Barcelona occupies a special place in my heart. This is the city where I started my journey as a travel blogger. And I am glad that my first solo trip destination was the “NYC of Europe” – Barcelona. Why would I say that? Because the city never sleeps! I still remember how excited I was while preparing a list of the things to tick off my Barcelona bucket list.
After all, the city has a mix of everything – classic Gaudi architecture, lovely museums for art and history lovers, relaxed beach vibes, fabulous food and drink scene, buzzing nightlife, plenty of opportunities for day trips and adventure activities, and vibrant culture. No wonder this crowning jewel of Spain is a hot favourite among tourists and a must-do in your Spanish bucket list.
Barcelona Bucket List Activities – Explore Barcelona Like a Local
Barcelona is a traveller’s dream. There’s so much to do in the city that the mere thought of travelling to Barcelona can make you as excited as a little kid in a candy shop. But too many choices can also result in a lot of confusion.
So to make your travel planning easier, I, along with my fellow travel bloggers have created a comprehensive list of the best Barcelona bucket list activities. It is a well-rounded list which ensures that the requirements of every kind of traveller are met.
It includes all the things to see and do in (and around) Barcelona – mainstream Barcelona attractions, Barcelona hidden gems, Barcelona food and drinks experiences, things to do in Barcelona at night, and even an odd day trip from Barcelona that shows you another side of Spain.
So whether you’re a first-time traveller or somebody who’s already been to the city, I’m sure this list will give you the inspiration to visit Barcelona and explore Barcelona like a local.
Ultimate Barcelona Bucket List
Here’s a list of the best things to see & do in Barcelona that you need to include in your Barcelona bucket list.
Casa Mila
Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera, is the last private residence designed by the world-renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. It was his last project before he devoted his time to Sagrada Familia. Casa Mila was built between 1906 to 1912 and was commissioned by Pere Mila (a wealthy industrialist) and his wife Roser Segimon as a new home for their family. Eventually, they rented out the other apartments.
It was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Today, Casa Mila is the headquarter of Fundacio Catalunya La Pedrera which serves to protect the heritage, development, and culture of Catalonia. This makes it worthy of being included in your Barcelona bucket list.
Considered as one of the most iconic works of Gaudi, this private residence also shows the quirky and unconventional designs present in most of Gaudi’s works. If you’re into architecture, then you have to add Casa Mila to your Barcelona itinerary.
The building is nothing but spectacular, startling at first but also somewhat futuristic. Like other Gaudi’s works, Casa Mila is extraordinary with nothing common in every corner of the building.
There are tours being offered if you want to see the inside of the building. You can choose from the private group tours ranging from € 29 to € 41. But if you want to tour the building on your own, you can buy the ticket from the ticket office for € 27. To save money and time, you can also buy it online for only € 24. This way you don’t have to queue as well.
If you only want to see the building from the outside, the building is located in the corner street of Passeig de Gràcia so you can see it without any obstruction. There’s also a coffee shop inside the building if you want to save money and at the same time, see a bit of the interior.
The best place to stay nearby is Hotel Royal Passeig de Gràcia, which is right across Casa Mila. If you are on a budget, then The Loft Hostel is an ideal place to stay and is just a block away.
Depending on which part of Barcelona you’re coming from, it is quite easy to get here as it’s located on one of the main roads in Barcelona. If you’re taking the metro, get off at Diagonal station (blue line L5 or green line L3) and just walk for few minutes to get to Casa Mila. It’s also walking distance from Sagrada Familia. It’s only one straight road to walk from Sagrada to Casa Mila and takes around 15 minutes.
Contributed by Christine Rogador from Hop Upon
Visit The Sagrada Familia Cathedral
The Sagrada Familia Cathedral may be the last great Gothic-inspired Cathedral to ever be built. A work-in-progress, it’s a fascinating place to learn about Gaudi’s style and architecture, and to see what goes into constructing a modern, mega Cathedral.
The Sagrada Familia, even unfinished, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. To visit the Sagrada Familia you must buy your ticket ahead of time. While a ticket may seem pricey (€ 26 with Audioguide), it is well worth it.
The audio guide is fabulous and the museum below the church, detailing it’s construction, is incredible as well. The Cathedral is open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 3 pm. Make sure to buy your ticket early!
You can get to Sagrada Familia on the Barcelona Metro lines – L2 and L5, getting off at the Sagrada Familia stop. It’s best to go later in the afternoon, as the light streams through the windows, illuminating the entire Cathedral in marvellous colours!
Also, do not forget the dress code. This is a working Catholic Cathedral where no revealing clothing is allowed. Your shirts must cover the shoulders. If you’re looking for a good place to stay nearby, then check out the Boutique Hostemplo Sagrada Familia.
Contributed by Cate from Sacred Wanderings
Magic Fountain Of Montjuic
The Magic Fountain of Montjuic is one of the best things to do in Barcelona at night. It is a spectacular display of light, colour, motion, and music that deserves to be on your Barcelona bucket list. Built in the year 1929, the fountain is currently a free attraction and a must-see for visitors in Barcelona.
If you were to visit the fountain in the daytime, it wouldn’t look particularly special, so you need to go in the evening when the show is on. The show happens between 8 pm and 9:30 pm, depending on the time of year, so be sure to look it up before you go.
It’s recommended to get to the fountain early if you want a good view, as it can get very crowded, particularly in the summer. Take some drinks and snacks to enjoy while you watch. You can buy cold cans of beer for $1 from the street sellers, but this is apparently illegal so be careful if you do this.
The easiest way to get to the fountain is to take an Uber. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Placa Espana or there are several buses that stop nearby. A great hotel to stay nearby is the Ayre Hotel Gran Vía.
There are plenty of quality accommodations available in several areas and you can choose them depending on what else you plan to do in Barcelona. For example, if you’re exploring Barcelona before or after a cruise, you’ll find some great hotels near Barcelona cruise port.
Contributed by Jenni Fielding from Cruise Mummy
Barcelona Port Cable Car
The Barcelona Port Cable Car (Teleferico del Puerto) is an absolute must-do if you’re visiting Barcelona. This cable car will take you from the park of Montjuic to the beach at La Barceloneta in around 20 minutes.
Riding from one of the highest points of the city to the port, you’ll experience the most incredible views across the skyline to the distant mountains of Spain’s interior and across the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
As you dangle in the air, high above the city, you can spot the famous landmark of Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s splendid cathedral which is not yet finished. Look to the north and you’ll see the Tibidabo amusement park, and to the east, the modern buildings on the seafront.
To enjoy the best trip, take the cable car down from Montjuic to the port. To get to the port cable car station, head from Place d’Espanya up the steps, past the incredible fountains and cascades, to the pretty Laribal gardens.
Take the path through the gardens until you reach Avinguda de l’Estadi and turn left. You’ll pass the Teleferic de Montjuic station but don’t stop here, this cable car takes you around the mountain, not the port! Head for Place de l’Armada, where you’ll find the station.
The walk, which takes around 45 minutes, will take you past some of the other bucket list attractions in Barcelona. You cannot book your ticket in advance but since cars run throughout the day from 11 am, you shouldn’t have to wait too long, especially if you’re visiting outside of summer or arriving early.
The cost of a one-way ticket is € 11. An ideal place to stay nearby is Hotel 54 Barceloneta.
Contributed by Izzy & Phil from The Gap Decaders
Meet The Geese Of Barcelona Cathedral
You probably already have the Sagrada Familia cathedral on your Barcelona bucket list, and you may be thinking that visiting one church is enough. But you really need to add the Barcelona Cathedral (also known by locals as La Seu) to that list.
Even if you skip visiting the beautiful Gothic interior of the cathedral, you surely wouldn’t want to miss the cloister courtyard next to it. Here, you’ll find a gurgling fountain and a pond that’s home to 13 snow white geese. How often do you see geese living in a church?!
It’s said that the tradition of keeping geese here was begun to scare away the “would-be intruders” or “thieves”. And I guess the geese’s loud honking would be pretty intimidating, especially if you didn’t know what it was.
The specific number of geese kept here (13) also has a significance, as it was the age of the Cathedral’s patron saint, Eulalia, when she was martyred in 304 AD.
Entrance to the cloister and the church itself is free. Located in the heart of the Gothic quarter, the Cathedral is easy to reach on foot, and it stays open until 7:30 or 8 pm on most days. Hostal Sol y K is a great accommodation choice nearby.
You could come here in the evening before enjoying a dinner at the Rasoterra Bistrot Vegetarià that’s just around the corner. Do not miss out on the experience as it’s one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona.
Contributed by Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan
Attend The Festa Major de Gràcia
Every August, Barcelona’s Gracia barrio’s streets burst into a kaleidoscope of colors for Festa Gracia. The festival is widely known for it’s elaborate decorations of paper mache that take over Gracia’s countless winding streets.
The local communities work around the clock to bring the streets to life – with themes ranging from political parody to deep cultural expression. It’s roots can be traced back to 1817 when Gracia was still functioning as a small village outside Barcelona.
Two centuries and some change later, it’s managed to retain its cozy communal charm that is just different from the rest of the bustling city.
This 200-year-old block party occurs every year between August 15th-20th and is best visited early on while the decorations and street themes are at their very best.
While it’s perfectly acceptable to go with no plan in place, it’s recommended to map out a few blocks to walk to ensure you’re able to see the streets in an efficient (but still fun!) way. If you really want to experience the best of Festa Mejor de Gracia, there’s no better place to stay than Gracia itself!
The neighborhood is chockfull of every accommodation from quaint boutiques to swanky high rises, but arguably the best is Hotel Paseo de Gracia. This chic vintage hotel is perched right on Passeig de Gracia, making it ideal for experiencing not just Festa Gracia but the rest of the city as well.
Contributed by Melanie Hamilton from Savor & Yore
Hike The Vall de Núria
Escape the hustle and bustle of Barcelona by renting a car or booking a tour and go hiking for the day. Vall de Núria is located in the valley of the Eastern Pyrenees, within the municipal area of Queralbs.
It sits above one of the highest points of the Ribes Valley and is surrounded by almost 3,000 m high peaks, from which flow a multitude of water sources and torrents. What makes this so incredibly special is that the only way to get there is by rack railway or by foot (a 4-hour hike up the old pilgrim’s road).
This rack railway covers 12.5 km and takes you up an incline of over 1,000 m through unspoiled mountain landscape views – full of deep narrow gorges, rocks, river and trees. You can catch the rack railway to Vall de Núria from one of 3 places: Ribes-Enlaac, Ribes-Vila or Queralbs.
There are numerous hiking trails starting at Vall de Núria that you can choose from, depending on distance, altitude, estimated walking time, and starting point. Many of the trails have connecting points with the Santiago el Camino, the infamous pilgrimage route.
Because the hike gets you to a peaceful place, a place of healing, all set within the most incredible mountain views, it deserves to be on your Barcelona bucket list. Hotel Vall de Núria is the best accommodation choice in the area.
Contributed by Renee from Dream Plan Experience
Take a Day Trip To Montserrat
One of the must-do experiences from Barcelona is a day trip to Montserrat. Escape the chaos and traffic of the big city and head northwest to the serenity, peace, and stunning views of Montserrat.
Take the R5 train line from Placa Espanya station to either Aeri de Montserrat, where you will take the cable car up the mountain, or to Monistrol, where you will take the funicular or cogwheel train. There are stunning mountain views from both.
To experience both options, go up the mountain one way, e.g by cable car, and come down the mountain the other way, e.g by cogwheel train. The trip from Barcelona to the Montserrat peak will take one to two hours each way.
At the top, located on a very unique rocky outcrop, is the Benedictine Monk retreat, with the monks still living there. It has a great religious significance in Spain and dates back to the 10th century.
There is plenty to see in and around the basilica – the church, the museum, the chapel, the stairway to heaven, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to hear the renowned “Escolania de Montserrat”, one of the oldest choirs in the country and entirely composed of 14-year-old kids singing in the basilica.
The Black Madonna wooden statue in the basilica is said to have healing powers and is a must-see for pilgrims. Once at the top (4055 ft/ 1256 m high), you have plenty of options for places to go and things to do.
Mountain walks are very popular here and suit all levels of fitness, besides being great for wildlife photography. There are plenty of opportunities for rock climbing too. If you’re looking for a place to stay nearby, then look no further than Hotel Abat Cisneros Montserrat.
Contributed by Maureen Spencer from So Many Places! So Little Time!
Bunkers del Carmel
One of the must-do Barcelona bucket list ideas is to soak in the city views in Barcelona from Bunkers del Carmel. It is completely free to enter the site and explore. Bunkers del Carmel is a site where anti-aircraft guns from the Spanish Civil War were installed.
It takes about 30 minutes to reach the Bunkers from the city centre/La Ramblas. You can use public transportation to get to Carrer del Turó de la Rovira, and then walk/hike to reach the viewpoint. Ensure you are wearing comfortable walking shoes to reach the top.
It takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the site depending on your starting point (there are many entrances). It is worth stopping along the way to capture city views.
The bunkers are best explored in the evening, when the sun goes down on the skyline of Barcelona. Carry a picnic basket and a mat to enjoy the sunset views, and wait until the city glows in the night.
The area is safe for tourists and is frequently visited by locals as well. For accommodation, stay in the city centre area at a place like Hotel Garbi Millenni (mid-budget). From here, it is easy to explore all the sightseeing attractions in Barcelona.
Contributed by Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew
Enjoy An Evening At The Montjuic Outdoor Cinema
Montjuic is a prominent hill to the southwest of Barcelona providing magnificent views over the city, the harbour, and the adjacent Mediterranean.
Due to this strategically important position above the city, it has played a significant part in the city’s defences for centuries and is the site of the Montjuic Castle and fortress. It is also home to famed Barcelona sights such as the Joan Miro Foundation and was home to the 1992 Olympic Games.
As a popular tourist destination in it’s own right, the grounds of Montjuic Castle now form an idyllic setting for an outdoor cinema – a stunning location to relax on a balmy summer evening.
Montjuic can be reached via either the cable car from the harbour area itself (offering yet more incredible views over the city) or the funicular.
Opened in 1928, the funicular connects Montjuic to Parallel Station and the city metro system. Alternatively, for those with cinema tickets, a free shuttle service operates from nearby Plaça d’Espanya.
For a ticket costing as little as € 6.50, Montjuic plays host to a classic film screening as well as live music. Whilst drinks, food, and deck chair hire are all available, visitors should instead consider bringing their own tailor-made picnic perhaps from Barcelona’s world-famous La Boqueria market.
After enjoying all that Barcelona has to offer during the day, an evening at Montjuic is the perfect finale. If you’re searching for the best place to stay in the Montjuic area, then Evenia Rocafort has everything you need!
Contributed by Paul from The Two That Do
Witness The Flamenco Performance At Tablao de Carmen
Flamenco is a traditional Spanish art form and it’s a must-see for any first-time visitor to Spain. While Andalusia (Seville) is the birthplace of Flamenco, the performance can be seen across the country. Tablao de Carmen is one of the best places to experience this traditional art in Barcelona.
The restaurant is located in the Andalusian quarter of Poble Espanyol on Montjuic hill. It is a short and pleasant 10-minute walk from PL. Espanya Subway Station, going towards the Magic Fountain of Montjuic, through the historic Poble Espanyol and one of the most beautiful green belts in the city.
Tablao de Carmen offers two dinner shows (6 pm and 8:30 pm, with Tapas costing € 63 and Full dinner costing € 82) a day, but the entire site has so much more to see and explore.
There is an architectural museum in the complex, besides workshops and boutiques. It is a great photo-taking spot for visitors. Get there 1 or 2 hours before the show to walk through the site, and then go enjoy the dinner and the performance.
Tablao de Carmen was actually the venue where the great flamenco dancer “Carmen Amaya” performed on stage in front of King Alfonso XIII of Spain in the 19th century.
So now the venue carries forward her legacy, with the flamenco performance being a tribute to her. Their show features four dancers portraying different forms and emotions, along with professional acoustic music and singing.
As the performance gives you an insight into Spanish art & culture and at the end, leaves a contented smile on your face, it has to be included in your Barcelona bucket list. If you’re planning to put up nearby, then check out the Aparthotel Bcn Montjuic.
Contributed by Kenny from Knycx Journeying
Spend Quality Time At The Barceloneta Beach
If Spain is famous for one thing, in particular, it is the stunning beaches of the country. This is one reason why a trip to Barcelona is so popular. Because here, you will find not only exceptionally good food, breathtaking architecture, open-minded and happy people, but also great beaches.
The city beach of Barcelona, Playa de la Barceloneta, is probably one of the most popular beaches in Spain. With it’s location right by the city, it can be easily reached on foot or by public transport. There are two metro stops and various bus stops in the immediate vicinity.
Whether you explore Barcelona in summer or winter, visiting the Barceloneta beach has to feature on your bucket list of things to do in Barcelona.
In summer, you can spend your whole day at the beach – relaxing in the sun, swimming, or maybe even surfing. In winter, the beach is particularly suitable for long walks. However, one thing that’s constant irrespective of whether it’s summer or winter, is that you’ll always find the sun on the Barceloneta beach.
You will also find plenty of restaurants, small shops, and bars along the beach promenade. After a long day at the beach, you can try some delicious Spanish dishes here or enjoy a cocktail with a view of the Mediterranean Sea. Safestay Barcelona Sea is a popular hotel choice in the area.
Contributed by Vicki from Vickiviaja
Visit a Cava Winery
Visiting a cava winery near Barcelona is the best way to experience Barcelona like a local. One such cava winery is the Llopart winery, the second-best cava producer in Spain, located in Ctra. de Sant Sadurni a Ordal. You can easily get there by train, bus, or waterways.
The winery belongs to the Llopart family, that’s been making wine since 1385. A document, telling that the ancestor to the Llopart family – Barnades Leopardi, produced wine at the estate, still exists.
The conservative productions of 95 hectares of family-owned vineyards, planted in a mountain region, feature the fine handcrafted process of upbringing wine, and a renovated and multicultural wine-cellar. Presently, the fifth-generation winemaker Jeci Llopart runs the winery, along with her three siblings.
In this winery, you will be hosted by local-wine professionals, where you walk or ride through beautiful mountain vineyards, cultivated under organic farming parameters.
Plus, you can see the wines produced in an artisanal manner with the strict French-Champagne-style tradition being followed. That’s what makes visiting the winery a worthy inclusion in your Barcelona bucket list.
It remains open from Monday-Friday from 9 am–2 pm & 3–7 pm, whereas on Saturday and Sunday it’s open from 10 am–2 pm. The winery tour takes 2-3 hours (approx.) to complete.
The best time to visit the winery is during the May-June period when the weather is quite good. The cost involved in touring the winery depends on the age-group.
Besides that, if you’re wondering what to eat in Spain, you have various menu options, like- Tapas, Tortilla Espanola, Paella, Crema Catalana, and more. Moreover, hotels available nearby the wineries are Hostal Sant Sadurní (budget guesthouse), Hotel Fonda Neus (family-run budget hotel), Cava & Hotel Mastinell (5-star boutique hotel).
Contributed by Paulina from Paulina on the Road
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is one of Antoni Gaudi’s spectacular architectural structures in the centre of Barcelona, lying on the corner of Calle d’Aragó and Passeig de Gràcia.
The house is situated directly outside the main Passeig de Gràcia station, so it couldn’t be easier to find. The station is served by Metro lines L2, L3, and L4 and a number of regional lines and as soon as you walk out of the station, you’ll be able to see the mask-like windows and the decorated facade of Casa Batlló.
Travellers can experience the beauty and intricacy of Antoni Gaudí’s UNESCO World Heritage site Casa Batlló with a tour around the house and rooftop, accompanied by an audio guide.
The building was designed by Antoni Gaudi for Mr. Josep Batlló back in the early 1900s and features many of Gaudi’s signature styling features such as curved walls, exquisitely detailed facade, and colorful glass windows.
Pretty much all of Antoni Gaudi’s works are worthy of being in your Barcelona bucket list and a trip to Casa Batlló is no different.
Your visit allows you to witness a range of stunning modernist design features such as tiled walls that look like rippling lakes when reflecting the Spanish sunshine, and curved walls, windows, and doorways that make you feel as though you’re in an underwater castle.
It’s best to book your timed tickets in advance of your visit to Casa Batlló to ensure you don’t have to queue to get in, or worse, that you miss out entirely!
Early mornings and late afternoons give you the best chance of exploring Casa Batlló at a quieter time, so you can truly soak up the beauty of the building without the crowds.
Adult tickets purchased online for Casa Batlló will cost € 25 for entrance and an audio SmartGuide. There are concessions available for teenagers, students, and people aged 65+. Children aged 12 years and below enter for free.
H10 Casa Mimosa 4* Sup is a wonderful hotel located just four blocks from Casa Batlló with a restaurant, terrace, and swimming pool on site. The hotel also boasts views of the chimneys of one of Gaudi’s other masterpieces, Casa Mila. So if you want to see Gaudi’s creations from the comfort of your room, then you know where to stay!
Contributed by Chrysoula from Travelpassionate
Explore The Gothic Quarter
Barcelona is a paradise for architecture lovers and has plenty of interesting things to do as far as exploring Catalan architecture is concerned. From colourful mosaic tile works to Gothic medieval architectural vibes, all make up for an experience that’s more than just sightseeing. One such experience and spot that is worthy of your Barcelona bucket list is the Gothic Quarter.
Imagine strolling through the tight and narrow cobbled streets with sunlight peeking in through dark spaces & crevices. Add to that the sound of bells from the Barcelona Cathedral and stares from the gargoyles fixated above and around you. These visuals truly transport you back in time and to another realm altogether.
A must-do stop within the Gothic Quarter is El Ponte del Bisbe aka the Bishop’s bridge. What makes this free attraction bucket list worthy is not only it’s architecture – with intricate patterns and stunning craftsmanship, but also the legends and stories associated with it.
There is a skull with a pierced dagger placed by an architect under the bridge around which all the three legends float. One of which states that anyone who looks up at the skull while walking under the bridge will be cursed with an evil spell or bad luck.
The next legend states that if ever the dagger was to be removed from the skull, it would destroy the city of Barcelona. The last and the only positive legend states that if you walk backwards under the bridge and simultaneously wish for something while looking at the skull, it is likely to come true.
Post the visual treat, another stop to make in the Gothic quarter is this amazing brunch spot called “Milk”. The food joint offers plenty of scrumptious food to treat your bellies.
Take this stroll in the Gothic Quarter to the top of your Barcelona bucket list, for it’s an experience that’s a treat for all your senses and can’t be missed. Looking for a cool place to stay in the vicinity? The Grand Hotel Central is an absolute favourite among travellers!
Contributed by Harshi & Aman from Trot.World
Take a Paella Cooking Class
A Paella cooking class is one of the highlights of any trip to Barcelona and shouldn’t be missed. They are offered by a range of companies in Barcelona for a range of prices. However, this class booked through Airbnb Experiences is a great choice! Why Airbnb Experiences? Because it is a feature that allows you to experience Barcelona like a local.
Located in Poblenou, an artistic neighbourhood, you can enjoy this cooking class for just € 37 per person. The nearest Metro station to the venue is Llacuna (L 4 line). In this class, you’re taken on a culinary journey as you learn to make traditional Paella, Sangria and Crema Catalana (a kinda Crème Brulée dessert).
The class starts with your host talking you through the experience, giving you information about the history of the ingredients and the food you’ll be making. The hosts really make this experience special. They’re patient, fun, and make sure that they involve everyone in the process.
They are also very knowledgeable and tell you several unknown facts about Paella. For example, you should only use a wooden spoon when serving or stirring the Paella, and that the taste changes if you use a metal one. Also, you need to use Bomba rice in particular because it absorbs three times it’s own volume of liquid, which makes it a perfect ingredient for Paella.
You’re involved in preparing the food throughout and get to share the food you’ve made at the end. However, if you’d like to enjoy some Paella that’s made by others, then you should check out Micu Maku or Restaurante La Boqueria.
Stay at Hotel Moderno if you are a food-lover and wish to explore the food scene near the Boqueria Market in Barcelona.
Contributed by Bisola from Bis to the World
Ciutadella Park
Parc de la Ciutadella, or Ciutadella Park, is one of the most interesting places to visit in Barcelona that has to feature on your bucket list. The urban oasis is full of hidden gems, stand-alone attractions, and beauty in the middle of a busy city.
The park originated in the mid-1800s when the Citadel of Barcelona, built a century prior, was converted into the city’s only green space.
At the time of the former citadel’s construction, it was the largest fortification in all of Europe, so the park is massive. It’s so large that it even includes the Barcelona Zoo, the hall of the Parliament of Catalonia, a lake, and several museums.
One of the most beautiful features of the park is La Cascade or “the Waterfall”. It lies in the northwest quarter of the park and was built in 1881. The waterfall is part of a large fountain across from the park’s lake.
This beautiful fountain was made to loosely resemble Rome’s Trevi Fountain and includes multiple statues, sculptures and a staircase leading to an overlooking podium. Between the lake and the waterfall is a bandstand and memorial.
The bandstand is dedicated to Sonia, a member of Barcelona’s LGBT community that was murdered by Neo-Nazis in 1991. Twenty years later, in 2011, the city held a ceremony to unveil the Barcelona LGBT Memorial in Parc de la Ciutadella.
For travellers who wish to stay nearby, Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona is a popular hotel choice.
Contributed by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting
Pueblo Español
Pueblo Español (or “Poble Espanyol” in Catalan) is one of the most underrated places to visit in Barcelona that’s often overlooked by tourists. The Pueblo was built on Montjuic for the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition.
The intention was to represent the different regions of Spain in a single open-air venue for the exhibition and demolish it later in 1930. However, the result was such a success that the former Spain Pavillion is still standing.
It had it’s rough times starting with World War II but since the beginning of the 1980s, the Pueblo has been completely restored to it’s former glory as well as upgraded to the latest tourist demands. Moreover, besides the tourists, El Pueblo remains a popular place with the locals too.
It hosts a wide range of activities that ensure a fun day out with friends or family. Visiting Pueblo Español is like walking through all of Spain in one place. The architects recreated 117 Spanish buildings from different regions and brought them all in the Pueblo built on Montjuic.
You can walk through an Andalusian neighborhood, then pass through Aragon, reach Castilla y Leon, then make your way to Cataluña. Some of the buildings host workshops where you can watch artisans creating unique leather, glass, or ceramics objects.
This is probably the best place to buy an authentic Spanish souvenir, made right in front of you. A single entrance to the Pueblo starts from € 6 and there are a few other convenient options as well, including the yearly family passes. Hotel Acta Azul Barcelona is a good place to stay in the area.
Contributed by Anda from Travel for a while
Eat Churros con Chocolate at Petritxol Xocoa
If you are a foodie, then trying the churros con chocolate (or in Catalan, Xurros con Xocolate) has to be on your Barcelona bucket list. Churros are delicious sticks of dough that are covered in sugar and are traditionally eaten by dipping them in chocolate.
The dessert is curved like the horns of native Churra sheep (hence ‘churros’), and it was something Spanish Shepards used to eat. Many Spaniards start their day off by eating this for breakfast, alongside an espresso.
You can find churros practically at any corner cafe in Spain or in ‘xurrerias’ (churros stores). One of the more famous and highly-acclaimed places to eat churros in Barcelona is Petritxol Xocoa.
Petritxol Xocoa is located on the Carrer de Petritxol (11 Petritxol street) in the heart of the Barri Gòtic district, surrounded by Medieval churches and architecture. It’s a 2-minute walk from the famous La Boqueria on Las Ramblas, with Liceu or Jaume I being the closest metro stop.
The cafe has many other delicious treats to sample too, but their churros are some of the best in Barcelona. The delicious treat costs you less than € 10.
As a practical tip, when ordering for a group of 4, remember to get 2 orders. And don’t forget to drink the extra chocolate from the cup or ‘taza’, if there’s any left. Hostal Boqueria is a lovely budget accommodation option if you wish to stay nearby.
Contributed by Lauren Cirkot from Always Find Adventure
Attend The Sónar Festival
For lovers of all kinds of electronic music, a visit to the annual Sónar Festival has to feature at the top of the Barcelona bucket list. Occupying two sites in the city every year since 1994, the festival brings together a full programme of musical events, alongside other creative and experimental shows and avant-garde performances.
2021 will see the top international act, The Chemical Brothers, take to the stage. By day, the festival is based in a large, mostly outdoor space, with large, erected shade coverings to protect the crowds from the fierce Spanish summer sun.
As the evening gathers pace, the action relocates to a large convention centre elsewhere in the city, where the party continues until late in the night. Although this venue is fully air-conditioned, the more popular and busy shows can still get very hot in the heart of the crowds.
Rather than being on a self-contained site with camping, like at a conventional festival, the day and night sessions instead operate as separate events, with a possibility to buy tickets for all or any of them in isolation.
A pass for the entire three-day event costs € 165. W hotel is a luxury stay option, while Amistat Beach Hostel is a budget stay option if you’re looking for accommodations for the duration of the festival.
Besides attending the festival, a stay in Barcelona also allows visitors to explore some of the other fantastic attractions that this city has to offer – from it’s iconic landmarks and architecture to the vibrant bar and restaurant scene, as well as some great city beaches.
Having all these options available besides the festival events makes a trip to the Sónar Festival a truly memorable short break for anyone with an interest in electronic or experimental dance music.
Contributed by Rachel from Children of Wanderlust
Mount Tibidabo
Barcelona is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and if you’re looking for the best views over the city, then head over to Mount Tibidabo. Although it’s possible to hike all the way up, it’s easier to either take the funicular or a direct bus from Plaça Catalunya.
Apart from being rewarded with a breathtaking view of Barcelona from the top, you will also find an amusement park and a beautiful church on Mount Tibidabo. There are six different zones in the amusement park, offering exciting rides for adventure seekers.
The amusement park is only open during the weekends (except in July and August when it’s open from Wednesdays to Sundays) and an adult entrance ticket costs € 28.50.
If amusement parks are not your cup of tea, then you can visit the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor (Temple of the Sacred Heart) instead. It’s a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica that can be visited every day from 11 am to 6 pm.
You can visit the temple and the crypt for free but you need to pay € 3.50 to access the terraces (which you don’t want to miss!).
If you plan to stay around Mount Tibidabo, then consider checking out Anita’s Bed and Breakfast (budget stay) and Gran Hotel La Florida G.L Monumento (luxury stay).
Contributed by Krisztina Harsanyi from She Wanders Abroad
Dine At Plaça Reial
What do you get when you combine romantic outdoor dining, authentic Spanish style delicacies, street performances, and the ambiance of Barcelona’s electric nightlife? The answer is Plaça Reial. No place embodies the sights and sounds of this incredible city better than the Gothic Quarter’s famous Plaça Reial.
Tucked away in the heart of Ciutat Vella (Old City), this remarkable square will make your heart stop during the day and take your breath away when the sun goes down. The Gaudi designed lamp posts, the tranquil central fountain, and the iconic palm trees set the perfect stage for a memorable bucket list spot in Barcelona.
Placa Reial is listed as one of the best date night spots in Barcelona and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine connoisseur, or simply a lover of people watching, you won’t find yourself bored here. If you’re lucky and happen to visit the place while a street performance is happening, then you’re in for a real treat!
Jugglers of fire, opera singers, tightrope walkers, and musical bands are just some of the talented artists looking to wow Plaça Reial visitors. For a meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy the most expectant pallets, try Kane Room. You won’t be disappointed by the menu and carefully considered flavours!
If you’ve been to Barcelona before, this won’t come as a surprise. But Plaça Reial, being a hot tourist spot, is full of pick-pocketers just waiting to lift your wallet. So be cautious and smart! This, however, goes for any place you visit in the city.
While Plaça Reial does offer accommodations in the form of hotels attached to street level restaurants, this is not where you want to stay! The noise alone will last into the wee hours of the morning and will make a restful night’s sleep extremely difficult.
Your best bet is to stay at a nearby boutique hotel such as Hotel Praktik on Rambla Catalunya, a short walk from the Gothic Quarter.
Contributed by Lauren from The Expat Chronicle
Monastery Of Pedralbes
The monastery of Pedralbes is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Barcelona, which is away from the hustle-bustle of city life. It has some mesmerizing natural beauty – a lush garden, a water fountain (that has goldfish), and birds flying and singing around the area.
The museum is the house of historical artifacts and provides interesting facts about the everyday life of nuns. A paid tourist guide inside the museum or an audio guide helps in a better understanding of the historical art and architecture of the museum.
You can get to the museum directly by hiring a taxi from Barcelona city to the destination. If you prefer to travel by bus, then the nearest bus stop to the museum is Av. Pedralbes-cavallers. From the bus stop, you can easily walk and reach the museum.
This attraction is a veiled jewel of Barcelona and a must-visit tourist place for families. As a tip, remember that photography isn’t allowed inside the museum. Also, refrain your children from touching any object inside the museum.
The entrance fee is € 5 for adults and € 3.50 for students and senior citizens (people over 65 years). Entry is free for Barcelona cardholders and children under the age of 16. Also, no entry fee is applicable on the first Sunday of every month and after 3 pm on other Sundays. The rental charge for audio guides is € 0.60.
The best place to stay nearby is Hotel Sansi Pedralbes. It has all the amenities you’d want and is just 250 m away from the Pedralbes monastery.
Contributed by Ankurman Handique from The Mama Pirate
Do The Dark History Tour
A must-have item on your Barcelona bucket list is a dark history tour of the city! Beginning in the evening, take a historic walk around the El Born district, retracing the steps of medieval torture, city legends, and of course, the Spanish Inquisition.
Learning about the dark history of Barcelona will leave you with a better understanding of the city and its character.
Learn about the history and the infamous execution and tortures of the Spanish Inquisition, highlighting the power of the Catholic Church in medieval Spain. The city itself has many eerie tales to tell, some real and some imagined – all very unsettling.
The gruesome punishments and public executions that were the norm in medieval Barcelona only ended as recently as the late 1800s! The gory details will leave you with goosebumps as you meander through the looming Gothic buildings at night.
Depending on which tour you opt for, you will probably visit the site where an old cemetery used to be, which today, is a very beautiful square. Meeting point in the city will vary depending on which company you book with.
Book your tour through Get Your Guide, Free Walking Tours by Locals, Runner Bean Tours, or many others that have similar offerings. Tours range from € 0-25 per person, gratuities not included, and typically last 2 hours. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestones.
Hotel del Mar in the El Born district is the best accommodation choice for travellers.
Contributed by Jade Laurenza from The Migrant Yogi
Stroll Down Career Blai For Countertop Tapas And Pintxos
It’s no secret that Spain is known for tapas, and Barcelona is no exception. You can find tapas everywhere but if you want a truly local, unique, and authentic taste, then head to Carrer Blai in the Poblesec neighborhood. The closest metro stop to Carrer Blai is Poble Sec or Parallel.
Carrer Blai (Blai Street) is known to tourists and locals as “The Tapas Street of Barcelona”. This street is begging for you to bar hop. It’s a pedestrian walkway that is over 7 blocks long and includes a culinary experience that’s not to be missed.
Instead of menus, all the tapas and pintxos are on display on the bar counter for you to look and choose (although the restaurants do have menus for you).
Take a stroll down the road, see which restaurants have the best-looking tapas, or sample one from every restaurant. These restaurants entice visitors by displaying very artisanal and decorative plates that look irresistible. You pay based upon the colour of your plate or the flags on the toothpicks.
The tapas range from € 1.5-10 per plate, depending on what’s on it and how fancy it is. If you’re a group of four people eating 4-5 tapas each, then it will cost you less than € 50 in total, including sangria or beer.
As a tip, try visiting the Tapas Street around 6 or 7 pm, as most restaurants open at this time and the seating fills up real quick. If you’re looking for an accommodation, then Hotel Nuevo Triunfo is an ideal place to stay in the area, with easy access to public transport.
Contributed by Lauren Cirkot from Always Find Adventure
Park Güell
Park Güell is one of the top tourist attractions in Barcelona that should definitely be on your Barcelona bucket list. This urban park is a must-see for architecture and photography lovers. However, if you don’t belong to either category, don’t worry, as you’ll still have a lot of fun at this place.
You can enjoy exploring the interesting building, relax in the green spaces, or join a tour. The park was started over 100 years ago, in 1900, and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
It is most famous for it’s Gaudi-style architecture. Gaudi, Barcelona’s famous architect, was influenced by natural shapes and forms, colorful mosaics, and nature. His buildings are very unique and are instantly recognizable.
Regular tickets (€ 7.50 for adults, € 5.25 for seniors and children) for Park Guell sell out fast, and if you’re visiting during the summer, a ‘skip the line’ ticket is highly advisable. To avoid the crowds, get there early in the morning, just when the park opens at 9:30 am.
To reach the park, you can either take the Metro (20-minute walk from Lesseps or Vallcarca stops on line L3), or the bus (10-minute walk from Travessera de Dalt stop on the H6 or D40 bus).
The area around Park Güell is not very touristy, so there are not many hotels. The Aparthotel Silver, however, is a good place to stay in Barcelona if you want to put up near Park Güell.
Contributed by Maria from Europe Up Close
Visit The Camp Nou Football Stadium
There are many things that come to mind when you think of Barcelona – beaches, Gaudi’s buildings, buzzing nightlife, delectable food, and warm weather. However, if you’re a big sports fan, then the word Barcelona reminds you of one of the best football clubs in the world – FC Barcelona.
Since the home stadium of this club ie. Camp Nou stadium is in Barcelona, therefore, one of the best things to do in Barcelona, for sports fans, is to visit the home of FC Barcelona.
Barcelona is home to one of the biggest football teams in the world and they play at one of the biggest stadiums in the world, the Camp Nou.
It’s hard to actually describe how big the stadium is. You have to go inside and see it for yourself. Towering above it’s surroundings, the stadium is an imposing presence. It resembles a modern-day Colosseum and can hold 99,000 people!
Watching a match at the Camp Nou has to be on your Barcelona bucket list, even if you don’t like football. FC Barcelona is inextricably linked with the Catalan identity. It’s a massive part of the culture, not just in the city but the region as a whole. Hence, the club’s motto – ‘more than a club’.
To get to the Camp Nou, take the metro on Line 3 to Palau Reial or Les Corts, or lines 5 and 9 to Collblanc, with the stadium – a short walk away from all of these stops.
Tickets for a match can range from € 40 to € 100, depending on what part of the stadium you’re in. If a match isn’t happening during your visit, you can still tour the stadium and get a feel of the incredible legacy that the place holds.
Aparthotel Atenea Barcelona and 08028 Apartments are the accommodation options nearest to the football stadium.
Contributed by Tom Stevenson from The Travelling Tom
Join a Street Art Walking Tour
One of the best ways to explore the street art of Barcelona is to join a graffiti tour. The city is beautifully painted with the best graffiti art, making Barcelone one of the best street art cities in the world.
There are tons of walking tours you could join in Barcelona – most dedicated to either Gaudi or the main highlights of the city. But if you’d like a more unique point of view, pick a street art tour to see Barcelona from a different perspective.
Once you start your walking tour and your guide starts pointing out all the beautiful art, you’ll be able to spot the urban and modern side of the city that’s packed with historical gems. Since the tour makes you see Barcelona from a different lens and makes you fall in love with it’s character, it deserves to be on your Barcelona bucket list.
No tour will be the same, as street art will be removed by the authorities and new artworks are created all the time. But the areas that the street art tour will cover will roughly be the same. Raval and the Gothic Quarter are the main areas where you’ll be spotting all the local art.
The Three Chimneys urban park should be the highlight of your tour with it’s ever-changing street art, as it’s actually legal to create graffiti art on the walls of this park. If you wish to primarily explore all the street art around, then there’s no better accommodation option than the vintage 1960’s themed hotel Sixties Ramblas.
Contributed by Maartje & Sebastiaan from The Orange Backpack
Palau de la Música Catalana
An essential stop on any Barcelona itinerary is the Palau de la Música Catalana. This iconic building was built in 1905 with the purpose of being Spain’s premier concert hall. As soon as you see the decadent concert hall with it’s huge chandeliers and stained-glass sculptures, you’ll see what the hype is all about!
These days, the occasional concert takes place here but Palau de la Música Catalana is more commonly known as a tourist attraction, although you’ll never find it as crowded as the Sagrada Familia or Casa Mila.
One reason for this is that you have to take a guided you to see the interior which costs € 20. However, it’s well worth the ticket price as firstly, you get to learn about the impressive concert hall and it’s history as you stand inside it, and secondly, you get to meander along the outside courtyard and admire the selection of colourful, mosaic pillars.
The architect behind Palau de la Música Catalana is Lluis Domenech i Montaner. His work doesn’t resemble Gaudi’s too closely but it certainly fits with the colourful quirky style than Barcelona is so loved for!
Hotel Negresco Princess 4* Sup is the preferred stay option near Palau de la Música Catalana.
Contributed by Rose Munday from Where Goes Rose?
Palau Güell
When visiting Barcelona, one must try and see at least some of the important architectural creations of Gaudi in the city. One such unique creation is an architectural gem called Palau Güell.
The palace was built by Gaudi as an ode to his patron Eusebi Güell, an industrialist of that time who also commissioned it’s construction. A striking mansion located just off the Rambla in the historic district, Palau Güell is one of the first masterpieces created by Gaudi and is absolutely worthy of the UNESCO World Heritage accreditation.
Ornate designs along with exterior and interior details created by local artists and craftsmen fill the entire palace with gorgeous artwork.
All tours are lead by a docent – who gives you a guided tour through all the public rooms and other significant parts of the mansion that showcase all the beautiful craftsmanship and engineering feats of it’s day. You’ll love exploring all of the gorgeous rooms and getting to know the story behind each area that you visit.
The admission fee for an adult is € 12. Whereas for students (under 25 years) and senior citizens (above 65 years), the admission fee is € 9. For people aged 10-17 years, the entry costs € 5. Note that entry is free for everybody on the first Sunday of every month.
Searching for stay options near Palau Güell? Gaudi Hotel is the best place to stay in the vicinity of this architectural masterpiece.
Contributed by Noel Morata from Travel Photo Discovery
Conclusion
So that was my compilation of the fun things to do in Barcelona that you need to include in your Barcelona bucket list. I’ve tried to cover every facet of Barcelona through the list so you get to explore this gorgeous city to the fullest.
I hope the blog gives you a fair idea of the fascinating culture of Barcelona. Remember, a trip to Europe is incomplete without a visit to this Catalan gem in Spain. So book that flight ticket as soon as possible and be ready to be enthralled by all the experiences that Barcelona has to offer!
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