25 Best Places to Visit and Things to do in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a city with some of the most awe-inspiring Gothic structures, stunning Modernist artworks, and astir beaches. Whether it is gorging on tapas at the food market, watching an intense match at FC Barcelona’s home ground, or the masterpieces by Picasso and Gaudi that bring you here, the city ensures that there is never a dull moment around here. Not convinced yet? Head to our list of the top things to do in Barcelona to find out more.

Sagrada Familia

The magnificent spires, rainbow-stained glass, and unconventional animal depictions make this Antonio Gaudi masterpiece one of the top Barcelona attractions. This dreamlike Sagrada Familia church fuses Art Nouveau, Catalan Modernism, and Spanish Late-Gothic styles of architecture. This minor basilica, dedicated to the Holy Family, is the world’s largest unfinished church building and is set to be completed by 2026. Once finished, Sagrada Familia shall be the tallest church building in the world.

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Address: Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: Saturday-Sunday: 09:00 am to 07:30 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/ff6HGY9vkcU9wzwe9 | Phone number: +34932080414

Las Ramblas

Starting from Plaça de Catalunya, this splendid series of promenades stretch for a mile up to Port Vell. Las Ramblas comes alive with activity in summer, with tourists bustling around admiring the floral stands, street artists, and candy stalls. Do visit the mirador at the Columbus Monument to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Once you arrive at the waterfront, you can continue along the same path and head to either the Aquarium or the Maremagnum mall. A word of caution – Watch your pockets, as pickpockets are known to be quite active here.

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Address: Las Ramblas, Barcelona, Spain | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/7y15ppTjrY7Nck8t8

Cathedral of Barcelona

This large Gothic structure that predates the La Sagrada Familia by six centuries looms over the narrow lanes surrounding it and is one of the top Barcelona attractions. Around 2000 years ago, a Roman temple stood in its place, and today, it is dedicated to Eulalia, the co-patron saint of Barcelona. The short elevator ride leading to the rooftop tour offers an opportunity to gape at the skyline. Regardless of your faith, this cathedral is sure to catch your eye thanks to the stunning Gothic architecture.

By J. Ligero Loarte, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Pla de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 08:00 am to 12:45 pm, 01:00 to 05:30 pm, 05:45 pm to 07:30 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/U7fHnEEGeiqXrh927 | Phone number: +34933151554

Casa Batlló

The image that instantly springs to mind when one thinks of Casa Batllo is that of Monet’s Water Lilies. Another masterpiece by Gaudi, Casa Batllo, was commissioned by textile manufacturer Joseph Batllo at the turn of the 20th century. Nature’s influence on Gaudi’s architecture is exemplified by the lack of straight lines in this building and the stone pillars that are twisted like animal bones. An ocean-blue stairwell and a cozy mushroom-shaped fireplace await you inside the building, making it one of the best places to visit in Barcelona.

By ChristianSchd, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Passeig de Gracia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 09:00 am to 09:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/puawY9dtdAQHm4f39 | Phone number: +34932160306

Visit the food heaven La Boqueria

There is something for all your senses at the La Boqueria – a dash of color meets the eye as you pass the technicolored stalls, various aromas tantalize your taste buds, and a continuous background score of glasses clinking and traders shouting Hola fill the ears. Tourists throng to this vibrant market – nearly 45,000 visit each day to sample the city’s finest fresh produce, seafood, cold meat, and cheese. Grab some tapa and wash it down with a glass of cava wine from the bars or fruit smoothie from the stalls when you visit La Boqueria.

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Address: La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 08:00 am to 08:30 pm, Sunday – Closed | Google map location: https://g.page/la-boqueria-barcelona?share | Phone number: +34934132303

Casa Milà

Casa Mila is also known as La Pedrera which translates to the quarry, as the intricate masonry resembles the face of a quarry. Originally built as a residence for the elite industrialist Pere Milà i Camps, this building is the final civil work of Antonio Gaudi. This modernist building is striking for many reasons. Once you enter the building, you cannot help but marvel at the curved walls, slanted pillars, and wavy patios. The underground car park adds to the unconventional charm of this building and makes it one of the best places to visit in Barcelona.

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Address: Passeig de Gracia, 92, 08008 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: Friday-Sunday: 09:00 am to 08:00 pm | Google map location: https://g.page/casamila?share | Phone number: +34932142576

The very famous Park Guell

Juxtaposed to the Collserola foothills, Park Guell on Carmel Hill is another of Gaudi’s masterpieces. Gaudi’s affinity to nature is evident from the mosaic lizard, pillars that seem like tree trunks, and the uneven arches. The beautiful fountains, spiral towers, and sculptures induce further appreciation for the architect from tourists. Haven’t had enough of Gaudi just yet? Visit his house museum where many of his pieces of furniture and ornamental items are displayed. With only 400 visitors being allowed every thirty minutes inside Park Guell, it is a good idea to book in advance.

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Address: 08024 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 09:30 am to 07:30 pm | Google map location: https://g.page/ParkGuellOficial?share | Phone number: +34934091831

Visit FC Barcelona’s home stadium Camp Nou

If you find yourself being dragged to Camp Nou by a football fanatic, thank him. Whether or not you intend on cheering for FC Barcelona in the match, your mind will be blown by the sheer size of their home ground which seats almost 100,000 people. Wonder what the players’ adrenaline rush must feel like while entering a packed Camp Nou before a big match? A ‘player’s tunnel’ simulates this experience on the guided tour. If you are a Barca fan making a pilgrimage, do check out the team’s trophies at the museum.

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Address: C. d’Arístides Maillol, 12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: Mon to Sat 09:30 am to 7:30 pm Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/RVcbwSNJstvkgwwT6 | Phone number: +34902189900

Montjuïc

Built for the 1929 International Exhibition, this district on the iconic hill houses is one of the top things to do in Barcelona. Tourists are first greeted by the Magic Fountain. Next up is the grand stairway leading up to the National Museum of Catalan Art. As you climb these steps, stunning panoramas of Barcelona will accompany you. The other museums here are the Ethnology Museum and the Museum of Archaeology. The fortress has witnessed action during both the Catalan Revolt and the Spanish Civil War, following which it was turned into a prison.

By Jorge Franganillo, CC BY 2.0, Link

Address: Plaça de Santa Maria, 1, 08003 Barcelona, Spain | Timing:Monday-Saturday: 09:00 am to 01:00 pm, 05:00 am to 08:30 pm, Sunday: 10:00 am to 02:00 pm, 05:00 pm to 08:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/M6kr1agScs9bPRND9 | Phone number: +34933102390

Museum of the history of Barcelona

Located in the medieval Gothic Quarter, the history museum helps you uncover the various layers of the city’s history via elevated passageways. An elevator ride to the bottom of the site will take you to the remains of a garum factory, Barcino’s walls, and wash houses. On the upper floors, you shall discover the arches of Palau Reial Major. Visiting Plaça del Rei is one of the most sought after Barcelona things to do.

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Address: Plaça del Rei, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 10:00 am to 02:00 pm, 03:00 pm to 08:00 pm, Mondays closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/5KGwtpVb7UTC74vS6 | Phone number: +34932562100

Explore the neighborhood of Gràcia

To sample life in a peaceful neighborhood in the otherwise buzzing city, visit Gracia. As you take a stroll on the narrow streets and pass by the small squares, you will realize that this area is somewhat different from the rest of Barcelona. The observation won’t be completely off the mark. Actually, the neighborhood became a part of Barcelona only in the 20th century. While it is a good idea to visit Gracia anytime during the year, the best time to do so is in August because of the street fair Festa Major.

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Address: Gracia, Barcelona, Spain | Google map location:https://goo.gl/maps/avKLR4us6EBeW5JW7

Joan Miró Foundation

Situated on the Montjuic, this museum offers insight into the many Surrealist and Dadaist works of this Catalan artist. Joan Miro himself set up the Fundació Joan Miró in 1968 to encourage contemporary art in Barcelona. He collaborated with Josep Lluís Sert on the building’s architectural design, and there seems to be a rare harmony in the styles of the museum and the works inside. The more than 10,000 paintings and sculptures on display reflect the spirit of the city. Along with Miro’s work, the art from the 20th and 21st centuries is also occasionally displayed in the building. No tour is complete without seeing the rib-tickling ‘Man and Woman in Front of a Pile of Excrement’.

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Address: Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: Friday- Sunday: 11:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google map location: https://g.page/FundacioMiro?share | Phone number: +34934439470

Tibidabo

If you are unsure of what to do in Barcelona while visiting it with children, head to Tibidabo. High on a summit, this fairground presents the perfect opportunity to enjoy the panorama of the city. A large bronze statue of Jesus towers over the dreamlike Sagrat Cor (Sacred Heart) basilica. You can take an elevator ride to the top of the statue. If you like hiking, you could amble along the 31-square-mile Parc de Collserola. A visit to the retro theme park with a charming carousel and a bright Ferris wheel is one of the most fun things to do in Barcelona.

By Jorge Franganillo, CC BY 2.0, Link

Address: Plaça del Tibidabo, 3, 4, 08035 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 11:00 am to 09:00 pm | Google map location: https://g.page/ParcTibidabo?share | Phone number: +34932117942

Enjoy classical music at El Palau de la Musica Catalana

Created by Gaudi’s contemporary, the Barcelona-born Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this UNESCO World Heritage site is almost a mosaic kaleidoscope. The architecture of El Palau de la Musica Catalana is a celebration of natural light glinting off the chandeliers and stained glass. Everything from operas, jazz, symphonies, and flamenco to folk music is played in this concert hall. Artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Paco de Lucía, and Norah Jones have performed in El Palau de la Musica Catalana in the past.

By Jiuguang Wang, CC BY-SA 3.0 es, Link

Address : C/ Palau de la Música, 4-6, 08003 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 09:00 am to 09:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/G388SMkkwwD6P7ff9 | Phone number: +34932957200

Labyrinth Park of Horta

Head to this cypress maze when unsure about what to do in Barcelona. Remember Theseus who destroys the Minotaur and follows the thread given by his beloved Ariadne to solve the maze in the Greek myth? Tourists who reach the center of this labyrinth are greeted by love just like him. However, in this perfectly pruned park, love is in the form of a statue of Cupid. The lily ponds and sculptures of mythological figures ensure that there is never a dull moment around the park.

By Canaan, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, 08035 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 10:00 am to 06:15 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/w3odg4xJCEyQv1E66 | Phone number: +34931537010

Hang around the Medieval Gothic Quarter

The medieval century squares of Barri Gotic open into arcaded streets that add to the antique charm and make it one of the best things to see in Barcelona. Plaça del Rei, which boasts of having been a center of all noble activity of the city in the past, today houses the Barcelona City History Museum. Fun fact – On his return from the New World, Christopher Columbus was welcomed by the Catalan-Aragonese monarchs at Plaça del Rei. The neighborhood houses some of the best markets in the city. If you love antiques, heading over to the Mercat Gotic on a Sunday morning should be on your Barcelona things to-do list.

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Address: Barri Gotic, Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 08:00 am to 12:45 pm and 05:45 pm to 07:30 pm Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/TDxCp6C7GSpnTdnK7

Picasso museum

A 14-year-old Picasso came to Barcelona from Malaga and worked here as an apprentice. The Cubist pioneer chose this place to house his museum – five exquisite 13th and 14th-century palaces with Gothic passageways leading up to his studios downstairs. Regal rooms with crystal chandeliers and elaborately painted ceilings await the tourists upstairs. Some of his masterpieces, such as The Weeping Woman and Guernica, are amiss here. However, the other 4,251 works, almost his entire portfolio up to the Blue Period, more than make up for their absence.

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Address: Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 10:00 am to 07:00 pm, Mondays closed | Google map location:https://g.page/museupicassobarcelona?share | Phone number: +34932563000

Block of Discord

The four most famous Catalan modernists – Antoni Gaudí, Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Lluís Domènech i Montaner and Enric Sagnier – appear on this block in Passeig de la Gràcia. There is no better place in Barcelona to learn about the Modernist Movement than Manzana de la Discòrdia. The ‘discord’ here is a reference to the internal rivalry among these architects. While each of these architects had an impressive and lasting impact on the region’s landscape, Gaudi surged way ahead of his competition with the architecture of Casa Batllo.

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 41, 08007 Barcelona, SpainTiming: All days- 11:00 am to 07:00 pm, Sundays closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/umZzJBDpSgDdkGie9

Santa Maria del Mar

This Gothic structure, just as popular for its architecture as for the stories about its creation and resilience, has to feature on your list of top Barcelona attractions. Each rock that you see here was once heaved from the neighboring hills and coastline by ordinary citizens. Shaken by a major earthquake in 1428 and set on fire and burned for eleven days during the Spanish Civil War, this resilient church stands tall on its slender columns. The brilliant stained-glass panels of the church flood natural light into the space between the tall columns.

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Address: Plaça de Santa Maria, 1, 08003 Barcelona, Spain | Timing:Monday-Saturday: 09:00 am to 01:00 pm, 05:00 am to 08:30 pm, Sunday: 10:00 am to 02:00 pm, 05:00 pm to 08:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/M6kr1agScs9bPRND9 | Phone number: +34933102390

Ciutadella park

If you want to escape the bustling streets of the city for a while and do not know what to do in Barcelona, the lush Parc de la Ciutadella is the perfect spot. Whether you intend on taking a leisurely promenade or a boat ride on the serene lake, you will find that the calmness of the garden washes over you. This 19th-century garden has a zoo, a local parliament, and multiple works of art spread across it. The golden waterfall Cascada Monumental, the cast iron palm house, and the winter garden Hivernacle are some of the stunning artworks that greet tourists in this park.

By Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Passeig de Picasso, 21, 08003 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 10:00 am to 10:30 pm Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/RvbnmNKCavbHSraC9 | Phone number: +34638237115

Relax in the Barceloneta

The chaotic energy of this beach can be seen in all the activities happening on it – vendors shout over the crashing waves and bustling crowds move in and out of the trendy shops and bars that dot the beach. The Barceloneta beach is a strip of sand planked on one end by the W Hotel and on the other by the starchitect Frank Gehry’s glitzy fish sculpture. It is not a pristine beach like the south of France but a loud, boisterous place with lots of music, bars, and delicious food. Head to the Restaurante Barceloneta for some excellent Catalan seafood.

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Address: Barceloneta, Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 24/7 Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZvtQXKRshDDUhetb9 | Phone number: customer service 1-800-397-3342

Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site

Built to treat the unwell with a visual art treat and ample sunlight, the architecture of this site has all the features of Catalan art nouveau. It is difficult to imagine anyone who would have minded recuperating in this garden city with the grand domes, elaborate columns, and stained glass panels. In 2009, it was shifted northward, renovated, and transformed into an art museum. Once a place for healing the sick, the site today holds the ramps of the Barcelona Fashion Week.

By Montse Poch, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: Carrer de Sant Antoni Maria Claret, 167, 08025 Barcelona, Spain | Timing: 10:00 am to 02:30 pm; Sat and Sun- 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Mondays closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/wCU9yUwrk46MQ5Ky6 | Phone number: +34935537801

The Paella Club

If you are impressed by La Boqueria and would like to explore more of Barcelona’s culinary scene, the Paella Club has to be the next on your list. At a walking distance from La Boqueria, you will find this unique cooking class with its rustic chalkboards, industrial style kitchen and shelves stocked with wine and oil. You will be greeted by wine, and the energy of the place is simply infectious making it one of the best things to do in Barcelona. The lessons range from two to five courses, and vegetarian options are also available. Reservations are needed for the class.

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Address: Carrer del Dr. Dou, 5, 08001 Barcelona, Spain | Timing:Monday-Saturday: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Sunday: 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/AwQgGK2u6t8uhRS8A | Phone number: +34672272276

Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art

Created by the American architect Richard Meier, the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art celebrates the work of upcoming Catalan artists. It exhibits art starting from the mid-20th century and also gives a platform to young artists to display their work. With Gaudi and other legendary artists leaving such a lasting impact on the city, it is easy for tourists to get immersed in art history and miss the present. If you are interested in exploring the current art scene, the luminous hall of this museum presents the perfect opportunity to do so.

By Robertgombos, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Plaça dels Àngels, 1, 08001 Barcelona, Spain | Timing:Monday: 11:00 am to 07:30 pm, Wednesday-Friday: 11:00 am to 07:30 pm, Saturday: 10:00 am to 08:00 pm, Sunday: 10:00 am to 03:00 pm, Tuesday: Closed Google map location: https://g.page/MACBA-Barcelona?share | Phone number: +34934120810

Human Towers

Castells or the human towers are generally performed during a festival before the town hall. More than 8,000 of them spring up each year as teams compete to build the tallest ones in the shortest amount of time. Castells may go up to 10 stacks. A child scrambles to the top of the Castell and raises four fingers that represent the Catalan flag’s stripes and then the tower must disassemble without tumbling down. The heart beats faster as layers of human beings stack on top of one another in this adrenaline rush inducing activity.