Get ready to explore one of the most fascinating neighborhoods of Barcelona. Founded by the Romans, the Gothic Quarter features a maze of narrow streets and alleys, filled with amazing architectural details dating back to the medieval period. Visit the Gothic Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and don't miss the charming Plaça Reial, one of the liveliest squares in the city.
The Sagrada Familia is one of Barcelona's most iconic landmarks. This magnificent basilica, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, is full of symbolism and ornamentation that captivates visitors from all over the world. After admiring the Sagrada Familia, head to Park Guell, another of Gaudi's masterpieces. The park is a vibrant burst of colors, mosaics, and sculptures that will leave you breathless.
Take an early train to Montserrat, a spectacular mountain range topped with a Benedictine Monastery. Enjoy the stunning views and listen to the famous boys’ choir, then head back to the city to visit the Tibidabo amusement park, located on the highest point of the Collserola mountain range. The park has a retro charm and offers great views of the city from its Ferris wheel and observation deck.
Stroll down the famous La Rambla boulevard and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Barcelona. Stop by the Boqueria Market, a food lover’s paradise that offers a wide range of local produce, delicacies, and snacks. Visit the Plaça Reial in the evening and enjoy a drink or a meal in one of the many bars and restaurants that line this picturesque square.
No visit to Barcelona is complete without a visit to the Picasso Museum, which houses an impressive collection of works by the famous Spanish artist. After the museum, head to Barceloneta Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the city. Soak up the sun, take a dip in the sea, and enjoy the vibrant beach culture of Barcelona.
While Barcelona offers excellent public transportation options, the best way to explore the city is on foot. All the major attractions are located within walking distance, and you can easily cover a lot of ground each day. Consider getting a T10 ticket (€10.20), which offers ten trips on any metro or bus line and can be shared between several people. Taxis are also affordable and cost around €1.20 per kilometer.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Montjuic Castle, the Gothic Church of Santa Maria del Mar, or the Poble Espanyol, an open-air museum that showcases the diversity of Spanish architecture. If you have less time, consider skipping Tibidabo or Montserrat, as they are the farthest from the city center. Also, avoid La Rambla at night, as it can get crowded and pickpockets thrive in the area.
Barcelona is served by the Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), located 14 km southwest of the city center. The airport is one of the busiest in Spain, and it offers direct connections to major cities in Europe, Asia, and America. The easiest way to reach the city center is by taking the Aerobus (€5.90), a shuttle bus that runs every 5-10 minutes and stops at Plaça de Catalunya and Plaça Espanya. Taxis are also available and cost around €30-€40.