vibe to its more touristy neighbor.
Historically, El Born was developed as a prosperous district, home to merchants, artisans, and noble families. And you will find this spirit today, especially the artistic side.
In the maze of small streets in El Born, you will find many galleries, eateries, and shops selling unique (and locally made) Barcelona souvenirs.
El Born is also where you will find the Picasso Museum, so if you are going to the museum, be sure to save some time to buzz around the neighborhood.
El Raval
Streets of El Raval
If you are looking for edgy and diverse, El Raval is an area you must check out!
Located adjacent to the Gothic Quarter (on the opposite side of El Born), El Raval is also part of the Ciutat Vella (old city).
By the 19th and early 20th centuries, El Raval was an industrial hub, attracting workers, immigrants, and sailors. This period also gave rise to its reputation as the city's red-light district, filled with bars, cabarets, and a vibrant yet gritty nightlife scene.
To this day, El Raval remains gritty, edgy, diverse, and Bohemian. Take some time to stroll around El Raval to get a different side of Barcelona.
Gràcia
Streets of Gràcia
Gràcia, just beyond Eixample, is the perfect neighborhood to explore if you are looking for a village vibe in Barcelona. Though it is a bit further afield, this area is a great choice for staying or just taking a stroll.
Originally an independent town separate from Barcelona, Gràcia was founded in the 17th century. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, it remained a peaceful rural village, attracting artisans, workers, and intellectuals. Like El Raval, but without so much edge, Gràcia became a hotbed for Bohemian culture.
Today Gràcia retains a distinct, independent, and local atmosphere, making it one of the city's most charming and authentic areas to explore.
Poble Nou
Streets of Poble Nou
These days, whenever Spain Less Traveled’s founder Karen visits Barcelona she stays in Poble Nou. Though usually not recommended for accommodation for first time visitors to Barcelona, Poble Nou is worth exploring.
Poble Nou literally means “new village” in Catalan. The area has a fascinating history, evolving from a rural area into Barcelona’s industrial heartland before transforming into a modern innovation hub.
By the late 20th century, Poblenou's factories had largely closed, leaving behind abandoned buildings and a decaying urban landscape. However, with the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, major redevelopment began, revitalizing the neighborhood with new parks, beaches, and public spaces. Today, Poblenou is a thriving district known for its technology startups, modern architecture, and vibrant art scene.
Though it is a but further away from the center, it is still very walkable and well connected with the rest of the city by bus and metro. This is the prefect Barcelona neighborhood to experience a modern and local side of the city.
Getting around Barcelona
Getting around Barcelona is easy. You have many options and you do not want or need a rental car in the city (don’t do it!). Even better, public transportation in Barcelona is integrated into Google maps, making getting from point A to point B a breeze!
Metro
Barcelona’s metro system is extensive. There are eight fully functional metro lines as well as commuter lines and some light rail lines. The Metro will get you just about everywhere within the city limits, and quickly.
Bus
If you prefer to travel overland, the bus system in Barcelona is top notch. Though not as fast as the metro, buses will get you just about everywhere, and often with great views as you travel.
The bus and metro systems are integrated into the same payment system. If you will be using the system often, it is best to get a T-casual 10 ride pass.
Walking
Barcelona is a walkers’ paradise! If you have time and energy, a walk across the city is a great way to really see the city. Instead of going underground or whizzing from attraction to attraction, consider walking. You will find so many hidden gems along the way.
Cycling
City share bikes in Barcelona
Cycling is another great way to get around Barcelona. You will find bike lanes throughout the city. You can either rent a bike at one of the many outfitters or join AMBici, Barcelona’s new bike share program, offering electric bikes.
Taxi
Barcelona taxis
Taxis in Barcelona are quick, plentiful, and not prohibitively expensive. Official Barcelona taxis are black and yellow. You will find them at taxi ranks and you can usually easily hail them on the streets too. Taxis are great for filling in larger gaps, and when you are just too tired to walk or deal with public transportation. We much prefer official taxis over ride shares such as Uber and Bolt. The driver will use the meter and is trained to get you around town safely and efficiently.
Get out of Barcelona for a day (or two)!
Girona, our favorite Barcelona day trip
With major train connections and a plethora of bus routes, it is easy to take a day trip out of Barcelona. And there are so many options. With so many options such as quaint coastal towns, Medieval cities and villages, wine tasting, mountain escapes, hot spots for Roman Ruins and more, there is a day trip from Barcelona to suit every type of traveler.
Here are some of our top recommended day trips from Barcelona! Even more reasons to make sure Barcelona is a part of your Spain travel itinerary.
You also might want to check out our other in depth guides by region.
Finally, a word about responsible tourism in Barcelona
Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain. This is no surprise since Barcelona enjoys a privileged spot on the Mediterranean coast, an ideal climate, and so many things to see and do. It is also a major cruise ship port and its airport offers flights from all over Spain, Europe, and the world.
However the downside to this is with between 11-14 million people visiting Barcelona each year, parts of the city can be plagued by not-so-sustainable tourism. In fact, overtourism is indeed hurting many who live in the city and are from the area.
There are some locals who are (rightfully) angry about tourism. Therefore engaging in responsible, sustainable, and ethical tourism in Barcelona is so important.
A few tips for responsible, sustainable travel in Barcelona for well informed travelers:
Learn a few words or phrases in Catalan and use them. Locals really appreciate the effort to at least understand that Catalan is the language of Barcelona. Trust us, you will get huge smiles in return.
Hire local tour guides and use tour companies based in Barcelona. Don’t visit Barcelona as part of a cruise or a big group tour.
Avoid staying in Airbnbs in Barcelona. The Airbnb debate is global, and the use of it is questionable worldwide. But historically Airbnbs have really taken a toll on housing inventory in Barcelona. The city has a number of measures and regulations in place to soften the blow. But it is still recommended to opt for hotels, aparthotels, and guesthouses instead.
Be mindful of how you treat the city. This is not your playground and things like getting out of control drunk on the streets are rude. This city is home to over one million people, who live and work, and are not on vacation.
Likewise, Barcelona is a not a beach resort. Swimwear should only be worn on the beach and not in the city itself.
Finally, keep a close eye on your things, especially your valuables. Pick pocketing and mobile phone theft can be problematic, especially in crowded spaces and in the more touristic areas of the city. Violent crime is rare, and Barcelona is a safe city. But petty theft does happen.
Be sure to check out our commitment to encouraging responsible, sustainable, and ethical travel.
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