Walk the bustling boulevard from Plaça Catalunya toward the waterfront to soak in street performers and kiosks; a great orientation for the city layout.
Popular tapas spot in Eixample offering a wide selection of small plates; expect a wait at peak lunch hours (opens ~13:00 for lunch, some earlier service at the bar).
Gaudí's monumental basilica—prebook tickets for a specific time (typical visiting hours 9:00–19:00 in summer) and allow time for interior and exterior views.
If Tickets is booked, choose nearby tapas bars on Carrer de Blai for pintxos—both give a lively final meal experience (Tickets requires advance booking).
Wander the terrace viewpoints near the Magic Fountain and descend to lively Poble-sec for a pre-departure drink; fountain light shows run seasonally in evenings (check schedule).