Spain’s crowning glory, Barcelona, is one of the must-visits if you’re into culture, creativity, and a whole lot of fun. There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona, as you’ll find out on your trip, and it offers an unmatched charm that fuses history, architecture, cultural significance, and a vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle uniquely.

Here are tons of attractions for tourists, from Antoni Gaudi’s famous creations to the elegant Gothic Quarter, beautiful beaches, and some of the world’s most delicious culinary treats. The best part is that Barcelona, being the capital of Catalonia (a place with its own culture and language), has not only eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, but also many famous global festivals, and the glimmering Mediterranean coastline and mountains nearby.

So, without further ado, let’s get into the top sights and sounds, key landmarks, activities, and everything else that you need to cover on your trip. 

Top Things to Do in Barcelona

There’s a lot of sightseeing that you can do in the city, and here’s a list of places to visit in Barcelona that you should make a note of. 

1. Explore Antoni Gaudi’s Architectural Masterpieces

Antoni Gaudi’s timeless masterpieces are some of the biggest Barcelona tourist attractions. Some of them include the following:

Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is arguably the biggest Gaudi marvel that you shouldn’t miss! Explore this iconic church with its stunning basilica, columns, stained-glass windows, and the usage of the hyperboloid vault. 

• Make sure you book tickets in advance and use the dedicated app with its audio guide. 
• Dress modestly and cover your knees and shoulders while checking out the Passion and Navy facades and the views of Barcelona from the towers. 
• Other must-see attractions include the crypt and the Sagrada Familia Museum. 

Park Guell

A UNESCO World Heritage site, it was designed between 1900 and 1914 and has now become a public park showcasing unique architectural elements juxtaposed with fabulous city views. 

• From the lovely mosaics and organic forms to serpentine beaches, there’s a lot to savor here. Don’t forget to take a picture with El Drac at the entrance! 
• You should also visit the Gaudi House Museum here, which was once Antoni Gaudi’s home for about two decades. 
• Book your tickets online, and don’t miss the Monumental Zone, Hypostyle Room, and Dragon Fountain. 
• Check the official website for opening hours and updated details. 
• Consider visiting early, around 9-9.30 AM or in the late afternoon/evening before closing. 

Casa Batllo

Nestled in Passeig de Gracia, Casa Batllo showcases the Modernista style of Gaudi and was finished in 1906. 

• Don’t miss the House of Bones with its amazing columns, balconies and a charming façade.
• Legends speak of how Gaudi drew inspiration from the tale of Saint George and the Dragon for its creation, with the roof looking just like a dragon’s scales. 
• Tickets usually sell out, so book as early as you can! A gold ticket gives you access to all the rooms, including the must-see Gaudi dome and the augmented reality tablet. 
• Timings are from 9 AM to 8 PM, and you can book tickets in advance online. 

Casa Mila (La Pedrera)

You will fall in love with this amazing building known as The Quarry. Dating back to 1912, it comes with a rough and charming stone-hewn façade with wrought-iron balconies and beautiful courtyards.  

• You may book tickets online to skip queues or get a Barcelona City Pass with discounts/free entry. 
• The best time to go is between 9-10 AM or after 4 PM. 
• Don’t miss the rooftop for the views and the Espai Gaudi exhibition on the top floor. 

2. Get Lost in the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)

One of the places to go in Barcelona (without fail!) is the Gothic Quarter or Barri Gotic, as they call it. Picture a wonderland with medieval streets and vibrant squares and find several hidden gems that will bowl you over.

Get lost in the maze of winding and narrow lanes and visit the Barcelona Cathedral, Placa Sant Jaume, and, of course, the Las Ramblas zone. Other attractions include the Picasso Museum, Placa Reial, and the Jewish Quarter or El Call. 

Some must-visits include: 

Barcelona Cathedral

The Cathedral offers a fabulous rooftop view, Chapter Hall, Diocesan Museum, Crypt, and the cloister with its fountain, garden, and Well of Geese.

Entry is free to the cloisters and central have, while you’ll need tickets for the rooftop, choir, Capitular Room, Chapter Hall, and museum. They are available at the site or online, and you can visit between 9.30 AM and 6.30 PM on weekdays and till 5/5.15 PM on weekends. 

Placa Reial

One of the best Barcelona attractions, it’s a charming square for hangouts while offering several restaurants, nightlife joints, a fountain, palm trees, and stunning neoclassical buildings. Open-air concerts take place during summer, while iconic establishments here include the Sidecar Factory Bar. 

Museu d’Historia de Barcelona

MUHBA offers a glimpse into ancient Roman ruins just below the Placa del Rei square. Enjoy exploring this open-air museum, which showcases the city’s historical aspects, journeying from the Stone Age to Catalonian Modernism and even the Spanish Civil War.

3. Take a Stroll on La Rambla

A must-visit in Barcelona, La Rambla is a bustling and lively street where you’ll enjoy varied street performances and other attractions. Check out the lovely flower stalls here, along with everything from human statues to kiosks offering souvenirs and many other items. 

Of course, you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants along with the iconic La Boqueria Market (which dates back to 1217) and stunning buildings like the Liceu Theater and the Virreina. It’s also close to the Placa Reial and you’ll find quite a few clubs and bars here too.

The La Boqueria Market has 200+ stands with delicious food, cava, fresh produce, smoothies, and a lot more! When you’re in La Rambla, visit early in the morning before 9 AM or come in the late evening if you want to avoid the crowds. Also, beware of pickpockets and keep your valuables safe. 

4. Get Enthralled At the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a dazzling fountain with amazing light and sound shows, water jets, music, lighting, and plenty more. Interestingly, it was built for the Universal Exposition by Carles Buigas in 1929. Watch 3,500+ jets spraying 700 gallons per second and catch the best views from the stairs and balcony of the MNAC over the fountain.

Other viewing spots include the pedestrian bridge from Plaza Espanya or even the eighth-floor terrace of the Catalonia Barcelona Plaza.  Don’t miss exploring the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC), which is nestled over the Montjuic hill and offers a fabulous collection of exhibits.

Another place worth checking out is the Montjuic Castle, which is 173 meters above sea level with 360-degree panoramic views of the region. It was built back in 1640 and comes with several hidden wonders, including the bastions, parade ground, façade, moat, watchtower, and more. 

A fun fact: The moat has a sculpture paying tribute to the metre since this was where this measurement unit was defined in 1792 by French astronomer and geographer Pierre-André Méchain.  

5. Relax on Barcelona’s Beaches

Barcelona also has plenty of gorgeous beaches for you to check out. For starters, Barceloneta Beach has a lively and happening vibe with plenty of watersports activities to check out and delicious seafood. Enjoy the soft and golden sands and frolic in the clear waters. There is also a kids’ playing zone, table tennis and beach volleyball facilities and even a library. Come evening, the bars light up here too. It’s free to visit, although you should never swim without a lifeguard being present. 

Bogatell Beach is a popular hangout with a more relaxed and family-friendly vibe, with amenities like ping-pong tables, a volleyball court, a football pitch, and more. Beware of pickpockets and look out for jellyfish warnings while you’re here. Indulge in kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing, and other adventure activities or visit the Port Vell de Barcelona.

Some other options include the Mar Bella Beach (an iconic nude beach), Somorrostro Beach, and the Nova Icaria Beach (a family-friendly spot). 

6. Enjoy the Views from Bunkers del Carmel

Here’s what you need to know about the Bunkers del Carmel, one of the top things to do in Barcelona. 

Key Aspects: 

• The Carmel Bunkers is a special viewpoint which offers a 360° view of the city that you simply MUST capture. 
• You can visit at sunset for the best experiences, in terms of the weather conditions and for a glimpse of the city bathed in a golden hue. 
• It’s located right at the top of Turo de la Rovira with a height of 262 meters and is a former antiaircraft defense site during the Spanish Civil War. 
• It will take you around 1-2 hours to reach the top, although you can always take a bus uphill and then walk for a few minutes. 
• Make sure you bring refreshments and water if you’re climbing to the site. 

Best Places to Visit in Barcelona

Let’s look at some places beyond the popular spots mentioned above. 

1. Poble Espanyol

This Spanish Village is an open-air museum that was built for the World Exposition in 1929, displaying streets, buildings, and squares from several regions of the country. It’s right on the Montjuic hill near the magic fountain, and you can check out the bars, shops, restaurants, and workshops here. Don’t miss the Feeling Spain immersive experience, Fiesta space, and Fran Daurel Museum. 

2. Tibidabo Amusement Park

You’ll love the unique location over the hill with gorgeous views and fun rides. It dates back to 1905 and offers glimpses of several landmarks like the Giradabo Ferris wheel and the Avio airplane ride. There’s also a church at the highest level, namely the Sagrat Cor. Use the Funicular and Tramvia Blau for a lovely journey to the spot. 

3. Palau de la Musica Catalana

A UNESCO World Heritage site, it showcases fabulous Catalan Modernist architecture by Lluis Domenech i Montaner and offers a lovely concert hall for you to visit. Other attractions include a teardrop-shaped skylight, amazing interior decorations (Catalan-themed), the popular Mirador restaurant, and Café Palan. 

Where to Stay in Barcelona 

Finding proper Barcelona accommodation is a must for an enjoyable stay in the city. Some of the top neighborhoods worth considering include: 

Eixample

It’s the best for those who love Gaudi, with its multiple architectural wonders and is also centrally located. A posh and trendy locality, it comes with a grid-like layout and high-end shopping outlets and eateries. You’ll find the Casa Batllo and Sagrada Familia here, along with some quaint cafes and cocktail lounges. 

Barceloneta

La Barceloneta is a triangular and iconic locality which is popular for its gorgeous beaches, classic fishing heritage, and easy access to the port. Key attractions include the Marina Port Vell, La Barceloneta Beach, and more. There’s no dearth of clubs and cafes here, along with amazing seafood joints. Of course, the stays are costlier here, although it’s ideal for beach enthusiasts. 

Gothic Quarter

This is one locality with its signature historic appeal and has plenty of boutique hotels and landmarks. You’ll love the medieval alleys, trendy clubs and bars, happening eateries, flower stalls, and the Cathedral of Barcelona in the area. La Rambla is where you should head for street food, while the weekend art market at Placa del Pi is also extremely popular. 

What Accommodation to Choose? 

Choosing a serviced apartment in Barcelona is a good option if you’re looking for an extended/long stay. They offer more space, privacy, and comfort in comparison to regular hotels while providing hotel-like amenities. You will appreciate the prime locations and reasonable rates, along with the flexible long or short-term leases as per your needs. Of course, there are units tailored for both business travellers (with specialized amenities) and families. 

Final Thoughts

As you’ll see, there are multiple things to do in Barcelona, from exploring its historic buildings and thoroughfares to the beaches, natural wonders, and a lot more. Plan a trip soon and experience the sheer beauty of the city that will make you fall in love instantly! For your accommodation needs, consider booking serviced apartments at TheSqua.re online. It will make your trip more memorable.